Tough Conversations – Gospel Truth
Carrie Muir (Awana) urges children’s ministry leaders to stop avoiding “tough topics” and meet kids where they already are—soaked in screens, social feeds, and peer conversations that shape worldview early. Parents actually expect the church to address difficult subjects (Barna data), yet ministries tend to cover safer issues like bullying or loneliness while shying away from gender identity, self-harm, and school violence. Since kids will seek answers elsewhere, silence functionally teaches them that the Bible has nothing to say.
Her approach is a simple, repeatable framework: ask what the child has heard, actively listen, ask what they think God says, share age-appropriate biblical truth, and always point to Jesus and the hope of the gospel—while partnering wisely with parents. Leaders should respond without judgment, correct gently, keep personal politics out, and, if caught off guard, thank the child and set a prompt follow-up. Throughout, anchor identity in Christ, give practical hope, and remember safety and reporting responsibilities when red flags appear.
Key Takeaways:
- Silence speaks.
If the church won’t address hard issues, kids assume answers live on TikTok, YouTube, friends, or gaming communities.- Parents expect help.
A strong majority want churches to engage current events, social topics, and mental health from a biblical lens.- Use the 5-step conversation plan:
(1) Ask what they’ve heard, (2) actively listen, (3) ask what God says, (4) share age-appropriate biblical truth, (5) always point to Jesus and the big story of creation–fall–redemption–restoration.- Lead with grace, correct gently.
Avoid shock or judgment; keep personal opinions/politics out and stick to Scripture.- It’s okay to buy time—then follow up.
Thank them, set a next conversation, pray/research, and keep your word.- Partner with parents wisely.
Defer certain topics to them, keep them informed, and follow mandated-reporting guidelines for safety concerns.- Center identity in Christ.
Many “hot” issues are ultimately identity questions; keep bringing kids back to who they are in Jesus and the hope of the gospel.