Sharing Christianity

Tough Questions Kids Ask

June 2006: Sharing Christianity

How should you respond when non-Christian friends think you are trying to convert them if your children listen to Christian music while playing with their children?

Pastor Fred reflects that having friends from different cultures and religious backgrounds is a reason to rejoice. First, we can learn about other religions and ways of life through our friends. Secondly, being exposed to a variety of faiths helps us to discuss with our children the meaning of different beliefs and practices. In order not to deny friends this experience, we Christians need to com¬municate our faith and the way it affects our lives to our friends. By not sharing Christian music, or by limiting discussions of our faith, he points out that we are not being true friends. We are only offering an edited version of ourselves to others, and not our true selves, withholding the Christian part.

Feel free, then to play the Christian music. If the friends are nervous about what their child is listening to, Pastor Fred recommends explaining that the music is important to your family and part of your way of life, and reassuring them that their child is safe in your home, and will be treated with "respect, freedom, and dignity - the same way you would want your own child to be treated." In addition, he suggests expressing regret if the children's friendship ends because of the music, but also showing understanding and respect for any decision the friends make about their child visiting your home.