Sunday Christian

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Sunday Christian (also Once-a-weeker) is a derisive term used to refer to someone who typically goes to church on Sundays but does not strictly adhere to the doctrines or rules of the religion otherwise.

The term is most often used by some Christians to deride someone whom they feel is lukewarm in the Christian faith. From their perspective, a "Sunday Christian" is attempting to cheat God by taking only those parts of the religion which are appealing or convenient without having to commit to anything. They believe the "Sunday Christian" is attempting to buy his/her way into heaven with a minimal amount of effort.

From another perspective, the person being insulted may simply adhere to another interpretation of Christianity, one which may include greater emphasis on actions, attitudes and good will rather than dogma. The person might also being simply paying lip service, attending church for familial or reputational purposes while otherwise not carrying the beliefs of the church as their own. Also, as it would take a concerted effort for an accuser to keep track on how often the person is at church or how devout the accused is, the charge can serve as a form of ostracism.

It is also worth noting that there is a large number of people who attend Christian church service only on Christmas and Easter (sometimes called Twice-a-years).