Gen Z (born 1997-2012) makes up the bulk of young adult and youth ministry right now, and Gen Alpha (born 2013 onward) is graduating into youth ministry age ranges. The educational strategies that today’s youth experience are almost certainly different from the educational environment you grew up in. Today’s educational settings vary between traditional schools, homeschooling, charter schools, online schools, trade schools, and so on – but the most successful strategies remain consistent across settings – an emphasis on personalized learning, technology integration across subjects, and hosting collaborative environments. Student-centered learning experiences can prepare them for a rapidly changing world.

Building familiarity with the Bible and providing tools to understand the context of scripture are as important as ever in discipleship. In the Bible, we find a collection of timeless writing. Still, it was composed thousands of years ago for a context much different from the modern world, translated from other languages. There are hundreds and hundreds of pages of text, but that text still has wisdom and guidance for us today. We are tasked with helping make this lengthy collection familiar to young people. So, how might we use current educational approaches to bridge the gap of the rapidly changing world that youth live in today with the timeless and meaningful connections of scripture?

Challenges

1. Digital Distractions: Z and Alpha are surrounded by various devices and platforms. In general, they are used to quick interactions and information consumption. The constant barrage of notifications and instant gratification from social media can make the traditional, slower, contemplative nature of Bible reading or study difficult, since that kind of extended engagement with media is not as common today. It is important to help build familiarity with the whole Bible, not just memorizing specific verses that can too easily be taken out of context or repeated without understanding what they mean and how they fit into the story of scripture.
2. Relevance and Relatability: Z and Alpha often seek content that speaks to their life experiences and challenges. They are used to learning centered on their interests, so Bible studies may seem distant and disconnected from their everyday lives if they lack practical application or personal reflection. Youth may struggle to reconcile different interpretations of scripture, given that they may be exposed to many perspectives without trusted and close relationships to help them make sense of what they see and hear. The loudest or most repeated interpretations of scripture may not always be the most accurate.
3. Learning Styles: Interactive and multimodal learning is everywhere, even AI is being developed to not only engage with text, but sights, sounds, touch, and movement. Young people are similar and learn by both taking in and creating in different ways. Passive reading may not effectively engage Z and Alpha. They thrive on visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learning experiences. Many churches and leaders don’t have the time, funds, training, or resources to engage in different kinds of learning styles.

Opportunities

1. Leverage Technology: Embrace the digital. Use apps and online platforms designed for Bible study. Apps offering interactive features, such as quizzes, videos, and discussion forums, can make scripture more engaging. Research apps and platforms before using them in ministry. As you use resources, discuss them with your church's lead pastor or educational leaders to ensure theological integrity with your congregation or tradition. If you are serving in a United Methodist church, consider using this checklist to help score curriculum or apps.
2. Make It Relatable: Use contemporary examples that resonate with today's youth. Don’t avoid tough questions and real-world issues. Famous scriptures and the stories and concepts behind them are part of what makes the Bible timeless. Challenging and questioning the world is typical for adolescents. Create ways for youth to put themselves in the shoes of characters in the Bible. Ask questions about what they may have thought or how they may have felt. Try to create a 360-degree view of the passages and teaching you bring up for study.
3. Interactive and Multimodal Approaches: Use multiple types of media. Visual learners can benefit from illustrated Bibles and infographics. Auditory learners might enjoy podcasts, audio Bibles, or readers reading the same passage in different tones, paces, or styles. Encourage kinesthetic learners through activities such as journaling, art projects, or dramatizations of Bible stories. Create opportunities for youth to interact with one another and the content you introduce. Lectio Divina or labyrinth walks may be excellent interactive moments for reflection.
4. Community and Discussion: Build community through small groups. These can be short-term or long-term. Use digital spaces where young people can discuss their thoughts and questions about the Bible. Encourage youth to bring information or perspectives they may have found elsewhere. Remember, the odds are that you are not the first person to receive a question from a student. Z and Alpha aren’t necessarily looking for an expert; they are looking for a trusted and safe processing space. Tap into the social nature of teens while you build a support structure around their exploration of the Bible’s messages.
5. Focus on Themes: Rethink the linear approach to reading the Bible; it is tough to go from beginning to end. The Bible was not necessarily organized to be read that way. Focus on themes and stories that highlight values such as justice, love, and compassion and others that align with your church’s mission, vision, and values. These may be easy to identify if your church has an intentional discipleship system or pathway.

Engaging Gen Z and Gen Alpha in an exploration of the Bible takes a blend of innovation and support. By embracing digital tools, making scripture relatable, and catering to diverse learning styles, you can help others discover the depth of the story and wisdom of the Bible.