4. Church alignment
When evangelism becomes a focus in the youth room (full of teenagers), sometimes problems will arise in the back room (full of elders). This may appear in the form of a pull-aside hallway conversation from the pastor expressing concerns about the “lack of discipleship” going on in the youth group or the “there is too much focus on evangelism” talk.
That’s why a “Deep and Wide” approach to youth ministry is so important. We must take our teenagers deep into their relationship with God (through teaching God’s Word and practically applying it to their lives) as we nudge our teenagers wider into evangelistic outreach.
Sometimes even then it becomes a problem because kids will complain that “youth group just isn’t fun anymore.” But youth group is at its most fun when teens are coming to Christ and growing in Christ. Throw in a game of Dodgeball, pepperoni pizza and a few gallons of Pepsi, and you got yourself a real party.
Working for church alignment takes wisdom, humility and gentle persuasion. Win those disgruntled elders over. If you can, they will always have your back.
5. Spiritual warfare
“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” (Ephesians 6:12)
Underneath all of these obstacles may lurk a more sinister force … Satan and his army of fallen angels. These former servants of the true King are mighty in strength and strategic in their attacks. They have seen our kind for thousands of years and know which buttons to push and levers to pull to discourage, deceive and distract us.
How do we fight back? Ephesians 6:10-11 gives us the answer, “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.”
Consistently ask God for strength to stand against the Evil One and his schemes. Your heavenly Father will give you the wisdom and power to overcome any obstacles Satan may throw your way as you seek to build a youth ministry that advances the Gospel.
