Dear Mr. Editor, I read “Save the Children” in the October issue of “Edification” with much appreciation.
I write to suggest another avenue of approach to children, which we have found an effectual one. Let two go into the back streets, or to new housing estates, on Sunday evenings, and collect small groups of children. Speak very simply, with plenty of repetition, and only for a few minutes. Bear in mind that an increasing number have never been to a Sunday School. Intimate another Gospel talk, preferably on the following Sunday evening, weather permitting. Singing may usually be dispensed with. Have some children’s Gospel papers to distribute after the meeting. An intimation that those who rain will receive something to read is enough to keep the little group together.
If adults are within hearing, speak somewhat louder, but continue speaking as though none but children were near. What you are saying to the young people is probably none too simple for the grown-ups, so ignorant is the average individual as to even the simple elements of the Gospel.
Between 6 and 8 o’clock six or eight little groups can easily be spoken to—often all one has to do is to get into the next street. Stand on the kerb-stone, or on a vacant bit of land where children are playing about. Do not begin straight away exhorting them to “Come to Jesus.” Many are practically heathen, and need very simple instruction as a foundation to work upon. Do not overlook the fact that children, as well as adults, need the change of mind Godward called repentance.
Where more than two workers are available, think of neighboring towns and villages.
Do not make the common mistake of supposing Gospel work among children is of less importance than that among adults. Long experience in open-air work has led the writer to consider it of more importance.
One does not find, with young people, the self-will, nor the indifference, nor the hardness of conscience all too apparent in this pleasure-loving day among men and women. They are much more impressionable, whereas the older people get, the more difficult it is to make impressions upon their minds.
Open-air work is left too much to young men. Age brings moral weight (or should do so) as well as experience. If a young worker accompanies one with long experience in the work, the novice is getting useful ideas.
A final suggestion—Go out on mild nights in the winter as well as in the summer and autumn, but only speak for a very few minutes at each spot.
One likes to say “Lord Jesus” when referring to our adorable Saviour. Simply “Jesus” is much too commonly used, sometimes in too light a manner. The writer makes a point of bringing out the grace and attractiveness of the Lord Jesus, so that young hearts may be drawn to Him. Remember that human beings, young and old, have hearts as well as consciences.
And, even when speaking to children, do not fail to speak of God as the grand Source of the Glad Tidings. Some preachers, although constantly referring to Christ, seldom do so—an unintentional slight upon the God of all grace.
A. H. Lycett.