Based on past studies of those who avoid Christian churches, one of the driving forces behind such behavior is the painful experiences endured within the local church context. In fact, one Barna study among unchurched adults shows that nearly four out of every ten non-churchgoing Americans (37%) said they avoid churches because of negative past experiences in churches or with church people.<\/p>\n
Bestselling author Stephen Mansfield has written a new book (ReChurch) that digs into those experiences. As one who has been wounded by past church behavior, Mansfield encourages those who have been hurt by the local church to overcome that pain and suffering \u201d\u201c if not in response to a biblical command or for the benefit of the church, then for their own healing and maturation.<\/p>\n
Citing numerous examples, Mansfield notes that God uses people\u2019s pain \u201d\u201c and their own immaturity, in some cases \u201d\u201c to reshape us. There is no denying that many churchgoers get wounded by the insensitive or ignorant actions of others in the church. Mansfield points out, though, that those instances are opportunities for us to love others who, like ourselves, are simply \u201cflawed sinners.\u201d\u009d Fleeing from the source of pain and suffering, rather than addressing and overcoming it, leaves us wounded and bitter, and does nothing to enhance our lives or those of the people responsible for that suffering.<\/p>\n
The solution, according to Mansfield, is forgiveness….<\/p>\n