Synopsis of Discussion - Week 1

Here are 10 observations regarding "why I don't like church anymore" from our July 11th discussion.

1. Church doesn’t address “the bad times” and “dark themes” of life. Rather, the primary theme that is stressed is “be happy.” This is too narrow a view considering the amount of lament in the Psalms and the fact that God is writing a good story…and good story always has both good and bad times, light and darkness, joy and sorrow. Church often seems to be disconnected from "real life."

2. I’m just “bored” with church. I can’t get into it. I like hearing the message, but can’t get into the singing or anything else.

3. Church is too obsessed with the trappings (music, media, chairs, etc). It has moved away from what it originally was.

4. There is always tension about what the style of the Sunday service be. (i.e. Worship Wars) Why is the focus so inward? Shouldn’t it be outward, like on serving the needy?

5. I’m turned off by “leaders” and the “hierarchy” of the church. The early church (from my understanding) was more communal and relational.

6. Church people are too cut and dry. Right and wrong are the only two options. There is no tolerance for those who “don’t believe the right thing.” The people are closed minded and judgmental. There is too much Bible thumping. Not necessarily from the pulpit, but from the people.

7. Christians don’t think for themselves. They should be wrestling with both sides (both points of view) of every issue. They just believe and take as "truth" whatever the pastor tells them.

8. Make me think. Teach me something. I don’t want a cheerleading session (get excited about God!), I want to learn something (like the history of the Christian faith, its roots, etc.). The contemporary church has lost much by neglecting the ancient liturgies.

9. Church tries to emotionally sway people.

10. Why do Christian people have such ungodly attitudes? Should they really be acting this way (especially when they’re serving on Sunday)? Why are there so many gossiping girls, clique kids, and hypocritical adults? What’s with the “rivalry” and “competition” between churches?

Two other noteworthy quotes from the night:
1. “I’m glad I’m not the only one who feels this way.”
2. “Actually, I’m more relaxed since I stopped going to church.”