Since 1986 I've been involved in youth ministry in the local church as well as para-church organizations...Here are some myths that need to be shot down:


17 MYTHS ABOUT YOUTH MINISTRY

By P.A. Campbell

1.     Seeing them once a week is enough.
2.     I'm too old to really make a difference.
3.    Working with youth is a great way to build an adult's self-esteem.
4.    Youth are the church of tomorrow, instead of the church of right now.
5.    Youth need to be entertained more.
6.    Parents don't have much influence on youth.
7.    I'm not outgoing and I don't look cool, so I CAN'T make an impact.
8.    Because I dress like them and talk like them, I CAN make an impact.
9.    Since I can't relate to their tough experiences, I can't do much for them.
10.    The Bible is not the best counseling source for teen issues.
11.    Youth usually don't pay attention to spiritual matters.
12.     If they are from a Christian family, they don't need my encouragement. 
13.    Teens are not ready to minister to younger children. 
14.     Mobile Apps, Music and Movies don't influence youth much.
15.     Youth cannot reach their friends with the gospel effectively like adults.
16.     Youth cannot counsel their friends from the Bible when they're struggling.  
17.      Playing with them without praying earnestly for them doesn't matter.