Michael Kruger, a Professor of Biblical Studies and author of 'Surviving Religion 101', shares invaluable insights on preparing teens for life in a secular world. He discusses the alarming trend of young Christians leaving their faith around college age and introduces three key principles for parents: wise exposure, purposeful dialogue, and embracing doubts. Kruger also emphasizes the importance of community support for teens, relating it to the camaraderie seen in 'Saving Private Ryan'—demonstrating how togetherness can help navigate life's challenges.
Engaging in open dialogues allows parents to help teens explore doubts, effectively preparing them for the secular challenges of college life.
Encouraging teens to view challenges as opportunities for growth fosters resilience and strengthens their faith in an increasingly diverse world.
Deep dives
The Essence of Bible Engagement
Bible engagement transcends mere knowledge of scripture; it embodies the essence of living it out in daily life. Understanding and application of biblical principles are vital for experiencing transformation through a growing relationship with Christ. Resources like the Life Application Study Bible enrich this engagement by providing insights that foster deeper connections with God while illuminating life-changing truths. Such tools are accessible and designed for all ages, emphasizing that genuine heart transformation can occur at any stage of life.
Navigating Parenting in a Secular Age
Parents face the daunting challenge of preparing their children for life in an increasingly secular world, particularly as they transition to college. The discussion highlights the importance of open dialogues, where parents can foster an environment that allows children to explore doubts without fear of shame or reprimand. This principle encourages parents to engage in thoughtful conversations and provide their teens with opportunities to confront challenging questions about faith. By offering a safe space for dialogue about doubts and reinforcing their beliefs, parents can better equip their children for the onslaught of differing worldviews.
The Power of Exposure and Dialogue
Children should be exposed to diverse ideas and challenges to build their spiritual immunity rather than being isolated from differing views. Instead of merely instructing, parents are encouraged to create purposeful dialogues that invite their children to articulate and defend their beliefs. This interactive approach helps teens to recognize the strength of their faith, promoting growth through questioning and thoughtful engagement. Such strategies also prepare them to face intellectual challenges in college by ensuring they are not blindsided by perspectives they have never encountered.
Building Resilience Through Challenges
The journey of faith often involves struggles and challenges, but these experiences can strengthen one's character and belief system. Teens are reminded that facing adversity in college is a natural part of growth that can lead to deeper, more resilient faith. Establishing a supportive community is crucial, as it helps individuals navigate through trials, encouraging them to stick together like a band of brothers or sisters. Ultimately, fostering a sense of belonging and shared experience can empower teens to emerge from challenges stronger and more confident in their beliefs.
A recent Barna study showed that the ages of 18 to 25 are when many professing Christians will leave the church, especially as they transition to college life.
In this breakout session from TGCW24, Michael Kruger shares insights from his book Surviving Religion 101, exploring how parents can equip their children intellectually and spiritually to go through college and beyond with their faith intact. Kruger shares three key principles for parents—wise exposure, purposeful dialogue, and embracing doubts—along with four ideas for teens, including viewing challenges as growth opportunities and valuing community.
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