Mobilizing the Children
Until Christian parents are empowered to disciple, church focus generally is toward their children instead of being turned outward. The parable of the lost sheep in Matthew 18 is about children. The 99 are secure while the shepherd goes after the lost one because “it is not the will of your Father in heaven that ONE of these little ones should perish” (v.14). If we really desire to do the will of the Father we MUST go after His lost little ones.
There is a growing awareness of the 4/14 window, the demographic group from age four to fourteen years old. This age window is the most open and receptive to every form of spiritual and developmental input (4/14 Window). Can the small group movement ignore this awakening?
Children’s small groups can be mobilized on this rescue mission in the community where the children and their families live, mobilized by any small group or ministry so long as child protection issues are clearly addressed.
Children’s ministry is a great opportunity to transition into children’s small groups. These bring peer group dynamics and adults who “facilitate,” can transition to peer-led small groups by children who are experientially trained, resourced, and supported. They also provide a place where children with no home discipleship can grow and learn. A great way to integrate these children AND reach their families is for a Christian family to “adopt” them, reach out to their family, and care for them within the context of the church – especially in celebration with adults. This prevents losing the powerful dynamic of worshipping in the context of family.
A child evangelist is a child who is an evangelist! We cannot raise another generation of inward looking Christians. They can run small groups in their schools, homes, streets, etc. Children love running clubs… that natural ability can be mobilized for the kingdom.
Sadly, the majority of material for children’s ministry has virtually no envisioning or training for evangelism and mission. Remember that the “witness” section of a small group is for children as well. I have a dream that parents raise soldiers (disciples) and bring those soldiers (children) to the body of Christ which forms them into an army (small group) to win the lost. The 4 /14 Window is waiting. Children’s small groups are an important answer.