I remember stepping into ministry for the first time—eyes wide with anticipation, heart fully surrendered. In those early days, the joy of discipling others was matched only by the anticipation of Sunday lunches. Leading people toward spiritual growth felt like tending a garden—life-giving, but not without its fair share of weeds to pull.
Now, years later, as the world shifts and evolves at an ever-accelerating pace, I find myself asking new questions: How do we nurture discipleship in a rapidly changing culture? How do we bridge generational gaps and create faith communities that stand the test of time?
A Fresh Look at Discipleship
Recently, I came across a compelling article from Barna Group and Gloo titled “Building a Faithful Future: The State of Discipleship Across Generations.” As a leader, I knew I had to dive in. After all, our calling isn’t just to tend the flock in front of us—it’s to bridge the past, present, and future of faith.
One of the most striking insights in the article was this: Younger generations—especially Gen Z—aren’t just looking for sermons; they’re looking for lives that preach. Authenticity and purpose are at the core of their spiritual hunger. They don’t just want to hear the Gospel; they want to see it lived out in real-time, woven into everyday decisions, conversations, and relationships.
That realization both humbled and energized me. Our lives are the textbooks being studied, and over the last two decades, many of those textbooks (Christian leaders) have let their people down or disqualified themselves from ministry. Every action, every word, every moment of integrity (or lack thereof) teaches something about the faith we profess. Discipleship, then, isn’t just a program or a meeting—it’s a way of being.
Moving from Programs to People
This study challenged me to rethink how we structure discipleship in ministry. Are we creating environments where discipleship is organic, relational, and lived? Or are we merely running programs?
Discipleship happens in the spaces where real life unfolds:
- The coffee shop conversations that turn into moments of deep reflection.
- The intergenerational mentorship that sparks wisdom and renewal.
- The everyday choices that demonstrate what it means to follow Christ beyond Sunday mornings.
If we want to see faith take root in future generations, we have to move beyond just a curriculum-driven approach and embrace relationship-driven discipleship.
The Power of Intergenerational Mentorship
One of the most powerful takeaways from the article was the importance of intergenerational discipleship. When the wisdom of one generation meets the curiosity and passion of another, something incredible happens. The experiences of older believers, paired with the fresh, unfiltered faith of the younger generation, create a dynamic and thriving ecosystem of faith.
It reminds me of a well-balanced dish—distinct flavors blending to create something richer and more vibrant. We need to foster spaces where generations learn from and strengthen one another.
So, how do we begin?
Practical Steps to Cultivate Meaningful Discipleship
If you’re sitting in your office, sipping coffee, wondering, “How do I actually apply this?”—here’s what I’ve been reflecting on:
- Shift from programs to people. Discipleship isn’t just a slot on the church calendar. It’s a lifestyle. Prioritize relationships over rigid structures.
- Create space for real conversations. Younger generations are craving authentic dialogue. Make room for it.
- Encourage intergenerational mentorship. Find ways to bring different age groups together in meaningful, faith-building relationships.
- Live the Gospel in the everyday. Your life speaks louder than your sermons. Model a faith that is tangible, transformative, and lived.
A Call to Build, Brick by Brick
As I sit with these reflections, I encourage you to read the article. Let it challenge and inspire you. As Jen Wilkin often reminds us, discipleship is a process of grace and growth. Each generation builds upon the foundation laid before it—one truthful step at a time.
So let’s keep building, investing, and walking in faith. The future of discipleship isn’t just about what we teach—it’s about how we live.
