As society continues to move further and further from God’s truth, we need to be intentional about supporting the next generation of believers. It can be easy to get discouraged about an emerging generation of young people who don’t seem very interested in the Christian faith. Recently having had the opportunity to substitute teach at a local high school, it quickly became apparent how drastically things have changed in the matter of a few years. Our young people, therefore, need tremendous support to tackle today’s topics and maintain solid footing in a world that is slipping further from the truth. But take heart.
In the Bible, Daniel becomes very influential in a place where Jewish faith is foreign—but not without first becoming an apprentice for three years and learning the language and literature. Teenaged Daniel found himself in the midst of a strongly polytheistic (belief in multiple gods) “religious” culture. Yet, he stood firm in his faith among the Babylonians (Daniel 1:8; 6:6-12). For Daniel, it was actually an opportunity to see how deep his faith went and how effective it was in life’s most difficult situations. He was continually able to exalt the name of God to those around him, which bolsters Psalm 145: “One generation shall commend your works to the [next generation] and declare your mighty acts.”
How can we encourage and equip the next generation? What exactly is our role as a body of believers? Proverbs 1:2-4 states, “To know wisdom and instruction, to understand words of insight, to receive instruction in wise dealing, in righteousness, justice, and equity; to give prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion to the youth—Let the wise hear and increase in learning, and the one who understands obtain guidance[.]” Furthermore, Colossians 3:16 reveals “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.” This principle is repeated throughout the Old Testament, and echoes Paul’s letter (in Titus 2) that older men live godly lives and instruct younger men to be self-controlled, as well as older women to train younger women.
Recently, Pastor Scott mentioned how to keep in step with the Holy Spirit and grow in Christ (sanctification). These four principles can also be applied to helping our youth:
1. Encouragement. Infuse them with courage to be bold in their faith (Joshua 1:9).
2. Commitment. Help them remain firm/steadfast in their commitment. God is immutable, meaning even though we change our minds and attitudes, God does not. He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him (Hebrews 11:6).
3. Discernment. Equip the next generation with the knowledge of God and scripture so that they can stand against assaults being hurled against their faith. 2 Timothy 3:16-17: “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.” Sound doctrine produces sound living.
4. Advancement. Build authentic relationships with young people. Check to see how their journey is advancing. Begin routinely praying for our youth. Become more involved in their lives by communicating, encouraging, attending, volunteering, inviting, etc.
One closing thought: A recent (2020) Barna Group poll interviewed 18- to 29-year olds being raised in Christian homes and asked them to reflect back on their teenage years and their spiritual journeys. The “resilient disciples” represented one in ten young people who still believe in the authority of Scripture, the death and resurrection of Jesus, and want their faith to matter in the world. These resilient disciples are still actively engaged in their church and maintain solid theology.
Let’s make every effort to raise “resilient disciples” and increase far beyond the poll’s meager ten percent for God’s glory! Together, New Life can be a multi-generational church where we worship, grow, and serve alongside each other.
In His Love,
Diana Williams