Christ Giving the Keys to Peter, Pietro Perugino
“I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit.” John 15:1-2
Do an internet search on the United Methodist Church, and chances are you will see the words “membership decline” in the results. Since the 1960’s the UMC has experienced a slow and steady decline. The news isn’t all bad for the UMC –– see this article about how they are growing in Africa. Still, is there anything positive to say about membership decline?
Lesslie Newbigin, an Anglican missionary and bishop, said we must consider God’s big picture. Read his words with my parenthesis:
“It may well be that for some decades the church will grow rapidly in other parts of the world (Africa), Christians in Europe (or the USA) may continue to be a shrinking minority. If this should be so, it should be seen as an example of that pruning that is promised to the Church in order that they may bear more fruit (see John 15 above). When that happens it is painful. But Jesus assures us, “My Father is the gardener.” He knows what He is doing, and we can trust Him.”
He goes on to say that this is not the time for anxiety (perhaps like the kind we see in denominational programs designed to turn things around). Rather, this is a time for self-searching, repentance, and a fresh commitment. And we can be sure of this: “he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.” (Philippians 1:6)
The Other Six Days 
The more important membership to be concerned about is the membership of souls being lead back to Gods Kingdom. If Gods word is taught the membership shall increase.
We know God’s word is being taught in church, but we need to reach the ones outside the church. This is not easy.
Church decline in America is not surprising me-because moral decline is rapid in America. Also, we are connected to each other through gadgets-where in places like Africa-the church is a center of their social life. They gather strength from congregating together and the spirituality is catching. They are seeking answers-where we in America think we have them all and don’t think we have any need for others to tell us what is right and wrong-we try to find a way to make everything acceptable and our churches are too! America is confused because religion doesn’t take a stand. It is not just the UInited Methodist Church-it is religion in general.
And I forgot the main question! We aren’t pruning the trees-we are destroying the roots!
I agree with Sharon. Well said.