Have you ever met someone whose face lights up with joy when they talk about how long they’ve been part of their church? I’ve met plenty of these people in my travels, and I can say with pride that I’m one of them. In fact, I’ve only ever been part of two churches during my Christian life. The one I currently attend has been my home for the past twenty-five years, and I can’t help but smile as I write this.
But apparently, my experience is not the norm. According to a recent report, “Protestants are about as likely to be loyal to their toothpaste or bathroom tissue as they are to their denomination.” I’m relieved no one has told me, “Dave, I just want you to know, this church means even more to me than my toothpaste.” Imagine the awkward gratitude. I do wonder, though, how many people might like their church less than their toothpaste but more than their toilet paper. While the comparison is amusing, it underscores a tragic reality: in many cases, brand loyalty outpaces loyalty to the people of God.
Commitment in a Consumer Culture
For a church to flourish, its members must be ambitious about committing to it over the long haul. Unfortunately, such steadfastness is countercultural. Our consumer-driven society emphasizes choice and immediate gratification over sacrifice and faithfulness. This shift affects not only where we shop or eat but also how we engage in relationships—whether marriage, friendships, work, or church.
In this environment, the migration of believers from one congregation to another has become routine. David Wells captures the gravity of this issue in The Courage to Be Protestant:
“Commitment—actual commitment, real bonds, a real sense of belonging, not just the idea of commitment—has become a precious stone, rare, much sought after and, when found, treasured.”
So, how can pastors lead in ways that inspire and nurture a culture of commitment in their congregations? While this is not an exhaustive guide, here are three practical considerations.
1. Teach About Commitment
One of the most effective ways to combat a lack of commitment is to educate people about what true commitment entails. This doesn’t mean guilting people into joining or staying in your church. Instead, use teaching opportunities—such as membership classes or sermons—to highlight the beauty and importance of being part of a church family that weathers challenges together.
Help your congregation reflect on the kinds of commitments Jesus calls us to prioritize. Uphold the vision of a church that doesn’t fracture over minor disagreements. Show how a deeply committed community serves as a powerful witness in an era of fleeting relationships and disposable affiliations.
2. Embrace Change
Churches change over time, and that’s a good thing. Growth often brings shifts in size, structure, programs, and priorities. My own church today looks very different from when I first joined. While the gospel remains the same, everything else—our programs, needs, and focus—has evolved. And that’s okay.
The New Testament is filled with examples of churches experiencing significant upheaval. None of them were exempt from challenges. What matters is how those challenges are navigated. May our churches be humble and adaptable, always being reformed by the Spirit (semper reformanda).
Leaders who are open to change help create environments where members feel valued and invested in the church’s ongoing mission, rather than clinging to outdated methods or structures.
3. Keep the Gospel Central
At the heart of a healthy, committed church is a focus on the gospel. Make it the cornerstone of your teaching. Uphold robust biblical doctrine and practice. This means tackling challenging topics with courage and clarity, not avoiding them to keep people comfortable. But address these issues as they arise naturally through the regular preaching of Scripture, not as personal pet projects or soapbox moments.
In an age marked by division, people don’t need their frustrations or fears ignored. They need to hear what the Bible says about the issues that matter most. Sound biblical teaching helps congregants anchor their faith in God rather than in the shifting sands of culture.
4. Model Commitment as a Leader
If you want your congregation to commit to the church over the long term, lead by example. Don’t treat the pastorate as a stepping stone to larger opportunities or prestigious roles in parachurch organizations. Resist the urge to follow the spirit of the age, which encourages leaving for greener pastures at the first sign of difficulty—or opportunity. Instead, show the flock what steadfastness looks like.
When pastors model commitment through their actions and attitudes, they demonstrate the importance of staying the course, even when it’s hard. This inspires others to do the same.
Questions
- How have you seen the prevailing cultural lack of commitment manifest in your church?
- What long-term commitments are you modeling to your people?
- Can you think of one additional strategy to cultivate a culture of commitment in your congregation?
Prayer
Lord, you have given the Spirit of unity to the church and have called me to lead your people toward greater maturity in Christ. Please grant me the wisdom, humility, and perseverance needed for this task. Help me to shepherd your flock faithfully and to inspire a deep, lasting commitment to your church for the glory of your name. Amen.
Photo by Debby Hudson on Unsplash
