A new book just came out that I had the privilege of writing a chapter for. It’s called Gospel Centered Youth Ministry and was written by a lot of different contributors. We are excited for the possible impact of the book in helping youth pastors who want to do more effective youth ministry.
Here’s an excerpt from the Foreward by Collin Hansen.
My Introduction to the Crucified and Risen Jesus
Growing up, my family didn’t make church a high priority. But I still took two years of confirmation classes and joined the youth group as a freshman in high school. I don’t remember a lot of what was taught, and if I did, I’d probably disagree with much of it now. I know in one meeting we watched The Seventh Sign, starring Demi Moore, and I’m still confused as to how that movie was supposed to foster spiritual growth.
But one thing I saw in youth group began to change my life forever. For the first time I began to see peers who loved Jesus. I didn’t know that was possible, because until then I only knew religion as an empty ritual. These peers introduced me to the crucified and risen Jesus. And I trusted him to forgive my sins and make a way to eternal life by the power of the Holy Spirit in the presence of my heavenly Father.
This experience has made me simultaneously thankful for youth groups and also concerned that they not lose their way. When we’re so concerned with keeping the youth entertained or promoting a moral lifestyle, we can easily forget the message of first importance. The apostle Paul explains, “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast” (Eph. 2:8–9).
Read the rest here.
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