9 things millennials believe about Jesus that might surprise you

In a society where beliefs and opinions are as diverse as they are numerous, millennials have brought forward some surprising perspectives regarding Jesus.

Millennials are the generation born between 1981 and 1996 — ones who are reshaping the way we understand and interpret religious beliefs.

Their relationship with Jesus is no different.

Usually, Millennials prioritize personal experience and authenticity — values that manifest in their beliefs about Jesus.

In this article, we will explore 9 of these unexpected beliefs and give you a fresh perspective on how millennials perceive and connect with Jesus.

1. Jesus as a social justice advocate

A significant belief held by many millennials is the perception of Jesus as a champion of social justice.

This perspective focuses on Jesus’ teachings about love, acceptance, and equality.

Millennials often highlight the instances where Jesus stood up for the marginalized and the downtrodden.

How exactly?

Well, they interpret his actions as an endorsement of social justice causes, from poverty alleviation to gender equality and racial justice.

This belief resonates strongly with the millennial generation’s passion for social activism and their commitment to making the world a more equitable place.

What’s more, it aligns with their desire for authenticity in religious practice, translating faith into action.

While this belief isn’t entirely new, its emphasis on millennials is notable. It reflects a shift from viewing Jesus primarily in a spiritual context to understanding him in a socio-political one as well.

2. Emphasis on a personal relationship with Jesus

Another surprising belief among millennials centers on the importance of a personal relationship with Jesus.

This generation places considerable emphasis on experiencing Jesus on a personal, individual level rather than through organized religious institutions.

This shift towards personal faith experiences stems from millennials’ desire for authenticity and individuality.

In particular, they seek a faith that speaks directly to their experiences and challenges. And surprisingly, they believe this can be found in a personal relationship with Jesus.

This perspective may lead to unique interpretations of Jesus’ teachings, as individuals seek to apply biblical principles in ways that are relevant to their own lives.

Simply put, it’s a belief that underscores the importance of personal connection and authenticity in millennials’ spiritual lives.

3. Jesus as an inclusive figure

While the emphasis on personal relationships may seem like a move towards individualism, another belief held by millennials reveals a broader perspective.

Yes, many millennials perceive Jesus as an embodiment of inclusivity.

This belief is tied to their interpretation of Jesus’ teachings and actions as being inclusive and welcoming to all. This is regardless of their social, economic, or moral status in society.

The thing is that they just appreciate the instances where Jesus interacted with those deemed outcasts in society, extending love and acceptance to them.

This perspective of inclusivity aligns with millennials’ desire for a faith that embraces diversity and promotes acceptance.

In this view, Jesus is seen not just as a figure to be worshipped, but also as a role model for how to live inclusively.

And let’s admit it: this is indeed a surprising and refreshing perspective from the millennial generation.

4. Jesus as a spiritual guide rather than a religious figure

Have you ever considered Jesus outside the confines of organized religion?

For many millennials, Jesus is seen more as a spiritual guide than a religious figure.

They interpret his teachings and actions through the lens of spirituality, focusing on personal growth, inner peace, and connection with others.

This perspective allows them to apply the teachings of Jesus in daily life, beyond the formalities of religious rituals and institutions.

The emphasis on spirituality over religion reflects millennials’ desire for a faith that’s lived out in practical, everyday actions.

They see Jesus as someone who guides them toward living a life of love, peace, and service.

Insight: This shift from religion to spirituality is reflected in wider societal trends, with many millennials identifying as “spiritual but not religious”.

5. Jesus as a friend

Now, this is something I can personally relate to.

Most millennials, including myself, see Jesus as a friend.

I remember growing up in a traditional church setting where Jesus was often portrayed as a distant, divine figure. But as I grew older, my perception of Jesus began to shift.

He became less of a distant deity and more of a personal confidante. I saw him as someone who understood my struggles, my doubts, and my joys.

As a result, I started seeing Jesus as a friend who walks with me through life’s ups and downs.

And you know what?

I’m not alone in this.

In fact, a lot of millennials share this belief.

They feel a deep, personal connection with Jesus. It’s less about religion and more about relationships.

6. Jesus the feminist

Not only as a friend, but some millennials see Jesus as a feminist figure as well.

Let me elaborate on this:

Millennials are known for their progressive views and their belief in gender equality is no exception. They’ve taken this belief and applied it to their understanding of Jesus.

Based on their views, they see Jesus as a feminist, someone who treated women with respect and dignity, which was radical during his time.

Take the story of Mary Magdalene for instance.

In a time when women were often sidelined, Jesus included Mary in his close circle of followers.

This interpretation is increasingly popular among millennials, leading them to view Jesus as an advocate for women’s rights, long before the term “feminist” even existed.

7. Jesus as a source of empowerment

From the millennial perspective, Jesus emerges not only as a spiritual guide but also as a source of empowerment.

This viewpoint is especially resonant among millennials who see their faith as a way to navigate life’s challenges and uncertainties.

Millennials draw on the teachings and example of Jesus to find strength and resilience. They see him as someone who faced adversity with courage and grace, inspiring them to do the same.

Here are some ways millennials draw empowerment from Jesus:

• His teachings on love and forgiveness
• His example of service and sacrifice
• His resilience in the face of adversity

This perspective has led to a more proactive, empowered approach to faith among millennials.

They see their faith not just as a source of comfort, but also as a tool for personal growth and positive change.

8. Jesus as a figure of love rather than judgment

Let’s get straight to the point:

For millennials, Jesus is more about love than judgment. This belief is a significant shift from more traditional views that often emphasize the judgmental aspect of religious teachings.

Millennials see Jesus’ teachings as centered on love, compassion, and acceptance. They focus on his interactions with people of all backgrounds, highlighting his empathy and understanding.

The belief places less emphasis on punitive measures and more on love’s transformative power.

We can see this shift in the way many millennials approach their faith and their interactions with others.

And you know what’s the best part of this?

This belief shapes not only their understanding of Jesus but also their approach to life and relationships.

9. Jesus as a model for selflessness

What if we all lived with the selflessness Jesus embodied in his life and teachings?

This is a belief that deeply resonates with millennials.

They regard Jesus as the ultimate model of selflessness, an aspect they strive to incorporate into their own lives.

Millennials are drawn to Jesus’ acts of service and his willingness to put others before himself. They see his life as a demonstration of selfless love in action.

This perspective encourages them to be more giving, compassionate, and understanding in their interactions with others.

I still remember a millennial friend telling me how the story of Jesus washing his disciples’ feet inspired her to volunteer at a homeless shelter.

It’s this kind of practical, hands-on faith that many millennials find appealing and meaningful.

Through this view, Jesus becomes not just a figure of worship, but a model for how to live a fulfilling and impactful life.

What does this mean for our understanding of faith?

These surprising beliefs held by millennials about Jesus challenge us to rethink and broaden our understanding of faith.

Most importantly, they highlight the essence of personal connection, inclusivity, social justice, and practical application in religious beliefs.

When we look at Jesus through the lens of millennials, we see a figure who is much more than a religious icon.

After all, he is a source of empowerment, a model for selflessness, a spiritual guide, and an advocate for social justice.

These perspectives invite us all to reflect on our own beliefs. They encourage us to ask ourselves how we can incorporate these values into our own faith and daily lives.

• Could we focus more on practicing love and acceptance in our interactions with others?
• How can we translate our faith into actions that promote social justice?

This fresh perspective on Jesus offers a valuable reminder that faith is not static but continually evolving. It encourages us to explore new ways of understanding and connecting with Jesus.