Project – Effects of the Christians’ youths lifestyles on the societies’ worldview about the Church in 21st century

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

• Background to the Study

The lifestyles of Christian youths in the 21st century have been a focal point for understanding how modern society perceives the Church and its role in the broader cultural landscape. In recent decades, there has been a marked shift in how young Christians live, particularly in their engagement with secular culture, social media, and emerging global issues. The increasing disconnect between traditional religious practices and contemporary cultural norms, such as the rise of individualism, secularism, and relativism, has influenced how youths interpret and express their faith. Scholars argue that these changing lifestyles, shaped by media and technology, have led to a redefined understanding of what it means to be Christian in the modern world (Smith & Denton, 2005). As a result, the Church’s influence on youth and their broader communities has been both challenged and reshaped.

Youth engagement with the Church today is shaped significantly by cultural shifts. According to research by Kinnaman and Hawkins (2011), young people are increasingly distancing themselves from organized religious institutions, even while identifying as spiritual or Christian. This disengagement can be attributed to the perception that traditional churches often fail to address the complex and diverse issues that contemporary youths face, such as social justice, mental health, and economic inequality. The rise of non-denominational and megachurch movements, which focus on personal experience and community, has led to new models of worship that resonate more with youth’s desire for authenticity and relevance (Miller, 2009). This shift has, in turn, contributed to the perception of the Church as either out of touch or evolving in response to a changing worldview.

Social media and digital technology have further altered the ways Christian youth engage with both the Church and the outside world. Studies on youth culture, such as those by Campbell and Tsuria (2021), show that social media platforms have become spaces where Christian youths both critique and affirm their faith. Through platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, young Christians create and consume content that reflects their beliefs, often engaging in dialogues that challenge traditional religious authority while attempting to integrate faith with everyday experiences. While these online communities offer a sense of belonging, they can also reinforce individualistic approaches to spirituality, which may conflict with the communal aspects emphasized in traditional church settings (Campbell & Tsuria, 2021). As a result, the Church’s role in shaping societal values becomes more ambiguous, as youths prioritize digital communities over institutional ones.

Furthermore, Christian youths’ growing awareness of global issues such as climate change, racial justice, and economic inequality has influenced how they perceive the Church’s relevance in addressing these concerns. As Jenkins (2014) highlights, youths today are not only concerned with personal salvation but also with social and environmental justice. Many young Christians are turning to activist causes, aligning their faith with movements that advocate for equality and sustainability. This has led to a reimagining of the Church’s mission, with youths advocating for a more socially engaged and outward-looking faith that addresses the pressing issues of the 21st century. However, the tension between activism and traditional church teachings can create a dissonance between young people and older generations within the Church, impacting their views on the institution’s capacity to speak to the world’s contemporary issues.

The impact of Christian youths’ lifestyles on society’s worldview about the Church can also be understood in the context of generational differences. The millennial and Gen Z generations, in particular, are characterized by a tendency toward inclusivity, social justice, and digital interconnectedness. As Barna Group (2017) suggests, these youths are skeptical of institutional authority and more inclined to define their spirituality outside the confines of organized religion. This generational shift has contributed to a rethinking of the Church’s role in society, with some viewing the Church as increasingly irrelevant to the needs of a younger, more diverse, and more globalized population. In contrast, others argue that these changes signify a transformation rather than a decline in the Church’s influence, as new forms of Christian community and worship are emerging to meet the needs of a rapidly changing world (Tippett, 2019).

In conclusion, the lifestyles of Christian youths in the 21st century have had a profound effect on society’s worldview about the Church. As young people navigate their faith within the contexts of digital media, social activism, and changing cultural norms, they are both reshaping the Church and challenging its traditional boundaries. The Church’s ability to engage with contemporary issues, connect with the youth through new media, and provide meaningful answers to the challenges of modern life will determine its role in the societies of the future. Moving forward, scholars and Church leaders must continue to explore these shifts to understand the evolving relationship between youth culture and Christian faith, and the implications for the future of the Church in a secularizing world.

 

1.2. Statement of the Problem

In the 21st century, the relationship between Christian youths and the Church has undergone significant transformation, largely influenced by changing social, cultural, and technological dynamics. The increasing shift in the lifestyles of Christian youths—who are deeply embedded in digital culture, influenced by global social movements, and often critical of traditional religious institutions—has raised questions about how their evolving identities affect the Church’s position and relevance in contemporary society. While previous generations of Christians may have been more inclined to follow established religious practices, today’s youths are often characterized by their desire for a more personalized, experiential form of faith. This shift has led to a growing disconnect between young people and the institutional Church, prompting concerns about the Church’s ability to effectively engage the younger generation and, by extension, its place in the wider societal context.

One key issue arising from this shift is the changing nature of Christian youth engagement with religious institutions. Many young people, particularly in Western societies, are disengaging from traditional forms of worship and community involvement. A growing trend of church attendance decline, especially among Millennials and Gen Z, has raised alarms about the long-term vitality of religious institutions (Kinnaman & Hawkins, 2011). This disengagement is partly fueled by the perception that traditional churches fail to address the real-world issues young people care about, such as social justice, environmental sustainability, and mental health. The absence of a clear and relevant message from the Church regarding these issues can result in a weakened societal perception of the Church, undermining its role as a moral and social leader in the public sphere.

Furthermore, the rise of digital and social media platforms has altered the ways in which Christian youths practice and express their faith. Youths today are increasingly turning to online communities and influencers to shape their spiritual identities, often bypassing the traditional structures of the Church. Social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube allow young Christians to engage in discussions about faith, share their beliefs, and even critique the traditional Church. However, while these platforms foster a sense of community and belonging, they also promote individualistic, self-curated forms of spirituality that contrast sharply with the collective and doctrinally bound practices emphasized in traditional church settings (Campbell & Tsuria, 2021). As a result, the influence of the Church on youth culture diminishes, leading to a broader societal shift where the Church is viewed as increasingly irrelevant or disconnected from the real-world experiences of today’s young people.

The effects of these shifts extend beyond the Church itself, impacting society’s broader worldview. As Christian youths move away from traditional religious practices and engage with faith in more individualized ways, they influence how the general public views Christianity and religious institutions. This change in youth behavior contributes to a broader societal trend of secularization, where religious belief and practice are no longer central to many people’s lives. Additionally, young people’s growing interest in issues like racial justice, LGBTQ+ rights, and climate change has introduced tensions between the values of progressive culture and the traditional moral teachings of the Church. The Church’s perceived inability or unwillingness to engage with these issues in a meaningful way has led some to view it as outdated or even irrelevant in shaping the worldview of contemporary society (Jenkins, 2014). Thus, Christian youths’ lifestyles are not only reshaping their personal relationship with faith but also contributing to a larger societal questioning of the Church’s relevance.

Moreover, the evolving lifestyles of Christian youths have sparked generational divides within the Church, with younger and older generations often finding themselves at odds over matters of theology, culture, and social engagement. While older generations may still adhere to more traditional views of doctrine, practice, and church governance, younger Christians tend to favor inclusivity, flexibility, and social activism (Tippett, 2019). These generational tensions can create a disconnect between the Church’s institutional leadership and the younger members, further diminishing the Church’s capacity to influence public opinion and engage effectively with society’s broader concerns. The gap in values and expectations between the generations highlights a deeper issue within the Church: its struggle to adapt to the rapidly changing cultural, social, and technological environments that shape young people’s lives.

Finally, this generational disconnect and the transformation of Christian youths’ lifestyles raise critical questions about the future of the Church and its influence on society. With the growing trend of youth disengagement, coupled with the rise of alternative forms of spirituality and the increasing prominence of secular values in the public sphere, the Church faces a crucial challenge in redefining its role and relevance in the 21st century. The growing diversity of Christian youths’ lifestyles—shaped by digital engagement, social activism, and a quest for personalized spirituality—poses significant questions for Christian leadership. How can the Church engage young people in ways that resonate with their values, while also maintaining its core theological and doctrinal tenets? How can the Church remain a meaningful presence in a society that is increasingly secular and pluralistic? These challenges underscore the importance of understanding the effects of Christian youths’ lifestyles on the broader societal worldview of the Church and its continued role in shaping public life.

1.3. Aim and Objectives of the Study

The aim of the study is to examine Effects of the Christians’ youths’ lifestyles on the societies’ worldview about the Church in 21st century. The specific objectives of the study are:

1. To examine the various lifestyles and behaviors of Christian youths in the 21st century.
2. To analyze how youth lifestyles and behaviors are perceived by society in relation to the Church.
3. To investigate the impact of Christian youths’ actions on the overall perception of the Church in modern society.
4. To identify any potential conflicts or discrepancies between the values of Christian youths and societal expectations.

1.4. Research Questions

The research questions are buttressed below:

1. What are the various lifestyles and behaviors exhibited by Christian youths in the 21st century?
2. How are youth lifestyles and behaviors perceived by society in relation to the Church?
3. What is the impact of Christian youths’ actions on the overall perception of the Church in modern society?
4. Are there any conflicts or discrepancies between the values of Christian youths and societal expectations?

1.5. Research Hypothesis

The hypothetical statement of the study is buttressed below:

Ho: Christian youths’ actions have no significant impact on the overall perception of the Church in modern society

H1: Christian youths’ actions have significant impact on the overall perception of the Church in modern society

1.6. Significance of the Study

The study of the effects of Christian youth lifestyles on society’s worldview about the Church in the 21st century is both timely and significant. As the global landscape undergoes rapid social, cultural, and technological changes, the role of youth in shaping religious institutions and perceptions has become more pronounced. Young people are often at the forefront of societal transformation, challenging traditional norms and introducing new ideas, including within their religious communities. By exploring how the lifestyles of Christian youths influence public perception of the Church, this research can shed light on how contemporary attitudes toward faith, morality, and religious authority are evolving in the 21st century.

The significance of this study lies in understanding the evolving relationship between Christian youth and the Church. In recent decades, there has been growing concern about the apparent disconnection between younger generations and traditional religious practices. As the influence of secularism increases and alternative belief systems gain traction, many Christian youths are reinterpreting or distancing themselves from institutionalized religion. This trend has profound implications for how the Church is viewed in society, with many questioning its relevance and impact in modern life. By investigating the specific ways in which Christian youth culture is influencing public perception, this study can contribute to a deeper understanding of these complex dynamics.

Moreover, the lifestyles of Christian youths often reflect broader societal trends, such as increasing digital connectivity, greater awareness of social justice issues, and a shift toward individualism. These trends are reshaping not only how young people engage with the world but also how they engage with their faith. In particular, Christian youths’ embrace of social media, their involvement in activism, and their varied expressions of spirituality have the potential to reshape how the Church is seen by the larger community. By examining how these elements intersect with youth culture, the study can offer insights into how the Church might adapt to the changing cultural landscape and reach younger generations more effectively.

Another key aspect of this study is its relevance to the Church’s role in addressing contemporary challenges. Christian youths are often at the forefront of discussions surrounding issues such as poverty, climate change, racial justice, and mental health. Their lifestyles, shaped by these concerns, reflect a desire for a more relevant, engaged, and action-oriented faith. Understanding how these youths prioritize certain values over others—such as inclusivity, justice, and community service—can help the Church align its messaging and mission with the needs and concerns of the 21st-century world. By doing so, the Church may be able to restore its credibility and relevance in a society that is increasingly skeptical of traditional religious institutions.

Additionally, the study has the potential to highlight the role of youth in the internal renewal of the Church. As younger generations become more vocal about their values and beliefs, they bring with them fresh perspectives that can challenge outdated theological frameworks and encourage reforms. By investigating how Christian youths’ lifestyles intersect with their views on Church doctrine and practice, this research can inform theological discussions and church leadership. It can help church leaders understand how to engage with young people more authentically, while also addressing the perceived generational divide that exists in many Christian communities today.

The significance of this study extends beyond the mere exploration of youth culture and religion. It is an inquiry into the future of the Church itself, as it grapples with the evolving spiritual and social needs of a new generation. The findings could offer invaluable insights into how the Church might adapt, grow, and remain relevant in the 21st century, both in the eyes of its younger members and society at large. As Christian youth continue to influence societal norms and values, this research could provide a roadmap for fostering a Church that speaks to the concerns, hopes, and aspirations of modern youth, while remaining grounded in its core theological principles.

1.7. Scope of the Study

The study examines the Effects of the Christians’ youths’ lifestyles on the societies’ worldview about the Church in 21st century. The study is limited to selected Pentecostal Churches in Lagos.

 

1.8. Operational Definition of Terms

1. Effects: In this context, “effects” refer to the outcomes or consequences that result from a particular cause or influence. Specifically, it pertains to how the lifestyles and behaviors of Christian youths impact the perception and attitudes of society toward the Church. These effects can be positive, negative, or neutral and can affect various aspects of society, such as public opinion, cultural norms, and religious practices.
2. Christian Youths: “Christian youths” refers to young individuals who identify with the Christian faith. This group typically includes teenagers and young adults, ranging from roughly 13 to 30 years old. They are characterized by their involvement in Christian communities and their engagement with religious beliefs, values, and practices, though their commitment and the ways they express their faith can vary widely. The study of Christian youths considers how their faith influences their personal identities, social interactions, and participation in church life.
3. Lifestyles: “Lifestyles” refer to the patterns of behavior, choices, and ways of living that individuals adopt, which reflect their values, priorities, and beliefs. In the context of Christian youths, their lifestyles encompass their daily activities, cultural practices, social interactions, and ethical decisions, all of which are influenced by their Christian faith, societal trends, and personal circumstances. Lifestyles can include everything from how young Christians engage with their faith (e.g., church attendance, prayer life) to how they interact with contemporary issues like social justice, politics, and technology.
4. Societies: “Societies” refers to the broader social systems in which individuals and communities exist. These societies are composed of people who share certain cultural, economic, political, and religious characteristics. A society can be a nation, a community, or even a subgroup within a larger culture. In the context of the study, “societies” focuses on the collective behavior, values, and perceptions of non-Christian or broader secular communities that observe or interact with Christian youths. These societal perspectives can influence how the Church is viewed and its relevance in the modern world.
5. Worldview: A “worldview” is a comprehensive perspective or framework through which individuals interpret and understand the world around them. It encompasses beliefs, values, assumptions, and perceptions about reality, existence, morality, and the nature of the universe. In the study, the “worldview” refers to the general attitudes and understanding of society toward religion, particularly the Church, as influenced by Christian youths and their lifestyles. A society’s worldview about the Church can include perceptions of its relevance, moral authority, role in public life, and influence on social issues.
6. Church: In this context, the “Church” refers to the Christian religious institution, its teachings, practices, and organizational structures. The Church is the collective body of believers, often structured around denominational or doctrinal lines, and is responsible for guiding the spiritual lives of its members. The study of the Church here looks at its role in society, its relationship with young people, and how its message and influence are perceived by the broader public, especially in the 21st century.
7. 21st Century: The “21st century” refers to the current era, spanning the years 2001 to 2100. In the context of this study, it highlights the contemporary period in which the Church, Christian youths, and societies operate, marked by rapid globalization, technological advancements, cultural shifts, and evolving religious landscapes. The 21st century is characterized by the increasing prevalence of digital technology, changes in social and political ideologies, and growing secularism, all of which have a profound impact on the practice and perception of religion, including Christianity and the Church.

Project – Effects of the Christians’ youths lifestyles on the societies’ worldview about the Church in 21st century