Unfortunately, consumerism in our culture has an impact on churches. Many folks have become church shoppers and church switchers. A Gallop survey indicated that one adult in four has changed from one church tradition in which he or she was raised. Another study of mobile adults who move to a new location switch at a rate of fifty percent.

For certain, most of us know of mobile family members or acquaintances who have left us for another church tradition. Church shopping and switching just like American consumerism are not going away any time soon. The real issue: is there anything we can do to reduce this phenomenon among our members? The good news is that we can, with God's help, reduce the effects of consumerism among our members. Our first article is based on an empirical study, and the research reveals some valuable insights for church leaders in dealing with these issues.

While church leaders can reduce membership losses, they also need to see the opportunities that are present. This new behavior of churchgoers gives an edge to churches that learn to reach out to their guests and actively seek new members.

God and his Word never change, but people, cultures, and felt needs do change. Jesus understood the people and their needs. He used their most pressing needs as a beginning point to lead them where they needed to be. Whether he fed folks, healed their sick bodies, or brought to life a dead loved one, his actions were never an end but a means to an end a Kingdom relationship with God. If churches are going to minister like Jesus, it begins by understanding people, their present concerns and needs.