In the last two decades, evolving technology has completely transformed how billions connect and engage with the world. This shift has had a particular impact on younger generations, who are increasingly leaving churches to find a greater sense of connection elsewhere. Within many Kenyan congregations, this exodus was acknowledged but not properly remedied. In fact, having any kind of youth-geared program is a rare concept for sub-Saharan churches.
Further, the culture does not highly prioritize the youth. Younger generations go largely ignored and only deemed important once they can start earning an income. This attitude has carried over to the churches where children are taken to the normal, “adult” service with the hopes they will receive spiritual food there. This is compounded with the desperate lack of discipleship. With no one to walk converts through the Word or what it actually means to follow Jesus, the appeal to stay in churches is rapidly diminishing.
Amid this emerging division, two men, Sammy Musili and Matthew Elmore, began strategizing solutions. Initially, Sammy simply asked Matt, a professor at his seminary, to speak at his church about the importance of youth ministry. Matt accepted the offer, but never anticipated the movement it would spark. Over the next several months and years, more and more people approached Matt, asking him to speak to and train pastors on this crucial issue. Eventually, Matt formed a team with Sammy and others who shared his burden for the youth, becoming the ministry of 4:12.
And He gave some as apostles, some as prophets, some as evangelists, some as pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the building up of the body of Christ.” (Ephesians 4:11-12, italics added)
Led by Sammy, 4:12 strives to see youth (and all people) reengaged with the Word of God by training pastors, teachers, leaders, and churches. With trainers spread across several different regions, churches around the nation are learning how to establish youth ministry. On occasion, the team also will address kids directly in youth seminars, camps, and schools to encourage them in their faith.
After teaching a leader-focused conference, 4:12 provides pastors, churches, and even schools with youth-based Bible materials. These pamphlets and study tools convey truths in a manner in which children want to learn more. Once the designated youth leader has effectively gone through a semester sharing this material, he or she is given the next course and followed up with as necessary. These resources are not only training the children, but the leader also–showing him or her how to disciple and communicate the Bible effectively. After finishing all the courses, the leader now has the skills to carry out lessons from any chapter/topic in the Bible so desired.
Currently, the ministry is made up of pastors, teachers, and leaders who take time out of their lives to invest in these congregations, holding to the conviction that the next generations will not be lost to ignorance. Sadly, there exists a devastating cycle of heresy keeping countless bound in sin, poverty, and in some cases, untimely death. But to God’s glory, where the false messages are capturing hearts, He is multiplying out ministers like those of 4:12 to bring people back to the Bible, expressing His true heart, character, and power.
A true measure of 4:12’s effectiveness lies in the incredible transformation seen within the schools it has worked with. Unlike the widespread student-led strikes occurring nationally, schools reached by the ministry have remained free of any strikes whatsoever. Furthermore, numerous mentees from these schools have grown up to become pastors, now dedicated to discipling others in the Word.
As 4:12 continues to expand its reach, the vision remains clear: to see every person in Kenya and beyond deeply rooted in the truth of God’s Word. Through dedicated training, discipleship, and accessible resources, 4:12 is raising up a generation equipped to discern truth, lead with conviction, and ultimately, transform their communities. This vital work ensures that the next wave of believers finds not only connection, but lasting spiritual nourishment.
