YWAM's foundational values emerged from its early history and experiences, shaped by the vision and leadership of its founder, Loren Cunningham, and others who helped establish the organization. Here’s a brief look at the origins of these values:
A brief history
The organization began in 1960 when Loren Cunningham received a vision of waves of young people covering the continents, sharing the gospel. This vision of empowering young people to serve in missions forms the backdrop for many of YWAM's values, especially those centered on evangelism, youth, and missions.
Over the years, YWAM evolved as a decentralized and relational organization, shaped by the feedback, experiences, and leadership of its global community. Values such as teamwork, servant leadership, and hospitality grew naturally from YWAM’s focus on community living and mutual accountability.
In the 1980s, as YWAM expanded globally, there was a growing need to clearly define the shared beliefs and practices that united its diverse branches. This led to the formal articulation of the 18 foundational values which were officially adopted in 1991. Though the values have remained the same, the wording of many values has been updated for clarity, most recently in May 2020. The values were formulated through input from YWAM leaders across the world, emphasizing what had already been core to their mission.
Biblical & Missional Influence
YWAM's core values are rooted in biblical principles. The emphasis on knowing God, worship, intercessory prayer, and evangelism reflects a desire to build an organization based on Scripture and following Jesus' model of discipleship.
From its inception, YWAM was shaped by real-life missionary work in diverse cultural contexts. As YWAMers engaged with different communities around the world, the importance of values like hearing God’s voice, servant leadership, and being interdenominational and international emerged as critical to their effectiveness.
These values are not only practical guidelines for YWAM’s operations but also reflect the spiritual DNA of the organization, built over decades of global ministry experience.
What are YWAM's 18 foundational values?
The eighteen Foundational Values of Youth With A Mission are the expression of our basic beliefs coupled with specific directives given by God since YWAM’s beginning in 1960. They are recorded here in order to pass on to successive generations that which God has emphasized to us. These shared beliefs and values are the guiding principles for both the past and future growth of our mission. Some are common to all Christians everywhere; others are distinctive to Youth With A Mission.The combination of these beliefs and values make up the unique family characteristics of YWAM—our “DNA.” They are values we hold in high regard which determine who we are, how we live and how we make decisions.
1. Know God
YWAM is committed to know God, His nature, His character and His ways as revealed in the Bible, the inspired and authoritative Word of God. We seek to reflect who He is in every aspect of our lives and ministry. The automatic overflow of knowing and enjoying fellowship with God is a desire to share Him with others.
YWAM's first foundational value, "Know God" reflects the biblical truth that knowing God is at the heart of the Christian life. It encompasses the idea that a personal relationship with God is the foundation for everything else—personal transformation, effective ministry, and the fulfillment of God's purposes on earth. In this way, YWAM seeks to build a community of believers who are committed to growing in their knowledge of God.
2. Make God known
YWAM is called to make God known throughout the whole world, and into every arena of society through evangelism, training and mercy ministries. We believe that salvation of souls should result in transformation of societies, thus obeying Jesus’ command to make disciples of all nations.
The second foundational value of Youth With A Mission (YWAM), "Make God Known" is deeply rooted in the biblical mandate for believers to share the knowledge of God with others. This value reflects a core theme of Scripture—the call to spread the good news of God's love, grace, and salvation to all people. Jesus, after His resurrection, commanded His followers to go into the world and make disciples of all nations. YWAM’s second foundational value embodies this commission, emphasizing the importance of evangelism, missions, and teaching people to follow Christ.
3. Hear God’s voice
YWAM is committed to creating with God through listening to Him, praying His prayers and obeying His commands in matters great and small. We are dependent upon hearing His voice as individuals, together in team contexts and in larger corporate gatherings. This is an integral part of our process for decision making.
The third foundational value of Youth With A Mission (YWAM), "Hear God's Voice" is deeply rooted in the biblical concept of God communicating with His people. Throughout Scripture, God speaks to individuals and communities, guiding, directing, and revealing His will. This value highlights the importance of cultivating a relationship with God where we actively listen for His guidance, both personally and in ministry. The practice of hearing God’s voice is central to YWAM’s approach to missions and discipleship.
4. Practice worship and intercessory prayer
YWAM is dedicated to worship God and engage in intercessory prayer as integral aspects of daily life. We also recognize the intent of Satan to destroy the work of God and we rely upon God’s empowering presence, the Holy Spirit, to overcome Satan’s strategies in the lives of individuals and in the affairs of nations.
The fourth foundational value of Youth With A Mission (YWAM), "Practice Worship and Intercessory Prayer," is rooted in the biblical principles of honoring God through worship and seeking His will through intercession. This value highlights the importance of a lifestyle that is centered on encountering God in both worship and prayer, which forms the foundation for effective ministry and mission work. 1 Timothy 2:1 says, "I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people". Worship and intercessory prayer are essential because they bring believers into deeper relationship with God and align them with His purposes for individuals, communities, and nations.
5. Be visionary
YWAM is called to be visionary, continually receiving, nurturing and releasing fresh vision from God. We support the pioneering of new ministries and methods, always willing to be radical in order to be relevant to every generation, people group, and sphere of society. We believe that the apostolic call of YWAM requires the integration of spiritual eldership, freedom in the Spirit and relationship, centered on the Word of God.
The fifth foundational value of Youth With A Mission (YWAM), "Be Visionary," highlights the importance of seeing beyond current circumstances, trusting in God’s guidance for the future, and courageously pursuing His purposes. Proverbs 29:18 says, "Where there is no vision, the people perish." Being visionary involves faith, innovation, and the ability to dream big in alignment with God's heart for the world. This value encourages YWAMers to look ahead with a kingdom mindset, seeking God's plans and moving forward with boldness in their mission to reach the nations.
6. Champion young people
YWAM is called to champion youth. We believe God has gifted and called young people to spearhead vision and ministry. We are committed to value them, trust them, train them, support them, make space for them and release them. They are not only the Church of the future; they are the Church of today. We commit to follow where they lead, in the will of God.
The sixth foundational value of Youth With A Mission (YWAM), "Champion Young People," emphasizes the importance of empowering, equipping, and supporting young people to fulfill their God-given potential. YWAM believes that young people are not only the future of the Church and the world but also a vital part of God's plan right now. A biblical example of this is the prophet Jeremiah. "But the Lord said to me, ‘Do not say, “I am too young.” You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you.’" Jeremiah 1:7. This value is rooted in the biblical understanding of how God often calls and uses the youth for His purposes, and it reflects YWAM’s commitment to raising up the next generation of leaders in missions, ministry, and society.
7. Be decentralized
YWAM is a Christ-centered, faith-based global volunteer movement, united by shared vision, core beliefs, foundational values and relationships. We do not have a centralized structure. Every YWAM ministry has the privilege and spiritual responsibility to develop and maintain healthy relationships with appropriate authorities and circles of elders.
YWAM’s seventh foundational value, "Be decentralized," reflects the importance of operating without a central governing structure, allowing for flexibility, innovation, and localized leadership. This approach emphasizes empowerment at every level, enabling YWAM ministries to respond effectively to the specific needs of different cultures, regions, and mission fields. Originally, this value was phrased as "Be broad-structured and decentralized," indicating both the wide variety of YWAM ministries and the decentralized nature of its leadership. Over time, the focus shifted more specifically toward decentralization, simplifying the language but keeping the heart of the value intact.
8. Be international and interdenominational
YWAM is international and interdenominational in its global scope as well as its local constituency. We believe that ethnic, linguistic and denominational diversity, along with redeemed aspects of culture, are positive factors that contribute to the health and growth of the Mission.
YWAM’s eighth foundational value, "Be international and interdenominational," emphasizes the importance of embracing diversity across nations, cultures, and Christian traditions. This value reflects YWAM’s commitment to fostering unity within the global body of Christ, transcending national, ethnic, and denominational boundaries to fulfill the Great Commission.
Revelation 7:9 says, "After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb." This vision of heaven includes people from every nation, tribe, and language, demonstrating the diversity that is central to God’s kingdom. YWAM’s commitment to being international aligns with this biblical picture of unity in diversity, where people of different cultures and backgrounds come together to worship and serve God.
9. Have a biblical worldview
YWAM is called to a biblical Christian worldview. We believe that the Bible—the textbook for all of life—makes a clear division between good and evil; right and wrong. The practical dimensions of life are no less spiritual than the ministry expressions. Everything done in obedience to God is spiritual. We seek to honor God with all that we do, equipping and mobilizing men and women of God to take roles of service and influence in every arena of society.
YWAM’s ninth foundational value, “Have a Biblical worldview,” emphasizes the importance of seeing all of life through the lens of Scripture. This value highlights YWAM’s commitment to living and ministering according to the truths of the Bible, recognizing that God's Word speaks to every area of life—spiritual, social, political, economic, and cultural. It calls for integrating biblical principles into every aspect of life and ministry, seeking to transform individuals and societies by aligning with God's ways and purposes.
10. Function in teams
YWAM is called to function in teams in all aspects of ministry and leadership. We believe that a combination of complementary gifts, callings, perspectives, ministries and generations working together in unity at all levels of our Mission provides wisdom and safety. Seeking God’s will and making decisions in a team context allows accountability and contributes to greater relationship, motivation, responsibility and ownership of the vision.
YWAM’s tenth foundational value, “Function in teams,” underscores the significance of collaboration and partnership in ministry. This value reflects the understanding that effective mission work is rarely done in isolation but thrives in a community where diverse gifts and perspectives come together. YWAM emphasizes teamwork as essential for fulfilling its mission of making God known and advancing His Kingdom.
Proverbs 27:17 says, "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another." Teamwork in YWAM promotes growth and development through relationships. By collaborating with others, team members can challenge and encourage one another, refining their skills and deepening their understanding of God’s calling in their lives.
11. Exhibit servant leadership
YWAM is called to servant leadership as a lifestyle, rather than a leadership hierarchy. A servant leader is one who honors the gifts and callings of those under his/her care and guards their rights and privileges. Just as Jesus served His disciples, we stress the importance of those with leadership responsibilities serving those whom they lead.
YWAM’s eleventh foundational value, “Exhibit servant leadership,” emphasizes the importance of leading through service, following the example of Jesus Christ. This value highlights that true leadership in the context of YWAM and the broader Christian community is characterized by humility, a focus on others, and a commitment to serving rather than being served. Through servant leadership, YWAM aims to impact the world for Christ, demonstrating that true greatness is found in serving others.
12. Do first, then teach
YWAM is committed to doing first, then teaching. We believe that firsthand experience gives authority to our words. Godly character and a call from God are more important than an individual’s gifts, abilities and expertise.
YWAM’s twelfth foundational value, “Do first, then teach,” underscores the significance of experiential learning in the context of ministry and discipleship. By prioritizing action before instruction, YWAM encourages leaders to model Christ’s teachings through their lives, fostering credibility and trust in their teaching. This value promotes a culture of active participation, where individuals engage in hands-on ministry, allowing their experiences to inform their teachings. Through this approach, YWAM aims to develop authentic leaders who reflect the heart of Christ and inspire others to follow Him.
13. Be relationship-oriented
YWAM is dedicated to being relationship-oriented in our living and working together. We desire to be united through lives of holiness, mutual support, transparency, humility, and open communication, rather than a dependence on structures or rules.
YWAM’s thirteenth foundational value, “Be relationship-oriented,” underscores the significance of building meaningful connections within the community of faith. Rooted in biblical principles, this value encourages members to cultivate loving, supportive relationships that reflect God’s nature and strengthen the body of Christ. By prioritizing relationships, YWAM aims to create an environment where individuals can grow spiritually, support one another, and effectively reach the world with the message of Jesus. This relational approach not only enhances community but also serves as a powerful witness to the transformative love of Christ.
14. Value the individual
YWAM is called to value each individual. We believe in equal opportunity and justice for all. Created in the image of God, people of all nationalities, ages and functions have distinctive contributions and callings. We are committed to honoring God-given leadership and ministry gifts in both men and women.
YWAM’s fourteenth foundational value, “Value the individual,” emphasizes the inherent worth and uniqueness of each person within the community and the broader context of God’s creation. This value reflects the biblical understanding that every individual is created in the image of God and has unique gifts and calling. By valuing the individual, YWAM fosters a community that reflects God’s love and purpose, enabling members to grow spiritually, serve others, and make a lasting impact in the world.
15. Value families
YWAM affirms the importance of families serving God together in missions, not just the father and/or mother. We also embrace the inclusion of single-parent families. We encourage the development of strong and healthy family units, with each member sharing the call to missions and contributing their gifts in unique and complementary ways. We uphold and celebrate the biblical view that God’s intent for holy matrimony is between one man and one woman.
YWAM’s fifteenth foundational value, “Value families,” highlights the significance of family structures and relationships within the context of Christian community and ministry. This value acknowledges the vital role that families play in individual development, spiritual growth, and the broader mission of the church.
16. Practice dependence on God
YWAM is called to practice a life of dependence upon God for financial provision. For individuals and for any YWAM team or community, this comes primarily through His people. As God has been generous toward us, so we desire to be generous, giving ourselves, our time and talents to God with no expectation of remuneration.
YWAM’s sixteenth foundational value, “Practice dependence on God,” emphasizes the necessity of relying on God for financial provision in all aspects of ministry and life. Rooted in biblical principles, this value encourages members to cultivate a lifestyle of faith, prayer, and stewardship, acknowledging God’s sovereignty and faithfulness in meeting their needs. By practicing dependence on God, YWAM members can fully engage in their calling, confident that God will provide for their financial needs as they seek to advance His kingdom.
17. Practice hospitality
YWAM affirms the ministry of hospitality as an expression of God’s character and the value of people. We believe it is important to open our hearts, homes, YWAM locations and campuses to serve and honor one another, our guests and the poor and needy, not as acts of social protocol, but as expressions of generosity.
YWAM’s seventeenth foundational value, “Practice hospitality,” emphasizes the importance of creating an atmosphere of warmth and inclusion. Rooted in biblical principles, this value encourages members to reflect God’s love, build community, and foster discipleship through the act of welcoming others. By practicing hospitality, YWAM members can embody the heart of Christ, reaching out to those in need and creating spaces where individuals can encounter God and one another in meaningful ways.
18. Communicate with integrity
YWAM affirms that everything exists because God communicates. Therefore, YWAM is committed to truthful, accurate, timely and relevant communication. We believe good communication is essential for strong relationships, healthy families and communities, and effective ministry.
YWAM’s eighteenth and final foundational value, “Communicate with integrity,” emphasizes the importance of honesty, transparency, and authenticity in all forms of communication. This value reflects a commitment to truthfulness, fostering trust and building strong relationships both within the organization and with the wider community. By practicing integrity in their speech and actions, YWAM members can build stronger relationships, promote accountability, and ultimately advance the mission of spreading the gospel with credibility and trustworthiness.
Conclusion
YWAM's eighteen foundational values serve as a comprehensive framework that guides the organization’s mission and practice. Each value reflects a commitment to biblical principles and embodies the core mission of knowing God and making Him known.
In essence, YWAM's foundational values provide a robust blueprint for living out the Christian faith in a way that honors God, serves others, and fulfills the Great Commission. By embodying these values, YWAM members are equipped to make a lasting impact in their communities and around the world, reflecting the love and truth of Jesus Christ.
What next?
Now that you know our values, are you interested in joining one of our YWAM schools? If you haven't done one yet, we highly encourage you to do our Bilingual Discipleship Training School here in France! Have you already done a DTS and you're looking for the next step into long-term missions? Check out our YWAM Frontier Missions School! Do you have a heart for the French speaking world? Even if you haven't done a DTS yet, you can join our YWAM French Immersion School!