Most of the unchurched have a positive view about pastors, ministers, and the church. Only a few said that ministers are hypocritical, only after money, always drive nice cars, and have a condescending view of others. The scandal of the televangelists and other Christian leaders is a faded memory for most of the unchurched. And for those who still have vivid recollections of the tainted past, most do not believe that all pastors and ministers are like their fallen brethren.

Perhaps even more surprising was the generally positive attitude the unchurched had toward the church. For the vast majority of the unchurched, the church is still relevant today. Indeed, many of them perceive the church as the most relevant institution in society.

This surprising response then begs another question. If the unchurched see the church in a positive light, and if they perceive the church to be relevant, why are they still unchurched? The answer seems to be twofold. First, some of the unchurched have visited churches, but their experiences have been negative. Unfriendliness, unkempt facilities, poor signage and general confusion have been some of the descriptions about the church from the unchurched. What is amazing is that most of the unchurched still view the church positively after a negative experience. These men and women tend to be a forgiving lot even if they are hesitant to return to church.

But the second reason for their not attending church takes us back to the fourth surprise. Most of the unchurched have never been invited to church. And most of them would attend if invited.

--from "The Unchurched Next Door," by Thom S. Rainer