How do you present the wondrous, joyous message of the Gospel in a way that is clear and exciting for children to understand? This week, Leslie dives into practical and creative ways to share the Gospel with children. Whether you are a parent, ministry leader, or have a voice in a child’s life, this message reveals that children can grasp far more of God’s truth than we may think and give you helpful tips in how to present the undiluted Good News to those entrusted to our spiritual care.
PODCAST TRANSCRIPT
This week I want to share with you a few creative but practical ways that I have personally used when sharing the Gospel with my kids. I have realized that the power and fullness of the Gospel is often reduced or softened with children’s curriculum that is new to the market and have found that this doesn’t build a strong foundation of faith in their lives.
It is vital that when we share the Gospel with young ones that we remember these key truths:
- Sugar-coating sin and truth does not protect our children, but can actually harm them spiritually.
- Children must recognize the seriousness of sin and the terrible destiny that awaits those who do now know Christ.
- Before children can grasp the Good news they first have to understand the bad news.
- Sharing the Gospel does not have to be a fire and brimstone lecture, but should be conveyed with wonder and excitement!
- Contrary to popular belief, children are more capable of understanding the Gospel than adults tend to give them credit for.
If you have ever wondered if you were qualified to share the Gospel with kids (whether they are your own children or you have a voice in the lives of young children), I want to encourage you that God has entrusted parents with the sacred task of leading their children to Christ. The best person to facilitate that all-important discussion about eternity is the parent whom God has appointed and anointed for this task. If you are a Sunday school teacher or someone who has regular influence in the lives of young children, you too, can play an important in role in point and directing their hearts to Jesus. Ask God to equip and lead you specifically in this journey.
Here are a few practical ideas that can spark discipleship in the hearts of your children:
- Get Excited About Truth — excitement is contagious and even the most reserved person can still show passion about truth. This excitement will awaken children to the importance of what you’re sharing. Make sure you personally prepare and meditate on the Gospel yourself to stir the excitement in them.
- Use Visual Illustrations — when you want to convey important or deep spiritual truths, it can be helpful to find a visual illustration that will help you communicate that specific lesson. Looking through children’s curriculum can present good ideas, but be careful of resources that strip down the power and punch of the Gospel.
- Invest Your Time and Energy Into Regular Discipleship — Remember your goal is not a sinner’s prayer but a discipleship process. It is key to focus on leading children to have a daily, passionate, thriving relationship with Christ … not just good moral conduct.
Final Thoughts
Amy Carmichael said these words, “Does the appointed burden feel too heavy to be carried? The disappointment too sharp to be welcomed? The duty too toilsome to be performed with joy? You have not to do it in your own strength; it is God who is all the while supplying the impulse, giving you the power to resolve, the strength to perform the execution of His good pleasure.” What an encouragement! Let us remember that is it not us, but Christ in us that brings the victory we’re looking for!
Recommended Resources
- Set Apart Conference Simulcast — There are a few more days left to register! Register through June 15th and enjoy the sessions and content for the rest of this year. Register here.
