Hi BC,
I know. I know. Many of today's ministers, lay people, etc. who take on the mantle of spreading the gospel to the lost get into this attitude that if we could just make knowing Jesus and following and teaching the things of God 'fun' and 'silly', why surely everyone would want to be born again.
The truth is that most of mankind, from the days of Adam to the last man standing -- won't. Jesus declared that few there be that find the straight and narrow way. He even seems to have allowed that even among those who walk upon this earth carrying the name of 'christian', there are many whose names will not be found in the Lamb's book of life. Yes, we believers find that a very sad reality and then set out to do whatever we can to change it. But...
In all that we do for the Lord, our guide is the Scriptures. I have searched the Scriptures through and I honestly can't find one single example where in the history of the Jews or throughout the writings of the new covenant, the ways of God were taught to folks through 'fun' and 'silly' methods. Yes, I imagine that many, possibly even yourself, will read this post and say, 'what a stick in the mud that Ted guy is'. So be it!
God is holy! He asks to be honored for who He is, and I don't find that God is much interested in 'fun' and 'silly'. Sure, if you're working with a group of 3 year olds one can have fun playing pat-a-cake games and throw in a few spiritual truths along the way, but then 3 year olds are a little too young to be making conscious decisions to follow God in love and sincerity. For them, the best we can do is plant seeds that we would hope would germinate and grow into full on belief at some later time in their lives.
The truth of the gospel is that we are all sinners. Separated from God by our sin and the only recourse for God was to sacrifice the life of His Son for our sin. The Scriptures tell us that once we come to know and understand this truth, and then set out to live a life devoted in love and adoration for Him and all that He has done, we should be sober and upright. Striving to live a life of righteousness and holiness for His names sake.
So, for me, if you're working with adolescent youth and early teens, then have fun. But, if discipleship is what you're seeking to teach -- be sober. I've been a follower for about 20 years now and I don't find that following Jesus is 'fun' or 'silly'. It is satisfying and it does bring peace to the soul, but it is a very serious and diligent task. According to Jesus, it will bring mocking and derision into our lives and the best way to disciple people is to teach them to expect that, yet remain faithful to Him. To teach them to live holy and upright lives before God despite and contrary to the ways of the world. Teach them to be merciful and forgiving in all things and to all people. Above all else, to love the Lord their God with all their heart, soul, mind and strength. I believe that's what God wants us to teach when we disciple others.
God bless you.
In Christ, Ted
