Watching dozens of children playing in fountains in downtown Portland this week re-confirmed in my mind that they are naturally curious and adventurous. I believe they are eager to learn, discover, and experience something new. But how does that relate to discoveries about God? On the flight home, I listened to a recent CNN report regarding a “religious” exam given to Americans that indicates Agnostics and Atheists know more about religion than Christians. Everyone seemed surprised when Agnostics and Atheists ranked the highest on religious knowledge, followed by Jews, then Mormons, then Evangelical Christians. It is an interesting finding in a culture that is becoming increasingly diversified in their religious beliefs.

Christian leaders are scrambling to suggest reasons why Christians scored lower. Of course there are a number of issues that could be debated, including what kind of questions were asked. Here were a few of the questions posted in a pop quiz on CNN.

What was Mother Theresa’s religion?

When does the Jewish Sabbath begin?

What is Ramadan?

Regardless of the kind of questions asked, there is a continued perception that Christians are not keeping up intellectually with the rest of the non-religious and religious population when it comes to what they know about God, the Bible and other religions. As leaders and parents, this seems to be a challenge related to what and how we teach our children about God. The conclusion CNN seems to make is that Christians may know God, but they don’t know a lot about God.

Although I do believe knowing about God is not the same thing as having a relationship with God, it is critical that we understand both are important. One leader when interviewed on CNN suggested that, “knowledge without experience is meaningless and experience without knowledge is confusing.” I agree. It makes sense for Christian parents to become more intentional about making sure their families learn about God. It just seems like there could better ways to appeal to the curiosity that exists in all of us about the God who supposedly created our universe. So I hope you’re not offended when I suggest that maybe we take our cue from Agnostics, and become learners about our own faith.

If someone asked you what your plan is to teach your kids about God, could you explain it? I’m grateful to be surrounded by a team of writers and researchers who wrestle with the question every day. What are some things you do to tap into your children’s natural inclination to discover more about God and His character?