The Millennials

For some reason I watched 60 Minutes the other night. I'm not sure why I avoid it. It's probably because my grandfather watched it religiously (that and logging the weather every day). But I am glad I did. They were doing a story on the "Millennials." These are the 80 million or so people born from 1981-2000. The piece is a fascinating look at how things have changed. And this is especially the case as the Millennials are making up the new work force. Though this is not a scholarly piece, the story does ring true in many regards. Part interesting, part encouraging, part horrifying (I personally watched many students pour over their laptops while downloading music, buying clothing, and reading the latest sports news, all while listening to lectures...in seminary). Watch the clip here:



This is a church blog where we talk about churchly things. And usually, topics like these are brought up so that we can focus on evangelism. So that's what I'll do now. How do we reach out to this generation? There is a much greater chance of coming to Christ when you are younger. So the time is ripe. How do you reach out now? Become a missionary. Missionaries do two things: (1) They try and understand the culture (language, dress, style) and, to some extent, mimic it. (2) They herald the unadulterated message of the Gospel. So the question for us becomes, how do we become "missional" in this new context, reaching out to the Millennials? How do you adapt the dress, style and language of the culture while bringing a message that is true yet understandable?

I say throw an office parade and then talk to them about Jesus.