10 Things You May Not Realise About Youth Discipleship

1. It's More Than Moral Improvement; It's Divine Encounter

Often, youth ministry can subtly shift its focus towards producing "good kids" – young people who behave well and follow the rules. While positive behaviour is undoubtedly a fruit of a living faith, discipleship goes deeper than mere behaviour modification. At its core, discipleship facilitates a genuine encounter between young people and the living God. It's about creating environments and opportunities where they can experience God's grace, His tangible presence, and His transformative love. The emphasis moves away from simply "doing good" to the profound experience of "being with God," fostering a personal relationship that shapes their identity and actions.  

2. "Nice" Isn't a Deep Enough Faith 

Over the past two decades, research has increasingly highlighted the prevalence of "Moralistic Therapeutic Deism" (MTD) among young people. MTD describes a diluted form of belief characterised by a distant God who primarily wants people to be nice, fair, and focused on their own happiness. While these values aren't inherently negative, true discipleship calls young people to something far more robust and substantial. It necessitates the development of an articulate faith that can grapple with complex questions, engage with a challenging world, and move beyond a superficial or simplistic understanding of Christianity. This involves equipping them to wrestle with doubt, explore theological concepts, and understand the historical and intellectual foundations of their beliefs.  

3. Parents are the Powerhouse (Even When They Don't Feel Like It) 

Parents have the most significant influence on their children's religious lives, a fact that can sometimes be overlooked in the context of youth ministry. While youth ministries play a vital and supportive role, they function best as partners with parents, rather than replacements for them. Therefore, equipping and encouraging parents as the primary faith shapers in their children's lives is crucial for effective long-term discipleship. This may involve providing resources, training, and support to help parents intentionally cultivate faith conversations and practices within their homes.  

4. The Gospel Must Be the Engine, Not an Add-On 

The person and work of Jesus Christ – His life, death, and resurrection – must be central to every aspect of youth discipleship. The gospel should not be treated as merely one topic among many in a youth program. Rather, it should be the driving force that shapes the entire approach to ministry. This means consistently emphasising God's grace, not just offering moral advice or practical life hacks. It's about helping young people understand the depth of God's love for them and how Jesus' sacrifice transforms every part of their lives.  

5. Silos Don't Build Strong Faith; Shared Life Does 

In the 2000s, there was a trend towards age-specific congregations and ministries, driven by creating a "bespoke church experience" tailored to the special needs of specific age groups. However, this approach inadvertently modelled spiritual consumerism and hindered the development of a holistic faith. We now understand that, while there still is a place for a good old youth service, ultimately, youth thrive with intergenerational relationships. Integrating young people into the broader life of the church, where they can learn from and contribute to a community of all ages, is essential. Authentic discipleship is often "caught" within the context of shared life and genuine belonging, fostering a sense of connection that extends beyond their immediate peer group.  

6. One Size Fits No One – Especially in Diverse Australia

Australia is a nation characterised by incredible diversity, and this diversity is reflected in its young people. Effective discipleship necessitates a deep understanding and thoughtful adaptation to youth communities' various cultural contexts, family backgrounds, and individual needs. A "cookie-cutter" or one-size-fits-all approach is unlikely to connect meaningfully with young people from different walks of life. This requires cultural sensitivity, active listening, and a willingness to tailor ministry approaches to specific groups and individuals.  

7. Questions and Doubts Can Be Doorways, Not Dead Ends

Young people are naturally inquisitive and often have questions and doubts about their faith. Instead of viewing these questions and doubts as signs of failure or a threat to faith, they should be recognised as crucial moments for potential spiritual growth. Discipleship involves intentionally creating safe and honest spaces where young people feel comfortable and free to explore their questions without fear of judgment or condemnation. Caring and mature adults are vital in guiding them through this process, offering support, wisdom, and a biblical perspective.  

8. Leadership Needs More Than Just Passion; It Needs Theological Depth and Nuance

While enthusiasm and passion are undoubtedly valuable qualities in youth leaders, sustainable and deep discipleship requires more than a fervent spirit. It is fostered by leaders who are also theologically thoughtful and grounded. Youth leaders who have the most significant and lasting impact on young people are those who are biblically grounded, theologically informed, and possess the ability to guide young people with wisdom and discernment. This theological foundation enables them to address complex issues, provide sound counsel, and teach with depth and accuracy.  

9. It's an Invitation to a Bigger Story, Not Just Self-Improvement

Authentic Christian discipleship transcends the pursuit of mere personal betterment. It fundamentally invites young people to discover their place within God's grand, redemptive story that spans creation, fall, redemption, and restoration. Churches should strive to be communities where youth can see how their faith connects to God's larger purposes, inspiring them to live for something greater than themselves. This involves helping them understand their unique calling and equipping them to participate in God's work of justice, compassion, and reconciliation.  

10. Discipleship is a Marathon, Not a Ministry Sprint 

In a world that often prioritises quick fixes and instant results, it's easy to become discouraged if we don't see immediate and dramatic spiritual growth in young people. However, faith development is a long-term journey, characterised by gradual progress and ongoing transformation. Discipleship is ultimately about patient and faithful investment, diligently planting seeds of faith, nurturing growth, and trusting God to work in His timing, often over many years. It requires a long-term perspective and a commitment to walking alongside young people through the ups and downs of their spiritual journey.