The Lord has highlighted to us to do children’s ministry differently than the norm. There are several scriptures that show relevance to this path of keeping the kids within the service and not separating them.

There was not a word of all that Moses had commanded which Joshua did not read before all the assembly of Israel, with the women, the children, and the foreigners who were living among them. – Joshua 8:35

So Ezra the priest brought the Law before the assembly of men, women, and all who could hear with understanding, on the first day of the seventh month. Then he read from it, in the presence of the men and the women and those who could understand; and all the people listened attentively to the Book of the Law. – Nehemiah 8:2,3

People were bringing children to Him so that He might touch and bless them, but the disciples reprimanded them. But when Jesus saw this, He was indignant and said to them, ‘Permit the children to come to Me; do not forbid them; for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. I assure you and most solemnly say to you, whoever does not receive and welcome the kingdom of God like a child will not enter it at all.’ And He took the children [one by one] in His arms and blessed them [with kind, encouraging words], placing His hands on them. – Mark 10:13-16

Children, obey your parents in the Lord [that is, accept their guidance and discipline as His representatives], for this is right [for obedience teaches wisdom and self-discipline]. ‘Honor [esteem, value as precious] your father and your mother’ [and be respectful to them]—this is the first commandment with a promise— so that it may be well with you, and that you may live long on the earth. Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger [do not exasperate them to the point of resentment with demands that are trivial or unreasonable or humiliating or abusive; nor by showing favoritism or indifference to any of them], but bring them up [tenderly, with lovingkindness] in the discipline and instruction of the Lord. – Ephesians 6:1-4

Within these scriptures we see that the children where included in teaching. In order to ensure that we have godly men and women in the future, we need to teach the kids how to follow God for themselves. Children’s ministry as typically seen is unfortunately more babysitting than instruction and direction. Yes, kids need to have fun and create friend groups within the church family, however that should not come at the sacrifice of them spending time with the Lord.

Being trained and equipped is for all ages and though some topics will be more than what a young child can understand at that time, this allows for biblical conversations within the family. Spending time TOGETHER searching out in the Word, seeking God’s wisdom, and growing in unity! These are critical for each and every believer to pursue.

Unity isn’t something we just talk about but rather something we seek out and try to attain. If you do not have unity within the family (natural family or church family) we will not be able to honestly share the gospel. I have said many times that unity takes sacrifice and this is no different, but isn’t it worth it to knit your family closer together?

What if my kid is fussy?

It makes no never mind to me. Kids will be kids and we want them to know that they can worship the Lord freely and find care from others within the house. You are welcome to bring coloring books or they favorite (not noise making) toy for church. I just ask no tablets/phones as that is a distraction for kids and adults alike. Coloring books and toys foster creativity and still allow children to hear the word.

Now if you feel he/she is creating an issue, we do have an area you can bring them. More than likely, they bother you more than others.

How about a baby?

All children are a give and we have room for parents to take a child to child, feed, etc.

What if my kids want to sit with other people?

Fantastic! I very much doubt anyone would have issue with having a seat buddy and I know many of our folks would love it. being a church family isn’t something we just have on the window but is something we truly believe in.

My son, hear the instruction of your father, and do not reject the teaching of your mother; for they are a garland of grace on your head and chains and ornaments [of gold] around your neck. – Proverbs 1:8,9

Train up a child in the way he should go [teaching him to seek God’s wisdom and will for his abilities and talents], even when he is old he will not depart from it. – Proverbs 22:6

But as for you, continue in the things that you have learned and of which you are convinced [holding tightly to the truths], knowing from whom you learned them, and how from childhood you have known the sacred writings (Hebrew Scriptures) which are able to give you the wisdom that leads to salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. – 2 Timothy 3:14,15

In short, we want to see kids learn and grow in a personal relationship with Christ. A critical starting point is them seeing their parent and other adults seeking after God for themselves and worshipping with freedom. We want to foster a place that kids can grow friendship that last a lifetime but friendships based on Christ and not entertainment. This is the vision that the Lord has given us and we know it won’t be for everyone. However, I ask that you take an honest review of what type of environment you would like for your child. There is no condemnation here, just encouragement to seek God for your family.

We do want kids to enjoy coming to church and being apart but there are ways to do that and not take away from spiritual growth. Pastor Rachel has fun activities for the kids after service so parents can freely fellowship with their adult friends. We encourage families to get together outside of church so kids can hangout and the parents can build each other up. There is no clear cut answer within the Bible on how to do this, that is why Jesus sent the Holy Spirit.

Seek the Holy Spirit with us and let us, in unity, grow not the next generation but the now generation in the ammunition of the Lord

Pastor Robert Larcom