Engaging with Gen Y & Gen Z (The 5 Requests)

More and more people under the age of 40 have less and less understanding of a Christian worldview. But what are they saying?

We live in a **post-Christian culture**, where more and more people — especially those under 40 — have less and less understanding of a Christian worldview.

According to the **2021 Census**, 45.67% of Australians under 40 had no faith affiliation. That figure is likely now over 50%. Gen Y (Millennials), Gen Z (Zoomers) and the emerging Gen Alpha are increasingly detached from Christianity.

Why is that?

Research from **Pew and Barna shows that Gen Y and Z often see Christians as uncaring, hypocritical, judgemental, exclusive, inauthentic and irrelevant**. They perceive us as uninterested in the poor, the environment and mental health. Many are cynical about “organised religion” and suspicious of Christian motives.

Understanding their viewpoint is vital if we’re to engage meaningfully. A missional approach invites us to step into their world with humility, empathy and love.

Here are five guiding statements — framed from their perspective — to help us engage more effectively:

“Assume nothing about me.”

Don’t assume they know anything accurate about Jesus or the Bible. Many are misinformed, forming their views from media caricatures or internet misinformation. Instead of preaching at them, ask questions. Be curious, listen well and look for connection points. Let love guide the way — seriously!

“Meet me on my turf.”

Attractional church models require non-Christians to cross cultural and religious boundaries to meet us. A missional approach reverses this — we do the work of stepping into their world. Service-based outreach in everyday spaces (like workplaces, parks, cafés or community hubs) builds relational bridges where faith conversations can naturally emerge.

“Care about the world … and about me.”

Millennials and Zoomers value justice, creation care and mental wellbeing. They want to make a difference and want their lives to matter. When Christians serve unconditionally — motivated by Jesus’ love — we model a better way to live. Real care builds real trust.

“Shut up and show me.”

These generations are deeply sceptical of sales tactics. They’ve been marketed to their whole lives. Words don’t impress them — actions do. Authenticity is everything. Show love in action. Good deeds create curiosity and open hearts

“Speak like a human being.”

Many don’t understand our Christian jargon. Words like “sin”, “saved”, “lost” or “fellowship” can sound like a foreign language. Tim Keller reminded us to speak and converse as if the whole neighbourhood was present. Eventually, he said, more of the neighbourhood will find their way into our lives and faith communities.

Take time to reflect on these five insights. What might need to shift in the way you engage with the under-40s in your neighbourhood or workplace?

In a post-Christian society, the mission field isn’t across the seas — it’s across the street.

Through the **Dayspring Project,** Craig equips individuals, small groups, youth groups, young adult ministries, churches, schools and organisations to become missional in an increasingly post-Christian world.