Churches in America are facing common headwinds as overall attendance declines. There are numerous reasons for this trend, with the most glaring being the unfavorable view of younger generations toward organized religion. Pew Research and sociologists have coined the fast-growing population of religiously unaffiliated the "nones." To be fair, I spoke with Rabbis and Imams who expressed that they, too, are experiencing the same trends. Even those who consider themselves faithful members are participating less in church due to the busyness of personal life and family schedules. The good news is that according to Pew Research from 2025, the decline of Christianity has slowed, and some data suggests Gen Z (those born 1997–2012) are more open and curious about God and faith.
In this climate, it is prudent for us as the church body to avoid two reactions. First, we must avoid an irrational fear that Christianity will "die" in America. For two millennia, the Church of Jesus Christ has endured far worse; the faithful have seen seemingly end-of-the-world historical events and persevered. We only need to look forty years after Christ's resurrection and ascension, when Roman persecution under Emperor Nero was so great that believers truly felt the second coming of Christ was at hand. The Church has been, and is, firmly in God's sovereign plan.
Second, we should avoid making changes too quickly. There is urgency, as always, but it must be met with prayerful, Spirit-led steps. For example, within a few months of my call at RB Community during the "honeymoon stage," chatter about starting a second service began. While there is deep gratitude to God for a strong start to this new season, discerning God's will is crucial so that we do not get ahead of His plans. Church growth has many other facets than mere numbers.
As I reflect on the nine months that have already passed, the analogy of the speedboat versus the oil tanker comes to mind. One can turn on a dime and change course quickly, but cannot travel long distances. The other can journey thousands of nautical miles, but changes direction slowly. One seeks quick wins; the other relies on spiritual formation and maturity.
So, I gauge the progress of our church with this simple question: "As the people of God, are we healthier than we were yesterday?" Spiritual maturity is the focus. If we become a people who experience deep spiritual formation and a growing devotion to the Lord, the fruit of God's work in us will naturally come forth. Our hope is always keeping our eyes on Christ. Change comes from His work in us individually and as a body.
Trends and mountains aside, our eyes are forever on the One true God. Psalm 121:1-2 reads, "I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth." Our Savior does more than save us from sin; He empowers the Church to thrive. Let us together lift up our eyes to the Lord in our times of prayer and as we gather together in worship.
Pastor Jason