Back to the Basics of Young Life

by John Miller

In 1991, when he was 72, John wrote Back to the Basics. "I want people to see the motivation and drive" of where Young Life comes from, John says. The four basic principles that drive Young Life have remained the same since its conception in 1950.

Genres: Spirituality, Faith, Christian Living, Christian

Hardcover

First published January 1, 1991

Reviews

[Andrew Laschober · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's a shame this book is almost exclusively published and distributed by Young Life, because it's a beautiful book on life and faith that belongs on any believer's bookshelf. It does a wonderful job of storytelling and showing how a life lived for Christ isn't a complicated endeavor full of legalism and rules.

[Patty · Rating 3 out of 5]

My daughter has started her career as a middle school math teacher in a community where she doesn't have a lot of close friends. One of her friends suggested that she help out with Young Life at the local high school. My daughter is very involved with youth in the Lutheran church in Virginia. So I think Young Life has gotten an excellent volunteer.

Personally, I have mixed feelings about the Young Life organization. My daughter knows this and so she suggested I read this book. I am very glad I read it. I now have a great deal of respect for the founders of this organization. Their hearts were in the right place. The tenets they adopted for working with youth suit any Christian organization who might want to attract younger folks.

Miller's book was written in 1995. I question whether conservative Christians would be so accepting of some of his comments on science and religion in the present political climate. I feel like much of Christianity has lost sight of what Jesus taught. I feel that today's Christians are less tolerant than the person they emulate.

I am grateful that my daughter has found some people that she can relate to. I know that her presence in the high schoolers lives is a good thing. I am also happy to know more about the roots of Young Life. All in all this is a win for everyone.

[Doug · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was such an awesome read. Very easy to read and excited me about joining Young Life staff. I think that this doesn't only show someone on Young life how to do ministry, but is an awesome way for anyone. This book was great

[Allison · Rating 3 out of 5]

Written by John Miller, one of the first (the 19th, actually) on the staff of Young Life. Also as a small note of interest, John's mother had a Navigator home in DC.) It was a little reminiscing of his beginnings in YL, of Jim Rayburn (the founder of YL) and of the principles of YL.

[David · Rating 5 out of 5]

must read for anyone who has been impacted by the ministry of "Young Life". mostly stories/history

[Samuel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book about YL history from the beginning. Solid in the basics of not just YL ministry,but ministry period.

[Heather Stroh · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a long-time Young Life advocate, I loved this book. The story of how it all began is truly a testimony in itself.

[Allison · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great introduction to the ministry principles of Young Life and inspiration for a person beginning to become involved in the ministry. A nice fast read.

[Ryan Coker · Rating 5 out of 5]

I try to read this book once a year

[Demaree · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good read that’s a combination of a memoir, Scripture and practical tips for leading Young Life! Miller writes about contact work, campaigners, club and camp while emphasizing the importance of keeping Jesus at the center of your ministry!

[Abbie Chamberlain]

Great for historical context of YL!

[Will Parker · Rating 4 out of 5]

“In God’s stead.”

[katy howard · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good read for any and all Younglife related persons. As a current leader, it ignited fire in me to keep fighting the good fight.