Ethical Question

I would, you want to make sure there were no problems. What they say is most likely true but confirmation is the best policy.

 

...since the pastor did what?

If you do talk to the pastor, you could get sour grapes. You could find a "they're nice, but watch out for...." answer. Or you might get beneficial information. Or you might get nothing other than what you already know. You have to know your situation. Every one is different. Then act accordingly. There are pastors here who would give me the straight skinny, and there are some who would torch them for having the audacity of leaving their church since it's the only real one on the planet.

One thing I wouldn't do: don't violate the confidence of the members. If they find out you went "snooping" (if they look at it that way) you'll never be able to minister effectively, and that would be tragic if they were legit. I think it is utmost for any church to examine new members coming in, find out if they were under church discipline, etc. But given how 99% of Baptist churches have an utterly unBiblical, nonsensical membership policy, that all might be moot.

But I digres......:laugh:

 

People do not leave for no reason. There are various reasons why they leave and not one of them may have to with anything you need to know. There may have not been any problems. It may be that the people have needs beyond what a particular church does. Some churches are a mile wide and an inch deep. The people may have been reached by Robert Schuler types and would not want to stay there for long.

 

When in doubt don't.