2 minute read
How to Help a Child Receive Salvation
By: Martin Perryman
Statistics tell us that 85% of all people who are now Christians were saved between the ages of four and fourteen, so we know the children we deal with in Kids Camp are at a prime age to receive the Lord. They are also at a critical age due to the fact that they are highly impressionable; and that the age where the children drift into drugs, etc., is getting lower and lower. Because of these things, it is important that you, as a coach, know something about leading a child to the Lord. Here are some guidelines that will help:
Don’t use a lot of symbols. Children do not always understand terms like “let Jesus into your heart,” “be born again,” or talk about an “all seeing eye”. They can understand, though, about being a member of a family---invite them to become a member of God’s family.
Ask Questions that help a child express his feelings and depth of understanding. Some examples are: What do you like best about Jesus? or How do you feel about the fact that Jesus loves you?
Deal with Individuals - not groups.
Take Time To Help A Child At The Time He Inquires About Salvation. Don’t put a child off if it is at all possible. Don’t say, “Wait until morning.” God is dealing with them then and later they may not be interested.
Let Them Make Their Own Decision. If, after counseling, the child doesn’t want to pray for salvation, don’t push them. They may not totally understand, or hindrances you are not aware of might be present. Pushing may drive them away from salvation instead of having the effect you want.
Formula for Salvation:
• Show a child their need of salvation by showing the Bible says they have sinned. (“For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;” Romans 3:23)
• Show them that God has provided a way to forgive their sins. (“For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 6:23 and “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16)
• Lead them in prayer. If it is apparent they know how to pray on their own, simply pray with them until they are satisfied that they are saved.
If they are hesitant about praying, encourage them to repeat a prayer that you pray. It might go . . . Dear Jesus, I know that I am a sinner, and that you sent Jesus to forgive my sins. I ask
