Indoctrination or responsible parenting?

Last week over 100 children attended Ancaster Christian Reformed Church’s Vacation Bible School.  Unquestionably, many of the parents of these children were simply happy to have their kids entertained for a week.  But they also knew that this was “bible school,” and that while at ACRC, these children would be taught bible stories and they would hear about Jesus.

    I have met parents who insist that they are going to let their children decide for themselves whether or not they will believe in God and that Jesus is the way to him.  They intend to let their children choose from the smorgasbord of religions that are available to them. 

It’s a noble thought.  

   There’s a disconnect here.  If we as parents and teachers really believe in an all-powerful God, one who created this world (however he did it) and if we really believe that through Jesus we are reconciled to this God – I mean, really believe this, then there is no option.  We believe this to be the truth.  And if this is the truth, it is non-negotiable and non-qualified.  What is true is not merely “the truth according to [insert name].”  Truth is absolute. 

     That kind of conviction implores us to share the truth of what we believe with those we love the most – including our children.  They eventually will embrace the truth or reject it (also a function of the Holy Spirit, but that’s for a future discussion!). 

     Vacation Bible School was a lot of fun.  The children had a great time – and they were also introduced to God and to his Son Jesus.  No apologies!