Christians: Is this odd behavior of a church member?

Question

Let's say that there was a member of a church, that was very active. Very active as in going every time the church doors were opened. The person goes for months, and never missing a Sunday. Then, all of a sudden, he quits going to church altogether, and hasn't been back in months.

Is that odd behavior of a church member? What would your reaction be?

Answer 1

I would not call it odd because it happens to many people. I would call this person to make sure they are okay and to try and talk about why they did not return.

Answer 2

It depends on your definition of "odd behavior."



Perhaps the person passed away. Or maybe the person has moved out of town. Or perhaps the person is ill. Or, maybe just started attending another church. Or, maybe the person's car is not running and the person has no way to get to church.Maybe they cannot afford to buy gasoline for the car. Maybe a lot of things. If this person had been attending my church, and suddenly stopped coming, I would phone the person to see if there is a problem I, or the church, might be able to help with. I have done this numerous times in the past, and will continue to do it whenever this situation develops. I would NOT begin accusing the person of "odd behavior." Why are you not checking on this person instead of accusing him/her of "odd behavior" and asking us about it?



I hope this helps you.



Go in peace.



And, always remember: -- Jesus loves you!!



Sincerely,

Uncle Floyd

Answer 3

I've done that. I also sent a letter asking the church to remove me from its rolls.



Whether the member changed or the church changed, or some disagreement that hadn't become clear when he joined has suddenly become insurmountable, these things can happen, and people sometimes do leave churches.



Or it's possible that this particular member has

(a) found it necessary to avoid some particular person who also goes;

(b) had a change in personal scheduling that conflicts with attendance at that church;

(c) is wooing someone who attends a different church;

(d) is ill; or

(e) something else.

Has anyone asked?

Answer 4

Maybe he had a bad experience. Maybe he found a different church closer to his house.



I'm constantly asked why I never go to church any more. I do - I just sit in the balcony now.

Answer 5

I'd pay the member a visit to be certain he's ok. But it sounds like he is suffering "every time the church doors open" burn-out.

Answer 6

Read Matthew chapter 13.

Answer 7

Small stuff.



Focus on your business.



He or she is probably doing well serving the Lord.



We are the church if we are led by the Spirit -



You do not go to God's Church - you either are his Church or not!

Answer 8

Probably changed churches.

Answer 9

I suppose it is odd but it may be easily expainable.



They could be dead, moved, go to a different church, in jail, or developed a drug addiction. Who knows?

Answer 10

Family trouble?

Answer 11

He probably actually sat down, read the Bible, and then intelligently concluded that it was all bullshhit.

Answer 12

have you called on said active person to see why they are missing?



are they sick? are they dead?

Answer 13

maybe the mob got him

Answer 14

Sin. . . it always starts with sin.

Answer 15

Maybe they are dead, or ran out of money to donate

Answer 16

Why dont you ask them?