Teens, Faith, and Future
June 6, 2009
Many adults believe young folks are not interested in the church. At first glance, their assessment might appear to be accurate. Church growth experts suggest that teens comprise a large percentage of the 78,000 members Churches of Christ have lost since 2003. But we must look beyond a “first glance,” friends. When we do, we find that many teens own and practice their faith. We also learn that they are looking for meaning at church — not entertainment. For example, a 16-year-old from Arizona stated that young Christians are seeking “solid relationships with people they can trust and lean on.” Moreover, these relationships go beyond fun activities. A 17-year-old from Kentucky noted that youth in some churches attend ball games and play laser tag but are not engaged in real discussions that force them to confront their faith. Similarly, a 19-year-old Minnesota student shared, “It is important to me to worship and love God and follow the Bible just as it is, without other doctrine to clutter up what God really wanted. Right now, the Church of Christ is the best example I can find of that, and I’m not searching for a replacement.” What do we see, West Broad and friends? Simply that many of our teens do have faith. It is a faith that finds expression through genuine relationships with others and exploration, understanding, and practical application of the word of God. With this reality in view, let us do all we can to encourage our young people in their walk with the Lord; a walk they will enjoy both now and in the future. Please think about it! —JLNJR (Resource: Christian Chronicle, 6/09, 24).
