The Open Generation - a teens study by Barna Group

January 2026

Loran Tang, recruiter and training coordinator of Children’s Ministry

*The Open Generation - a teens study by Barna Group

Happy New Year, BAC families.

I recently finished reading a research study titled The Open Generation, released last year by the Barna Group.

The study presents a mixed message—both hopeful and concerning—and, more importantly, it once again reminds me of the critical importance of teaching sound doctrine from a young age.

Below are some major findings from the research regarding teens’ attitudes toward Jesus, the Bible, and Christianity:

The finding that struck me the most is that teens globally are still curious about Jesus. That said, according to statistics from the Barna Group, teens in Canada “are less intrigued than their global peers, with 43 percent being at least somewhat motivated to keep learning about Jesus throughout their lives” (p. 14, The Open Generation).

Honestly, 43 percent is higher than I expected, and that is encouraging!

However, other questions reveal that “Christian teens in Canada are also less likely than their peers worldwide to believe that Jesus was resurrected from the dead or will return one day” (p. 10, The Open Generation).

This mixed message tells us that while many teens are open to discussions about Christianity, many Christians—both committed and nominal—hold incorrect or incomplete understandings of Jesus and the gospel. The research suggests that “a ‘partial gospel’ is commonplace among teens, even Christian ones, globally.” To me, this is very alarming.

Jesus’ resurrection is the most fundamental teaching of our faith and a pillar of our victory in spiritual battles. If we are not assured of Christ’s victory—and therefore our own—it is no wonder that so many teens, even those who identify as Christian, turn to something or someone else for hope and meaning.

You may wonder why I am sharing the results of a research study about teens on a Children’s Ministry blog.

First, I do not believe our ministries should function in silos. Children’s and Youth Ministries are part of a continuous journey of discipleship. If churches and parents are aware of the problem of a “partial gospel,” we must intentionally lay a solid biblical foundation for our children, so their understanding of God’s Word is firm and not easily shaken by culture or false teaching.

Parents, please seize this precious opportunity to teach your children God’s Word. Commitment to children’s worship and Sunday School is essential. However, family devotion and helping your children build a personal relationship with Jesus will become core components of their spiritual lives.

The gospel can never be watered down. Our commitment to Jesus—and our love for Him—cannot be partial either.

*The Open Generation - A Global Teens Study
Copyright@2022 by Barna Group

Connect with Cheryl: cheryl.li@bacfamily.org

Connect with Loran: loran.tang@bacfamily.org