Aug. 11, 2025
Episode3: Discipling in the Noise: Youth Ministry, Culture, and the Call of the Church.
In this episode of Deformed Theology, we welcome Ryan Christopher, Next Gen Director for Northern Missouri, a part of Assemblies of God, for a powerful and candid conversation about the evolving landscape of youth ministry. Ryan brings two decades of experience to the table as he dives deep into the spiritual, emotional, and cultural challenges facing today’s youth; everything from the rise in anxiety and depression to the effects of social media, TikTok theology, and the decline of biblical literacy.
The crew discusses how the church has lost ground in a shifting cultural age, the dangers of declining discipleship, and the urgent need for multi-generational connection in ministry. Ryan unpacks the youth pastor shortage, the over-individualization of church life, and the call for pastors, parents, and mentors to return to intentional discipleship. They also touch on sports culture, screen addiction, and how to reclaim influence in a post-Christian world.
This is more than just a discussion. It’s a wake-up call to parents, pastors, and church leaders to re-engage with the next generation and take discipleship personally.
The crew discusses how the church has lost ground in a shifting cultural age, the dangers of declining discipleship, and the urgent need for multi-generational connection in ministry. Ryan unpacks the youth pastor shortage, the over-individualization of church life, and the call for pastors, parents, and mentors to return to intentional discipleship. They also touch on sports culture, screen addiction, and how to reclaim influence in a post-Christian world.
This is more than just a discussion. It’s a wake-up call to parents, pastors, and church leaders to re-engage with the next generation and take discipleship personally.
