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I've often wondered why only a minority of teens statistically remain plugged into our churches after they reach the age of independence. Then I read this quote from George Barna, "Teens do not go to youth groups for music and games, and they will not attend 'adult church' for music and preaching. They demand transcendent adventures and supportive relationships. They need an outlet for their desire to have a positive affect on the world and to synchronize their inner drive to be needed with the needs of those in the world that have little. Despite their streetwise attitudes, teenagers have a genuine streak of compassion that influences their lives. Churches that provide a conduit for serving the community will create more meaningful bonds with the Mosaic Generation."
Could it be that we've taught the WHAT and HOW of a system -- rather than the WHY of our relationship with Jesus? In other words, have we taught that the answers to these questions-- "Why do we attend assembly services?" "Why do we observe communion on the first day of the week?" and "Why do we have an opening prayer and closing prayer?" --has more to do with my affiliation and membership in an organization then they have to do with my relationship to the Father?
When Paul talked about the WHY, he referred to a relationship with Jesus and not simply a religious system. In Philippians 3:1-16, he dealt with the fact that the religious system in his life had to go in order to make room for this intimate relationship with Christ for which he was striving. Paul used his opportunities as a minister to preach and teach in order to help people develop a deeper understanding of the unfathomable riches found in knowing Christ ... not in knowing facts about a religious institution. (Ephesians 3:7-8.)
Based on nationwide interviews which George Barna's firm conducted among nearly 3,000 teenagers, they found out the types of churches that are most appealing to young people depend upon their spiritual inclinations. Teens who consider themselves to be Christian were most interested in the church's internal culture, the depth of community among Christians and the quality of the spiritual substance provided by the church. In contrast, among teens that do not think of themselves as Christian, the most appealing facets are the presence of their friends in the church, convenient location, the level of trust and care evident among Christians, and service to the poor of the community. Think about it ...
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Link to Ted Edwards Home Page