Building the Church: Discipling the Next Generation

Jesus said, “I will build my church” – “you go and make disciples.” Sometimes, we respond with, “God, we have a better idea. We’ll build your church by putting on programs and events for people to attend. Then, somehow, by attending these events, you can turn them into disciples.”

I say this with a hint of humour, but the truth is clear: our primary calling is to disciple the next generation. The curricula we use are helpful tools, but they will not disciple our children. That responsibility lies with us.

Using the curriculum as a springboard, how can we help our children connect with God for themselves?

1. Pray

Prayer is essential for those we seek to disciple. I once knew a man who led a Sunday School class. He was new, and I quickly realised his teaching style was rather dull. However, I noticed something remarkable: every member of his group began to come alive in their faith. They were leading friends to Jesus, standing up for God in their schools, and growing in their daily walks with Him. I discovered that their teacher spent an hour each day in prayer for his students. His prayers transformed their lives.

For our teaching to truly resonate in the hearts of our children, we must pray! Galatians 4:19 reminds us, “My little children, for whom I labour in birth again until Christ is formed in you.”

2. Prepare

We cannot simply read the curriculum to the children. If we want the lessons to change their lives, we must prepare thoroughly. Jesus said, “Anyone who welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me.” If you knew that Jesus would be attending your Sunday School lesson this week, would you prepare any differently?

3. Share

Share the reality of God’s life-changing work in your life. Make your lessons not just Biblically accurate but personal. Show the children the faithfulness of God in your own journey. This connection can inspire them to seek a deeper relationship with Him.

4. Balance

Provide your children with a balanced spiritual diet while they are with you. Teach the Bible, but also ensure there are times for prayer and worship. Create space each week for God to speak to the children through the Holy Spirit. We need a generation that knows the Word of God and can listen to the Holy Spirit's voice.

5. Connect

Engage with the parents of your children. What areas are they focusing on in their own discipleship efforts? What challenges are they facing? Ask how you can support them as they work with their children throughout the week.

6. Challenge

Challenge your children with an action point each week that encourages them to live out their faith. They will expect you to rise to the challenge too! One week, I encouraged my class to share the Gospel with someone. That night, I realised I would be at a Christian conference all week. I had to sneak out to find an unbeliever! The following week, the children were eager to see if I had met the challenge.

You can challenge them to do three kind things for someone they struggle with, to pray each day for as many minutes as they are years old, or to not just learn about God but to live their lives for Him.

7. Follow

After challenging them to live for Jesus in specific areas, we must follow their progress. Did they complete the challenge? Jesus calls His disciples not only to hear His word but also to act on it.

Sometimes, this means taking the time to call the children at home. One teacher, with the parents’ permission, began calling her students each week to build relationships and encourage them. These children, even at just five years old, became more alive to the things of God and began living more outspoken lives for Him, empowered by the Holy Spirit.

All of this requires more effort than simply showing up to share a lesson. This is the expectation of a pastor and minister of the Gospel: to see those under our care grow in Christ. The more the children step out for God, the more they will grow. In living for God, they will discover God living in them.

This is the work of discipleship. This is what we are called to do.

The Importance of Discipleship

Discipleship is not just a task; it’s a journey we embark on together. As we guide our children, we also learn and grow. Each child brings unique challenges and blessings. Embrace this journey with open arms.

Let’s remember that we are not alone in this. God equips us with everything we need to guide the next generation. When we lean on Him, we can make a lasting impact.

So, let’s commit to this calling. Let’s empower our children to live fully for Jesus. Together, we can build a strong foundation for their faith that lasts a lifetime.

In conclusion, as we engage in this vital work, let’s keep our hearts open and our spirits willing. The future of our faith community depends on how we disciple the next generation. Let’s rise to the occasion and embrace this beautiful challenge!

---wix---