
Sharing the Gospel Often
While we cannot predict or plan how the Gospel will be received, we can plan and anticipate opportunities to share the Gospel.
Maybe you have encountered some challenges when it comes to sharing. I can think of an endless number of things that might come between you and a clear presentation of The Good News. Some things might include an inattentive group that just won’t settle, a certain child that seems more interesting to everyone in the room when you wish all eyes were on you, or maybe the particular child you think needs to hear it most is missing the night you think you have prepared the clearest message.
Don’t fret because opportunities are all around you. And remember, a consistent presentation of the Gospel doesn’t mean you need to repeat yourself each time. In thinking about the following questions, maybe some new opportunities might be revealed to you.
*Do your leaders know how to share Christ? The gospel wheel is a great tool and many churches encourage their leaders to memorize the verses that are part of the wheel. You can watch a video about the gospel wheel here.
*Do your leaders use similar terminology? Everyone explains the gospel a little differently, using a variety of words. (For instance: trust Christ, believe in Christ, tell Jesus you want His forgiveness, become a member of God’s family, etc.). Kids don’t always understand you’re talking about the same thing. To keep kids from getting confused, work together to come up with similar wording so they’re hearing the same message from all the leaders.
*Do you have a safe place for the kids to ask questions? Could a leader sit in a quiet corner before and after club, ready to talk to any child who has questions? Do you continually remind the kids that leaders are willing to talk with them at any time?
*Do your leaders passionately talk about their own relationships with Christ? Kids are always watching and seeing more than we know. Make sure your leaders are having appropriate and intentional conversations before, during and after club from the moment they arrive to the moment they leave.
*Do the leaders have an opportunity to share their own faith story? Kids often resonate with such stories, especially if the leader trusted Christ when he was the age of the kids in your group.
*Do you explain salvation over and over? Never grow tired of doing so. We don’t know what moment one of the kids will respond (or what new kid will show up who has never before heard the gospel).
Sharing the Gospel with children at your club will be the most important thing you do. If you are struggling to find opportunities to do this, maybe consider your approach. Ask yourself how you can prepare to share?
Author: Kerry Provost