Struggling to stay connected to church because of hurt, busyness, or disappointment with people? In this episode, discover why God designed you for community, imperfect Christ-followers sharpening and encouraging one another, and why disconnection isn't the solution.

Have you ever felt like going to church was more of an obligation than a joy?

Maybe you've been hurt by someone in leadership. Maybe you've experienced gossip, judgment, or hypocrisy in a congregation. Maybe you've shown up week after week and felt invisible. Or maybe life just got busy and you drifted without even realizing it. Whatever the reason, church started feeling like a chore instead of a community.

In this episode, we look at Jefferson Bethke, whose viral video "Why I Hate Religion But Love Jesus" gave voice to millions who felt disillusioned with institutional Christianity. He was frustrated with a church culture that seemed more about appearance than authenticity. But in the years that followed, Bethke shifted his message. He realized that rejecting the church entirely wasn't the answer. In his book It's Not What You Think, he describes learning to love the messy, imperfect community of Christ-followers because that's exactly what Jesus designed.

Through his story and Hebrews 10:24–25, you'll see that the command to "not neglect our meeting together" wasn't written for people who loved every Sunday, it was written for people tempted to quit. God designed you for community. Disillusionment is common, but disconnection isn't the solution. Finding your place in messy, grace-filled community is.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER:

1. Why the answer to disappointment with the church isn't to abandon the church
2. How Hebrews 10:24–25 calls us to motivate and encourage one another, not just attend a service
3. Practical ways to reconnect with community if you've drifted or been hurt

The church isn't a museum for saints, it's a hospital for the broken. And you can't heal alone.

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