In this commentary, I reflect on my recent trip to Copenhagen, Denmark, and the broader implications of living in the post-Christendom West. Walking the ancient streets and talking to seasoned church leaders, I pondered two major factors that contribute to secularism and how Protestantism has become a victim of its own success. And I explored three emerging factors that could break the hold of secularism on the West.

A few European countries and U.S. regions buck the secular trend. Why? Considering the story of secularism—and resilient Christianity—helps us pass down a robust, durable faith to the next generation.

In This Episode

04:00 – Faith and decadence on Copenhagen’s streets

08:00 – From opt-out to opt-in belief

12:00 – America’s exception and slow convergence

18:00 – Faith thrives under tension

23:00 – The problem with establishment

30:00 – Reform, burnout, and secular substitutes

36:00 – Postwar humanism and its cracks

45:00 – Reality intrudes on secular optimism

49:00 – Three pressures on secularism and gospel hope

Resources Mentioned

• Graph of religious importance and corresponding GDP
• Graph of religious attendance in the United States and Europe
• A Secular Age by Charles Taylor
• Destroyer of the Gods by Larry W. Hurtado
• Dominion by Tom Holland
• The Age of Hitler and How We Will Survive It by Alec Ryrie
• The Abolition of Man by C. S. Lewis

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