As Christians, we don't think there's anything more important to study than God's Word. We certainly don't think you need to wait till your kids are "old enough to 'get it'" to start teaching them about the Bible and its message. To that end, we've assembled a pretty thorough collection of resources to help you help them become familiar with the Good Book.
Many of these are Bible stories and story Bibles (not the same thing), offering an overview of some of the more famous narratives within the overall biblical narrative. A lot of them are illustrated, and some of the better ones offer commentary or relate the stories to the most important story of all: the coming of Messiah, Jesus Christ, and His work on earth, death, and triumphant resurrection (The Jesus Storybook Bible does a particularly good job).
The Hide 'Em In Your Heart CDs by Steve Green offer catchy (and surprisingly non-obnoxious) kiddie tunes designed to aid Scripture memorization, a goal they seem to have obtained as evidenced by some of us still singing the songs word-for-word twenty years later. Memorizing Bible verses and passages is a good next step after introducing the stories as it helps further cement the content in kids' minds.
Devotionals often incorporate stories, memorization, and commentary for the family to participate in together. One of our favorites is Starr Meade's Training Hearts, Teaching Minds which offers 107 weekly family devotions based on the questions of the Westminster Shorter Catechism. Long Story Short introduces important doctrines through the narrative of the Old Testament (a projected New Testament volume is in the works).
Things like the Tabernacle Model help kids visualize important elements of the biblical story, while providing hands-on activity for antsy children. A plethora of map books and reference guides help fill in the picture of life in Bible times and places, so that kids get a sense of the cultural context of Scripture and how that affected the writers of both Testaments.
Of course, the whole goal of Bible instrution is greater understanding of the Gospel and increased knowledge of God Himself, His character, and His hand in human history. Just amassing facts is fairly pointless; you must be intentional about your kids' religious education. The Victor Journey Through the Bible is an excellent resource, but only if it's used to deepen your kids' relationship with Christ, not simply as a way to win trivia games.
Some of what we offer reflects our Reformed perspective; most of it is broadly Christian, reflecting the tenets of the historic faith with no specific denominational background or bias. We hope you'll carefully consider which materials are best for your family, and implement them regularly and prayerfully with the intention of raising your children in the fear and admonition of the Lord.
 |
Review by C. Hollis Crossman
C. Hollis Crossman used to be a child. Now he is a husband and father, teaches adult Sunday school in his Presbyterian congregation, and likes weird stuff. He might be a mythical creature, but he's definitely not a centaur.Read more of his reviews here.
|
Did you find this review helpful?