The majority of Americans leaving the church do so for rather humdrum reasons, sociologist of religion Ryan Burge said during a recent episode of the “CBF Podcast.” This phenomenon is known as “casual dechurching” and is typically overlooked because it’s not as headline-grabbing as disputes over gender and politics, said Burge, a political science professor at Eastern Illinois University known for his books and surveys tracking U.S. religious trends.
Finding the gospel amid a ‘churchgoing bust’
In a recent Atlantic essay titled “The True Cost of the Churchgoing Bust,” columnist Derek Thompson writes that “more Americans today have ‘converted’ out of religion than have converted to all forms of Christianity, Judaism and Islam combined. No faith’s evangelism has been as successful in this century as religious skepticism.”
Surprising Mourners for the Decline of Christianity
In an interview with LBC in London, famed atheist Richard Dawkins offered two startling admissions: first, that he mourned the loss of much of what reflects the Christian faith in the world, and second, that he would consider himself a “cultural” Christian.
How the Gospel Confronts Culture
In every time period and historical context during which it has been shared, the gospel has confronted culture in one way or another.
The Challenges and Opportunities of Intergenerational Leadership
Due to longevity, it’s not uncommon for four distinct generations of adults to be vying for leadership within our churches, says Melissa Cooper. She explores how the church can be a place of unity and reconciliation that uses the gifts of every generation.
VOICES: Who prays for you and your church?
John Wesley (1703-1791) was a traveling preacher and founder of the Methodist Church. Wesley said, “Give me one hundred preachers who fear nothing but sin and desire nothing but God, and I care not a straw whether they be clergymen or laymen; such alone will shake the gates of Hell and set up the Kingdom of Heaven on Earth. God does nothing but in answer to prayer.”
Youth Ministry Tasks You Can Delegate to Volunteers and Teens
Youth ministry tasks aren’t just for youth ministers. How well do you delegate? Are you reluctant to hand off certain responsibilities? Do you think you’re the only one capable of tackling some jobs?
How to Find Your Purpose in Life
Let’s take a brief look at how to discover your God-given purpose...There are at least three things you can do that will help in the process of discovery.
Everyday Evangelism
Evangelism in the modern age is defined as spreading the gospel witness through preaching or public witness. Yet, in most churches, the pastor is expected to preach and share the message while the congregation sits and watches. Every member can reach out to someone, and you can help them do it.
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