New Barna data with Christ In Youth surveyed 1,500 U.S. teens (13-18) about who they’d go to with questions about their identity.
- Mom came first at 84%, then Dad at 78% and friends at 75%. Jesus was fourth at 68%.
- The Bible came in at 66%, pastors at 56% and youth pastors at 51%.
- YouTube, social media and AI came in behind every personal relationship on the list.
- Among the most spiritually engaged teens, Jesus and the Bible tied for second at 78%, right behind Mom.
My take
I actually find this encouraging. Teens are still listening to their parents, more than to their phones. Barna’s researchers say the best youth ministries may be the ones that help parents disciple their kids at home instead of competing with them.
That’s Deuteronomy 6:7: talk about these things when you sit at home and when you walk along the road. Parents, you’re the first voice. Pray with your kids out loud. Let them see the Holy Spirit move in your house, not just at church on Sunday.
God Bless, and Use the Source!
