There are almost certainly young people in your youth ministry who have questions they are afraid to ask.

Whether you have a ‘question box’ available at all times or a special night set aside for questions, Carey Schmidt offers some helpful ‘must do’s’. Here’s a sample:

1. Allow anonymous questions. This is HUGE! Anonymity is the key to getting honest questions. Teens should be allowed to place their name on their card, but not required to.

2. Allow any appropriate question. Don’t be afraid to deal with tough subjects.

3. Don’t let their attitude bother you. Some questions might even be personally offensive to you—like “Why do you plan such stupid activities?” Don’t fire back. Play fair and give an honest question an honest and kind answer.

4. See deeper than the question. See the heart behind the question. I learn more about our teens through their questions than any other single thing. The question exposes the heart. Questions often expose false assumptions, skewed perspectives, unmet expectations, and spiritual immaturity. Questions let you know where your group is and where you really stand with them.

Categorised: Youth Culture