Have you ever been a part of a prayer time in which the prayer focus was a children’s activity? Invariably someone would pray the words “and most of all may they have fun”. I must admit that I have a pet peeve with this topic of Children’s Ministry. I must say that fun should be a part of children’s activities but it should never be the most important.
I want kids to be aware of God’s presence. Sometimes God’s presence fills us with the excitement of joy. Sometimes His presence creates a place of peace and comfort. However, other times God’s presence brings correction. This is not fun.
So what is the purpose of children’s ministry? I see the four main functions as evangelism, discipleship, worship and fellowship.
- Evangelism comes when the message of salvation though Jesus Christ is shared and accepted.
- Discipleship continues the process of growth to become more like Jesus.
- Worship brings souls into a communication of love and adoration towards God.
- Fellowship creates opportunities to encourage each other in our relationship with God.
Evangelism, discipleship and worship focus on a relationship with God while fellowship creates opportunity to develop relationships with others. When we place a seek God and a relationship with Him first our relationship with others falls into place. If we place a priority on socializing with others our relationship with God weakens. So let us seek God first.
“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness,
and all these things shall be added to you.”
Matthew 6:33
Teach Kids Love 