Ten Reasons

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            Below I have listed and briefly discussed ten reasons why I believe it is good for young people to sit near the front during worship. These reasons assume that these young people can behave well enough to sit away from their parents. If they cannot (be they 8 or 18), they should sit with their parents until they are properly trained. Now, let’s get to the reasons:

1. Because most parents want them to and have asked them to on various occasions. God’s word instructs, “Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. Honor thy father and mother…” (Eph. 6:1–2).
2. Because they should be an example of the finest qualities of a Christian, so that none will disrespect them because of their youth (1 Tim. 4:12). Sitting near the front will create respect and exemplify spiritual qualities.
3. Because they are interested in what is occurring in worship. Sitting near the front is a good way to express such interest. Sitting as far as possible from the pulpit indicates disinterest.
4. Because young people usually sing well. They contribute much more to the singing when they are in a group near the front than when sitting near the back or scattered about.
5. Because today’s youth are tomorrow’s adults. Some will be elders, deacons, teachers, preachers— “up front people,” leaders. It is a source of confidence for the future to see them “up front” in worship in their youth.
6. Because young people behave better when they sit near the front. It removes many temptations to misbehave when they sit in front of Dad and Mom instead of behind them.
7. Because it helps everybody. Disruptive behavior almost always occurs among those who sit near the back. Such disturbs and denies genuine worship to all who observe.
8. Because our elders want them to. This desire stems from their deep concern that our young people may mature as rapidly as possible. We should deeply respect our elders (Heb. 13:17).
9. Because it shows strength and unity. It appears that we are divided and weak when we are scattered.
10. Because it is beautiful. It is innately attractive to see several front rows filled with vibrant youth worshiping God together.

[Note: I wrote this article for, and it was published in the May 29, 1980, edition of the Granbury Gospel, weekly bulletin of the Granbury Church of Christ, Granbury, Texas, of which I was editor.

Attribution: From thescripturecache.com; Dub McClish, owner and administrator.