At some point, the next generation will carry our hopes and dreams. Everything we do that is of any enduring value must be handed off to someone younger and more vigorous than us or it will die. That is just a reality and it’s why it’s so important that we disciple young people. Handing your drea…
At some point, the next generation will carry our hopes and dreams. Everything we do that is of any enduring value must be handed off to someone younger and more vigorous than us or it will die. That is just a reality and it’s why it’s so important that we disciple young people. Handing your dream to someone without character or connection to God is a recipe for disappointment.
So, we who follow Jesus must have some kind of a plan for discipling the next generation. What is yours? What is your church’s plan? It’s one of the most important strategic questions you’ll ever answer. And if you fail to address it, you’re probably leaning the ladder of your life up against the wrong building. It’s the question Jesus asks his listeners in the parable of the two sons in Matt. 21. He’s serious about our long-term stewardship.
We at least need to wrestle with the question. Let me encourage you to go back over yesterday’s blog and ask the question, “What is my answer? How will I disciple the next generation?” I’m hoping some of you will encourage others to wrestle with the question through your comments on the blog and your honesty.
Seth, a lot of us would not be here if it were not for you and the amazing group of AIM coaches and staff who have chosen to disciple us. Keep pressing us farther into these dreams and hopes. Last year I watched 31 of my own generation come awake to the truth of who we are… the next step is, who is holding us accountable? Thanks for being one willing to do just that.
Check out the sin of King Hezekiah who experienced God in a powerful way but neglected the call to father the next generation. His son undid all the good God accomplished through him.I term that neglect as having a one generation mentality or having a eunuch spirit. http://phillipministries.blogspot.com/2008_01_01_archive.html
Every Scripture is God breathed, (emphasis on every, Acts 20:26-27)
And profitable for:
1) Teaching/Doctrine
This is the thing we do with the youth in the congregational setting. When we gather together, we focus on the Word of God which transforms and renews our minds (Romans 12:2)
2) Reproof/Rebuke
The thing most youth pastors don’t want to do because it makes us very unpopular. However, when we see a teen intentionally dishonoring God, someone has to be there to put it to a stop.
3) Correction
This is a huge topic (as all of them are) but when teens fail, the loving nudge in the right direction is critical. It requires a constant connection between the discipler and the disciple. I was reminded by a friend today that this happened quite a bit between Paul and Timothy, one who was considered by Paul to be equal to a son. That level of connection has to take place for such a correction to be effective. Same with rebuke.
4) Instruction in Righteousness
This is lived as well as taught. It requires that we act as examples before our youth.
The result is that they may be perfect, thoroughly prepared to do all good works.
I have learned that 1 is actually the easy part. God’s Word does it for us, we just need to be faithful to present it in God’s own context. 2, 3, and 4 require relationship, and that is where the work really is, that is where pastoring is.
That is as simplified as I can make it. It is however very hard work.
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Seth, a lot of us would not be here if it were not for you and the amazing group of AIM coaches and staff who have chosen to disciple us. Keep pressing us farther into these dreams and hopes. Last year I watched 31 of my own generation come awake to the truth of who we are… the next step is, who is holding us accountable? Thanks for being one willing to do just that.
how do we disciple them?
we love them & do life with them
I’m engaged and it’s awesome. Can’t wait to see what the future holds as we do have awesome leaders rising through the ranks.
Let the DREAMING carry on !!!
Check out the sin of King Hezekiah who experienced God in a powerful way but neglected the call to father the next generation. His son undid all the good God accomplished through him.I term that neglect as having a one generation mentality or having a eunuch spirit.
http://phillipministries.blogspot.com/2008_01_01_archive.html
2 Timothy 3:16
Every Scripture is God breathed, (emphasis on every, Acts 20:26-27)
And profitable for:
1) Teaching/Doctrine
This is the thing we do with the youth in the congregational setting. When we gather together, we focus on the Word of God which transforms and renews our minds (Romans 12:2)
2) Reproof/Rebuke
The thing most youth pastors don’t want to do because it makes us very unpopular. However, when we see a teen intentionally dishonoring God, someone has to be there to put it to a stop.
3) Correction
This is a huge topic (as all of them are) but when teens fail, the loving nudge in the right direction is critical. It requires a constant connection between the discipler and the disciple. I was reminded by a friend today that this happened quite a bit between Paul and Timothy, one who was considered by Paul to be equal to a son. That level of connection has to take place for such a correction to be effective. Same with rebuke.
4) Instruction in Righteousness
This is lived as well as taught. It requires that we act as examples before our youth.
The result is that they may be perfect, thoroughly prepared to do all good works.
I have learned that 1 is actually the easy part. God’s Word does it for us, we just need to be faithful to present it in God’s own context. 2, 3, and 4 require relationship, and that is where the work really is, that is where pastoring is.
That is as simplified as I can make it. It is however very hard work.
I came across this tweet from Andrew Jones @tallskinnykiwi.com :
“Too many teachers, too few fathers; no wonder we have become a church with a big head and a small heart.”
Says a lot…doesn’t it?