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We will take a look at five trends—illuminated by decades’ worth of Barna research, including studies conducted during the COVID-19 response—about engaging with and discipling the next generation.
The Church Must Help Younger Generations Navigate Screen Time – Reports confirm that Millennials and Gen Z’s are spending an increased mount of time in front of screens during this pandemic. Barna’s own research shows the majority of pastors (85%) is concerned about this shift—but a similar percentage (86%) says that, despite the signs of more screen time, their church does not yet have a plan in place to teach on wise tech usage. Take a look at the info graphic in the show notes.
The Church Must Integrate Its Response to Injustice Into Student Ministry– Teens and young adults are willing to listen to stories of injustice and hopeful to be a positive change in the world. But they are also looking to the Church to answer some of their questions. They believe that slavery still impacts America and that the church should take a major role in providing answers. Arrabon is an excellent web-site for solid resources in guiding discussions regarding race relationships. Click on the link.
The Church Must Address Issues of Loneliness and Anxiety in Young Adults – The 18-35 year old’s are the most digitally connected and yet are prone to severe bouts of anxiety and depression. Notice the info-graphic of data on this point. As of late May this year, 1 in 3 millennials stated they were in need of food and supplies. Just let that sink in for just a moment. By the same margin they also needed financial assistance and emotional support.
The Church Must Support and Encourage Resilient Disciples to Grow Their Faith – Historically, Gen Z and Millennials are less likely than older generations to be connected to a church. Gen Z’s are less likely to connect with church than any previous generation. The drop-out rate for 18-25 years of age has jumped from 59% to 64% in the last decade. There is only 10% of twenty-somethings that have remained. This is the target group in which pastors and leaders can learn the most on discipleship strategies.
The Church Must Reframe the Notion of Outreach and Faith-Sharing with the Next Gen – Church leaders should not assume this Next Gen group readily embraces how missions operates and is funded. One of the key conversations that should e taking place is the importance of global outreach and why it should exist. Leaders, You must reframe the dialogue to teach what is old to you and those your audience has never heard it the first time. To underscore the need for this type of conversation 47% of Millennials believe that Evangelism is wrong. This fact highlights the importance of missional discussions to discuss why evangelism is a worthy cause and why we should engage it.
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Music: “Gratitude Mood” by David Arivett. You can learn more about his music by clicking on his name. THANKS DAVID!
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