Christlikeness: An Attempt to Build Christian Spirituality for Indonesian Millennial Generation

Abstract

Christlikeness is the essence of the Christian life. Efforts to build spirituality in the era of technological progress have been widely analyzed, including for the millennial generation but are more at the level of phenomena. In general, the millennial generation is understood as those who were born in the range of 1987-2001. The contemporary lie in the world today is full of massive technological influence that changes human social life and even human spiritual life, especially creating the millennial generation. A fundamental question to be answered is how to build a spirituality that is relevant for the millennial generation in Indonesia. This article aims to demonstrate that attempts to build spirituality for the millennial generation in accordance with their characteristic must be based on and simultaneously aimed at being in the Christlikeness. This article will employ the literature method from books and journal articles. Specifically, most of the journal articles will cover the research within the last 10 years. There are three stages of analysis carried out, namely: first, conducting a study on the characteristics of the millennial generation specifically in Indonesia, second, demonstrating the essence of spirituality which is Christlikeness by examining Luke 9:23, and thirdly efforts to build a spirituality that is relevant to the Christian millennial generation in Indonesia. Conclusions are the final part of this article. The implication of this research both theoretically and practically is addressed to the church, the parents, and Christian educators who deal with the millennials. There is an urgency for to understand the characteristics of the millennials that they can build their spirituality. Furthermore, all who deal with the millennials must provide a relevant context for the millennials such as technology, their spirit of freedom, the attachment to the family. The essence of spirituality which is Christlikeness must be delivered through all these characteristics.

Youth key persons’ digital discipleship process during the pandemic and post-pandemic era

“…It is a character and spirituality desired by youths as millennials who want to grow and mature to become like Christ (Han, Mamahit & Panggara 2023). The Church has a responsibility to build habits and characters that facilitate growth, especially for the younger generation in line with its leadership succession (Untung, Tanonggi & Pekuwali 2021:92).…”

“…Secondly, youths have unique characteristics. According toHan et al (2023), the spiritual formation of the youths needs to be conducted in a manner relevant to youth contexts. One of these contexts is the utilisation of technology in ministry.…”

Digital Sin: A Theological Review of Human Sins through Audio-Visual in Digital Realm

“…However, Christian theology also emphasizes the significance of mercy and forgiveness for those who have committed sins. Therefore, if someone has made a mistake while using digital media, it is essential to admit the mistake, ask for forgiveness, and attempt to prevent the future mistakes (Andre & Susanto, 2020;Han et al, 2023;Suardana, 2015).…”

Application of Shepherd Leadership to the Spiritual Growth of Christian Youth in the Digital Age

“…Therefore, building spirituality among Christian millennials is a complex challenge. It takes a diverse and responsive approach, aware of the real needs and context of the lives of young people in the digital age (Han et al, 2023).…”