Lucas Leibforth

Kevin DeYoung’s The Not So Secret Secret to Reaching the Next Generation takes aim at one of the most pressing questions facing the church today: how do we effectively pass the faith to younger generations? DeYoung’s answer is refreshingly straightforward—preach the Word, trust the Spirit, and remain anchored in biblical truth. His high view of Scripture and deep conviction about the power of the gospel are unmistakable.

This book is a much-needed corrective for churches tempted to prioritize cultural relevance over faithfulness. DeYoung reminds us that the gospel doesn’t need a makeover; it needs messengers willing to trust that God’s Word will do what He promises. His reformed perspective is clear and compelling: at the end of the day, it is God who draws people to Himself (John 6:44). Our job is to faithfully sow seeds, trusting Him to produce the harvest.

That said, DeYoung’s laser focus on gospel faithfulness sometimes comes at the expense of recognizing the importance of systems and strategies. While he rightly critiques gimmicks, he doesn’t seem to acknowledge that systems and strategies are not the enemy—they’re the trellises that support the growth of the vine. Just as a healthy vine needs structure to grow upward and outward, a healthy church needs systems that create space for relationships, discipleship, and spiritual growth. Strategies don’t replace gospel faithfulness; they help it flourish.

Another challenge is that the book feels a bit rigid when it comes to engaging churches that approach this issue differently. DeYoung’s tone can feel like a blunt instrument when empathy might serve better. Loving people well often involves meeting them where they are—contextualizing the message without compromising the truth.

In the end, DeYoung’s core message is right: faithfulness to the gospel is non-negotiable. But to reach the next generation effectively, we need both the vine and the trellis—solid gospel roots and the structures that allow growth. Systems and strategies aren’t a substitute for the Spirit’s work, but they are tools we can steward wisely for His glory.

If you’re looking for a book that calls the church back to its first love—preaching Christ and Him crucified—this book will resonate. Just know that you may find yourself wanting to add a bit more flexibility, empathy, and practical application to the mix.