How can we keep the youth out of jail and in church?

Answer 1

A:You have to decide your priorities. What is most important to you - keeping youths out of jail or having them attend church? This is an important question, not because staying out of jail and attending church are not both achievable, but because it may not always be possible to pursue both objectives at the same time. Greater success can come if we focus on one main message, and hope for the best on the other.

If you want to engage with youths and help them to be good citizens, I would suggest keeping your religion visible but in the background. You can respond to those who wish to engage with you on religion, but at the same time let them know that your help and support are available whether or not they are interested in the Christian message. Treat those who would never be seen dead in a church with the same respect as those troubled youths who respond to the Christian message. If advice is needed, give secular advice that helps the situation, without making it religious. You may be disappointed that not all the youths will listen to the Christian message, but your engagement with them can save a few from prison.

If your objective is to convert the unfaithful and to attract as many troubled youths as possible into church, your approach will be different. You will emphasis the Christian message and encourage youths live a Christian life and stay out of trouble. But remember that most prisoners in our jails are Christians. That tells us that Christian faith does not preclude a life of crime, no matter how hard we try.