by Tom Rainer
The book was written by Tom Rainer. He evaluated 14 different churches that closed their doors. I will go over a few reasons why churches start to diminish. We see a decline in the physical facilities typically first. A decline in the vibrant ministries that once existed. The decline is in the prayer lines of its members who remain. The decline is in the outward focus of the church. Lastly, the decline is in connection with the community. Is your church a fortress? Does people in your community feel welcome at your church? Are the members still at the church more interested in protecting the way they do church rather than reaching the community? You ever notice how funds are cut from outreach ministries before members cut anything that makes them comfortable at church? Isn’t our job to further the Great Commission? Declining churches care more for its own needs that the community and world. Our job is to bring souls to Christ. That is it! A church cannot survive when it’s members focus on music style, desired length of worship service, and the needs of ministers and staff. I hope your church is growing and not living in the past glory days.