I read a post recently on reaching the 20something generation. Read This
I think that it is really great that this person realized that music (or music style) is not what draws nor keeps the 20something crowd. They want the Bible teachings and the relationships that come from a church.
What really concerns me is the statement that “the 20somethings are drinking their live away, buying into the American dream of materialism, and starting off marriages on shaky foundations.” We really need to “invest into the relationships and serious Bible teaching” with this crowd if we are to reach them.
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chief you know i have mixed feelings on this topic with music because while I was singing I’m on the High Way To Hell by AC/DC the church I attended had comtemporary music that soften my heart. During that time i had not acknowledge Jesus as my Lord. But the gospel WAS being read and explained to me.
The lyrics had a great salvation, forgiveness and grace message that brought me to tears. Eventually all of my being came to know Jesus.
I recall having a problem with certain musical beats because it reminded me of the drinking, drugs and rock and roll concerts i had attended. It disturbed me hearing that rockish beat even after many years of being a Christian I had a difficult time with certain songs like, “This is the noise we make” and others. My sensitivity was because of my deep sinful past, those beats brought back unwanted flashbacks of lustful, sinful behaviors.
Remember Nessa (15 yrs. old) she said that the Christian concerts were “wanna be’s” and how weird she felt because she was expecting something different and not so similiar to what she was already use to. She said, “it’s so lacks respect and holiness for God.” How frustrating I really thought she would enjoy it. HEY I just realized this now puts her pretty close in that 20something range.
One thing for sure the GOSPEL doesn’t imitate nor change!! But we do!…changing with God’s grace, discipline, teaching and learning. As worship styles/ fads come and go God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit remain the same!
I’ve seen many music styles but while the Word remains the same…it’s still new as I discover another layer.
20 somethings are like all of us who desire a deeper relationship with Christ. interesting how important relationships with each other plays a role how we feel about “church”.
. i also feel that being in a small “church” allows us to know each other better and communicate ways to spur each other on in the ways God works with us individually.
personally, music plays a vital role in my worship and how i “get” close to God…that’s me – musician and not 20 something
Praise God for music! I too am a musician and a 20 something plus, plus…it all sounds good in the shower and feeling young at heart.
It’s good to bring awareness about certain groups, needs, and how best to reach others with our words and the Word. Along with worship that brings us closer to God individually and corporately. Yes praise God for musicians!
Hmmm, interesting…
FYI, In a church I went to before, I felt that it was family-oriented and didn’t have a young adults’ group and seemed more oriented toward “family-building” and “parenting”. That’s when I felt isolated. It wasn’t the music.
kfm- …building doesn’t make a difference for me but the lack of connection during a fleeting season…
This is such a worthwhile post! Thank you…
I have recently (last month) left the 20-something population forever. However, I think the guy is dead-on.
I have many friends who are not believers. Seriously, they don’t believe in any sort of God/god/higher-being etc. Not even the best music could bring them in the doors at this point. Even though we have truly gifted musicians at our church who play in other really good rock and experimental bands, my friends would say, “why go to church to hear good music, when I can go to other venues in town and hear good music and have a beer at the same time.” They don’t see the relevance.
Having said that, I really liked the vibe that Matt had going on the other night.
Todd,
Thank you so much for your comments. It is good to hear stories supporting this article. I think that for those who grew up in “church circles”, the music can be what touches them. For those already on the path to Christ, the music draws them. But for those who want nothing to do with that “church stuff,” you need a different approach. To this group, this is just another music venue – without beer, so why go.
This is where a relationship becomes so important. This group will not listen until they trust you – then you can present them the good news of the salvation provided by Jesus Christ.