This Sunday, Rooted will be running the evening service. Rooted students will lead our congregational singing, present a few special numbers, and Jalen Ontoy will preach from God’s Word. There will also be a pizza fellowship in the gym following the service. All this begs the question, “Why spend so much time and effort on these young people who are only here for a few years?”
Intergenerational ministry is worth it.
It builds up our faith through community.
Community is the buzzword these days, for several reasons. One of those reasons is that Gen Z is passionate about community. They long for depth and substance. They crave authenticity and openness. The local church can and ought to provide this community through intentional, intergenerational discipleship.
“In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works”
Take Titus 2 for example. Paul writes to older men and older women, urging them to live a life of good works. Older members have a God-given responsibility to live out the gospel as an example to the younger men and women in the church. Our Rooted class needs to see how what you profess and what you practice align. As they observe your faithfulness they will feel like they can come to you with their doubts and questions. Your ministry to college students matters.
It keeps us accountable.
This is where community comes into play. As you build relationships with older, mature believers allow them to hold you accountable. They’ve been where you are and can save you a lot of heartache. Listen humbly to the godly wisdom of your elders.
It provides the platform for us to exercise our spiritual gifts.
Many in Gen Z have a deep desire to be a part of something that will ultimately make a difference. The church is the vehicle that God has chosen to accomplish His kingdom-building work.
If you are a believer, God has entrusted you with a gift that He intends for you to use in His church. In 1 Corinthians 12, Paul compares the church to a body made up of many different body parts. His point is that even though we are different (in culture, age, interests, etc.), we are united for the same purpose. Whether you’re stacking chairs, leading singing, or helping with the youth group, you are making an eternal impact for God’s glory. Young adult, commit to the local church.
Intergenerational ministry is a messy business, but it is worth it. I hope you will join us this Sunday evening to encourage and build relationships with the young people that God has entrusted to us.
