Why Most Don’t Go To Church

     This is not what you think. It has nothing to do with the fact that churches are full of hypocrites. It has nothing to do with churches being stuck in their ways. It has nothing to do with churches being old fashioned or not caring about people. It has nothing to do with churches being more concerned with someone’s outward appearance than compassionate about their present circumstance. Yes, these factors can play a part in people not coming back to a church, but I really think we have the entire process backwards.

     There used to be a time when the early Disciples of Christ knew that most around them were not believers. Jesus taught them how to go and meet people where they lived with a life changing gospel. They didn’t just put up a sign that said, “Church Service This Way.” Instead, they took the church to the streets, the villages, and to the people. They accepted their God called mission to live out their faith and share it with everyone possible.

    Somebody, please tell every believer that we are living in similiar times. Somebody, please tell our churches that we have to get out of our seats and into the streets. Look for people to love despite what they may look like on the outside. Somebody please tell every believer that instead of criticizing our culture, we need to stand out like shooting stars. Let your light shine in such a way that others can’t help but see Jesus pouring through your veins. Somebody please tell our churches that lost people don’t care what time we hold services, how nice our buildings look, or what stain glass windows we purchase. They may appreciate these things, but what they really need to know is how much do we actually care about them.

    Jesus lived in such a way that he touched every life he encountered. Jesus loved people in such a way that he left them speechless. Jesus lived with such a genuine compassion for people that they never doubted he cared. They knew he had no hidden agenda. Jesus showed us how to live, love, and lift those around us to new heights. Our greatest calling is to be imitators of Christ, not keepers of the church.

    I’m convinced that the reason most don’t go to church is because they are waiting for the church to come to them. They are waiting to see the same faith talked about on the inside of the church to be lived out on the outside. All of us have to make sure we don’t get so caught up in playing church that we forget our greatest mission is to be the church. God has called us to this and many lost souls are depending on our obedience.

^“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” – Matthew 28:19-20