I would love to see a church that fosters the type of religion that you speak of. A church that accepts unconditionally and doesn’t try to change people. Jesus showed another way, provided an example and told stories to provoke thought. He didn’t try to change anyone. His mere presence and love made people want to change themselves. He didn’t prescribe any particular change either, He left that up to the individual.

So why are some (even progressive) Christians concerned with butts in pews and converts? Why is it so important that new comers also call themselves Christian?

If I came to one of your back yard barbecue church sessions and made it very clear that I am not Christian and don’t want to be “converted”, but yet I was there to be present and learn, would you or others present continue with attempts to convince me that Jesus is Lord? Or would you rather learn from each other and increase our collective wisdom and understanding?