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Campus Sub-Cultures, Part: 3
By Chuck Bomar
The Rebel
The rebel is also engaged in the ideals of professors but tends to approach this from an arrogant mindset. They naturally compare who they think they are to what they perceive others to be, but do so from a critical perspective rather than a curious one. There are some professors/leaders they respect, but only those who have ideas that challenge them in ways they’ve never been challenged, in subjects they’ve never thought through, or in ways that directly apply to their lives. Unlike the academic this subculture is non-conformists. They are not seeking to please anybody and usually could care less about what professors think about them, or the grade they receive. They will typically do well in classes they enjoy and not well with those in which they have little or no interest. Meaning for them is found in their own rebellion (and unfortunately arrogant thinking). Comparing their thoughts and ideals to others from a bias and inexperienced perspective makes them feel good, and thus gives a sense of fulfillment.
The main identity issue to tackle with this subculture is idolatry. I know that may sound harsh at first, but let me explain. Those in this subculture have issues with submission and especially in areas which they lack interest. A lack of submission is rooted in arrogance. Like the collegiate they will lack discipline and follow through, but only in areas they are less interested in. If the academic seeks to please others, the rebel seeks to please and serve themselves (i.e. idolatry), only doing and excelling in things they personally have interests. Everyone has aspects of this in their lives, but this is a major area requiring attention for the rebel. Getting them to commit and follow through with something in which they have little or no interest can extremely difficult.
Spending time with these people is crucial, and here are 3 things I’ve found effective with this type of individual:
[1] These individuals need a lot of time and space in discipleship. A relationship must be built with these people where they are able to find characteristics in you they personally respect or desire before trying to tackle the deeper heart issues. Talking about common interests and allowing them to find areas of your life they respect are key. This takes time.
[2] Model humility and submission to God must be modeled, yet presented in a thought provoking and challenging way. They will always have an issue following God if they are only seeking to do what pleases self. They will need to understand at some point that God is interested in some things they aren’t and His desires and ideals always take priority. Embracing this requires submission which itself requires humility.
[3] Be patient. Don’t get frustrated with their lack of understanding or arrogance, rather be patient. Time is your best friend with rebels. Most grow out of this stage by exposure to different aspects of daily life, but this can take a considerable amount of time. Walking with the rebel will require us to pay the price of time. But, again, I have seen time with them pay huge dividends in the kingdom!!!
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