Empowering the Next Generation for Christ's Ministry

Summary

### Summary

Today, we explored the theme of "Gen Forward," focusing on the role of the younger generation in continuing the ministry and gospel of Christ. We delved into the story of Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego from Daniel chapter 1, highlighting how these young men, despite being in captivity, stood firm in their faith and used their God-given gifts to make a significant impact. The sermon emphasized that ministry does not require professional qualifications but a willingness to act and be available.

We discussed the importance of integrating Christ into every aspect of our lives, whether in career planning, education, or daily activities. The younger generation was encouraged to recognize their gifts, trust in God, and act on their calling now, not waiting until they feel fully prepared or older. The story of Greg Laurie from the "Jesus Revolution" movie was used to illustrate how young people can make a significant impact even in challenging circumstances.

We also touched on the concept of living in a "Babylonian" culture, where Christians are called to seek the welfare of their city and community, even if the environment is hostile to their faith. The sermon concluded with practical steps for young people to engage in ministry, such as building authentic relationships, listening without judgment, sharing personal experiences, and relying on the Holy Spirit.

### Key Takeaways

1. Recognize Your Gifts: Each believer has been endowed with unique gifts meant to edify the body of Christ. Daniel and his friends were given wisdom and the ability to interpret dreams, which they used to influence their captors positively. Similarly, we must identify and use our gifts for God's kingdom, whether in speaking, serving, teaching, or leading. [46:02]

2. Trust in God: Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego demonstrated unwavering trust in God even when faced with the fiery furnace. They believed that God could deliver them but were prepared to stand firm in their faith regardless of the outcome. This teaches us to trust God in all circumstances, knowing that He has a plan and purpose for us, even in trials. [48:26]

3. Act on Your Calling: Ministry requires action. Daniel acted on his faith by openly praying to God despite the threat of the lion's den. We are called to act on our faith, whether through small steps like sharing the gospel with friends or larger initiatives like starting a Bible study. The key is to be proactive and not wait until we feel fully prepared. [51:26]

4. Seek the Welfare of the City: Just as the exiles in Babylon were instructed to seek the welfare of their city, we are called to be a positive influence in our communities. This involves building relationships, contributing to the common good, and being a light in a secular world. Our welfare is tied to the welfare of those around us. [42:00]

5. Be Faithful in Small Things: Faithfulness in small actions can lead to significant impact. Young people are encouraged to integrate their faith into everyday life, whether in school, college, or work. Simple acts like being a good listener, sharing personal experiences, and asking thoughtful questions can open doors for meaningful gospel conversations. [53:31]

### YouTube Chapters

[0:00] - Welcome
[26:50] - Introduction and Engage Preparation
[27:54] - Role of the Younger Generation
[29:13] - Prayer for the Youth
[30:20] - Integrating Christ into Future Plans
[31:29] - Misconceptions About Ministry
[32:29] - Jesus Revolution and Greg Laurie's Story
[33:54] - Personal Story and Church Support
[35:12] - Ministry Requires Willingness
[36:12] - Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego
[37:15] - Babylonian Captivity and Training
[39:02] - Daniel's Diet Challenge
[40:17] - Jeremiah's Instructions to the Exiles
[42:00] - Seeking the Welfare of the City
[45:23] - Recognizing Gifts and Talents
[48:26] - Trusting in God
[51:26] - Acting on Your Calling
[53:31] - Practical Steps for Ministry
[56:12] - Faithfulness in Small Things
[58:04] - Conclusion and Prayer

Study Guide

### Bible Reading
1. Daniel 1:3-7 - "Then the king commanded Ashpenaz, his chief eunuch, to bring some of the people of Israel, both of the royal family and of the nobility, youths without blemish, of good appearance and skillful in all wisdom, endowed with knowledge, understanding learning, and competent to stand in the king's palace, and to teach them the literature and language of the Chaldeans. The king assigned them a daily portion of the food that the king ate, and of the wine that he drank. They were to be educated for three years, and at the end of that time they were to stand before the king. Among these were Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah of the tribe of Judah. And the chief of the eunuchs gave them names: Daniel he called Belteshazzar, Hananiah he called Shadrach, Mishael he called Meshach, and Azariah he called Abednego."

2. Jeremiah 29:4-7 - "Thus says the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel, to all the exiles whom I have sent into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon: Build houses and live in them; plant gardens and eat their produce. Take wives and have sons and daughters; take wives for your sons, and give your daughters in marriage, that they may bear sons and daughters; multiply there, and do not decrease. But seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare."

3. Romans 12:4-8 - "For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; if service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching; the one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness."

### Observation Questions
1. What qualities did King Nebuchadnezzar look for in the youths he brought to Babylon? (Daniel 1:3-4)
2. According to Jeremiah 29:4-7, what were the exiles instructed to do while in Babylon?
3. What are some of the gifts mentioned in Romans 12:4-8, and how are they meant to be used?
4. In the sermon, what was the significance of Daniel and his friends refusing the king's food? ([39:02])

### Interpretation Questions
1. How might the qualities that Nebuchadnezzar sought in the youths reflect the potential God sees in each of us? (Daniel 1:3-4)
2. What does it mean to "seek the welfare of the city" in a modern context, and how can this be applied to our lives today? (Jeremiah 29:7)
3. How can recognizing and using our gifts, as described in Romans 12:4-8, impact our community and church?
4. Why is it important to integrate Christ into every aspect of our lives, as emphasized in the sermon? ([30:20])

### Application Questions
1. Reflect on the gifts and talents you believe God has given you. How can you use these gifts to serve your church and community? ([46:02])
2. In what ways can you seek the welfare of your city or community, even if it feels hostile to your faith? ([42:00])
3. Think about a time when you had to trust God in a difficult situation. How did that experience shape your faith, and how can you apply that trust in current challenges? ([48:26])
4. What small steps can you take now to act on your calling, even if you don't feel fully prepared? ([51:26])
5. How can you build authentic relationships and share your personal experiences with others to open doors for meaningful gospel conversations? ([53:31])
6. Identify one area in your daily life where you can be more faithful in small things. What specific actions will you take to integrate your faith into this area? ([53:31])
7. How can you encourage and support the younger generation in recognizing and using their gifts for God's kingdom? ([27:54])

Devotional

Day 1: Recognize Your Gifts
Each believer has been endowed with unique gifts meant to edify the body of Christ. Daniel and his friends were given wisdom and the ability to interpret dreams, which they used to influence their captors positively. Similarly, we must identify and use our gifts for God's kingdom, whether in speaking, serving, teaching, or leading. Recognizing our gifts is the first step in making a meaningful impact in our communities and beyond. It is essential to understand that these gifts are not for our glory but for the edification of the church and the advancement of God's kingdom.

In today's world, it can be easy to overlook or undervalue the gifts God has given us. However, just as Daniel and his friends used their gifts to stand out and make a difference in a foreign land, we too can use our unique abilities to shine God's light in our spheres of influence. Take time to reflect on what you are naturally good at and how you can use those talents to serve others and glorify God. [46:02]

1 Peter 4:10-11 (ESV): "As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen."

Reflection: What unique gifts has God given you, and how can you use them to serve your community and glorify Him this week?

Day 2: Trust in God
Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego demonstrated unwavering trust in God even when faced with the fiery furnace. They believed that God could deliver them but were prepared to stand firm in their faith regardless of the outcome. This teaches us to trust God in all circumstances, knowing that He has a plan and purpose for us, even in trials. Trusting in God means believing in His sovereignty and goodness, even when we do not understand our circumstances.

In our daily lives, we often face situations that test our faith and trust in God. It is during these times that we must remember the example of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who trusted God completely, even in the face of death. Their story reminds us that God is always with us, and His plans for us are good, even when we cannot see the bigger picture. [48:26]

Isaiah 26:3-4 (ESV): "You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord God is an everlasting rock."

Reflection: Think of a current challenge you are facing. How can you demonstrate trust in God in this situation, even if the outcome is uncertain?

Day 3: Act on Your Calling
Ministry requires action. Daniel acted on his faith by openly praying to God despite the threat of the lion's den. We are called to act on our faith, whether through small steps like sharing the gospel with friends or larger initiatives like starting a Bible study. The key is to be proactive and not wait until we feel fully prepared. Acting on our calling means stepping out in faith and trusting that God will equip us as we go.

Many people hesitate to act on their calling because they feel unprepared or inadequate. However, the Bible is full of examples of individuals who stepped out in faith and were used mightily by God. Daniel's courage to pray openly, despite the threat of the lion's den, is a powerful reminder that God honors our obedience and faithfulness. [51:26]

James 2:17-18 (ESV): "So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. But someone will say, 'You have faith and I have works.' Show me your faith apart from your works, and I will show you my faith by my works."

Reflection: What is one specific action you can take this week to act on your calling and share your faith with others?

Day 4: Seek the Welfare of the City
Just as the exiles in Babylon were instructed to seek the welfare of their city, we are called to be a positive influence in our communities. This involves building relationships, contributing to the common good, and being a light in a secular world. Our welfare is tied to the welfare of those around us. Seeking the welfare of the city means actively engaging in our communities and working towards their betterment.

In a world that often feels hostile to our faith, it can be challenging to know how to make a positive impact. However, the Bible calls us to seek the welfare of the places where we live, work, and interact. By building authentic relationships and contributing to the common good, we can be a light in our communities and demonstrate the love of Christ to those around us. [42:00]

Jeremiah 29:7 (ESV): "But seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare."

Reflection: How can you actively seek the welfare of your community this week? What specific steps can you take to build relationships and contribute to the common good?

Day 5: Be Faithful in Small Things
Faithfulness in small actions can lead to significant impact. Young people are encouraged to integrate their faith into everyday life, whether in school, college, or work. Simple acts like being a good listener, sharing personal experiences, and asking thoughtful questions can open doors for meaningful gospel conversations. Being faithful in small things means consistently living out our faith in our daily interactions and responsibilities.

Often, we underestimate the power of small, faithful actions. However, the Bible teaches that being faithful in little things can lead to greater opportunities and impact. By integrating our faith into our daily lives and being intentional in our interactions, we can make a significant difference in the lives of those around us. [53:31]

Luke 16:10 (ESV): "One who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much, and one who is dishonest in a very little is also dishonest in much."

Reflection: What small, faithful actions can you take today to live out your faith in your daily interactions and responsibilities? How can these actions open doors for meaningful gospel conversations?

Quotes

1. "The problem is, is that in ministry, a lot of times we think we have to be very prepared. We've got to have it all together before we can actually do something for God. And that's so not true. And even when it comes to ministry, sometimes we think that we have to be professionals. Before I can hold a Bible study or before I can witness to somebody, I have to have all the knowledge and all the understanding because, you know, what if they ask me a question that I don't have an answer for?" [31:29] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "Ministry simply requires a willingness to act. A willingness to be available. A willingness to step into some gaps. A willingness to recognize that there may be somebody out there that needs encouragement. Needs to hear the gospel. And you as young people, you are positioned in a great way. More than anybody else. We talk about the upcoming generations. We talk about Gen Z. We talk about these generations. We talked about it last week. The most equipped people to deal with a Gen Z person is a Gen Z person." [35:12] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "The call is for us to do this, to seek the welfare of the city. In other words, as we live in this culture, we are supposed to go in and benefit our society. We're supposed to be a benefit to our society. And when we're a benefit, to our society, we too will be benefited. And then he goes on to say this, and I love this because this is a very familiar passage of scripture. We've heard it a lot. I love that God sets up this picture of living in Babylon for 70 years." [43:22] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "When you put your trust in God, he takes you through the difficult trials. He does that over and over again. We see that in the New Testament too. God did the same thing with Peter. He did that with Paul. God would use them. And when they would find themselves in bad situations, God would deliver them. He did it time and time again. James 1 verses 2 through 4 says this, Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness." [49:58] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5. "Ministry doesn't require a professional. All ministry requires is somebody who is willing to act, right? And that can be a young person. It can be an adult. It can be a professional. It can be a lay person. But it's not about what your qualifications are. It's about your willingness to act, to step in and do something at whatever level you're on and whatever situation you're in. God wants to use you." [02:19:08] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

6. "We need to recognize our gifts. We need to recognize the gifts and the talents and the skills that we have. We need to do an inventory of who we are and the skills that we possess and ask, how can we take these and use it for the benefit of the kingdom? As I said, I'm a preacher. My role is to talk. And so I talk. And I have a skill in that. It may not be a great skill. I'm continually working on it. But that is a skill that God has given me to use. Not everybody has that skill. But you have other skills." [02:29:02] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

7. "We need to trust. We need to put our trust in God. We need to put a trust in the faith that's been in us. Daniel 3, 16 through 18, talking about Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, familiar story. They're getting ready to be tossed into the fiery furnace. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego answered and said to the king, oh, Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer you in this matter. In other words, what they're saying is if you don't bow down, if you don't relinquish your religion and bow down to our religion, then you're going to be cast into the fire." [02:32:54] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

8. "Focus on friendship and relationship. In other words, if you're a believer, don't go in saying, I'm going to witness to this person, or I'm going to bring the good news. I'm going to bring the gospel to them. Just be a friend. Build a relationship with them. Build connection. You're already doing that. If you're a Gen Zer and you're in a high school, you've already got your friends. You've got friends. You've got believing friends and you have non-believing friends. Maintain those friendships. Build those friendships. But be a light in the midst of those friendships." [02:41:11] (60 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

9. "Why is this important? Why do we need to do these things? First of all, it's what we're called to do. As I mentioned, the Great Commission, going to all the world, preaching the gospel. When we do that, we're being faithful to the gospel. We're being faithful to the thing that we've built our lives upon. It calls us to go out and to do these things. But also, it allows us to be faithful to our Lord. It allows us to walk with him. We know to live out the life that Jesus lived, live out a life of love and care and seeking the welfare of those around." [02:44:00] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

10. "You need to be willing to step into some things as well. You need to be willing to seek out people that can lead you and guide you and mentor you. You need to seek out opportunities. I'm going to tell you, I'm available. As your pastor, I'm going to tell you, I'm available. Pastor, I'm available to you at any age. I want to be there to be a strength for you, but I can't do it on my own. That's an old school way of thinking about the church, that the pastor has to do everything. If the pastor has to do that, the pastor has to do all the mentoring, all the training up, all of that, it's just not going to happen." [02:45:26] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

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Transcript

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