“When we teach them the basic narratives of what the Bible says, we are forming their worldview at the very youngest age and giving them a set of glasses through which they can look at the world for the rest of their life.” – Jared Kennedy.
Jared Kennedy serves as an editor for The Gospel Coalition and is the co-founder of Gospel-Centered Family, a ministry that helps churches and families share Jesus with the next generation. He’s the author of Keeping Your Children’s Ministry on Mission, God Made Me for Worship, The Beginner’s Gospel Story Bible, and the Beginner’s Gospel Story Book series. He is also the co-author of Faith Builder Catechism. He’s helped to develop two VBS programs, Proof Pirates and Clap Your Hands, Stomp Your Feet. He and his wife, Megan, and their three girls attend Sojourn Church Midtown.
During this episode, Jared shares a fresh and effective approach to drawing preteens and teens into the word of God by incorporating gaming language and engaging their interests while staying true to Christian teachings. He discusses foundational principles of nurturing faith in children and shielding them from the secular world to help them build a biblical worldview as early as possible. Jared emphasizes the influence of establishing habits, patterns, celebrations, and community involvement in shaping a child’s faith. He underscores the significance of engaging children in the church community, guiding them to navigate secular influences critically, and acknowledging the presence of sin in their hearts—an important aspect often overlooked in parenting.
Jared also highlights The Gospel Coalition and Gospel Centered Family’s mission and purpose: to promote gospel-centered resources for church leaders and parents to pass the faith to the next generation. Amongst some of his amazing books, he talks about Faith Builder Catechism, which he co-authored, and how it is a valuable tool aimed at parents, offering a unique and engaging way to teach core Christian doctrines to children aged 8 to 12, using simple language and a gaming-themed approach. Another one of his books, TheBeginner’s Gospel Story Bible for toddlers and young children, serves as a resourceful Bible book presenting 52 stories that vividly portray the biblical narrative.
Resources: The Gospel Centered Family website, Jared’s Instagram, & Twitter.
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