Research on the Current State of Christian Education for Adolescents
Research on the Current State of Christian Education for Adolescents
Characteristics of Adolescents:Adolescents undergo significant physical and emotional changes during this period, making it challenging for them to adapt. Managing them as we would children or imposing adult responsibilities on them can be counterproductive. This age is marked by rebellion, as adolescents seek to assert their independence, often challenging parental authority and questioning established norms. However, this rebellion provides a unique opportunity to introduce Christian values, helping them understand the true nature of sin. Furthermore, adolescents place a high value on friendship; they tend to establish relationships before developing trust. If we rely solely on preaching, it may be difficult to influence them effectively. Understanding these characteristics is essential for conveying biblical truths to them.
Historical Context of Christianity in America:The United States was founded on Christian principles, specifically rooted in Puritan theology within a constitutional democracy. At that time, the Catholic Church in England operated like an authoritarian regime, and Queen Elizabeth I mandated a single church—the Church of England—where Puritans could only participate. This repression led the Puritans to sail on the Mayflower to the New World in 1620, where they, though impoverished and alone, sought to establish a great nation and government based on democratic and constitutional ideals.
Research on the Current State of Christian Education for Adolescents.docx.pdf