Written by Karsten Harrison, pastor of student ministry and outreach at Emmanuel Baptist Church in Overland Park, Kansas.
Studies continue to show the average tenure of a youth pastor is just two years. A lead pastor’s tenure is triple. Why? Perhaps youth pastors are underpaid or underappreciated. Maybe some face burnout. Maybe some view their jobs as stepping stones. Whatever the reason, the data is concerning.
Local churches need youth pastors committed to more than two-year ventures. They need leaders to take up the task of investing in and discipling the church’s youth over the long haul. Why should youth ministers pursue this type of longevity?
In my recent article for TGC, I review several reasons in Jesus’s ministry.
First, discipleship takes time. Jesus spent years teaching and shaping his disciples. To follow Christ’s model, youth ministers must invest in students over years, committing to their slow, formative growth.
Second, theological knowledge takes time. The disciples weren’t theological experts when Jesus called them. Peter went so far as to rebuke Jesus. Others argued among themselves about who was greatest. And they collectively doubted Jesus’s words. Still, our Savior persisted with them. Similarly, youth-ministry leaders must understand that theological depth isn’t achieved suddenly but slowly, through faithful instruction over time.
Finally, fruit takes time. In Mark 4:26–29, Jesus tells the parable of the growing seed. His point is clear: God causes growth, not us. Just like the farmer in the parable, we’re called to be faithful and see what God does. Fruit-bearing youth ministries take years of faithfulness and patience as God works. If we want to see fruit, we must stay and actively watch for what God is doing.
The church needs zealous youth ministers committed for the long haul. So, youth minister, don’t merely settle for youth ministry. Embrace it.
—Karsten
