Growing Young | Embracing Six Ancient Strategies
According to the latest National Church Life Survey, while the elderly remain steadfast in the average church, there's a noticeable absence among the younger generations. Mark McCrindle, a social analyst, and his team make this comment: "While the 70 plus age group is strongly represented in church (comprising 12% of the population but 25% of all church attendees), the age groups under 50 are underrepresented." In other words, churches—the gathered body of believers—are growing older.
Bright Spots Amidst Decline
But thankfully, the research is not all doom and gloom. Churches are breaking through the thick wall of church decline. For example, McCrindle highlights the remarkable growth of Pentecostal churches: 'With an average age of attending adults at 39 and comprising 12% of all churchgoers, these churches have surged to become the second largest denominational grouping of church attendees in Australia.'
Even though there are significant theological differences between Anglicans and Pentecostals, the thoughtful, curious mind asks, "What is contributing to their rapid, widespread growth?" These churches are leading the way in pioneering the gospel to new generations. "What is their strategy?"
Shifting Preferences in Worship
Suppose you were to query the average church member. In that case, responses might include:
Securing a "trendy location."
Investing in "a big, modern building."
Leveraging substantial budgets and government grants.
Some might attribute growth to a perceived "watered-down teaching style" or a ministry focused on "hyper-entertainment."
But seeing through the lens of Generation Z reveals a different narrative. They are not enticed by "perfect, slick services," "flashing disco lights and smoke machines," "shallow sermons", or a "hip, X-factor pastor." According to extensive research by the Fuller Youth Institute, there are six core principles helping churches—like the Pentecostal Church in Australia—grow young.
Re-Pioneering Old Strategies
What are these core commitments? The Growing Young team at Fuller Youth Institute discovered that churches growing young do six ancient practices exceptionally well.
They unlock keychain leadership: "Instead of centralising authority", they "empower others—especially young people."
They empathise with today's young people: "Instead of judging or criticising", they "step into the shoes of this generation."
They take Jesus' message seriously: "Instead of asserting formulaic gospel claims", they practically "welcome young people into a Jesus-centred way of life."
They fuel warm community: "Instead of focusing on cool worship or programs", they "aim for warm peer and intergenerational friendships."
They prioritise young people and families: "Instead of giving lip service on how much young people matter", they "look for creative ways to tangibly support, resource, and involve them in all facets of your congregation."
They be the best neighbours: "Instead of condemning the world outside our walls," they "enable young people to neighbour well locally and globally."
Toward A Future of Growth
While these six core commitments might need to be further expanded to provide more clarity around their meaning and application, I want to commend them to you. They are universal gospel principles that transcend time, age, and denomination. The focus on empowerment, empathy, submission (to Jesus' teachings), hospitality, the emerging generation, and mission have been at the cutting edge of all church growth strategies since the day our Lord first called his disciples.
In closing, I pray that by studying the "bright spots" of gospel growth in Australia and intentionally implementing these core strategies will catapult our ministry into the future, leading to greater innovation and gospel growth.
For Further Reading
If you desire to read more about these six principles, I recommend purchasing a copy of "Growing Young."
