We have always taught the importance of relevant environments. I actually think the word relevant means a dozen different things depending on who you ask. It is important to have fun and to be creative, but neither of these is the same thing as relevance. When what you have done has helped children or students understand how a spiritual truth applies or to make the right connection relationally, you have been relevant. It involves the way you present truth and what happens in their relationships. In John 1 it was obvious that Jesus came to do two things:
- Turn on a Light – spiritually
- Build a bridge – relationally
He engaged an entire generation because of how He did both of those things. Every time you gather with teenagers you should ask, “Did we turn on a light?” and “Did we build a bridge?” Don’t fall into the trap of thinking you have to spend thousands on technology to engage students. Also remember that teenagers need to be challenged to do something significant and to learn through engaging experiences. Refuse to only think in terms of teaching or presentation. An irresistible environment teaches truth that is relevant, builds strong relationships, and creates memorable experiences.