The Unknown Connection Most Unchurched Have with the Church

Rainer on Leadership

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6d ago 24:03

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Most unchurched people have some past connection to church—often from childhood. Our research found that 63% of the unchurched used to attend regularly. Their current indifference isn’t based on ignorance; it’s often rooted in real, past experiences. This means our efforts to reach them aren’t starting from zero. In this episode, Thom and Sam unpack what it means to engage the “dechurched”—those who’ve drifted away—and why this group might be more receptive than you think.

1. Assume familiarity, not hostility, when engaging the unchurched.
2. Past church experiences—good or bad—shape current attitudes.
3. Holiday services are key re-entry points for many dechurched people.
4. Reaching the unchurched begins by rebuilding broken or neglected bridges.

Resources:

Life Application Study Bible

Church Connect

Tyndale House Publishers

Upward Sports

Upward Sports: Pickleball

“The Anxious Generation Goes to Church” by Thom S. Rainer (affiliate link)

Good News Neighbors Toolkit

Invite Your One

Church Answers Platinum Membership

FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

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