Mutiple Levels of Voluntary Association

In our society, we often attempt to craft one-size-fits-all solutions. That same mentality can find its way into youth ministry. However, unless we learn to discriminate (yes, I said discriminate) we may find that our one-size-fits-all solutions in fact fit no one.

Everyone is not the same. Everyone is not at the same place on their spiritual journey. We need to treat people differently depending on where they are and provide opportunities appropriate to various stages.

Jesus' followers fell into several categories.
- Community as a whole (not necessarily followers at all)
- the Multitudes (large group meetings open to all)
- The 70 - voluntary association on a deeper level by invitation only. Included some level of responsibility and assumes a basic spiritual foundation.
- The 12 - voluntary association on a still deeper level by invitation only. Included greater level of responsibility and assumes a greater spiritual foundation and more face time
- The 3 - voluntary association on a still deeper level by invitation only. Included greater level of responsibility and assumes a greater spiritual foundation and still more face time.
- The 1 - voluntary association on a still deeper level by invitation only. Included greater level of responsibility and assumes a greater spiritual foundation and still more intimate face time.

In youth ministry we also need to consider the difference between involuntary association (those required by parents to be there, sometimes against their will) and voluntary association. We need to create opportunities for voluntary association.



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Forrest Berry
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