An Emerging Generation | John K. Jenkins Sr. | Sermon Notes — Hello Pastor

Sermon Notes

An Emerging Generation

John K. Jenkins Sr.

First Baptist Church of Glenarden • Jun 14, 2026 • 106 min

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Take this message with you through a journey of Scripture, reflection, and prayer.

Summary

In this message on Youth and Children Day, believers are encouraged to recognize and support an emerging generation raised by God to confront life's giants. Drawing from David's confrontation with Goliath in 1 Samuel 17, the message illustrates how God uses prior hardships to build spiritual endurance, requiring believers to step forward with their authentic God-given identity. Through faith in Jesus Christ, everyone can rise to the occasion, overcome trials, and continuously grow into God's full purpose for their lives.

Themes

Faith in ActionYouth and LeadershipGenerational WisdomOvercoming FearIdentity in ChristSpiritual Growth

Pastor's Points

1.

An emerging generation is rising to the occasion.

2.

An emerging generation is developing their faith through trials.

3.

An emerging generation is becoming all God has called them to be.

Key Points

1.
An emerging generation rises to the occasion by recognizing opportunities, demonstrating genuine concern for others, and being willing to step up and fight.
2.
True spiritual strength is built through past trials, where God delivers us from smaller struggles like the lion and the bear to prepare us for present giants.
3.
We must credit God's faithful past deliverance rather than relying solely on our own skills, talents, or accomplishments.
4.
Young believers should respectfully decline being forced into another generation's armor or methods, remaining true to the authentic identity and tools God provided.
5.
Older generations must avoid doubting youth, creating space and real opportunities for them to step up and lead.
6.
Defeating a giant is not the climax of a believer's journey, but merely the beginning of becoming who God designed them to be.
7.
Remembering 'one time' moments when God delivered or spared us helps build a resilient faith capable of facing current battles.
8.
Salvation and spiritual renewal begin when anyone accepts Christ's forgiveness and steps into God's eternal purpose.

Sermon Moments

“Young David confronting Goliath when the entire army of Israel was paralyzed by fear.”

“The story of Tyreek shoveling snow out of concern and gratitude because he had previously been generously rewarded.”

“The three steps to rising to the occasion: having an opportunity, showing concern, and being willing to fight.”

“David's declaration of 'Moreover'—crediting God's deliverance from the lion and bear for his confidence over Goliath.”

“The locker room speech from 'The Little Giants,' where recalling 'one time' victories built the faith needed to overcome giants.”

“The lesson of stepping into a father's foot coming through a window and receiving grace instead of punishment.”

“David trying on Saul's heavy armor, realizing it didn't fit, and respectfully taking it off to use five smooth stones instead.”

“The personal journey of overcoming learning disability labels to graduate, serve as an officer, create art, and preach God's word.”

This Week

Look actively for opportunities this week to step up and serve in your family, church, or community.

Reflect on past trials (your lion and bear moments) and list how God delivered you, using those memories to build faith for present challenges.

Refuse to force others—or be forced yourself—into ill-fitting expectations, relying instead on the authentic spiritual tools God gave you.

Encourage and mentor a younger believer by offering them practical opportunities to lead and exercise their faith.

Cultivate genuine concern for the well-being of those around you rather than remaining focused solely on self-interest.

Take time to thank God for moments of grace where He spared you from the full consequences of past mistakes.

Share your testimony of God's past faithfulness with someone facing a daunting giant in their life today.

Remember This

An emerging generation rises to life's spiritual challenges by remembering God's past deliverance, refusing ill-fitting expectations, and stepping boldly into their God-given identity.

A Challenge for You

Accept the forgiveness offered through Jesus Christ, step forward without letting this moment slip away, and allow God to make you everything He created you to be.

These are personal sermon notes shared to help you remember the message — not a replacement for Scripture, your church, or your pastors.