Time is of the essence.

Myth: Everyone has an equal chance of becoming a Christ follower.

Reality: Based on extensive research on this topic, our data points out clearly that the faith trajectory of the vast majority of American is mapped out before they become adults, often before they even reach adolescence. In fact, for every one hundred people who are not born again by the time they reach age eighteen, only six of those individuals will commit their lives to Christ for the first time as an adult. Of course, we have to always assume the best about people’s spiritual potential. God can do anything in anyone’s life at any time, and he often does. But consider how likely it would be for you as an adult to be persuaded to convert to another religion right now. You have to admit, it would take a lot to change your views so dramatically.

Think of the implications of this. First, it underscores that Christians should prioritize the faith development of children, a unique time in human development when the vast majority of us “pick” a faith. Second, it implies that we must work hard to strengthen the often-tenuous faith of teenagers, because this is when their faith is gelling.

(From Why I Do What I Do, R³)

This struck home, because during CG on Friday, we all shared our conversion stories, of how we came to faith in Christ. HQ happened to ask at what age we came to Christ. Almost everyone, except HQ, had come to Christ at about 18 years or so. (HQ came to Christ during his first or second year in NTU.)

It struck me there and then how critical it is to touch as many young people as we can for Christ. And that's why my sub-district is aiming to reach those below 25.

Time is of the essence.

On another note, after attending the HopeKids Live service, I realised the importance HopeTots ministry plays in preparing the children for HopeKids. Because if they are not well-disciplined in the early stages of their lives (those below 6 years), then it becomes very much harder to train and disciple them as they go into primary school.

Even Al-Qaeda applies this concept so well - why else would they focus so heavily on using the Internet and schools to indoctrinate young boys?

"Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it."
Proverbs 22:6