“2023 hit too hard so I had to turn to religion” was the caption of an Autumn 2023 Tik Tok which shows a modestly dressed girl sitting in a cathedral. A simple, short, however insightful post. In response to this, countless people had confessed in the comments section their return, or contemplation to return, to Christianity, finding solace in the fact that they were not alone in their actions as young people. Could this be the religious revival numerous Christians have been anticipating? Possibly. There is something to be said about the seeming increase of “Come to Jesus” moments for Gen Z’ers. While the homecoming of just one young person to the Church is an extraordinary feat in pastors’ eyes, there remain (like always) downsides to this phenomenon as well. While some call it lukewarm Christianity, I call it “Custom Christianity”.  

As most of us probably know, Gen Z isn’t exactly known for its unwavering commitment, discipline, or outstanding attention span. Although these traits are somewhat important to possess in order to be a functioning member of society, every generation has its flaws, which are mainly caused by various new factors in society. If measures aren’t taken by church leaders, and Gen Z isn’t willing to change their ways, these traits will inexorably seep into their new discovery of religion. The word “religion” itself comes from the Latin root “religio” which means “obligation” or “bond”. Christianity, and all religions really, require the person to change their lifestyles to fit into the values and the image of their founder, or their god(s). Although it has been proven that humans have a natural desire to believe in a higher power, or an afterlife, Gen Z’s complacent nature will undoubtedly cause the morphing of Christianity into their daily lives, not the other way around. Examples of this can simply be something like continuing to attend seances, or charging crystals with no intent to stop, while calling yourself Christian. Custom Christianity isn’t a new thing, in fact, it’s been around for as long as Christianity itself has been, with one major sign of biblical figures customizing Christ being the question of “What can God do for me?”, which is asked in various ways by many people in the New Testament. The culture we live in is littered with common practices and thoughts as to how to live your own life, and how to break free from any superior governing body, whether it be physical or metaphysical. With Gen Z not only participating in our culture, but simultaneously creating it, there is a more than likely chance some of our newfound disciples will fall victim to this malpractice. 

So how is this prevented? Although there are nuances to everything, the  seemingly difficult question has a rather simple answer. How has the DIY version been prevented on a large scale for most of Christianity’s history? Even though it is the culture that is causing the problem, that is not the area to look to first. It would be like trying to cover a burst pipe with your hand. The pipe is the main problem, but the water itself needs to be turned off first. As a good and holy Christian community we need to turn to the church itself. The church is a good entity, however, in the mission to try to attract more young individuals, pastors and leaders have done exactly the opposite. What this generation in question is craving is authenticity. Not modern sounding Christian worship songs with a myriad of clichés, or the feeling of being guilted into going, but the true spreading of God’s word. While something like a simple reminder that you need Jesus’ salvation to make your life whole, this is not the message to continue to preach in masses. Leaders need to dive deeper into the stories, themes, and lessons of the gospels. The Church also needs to eradicate the idea that Jesus makes everything easy. This is not only how people started to walk away from the faith in the first place, but how people feel lied to after giving their heart to God, but not getting a raise, or a girlfriend. The lesson that is and will always be true is that Jesus is here with you, He loves you, and knows what is best for you. The lesson that you are never alone. Through the emergence of young, steadfast men and women, due to proper leadership, the culture will start to see a shift in values, hopefully signifying a change back to the good. 

Of course the entire idea behind Christianity consists of the idea that nobody is perfect, but that that doesn’t serve as an excuse not to aim for a higher purpose, or to continue one's immoral ways. Jesus teaches, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6). Jesus’ values, practices, and lessons are the only way to call yourself a true Christian, and worship soundly. Everyone comes to Jesus as fallen, broken, and in need of salvation. In the Christian life, sin is still guaranteed. It’s the attempt we make as followers of Jesus to turn away from the Devil and his temptations that makes us true Christians.