Parents as Disciple Makers

How to share the gospel 

The Bible tells us that faith with shallow roots withers and dies and that the distractions and worries of this life can choke out the Word of God. Just hearing the gospel doesn't always bear fruit in our children's lives. Show your children the gospel in action rather than just teaching them the stories. When Jesus taught his disciples about servanthood, he got down on his knees and washed their feet. Engage your children in life-giving exercises to help them experience the message. Concentrate your effort on helping your child understand God's Word and its relevance - teaching them how to apply it in their daily lives. Repeat the gospel message frequently and engage in continual spiritual conversations to sow seeds that they will retain as they grow. 

Watch this message from Pastor Shawn on sharing the gospel.

Ready to Receive Christ? 

Review these questions with your child to ensure that they understand their profession of faith: 

Do they understand Jesus’ death and resurrection? Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?” (John 11:25-26) 

Do they understand their need for a savior? For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. (Romans 3:23-24) 

Do they understand they are saved by grace through faith in Christ alone? We are saved by what Jesus has done, NOT by what we do! For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God- not by works, so that no one can boast. ( Ephesians 2:8-9) 

Are there any outside influences that may be driving this decision? Did your child recently attend a church event where an altar call took place and felt pressured to make a decision? Has your child recently watched a friend make a decision for Christ that might be fueling their commitment? Ask your child, are you making this decision for Christ based off of your own convictions and revelation from the Lord, and not based off of another's response?

Spiritual Conversations 

Engage your children in spiritual conversations throughout the day, and don't miss the opportunity to make Jesus a part of their everyday life rhythms. 

Morning Time 

Talk about the importance of putting on your spiritual armor and explain what each piece represents, plus practice the Gospel Project key passage of the week.

Drive Time 

Listen to worship you music as you drive and make the words of each song a prayer that you pray together. 

MealTime 

Have each person share the high and low of their day, plus state what they are thankful for and where they saw Jesus at work. 

Bed Time 

Ask your child about any wounds they received during the day and explain how God wants to clean our hearts before falling asleep. 

Next Steps 

We recommend picking up an I Have Decided workbook at the Children's Ministry desk in the lobby. Email us for our baptism checklist and form to sign up.