unSeminary Podcast

Future-Focused Churches: Why Relational Discipleship Matters with Kara Powell

4 snips
Mar 27, 2025
Kara Powell, Executive Director at the Fuller Youth Institute, shares her expertise in engaging the next generation. She emphasizes the importance of relational discipleship as a means to bridge the generational gap. Churches must build trust and genuine relationships rather than relying solely on programs. Powell highlights a remarkable transformation story where a struggling church revitalized itself by actively listening to its community, growing from 75 to 1,500 members by focusing on local college students. Her insights inspire meaningful engagement and community involvement.
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INSIGHT

Youth Distrust Church but Love Jesus

  • Young people generally distrust the church due to its perceived hypocrisy and moral failures.
  • Yet, they remain very pro-Jesus, creating an opportunity for the church to embody Jesus' love authentically.
ADVICE

Keys to Relational Discipleship

  • Build faith through relational discipleship involving adults sharing life and faith with young people.
  • Encourage spiritual practices, service, family involvement, and church prioritizing youth.
INSIGHT

Breaking the Adults-Kids Table Divide

  • Churches often separate youth and adults into distinct groups, losing cross-generational connection.
  • Relational mentoring across ages helps youth envision lifelong church participation.
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