WHY I HATE CHURCH
The title of this article does not speak against or advocate not going to church, but it serves to bring to light
what the unchurched are saying and also how some Christians are feeling. This is not to speak against Hebrews
10:25 which tell us not to forsake the assembly of the saints. However, if we want to see change happen in
church today, it is important to understand why people go to church and what people are looking for when they
attend.
Why I Hate Church – The Perspectives of the Believer, Unchurched, and Unbeliever
There’s a widespread dilemma in society in which many believers are disliking church, because they feel they
are not getting what they need or expect. They are seeing the example of Christ in scripture, but seeing something different when they attend church. Those who are not saved often do not feel welcome or sense they are
being condemned whenever attending a worship service. As a result, many have resorted to the “I won’t go to
church until I have it together” syndrome.
Others hate the church because they are seeking purpose in life, but when they go instead of being taught Kingdom living principles, they are being confronted with denominational doctrines and rules. They desire to attend
church for the purpose of understanding and relating the Word of God to their everyday life, but frequently find
teaching that is over their heads or are unable to get clear understanding through a” humming sermon.”
People are seeking to help the community and are looking for a church that is truly involved by helping the
poor, widows and orphans. They believe the church should enhance the community as well as edify its surrounding neighborhood. However, what they often see is the church growing more in buildings and property
space while the surrounding area continues to live in poverty with a high crime rate.
These things, among others, have turned people off from the church that are seeking a place to genuinely worship and love Christ or are searching for a true relationship with Him. As well, the church today has seen a
decline in membership and attendance.
The decline in church membership
According to Gallup polls church attendance is down to only 40% of Americans attend a religious church. It
was as high as 49% in the 1950’s and as low as 37% in 2010. (Newport, 2013)