Monday
Sep292003
Why people leave the church
Monday, September 29, 2003 at 3:54PM This post is from the defunct blog "Dying Church"
Interesting facts on why people leave church. I had no idea that 94% of church leavers were leaders within the church, rather than fringe attenders. Thanks to Living Room for the link.
Reader Comments (5)
Sorry about the double post.
This sounds a remarkably spurious statistic (94%?!!). Or maybe in US churches people get brought into leadership rapidly to fill in the gaps? We've just had a couple leave our church. It was considerably less than simple, but basically they felt that they needed support of a particular nature, and when providing that support began draining the providers so that it had to be reduced, they decided it was their right and threw a wobbly. Of course from their point of view we've been harsh, unloving and judgmental. Who's right? God will judge us on what we do to our fellow believers. As long as we continue to act in faith and love I trust that our 'mistakes' will be able to 'work together for good'.
This sounds a remarkably spurious statistic (94%?!!). Or maybe in US churches people get brought into leadership rapidly to fill in the gaps? We've just had a couple leave our church. It was considerably less than simple, but basically they felt that they needed support of a particular nature, and when providing that support began draining the providers so that it had to be reduced, they decided it was their right and threw a wobbly. Of course from their point of view we've been harsh, unloving and judgmental. Who's right? God will judge us on what we do to our fellow believers. As long as we continue to act in faith and love I trust that our 'mistakes' will be able to 'work together for good'.
i was pretty surprised by that figure too - thats why I put it up actually - I'm not sure it would be the case in Australia. Interested what others think.
Very interesting. Will give this topic much more thought. The information provokes (and is worthy of) more consideration, especially as I minister in a mega-church area (Saddleback, Mariners, Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa). Thanks Darryl.