I was thinking of changing church.

It was a big decision – one I didn’t want to make flippantly. So, I figured I would talk to a mature and wise Christian about this, and who better than the young adults pastor?

As I shared my concerns with the pastor, it was clear he understood the dilemma I was facing. Then he spoke: “I’m going to ask you three questions – these are the same questions I’ve asked myself before. I’ve also posed them to anyone who has come to me with the same concerns.”

1. DO YOU SEE YOURSELF GROWING IN THIS CHURCH?

Church is a place to meet together and encourage one another (Hebrews 10:25). Beyond fellowship, we also go to church to learn about the Word (Acts 2:42).
My pastor pointed out that it was necessary that our church was one where I could grow in my knowledge of God’s Word, and deeper in fellowship with other believers.

I struggled because our church didn’t have a young adults ministry. I felt that the transition from youth to adult cell group was a big leap in terms of age. So really, I was looking for Christian peers I could grow with.

2. CAN YOU BRING PRE-BELIEVING FRIENDS TO THIS CHURCH?

Every Christian is an evangelist. When posed this question, I realised that our church wasn’t a place I would invite pre-believing friends to.

The issue wasn’t theological or doctrinal in nature, it had to do with community dynamics. Our church’s corporate evangelistic events catered to older adults. So, it wasn’t as easy inviting younger friends to church.

To be clear, I know the gospel is for everyone. But the younger pre-believing friends I’d bring would have felt out of place in our church’s programs.

3. ARE YOU ABLE TO CHANGE THE SITUATION IN CHURCH?

“If you think your answer to both these questions is ‘no’, that’s fine – but this third question is very important, and should help shape your overall decision,” my pastor said.

He asked if I was a cell group leader, or whether I was in some form of leadership. I shook my head. My pastor explained that if I was in a position of influence, I would have the ability to change things.

Sometimes God puts us in a place which needs fixing – to fix those things. But our church didn’t need any fixing from me, it just wasn’t the right fit for the season.

Ultimately, I changed church peaceably.

If you’re currently thinking of making a switch, let these 3 questions be a simple guide. But beyond them, you already belong to the family of God, and you have a Wonderful Counsellor who wants to guide you to the right community of believers for you.

Just spend extended time with Him, and in due time, you will know these things.

Only let there be no anger or unresolved bitterness in your heart about moving. Let your decision be God-inspired, not based on what you want.
Then bloom where you are planted.