Exploring Generational Shifts (Pt.2)
A practical Christian study of “Exploring Generational Shifts (Pt.2),” with clear application for faith, relationships, and everyday life.
Season 6, Episode 19 · Exploring Generational Shifts (Pt.2)
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The story behind the idea
So I think a lot of families have just fallen into the world. The reality is if we're trying to balance a life that is part Jesus and part the world, while we're living in the flesh, the world will always win over our hearts. This, of course, is why Jesus demands to become first place in everything, because no other approach will work. I think that end of the spectrum accounts for a lot of just the weakening and the detachment from churches and then ultimately just assimilating fully with the world.
What stands out
They want things to work, but they get discouraged by rigidness, often accompanied by an unwillingness to listen or ever change. I think that's led to a lack of unity and love that has led people to go elsewhere, although sometimes those reduced sized churches are pretty proud of themselves. Anyway, I know both ends of those spectrums need more discussion and I've oversimplified it. I don't want to spend all day on it because I'm not trying to discourage you.
Why it matters
We certainly need to understand that the next generation is not going to stay going to church there because the building looks awesome. Maybe they're interested in more of a New Testament style, minimalistic approach where money is used for people, and the central draw for Christians together is scripture and fellowship. Then number eight, which we'll look at pretty quickly because we covered it well last time, a shift from large buildings to homes. Church buildings that once housed hundreds, some places are down to dozens, while sitting on expensive pieces of property.
A faithful way forward
That little section kind of represents the entirety of the articles. These 15 to 45 year old Christians are going to come and say, based on where our culture is and the way things are, here are changes we need to make. Just that sentence and that wording might cause direct and absolute repudiation by someone in the church. Some of our traditions and the way we do things has become law when it ought not be.
Put it into practice
They seek meaningful lives with God, a way to introduce friends to Jesus and invest in a good news message that changes people. Some of the greatest influencers for the kingdom in days to come maybe names you've never heard of. You gotta give me a couple of extra minutes today to talk about this.
Take the idea with you.
- 01What idea from this study most needs my attention right now?
- 02Where does this challenge the way I am currently thinking or living?
- 03What is one faithful step I can take this week?
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