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REASONS TO LEAVE A CHURCH
This of course is not a pleasant subject to deal with, but unfortunately it occurs too often. We sometimes become members of a church which manifests unhealthy attitudes or teachings. If it was not seen from the beginning, we discover it later on. In a personal case, I joined a church which overall was alive and doctrinally sound until several years passed and the spiritual state declined to a point where even I was affected and blind to it all. I was rudely awakened to the terrible state, by my wife-to-be during a preaching. Although I knew things were not going well in the church, the responsibility to seriously deal with it was not present. As the Lord opened my eyes, I knew I could not remain indifferent to the situation. After praying and meditating for two months on what action to take, I decided to leave the church in which I poured six years of blood, sweat and tears. Close friends were lost by the decision and for some of them, my leaving was unforgivable. To relate the whole story of my departure would be a book in itself. In short, the pastor led the church to excommunicate us and even tried to stop other churches from receiving us, which failed. I must say, although it was one of the most difficult times of my life, it caused my spiritual growth to increase to newer heights.
It was one hard lesson to learn, as the saying goes, "The best of men, are men at best!". A dependence on men will certainly lead to disappointment.
Remember this, you’re spiritual well being is your responsibility. God will not forgive your decision for remaining in an unhealthy environment even for loyalty sake. Your loyalty is to God first.
And if you must leave, do so as quietly and humbly as possible.
If members ask you why you left, only describe biblical reasons for your departure. If you have none, then you have nothing to say. Personal reasons may not apply to others.
Arthur Miriello