1 Timothy 4:12

"Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the unbelievers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity."

Introduction

It cannot be denied that one of the greatest tragedies that the Lord’s church faces today is the fact that many of our young people are becoming disenchanted with the Lord’s church, and are searching for “greener pastures” elsewhere. It may be the case that this is really nothing new, but in a time when the Lord’s church is not growing as it should, and in many places the local congregations are doing all they can to hold on to the members they have, this problem becomes increasingly magnified. Why are we experiencing this problem today seemingly more than ever before? What is the cause of this problem? Is there a remedy?

Despising Our Youth

I am convinced that the reason we are losing our young people at an ever-increasing rate is because we are despising our youth (1 Tim. 4:12). We can, and in many cases are, despising our youth in any number of ways. In this article we will consider two ways in which we are despising our youth, thereby contributing to an increase in the number of young people who eventually forsake the church of our Lord.

1) We despise our youth when we persuade them to believe that they cannot understand the Bible.

You might be thinking, “I have never heard anyone tell our young people that they cannot understand the Bible.” For the most part, I have never heard anyone explicitly say this to our young people. In actuality, we teach our young people that they can understand the Bible. Sadly, however, our teaching and our practice do not always find agreement. The consensus among many in our brotherhood who work with our young people is that we must entertain them or we will lose them! If we don’t reenact the Bible as some dramatic production, or if we don’t use speakers who can tell a lot of good jokes while sneaking in some Biblical points here and there, then, we are told, our young people will have no interest in the Bible or in things religious.

We need to quit insulting their intelligence! This kind of nonsense is a no-win situation. When we try to entertain rather than just preach it plain, the message we send to our young people is that the Bible in and of itself is not appealing enough without clowns and fireworks, or that our young people have not reached the point where they can fully appreciate the appeal of Scripture. The Lord’s church has stressed for so long that the Bible is so simple that even a child can understand it, yet we do an about face in many instances when dealing with our youth. We lose them when we convince them that they have to be entertained. When the worship productions do not live up to their expectations, our young people search elsewhere for bigger and better productions.

2) Another way in which we despise our youth is in the way we allow them to make their own decisions.

Please hear me out here. In an attempt to be judicious, many Christian parents allow their children to make their own decisions regarding their involvement in the work and activity of the church, yet at the same time, these same parents have made many of life’s decisions for their children. If your child were to wake up one weekday morning and state that he/she were not going to school that day, you would probably answer something like, “As long as you live under my roof, you will live by my rules. You will be going to school today. End of discussion.” The conversation would be much the same if your child had a job and he decided that he just did not feel like going on this particular day. Yet, when it comes to matters involving the Lord’s church, we suddenly allow our young people freedom of choice. If it comes down to playing in a ballgame or attending the services of the church, many parents will say, “I think he/she is old enough to make his/her own decision.” Why is it that this thinking does not work when it comes to school, or work, or anything else except spiritual matters?

Conclusion

Parents, we need to let our young people know that involvement in the church of Christ is more important than school, or work, or sports, or anything else in which they may be engaged. It is no wonder that our young people forsake the Lord’s church when parents are telling them that they have to go to school, they have to go to work, they have to go to practice and games, but it is their "choice" whether or not they attend the services and other activities of the church. Some will say, “Well, if I make that decision for them, then my children will grow up to despise the church, and they will leave it the first chance they get.” Let's quit telling them they have to go to school, because they might come to hate it. Quit telling them they have to work, because they might despise it and refuse to work ever again.

Do you see the inconsistency? So do our young people!

Mike Riley (mriley@constant.com)

It has been interesting to me that the most entertainment-focused denominations say the same thing: "Why are we loosing our children." I see one of the problems as violating the bible and putting females as DOMINANT LEADERS from cradle to, now, campus ministers. The result is an emasculated man tribe who can barely rise to see that there is evil in the world.

Your observations are perfect.

While my 6th grader was teaching other kids (and often me) how to jump into a computer application and make it work, at church they were cutting out paper thingys and pasting.

A youth minister told me that he had to fight to keep the "committee" from imposing the same kind of paper doll stuff on his 12th graders.

Nothing is so degrading as to assume that little children and even adults CANNOT learn so we must make it fun and games. It is interesting that while God was giving Moses the written BOOK OF THE COVENANT OF GRACE the people were down in the valley RISING UP TO PLAY which is much like entertaining worship.

I am convinced that too many churches are run like "caves of the bear clan" and the tribal leader does not want anyone to know anything about the Bible. When I returned to my little clan I was repeatedly warned: "Don't let them know that you know or care about the Bible or they will SAT you on the back pew." It happened, I think for SUBVERTING the young men with that old testament stuff.

Until leaders GET AHEAD OF their "flock" they will keep dragging them down.

Young people LOVE to be treated and trained like adults.

Ken Sublett

One of life's saddest sights is that of children whose behavior is unworthy of their noble parents. God's word often speaks of children who bring shame to their parents (Prov. 19:26). Some become entangled in drugs or alcohol, others in crime or immorality. Interestingly while the child in such cases is the one who has failed to live up to the standard of his progenitors, he may be so absorbed in self, or so calloused by his sin, that he feels no sense of shame. The shame and embarrassment falls upon his parents.

In God's family we also see unworthy children. By their faith in and baptism into Christ, they are children of God (Gal. 3:26-27). They are privileged to wear the name of the Savior (Acts 11:26), and to have a place at his table (Luke 22:29-30). They enjoy the honor of working in his cause, sharing his message and of being heirs of all of heaven's treasures (Rom. 8:16-17). But in spite of all these blessings and honors, some live unworthy lives. Some live worldly lives that bring dishonor on their heavenly Father. Others are disloyal to the will of the Father in spiritual matters. Only those who do his will can expect to enter the kingdom of heaven (Matt. 7:21). Some dishonor their Father by conduct that casts shame on his church; some by trying to dominate their brothers and sisters. Some rend the unity of the body in pursuit of their own agenda. Some have a hateful, spiteful attitude that is shameful to themselves and grievous to the Lord in whose kingdom they wish to serve.

Today, there are unworthy members of the Church of Christ here in America. Two hundred years ago, devout men, realizing he inadequacies of denominationalism, shook off those shackles and set their sites on restoring the faith and practice of the primitive church. From small and humble beginnings, God blest the cause they launched and it took hold of the public mind. Soon thousands stormed the gates of the kingdom of heaven, seeking entrance (Matt. 11:12). By the end of the first century upwards of a million souls had embraced the plea for restoration. But unworthy children grew weary of the simplicity of the ancient faith. They grated under New Testament authority. Consequently they began to agitate for change. They preferred to sing with instruments of music. They craved a national organization to lead the churches. They wished to place women in leadership roles. They wanted acceptance by their denominational neighbors. Disregarding the pleas and protests of their brethren, they forged ahead, rending the body. Their actions result in the emergence of the Disciples of Christ and later the Independent Christian Churches.

Today, a century later, we see scattered among our people another generation of unworthy children. They too are weary of the old paths. To be limited to things authorized by the New Testament is burdensome. They see us as only another denomination of human origin. They would accept the use of instrumental music. They yearn to have fellowship with their denominational neighbors. They would move women into roles of public leadership. They would change us into their image or destroy us. Their actions are shameful. They are unworthy children who have betrayed the cause of their ancestors in the faith. The cause they plead is not the restoration of New Testament Christianity, rather it is the destruction thereof. May God help them see their mistake and grant them time to repent.

John Waddey

johnwaddey@aol.com
http://www.christianity-then-and-now.com

You are absolutely right!!! We unconsciously plant ideas in our children mind because often times we aren't focused on the big picture. The big picture being God and our work for Him ALWAYS should comes first.

Many times not looking at the big picture has caused
a lot of heartaches and pain in dealing with our youths.

Parents would be wise to start at the very earliest teaching their children that salvation is necessary, and that being involved in God's work is more important than anything. That if we are obedient and work for God, he will truly fulfill all our other needs. This being taught from the very beginning of a child's life would be the best foundation a child could have to substain him through life.

“UNCERTAIN SOUNDS” FROM MAGNOLIA YOUTH RALLY

Last week some of the adults traveled with some of our youth here at New Albany to attend a “Youth Event” hosted by Magnolia Bible College.

Unfortunately, there were some “uncertain sounds” that came from this event which we cannot and do not support. There was handclapping and arm waving during the song service. Also, there were some who were identified in the audience as “dancing.” Perhaps televised religious services have had some influence on the entertainment mentality which is being adopted among some brethren. Where will this lead? Will we stand and clap, holler and clap, jump and clap, whistle, throw our hats, hymnals and books in the air while we clap? Are not similar things done in ball stadiums?

Be assured I am not against youth gatherings as such. I have carried youth to, and participated in, some excellent youth services which have resulted in good fruit. Our youth are at a critical time in their lives. Fervently we desire to teach, edify, support, aid and guard them as they mature in Christ.

Moreover, the chaperons on this trip are to be commended in that they questioned the Magnolia sponsors about their concerns. However, they received unsatisfactory answers regarding these matters. Our youth are also to be commended in that they recognized things were wrong and did not participate.

“Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ” (Phil. 1:27). “Let all things be done decently and in order” (1 Cor. 14:40). Hopefully the leadership at Magnolia Bible College will recognize the lack of wisdom of what happened and take action to prevent this type of situation from happening again. Let us all be warned because such is becoming all too common in the brotherhood.

It is my view (Johnny Burkhart) that as long as these “uncertain sounds” come forth we should not support with our presence, finances, or in any way Magnolia Bible College.

“And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them” (Eph. 5:11).
_________________________
Johnny Burkhart
1152 CR 59, New Albany, MS 38652
“Seek the Old Paths”: Vol. 12, No. 4, April, 2001

MIKE YOU ARE RIGHT ON TARGET.I WOULD LIKE TO SAY TO THE OLDER MEMBERS OF OUR LORDS CHURCH.DO NOT SIT BACK IN OUR PEWS AND LET THE YOUNGER ONES DO THE WORK!WE NEED THE GOOD EXAMPLES AND THE LEADERSHIP DOWN TO THE VERY FINEST DETAIL.
ALSO AS A NOTE WHERE I AM A MEMBER,ONE OF THE YOUNG GUYS STARTED TO HAVE A BIBLE STUDY ONE NIGHT EACH WEEK,THE HIGH SCHOOL AGE WERE INVITED,ALL THEY STARTED OUT DOING WAS READING THE BIBLE,JUST READING IT NO MORE NO LESS,BUT THIS PROGRESSED INTO LEADING THEM OFF INTO RADICAL RESTORATION,LEAVING AND THE START OF A HOUSE CHURCH.
THE THING THAT TROUBLES ME ABOUT THIS IS I MET WITH ONE OF OUR ELDERS TO TELL THEM MY TROUBLE WITH THIS AND WAS BRUSHED OFF THAT IT WAS NO BIG THING.
I GUESS WHAT I WANT TO SAY IS OLDER FOLKS CONTINUE TO READ ,STUDY ,PRAY AND SHOW US AND TELL US BY YOUR EXAMPLE AND LEADING.PLEASE STAY IN OUR PULPITS AND TEACH US HOW TO PRAY AND SHOW US HOW TO LIVE.
AND TO THOSE MY AGE 30-40 RANGE LISTEN AND STOP TRYING TO CHANGE AND BECOME MORE LIKE THE WORLD.



IN HIM

BRADLEY

Bradley,

I'm a little confused here. "THE YOUNG GUYS STARTED TO HAVE A BIBLE STUDY ONE NIGHT EACH WEEK,THE HIGH SCHOOL AGE WERE INVITED,ALL THEY STARTED OUT DOING WAS READING THE BIBLE,JUST READING IT NO MORE NO LESS,BUT THIS PROGRESSED INTO LEADING THEM OFF INTO RADICAL RESTORATION,LEAVING AND THE START OF A HOUSE CHURCH."

Is there something wrong with reading the bible only? Is it possible that the leading was the Holy Spirit speaking to their hearts and revealing Truth to them?

What is "RADICAL RESTORATION" please?

Something wrong with house churches? Please reference the following:

And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles. And all that believed were together, and had all things common; And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need. And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, Praising God, and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.
(Act 2:42-47)

Thanks
FM

I had years of story to tell,but wished to take up only a small space.I failed to give all the story.

Let me say there is not one thing wrong with reading the bible.We should have spent more time over the last 20 years doing just that.

As for the leading of the Holy Spirit,I think it has ended up being the leading of a cult leader as some in their group would say.

Radical Restoration is a book by F.Lagard Smith
Sorry but I refered to that in a bad way.My meaning is this,this group that left uses this book and a couple by Rick Warren as their bible now.Very little ear time given to the Bible now.

As for house churches,You should know as well as do I that most of our congregations today started out meeting in some dear brother or sisters home.


The reason for bringing up the house churches at all is the group that left the congregation where I am a member had already made effort to change the group in major ways even wanting to drop the name church of Christ.I say it only as a warning to others to be on alert,this may be how the change agent gets into the group where you are.You see this is how it started here.I think it is so far gone now there will be no return.

I am what most of you might call an "anti" I so hate that term,but listen I have been so blessed to find this site,I have had my will stormed to read more,pray more,study more,talk to others more about the problems that face the lords body,and in fact to live better and set the right example to others.
Almost 20 years ago church problems just about drove me away from the Lord and now I pray God to keep me in his word.

F.W. this is my feeble try at giving more info.


In Him

BRADLEY

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*Send comments or questions concerning this article to Gary Summers ( garysummers@spiritualperspectives.org). Please refer to this article as: "What Are Today's Young People Coming To? (9/8/96)."
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"What Are Today's Young People Coming To?"
Gary W. Summers


The answer to the above question may be—their senses. The most recent survey of teen attitudes was conducted for the Horatio Alger Association and published in Parade Magazine on August 18th. Just under 1,000 teenagers from ages 13 through 17 participated in the survey; the overall results are encouraging.

Divided into three sections, the first chart displays "the one thing teens want most from life." Although the respondents might have thought that a number of the choices were important, they could only list one. Happiness was the first choice with 28% followed by long, enjoyable life at 16% (all the information may be found on page 5). Now admittedly, these may sound a bit on the selfish side, but adults' answers would probably not be appreciably different.

Marriage and family came in third at 9%, followed closely by financial success, career success, and religious satisfaction-all at 8%. What is ironic, of course, is that doing the will of God is what brings happiness; but many do not yet realize that fact. But isn't it amazing that such a large percentage of young people listed religion as their first priority?

Love was next at 7% (where have all the romantics gone?), followed by personal success (6%) and an assortment of other items at 2% or less. Oddly enough, education was one of these. For such a high priority item in various government budgets, one would think education would rank just a little bit higher (or is there something lacking in our current system)?

The second question also elicited interesting responses from these teenagers in that they are a fairly accurate assessment of the way the world is. They were asked, "What's the Single Worst Influence Facing Teens Today?" The number one problem cited (21%) was DRUGS. Coincidentally, just three days prior to this survey The Dallas Morning News ran an article headlined "Teen Drug Use Has Doubled Since '92, U.S. Survey to Report" (6A), from which come the following excerpts.

Twice as many teenagers used illegal drugs during 1995 as in 1992, as consumption of marijuana, cocaine, and hallucinogens such as LSD saw "significant increases" in the past year, the survey found. The preliminary report from the Department of Health and Human Services. . . shows a continuing increase in youthful drug use since its low point in 1992 (A6).

Prior to either one of these articles Reader's Digest throughout this year had been informing its subscribers about the revival of drug use. In February they published "Drugs are Back Big Time" (71-76); March's contribution was "How to Drug-Proof Your Child" (153-60); in May they focused on the new craze called "huffing" (131-35), from which some have actually died; but they led off the year with an expose about the enormous supply of drugs coming through our borders due to the relaxed controls of our current President and his administration (53-59). [Don't forget that Joycelyn Elders, the former Surgeon General, argued in favor of studies legalizing drugs after her son was convicted of illegal possession.]

In second place as the "worst influence" young people selected PEER PRESSURE (20%). Teenagers may know more about the public school system than many adults, a few teachers, and nearly any of the NEA hierarchy. The influence toward evil is greatest at the very time that some are least able to resist the pressure. Teachers lack omniscience to know all of the things that are going on and could not possibly straighten out every situation even if they did know. Christian education and home schooling are alternatives well worth considering.

The next three categories were cited as the worst influence by 12% of the teens surveyed: sex and poor morals, violence, and gangs. The emphasis on morality may be due to the fact that 51% said they attend religious services regularly. In another part of the survey only 40% agreed that premarital sex is okay. With all of the influences from the entertainment media, one would think this percentage would be much higher. The down side to this statistic is that 61% thought that condoms should be available in schools. Hmm. Only 40% think premarital sex is okay, but 61% want protection (just in case they change their minds?).

It's not surprising that violence and gangs rate highly for many as the worst influence. Once again, peer pressure could well be a factor in this statistic. How many have become part of a gang and goaded into committing violent acts when they didn't really want to (but it was expected of them)? Apparently, it will take more than "midnight basketball" to fix this problem.

Rounding out this list are crime (4%), alcohol (3%), and television (3%). Crime may be related to the other bad influences of gangs and violence. Alcohol has been a perennial blight in the lives of high school (and then college) students. Unfortunately, there are thousands of teens who become alcoholics before (or even if) they can even graduate. Television must have been singled out because of the influence it has on the morality of this nation's youth.

Teens' Views on Contemporary Issues

The third table appearing in the Parade article contains their views on families, schools, social concerns, and government. The most surprising statistic (in view of what is generally taught in many schools) is that only 48% agreed that "abortion should remain legal." This is incredible! Perhaps the battle is not over yet. Even though we are in our 23rd year of Roe vs. Wade, many people now recognize that "the fetus" is human life. Perhaps our President's [Clinton] signing of the "Partial Term Abortion" Bill has caused many to wake up-at last. This grisly method of murder may be revoked soon. It lacks the support of the general population and is generally backed by strident feminists who honor "freedom" above human life.

Another good result in the survey is that only 25% think that marijuana should be legalized. Since drugs use was considered the worst influence, it is not surprising that so few are in favor of their legalization. In fact, one wonders if there would not be a higher percentage of adults desirous of decriminalization.

The teens' views on government are instructive: 79% think that government corruption and dishonesty are widespread. How sad to hold such a jaded view of the nation's leaders. [And yet at the same time we are told that "character doesn't matter."] Of course, there was that check-kiting scandal in the House. And it is true that those close to the President have been convicted recently of various crimes. "Well, that's just politics," some would cluck. Yes, and we can see the effect on our nation's young people. Respect and public trust for our nation's leaders need to be restored.

Though the overall results of this survey are good, there are two responses that are frightening. An overwhelming 83% agree that government spending on AIDS research should be increased. One would like to ask if those surveyed know how much is currently being spent, and for how many years such amounts have been spent. Likewise, are these young people not aware that AIDS is PREVENTABLE through proper behavior? Exactly where has the idea come that the government needs to spend more money? The premise seems to be that AIDS could be cured if the government would just spend more money. Instead of millions, let there be billions spent. And if that's not enough, let's go for trillions. If we just keep throwing money at it, maybe we'll find a solution. Money can't solve every problem; but in this case a change of behavior can!

Equally disturbing is that 81% agreed that "adequate health care for all should be provided through a national health plan." Do these young people have any concept of what such a "plan" would entail (the government taking over 1/7th of the nation's economy), or does this just sound like a good idea? Those in countries where such systems have been tried will not hesitate to pronounce such plans as "failures." Are these teens aware that when "government" pays for something, that means that citizens pay for it?

The Bible does not teach that governments were instituted for such purposes as these. They are authorized to provide a national defense, to punish evildoers (Rom. 13:1-7), to build and maintain roads, and to do works of a similar nature.

Brethren, what are your children being taught in school and at home? How much peer pressure do they face at school? Are gangs, violence, and drugs part of their environment? May God grant all of us wisdom and strength to deal with today's influences.

This entire section was a pleasure to read with the exception of "Mr. Muzzle".
Excellent article Mr. Riley and excellent reponses. I particularly took note of Mr. Waddey's remark that: "Some rend the Unity of the body in pursuit their own agenda." How True.

Thanks, Larry

Source: http://www.lakesidechurchofchrist.com/inside31.htm


“How Shall the Young Secure Their Hearts”

James S. McDonald, Jr.


"How shall the young secure their hearts, And guard their lives from sin? Thy word the choicest rules imparts To keep the conscience clean. I 'Tis like a sun, a heav'nly light, That guides us all the day; And, thro' the dangers of the night, A lamp to lead our way. I Thy word is ever-lasting truth; How pure is ev'ry page! That ho-ly book shall guide our youth, And well support our age." -- Words of "How Shall the Young Secure Their Hearts?" by Isaac Watts.

"Nothing separates the generations more than music. By the time a child is eight or nine, he has developed a passion for his own music that is even stronger than his passions for procrastination and weird clothes." (Bill Cosby, Ph.D., comedian, actor in his book Fatherhood, ch. 10, 1986).

In an earlier Inside Page, we noted the question in the song above. Let us study together another aspect of this question. How shall the young secure their hearts in remaining faithful to the music God has authorized for worship by His church? Basically the answer remains the same: "Thy word is everlasting truth.... That holy book shall guide our youth, and well support our age." The answer is by the study of God's Holy Word.

On the subject of music in the worship of the New Testament church, the Bible says, "And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord" (Ephesians 5:18,19). And then again, "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord" (Colossians 3:16).

In these passages, we note the kind of music (singing) and the types of music (psalms and hymns and spiritual songs) which God has authorized to be used in the worship of the church. To offer any other kind or type would be to go beyond that which is written. Cf. Rev. 22:18,19.

Not surprising to the parents of adolescents today, modern, secular music in the form of CD's, tapes, the radio, etc., play a major role in the every day lives of our youth. In his doctoral dissertation, "The Media's Effect on Christian Teens," Brian Simmons surveyed Christian teens across the country. His results indicated that music has a far more important influence on teens than TV or movies, and teens listening to more than 3 hours of music per day are more likely to believe that premarital and extramarital sex are not always wrong. Christian teens surveyed spend more time with their music and are more attached to it than any other media.

Have you listened to the likes of Madonna, Michael Jackson, 2 Live Crew, Prince, etc., recently? Would it surprise us to learn (should such a study be conducted) that the music listened to by teens today has as great an influence on teen violence and crime, including suicide, as TV and movies, if not greater?

Of even greater concern to parents and Christian teens today is the power of the influence of modern, secular music on teens in their views concerning music in the worship of the church. It is not, however, the words of modern, secular music that presents a danger here, but the tempo, the rhythm, and accompanying carnal appeal. By "carnal appeal," we mean the outward manifestations of the music such as hand clapping, raising of the hands in a swaying swing with the music, and other body gyrations. (Have you ever seen on TV a modern rock concert audience?)

On some so-called Christian university campuses and in state university Christian student centers today, we find such practices already have infiltrated chapel services and devotionals as well as in the worship services of near by congregations with large student attendance. One visitor to a workshop on a Christian university campus decided to stay for the student chapel services after the workshop visitors had conducted their own. He saw students humming parts of music without words, swaying back and forth, arms uplifted, clapping to the rhythm. There was no teaching and admonishing of one another, nor did he hear psalms and hymns and spiritual songs during the entire service.

These students were "enjoying" themselves because what they were doing was fulfilling the carnal impulses prompted by the music much as they had learned to do as teens. They easily transferred the "feel good" aspects of music into their so called worship music. Remember, however, that worship must be rendered toward God, according to His will, to be acceptable.

Humming parts of music without words, swaying back and forth, arms uplifted, clapping to the rhythm and other outward manifestations should have no part in the worship of the church. Such are additions or new elements added, not authorized by God who commanded only that we make melody in our hearts, singing with grace in our hearts unto Him. The emotional expression of singing in New Testament worship is in the heart, not in the hands or other body parts.

If we are not more watchful and diligent to teach our young people God's plan for music in worship to Him, we will see a new generation arise who will not know the truth. And more and more congregations will be taken over by a movement to be more like the denominations, as these untaught young people become the leaders in the churches. The only way to secure the church of tomorrow in truth is to impart God's Holy Word into the hearts and minds of our youth today.

How Kids Get into Trouble


In our crime-ridden society, Christian parents are more concerned that their children grow into good adults. They want them to maintain pure lives uncluttered by the miseries around them. Drugs, smoking, alcohol and unmarried sex are endangering children at an ever increasing rate and at progressively younger ages.

Consider a new study released by the University of Minnesota and published in the December issue of the American Journal of Public Health. It is the largest study of its kind concerning adolescence.

The principal investigator of this study, Dr. Robert Blum, wrote, "How young people do at school and what they do with their free time are the most important determinants for every risky behavior we studied." Later, the article says, "substantial time 'hanging out' and other factors were three to eight times more likely to predict a sex, drugs and booze-filled lifestyle."

The article continues, "Parents should be on guard if they see their kids struggling with school or spending large blocks of unsupervised time with sketchy friends, the study found." Blum said, "Parents should know that if a teen's friends smoke or drink, the chances go up substantially that the teen will also smoke or drink or engage in other problem behaviors. It's very clear that parents need to know who their children's friends are and what they spend their time doing."

In our society, with an increasing cost of living and the availability of adult toys, more and more children are left unsupervised. If both parents work as a result of legitimate financial need that is one thing. If they work to buy bigger houses, cars and boats then is the loss of their children worth their covetousness? Are we sacrificing a generation on the altar of greed? Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 15:33, "Do not be deceived, 'Evil company corrupts good habits.'" Or, as is fitting for our age. "Covetous parents corrupt the good habits of children."

Parents should consider child-rearing their primary function. Paul's point, as applied here, is that these friends have become substitute role models and, as immature adolescents, they are ill-fitted for the job. They will do what their lusts tell them to do.

Repeated studies have shown that children whose parents are active in their lives, are more likely to avoid immoral behavior. Parents are to instruct their charges in mature, moral decision-making based on God's principles. If parents leave the 'instruction' to their children's friends, then they need not be surprised when their children grow up with different principles and moral beliefs than thier own. Will it be the children's fault entirely?

Richard Mansel