By Aubrey Santo and Grace Rodriguez
Riley Scott, Next-Gen pastor at Generations Christian Church, says his motto for his life and the underlying message in his preaching centers on one thing: “Truth is exclusive”.
“If Jesus really is the son of God and He actually rose from the dead,” he said. “That means everything the Bible says is true. And if anyone disagrees they are wrong.”
Pastor Riley said everything he talks about in chapel, K-12 church in G-Kids and youth group on Wednesday nights, adult small group, and “big church” on Sunday - absolutely everything that he talks about relates to the topic because a lot of people believe in different things, but God's word is the truth.
We talked to Pastor Riley about faith, life, and what it means to be in ministry. We also asked him about his interest in gaming and creating his own video games. Here is what he had to say.
Tell me about growing up in the church, and how did you form a relationship with Christ, and did that relate to your calling to ministry?
Growing up, I was surrounded by ‘heroes of the faith' is what I would call the pastors. I struggled with believing, and it didn't feel real until I lost everything. Then I realized that being surrounded by the people who preached was a sign from God to start ministry.
Did you always want to be a pastor?
No, I either wanted to be a video game designer or a musician.
What inspired you to become a youth pastor?
I was surrounded by people who preached, and felt God was calling me to it.
What does the title Next-Gen Pastor entail?
This means I plan for kids from the age of pre-k to college, I also deal with Parent-Student relationships.
Was there a verse that you taught that encouraged you through life?
James 3:1, “All should not teach for they will be judged harshly.” It reminds me to have integrity and encourages me when I am walking in the faith.
What is the most difficult thing to preach about?
The sacrifice of giving your life to Jesus. Most people think that following Jesus comes without sacrifice and that following Him will always be a straightforward effortless, painless and easy way to live life, but it may not always be that way.
Did you grow up in a casual church and how did you develop your style?
I grew up in a casual church meaning most people wore jeans and a sweater or a nice shirt, but I also experienced the other side of a church where me and my brothers had to wear suits. I prefer a casual church, and that's the atmosphere we try to show here at Generations Christian Church.
What is your favorite grade to preach to?
(He answered jokingly) 6th grade for this week, but it changes every week based on how I feel about them.
How different is speaking at chapel than high school?
It's the same content but the information is given heavier to the high schoolers depending on what the high schoolers are going through.
Why do you pick crazy, fun demonstrations to go with your messages?
I use attractive demonstrations because they gain their attention towards the demonstration and what that demonstration is telling us about Jesus.
What inspired you to start creating video games?
I really like playing them and wanted to have a career in it, I also liked the idea of being my own boss.
Where did you get your ideas for gaming?
I got most of my ideas from playing a lot of games when I was younger and saying “I wish it did…”
What programs do you use for gaming?
I use the same gaming engine as Fortnite, it's called UnRealEngine5
How old were you when you got your first gaming console, and what was it?
I was 7 years old, and it was a blue Gameboy.
How has having a family impacted your view on children's ministry?
Having a family has helped me realize how God views us as His children. It has also helped me realize how to better use my ministry skills on children, and how to better suit their church needs.
Do you think God has plans for you outside ministry?
I don't know honestly, but I know God has a plan for me.
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