The seeker-sensitive movement isn't working. Even Bill Hybels admits the method of gearing church toward non-Christians is a mistake. After years of effort, thousands of hours of research and millions of dollars committed to streamlining the 'church experience' to where it will be palatable to sinners, it seems like the biblical method is still the best. Thom Rainer knows this more exactly than many others, and he does the math for you in divulging Surprising Insights From the Unchurched and Proven Ways to Reach Them.
With dozens of charts and graphs based on research gleaned from over 800 pastors, formerly unchurched, and 'transfer churched' (church-goers self-identifying as Christians who have moved from one church to another), Rainer details influences, patterns and trends within the church. By examining the facts and figures in the light of Scripture, the biblical model is vindicated, and the major purposes of the church (worship, evangelism, ministry, prayer, fellowship, and discipleship) are put into their proper perspective.
The appendices include blank surveys and questionnaires used to define the conclusions made in the body of the book. The mode of research design and statistical review are included as well.
