Teleios surveyed Christians to determine their beliefs about their Christian life. Of the 216 participants the majority were: female (65%), <35 years old (93%), from the United States (63%), and evangelical (63%).
The survey results showed that young evangelicals most commonly believe the Holy Spirit gives power through prayer (86%) and acts consistent with God’s word (74%). Further, participants noted that God matures them through their knowledge of the Bible (84%), teaching others God’s word (70%), and by the fruit of the Holy Spirit (63%).
In addition, young evangelicals indicated God defeats sin most commonly through the help of the Holy Spirit (75%). In addition, most believe God leads believers through the Bible (91%) and answered prayer (71%).
However, participants were less sure about the security of salvation with most indicating that added to being saved by grace believers must make Jesus Lord of their life (72%). Regardless, many also noted God holds believers in His hand (53%), and seals them by His Holy Spirit to their redemption (51%). In addition, participants expressed God provides pastoral care through Christ’s nurturing (52%) and providing mercy as a great High Priest (53%).
Dr. William C. Stewart, co-founder of Teleios, Inc., noted that “the results were very encouraging in showing the enthusiasm of young evangelicals for God and His word. Especially important were the participants’ recognition that God helps and leads consistent with the Bible.
However, young evangelicals need to learn more about the nature of salvation and the surety resulting from the sufficiency of Christ’s sacrifice on the cross and ways in which He acts to help believers in their Christian walk.”
The survey shows young evangelicals acknowledge the importance of God’s word and the Holy Spirit in leading and maturing them, while often recognizing the security of salvation and Christ’s contribution to their Christian walk. The lack of consistency in these findings show an opportunity for lay leaders and pastors to help young believers in their understanding of their Christian walk.
Complete results of this survey can be found here.
WC Stewart, JA Stewart, LA Nelson