Tips to Have Meaningful Gospel Conversations with Your Kids

by PJ Keen, October 5,  2023.

So it's that time! Your kid is asking questions about salvation! Congratulations! I know this can be a scary and exciting time. You may be asking yourself questions like, "Are they ready? Am I ready? What if I say something wrong? I don't want to push them! I don't want to hold them back!" Trust me, you are not alone in your questions and fear. But let me comfort you in this. You are not saving your kids. Christ is. So, let the Holy Spirit lead you as it is leading your kid. I believe the Lord will use you to make Him known to your kid, so as long as you are faithful in sharing the gospel with them, you are in good hands. With that, here are a few tips to remember when talking to your kid about becoming a Christian.

Be Available - These conversations are serious and need everyone's full attention. This doesn't mean that they have to be awkward or rigid. You can fold clothes and have a great conversation, but put the phone down and turn the TV/tablet off. Also, try to make sure no one feels awkward. If it feels uncomfortable, the conversation will not go far.

Have Your Bible with You - When your kids see you with your Bible, it communicates that you take the Word seriously. Using your Bible will help your kids see that the Word is the authority, not your opinion. Even if you must google verses or say, "I don't know, let me look it up" to a question (which is perfectly normal), have the Word in your hands. 

Ask Open-Ended Questions - Your kid must understand that they need Jesus because of their sin. If you ask, "Are you a sinner?" they will say "Yes," but that doesn't show knowledge of their need for a Savior. Instead, ask questions that require an answer outside of yes or no. Something like, "Why do you want to be a Christian?" Their response will show if they understand what it means to be a Christian. Whatever you ask, make sure it's not a yes or no question.

Avoid "Churchy" Words and Phrases - "Blood of the lamb, asking Jesus into your heart, make Jesus your Lord and Savior." These phrases are great, but they confuse children. Whether they have grown up in church or not, kids do not know what they mean (not really). So, simple is better.

Pray for Your Kids - It is normal and expected for there to be more than one conversation. It is incredible to see the Lord work in your kid's life! Don't let it get you down if your kid is not ready after the first conversation or the third or fourth. Use every conversation to teach and share the Gospel with your kids. Pray that the Lord reveals Himself to them when they are ready. 

Click here for a great tool from Lifeway Christian Resources to help you walk through the Gospel with your kids!