Articles
Church and Society - A Judge's Observation
Judge Sam Tatum, a member of the church and judge for many years of the Court of Juvenile Domestic Relations in Nashville, wrote the following:
“My court has jurisdiction over children under seventeen years of age, who have violated the law. Since June 1, 1939, I have tried more than 4,800 cases. Of this number, only 29 had a regular Sunday School or church record. So far, I have not had a child in juvenile court whose father or mother attended either Sunday School or church REGULARLY.”
Parents, you should give this statement careful consideration.
These facts illustrate two basic things. Exposure to moral teaching and spiritual values is a deterrent against crime. Those without exposure to such training are far more likely to run afoul of the law. One explanation of the rampant crime and lack of respect for the property and person of others is found in the lack of moral and spiritual training which a rather large segment of the population has had. The Bible is basic to a society in which rational law, rather than the law of the jungle rules.
Second, parents who take their children to Bible study and church services, rather than sending them, are far more successful in influencing them for the right. Another way to put the same truth is to say that the power of example must be added to that of precept to make teaching effective. Parents need to show their children what is important, rather than simply tell them.
Parents, for your own happiness and peace of mind, for the welfare of your children in this life and in eternity, and for the simple sake of an orderly and safe society to live in, bring your children and come to Bible study and church regularly.
E. Kent Ellis, March 10, 1977
(Brother Ellis served as a Juvenile Court Judge for many years in Houston Texas, but more significantly served as a local preacher and Elder in a number of congregations throughout his life – Ron Matthews.)
