The Evangelism Handbook
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5A. Youth Ministry that Works in the Church 
Some people feel threatened by the youth of today. For there, they see childhood and adulthood mingled in such fragile vessels. Young bodies in the process of change, youthful minds grappling with questions they are forced to find answers for. Boys wanting to be strong, dependable and wise like men, but melting inexplicably into childish immaturity. Girls wishing to be poised, attractive young ladies but turning without warning into sniggering clumsiness. One moment they are rational and respectful, the next they explode into some playful pursuit.
Choices in Life
A perplexing crossroad of decision faces them. What to do in life? Where to work? Whose values to adopt - one's family's or one's friends the church's or those of society? In the face of this, it's no surprise that some people back away from youth work and in particular youth evangelism. Only those who are bold enough to venture out despite the problems find the wealth of golden opportunities awaiting them.
Types of Youth Leaders
The bold ones seem to be of two particular types. Some enter into the teen world playing, laughing and crying with them at each turn of their emotional road. They are probably regarded as older brothers and sisters by many teenagers. They enjoy the competitive element, yet are still respected for their age and position.
Others react differently - showing the same concern, but remaining more remote. They are always available to counsel and help as needed, but they introduce a degree of personal restraint when necessary. They are not "close family" in that sense, but more like fun-loving uncles and aunts. Even though they are not known "warts and all," they are close enough to be confided in when the time comes. Certain people like Bob Elliot, the Church Warden, cannot stand the uncertainty of youth. I have seen supposedly mature Christian leaders and some clergy "flunk out" rather than face the challenge. The wise ones check out their personal resources before they begin.
"Practical Christian Outreach in the Local Church"
