A.W. Tozer’s book, The Knowledge of the Holy, was published in 1961, probably before most volunteer youth workers were born. The book really could not be more relevant for today. Tozer’s basic concern in writing the book was that so much bad theology is being taught and so much bad ministry is being practiced because we really don’t know God. We really don’t have a clear picture of who God really is.

Youth ministry in a small church should never be youth ministry with a “small God.” We need to help our students capture a vision of God as He really is. Our students need to see God as the One who defines goodness, who is ever merciful, who is always righteous, and who never changes. We need to challenge the kind of thinking about God that tries to put Him in a human box or keep Him in the far distant sky, and help students truly capture a vision of the God who transcends from heaven to be ever present in our lives and in our world.

As you are teaching your students this week, help them to see God as He truly is. Maybe, like me, you will find Tozer’s book a good reminder. I recommend it.