The Good News About Gen Z

Are you worried about the future and where the next generation is headed? Gen Z is a unique generation—growing up with different perks and different problems. Generation Z is defined as those who were born between 1997-2012. They are the first generation to grow up “digitally native” with screens at their fingertips full of information and entertainment (for better or worse) and same-day shipping at the click of a button. When it comes to spreading the Good News of Jesus, Gen Z reminds us that though our mission doesn’t change, our methods must. Here are a few fast facts about Gen Z and why as the Body of Christ, we need to raise the bar, change our methods, and reach out with compassion. 

Fast Fact #1: Gen Z is on pace to be the most educated generation yet.

According to a study conducted by The Pew Research Center, Gen Z is less likely to drop out of high school and more likely to attend college than previous generations. 57% of 18-21-year-olds in 2018 were enrolled in a two or four-year college (which exceeds the 52% of Millennials in 2003 and 43% of Gen X in 1987).

Why it matters: As Gen Z values learning and education, they aren’t as satisfied with simple answers when it comes to God, the Bible, and faith. For believers, this should encourage us to live out 1 Peter 3:15, “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” 

We don’t all need to be theologians, but we also can’t settle for overly-simplified answers. Gen Z’s enthusiasm to learn should push us forward to grow in our learning of God’s Word, join a small group or Bible study, or even take a course. 

Fast Fact #2: Gen Z is more racially and ethnically diverse than previous generations.

Another study done by The Pew Research Center revealed that 52% of Gen-Z are non-Hispanic white, which is significantly smaller than Millennials who were non-Hispanic white in 2002 (61%). One in four Gen Zers are Hispanic, 14% are black, 6% are Asian, and 5% are another race (or two or more races).

Why it matters: Gen Z reflects John’s vision of heaven in Revelation 7:9-10, “After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands.”

In Matthew 6:10, Jesus teaches us to pray, “Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” This means we have the opportunity to make God’s Church look more like heaven than ever before. When the world stirs up division, we can shine bright as we pursue unity and reflect God’s heart of love.

Fast Fact #3: Gen Z is more likely to receive therapy or mental health treatment than any prior generation.

In previous generations, there was a stigma to seeking therapy or help for mental health, but Gen Z is changing the tides. According to a study conducted in 2018 by the APA, 37% of Gen Zs have sought out treatment for mental health issues, which is more than any previous generation. There’s no doubt that mental health issues and suicide rates are on the rise. However, the good news is Gen Z is helping normalize therapy, help, and recovery. 

Why it matters: With partnerships like Celebrate Recovery, The Body of Christ has the opportunity to be “The light of the world. A city on a hill that cannot be hidden.” (Matthew 5:14-15) We can create safe communities for confession, community, and belonging. And most of all, we get to introduce hurting people to the healing power of Jesus. We can cheer on and celebrate those receiving help through therapy, and we can give them hope in a God who is the expert heart-mender. 

The good news about Gen Z is that if the Body of Christ rises up, we have the opportunity to raise the bar in wisdom, unity, and compassion and become the “pure and spotless bride” (Ephesians 5:27) that Jesus intends us to become.