When I say “church clothes,” what comes to mind? Do you think of pastel-colored dresses with tights or clip-on ties with dress shoes? The clothes we wore to church as children are certainly different than those we wear today. Big bows are traded for funky headbands and worn-out flannels replace crisp, ironed shirts. Hipster subculture is spreading like wildfire and has even made its way into many churches throughout America. Hipster Christianity certainly appeals to many college students, but could it be hurting the church more than helping? I personally see two defining characteristics in hipster culture that are cancerous to the Christian church.
At the very root of the hipster subculture is a ravenous desire for self-promotion. This self-promotion is none other than a modified form of pride. People will spend hours editing artsy photos of their local coffee shop and post them online for all their friends to covet. It’s safe to say that quirkiness has become a commodity. All of a sudden people feel the need to stand out amongst their peers. This heightened form of individualism stands contrary to the unity needed for a Christ-centered community. To clarify, I am not claiming that all Christians need to be identical imprints of one another. Each person has their own unique set of skills and interests. Rather, believers ought to selflessly use their special gifts to help promote the well being of the church as a whole instead of fracturing the unity with pride. While it’s true that Christians are called to be different, it’s the presence of the Holy Spirit that sets them apart, not their obscure music taste.
The hipster subculture also cultivates a desire for worldly objects. In comparison to eternity, Instagram filters and vintage clothing are insignificant. These material objects are the lifeblood of hipster culture. Don’t get me wrong. I’m not claiming that everyone who enjoys record shops, coffee, and flannels is corrupting the church. Let’s be real. I appreciate those things, too. It’s when worldly objects become the main focus that believers begin to lose their true identity. If all the earthy décor, quirky instruments, and overly priced grunge outfits were stripped away; would worship on Sundays look the same? If the answer is yes, then by all means keep doing what your doing. However, if the answer is no, then maybe it’s time for a shift towards authenticity.
Bearing all this in mind, Christianity should not be viewed as boring and monotonous. In reality, it is quite the contrary. Walking with Christ is unique and life altering. Scripture reveals a way of life that is holy, adventurous, and stands above the mere lifestyle choices of young, metropolitan Americans.
