Youthful Instruction

My dad rose early, worked hard, and mastered stoicism. He sat at the head of the table like a modern Indian chief. He said things like, “A lock is to keep an honest man honest,” and “Take everything with a grain of salt.” Grandmother taught me checkers and repeated phrases like, “When do you believe a liar?” and “If a bullfrog had wings, he wouldn’t bump his rear every time he jumped.” Papa had pranks, fishing, and stories. His hat was a signal to move, and his humor brought joy. Why does that matter so much? Well, those are the things that shape me. Those things and those people in our lives shape our unique natures into who we are today.

God speaks of using that influence and opportunity to the benefit of the youth in Christ. Titus 2 gives us a clear picture of this. God speaks of older men teaching younger men. He expounds on older women teaching younger women. God makes it clear that fathers are supposed to bring their children up in the “teaching and admonishing of the Lord.” We see that we are to teach others and pass information on to those who can teach (2 Timothy 2:2).

Let us understand that even in a cultural coming-of-age ceremony, a young man cannot participate with his father. It must be done by a trusted male of significance to the young man and father for the desired result of manhood to be established.

We once sat with our grandmother and learned about being a wife, mother, and child while snapping beans or canning tomatoes. We once sat at the feet of our grandfathers and learned about manliness and leadership in the home and world. We learned life skills and development from our aunts and uncles, as well as from trusted family friends. Most importantly, we learned the same things from our parents. The idea of the nuclear family has been challenged. It was never supposed to just be dad, mom, and children. It was supposed to be a community of trusted individuals working, encouraging, serving, and co-raising kids together. That is a historical model. That is a Biblical model. That is a successful model.

When, as a congregation, we teach Bible classes, hold V.B.S., have men’s nights and ladies' nights, and much more, we not only accomplish the ideal of fellowship but also restore the Biblical model of family and child-rearing. We bring back the “good old days.” Therefore, with all such work, especially our recent V.B.S., I say, “Thank you!” Keep it up.

We need more men teaching; we need more serving together; we need more “age” in the children’s classes. You are never too old to share wisdom and mold the “youth.” Men can teach just as well as women. All of us working together will create a well-rounded child as well as well-educated parents/families. Keep up the great work! IT MATTERS!

- Steve Johnson

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