Question:  Dear Greg

            I have an unusual question.  I’ve been saved for about 7 years.  About 15 months ago I had the privilege of starting a Christian Teen Drama ministry.  I had to leave the ministry (for health reasons).  Since this time, the teens have attempted to continue the ministry on their own.  They have no adult accountability and are really hanging on to the verse in Timothy which encourages youth to not let anyone look down on them because of their youth.  What troubles me is the fact that they fail to quote the second part of that verse:  “but show them by your excellent and pure life. . .”  I think these teens really want to do a good work for God, but I don’t think they understand the responsibility that goes with that.  Most of the teens have only walked closely with God for a couple years or so.  They weren’t taken under the “wing” of an older Godly Christian like Timothy was with Paul.  They go to church, attend youth groups and bible camps.  There is no accountability and their discernment of the Bible is very lacking.  I am under the impression that Timothy was not a teenager, but probably in his thirties.  So this verse does not apply to teens. 

            How old do you think Timothy was when Paul wrote to him?  Thank you.  I appreciate your taking the time to read and answer my question.

            In Christ,

            Kati

Answer:  Dear Kati,

            You are correct in the general assumption.  Timothy most certainly was not what we would expect or anticipate a 15-year old being, in terms of commitment, maturity, expected responsibilities, etc.  Timothy was a young pastor -- not a youth pastor -- but a pastor whose youth was not an impediment to his pastoring.  Of course Paul was giving a judgment to Timothy that Timothy was maturing well in Christ – rather than Timothy claiming that he was doing well, and that no one had the right to tell him that he was behaving in an immature manner.

            The group you mention would seem to benefit from a trusted, wise, but not overbearing older individual who could help them channel their energies.  Let’s pray that such a relationship will happen.

            In Christ,

            Greg Albrecht