According to a recent study, doctrine and church beliefs were found to be the most important reasons why adults switch churches. For those who have regularly attended more than one church as an adult, 89 percent indicated they would select a new church on the basis of what the church says it believes. Next in line of importance is the preaching (87 percent), with the authenticity of the church members and the pastors coming in as a close third (86 percent).

The following factors are also considered when looking for a new church:

• Worship style (80 percent)
  
  
• Care for community (76 percent)
  
  
• Evidence of God's work and changed lives (74 percent)
  
  
• Church members with whom to build relationships (73 percent)