How can we embody "let the little children come" in our church community? Setting the Scene: Jesus Welcomes Children “Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them! For the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.’” (Matthew 19:14) Why Children Matter to God • Psalm 127:3 – “Children are a heritage from the LORD, offspring a reward.” • Proverbs 22:6 – Training young hearts shapes lifelong faith. • 2 Timothy 3:15 – From childhood the Scriptures make one wise for salvation. God values children not as future adults but as present members of His kingdom. Removing Hindrances in Our Gatherings 1. Welcoming Atmosphere • Greeters trained to kneel, smile, and speak directly to kids. • Clear signage and child-sized furniture communicate “you belong here.” 2. Physical Safety • Background checks for every volunteer (Titus 1:7 – “above reproach”). • Secure check-in/out procedures; first-aid kits visible. 3. Spiritual Accessibility • Age-appropriate Bibles in every classroom. • Visual aids, hands-on crafts, and songs that teach doctrine simply. Centering Corporate Worship Around All Ages • A short children’s message during the service highlights that the sermon belongs to them too (Deuteronomy 31:12). • Include children in Scripture readings, music teams, and usher duties. • Provide sermon notes sheets with key words for young listeners. Teaching That Takes Children Seriously • Follow Jesus’ pattern in Mark 10:16—He “took the children in His arms and blessed them.” Personal attention matters. • Small-group settings with no more than a 1:6 adult-to-child ratio foster meaningful discipleship. • Use catechism, memory verses, and storytelling to engrain truth (Deuteronomy 6:6-7). Empowering Their Gifts • Invite children to pray aloud for missionaries, the sick, and community needs. • Allow artistic talents—drawing sermon slides, designing bulletin covers. • Encourage service projects: assembling food boxes, writing cards, cleaning the fellowship hall. Partnering with Parents • Offer parenting classes rooted in Ephesians 6:4—“bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” • Provide take-home guides summarizing each week’s lesson for family devotions. • Schedule periodic “family forums” where parents share challenges and victories. Guarding Hearts in a Digital Age • Teach discernment about media (Philippians 4:8). • Equip parents with filters and accountability tools. • Model scriptural conversations about technology’s purpose. Sustaining a Child-Friendly Culture • Celebrate milestones publicly: baby dedications, baptisms, first Bible presentations. • Budget generously for children’s ministry—space, curriculum, and staff. • Regularly evaluate programs with the question: “Does this remove barriers or create them?” Living Out “Let Them Come” By opening our doors, arms, and schedules to children, we echo Christ’s own invitation and reflect the kingdom now. |
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