CHARLESTON, S.C. - Feb. 4, 2020 - Peer-reviewed medical literature has shown the practice of religion in historically Christian countries enhances wellbeing. Specifically, Teleios Research has previously demonstrated the more a person practices Christianity the better their wellbeing. Teleios has also noted that many non-Christians practice and believe the basic elements of the Christian faith.
Teleios most recently evaluated non-Christians and their wellbeing based on the extent of their belief in practices of the Christian faith.
Non-Christians were identified in a database of 14,276 participants from surveys on two Christian Instagram accounts over 4 years. There were 604 participants who identified as non-Christian of whom: 76% were female, 50% were from the United States and 74% were between the ages of 18 and 35. Wellbeing was graded on a scale between 0 and 6 with 6 being the highest.
The results showed that wellbeing was enhanced for non-Christians who went to church frequently (5.1 vs 4.6), studied the Bible (5.4 vs 4.6) taught the Bible (5.2 vs 4.1), were secure in their salvation (5.6 vs 4.5), and praised God (5.7 vs 4.0) than those who did not practice these behaviors (P<0.007).
In contrast, non-Christians, those who prayed every day and or said they were saved by grace did not report better wellbeing (P>0.03) than those who did not practice these behaviors. There were essentially none that shared the gospel with others.
These results showed that approximately half of self-identified non-Christians participate in Christian religious activity and beliefs and often note improved wellbeing.
Dr. William C. Stewart, co-founder of Teleios, indicated "These results are surprising, but consistent with our past research. The reason for the improved wellbeing is not known. However, we could speculate that God is influencing a portion of the non-Christians towards faith, as stated in John 16:8-9. Therefore, in seeking to satisfy their longing for God they're practicing some aspects of the faith and gaining at least partial benefit from it."
"Interestingly, the analysis demonstrates the psychological advantages that Christian practice and security provide even without true belief. This shows that God who made us knows what we need to live a healthy life."
Further research is needed to clarify the characteristics of non-Christians who practice the Christian faith and the reasons for their religious participation.
More findings from Teleios can be viewed on their website.
WC Stewart, A Brogan, JA Stewart, LA Nelson
About Teleios – Teleios is a non-profit foundation that seeks to demonstrate the truth of scripture and the Christian faith through scientific methods by providing evidence for the positive results of a biblically-based lifestyle and produces practical tools for scriptural understanding and confidence.
Contact
Lindsay Nelson - Teleios Research
info@teleiosresearch.com
