Our evangelism and discipleship of children is controlled
Your Question:
“The elders at my church want to be involved in leading children to the Lord. How do I respect that, while also being a significant person in the children’s lives?
The Issues:
Respecting and working within church politics shouldn’t prevent you from becoming a “significant person” in the children’s lives. You may have to make sure the elders’ plans match yours and are child and parent-friendly.
Scripture Foundation:
“Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God.” (Romans 13:1)
Short Answer:
The work of the ministry cannot “battle” with itself. If your church has a strong eldership that leads the church, ask God to help you cooperate with them. As you do, you must remember that you are the one who is called to lead the children. You understand their needs and how to best communicate with them. You have also worked hard to create relationships with the parents of the children. So, in your submission don’t “roll over” and permit things to be done in a way that aren’t effective.
If the elders desire to be involved or to lead the efforts to evangelize or disciple the children, you should be very strong in wanting to be a part of the planning of how that process will play out. Remember that compliments and respect produce communication, while conflict produces distance. Compliment the elders for their desire to influence the children and support the parents. Present your plans to the elders for their review and approval. Remind them that leading anyone to the Lord is best done after personal relationships have been established.
If the elders want to actually be the ones to communicate with the children regarding their desire to accept the Lord, then the elders should become an active part of the CM and become involved with the children. Ideally, a partnership should be built between the CM and the eldership. You present a plan that fits with the CM vision and what you know about leading children to the Lord and respecting the parents, then they approve it and monitor it if needed. Their leadership over the CM shouldn’t prevent the best from happening with the children. For more help, click on the APPENDIX link below.
View other articles in the “Evangelizing And Discipling Children APPENDIX“
