Secular Faith

Mark A. Smith's Secular Faith argues that religion adapts to societal changes, showcasing the evolving views of American Christians on key issues throughout history.

In Secular Faith, Mark A. Smith explores the evolving relationship between religion and societal values, particularly within the context of American Christianity. He begins with a pivotal moment in recent history: Pope Francis's response to a question about homosexuality, which marked a significant shift in the Catholic Church's stance. This moment serves as a lens through which Smith examines how Christian teachings have historically adapted to align with changing cultural and political landscapes, rather than remaining static as many believe.

Smith delves into five contentious issues that have shaped American history: slavery, divorce, homosexuality, abortion, and women's rights. He argues that even the most conservative Christian leaders have, over time, adjusted their views in response to societal changes, albeit at a slower pace. This adaptability reveals a fundamental characteristic of religion in America: it is not a rigid, conservative force but rather a responsive entity that reflects the prevailing values of its time. As cultural transitions occur, Christian leaders may initially resist these changes, but ultimately, they reinterpret their beliefs to remain relevant.

The book presents a thought-provoking perspective on the moral and political commonalities that exist between contemporary Christians and their secular counterparts. Smith posits that the strongest influences on moral beliefs are less about religious doctrine and more about the socio-cultural context of an individual's upbringing. Secular Faith offers a well-researched and optimistic view of the potential for political harmony between religious and secular communities in the future.