Instilling Gospel Thoughts in the Youngest of Minds

Legalism has been a stronghold in my life that, until recently, has choked my understanding of the gospel.  One of the greatest desires of my heart is for my boys to understand the gospel for the beautiful, undeserved gift that it truly is.  And that they will not only know in their heads, but believe with all their hearts that they can do nothing to earn it.  Salvation is a gift in its purest form... no strings attached. 

One of the most explicit portions of Scripture that portrays this is Ephesians 2:8-9, "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith -- and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God -- not by works so that no one can boast."

But my oldest is only 3 1/2 years old.  So that's a conversation that should wait for later, right?  How in the world could I bring a verse with the words and concepts like grace, faith, saved and "not by works" down to a level he could understand?  I tell myself it's better for him to learn the basic "stories" and save the "theology" for when he's older.  But the Bible says to have "faith like a child" so he must be able to get it on some level...  I decided that even if it went right over his head, speaking the truths of the gospel to him certainly couldn't hurt anything.

But wouldn't you know, God surprised me with the spiritual sensitivity of a child who has yet to tie a shoe, ride a bike or bathe himself.  If you're interested in what a "deep conversation" with a 3 year old might look like, here's a peek into what happened...


Today I'm guest posting at one of my FAVORITE blogs, To Show Them Jesus.  I'd love for you to join me for the rest of the story, our activities, and a giveaway!!!)