What Are You Building? A Program or People?

I have long forgotten the name of the youth ministry newsletter. It was published quarterly by some christian publishing company, and a simple comparison chart in one issue forever changed the way I approached youth ministry. What I read moved me from a "doing something for the youth" mentality to an intentional effort of "equipping saints for the work of the ministry" (Ephesians 4:12 NKJV).

The small unassuming chart compared a "Program Oriented Youth Program" with a "Person Oriented Youth Ministry." It was just a simple comparison chart; however, as I read the comparison chart, it was like someone turned a light on inside my brain . . . it was one of those "wow" moments that impacted the future of my ministry to youth and young adults.

Today, I share an adapted version of this comparison with fellow youth ministers. I pray that you find it "illuminating" and allow it to impact the future of your ministry with today's youth.


Program Oriented Youth Program --

GOAL is a good program; high visibility, functions smoothly, easy to promote; “doing something for the youth” mentality.

STARTS with ideas: Youth or volunteer receives mailing or hears of “wild, new idea”; decides to try it with group and see what happens.

SUCCESS judged by attendance; the more kids in the program, the better; lots of counting!

PRODUCES large numbers initially (if it's done well) and involves lots of people. Well-liked by kids; tends to play to “wants” rather than needs. Impresses congregation.

PREDICTABLE: Once a “working” system is established that seems to please everybody, no need to make changes.


Person Oriented Youth Ministry --

GOAL is building and nurturing youth and young adults into disciples, “saints equipped for the work of the ministry” (Ephesians 4:12 NKJV).

STARTS with needs of the youth and young adults involved; all planning strategies and ideas are filtered through the question: “How will it help us get our youth and young adults from where they are to a deeper commitment?”

SUCCESS judged by individuals who have been involved with the ministry: Where are they now? How solid is their commitment? Are they “equipped saints?”

PRODUCES long-term results. May start small and be less impressive in the short run. Usually builds in more “staying power.”

FLEXIBLE: A ministry based on needs will change as needs change; may even necessitate changing a popular "programing component" to better meet objectives.

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(The original version of this chart appears on page 20 of Duffy Robbins' book, Programing to Build Disciples. Unfortunately, this quality book is out of print.)