Nearly every successful revival in history has begun with youth. The Great Awakenings were led by youthful pastors, the shift to contemporary worship was caused by teenagers coming to Christ, even the disciples themselves were no more than 30 when Jesus called them. Some scholars believe that John was as young as 13!
This is due to a youthful exuberance and an eccentric streak that we as adults often lose as we age and become more comfortable with our place in the world. While we adults can tend to become “the frozen chosen” and stop worrying about evangelism, to a teen, every part of following Christ is a new revelation about who God is and what he calls us to do.
1 Timothy 4:12 reminds teenagers to “Let no one despise [them] for their youth” but to work hard in spreading the gospel.”
As the older members of the body of Christ, we have a responsibility to support the youth and help them spread the gospel message any way we can. So hang out with a teenager. Teach them what you know.
And who knows, maybe they can teach you something, too.
-Matt Howard
Youth Director
