Generational Differences 2

If you're in middle age (like myself) or older, and you start hanging around young Christians, you'll probably notice that they see the world a little differently.

The chart below compares a few basic beliefs of older and younger Christians.

This is part two in my comparision of generations. 

I'm defining "older" as 45 and up, "younger" as 35 and under. (35-45 can go either way.)

Of course these comparisons are general trends and don't represent every individual.

In any case, a question that I ponder all the time is what these differences mean for ministry in and through the church.

What do you think?

Generational Differences 1

For the next few weeks I'd like to highlight the differences between younger and older generations, in several different categories.

This should help you understand your younger (or older) counterparts at your church -- or in your home.

Roughly speaking, I'm talking about the differences between church people who are 35 and under, and 45 and older. That middle ground -- 35-45 -- can go either way.

Some of what follows may seem obvious. But don't be fooled. "We" think "they" are just like us all the time, which they most certainly are not.

This week's category: personal values

You may find yourself relating best to some of the values of the other generation. Congrats. That means you're moving toward understanding. No small feat these days.

Outreach Strategy Extraordinaire

A sophisticated outreach program in a church or parachurch ministry might look something like this:

Level 1: Social events. Invite everyone!

Level 2: Content events. The Christian worldview is presented in a thoughtful way. Venues could be talks, discussions, debates, panels, workshops. Audience is seekers.

Level 3: Harvest events. An explicit call to faith is made. Aimed at friends and acquaintances who may be ready to follow Jesus full-time.

Keys to success:

• Everyone in the ministry knows at which "level" the next event is offered. Then members know who (and who not) to invite.
  
  
• Quality: Especially important at the second level, events must be excellent. Building trust with your own people takes a long time to establish (but, of course, only a moment to break).

A Level 2 event I participated in recently with some atheists

One last thought: It seems to me the missing piece in many ministries is Level 2 above. Topics can range from apologetic (existence of God) to educational (managing your money).

At these events you want your people to be glad they brought a friend -- or disappointed if they didn't.