I have something to tell you about today that just makes my heart sing! We’ve been busy with it for a while, seen the most amazing results, and we’re ready to ramp this up right now...
Did you know that over 60% of the entire population of Africa is under the age of 25? And more than half of those are under the age of 16! When we say, “Africa shall be saved”, we have to be intentional and committed to reaching the children and youth of Africa.
I’m so happy to tell you that this has become an enormous focus for CfaN. Yes, children come with their parents to our evangelistic campaigns, and only the Lord knows how many millions have received Jesus into their hearts as a result…
But in line with the “Decade of Double Harvest”, many new and exciting strategies have taken form – and reaching the children of Africa with the clear, unequivocal Gospel message is a key element that is growing exponentially.
CHILDREN MAKE REAL SALVATION DECISIONS
The truth of the Gospel is so simple, it can be grasped by a 5-year-old, with life-altering consequences. I am one of those people who gave my heart to Jesus as a child, as was Reinhard Bonnke. Our CfaN African Campaign Director, John Darku, first met Jesus because a missionary took the time to come to his school.
“BEFORE I FORMED YOU IN THE WOMB, I KNEW YOU.”
Just imagine the world-shaking effects of an entire generation sold out for God! And besides, this is something Jesus took pains to tell us several times, in His own words…
But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 19:14)
But whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to sin, it would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were drowned in the depth of the sea. (Matthew 18:6)
These are strong words! Jesus was extremely clear about our responsibility and accountability for the children. The spirit of a child is fully formed. From before we were in the womb, He knew us, and all the days of our lives. God doesn’t see “baby spirits” – only the spirit He Himself made and placed in each one of us. (Jeremiah 1:5, Psalm 139:13).
WHAT’S NEXT?
In the last decades, CfaN has always had a very strong follow-up system, working hand-in-hand with local churches. Each person who decides to follow Jesus receives a booklet called “Now that you are saved”, which helps them to understand their decision, and to take their first steps in discipleship. It’s a crucial, very well-tested system that gives new believers the best possible start to their new life in Christ, and filters them immediately into a local church.
And now we have a new tool in that follow-up box! In the last year and a half, our Bootcamp and CfaN team members have conducted an astonishing number of children’s campaigns. We realised quickly that we needed a special booklet just for kids… The same, powerful Gospel message, but in language that young children can understand, read and reread, building the same first steps in faith that adults do.