Overview
Understanding generational differences is a key to effective ministry in a multigenerational church. This book offers students and practitioners cutting-edge research and biblical analysis of three generations--Boomers, GenXers, and Millennials--so churches can minister more effectively within and across generational lines. The authors, one an expert on generational differences and the other a respected New Testament scholar, represent different generations and areas of expertise. The book explores key characteristics of each generation, provides biblical-theological analysis of generational attributes, and offers specific suggestions for ministry.
Table of Contents
Contents
Introduction
1. Boomers at Large
2. Boomers in Light of the Bible
3. Priorities for Ministry with Boomers
4. Generation X: The Lost Middle Child
5. Xers in Light of the Bible
6. Priorities for Ministry with Xers
7. Millennials: Apple of the Eye
8. Millennials in Light of the Bible
9. Priorities for Ministry with Millennials: Getting in the Game
Conclusion
Indexes
Introduction
1. Boomers at Large
2. Boomers in Light of the Bible
3. Priorities for Ministry with Boomers
4. Generation X: The Lost Middle Child
5. Xers in Light of the Bible
6. Priorities for Ministry with Xers
7. Millennials: Apple of the Eye
8. Millennials in Light of the Bible
9. Priorities for Ministry with Millennials: Getting in the Game
Conclusion
Indexes
Endorsements
"In a culture marked by generational challenges and conflicts, Christian leaders need solid resources to help them navigate a complex and ever-changing terrain. Effective Generational Ministry equips ministers to effectively know, love, and serve the entire body of Christ. Combining biblical and social science insights with clear ministry applications, the authors offer a well-defined pathway for shepherding, teaching, mentoring, and discipleship in the twenty-first century."
David Setran, professor of Christian formation and ministry, Wheaton College; coauthor of Spiritual Formation in Emerging Adulthood
"Effective Generational Ministry by Sbanotto and Blomberg is a well-written and helpful book with both practical and biblical guidelines for ministering well to Baby Boomers, Gen Xers, and Millennials. I highly recommend it!"
Siang-Yang Tan, professor of psychology, Fuller Theological Seminary; author of Counseling and Psychotherapy: A Christian Perspective
"I am especially drawn to places where grounded research that helps students understand culture interacts with insightful biblical teaching and theological reflection. It's encouraging to find a text that aims at just such integration. Sbanotto's capacity to ask questions in her research that make generational studies suddenly relevant for anyone involved in ministry is a rare and welcome gift. To have this coupled with the careful critique and seasoned insight of Blomberg's long years of biblical study creates a text that is every bit as formational as informational. Adopt this as a text and you can count on many lively conversations! Effective Generational Ministry delivers!"
Chris Kiesling, professor of human development and Christian discipleship, Asbury Theological Seminary; coauthor of Spiritual Formation in Emerging Adulthood
"In Effective Generational Ministry, Sbanotto and Blomberg travel the worlds of sociology, anthropology, theology, biblical studies, and ecclesiology on behalf of the church to help congregations navigate differences across Boomers, Gen Xers, and Millennials. Their book is fresh, well researched, and encouraging. It reveals the wonderful array of differences among these three generational cohorts and how to meet their specific needs in the church. This book will keep church leaders well prepared to engage in effective ministry for generations to come."
Matthew D. Kim, assistant professor of preaching and ministry, Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary
Authors
Craig L. Blomberg
Craig L. Blomberg (PhD, University of Aberdeen) is distinguished professor emeritus of New Testament at Denver Seminary in Littleton, Colorado, where he has taught for more than thirty years. He is the author or editor of numerous books, including Can We Still Believe in God?, Can We Still Believe the Bible?, A Handbook of New Testament Exegesis, Jesus and the Gospels, The Historical Reliability of the Gospels, and commentaries on Matthew, 1 Corinthians, and James.
Elisabeth A. Nesbit Sbanotto
Elisabeth A. Nesbit Sbanotto (PhD, University of Arkansas) is assistant professor of counseling at Denver Seminary and the author of Generational Affiliation as a Component of Culture. She is a registered psychotherapist and maintains a private counseling practice in Littleton, Colorado.