Embrace the Chaos: What Middle Schoolers Really Need | Keiron Miles

Send us Fan Mail Middle school ministry isn't something to survive. It's something to steward. Middle schoolers are curious, chaotic, hilarious, and learning how to become independent people for the very first time. So why do we sometimes treat them like a problem to manage instead of disciples to develop? Zac Workun sits down with Keiron Miles, a veteran middle school ministry leader, to talk about what it really takes to connect with, teach, and disciple sixth, seventh, and eighth graders. Keiron introduces middle school as the introductory stage of adulthood, where students are discovering how to make decisions, engage in meaningful conversations, follow Jesus independently, and belong to a community of faith. Together, Zac and Keiron unpack some of the most practical challenges in youth ministry: keeping Bible teaching engaging, building better small groups, developing intentional teaching plans, caring for tired volunteers, and creating meaningful opportunities for students to serve. You'll hear practical ideas for: Teaching middle schoolers without losing their attention Using brain breaks, movement, and creativity to make Scripture memorable Coaching students through small group conversations Building an intentional year of Bible teaching and discipleship Equipping and encouraging middle school volunteers Helping students take meaningful next steps through missions and service And perhaps most importantly, why the investment you make in middle school now can shape the health of your high school ministry for years to come. The takeaway: Don't wait for middle schoolers to grow up before you start taking their discipleship seriously. Embrace the chaos. Show them Jesus. Listen, subscribe, and share this episode with the middle school leader in your life. Support the show Join the community!