Thursday
Jun242004
How dare you not attend church? part two
Thursday, June 24, 2004 at 8:10AM
Rachel rocked my world some time ago with a series of posts called Listening to a non-church-goer. Agree or disagree, these posts are still worth reading. A couple of good books on why people might be leaving the church (as we think of it) are Exit Interviews: Revealing Stories of Why People are Leaving Church and The Present Future. We may or may not disagree with people who leave, but I would argue that we're smart to at least understand them. They're not all wrong. We may need to hear some things from them.
Reader Comments (2)
Darryl, It's 3:45 in the morning and I can't stop reading these blog entries that your entry linked me to. WOW!! It's been some time, in my life, since I have been so fired up about something, and a huge passion has been placed on my heart. I really feel for all us believers! I used to be a church goer, but currently I'm not. Well, at least not to any particular church. I'm not claiming that church going is wrong, but I know we are not being the church Christ has called us to be. I also yearn for the fellowship of believers and for the challenging of one another to be holy, to serve others, to love everyone, etc... I want to start a small group in my area to do just that. I have already spoke to some people about it and they are interested. Being in this area is an important criteria, because of such busy and hectic schedules, it is also important to meet frequently, and being close makes it easier. I've sensed the Lord calling me for a long time. Ever since I was a youngster. At times this calling is quiet and at other times it just screams in my spirit. I see a vision of several hundred groups like this, each with members of only as many as can fit into a house. I see these groups coming together collectively, at times, to worship and fellowship in a larger community, but not necessarily at a "church" building. Space can be rented on an as needed basis for a lot less money than buying and maintaining a facility. I see people really listening to, and helping in other peoples needs. Truly caring for each other. I respect and look forward to your comments to this, or anyone else's comments. Your prayers for me, especially regarding these issues, are always welcome and appreciated.
Peter: I'm so excited about what you've said. The thread at Rachel's literally changed my view of what the church should be. Looks like it's done something in you as well. Godspeed! You're thinking some great thoughts there.