[caww]

Over the past few years the definition of Evangelical has changed considerably I think as there are churches who state they are but are not.

[pgkdan]

Over the past few years the definition of Evangelical has changed considerably I think as there are churches who state they are but are not.

These findings are very sad. And you're right, the definition of who is and who isn't an evangelical Christian has changed over the years. Rob Bell, Jen Hatmaker and Andy Stanley still call themselves Evangelicals.

[boatbums]

As we see often on the Religion Forum, it becomes a catch-all category much like "Protestant" is. The doctrines of the early Reformers, however, were quite orthodox and could be Biblically defended and were. It's too bad that some people today call themselves Evangelical but they know little of the major tenets of the Christian faith that have not and will not be changed. Today there are many false sects and cults that may call themselves Christian but who do not hold to the Biblical faith once delivered unto the saints.

This is, of course, not to say that there needs to be a more concerted effort from pastors and teachers to ensure church members are taught the main doctrines of Christianity. Perhaps surveys like this can be used to spur believers to study Scripture and to be able to articulate to others what it truly means to be a Christian.