But I can't say it frightens people my age any more than the young. Therefore, I tell my teachers to teach about hell, but not to bother to use death and hell as threats. It is much better to threaten them with the loss of a trinket, a reward, or such trifles, because such threats are very effective, if immediate and backed up consistently. If you wish to be an effective Christian teacher or parent, make your threats imminent, tangible and consistent. Don't bother about distant, inconsistent threats that only add stress and frustration to your life.
Incompetent teachers earn contempt and laughter, instead of respect and obedience.
You must guide your flock to safety and covenant keeping. The skill of herding little sheep takes about three years to learn as an intern at one of our schools, and if you have the patience and talent to develop it, can be turned into the wealth of a millionaire. I will even pay you a salary while you are learning how to do it. Dr. Ellsworth McIntyre is founder of Grace Community Schools and one of America's leading Christian educators.