Prodigal Comeback
The statistics are unbelievably staggering: over the last 10 years, 28 million have left the church – making America the third largest mission field in the world. 72 churches in America close each Week and attendance in 66 % of America’s churches has either plateaued or is 2/3 in decline. I hate to report this one, but truth is – Islam is the fastest growing religion in America. Yet, as Paul would say, “we are hopeful of better things-things that belong to salvation.” We are hopeful our generation will see another great revival. We are hopeful that there will come another great awakening. We are hopeful that the prodigals will return. The question is: Why are they leaving? There are several reasons people are leaving the church. But allow me to highlight a few here: Apathy and the deceitfulness and hardening of sin Shallow soil, not grounded and without roots Hypocrisy, sin among clergy and offense from others, inner hurts Drifting, one bad choice after another bad choice The seeker experience never turned into a …
Walter Bright 