With our young people starting back to school, what can be said to provide some encouragement? The apostle Paul commanded a young Timothy, saying, "Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity" (1 Timothy 4:12 NKJV). It is possible for some to look down upon others because of their youth. King Saul was skeptical that a young David could fight the Philistine giant, telling him, "You are not able to go against this Philistine to fight with him; for you are a youth, and he a man of war from his youth" (1 Samuel 17:33).
There are some bad examples of young people just like there are of all ages, races, occupations, etc. Therefore, it can be easy for the youth to be stereotyped. It has often been said to many, "You're just a youngster. What do you know?" The phrase, "wet behind the ears," has been bantered behind the back of some. But Timothy was commanded to get ahead of that by being a positive example (1 Timothy 4:12b). We think of older people being an example to the younger, but young people can also be an example to those older than them. Abel provided a good example to his older brother in his worship to God (Genesis 4:4). David provided a good example to his older brothers in showing great faith in God while they were scared of a giant (1 Samuel 17:32). A young Ruth provided a model example in what she had done for her mother-in-law since the death of her husband (Ruth 2:5,11).
When Jesus was only twelve years old, Luke writes of an account where He was in the temple among the teachers of the law, both listening to them and asking them questions. And all who heard Him were astonished at His understanding and answers (Luke 2:46-47). The rabbis often answered a question with a question, and that explains Jesus giving answers. Did He use supernatural abilities to acquire this knowledge? In looking at what is written below this passage, it is likely that Jesus came by His knowledge the old fashioned way. And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men (Luke 2:52). What a great example to which youngsters can aspire!
The reason Paul said, "Let no one despise your youth," was because Timothy was a young teacher. In the preceding verses, Timothy was to "instruct the brethren." He was to "command and teach." His teaching consisted of "the words of faith and of the good doctrine." How his pupils, which were mostly older, received those words would determine their eternal destiny. Therefore, Timothy was not to give anyone a reason to disregard what he had to say. This was bigger than Timothy.
Young people, let no one despise your youth. You can do this if you follow the advice Paul gave Timothy: "Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine. Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you" (1 Timothy 4:16). Older people, do not look down on the youth; rather, edify and encourage them in the faith. They are the future of the church, but they are also part of the body of Christ right now. Who knows what great things a humble young person can do in the hands of God? O God, You have taught me from my youth; and to this day I declare Your wondrous works (Psalm 71:17).
Brotherly, Jamie
