A metaphor or image for the Christendom paradigm is that of a prepared meal, all courses planned in advance and served in proper sequence. Unique to the Post-Christendom paradigm is the individual and what the individual can gain from his or her beliefs and relationship with the divine. It is highly personal and privatized. Each person decides for himself or herself what beliefs are necessary or helpful. Beliefs are drawn from a vast variety of sources, and the Hebrew and Christian Scriptures are one resource among many.
Faith is defined primarily by personal experience and what makes sense.
Believers in the Post-Christendom paradigm pull together whatever is helpful in the present moment. Often, they may hold conflicting beliefs and values within short periods of time. Post-Christendom believers are heavily influenced by New Age thinking that equates spiritual attainment with wealth, popularity, accomplishment, good health, or success. For many traditional Christians, the Post-Christendom paradigm seems threatening and potentially disastrous. A metaphor or image for Post-Christendom is a dessert cart, filled with a variety of wonderful treats, but lacking balance and substance.