Alpha Generation – Another Beginning At Greatness
Members of the Alpha Generation are born between the year 2011 – 2025. In other words, the time we are currently living in is the time when Alpha Generation is constantly emerging. They are growing in number and on a journey to becoming the highest population in the world.
In his seminar entitled “Alpha Generation”, Dr. Andik Wijaya, MD, MrepMed. referred to the Alpha Generation as a generation with complex needs, because they are currently being misguided by the world to become a generation that does not believe in God, nor in the concept of death and eternity. This generation lives aimlessly with the sole purpose of seeking pleasure. The foundation of their lives is built upon perceptions that are believed as facts.
Technological sophistication and the emphasis on human intelligence led the Alpha Generation to believe that they could live in the absence of God, and that their abilities are comparable to God’s. They are confident that they can be anything they desire to be, and live life as they please without having a clear and real goal in life.
When we explore further the movies / games / other activities embraced by the Alpha Generation, we will find countless people that have been infiltrated by the principles of the untruth. Because the Alpha Generation abide by the perception of others, what they see / hear / live for every day are perceived as facts and hence, a made up truth.
What then can we do for this generation? They are intelligent, agile, and superior in many ways. Do we stand idly and simply surrender the discipleship work of this Alpha Generation to a handful of ministers in the church’s children department?
1.The Alpha Generation discipleship must begin from HOME.
How often do you hear parents say, “I’ve done my part of nurturing my children by feeding them, providing the best education as well as other needs. Therefore, it only makes sense for the church, and/or their teachers in school, to be responsible for teaching them about God and their spiritual lives.”
Sadly, this misconception is common nowadays. It has even been considered true by some parents. Do you know that the greatest responsibility of introducing a child to God, to understand and personally experience the goodness of God, as well as living in Truth lies in the hands of every parent?
Deuteronomy 6:6-9 (NIV) says, “These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.”
This command is clearly given to PARENTS, and not to the ministers in church. Therefore, let every parent teach the Truth about God to the Alpha Generation over and over again, talk about them at every chance, and show it through their deeds. Only then will the Alpha Generation be able to capture the right perceptions and principles when the world offers otherwise. They will stand on a firm foundation and have a strong hold to resist what is not right and continue to walk in the Truth.
2. The role of the church is to provide SUPPORT for each parent.
If Alpha Generation discipleship takes place in every home, does it void the children ministry at church? The answer is no. Each party has its particular role and portion.
What is the role of the church’s children department (or IFGF Kids) in discipling the Alpha Generation? The greatest role of the church right now is to be of support for every parent. Have we maintained a regular communication with every parent and child whom we serve? Have we worked together to pray, teach, and plant the seeds of Truth in their lives? Or, have we been walking alone while ignoring the importance of establishing relationships between parents and the church?
The church needs to be ready to equip every parent, to offer help when they are in difficulty, and to walk with them when they don’t know what to do.
Ephesians 4:11-12 (NIV) says, “So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up.”
Also, the church needs to be a place for the Alpha Generation children to be able to listen, learn, and experience God. Regardless of their background and circumstances, the church needs to be a place where children feel accepted and loved.
When parents and the church walk together, then the Alpha Generation is set for victory. They will be ready to be God’s disciples who win many souls for Christ – a disciple who disciples.
source: Ps. Ancella Gunawan (Task Force-Kids Coordinator)
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