Mccordmatt’s Weblog

Well, it’s the start of the last day, and that comes with mixed emotions.  I never want to leave camp because I know that as soon as we get on the bus and arrive at home the real world is there waiting on the students.  But, I also know that we have to come home to follow through with decision and actions we’ve committed to doing.  We also have to come home to spread the gospel to our Judea, Samaria, and all the ends of the world. This week for me as a student minister has been the most influental and impacting. To see many of these students broken before God and wanting to get back to share what they have learned is exciting. 

Last night we heard an awesome message on the difference in a “youth ministry” and a “youth group.” There are 7 key markers of a student ministry:          Ephesians 4:1-3

1. Humility

2. Gentleness

3. Patience

4. Bearing

5. Love

6. Unity — “eager to maintain the unity” (v. 2)

7. Peace

 The main difference is a big enemy and monster that goes by the name “UnforGIVEness.”  This means unforgiveness of those in the student ministry, staff, family, friends, parents etc.  When there is true forgivness a youth group transforms into a student ministry.  We expect people to ask us for forgiveness in every situation, but we forget that the word has the key to true “forGIVEness.”  The greek word for forgivness is Aphesis which means, “release from bondage or imprisonment; Let go as if it never happened.” 

Forgivness was:

1. Created by God — Ps. 103:2-3; 130:3-4; I Jn 1:9

2. Commanded by God — Mt 6:14-15; Lk 17:3-4; Eph 4:32

3. Enabled by God — Col. 3:12-13

After this message many of your students called and asked for forgivness from you as parents.  I saw much brokeness in the students and even in my own life.  And I look forward to see our “youth group” turn fully into a student ministry.

Well, I guess we will see you all tomrrow night, but I will post one more time tonight.