Christ’s command to spread the gospel is clear: “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations” (Matthew 28:19). It compels all believers to bring the message of salvation everywhere, to all people, of all ages. It is the Great Commission that guides our youth ministry programs, which aim to make disciples among a targeted people group—teenagers.

Teenager is a word that evokes many emotions and preconceived notions in our society. Indeed, the teen years tend to be a time of unique challenges as young adults are faced with increasingly complex decisions and life lessons.

For those who are part of junior high and high school ministries, the word “teenager” is motivating because it represents an extraordinary opportunity to see the gospel work mightily. Teens are eager to learn and hear new perspectives. Our goal is to help these students learn and grow in light of the reality of the saving and sanctifying power of the gospel.

There are three commitments we share as we minister the power of the gospel to the teenagers in our church:

• To partner with parents in their ongoing gospel witness to their teenagers. The work of student ministries is supplemental to the diligent, godly parenting that happens within our church families, and it is a joy to see the fruit of this partnership again and again (Deuteronomy 6:6–7).
• To build teens to be active church members. One major goal of our ministry is to equip saved students to live lives committed to the church by providing opportunities to serve and live in fellowship with other believers (Hebrews 10:25).
• To equip teens to be effective witnesses. It’s a tremendous encouragement to see students seeking to obey the Great Commission by inviting friends to church events and camps, participating in local outreach, and actively ministering to unsaved friends on their athletic teams and campuses, and it is a priority of ours to equip them to this end (Matthew 28:19–20).

As we embark upon a busy season of student ministry, please pray for the upcoming activities, summer camps, small group sessions, and outreach events all designed to make the gospel known and embraced by teenagers.

Please also pray for our faithful and godly volunteer staff who regularly give of their time and resources to make an impact on these students through teaching, training, and discipleship.

The next time you hear the word “teenager,” we hope it’s a reminder to pray for the young people in your households, on our campus, and in our community. It is a thrill to see the gospel alive and working in so many of these young hearts as Christ continues to build His chur