How Gen Z Defines Evangelism

Before we get into how America Gen Z is embracing or even changing the act of evangelism, let’s first get an understanding of the practice on their terms.

Christian Gen Z are largely familiar with the word “evangelism,” with three-quarters (76%) noting they are either “very” (33%) or “somewhat” (43%) familiar. Thirteen percent say they are somewhat unfamiliar, while 11 percent say they are “not at all” familiar with the term. We see the opposite among non-Christian Gen Z. A plurality (37%) is not at all familiar and one in five (20%) is somewhat unfamiliar with evangelism. Just over two in five (31% “somewhat,” 12% “very”) have some knowledge of the term.

Aside from familiarity with the word, how do Christian Gen Z define acts of evangelism? Half believe “letting your actions speak rather than using words to explain your faith” (50%) and “inviting someone to attend a church service with you” (50%) are acts of evangelism. Other actions they largely view as evangelism include “telling your personal story about how you came to be a Christian” (48%), “telling someone about benefits / changes experienced when following Jesus” (48%) and “praying with someone” (47%).