A model of discipleship for college students?
By Keith Goad August 30, 2008
The following is advice from Karl Barth (one of the greatest minds of the 20th century) on how older folk in the church should care for the younger. Email us what you think (info@thirdavenue.org). I would like to post some comments from others. As you read them, ask what Biblical texts are assumed or ignored in these statements. Of course I have comments to follow. (Maybe one of the ghosts from 3abc’s past might send us a thought or two?)
- Realize that younger people of both sexes, whether relatives or close in other ways, have a right to go their own ways according to their own (and not your) principles, ideas, and desires, to gain their own experiences, and to find happiness in their own (and not your) fashion.
- Do not force upon them, then, your own example or wisdom or inclinations or favors.
- Do not bind them in any way to yourself or put them under any obligation.
- Do not be surprised or annoyed or upset if you necessarily find that they have no time, or little time, for you, that no matter how well-intentioned you may be toward them, or sure of your cause, you sometimes inconvenience and bore them, and they casually ignore you and your counsel.
- When they act in this way, remember penitently that in your own youth you, too, perhaps (or probably) acted in the same way toward the older authorities of the time.
- Be grateful for every proof of genuine notice and serious confidence they show you, but do not expect or demand such proofs.
- Never in any circumstances give them up, but even as you let them go their own way, go with them in a relaxed and cheerful manner, trusting that God will do what is best for them, and always supporting and praying for them.
From A Late Friendship: The Letters of Karl Barth and Carl Zuckmayer (Translated by Geoffrey W. Bromiley; Grand Rapids, MI: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 1982), 45.