Ep. 387: Experiential Learning to Develop True Faith with Virgil Tanner

In this conversation, Jay and Virgil explore the importance of character development over mere skills in leadership and parenting. They discuss the need for experiential learning in faith and the role of community in nurturing youth. The conversation emphasizes that discipleship should primarily occur in the home, supported by a network of relationships that foster growth and understanding.

They also discuss the importance of building significant relationships, particularly in the context of youth ministry. They explore the influence of social media on young people's lives, emphasizing the need for adults to step in and provide positive guidance. The discussion highlights the role of desire in shaping behavior and the necessity of intentional connections in youth ministry. They also address the importance of encouraging risk-taking and resilience in young people, advocating for experiential learning over theoretical knowledge. The conversation concludes with practical advice for parents on how to engage in transformative conversations with their children.

Takeaways

• Leaders often have more information than formation.

• Character is more important than skills in leadership.

• Experiential learning is crucial for true understanding.

• Discipleship must happen primarily in the home.

• Community plays a vital role in faith development.

• Youth often leave the faith due to lack of relational engagement.

• Knowing about something is different from truly knowing it.

• Parents' involvement in faith practice significantly impacts youth retention.

• Building a supportive network for youth is essential.

• Teaching faith should be experiential, communal, and narratively situated. Aim for at least seven significant adult relationships.

• Social media influences youth in unhealthy ways.

• Desire drives behavior more than cognition.

• Intentional connections can impact youth positively.

• Encouraging risk-taking helps build resilience.

• Experiential learning is more effective than theoretical knowledge.

• Transformative conversations can lead to deeper understanding.

• Modeling behavior is crucial for youth development.

• Recognizing and affirming individual strengths is important.

• Learning from failure is a valuable experience.

Let’s Parent on Purpose is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcasting Network. For more information, visit www.ChristianParenting.org

Bio

As the Senior Director of OneTree, Virgil is responsible for leading the team to help mission, marketplace, and ministry leaders thrive holistically, do beautifully integrated work, and become everything God dreamed them to be, believing this to be a primary means for stewarding the reviving life of God through His people into the world.

Virgil holds a B.S. in Biology, an M.A. in Religion and Cross Cultural Studies, and an MEd. in Curriculum and Instruction. He is presently working on an EdD in Christian Leadership.

Resources mentioned:

https://www.onetreeministries.org/

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