Imagine this.
You’re sitting across from someone you love—a parent, a sibling, or a lifelong friend—who doesn’t know Christ. The conversation turns deep, the door swings wide open, and the "perfect" moment to share the Gospel arrives.
In that heartbeat, do you lean in with the message of salvation, or does your throat tighten as you suddenly reach for a change of subject?
A Snapchat of Modern Evangelicals
Teleios conducted a survey to gauge how evangelical Christians—specifically adolescents and millennials—are approaching the Great Commission.
· The Respondents: 239 individuals, primarily from Christian Instagram communities.
· Demographics: 65% female, 70% under age 35, and 81% identifying as evangelical.
· The Foundation: 82% of these participants affirmed the inerrancy of the Bible.
The full report can be accessed through the Methods used in sharing the gospel.
Survey Highlights
The findings aren’t all "doom and gloom." In fact, there is a significant heartbeat of activity within this demographic:
· 69% report sharing the Gospel verbally at least a few times a year.
· 16% are highly active, sharing the message weekly or even daily.
Despite the high frequency of sharing, 36% of participants admitted to feeling afraid. When we dig into the "why," three main culprits emerge:
1. The Knowledge Gap (66%): Simply not knowing what to say.
2. Fear of Offense (36%): The worry that the message will be taken as an insult.
3. Social Rejection (30%): The fear of being sidelined by peers.
Other than fear, many respondents acknowledged a lack of confidence in their ability to explain the Gospel clearly. Nearly half (46%) said they struggle to face objections, while 38% said they cannot adequately explain the message itself.
The survey also revealed a strong sense of conviction among believers. About 76% said they feel guilty for not sharing the Gospel enough, and 93% believe they should do so more often. Notably, 20% admitted they may exaggerate how frequently they share the Gospel with others.
The Articulation Gap: Why “Lifestyle” Isn’t Enough
One of the most striking findings is the shift toward "Lifestyle Evangelism." While living like Christ is essential, the survey reveals a growing disconnect between living the truth and speaking it:
- 29% believe a Christian lifestyle is the most effective method (ranked #1).
- Only 10% identified verbal communication as their primary approach (ranked #6).
The Reality Check: While a Christlike life provides the evidence, it cannot replace the explanation. If we don’t use words, our neighbors may see our good works but never know the Savior behind them.
Beyond the Guilt: The Need for Practical Training
The survey highlights a heavy burden on believers: 76% feel guilty for not sharing enough, and 93% believe they should do it more often.
The issue isn't a lack of desire; it's a lack of clarity. My wife and I have noticed this in our own ministry—even dedicated disciples often struggle to provide a coherent explanation of the plan of salvation when put on the spot.
Equipping the Saints: A Path Forward
To turn this guilt into confidence, churches and ministry leaders must move beyond "should" and move toward "how." We must equip believers with:
- A Clear Message: A concise and biblically sound understanding of the Gospel (What is the Gospel?)
- Apologetic Tools: Practical ways to handle objections and hard questions.
- Renewed Vision: The joy and confidence that comes from sharing the most powerful message on earth (Galatians 6:14; Romans 5:11).
When Christians combine a Christlike life with clear gospel communication, they fulfill their calling more effectively and open the door for others to experience salvation.
Thanks for joining me for this blog. Visit again soon, as we continue to explore the truth of scripture and its benefit to our lives.
William C. Stewart, MD
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For questions or to view more of our research…
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Disclaimer: This blog and its content are provided only as information and are intended for visitors 18 and older. No content on the website should be taken as advice or a recommendation for any personal or institutional situation. The views expressed are those of the author and not necessarily either shared or endorsed by Teleios. Both the blog and its contents are subject to change at any time without notice. I work to keep the blog current and accurate, but it may contain errors. I do not represent that the blog or its content is current, accurate, complete, or appropriate for your specific requirements. I do not accept any liability from any person for the blog, the content, or any other information (or the use of such information) I provide. I do not have a seminary degree, but I have trained myself in the scriptures to teach and provide this information. For any specific question, I suggest you contact experts in that field or do your own research into the scriptures.
