Presenting the Gospel to Kids in Groups

Several years ago a mission’s team organized a week-long backyard Bible club for kids. At the end of the week, the kids were gathered together to hear the final message, which focused on John 3:16. The group presentation was evangelistic and included all the essential elements of the gospel. At the end of the lesson, the teacher asked the children, “If you would like to trust Christ right now, just raise your hand.” Some of the children raised their hand immediately while others did so after looking around. In the end, every child in attendance raised their hand in response to the invitation.

How many of those decisions were genuine?
How could we possibly know?

Here are some key things to keep in mind whenever sharing the gospel message in a group setting:

Keep the presentation simple, clear, and biblically accurate to avoid confusion.
Never let a physical action (raising a hand, standing up, praying a prayer, walking an aisle) be confused as part of salvation for the child. Coming forward to talk to an adult is appropriate but make it clear to the child that it is a way to find out more – it is not how he is saved.
Do not lead the children in a group prayer of salvation. This may lead some to believe that the prayer has the power to save.
Give the children specific directions on who can help them if they want to learn more. Also, tell them specifically when they can talk to that person and where to find him/her.

Here is an example of how to close a gospel presentation to a group of children:

“Boys and girls, if you have never made the decision to trust Christ as your Savior, or if you are unsure, I encourage you to think about the things that I have explained. If you have thoughts or questions that you would like to talk more about, please come and talk to David or Jennifer who will be sitting right over here by the bookshelves – please wave your hand David or Jennifer so the children can see you. They will be here all afternoon. They would love to talk to you boys and girls if you have questions about how to know Jesus or would simply like to talk more about it.”

If you are the designated counselor (like David or Jennifer), remember to first establish why a child is coming to talk to you.

Your first question is:

“Why did you come to talk to me?”

One-on-one find out:

Does the child understand his need for Jesus? “Can you explain to me why you believe you need Jesus?”
Does he understand what Christ did for him? “Can you explain to me why Jesus died on the cross?”
Does he want to trust Christ for salvation today? “Would you like to trust Jesus as your Savior right now?”

Present the gospel to children on a regular basis. Do it often – individually and in groups.

Remember:

Group presentations should always be followed up with one-on-one interactions with children who respond.

© EvanTell, Inc. 2007

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