Published Article in the Great Commission Research Journal

How Research on Young Adults Informs Evangelism: Reaching the Next Generation

Introduction

Where are the young people? If you’ve scanned your church’s pews and noticed a growing gap in attendance among younger generations, you’re not alone. Research on young adults and evangelism shows that churches across the nation are struggling to engage and retain young adults. But why is this happening—and more importantly, how can we address it?

In this post, we explore insights from generational research to uncover why younger generations are hesitant to engage with the church and how we can adapt our evangelism strategies to meet them where they are. Drawing from real-world experience and data, we’ll highlight three key strategies to improve receptivity and connection with younger audiences.

Understanding the Generational Profile

Young adults today face unique cultural, social, and technological shifts that shape their worldview. Research from Barna Group and others highlights that younger generations are:

• Highly skeptical of institutions, including the church.
• Drawn to authenticity and transparency.
• Focused on social justice and community impact.

If churches fail to meet these expectations, younger people will look elsewhere for belonging and purpose.

Identifying Barriers to Receptivity

Even when young adults are open to spiritual conversations, they often hesitate to engage with the church due to:

• A perception that the church is judgmental or exclusive.
• An emphasis on tradition over relevance.
• A lack of meaningful connection with older generations.

Three Practical Strategies for Effective Evangelism

To bridge the gap and foster greater receptivity, churches should adopt these key strategies:

Lead with Authenticity – Younger generations value honesty and transparency. Be real about the challenges of faith and life.
Create Space for Dialogue – Encourage open conversations about faith, doubts, and social issues without judgment.
Engage in Social Impact – Young adults want to see the church making a difference in the community. Focus on outreach and service.

Conclusion

Reaching young adults requires more than just updated worship styles or social media presence. It demands a shift toward authenticity, relevance, and connection. By understanding the generational profile and addressing barriers to receptivity, churches can build meaningful bridges with younger generations—ensuring a thriving future for the body of Christ.

Download GCRJ Article for an in-depth analysis and actionable strategies.