For a decade, many different churches across the world have been planted to proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ, but very few of these churches appear to be growing. This may mean that churches are not reaching people enough in some ways. The gospel of Jesus Christ is to be proclaimed as long as we live. This is a command from Jesus. “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age” (Matthews 20:19-20, ESV). This is why the gospel should also focus only on Jesus and his kingdom. In this series, we are sharing the significance of empowering youths as one of the major factors to grow our churches.
The majority of young people still do not see the value of being servants of God because probably they are not aware of the purpose of life. This means it is the responsibility of the church to help them understand why we are all here. Ministry is masked with poverty and suffering, and this is why young people do not want to associate themselves with anything to do with ministry. This demonstrates a lack of knowledge about ministry because everything we do on earth is about ministering—serving—to others. We serve others as they serve us. It is, therefore, the responsibility of a church to empower the youths by giving those responsibilities in the church like preaching, leading the Lord Supper, and giving to the church.
Preaching
It is so amazing to see young people standing firm with the gospel. This brings joy to leaders of the church for their leadership quality is manifested in the young people. Churches should teach young people the importance of taking part in the ministry of preaching the word of God. Church leaders must give young people energy and motivation to preach the gospel because they are the leaders of tomorrow. Paul gave total motivation and leadership to the young Timothy. “Do not neglect the gift you have, which was given you by prophecy when the council of elders laid their hands on you. Practice these things, immerse yourself in them, so that all may see your progress” (1 Timothy 4:14-15). Young people have different gifts that need to be channeled in the right direction as soon as possible. We also see how God favored Samuel when he was faithful to Him in his youthful age. “Now the boy Samuel continued to grow both in stature and in favor with the Lord and also with man” (1 Samuel 2:26). The Lord has a lot to do with young people. It is the responsibility of the church to help young people realize that they are part of this journey of ministry.
Lord Supper
The main focus of the Lord Supper is to remember Jesus Christ and all that he did for us to be saved. “The Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it, and said, “This is my body which is for you. Do this in remembrance of me” (1 Corinthians 11:23-24). The youths should be able to know the facts about why we are here on earth. They should be able to know that Jesus died for us to be alive. Therefore, they should be able to respond to his calling. The youths have more influence than elders in the church because they are involved in many different activities that can help the church to grow. If the church can empower the youths to become very active in serving the Lord like how Timothy and Samuel were dedicated to serving the Lord, churches will grow. It is the responsibility of church leaders to ensure that the youths are empowered and are actively participating in the work of the church.
Giving to the church
Finally, it is important for young people to know the significance of giving to the church. Giving is the major factor that contributes to the growth of the church. The church needs support to run its programs effectively. It is high time church leaders motivate the youths to actively take part in the giving ministry. However, this can be achieved only if the youths are empowered and they know that it is a requirement for them to be part of the ministry of Jesus Christ.
Conclusion
Churches need to grow. This means that church leaders should not feel comfortable to remain stagnant in their churches whether growing in number or spiritually. The church can grow in many ways but one of the major factors to consider is youth empowerment. However, church leaders also need to know that it is the responsibility of a church to empower the youths by giving those responsibilities in the church like preaching, leading the Lord Supper, and giving to the church.
