Make Churches Teach Again: The Cure for Spiritual Struggles

In her article Spiritual Struggles of Nones and ‘Spiritual but Not Religious’ (SBNRs), Linda Mercadante explores the deep spiritual challenges faced by those who are religiously unaffiliated, often called “Nones,” and those who consider themselves “Spiritual but not Religious.”

What stood out most was her insight that many people who drift away from the church do not leave because they reject doctrine, but because they feel they lack the emotional experiences others seem to have. Their departure is less about denying Scripture and more about seeking a personal, authentic encounter with the divine.

Feelings vs. Knowledge

This raises an important question: What truly destroys God’s people—lack of feelings or lack of knowledge? Scripture makes the answer clear. Jeremiah 17:9 reminds us that “the heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it?” Feelings can’t be the guide to truth. Instead, Hosea 4:6 gives the real warning: “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.” It is knowledge and understanding that guide one to the truth. Feelings, while important, are not the final arbiter of what is right, what is good, or what is sound.

Mercadante’s Solution

Mercadante observes that for those who are on the fence, who are on the verge of leaving the Church, they still have a remnant of belief. This belief must be built upon; it is the faith that remains that must be fortified. Mercadante proclaims that faith "cannot survive without intentional religious education, dedicated spiritual practice, honest professions of faith, community support, and active participation in communal worship." In other words, drifting hearts need teaching, discipleship, and fellowship.

A Call to the Church

This is exactly the remedy the prophets called for long ago. In Hosea’s day, priests were commanded to teach not only the law, but the whole counsel of God. Today, pastors and church leaders are tasked with the same responsibility. The solution is not more emotional experiences, but more faithful teaching of God’s Word.

It’s time to Make Churches Teach Again. Strong pulpits lead to strong believers, and strong believers will not be destroyed for lack of knowledge.