Other than the home, the church should be the primary place where formation and discipleship of the next generation take place. But discipleship need not be confined to the four walls of a church.
Within next generation ministry, there are so many places other than the church that one can serve. By way of example, I have worked with the next generation in public schools, private schools, and various organizations. Daycare’s, Boys and Girls Club of America, YMCA’s, Recreation Departments, Summer Camps, and Homeschool Associations are but a few of these “other” avenues.
The key is to find the age-group and venue you are passionate about. From there, you will need to take the necessary steps to get involved. So again, start with your passions. What is it that you like to do? What are your hobbies—Drama, Arts & Crafts, Music, Woodworking, etc.??
For me, it is coaching. I have coached recreation, travel, and school ball. The sports I enjoy coaching the most are basketball and soccer. I have coached at the middle school, jv, and varsity level.
Until this past week however, I had never won a championship. The Varsity Basketball team I am helping just won their third region championship in the past four years—and I got to be a part of it!
However, for the Christ-follower, winning a championship is not the end-game goal. This is because if you are a Christian, you’ve already been made a champion (Romans 8:37; 1 John 5:4).
But it’s also because your main aim in life is to make disciples (Matthew 28:19–20). You are a witness, a servant, a Christ-follower. As you follow Christ on the path he has set for you, your goal is simply to be an example for him wherever you go.
As you do this, He will be lifted up and He will draw all men (including the next generation) to Himself (John 12:32). The trophy then won’t be something you can hold. It will be you—a trophy of his grace (Ephesians 2:4–10).