Most churches are aging. But how much? Is there a looming generational crisis? Thom and Sam tackle this topic in this week’s episode.
Is the median age of a church member higher or lower than the median age in the United States? Much higher! The US population has a median age of 39 years old, while most denominations have a median age of congregants between 50 and 60 years old.
From our longitudinal research, we’ve found over half (54%) of active adult church members are 60 years old or older. What are the implications?
1. An automatic generation gap exists between church and community.
2. Most churches will feel “behind the times” because of the age gap.
3. Older is not worse. Younger is not better. But most churches will grow via younger generations, not older generations.
4. The older the church, the harder it is to reach the next generation.
5. A younger pastor is not a silver bullet.
Resources:
- Church Answers University – SPECIAL OFFER: 50% scholarships (a value of $748). If you are interested, contact [email protected]
Episode Sponsors:
If you like historical biographies, you’ll love what is certainly the most important biography in history: the biography of Jesus. This is now available in a captivating new book from Tyndale called God with Us. It’s the account of Jesus’ life, teachings, and deeds, told entirely in the words of the four Gospels, woven together into one chronological narrative. It’s like nothing you’ve ever read, even if you know the Bible well.
In a unique and powerful telling of the gospel—the biography and teachings of Jesus and the story of redemption—the accounts of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John are woven together into a single narrative. God with Us crystallizes the story of Jesus, amplifies his life-changing message, and clarifies the gift of salvation. It is a reading experience unlike any other.
A wonderful accent to your personal Bible study or a great gift or product for your ministry, this presentation of Jesus’ story will bring clarity to your understanding and effectiveness to your outreach. In God with Us, meet Jesus as you never have and share his story in a new and moving way.
God With Us: The Biography of Jesus – Book available for purchase on Tyndale’s website
Church Answers University is a fast-growing school that offers ministry training and education at a fraction of the cost of typical degree programs. The school currently offers the certification in Christian Ministry and the certification in Women’s Discipleship.
For Rainer on Leadership podcast listeners, we have been given FIVE 50% scholarships (a value of $748). If you are interested, contact [email protected].
