2024
The Importance of Teaching Children About God and His Son, Jesus—The Light of the World
As followers of Christ, we have a profound responsibility to teach the next generation about the love of God and the saving grace of His Son, Jesus Christ, who is the Light of the World. The Bible makes it clear that imparting the truth of God’s Word to our children is not only vital to their spiritual growth but also essential to the future of our faith community.
Proverbs 22:6 encourages us with this well-known verse: “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.” When we invest time and energy into teaching children about God, we are planting seeds that will bear fruit for years to come. It is through our guidance that they learn the truths of Scripture, build a relationship with Christ, and grow into the light-bearers God has called them to be. Deuteronomy 6:6-7 further emphasizes this responsibility: “These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.” Teaching our children about God should not be confined to Sundays or church services—it should be a constant part of our daily lives. We are called to weave the knowledge of God into the very fabric of their upbringing, ensuring that they see His presence and love in all things.
Jesus Himself placed great importance on children, urging us to model our faith after their purity and openness. In Matthew 19:14, Jesus says, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” Children have a natural innocence and a profound capacity for faith. It is our duty to nurture this faith by teaching them about Jesus, who is the Light of the World. By doing so, we help them build a foundation that will guide them through the challenges of life.
Psalm 119:105 tells us, “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” Teaching children the Word of God is like giving them a spiritual lantern. In a world that can sometimes feel dark and confusing, the knowledge of God and the example of Jesus will illuminate their path, providing clarity, guidance, and comfort as they grow.
As parents, teachers, and members of the church community, we must prioritize the spiritual education of our children. The faith we pass down to them is not only for their benefit but also for the advancement of God’s kingdom. The seeds of faith we plant today will grow into a strong harvest in the future.
May we all embrace the responsibility to lead our children into the light of Christ, teaching them that He is their guide, their Savior, and the one true Light of the World.
In Christ,
Pastor Steven Oliver
Transforming Lives Christian Center
2024
The Urgent Mission: Evangelizing the Lost for Jesus, the Son of God”
By Pastor Steven Oliver
In the world of faith, there is a profound mission that lies at the heart of Christianity: the salvation of souls through the evangelization of the lost. At the core of this mission is the belief in Jesus, the Son of God, as the path to redemption and eternal life. In this blog post, we’ll explore the importance of evangelizing the lost for Jesus and why this mission is central to the Christian faith.
1. A Commandment from Jesus
The Great Commission is a foundational directive given by Jesus to His disciples in the Gospel of Matthew (Matthew 28:19-20): “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.” This commission highlights the importance of sharing the message of Jesus with the world.
2. Saving Souls from Eternal Separation
Christianity teaches that without accepting Jesus as Lord and Savior, individuals are eternally separated from God. Evangelism serves as the bridge between the lost and the possibility of eternal life with God. By sharing the message of Jesus, Christians offer hope and the opportunity for reconciliation with God.
3. The Power of Transformation
Evangelism is not merely about securing a spot in heaven. It’s also about the transformative power of faith in Jesus Christ in one’s life on Earth. Countless individuals have experienced profound changes in their lives, turning away from destructive habits and finding a purpose in their faith. This transformation is a testament to the power of evangelism.
4. Fulfilling God’s Will
For Christians, evangelizing the lost is not an optional task; it’s a calling. In 2 Peter 3:9, it is written, “The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.” This verse emphasizes God’s desire for all to come to Him, and evangelism is the means to achieve that end.
5. Strengthening the Christian Community
When Christians actively engage in evangelism, it strengthens the entire faith community. Sharing one’s faith and passion for Jesus with others fosters unity, deepens understanding of the faith, and nurtures a spirit of love and outreach within the church.
6. Respecting Individual Choice
Evangelism is not about coercion but rather the presentation of a choice. Every person has the freedom to accept or reject the message of Jesus. By evangelizing, Christians respect this individual choice and provide an opportunity for others to hear and decide for themselves.
7. Meeting Human Needs
Evangelism is not limited to sharing the Gospel through words alone. It also involves meeting the physical and emotional needs of others. By demonstrating love and care, Christians can create opportunities to share their faith and the hope that Jesus offers.
Conclusion
Evangelizing the lost for Jesus, the Son of God, is at the heart of the Christian faith. It is a commandment, a mission, and a responsibility rooted in love, compassion, and a desire to bring salvation to a lost world. While it is an important mission, it is equally essential to approach it with empathy, respect, and a genuine desire to help others find hope, healing, and eternal life through faith in Jesus.