In the fourth chapter of Ephesians, the apostle Paul describes the Christian faith as “growing into maturity.” Just as we grow physically—passing from infancy, to childhood, the, adolescence and into adulthood—there are stages of Christian growth. The apostle says we don’t want to remain in infancy, but grow into the maturity of faith.
Ministries can—and in fact, need—to mature, also. A youth ministry in infancy looks much different than a mature youth ministry. This maturity, however, is not about numbers or statistics, but about how youth leaders embody and influence those within their watch or under their care.
Earlier in my life, I was a part of two youth ministries in disparate situations. One of these ministries, while larger in numbers, had become stagnant. A comfort had settled in, and the motion of the ministry was more circular than outward. In short, the ministry, while the larger of the two, was unfulfilling and unmotivated.
However, the other youth ministry, while much smaller in numbers and appearance, was vibrant with faith, with ministry that was touching hearts and minds. Those involved were continuing to press the boundaries of their comfort. New ideas were proffered. Work was being accomplished.
Maturity—when it involves ministry—is not about our own comfort but our discomfort. Maturity means we are capable of being pressed, pushed or prodded in new directions, that we are capable of growing into new fields and taking greater risks.
Maturity is never easy. However, the rewards are great for those ministries that are not content to run in place.
