Philosophy and Values
Philosophy of Ministry
Parenting in the twenty-first century is no easy task! Years ago parents could go to their immediate family for help/advice about raising their children. But so many parents don't have that as an option anymore. What makes it even more difficult is we live in a world where there are so many experts or those who give advice in field of parenting. But what's a parent to do when the experts don't agree? Who can they turn to with confidence today?
We at Harvest Bible Chapel Lake Zurich are first and foremost committed to sharing with parents the instruction that is available from God's Word. We also support those parenting experts whose approach is taken from God's Word or does not directly violate its teachings or principles.
We understand every child is created uniquely and that no one parenting style will work for every child or family. However, there are several Biblical principles that all healthy families will hold to be true. Therefore, we will make a variety of good Christian information available to our parents.
Our prayer is that each child will accept Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior, develop a personal relationship with Him, learn to know and live the Word, learn to pray effectively, learn to worship God in a personal and corporate setting, learn to lay down lives for Him, and learn to take the Word to their world. We want to help each child come into a greater knowledge of the Bible by studying its characters, stories and principles, as well as, know that Jesus loves them totally and provides for their every need. Our purpose is to help each child find and fulfill their God-given destiny.
Core Ministry Values
Christ Centered
We strive to set ourselves apart from other groups or activities in which our children participate. In addition to providing fellowship and fun, all of our programs, outings and activities will, perhaps subtly, but always surely, include Jesus. There may be a message, story, or another example, but at some point, the children will know that Jesus is the center of our lives, the focus of our devotion, and the reason we are gathered together.
Bible Based
We believe the Bible is true, without error and is the authority for all teaching.
Child Targeted
Lessons and activities are designed according to the class’ age and developmental level.
Safe
Protecting our children’s physical, emotional and spiritual safety is vitally important and all activities reflect this attitude.
Relational
Small group leaders build strong relationships with the children, striving to connect with each and every child, so that he or she feels valued, loved, and welcome in the program. These leaders are a model of Christian values and service.
Relevant and Applicational Teaching
Children learn biblical lessons, and how they can apply these lessons to current situations in their lives.
Fun
Activities, games, skits, music, crafts, outings, special events and enthusiastic leaders add an element of fun to all aspects of the ministry.