1. The Bible is the key to unification through the generations.
Students respect the Bible even when they do not respect the older generations.
2. The key is to build individual Christians, not replicas of our strengths and failures.
No Christian is perfect but wasting time on traditions means less time for spiritual growth.
3. Games are important to apply the lessons, but are not the focus.
If a game can teach a point, it should be used. If not, a game is not always necessary.
4. Love is a great strength.
Students need to learn that love comes first. To often, we teach that perfect doctrine is more important than meeting people where they are. That is a great error on our part.
5. Youth need to have fun.
Not every activity should be geared towards deep spiritual Christians only. Some events need to be solely for the purpose of evangelism and outreach. Just because we are not teaching Jesus at the event does not mean that we are doing any less evangelism. We have to overcome the stereotypes of Christians that they have in their minds. We enjoy having fun just like everyone else even if it is different.
6. Each youth should find a place to serve.
It is more important for the youth minister to promote the youths' abilities than it is to do everything. One more thing done by the youth is one more future servant. One more thing done by the youth minister is less time for other things. They have talents. They need to learn to use them so that tomorrow's church sees the growth we wish we saw.
7. Youth need models
Youth have to see great leadership from the elders, parents, ministers, and other members. This requires an active eldership that pursues the best for the congregation and members working together. Youth are not seperated by age, they are observing and that means not only teaching youth to be examples but reminding those others how important their roles are.