One of the most exciting times for a parent is when their child starts asking questions about beginning a relationship with Jesus.
It can also be a challenging time as parents try to decide if their child is really ready to make this decision or not. And many times they will come to you for help.
They will ask questions like...
"How old should my child be to make this decision?"
"How do I know if my child is ready or not?"
"Should I let them pray the prayer of salvation or have them wait?"
So how do you tell if a child is ready to begin a relationship with Jesus? Here are 3 indicators I tell parents to watch for.
#1 - The child knows what sin is.
Before a child (or anyone) can enter a relationship with Jesus, they must understand why they need a relationship with Jesus. They must understand what sin is and that they have sinned. If a child doesn't understand this, then they are not ready to step across the line of faith.
#2 - The child initiates the conversation on a regular basis.
If a child continues to initiate conversations about accepting Jesus, then that is a good sign that God is working in the child's life. The Holy Spirit convicts and draws people...including kids. There is no "Jr. Holy Spirit."
#3 - The child knows they "need" to do this vs. the child "wanting" to do this.
There is a difference. There is a difference between "I want to do this because my friends are" or "I want to do this because it's fun" and "I need to make this decision" or " I need to do this because I want Jesus in my life."
How do you know if your child is ready to be baptized?
#1 - Understand WHY we get baptized.
People of all ages need to understand that at Freedom, we do not believe that it's the act of being baptized in water that "makes" you saved. What makes you saved is the prayer of asking Jesus in your heart and confessing it with your mouth. Baptism is following Jesus' example and publically showing everyone of the commitment that has been made to live a life for Him. It's accountability and a chance to shine your light and tell your story of how God has changed you and how you want to live a life for Him.
Our next baptisms at Freedom are coming up the weekend after Easter, April 26/27 during all services. If your child has accepted Jesus in their heart and understands what baptism is and you feel like now is a good time, than come see Pastor Tiffany for more information or email her at tiffany@freedom-church.org or call into the office 765-482-7220.
This year, we are recording videos of those being baptized so everyone can hear and see them telling their story of why they are being baptized. We are recording these videos immediately following each service through Easter weekend. You will need to choose which service you or your child is going to be baptized (offered during all 4 services). We will be giving you a shirt to be baptized in on that day and ask that you bring a towel and extra change of clothes. Also, don't forget to INVITE family and friends to join you for this special day!
We love seeing how God is changing your kid's lives.. THANK YOU for allowing us to partner with you to make Jesus irresistible to kids!
-Pastor Tiffany
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