3 REASONS THE CHURCH NEEDS TO RAISE UP YOUNG LEADERS
It’s not about being trendy.
There is an unplanned generational shift that is taking place. Whether we like it or not, the next generation is impacting the Western world in massive ways. They’re transforming common thoughts and ideas. Most of these shifts are based on their value system.
Though it’s tempting to hate on the next generation, I’m discovering some significant value in this independent subculture of up-and-coming leaders.
Specifically within the church. And here’s why.
1. Young leaders are in their 20’s and 30’s.
They’re fairly young. This means they have energy. Furthermore, they are typically single or married without kids. This means they have time. And no one will argue that time and energy are valuable commodities.
Granted, many are still in school which is a time and energy killer for sure. Nevertheless, without the responsibility of children, evenings and weekends become a powerful tool. The church needs massive amounts of time and energy planted into every ministry and mission that we hope to accomplish. Young leaders fulfill that need.
2. Young leaders value independent thinking that’s counter-culture.
Young leaders will always bring new thoughts and ideas to the table. In fact, their default will be the discovery of fresh concepts. Who doesn’t want or need fresh ideas? Either into our personal lives or organizational structures, new thoughts will bring about new discussion.
This can only lead to new ways to accomplish goals and objectives. Young leaders generally will not stand for the excuse, “that’s the way we’ve always done it.” Church Leadership 101 tells us that this statement is a ministry killer. Therefore, having young leaders involved in every area of ministry will prevent that statement from becoming a reality. And this is a great thing!
3. Young leaders value creativity and intelligence.
Those who value creativity and intelligence typically strive to be creative and intelligent. Accomplishing post-secondary education is important for young leaders. They strive to be experts in their areas of interest. And generally, these leaders are digitally savvy, devouring ebooks, blog posts, and podcasts daily. Each word read or listened to, implants information into a mental filing cabinet of content.
Remember that statement, “that’s the way we’ve always done it”? This happens because the church lacks creativity and intelligence within today’s problems and today’s challenges. We are not seeking out new information with the vigour that we should be.
Our churches know what worked in the past, but we are not effectively seeking out and educating ourselves with new information. Young leaders naturally bring it straight to us.
Calling all young leaders!
Though we may be threatened by your presence, we need you. We need you in our leadership meetings, on our deacon boards, and on missions committees. We need you in our outreach projects and service ministries. We need you.
Don’t get discouraged when the church isn’t valuing your ideas. Explain them calmly and carefully, as we wrap our minds around them. Draw us a mental picture, so that we can embrace the value. Be patient with us, as we adjust to the vitality that you bring to the table. Show us through action first, then we will easily attach ourselves to your words.
Most importantly, don’t leave. We need you.
Join the Conversation; Share Your Thoughts
What values or ideas do you value about young leaders?
Why does the church need more young leaders?
two other things stand out: 1) missional – in order for a church to be missionally relevant in its culture, it needs the 20-30s to continue to reach others and understand that culture. 2) disciple making – my 20s and now in my early 30s were life changing for the better. many people in this age group decide to fill their time and energy with video games or dating around for fun. 20-30s need church as much as the church needs them!
Thanks for your comment. You’re right; they are missional and they are able to make disciples. Also, people in their 20’s and 30’s need church. Everyone needs church.
There will always be a vein of unique struggles to every demographic. Millennials know technology, so technology may be a stumbling block at times. Yet, every age demographic has their stumbling block.
Nevertheless, we need a multi-generational church. This post was simply about a segment of a generation who is disillusioned with church. So, I tried to highlight them somewhat.
Thanks again for leaving your thoughts. I appreciate your willingness to take time out of your busy day to give my post a read.
Peace – Jeremy