“I’m convinced that the biggest emerging fissure in Western culture is not necessarily between political left and right,” writes Brett McCracken, but between “those fiercely committed to reality (even when it goes against the narrative) and those who elevate the narrative (whether left or right) above reality.”

In a new article at TGC, McCracken explores why we are so loyal—sometimes blindly—to narratives that represent “our side.” He suggests three reasons:

• We’re overwhelmed—and narratives are easier.
• We’re impatient—and narratives are faster.
• We’re self-oriented—and narratives serve us.

Sadly, many believers are stressing narratives over reality, or letting narratives determine their perception of reality—and it’s ripping evangelicalism apart. Of all people, though, Christians should be contending for transcendent truth rather than clawing for partisan power or in-group status. In Christian Scripture and tradition, after all, we possess unique resources to showcase a better way. It’s time to stand out rather than blend in.