What would you say to a young person who has embraced the current worldview or had a bad church experience and now doesn’t believe in Jesus anymore? Chip will unpack this growing problem through the conclusion of his conversation with author and pastor John Dickerson. The two will encourage anxious parents and offer practical guidance to come alongside today's youth with uncompromising truth and radical love.
Main Points
The Deconstruction Trend:
- Many young people, even from strong Christian backgrounds, are questioning their beliefs.
- This trend is occurring at increasingly younger ages.
Creating a Safe Space:
- Parents and leaders must provide a non-judgmental environment for open dialogue.
- Listening and asking questions are vital to understanding the root causes of doubt.
- Empathy and understanding are more effective than immediate answers.
Addressing Intellectual and Emotional Issues:
- Both intellectual and emotional challenges need to be addressed.
- Providing historical and philosophical context is essential.
- Acknowledging the negative aspects of Christian history while highlighting the positive impact of Christianity.
The Importance of Relationships:
- Strong, supportive relationships are crucial for maintaining faith.
- Young people need close friends who share their values.
- Building relationships with those outside the Christian community is important.
Practical Strategies:
- Encourage open conversations and probing questions.
- Pray for God to bring supportive relationships.
- Model authentic faith.
- Address hypocracy in the church.
- Be willing to apologize for personal failures in modeling faith.
- Mentoring is important.
- Partnering with good college ministries is important.
The Power of Modeling:
- A vibrant faith modeled by parents has a strong influence.
- Admitting past failures and seeking forgiveness can open doors.
Conclusion:
- Persistent prayer and support are essential for those struggling with doubts.
- God can use these challenges to strengthen faith.
- Parents and church leaders must actively engage in the lives of young people.
Broadcast Resource
Additional Resource Mentions
About Chip Ingram
Chip Ingram’s passion is helping Christians really live like Christians. As a pastor, author, and teacher for more than three decades, Chip has helped believers around the world move from spiritual spectators to healthy, authentic disciples of Jesus by living out God’s truth in their lives and relationships in transformational ways.
About John Dickerson
John Dickerson is a prize-winning research journalist, a seminary-trained pastor, and a frequent commentator in national news outlets such as USA Today. Dickerson is the author of Hope of Nations, Jesus Skeptic and serves as the lead pastor of Connection Pointe Christian Church in the Indianapolis metro area.
About Living on the Edge
Living on the Edge exists to help Christians live like Christians. Esta
