382 - Beyond The Porn Phenomenon w/ David Kinnaman (Part 1/8)

In 'You Lost Me', David Kinnaman presents research conducted by the Barna Group on why young Christians aged 18-29 are leaving the church. The book categorizes these young people into three groups: Nomads (those who leave church but not faith), Prodigals (those who turn away from faith), and Exiles (those who believe but feel disconnected from the church). Kinnaman identifies several reasons for this exodus, including the church being overprotective, shallow, anti-science, repressive, and exclusive. He also provides ideas for pastors, youth leaders, parents, and educators to help young adults maintain a vibrant and lasting faith in the face of cultural changes.

In 'Good Faith', David Kinnaman and Gabe Lyons address the challenges Christians face in a society that increasingly views Christianity as irrelevant and extreme. The book is based on extensive research and provides practical tools for Christians to navigate contentious issues such as sexuality, marriage, death, race, and prejudice. The authors advocate for 'good faith' by focusing on how well Christians love, what they believe, and how they live, encouraging a balance between holding convictions and treating those who disagree with respect and compassion. The book aims to help Christians be agents of change and create a positive impact in the public square while remaining true to their faith[2][5][4].

This book is based on a three-year research project conducted by the Barna Group, led by David Kinnaman and commissioned by Gabe Lyons. It delves into the perceptions of Christianity held by people aged 16 to 29, revealing predominantly negative views such as seeing Christians as hypocritical, antihomosexual, insensitive, intolerant, and judgmental. The authors discuss these findings and provide suggestions on how Christians can address these issues and better represent Jesus to their friends, neighbors, and coworkers. The book aims to sound the alarm about the declining image of Christianity, especially among younger generations, and to encourage Christians to live more authentically and lovingly[1][4][5].

In 'Traveling Light', Eugene H. Peterson delves into Paul's letter to the Galatians to discuss the realities of life in Christ and the true meaning of freedom. The book is a result of Peterson's Bible study sessions with his congregation and offers a deep and refreshing exploration of the multi-dimensional depths of freedom in Christ. It challenges readers to move beyond the idea of freedom as merely being free from sin, and instead, to embrace the freedom that Christ brings as a gift and a skill to be practiced. The book includes a foreword by Karen Swallow Prior and a study guide for further reflection.

In 'Faith for Exiles', David Kinnaman and Mark Matlock present major new Barna research that identifies five practices contributing to the resilience of young adult Christians. The book helps readers make sense of chaotic cultural changes, recognize the biblical concept of exile as a framework for following Christ, and discover how to cultivate faithfulness in a world dominated by digital technologies. It aims to prepare young Christians for mission and empower Jesus followers of all ages to thrive in their current cultural context.