The Loss of Discipleship
“What is truth?”
“How do I know what to believe?”
“Can I trust that the Bible is true?”
In recent weeks, I have had many conversations with young people in their 20s and 30s who are grappling with these questions. They are Christians who have grown up in the church, know all the “right” answers, and lead a typically “good Christian” lifestyle. However, they find themselves drowning in uncertainty as they examine their faith against the backdrop of today’s political strife, deconstructionism, and the erosion of absolute truth.
As our discussions continued, I asked who they had spoken to about their questions. Everyone replied, “No one; I don’t know who to ask.”
Many of our churches have fostered an environment where it feels unsafe to ask profound questions. Doubting your faith, questioning the authority of Scripture, or wrestling with significant cultural issues like LGBTQ+ rights and abortion is often seen as unacceptable. Christians who struggle with these matters, particularly those raised in the church, are expected to “know better” or be spiritually mature enough to “provide the right answer.” As a result, they often remain silent.
Consequently, these individuals frequently seek answers elsewhere and never return.
There is a significant decline in discipleship among Millennials, which is extending to those who follow them. The church desperately needs leaders who are willing to step up and take on the challenging task of disciplining the next generation. They have questions! They want to understand why we passionately claim to believe in the Bible, yet our lives often contradict our words. They seek guidance on how to confront cultural issues and stand firm in their faith. They want to know who Jesus truly is in YOUR life, beyond just the Sunday School responses.
They LONG for discipleship.
Church, we are called to disciple others (Matthew 28:19-20), and we are falling short. I challenge you: pray and ask God to open your eyes to those in your life who may need someone to walk alongside them and guide them in their faith. But be prepared, as 1 Peter 3:15 instructs: “Always be ready to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you.”