The Great Dechurching

When the Soviet Union collapsed and that struggle ended, it became more culturally acceptable to be both American and non-Christian.

Tens of millions of people may be leaving the church, and more than eighty-six churches may be closing every week, but if we have eyes to see it, there is actually much reason to hope.

Eleven percent of the dechurched evangelicals in our study indicated that the church was too restrictive of their sexual freedom.

The most important thing to know about dechurched mainstream evangelicals is that 100 percent of those in our study are actively willing to return to an evangelical church. This fact gives us tremendous hope. That is potentially 2.2 million people who say they would return to church right now.

It is critical that we assess why we are engaging with the dechurched. It cannot be for any reason apart from sincere affection for them that flows out of a genuine love of God. We should be careful to avoid motivations of spiritual pride, success, and praise from others.

If church leaders are simply working to give attenders the best experience with the least amount of sacrifice, then why would they do anything more than drop in virtually when they have time?

This means we must not only be aware of the basic things people believe, but we must also gently and kindly demonstrate to our friends and family that their beliefs cannot deliver on their promises.

The main takeaway here is that many dechurched evangelicals simply need a friend to invite them to church.

there are statistically proven paths to success in America, including graduating high school, working full-time, and marrying before having children.