The Importance of Youth

A gripping issue in the church today, one that could prove detrimental to the survival of our faith, is the importance of youth. Too many times there are situations were youth are pushed to the side, ignored, or forgotten. Within the church, this absolutely can't happen.

The reasons why are quite simple actually. The difficult part is implementing action. But first, let's discuss why youth are important.

First, it clearly states in the Bible that all young people are especially important to Jesus. Matthew 19:14 includes a statement from Jesus to his disciples regarding them trying to hold back children from coming to see the "Teacher." They concluded that Jesus had much better things to do with His time then babysit children. Jesus responded, "Let the little children come to me. Don't stop them! For the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to those who are like these children." (NLT) Once when my mother used to teach Bible devotions as part of our homeschooling classes, she taught about this very verse. The key component of the verse is "those who are like these children." How can adults be like children or youth? The answer lies in the character of youth. Unlike adults, who are consumed with worry of trivial matters in life, the passion that consumes youth for even the smallest things is a huge contrast. Jesus is stating that those who pose a character, a passion like that of a child or youth is worthy of the Kingdom of Heaven.

Secondly, youth also fall under the category of "all people". By all people, I'm referring to the Great Commission. It is a Christian's duty to evangelize to all people, no matter their age. But it shouldn't just be a duty. It should also be something we long to do. It should be something that is ever present on our minds, and in our hearts. Again, age shouldn't matter. We should be looking at the youth of this generation, and genuinely feel broken at their current state. Youth of today are lost, mired in horrible influences that are completely destroying their future without the church.

Lastly, for a more practical purpose, the youth are the future church. If the church hopes to survive, it needs to recruit members now, and preferably at a young age. This does sound a bit like a regiment, but again, it should be because the church is worried about the world in the future. The best way to ensure that the mission is continued on is by helping youth now, so they are prepared for the future.

Now for the action. How does the church show that it values youth? I think the answer is actually more simple then some would believe. At times, youth need to be put first. Their needs and wants, their ideas, their leadership should be valued equally with others for certain, but at times, decisions need to be made in order to favour youth. Currently, the debate ranges from the style of music to the style of preaching to the dress code. Of course, traditionally, things are set in stone. Many tend to disagree with change. But, inevitably, change will happen whether people like it or not. So, will the church be dragged along in this change screaming and fighting, or will they act boldly, and take the first step to welcome youth to a new generation of the faith?