Youth Pastor Theologian

One of the main reasons a youth pastor's relationship with their senior pastor can suffer is from unmet expectations. In this conversation, we talk with Cody Busby (Mike's pastor) in order to encourage and support healthy senior/youth pastor relationships.  Discussion Features: Share with us a little about your experience as a youth pastor… what do you miss most about serving in youth ministry and how do you think that's shaped the way you lead as a senior pastor?  What are some of the biggest differences between leading as a youth pastor and leading as the senior pastor?  I'm not sure what your relationship was like with your senior pastor, but now that you've been a senior pastor for 18 years, what do you wish you could go back and tell youth pastor Cody?  Big picture, what are some expectations that senior pastors have of youth pastors? This isn't a list of what they SHOULD expect… but an honest reflection of what you've heard that would be good for youth pastors to know.  What are your thoughts about “leading up?” as this way for subordinates to seek to lead their leaders? In what ways is this simply “leading together” and in what ways can this be a red flag that maybe it's time to leave?  If you could identify a few areas where you think youth pastors need to focus in order to improve or strengthen their relationship with the senior pastor?   A final word on what you'd like to share with youth pastors who may have a less-than-great relationship with their pastor?   Cody Busby is the senior pastor of South Shore Baptist Church in Hingham, MA. He has his D.Min. in expository preaching from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and is a proud member of the South Shore Curling Club.  Join YPT's Facebook group: @youththeologian (make sure you answer the membership questions) Follow YPT on Twitter: @youththeologian Follow YPT on Instagram: @youththeologian YPT's ebook, Youth Ministry is Theological Ministry, is a free download for subscribers. This book captures the essence of Youth Pastor Theologian in one ten-chapter book, written by six different contributors from across America, Mexico, and the UK.   

Faithful preaching and teaching does more than deliver biblical content, it takes the audience into account and draws the listeners into the text so they can behold the truth and beauty of God's Word. Most of us have listened to sermons that were biblically and theologically sound, but they weren't helpful. In today's conversation, we want to help youth leaders preach and teach in a way that connects with the youth in your ministry.  What are some reasons preachers and teachers can preach an exegetically strong sermon but struggle to connect with their audience?  YPT is serving youth pastors and volunteer leaders, how does a teenage audience shape the way you prepare and deliver biblical sermons?  One of your books is entitled “Preaching with Cultural Intelligence.” What do you mean by that and what's that look like in our preparation and delivery?  How can youth pastors better understand themselves and their own cultural background in order to guard against imposing ourselves onto our listeners?  If you were to offer just a few simple and accessible pieces of advice for new youth pastors, what would it be?  Finally, what are some of the “absolute go-to” books on preaching you think every minister should read?  Matthew Kim is a Professor of Practical Theology and holds the Hubert and Gladys Raborn Chair of Pastoral Leadership at Truett Theological Seminary in Waco, TX. He's written multiple books on preaching, and we'll be focusing today on one of those… Preaching with Cultural Intelligence.  Recommended books by Dr. Kim Haddon Robinson, Biblical Preaching: The Development and Delivery of Expository Messages D. Martyn Lloyd Jones, Preachers and Preaching Abraham Kuruvilla, A Vision for Preaching: Understanding the Heart of Pastoral Ministry Benjamin Kirby, PreachersNSneakers: Authenticity in an Age of For-Profit Faith and (Wannabe) Celebrities View and Order Dr. Kim's books on Amazon Follow Dr. Kim on Twitter: @matthewdkim Join YPT's Facebook group: @youththeologian (make sure you answer the membership questions) Follow YPT on Twitter: @youththeologian Follow YPT on Instagram: @youththeologian YPT's ebook, Youth Ministry is Theological Ministry, is a free download for subscribers. This book captures the essence of Youth Pastor Theologian in one ten-chapter book, written by six different contributors from across America, Mexico, and the UK.   

Nearly twenty years ago, the largest study on youth and religion described the religious worldview of youth and young adults as Moralistic Therapeutic Deism. The teenagers and young adults in that study are now the parents of GenZ, which prompts the question, “Is MTD still a good description of youth spirituality?”  Discussion Questions For our listeners who don't know about the National Study on Youth and Religion, could you share an overview of what that was all about and about your role in it?  The most enduring finding from NSYR was Moralistic Therapeutic Deism. What is that, and could you give a few examples of the way it was understood at the time?  How does MTD relate with tolerance culture today?  What are some lessons from NSYR that we continue to overlook today? Your book Almost Christian really struck a nerve when it was released in 2010. What were some of the messages from that book that resonated with people at the time, and how do you see those continuing or changing in youth culture today?  Dr. Kenda Creasy Dean is a youth ministry legend and is Professor of Youth, Church, and Culture at Princeton Theological Seminary. Dr. Dean has written or co-authored a dozen books, most notably Starting Right, The Theological Turn in Youth Ministry and Almost Christian.  Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Soul Searching, by Christian Smith and Melissa Lundquist Denton Handing Down the Faith, by Christian Smith and Amy Adamczyk Almost Christian, by Kenda Creasy Dean The Polaris Young Adult Leadership Network at Princeton Theological Seminary  

If youth workers aren't teaching teenagers about God then how can we call what we're doing "ministry"? The doctrine of God is a topic that people tend to either take for granted or they are intimidated by it's grandeur. This conversation highlights some of the core aspects of the doctrine of God and why it's so important to talk about with teenagers.  What is the vision behind the “Theology for Every Person” series? People are easily intimidated by the word “theology.” Why is it so important to promote theology for normal believers?  Why start with the doctrine of God and not the doctrine of Scripture/Revelation?  Could you give us an overview of the doctrine of God, what does that involve?  Does someone need to believe in the Trinity in order to be a Christian? What about the new believer?  Our audience is primarily youth pastors and volunteer youth workers… what advice do you have for them in talking about the Trinity and doctrine of God with teenagers, in a way that is simple to understand and doctrinally sound?  Advice about a youth teaching series about the attributes of God? Dr. Malcolm Yarnell serves as Research Professor of Theology at SWBTS and as Teaching Pastor at Lakeside Baptist Church in Granbury, TX, among other things. He's also written or contributed to many theology books – his latest project is a three-part series entitled “Theology for Every Person” and the first book has just been released, which focuses on the doctrine of God. Other books by Dr. Yarnell YPT Recommends: The Formation of Christian Doctrine God the Trinity: Biblical Portraits Trinitarian Theology Above includes Amazon Affiliate links, which provide YPT with a small financial benefit when you make a purchase. We use these benefits to develop the content you enjoy for free. Thank you for supporting us in this way.  Follow Dr. Yarnell on Twitter/X and Instagram: @MusingsOnChrist Join YPT's Facebook group: @youththeologian (make sure you answer the membership questions) Follow YPT on Twitter: @youththeologian Follow YPT on Instagram: @youththeologian YPT's ebook, Youth Ministry is Theological Ministry, is a free download for subscribers. This book captures the essence of Youth Pastor Theologian in one ten-chapter book, written by six different contributors from across America, Mexico, and the UK. 

Although we preach the same gospel, each culture brings distinct questions and challenges for pastoral ministry. What can Western youth workers learn from African youth leaders and pastors? What does youth ministry look like in Kenya? Since Africa is a large continent with many people groups and languages, can you give us a snapshot about what youth ministry looks like across Africa?  You've recently published “Apologetics in Africa” through Langham Press. What prompted you to write that book?  There are some chapters that are very similar to what you'd find in most apologetics books, but there are some pretty unique topics that are particular to ministry in Africa. What are some questions apologetics in Africa needs to address that doesn't get much attention in other contexts?  What blind spots have you seen in the broader world of youth ministry that we might not recognize ourselves? Dr. Kevin Muriithi is a Lecturer and Head of Department in Practical Theology at School of Theology at St. Paul's University, Kenya and is an affiliated Research Fellow in the Department of Practical Theology and Missiology, Stellenbosch University, South Africa. He brings pastoral ministry experiences to theological education, especially his years of serving in youth ministry. He's recently published “Apologetics in Africa” through Langham Press, which is the main topic of today's conversation.  Study: Global Youth Culture (OneHope) Dr. Muriithi's blog: theogrimage.com Order Apologetics in Africa on Amazon or through Langham Publishing (free shipping) Follow Dr. Muriithi on Twitter/X: @ndereba  Join YPT's Facebook group: @youththeologian (make sure you answer the membership questions) Follow YPT on Twitter: @youththeologian Follow YPT on Instagram: @youththeologian YPT's ebook, Youth Ministry is Theological Ministry, is a free download for subscribers. This book captures the essence of Youth Pastor Theologian in one ten-chapter book, written by six different contributors from across America, Mexico, and the UK. 

Good and faithful youth ministry can look very different from context to context, and yet we often define “What is youth ministry” by the form it takes rather than the essence. Today we're going to talk about contextualization with Mike Dicker from YouthWorks College in Sydney, Australia.  What is contextualization and why is it important?  What is "divine accomodation" and can you point to any examples of contextualization in the Bible?  You've proposed four steps for faithful contextualization in youth ministry. Could you give us a quick overview of the four steps, and then we can go through them together in a bit more detail?  What recommendations do you have that are particular to youth ministry?  As youth workers strive towards contextualization, the temptation is to think first about our preaching… but we need to apply contextualization to the gospel culture of our ministry. What does that mean and how do we establish a gospel culture?  Learn more about YouthWorks and YouthWorks College Join YPT's Facebook group: @youththeologian (make sure you answer the membership questions) Follow YPT on Twitter: @youththeologian Follow YPT on Instagram: @youththeologian YPT's ebook, Youth Ministry is Theological Ministry, is a free download for subscribers. This book captures the essence of Youth Pastor Theologian in one ten-chapter book, written by six different contributors from across America, Mexico, and the UK. 

We often anchor relational discipleship in Christ's incarnation, but is that the best biblical and theological foundation? In what ways might “Incarnational Ministry” have shaped the way we think about the Incarnation, rather than it being the other way around? For this reason, it's important to get clear on the doctrine of the incarnation as we evaluate the biblical heart of relational ministry.  Discussion How did this question get on your radar and what motivated you to sink your teeth into it? When people talk about “Incarnational Ministry,” what do they tend to have in mind, and what's the typical argument for it sound like?  Could you walk us through the doctrine of the incarnation and share your hesitations about continuing with “incarnational ministry” language?  Is this just splitting hairs over nitpicky theology or is there something really at stake? What do you propose instead?  Tim Gough is the center director for YFC in North Wales, chief editor for the Grove Youth series of books, and adjunct lecturer in youth ministry at various colleges in the UK, and is pursuing his PhD at University of Manchester.  Order Tim's book, Rebooted: Reclaiming Youth Ministry for the Long Haul (IVP UK, 2019) Follow Tim on Twitter/X: @timgoughuk Follow Tim on YouTube: Youth Work Hacks Join YPT's Facebook group: @youththeologian (make sure you answer the membership questions) Follow YPT on Twitter: @youththeologian Follow YPT on Instagram: @youththeologian YPT's ebook, Youth Ministry is Theological Ministry, is a free download for subscribers. This book captures the essence of Youth Pastor Theologian in one ten-chapter book, written by six different contributors from across America, Mexico, and the UK. 

Ministry to students after confirmation (or baptism, depending on tradition) can pose some unique challenges. Bård Norheim shares about "post-confirmation leadership training" in Norway, a nationwide effort by churches to prioritize discipleship and to help youth cultivate enduring faith by finding their belonging in their church community.  What does youth ministry look like in Norway? What are some particular challenges teenagers in Norway are facing?  How does the Church of Norway (evangelical lutheran) currently lead youth through the confirmation process?  Could you share more about this post-confirmation leadership training?  What do you mean by “ambivalence” in youth, and how do you encourage youth leaders to respond?  What are some of the main lessons you've learned that you want to share with youth workers, not just in Norway but globally, about leading youth into Christian maturity?  Any good books or resources you'd like to point our listeners to about this topic?  Bård Norheim is professor of theology, religion and philosophy, NLA Bergen University College in Norway. He is also coauthor (with Jos de Kock) of The Five Questions: An Academic Handbook in Youth Ministry Research. Join YPT's Facebook group: @youththeologian (make sure you answer the membership questions) Follow YPT on Twitter: @youththeologian Follow YPT on Instagram: @youththeologian YPT's ebook, Youth Ministry is Theological Ministry, is a free download for subscribers. This book captures the essence of Youth Pastor Theologian in one ten-chapter book, written by six different contributors from across America, Mexico, and the UK. 

Christian Universalism is a subtle heresy that's frighteningly common among GenZ today. It's a way that teenagers can affirm that "Christ is the only savior" and make other gospel-sounding affirmations while fully embracing the hyper-tolerant worldview of today's culture. In today's conversation, we discuss what Christian Universalism is and how youth workers can help students build their faith on the biblical message.  Discussion Questions: What do we mean by universalism and Christian Universalism in particular? Can you walk us through some of the logic behind Christian Universalism and some of the key Bible verses? Why do you think Christian Universalism is so appealing to today's teenagers? How can youth workers preach the gospel of grace without falling into one of two errors: accidentally implying Christian Universalism, or nuancing the gospel so thoroughly it's become clunky and confusing? How do you recommend youth workers to respond when talking with a teenager who considers themselves a Christian but affirms Christian Universalism? Andrew Slay is an Assistant Pastor at Westwood Baptist Church in Cleveland, TN, where he oversees ministry to high school and middle school students. He's working on his PhD in Apologetics and Culture from NOBTS.  Recommended Resources The following books include Amazon Affiliate links, which provide YPT with a small financial benefit. We use these to continue providing you with the content you so enjoy. Thank you for your support. Michael McClymond, The Devil's Redemption: A New History and Interpretation of Christian Universalism (two volumes) Four Views on Hell (Zondervan Counterpoints series) John Piper, Are There Two Wills in God? (article) Greg Gilbert, What is the Gospel? Scott Stein, Is Christian Universalism True? (Prepared to Answer) Prepared to Answer Podcast, Jesus Teaches on Hell (or does he?) Join YPT's Facebook group: @youththeologian (make sure you answer the membership questions) Follow YPT on Twitter: @youththeologian Follow YPT on Instagram: @youththeologian YPT's ebook, Youth Ministry is Theological Ministry, is a free download for subscribers. This book captures the essence of Youth Pastor Theologian in one ten-chapter book, written by six different contributors from across America, Mexico, and the UK.   

The Image of God (or Imago Dei) is one of the most important doctrines for youth pastors to teach teenagers, because almost every cultural landmine today finds its resolution in what it means to bear the image of God. That's why I'm excited to be talking with Dr. Imes today about her new book, Being God's Image.  What is the doctrine of the Image of God and what prompted you to write this book now? Early in the book, you make the distinction between being created IN God's image and being created AS God's image. Could you share a little more about that distinction?  What are some areas where the Imago Dei finds a lot of resonance in today's culture, and what are some areas where it's a powerful corrective?  What's the relationship between the Imago Dei and the gospel?  How can youth workers teach and talk faithfully about the Imago Dei and human dignity in the midst of the effects of sin and the fall?  Do you have any practical recommendations for youth workers who want to teach about the Image of God?  Recommendations: Dr. Imes' book: Being God's Image: Why Creation Still Matters Christa McKirland: God's Provision, Humanity's Need: The Gift of Our Dependence Every Woman's Study Bible (NLT)  Marc Cortez: Resourcing Theological Anthropology: A Constructive Account of Humanity in the Light of Christ Follow Dr. Imes' Youtube Channel for Torah Tuesday videos Join YPT's Facebook group: @youththeologian (make sure you answer the membership questions) Follow YPT on Twitter: @youththeologian Follow YPT on Instagram: @youththeologian YPT's ebook, Youth Ministry is Theological Ministry, is a free download for subscribers. It's a great way to discover more about YPT's vision for theologically-grounded ministry to youth. 

The youth pastor's authority comes from the Word of God. When we stray from teaching the Bible then we lose the capacity to say “Thus says the Lord.” Teenagers don't need more opinions, they need God's Word. But how can normal youth leaders teach with biblical depth and pastoral warmth?    Discussion Questions What is expository preaching and what distinguishes it from other types of preaching?  What are some unique benefits of expository preaching in youth ministry?  What are some common reasons youth workers might not practice expository preaching?  Does this mean we should ONLY teach verse-by-verse through books of the Bible?  How can youth workers preach and teach for long-term formation?  Where would you direct listeners who want to learn more, including good examples of expository preaching that's accessible for teenagers?  John Gardner is the Youth Pastor at Grace Longmont, just north of Denver Colorado. He has earned his D.Min. in Expository Preaching from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, which is what we'll be talking about today.  Resources Mentioned “How to Develop an Exegetical-Theological Series in Youth Group,” by Jason Engle Brain Matters, by Patricia Wolfe Preaching God's Word, by Carter, Duvall, and Hayes A Vision for Preaching, by Abraham Kuruvilla  Simeon Trust Workshops  Join YPT's Facebook group: @youththeologian (make sure you answer the membership questions) Follow YPT on Twitter: @youththeologian Follow YPT on Instagram: @youththeologian YPT's ebook, Youth Ministry is Theological Ministry, is a free download for subscribers. This book captures the essence of Youth Pastor Theologian in one ten-chapter book, written by six different contributors from across America, Mexico, and the UK. 

Partnering with parents is an essential part of biblical youth ministry. But "family ministry" can sometimes assume a certain type of family - namely, mom and dad with kids living independently. But 1/3 of kids in America today are living in a single-parent household. In this episode, we'll hear from Anna Meade Harris about her new book, "God's Grace for Every Family: Biblical Encouragement for Single Parent Families and the Churches That Seek to Love Them Well."  Discussion Includes: Could you share about your own family experience and how that led to your new book? What are the different reasons for single parent households and how does that affect the way they engage with the church?  Your book reads, “thirty percent of families in the US are led by a single parent. Nearly nineteen million children have one parent in the home. Although roughly thirty verses in the Bible declare how God wants his church to treat widows and the fatherless, by and large the church does not know what to do with families like mine.” (p.15) Why do you think that's the case, and what's that mean for youth workers who are listening to this conversation?  Here's another quote that really hits home, “Although the majority of custodial single parents are moms, single parenting is not a women's issue, it's a family of God issue.” (p22) Could you share a few examples of what it looks like for a church to come together and be the family of God?   What recommendations do you have for ministry to teenagers of single-parent households?  Are there any good resources you'd recommend on ministry to single parent families?  Anna Meade Harris is the Senior Director of Content for the Rooted Ministry and the mom of three adult sons. God's Grace for Every Family: Biblical Encouragement for Single Parent Families and the Churches That Seek to Love Them Well, releasing March 2024 through Zondervan.  Recommendations Mike McGarry, Lead Them to Jesus: A Handbook for Youth Workers (ch.37, “Supporting Single-Parent Families”)  Blaire Linne, Finding My Father: How the Gospel Heals the Pain of Fatherlessness Henri Nouwen, The Wounded Healer  Claressa Moll, Beyond the Darkness: A Gentle Guide for Living with Grief and Thriving after Loss DivorceCare Ministry  Join YPT's Facebook group: @youththeologian (make sure you answer the membership questions) Follow YPT on Twitter: @youththeologian Follow YPT on Instagram: @youththeologian YPT's ebook, Youth Ministry is Theological Ministry, is a free download for subscribers. This book captures the essence of Youth Pastor Theologian in one ten-chapter book, written by six different contributors from across America, Mexico, and the UK.  Note: some of the links above feature Amazon Affiliate links, which bring a small financial benefit to YPT. We use these credits to develop the free resources you enjoy. Thank you for your support.

Researchers have conducted a study on the religious lives of Australian youth, and there's much to be learned that translates across cultural boundaries. In this episode, Mike talks with Dr. Graham Stanton about this research and what it can mean for fruitful youth discipleship.  How would you describe the spiritual landscape of Australia, in general… and how is that shaping teenagers and youth ministry?  Could you provide a basic snapshot of the research survey that's the topic of our discussion?  Can you provide a little background about the religious nature of schools in Australia, because that's quite different from what we have here in the States.  What are some positive findings that surprised you?  What are some of the warning bells going off that the church absolutely needs to pay attention to?  As you discuss this survey with youth workers, how are they responding? What are some practical applications that you'd like to see take place over the next few years?  Dr. Graham Stanton is the Director of the Centre for Children's and Youth Ministry and Lecturer in Practical Theology at Ridley College in Melbourne, Australia. He is also an ordained Anglican minister and has been serving in youth ministry at some capacity for over three decades.  Recommendations in this episode: Book: AntiFragile: Things That Gain From Disorder, by Nassim Nicholas Taleb Episode 21: Top Down & Bottom Up Ministry (Gareth Crispin and Robin Barfield) Episode 25: Faith, Doubt, and Everything (Matt Bellefeuille) Follow Dr. Stanton on Twitter/X: @GDStanton Learn more about Ridley College Join YPT's Facebook group: @youththeologian (make sure you answer the membership questions) Follow YPT on Twitter: @youththeologian Follow YPT on Instagram: @youththeologian YPT's ebook, Youth Ministry is Theological Ministry, is a free download for subscribers. This book captures the essence of Youth Pastor Theologian in one ten-chapter book, written by six different contributors from across America, Mexico, and the UK. 

It's good to talk about theologically rich youth ministry, but if youth leaders don't know how to have normal conversations and build relationships with youth then they're never going to get to the theological gold. This conversation with Joey Molloy will help youth workers with some of the nuts and bolts of youth ministry we sometimes take for granted.  What are some ministry skills theologically-minded youth leaders tend to struggle with?  When a youth leader goes to a student's baseball game or soccer hockey match or band concert… how can we make the best use of that time?  What advice do you have for youth leaders who struggle with small talk? How can they spark natural conversations with teenagers?  What are some common pitfalls about relational discipleship you've observed and what advice do you have for our listeners?  Why is it important to highlight that all this practical advice is built on a theologically solid foundation?  When you think about new youth leaders, what's the best piece of advice you'd give them?  Joey Molloy is the Executive Ministry Director of Implementa and Camp Cherith in Ottowa Canada.  Learn more about Implementa and their Certificate in Youth Ministry program.  Follow Joey on Instagram or Twitter or Facebook Join YPT's Facebook group: @youththeologian (make sure you answer the membership questions) Follow YPT on Twitter: @youththeologian Follow YPT on Instagram: @youththeologian YPT's ebook, Youth Ministry is Theological Ministry, is a free download for subscribers. This book captures the essence of Youth Pastor Theologian in one ten-chapter book, written by six different contributors from across America, Mexico, and the UK. 

Leadership matters. That should be a pretty obvious statement, but sometimes theologically-minded pastors can struggle to discern how much overlap really exists between pastoral leadership and leadership in other spheres. Today we'll be talking about leadership, spiritual gifts, and the “Six Types of Working Genius” in order to help you lead your volunteers, parents, and students more effectively.  Why is good leadership so important for men and women in ministry leadership? What do we risk by an immature or underdeveloped approach to leadership?  What are the “Six Types of Working Genius”? Where did this come from, what are they and how can listeners begin to discern their geniuses, competencies, and frustrations?  Do you see any overlaps between working genius and spiritual gifts?  How can youth pastors who lead teams of volunteers and also serve under pastoral leadership grow as self-aware leaders, and how does the Working Genius model help with that? Beau Johnson Invents and Galvanizes as the Director of Operations for the Table Group and has served as a youth pastor and in other areas of pastoral ministry before joining the Table Group… and I'm really exited to have him join us today. He and his family live in Utah.  Working Genius assessment: first 500 YPT listeners can take this assessment for free!  More Resources Six Types of Working Genius book Working Genius Podcast At the Table with Patrick Lencioni Podcast The Table Group Join YPT's Facebook group: @youththeologian (make sure you answer the membership questions) Follow YPT on Twitter: @youththeologian Follow YPT on Instagram: @youththeologian YPT's ebook, Youth Ministry is Theological Ministry, is a free download for subscribers. This book captures the essence of Youth Pastor Theologian in one ten-chapter book, written by six different contributors from across America, Mexico, and the UK. 

Sex has become central to people's identity, lifestyle, and even community. But what if sex points to something even greater? Something eternally glorious, determined by God before the world was created? This episode focuses on So Much More Than Sex, a new video-based series for young adults.  Scott Stein is the founder of Prepared to Answer, an apologetics ministry in Ontario Canada. PTA is also the supervising ministry for YPT, so if you enjoy this podcast then you are deeply indebted to Scott and the PTA team.  Discussion includes:  Prepared to Answer is an apologetics ministry. Why are you releasing a video series about sexuality?  What are the four sessions in So Much more than Sex about, and how did you choose those emphases?  How can parents and youth workers call students into Christian sexuality as more than a list of “do's” and “don'ts”?  What are some of the more common questions or disagreements you receive when speaking with young adults about sexuality?  Recommended Resources from the Conversation Christopher West, Our Bodies Tell God's Story: Discovering the Divine Plan for Love, Sex, and Gender  Christopher Yuan, Holy Sexuality and the Gospel: Sex, Desire, and Relationships Shaped by God's Grand Story Joe Dallas, Speaking of Homosexuality: Discussing the Issues with Clarity and Kindness Koukel, Tactics: A Game Plan for Discussing Your Christian Convictions  Holy Sexuality Project  Follow Prepared to Answer on Instagram: @preparedtoanswer Follow Prepared to Answer on Facebook: @preparedtoanswer Follow Prepared to Answer on YouTube: @preparedtoanswer Join YPT's Facebook group: @youththeologian (make sure you answer the membership questions) Follow YPT on Twitter: @youththeologian Follow YPT on Instagram: @youththeologian YPT's ebook, Youth Ministry is Theological Ministry, is a free download for subscribers. This book captures the essence of Youth Pastor Theologian in one ten-chapter book, written by six different contributors from across America, Mexico, and the UK. 

It's easy to continue leading our youth ministries the way we've seen them run for the last few decades. But it's more important to build our ministries on a biblical foundation. Instead of making our ministry less relevant to secular youth, maybe this is exactly the type of student ministry they need. Today we'll hear from Tim Beilharz in Australia about biblical youth ministry in hard places.  Discussion Features: What does youth group in Australia look like? If a youth leader wants to build his or her youth ministry on a biblical foundation, what are some of those cornerstones and what are some key Scriptures for them to wrestle with?  Some people assume that you need to go light on Bible teaching and doctrine in order to be relevant or culturally “with it.” How do you lead with the Bible first in a tough ministry culture like yours?  What recommendations do you have for new youth pastors in established ministries - how can they evaluate their ministry and begin making some changes?  As you talk with youth workers across Australia and also in the States and UK and elsewhere, what are some challenges we all share, and what are some lessons you think we can learn from one another about ministry to the next generation?  Tim Beilharz is a children's ministry advisor, lecturer, trainer and writer for Anglican Youthworks. He is also the Children's Pastor at Soul Revival Church. Tim is currently enrolled in pre-PhD work at Macquarie University, researching the social nature of childhood faith formation in the context of intergenerational church communities. Tim lives in Sydney, Australia with his wife and kids. Resources Intergenerational Christian Formation, Holly Catterton Allen, Christine Lawton, and others Practical Theology, Richard Osmer  Cross-generational Ministry by Nick Hartman  Effective Ministry Tool, from YouthWorks Effective Ministry Podcast (available on all platforms) Timbeilharz.com  Follow Tim on Twitter/X: @timbeilharz Follow YouthWorks on Twitter/X: @youthworks Join YPT's Facebook group: @youththeologian (make sure you answer the membership questions) Follow YPT on Twitter: @youththeologian Follow YPT on Instagram: @youththeologian YPT's ebook, Youth Ministry is Theological Ministry, is a free download for subscribers. This book captures the essence of Youth Pastor Theologian in one ten-chapter book, written by six different contributors from across America, Mexico, and the UK. 

On one hand, it seems like everyone is talking about sexuality and gender so it's easy to feel numb to people saying it's a big deal. But on the other hand… isn't that the point. Everyone's talking about it, but are they talking about it helpfully and in a way that offers counsel that's both biblical and practical for teenagers? Today's conversation will point your attention to a new resource that will help your students and parents.  Could you share a brief snapshot about More to the Story: Deep Answers to Real Questions on Attraction, Identity, and Relationships and what you hope teenagers get out of reading and discussing the book?  What do you think are the main concerns teens have around issues of identity and sexuality? What is at the root of these concerns? How should adults respond when a teen confides to them about sexual sin? What if they confide about abuse they have suffered? What are some key passages of Scripture you turn to when discussing these issues as you work in youth ministry? How has the conversation about sexuality changed in youth ministry over the last 20 years? What do you recommend regarding preferred pronouns? What does a partnership with parents looks like when a student is struggling with sexual sin or with their sexual or gender identity?  Jennifer M. Kvamme is passionate about helping teenagers see the beauty of the gospel and apply it to all of life. She's been in youth ministry at Centennial Church in Forest Lake, MN, for 20 years, and is also on the director team for the Challenge youth conference. Jennifer is the author of More to the Story and a contributor to the EFCA Blog. She's married to Greg and they have three children. Order More to the Story (affiliate link) Join YPT's Facebook group: @youththeologian (make sure you answer the membership questions) Follow YPT on Twitter: @youththeologian Follow YPT on Instagram: @youththeologian YPT's ebook, Youth Ministry is Theological Ministry, is a free download for subscribers. This book captures the essence of Youth Pastor Theologian in one ten-chapter book, written by six different contributors from across America, Mexico, and the UK. 

Every youth pastor knows they should prioritize partnering with parents, but it's really hard to do for a variety of reasons. This is especially true for younger youth pastors. Let's talk about what partnering with parents looks like and how you can get started.  What are some biblical reasons partnering with parents is more than important… it is absolutely necessary.  What are some reasons you've seen or heard that make it difficult for youth workers to meaningfully partner with parents?  What are some questions youth workers should be asking themselves to honestly evaluate their ministry to parents? How can these new or young youth leaders partner with parents?  Anna Meade Harris is the Senior Director of Content for the Rooted Ministry and the mom of three adult sons. God's Grace for Every Family: Biblical Encouragement for Single Parent Families and the Churches That Seek to Love Them Well, releasing March 2024 through Zondervan.  Join YPT's Facebook group: @youththeologian (make sure you answer the membership questions) Follow YPT on Twitter: @youththeologian Follow YPT on Instagram: @youththeologian YPT has published an ebook that's a free download for subscribers! Youth Ministry is Theological Ministry captures the essence of Youth Pastor Theologian in one ten-chapter book, written by six different contributors from across America, Mexico, and the UK. 

Theological depth is important in every ministry context. In this episode, Jordan Francis shares about urban youth ministry and how theological depth applies to inner-city youth. This is a valuable conversation for all youth workers to hear and benefit from.    Jordan Francis is the founder of Reframe Youth and is a Christian Therapist in Phoenix.  Discussion Questions: Could you describe what makes urban youth ministry different from youth ministry in suburban or rural communities?  How would theological depth, in particular, look different in urban ministry?  Can you give a few examples of ways churches in the inner-city can equip their volunteers to engage youth in theological conversations?  What are some common reasons urban youth workers might downplay or underestimate the value of theological depth?  Do you have any recommendations about ways YPT could serve urban churches and youth workers?  Can you highlight one ministry or youth worker who you think is doing a really great job at this… what are they doing that's instructive for the rest of us to learn through them?  Learn more about Reframe Youth at reframeyouth.com, Youtube, and on Facebook Learn more about the Urban Youth Workers Institute  Join YPT's Facebook group: @youththeologian (make sure you answer the membership questions) Follow YPT on Twitter: @youththeologian Follow YPT on Instagram: @youththeologian YPT's ebook, Youth Ministry is Theological Ministry, is a free download for subscribers. This book captures the essence of Youth Pastor Theologian in one ten-chapter book, written by six different contributors from across America, Mexico, and the UK. 

Discipling new believers is a blessed challenge. Youth pastor theologians need to be thoughtful and have a plan for how to help students in the weeks and months after they make a profession of faith. But how?!  Conversation Includes:  How is the religious climate in Canada different from the Bible Belt and hows that affect the way we minister to youth? Why is a book like “I'm a Christian – Now What?” necessary? How do you envision it being read and by whom?  When students first profess faith in Christ, how can youth workers and parents help them understand what just happened and what to do next?  What are some doctrinal truths that and Christian habits you think are most important to teach new believers, and how do you recommend doing that?  How can we help new believers develop a healthy and intimate prayer life?  Aaron Armstrong is the author of several books for adults and children, documentary screenwriter, ministry leader, and podcaster. His most recent book I'm a Christian—Now What? A Guide to Your New Life with Christ (Lexham Press, 2023). Recommended Resources NET Bible Aaron's Website: Aaronarmstrong.co  Follow Aaron on Social Media: Instagram and Threads Above links include Amazon Affiliate links, which bring a small financial benefit to YPT, which we use to provide you with new resources.  Join YPT's Facebook group: @youththeologian (make sure you answer the membership questions) Follow YPT on Twitter: @youththeologian Follow YPT on Instagram: @youththeologian YPT's ebook, Youth Ministry is Theological Ministry, is a free download for subscribers. This book captures the essence of Youth Pastor Theologian in one ten-chapter book, written by six different contributors from across America, Mexico, and the UK. 

Video games are big business, but most Christian leaders either don't take them seriously or only criticize them as a waste of time. How can youth workers begin to think theologically about the allure and world building of video games, while also thinking critically about addiction in order to engage gamers more effectively?  Discussion Includes: What put video games on your radar to start tweeting about video games? What's the general reaction been to some of the threads you've posted over the last few months?  What are some changes you've observed in video games from the time when you were a teenager to today?  As a pastor and theologian, could you offer some biblical and theological reflection about what video games offer that's so appealing to teenagers and young adults?  How do you pastor and counsel men or women who are addicted or who are too enamored with the virtual world?  What recommendations do you have for parents regarding video games? How can they establish healthy boundaries without simply taking a hard black or white stance? Patrick Miller is a pastor at The Crossing. He hosts the podcast Truth over Tribe and is the coauthor of a book by the same name. He is married to Emily and they have two kids. Recommended Resources Patrick's article: The Case for Taking Video Games Seriously Patrick's podcast: Truth Over Tribe Patrick's book: Truth Over Tribe Love Thy Nerd Gamers to Follow: TV Preacher Guy, Jon Rush Above links include Amazon Affiliate links, which bring a small financial benefit to YPT, which we use to provide you with new resources.  Join YPT's Facebook group: @youththeologian (make sure you answer the membership questions) Follow YPT on Twitter: @youththeologian Follow YPT on Instagram: @youththeologian YPT's ebook, Youth Ministry is Theological Ministry, is a free download for subscribers. This book captures the essence of Youth Pastor Theologian in one ten-chapter book, written by six different contributors from across America, Mexico, and the UK.   

Youth Ministry has a long legacy of commitment to missions, but where can that go wrong and how can we think more strategically about giving students a vision for the Great Commission?  Could you share a little about European Mission Fellowship?  What are some similarities and differences between youth missions in the USA, UK and Europe?  What have you seen and learned about casting a vision for evangelism and missions among youth?  Through your ministry with pastors and missionaries across Europe, what are some important principles or lessons you've learned that would be good for youth workers to hear?  What advice would you offer to youth pastors who are planning their youth missions trips - how can they be more intentional and targeted on long-term fruit?  Alison Woodrow is the Engagement Support Lead for European Mission Fellowship, a gospel-centered ministry based in the UK who supports pastors and missionaries across Europe.  Learn more about EMF on Facebook, Twitter/X, and YouTube Join YPT's Facebook group: @youththeologian (make sure you answer the membership questions) Follow YPT on Twitter: @youththeologian Follow YPT on Instagram: @youththeologian YPT's ebook, Youth Ministry is Theological Ministry, is a free download for subscribers. This book captures the essence of Youth Pastor Theologian in one ten-chapter book, written by six different contributors from across America, Mexico, and the UK. 

Should teenagers become members of the local church? If so, what does that involve - can they vote, join boards and hold positions of leadership? This is a question an increasing number of youth workers are asking, and Justin Wong joins the podcast to chew on it with you.  Discussion includes: What are some of the questions we should be asking about church membership and youth ministry? What happens when you actually implement church membership? When teens become members, what happens next? How has your church culture shaped your approach to church membership? What are some common objections? At what age should teenagers be able to vote? What do you do when a student wants to join but a parent is opposed? Justin Wong is the Pastor to Youth at Chinese Baptist Church in Houston, TX. He has earned his Doctor of Ministry degree and is currently working on his Doctor of Education. Justin and his wife have who daughters.  Join YPT's Facebook group: @youththeologian (make sure you answer the membership questions) Follow YPT on Twitter: @youththeologian Follow YPT on Instagram: @youththeologian YPT's ebook, Youth Ministry is Theological Ministry, is a free download for subscribers. This book captures the essence of Youth Pastor Theologian in one ten-chapter book, written by six different contributors from across America, Mexico, and the UK. 

In this special 50th episode, Mike is joined by three of YPT's regular writers to discuss what it means to be a youth pastor theologian and to celebrate what the Lord is doing through this ministry.  This is a special season for YPT and there are exciting days ahead as we trust the Lord to revive a commitment to theological depth in student ministry. Would you continue to pray for YPT: for Mike to have wisdom about which initiatives to pursue, for generous financial partners to support this ministry, and for us to keep focused on developing resources that youth workers can use for student discipleship.  You can learn more about becoming a ministry partner here YPT Resources mentioned in this episode: Should We Celebrate Baptism and the Lord's Supper at Youth Group? (Will Standridge YPT Facebook Group (make sure you answer those membrship questions!) Podcast episode 39: Gospel-Centered Pedagogy and Church Membership (Justin Wong) Fun and Games in Youth Ministry (Mike McGarry) Join YPT's Facebook group: @youththeologian (make sure you answer the membership questions) Follow YPT on Twitter/X: @youththeologian Follow YPT on Instagram: @youththeologian YPT has published an ebook that's a free download for subscribers. Youth Ministry is Theological Ministry collects ten articles from the YPT archives to help new readers catch the heartbeat of Youth Pastor Theologian is written by six different contributors from across America, Mexico, and the UK. 

Youth workers and children's ministry leaders need to work together. This should be obvious and common, but these ministries often fail to have intentional collaboration and transitions. What can youth workers learn from children's ministry leaders and how can they learn to meaningfully partner with families?   Discussion Includes: Why have you committed to remain serving in children's ministry?  Could you share your approach to discipling upper-elementary students?  How does your church navigate the transition from children's ministry into youth ministry? If there are other ways you've seen that transition done well, could you also share those?  Are there some common misconceptions youth workers have about children's ministry? What are some lessons or practices that are common in children's ministry that are overlooked in student ministry?  Sam Luce is one of the Pastors at Redeemer Church in Utica, NY and his blog, samluce.com is one of the top children's ministry blogs online. Sam is working on two books, one with Moody and the other with New Growth Press, so keep your eyes open for those.  Books New City Catechism Heidelberg Catechism Resilient: Child Discipleship and the Fearless Future of the Church, by Awana Show them Jesus: Teaching the Gospel to Kids, Jack Klumpenhower 

We're releasing this episode a few weeks before Advent in order to help youth workers prepare well for Advent and Christmas… I think it goes without saying that it's absolutely essential for us to teach rightly about both the Person and the Work of Jesus Christ.  Who is Jesus? Christians confess that Jesus is the Son of God. But what does that mean about his humanity? It's important for youth workers to call students to faith in Jesus, and to lead them into conversations about who (and what) Jesus is… fully God and fully human. This conversation with Dr. Todd Miles will help youth workers proclaim the nature of Christ in a way that teenagers can understand.    Discussion Questions:  What is Christology, how does good biblical Christology articulate the Person of Christ, and why is it important for teenagers?  In your book, Superheroes Can't Save You, you explain some of the major heretical teachings about Christ by using different superheroes as representatives. Could you share a few examples with us…  What's at stake when someone accidentally holds to one of these heretical interpretations? Is it really that big of a deal?  As you look around today, what are some of the more common Christological heresies that can sneak into our churches without us noticing, and how can youth workers guard against those?  As we approach Advent and Christmas, what recommendations do you have for youth workers about teaching the incarnation simply and with theological depth?  Todd Miles is a Professor of Theology at Western Seminary and on pastoral staff at Gresham Bible Church, and is the author of some of my most-recommended books for youth pastors - Superheroes Can't Save You: Epic Examples of Historic Heresies, A God of Many Understandings? The Gospel and Theology of Religions, and most recently, Cannabis and the Christian: What the Bible says about Marijuana.  Order Todd's books (and read them!) Superheroes Can't Save You: Epic Examples of Historic Heresies Cannabis and the Christian: What the Bible says about Marijuana A God of Many Understandings? The Gospel and Theology of Religions Follow Todd on Twitter/X: @TL_Miles Join YPT's Facebook group: @youththeologian (make sure you answer the membership questions) Follow YPT on Twitter/X: @youththeologian Follow YPT on Instagram: @youththeologian YPT has published an ebook that's a free download for subscribers. Youth Ministry is Theological Ministry collects ten articles from the YPT archives to help new readers catch the heartbeat of Youth Pastor Theologian is written by six different contributors from across America, Mexico, and the UK.   

Preparing students for leadership doesn't mean we're always putting them in front of the room. It simply means we're challenging them to trust the Lord by serving him courageously with their gifts and passions. In this way, student leadership is an expression of student discipleship… but how do we get started? That's the topic for today's conversation with Doug Franklin from LeaderTreks.  Discussion Questions: What is leadership, what isn't leadership, and how does the gospel shape the way we approach that question?  Could you share a little from your own background about your own personal journey of leadership development?  How did you discover the power of leadership development in ministry to teenagers?  When we say that leadership development is an expression of discipleship, what does that mean?  As a youth pastor, I've had many starts-and-stops in launching student leadership teams. Most of them fizzled out after just a few meetings. What are some common struggles youth pastors face and how can we set our students up to really catch a vision for spiritual leadership?  If someone's listening and they want to get started but don't know what the first few steps would be, what would you recommend?  Doug Franklin is the Founder and President of LeaderTreks Youth Ministry. Doug and his wife, Angie, live in the Chicago area and were instrumental in the months leading up to YPT's launch. Resources mentioned: LeaderTreks Missions Trips Rethinking student leadership (free ebook) Deep Discipleship Curriculum Student Leaders Start Here I Am a Disciple: student devotional  

In this shared episode, Mike and John Perritt (from Reformed Youth Ministries) take turns asking each other questions and sharing about their respective ministries and discuss resources for youth workers to know about.  Reformed Youth Ministries exists to serve the Church in its efforts to reach and equip youth for Christ. Through its three avenues of ministry (Conferences, Training, Resources), everything RYM does is oriented to help churches as they seek to raise up the next generation of the Church with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.   John Perritt's Books RYM's Track Series Mike McGarry's Books (note: YPT is an Amazon Affiliate and financially benefits from purchases through the links above. If you'd like to purchase great resources while helping YPT, please use the links above. Thank you for your support.)   Join YPT's Facebook group: @youththeologian (make sure you answer the membership questions) Follow YPT on Twitter/X: @youththeologian Follow YPT on Instagram: @youththeologian YPT has published an ebook that's a free download for subscribers. Youth Ministry is Theological Ministry collects ten articles from the YPT archives to help new readers catch the heartbeat of Youth Pastor Theologian is written by six different contributors from across America, Mexico, and the UK. 

It's unfortunately easy for youth ministry to exclude students who are neurodivergent or who have physical disabilities. These students and their families often experience significant stress in at home, and the church can sometimes add to their sense of not feeling welcomed. This episode from the podcast features a conversation with Sandra Peoples about how youth workers and churches can better serve students and parents with disabilities.  Discussion Questions:  It could be helpful to start by talking about verbiage - what do we mean by disabilities and why is the community moving away from the phrase “special needs”?  When we're talking about ministry to students with disabilities and those who are neurodivergent, it can quickly get overwhelming to really understand what we're talking about. Could you give a basic overview of what these phrases mean for our listeners who are new to the conversation?  How should youth workers think about disability from a biblical and theological framework?  What are some unique stresses and challenges these families experience that would be good for pastors to be aware of?  Obviously, youth ministries don't have the same resources and support as a public school to provide one-on-one aides and we haven't usually received much training, so what are some ways that our youth ministries could realistically make some changes to be a welcoming space?  Most of the special needs students who come to youth group are likely considered mild/moderate in needs and are mainstreamed in their school classes, so they can often slip under our radar because there isn't always something visible about their disability. What counsel do you have for youth workers that will equip us to better minister to these students?  About Sandra: Sandra Peoples (M Div, PhD student) is the disability ministry consultant for the Southern Baptists of Texas Convention, an adjunct professor for Liberty University, and the author of Unexpected Blessings: The Joys and Possibilities of Life in a Special-Needs Family. She and her family live outside of Houston, TX. Resources Mentioned YPT Podcast 37: Serving Students with Special Needs (Bryan Barrineau) Joni and friends Sandra's ministry website Sandra's Podcast: The Key Ministry Podcast Sandra's Book: Unexpected Blessings Sandra on Twitter: @SandraPeoples Join YPT's Facebook group: @youththeologian (make sure you answer the membership questions) Follow YPT on Twitter/X: @youththeologian Follow YPT on Instagram: @youththeologian YPT has published an ebook that's a free download for subscribers. Youth Ministry is Theological Ministry collects ten articles from the YPT archives to help new readers catch the heartbeat of Youth Pastor Theologian is written by six different contributors from across America, Mexico, and the UK. 

Evangelism is something that's commonly talked about, but little practiced. Evangelism isn't an academic exercise, it's an expression of the normal Christian life. So, how can we grow as evangelists while also empowering our students to be evangelists?  Discussion Includes:  Why did you write Evangelism: For the Care of Souls and what are you hoping people will take away from it?  What has your ministry as a YoungLife Director taught you about evangelism to teenagers?  When you're training new youth workers or volunteers to practice evangelism to teenagers, what do you emphasize?  When you're training teenagers to evangelize, what do you emphasize for them?  What do we mean by "conversion," and how does a youth worker's theological understanding of conversion influence their evangelism?  Sean McGever is area director for Young Life in Phoenix, Arizona, and an adjunct faculty at Grand Canyon University. He is the author of The Good News of Our Limits and Born Again: The Evangelical Theology of Conversion in John Wesley and George Whitefield. His latest book is the main topic of our conversation today, which is published by Lexham Press, Evangelism: For the Care of Souls. He speaks, teaches, and ministers across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Follow Sean on Twitter/X at @seanmcgever Join YPT's Facebook group: @youththeologian (make sure you answer the membership questions) Follow YPT on Twitter/X: @youththeologian Follow YPT on Instagram: @youththeologian YPT has published an ebook that's a free download for subscribers. Youth Ministry is Theological Ministry collects ten articles from the YPT archives to help new readers catch the heartbeat of Youth Pastor Theologian is written by six different contributors from across America, Mexico, and the UK. 

Youth workers want to disciple teenagers into Christian maturity. Over time, we hope they move on from spiritual milk, towards spiritual meat. This is the vision of worldview formation - but what's that really look like and how do we disciple accordingly?   Discussion Includes:  What do you mean by worldview, and what are some pillars of a distinctively Christian worldview?  As the Director of Worldview Formation as WBU, what are some challenges you've encountered with college students?  What counsel do you have for youth ministers to help their students begin forming a Christian Worldview while in middle school and high school?  If you could choose two or three areas to really focus on as we disciple teenagers, what would you emphasize?  I don't think you'll need to persuade our listeners too much, but if you were talking with a parent who doesn't think their teenager needs doctrine or theology, how would you respond?  As we wrap up, is there a final word of encouragement or admonition you'd like to say to the youth workers listening?   Dr. Rhyne Putman is associate a Professor of Theology and Culture at NOBTS vice president of academic affairs and director of worldview formation at Williams Baptist University and associate professor of theology at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. He is the author of When Doctrine Divides the People of God and The Method of Christian Theology: A Basic Introduction, In Defense of Doctrine.  Resources Recommended books: 10 Questions Every Teenager Should Ask (and answer), by Rebecca McLaughlin The True Story of the Whole World, by Michael Goheen Rhyne's books: The Method of Christian Theology When Doctrine Divides the People of God In Defense of Doctrine Follow Rhyne on Twitter: @rhyneputman Join YPT's Facebook group: @youththeologian (make sure you answer the membership questions) Follow YPT on Twitter: @youththeologian Follow YPT on Instagram: @youththeologian YPT has published an ebook that's a free download for subscribers! Youth Ministry is Theological Ministry captures the essence of Youth Pastor Theologian in one ten-chapter book, written by six different contributors from across America, Mexico, and the UK.

Is seminary worth it? It requires a lot of sacrifice, can be expensive, and some of the classes don't seem too helpful for student ministry. And yet it provides a unique opportunity for training and ministry development. How can youth workers discern whether or not to pursue further education, and how do we choose amidst the many options?  Discussion Includes:  If I can just buy the books off Amazon and follow some nerdy youtube and podcasts then why would anyone enroll in seminary?  What are some benefits and shortcomings of the traditional seminary/M.Div. model?  If someone listening is feeling compelled towards seminary but they aren't sure how to discern which school is right for them, what advice do you have for them to make a wise decision?  How can seminary students who are listening to this podcast get the most out of their seminary experience… academically, spiritually, and personally?  Some of our listeners would probably LOVE to enroll tomorrow, but they simply can't. How can they continue their theological and ministry formation?  Doug Ponder is a teaching pastor at Remnant Church in Richmond, VA, and Professor of Biblical Studies at Grimke Seminary.  Follow Doug on Twitter: @dougponder Join YPT's Facebook group: @youththeologian (make sure you answer the membership questions) Follow YPT on Twitter: @youththeologian Follow YPT on Instagram: @youththeologian YPT has published an ebook that's a free download for subscribers! Youth Ministry is Theological Ministry captures the essence of Youth Pastor Theologian in one ten-chapter book, written by six different contributors from across America, Mexico, and the UK. 

Mental health struggles are increasingly common, and yet it remains difficult to know how to minister to students who are living with anxiety and/or depression. How can youth workers think biblically and theologically about mental health diagnoses and respond with wisdom and grace?  Liz Edrington has served at North Shore Fellowship in Chattanooga, TN in full-time ministry for 8 years and is an adjunct professor at Covenant College. She's a regular contributor to the Rooted Ministry and is the author of Anxiety: Finding the Better Story.  Discussion Includes:  What's important for youth workers who have never struggled with their mental health to know about mental health?  A basic framework for thinking biblically and theologically about mental health diagnoses.  Why do you think anxiety and depression is so common, and how do you encourage youth workers to care for these students?  You recently published a 30 Day Devotional for teenagers about anxiety and finding a better story. What do you mean by “finding the better story” and could you share a little about the book?  How do you speak gospel hope to students who are struggling with depression?  Order Liz's book, Anxiety: Finding The Better Story (a 31 day devotional for teenagers)

To close out our season, Mike is on the hot seat and answers questions from two of YPT's regular contributors, Nick Hartman and Joseph Bradley. The conversation included the following questions: What do you look back at as your biggest failure in student ministry, and what's something you're really proud of?  How have you navigated relationships with other youth workers who aren't theologically-minded and don't share that value for student ministry?  How have you advocated for theologically-deep youth ministry in the churches where you've served? How would you encouraged younger youth workers to pursue longevity in youth ministry?   If you're trying to recruit someone to serve in vocational youth ministry, what's your pitch?  Joseph Bradley is the student pastor at Second Baptist Church of Arkadelphia in Arkadelphia, Arkansas  Nick Hartman is the associate pastor of students and discipleship at Mt Carmel Baptist Church in Cross Plains, TN Nick & Joseph's two recommended YPT resources:   Robin Barfield, The Posture of the Youth Pastor Episode 28: Discipleship as Catechesis (Dustin Messer)  Visit Youth Pastor Theologian's website Join YPT's Facebook group: @youththeologian (make sure you answer the membership questions) Follow YPT on Twitter: @youththeologian Follow YPT on Instagram: @youththeologian Please consider sharing YPT's podcast and our articles with your friends, and leave a rating/review on your podcast subscriber. 

Youth workers agree that we want to make disciples, but it's easy to fall into a rhythm of ministry that hopes discipleship will happen. Intentionally leading your ministry to value church membership and gospel-centered pedagogy will clarify your focus and provide a discipleship plan to serve your students well.  Why does church membership matter and what would you say to a youth pastor who's never thought about church membership for their students?  How do you reply to teenagers (and parents) who say church membership isn't important for teenagers?  What do you mean by “gospel centered pedagogy?” Could you explain that with a few examples that contrast it with non-gospel-centered pedagogy? Justin Wong is the Pastor to Youth at Chinese Baptist Church in Houston, TX. He has earned his Doctor of Ministry degree and is currently working on his Doctor of Education. Justin and his wife have who daughters.  Join YPT's Facebook group: @youththeologian (make sure you answer the membership questions) Follow YPT on Twitter: @youththeologian Follow YPT on Instagram: @youththeologian YPT has published an ebook that's a free download for subscribers! Youth Ministry is Theological Ministry captures the essence of Youth Pastor Theologian in one ten-chapter book, written by six different contributors from across America, Mexico, and the UK. 

Calvinism and Arminianism is possibly the most common theological debate among Bible college students. Some act like it's a question that determines whether or not you're even a Christian; and others brush it off as a stupid and inconsequential issue. Why does this debate continue to carry importance today, and how can we learn to partner with each other for the sake of the Great Commission?  Discussion:  What's a basic overview of Calvinism and Arminianism, and why are these pitted against each other?  Why is this theological difference important for youth workers today? Can't this remain a theological debate from long ago?  What is a "Reformed Arminian"?  What are some practical ways you've seen youth pastors' soteriology affect their day-to-day ministry? How can youth workers partner with other pastors or churches who believe differently about this topic? What practical suggestions do you have and what boundaries might be good to draw? Chris Talbot, program director of youth and families at Welch College, and youth pastor at Sylvan Park Church in Nashville.  Recommended Reading:  40 Questions on Arminianism (J. Matthew Pinson)  The Promise of Arminian Theology (Bracey & Watts) The Quest for Truth (Forlines)  Chris' new book: Christians in Culture: Cultivating a Christian Worldview for All of Life (note: the links above are Affiliate Marketing links that provide a small financial benefit to YPT, which we use to provide future content for you.)  Join YPT's Facebook group: @youththeologian (make sure you answer the membership questions) Follow YPT on Twitter: @youththeologian Follow YPT on Instagram: @youththeologian YPT has published an ebook that's a free download for subscribers! Youth Ministry is Theological Ministry captures the essence of Youth Pastor Theologian in one ten-chapter book, written by six different contributors from across America, Mexico, and the UK. 

Understanding Law & Gospel is incredibly important. This distinction prepares youth workers to teach and counsel in ways that keeps the gospel central while still calling students to holiness and repentance. Without Law and Gospel, we either turn the gospel into a to-do list or we extend so much grace there's little room for teaching the commands of Christ.  Discussion Questions: Could you summarize what we mean by “Law & Gospel?” What sort of confusion around Law and Gospel have you observed in Christians, in general, and in youth in particular?  What are the different uses of the Law? If the Law cannot save, then what good is it? What have you observed, either positive or negative, regarding Law & Gospel in the gospel-centered movement over the last 5 years? Are there any correctives you think are important to highlight for us?  How can youth workers help students and parents embrace a biblical approach to Law and Gospel?  Justin Schell is the US Director of Union School of Theology and helps oversee the Reformation Fellowship. He lives in Tulsa Oklahoma, he and his wife have two kids and he served as an interim youth pastor for a season of ministry.  Recommended Resources Union's online resources New Growth Press and Serge's “Gospel Centered Life for Teens” Right with God, Mike Reeves  Delighting in the Trinity and Rejoicing in Christ, Mike Reeves  Theolo.gy - Union's website RefFellowship.org - Reformation Fellowship 

This bonus episode is from the Prepared to Answer podcast and introduces their new initiative, "PTA GO." This is the program through which they're launching like-minded ministries (like YPT) so they can become sustainable full-time ministries that disciple teenagers into a biblical worldview. Listen to this episode to hear more about Prepared to Answer, Truth Snack, and YPT's partnership with these incredible ministries.  There are two podcasts from PTA I want to encourage you to download: Introducing Youth Pastor Theologian. In this podcast, Scott and Shawn from Prepared to Answer introduce Youth Pastor Theologian to their audience, and we discuss the full background behind YPT and how this partnership came to be.  When God Changes Your Plans: the PTA GO Story. This is the same podcast as this bonus episode, but from their podcast feed. In it, they introduce their listeners to this new initiative (PTA GO) where they are helping like-minded ministries become full-time and sustainable ministries.  Learn more about PTA GO If you've wondered why YPT isn't just incorporating as a 501(c)3 organization, then listen to this episode and you'll hear why. This is an incredibly generous way for YPT to learn what it takes to establish a healthy foundation to sustain a long-term ministry to youth workers. 

For all the talk about relational discipleship, it's confusing to know what that really looks like. Every youth worker knows we need to meet students where they're at… so where are they, and how do we lead them to discover the joy of Christ?  When youth workers talk about “meeting kids where they're at,” what does that mean and how do we approach that with theological depth?  When you're writing your Reframe curriculum or meeting with a student as their therapist, how do you approach the difficult topics and help students develop a Christian worldview? How do you approach youth culture in a way that avoids complete acceptance and complete rejection of culture?  Jordan Francis is the founder of Reframe Youth and is a Christian Therapist in Phoenix. Reframe Youth provides biblically rich content about the timely issues students are facing, in order to help them form a Christian worldview.  Join YPT's Facebook group: @youththeologian (make sure you answer the membership questions) Follow YPT on Twitter: @youththeologian Follow YPT on Instagram: @youththeologian YPT has published an ebook that's a free download for subscribers! Youth Ministry is Theological Ministry captures the essence of Youth Pastor Theologian in one ten-chapter book, written by six different contributors from across America, Mexico, and the UK. 

Parents are often fearful and overwhelmed as their kids approach the teen years. Yes, there are new challenges and struggles. But God is faithful and the gospel really is good news. How can youth workers understand and encourage parents of teenagers through these stressful years?  What's the central message of Parenting Ahead and tell us why you wrote it?  How can youth workers help parents keep the long-range in sight?  Youth leaders sometimes see tendencies in youth that seem to be rooted in either over-parenting or under-parenting… could you explain what you mean by those terms, and how might a youth leader be able to help a parent embrace a different approach?  It could be easy for a youth pastor who's unmarried or who either doesn't have kids or whose kids are still very young to think they don't have much to offer parents. How can those youth leaders have a meaningful role in the lives of the parents of students in their ministry?  What's one way that every youth worker can encourage and support parents?  Kristen Hatton is a Christian counselor in Dallas, TX  and the author of multiple fantastic books for teenagers. Today, we'll talk about her latest book, Parenting Ahead: Preparing Now for the Teen Years, and about how youth workers can be encouragers to the parents in their ministry.  Instagram: RedemptiveParenting  Website: kristenhatton.com  Join YPT's Facebook group: @youththeologian (make sure you answer the membership questions) Follow YPT on Twitter: @youththeologian Follow YPT on Instagram: @youththeologian YPT has published an ebook that's a free download for subscribers! Youth Ministry is Theological Ministry captures the essence of Youth Pastor Theologian in one ten-chapter book, written by six different contributors from across America, Mexico, and the UK. 

How do we engage students with the storyline of Scripture? GenZ is the first truly post-Christian generation, and many of them are unfamiliar with the stories in the Bible. How can youth workers invite students to embrace the rich truth and message of Scripture by inviting them into the biblical story?  What do you mean by Bible Storying, and how did you learn this?  Could you give us an example of Bible Storying that you might teach in youth group?  Why is this an effective way to invite students into the story of the gospel?  How often do you use this approach to teaching in your teaching calendar? Is there some element of this in your weekly message, or is it an occasional approach?  If someone wanted to get started, what recommendations and resources would you share with them?  Kendal Conner is the Director of Sunday Schools at Redeemer Fellowship in Kansas City. She also writes curriculum for Rooted Reservoir and is a co-leader for the Student Leadership Cohort with Gospel-Centered Family.   Read Kendal's article: Bible Storying in a Post-Christian Generation (Rooted Ministry) John Walsh, The Art of Storytelling Phil Collins, The Abide Bible Study Course IMB resource for Oral Bible Storying  Full list of stories in the Bible: Biblestories.org  Join YPT's Facebook group: @youththeologian (make sure you answer the membership questions) Follow YPT on Twitter: @youththeologian Follow YPT on Instagram: @youththeologian YPT has published an ebook that's a free download for subscribers! Youth Ministry is Theological Ministry captures the essence of Youth Pastor Theologian in one ten-chapter book, written by six different contributors from across America, Mexico, and the UK.  Please share YPT's podcast and our articles with your friends, and leave a rating/review on your podcast subscriber. You can contact us with any questions and recommend both topics and guests on our website's Submissions Page. 

Every youth pastor theologian wants to make lifelong disciples. We know that's the mission. But how do we plan our ministry with the end in mind while avoiding the temptations of pragmatism and information-transfer?  What does it mean to plan our discipleship with the end in mind, and how can we avoid the dangers of pragmatism? It's obviously important for teachers to know their content. But it's also crucial for teachers to know the people they're teaching. Why we need a more robust understanding of knowing and what have we gotten knowing wrong? Why is theology vital in student discipleship?  What do you mean by "discipleship as alignment" A few practical ideas for teaching toward the objective of alignment with students. Resources Craig Troxel, With All Your Heart Esther Meek, Longing to Know and A Little Manual for Knowing YPT Podcast Episode 21: Top Down & Bottom Up Approaches to Ministry (Gareth Crispin & Robin Barfield) Jason Engle is Pastor of Students and Discipleship at Westwood Baptist Church in Roxboro NC. Jason and his wife has three ranging from 16-9 years old. He's served in his church for 17 years and recently completed his Doctor of Education from SEBTS.  He is a regular contributor to the YPT Blog.  Join YPT's Facebook group: @youththeologian (make sure you answer the membership questions) Follow YPT on Twitter: @youththeologian Follow YPT on Instagram: @youththeologian YPT has published an ebook that's a free download for subscribers! Youth Ministry is Theological Ministry captures the essence of Youth Pastor Theologian in one ten-chapter book, written by six different contributors from across America, Mexico, and the UK.  Please share YPT's podcast and our articles with your friends, and leave a rating/review on your podcast subscriber. You can contact us with any questions and recommend both topics and guests on our website's Submissions Page.     

Mike McGarry here... I'm excited to share an important update with you about a new chapter for Youth Pastor Theologian. I started YPT as a simple website in May 2021 in order to fill a void between the youth room and the academy. There are lots of resources available for youth workers to help with games and a growing number of youth ministry curricula. But there's still a significant void in theological content for youth workers. At the same time, theologically-minded youth workers often feel depressingly alone in the youth ministry world.  Youth Pastor Theologian launched as a passion project, a blog I'd write and edit in my “spare time” (usually between 10pm-1am) while still serving as the Youth Pastor at South Shore Baptist Church in Hingham, MA. But it quickly grew beyond what I'd envisioned. Youth workers from across the country (and from around the world) started reading and sending me messages about how much this resonated with them. They wanted to know what other resources YPT would be releasing, and could I come speak at their church or conference. They want resources and help to know what theological depth in youth ministry actually looks like.  Over the last six months, the Lord has made it clear that it's time for me to trust His provision and to give my full-time attention to youth pastors rather than continuing to serve as a youth pastor myself. Honestly, I'm going to miss it - even the body odor of the boys' cabin on youth retreats. Like Robin Williams' character in Good Will Hunting says, “That's the good stuff.”  I am currently bi-vocational, leading the youth ministry at my church through the summer as we search for my replacement while also fundraising to provide the financial resources necessary for a Youth Pastor Theologian budget. There are some exciting projects coming down the pipeline, but we need resources to fund their development and implementation.    It still sounds like it should be gross exaggeration to say that giving to Youth Pastor Theologian is an investment in the global church's effort to reach the next generation with the gospel. But it's not. I keep hearing from readers and podcast listeners who are in difficult contexts, and YPT is making an impact through them. This is true across the USA, Canada, UK, Ireland, Australia, Mexico, Brazil, Cuba, Kenya, Uganda, Philippines, Austria, and Germany.  A video of this informational Zoom is available on our YouTube page. Will you partner with us as we empower youth workers around the world to pursue theological depth in youth discipleship. An audio version of this presentation has also been published through the YPT Podcast.  If you'd like to partner with YPT, please visit our Give page and join our YPT Partners Facebook Group. 

There's so much for international youth workers to learn from one another. We share more in common than what's different. Relational evangelism and discipleship are foundational for effective student ministry, regardless of our latitude and longitude.  What is the religious climate of Ireland like, and how do you identify cultural Christianity from genuine gospel-faith?  What is youth ministry like in Ireland and what are some common attitudes that teenagers have about religion and Christianity?  What does relational ministry and spending time with youth look like in real life? And while prioritizing that, how do you keep yourself from just being an adult-friend?  Philomena Fitzpatrick is the youth worker at Ballycollin Community Church in West Dublin at the foot of the Dublin Mountains. She ministers to children through young adults.  Join YPT's Facebook group: @youththeologian (make sure you answer the membership questions) Follow YPT on Twitter: @youththeologian Follow YPT on Instagram: @youththeologian YPT has published an ebook that's a free download for subscribers! Youth Ministry is Theological Ministry captures the essence of Youth Pastor Theologian in one ten-chapter book, written by six different contributors from across America, Mexico, and the UK.  Please consider sharing YPT's podcast and our articles with your friends, and leave a rating/review on your podcast subscriber. You can contact us with any questions and recommend both topics and guests on our website's Submissions Page. 

It's tempting to avoid direct conversations about racism because it immediately raises people's alarm systems. We all bring our personal baggage into the conversation and we don't want to cause offense to anyone through disagreements. How can youth pastor theologians model faithful ways to have sensitive conversations?  How can youth workers in mostly white youth groups care for the non-white students in our ministries - especially when we witness racism or cultural insensitivity?  How does the gospel reshape the way we think and talk about racism?  What are some of the biggest misconceptions people have about race conversations, and how can we avoid serious misunderstandings.  Sometimes we simply misunderstand each other. But sometimes we really do fundamentally disagree with our brothers and sisters in Christ. How can we disagree with each other well and navigate that with trust and respect from both sides of those disagreements.  Michelle Ami Reyes is the creator of Seasoned with Grace and writes at the intersection of multiculturalism, faith, and justice. She is the author of Becoming All Things, and co-author of The Race-Wise Family. Michelle lives in Austin, Texas with her pastor husband, and two amazing kids. Follow Michelle on Instagram Visit Youth Pastor Theologian's website Join YPT's Facebook group: @youththeologian (make sure you answer the membership questions) Follow YPT on Twitter: @youththeologian Follow YPT on Instagram: @youththeologian YPT has published an ebook that's a free download for subscribers! Youth Ministry is Theological Ministry captures the essence of Youth Pastor Theologian in one ten-chapter book, written by six different contributors from across America, Mexico, and the UK.  Please consider sharing YPT's podcast and our articles with your friends, and leave a rating/review on your podcast subscriber. You can contact us with any questions and recommend both topics and guests on our website's Submissions Page. 

What does youth ministry look like in the UK? Mike talks with some friends from England to hear about their ministry context and what their regular ministry looks like.  Can you remind our non-UK listeners about grades and graduation for teenagers, and how does this affect the way you structure your ministries?  The UK context is the direction things in America are heading. With that in mind, what are nonChristian youth like in the UK, and what are some ways to reach them with the gospel?  What would Mike change about his book A Biblical Theology of Youth Ministry, and how has his view on youth work changed now that he has two teenagers of his own?  Nic Bianchi is children and youth worker at Cheam Baptist Church Anna Lane is children and youth worker at Grace Church, Worcester park Visit Youth Pastor Theologian's website Join YPT's Facebook group: @youththeologian (make sure you answer the membership questions) Follow YPT on Twitter: @youththeologian Follow YPT on Instagram: @youththeologian Don't miss out on YPT's book, Youth Ministry is Theological Ministry, which is available as a free download after you subscribe on the YPT website.  Please consider sharing YPT's podcast and our articles with your friends, and leave a rating/review on your podcast subscriber. You can contact us with any questions and recommend both topics and guests on our website's Submissions Page.   

The gospel is not an evangelism tool, it's the message of life that we declare to saints and sinners. In this conversation, we want to clarify what the gospel is and how to keep it central in both evangelism and discipleship. Greg also highlights the importance of good theology in our evangelism.  Could you share a little about your own story and how that's impacted your calling to equip others for evangelism?  What is the gospel?  Why is sound doctrine important for evangelism, not just for discipleship?  What role does the gospel have in discipleship?  You've taught and spoken a lot about “gospelizing” your youth ministry. What does that mean and what's it look like? If someone is leading an established ministry, how would they go about gospelizing it?  Greg Stier is an evangelist, author, speaker, and founder of Dare 2 Share Ministries. He's also the husband to Debbie and dad to Jeremy and Kailey. Greg's books: Unlikely Fighter Gospelize Your Youth Ministry Youth Ministry in the 21st Century, edited by Chap Clark Connect with Greg on Twitter: @gregstier Visit Youth Pastor Theologian's website Join YPT's Facebook group: @youththeologian (make sure you answer the membership questions) Follow YPT on Twitter: @youththeologian Follow YPT on Instagram: @youththeologian Please consider sharing YPT's podcast and our articles with your friends, and leave a rating/review on your podcast subscriber. We have a new ebook that's our gift to you when you subscribe, Youth Ministry is Theological Ministry: An Invitation to Youth Pastor Theologians.

Every youth pastor wants to make disciples. But how do we do that, and what can we learn from church history? Catechesis isn't a boring or stuffy class for people to attend but a highly relational journey where the mentor disciples a student through the core doctrines, habits, and disciplines of the Christian life. Youth workers who want to make lifelong disciples have much to learn from this long-held pattern of discipleship. After all, we aren't the first Christians who are trying to pass the faith to the next generation.  Discussion Questions: What is catechesis and how is it different from a catechism?  What's the benefit of catechesis today?  Why do you think catechesis has lost favor in most churches today?  What are some core principles of catechesis that we can recover for discipling the next generation today?  If someone is coming from a nonliturgical tradition where catechesis and catechisms are completely foreign, how might they begin to introduce these lessons into their youth ministry?  Resources mentioned in the episode:  Center for Baptist Renewal Gary Parrett & JI Packer, Grounded in the Gospel: Building Believers the Old-Fashioned Way New City Catechism  To Be A Christian, an Anglican Catechism The Westminster Larger Catechism  YPT Article: How Catechesis Can Transform Your Youth Ministry  Dustin Messer is vicar at All Saints Dallas in Texas. He also teaches at Kings College and Reformed Seminary.  Follow Dustin on Twitter: @dustinwmesser  Visit Youth Pastor Theologian's website Join YPT's Facebook group: @youththeologian (make sure you answer the membership questions) Follow YPT on Twitter: @youththeologian Follow YPT on Instagram: @youththeologian Please consider sharing YPT's podcast and our articles with your friends, and leave a rating/review on your podcast subscriber. You can contact us with any questions and recommend both topics and guests on our website's Submissions Page. 

Every church has students with a variety of special education needs, but our youth ministries are often under-equipped to appropriately minister to these students and their families. What should youth workers know about special education and how can they be better equipped to serve these young men and women?  Discussion includes: How can youth workers think theologically about the reality of special needs?  How can youth workers better care for students with special needs - especially regarding youth with mild/moderate disabilities.  Within the dynamics of regular youth group programming, how do you encourage students to welcome struggling learners? What are some basic modifications we can make?  What does ministry look like to students who are on the autism spectrum or have another more significant diagnosis? How can we best care for and disciple them? How can youth workers minister to and support parents of students with disabilities?  Resources mentioned: ldaamerica.org - Learning Disabilities Association of America. A great place to learn about various learning disabilities.  Stephen Grcevich, Mental Health and the Church: A Ministry Handbook for Including Children and Adults with ADHD, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, and Other Common Mental Health Conditions  Amos Yong, The Bible, Disability, and the Church: A New Vision of the People of God Bryan Barrineau is the Lead Student Pastor at First Baptist in Enterprise, Alabama. He's been a youth pastor for 22 years, he and his wife have two kids. Bryan recently completed his Doctor in Education from SouthWestern Baptist Theological Seminary, his dissertation was entitled Technology-Mediated Ministry and its implications for local church discipleship.  Follow Bryan on Twitter: @bryanbarrineau Visit Youth Pastor Theologian's website Join YPT's Facebook group: @youththeologian (make sure you answer the membership questions) Follow YPT on Twitter: @youththeologian Follow YPT on Instagram: @youththeologian Please consider sharing YPT's podcast and our articles with your friends, and leave a rating/review on your podcast subscriber. You can contact us with any questions and recommend both topics and guests on our website's Submissions Page. 

Many church-based youth ministries operate as parachurch ministries that are funded and housed by a church. There's little connection or integration with the church congregation. Thankfully, there's a renewed sense of commitment within youth ministry to integrate students into the life of the church. But why is this so important, what's it look like?  Why is it important for a youth ministry to be intimately united within the church? In short, what does ecclesiology have to do with youth ministry?  What do students lose when youth ministries are disconnected from the church?  It's difficult to navigate the relationship between youth ministry and the local church. Youth pastors are often skeptical of such calls, assuming it's a subtle way to question the validity of youth ministry. And churches often feel like teenagers just don't want to be there or like they need to be more attractive to hold students' attention. What would you like to say about this scenario? Can you tell us about how you've intentionally structured your youth ministry to be an extension of the church's ministry to teenagers rather than structuring youth group as a replacement for involvement in the church?  If someone is in a more traditional youth ministry system and they want to elevate the role of the church in the way they minister to students, where would you recommend we begin?  Charles has nearly 15 years of experience working with youth, in both parachurch and churches. He oversaw the youth ministry at Captial Hill Baptist Church in Washington DC for most of the last decade and is currently taking a sabbatical from pastoral ministry as he and his family care for an ailing family member.  Visit Youth Pastor Theologian's website Join YPT's Facebook group: @youththeologian (make sure you answer the membership questions) Follow YPT on Twitter: @youththeologian Follow YPT on Instagram: @youththeologian Please consider sharing YPT's podcast and our articles with your friends, and leave a rating/review on your podcast subscriber. You can contact us with any questions and recommend both topics and guests on our website's Submissions Page.