Ross Douthat & the New Evangelization

In his essay today at the New York Times, Ross Douthat discusses two important new books on the role of religion in American culture. And, though he does not employ the phrase, he makes the case for the New Evangelization. He writes about the happy consequences of faith, the increase in altruism, etc. But, the Christian faith will only flourish when it is grasped as true, not when it is seen to be sociall beneficial. That is why we need a New Evangelization. Not to protect "traditional marriage." Not to engender altruism. But, because we believe the admittedlty outrageous claims of our faith are true.