Reaching the Next Generation

Five best
practices of reaching the next generation

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:

1. 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.
   
   
   
2. 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.
   
   
   
3. 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.
   
   
   
4. 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.
   
   
   
5. 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!