Jesus is teaching the Twelve and they begin to argue. They are arguing about who is the best disciple. Jesus responds with a shocking example. He brings a child over and tells them. “Unless you turn and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” What a statement! He continues by telling them they must be humble like a child, to be great. Then he goes even further by valuing children so much that if we welcome a child, he equates it to welcoming him! (Matthew 18: 1-5)

Some wonder if children can participate in discipleship. The term discipleship is the process of becoming like Jesus. And Jesus shows us in Matthew 18, that this can begin when we are children, and everyone should be like children to follow Jesus. There are several things to keep in mind when leading children in discipleship.

1. Where do we start with children?

Children begin in discipleship with learning who Jesus is and what the Bible says. Kids are concrete thinkers so this should look different than other age groups. It should be active learning that emphasizes relationship. Children need a foundation to build on even before they decide for themselves to follow Jesus. They need to know the facts and begin applying what they learn to their lives.

Tip: Scripture memory/Bible skills programs like Bible Drill are a great way to help kids begin discipleship. If people aren’t comfortable using the Bible, they are less likely to spend time in God’s Word.

2. Guiding them to choose to follow Jesus

As children begin to understand the gospel, it is important to lead them in appropriate ways, understanding cognitive development and faith development. Kids need to choose to follow Jesus because they realize they need Jesus, not because of a parent's desire or because a friend was baptized.

Tip: When kids begin asking questions about salvation, equip them and their parents with resources like Faith Conversations and the Now that I’m a Christian series of workbooks.

3. How they will grow as disciples

A child’s decision to follow Jesus is the beginning of his journey of discipleship. Children need opportunities to study the Bible in age-appropriate ways. They will need encouragement to try spiritual disciplines such as prayer, acts of service, reading Scripture, and sharing their faith with others.

Tip: Have regular events or promotions to encourage kids and families to try these spiritual practices.

Have a prayer emphasis giving families a prayer calendar or instructions for a prayer walk in their neighborhood or at their school.
Give them opportunities to do service projects at church or at home. These can be events at church or simple things at home to care for others. Examples: Leave water and snacks for delivery drivers. Be intentional to love and care for neighbors. This could even be focused on doing acts of service for family members to show love to them.
Encourage Scripture readings at home, especially at times like Advent and Easter. Make it fun by letting them adopt a stuffed animal as a Bible Buddy. Or give them cards, stickers, or activities to encourage them in the process.

Deuteronomy 6:7-9 shows us that discipleship should be an integral part of our daily life. What a privilege to help kids start their journey of being disciples of Jesus. Show children the same value that Jesus did and do more than tell Bible stories. Introduce them to the Father and show them how to follow Jesus daily. Welcome children as disciples in our churches and welcome Jesus!

Is Discipleship for Children?

Childhood Discipleship

1. Where do we start with children?

2. Guiding them to choose to follow Jesus

3. How they will grow as disciples