Friday, February 08, 2008

Advance Copy

I've decided to post something I wrote for the HUGSR student newsletter. This is an advance copy so sorry for the repeat, HUGSR nerds. Basically, this is an abbreviated version of my convictions regarding my calling and my education. May we all pursue love.

YM + GE = X

For most, the answer to the above equation is X = 0. After all, what relevance do youth ministry and a graduate education have to one another? For most, youth ministry and graduate education are this generation's Tango and Cash. X does not equal zero, however. For one, the stereotype may be true that YM – GE often leads to disastrous results. Perhaps this is true because of a lack of learning, maturity, or discipline that can be gained with the addition of GE. Still, a less negative view returns a better solution. The goal of all things, including YM and GE, ought to be the spiritual (trans)formation of an individual into the community of God’s people. The answer then is an infinite range. Some may do well without GE, some may do poorly with it. Regardless, the goal is not a smarter youth minister, but one who loves more. For, “knowledge puffs up, but love builds up” (1 Cor. 8:1).

1 comment:

Zack said...

Nick, Hay buddy! Good luck and God bless you as your persue your MDIV at HUGSR. If your goal is to know your stuff and be able to deliver it to the people you minister to, than God bless it! If your goal is to help transform yourself spiritually and help others do the same, God bless it! And God bless you too Nick!
I hope and pray all is well.