Revival may be here, but are we missing some key steps needed to turn it into reformation?
In a recent study by the American Bible Society, the level of church engagement by younger generations was found to be much lower than older generations.
As the Christian Post noted, this engagement means, “…the level of an individual’s involvement in the life, mission and community of a local church,” which also points to “…learning and growing in one’s faith, meaningful relationships with people in the church and active use of one’s gifts in the work of the church.”
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Looking directly at the survey by the American Bible Society, only 35% of those in Gen Z said that “in the past year I have had opportunities to learn and grow in my faith.” All older generations were at least 11 percentage points higher, with Millennials and Boomers at 46%.
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Not only does Gen Z feel as though they have less opportunities to learn and grow, but they also have significantly less close relationships in the church with only 19% saying they “have a best friend at church” and only 27% believing they have someone “in my church who encourages my spiritual development.” They also are less likely to say that they the chance to use their gifts, with only 19% believing they have this opportunity, and 42% of them saying that their pastor or other leaders care for them.
If the church is to truly move from revival to lasting reformation, it must recognize the urgency of reaching the next generation. Gen Z is not only searching for identity but also longing for belonging, discipleship, and a place to make a difference. The statistics reveal gaps in relationship, mentorship and opportunity that the church cannot afford to ignore. We must be intentional in helping them see who they are in Christ, reminding them that their worth, value and calling are not defined by culture but by the Creator.
This means the church must rise with creativity and vision, offering unique and meaningful avenues for Gen Z to use the gifts God has placed within them. Whether through mentoring relationships, opportunities to serve or platforms to express their faith, we must give them space to lead, to create and to grow.
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When the next generation sees the church not as a distant institution but as a spiritual family that empowers them, revival will not just be a moment—it will become a movement that shapes the future of Christianity.
Abby Trivett is content development editor for Charisma Media.
