Explaining the Gospel to a child isn’t about dumbing it down—it’s about breaking it down. Children don’t need a theology degree to understand Jesus. What they need is simple truth, spoken with love and clarity.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you share the Gospel with a 5-year-old:
1. Start With God’s Love
“Do you know who made you? God did. And do you know what? He loves you very much!”
Kids understand love. Tell them that God made them and loves them more than anyone ever could. Use John 3:16:
“For God so loved the world…”
You can even say: “Put your name in that verse. God so loved [child’s name]…”
2. Talk About Sin, Simply
Say something like:
“Sometimes we do wrong things, like lying or being mean. That’s called sin. Sin makes our hearts messy and keeps us away from God.”
Use Romans 3:23 (in simple words):
“Everyone has sinned. That means everyone has done wrong things.”
Explain that God is perfect and can’t be near sin—but He didn’t want to stay away from us.
3. Introduce Jesus As the Savior
Now say:
“But God loves us SO much, He sent His Son Jesus to fix our hearts. Jesus never sinned. He died on the cross to take the punishment for our sin.”
Use a simple visual—like a heart with a cross over it. Explain:
“When Jesus died, He took our place. He made a way for us to be close to God again.”
Add Romans 5:8:
“While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
4. Explain the Resurrection
“Jesus didn’t stay dead. After three days, He came back to life! Now He’s alive forever—and He wants to be your forever friend.”
This helps children understand Jesus is not just a story—He’s real, and He’s alive!
5. Offer the Invitation
Say:
“If you believe Jesus died for you and want Him to be your Savior and best friend, you can tell Him that right now.”
Then pray a simple prayer together:
“Dear Jesus, I know I’ve done wrong things. I believe You died for me and came back to life. Please forgive me and come live in my heart. Help me follow You. Amen.”
6. Celebrate & Disciple
If they pray, celebrate! But remember: This is just the beginning.
Keep reading the Bible with them, praying together, and helping them grow in their walk with Jesus.
Final Thought:
Children don’t need complicated theology. They need truth, clearly spoken with love. The Gospel is simple enough for a child to believe and strong enough to change any life—no matter how young.
