Churches everywhere including mainline denominations are waking up to the need to reach the next generation. Whether you’re a pastor, elder, campus ministry leader, small group leader, or volunteer, here are five best practices when it comes to reaching the next generation:
- Look for opportunities to engage in culture. Whether it’s music, movies, or modern technology, there are countless ways to help young adults bridge the chasm between the ancient world and today. Look for opportunities to dialogue or teach from the latest headlines, technological developments, and best-selling artists and authors. Consider hosting events with local artists who can speak on issues of art and faith. Invite a professional movie critic to talk about films. Remember that engaging in culture isn’t about being in on the latest or greatest as much as it is about engaging in the culture that’s all around you. And don’t forget that you can become so relevant that you become irrelevant. Never lose the core message of Christ in your desire to be hip or trendy.
- Allow room for the tough questions. The next generation has tons of questions – many of them lacking instant or even easy answers. And that’s a good thing! One of the beauties of the next generation is their hunger to wrestle with the difficulties, complexities, and even the mysteries of the gospel. They don’t want an easy-to-follow program as much as they desire real relationship. They don’t want all the answers as much as they want to embrace the struggle and wonder of the journey. So don’t be afraid to tap into their natural desire to know God, and challenge them to pursue him on their own through personal times of study and worship.
- Be yourself. Yes, be your real, flawed self. Though the very nature of pastoring, teaching, and leading will try to transform you into a spiritual superhero, make every effort to resist the pressure. Instead, be honest about your struggles, weaknesses, and failures. The most compelling stories you will ever share with those you minister to are ones where you admit your struggles, mistakes, and the tough lessons you’ve learned – in your faith, your family, and your personal life. Your transparency is a connecting point for this generation. Don’t miss out on the valuable opportunity to be authentic.
- Don’t try to compete with the world. Though it’s important to engage in culture, allow for tough questions, and be vulnerable, never try to compete with the latest brands, trends, and fashions in order to get your message across. In addition to coming across as inauthentic, you’ll distract those who are trying to follow Christ from what’s truly important. Though the world may offer shinier, skinnier, and trendier offerings, the message you’re delivering is powerful, eternal, and truly transformative. Instead of responding to every whim of pop culture, create your own culture and remain true to the DNA of how God has built you and your community.
- Pray, pray, and pray some more. Prayer is the foundation you’ll need for life and ministry – particularly when reaching the next generation. Carve out time between the countless needs and demands to connect with God. Ask for his wisdom and his strategies. Ask God to bring the people alongside you that you need to reach the next generation. Ask God for leaders that you can pour into and raise up to minister to others. And watch what God does!
by Margaret Feinberg
Posted by holyman 