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I have a question about salvation.

Hints and Helps
It has to be this way - we must talk about salvation, but only after we talk about sin. We have no need of salvation if we are not sinners, but the Bible is clear; we are sinners. The Bible also clearly teaches that salvation is always by grace through faith plus nothing (Genesis 15:6; Ephesians 2:8,9).

The question often arises: How soon can children discern their need of salvation? The time-tested rule has always been that if they are old enough to sin, they are old enough to be converted. However, they must have a grocery list; that is, they must have the facts in order to believe. They have to understand that, though their sin offends people such as Mom and Dad and others, sin is primarily and essentially against God’s law. Children who are exposed to careful Bible teaching can soon discern the basic facts. However, we should never push children to make a decision for salvation. Neither should we close the door on their decision to follow Christ. Sound Christian teaching containing the basic facts of the gospel (as found in I Corinthians 15:3 and 4, for example) is the best way to lead children to salvation.

We should keep in mind that children have tender hearts. The basic rule in gospel work with adults applies to children as well - but on an extremely elementary level. Nonetheless, we should always use the approach that Isaiah used: "Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow" (Isaiah 1:18). We appeal to the mind and carefully to the will. Note the two words, "come" and "reason." We should never make any gospel presentation that appeals primarily to the emotions. We should not manipulate the child’s will. Whether in the Old Testament or in the New, the basic rule of appeal is always to reason through the Scriptures. Let God turn the will and encourage the heart. Acts 18:4 tells of Paul’s work in this regard.

Children are followers and soon become leaders. Beware of the herd instinct in them. Where one goes, others will easily follow without necessarily understanding. So present the gospel, but do not push children for a response. The Holy Spirit will do His work.

Romans 6:23: "For the wages of sin death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord."

This material is reprinted by permission from "Kids' Questions About Jesus" and "Kids' Questions about Sin and Salvation,," published by Regular Baptist Press. (www.rbpstore.org/showprod.cfm?prodnum=5308)

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