Some people leave because they observe gradual changes over time in the way people interact. The level of friendliness and encouragement seems to decrease, while the amount of arguing and judging seems to increase. But in truth, the only thing that really changes is people’s expectations increase imperceptibly over time, until the fellowship they’re used to ceases to measure up anymore.

Some people leave because there’s too much doctrinal incorrectness, too much biblical illiteracy… Okay, well why not patiently teach and exhort folks to get into their bibles, maybe recommend some good teaching resources, and offer some gentle loving mentorship?

Some leave because too many members are distracted by unimportant side issues and meaningless debates. Okay, so why not foster more unity, by working to bring greater focus on the message we all agree on, Jesus Christ, THE essential of the faith?

Some leave because they don’t get enough attention from other members. Believe it or not, I can understand this view. Nobody likes to be ignored, or feel irrelevant…NO ONE. But there are always ways to become relevant. For example, find someone to encourage. There’s ALWAYS someone who could use it, isn’t there??? In doing so, we become relevant…to someone.

Some leave because folks are too judgmental, too legalistic, too arrogant, too hardline, etc. Okay, so how about injecting some grace and mercy into the dialogue? Jesus gives us the strength to stand in the face of persecution. After all, he too was persecuted by hardliners.

Some leave because they see too much pandering, softening of doctrine, rationalizing and giving in to the world. Okay, so why not reveal to fellow members the rewards of a life surrendered to God, the beauty of a life spent in pursuit of holiness, purity, and innocence? Merely teaching doctrine can be dry and uninteresting, but examples from life are far more powerful. Similar to Jesus’ approach with the parables.

Some leave because they feel guilty or ashamed. They’ve established themselves as someone who loves God, knows God’s word, and is determined to live by it, even encouraging others to do the same. But life comes along and knocks them a step backwards in their walk with God. Rather than use this as a way to help others, they…leave.

Some leave because of the actions of one or two other people, who harass or discourage them. Such harassers should be warned lovingly, and if problems continue, disciplinary action should follow. Discipline can be an act of love too. If discipline is forsaken, those who contribute positively to the fellowship end up leaving, while those who don’t stay and do further harm.

I hate when people leave!! For every reason to leave, it seems there is a good reason to stay! Not everyone who leaves, leaves by the leading of the Holy Spirit. In fact, wherever the gospel is freely shared and people are daily encouraged to trust the Lord, Satan certainly conjures as many reasons as possible for us to quit and leave. Anything to divide and isolate the members of the body of Christ!!

Leave what??? Well…leave MyChurch, or their church, or even THE church! The decision to leave must always be weighed carefully, and in prayer!! It’s just easier to quit, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the Lord’s will to do so. Since when is serving anyone easy???