Seven out of ten kids walk away from the church after turning eighteen. Eventually, around five will return for a variety of reasons; but two leave and never return. And only 3 of every 10 stay through their entire lives. What should we think about statistics like these—what do they say about our approach to discipleship, and how see the number of children who stay and faithfully engage in the life of the church grow? In today’s episode of The Hero of the Story, Brian and Aaron address these issues as they begin a new 5-part series based around the central concepts of Brian’s new book, Gospel-Centered Kids Ministry (B&H 2018). Listen in to hear:

• Where stopping the dropout problem starts;
• How we should (and shouldn’t) feel about sobering statistics; and
• What hope we have as parents, volunteers, and leaders to make a difference.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Apple Podcasts Player FM Podbean

Have questions or suggestions for an upcoming episode of The Hero of the Story? Reach out to The Gospel Project on Twitter or send us an email.

---

About the hosts:

Brian Dembowczyk is the Managing Editor of The Gospel Project, and the author of Gospel-Centered Kids Ministry and Cornerstones: 200 Questions and Answers to Learn Truth. Follow him on Twitter. Aaron Armstrong is the Brand Manager of The Gospel Project, and the author of several books including Awaiting a Savior and Devotional Doctrine, and the screenwriter of the documentary Luther: the Life and Legacy of the German Reformer. Follow him on Twitter.