In a surprising revelation about the beliefs of evangelicals in Canada, a new survey has unveiled significant deviations from traditional Christian doctrines. These findings have sparked calls for more robust biblical education and discipleship within Canadian churches.
The 2026 State of Theology Canada survey, conducted by Ligonier Ministries Canada in partnership with Lifeway Research, delves into Canadians’ understanding of pivotal Christian doctrines concerning God, salvation, sin, the Bible, and morality.
Surveying 3,005 Canadian adults between October 16 and 30, 2025, the study defined evangelicals based on their strong agreement with key theological tenets, such as the Bible’s authority, Jesus Christ’s sacrificial death, and salvation through faith in Christ alone.
One of the survey’s most notable findings is the prevalent confusion among evangelicals regarding essential Christian beliefs. A striking 73% of evangelicals agreed that “Everyone is born innocent in the eyes of God,” while 60% believed that “Everyone sins a little, but most people are good by nature.”
The survey also highlighted contradictions in beliefs about the Trinity. While 93% acknowledged belief in one God as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, two-thirds simultaneously agreed that “The Holy Spirit is a force but is not a personal being.”
Further concerns arose as 45% of evangelicals perceived Jesus merely as a great teacher rather than as God, despite nearly half affirming the Bible’s authority.
Additional inconsistencies emerged in attitudes toward the Bible itself. Although many evangelicals regarded the Bible as their highest authority, 28% conceded that it “contains helpful accounts of ancient myths but is not literally true.”
Chris Larson, chairman of Ligonier Ministries Canada, emphasized the importance of addressing these issues, stating, “These are not minor details. They are fundamental truths. If we get these wrong, we don’t have Christianity at all.”
The survey also investigated general religious attitudes among the Canadian populace. It found that 54% of Canadians view the Bible as a source of moral stories rather than factual accuracy, whereas 48% believe in the bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Responses often demonstrated a blend of secular and Christian beliefs, rather than a complete rejection of religion.
Regional and generational differences were also apparent. Ontarians and residents of the Prairie provinces were more inclined to uphold traditional Christian teachings compared to those in Quebec, British Columbia, and Atlantic Canada. Younger Canadians (ages 18-49) showed greater openness to biblical teachings than their older counterparts, who were more likely to reject certain church doctrines and moral teachings.
Many respondents expressed uncertainty, particularly regarding the Resurrection, science, and biblical doctrines, pointing to both theological confusion and opportunities for outreach.
The report aims to not only identify theological misconceptions but also to guide churches in areas needing enhanced discipleship and biblical education. “As faithful biblical teaching goes out from local churches and believers share their faith, Canadians can be reached with the truth of God’s Word and the hope of the gospel as God draws many people to Himself,” the report concluded.
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
