Is it responsible to involve youth in world missions?

When YWAM began, the idea of releasing young people in missions was radical and new. To some it was foolish. Today most of the missions in the West have learned from the example of YWAM and Operation Mobilization, and have their own youth missions branches.

The Bible give many examples of how God used young people, such as Joseph, David, Jeremiah, Daniel, Esther, Mary and Timothy. Most of the disciples were in their teens or twenties when Jesus called them. The average age of the Jerusalem church at Pentecost was probably under 30.

Youth have energy. They are flexible, idealistic, optimistic, adventure-loving, free of family and job obligations - and they have not yet learned that it cannot be done!! Half the worlds population is under 25. And 80% of decisions made for Christ are made before the age of 18. Who can best reach youth? Young people themselves!