In 1996 Lifeway introduced a catchy way of helping boys and girls know how to respond to the Good News of Jesus Christ. “The Wild and Wonderful Good News Stampede” was the beginning of 18 (and going strong) Vacation Bible Schools where the ABCs of Becoming A Christian has been emphasized.
The “ABCs” is a wonderful way for kids to remember what one must do in response to the Gospel in order to become a Christian. The plan includes that Gospel presentation but what most kids remember is the ABCs, the response, and some ministry leaders have expressed concern that kids may not always know what they are responding to.
A couple years ago CentriKid Camps developed a Gospel centered presentation that helps kids not only remember how to respond but it helps them understand and remember the Good News they are responding to. I love this mix and am using it almost every week during the Gospel Project for Kids at my church. If you’re not familiar with this presentation, check it out!
God Rules: The Bible tells us that God created everything, and He is in charge of everything (Genesis 1:1; Revelations 4:11; Colossians 1:16-17)
We Sinned: Since the beginning of time everyone has chosen to disobey God (Romans 3:23). The Bible calls this sin. Because God is holy, God will not be around sin. Sin separates us from God and deserves God’s punishment of death (Romans 6:23).
God Provided: John 3:16 tells us that God sent His Son, Jesus, the perfect solution to our sin problem, to rescue us from the punishment we deserve. It’s something we, as sinners, could never earn on our own. Jesus alone saves us (Ephesians 2:8-9).
Jesus Gives: Jesus lived a perfect life but chose to die on the cross for our sins. Jesus rose from the dead after three days. Because Jesus gave up His life for us, we can be welcomed into a right relationship with God and be part of His family for eternity. This is the best gift ever (Romans 5:8; 2 Corinthians 5:21; 1 Peter 3:18).
We Respond: It’s not enough to just know the Good News! We must respond to the Gospel. In order to spend eternal life with God one must ADMIT to God that you are a sinner. REPENT and turn away from self and sin to Jesus (Romans 3:23; 6:23; Acts 3:19; 1 John 1:9). BELIEVE in your heart that Jesus alone saves you through what He has already done on the cross (John 3:16; 14:6, Romans 5:8). CONFESS to others that Jesus is your Lord and Savior (Romans 10:9-10, 13).
I love that kids are hearing the full Gospel and are learning not only what they should do, but how they can share with others the Good News of Jesus Christ!
RESOURCE: “The Gospel: God’s Plan for Me“
