Discussion Board Youth Min 201 #2 PDF

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My Purpose Statement: To cultivate a Christ centered community inviting and engaging students to grow in their love for the Lord and each other. From my personal experience I have seen a very successful student ministry program that strongly encouraged these five core principles both for the spiritual health of the students and the leaders. These 5 principles prepare students to make their faith their own in preparation for college.

Teach the Gospel (2 Timothy 2:4) – This may seem obvious but a ministry lacking in sound doctrine will immediately lose track of their purpose. I have seen first hand a youth program that was more focused on the engagement of students than the discipling of them. While it may work temporality without substance any institution will quickly fall apart. Empower Students (1 Timothy 4:12) – I strongly believe that most students, if not all, who walk through the doors of the church are fully capable of being involved in ministry. Student ministry is students ministering to students. The pastor and leaders are present to equip students to step into the battlefield themselves. Students should be involved with the worship team, leading small groups of those younger than them, help with the program planning and even offer insight into the lesson planning. Disciple Each Other (Matthew 28:19-20) – Discipling can take place on several levels within student ministry. First is the leaders discipling the students. This can take place in small groups or outside of the building to establish relationships. Next, leaders discipleship other leaders. This takes a place of humility but ultimately promotes growth and unity between the leaders. I also would like to see students discipling each other in the name of Christ. Sharing testimonies and insight to promote a Christ centered community. This form of discipleship also equips student to leave the church for college and stay rooted in their faith. Delegate Work (2 Timothy 2:2) – All good leaders and bosses delegate work. It serves two main purposes. First, it gives the leader a break and the ability to be fully engaged into one or two projects instead of trying to manage the entire ministry. Second, delegating work allows other people to apply their gifts and abilities which will only build the ministry. Rest (Exodus 20:8-11) – Sabbath is a command in scripture, not a suggestion but a command. Youth ministry is notorious for wearing out leaders and pastors because there is a stigma of guilt when one takes time to rest and step out from the ministry. Rest allows a place for Christ to work and removes the savior complex some leaders develop....