Issue 45 explores how we can better speak to Gen Z – those aged roughly 13 to 28. How can preaching and church life nurture godly, life-affirming outlooks while challenging those that are not.
CONTEXT
The contributors include Justin Brierley on why Gen Z are flocking to church, Chi-Chi Obuaya on their mental health challenges, Charles Merritt on Gen Z at the movies, and Martin Saunders on Gen Z’s culture and how we can communicate with and disciple them effectively.
Bob Hartman explores how children’s books point to the gospel, Dave Bookless writes on the climate care close to Gen Z’s heart, and James Catford, Krish Kandiah, Ian Paul, and Ashley Hibbard offer wisdom on engaging this generation faithfully.
APPLICATION
Ben Cutting reflects on the rapid changes in communication and how this should impact our churches.
SUB-THEMES
Jane Williams talks about her book,Giver of Life: The Holy Spirit in the Creed and in the Christian Life Today
There’s a conversation with Mick Fleming, pastor in Burnley, on his book, Walk in My Shoes, Stories of Miraculous
CASE STUDIES
Chrisie Richardson considers how Gen Z react to Christian churches and the Christian message among those she has interviewed for her ‘The Reality of Christianity’ podcast.
PREACHING POINTS
In advising how to preach to Gen Z Krish Kandiah says: 1. Lean into Spiritual Openness; 2. Explain Scripture; 3. Welcome the young men; 4. Offer challenge as well as comfort; 5. Call to Discipleship
READING
Hear her voice: Preaching the women of the Bible by Christine Redwood
Good Bad No Dad? A Biblical Reflection on the Father Deficit in Contemporary Society by John Woods
Grace and Social Ethics: Gift as the Foundation of Our Life Together by Angela Carpenter
Preaching: A God-centred Vision by Michael Reeves
The God of Story Discovering the Narrative of Scripture Through the Language of Storytelling
by Daniel Schwabaucha
By the Word Worked: Encountering the Power of Biblical Preaching by Fleming Rutledge, Kimlyn Bender (editor)
The Great Return: Why Only a Restoration of Christianity Can Save Western Civilisation by Jamie Franklin