Empowering the Next Generation Through Discipleship

Devotional

Day 1: The Power to Change Everything Is Within Our Reach

The decisions we make today have a profound impact on the future, not only for ourselves but for the next generation. Each of us, regardless of our age or stage in life, holds the ability to influence the world around us for good. When we recognize that God has placed this power within our grasp, we are inspired to act with purpose and hope, knowing that our choices can shape lives and communities for years to come. [07:09]

Ephesians 3:20-21 (ESV)
Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.

Reflection: What is one decision you can make today—no matter how small—that could positively impact the faith or future of someone in the next generation?

Day 2: Jesus’ Command to Make Disciples

Jesus’ final directive to His followers was clear and urgent: go and make disciples of all nations, teaching them to obey everything He commanded. This call is not reserved for a select few but is given to every believer, empowering us to bring the light and love of Jesus into a world that desperately needs it. When we embrace this mission, we participate in God’s plan to transform lives and reshape the world through the power of discipleship. [10:28]

Matthew 28:16-20 (ESV)
Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. And when they saw him they worshiped him, but some doubted. And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

Reflection: Who in your life could you intentionally invest in this week to help them grow as a follower of Jesus?

Day 3: Discipling the Next Generation Requires Intensity and Intention

Passing on faith to the next generation is not a passive act; it demands both intensity and intention. Just as a relay runner stretches with all their might to pass the baton, we are called to lean in with energy and focus, prioritizing the spiritual growth of our youth. This means making time for prayer, Scripture, and meaningful conversations, ensuring that our efforts to disciple match or exceed the influences competing for their attention. [13:24]

Deuteronomy 6:6-7 (ESV)
And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.

Reflection: In what practical way can you increase your intentionality or intensity in nurturing the faith of a young person this week?

Day 4: The Power of Quiet, Intentional Moments in Discipleship

Some of the most significant spiritual growth happens in quiet, everyday moments when we are willing to pause, listen, and guide the next generation toward God. Like Eli with young Samuel, our willingness to be present and attentive—even when tired or busy—can open the door for someone to hear God’s voice for the first time. These small acts of intentional discipleship can have a ripple effect, changing lives and even the world. [25:54]

1 Samuel 3:7-10 (ESV)
Now Samuel did not yet know the Lord, and the word of the Lord had not yet been revealed to him. And the Lord called Samuel again the third time. And he arose and went to Eli and said, “Here I am, for you called me.” Then Eli perceived that the Lord was calling the boy. Therefore Eli said to Samuel, “Go, lie down, and if he calls you, you shall say, ‘Speak, Lord, for your servant hears.’” So Samuel went and lay down in his place. And the Lord came and stood, calling as at other times, “Samuel! Samuel!” And Samuel said, “Speak, for your servant hears.”

Reflection: When was the last time you paused your own agenda to listen or guide a young person spiritually? How can you create space for such moments this week?

Day 5: Unity and Community Are Essential for the Next Generation

A unified church, where generations strive to be one with God and one with each other, provides the support and affirmation that young people need in a world that often feels isolating and overwhelming. By cultivating a community that values knowing God’s word, choosing His way, and loving others, we help the next generation stand strong in faith and purpose. Our collective investment ensures that no one walks alone and that every young person knows they are seen, valued, and empowered to make a difference. [29:57]

John 17:20-23 (ESV)
“I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me. The glory that you have given me I have given to them, that they may be one even as we are one, I in them and you in me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that you sent me and loved them even as you loved me.”

Reflection: What is one step you can take this week to help foster unity and belonging for a young person or within your church community?

Sermon Summary

Today is a special day as we pause to focus on the future—specifically, the next generation. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, single adult, or youth yourself, each of us has a vital role in shaping what comes next. The decisions we make today, even the small ones, have a profound impact on the lives of those who follow us. Just as I realized while playing basketball with my son, our choices and the way we invest in our relationships can create lasting memories and shape the future in ways we may not immediately see.

Jesus, knowing the challenges and unbelief that would persist in the world, gave us a clear directive: “Go and make disciples of all nations.” This call isn’t just for a select few; it’s for every believer. Discipleship is the power to reshape the world by helping others reflect the love of Jesus. The most significant opportunity to do this is often right in front of us—our youth. The next generation holds immense potential, and God has placed within them the power to change everything. But it’s up to us to reach out, guide, and disciple them with both intensity and intention.

Discipling the next generation isn’t passive; it requires us to lean in, much like a relay runner stretching to pass the baton. Our youth deserve more than a casual handoff—they deserve our full effort, our time, and our hearts. In a world where digital influences are constantly shaping their minds, our commitment to their spiritual growth must be just as strong, if not stronger. It’s not just about big events or grand gestures, but about being present in the quiet, everyday moments—like Eli guiding young Samuel to hear God’s voice in the night.

We are launching Gen 1, our renewed family ministry, with a mission to cultivate a generation that strives to be one with God and one with others. This means knowing God’s word, choosing His way, holding His hand, seeing others through His eyes, loving others, and grabbing a hand to serve and lead. Every one of us can play a part—whether by volunteering, praying, or simply being intentional in our relationships with the next generation. The power to change everything is within our reach, because Jesus is with us, and all authority belongs to Him. Let’s lock arms and believe for great things as we invest in the future together.

Key Takeaways

1. The Power to Change Is Within Reach God has entrusted each of us with the ability to influence the future, especially through the next generation. Our daily decisions, no matter how small, can have a ripple effect that shapes lives and communities for years to come. Recognizing this truth empowers us to act with purpose and hope, knowing that God works through our ordinary moments to bring about extraordinary change. [07:09]
2. Discipleship Is the Answer to a Broken World In a world marked by unbelief, division, and confusion, Jesus’ command to make disciples remains the most effective way to bring transformation. Discipleship isn’t about programs or events alone; it’s about helping others reflect the love and light of Jesus in their everyday lives. When we invest in making followers of Christ, we participate in God’s plan to heal and renew the world around us. [13:24]
3. Intensity and Intention Are Essential Passing faith to the next generation requires more than casual involvement—it demands intensity and intention. Just as a relay runner stretches with all their might to pass the baton, we must lean in with our full selves to disciple our youth. This means prioritizing their spiritual growth, being present in their lives, and matching the intensity of the influences they face from the world. [18:44]
4. Small, Quiet Moments Matter Most Some of the most significant spiritual breakthroughs happen in the quiet, everyday moments—like Eli guiding Samuel to hear God’s voice. These moments require patience, attentiveness, and a willingness to reprioritize our own comfort for the sake of another’s growth. When we are intentional in these small interactions, we create space for God to move powerfully in the lives of the next generation. [25:54]
5. Jesus’ Authority Is Our Confidence We do not disciple in our own strength, but in the authority and presence of Jesus, who promised to be with us always. No matter how daunting the challenges facing our youth—depression, anxiety, identity struggles—Jesus has authority over them all. Our confidence to invest in the next generation comes from knowing that Christ is with us, empowering us to make a lasting difference. [39:49]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[01:10] - Focusing on the Next Generation
[03:00] - A Story About My Son and the Power of Decisions
[07:09] - Our Choices Shape the Future
[09:30] - Jesus’ Directive: Go and Make Disciples
[11:27] - What Is a Disciple?
[13:24] - Discipleship Reshapes the World
[15:30] - The Opportunity Right in Front of Us: Our Youth
[18:44] - Intensity and Intention in Discipling
[22:35] - The Story of Eli and Samuel
[25:54] - The Power of Quiet, Intentional Moments
[27:22] - Every Generation’s Call to Make a Mark
[29:57] - Launching Gen 1: Our New Family Ministry
[32:30] - Testimonies of Changed Lives
[33:43] - Camp Rhythm: Discipling Through Music
[39:49] - Jesus’ Authority and Our Confidence
[41:30] - Invitation to Get Involved and Closing Prayer

Bible Study Guide

Bible Reading

Matthew 28:16-20 (ESV) — > Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. And when they saw him they worshiped him, but some doubted. And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

1 Samuel 3:1-10 (ESV) — > Now the boy Samuel was ministering to the Lord in the presence of Eli. And the word of the Lord was rare in those days; there was no frequent vision. ... Then Eli perceived that the Lord was calling the boy. Therefore Eli said to Samuel, “Go, lie down, and if he calls you, you shall say, ‘Speak, Lord, for your servant hears.’” ... And the Lord came and stood, calling as at other times, “Samuel! Samuel!” And Samuel said, “Speak, for your servant hears.”

Observation Questions

In Matthew 28:16-20, what specific instructions does Jesus give to his followers before he leaves them?
According to the sermon, what is the significance of Jesus saying “all authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me”? [[10:28]]
In the story of Eli and Samuel (1 Samuel 3), what role does Eli play in helping Samuel hear from God for the first time? [[24:18]]
The sermon mentions that “discipleship is the power to reshape the world by helping others reflect the love of Jesus.” What examples from the sermon illustrate this idea? [[13:24]]

Interpretation Questions

Why do you think Jesus emphasized his authority before commanding his followers to make disciples? How might this have encouraged them in the face of doubt or unbelief? [[10:28]]
The sermon compares passing faith to the next generation to a relay race baton handoff. What does this analogy suggest about the effort and intentionality required in discipleship? [[18:44]]
In the story of Eli and Samuel, what might have happened if Eli had ignored Samuel’s questions in the middle of the night? What does this teach us about the importance of small, quiet moments in spiritual growth? [[25:54]]
The sermon says that every believer has a role in discipling the next generation, not just parents or church leaders. Why is this responsibility shared by all, and what might be the consequences if we neglect it? [[29:57]]

Application Questions

The sermon challenges us to match the intensity of the world’s digital influences with our own commitment to discipling the next generation. What is one practical way you can be more intentional about spiritual conversations or prayer with a young person in your life this week? [[18:44]]
Think about a “small, quiet moment” you’ve had recently with someone younger than you (a child, teen, or young adult). Did you use that moment to encourage their faith? If not, how could you be more attentive and present in those moments going forward? [[25:54]]
The story of Eli and Samuel shows the importance of patience and willingness to reprioritize our own comfort for someone else’s spiritual growth. What is one area of your life where you might need to reprioritize to make room for discipling or mentoring someone? [[25:54]]
The sermon mentions that “the power to change everything is within our reach.” Is there a decision or habit in your daily life that you sense could have a ripple effect on the next generation? What is it, and how can you act on it this week? [[07:09]]
Jesus promises to be with us always as we make disciples. How does this promise affect your confidence or willingness to step into a mentoring or leadership role with youth, even if you feel unqualified? [[39:49]]
The new Gen 1 ministry is about being “one with God and one with others.” Which of the six core values (knowing God’s word, choosing His way, holding His hand, seeing others, loving others, grabbing a hand to serve/lead) do you feel strongest in? Which one do you want to grow in, and what’s a first step you can take? [[29:57]]
The sermon invites everyone to get involved—by volunteering, praying, or intentionally building relationships with the next generation. What is one specific action you can take this month to support or invest in Gen 1 or the youth in your community? [[41:30]]

Sermon Clips

Nothing has impacted the world for good than the church of Jesus. We need to remember that. There's no other instance, there's no other entity that has radically transformed the lives of people and the world around us for good as the church has. [00:12:01] (20 seconds) #ChurchTransformsLives

Discipleship is the power to reshape the world by helping others reflect the love of Jesus. You know, just like you turn on the light in the dark room, how it totally transforms the atmosphere. That's what happens to this world when the light and love of Jesus is shine through it. [00:13:26] (21 seconds) #LightTransformsDarkness

Probably the most powerful opportunity to disciple is literally right under our nose. I'm talking about our youth. I'm talking about the future of our communities. I'm talking about the future of our leaders of our about churches our youth the next generation has the power to influence the nations for Jesus when we take the opportunity to disciple them to teach them to lead them. [00:14:44] (32 seconds) #YouthHoldTheFuture

Let today be the day where we decide, hey, we're not going to live this life as this passive doormat, right? We see what's going on in this world. We see the hate. We see the vitriol. We see the polarization, but we are not going to fight the way the world does, right? [00:27:33] (20 seconds) #RejectWorldsFight

It's when every generation understands that God has called them to make a mark on the world, whether you're Gen Alpha, whether you're Gen Z, whether you're Gen X, whether you're Boomer, God has called you. The power to change everything is within your reach. [00:28:25] (16 seconds) #CalledToMakeAMark

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