Although religious affiliation and church attendance are on the decline, more than half of American teenagers say they’re “very motivated” to know more about Jesus, and just over 75% say they’re at least “somewhat motivated” to learn about the centerpiece of Christianity, according to Barna Research.

Citing data from Barna’s Gen Z Vol. 3 research, which also highlights an openness and curiosity about spiritual matters among teenagers and young adults, researchers noted that the findings represent an opportunity for Christians to engage them.

“This generation tends to believe there’s something out there more powerful than them. Still, many remain hesitant to embrace religion or churchgoing,” researchers said. “Disciples of Christ should recognise that teens’ openness to learning about Jesus represents a significant opportunity for meaningful engagement.”

The data show that 77% of teens are at least motivated to learn about Jesus, with 52% being “very motivated” and 25% saying they are “somewhat motivated.” Less than 20% of teenagers said they were unmotivated to learn about Jesus, while 7% said they were unsure.

“While teens express interest in Jesus, they may approach faith differently than previous generations. Furthermore, authenticity and relevance are key. Be prepared to address difficult questions honestly and demonstrate how Jesus and the Bible relate to the world we live in today,” Barna advised..

It must be remembered that Pew Research data published in 2018, showed that although 80% of Americans say they believe in God, only a slim majority of the nation’s approximately 327 million people were found to believe in God as described in the Bible. Very few Americans have a Biblical worldview. This is a major problem, and as persecution of Christians increases, many will fall away, just as Jesus prophesied in the Olivet Discourse.

“Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and you shall be hated of all nations for my name’s sake. And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another. And many false prophets shall arise and shall deceive many. And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold. But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.” Matthew 24:9-13