We had what appeared to be a very good day yesterday at church. Attendance was good, we had visitors, the contribution was encouraging. I noted that folks were talking about a new day and new possibilities. Indeed, we have come a long way in the last three years. After a difficult time, we have found a new balance and stability. I am encouraged, and believe even better days are ahead, but….
There is that adversative particle, actually a conjunction that says what is to follow is a contrast–different than what went before. I am glad to see increased attendance, but I am disappointed in the fact that Bible class attendance was barely over 50% of worship attendance. Let me tell you what I have noticed through 4+ decades of ministry–Bible class attenders don’t drop out! I know there are exceptions to the generalization, but the statement is mostly true. Bible class attenders give a majority of the contribution. Bible class attenders invite visitors, teach the Bible classes, and are the folks you can count on when something needs to be done.
Don’t get me wrong, I am glad for every person who walks through the door of the church building. I want people to attend and find a place to grow spiritually. But I have a deep concern for the folks who stay on the fringe of non-involvement–the “Sunday morning worship only” crowd, no Bible class, no evening worship, not much “church” during the week. I am concerned with the fringe folks because I have observed that it is the core folks who have staying power and can survive the challenges of life. I am concerned because the fringe folks are more likely to fall away.
I am reminded of the story of the little boy who fell out of bed, and when his mother rushed in to his bedroom and asked what had happened, he suggested the real problem: I think I stayed too close to where I got in!