7 Rumors About The American Church That Are False

In Malcolm Gladwell’s book The Tipping Point, he makes the observation that rumors are the most contagious of all social messages.  I agree as nothing spreads quite like a bad rumor.

The following are 7 false rumors that have run wild but after closer inspection, simply have no basis in reality:

1. The American Church Is In Trouble – Jesus is still on the throne!  The message of the gospel is always advancing and always moving.  As I talk to church leaders across the country, I am continually blown away by the tremendous amount of eternal life change we are seeing in prevailing churches.
2. Pastors Speak Too Much About Money - The reality is that pastors don’t speak on it enough.  Jesus spoke on money and possessions more than faith, hope, and love combined.  Most churches feel they are effective if they do a 4-week financial series once a year.  That is approximately 2 hours 15 minutes per year of telling people what God wants them to do with their financial resources.  By contrast, the average person will see 2 million 30-second commercials by the age of 65 in which the world tells them what they want them to do with their money.
3. It Is Too Late For Someone To Be Reached For Christ – Today a pastor told me a story about a young man recently weeping over his step-father who was dying without Christ during an altar call.  The pastor immediately went to the pulpit and led the entire church in praying for this man’s soul.  One week later he gave his life to Christ.  Four days later he passed away.  It is never too late for God to change a human life.
4. The Next Generation Should Concern Us – Absolutely false!  When I look at the next generation, I am in awe of their potential, desire to change the world, vibrancy of worship, and sheer love of Jesus.
5. Pastors Are Overpaid – The reality is you cannot pay them enough.  If you serve as an Elder or on a Finance or Personnel Committee, for Heaven’s sake give your pastor a raise!!!
6. The Church Is The Most Segregated Population In The United States – Sadly, this is true.  What is not being reported, however, is that there are many churches who are making tremendous strides in addressing this issue.
7. Older People Have No Place In Growing Churches – If you are over 60 years old, you are desperately needed in younger, fast-growing churches.  I want to communicate how much we need your wisdom.  And I also want to say a true heartfelt “THANK YOU!  We are building on the foundation you built on your knees with your blood, sweat, and prayers.  We honor the legacy you have left for us.  And once again, THANK YOU!”

I am only scratching the surface of the many false rumors about the church that are going around both by Christians and Non-Christians alike.  What are some you would add to the list?

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