When Parents Are Not Involved or Unsupportive

Ideally, the role of the children’s leader is to accompany parents in nurturing a solid faith in Jesus Christ. Unfortunately, many children are not brought to church but rather dropped off or brought by someone else. Sadly, even in Christian homes, there are parents who do not see the need or take the time to nurture faith and foundational truths in their children; even though the bible clearly states that it is the parents responsibility to teach the commands of God (Deuteronomy 6:6-9).

Ideally, the role of the children’s leader is to accompany parents in nurturing a solid faith in Jesus Christ. Unfortunately, many children are not brought to church but rather dropped off or brought by someone else. Sadly, even in Christian homes, there are parents who do not see the need or take the time to nurture faith and foundational truths in their children; even though the bible clearly states that it is the parents responsibility to teach the commands of God (Deuteronomy 6:6-9).

In the absence of parent involvement, Church leaders bear much of the responsibility for presenting the gospel and laying a solid foundation of faith. But does this mean that parents should be “off the hook” in regard to the spiritual development of their children? No, it’s not Biblical. 

So, it is important, as children’s leaders, to involve parents in the spiritual milestones of their child as often as possible. Invite them to take part when the child chooses to accept Jesus as their Savior, provide Biblical information to help the parent understand the life in Christ their child has chosen and offer to meet with the parent to answer questions. The parent still may not be supportive of their child’s choice to follow Jesus; so, it’s important to be aware of the negative influences that may be at home and prepare the child for for possible negative backlash that will try to make them feel like they aren’t saved. Whether the parent is a believer or not, sometimes parents downplay or even try to “nullify” the child’s feeling of acceptance or belonging to Christ. Parents may feel their child is too young or too “unruly” to have a changed life through Christ. 

For instance, the parent may respond with quips such as, “we’ll see,” or “there is no way you can be saved acting like that,” or other such negative banter that causes the child to question or “give up.” Remind the child that they will mess up, they are not perfect but they are forgiven. Growing in their faith is a process and will take time. Remind them that it is God who sees their heart and knows that they belong to Him even if others don’t see it right away or don’t support them. Encourage them to get involved with other believers and to always turn to God. Knowing the Truth from God’s Word and staying connected to God through prayer are essential to their new life in Christ and will help them know they belong to Him.