Faith for the Curious
Research-Based Insights for Engaging the Spiritually Curious in Your Community
What if those around you are more open to Christianity than you think?
Many non-Christians aren’t hostile to faith but are spiritually curious, eager to explore deeper questions. Unfortunately, most evangelism and apologetics training prepares us to confront hard-core atheists—who actually make up less than 10% of the unchurched population. If you’re ready to connect with the other 90%, Faith for the Curious will equip you with the tools you need to engage in meaningful, respectful conversations that open the door to faith.
Research-Based Insights for Engaging the Spiritually Curious in Your Community
Faith for the Curious by Mark Matlock is designed to help you engage in meaningful spiritual conversations with those who are open to exploring faith. This resource will show you how to:
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Create a church culture that is open to spiritual exploration and discovery
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Help foster meaningful connections to Jesus and his church
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Start spiritual conversations and break through common communication barriers
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Bridge the gap between Christianity and the modern spiritual climate
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And much more
In Psalm 78 we read about the importance of passing our faith down to the next generations and telling them about God's glorious deeds, power, and wonders. I don't know of anyone who is better equipped and capable of helping the church do this than Mark Matlock. We must tell both the coming generations and the unchurched generations among us the good news of Jesus. In this book, you will discover not only information about where we are and the challenges we face but also hopeful and helpful ideas on what to do about them. Every one of us has a part in passing on our faith. Mark helps us do just that.
Ed Stetzer, PhD
Dean, Talbot School of Theology, Biola University
Faith for the Curious is for anyone struggling to find effective ways to show and share the life they've found in Jesus in this challenging cultural moment. Drawing from his decades in student ministry leadership and pulling from thorough research on the spiritually curious among us, Mark gives us hope that there are paths forward—ways to better express the hope we have and ways to become more curious ourselves, for our own good. People are more open than we realize. Allow God to use this book to free you from fear and make you a light to many!
Kevin Palau
President, Luis Palau Association
Grounded in both research and decades of ministry experiences, this book offers a much-needed guide to understand this spiritually curious generation. Weaving together data, stories, and practical application, Mark identifies the key shifts required to better engage this generation and to have fruitful spiritual conversations. Faith for the Curious is a must-read for ministry leaders and anyone trying to faithfully love unchurched friends today!
Tom Lin
President and CEO, InterVarsity Christian Fellowship
About the Author
Mark Matlock
Mark Matlock is Senior Fellow at Barna and a facilitator of innovation and impact. As the founder of WisdomWorks, he has been a consultant for many national and international faith-based organizations, helping them adapt to changing times by turning data and research into strategy and action. Having guided many projects with Barna, Mark’s research provides insights into understanding younger generations, cultivating resilient disciples, and knowing the pulse of your city. Mark coauthored Faith for Exiles with David Kinnaman and is currently the Executive Director of Urbana for InterVarsity Christian Fellowship.