A Christlike Ministry

‘Incarnational ministry’ is in vogue. Youth workers are encouraged to ‘hang out’ with youth. However, this has become little more than an excuse for theological laziness! The truth is that Jesus did not ‘hang out’ with people. His ministry was spent wandering the countryside, towns and cities of Israel, never staying in one place long enough to build relationships with those he met. Jesus had a ‘hit and run’ ministry. The contention of Dr Steve Griffiths is that the popular model of Incarnational Ministry does not mirror the ministry of Jesus. Christology needs to be re-framed for 21st-century youth ministry. He suggests a creative re-framing based on key events in Jesus’ life: incarnation, crucifixion, resurrection, ascension and second coming. This approach liberates youth workers to become more effective in their ministry. Developing a notion of Jesus’ ministry operating in kairos-time rather than chronos-time, he explains how every encounter can be packed with a taste of eternity.