Eight Ways Loving the Next Generation Matures Us as Pastors

Next Generation Ministry is often viewed by many as preparation for the “real” ministry of shepherding adults. Yet Next Generation Ministry holds value for every pastor beyond preparation. Ongoing engagement with the next generation is helpful for our maturation as shepherds in the Lord’s service. Loving the next generation in our churches matures us as pastors in at least eight ways:

1. Listening – Mature pastors are quick to listen and slow to speak (James 1:19). As you shepherd the next generation, you learn how to listen. You see the difference that eye contact and undivided attention make. Listening to a little child explain how they hurt their elbow but proudly showing you their Paw Patrol band-aid is a skill every pastor must learn and apply.
2. Patience – In 1 Thessalonians 5:14, Paul tells the church to “be patient with everyone.” Exercising patience with the kids and students in our ministry helps us practice patience toward the rest of the congregation. When I patiently minister to a student who continues to wrestle with persistent doubts, I am more clearly able to see my Heavenly Father’s patience with me in my struggles.
3. Preaching – I’ve done it. You’ve done it. We sat in our seminary classes, parsing Greek verbs; exploring commentaries from medieval theologians; drinking from the firehose of our systematic theology textbook. Then we crammed all that information into a 55-minute lesson that was supposed to be 25 minutes. Let’s just say preschoolers won’t let you get away with that. Clarity and simplicity benefit our preaching. Teaching the next generation matures our preaching in ways that serve the entire congregation.
4. Criticism – Kids, especially, can be brutally honest. If you are boring or unclear in your lesson, they will tell you. We understand them to be genuine in their feedback, if not charitable or gracious. Hopefully, the stinging response of a child does not cause us to become defensive or succumb to the fear of man. Yet this is often how we respond to the critiques of older, sometimes equally immature, listeners.
5. Joy – Are you a grumpy pastor? We are frail men with a weighty calling that will incur a stricter judgment. Yet we are also children of the King, called to rejoice always. The joy of children should remind us of the joy that should mark our commitment to Christ. When my own children lack joy, that is a concern to me. How much more our Heavenly Father desires that we find joy in Him and His good gifts!
6. Imagination – The mind of a child is truly amazing, filled with boundless possibilities and wonder. They are curious and free in their questions, not bound by reason and reality. When Paul tells us that God can do “above and beyond all that we ask or think (NIV – imagine), do we believe him? Loving the Lord with all of our minds should not be confined to reason and precision. Our family recently watched Hook together. Some pastors need a quick trip to Neverland every once in a while.
7. Empathy – Some issues teenagers deal with are often met with a certain dismissiveness by the previous generation. We have a high priest who is familiar with our weaknesses (Heb.4:15). He is meek, humble, and compassionate toward our frailty. Working with the next generation can help us grow in our ability to empathize with the challenges (real or perceived) that others are walking through, training us to respond with love and care.
8. Connection – Interacting with kids and students through a high five, a silly ritual, or a funny nickname can give them a sense of connection. Connection is what allows the relationship to grow and deepen. It is a conduit for grace, trust, and love. Pastor, how are you seeking to intentionally connect with those in your congregation? What simple ways can you help a specific individual feel a sense of belonging in your fellowship?

Next Generation Ministry is not a stepping stone. It is not the “minor leagues.” All pastors should benefit from ministering to the next generation. Your congregation will thank you for it.