Homiletics (8): Finding a sense of self

Today’s young people are born into a world overflowing with choices and one that is shaped by change. To reach them requires genuine interest, ongoing engagement, and a finely tuned pastoral skillset. 

As discussed previously, the preacher’s role includes helping members discover meaning in life. For young people, questions like: Who am I? Do I matter? Why am I here? Can I make a difference? are especially pressing.

Preaching in a chaotic world

Amidst the chaos of modern life, young people are challenged to figure out who they are. Today there are countless options for self-expression. The prevailing culture often suggests that truth is relative, and both “truth” and “spirituality” are seen as personal choices. Objective truth is frequently questioned.

The youth live in a world dominated by digital connectivity. Technology and social media shape their communication, relationships, and worldview. Social media influencers, even artificial intelligence, are sources of guidance, which often lack Christ-like values. Internet algorithms can also trap young people in echo chambers. 

Preaching, in the form of sermon highlights, must extend into the digital realm—using images, videos, and memes—to encourage continuous engagement and to connect with them and nurture a Christ-oriented sense of self. This can form part of a build-up to a divine service or be shared afterward to reinforce the message in a relatable way. However, it is crucial to foster discernment and critical thinking, equipping them to navigate the flood of information influencing their choices. 

Ministers must offer compelling reasons for young people to make faith and church involvement central in their lives. Above all, preaching should nurture a deep understanding of their identity in Christ as a “new creation”, encouraging them to become true disciples (from the Greek mathētēs, “learner”, or “apprentice”) of Christ’s nature and example.

Searching for purpose and meaning

With so much information and so many options, the engagement of young people can be superficial, yet they are deeply hungry for purpose and meaning. What greater meaning is there than being known and loved by the triune God, and being invited to partake in the divine nature (2 Peter 1: 4)? 

Despite digital connectivity, many young people experience isolation and loneliness, along with anxiety and depression. Preaching should foster a sense of belonging to the body of Christ—an intergenerational fellowship with a shared purpose. The youth are not the church of the future—they are the church now. 

Their identity as followers of Christ is paramount. It is within Christian fellowship where true purpose and meaning can be found. Preaching should also aim to grow their spiritual understanding and provide practical how-to knowledge for integrating faith into daily life. With an understanding of their new identity in Christ, they are both empowered and receive a sense of mission to become a prophetic witness of God’s love and the gospel to the world.

Channelling youthful idealism

Youth are acutely aware of global challenges and often passionate about activism. Issues such as social justice, gender equality, climate change, and sustainable development often grab their attention. They want to make a positive difference. This idealism can be channelled to areas such as volunteering to help those in need, but also in identifying areas in the congregation that would benefit from their unique values and skills that they can contribute. These provide opportunities for youth-led initiatives that foster ownership and leadership. 

Gaining trust and building genuine relationships

A defining feature of today’s youth is their deep distrust of traditional institutions, including the church. Yet, they long for relationships built on trust, authenticity, and deep connection. They value honesty, inclusivity, and transparency. Gone are the days when ministers could speak down to the youth from a position of unquestioned authority. Young people prefer dialogue and mutual exploration, even on matters of faith. Ministers must actively engage with young people, building genuine relationships rather than making brief, disconnected appearances.

The most powerful way to capture the attention of young people and engage them meaningfully is through relatability and a deep respect for their emerging perspectives. This requires genuine engagement—truly listening to what matters to them, what challenges they face, understanding who they turn to for information, help, or advice, and being aware of the trends and memes shaping their world. Ministers must recognise the value of their perspectives and create a welcoming environment characterised by trust and understanding, where faith can be explored openly and without judgement.

For ministers, preparing a sermon therefore includes intentionally getting to know and building meaningful relationships with the young people within the congregation as well as within their own families. Regularly seeking feedback and being adaptable helps keep preaching relevant and impactful.

Being age and context appropriate

Besides addressing relevant topics such as bullying, peer pressure, substance abuse, sex, mental health and online safety, ministers should also be aware that young people go through different developmental stages. Adolescents grapple with belonging, fitting in with peers, and identity, while young adults seek intimacy and meaningful relationships, while also exploring independence and vocational options. Effective preaching recognises these differences and tailors approaches accordingly. 

Preaching should be concise, interactive, and visual to be effective. Create opportunities for the youth to become an active part of the sermon, like asking thought-provoking questions, or providing occasions for silent reflection.

Photo: Татьяна Евдокимова – stock.adobe.com

About the author

Markus Cromhout (born 1972) is a theologian at the New Apostolic Church Southern Africa. He is active in his congregation as an Evangelist. He studied at the Faculty of Theology and Religion at the University of Pretoria and obtained his doctorate in New Testament Studies. In addition to scientific publications, he also writes popular science. He conducted seminars on the subject of “Homiletics” and provides weekly background videos.