The Gospel and Children

Our mission statement is to "Share the Gospel of Jesus Christ." When most of us think of "sharing" the gospel our minds move toward a situation where a child has raised their hand, or an adult has "walked the aisle," coming forward at an evangelistic meeting. We tend to only think in terms of situations where sharing the gospel would push for a "conversion." The gospel is more than simply the words of John 3:16 and then asking a potential believer if they now "believe." The good news of the gospel includes all aspects of God's working in His world, to save sinners, and to welcome Him into His kingdom. I found this helpful summary from Jill Nelson, at the Children's Desiring God website:

First of all, Jill Nelson, reminds us that
1. GOD is the starting point of the gospel.
2. GOD is the vehicle of the gospel.
3. GOD is the goal of the gospel.

She then outlines the implications of a full understanding of the full gospel message.

1. God is the sovereign Creator of all things


2. God created people for His glory


3. God is holy and righteous


4. Human beings are sinful


5. God is just and is right to punish sin


6. God is merciful. He is kind to undeserving sinners


7. Jesus is God's holy and righteous Son


8. God put our punishment on Jesus


9. God offers the free gift of salvation to those who repent and believe in Jesus


10. Those who trust in Jesus will live to please him and will receive the promise of eternal life -- Enjoying God forever in heaven

While it's not TULIP it is simple enough and gives you enough starting points to explain the good news of God. It is he who is at work in us from beginning to end.