Leading Students to Christ
2/18/2015
The most important aspect of youth ministry is leading students to Christ. When a youth worker has the opportunity to lead a student in accepting Jesus as their Lord and Savior, it is a powerful and profound moment for all involved.
However, this can also be very intimidating experience and something that leaders may tend to shy away from because of the high level of emotion and expectation. It is important to keep this meaningful time succinct and focused on helping the student understand the decision that was made during this impactful time.
Here are the essentials to ministering to anyone who has just accepted Christ:
- Share the Gospel. The students need to hear the gospel, that God loves us, sent His Son to die for us and He rose again for the forgiveness of all of our sins. Focus on the truth that God has a purpose for us. Ephesians 2:10 states “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.” Letting the student know they have a purpose greater than themselves is very important.
- Share with others. Encourage the students to share with someone important in their life about the experience of making their decision for Jesus. Have them reflect with others how their life might look different now that they are walking with Christ. Help and encourage them to pinpoint where God might be leading them in the days immediately following the decision moment.
- Go Deeper. Encourage the students to get plugged into a small group, Bible study, regular attendance of worship and youth ministry. Help the students get connected to a community of believers for accountability and encouragement. Check in with them periodically and see how they are doing.
- Pray for these life changing opportunities. Student ministry is an adventure that we need to be prepared to take. The decision for Jesus is the best moment. Thinking and preparing for these things ahead of time will be a blessing!
