Unchurching: Christianity Without Churchianity

by Richard Jacobson

Millions of believers are currently leaving the organized church, without giving up their faith. Sadly, many are only defining themselves by what they don't do, as Christians who simply “don’t go to church.” It’s time for these believers to catch a vision for genuine spiritual community, outside the walls of organized Christianity, a way of being the church without going to church.

Christianity Without Churchianity will challenge everything you thought you knew about church. Unchurching boldly examines whether organized churches are even biblical. It thoroughly deconstructs the idea of special church buildings, paid pastors, weekly sermons, mandatory tithes and offerings, gender inequality in church leadership, and much more.



Unchurching is intended to empower believers who are done with organized church but aren’t ready to abandon their faith. It will give non-churchgoing Christians a vision for genuine spiritual community that simply functions like an extended spiritual family. And it will equip them with the language to finally articulate that vision to others.



Here's what others are saying about



"I have written several books about church myself, but this one is better than any of the ones I have written." – Jeremy Myers, author of The Atonement of God



"If you are searching for the truth about the way we 'do' church … this is the book for you! I guarantee that it will completely rock your world." – Milt Rodriguez, author of The Community Life of God



"Richard Jacobson has been on both sides of this shift and is uniquely qualified to write about it—which he does well, with insight, humility, and scholarship … Highly recommended." – Felicity Dale, author of An Army of Ordinary People



"As I read this book I felt my pulse quicken and my heart leap for joy because everything Richard writes about is centered on, around, and in relation to the One who would rather die than live without us." – Keith Giles, author of This Is My Ekklesia As God Intended



"Unchurching will help you capture a vision for a fresh start that is built upon the Lord Jesus Christ … " – Jon Zens, author of A Church Building Every 1/2 Mile

Genres: Christian, Religion, Church, Spirituality

214 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 14, 2016

About the author

Richard Jacobson is a comic book artist, video blogger, and former pastor. His book, Unchurching: Christianity Without Churchianity, sets out to inspire believers who are captivated by the church but disillusioned by the contemporary church model.
Richard, his wife, and their three children live near Nashville, Tennessee.

Reviews

[Todd Wilhelm · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just what I needed to help crystalize my thoughts!

Quotes:

"Many nervous church leaders with obvious vested interests will respond to the exodus from their buildings by saying that people are losing interest in God. But the truth is, as Clyde Reid pointed out in 1966, “To reject the institutional churches is not the same as rejecting God or rejecting the Christian faith … Some people may have to reject the churches to find Christ and vitality … And God is surely present outside the churches— often more present without than within.” When people exit churches, some find alternatives, but many still haven’t found what they’re looking for. Richard Jacobson’s Unchurching will go a long way to helping believers realize that community around Christ is the unchartered longing in so many hearts. Most religious structures do not encourage and foster relationships. M. Scott Peck noted in 1987 that “the plain reality is that by and large the Church has not been in the community game; it has been in the numbers game.” Those who have come to feel uneasy about what goes on in the mainline churches, and those who have actually left, are faced with many valid questions and concerns. Unchurching seeks to help readers wrestle with a host of assumptions concerning “church,” in order that the core of what following Christ in community really is will become more evident."


"Although you might have heard a couple of sermons that make you feel guilty whenever you think about not going to church, the problem exists in the very premise; the church isn’t something you go to; it’s something you are. Paul tells us plainly that the parts of the Body never cease being parts of the Body. Therefore, you will continue to be part of the church whether or not you ever set foot in an institutional church building again. Also, why be scared to lose something you don’t really have? These organizations we call “churches” are not actually churches anyway. That doesn’t mean the people inside are not part of the church universal. But a church corporation is not a genuine church community. So, why are you afraid to stop “going to church” when you haven’t been part of an actual church yet? If you leave the institutional church and don’t find genuine church community right away, you haven’t “quit going to church.” You have simply gone from one non-church-experience to another. And at least you have taken a real step toward finding genuine church community."

"This book was primarily written for believers who are on either side of the transition from attending an institutional church to joining a genuine church community. But let me be clear: this book wasn’t written to try to convince anyone to leave the institutional church; it was simply written to validate and empower those who already have a growing conviction to do so. I cannot make the assumption God is specifically calling you to leave the institutional church; that is between you and the Lord. However, it certainly seems like he is calling plenty of others. According to a recent survey, the number of non-churchgoers in America has grown by 38 million over the past 10 years, which is an increase of more than 30%. To put this in perspective, that is more people than the entire population of Australia (24 million) or the entire population of Canada (36 million)."

[Esther Nevener · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a very humble book with a refreshing mission. It’s goal is not to convince people to leave the church or even put forth an argument for it but rather to affirm people who have already felt God calling them out of the institutional church and into a more community based faith setting. Great content and tone.

[Erika Bernal · Rating 3 out of 5]

While I agree with many points the author makes regarding the tithe and the western church's shortcomings in caring for the poor and widowed, I found the book ultimately dissatisfying. It critiques the absurdity of spending on new buildings and extravagant Christmas productions while members of the congregation struggle to pay their rent, yet the proposed solutions felt insufficient. It seemed more like a critique of the problems than a guide to real change. We all recognize that the church is flawed, but what we need are actionable solutions.

I do believe the western church is in desperate need of reform—one that prioritizes funding for the poor over programming and new construction. We must return to the heart of Jesus of Nazareth, who taught that wealth and fame stand in stark contrast to the values of the kingdom of heaven. Ministry isn't solely the responsibility of pastors and teachers; every believer, including those of us who don’t preach from a stage, is called to dedicate our time and resources to the kingdom—every day, in our cubicles, in our run clubs, in the quiet moments when nobody is watching.

The book made me think critically and nod my head. I let out a few “wow, that’s good” and “hmmms”. But I was left wanting more in terms of a call to action. Is the only solution really to leave your local church and hope for a new community of believers to magically appear and be willing to form a home church? This perspective overlooks the biblical narrative, which shows God using flawed individuals within imperfect systems to bring about His purpose. Are we truly so prideful as to think that He can’t do the same today?

[Jennifer A Shepherd · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very good and truthful points, but...

The author brings back what it truly means to be part of the "church." In a world of religious craziness, pop star worship leaders, and celebrity pastors, he reveals with great detail how we are to live in the kingdom of heaven.

However, my biggest complaint is some of the major holes in his argument concerning authority and the role of God's wonderful creation; women. He appears to use some verses and arguments to support his belief, but then downplays and even ignores others that appear to contradict his foundational argument. It seems (and perhaps I have misinterpreted his writings) that the author believes the church is a big pot of of people who all blend in. The problem is that this is not how the kingdom works. We all have gifts and abilities based on the Holy Spirit, our personalities, and even our gender! Men can do some things better than women, and women can do some things better than men. Why are we constantly trying to make everything gender neutral? Why can't we celebrate our abilities and differences?

Apart from that, I still recommend reading it as it is a wonderful description of how we disciples ought to live with a kingdom mindset.

[Jessie Kidwell · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not sure what to make of this read yet. What I do love is that the author mentions throughout the book how he never grew up going "to a church building". He thought it was bizarre how other churches would introduce themselves, and follow up with asking what church he came from. He and family and friends did church wherever they were... daily. They are the church... we are the church, as Christ's followers.

[Jim Gordon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading ‘unchurching’ so much I read it twice. The book was a joy to read because it was so un-condemning in its approach to what the church was meant to be. Richard Jacobson writes in a way that brings up questions and gives his opinion on what some of the answers might be. He does not write from a know-it-all perspective nor in a judgmental way. ‘unchurching’ covers many areas of the traditional church as we know it today compared to how the Church was in its beginning. Could it be that Church was a community of believers living day by day under the headship of Christ and the leading of the Holy Spirit without the hierarchy and organization we have today? If you have left the organized church and modern-day religion, or if you are contemplating doing so this book is for you. It brings up many questions and gives common sense opinions of what church is and what it was meant to be. One point that really hit me was when Richard used the verse about Jesus telling Peter to follow him, yet Peter turned around and saw John and ask Jesus ‘what about him’? Jesus said to Peter you follow me and don’t worry about him. That can be applied today to people who have or have not left the organized church. If God calls you to leave, then leave and don’t worry about what others think. If God calls you to stay in the organized church, then stay and don’t worry about what others think. Take some time to read through this book and see for yourself if you don’t come away with a clearer view of what the Church is that Jesus is building.

[Amy Orban · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great help for the journey. This book is not anti-church. Rather, it asks whether aspects of common American church models are Biblical and reflective of the Triune God. We should always be open to asking, what is Jesus' best for His followers, and how can we move closer to that? While this book will be very challenging for many of today's Christians, Jacobson is actually pushing us to practice in reality what many of us profess in theory: the priesthood of all believers, the implications of the nature of the Trinity, the meaning of Pentecost for all believers, the powerful witness of the new community formed in Christ as our greatest method of evangelism, the primacy of the Scriptures to guide our practices, and the complete accessibilty of God through Christ for all who believe. I recommend it to anyone who already is or needs to be made a bit unsatisfied with church as usual today.

[Rachel Hafler · Rating 4 out of 5]

A revelation for those of us who've never interpreted Scripture or the church in such fresh ways; I'm going to be thinking about this one for awhile. I really appreciate Jacobson's ideas here about what church is meant to be and how we might have gotten it wrong. The concepts of "church as a family" and "the priesthood of all believers" are things I've heard talked about a lot but rarely seen lived out in compelling ways. I understand the importance of those in a totally new way after reading.

I didn't love the repetitive writing style and really wished for more practical exploration of what it may look like to "unchurch" and create (a very different kind of) flourishing church community. But Jacobson admits that this is just meant to be an affirmation of sorts for people who already feel called away from the institutional church and for that this book excels. 3.5 stars.

[Gwen Henson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book didn’t lead me to take sides between small home churches versus large congregations, but it genuinely made me ponder the value of applying tithes to buildings and salaries. It also made it clear to me that if you do attend a larger church, that smaller groups for accountability, community and ministering are key to one’s spiritual maturity. I was also pleasantly surprised that besides making a case for ALL of God’s people to minister to one another, that he supports the egalitarian mindset that women can be called and qualified to serve anywhere. A very thought provoking read indeed, and worth the time.

[Jack · Rating 4 out of 5]

That I might know Him

We have in fellowship with several groups/churches over the years (I'm in my eighties), and been associated with small fellowships which have been a blessing. Circumstances have found us in churches which have, for various reasons, change to being more institutionalised. We miss particularly what you described as the Lord's Supper. That was truly a precious fellowship time. Thank you for stirring up my spiritual lethargy, even though not necessarily agreeing with all points. God bless.

[Madam Bovaread · Rating 5 out of 5]

I liked it very much. A new and fresh perspective written in a simple way for anyone to understand his point of view. A comparison between what the church was intended to be and what it actually became nowadays. It is also an invitation to reflect on the motivation of how 'church' is done today and how much it is really still Bible based. If you ever thought that something may be wrong with church today, read this book.

[Christina Wooff · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good book.

It has taken me a while to read this book. I am someone who has left an organized church. This book has helped me to know that God is with me no matter where I am in my life. The author explains how a church community started and why it's better than an organized church, if one chooses to leave. I like that he backs up what he explains with scripture. I also like the reaffirming that God has not left Him even though I left church.

[K.D. Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a very interesting read and left me wanting more. I have been an active member of church for over two decades. This book helped me to clarify some of the ambiguity I was feeling towards church as a hierarchical religious corporation. It was an pleasant and fast read. I still feel that organized church is important because what he is talking about is the church as a community as a family (definitely important) but a larger voice ... say collaborative... is important on a national scale. IMHO

[Aynne Cynar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Answer these poignant questions and then decide.

Even if you don't feel called to leave, the questions asked in this well-written book will provoke thought about how to stay well. Richard's encouragement to forego numbers for names and trade incorporation for true Christian corporation resonates with those who may feel like me. Plus, he's got a great sense of humor!

[Helen Blocksom · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a really good book. If you are looking for something positive about not going to church this is the book for you. Richard does a great job going over all kinds of difficult subject matter. Well worth the read.

[Adam Spencer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just about every inconsistency I’ve noticed between todays church compared to the early church is effortlessly portrayed in this book. All there. For the life of me I don’t understand why people don’t see it even with out reading books like this. Theres something wrong with church.

[Douglas Mccall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great!

Awesome background of the 'IC' and it's beginning and where it took a wrong turn.This community of believers is the 'true' body of Christ!

[Ashley Chabot · Rating 4 out of 5]

Took me a bit to get through this book. But not because it wasn’t good. Presents a solid amount of doubt that brings into question the way we “do” church. If your feeling a pull or tug that something is missing. Then I highly recommend this book! While it’s certainly not conclusive evidence, it will make you think! If you do decide to read it I’d love to hear your thoughts when your done!

[Susan Virden · Rating 5 out of 5]

TRUTH!

So much truth discovered in this book. So many are tired of the “Corporate Church”. Soundly based. Read with new eyes and an open heart.

[Kristy Hetzel]

Thought-provoking, for sure.

[Ashley Luxton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredibly thought-provoking. I greatly appreciated the author’s egalitarian views. The tone of the book was very genuine and humble.

[Lisa Fenton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent!

Great read, lots of scripture and experience.
I’ve already made the change to home church from traditional church. Validated so many of my thoughts.

[Brian L. Knack · Rating 4 out of 5]

Unchurching: Christianity Without Churchianity is a great resource for those who are disillusioned with the status quo of the modern day American Christian church. For hundreds of years, western civilization has placed it's own values and it's own brand on Christianity. What we have created is a corporate entity that seeks to enslave a people instead of setting them free. as was Jesus' intent. Richard Jacobson does a great job of exposing some of the flaws in the way "church" is done here in America and offers some truthful and, some would say, heretical wisdom and insight into what Jesus was trying to tell us.

[Susan Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Definitely gives you a lot to think about, mull over, and pray about. A good read for those who are looking at where they are, in relation to the institutional or traditional church.

[Dan Mayhew · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jacobson does a great job of making a case for simple church. Full disclosure: he's preaching to the choir with me. I was convinced before I read it. My reason for reading it was to determine if it would be a good resource for people who are evaluating their church experience and considering more relational and organic church life. The author does a good job of explaining the non-hierarchical nature of church leadership, but not all will be convinced.

[Vaughn Bender · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book was a joy to read because it was so un-condemning in its approach to what the church was meant to be. The book is easy to read and the chapters are short so you don't loose interest. I love the book so much I read it twice and may read it again. This is a great book about the church. If you have questions about what the church is, how it is to function. This book shows to Christians today can confidently claim that they are better able to follow Jesus and be the church in the community if since they have stopped attending a Sunday morning church service. Richard takes a critical look at the church and in it contains a call for people to follow Jesus away from the four walls of Churches, the book is incredibly gracious and kind. Richard in his writing makes no finger pointing, and no condemnation. It is definitely a good read. Well Done Richard!

[Michael Donahoe · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading ‘unchurching’ so much I read it twice. The book was a joy to read because it was so un-condemning in its approach to what the church was meant to be. Richard Jacobson writes in a way that brings up questions and gives his opinion on what some of the answers might be. He does not write from a know-it-all perspective nor in a judgmental way. ‘unchurching’ covers many areas of the traditional church as we know it today compared to how the Church was in its beginning. Could it be that Church was a community of believers living day by day under the headship of Christ and the leading of the Holy Spirit without the hierarchy and organization we have today? If you have left the organized church and modern-day religion, or if you are contemplating doing so this book is for you. It brings up many questions and gives common sense opinions of what church is and what it was meant to be. One point that really hit me was when Richard used the verse about Jesus telling Peter to follow him, yet Peter turned around and saw John and ask Jesus ‘what about him’? Jesus said to Peter you follow me and don’t worry about him. That can be applied today to people who have or have not left the organized church. If God calls you to leave, then leave and don’t worry about what others think. If God calls you to stay in the organized church, then stay and don’t worry about what others think. Take some time to read through this book and see for yourself if you don’t come away with a clearer view of what the Church is that Jesus is building.

[Lee Rubsam · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is not a book which encourages "forsaking the assembling of ourselves together" (Hebrews 10:25). Rather, it examines how far today's institutional church has deviated from the pattern set by the New Testament body of believers. It is written for passionate Christians who might be interested in living as the Church more simply (the home church movement).

I found many good points to consider along the way, and I learned quite a bit about the Greek meanings behind church leader titles in the New Testament. The first chapter or so was water to my soul.

I did not feel there was a strong biblical case made, however, for there being no hierarchy in God's kingdom. Some of the points made, even though Scripture was used to back them, were not airtight, and passages which would have balanced the position being taken were sometimes either left out or not used well.

I was also left with many unanswered questions about how to strengthen the weaknesses inherent in doing church life only within small informal fellowships -- the limited pool to draw from for spiritual gifts and aptitudes, the lack of solid Bible teaching within the group in many cases, how to serve children so that they are not lonely for others their own age, etc.

For those who are exploring home or communal fellowship as an alternative to the institutional church, this book provides some of the information you may need, but I would encourage further reading from other perspectives as well.

[Karl Ingersoll · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks Richard

It was interesting to read another pastor's journey out of the institution. I appreciate the lack of anger and hurt and the overall gracious tone that respects where others may be in their own church experience. I also enjoyed the openness that this fosters in the reader's heart. Blessings Richard and thanks.

[Peter · Rating 1 out of 5]

Simplistic fundamentalist literalist. Sees that the wrapping paper isn't good, discards it but keeps the ridiculous package of religious superstition. Nice ( initial ) emphasis on community but alas only religious community. Actually thinks Adam and Eve were real. Richly deserves ridicule