How to lead a child to Christ (Part 2)

Yesterday, I wrote about sharing the Gospel with children and giving an invitation to see if the Holy Spirit was truly drawing a child to Christ. Once this has happened, it is time to use 9 questions to see if the child is truly ready to make this decision.

Why did you come back to talk with me? The answer you are looking for is that they want to receive Christ (they may use some other terminology). The child does not always respond to an invitation because they want to receive Christ. Sometimes they are just following another child that responded or they have a completely different need. If a child does not respond with the proper answer, chances are good that they are not yet being drawn by the Holy Spirit and are not yet ready to make a salvation decision.

Have you done this before? Children often respond more than once to receive Christ. If the child has already made this decision than they may have a different need. Ask them why they want to do it again. It could be that they need assurance (I Jn 5:11-13) or that they have unconfessed sin in their life (I Jn 1:9). It could also be that they simply are wanting some attention.

Why do you need Jesus? The answer you are looking for is that they know that they have sinned. Have Romans 3:23 ready if the child is not sure of the answer. This question deals with the child’s need.

What did Jesus do for you? The answer you are looking for is that they know that Jesus died for their sin. Again, have Scripture ready to show them (Romans 5:8; II Corinthians 15:3-4). This question deals with the way of salvation.

How does God say that you can have your sins forgiven and go to heaven? It is again important to use Scripture (John 3:16; Revelation 3:20; John 1:12; Romans 10:9-10). This question deals with God’s invitation and the way of acceptance through faith

Would you like to pray right now and receive Jesus as your Savior? Help the child think through what he wants to say before praying. Encourage the child to pray in their own words. If the child struggles to find the words, have them repeat one after you.

Where is Jesus now? Never tell a child that they are saved. Let the Holy Spirit reveal this truth by taking them back to the Scripture that you used earlier. The child’s decision should be based on the Word of God and not on something you told them as a counselor

How long will Jesus stay? Have Hebrews 13:5b ready…“I will never leave you!”

Will you ever sin again? Be sure the child knows that they will still sin. Explain I John 1:9 to them. Be sure they know what it means to confess their sin as a Christian. End your counseling time by praying for the child you have just led to Christ by name.