Convenience Store Christianity: A Model for the De-Evolution of the Church

There’s a convenience store near my house. Actually, there are about five within a mile radius. They’re open almost all hours, offer snacks and drinks on the go, and make it really easy to grab what I need without much effort or planning.

But let’s be honest—what you get there isn’t usually healthy.

It’s quick. It’s easy. It’s processed. And if you rely on it for your nutrition, you’re going to feel it eventually. Convenience comes at a cost.

Unfortunately, this has also become a fitting metaphor for how many people now approach church. We’ve embraced what could be called Consumer Christianity—a version of faith that values what’s quick, easy, and convenient over what’s committed, connected, and sacrificial. Like convenience stores on every corner, churches are now expected to tailor their services to whatever makes people comfortable. But that was never the model Jesus gave.

What lessons can we learn?

1. Quick Over Deep

We want short sermons, light worship, and bite-sized inspiration. But spiritual maturity isn’t microwaved—it’s cultivated over time.

Hebrews 5:12-14"For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the first principles of the oracles of God… But solid food belongs to those who are of full age..." (NKJV)

2. Easy Over Obedient

We’re tempted to follow Jesus only when it fits our schedule or doesn’t inconvenience us. But discipleship was never about ease.

Luke 9:23“If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.” (NKJV)

3. Convenient Over Committed

Instead of being deeply planted in a local body, people often treat church like a drive-thru—dropping in when it works for them. But spiritual growth happens in a committed, consistent community.

Psalm 92:13 “Those who are planted in the house of the Lord shall flourish in the courts of our God.” (NKJV)

4. Individualism Over Fellowship

In convenience store Christianity, we come for what we can get, not for what we can give. But the body of Christ thrives on mutual support, not personal preference.

Acts 2:42-44“And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers… and all who believed were together, and had all things in common.” (NKJV)

A healthy life takes planning. No one builds a strong body on gas station snacks, and the same is true for our spiritual lives.

It may take more effort to prepare, to study, to show up consistently, and to pour into our community—but the results are something far more life-giving.

Romans 12:1-2 “Present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world…” (NKJV)

Let’s move beyond convenience and commit to transformation. Not just believers, but disciples.