When I think about High School and Middle School students, I can’t help but ponder where their beliefs stand regarding the bride of Christ (His church).  I mean for most students who grew up in a ‘Christian’ home, church has been as regular as Thanksgiving dinner (and as often in some cases).

But what does this generation truly think about the Church…how do they view the role of the church…how do they view their role as part of the Church?  All of these questions are things we must ask.  Why?  Well consider the influence of media and culture and how both have influenced the modern day church.  Now consider that historically the church has been the entity influencing the world (architecture, music…).

From my experience, I see students beginning to embrace two polarizing views.  The most destructive of these views is the one where the church is not significant.  It is the view where church experiences have become entertainment based and very short in the area of conviction.  As most would agree, who would want to go somewhere where you constantly are asked to evaluate your short comings.  This age we live in tells us that if we don’t like product ‘A’ then try product ‘B’.  Church has become no different.  On any given Sunday you can find someone who will tell you what you want to hear.

The second of these views is embraced by a smaller number but in a very significant way.  You see, approximately 30% (based on my experience) embrace their role as part of the Church and affirm the role of the Holy Spirit higher than their own wants/desires.  This group (although smaller by comparison) is a force to be dealt with.  You see, this group wants the truth.  They want the Word preached in a real and relevant way.  They have grown tired of entertainment and want to be part of a culture changing movement.  They want to fall in line behind what God has in store for them.  This group is our hope.  This group has an incredible task at hand and deserves our prayers.

My prayer is that our community would see more and more of these students raise up.  That our community would see a real revival of grace that can only come from a relationship with Jesus Christ.