Why Church Hopping Isn't Backsliding: 3 Models to Find Your Fit

Have you found it difficult, if not impossible, to find the right church? If so, you aren't alone. Research shows that 38% of churchgoers regularly attend multiple churches, and 23% of people say they simply can't find a church that's right for them. People who "church hop" are seeking something elusive. When they don't find it, a standard response they often hear is: "There's no perfect church because when you arrive, it's no longer perfect!"

I've heard it myself...several times. How convenient.

Perhaps you are less of a problem than the church would have you believe.

Church Hopping Isn't Backsliding!

The Problem with the "No Perfect Church" Response

The challenge with this standard church position is that it creates a problem without offering a consistent solution that aligns with scripture. Instead of promoting unity within the body of Christ—as Paul instructs us to "make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace" (Ephesians 4:3)—this response is often used to demonize church hoppers and suggest they are lukewarm, backsliders, or worse, never "really" saved.

Although believers are warned against pride, many churches believe they reflect the church of Philadelphia (the faithful church), while viewing others as the church of Laodicea (the lukewarm church). It's no wonder we have so many believers leaving the church collective, seeking more loving approaches to God.

It doesn't have to be this way.

A New Framework: Understanding Movement vs. Progress

I have a simple 3-model classification system that may help you find the right church fit. Think of a rocking chair, a seesaw, and a swing. As we examine each model, keep in mind the crucial distinction between movement and progress.

The Rocking Chair Model Church

The "Rocking Chair" Model Church

If you've ever wanted to kick back, relax after a hard day at work, and watch the squirrels play, it's hard to beat the rocking chair (yes, the recliner is the runner-up). You can sit there peacefully, or create gentle movement with little effort. You can sit alone or with someone else on the front porch or back porch, listening to familiar tunes and singing along.

Key Characteristics:

• Values tradition and familiarity above all

• Movement is encouraged but neither assumed nor guaranteed

• Comfort and stability are the primary goals

• Change is viewed with suspicion

While movement is possible in the rocking chair model, few church hoppers find the progress they're seeking following this approach. It's for those who love the familiar and cannot tolerate those who might dare to substitute innovation for tradition. Still, it works for many, and may God bless those who find His peace in the rocking chair model church.

If this resonates with you: You're likely seeking spiritual rest, consistent doctrine, and a predictable worship experience.

The Seesaw (Teeter-Totter) Model Church

The SeeSaw Model Church

If you're interested in a bit of fun on the playground of life, you may be drawn to the seesaw. You can create enjoyable motion with others—as one rises, the other falls, then you quickly trade experiences as you share the highs and lows of life. Each person effectively balances and counteracts the other.

Key Characteristics:

• Emphasizes balance and moderation

• Seeks to bridge traditional and contemporary approaches

• Values relationship and community interaction

• Aims for harmony between different perspectives

You can speak contemporary language, listen to popular music, and connect with the "hip crowd" on the playground. However, you're often viewed as outcasts by traditional rocking chair proponents. Unfortunately, like the rocking chair, you'll feel movement, but progress remains elusive. Homeostasis—balance—is the goal, and it works well for many believers.

If this resonates with you: You're seeking community, a balance between old and new, and a church that feels relevant to modern life.

The Swing Set Model Church (For the Spiritual Adventurers)

The Swing Set Model Church

Now you might think that swings and seesaws are similar, since they're both found on the playground. Yes, both can give you a sense of movement, but there's one thing that transforms a swing into something capable of producing progress, not just movement.

Remember (or imagine) what it felt like when you became bored on the swing with the limitations of back-and-forth motion? You kicked your legs as hard as you could, rising as high as the chains would allow. Then, in a moment of sheer adventure—a mixture of adrenaline and terror—you bailed out of your swing seat at the apex.

You flew through the air, experiencing those brief moments of unmistakable freedom and progress. You were no longer confined to simple movement; you were learning, growing, progressing in wisdom. Sometimes you get hurt. Sometimes you didn't. But the fact remains: you had reached out and "touched the face of God," as John Gillespie Magee Jr. so beautifully expressed in "High Flight."

"High Flight" Poem by John Gillespie Magee Jr.

Key Characteristics:

• Embraces risk-taking in faith

• Values growth over comfort

• Encourages questions and spiritual exploration

• Expects transformation, not just attendance

It's people who resonate with the swing set model who are most likely to be labeled church hoppers. They fit in as long as they remain in their seats, but once they "bail out"—trusting God for a safe landing—their perception of the sandbox, playground, and all the equipment changes forever.

If this resonates with you: You're seeking spiritual growth, authentic transformation, and a church that encourages rather than fears your questions and spiritual adventures.

Finding Your Fit: What This Means for You

If you're a church hopper, embrace the label—but don't forsake gathering with like-spirited believers on God's playground. Understanding these three models can help you:

1. Identify what you're truly seeking in a church community

2. Stop apologizing for your spiritual growth desires

3. Find churches that align with your model preference

4. Communicate your needs more clearly to potential church homes

The Truth About Church Hopping

Church hopping isn't backsliding—it's often the mark of someone serious about their spiritual growth. You're not the problem when you seek a church that encourages progress alongside movement. You're not being "difficult" when you want more than spiritual maintenance.

You just may find a church model that appreciates movement and expects progress as ambassadors of Christ.

The question isn't whether you're a church hopper—it's which playground equipment matches your spiritual DNA.

Ready to find your spiritual home? Start by honestly assessing which model resonates most with your heart. Then look for churches that openly embrace that approach. Your spiritual adventure is just beginning.

Next in the "Start Here" Posts:

• Leaving Church Without Leaving Faith: FromHopper to Pilgrim

• Why Are We Here?

--- *Trace Pirtle is a retired university professor, pilgrim blogger, and founder of Faith in Action Ministry, Texas Hill Country. He writes for Christians who refuse to settle for Sunday morning faith while prayer-walking the narrow path in Kerrville, Texas. Welcome home, pilgrim.