The ministry of teen Bible engagement is a complex matrix of considerations: over-churched vs. under-churched, middle school vs. high school, spiritually engaged vs. spiritually apathetic, and the list goes on. It’s a ministry that can use all the tools it can get. The small book by Matt Andrews, Slaying Biblical Illiteracy (The Youth Cartel; 2016), is a worthy tool. Or, in keeping with the book’s title and artistic theme, a noble lance for the joust.
A youth ministry veteran, Andrews encourages us to use all-hands-down creativity (think weekend retreat activities rather than weekly study methods) for developing “Bible familiarity,” a safe gateway into deeper Bible engagement. This book, however, isn’t your typical “how to teach creatively” book. Andrews starts from the premise that Scripture is trustworthy and can stand on its own. His proven ideas and tools lead students into meaningful engagement with the text. Students will finish any exercise being wowed by Scripture rather than by the creative exercise, a distinction that we in youth ministry often neglect.
The book is ambitiously titled and you might expect a more thorough and comprehensive treatment of the landscape of teen Bible engagement. This book is not that. In fact, you can read it in one coffee house setting if you so choose. But, while that’s a nod to its brevity, it’s also a nod to Andrews’ engaging writing style. You’ll not only enjoy the read, but you’ll feel empowered to revitalize your Bible efforts from this small book.
If you’re even slightly interested in enhancing your teen Bible engagement, you’ll benefit greatly from this book.
Check out Slaying Biblical Illiteracy at The Youth Cartel here.