We need all ages to help make our faith grow. So say Dr. Kara Powell and Dr. Chap Clark. They came to this conclusion as they worked on the College Transition Project—a 6 year research project focused on the spiritual thriving or diving of secondary school students as they moved on to college.
The good doctors have recently released Sticky Faith, a book that details—among other things—the need for teenage students to engage in intergenerational activities with older believers. The book reveals that students’ interaction with more mature Christians helps them foster a strong and sticky faith—one that will carry them through the spiritually challenging college years.
Woven throughout the pages of Scripture we find God encouraging the sharing of His Word from one generation to the next. During the time of the prophet Joel, the people of Jerusalem and Judah were dealing with an intense plague of locusts. The things with wings were devouring their food and their hope! (Joel 1:4). God said, “Gather all the people— the elders, the children, and even the babies” (Joel 2:16). The purpose? So they could pray to God in repentance (Joel 2:17)—drawing close to Him once again. This proclaiming of truth in an intergenerational community was lived out in the New Testament church as well (Acts 2:17,46-47, 4:32-35).
Today, interaction between Christians of all ages allows for a healthier overall community of believers and the spiritual maturation of each individual. As the psalmist states, “Let each generation tell its children of Your mighty acts; let them proclaim Your power” (Psalm 145:4).
If you’re a young adult, spend time with those who are older in years and more mature in faith. Seek their mentoring and wisdom. If you’re older, reach out to those who are younger. Share in their passion and enthusiasm. Faith grows when we come together.
NLT 365-day reading plan passage for today: Luke 8:22-56
More:
Read Deuteronomy 6:4-7 and note the emphasis on one generation proclaiming God’s truth to the next.
Next:
Why do you believe that teenagers who spend time with older believers tend to become stronger in their faith?
tom felten on July 12, 2012 at 3:06 pm
Just got back from the funeral for a godly dad/grandfather/great grandfather who truly lived out Psalm 145:4: “Let each generation tell its children of Your mighty acts; let them proclaim Your power.” What a difference it makes when people of all ages live out their faith with conviction and joy!
roxanne robbins on July 12, 2012 at 11:12 pm
My son and I just spent a week at the home of a husband and wife that are 89 and 91 years old. You’re so right, Tom, that we have much to gain by learning from people of different ages. Our week with this elderly couple taught me much about living with zeal for the Lord, and about the joy of serving others no matter how “old” we might be.