HOPE FOR THE HOME: Evangelism and the family

Father: Our youngest son, who is in the fifth grade, came home from school and said he wanted to tell one of his friends about Jesus but did not know what to say. What is the best way to teach your children how to share their faith?

Jerry: That is an excellent question—and one more Christian parents should be asking. Basically, what your son is asking is, “How do I do the work of an evangelist?” Literally the Greek word for "evangelist" is ἐυαγγελιστής (euangelistēs). This term translates to “one who brings good news". The Good News is this: “Jesus, the Son of God, lived a perfect, pure, and sinless life. He died on the cross for the sins of humanity and rose from the grave three days later, conquering death, hell, and the grave.” All Christians are commanded by Jesus to be an evangelist, “the bearer of good news”. The familiar passage of Matthew 28:18-20, are some of the last words Jesus spoke to His disciples before ascending back into heaven.

When a child wants to talk with a friend about Jesus but feels unsure what to say, it is a wonderful opportunity for parents to guide, encourage, and practice with them. This is assuming that parents are comfortable with sharing their faith. The requirements for becoming a Christian are the same regardless of age. Jesus shared with Nicodemus, a Pharisee and a member of the Jewish ruling council, the words we find in John 3:1-21. The Apostle Paul explained in Romans 10:9-10 what is necessary to “being born again”.

Becky: How you share the Good News will depend on several factors, regardless of age, cultural background, educational experiences, circumstances, and the amount of time available. One simple way to begin is to teach the ABC approach: A — Admit that you are a sinner. Romans 3:23 says, “For all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.” B — Believe that Jesus died for your sins and rose again. Romans 10:9 says, “If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” C---- Confess Jesus publicly as your Lord and Savior. Romans 10:10 says, “For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.”

Jerry: A good way to start sharing your faith is to practice at home with other members of the family. This helps prepare for the real experience when the Holy Spirit opens the door. Sharing your faith without prayer and the prompting of the Holy Spirit will most likely lead to defeat and discouragement. The response to your testimony is not dependent on your presentation. The gift of salvation always comes from God the Father and never from the evangelist. Also, there are helpful tracts targeted at different age groups you can order. Ask your pastor what he recommends. Hopefully this has been helpful for your son and your family.        

Jerry and his wife Becky are on American Family Radio weekdays at 4:20 PM (CT) and on Sundays at 5:35 PM (CT). You can subscribe to their podcast at Apple Podcast, Spotify, or directly at HopoefortheHome.org/podcast. Check out their resources for the family at HopefortheHome.org. Becky’s latest book, “The Bright Side of Blue” and Dr. Drace’s, “44 Ways to Strengthen Your Marriage” offer biblical principles and timely advice for dealing with the challenges and trials of life. You may order these and other resources by contacting them at: hopeforthehome@juno.com.