Ministry-to-Children.com

Children’s Ministry Resource: TruthQuest Curriculum

Terry Delaney — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 10:38:06 +0000

TruthQuest Ministries is a one-stop shop for children’s ministry lessons and lesson plans. They have curriculums for Sunday School, Children’s Church, and Vacation Bible School. Every lesson can be adapted to your needs. You can make a lesson 15 minutes to 2 hours if need be.

Their Truthopolis series consists of apologetics issues like absolute truth and science issues like dinosaurs and evolution. They also have curriculums dealing with Easter, Christmas, and Thanksgiving and one dedicated to studying Pilgrim’s Progress. Each module is five weeks long if done weekly or five days long if adapted for a Back Yard Bible Club.

Each lesson contains a shorter Book Smarts lesson, a longer Street Smarts lesson, a memory game idea, a take home sheet and a family study sheet. You can spend a bit more and get the drama module which can be a live skit or a puppet skit or both. The lessons are further broke down into age appropriate lessons ranging from preschool to pre-teen. You can also use one of six translations (ESV, NKJV, KJV, HCSB, NIV, NLT).

What is more, is they also offer resources to equip both the minister and the parents teach children the things of God. They even have a Kid’s Zone page that is full of fun activities for kids. You can check out their doctrinal statement while searching this wonderful children’s ministry resource website.

Finally, you can try 3 of their Vacation Bible School kits for free!

Free Spanish Language Sunday School Lessons – Libre de Escuela Dominical Lecciones En Español

Tony — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 02:35:11 +0000

Wycliffe Bible Translators is now offering some of their free Kids Sunday school lessons in a Spanish Language edition. These might be a great resource for churches in the US who are doing children’s ministry outreach in Spanish. Other churches might use these for a mission trip to a Spanish speaking country. I have always been impressed with Wycliffe’s ministry and the great lesson plans they have on their website for kids.

Here are the links to the English pages, look for the “en español” to download the PDF of the free Spanish Sunday School curriculum. Español Biblia Lecciones Para niños

“I Will Not Be Afraid” Kids Worship Video from Crocodile Dock

Tony — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 10:32:23 +0000

Late summer is a great time to pick up new music resources for your children’s church. Even though my church has not used Group’s VBS programs, I usually buy their worship DVD and use the songs in my ministry. So, I was excited to see one of their videos uploaded to YouTube. This makes it even easier to sample and share with kids in your church.

“I Will Not Be Afraid” Worship Video For Kids

Yes this is last year’s video, but it makes me want to use Group VBS in 2010. To have the lyrics and song motions all on one DVD is a real help. Plus the theme is built into the song! Great work Group.

How Can I Know If My Child Is Really Saved?

Tony — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 10:38:28 +0000

For Christian parents, few concerns are more pressing than the salvation of their children. I’ve know many parents who struggle to know if their kids are saved. In this post I want to share my best advice for parents. Please feel free to leave a comment and share your thoughts.

How Can I Tell If A Child Is Saved?

The truth is simple to say but hard to accept. We can’t be 100% certain until we get to heaven. A person’s relationship with God is deeply private and too easy to fake. This is especially true for kids who want to earn their parents approval. But we can look for evidence of conversion in a child’s life.

The first and best evidence is the child’s statement of believe in Jesus. Has the child said they trust Christ for salvation and is seeking to follow Him. Once that is the case, here are some more things we should encourage and try to discern:

Does the child show a growing love for God?
Does the child demonstrate love and concern for others?
Does the child have a growing appreciation for God’s grace?
Is the child learning to pray and spend time alone with God?
Does the child have a sense of their own sinfulness?
Does the child demonstrate new spiritual desires?
Does the child continue in their faith over time?

For more great questions, check out this post from Justin Taylor’s blog listing questions to ask your child about their spiritual development.

This is not an exhaustive list, but it’s a starting point. My concern is always to encourage kids to take steps of faith toward God. Even if they seem very young, I urge them to trust Jesus Christ as much as they are able.

How Do You Know If A Child Is Saved?

The comment section below is open for you to share your thoughts. What things would you add to my list? What are some resources that you have found helpful on this topic?

Children’s Ministry Game: Silent Football

Charlie Wallace — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 10:25:35 +0000

Here is another great “backpocket” game to play with kids when you need them to settle down and/or kill time. The game is called Silent Football. Many of you have perhaps heard of this game. Here is how it works:

- Have the kids sit in a tight circle

- Explain that the point of the game is to pass around an invisible football.

- The way you pass the ball is to slap your leg with your hand.

- If you slap your left leg one time the invisible ball is passed to the person next to you on your left. If you slap your right leg one time the invisible ball is passed to the person to your right.

- If you slap your leg twice, it skips the person beside you and goes to the next person and goes round and round the circle.

- If someone slaps their leg when it’s not their turn or someone does not slap when they are supposed to any person in the circle may raise their hand and make an “accusation.”

- When the player raises their hand they can “accuse” the person who did not follow the rules.

- The adult present acts as the commissioner. When a person accuses another player this is how it must go:

- “Mr. Commissioner, I accuse Johnny Baptist of not slapping his leg when he was supposed to…” or “Mr. Commissioner, I accuse Susie Church for slapping her leg when she was not supposed to.”

- If these accusations are correct the guilty must sit in the middle of the circle. If the accusation is incorrect or the accuser did not say the accusation in the proper form (for instance, not saying “Mr. Commissioner”) then that player goes into the center of the circle.

- Once there are three players in the center of the circle then a player gets to decide that kids’ “punishment.” Ideas are to make them sing “I’m a little teapot” or “The Barney Song,” etc…something good natured and funny.

If the game starts to get stale or predictable you can allow the players to slap their legs three or even four times.

Have fun with Silent Football!

Sunday School Rosters = Ministry To Do List

Tony — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 10:17:06 +0000

Sunday School Revolutionary is a blog hosted by the Kentucky Baptist Convention on the topic {you guessed it} Sunday School.

I just read the latest post and wanted to share it here. It’a full of practical help for turning your Sunday school attendance list into a ministry list. Here’s a great quote:

Revolutionary Sunday School cares for people in class and in the community. Revolutionary Sunday School desires to add more people to the enrollment and care for more people in order to love them to Jesus. What steps can you take in the next month to move your classes toward “ministry list” enrollment? What is the first or most important step? Lead boldly to care for people for whom Jesus died. Be revolutionary!

Here’s the link - Sunday School Enrollment: Attendance List or Ministry List?

How Does My Income Compare With The Global Poor?

Tony — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 10:45:00 +0000

Sometimes it’s hard to get kids attention about global poverty. But once you can show them that American’s are super rich, it can really help them let go of the wealth idols in their life.

So, let me point out a cool web calculator. You enter your annual income and it shows where you rank among the income earners in the world. It’s a little sobering to see my skinny salary puts me in the top 2% of gloabl wealth.

Here’s the link – Global Rich List

What Is The Average Salary For Children’s Ministers?

Praise Party VBS from Abington Press for 2010

Tony — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 23:46:16 +0000

This is the first year I’ve taken a look at the VBS offering from Abington Press, which also produces the Cokesbury VBS theme. This year they offer a block party theme titled Praise Party. It has an urban feeling and serves churches from a more diverse background, especially historically black congregations. The tag line for Praise Party says, “Worshiping God with head, heart, hands, feet, and SOUL!”

Praise Party Daily Content

Willing Hands (Exodus 35: 4-10a, 22, 25-26; 36:2-3a) The Hebrews offer gifts to God.
Stomp (1 Chronicles 13:1-8) David and the Hebrews praise God by dancing.
Stand up Straight in Praise (Luke 13:10-17) Jesus heals a bent-over woman.
Breakthrough (Acts 16:25-34) When Paul and Silas pray and sing, a jailer’s household receives salvation.
Sing a Song (Ephesians 5:15-20) Instructions on a Spirit-filled life

My Review of Praise Party

Later this summer, I’ll take a closer look at this VBS theme and offer my opinion.

Resources for Praise Party VBS

In this section, I’ll add link out to resources that will help churches who are using Praise Party from Abington Press. If you know of more resources, leave a note in the comment section below.

Visit the official website from 2010 Abingron Press VBS. They will have decorating ideas, and other suggestions as VBS 2010 gets closer. You can also sign up for their email newsletter.
Follow Cokesbury VBS on Twitter
Read my interview with Michael Auliso from Cokesbury / Abington Press

Galactic Blast VBS from Cokesbury for 2010

Tony — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 23:06:04 +0000

Cokesbury has announced their VBS themes for 2010. Galactic Blast is a space themed curriculum for Vacation Bible school. The tag line says, “A Cosmic Adventure Praising God.” What sets this VBS material apart is the added environmental science elements. According to the description, cadets will “gain a new perspective on our planet Earth, and learn easy “green” earth tips they can practice at home.”

This is the first “going green” elements that I’ve seen from a major VBS publisher. Global warming, climate change and environmental awareness are issues many denominations are still ignoring. But caring for the creation is a value with good support in traditional Christian theology. I’m interested to see how they integrate these green elements into the Biblical lessons.

The official website for Galactic Blat VBS is now online. You can see daily Bible content, listen to VBS music samples, and pre-order the curriculum.

Video Announcement of Galactic Blast

Galactic Blast Daily Content

Mission 1: Creation of the Universe, Genesis 1:1-2:4
Our God is wonderful! Praise God!
Mission 2: Elijah at Mt. Horeb, 1 Kings 19:4-18
Our God is incredible! Praise God!
Mission 3: The Woman at the Well, John 4:1-42
Our God is amazing! Praise God!
Mission 4: A Blind Beggar in Jericho, Luke 18:35-43
Our God is magnificent! Praise God!
Mission 5: Two Disciples in Emmaus, Luke 24:13-32
Our God is awesome! Praise God!

My Review of Galactic Blast Vacation Bible School

I’m waiting for more information. Cokesbury will be sending me a review copy of the Galactic Blast curriculum sometime this Fall.

Resources for Cokesbury’s Galactic Blast VBS

In this section, I’ll add link out to resources that will help churches who are using Cokesbury’s Galactic Blast. If you know of more resources, leave a note in the comment section below.

Visit the official website from Cokesbury VBS. They will have decorating ideas, and other suggestions as VBS 2010 gets closer. You can also sign up for their email newsletter.
Follow Cokesbury VBS on Twitter
Read my interview with Michael Auliso from Cokesbury / Abington Press

Music Review: To Be Like Jesus (Sovereign Grace Music)

Tony — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 20:05:05 +0000

Finding children’s worship music that has biblical depth and musical excellence can be a challenge. That is one reason why I was excited to learn about the new CD for kids from Sovereign Grace Music. To Be Like Jesus contains 12 worship songs about the fruits of the Spirit. The album is inspired by Galatians 5:22-23, “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.”

You can listen to samples and order the CD on the Sovereign Grace Website. Please check it out and share your thoughts in the comment section below.

Morality Rooted in the Gospel

Normally, I am cautious about children’s resources that focus on being a good person. That kind of approach can leave out the Gospel and makes right morals the goal of Christianity. “Be a good little girl and God will love you” is never the message of the Bible.

But Sovereign Grace Music is always about the Gospel, and this album is no exception. Every song on this CD points listeners back to Jesus and his cross. Consider the words from the title track:

I don’t always do what’s right

Jesus lived a perfect life

And for sins like mine He died

Teach me to obey Your Word

Help me to put others first

Holy Spirit, change my life

Theology Set To Music

I also appreciate the God-centered focus of this music. This album shows that true Christian character must be rooted in the character of God. Every song celebrates the Glory of God and several praise his specific attributes. Children will sing about God as the Creator, Provider, and Savior. They will exalt in his goodness and gracious attitude toward humanity. This music will help kids think rightly about God and grow in their love for Him.

Powerful Music That Enhances The Message

The music is excellent. The clear melody and frequent use of a children’s chorus will encourage kids to sing along. Most songs have an upbeat contemporary style, complete with a powerful bass rhythm, lead guitar, and drums. But there is variety, especially with the more contemplative songs that feature a piano accompaniment. The musical style of each song complements the lyrics.

Suggested Ways To Use This CD

I have ordered several copies of To Be Like Jesus to encourage families devotions in our church. We will also integrate a some of these songs into our regular children’s worship time during children’s church. Many older children will want to listen to this CD on their own.

Sovereign Grace Music offers discounts for church orders and does give a price break on larger orders. This is their second children’s worship CD. The first was titled Awesome God and is available on their website.

Video: Revelation Song

Tony — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 10:35:04 +0000

One of my favorite new worship songs is called the Revelation Song. This may be a little off topics, but I wanted to share the the video and lyrics here on our site. This might be something to show in your children’s church or Sunday school if you have time. Or you can just enjoy the Revelation Song and have some private worship time.

Revelation Song Video With Keri Jobe

The Revelation Song Lyrics

Worthy is the,
Lamb who was slain
Holy, Holy, is He
Sing a new song, to Him who sits on
Heaven’s Mercy Seat
[Repeat 2x]

(Chorus)
Holy, Holy, Holy
Is the Lord God Almighty
Who was, and is, and is to come
With all creation I sing:
Praise to the King of Kings!
You are my everything,
And I will adore You…!
Yeah!

Clothed in rainbows, of living color
Flashes of lightning, rolls of thunder
Blessing and honor, strength and
Glory and power be
To You the Only Wise King,
Yeah

(Chorus)

Filled with wonder,
Awestruck wonder
At the mention of Your Name
Jesus, Your Name is Power
Breath, and Living Water
Such a marvelous mystery
Yeah…

(Chorus)

Holy, Holy, Holy
Is the Lord God Almighty
Who was, and is, and is to come,
With all creation I sing:
Praise to the King of Kings!
You are my everything,
And – I – will – adore YOU…

(Chorus)

Come up lift up His Name
To the King of Kings…
We will adore YOU Lord…
King of heaven and earth
King Jesus, King Jesus
Aleluya, aleluya, aleluya!
Majesty, awestruck Honor
And Power and Strength and Dominion
To You Lord,
To the King, to King
To the King of Glory

Chorus (Repeats)

The Story Behind Revelation Song: Phillips, Craig & Dean

About The Revelation Song

Keri Jobe has been singing this song at worship events for several years, but it is now getting really popular because of Phillips, Craig & Dean. The song was written by a woman from Texas named Jennie Lee Riddle. She writes about it on her MySpace blog.

How To Help Kids Memorize The Bible

Tony — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 10:59:17 +0000

Sometimes I’m discouraged about how few children are really being taught the Bible at home. But as a parent, I need to think about my own home first. Am I an example for my children in memorizing the Bible?

I ran across this very practical and encouraging blog post on memorizing the Bible with your kids. It gives day-by-day instructions for learning Paslm 23 with your children. There is even a cute recording of their 3 year old reciting the Psalm.

This reminded me of a very important principle: we must teach kids by our words and by our example. There are few things so powerful as a parents example in the life of their child. There is no better legacy for your kids.

If you want to help your children memorize the Bible, join them and do it together.

The New Kidology: A Great Children’s Ministry Resource Gets Even Better

Tony — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 04:07:57 +0000

One of my favorite Children’s Ministry websites just got a makeover. The upgraded Kidology website is now live – and Pastor Karl and company have made a great resource even better. If you are new to Kidology, it’s a membership based website that is offers practical training, creative teaching resources, and an outstanding forum. The whole thing was started by Karl Bastian, who has become the go-to guy for best practices in Children’s Ministry. His creative and entertaining personality comes out in every aspect of the site.

How I Discovered Kidology

Back in 2005 during my first weeks as a Children’s pastor, I found Kidology bookmarked all over the church’s kids ministry computer. I had been to Bible College and Seminary, but was clueless about the nuts and bolts of the ministry. The help I found kept me going, and saved me from so many mistakes. Karl (and others) took a personal interest in me, and have been a real blessing in my life.

Become A Kidologist

Now is a great time for you to discover Kidology. They have introduced some even more affordable membership plans (it was an aweseom value before and now it’s even better).

Children’s Sermons In A Sack

Kristin Charles — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 10:38:24 +0000

I’m not certain who first coined the idea of “Sermons in a Sack,” but if you need a break from the usual children’s sermons, this is a good alternative for summer. These kids messages in a sack are creative, interactive ways of sharing Bible lessons, scripture passages, or characteristics of God. It’s an object lesson, utilizing an object of the child’s choosing.

Typically, one child is given a brown paper lunch bag to fill with any item. The “sack” is then given to the teacher. It is the teacher’s responsibility (and challenge) to teach about God, using that particular object. Children will love the opportunity to stump the teacher! If the message is given during the regular service, adults get a pretty good kick out of this as well. Everyone appreciates a good visual; the more random, the better.

Using Children’s Sermons In A Sack

1. Introduce the concept.
Start off with a random item of your choosing in a paper bag. Use that object to teach a lesson. Remember to always end up at the cross, sharing the crux of the gospel. Be creative!

2. Select a child to be the recipient of the first paper bag.
Encourage him/her to stump the teacher with an item of their choosing. Have the child return the bag the following week.

3. If you are good on your feet, teach the object lesson utilizing the child’s item.
If not, have a second item of your own selection ready to go for the Bible lesson. Then at the end of your lesson, reveal what the child brought in as a “teaser” for the next week.

4. Distribute an empty bag to another child in order to keep the sermons going.
The whole church will look forward to this each Sunday, especially if you can do tie the object back into the Gospel story.

5. It’s always good to keep a spare “Sermon in a Sack” ready to go, in the event that the child with the bag is not present.
Being prepared will save you and the forgetful child from being embarrassed. Another option is to hand out the bag to a child during Sunday school, this means they will have to think quick with their classmates help.

Optional: Put Pastoral Staff On The Spot
If your church’s ministry will play along, have a different staff member attempt to give the children’s sermon each week. This can be a easy & fun way for the other ministers to be more involved in the children’s ministry.

Share Your Children’s Sermon Ideas?

Have you tried sermon’s in a sack? What creative objects have you utilized for teaching purposes? What are some of the most random things you have used to share the gospel?