Creating Opportunities for Young People
Wouldn’t it be weird if we went to a high school football game, and instead of student athletes playing, only the coaching staff played while the students watched from the sideline? Every game, the coaches would sit the students down and say, ‘Watch us! This is how you do it. And when you get older you can try it too, but not now. But trust us, it’s awesome!’
A renewed emphasis on creating opportunities for teens and young adults to ‘get to play’ has been moving through the Vineyard. I believe this is absolutely crucial for the future of the Vineyard. And it is a strong focus in my own heart.
Working alongside teens and young adults has been incredibly gratifying for me. I find that they are a deep well of energy, talent, giftedness, vision, honesty, and creativity. I believe the time is now to harness this amazing resource that God has given to our movement! But, it isn’t going to happen magically. We adults need to pro-actively plan for and create meaningful ministry opportunities for our young people.
Why Teens & Young People?
Why is this so important? Here are a few reasons I’d like to suggest:
- Teens and young adults need their own ‘God stories.’
As adults we know the impact our God stories have had on our lives. The question is – are we creating space for teens and young adults in the Vineyard to have their own experiences in ministry? - Tangible lessons last!
I don’t remember many of the Bible studies I attended as a teen, but I do have vivid memories of the times where I prayed for people, saw healings, and shared my faith! - We simply can’t wait.
What they have to offer now will greatly benefit you, your church, and the community your church is reaching. Plus, they probably won’t be around in 10 years if we don’t give them a place now!
Partnering With Our Teens & Young People
How can we make this shift? To start, teens and young adults should be trained, equipped, and released to minister in our churches much like adults are. We should have qualified teens on our worship teams, doing prayer ministry, praying for the sick, running service projects and outreaches, leading small groups, praying prophetically, speaking in front of the church, working behind the scenes administratively, and more! The awesome piece is that this isn’t a ‘replacement’ of adults. It is a partnership. I love to see adults and teens working together. There is so much value in adults sowing into the lives of young people. And, honestly, there is a ton of blessing for adults working with young people too.
[bctt tweet=”Let’s welcome teens into the adventure of naturally supernatural lives. -Christian Dunn” quote=”Let’s welcome teens into the adventure of naturally supernatural lives. -Christian Dunn”]
So I encourage you! Ask the Lord how you and your church can create meaningful space for your young people. Let’s welcome teens into the adventure of naturally supernatural lives. Let’s encourage them to experience the power and presence of God. Let’s create space for them to play too!
