The Young Church // Anna Oaks

How can generations partner together to prepare the way for God to move? In this message, Youth Pastor Anna Oaks shares insight to help us encourage each other and pursue the Lord together. 

Young people who were used by God. 

David, the shepherd and king

Shariah, meshach, and Abednego

Mary, the mother of Jesus

The boy who brought his lunch to Jesus

What was the common thread?

1.  Called Young, Often Unqualified
2.  Faced Rejection, Resistance, and Trials
3.  Stayed Faithful in Obscurity
4.  Said "Yes" When It Mattered

David was a teenage shepherd, forgotten by his own family— yet chosen to slay giants and become king.

Joseph was a 17-year-old dreamer in a dysfunctional family, sent to save nations.

Mary was likely in her early teens when she carried the Savior of the world.

Jeremiah said, "I am only a youth"— but God said, "Don't say "I am only a youth." (Jeremiah 1:6-7)

David worshiped in the fields.

Daniel prayed in secret.

Joseph honored God in prison.

Mary pondered God's word in her heart.

Willing to say "Yes":

"Here I am, Lord," said Samuel

"Be it unto me," said Mary

"I cannot help but speak," said Jeremiah

Youth were significant leaders in the First Great Awakening (1730s - 1740s) and the Second Great Awakening (Early 1800s).

The revival leader of the Welsh Revival was a young man. And the worship leaders were young people. 

Jesus Movement (Late 1960s-1970s)

Where teenagers and college-aged started leading mass baptisms (80,000 attendees) and launched the modern Christian music movement.

2023 Asbury Revival: a 16 day revival that started when students spontaneously stayed beyond chapel for worship and prayer. Tens of thousands GenZ soon gathered.

What was the common thread?

1.  A Deep Hunger for God's Presence
2.  Radical Surrender and Repentance
3.  Prayer and Unity

1. Recognize That a Revival Doesn't Come

Wrapped in Familiar Packaging.

Be willing to let go of preference and brace God's presence, even when it comes in unexpected ways.

2. Pray, Cover, and Intercede Like It's Your Calling (Because It IS)

You might not lead the move —but your prayers, mentorship, and spiritual protection fuel it.

3. Mentor and Model Without Micromanaging

Be the spiritual scaffolding that helps youth rise— not the ceiling that holds them down.

What is your part in what the Lord is doing in the youth today?