Episode 012 - Empowering the Next Generation: A Conversation with Pastor Terry Parkman

Summary

In this episode, the hosts welcome Pastor Terry Parkman, a leading voice in youth ministry, to discuss the evolving landscape of the church and its relationship with the next generation. They explore the shift from attractional to missional models of ministry, the challenges of engaging young people, and the importance of empowering them as producers rather than consumers. Pastor Terry emphasizes the need for churches to adapt to the changing cultural landscape while remaining rooted in biblical truth and the transformative power of God.

Takeaways

The church is transitioning from an attractional model to a missional model.

Engagement is a more important measure of success than attendance.

Young people today are producers, not just consumers.

Discipleship should focus on adapting the word to multiple cultures.

Church leaders need to keep an open hand to new ideas and methods.

The presence of God is what truly attracts young people.

Cultural issues should be approached with a redemptive mindset.

Biblical literacy is essential for engaging in hard conversations.

Churches should prioritize sending capacity over seating capacity.

Empowering young leaders is crucial for the future of the church.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Good News

02:00 Welcoming Pastor Terry Parkman

07:48 Pastor Terry's Background and Mission

09:50 The Shift from Attractional to Missional Church

11:40 Challenges in Ministering to Young People

17:42 Redefining Success in Youth Ministry

20:49 Engaging the Next Generation as Producers

23:57 Empowering the Next Generation

25:17 Adapting to a Changing Job Market

26:14 Rethinking Discipleship for Gen Alpha

28:30 Redefining Church Engagement

28:59 Redeeming Culture for Christ

32:36 The Importance of Biblical Literacy

34:05 Balancing Seating and Sending Capacity

35:49 Embracing Disruption as a Leader

Keywords

next generation, church, youth ministry, Pastor Terry Parkman, missional church, empowering youth, measuring success, redeeming culture, church leadership, engagement