Jim Davis: The Great Dechurching

In this episode, our host Bob Lepine sits down with special guest Jim Davis, pastor at Grace Church in Orlando and co-author of the book "The Great Decurching". Get ready for an enlightening conversation as they discuss the significant religious shift happening in our country, specifically focusing on the phenomenon of "Dechurching". What causes people to leave the church? How can pastors and church leaders effectively address this issue? Join us as we dive deep into understanding evangelicalism and exploring practical ways to minister in a changing landscape.

Jim Davis is a man who understands the complexities of faith and the challenges that come with shifting beliefs. Drawing from his knowledge of the Bible, he recognizes the inevitability of having false prophets and individuals who may appear devout but lack a true connection to the kingdom. Jim's deep understanding leads him to believe that genuine faith comes from the regenerative power of the Holy Spirit. When considering the future of Christianity, Jim acknowledges that the children of those who have distanced themselves from the church, also known as the decurched, are likely to be unchurched themselves. However, he also makes a surprising discovery - many decurched individuals still hold orthodox beliefs. In fact, their adherence to orthodox teachings often surpasses that of the average churchgoer today. Through his insights and understanding, Jim Davis offers a unique perspective on faith, emphasizing the need for spiritual authenticity and recognizing the evolving landscape of Christianity.

Quotes

"We can't just assume that everybody that's outside of the church is a weed or is harmful or is going to undermine the church. We actually have to believe the best in people and extend hospitality, but also address the destructive decisions and make sure that the church is aligned with God's intentions." - Jim Davis

"Deconstructing is a good word, but really what needs to happen is we need to deconstruct our own beliefs and figure out, 'Do they align with Scripture? Do they align with the traditions that we've been a part of? Do they align with the wisdom of the ages?' And not just think of ourselves as the ultimate epistemological authority, where we then judge Scripture and tradition and wisdom based on our own experiences and our own wisdom." - Jim Davis

Timestamped Overview

[00:09:11] 90s decurching: mainline churches & political left. Non-Christians acknowledged freedom, thanks to 90s internet. Political polarization and extreme positions emerged. Deturching on secular right happening faster.

[00:10:35] Three research phases identify religious shift patterns.

[00:15:41] Ginger questions traditions, prioritizes personal experience.

[00:19:08] "Sociological factors impacting church attendance and belonging"

[00:20:42] Importance of decurching and its personal impact.

[00:25:32] Fewer churches and Christians impact society greatly.

[00:27:57] Machine learning identified five distinct groups including exvangelicals who have no desire to return. It's important to understand their stories and offer support.

[00:32:30] Individual leaving gym class seeks fresh start. Mentioned moving back home. Editor suggests church for fresh start. Grateful response. Uncertain if she followed through.

[00:36:17] Belief in best, avoiding extremes, backdoor.

[00:39:40] Pastoring: defending, equipping, working, and achieving together.

[00:41:56] Importance of adapting gospel and ministering effectively.

Resources Mentioned in this Episode

As In Heaven - Podcast hosted by Jim Davis, exploring how the kingdom of God intersects with various aspects of life. https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/podcasts/as-in-heaven/

"The Great Decurching" by Jim Davis and Michael Graham - Explores the phenomenon of dechurching and the religious shift happening in the country. https://www.amazon.com/dp/0310147433/

The Great Commission Collective - https://www.gccollective.org