Question: During Bible class we discussed the history of worship in the synod. The subject of children’s sermons came up. We were divided as to their appropriateness during worship. Jesus singled out children and used simple stories to teach complex issues. What advice do our pastors receive during their training?


Answer: It’s not hard to imagine your discussion! This topic is debated on our seminary campus as well.


However, we who teach preaching make sure our seminary students understand that a children’s sermon isn’t an issue of right or wrong. Jesus gave his church great freedom in designing “forms” for proclaiming the gospel. Of course, in selecting such “forms,” we must remember that the power is in the gospel in Word and sacraments, not in our forms.


When it comes to including a children’s sermon in worship, much depends on a congregation’s ministry situation. Yet, even when such sermons seem to meet ministry needs, children’s sermons are not a one-size-fits-all substitute for a thorough evangelism or youth nurture plan.


There are other concerns we generally raise with our students. In many congregational ministries we subdivide Christ’s body into children, teens, and adults. Certainly the Gospels show Jesus making time for children. There’s wisdom in such focused attention, especially in education—and especially in the home! Yet too often we design little for God’s family gathered as a whole. Worship is typically aimed at the whole family of God—young and old, single and married, male and female.


That’s why our primary encouragement to our students is to preach the “regular” sermon so as to appeal to all ages. Sermons seldom fail because they were too clear. Jesus pointed at birds of the air and lilies of the field to make biblical truth transparent to all. A pastor commented that his father often reminded him, “You had a very good sermon, but there was not enough for the kids.” Such preaching for all ages is easier with some texts than others. Yet it’s always a worthy goal.


If ministry situations and pastoral gifts combine to make a regular children’s sermon a wise addition, congregations must remember the considerable time it takes to craft an edifying children’s sermon. Children’s sermons fare no better than regular sermons when produced as “Saturday night specials.” Clear gospel is often the first casualty. Anything included in regular worship must be worthy of the gospel.