I want to share a great question I received from a youth pastor.... 

Dear Tim,

I've been reading and learning more about discipleship; however, it seems too many churches don't really promote it or even have that much of a grasp on it. Do you have any tips for ways to go about it?

Dan, Illinois

Let me share an equation I use when quantifying the results of ministries I serve. 

You measure what you value; you produce what you measure.

When I have the opportunity to consult with a church or provide coaching to a congregation, my first inquiry is always, “Please show me your youth in ministry.” I don’t ask about the building, budget, or broken down bus, etc. What I really want to view is young people actively engaged in doing the work of the ministry – their ministry. (If you can’t show me any, I know the real results already.)

There is only one objective for youth ministry – for the whole church in fact. That goal also defines the purpose of ministry clearly and concisely. It is synthesized with one dynamic word: discipleship. It is the last word Jesus spoke when he commissioned his faithful few. It was his number one priority and our number one failure. Ironic.

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