What Do We Need to Unlearn?

I was scrolling through Facebook the other day and a meme jumped off the screen at me. It posed the following question: “What does the Church need to unlearn?” I shared this in one of my clergy colleague Facebook groups and here are some of the responses:

• The idea that doing more and working harder will solve all our problems.
• The consumer mindset within the Church.
• It’s time to unlearn the thought that material prosperity indicates wisdom, authority, godliness, etc. 
• The idea of populating the church or “getting people in the pews” without the relevant relationship that goes along with it.
• That worship is the primary purpose and function of the congregation.
• The ministry is the job of the pastor and not the laity.

Wow…I’m sure this list could go on and on. But rather than debate or expand up this list, I wanted to focus this post on the theory of “unlearning” particularly as it relates to the modern Christian Church.

In a world of rapidly evolving beliefs, values, and societal norms, the concept of unlearning has gained prominence as a crucial skill for personal growth and adaptability. Unlearning involves letting go of outdated assumptions, habits, and perspectives to make room for new insights and knowledge. While traditionally applied to various fields like education and business, the theory of unlearning holds a unique significance when viewed through the lens of the church.

Unlearning challenges the idea that learning is a one-way street. It acknowledges that our previous experiences and teachings might not always serve us in a rapidly changing environment. Unlearning requires individuals to question preconceived notions, engage in critical self-reflection, and be open to new perspectives. It’s a cognitive process that encourages embracing ambiguity and discomfort as a means to grow.

The Covid-19 shutdowns offered us a unique unlearning opportunity. During the height of the pandemic, we had to try new things, pivot and continually shift our strategy. There was hope that this mindset might last, however, the church, as an institution, is so deeply rooted in tradition and doctrine, that many quickly returned to the “way things were” because so many within the church are resistant to change. But let’s not dismiss nor give up on the theory of unlearning because it offers us a fresh perspective on how the church can adapt to the evolving needs of its congregation and the broader society.

1. Challenging Dogma: Unlearning prompts us to question long-held dogmas and beliefs. It encourages a thoughtful examination of scriptures and teachings, allowing individuals to develop a more nuanced understanding of their faith.
2. Embracing Diversity and Inclusivity: As societal norms shift, the church can employ unlearning to challenge biases and prejudices that might have unintentionally crept into its teachings. This can lead to a more inclusive and diverse congregation that welcomes people from all walks of life.
3. Addressing Cultural Changes: The church, like any other institution, must reckon with cultural changes. Unlearning enables church leaders to adapt their communication styles, outreach strategies, and worship practices to resonate with contemporary sensibilities.
4. Fostering Dialogue: Unlearning encourages open dialogue within the church community. Rather than dismissing differing opinions, the church can create a safe space for healthy debates that lead to growth and unity.
5. Reevaluating Traditions: Many churches have long standing traditions that might have lost their original meaning or relevance over time. Unlearning empowers leaders to evaluate these traditions and make informed decisions about whether to preserve, modify, or let go of them.

The theory of unlearning challenges the conventional wisdom that once something is learned, it remains applicable indefinitely. In the context of the church, unlearning invites us to let go of rigid beliefs and practices that may hinder growth and outreach. By fostering an environment of open-mindedness, inclusivity, and adaptability, the church can better address the needs of its congregation and connect with a changing world. Unlearning is not a rejection of tradition, but rather a tool for reinvigorating and renewing the core principles that guide the faith.

So what do you think? What do we need to unlearn?