Life After Church

SO, I am reading the book Life After Church. It is written by Brian Sanders whom I know and very much respect. He was on staff with InterVarsity Christian Fellowship while I was involved first as member and then as a student leader. Some of his teaching from 10 years ago, not only do I still remember, but it still affects my walk with the Lord. I would definitely say he thinks out of the box. He is a profoundly moving speaker...one of my favorites and I have heard many. He is thought-provoking and in love with Jesus. I am trying to say that I would put myself under his teaching in a heartbeat. In fact, I did. Troy ordered the book to read through with Justin and as soon as the box arrived at the church, I stole one copy...(it helps to work in the church office...I will get it back for Justin soon.)
The premise of the book is that there are people who hunger for Christ who feel called to leave the church. He was one of them. He is affirming that call. He is offering hope to people who feel it necessary to pursue Christ outside of the current church culture.
So, I am about half way through the book and just like a close mutual friend described...it is very Brian. My problem with it then is I love the church. Not just my church. I love church. I have been part of bad churches...ones Brian would say are better off people-less. I am currently part of an amazingly healthy, good church that I love. I just don't find myself agreeing with him on the issues that leavers have. I guess that just makes me not a leaver. Brian says that leavers leave because they want deep teaching, or questions answered, or feel irrelevant. He says people want purpose and need to feel like when they give, it is used by God. Maybe being married to a minister helps because I am heard (whether my husband likes it or not). But I think also a lot of the reasons Brian mentions that people leave could be avoided if you find a healthy church and get involved. Join a small group. Come to Sunday School. Help with the homeless or with the food pantry.
I am looking forward to the hope in his book. I can't wait to finish it.