Shifting the Ways We Share the Gospel 

By Crystal Mazzuca 

As leaders in Kids Ministry, we are in the business of sharing the gospel. Week after week, we get to share the good news about who Jesus is, why He came, and how His death and resurrection made the way for us to have a relationship with God forever. While the message of the gospel never changes, the ways we share the gospel can. Shifts in when and how we share the gospel can making incredible impacts in the lives of kids we serve. 

Shift from One-Time to Ongoing 

It is so helpful when curriculums include gospel tie-ins to the Bible story or specific times to share during the session. However, the same way that the good news of Jesus flows through every moment of every day, sharing the gospel can flow through the various moments and conversations we have with kids. 

In highly relational Kids Ministry, we know that the conversational side-by-side times are just as important as the direct teaching times. The great thing is that both are opportunities to share the gospel! This can be as simple as, “You know, what you just shared reminds me of something Jesus said.” As we have conversations with kids about their lives and experiences, we can connect those moments in context with the good news of Jesus. This helps kids see how the gift of salvation is something that impacts everything. 

Shift from Teaching to Storytelling 

Learning simple gospel presentations is so helpful for Kids Ministry leaders. From acronyms to a series of Bible verses, these tried-and-true methods help us feel ready and prepared to teach the good news of Jesus and salvation.  

When we shift from only teaching to also storytelling, we can help kids understand the gospel in ways that potentially resonate more than a gospel presentation. Along with our trusted presentations, we can share the gospel as a narrative story. Using both approaches can reach kids who learn in a variety of ways—both those who learn through simple, factual teaching and those who learn from descriptive and engaging storytelling. 

Shift from Passive to Participatory 

When we think about sharing the gospel, we typically think about what we are going to say and hope that kids will listen and believe. But there are many kids who learn better by doing rather than just listening or reading. Adding opportunities for kids to participate when we share the gospel can be engaging for these types of learners. 

When we use something like 3 Circles to share the gospel, kids can follow along by drawing as we lead. We could even invite kids to come up with motions that match each part of what we are sharing. These opportunities help kids actually be a part of learning and sharing the gospel rather than simply listening. 

Shift from Adult-Led to Kid-Empowered 

The same way we share the gospel week after week, many kids hear it week after week. These kids can be given the opportunity to share the gospel rather than us! Equipping and empowering kids to be the leaders in those gospel moments gives them confidence to know they can share the gospel both inside and outside of church. In addition, kids will be inspired by witnessing their peers share such an incredible message. 

Shifting the ways we share the gospel can open doors for all types of kids to learn, know, and grow in Jesus.