What does it mean to “be authentic”? Often, it seems like appeals to be authentic are like teens who are so eager to be “individuals” that they all wear exactly the same clothing as every other teen. In reality, however, being authentic can mean simply relating to people without a hidden agenda. Far too often, Christians try to find a “hook” that is not real in order to gain a hearing with an unbeliever. It is a bit like being a used car salesman. Does the person like sports, well, then I love sports!! I tell you how pumped I was by the Home run in the Texans game. Does the person like crafts, well, then I love crafts! And so on.

This is an interesting video that explores some of this, from the perspective of an unbeliever. Especially pay attention to his description of the Amway sales pitch.