I just read an interesting blog called “Why Theology and Youth Ministry Seldom Mix.” Here’s the link to the article by Cameron Cole and Dave Wright on the Gospel Coalition Blog. It’s a great discussion regarding the challenge of incorporating theology into youth groups. I wonder if others see this as a challenge or concern within the CRCNA.
If you don’t jump to the actual article, I’ll summarize the arguments used to explain why the two seldom mix:
People underestimate what students can comprehend. (Low expectations of youth comprehension)
Youth ministry has a popularity culture. (Perpetual popularity contest)
Churches have different expectations of youth ministries. (So many opinions on the focus of youth ministry)
Youth pastors just love kids and want them to meet Jesus. (Evangelistic passion at the expense of theology)
The egg-and-armpit relay ruined youth ministry. (The culture of fun)
So what do you think? Is the article correct? Have you connected the critical foundation of Reformed theology with your youth group ministry? Or maybe you don’t think a Reformed perspective is as important as the evangelistic perspective. Does anyone in your youth group know what TULIP stands for? Should they?
Come on. Weigh in on this one.