Young Adults Aren’t Sticking with Church
Wanted: Young Men in the Church
Where are the young men? They’re noticeably absent from churches across our nation. What are we doing about it? It’s disturbing to note that the three articles referenced here are all from 2007-2008. Those are the most recent articles about the subject. Have we forgotten the severity of the issue? Is it too uncomfortable to discuss it?
Over 70 percent of the boys who are being raised in church will abandon it during their teens and twenties. Many of these boys will never return. – Lifeway Research
More than 90 percent of American men believe in God, and five out of six call themselves Christians. But only one out of six attend church on a given Sunday. The average man accepts the reality of Jesus Christ, but fails to see any value in going to church. – Barna Research
Where do we start? Right. in. your. church. Right now.
How? There has to be a paradigm shift in our thinking. We need to revise our mindset. You’ve heard it said thousands of times, “the youth are the church of the future.” WRONG! They are the church of today! They are the church right NOW. So, let’s get to work revising our ideas on how we get men involved, get men to participate in events, and get men interested in getting their hearts in tune with Jesus Christ!
At Men’s Ministry Catalyst, we’re building new approaches to creating effective ministry programs that appeal to younger men. Here are some vital points to consider as you begin to reach out to the younger men in your community and congregation:
- Common Ground Approach #1: We all have (or know of) scores of programs that fall into the traditional models of men’s ministry such as fishing, motorcycles, hiking, camping, or hunting. These are all effective and great ways to attract men. But, one critical area that is often overlooked in many churches and men’s ministries is technology. We intentionally “don’t go there” because it’s intimidating to us and a bit unfamiliar for many of the more “seasoned” men. In fact, even though we may not want to admit it, we’re afraid of it because in most cases the younger men are going to be much more knowledgeable than us in this arena. You know what? It’s okay that the younger guys know more about it than we do. We need to understand that there are scores of young men who are embracing all things electronic and are eagerly anticipating every technological advance. We need to look at ways we can effectively use these tools in ministry. Remember – someone is influencing these guys through technology, social media, and the Internet. Is your church or men’s group using it to help men of all ages engage in their walk with Christ? Technology is an excellent way to bridge the generational gap – especially for those young guys who may not be interested in hunting, fishing, motorcycles, or other outdoor activities. In many ways, the “tech crew” can be a huge organizational force behind many of the other activities and ministries that go on within your church or men’s ministry.
- Common Ground Approach #2: Start thinking outside the box a little on some events. Dare I say that perhaps it’s time to abandon the monthly pancake breakfast and opt to have your men meet at a local coffeehouse instead? Mix it up a little and give it a try a few times. Show the younger guys that you’re willing to spend time with them in a place they enjoy.
- Acceptance & Authenticity: If your ministry will welcome each man as he is and provide a non-competitive environment, each man will flourish. Guys need to believe they are accepted by other men and not seen as a threat to them. Though he may not admit it publicly, a guy needs to have a safe place to be himself and not feel like he has to always be on his “A” game to impress everyone around him. In providing this authentic environment, you allow men to shed cultural stereotypes and dive deeply into biblical discipleship.
- Discussion Rich Environment: More and more of our young adults are educating themselves on the social, political, and moral issues of the day. Rather than holding firm to the “because the Bible says so” answers, create an environment that fosters open discussion on important issues. Actively listen to them and discuss the truth without it being an emotionally charged dialogue or one-sided affair. They are looking for solid, biblical answers to life’s questions. Zacchaeus and Nicodemus are great biblical examples of how useful and important open dialogue is in matters of faith and life. Both were learned men who needed real answers to the deep questions of life. We must allow men on any age to ask questions, wrestle with them, seek out wise counsel in your group, and dig into the Word of God so they can then take the answers to a confused, lost world that is asking those very same questions.
These are just a few methods to explore as you seek to reach out to younger men within your church and community. Are you employing a particular method that is yielding positive results with the young men in your church? If so, we encourage you to please share it. As men who feel burdened to bring other men into a closer relationship with Jesus Christ, we need to be willing to share ideas, concerns, and most importantly pray for each other.
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