A few weeks ago a student pastor asked me why it is important to bring in guest speakers for his students to hear.
It is a valid question.
Yes, guest speakers can be expensive.
Yes, you have been paid to lead midweek and/or weekend services.
But bringing in a guest speaker can serve as a catalyst for your group’s growth and spiritual depth.
Below are a few reasons I think every student ministry should bring in guest speakers.
Your team will have to decide how often you can utilize an outside source and what budgeted money you will be working with. I try to have a guest speaker at our retreats/camps and at least one during each big student ministry season: spring, summer, fall.
I utilize a guest speaker when I am out of town or on vacation, but I also schedule a few people to come in while I’m at service (especially when I ask a student to teach).
While I give you some of my thoughts, you can take these ideas and see how they fit for your ministry.
5 Reasons You Should Use Guest Speakers In Youth Ministry
New Voice
Does it drive you a little crazy when your students and leaders suddenly connect with the main point a guest speaker covers after you have been hitting on the same point for months? For most of us, we listen better when there is a new voice speaking. We can take advantage of this and strategically bring speakers in to help drive home truths, ideas, or concepts we have been covering. When your students see that you are not the only one who is teaching those concepts, they are more willing to grasp the vision.
New Perspective
Any guest speaker you invite in should have an unwavering commitment to Jesus and teach in accordance with your church’s statement of faith. They should also share their unique perspective based on their experiences and relationship with God. Some emphasize missions. Others have a heartbeat for discipleship groups. A new perspective awakens the passions already in people’s hearts.
New Style
It would be arrogant to think that you have the perfect preaching/teaching style to reach every student in your group. People have a variety of learning styles, so they naturally respond to a variety of styles and deliveries. You should be open to introducing new speakers and styles into your group so that you can reach those you may not yet have connected with on a personal level.
New Story
Some guests have a unique story to share about the redemptive power of Jesus. Aspects of their story may resonate with a student in your group. Inviting them to share their story with your people may connect on a deeper level with one of your students than you have been able to in the past.
New Opportunity
Do you have students who are interested in heading to a bible college or seminary? You should get them to teach! Your student may not be a “guest” in the traditional sense, but the main way you can develop leaders is to encourage them to explore how God has gifted them. This helps confirm a calling God may be placing on his/her life. Coach them before they teach and encourage them afterward.
Now What?
I would love to know how your student ministry incorporates guest speakers into the normal rotation and events. Comment below and let me know! How often do you bring in outside voices?
