MUSIC AS A TOOL FOR EVANGELIZING SECULAR YOUTH: A THEOLOGICAL ANALYSIS AND THE MISSIONAL APPROACH OF THE SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH

Abstract

This article presents a theological analysis and assessment of the missional potential of music as a tool for evangelizing secular youth in the context of the Seventh-day Adventist Church’s ministry. Evangelistic outreach by the Adventist Church in today’s society requires renewed approaches to engaging with young people who are increasingly shaped by secular culture. In a world where youth often distance themselves from traditional religiosity and seek meaning through personal experience, authenticity, and creative self-expression, music emerges as an effective channel for spiritual dialogue. The study outlines the spiritual needs and worldview orientations of secular youth, analyzes the biblical and theological foundations for the use of music in Christian ministry, and explores practical approaches to its application in a missionary context. Particular attention is given to maintaining a theological balance between cultural adaptation and faithfulness to doctrinal principles. The article offers an analytical perspective on the opportunities and boundaries of music in contemporary ministry, emphasizing its potential as a means for deepening the understanding of faith and reaching youth outside the scope of traditional church activity. Based on the analysis of biblical texts, theological literature, surveys of young people, and expert opinions, the research shows that music can respond to the profound spiritual needs of today’s generation. Secular youth desire informal, emotionally rich experiences, and music often becomes the first touchpoint with spiritual truth. It has the power not only to nurture faith but also to open hearts to the Gospel – provided it is used responsibly, grounded in biblical principles and theological depth. Thus, music is considered a fully-fledged instrument of modern missionary work, capable of bridging the spiritual search of young people with the life of Christ’s Church.