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Big Theology for Little Hearts
Jesus: "A Theological Primer Series"
Big Theology for Little Hearts "Big Theology for Little Hearts will engage our children and launch us into teaching our little ones about our Lord.”
― Christopher W. Morgan , Dean and Professor of Theology, California Baptist University Each book in the Big Theology for Little Hearts series introduces a big idea from the Bible with concise definitions and engaging illustrations to help young minds gain a foundational understanding of God's word. With each volume written to complement all the others, this series is designed to help children develop a cohesive framework of theology that includes God, creation, humanity, Jesus, and the gospel-allowing you to start having crucial conversations with your children as early as possible.
― Christopher W. Morgan , Dean and Professor of Theology, California Baptist University Each book in the Big Theology for Little Hearts series introduces a big idea from the Bible with concise definitions and engaging illustrations to help young minds gain a foundational understanding of God's word. With each volume written to complement all the others, this series is designed to help children develop a cohesive framework of theology that includes God, creation, humanity, Jesus, and the gospel-allowing you to start having crucial conversations with your children as early as possible.
22 pages, Board Book
Published February 18, 2020
94 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
December 14, 2021
A bit wordy for my taste. Made an unnecessary, unhelpful distinction between Jesus’ coronation as King of the world and His ascension. His Ascension is the act in redemptive history by which he was established King. But here i am being wordy in my review! Alas, the humor and irony of things!
January 19, 2020
I received an advanced reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review via netgalley and the publishers.
This book is a great book for religious families or practicing Christian families to share with their little ones.
It is a very basic picture board book about Jesus and what he stood for.
I think more could have been added to this book but it is a cute little picture book as it stands.
This book is a great book for religious families or practicing Christian families to share with their little ones.
It is a very basic picture board book about Jesus and what he stood for.
I think more could have been added to this book but it is a cute little picture book as it stands.
September 8, 2025
Who is Jesus?
Deity, Incarnation, KIng, Son of God, Rescuer, Sinless, Prophet, Priest, Atonement, & Resurrection.
AMEN!
The art is great too.
5/29/20 Read with Julia who sighed and said, "I love Jesus."
9/7/25 Read to my preschool class. One 3yr old requested it say, “Read this so we can learn about God.”
2025 A book that introduces theology to kids
Deity, Incarnation, KIng, Son of God, Rescuer, Sinless, Prophet, Priest, Atonement, & Resurrection.
AMEN!
The art is great too.
5/29/20 Read with Julia who sighed and said, "I love Jesus."
9/7/25 Read to my preschool class. One 3yr old requested it say, “Read this so we can learn about God.”
2025 A book that introduces theology to kids
January 16, 2020
First sentence: Incarnation. Jesus took on a human nature and. Lived among us.
This board book is intended for Christian families to read aloud to their little ones. The text keeps things simple for the most part. There isn’t exactly a cohesive story, more a collection of terms and ideas that are then explained in a simplistic way. At times this works well, “ King. Jesus is the ruler of all things forever.” Could you make it any clearer?! I don’t think so.
Other terms are less clear, for example, priest: “Jesus stands in his people’s place before God.” The concept of priesthood is way more complex than that of kingship. Jesus is our high priest. No question. Is “stands in his people’s place” a simplified way of saying stands before God and intercedes for his people?! Maybe. Maybe not. The way they define it could be defining sacrifice. Which again Jesus is our atoning sacrifice. Atonement is the next word. I don’t have a great issue with this—let’s be honest, most toddlers aren’t going to be big theology debaters before they can read and write. There’s time to grow and expand, clarify and distinguish in the many, many years ahead. But when I hear priest I think mediator. I think intercessor. I think representative.
I thought there was some variety in the words chosen. This isn’t a story of his life. This isn’t a gospel presentation. It is a loose collection of terms centering on Jesus.
This board book is intended for Christian families to read aloud to their little ones. The text keeps things simple for the most part. There isn’t exactly a cohesive story, more a collection of terms and ideas that are then explained in a simplistic way. At times this works well, “ King. Jesus is the ruler of all things forever.” Could you make it any clearer?! I don’t think so.
Other terms are less clear, for example, priest: “Jesus stands in his people’s place before God.” The concept of priesthood is way more complex than that of kingship. Jesus is our high priest. No question. Is “stands in his people’s place” a simplified way of saying stands before God and intercedes for his people?! Maybe. Maybe not. The way they define it could be defining sacrifice. Which again Jesus is our atoning sacrifice. Atonement is the next word. I don’t have a great issue with this—let’s be honest, most toddlers aren’t going to be big theology debaters before they can read and write. There’s time to grow and expand, clarify and distinguish in the many, many years ahead. But when I hear priest I think mediator. I think intercessor. I think representative.
I thought there was some variety in the words chosen. This isn’t a story of his life. This isn’t a gospel presentation. It is a loose collection of terms centering on Jesus.
November 21, 2020
Big Theology for Little Hearts is a book series that believes you’re never too young to learn about our faith or the words we use to express it. Each book in the series focuses on one theme and several terms that Christians use about that theme. The goal is to explain in the simplest of words what these things mean. Written by Devon Provencher and illustrated by Jessica Robyn Provencher, Big Theology for Little Hearts is designed to engage even the youngest children in developing the language necessary to talk about our faith.
This volume of the series focuses on Jesus, with the defined terms being:
Deity
Incarnation
King
Son of God
Rescuer
Sinless
Prophet
Priest
Atonement
Resurrection
After each term is a simple, one-sentence definition. For example, “Incarnation” is defined as “Jesus took on a human nature and lived among us.” The accompanying illustration in a picture of Jesus in all his humanness—a blue tunic and white robe with labels for his hair, head, arm, hand, body, leg, and foot. If I wanted to quibble about this definition, I would personally be firmer in the fact that the Incarnation forever humanizes Jesus. He didn’t take on a “human nature;” he became human. It’s serviceable for its audience, but not as clear as I’d like.
I also found it odd that the Provenchers didn’t include the terms “Lord” or “Christ.” These are the biggest theological terms applied to Jesus. If the goal is for our youngest children to be conversant in the way in which we talk about Jesus, these are crucial terms and it’s a grave oversight to not include them.
While this volume fares better than The Gospel, the book’s weakness is that it doesn’t actually do what it claims to do, which is offer simple definitions of theological terms. The structure seems somewhat random and there isn’t a great logical flow or progression in how the panels are arranged. Some of these are pretty nitpicky critiques (like, why would you not put King in sequence with Prophet and Priest?) Rescuer feels out of place, as it’s not a direct term applied to Jesus. It’s not inaccurate, but it’s not a theological term. If the goal is to help children understand theological terms, this book had great goals but comes up short.
This volume of the series focuses on Jesus, with the defined terms being:
Deity
Incarnation
King
Son of God
Rescuer
Sinless
Prophet
Priest
Atonement
Resurrection
After each term is a simple, one-sentence definition. For example, “Incarnation” is defined as “Jesus took on a human nature and lived among us.” The accompanying illustration in a picture of Jesus in all his humanness—a blue tunic and white robe with labels for his hair, head, arm, hand, body, leg, and foot. If I wanted to quibble about this definition, I would personally be firmer in the fact that the Incarnation forever humanizes Jesus. He didn’t take on a “human nature;” he became human. It’s serviceable for its audience, but not as clear as I’d like.
I also found it odd that the Provenchers didn’t include the terms “Lord” or “Christ.” These are the biggest theological terms applied to Jesus. If the goal is for our youngest children to be conversant in the way in which we talk about Jesus, these are crucial terms and it’s a grave oversight to not include them.
While this volume fares better than The Gospel, the book’s weakness is that it doesn’t actually do what it claims to do, which is offer simple definitions of theological terms. The structure seems somewhat random and there isn’t a great logical flow or progression in how the panels are arranged. Some of these are pretty nitpicky critiques (like, why would you not put King in sequence with Prophet and Priest?) Rescuer feels out of place, as it’s not a direct term applied to Jesus. It’s not inaccurate, but it’s not a theological term. If the goal is to help children understand theological terms, this book had great goals but comes up short.
January 28, 2020
"Deity
Jesus Is Fully God."
This theological primer has some pretty big words in it: incarnation, rescuer, sinless, prophet, priest, atonement, resurrection that will need some explaining to a young child. The board book covers the life and purpose of Jesus and why He came to earth to live among humanity.
Although the words are difficult to comprehend they are perfect words to discuss and teach to your little ones as they are the cornerstone of Christian beliefs. The illustrations are large, simple and bold. I wish the book had started out with the nativity scene so little ones could see the humble beginning that Jesus was born into.
"Each book in the Big Theology for Little Hearts series introduces a big idea from the Bible with concise definitions and engaging illustrations to help young minds gain a foundational understanding of God's word.
With each volume written to complement all the others, this series is designed to help children develop a cohesive framework of theology that includes God, creation, humanity, Jesus, and the gospel-allowing you to start having crucial conversations with your children as early as possible."
This husband and wife team have done a wonderful job of putting a great theological resource into the hands of parents, teachers, and caregivers. I recommend this book.
Jesus Is Fully God."
This theological primer has some pretty big words in it: incarnation, rescuer, sinless, prophet, priest, atonement, resurrection that will need some explaining to a young child. The board book covers the life and purpose of Jesus and why He came to earth to live among humanity.
Although the words are difficult to comprehend they are perfect words to discuss and teach to your little ones as they are the cornerstone of Christian beliefs. The illustrations are large, simple and bold. I wish the book had started out with the nativity scene so little ones could see the humble beginning that Jesus was born into.
"Each book in the Big Theology for Little Hearts series introduces a big idea from the Bible with concise definitions and engaging illustrations to help young minds gain a foundational understanding of God's word.
With each volume written to complement all the others, this series is designed to help children develop a cohesive framework of theology that includes God, creation, humanity, Jesus, and the gospel-allowing you to start having crucial conversations with your children as early as possible."
This husband and wife team have done a wonderful job of putting a great theological resource into the hands of parents, teachers, and caregivers. I recommend this book.
March 2, 2020
Looking for a book on defining the theological terms concerning Jesus but for little kids? This is what this board book for kids tries to accomplish. It is a part of the Big Theology for Little Hearts series published by Crossway. The series tries to take “big ideas” from the Scripture and give a concise definition and illustrations to help kids between ages 1-5 understand the terms. What a fascinating concept!
The terms that the book defined include deity, incarnation, atonement and resurrection. I don’t know if all the terms could be understood by a one or two year old. I think the terms could be understood by kids from ages 3-5. Still it is worth trying to teach our kids these truths too early rather than too late! No matter what age group it is that parents read this to I think it important for parents to talk more about each concept beyond what this board book is able to state. That was what I was trying to do with my youngest daughter who fall in the age group of intended audience.
I thought the illustrations are beautiful. They are simple and I love the simple color schemes. I want to see what the other books are like in this series.
NOTE: This book was provided to me free by Crossway and Net Galley without any obligation for a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.
The terms that the book defined include deity, incarnation, atonement and resurrection. I don’t know if all the terms could be understood by a one or two year old. I think the terms could be understood by kids from ages 3-5. Still it is worth trying to teach our kids these truths too early rather than too late! No matter what age group it is that parents read this to I think it important for parents to talk more about each concept beyond what this board book is able to state. That was what I was trying to do with my youngest daughter who fall in the age group of intended audience.
I thought the illustrations are beautiful. They are simple and I love the simple color schemes. I want to see what the other books are like in this series.
NOTE: This book was provided to me free by Crossway and Net Galley without any obligation for a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.
February 20, 2021
What I like about the series:
Illustrations, clear, warm, simple, and friendly kid-appeal. Also related to the words defined on each page.
Plan- each book teaches a big theological word in child-friendly language.
Accuracy to the Bible, to adult teaching of these terms, and yet still using phrases that are common for littles- like King, turn your back to sin, Jesus- Rescuer, ...
The other two books published are God and the Gospel. Just as effective and well-chosen as Jesus. These books could teach a 3-year-old, a college kid, or a parent about the most essential doctrine of the gospel.
These books are books that I hope kids request over and over again so that the children memorize the concepts as does the reader. So valuable on so many levels.
What I wonder:
Will children want these books without a rhyme factor repeated over and over?
Will they make posters to go with the series for older kids in classrooms? These would be great word wall images in a learning environment- and if you changed the font, even at a Bible college.
What other books will come in this series.
I purchased these books when they were released and haven't had a chance to read them with littles yet due to the pandemic. But that time is coming soon I hope. I love them- but will littles?
Illustrations, clear, warm, simple, and friendly kid-appeal. Also related to the words defined on each page.
Plan- each book teaches a big theological word in child-friendly language.
Accuracy to the Bible, to adult teaching of these terms, and yet still using phrases that are common for littles- like King, turn your back to sin, Jesus- Rescuer, ...
The other two books published are God and the Gospel. Just as effective and well-chosen as Jesus. These books could teach a 3-year-old, a college kid, or a parent about the most essential doctrine of the gospel.
These books are books that I hope kids request over and over again so that the children memorize the concepts as does the reader. So valuable on so many levels.
What I wonder:
Will children want these books without a rhyme factor repeated over and over?
Will they make posters to go with the series for older kids in classrooms? These would be great word wall images in a learning environment- and if you changed the font, even at a Bible college.
What other books will come in this series.
I purchased these books when they were released and haven't had a chance to read them with littles yet due to the pandemic. But that time is coming soon I hope. I love them- but will littles?
March 2, 2021
The second book in the series Jesus is a basic introduction in Christology for young children. Understanding the person and work of Jesus is a foundational component to discipline the hearts of the next generation. The book walks through doctrines such as the diety of Christ, the incarnation, the sinlessness of Jesus, his role as prophet, priest, and king, the work of Jesus on the cross, and the resurrection. The illustrations in the book, as in the first book, help the reader better understand what is being conveyed. They are well done and age appropriate. This is an excellent resource to introduce young readers to who Jesus is and what He has done for them.
Big Theology for Little Hearts series are excellent resources for families to incorporate into intentional family worship time or even informal discipleship moments. Just as with learning a new language, the best way to learn the truths of Scripture is through continual exposure. I would highly recommend this series to families who are seeking a way to begin discipleship with their children. These books can help provide that opportunity for children through the joy of reading.
Continue reading the review here:
https://readingfortheglory.wordpress....
Big Theology for Little Hearts series are excellent resources for families to incorporate into intentional family worship time or even informal discipleship moments. Just as with learning a new language, the best way to learn the truths of Scripture is through continual exposure. I would highly recommend this series to families who are seeking a way to begin discipleship with their children. These books can help provide that opportunity for children through the joy of reading.
Continue reading the review here:
https://readingfortheglory.wordpress....
April 17, 2020
Devon and Jessica Robyn Provencher have written and illustrated board books to introduce theology to children up to age three (or maybe a little older).
One book is titled Jesus.
Using colorful pictures (there are pictures of Jesus for those who have scruples) and succinct text, the child is introduced to Who Jesus is and what He did.
Jesus is Deity. Jesus in the Incarnation. Jesus is King. Jesus is the Son of God. Jesus is our Rescuer. Jesus is Sinless. Jesus is a Prophet. Jesus is a Priest. Jesus made Atonement. Resurrection.
After each word is highlighted with a two-page picture, there is a sentence explanation, beginning to fill out what exactly is being taught.
This is a wonderful series. Orthodox and well-worded. This is a very approachable way to introduce theology to very young children.
I have a niece who is turning three in August, and I have bought a set of books for her.
[This review appears on my blog, my YouTube channel, Amazon.com, and Goodreads.com.]
One book is titled Jesus.
Using colorful pictures (there are pictures of Jesus for those who have scruples) and succinct text, the child is introduced to Who Jesus is and what He did.
Jesus is Deity. Jesus in the Incarnation. Jesus is King. Jesus is the Son of God. Jesus is our Rescuer. Jesus is Sinless. Jesus is a Prophet. Jesus is a Priest. Jesus made Atonement. Resurrection.
After each word is highlighted with a two-page picture, there is a sentence explanation, beginning to fill out what exactly is being taught.
This is a wonderful series. Orthodox and well-worded. This is a very approachable way to introduce theology to very young children.
I have a niece who is turning three in August, and I have bought a set of books for her.
[This review appears on my blog, my YouTube channel, Amazon.com, and Goodreads.com.]
January 9, 2020
Rescuer- Jesus came to save His people.
Theology for children in simple one word terms that describe who Jesus is. A board book for little ones that help parents get started on the right track introducing the work of Christ. Words like atonement and Priest are not words used in children's Christian books, however, they are important to set up a firm foundation of your child's faith.
Highly recommend for discerning parents.
A Special Thank you to Crossway Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
Theology for children in simple one word terms that describe who Jesus is. A board book for little ones that help parents get started on the right track introducing the work of Christ. Words like atonement and Priest are not words used in children's Christian books, however, they are important to set up a firm foundation of your child's faith.
Highly recommend for discerning parents.
A Special Thank you to Crossway Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
January 10, 2020
Jesus by Devon Provencher & Jessica Robyn Provencher is a wonderful tool for the youngest of theologians! This book is one that can be read to a child over and over again. The illustrations are simple yet beautiful. The book is solid yet understandable for a small child. They do a wonderful job of taking big words like incarnation and breaking it down to show the child what it means. I think every church should have this in their children’s library! This would make a great gift for a younger child who is learning about Jesus.
February 11, 2020
This is a basic children's book, capable of communicating essential truths about Jesus and his role as Messiah. The illustrations are very well done and the text is precise on Jesus' essential saving actions. This book won't please those against images of Jesus, but if you are alright with them, this story book is good for any shelf, kids will be entertained and above all, will get a good introduction on what Jesus came to do for us throughout all his life as our savior, it conveys essential truths on Jesus' role as priest, prophet and king.
May 1, 2020
This is an excellent means to convey truth to little ears. The book is best read as "Jesus is..." and then the word(s) that follow on the page. It helps to convey more of the truth of the theology behind the words rather than simply looking at the words. Otherwise, it may be a little more difficult to understand.
The book is a high quality board book and the illustrations are delightful. These will be used a lot in my house with two small kids.
I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange from an unbiased review.
The book is a high quality board book and the illustrations are delightful. These will be used a lot in my house with two small kids.
I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange from an unbiased review.
November 12, 2020
A succinct look at the personhood and roles of Jesus Christ.
With just one line of text per page it is hard to go into much of any depth, but this book still manages to cover many important aspects of who Jesus is and what He has done. Adults will need more of a Bible background to even understand what some of the illustrations represent (especially the priest's illustration). Recommended for Christian families and schools.
With just one line of text per page it is hard to go into much of any depth, but this book still manages to cover many important aspects of who Jesus is and what He has done. Adults will need more of a Bible background to even understand what some of the illustrations represent (especially the priest's illustration). Recommended for Christian families and schools.
May 14, 2024
A book introducing the historical Jesus primarily targeted at little children. I like that the description is accompanied by illustrations depicting Jewish culture. I think this book will be much better if it covers the Holy Spirit as well, and therefore connect this book with the other book in this series: "The Holy Spirit". It will also make it easier for young readers to connect the contents of the books in the series. But overall, it summarizes our Savior well.
September 11, 2024
Dada got Jack this whole book series. It breaks down huge theological concepts into small bites with bold, richly colored illustrations. Jack wanted to read them by himself right away, but we read this one together the day after he got them, before nap time.
We both like the other Crossway Jesus series better, but this one still has value. Jack sat on my lap and listened, but didn't necessarily have a strong reaction.
We both like the other Crossway Jesus series better, but this one still has value. Jack sat on my lap and listened, but didn't necessarily have a strong reaction.
November 18, 2020
A very simplified introduction to the personhood of Jesus. Short presentation of the gospel. Has a lot of crossover with the other books in the series, and like the others, has plenty more to talk about between the lines and in the pictures. You might use it as an outline to plan Sunday school or chapel lessons about who Jesus is.
January 19, 2021
(4☆ Would recommend)
Great book for kids. It defines theological words in a way that kids can understand. It doesn't go into a lot of depth, but it creates an opportunity for parents to introduce Jesus and build upon the descriptions in the book.
Great book for kids. It defines theological words in a way that kids can understand. It doesn't go into a lot of depth, but it creates an opportunity for parents to introduce Jesus and build upon the descriptions in the book.
February 28, 2021
Whew. Information overload!! Honestly I keep hearing about this Jesus guy so I had to read about him for myself. These definitions helped me understand a bit better, but this book is definitely one I’ll keep going back to.
October 12, 2022
This book is made up of beautiful art (my three year old agrees) paired with a strong summary of who Jesus is. This book helps spur conversations about Jesus’ life and what his sacrifice means. I definitely recommend this book to parents/teachers/etc. looking to introduce Jesus to small children.
February 2, 2020
this is a great little book. I would say the right amount of information for a little reader. Thank you for sharing your book with me
January 8, 2025
Language more appropriate for older kids (3+?)
April 22, 2025
Un libro directo y muy sencillo con verdades acerca del Señor basadas en la Palabra y fácil de compartir principalmente para niños pequeños.
May 9, 2025
an actually good Christian board book. it basically steps through attributes of Jesus. the pictures are cute and perfect for babies or toddlers. the definitions are simple but biblical.
December 4, 2025
Big theological words and ideas explained very simply.
November 23, 2023
Love this whole series. Really good for teaching your little ones the most important things
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews