Time. We are conscious of it more than ever with the infamous “Y2K” now upon us. Could this be the year the Lord returns? Maybe. Not because of any prophetic significance to the year 2000, but because His return is imminent. It could happen at any time, but that does not mean it must happen today. The New Testament exhorts us to follow the apostle’s example and “wait for His Son from heaven” (1 Thess. 1:10) and, at the same time be “always abounding in the work of the Lord” (1 Cor. 15:58).
During the 1960’s the first wave of “baby boomers” (those born shortly after the World War II) completed their education and stepped into careers. There was economic prosperity in the West. The Church was not unaffected by these social and economic changes. Many believers were swayed by the opportunities to build careers and wealth at the expense of spirituality. They lost focus and a sense of balance. The result: many of those early boomers, who could have been today’s experienced evangelists, Bible teachers, missionaries and elders, did not prepare themselves for the responsibilities awaiting them.
There should be a plentiful supply of Bible teachers, but elders of assemblies and conveners of conferences tell me it is getting more difficult to find good men. There should be an abundance of capable shepherds, caring for the flock, training today’s young men. Instead, some assemblies are attempting to function with as little as a single qualified elder–one man in retirement years trying to carry the load.
Young evangelists are being raised up to preach the gospel, but they are without experienced guidance. Their enthusiasm and zeal can sometimes cause disruptions.
Missionaries in the prayer handbook are getting older. Some in their sunset years seem to be carrying on work better suited for younger men and women. But this generation is missing.
Observers of history tell us that the past gives us lessons for the future. But before we are too critical of a past generation, we need to check the present situation. Very few in the past actually chose to let the world get the best of them. It happened slowly, almost imperceptibly.
The question is: What can be done today? Is there hope of recovery and restoration? How can we avoid repeating this failure?
First, notice the similarity of past conditions and the present. We are again facing a period of economic prosperity and expansion in the West. Wealth creation and opportunities abound. Young people face legitimate obligations in providing for their families. Paul himself was in the tent-making business, but it never took over his life or diverted him from spiritual things.
Second, encourage timeless spiritual values as the basis of living. Our young people need to know that material things are not the main thing–necessary, but not the main thing. This problem is not new. Paul warned young Timothy about this. Read 1 Timothy.
Third, remember God is in the business of restoration and recovery. He can restore the productivity of lost years. Aging baby boomers can be used of God again. It is amazing what the Lord will do with those who are willing to be used by Him. He quickly puts wasted years out of His mind and wants to use the remaining years for His glory. The Bible is full of examples of those who were used more by God in the closing years of life than the early years. Use your time and resources wisely in the encouragement of others and in whatever service God gives you.
Is there an evangelist, Bible teacher, missionary, elder who is buying the world’s idea, “I’m too old”? We need Calebs more than ever. It will inspire the young people.
Fourth, we need to teach young people. Again consider Paul’s advice to Timothy. “Preach the Word…the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.” And there are many similar exhortations. Take time to disciple your young people. Give them opportunity when they show an interest.
The missing generation and the year 2000. Can we not redouble our efforts in abounding in the work of the Lord? As His return is near, assemblies of believers can restore the fresh enthusiasm for the things of the Lord that moved the Church in year 1.