Foundations
“Every expert agrees that the first 18 years of a person’s life are extremely crucial in laying a foundation for their future.” —Reggie Joiner, A New Kind of Leader
Main Point: Our goal is to cultivate an environment of belonging as we partner with parents and kids, while striving to make Jesus the center, and grow in our knowledge of and love for him.
Why we do what we do?
Then people brought little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples rebuked them. Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” —Matthew 19:13-14
Why do we feel like this is so important?
“Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.” —Matthew 7:24-27
“A child’s brain is built up through actual experiences. What you put in is more or less what you get out.” —Dr. Sue Gerhardt, Why Loves Matters
How do we hope to do this?
These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. —Deuteronomy 6:6-7
40/5,110 = 0.0078%
Takeaway: Together we can point our children towards a lifelong love of Jesus.
Discussion Questions:
As a child did you grow up in the church? If yes, what are some of your favorite memories from that? If you did not, what do you feel like you missed out on?
Jesus constantly elevated the status and importance of children. How do you do the same in your own life (whether at Northgate, or with family and friends, etc.)?
What are some authentic experiences you had as a child that have shaped who are you are as an adult?
Table Discussion Question - If you are a parent how can you begin the process of getting more involved in your kids’ relationship with Jesus? If you aren’t a parent how can you contribute to this vital area of ministry at Northgate?