Psalm 78:4–7 reminds us of our sacred responsibility: “We will not hide them from their descendants; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, His power, and the wonders he has done.” This is not just a poetic reflection but a strategic and spiritual call. The church is called to be generational, actively and intentionally passing on the faith. But in many congregations today, millennials and Gen Z are missing from the pews—not because they’ve rejected the church, but because the church hasn’t always made space for them.
Growing younger isn’t about chasing trends or compromising truth; it’s about creating an environment where emerging generations can encounter Jesus, grow in faith, and lead purposefully. And when we do that, the whole church thrives. Here are five reasons why:
1. It Aligns with the Great Commission.
Jesus’ command in Matthew 28:19–20—to make disciples of all nations—wasn’t limited to geography. It’s generational, too. When we intentionally engage millennials and Gen Z, we’re not just securing the church’s future, we’re fulfilling Christ’s command right now. These generations are profoundly searching for meaning, connection and spiritual truth, and the church has the answer.
2. It Preserves and Passes on Our Traditions.
Some fear that including younger generations means abandoning tradition. In reality, tradition dies when it’s not passed down. Involving millennials and Gen Z ensures that our spiritual practices, stories of God’s faithfulness, and core values endure. We don’t preserve tradition by keeping it to ourselves; we preserve it by giving it away.
3. It Expands Evangelism and Outreach.
Younger generations are uniquely positioned to reach new people—especially through digital platforms, social spaces and conversations that older generations may not easily access. Their creativity and openness provide fresh opportunities for evangelism, making the church’s mission more expansive in size, relevance and impact.
4. It Builds a Lasting Legacy.
Growing younger is about legacy—building something that outlives us. When we invest in young adult members’ spiritual formation and leadership development, we’re not just preparing them for tomorrow—we’re equipping them to lead today. Churches that intentionally nurture younger generations are planting seeds for a harvest that will bless communities for years to come.
5. It Reflects a Living, Adaptive Faith.
Younger believers may express their faith differently—through contemporary music, storytelling or even social justice initiatives. Embracing those differences doesn’t dilute faith; it demonstrates that the church is alive and responsive to how God moves through each generation. Diverse worship strengthens unity, not disrupts it.
One Body, Many Generations
The church was never meant to be led by one generation alone. It is strongest when it embraces all ages—where the elders’ wisdom and the young’s energy flow together. Let us take seriously the call of Psalm 78. Do more than tell this generation about God’s deeds; give them room to grow, lead, and carry the torch forward. The church is at its best when it honors the past while investing in the future. That is how we thrive, from generation to generation.