Innovation key to evangelicalism's survival, says researcher

The evangelical community must make become even more innovative and ready to adapt if it is to meet today’s generational challenges, says one best-selling author and researcher.

David Kinnaman, President of the Barna group in the US, told young Christian leaders at an Evangelical Alliance UK event this week that they had to think outside the box and lead the way in shaping the future of evangelical Christianity.

Mr Kinnaman urged the diverse gathering to be “spiritual entrepreneurs”.

“Small is the new big. If young people can grab hold of their personal calling, even if it is small, then deeper, more lasting change can occur,” said Mr Kinnaman, who is also co-author of the book unChristian, a study into young peoples’ view of Christianity.

“Sometimes in trying to change everything, leaders end up changing nothing. Young leaders have the chance to focus their ambition on sustainable projects, not merely those that produce fanfare and little long-term influence.”

Mr Kinnaman pointed to the examples of a woman who set up a mentoring project for people in prison, a man who founded a charity to support those who self harm, and another man who blogs to build bridges among people groups.

The Evangelical Alliance said it was inspired to facilitate young leaders in networking together and addressing evangelical issues in the UK context after a discussion between Mr Kinnaman and young people at Warwick University in which he challenged them to re-imagine evangelicalism for the next generation.

Andy Croft, Associate Director of Soul Survivor said: “Learning from other leaders is a necessity and not a luxury. The day was stimulating and challenging.”

Andy Frost, Director of Share Jesus International, said: “This has been a superb opportunity to gather together to dream and scheme for God’s Kingdom.”


On the web:
Visit Slipstream, the Evangelical Alliance’s leadership resource at www.eauk.org/slipstream