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Study 10 of 12

Session 10—Sabbath School, Children's, Youth and Family Ministries Leaders

Disciple-making and teaching roles that nurture the faith of all generations within the church family.

Hands-free narration of this study — good for the car.

Synopsis

These leaders are the primary educators of the church, tasked with the sacred duty of nurturing spiritual growth from the cradle to maturity. Drawing on the biblical mandate of Deuteronomy 6, they seek to impress God’s words upon the hearts of the young, teaching them 'when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way.' The Sabbath School is the 'church at study,' where members of all ages engage with the Word to become 'wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus' (2 Tim 3:15). Children's and Youth leaders focus on creating a safe, engaging environment where young people can encounter Christ and develop a resilient faith. Family Ministries leaders support the home as the first mission field, strengthening marriages and parenting. Together, these roles ensure that the church is not just a place of meeting, but a school of Christ where every member is mentored into a deeper relationship with their Savior.

Key points

  • Sabbath School is the primary religious education system of the local church.
  • Children's and Youth ministries focus on forming a resilient faith in younger generations.
  • Family Ministries supports the home as the foundational unit of spiritual growth.
  • Leaders are called to be mentors and teachers, not just program coordinators.
  • The goal of all these ministries is to lead every member to a personal relationship with Christ.

Key texts

  • Deuteronomy 6:6-9
  • 2 Timothy 3:15
  • Proverbs 22:6

From the book

Session 10 · Church Manual; Deut 6, 2 Tim 3:15 · Read the Quick Start Guide

  • “The Sabbath School is the primary religious education system of the local church and has four purposes: study of the Scripture, fellowship, community outreach, and world mission emphasis.”
  • “Family Ministries focuses on people in relationship. It is a ministry of grace which acknowledges as central the family’s role in the formation of a person’s values.”

Put it into practice

  • Meet with the Sabbath School superintendent to plan a joint outreach project for the next quarter.
  • Visit each Children's and Youth Sabbath School class to encourage the teachers and identify supply needs.
  • Plan a 'Family Night' event that brings all generations together for fellowship and mission.
  1. Comprehension

    1. What are the four main purposes of the Sabbath School?

  2. Scripture

    2. How does Deuteronomy 6:6-9 describe the process of spiritual education?

  3. Comprehension

    3. What is the primary focus of Family Ministries?

  4. Scripture

    4. According to 2 Timothy 3:15, what is the purpose of learning the holy scriptures?

  5. Doctrinal Clarity

    5. Why is the role of Children's and Youth leaders more than just child care?

  6. Contrast

    6. What is the 'school of Christ' concept in the context of these ministries?

  7. Doctrinal Clarity

    7. How can a Sabbath School teacher move beyond just 'teaching facts' to 'making disciples'?

  8. Application

    8. Which generation in your church do you feel needs the most intentional mentorship right now?