42. When is it Time to Leave a Church?

Today we are talking about leaving a church.

There are times, of course, when you may need to leave a church due to moving from one city to another. But is there ever a time where you should leave your church to attend another one?

In the West we sure like our choices. Churches are often seen as different products on a shelf - you get to pick which one you like. If the one you picked turns out not to be exactly what you wanted - that's fine! Leave and try something else out.

But is that the Biblical way of thinking about the church? Should you leave a church because the music isn't to your liking, Billy in the third pew down from you is a jerk, or the "Associate Pastor" is a bit cringe? The Bible doesn't seem to think so.

However, there are appropriate times to leave a church. In fact, there are necessary times to leave. What are good reasons for leaving a church? And if you sense there is a good reason to leave a church, how do you proceed?

If you are a pastor: how do you handle someone leaving a church? What are some pitfalls you should watch out for once a parishioner says those fateful words, "Pastor, we need to talk"?

We hope this episode is insightful and encouraging for you. Please rate the show and share with your friends and family!

In Christ,

The Cranmer Fellows