Friday Review (11/8/24)
Each week we compile a list of helpful articles from other sites, in a variety of categories, for youth workers to read, reflect on, and/or discuss with parents and volunteers. If you have any articles you’d like to suggest, we’d love for you to share those in the Youth Pastor Theologian Facebook group. That’s a great way to bring them to our attention and to discuss them with like-minded youth workers! (Inclusion in this list does not imply complete agreement with the publishing source, but we have found these articles to be beneficial.)
Youth Ministry
Why College Students Lack a Sense of Purpose, by Perry Glanzer (The Gospel Coalition)
However, I have not met one college student who explicitly connected their purpose to bearing God’s image (Gen. 1:27). If they did, it would help them recognize some things that the other expressions do not provide.
5 Parent & Student Events For Your Youth Ministry, by Ronald Long (Download Youth Ministry)
Each of these events gives parents and teens a chance to connect in ways that go beyond a traditional “talk” about faith. They’re interactive, memorable, and fun—perfect for breaking down the barriers that sometimes exist between teens and their parents. Plus, they make it clear to parents that they are valuable partners in ministry, not just sideline supporters.
Biblical & Theological Studies
What Exactly is “Sola Scriptura” Protecting Us Against?, by Michael J. Kruger (Canon Fodder)
Ever since, humans have been remarkably inventive in the variety of authorities they erect in place of God. Sola Scriptura is designed simply to prevent these other authorities from ruling the Christian and to keep God’s Word rightly as our ultimate guide. Here are three examples of such authorities:
A Theology of Leisure, by Reagan Rose (Redeeming Productivity)
Rest isn’t just something you do to be more productive later; it is not a necessary evil that frail humans must begrudgingly acquiesce to. Our moments of recreation are a gift from God. Thus, they are to be received and enjoyed with thanksgiving.
Cultural Reflection & Contextualization
5 Misconceptions about Sports Betting, by John Dalrymple (Growing Fathers)
Professional sports generate huge profits, but sports betting takes it to a whole new level, and it’s growing at a remarkably rapid pace with wide acceptance. What are some of the most common misconceptions about sports betting and why is this important for Christian dads to consider?
Walk Carefully on Social Media This Week, by Walt Mueller (CPYU)
I’m throwing this out there as something to think about – as I am – on this, the day before. That which rattles us to the core must be discussed and acted upon. The Gospel demands it. But it’s wise to choose where we discuss how we should act. The great temptation tomorrow and in the days to come will be to vent, to accuse, to harass, to fire verbal volleys, and to get into arguments.
Pastoral Ministry
The Third Wave of Biblical Counseling: A Call to the Priesthood of Believers and Preventative Care, by Garrett Higbee (Biblical Counseling Coalition)
Too often, we’ve delegated the “heavy lifting” of ministry, including counseling, to pastors and elders or, more recently, referred it out to “trained professionals.” Kingdom responsibilities were meant to be shouldered by the whole congregation (Eph. 4:11-16). Healthy churches are equipping churches. Effective counselors counsel to equip.
Pastor, What Do You Think About This Women’s Resource?, by Winfree Brisley (The Gospel Coalition)
But as I reflected on the situation, I realized many pastors don’t have a friend to call or a women’s ministry director on staff who can help field these questions from church members. And I’m sure no pastor has the capacity to keep tabs on all the new women’s resources published each year. So how can pastors help vet women’s resources?
Family & Parents
A Warning About Having Children, by Jessica Burke (Story Warren)
The surgeon general recently issued a new public health advisory. Forget pandemics or toxic substances; this time the source of this warning is likely sleeping under the same roof as you. The culprit: your own kids. According to the surgeon general’s report, the mental toll of raising children is “an urgent public health issue.”
Cultivating Gratitude in the Discouraging Seasons of Parenting, from Rooted
As you traverse the ups and downs of parenting, pray the Lord will give you a heart of gratitude for the teenager that God has purposefully and lovingly put into your care. Every page of your child’s story has God’s faithfulness shining through. His faithfulness will continue to guide us through the roller coaster ride of parenting.
From YPT this week
YPT Podcast ep.81: Leading Youth to Lead Worship in Youth Ministry with Dorothy Lau
How can youth leaders help teenagers learn to worship… and how to lead worship? Conversation ranges from what worship is in the first place to how we select new songs for youth worship.
How to Teach and Understand Ecclesiastes 1 by Jack Fitzgibbons
How do we handle texts such as Ecclesiastes 1:1-11 in a way that brings clarity and joy in Christ?