Surveys have shown time and again that the primary reasons people do not attend church are boring sermons, unfriendly/hypocritical church members, and outdated/poor quality music. Since I am gifted and passionate about the music arena, I will stick to that subject in this blog.
As I continue in my search for my next ministry position, I am blown away at the number of churches that are hanging on to the past and coddling believers who are supposed to have matured over time but have settled into a "I want it my way" mindset about church. I'm primarily speaking of musical styles, but also referring to things like traditions that are by-rote rituals with very little substance or meaning any more.
I know that in another 15 years I'll probably be the guy who says the music is too loud or asks why we can't serve communion more regularly, but I have already given my wife and other very close friends permission to smack me upside the head when I do.
Why? Because outdated methods fail the church in its most important order of "business" - bringing in new believers. Jesus, in his final words to the disciples, tells them first to what? Make disciples. We can't do that if we can't get them in the door on a Sunday morning. It's no secret that the "next generation" is largely missing from church on a given weekend as are a large percentage of men.
I would be remiss if I did not mention that I do see some churches succeeding in doing these things. That excites me. I am certain that a church with a passion for making disciples is where God is sending me on my next assignment.
If you're a church leader, let me challenge you to rethink the way ministry is done. You and I both know the worst thing we can say at church is "We've always done it that way." Think so far outside the box that you forget the box even exists. Surround yourself with people who will push you to find new ways to create an environment where seekers can safely investigate the claims of Christ. The Holy Spirit does the rest, but we have to give folks a reason to show up. As they do, we give them the Way, the Truth, and the Life...and watch transformation occur that cannot be explained by anything other than the hand of God.
As for me, I will continue to passionately pursue my calling to change the populations of heaven and hell by creating church services and playing music that will draw seekers to an encounter with the Living God. And I'll mentor the next generation of lead worshipers to do the same.