Journal Article Summaries
LIBERTY UNIVERSITY
CHMN 301 – D01
Foundations of Next Gen Ministry
Submitted to Dr. Steve Vandegriff
in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the completion of
6.
Contents
1.Changes in alcohol use as a function of psychological distress and
social support following COVID-19 related University closings …………………….1
2.Pronouns and Preferred Names: When Public School Teachers’
Religious beliefs Conflict with School Directives ……………………………….……2
3.Hundreds Accuse Independent Baptist Pastors of Abuse ……………………………..3
4.No One Said Loving Your Neighbor Would Be Easy ………………………………...5
5.Homeschooling in the United States:
Examining the Rationales for Individualizing Education ……………………………. 6
Study: Most Protestant Pastors Agree That Sexual Abuse Should Be Disqualifying …7
7.Get Ready, Youth Group Leaders:
Teens Twice as Likely to Identify as Atheist or LGBT ……………………………….8
8.When Quitting Is Admirable and Brave ……………………………………………….9
9.Canceled Mission Trips Expected to Have Long-Term Fallout ……………………….10
10.Father Absence and Adolescents as a Challenge to Youth Ministry …………………..12
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1. Changes in alcohol use as a function of psychological distress and social support
following COVID-19 related University closings.
Summary
The current article addresses one of the many effects COVID-19 has had on society
during the last 14 months. The authors address how college-aged students choose to indulge in
alcohol use to calm their anxiety related to school closings. The study surveyed 1,958 students
who endorsed using alcohol in the past thirty days and found a substantial increase in use and
even abuse among the studied demographic. The authors attributed the increase in alcohol use to
anxiety and depression surrounding the uncertainty of work and school closings. The authors
correlated the student's social support with their alcohol patterns. The findings indicate a strong
social support network leading to a decreased level of use and abuse of alcohol among students.
This author found it particularly interesting that "The relationship between symptoms of
depression and problematic alcohol use appears to be bi-directional in nature; that is, elevated
symptoms of depression predict an increased likelihood of developing an alcohol-related
disorder, and alcohol problems predict future depressive symptoms."
Biblical Response/Admonition
Scriptures are clear that a state of drunkenness is a sin one needs to avoid. This Pauline
admonition is rooted in the need for believers to be sober-minded so that the Holy Spirit can
work through the believer as He deems fit. Although not unique to alcohol, this drug of choice is
the easiest and most legally accessible.
Ministry Application
Ministry leaders face an ever increasingly multifaceted ministry sphere. Alcohol abuse
among students within their ministries is not a new problem, yet extreme circumstances have
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exasperated the situation as with many sinful behaviors. The study found that social support
networks greatly discouraged the misuse of alcohol. The stronger that church's small groups are,
the less likely that one of their members falls victim to the effects of alcohol abuse. Ministry
leaders need to focus on individual-level ministry now more than ever. Small groups, home bible
studies, exercise groups, basically any opportunity for leaders to cultivate a community that
orbits around the truths of the Gospel and Jesus.
2. Pronouns and Preferred Names: When Public School Teachers’ Religious beliefs
Conflict With School Directives
Summary
This article addresses the tension between students that present gender dysphoria and
faculty and staff who hold individual religious beliefs that do not condone the transgender
movement. Specifically, this article addresses a recent lawsuit involving a school teacher who
refused to use a student's preferred pronouns that did not correlate with their gender at birth. The
main focus of this commentary is not the content of the individual claims but the broader
thoughts regarding Title VII, Fourteenth Amendment, First Amendment through the light of the
current gender dysphoria trends in the US. Essentially the court case concluded that the state
hires employees to conduct a job that affords almost no freedom for variance. The case
referenced within this article concluded that the employee's religious rights are secondary to the
transgender student attending a school setting where they feel safe and included.
Biblical Response/Admonition
There is no biblical ambiguity regarding the transgender movement. As a believer in
Jesus, one needs to reflect the creator and the method that creation and biology reflect. Genesis
1:27 expresses that as male and female, God created humankind to be His image-bearer. The
design expressed through biology and enforced by scriptures is that God created humankind with
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biological sex that is synonymous with gender. One cannot deviate from the natural sex and
gender specified at birth.
Ministry Application
In a world that holds an ever-divergent view from the scriptures, leaders need to be
sensitive to the many students suffering from gender dysphoria. As with most sensitive topics,
the key is to pursue truth while applying that truth through love. Spiritual leaders will not win
any battles by taking a confrontational approach to the topic. While scriptures may support one's
position, one needs to realize that its authority will not persuade the transgender community.
Pursuing a loving yet biblically balanced outreach approach is the ultimate goal.
3. Hundreds Accuse Independent Baptist Pastors of Abuse
Summary
This article outlines the abuse, both alleged and proven, within the Independent
Fundamentalist Baptist (IFB) movement. Based mainly upon an investigative report by the Fort-
Worth Star-Telegram, the article was published by Christianity Today. This investigation by the
Fort Worth Star-Telegram found more than 400 allegations against 168 leaders spanning almost
200 churches and institutions. This unfortunate reality discussed within this article is that it is
more prevalent within the Independent Baptist movement, although present in all denominations
and sects. This article presents information related to more than 130 cases where the accused
have been found guilty of rape, kidnapping, sexual assault, and a litany of other crimes. Although
most would agree that these crimes are hideous and unfathomable, the more horrendous crime
this article exposes are the cover-up that other leaders do within the Independent Fundamentalist
Baptist movement.
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Biblical Response/Admonition
There are few instances where one can support capital punishment from scripture, yet this
instance is one of the places where Jesus himself speaks very strongly on the matter. When
admonishing his disciples to stay vigilant to avoid sin and temptation, He says that it is better to
eliminate via drowning with the help of a large stone than to cause a little one to sin or stumble
(Luke 17:2). The IFB culture places the blame squarely on the victim and allows the drowning-
worthy scum to escape to prowl for more victims in another Independent church. A spiritual
leader has the biblical responsibility to guard and shelter his church congregation. Paul tells the
church in Ephesus that he worked for three years in tears, admonishing the congregation. The
Pastor or Overseer's role is to protect and guard, not molest, rape, or violate.
Ministry Application
Paul is clear that the work of an Overseer is to guard the congregation (Acts 20:28–32).
Suppose any leader is ever made aware of an accusation of any misconduct. In that case, the
accused needs to be temporarily removed, and officials need to be involved while a thorough
investigation is conducted. There is no room for nepotism, good-ole-boy's clubs, or personal
favors. If the accused is found to be guilty, they should be dismissed publicly as well as any
denominational organization notified. Church leaders need to take swift and decisive action to
protect the members of their flock. Full Stop, no excuses. If a pastor or other leader neglects that
responsibility, they are just as liable as the original perpetrator and should be removed from their
role as Shepard and Pastor and prosecuted as an accessory after the fact.
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4. No One Said Loving Your Neighbor Would Be Easy
Summary
God places people of influence around Kings to accomplish my purpose. This piece of
wisdom is the revelation that inspired this article. This article explores the biblical mandate that
Christians have to love their neighbor, even when there is tension, and it is not an optimal
situation. The author begins by explaining the political uncertainty that existed during the 2020
presidential election in the US. Without divulging her political preference, the author reminds her
readers that God is He who puts the authorities in their places, and then He surrounds them with
people of influence to direct their ways. The author summarizes the stories of Daniel, Shadrach,
Meshach, and Abednego, Ester, and Mordechai, and even Nehemiah.
Biblical Response/Admonition
Today in America, there are way too many preferences that stop American Christians
from loving our neighbors. Jesus commanded His followers to love the Lord and love their
neighbors as themselves (Mark 12:30-31). However, many Christians allow race, sexual
orientation, immigration status, or even the preferred denomination of Christianity to serve as
excuses as to why they do not love as they love themselves. This article is a reminder that God
has placed his believers in the middle of people groups who did not share their beliefs throughout
history, yet they served as an agent of change.
Ministry Application
As leaders in ministry, we need to lead the way in pioneering new and creative ways to
engage the culture that is in the world around us. The Christian practice of biblical separation has
led most Christians to live wholly disconnected from the very people who need Jesus the most.
Just as Daniel acclimated to his new culture, learned the language, and grew in influence, today's
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Christians need to be seeking to do the same. Daniel was able to maintain his convictions and
represent God well even while assimilating into the secular culture. Today's leaders need to teach
their people to seek lost people and not live in a Christian bubble. This article does a good job
reminding its readers that God is in control, and no matter the political climate, God is in charge.
5. Homeschooling in the United States: Examining the Rationales for Individualizing
Education
Summary
This article addresses the history of the homeschooling movement in the United States
and specifically explores the two main rationales for homeschooling; empirical and ideological.
The empirical rationale claims a greater efficiency and effectiveness, primarily claiming that
homeschooling produces a better academically equipped student. The second rationale, the
ideological rationale for homeschooling, is informed by religious or ideological inclinations. The
article provides a thorough explanation of both rationales while also exploring the concept of the
collective good versus the individual good. The journal begins with the history of homeschooling
globally and quickly moves into the history of homeschooling within the United States. The bulk
of the journal is the explanation of the two overarching rationales behind homeschooling. The
work addresses both the cost and effectiveness areas as well as the ideological and safety
components.
Biblical Response/Admonition
For Christians, there may be a more robust biblical rationale for homeschooling than
many realize. The scriptures teach that it is the parent's responsibility to instruct their children
(Deuteronomy 6:6-7; Ephesians 6:4; Proverbs 22:6 et al.). The ideal situation for Christians is
that they homeschool their students. Homeschooling is not a straightforward directive, nor is it a
perfect option. As discussed in the article, there are costs and potential pitfalls; however, this is
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closest to the biblical mandate we have to "You shall teach them diligently to your
children..."(Deuteronomy 6:6-7). If homeschooling is not an option, then a Christian/ religious
school would be the next preferable option. If there are no options within reach, either due to
location or expense, the family should choose a public school with as much involvement as
possible. Become very involved in the curriculum that is taught to the students, volunteer as
much as possible at the school to gain an audience and influence.
Ministry Application
As ministers of the Gospel, we need to educate the parents of their biblical
commandment to train their children. Together with the assistance of their local church and the
children's ministries offered there, the parents need to realize that it is their responsibility to
instruct their children to love and serve God. It is not solely the churches, the education system,
or any other entity. That responsibility lies squarely on the parents.
6. Study: Most Protestant Pastors Agree That Sexual Abuse Should Be Disqualifying.
Summary
This article addresses a study that indicates that most Christians surveyed feel that a
moral failure is disqualifying for vocational ministry. Sexual abuse is a significant concern today
among the leadership of many mainline Christian denominations. Recently, there have been
many instances of abuse and coverup that go all the way to the very top. The article bases its
findings on several Lifeway studies conducted throughout 2019 and 2020 in response to several
public allegations of abuse within the Church. The report and the studies find that more than 80%
of protestant pastors believe that sexual abuse of a child is a permanently disqualifying event.
Interestingly, however, only 27% of the polled pastors said that adultery would earn a pastor a
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permanent lifetime disqualification. In the middle, the study found that 74% of pastors believe
that sexual abuse on an adult should merit a lifetime ban on vocational ministry.
Biblical Response/Admonition
The scriptures are unambiguous that the Pastor's role is to lead, guide, and protect the
church congregation. There is unquestionably no room for the Pastor to leverage his authority for
personal sexual gratification. This author is a bit surprised to see such a low number of Pastors
who feel that child abuse is not a total disqualifier. Jesus once said to His disciples that it's better
than a man dies from drowning than to cause a little one to stumble or to sin.
Ministry Application
Pastors need to defend their congregation. Pastors also need to protect the integrity of
the position of Pastor. There need to be thorough and regular background checks conducted on
every member of the pastoral staff. There is too much at stake. No sin, but especially this heinous
of evil, should not be allowed to permeate into the framework of the Church. A pastor needs to
be publicly removed from his office if guilty of these hideous acts of evil.
7. Get Ready, Youth Group Leaders: Teens Twice as Likely to Identify as Atheist or
LGBT
Summary
A recent Gallup poll found that approximately 4.1% of Americans identify as LGBT, but
more than 12% of Gen Z described their sexual orientation as something other than heterosexual.
This article in Christianity Today addresses this new challenge that is facing the church and its
leaders today. The article discusses the challenge of combatting the deluge of information in the
secular sphere regarding the LGBT movement. In the past, this was a topic that was easily
sidestepped but now it is impossible not to address. The article examines the commonly cited
objections to the church and the Gospel among the different generations. Interestingly, the report
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references Facts and Trends by Jessica Berlin, who warns that her peers often see religion as
oppressive, so parents and leaders should focus on Christianity as a relationship with Christ.
Biblical Response/Admonition
As church leaders seek to engage the lost with the Gospel, they need to prepare for the
objections and make an argument that is defensible and from an authority that will be mutually
acceptable. The scriptures are clear that God created humans to honor himself, the creator.
However, many people, including the majority of Gen Z, do not recognize the authority of the
Scriptures. The job of the Next Gen leader is to earn a platform in the youth's life then speak the
truth in love and understanding.
Ministry Application
Leaders need to be able to implement apologetics while displaying God's truth
demonstrated throughout creation. They also need to be aware that many Gen Z'ers believe that
affirmation is acceptance. While the LGBT community needs to be loved as he commanded His
followers to love, there needs to be a clear distinction that the lifestyle opposes the biblical
mandates.
8. When quitting is admirable and brave
Summary
A significant component of American youth's lives is sports. Every couple of years, there
is a notable global competition that is called the Olympics. During this years' Olympic
competition, there has been some controversy surrounding the gymnast, Simon Biles. Arguably
the world's best gymnast, she decided not to compete in several of the events for which she is
famed. This article addresses some of those criticisms and how they are unjustified and unfair.
The piece asserts that miss Biles' decision not to participate in the events is viewed by many as
quitting America. Furthermore, the author claims that is not true as Miss Biles took time off to
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protect her mental and physical state. The main assertation made within the article is that
sometimes quitting is more challenging than staying.
Biblical Response/Admonition
As ministry leaders counsel youth as they navigate the teen years, many of those teens
will be involved in competitive sports and often face similar circumstances. The scriptures
prioritize the pursuit of holiness and righteousness over worldly pursuits such as sports; however,
spiritual leaders need to coach their students through this critical phase. Often there will be
legitimate and valid reasons for the student to take a step back from pursuing their sport's
aspirations. The Next Gen Leader's responsibility is to help their students make decisions based
upon biblically-based guidance.
Ministry Application
In our ministries, we need to help students navigate the uncertainties of life, and more
than not, those discussions center around the sports vs. church debate. While not limiting the
student's aspirations, the leader needs to gently persuade the student to keep biblical goals center
and apply biblical guidance to everything they do. If that is competing in a God-honoring way or
taking a step back and focusing on one's mental or spiritual life, the leader needs to coach the
student through whatever the best decision is for that student.
9. Canceled Mission Trips Expected to Have Long-Term Fallout
Summary
The article addresses the effect that COVID-19 has had on seasonal international
missions trips. The sudden and prolonged halt to international missions trips has all but stopped
the 1.1 billion dollar industry. This article states that more than 20 percent of all US-based
international mission work is done by short-term volunteers each year. This translates to over 1.6
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million church members going on overseas missions trips. The report examines a fear that this
lack of international travel will essentially create a kink in the mission's pipeline. While the work
accomplished abroad is usually substantial, the real benefit of the intercultural exchange is the
increase in giving and recruitment. Mr. Roach states that nearly 100 percent of career
missionaries say that short-term experiences influenced their decision to make missions a career.
The article also explores the financial aspect. Christians who participate in short-term missions
tend to give 5 percent more to their church's international programs upon their return.
Biblical Response/Admonition
As spiritual leaders, we need to balance sensitivity to global health concerns and the well-
being of our church members. We have the biblical mandate to take the Gospel into the uttermost
parts of the world (Acts 1:8), and the pause experienced during the pandemic is an excellent time
to focus on the regions closer to home. Leaders need to use the energy and resources that were
previously dedicated to overseas trips can be temporarily redirected to assisting the local
population that has been affected by the pandemic.
Ministry Application
As spiritual leaders, regardless of external circumstances, we need to be leading our
people to help other find and follow Jesus. The outreach method will inevitably ep and flow
depending on external circumstances, but the mandate remains the same. If the pandemic stops
you from taking a trip, evaluate what financial loss has been to your field ministry partner and
make that right. Then, take the remaining funds and apply those to local outreach plans and
systems. We do not stop reaching others for the gospel, pandemic or no.
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10. Father Absence and Adolescents as a Challenge to Youth Ministry
Summary
The role of the father in the development of youth is essential. The article by Yi and Nel
explores how the absence of fathers in adolescent's lives affects their development while
presenting unique challenges to their youth groups and church communities. The article seeks to
address four main concepts: to understand the father's role as a spiritual leader; to describe the
role of the father in child and adolescent development, emphasizing the unhealthy influence of
father absence on the child and adolescent; to discuss findings of the present situation of the local
church regarding the youth who live without a biological father, and to examine the implications
of the research findings for inclusive congregational youth ministry. The article explores one
main reason youth ministries are ineffective when reaching youth who do not have a father
figure.
Biblical Response/Admonition
The scriptures mandate the church to care for the orphans and the widows (James 1:27).
Adolescents who do not have a father in their lives fall squarely into that area of responsibility.
When the church does not present God as a suitable replacement for the physical father, the
adolescents put God and their biological father into one category, resulting in them falling away
from the faith.
Ministry Application
In the ministry, leaders need to be very intuitive to the situations from which their
students come. Being able to identify unique family situations and family arrangements allows
the leaders to tailor their approach accordingly. The leaders need to remove as many obstacles as
possible in the presentation of the Gospel and making disciples.
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