Why Christianity Still Matters: How Gen Z Is Rediscovering Faith

By: Bec Harris

Christianity isn’t just history; it’s alive and influencing lives today. Glenn Scrivener, Anglican minister, author, and CEO of Speak Life, explores its global reach and impact on modern society.

Christianity’s Global Growth

“Christianity is doing great guns, all over the world, especially in the global South and East,” says Scrivener. He points to China as a remarkable example. “By the end of this decade, there may be more Christians in China than in the United States.”

Scrivener emphasises that Christianity isn’t just a Western faith. Its roots lie in the Middle East, with the Ethiopian church and Byzantine influence shaping centuries of global culture.

Christianity’s Hidden Influence

In his book, The Air We Breathe, Scrivener compares Christianity’s impact to the air we inhale, often unnoticed, yet essential. “Certain moral intuitions, like equality, have become gut instincts, something that feels self-evident.”

He argues that values such as equality, compassion, and freedom are deeply shaped by centuries of Christian teaching, even if modern Western societies assume they exist independently.

Gen Z’s Fresh Exploration of Faith

Scrivener sees a resurgence of curiosity among younger generations. “At a recent UK event, dozens of young men under 25 queued to talk about faith.”

He attributes this interest to life experiences that challenge the assumption of constant progress: global crises, economic uncertainty, and social change. “Gen Z is realising the good might have been in the past and maybe Christianity has something profound to offer.”

Polling data support this revival. Between 2018 and 2024, monthly church attendance among young men in the UK jumped from 4% to 21%.

Why Christianity Appeals Today

Young people are drawn to Christianity for its depth, stability, and tradition. “The secular story is pressurising. You must create your own meaning. Christianity offers something robust.”

Scrivener explains that the Bible, at its core, is a love story: “The Prince of Heaven comes to us full of debt and sin. He absorbs our debts and offers all He has for free and forever.”

This storytelling resonates with a generation seeking substance in a chaotic world.

Sharing Faith in Everyday Life

Scrivener encourages believers to share their faith authentically: “Start with, ‘That’s what I love about Jesus…’ Let your excitement overflow, and some will want to hear more.” Faith-sharing doesn’t have to be overwhelming; it’s about genuine conversation and inspiration.