What Churches Should Do About Inactive Members

In this episode, Josh and Sam address a widespread reality in many churches: bloated membership rolls and shrinking attendance. Across North America, millions of names remain on church rolls even though those people haven’t attended in months… or years. In some cases, membership lists are four or five times larger than actual weekly worship attendance. The result? Confusion, unhealthy metrics, and weakened accountability. A growing number of congregations are rethinking the issue: clarifying expectations, tightening processes, and distinguishing between truly inactive members and those with legitimate life circumstances.

1. 1. Most churches do nothing about inactive members.
   2. Annual recommitment once looked promising, but it is not practical.
   3. Few churches pursue intentional follow-up to reconnect inactive members.
   4. The “inactive member” category is being reconsidered as an oxymoron.
   5. Legitimate absences deserve intentional care.
   6. Front-end membership classes clarify expectations through a good onboarding process.
   7. High inactivity often signals deeper health issues.

Resources:

• Doctor of Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary

• Church Equip

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• Church Answers Central

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

Ministry isn’t theoretical. It comes with complex challenges that demand wisdom and clarity.

The Doctor of Ministry at Southern Seminary is designed to help you address those challenges head-on.

You’ll bring a pressing issue from your church into the program and, under the guidance of trusted faculty, develop a biblically grounded plan you can implement in your context.

This is theological depth applied directly to preaching, leadership, counseling, and shepherding.

If you want solutions anchored in God’s Word and built for your church, learn more at sbts.edu/dmin.

• • Ministry brings complex challenges. The DMin at Southern helps you address them with clarity and conviction.
  • Bring a pressing issue from your church into the program and leave with a plan ready to implement.
  • Study under faculty who are trusted scholars and faithful church leaders.
  • Apply theological depth directly to your ministry context.
  • Build a network of peers who share your calling and understand your challenges.
  • Learn more at sbts.edu/dmin