7 Key Principles to Preteen Bible Engagement

Engage them in the Story.

It’s imperative that we help kids see the story in context, or “surround” sound Our brains are organized by stories. Just like a great story, Scripture is written to evoke imagination. Jesus spoke to the imagination with each story he told. These stories create “me too” moments that we are able to relate to and understand. These moments allow us to create space for responding to God’s Word

Empower them to understand it.

Preteens are gaining some independence and beginning to look outside of their parents for identity. Show them how to look to God’s Word. Often times we break things down too much, or we make the Bible into devotional thoughts in an effort to help people understand. But what if instead we taught kids how to study the Bible? What if we asked them key questions while diving into Scripture? What do you see? What does God say? What will you do?

Make it real for them.

Kids need to know that the big God story is THEIR Story. THEY are a part of this grand redemptive plan and THAT’S why it makes a difference in their lives—the history is relevant to their story! Take a minute to picture children at a puppet show where a child is screaming the dragon is slain! THIS is how children should feel as we tell the big God story! Be sure to give the kids an EXPERIENCE of Jesus. Instead of reciting something written long ago in a land far away, give them a memory they can pull up for themselves.

Recognize what’s next.

Preteens become teenagers! Teenagers are looking to discover their uniqueness and find their value. If we can help preteens own their faith, they will move into this next important phase with healthy confidence, habits, and patterns established. It’s important to do this so they will develop friendships and relationships that are worth carrying with them into the next season of life.

Release them to lead and engage with the world.

You’ve done the work and trained up these preteens to discover God’s truth in their lives. Now let them go do it! They are ready and equipped to search and find truth in the Bible. You’ve done well, so take a deep breath—in and out.

Inspire,

Equip, and Support their parents.

Parents are a little scared and often don’t know how to encourage their kids. Be sure to lift them up, just like you’ve done for their kids.

Equip Leaders who love the Bible.

Ask your leaders how they personally engage in Scripture and give them a plan to help them grow in their understanding as well. It’s important that the leaders of these kids are equipped to find answers and to teach kids to do the same

You can do this!

Read the full article at MinistrySpark com/preteen-bible-engagement

by Michele Baird and Courtney Wilson