5 Reasons Youth Workers Should Study Church History
If you want to reach students without accidentally innovating yourself into dangerous territory, consider these five reasons why youth workers benefit from studying church history.
Telling Students the Truth About Our Broken World
Our impulse often compels us to try and shield young people from the reality of our broken world. Students do not need us to protect them from reality. They need us to help them process it in a biblically accurate way.
How Textual Criticism Helps Students Read Scripture with Confidence
Here is a simple way to explain textual criticism to students in a way that will help them read their Bibles with confidence.
Book Review: Deeper, by Dane Ortlund
Read Deeper first for your own soul. Then consider how to bring its message to your students. Slow down, give up, and grow in Christ. He is more than enough, and more than capable to lead us home.
When to Tell Parents What
When should youth workers tell parents what students have shared in confidence? Here are two categories that can help you discern, and a helpful clarification about promising confidentiality to students.
Historical and Theological Trends in Youth Ministry
Youth ministry (as we know it) is at a crossroads. As a 67 year-old youth pastor who has served in youth ministry since the mid-70’s, here are some of my observations based off what I’ve seen and am seeing.
Rethinking Attractional Youth Ministry
If we believe the gospel is the greatest news we have to share, shouldn’t we always keep it front and center? Fun and games are not the enemy, but it’s time to stop obscuring the gospel by trying to deliver it alongside anything that sends a mixed message.
Three Timely Messages Students Need from Judges
Judges paints a clear picture of what happens when “Everyone does what is right in their own eyes”: those who do so follow their hearts to their own destruction. There are three timely messages for students in the book of Judges that are particular points needed in an individualized age.
Book Review: Cannabis and the Christian
As an increasing number of states legalize marijuana, youth workers will need to engage in conversations with students wondering if it’s ok for Christians to smoke pot. Todd Miles’ book offers excellent biblical and pastoral help.
A Pastoral Heart for Students
Pastors are shepherds who reflect God’s character to the students and families they serve. Here are a few ways that displays itself in youth ministry.