Question: We have a 17-year-old girl from Spain staying with us as an exchange student. Spain is a Christian country (it has a state religion), however she believes that there is no God. She goes to church (Assembly of God) with us, but says that it is boring because she doesn’t believe what is spoken. My wife and I are both born again, spirit filled Christians and we do not know how to answer this. We would like to lead her to the Lord, but we know that this is something that is voluntary, not pushed. HELP!

Richard

Answer: Dear Richard,

A huge topic and big question! My brief advice is initially (probably for a number of months) that you and your wife present the gospel by your example, rather than anything you say. All of us would much rather see a sermon that hear one – and that probably includes this high school student. So – the first step would be to say little, do not prod or push, but simply live the life, walk the walk, so she can see and observe.

Second, you might want to consider picking up the book, The New Tolerance by Josh McDowell and Bob Hostetler. While I have not read every page, I can recommend this book to give you insight into today’s young mind. Josh knows today’s young mind, and much of his ministry has been spent ministering to youth.

The U.S. is not far behind Europe in what is called "post-modernism." This idea makes tolerance the priority in all education. The "new" tolerance justifies and paves the way for many God-denying philosophies and world views, popularized in youth media, music, and culture. This might help you to understand this high school student, and perhaps to reach her once she has seen your Christ-centered lives of joy, fait and happiness.

Hope this helps. Let me know how things go!!!

In Christ,

Greg Albrecht