Few books have impressed me this year more than “The Gospel Truth About Children’s Ministry” by Awana. This is more than a book, it’s a manifesto. It’s a call to return to the roots of what Children’s Ministry is really all about.
When the Founder of Children’s Ministry pioneered this incredible new approach, children were elevated to a whole new level. This Founder I am talking about is not Willie George, or Bill Wilson, or Jim Wideman. I am talking about JESUS, Himself. Jesus founded Children’s Ministry when He rebuked the disciples for shooing away the children and declared, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” (Matthew 19:14)
From that time until now, the predominant goal for Children’s Ministry has remained the same. And, it’s the same goal that Jesus has for adults. It is that we “Go and make disciples.” The “Gospel Truth About Children’s Ministry” is that the goal is not to create cool curriculum, have amazing services, or even pack out camps and VBS. The goal is to teach the children to be life-long followers of Jesus Christ.
On the surface, we all might agree with that statement. However, Awana did some intense research, interviewing over 200 Children’s and Youth Pastors around the country and found that MOST of them are overwhelmed by the changing culture around them. They feel their ministry has drifted far from what drew them into Children’s Ministry in the first place.
I don’t want to give away too much of the book, but I am telling you right now, “READ IT!” In this book, Awana has taken the years of research and offer some radical solutions that very well may change the landscape of Children’s Ministry for decades to come.
Awana shares many practical solutions to some of the difficulties that Children’s Ministry Leaders are facing daily. From Evangelism to Discipleship to Leading Volunteers, Awana gets into the “nitty gritty” of where Children’s Pastors are and partners with them to help them achieve fantastic, Bible-based results!
If you want a nice little bedtime story that will make you feel at peace about the world….DON’T read this book! If you want an in-your-face truth-telling couple with practical solutions that will help you lead kids in a Gospel-centered faith, then don’t hesitate. Order your copy (and a few for your key ministry leaders) of “The Gospel Truth About Children’s Ministry” today.
