Introduction
The validity of the gospel message is independent of individuals or institutions; however, when those who share the good news are not trusted, the gospel is questioned. Globally, there is a perceived rise in distrust that is dynamically shaping cultures, as the world asks, ‘What is the foundation of trust?’
The following section explores the context shifts in trust across a variety of institutions and generations.
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Trust
Numerous studies show that civic trust is declining and polarization is increasing around the world.
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Institutional Trust
Especially among youth, trust in institutions to solve societal problems is waning as trust in the agency of individuals increases.
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Religious Institutional Trust
When global individuals were presented with a religious leader and a scientist giving the same message, the vast majority of the world found the scientist more credible than the religious leader.
![](https://lausanne.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/State_of_the_Great_Commission_Youth_Sources_of_Trust_Youth_Trust_in_Institutions-1024x356.jpg)
Youth Sources of Trust
Globally, youth display high levels of trust in family members in regards to their spiritual formation.
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Cultural Influence
In a survey of 1,500 global Christian leaders asking about the influence of the church on their region, the results overwhelmingly point to the church’s lack of influence on global culture.