12 Truths Every Teen Can Trust is a thoughtfully structured and to-the-point devotional. In it, Paul Tripp calls readers to a richly lived-out comprehension of core Christian beliefs, seeking to ground curious teens in truth for a life centred on Christ.
As one might expect, the book explores a dozen doctrines, each designed to be digested over a week. The formula is straightforward; each truth is presented along with biblical excerpts that inform it, followed by a ‘How it Matters’ section comprising the daily readings. These explore the doctrine in question before finishing with a relevant passage to mediate on, and simple, yet often probing reflection questions.
Tripp is immensely practical in his applications. Though always discussing the what and why of each truth, he challenges us to consider the how. Indeed, readers are shown an attractive image of what each doctrine might look like when lived out to its fullest, and numerous illustrations, anecdotes, and expositive encouragements. The daily readings also include savvy (and even diagnostic) depictions of what life might look like when each truth is not fully believed.
12 Truths Every Teen Can Trust: Core Beliefs of the Christian Faith That Will Change Your Life
Paul Tripp
Purchase from Reformers12 Truths Every Teen Can Trust: Core Beliefs of the Christian Faith That Will Change Your Life
Paul Tripp
12 Truths Every Teen Can Trust calls readers to examine our hearts and actions in light of who God is and what he’s done. Tripp’s concern for the spiritual development of his audience is plain to see; readers are taught to meditate on God’s word so that it might shape their lives.
Discipleship by Design
The order of the sections is evidently thought-through. Tripp begins with an exhibition of the nature and authority of Scripture (Chapter 1), which is immediately followed by a sweeping examination of God and his character. His holiness, sovereignty, power, and creative authority are each deeply rooted in what he has revealed about himself in Scripture (Chapters 2-5).
Only after establishing who God is and how he makes himself known does the author bring us into the picture. The book’s structure reinforces the fact that we are not the stars of the show. Rather, our creation is presented as an expression of God’s power. As created beings we are subject to his almighty authority (Chapter 6). As bearers of his image, we are given dignity and purpose (Chapter 7). It is a freeing relief that we aren’t at the centre of it all.
God’s overwhelming holiness then serves as the backdrop for the severity of our sin (Chapter 8). The cause and consequences are presented clearly, and Tripp orients readers to see the true depth of our depravity. Thankfully, readers are not left to wallow in despair: the examination on sin is promptly followed by rejoicing in our justification (Chapter 9). Tripp aptly points to the saving work of Jesus, rooted in God’s enduring, sacrificial love for us.
Throughout the section on justification, and the following chapter on sanctification (Chapter 10), our status in Christ is front and centre. God’s mercy to us through Jesus is the basis for both our salvation and our ongoing growth. Each is only possible because we are joined to Christ in his death and resurrection. Our hope hinges on the glorious truth of the gospel – and the God who saves us also delights to grow and eventually perfect us.
In the final two chapters, Tripp encourages readers to persevere through the guaranteed hardships of life by keeping our eyes fixed on the sure hope of eternal life (Chapters 11-12). We are urged to revel in the hope given to us through the gospel and gladly live as we are called to – not because we must earn our salvation, but because God chooses to grow and persevere us by means as ordinary as work, worship, and simple obedience. We are to trust the Lord deeply and rely on him fully, confident of the hope promised us in Christ. We are to look forward with joy and longing to our final full redemption and glorification.
Style and Form
Tripp doesn’t sacrifice depth for simplicity. Most daily readings are self-contained and less than a page long but delve deeper than one might anticipate. The style is accessible and largely free of jargon, although the inclusion of a glossary would likely have benefit some. Each section provides a springboard for further exploration, should readers seek to study further.
Although admittedly not a teenager, I found that some of the anecdotes didn’t quite hit their mark. Most were thought-provoking, but a few seemed slightly stilted. Some of these improved upon revisitation. Readers of this review would be welcome to attribute this concern to the half-century age gap between the venerable author and myself; but I do note that the intended audience is a further decade younger than me.
Given the book is targeted towards teens, who are often glued to their screens, a digital adaptation of Tripp’s content could extend the reach of the material. The concise form of each day’s reading may translate well to short-form videos on social media.
Minor Gripes
Like many devotional resources, the text primarily focuses on the personal rather than the communal. Certainly, a rich personal relationship with God is indispensable, and indeed often underpins Christian community. Yet, there is an imperative togetherness in Christian life, which I would’ve liked to see more emphasis on. By no means is this ignored – indeed, several of the later chapters touch briefly on corporate Christian life – but more discussion would have been welcomed.
Similarly, there is an underemphasis on one of the most critical implications of the doctrines discussed: that we ought to share them with others! God’s word is not only to be trusted, but joyfully proclaimed. Surely, given the certainty and beauty of the Christian truths, living them out in fullness must include a focus on helping others know them. I thought it odd that the sections on justification and eternity didn’t exhort readers to evangelism, given their content.
In all, this is a worthwhile read which garners my recommendation. Tripp’s fundamentals are sound, his heart for youth is evident, and his structure is delightfully thought-through. Readers at any stage of their Christian walk are bound to benefit from this book.
