Transforming Children Into Spiritual Champions: Why Children Should Be Your Church's #1 Priority

I've worked with children for years, understanding that, as someone? has said (can't remember the exact quote), "It's easier to raise healthy children than it is to fix broken adults." Mr. Barna excellently explains and promotes this truth: pouring into them while their young so the foundation in Christ is firm and immovable. If you're planning to nit-pick the details and statistics as several readers that reviewed the book did, then I guess this book isn't for you. If you're looking for specific how-to's, it isn't the book, either. But, if you're looking for a book that grabs your heart and stirs you in ministry to children (or your own), and you're willing to ask the Holy Spirit, "How, specifically, do we do minister to children in OUR church (or family)?" then this is THE ONE! This book has stirred me to have faith for greater results, give more, reach higher, pray more earnestly, love more unconditionally, lay down my life more sacrificially than any other book I've read on the subject. I'm in the middle of reading it a second time and have it now as a must-read for all new teachers!

If you are like most passionate followers of Yehshua we do not want to lose another generation from the church. This book is a must read for pastors, youth pastors, lay ministry workers and the body of Christ at large. In practical everyday language George Barna hits home the message that if we do not reach this up and coming generation for Jesus it will be to our peril. It begins at the home level so parents get this book, read it, pass it on, tell everyone you know to read it. Life impacting, life changing!

This is a must read for any pastor or children's director who wants to affect change in the future of the church. VERY EYE opening. Laden with statistics, but important ones! Will help you redefine your understanding of parents and the effective ministry to their children.

Barna is known for writing books based on superb research - and this one is no exception. Drawing from several national studies conducted among children, as well as others among families and church pastors, this book really challenged me to re-think my own assumptions and behavior regarding the importance of ministry to children. The book was helpful to me personally, not only by giving useful insights into why focusing on substantive ministry to children is so critical - he offers some very eye-opening information in that regard - but also providing specifics on how to reach kids more effectively. The last few chapters outline what churches can do to facilitate parents being more effective and how churches can assist parents rather than replace them. A disturbing book in some ways - the spiritual state of children, as described, is frightening - but a hugely helpful, practical and needed book. Every parent and every pastor should read this one!!!

An excellent book that challenges, encourges parents and churches to partner together to mentor children from the earliest years of their lives. Barna admits that for years his focus, and the churches, has been focused on adults when 80% of decisions for Christ are made before the age of 13. A strong case for churches to rethink where their priorities should be in ministry.