The strength and future of the church lie in the hands of its youth. Yet, in recent times, a troubling trend has emerged—many of our youth ministries have become dormant. Evangelism, which should be the heartbeat of our faith, now struggles to gain momentum among young people. Church programs and youth activities are often met with lukewarm interest, and the vibrant passion that once drove the mission seems to have faded.
But why? Is it fatigue, a sense of inadequacy, or simply a lack of urgency? Have we forgotten that the coming of our Savior and King is closer now than ever before?
A New Look at the Call to Go
In 2020, a global campaign called “I Will Go” was launched with the aim of reigniting a passion for mission and evangelism. But as the campaign began, the world found itself in lockdown. While the restrictions were meant to protect physical health, they also revealed deeper spiritual challenges. For some, it became a time of introspection and growth, but for many, it marked a season of spiritual stagnation.
Personal evangelism diminished, and the fire of mission among the youth dimmed. It was as though the mission was paused—delayed by the external circumstances we faced. And yet, isn’t that precisely when the call to “Go” is most critical?
When Jesus commissioned His disciples in Matthew 28:19, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” He never promised the journey would be easy. He didn’t guarantee a smooth path or a world free of challenges. Instead, He assured us of His presence: “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:20). The mandate to go has not changed. The question is: have we?
The Dormant Youth
This brings us to the youth. If we are the generation called to carry the gospel to the ends of the earth, why are we hesitating? Why do we shy away from the responsibility to lead in church and community activities? Why has evangelism taken a backseat?
Some might argue that the distractions of modern life have made it harder to focus on spiritual matters. Others might point to fear—fear of failure, fear of rejection, or even fear of stepping out of their comfort zones. But scripture reminds us in 2 Timothy 1:7, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”
Fear cannot be our reason for inaction. The gospel is too important, the times too critical, and the calling too urgent.
A Wake-Up Call
The time is now for our youth to wake up to the call. This is no ordinary moment in history. The world is crying out for hope, and we have the answer. But how can we remain silent? How can we sit back and watch when the fields are ripe for harvest?
Let us remember the words of Jesus: “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few” (Matthew 9:37). Youth, this is your moment to rise. The gospel message is one of life, hope, and salvation. It is a message the world desperately needs, and you are the hands and feet God has chosen to carry it.
Progress, Not Perfection
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the enormity of the mission. But remember this: progress, no matter how slow, is still progress. God does not expect perfection from us—He asks for faithfulness. He calls us to take one step at a time, trusting Him to guide the way.
The journey of evangelism may not always feel fruitful or fast, but as Zechariah 4:10 reminds us, “Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin.” Every conversation, every act of kindness, every prayer for the lost is a seed planted for the kingdom.
Encouragement for the Journey
To the weary, take heart. You may feel small, unqualified, or unsure, but God’s strength is made perfect in your weakness. Remember, the disciples were ordinary men and women who answered an extraordinary call. The same God who empowered them is with you today.
Galatians 6:9 offers this encouragement: “Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” The work of evangelism may not yield immediate results, but the harvest will come. Your efforts are not in vain.
A Generation That Answers the Call
As we look ahead, let us not be a generation known for saying “I will go,” but never following through. Let us instead be remembered as a generation that rose to the occasion, carried the gospel to the ends of the earth, and prepared the way for the coming of our Savior.
Youth, the time is now. The question remains: Will you go?
