This interview is part of our series of getting to know the speakers who will be at the Next Gen conference for children, youth, and young adult ministry leaders in January. We asked them some questions about our theme for the year, “Follow Me.”
Matt Markins serves as the president and CEO of Awana, a global leader in child discipleship. Matt and his wife, Katie, have been involved in children’s ministry for more than 25 years and spend their time in Nashville with their two sons.
Where do you currently live?
Gallatin, Tennessee, a suburb of Nashville
Can you describe a pivotal moment when you responded to the call to follow Jesus?
Although I initially placed my trust in Christ as my personal Savior as a small child, there were some significant moments of calling and faith-building along the way. As a young man, I was so moved by how the men and women in my small-town local church had discipled me and cared for me that I knew that was the life I longed to live. God spoke to me through the Bible and through the words and actions of others that my life was to be set aside for the gospel through the strengthening of mission and identity of the local church.
How has your understanding of what it means to follow Jesus changed over time?
My understanding of grace is likely one of my biggest areas of change in understanding. The grace of Christ is unlike anything else on earth. It’s been said that the grace of Christ is extravagant and even scandalous, and I believe that. God is so, so patient to wait on us, to shape us, to and to change us slowly over time to become more like him. And he doesn’t stop forming us. This is why I’m so passionate about being a disciple of Jesus Christ. Apprenticeship to him is the most life-giving way to live and it’s the focus of my life and ministry.
Who is the most interesting person you follow online (social media, blogs, podcasts, etc.), and why?
Mark Sayers, pastor of Red Church in Melbourne, Australia. First, I love listening to his accent. Second, he has a huge heart for biblical discipleship to Jesus Christ. Third, he’s one of the most brilliant minds on the planet, and I think he “understands the times and knows what to do” in a way that few others seem to understand.
Just for fun: What was your last Google search?
Air Jordan 3 Black Cement 2024
