4 Helpful Strategies to Reach the Next Generation

As the world changes, so does the challenge of connecting the next generation to the gospel and to each other. How can we adapt?

Changing cultural trends, the effects of the global pandemic, and constant digital distractions leave the most connected generation isolated and disconnected from meaningful relationships. The church is also suffering. Statistics show that between the ages of 18-22, regular church attendance drops by over 66%¹, and American adults are identifying less and less with any religion.² If American parents are leaving the church at such a rapid pace, so are their children, and reaching the next generation—Generation Z—has never been more critical. Here are four helpful strategies that will help us intentionally love young people as we assist them in connecting to one another and guide them in falling in love with Jesus.

1. Meet Them Where They Are

To reach the next generation, we must first understand the world they live in. We must, like Paul, be “all things to all people” (1 Corinthians 9:22, ESV). In other words, we must realize that reaching an ever-changing culture requires change. Instead of viewing social media and technology as a distraction, we should consider utilizing these tools to grow people’s faith. Resources like the YouVersion Bible App and RightNow Media are powerful tools to introduce Scripture in creative and helpful ways.

We must also remember that the younger generation lived some of their most formative years through a global pandemic. The effects of Covid-19 still affect how people interact, including young people. For example, many young people today gravitate toward smaller, more intimate settings rather than large gatherings. To reach the next generation, we should approach discipleship differently. In the past, we may have expected young people to come to us. Instead, we should consider how we can go to them. Going to students’ sporting events, school activities, or even taking them out to lunch are practical ways we could meet students where they are before inviting them to church. We cannot expect young people to move toward us before we move toward them to meet them where they are.

2. Meet Them with Authenticity

Our culture craves the real version of each other. The days of “having it all together” are a passing facade. Apps like BeReal show us that young people are not only interested in the picture-perfect parts of life. Young people also relate to the ordinary and messy moments of life. Authenticity breeds authenticity. We will cultivate meaningful connections when we are honest and transparent about our lives and experiences. As we seek to reach the next generation with the truth of the gospel, we must lead with the truth of our own lives (1 Thessalonians 2:8, ESV), and as we share our stories, we should highlight the good news of Jesus’ work in our lives.

It is also essential to avoid oversharing when being vulnerable with students. There is wisdom in being “real,” but we should also be careful not to share unhelpful details. We don’t want what we share to be misinterpreted or to make a student think things like, “If he or she did those things, it’s okay if I do them too.” Instead, focus on what God has done to redeem your experiences rather than on what you have done.

3. Meet Them with Biblical Truth

Today’s world is filled with all kinds of definitions of “truth.” Culture tells young people to “follow their heart” and “live their truth,” yet the Bible teaches that the heart is deceitful above all things (Jeremiah 17:9, ESV). To reach the next generation, we must teach and uphold the only truth—God’s Word. We must carefully hold fast to biblical convictions as we simultaneously teach young people in love (Eph 4:15). Just remember that discipleship entails leading students toward good things, not just away from bad things. We have been given God’s Word to lead us toward what is true, and although the Bible may not address every specific life situation, it does address truths that can be applied to all. We must lovingly build up the next generation in truth so that they can effectively discern what is untrue.

4. Meet Them at Church

The church may seem intimidating to a younger person. Sometimes stereotypes or even lousy past experiences can affect how the next generation thinks about the church, but don’t forget the significance of a personal invitation. It is good to invite students to church. We must help young people overcome the mindset that church is only for older people. Welcoming the next generation into a community of believers is essential to spiritual growth. God uses the church to strengthen, encourage, and sharpen his people. Life is not meant to be done alone. We are created for community and connection. The church is where people walk together in their faith journey and where discipleship occurs. To reach the next generation, we must walk alongside young people and teach them as we go. Consider Psalm 78:4:

“We will not hide them from our children, but tell to the coming generation the glorious deeds of the Lord, and his might, and his wonders that he has done.”Psalm 78:4, ESV

Embracing the responsibility and divine calling of sharing the Gospel with the next generation is a necessary and significant task. Nurturing young hearts to love Jesus and love one another is undoubtedly complex, but it is essential. As you seek to reach the next generation, meet young people where they are, meet them with vulnerability and authenticity, meet them with truth, and meet them at church.