Kerby Anderson

Much has been made of the slight uptick in spiritual interest among the Gen Z generation. George Barna of the Cultural Research Center agrees that there are a few positive trends, but laments that there are mostly negative trends. He was on my radio program to talk about “the Recent Spiritual Progress and Regress of Gen Z.”

On the positive side, he discovered an interest in being deeply committed to practicing their faith. He also found an increase in weekly Bible reading as well as an increase in the number who depend on the Bible for moral guidance. Those statistics track with industry reports of increased Bible sales and many stories of young adults reading the Bible.

Most of the negative trends result from being captive to the culture. The Apostle Paul warns in Colossians 2:8 to “See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ.”

For example, the Gen Z generation is much more likely to see nothing wrong with same-sex marriage. They are more likely to prefer socialism over capitalism. They are also likely to consult a horoscope for guidance. They also are less likely to believe in absolute truth. They believe that the origin of the universe is unknowable and aren’t sure there is life after death.

George Barna asks this question and then answers it. “Is the United States experiencing a time of revival now among its youngest adults? The research gives a lukewarm affirmation of revival, at best.”

While we can celebrate the few positive signs, his research reminds us that we have work to do if we are to reach and disciple this generation.