Principle #13: Music can be a powerful witnessing tool in the hands of dedicated Christian youth.
Music played a large role in the ministry of youth evangelism for many years. When Academy and college was out for the summer the youth in the conference were invited to join my wife and me for the next ten weeks to do youth evangelism. No one was asked to audition for the group, but the first week was spent rehearsing, then we went to out in the academy’s school bus to witness.
Our youth teams always tried, in the music, to exemplify the gentle, kind, and meek spirit, of our Savior. We also tried to lead the youth to uphold the standards of, and respect for, our church through their music. In doing this work, we were following the inspired counsel of Ellen White.
“Students (youth) go out into the highways and hedges. Endeavor to reach the higher as well as the lower classes. Enter the homes of the rich and the poor, and as you have opportunity ask would you be pleased to have us sing? We should be glad to hold a song service with you. Then as hearts are softened, the way may open for you to offer a few words of prayer for the blessing of God. Not many will refuse.” (Review & Herald August 27, 1903)
One youth witnessing experience that really stands out in our memory involved an alcoholic who also happened to be a millionaire. The pastor of the church asked us to witness to this lady, and when we arrived at her home, she welcomed us with a smile.
One of the young men introduced the team and told her we had just come to sing a few songs for her. As the team began to sing some of the simple, familiar hymns, she began to weep and we knew the Holy Spirit was working on her heart. After about the third song, some of the youth testified of their experience with Christ, and this to made a deep impression on her.
After a few more songs, she stood up and pointed to a picture on the wall. That is a picture of my father she told us. He was brought up a Catholic, and was known for his honesty. She went on to tell us how, at one point in his life he purchased a Bible and studied it for himself. In his study he became convinced that Saturday was the true day of worship. And he kept the Sabbath for the rest of his life.
I know you young people keep the right day, she told us, and began to weep again.
May we pray with you? Asked one of the young ladies from our team. I would love that, she answered.
This witness opened the way for further contact and study by the pastor. It also gave our youth team a stronger faith in the promises of the wonderful Spirit-lead writings of Ellen White.
As one who has been involved in many of these types of experiences, I can say with conviction that it is not the beauty of form, or ceremonies, or dress, or even accomplishment, that God can use best, but the willing heart and simple voice that sings with understanding.
We also tried to follow the inspired counsel when choosing the songs to sing. The following guiding principles I have found most helpful in this regard.