An Institution in Trouble

An excerpt from Making the Church Work
by Edward H. Hammett

The traditional institutional church is in trouble. It has become more introverted than focused on reaching the world. It is complacent and clergy-directed. In most major denominations membership is down. Denominational and church loyalty is waning. Tithes and offerings are declining and being dispersed to many parachurch organizations. Biblical illiteracy is rampant, even among those who have been actively involved in church life for years. The ills of society are increasing with depth. Seriousness and intensity across all social classes and racial groups are permeating the lives and families of those both inside and outside the church.

Researchers tell us that non-Christians and Christians are basically the same in terms of morality and ethics. Both attend church less and less as the years pass. They declare the church is irrelevant, too judgmental, non-user-friendly, and not worth their time. They are disenchanted with the institutional church. Yet, they are asking serious questions about spiritual issues. They are seeking answers to probing, heartfelt, and challenging questions in every place but the church. The New Age movement, self-help books, motivation seminars, work and civic relationships-you name it! The search goes on, the questions continue to grow, and the church becomes more ineffective.

For Reflection:
Check each statement that applies to your church:

More money is spent on outreach than on inreach.
More programming/ministry is aimed at those outside the church than inside.
Leadership focus is directed toward laypersons rather than toward professional ministers.
Membership, attendance, and involvement have increased over the past ten years.
Members are committed to the beliefs and work of the denomination.
Tithes and offerings have increased over the past ten years.
Members are knowledgeable of the Scriptures and doctrine.
Programming/ministry addresses social problems. Different social, economic, and racial groups are represented.
Members are as concerned about morality and ethics as they were ten years ago.
Programming/ministry meets the needs of persons in the community as a whole.
Types of programming/ministry have changed significantly over the past ten years.
Members actively share their faith in their daily lives and activities.
What do your answers reveal about your church?

Edward Hammett is the author of "Making the Church Work." To order, go to the online bookpage or call 1-800-747-3016.