Thursday, December 10, 2009

So You Don't Want to Go to Church Anymore


I’ve just finished reading a book by the above title authored by Wayne Jacobson & Dave Coleman. Through fictitious narrative, these two men address the heart cry of many who have become disillusioned with the institutional church. As a member and leader in said church for almost 50 years and often one of its greatest critics, this portrayal provides a necessary reminder of what it means to be a Christ follower and the values that are truly important as we attempt to adhere to the admonition to “not forsake the assembling together of ourselves”.

If you are one of the many who have quit “going to church” or dread “going to church” and have not understood why, it would be worth your time to read this book. If you are one of the many who are totally fulfilled in your present church experience, it will help you understand those who are on the other side.

You’ll need to resist the urge to villainize the church as you have known it and the tendency to swing to an extreme in response. We all know there is no perfect solution this side of eternity. Nevertheless, this account calls us to “be the church”, not just “go to church”. May the Lord grant us His grace and wisdom to do just that.