How Should Men Think about Leading the Next Generation?

Community Discipleship Faithfully Gathered Hospitality

How Should Men Think about Leading the Next Generation?

Chris Rivers

In season two, episode 18, Chris Rivers and Brad Walbridge, along with Matt Kelley and Davis Craig (Grace campus support staff), tackle the question, “how should men think about leading the next generation?” They explore how pouring into the lives of the next generation by giving of our time, resources, and the wisdom learned through life experiences can play a vital role in helping us mature as disciples and lead our families well.

STUDY QUESTIONS

Download Episode 18 Study Questions and then share, listen, and discuss in a one on one conversation or with a group of men.

APPLICATION

  • Am I currently serving? If so, who are some people in proximity to me that God could be leading me towards? If not, how can I take a step to move towards serving?
  • What are my biggest reservations about getting involved in someone’s life ? Am I too busy? Do I fear giving up my comforts?
  • Who is an example of someone who has poured into my life and come alongside me? What have been the benefits of this relationship? How has this helped me move towards Christ and the church?
  • What is one practical thing I can do this week to move towards someone God has placed in my circle of influence?

KEY POINTS

  • Matt began the discussion by talking about the “why” behind leading the next generation. He shared how, years ago, the leadership team at Grace began to recognize the need for a younger generation to step up, take responsibility, and carry on the mission. From this idea, the internship program at Grace was born. Here, they began to answer the question, “What does it look like to capture the next generation with the idea of the local church in their lives?”
  • Matt shared how leading the next generation may look different and take many forms, but the overarching goal is to build intentionality around the concept of giving your life away for the sake of discipleship. This may mean giving of your time, having people in your home, building relationships, or initiating tough conversations. Often, we have the tendency to see ourselves as too busy or as not having much to offer. The reality is, we have time for what is important and we all have something to contribute. If we humble ourselves and ask God, he will show us opportunities around us and equip us to do what he has called us to do. We don’t have to have all the right words or do all the right things; we simply have to model our lives as a maturing disciple.
  • Matt and Davis touched on some of the benefits of getting involved in others’ lives. This includes modeling serving and discipleship to your children. One of the best things for our children to see is young people coming into our lives and us offering hospitality and taking time to care for them. It reminds our children that the world does not revolve around them and that this is the way the church works. Other possible benefits of leading the next generation include having the opportunity to guide people in their decision making, helping them to see the possible outcomes ahead, spurring them to become more mature disciples of Christ, and creating a cycle of ongoing discipleship in the church. Davis saw this firsthand in his own life. His experience with these types of relationships as a young man challenged him in his thinking and helped him to grow as a believer. It also protected him from some potentially life-altering decisions. The impact of people pouring into his life solidified the importance of doing this for others.
  • Matt and Davis shared some practical steps for cultivating relationships with the next generation. One way to get started: put yourself in proximity to people. If you are serving, start being thoughtful of the people around you. If you are not serving, find somewhere to plug in and get involved in people’s lives. Ask God where you need to move and listen to what he is telling you. As you are forming relationships, take time to listen, ask questions to understand what is going on, and reserve judgment.

SCRIPTURE REFERENCES

And now the prize awaits me–the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his appearing. 2 Timothy 4:8

RESOURCES

If you know a man who would benefit from hearing this episode, share it with him. Having intentional conversations around these principles is a great way to disciple and help others move towards Christ.

Have questions or want us to discuss a topic? Email us at: menatgrace@gracechurchsc.org.