A message to parents from Richard

How do we build a firm foundation in the lives of our children, so that they have a strong belief in God? I think one of the greatest gifts that we can give our children is the assurance that God exists, and there are good reasons for His existence.

This 4-part video series is based on my book Reflections on the Existence of God, which I wrote for my children, to build their own faith in God.

These videos will give you tools to start conversations with your kids, address their unspoken doubts, and equip them with a strong belief in God. Below you’ll find discussion questions, a core scripture and quote from the book, and more resources available to you.

Today’s children and young people are bombarded with false ideas from the culture around us. Parents, I implore you to do whatever it takes to stop the noise. Pray without ceasing! Pray with your children regularly. Limit screen time. 

Be intentional with your family time, memorize scripture, build in spiritual conversations around the dinner table, in carpool, on family trips. Give your kids room to ask questions, then search out the answers together. This will strengthen their faith as well as your own. 

—Richard E. Simmons III, best-selling author of Reflections on the Existence of God

Video 1 – Discussion questions for you and your family:

1. Define the words “worldview” and “reality.” How does your worldview influence how you relate to others and how you live your life? Give specific examples.
   
   
2. Why is it important for you to know if God is real or not?
   
   
3. What doubts or questions do you have about God?
   
   
4. What is theism? What is atheism? Can they both be true—why or why not?
   
   
5. Discuss the ”big questions” listed in the video that we all might wrestle with. How would you answer these? What other big questions can you think of?

* Look for ways to engage with your kids on this topic. Ask your kids to come up with their own questions, then take turns answering them. Ask God for creativity to bring this into daily conversations with your family.

Core Scripture:

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.” —Deuteronomy 6:5-7 (NIV)

Quote from Reflections on the Existence of God:

“I build molecules for a living. I can’t begin to tell you how difficult that job is. I stand in awe of God because of what He has done through His creation. My faith has been increased through my research. Only a rookie who knows nothing about science would say science takes away from faith. If you really study science, it will bring you closer to God.” 

—Dr. James Tour | Synthetic Organic Chemist, specializing in molecular electronics and nanotechnology

Looking for More?

Reflections on the Existence of God is a well-researched, accessible apologetics handbook for parents to equip themselves and their children to engage our atheistic and agnostic culture with the evidence for God’s existence. Each essay can be read in 10 minutes or less. 

Our companion Study Guide can be used for group and individual study, family worship times, college ministry studies, or as a course curriculum for private and home education. It is also a valuable tool to equip you to engage with skeptics, friends or family struggling with doubt using thought-provoking questions and conversation.

I hope parents will read it with their families to shore up their own understanding of the evidence of God’s existence and to give time to address any doubts their kids may have. My prayer is that you will encounter truths and reasoning to challenge and bolster your faith. 

—Richard E. Simmons III | best-selling author of Reflections on the Existence of God

Watch the rest of this 4-Part Series

Part 2 – Contending With Evil & Violence As A Believer

Part 3 – Are Science and Religious Beliefs at War with Each Other?

Part 4 – If God exists, what is His name?