THE PROMISE OF A “FULL” LIFE
A teenager leans back in a creaky school chair, staring at the ceiling, and wonders, “Is this all there is?” Many people, both young and old, feel the weight of this question daily; the potential emptiness of life gnaws at them and demands an answer that’s long-term, sustainable, and not dependent on their ongoing efforts. Amid the noise of social media, academic pressures, and personal struggles, Jesus offers a promise that cuts through the chaos: “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10, NIV).
But what does “life to the full” really mean? How is it a hallmark of the Young Life mission; a value, a cultural reality and promise lived out and experienced? How does it resonate with the students we serve in Young Life? Let’s unpack this verse and explore its relevance to the vibrant, fun, and Christ-centered culture of Young Life.
THE POWER OF LIFE WITH JESUS
Jesus’ words in John 10:10 are part of a larger conversation where he describes himself as the Good Shepherd. In contrast to thieves and hired hands who exploit or neglect the sheep, Jesus offers protection, guidance, and ultimately, abundant life. This isn’t just about survival or getting through the day. It’s about thriving — a life filled with joy, purpose, connection, and adventure.
From its earliest days, Young Life has been a mission that embraces this truth shared in John 10:10. In fact, many of the well-known hallmarks of this 83-year-old organization flow from the belief that life is to be “full” and “abundant.” Whether it’s through the controlled chaos of club, the incredible camps we have to steward and offer, or the ultimate adventure of walking daily with Jesus, Young Life is grounded in the truth that life can be lived freely and fully.
For the teenagers we meet through Young Life, this message is revolutionary. Many feel like life is defined by grades, relationships, or fitting in. They often have a preconceived idea of Christianity being boring, lifeless and less than abundant. They may hear a thousand competing voices that echo the thief’s work: stealing their joy, killing their self-worth, and destroying their hope. In this context, Jesus’ promise and how we live it out isn’t just inspiring — it’s essential.
WHAT DOES “LIFE TO THE FULL” LOOK LIKE?
- A Life Rooted in Belonging
For many students, especially in the swirl of adolescence, loneliness can feel overwhelming. They’re navigating questions like, Who really knows me? Who will stay when things get hard? Jesus answers these questions by saying, I see you, and you belong with me.
In Young Life, this truth becomes tangible in relationships. Whether it’s sharing fries at a local diner or heading to summer camp, our leaders show up consistently, modeling Jesus’ presence. The promise of “life to the full” begins with the assurance that every kid is loved, known, and pursued — by their leaders and ultimately by their Creator. - Freedom from the Thief’s Lies
Jesus identifies the thief as one who comes to steal, kill, and destroy. For today’s teens, the thief’s voice often sounds like comparison: You’re not good enough. You don’t measure up. You’ll never belong. Social media amplifies these lies, creating impossible standards for beauty, success, and happiness.
But Jesus’ message cuts through the noise: You are enough because I made you. You are valuable because I love you. Young Life gives kids the space to hear and believe this truth. From the silliness of skits to the depth of cabin-time discussions, every moment reminds them that their identity is secure in Christ. - A Hopeful Adventure
Abundant life doesn’t mean an easy life. Challenges will come, and Jesus doesn’t promise to remove every hardship. But he does promise to walk with us through them, provide others who will walk alongside us, and give us sustaining hope.
At camp, when a kid steps onto a ropes course or rides a zipline for the first time, they experience a glimpse of what Jesus offers: an invitation to trust, take risks, and find joy in the process. Whether it’s conquering fears or laughing until their sides ache, these moments reflect the freedom and adventure of following Jesus. - A Life That Points to Others
Jesus’ abundance isn’t self-centered; it overflows. When students experience his love, they naturally want to share it with others. We see this when a high school senior starts mentoring younger students, or when a quiet middle schooler decides to invite a friend to club.
LIVING JOHN 10:10 IN YOUNG LIFE
So, how do we make John 10:10 come alive in our ministry?
- Show Up Consistently
Teens won’t believe in a Good Shepherd if they don’t see his hands and feet in action. Our presence matters. Whether we’re cheering on a kid at their game, or offering a listening ear after a tough day, our consistency reflects Jesus’ unchanging love. - Celebrate Fun as Holy Work
From messy games to outrageous skits, fun is foundational to Young Life. Why? Because laughter breaks down walls. It opens hearts to hear the gospel. When kids experience joy in our presence, they catch a glimpse of the abundant life Jesus offers. In Young Life, kids grow to understand that you don’t have to be “altered” to have fun, that healthy humor and incredible adventure are freely offered to all. - Speak Truth Over Lies
Every interaction is an opportunity to counter the thief’s lies with God’s truth. Whether it’s telling a kid, “You’re enough just as you are,” or sharing a story of God’s faithfulness in our own lives, we plant seeds of hope and identity. - Create Space for Hard Questions and Hard Realities
John 10:10 doesn’t deny the reality of pain. Teens need safe spaces to wrestle with their doubts and struggles. By leaning into their questions and pointing them to Jesus, we help them see that abundant life includes both joy and trust in the face of uncertainty. We also help them embrace both lament and joy. Oftentimes, in a fast-moving, comparison-riddled world, kids do not know how to lament or give space to grief. A “full” life is marked by a robust set of emotions and experiences. What a gift to help adolescents learn how to walk in all of this.
AN INVITATION TO ABUNDANT LIFE
John 10:10 reminds us that Jesus didn’t come to offer half-measures or temporary fixes. He came to bring life to the full — a life of belonging, freedom, hope, and purpose. And Young Life leaders get to live out this promise in front of kids every day.
The best part? This invitation is for everyone. Jesus’ words are just as true for the shy seventh-grader sitting alone in the lunchroom as they are for the overbooked high school senior trying to keep it all together. His abundant life isn’t reserved for the perfect or the popular — it’s for anyone willing to say “yes” to his love.
If you’re ready to step into this calling — whether as a leader, donor, or volunteer — we’d love to help you get involved. Together, we can introduce more young people to the Good Shepherd and the abundant life he offers.Want to learn more about how Young Life is helping kids experience life to the full? Visit younglife.org to get involved, volunteer, or support our mission today.
