In our understanding of biblical ecclesiology, there is no precedent for the traditional youth ministry that exists in most Western churches. That is not to reject the idea that teenagers face challenges that are unique to their life stage. However, we do reject the perceived necessity of traditional youth ministry in our culture because we are convinced that a teenager can learn more about being a mature, godly adult from a mature, godly adult than they can from a fellow teenager.

That is not to say we discourage peer relationships between students, but rather to say that we have a vision for a corporate culture where each and every responsible, Christian adult is intentionally investing in the life of at least 1 student. We know that on the average, adults are actually intimidated by teenagers and avoid them altogether if possible. This approach is not bearing good fruit.

Though we were alienated from God, much like teens are alienated from adults, Jesus didn’t avoid humanity in our lost condition, but he pursued us, loved us, served us, rescued us and paid the highest price for us to be connected to our Creator. Because Jesus is our example, we believe that adults in general, and men and fathers in particular, bear the responsibility to pursue, love, serve and pay whatever price necessary to lead younger generations to Jesus, which is the only way they can be reconciled to God. This type of intentional interaction between generations forces us as adults to rightly be accountable for our life as we influence teenagers which produces humility as we serve and learn from individuals younger than us. Because of their shared influence on us in the context of these relationships, students allow us to remain connected to emerging culture so that we are not rendered ineffective in pushing the gospel forward.

This means that students are integrated into every aspect of Generations. We expect that teenagers will participate and even lead in such areas as worship, audio/video, children’s ministry and small groups. We take very seriously Paul’s admonition to Timothy in 1 Timothy 4:12, and we believe in their capacity and expect our young people to set an example for us as adults in life, in love, in speech, in faith and in purity.

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