The Jesus I Wish I Knew in High School
What would Jesus say to today's high school students? Edited by Cameron Cole and Charlotte Getz, The Jesus I Wish I Knew in High School shows how to apply the Gospel to the next generation.
With contributions from over 30 authors, this book presents a diverse array of perspectives on topics crucial to young people's lives, ranging from sexual temptation and reputation to rebellion and rejection. I was most impacted to read about and remember the many issues teens face today. While the times and technology have changed since I was in high school, the gospel still speaks to our same heart issues.
Performance and Acceptance
Cameron Cole writes on Performance and Acceptance, relaying how a perfect college resume does not compare to knowing Christ. He is immediately relatable: “Every day as a teenager, I felt so much pressure to be impressive and I experienced so much fear of imperfection.” He emphasizes the incomparable value of knowing Christ over worldly accolades. In a world full of influencers, he writes: “What I wish I had known–and what I want for you– is to know that you are enough through Christ. You don’t have to prove yourself. You don’t have to impress anyone.” Cole navigates the complexities of identity and self-worth with grace and clarity.
Kevin Yi writes on Shame and Holiness. He brings his Korean upbringing to the reader, stating that enjoying Christ's presence through prayer, Bible reading, and serving is better than trying to earn it through those means. There is a hint of regret when he writes: “I finally understood that God’s grace for me is not something he had to do as some kind of obligation. The Father’s grace for me is truly lavishing and shocking. Had I really understood this as a teenager, I would have spent less time trying to earn my standing before God, and more time enjoying the relationship that was available to me through Jesus Christ.” As a reader, I feel the weight of these words - and find his chapter to ultimately be uplifting and encouraging.
Disability and Suffering
Rachel Kang writes on Disability and Suffering, detailing her diagnosis of rheumatic fever. She shows how Jesus relates to our sorrows and sufferings, and that he is ultimately interested in our spiritual healing. In a culture that emphasizes pursuing our own dreams, Kang counters: “God’s forgiveness bestowed upon us–by and through Christ’s death and resurrection– is a guarantee. And, more than giving us things and goods and gifts, God’s greatest desire–his greatest dream– is that we might come to the place of receiving him.” With sensitivity and depth, Kang provides a moving testimony to the empathy and compassion of Christ.
Clark Fobes IV closes the book with Isolation and Liberation. He relates his half-Korean heritage and growing up in an Asian setting to show that there can be freedom from sin and shame, and grace has the power to heal our striving for perfection. With vulnerability, he describes his struggle with lust and feeling like the woman at the well from John 4. He boldly declares: “But thankfully, like this woman, Jesus also met me with the bold audacity of his gentle grace.” It is a powerful proclamation to a culture obsessed with sex. With theological insight, Fobes eloquently conveys the message that true freedom from sin and shame is found in embracing the liberating grace of Christ.
Hearts and Minds
The Jesus I Wish I Knew in High School is a compelling and insightful book that speaks directly to the hearts and minds of young people navigating the complexities of faith and identity in today's world. It is perfect for teachers, parents, and pastors to help connect the next generation with the gospel. Teens that read it today will be wiser and better equipped to find true and abundant life in Christ.
I received a media copy ofThe Jesus I Wish I Knew in High School and this is my honest review. Find more of my book reviews and follow Dive In, Dig Deep on Instagram - my account dedicated to Bibles and books to see the beauty of the Bible and the role of reading in the Christian life. To read all of my book reviews and to receive all of the free eBooks I find on the web, subscribe to my free newsletter.