The Open Generation

Summary

In this episode of the Right Side Up podcast, host Danielle Strickland and co-host James Sholl engage with James Stinson, who shares his journey from Australia to the UK and his involvement with Alpha International, focusing on youth ministry. The conversation explores the challenges and opportunities in reaching today's youth, particularly through the lens of recent research on the 'open generation.' Stinson discusses the importance of authenticity, empowerment, and connection in engaging young people, as well as the role of the church in addressing their needs and questions. In this conversation, Danielle Strickland and James Stinson discuss the nature of Jesus, the importance of social justice, and how to effectively communicate the gospel in today's context. They emphasize the need to empower the next generation, innovate church leadership, and the critical role of food in ministry. The dialogue highlights the challenges faced by the church and the ongoing relevance of Jesus's message in a world seeking good news.

Takeaways

James Stinson moved to the UK to pursue football and ended up in youth ministry.

Stinson emphasizes the importance of local church involvement for newcomers.

Alpha International aims to reach marginalized youth through innovative approaches.

The new Alpha Youth series focuses on engaging Generation Z and Generation Alpha.

Research shows that young people are spiritually open and curious about Jesus.

Authenticity is a key value for today's youth, who can see through inauthenticity.

Young people desire empowerment and autonomy in their faith journeys.

The church must listen to young people's needs and perspectives.

Connection without control is essential for engaging youth today.

The research on the open generation reveals a longing for safe spaces to explore faith. The character of Jesus is central to understanding his message.

Contextualizing the gospel is essential for reaching today's generation.

Empowerment over control is key for engaging young people in the church.

Innovative approaches are necessary for effective church leadership.

Food plays a significant role in building community and sharing faith.

The next generation is focused on social justice and helping others.

Church leaders should be willing to take risks and innovate.

Building relationships through meals can facilitate deeper conversations about faith.

The gospel remains relevant even amidst challenges in the church.

Good news must be communicated in a way that resonates with people's experiences.

Sound Bites

"We're a church for the city."

"They want to own things."

"Is God good?"

"Blow the roof off."

"Jesus responds to their faith."

"Food is central to the gospel."

"Good news in a good way."

"Share more meals together."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background of James Stinson

03:32 Journey into Youth Ministry and Alpha International

08:30 The Role of Alpha in Reaching Youth

12:39 Research Insights on the Open Generation

19:22 Empowerment and Connection in Youth Engagement

20:10 Exploring the Nature of Jesus

23:02 The Importance of Contextualizing the Gospel

24:31 Empowering the Next Generation

30:00 Innovative Approaches to Church Leadership

37:11 The Role of Food in Ministry

39:03 The Good News Amidst Challenges

Get full access to Right Side Up: Danielle Strickland at daniellestrickland.substack.com/subscribe