If your teenager wants to attend a church that you believe teaches false doctrine, or they’re expressing interest in a religion that doesn’t align with biblical truth, it can hit like a gut punch. It’s alarming. It’s heartbreaking. And, if we’re honest, it can make us downright angry. But underneath the emotion is a call from God—not to react hastily, but to respond with wisdom, grace, and unwavering faith.
Before you do anything—pray. This is not just a parenting issue. It’s spiritual warfare. Ephesians 6:12 reminds us that our struggle isn’t against flesh and blood. Ask God to give you wisdom (James 1:5), to soften your teen’s heart, and to guide your own words. Pray that the Spirit would protect them from deception (John 17:15–17) and open their eyes to truth (2 Corinthians 4:4). This isn’t about winning a debate; it’s about interceding on behalf of your child’s soul.
Teens need to be heard. Instead of launching into a defense of your faith, ask questions. With a calm and open heart, say things like: ‘What is it about that church that draws you in?’ or ‘What do you believe about Jesus?’ These conversations build bridges instead of walls. The goal isn’t to trap them in a corner, but to draw them into honest, thoughtful dialogue. Practice listening more than you speak.
You may feel the urge to teach, correct, or even control—but don’t underestimate the power of your life lived authentically. Let your teen see your faith at work. Model patience when you want to panic. Model love when you feel fear. Share your own journey of faith, including your doubts and how God met you there. More than words, they need to see Jesus in you.
The Bible doesn’t return void (Isaiah 55:11), and the Word of God is powerful (Hebrews 4:12). Ask your teen if they’re open to reading Scripture together. Consider reading the Gospel of John and talk about who Jesus says He is. Compare what Scripture says about salvation with what the other group teaches. This isn’t about debate—it’s about letting the truth speak for itself.
Instead of simply banning their involvement, help them evaluate what they’re hearing. Teach them to ask: ‘What do they say about Jesus? About salvation? Do they add to the Bible?’ Use this opportunity to help them build their own spiritual discernment. Point them to foundational truths like Ephesians 2:8–9 and John 14:6. Equip them to recognize error—not just avoid it.
You can love your child deeply and still stand firm in your convictions. Let them know that while you disagree with their choices, your love is unwavering. Say things like: ‘I love you no matter what, but I believe Jesus is the only way.’ Or, ‘You are always safe to bring your questions here, but I can’t support a path that leads away from truth.’ That balance of grace and truth will speak volumes.
If your teen is under your roof, you still have authority—but use it wisely. Ephesians 6:4 tells us not to provoke our children to anger. Set boundaries gently but clearly. Say, ‘While you’re living at home, we go to church as a family.’ Avoid manipulation or guilt trips. Let them know your boundaries come from a place of love and responsibility.
This journey may take time. There might be wandering. There might be heartache. But remember the father in Luke 15—he never gave up watching the road. Keep praying. Keep showing up. Keep speaking truth in love. Your child’s story is still being written. And God’s faithfulness hasn’t changed.
Raising kids to follow Christ in a culture of confusion isn’t easy. And when a child you love shows interest in a false religion, it’s terrifying. But don’t let fear write the script. Instead, pray with purpose, listen with compassion, and stand firmly on God’s Word. Your influence, your love, and your faith matter. Keep sowing seeds of truth—and trust God with the harvest.