The last article exposed us to the fact that Christian youths are faced with numerous challenges and options that seem right in the society, driving them to seeking theological answers and Christian perspectives of these range of controversial issues.
In the search for true identity and purpose, also faced with a long list of questions in their hearts from every church service, especially in Bible study or youth seminars/conferences, many Christian youths cannot but express their curiosity and inquisitiveness about these issues. It is nothing but sheer disappointment when their Pastors do not have answers at all, or their answers are not convincing. The implication of this is that there is always someone else who has answers (whether right or wrong), and is ready to entice the already curious and answers-hungry youths with persuasive and mouth-watery solutions to their seeming societal, peer and personal-influenced questions.
In addition, youths expect their Pastors to give them the same attention and recognition given to adults in the Church. While the youths do not necessarily compete with the adults, they expect that Pastors will give them regard by attending to their needs and desires just as the needs of adults are treated. They appreciate it when Pastors call them, visit them, counsel them, attend to their needs, etc., even though they have got little to offer in return as the adults.
It will be amazing if only Pastors can identify and acknowledge the expectations of the youths and do all they can by the help of the Holy Spirit to meet them. This will not just help retain them in the Lord, but will help them become powerful tools in the Church and in the hands of the Lord.
We shall close with Jesus’ post-resurrection instruction to Peter:
15 When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.” 16 Again Jesus said, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” He answered, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Take care of my sheep.” 17 The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me? (John 21:15-17)