Youth

As our churches are reopening, we are hearing plenty about the awkwardness of following distancing guidelines within the church. What is talked about less is the nosier elephant in the room: the kid element. Even while worship has resumed, nurseries and Sunday schools remain closed, leaving parents trying to figure out how to keep kids happy and quiet while attending this strange new model of worship. It won’t be easy, but here are five things churches can do to help families in a stressful season of trying to worship together.... More

Some of the most unusual church experiences I’ve ever encountered took place within the context of youth ministry—wacky games and activities, students playing foosball during the Sunday school hour, edgy (but shallow) teaching, sleep-deprived retreats (with no parents allowed), and more. All done in the hope of being “relevant and fun” so youth would want to keep coming back. Yes, some students kept coming back, but many grew up and left the church—untouched by true saving faith and maturity—when the fun stopped. That is why I found a recent article by 19-year-old Sara Barratt so refreshing. Here is her observation:

Instead of undiluted biblical truths and concrete theology, many [teens] are fed a watered-down message. They’re entertained at youth group and isolated from older, wiser Christ-followers. They’re drawn in with pizza parties, games, and programs, but leave with the burning issues of their hearts still unanswered. She points to four core topics teens need to hear: ... More

Our children and youth are going to interact and engage in the world in which they live—a world increasingly hostile to anything remotely “Christian.” So, the question becomes: How will they interact?  ... More

What if you were to ask your teen the following questions:

• What does the Bible have to say about using Facebook?
• Are you honoring Jesus as you participate in sports?
• Do you have a biblical view of doing your homework? 
• Are you wise in the friends you choose? 
• Why are the answers to these questions important for your life?

It’s a problem that affects millions of teenagers; likely someone you know in your own church or family. What is it? Interior angst. Loneliness. Depression. Fear. Despair. All these and more are part of the emotional roller coaster that goes with the changes and development of adolescence. This is an age-old problem that should lead to maturity and growth. But teens today are missing key supports that made it less volatile for generations past. ... More

As a Sunday school teacher, I have always approached the last weeks of the school year with mixed emotions. Was I faithful week to week in teaching God’s Word? Did my students “get it”? Do they give evidence of faith in Jesus? Have I seen any spiritual fruit? What about that child who seemed bored all year? What about the one who was often disrespectful in class? What should I have done differently?... The list of questions goes on and on. At times, it’s easy to lose heart when I don’t see spiritual fruit coming about in the manner I expect. Parents often struggle with these same questions and emotions regarding their children’s spiritual condition. ... More

Parents and Teachers

Be careful young people that you don't postpone the burden and blessing of fruitfulness in your life because you use the excuse, "I am only a youth." God said to Jeremiah, "Do not say, 'I am only a youth'; for to all to whom I send you, you shall go." There are some younger than you that you can lead, and there are some older than you that you can serve. But do not say, "I am only a youth," as though the only thing you are good for is watching videos and playing games, as though there in no ministry for you to do.

Here is a simple checklist from the Teacher's Guide for the Your Word is Truth youth curriculum with questions based on Philippians 4:8. These questions can serve as a guide in helping you discuss and evaluate books, television, movies, and music with your children and students. ... More

Here is a collection of our favorite articles written in the past few years to encourage youth pastors, mentors and parents. Check out the links below for advice on partnering with parents, developing a vision for your ministry, fighting the fight of faith and planting roots of faith that will last beyond the teen years. Youth Ministry as a Bridge What Will Win Your Youth? Centering Youth on the Word A Genuine Parent and Youth Ministry Partnership The ... More

The first few weeks of a new Sunday school year can seem overwhelming, but I found several things that have helped me over the years to be well prepared and have a smooth running Sunday morning.

At the Beginning of the Year

1. Guide the children