Speaking Their Language: Why Leaders Must Keep Learning

I’m in my mid-50s, and I have the privilege of leading the youth at our church. Every week, I find myself asking our teens to “translate” the latest slang for me. Honestly, I can’t keep up with the ever-changing phrases and inside jokes of Gen Z. I may not fully understand the “6/7” mindset, but I put in the effort. If I want to stay connected to them, I have to speak their language.

That lesson goes beyond teenage slang—it’s leadership at every level.

A few weeks ago, I invited a young African American church member in her late 20s to share her personal journey of hair loss with our youth group. She spoke from both a racial perspective and as a modern Gen Z woman navigating identity, culture, and faith. Our teens were encouraged to ask questions, and while I facilitated much of the discussion, the end result was powerful. She addressed fears, insecurities, racial barriers, and cultural practices with honesty and courage. It was both enlightening and refreshing to hear her voice—and it reminded me again that sometimes the best way to connect is to let others speak in a language the group understands.

We also lean into the tools of their generation when we teach biblical lessons. In one session, we had students create fake Instagram accounts for Moses, Jonah, and Jesus. They posted what these biblical figures might say or share if they were alive today. Watching our teens wrestle with Scripture while translating it into memes, captions, and posts was both hilarious and profound. They weren’t just scrolling—they were engaging the Word of God in a way that felt relevant to their world. As leaders, we walked away inspired that they really are listening to the lessons we share week after week. We felt validated and they felt seen. It was a win / win.

This is why I often bring in different voices and new approaches to youth ministry. When leaders are willing to step back, get creative, and make space for others, the message becomes more relevant and the impact more lasting.

Leaders who refuse to learn the language of the people they serve risk building walls instead of bridges. For pastors, that may mean learning digital tools or cultural references to connect with younger congregants. For younger leaders, it might mean slowing down to honor the wisdom and traditions of those who’ve gone before them. For all of us, it means choosing humility, curiosity, and adaptability over pride and comfort.

Speaking someone else’s language doesn’t mean losing your own. It means valuing the relationship enough to meet them where they are. Paul reminded us to be “all things to all people” so that we might reach more for Christ (1 Corinthians 9:22). That principle still applies today—whether it’s slang, social media, or simply listening deeply to another generation’s perspective.

The truth is, leadership that lasts is leadership that listens. It’s leadership willing to learn a new “language” so others feel seen, heard, and valued.

So here’s the question: Who in your life needs you to lean in, learn, and speak their language?