Title
Connecting the "Missing Generation" Through the Formation of Biblical Community
Date of Award
2015
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts in Theological Studies (MATS)
College
College of Christian Ministries and Religion
Department
Department of Christian Ministries and Religion
Primary Advisor
Steven M. Fettke, Th.M., D.Min.
Second Advisor
Robby C. Waddell, Ph.D.
Abstract
The trend of declining church attendance and the secularization of American society is not a new development, nor is the understanding that a significant portion of the young adult population is missing from many congregations. A brief survey of salient points of this dilemma will be presented, and then the topic of the formation of biblical community in a 21st century context will be introduced as a piece of the solution. When compared to the first century church, which was defined by its ability to speak into the lives of those both inside and out of its "walls," the 21st century church has proven itself to be sorely lacking. By studying the foundations of biblical community and applying them to contemporary life, a basic understanding of what biblical community in the 21st century should look like emerges. An essential piece of that understanding includes intergenerational connections that are missing in many evangelical and Pentecostal congregations across the United States. Potential models for community formation are explored and practical application is offered along with continued areas for research and study.
Recommended Citation
Croston, Lindsey L., "Connecting the "Missing Generation" Through the Formation of Biblical Community" (2015). Masters of Theological Studies. 3.
https://firescholars.seu.edu/mats/3