REV. MATHEW PHILIP

LET NO ONE DESPISE YOUR YOUTH!
By Mathew Philip. 

Introduction:

Is it possible for us as young people to live a holy and exemplary life in this post-modern age where we see a lot of crime, corruption, injustice and violence? We live now in a period of godless and wicked generation. Anarchy in Government and chaos in the lives of people are seen all over. The scientists and top statesmen talk openly about the death of civilization, the energy crisis, population explosion and the threat of a nuclear holocaust. Today religious fanaticism is intensifying, terrorism is getting higher, cyber crimes are increasing, moral standard is declining, and we have come to a point where human life has no value. In the words of Apostle Paul ?a crooked and perverse generation? (Philippians 2:15) is on the rise.

What should be our response to this as Christian young people?

I am convinced that our response to this is to live a corporate and individual life that is acceptable to God as well as our fellow beings. Show the whole world through our lives that there is a group of young people who live and work for peace, justice, truth, love and harmony. Rather than conforming to the pattern of this world, let us be transformed by the renewing of our mind (Romans 12:2). God wants us to live a blameless and pure life without fault (Philippians 2:15).

How is it possible?

Apostle Paul was very sure that it was possible when he wrote to young Timothy about it (1 Timothy 4:12-16). He admonished Timothy that he should not allow anyone to look down on him because he was young. We give an occasion for people to despise our youth if we indulge ourselves in youthful vanities and follies. How to live a young life that will not give any occasion for others to despise? What should we do that others may not look down on our youthfulness? First, we must set an example in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity (v. 12). Our speech must be edifying, love must be expressed in charity, faith must be in action and our purity must be according to the standard of God?s holiness. Second, we must devote ourselves in public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching (v. 13). We must read God?s Word and expound it by teaching others both what to do and what to believe. Third, we should not neglect our gift (v. 14). If we ignore and do not use the gifts of God, they will become weak and we will loose them at the end which will cause others to despise us. As young people, we must use the gifts and talents that we receive from the Lord for his glory and for the benefit of others. Fourth, we should work hard and give ourselves completely to the things of God so that everyone may see our progress (v. 15). When others observe that we as young people are serious in the work of God, working hard and thus progressing well in life, love, faith, and holiness which bring benefits to them, there is no chance for them to despise our young life. Finally, we must watch our life and doctrine closely and preserve in them (v. 16). We are engaged in saving work ? our main responsibility is to snatch many out of fire whether in our schools, colleges, neighborhood, or public places. So we must give heed to ourselves first to practice what we preach. There should not be any disparity between what you preach and how you live. If your life and doctrine go together, you will become an instrument to bring about the salvation of others.

Conclusion:

Friends, it is possible for ordinary people like us to live a holy life Him. We have many heroes of faith who had gone before us as examples. Do you still have doubt? Look back to the lives of our forefathers who left their houses, properties, wealth, possessions like gold, silver and other inheritance for the sake of Christ to stand firm in the faith that they professed in Christ Jesus. May the Lord help us to walk in constant fellowship with Him even in hostile environment so that no one may despise our youth!