Round the Sphere Again: Youthful

Not Enough Gospel
“Based on my experience in youth ministry, if I had to identify the greatest theological problem in the field, it would be the absence of the gospel in teaching on sanctification. … A legalistic tone frequently characterizes the theology of sanctification in youth ministry.” Cameron Cole lists four possible reasons that youth ministries tend to be legalistic (The Gospel Coalition Blog).

Looking back, I’d say I was in my thirties before I really understood that true sanctification isn’t accomplished by simply following moral directives. I don’t think I was unusual. It’s no wonder, I suppose, that many youth ministries teach performance based sanctification.  

Never Too Many Books
Emily has a list of books suitable for graduation gifts, and there are even more suggestions in the comments. The World-Tilting Gospel by Dan Phillips1 would be number one on my list. Next would be The God Who Is There by Don Carson.

---

1 I’ll be reviewing this book tomorrow, if tomorrow unfolds as planned.

Comments

[persis]

Thanks for the recommendation of "The God Who is There". I was planning on giving my nephew TWTG for graduation but was looking for an additional book. Carson's book along with DJPs would be a great combination.

[Dan Phillips]

Thanks, Becky!