Counties evangelist, Paul Willmott, shares how a profound question from a child led to a heart-felt encounter about Jesus.

"Why do you believe in God?” What a great question, that can lead to a life-changing discussion. But how do you answer such a question in just two minutes, to a 10-year-old? 

Paul is the creative brains behind “2 Minute Twist” - a set of short YouTube videos exploring BIG Faith Questions. Working alongside a number of local churches, Paul creates links with primary schools and has direct Biblical input through whole-school assemblies, RE Lessons, and online resources.

PAUL’S STORY

When I lead my usual assemblies in local schools, I often get asked some great questions. These questions range from: “How do the puppets talk?” to: “How do you know so much about the Bible?” Some questions I am asked are quick and easy to answer - my favourite question is: “Are those real puppets?” And my answer is, of course: “Yes, they are real puppets.” 😜 

But some of the best questions are when I get asked about my personal faith. Following an assembly, as I was leaving the hall recently, one of the boys in year six asked me a question that I began with: “Why do you believe in God?” I could tell this was a genuine question, and not just a kid being sarcastic. 

I only had a couple of minutes before the boy needed to be back in class. So, we sat on a bench and I told him my answer (your answer may be different). I talked about hearing lots of Bible stories in Sunday school. And then hearing from other Christians that the Bible was real and everything I had heard about God and Jesus was true. He listened, nodded, and said: “Ok, I get it.” Then it was time for him to go back to class. I pray that he finds more answers to his questions, which ultimately leads him nearer to Jesus.

MORE GOOD NEWS

Paul also had an email from a Christian grandmother, Enid Flavell, who was happy to share her good news.

On taking an Easter gift to my 6-year-old granddaughter, Abbie, I mentioned to her mum that it’s a difficult subject to explain to a child.  

‘Abbie knows all about Easter,’ her mum said. Then she proceeded to tell me about the cross, the nails, how somebody told the soldiers where to find Jesus, and how 3 three people died on a hill.

She said: “I know this because Paul told us in assembly at school!”   

As a lover of Jesus, my heart soared and I just wanted you to know what wonderfully effective seeds you’re sowing - please be encouraged.  

Thank you and God bless you. 

From a very grateful nanny.