Blog The Younger Generation

By Barry Simpson

I don’t know when it happened. I’m not even sure when it first dawned on me, but I am coming to terms with being viewed by younger guys as an older minister. Granted, many preachers are older than me, but more and more are younger. The same is true with missionaries; they seem to be getting younger and younger.

Please understand I don’t bemoan my age. In fact I’m enjoying this era of my life—I’ll be fifty in a few months—as much as I have my earlier years.

What I see and hear in my younger brothers (and sisters) does not discourage me. On the contrary, the more I’m around them, the more I am encouraged. Here is what I have observed: I have found that they love to preach, they drink in good preaching, and they know how to laugh. I have found those who are raising children are serious about their parenting responsibilities. While I don’t really care for some of the music that appeals to them, I have found that my younger brothers are both sincere and passionate in their worship of our Lord. Their commitment to reach the world with gospel is every bit as real as previous generations. In fact, today’s young generation is populated with men and women who are interested in taking the gospel to the hard places.

I’ve encountered these bright, young(er) people in my church, at various state meetings, and in the Mission’s office. Some of them are students, some are pastors, some are employed by the denomination, and some are a part of our International missionary force. God is creatively weaving them into the fabric of our denomination and with every thread He pulls He adds new strength and beauty to our movement. They are real manifestations of His blessing upon us and they hold the promise of a bright future for Free Will Baptists. I believe they will bring many souls into the Kingdom and they will bring great glory to our God.