Straight Thinking 092467 the Continuing Christian Witness
Straight Thinking
092467
THE CONTINUING CHRISTIAN WITNESS
Sunday. Since the first days of the church’s existence, Christians have assembled on Sunday. The apostles’ teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer distinguish this gathering from others. Our regular attendance at church is a personal testimony to those outside the Lord’s body; it is an example to other young people of the congregation. Sharing in worship strengthens us for a persistent witness for Christ. (Read Acts 2:41-42; Hebrews 10:22-25.)
Monday. The school-day routine provides opportunities to illustrate how Christ modifies normal living. Classmates observe that we do not copy from others or cheat on tests. They never hear a teacher calling us down for talking or disrupting class. In short, they are aware of our Christianity in more ways than we might think. (Read 1 Thessalonians 5:22.)
Tuesday. If there is anywhere that fans will notice us as Christians, it is on a sports field or floor. They may be sitting far up in the bleachers, but they can see very well. They can hear too. If we are in the bleachers, a different kind of response should come from us than from a spectator that is not Christian when the referee makes a good call—for the other team. (Read Colossians 3:17.)
Wednesday. Christian youth are recognized by the activities they are in; they are also known by what they’re not in, what they don’t do, and where they don’t go. Where we go plus what we do equals what we are. Christian entertainment assumes its own proper forms. (Read 1 Peter 4:14-15.)
Thursday. A car can be a good gauge for determining how much of a Christian we are. The average person on the street can tell what kind of youth we are by the way we drive. So to speak, we have to let up on our testimony for Jesus when we tramp down on the gas. (Read 1 Peter 2:13-17.)
Friday. Are your parents Christians? Rather frequently young people grow up in homes where neither parent has accepted Christ. They often influence their children against Christ. On the other hand, a persistent Christian son or daughter may be able to lead parents to Christ. Keep your colors true, your light bright in an effort ot win the ones you love. (Read Ephesians 6:1-3.)
Saturday. When the lessons are finished and there is no place to go, do we think to study our Bible? Is that the only time? Throughout the rest of life, we will seldom be at a loss for something to do. If we give Christian activity first place now, it will be easier to discipline ourselves later when the responsibilities of home, job, and civic duty seem to demand preference over service in the church. (Read Luke 9:23-25, 59-62.)
Virgil Warren, Straight, September 24, 1967, p13 christir.org