Jesus the Gate - I am the Good Shepherd

I am the Gate and I am the Good Shepherd

Kids sermon idea: John 10:1 - 10

Involve the children in acting out aspects of John 10:1- 10. Use the children to hold hands and make a sheep pen and have them experience going in and out through the gate to find pasture and to find security at night. Explain how Jesus is the gate into the Kingdom of God. You could explain how Jesus said he was like the gate and that he was also like the shepherd. (The text from John 10 includes both these ideas)

Object lesson props: None / However, a makeshift shepherds crook might help identity the shepherd.

Children’s Sermon: God morning children! In our bible reading this morning we read how Jesus said he was a like a Gate to a sheep pen. I want you to help me act this out so we can understand what Jesus was talking about. Now, I need some of you to make a sheep pen. (Get the children to join hands and form a square or circle.) Now, I also need to make a Gate that can open and close so that the sheep can go in and out. Thank you. Let’s open and close the gate to see how it works. (Get 2 of the children to swing their arms open and closed.) Now, we need a few of you to be sheep. I’ll pretend I am a shepherd and I will lead you in and out of the sheep pen by going through the gate. Since you are sheep, I think you should make some sheep sounds! (bah bah etc.) Let’s open the gate and go inside the sheep pen. Now I’ll close the gate so it’s safe and no wolves can come in and hurt you. Of course, in the morning you need to follow the shepherd out through the gate in order to find pasture and good grass to eat. (Open the gate and lead them out.) Then when night comes they go back in through the gate to safety.

Note: My understanding is that sometimes the shepherd would lie down across the sheep pen entrance make himself be a literal Gate. You could act this out too.

Thank the children and have them sit down. Explain how Jesus said he was the Gate to the sheep pen.

We have to go through Him. To be a part of God’s family and Kingdom we have to go through Jesus. (We believe in Him, and trust Him to be our saviour and friend.) We can’t be a part of God’s family and God’s Kingdom any other way. We have to come through Jesus the gate. (You could also explain how Jesus said he was also like the shepherd who would protect the sheep and lead them out into good pasture.)

Children’s prayer: Thank you God that through Jesus the Gate we can enter your wonderful Kingdom and family. Thank you that Jesus is also a good shepherd who will watch over us and lead us into good pasture. In Jesus’ name – Amen!

Jesus transforms Peter into a Rock - kids sermon

Jesus will transform Simon Peter into a Rock. Kids sermon on John 1:42

Jesus Transformation

Kids sermon idea: This is a fun introduction into the idea that Jesus will make Peter into a solid rock of a disciple. Set up a large box or a stand-up partition to be an imaginary “transformation machine”. Have someone walk behind the machine (or into the box) looking shy and fearful. Have them come out the other side standing up straight and looking confident. Wouldn’t it be great if there was such a machine! Explain how Jesus is in the business of transforming people. Jesus called Simon and said he would make him Peter – the rock. Jesus wants to make us into the people we were created to be.

Set up: 1. A stand up partition or a large box (If you know someone who has purchased a fridge recently. You could add a sign saying, “transformation machine”. 2. Prearrange for someone to enter your machine.

Children’s story: Good morning children! Look what I have here this morning! It’s my transformation machine. I will test it out with my friend Arnold. Look at Arnold. He looks a little shy and fearful. I’m going to have him enter my newest invention. It’s a transformation machine. It makes us into the people we were created to be. (Have Arnold walk behind the partition or into the large box. You could push some pretend buttons for special effects. Have them exit your transformation machine and come out the other side standing tall and full of confidence and enthusiasm.) Wow! Isn’t that amazing! He went in shy and fearful and came out standing tall and confident. My transformation machine is a success!

Unfortunately, this is just a pretend machine. No one has been able to invent a transformation machine. However, Jesus said that his followers could be transformed into the people God created us to be. In our bible reading today Jesus called Simon to follow him. He said that he would call him Peter, which means rock. Jesus was going to transform him into a bold disciple. He would be strong like a rock.

In a similar way, Jesus wants us to follow him, and he promises to transform us. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, he will us make strong, loving, and bold followers of Jesus.

Children’s prayer: Dear God, thank you that Jesus transformed Simon into the Peter the rock. Help us to be faithful followers of Jesus so that we too will be transformed into bold and loving disciples who will help change the world. In Jesus’ name – Amen!

Copywrite 2023 Sundaychildrensfocus - Andrew Hewlett Feel free to use this on Sunday but consider linking to this site or "Like" it on facebook. Thank you! A.H.

Jesus understands - rejected by friends and family

Children's sermon - Jesus is rejected by his friends and family at Nazareth

Basic idea: Help children understand the humanity of Jesus and that he understands when we feel sad or rejected. Have a small group of individual prepared to say negating comments to Jesus. Dramatize how it must have been very painful for Jesus to be rejected by his friends and family at Nazareth, his home town.

Dramatic Children’s sermon:

(Ask a small group of volunteers to represent the friends and family of Jesus in Nazareth. Suggest that they be ready to give comments such as; “That’s just Jesus – he’s not so special, “ or “I’ve seen him before, who cares about him?” Have them walk away from you (Jesus) when they are finished insulting and criticizing you.

Good morning children! This morning our bible reading is about Jesus returning to his home town of Nazareth. Do you think all the people would be excited to see him? Yes, you would think so. Jesus had been doing many wonderful things, he healed many people and was showing his love to many people. However, when he went back to his home town of Nazareth it wasn’t as he had hoped. Now, I have some people that are going to come forward and pretend to be the family and friends of Jesus at Nazareth. (Thank you, please stand just over here)

Now kids, I’m going to pretend I’m Jesus returning home to Nazareth. Watch closely.

(Walking towards the group of volunteers with arms outstretched): “Hello Friends! Remember me? It’s Jesus. I used to live here!” (Members of the group respond with disparaging comments and insults. Jesus keeps trying to be friendly but they reject him. Eventually the crowd of “friends” walks off leaving Jesus all alone and downcast.)

Children, it was so sad that even his friends and some members of his family rejected him. How do you think Jesus felt? (Allow the children to respond) That’s right. Jesus would have been so sad to be rejected by people in his home town. Jesus knows what it’s like to be insulted and hurt. Sometimes people say things to us that make us sad. Perhaps they say something unkind or hurtful. Perhaps they just say they don’t want to play with us. That hurts us inside and can make us sad. If that ever happens to you I want you to remember that Jesus knows what it feels like. He knows what you are feeling inside because he was treated that way too. The good news is that He loves us all the time. He will never leave us or forsake us.

Children’s prayer: Dear God, thank you that Jesus knows what we are feeling and he understands because he suffered and was rejected by his friends. Thank you that He will always love us and will never leave us. In Jesus’ name – Amen!

Copyright 2015 Feel free to use this on Sunday morning but please give credit to Sunday Children's Focus and "Like" this page and consider linking to this web site. Thank you! A.H.

July 4th Independence Day children's idea

Lectionary

4^th of July Children’s sermon Independence Day

(I am from Canada so I don’t have a full appreciation of the 4^th of July and it’s historical meaning for those in the United States. That being said, if I did live in the United States here is a possible angle that might go along with the Lectionary reading of Mark 6:1-13:)

Independence Day

1. Show various symbols or objects used to honor people. (You could use a medal, a trophy or a big fancy chair etc.) You could also have the kids give a big cheer to demonstrate another way of honoring people.

2. Explain how Jesus (Mark 6:1-13) was not always honored. As followers of Jesus, we too will not always be honored. Nevertheless, we keep serving Jesus no matter what comes our way. You could also explain how others may not understand our faith in Jesus and make fun of us.

3. Explain to the children how in some countries Christians don’t have the freedom to openly express their faith. In some countries Christians are persecuted.

4. Highlight how thankful we are that we (those in the United States on this 4^th of July) have the freedom and liberty to live a Christians. We are not under the control of another country and all people have the freedom to practice our faith. That is what we celebrate with fireworks and cheers on the July the fourth.

Idea: Get the children and the congregation to give a big cheer to show honor to Jesus and his disciples. Lead the children in a prayer of thanksgiving for the freedom experienced in our country. (And perhaps lead in a cheer of thanksgiving)

Peace – Andrew Hewlett

Kids lesson on the Cost of Following Jesus

Children’s sermon idea teaching about the cost of following Jesus Luke 14 25-33

(Ministry idea - work in progress!)

Here is an idea for a children sermon or Bible lesson on the cost of following Jesus: It’s not a perfect analogy (and maybe a little convoluted) but it will allow the children to “see” visually the process of counting the cost of following Jesus. I think it can work. (Of course, the text says we need to give up everything, but this is a tangible way of considering some personal costs Christian kids face)

Count the cost

Object lesson idea: I’m thinking of using some balance scales or improvising a balance scale with a balance board sitting on a pivot point. Explain how weigh scales were used to measure the weight of money or something of worth. Load up on one side items representing the cost of following Jesus. Then on the other side place a big heavy item representing the value of following Jesus and being a child of God.

Object lesson props: Some small dark stones representing the costly weight of following Jesus. A big colorful rock representing the amazing love and life of Jesus. A board balance in the middle as a weigh scale.

Good morning children! Do you see this homemade balance weigh scale here? Many years ago they used to use these to weigh out gold, silver or perhaps some fool like wheat or corn. (Give a simple demonstration). Sometimes it’s very important to know the cost of things. In fact, Jesus said that if we want to follow him (be a Christian disciple) we need to count the cost. Following Jesus is wonderful but there is a cost, things we need to give up.

What are some costs of following Jesus – things we need to consider if we want to follow Jesus? Do you see these small items or stones? Let’s pretend they remind us of the “costs” of following Jesus.

1 Let’s pretend this stone reminds us of money. (or just use coins) If we want to follow Jesus he may want us to give some of our money to help the poor. (Place the stone of the left side of the balance – tipping it down.

2 What are some other costs of following Jesus? Let’s pretend this stone represents some people that might make fun of us because we go to church. (place the stone beside the other stone or money)

3 Instead of a rock, this time let’s put my watch on the scales. It reminds us that following Jesus means letting him plan out how we spend our time.

4. (Keep going – you get the idea)

Now children, it might seem that there are a lot of reasons that make following Jesus difficult. There are a lot of “costs” weighing down this side of the balance. However, compared to following Jesus and knowing his wonderful love these things are worth letting go of. (Reach over and pick up a large gold colored rock) This rock looks like a huge piece of Gold. It reminds me of the wonderful love and life of Jesus. Let’s place it on the other side of the balance. Wow! It outweighs all those other things. Knowing and following Jesus so important.

Kids, following Jesus is often hard. Showing love to our enemies, giving our money, sometime being made fun of, (point to the stones / items on the left) is difficult and costly. But it’s truly worth it! Jesus’ love is so amazing, precious, wonderful, and valuable. It’s of far more value than these things.

Kids closing prayer: Dear God, thankyou that knowing you and your son Jesus is the greatest thing in all the world. When we are finding it difficult following Jesus, remind us that your love and life is worth more than anything in the whole world. In Jesus’ name. Amen!

Kids object lesson - I stand at the door and knock

Children's sermon - Behold I stand at the door and knock - Rev 3:20 -

Basic idea: Use a door knocker (or knock on a small door or piece of wood) and explain how Jesus said he was standing at the door of our hearts, knocking, and wanting to come in.

Advent door

Full children's sermon: Good morning children! I'm so happy to see all your smiling faces today. Today, we're going to talk about something really special—a door knocker! Have you ever seen a door knocker before? It's that cool thing on doors that you can knock to let someone inside know that you're there! Many houses just have a button and buzzer or bell, but many houses still have a knocker like this.

Now, I want to tell you about an amazing Bible verse. It's from the book of Revelation, which is kind of like the last part of the Bible. The verse is Revelation 3:20, and it says something very interesting. It says that Jesus is like a friend who knocks on the door of our hearts. Isn't that awesome?

Let me show you this door knocker I brought. (Show them the door knocker) See, just like this door knocker, Jesus is always knocking on the door of our hearts. He wants to come into our lives. But here's the thing—he doesn't force his way in. No way! Jesus is like the best friend ever, and he waits for us to open the door and invite him into our lives.

You see, Jesus wants to be a part of everything we do—when we play, when we learn, when we're happy, and even when we're a bit sad. He loves us so much that he wants to be with us all the time. He loves us so much. How amazing is that?

Now, let's imagine our lives are like houses, and Jesus is standing at the door, knocking. Can you pretend to knock on a door with me? Knock, knock, knock! Great job!

So, when we share love with our friends, when we're kind to others, when open our lives to Jesus in prayer, and when we do what we know God wants us to do, it's like we're opening the door to Jesus. We're saying, "Come on in, Jesus! Be a part of my day!" Lets go through this day together!

And you know what? Jesus is always there, ready to join us. He loves us so much, and being with us makes him really happy.

So, my friends, let's always be sensitive to Jesus knocking on the door of our hearts. We may not hear a sound like this (bang on the door knocker) but we can sense that Jesus is wanting to come in and be a big part of our lives. Let's welcome him in every part of our lives—when we play, when we eat, when we learn, and when we rest, when we are happy and when we are sad. Jesus is the best friend we could ever have, and having him with us makes everything even more wonderful!

I hope you remember this the next time you see a door knocker or hear a knock on the door. Jesus is always ready to come in and be a part of our lives because he loves us so, so much!

Children’s Prayer: Dear God – thankyou that Jesus loves us so and wants to be a central part of our lives. Help us always to “open the door” of our hearts and welcome him in. That way we can know that he will guide us and lead us into the wonderful life that he has for us. In Jesus’ name – Amen!

Kids sermon - Jesus withdrew to a quiet place to pray

Jesus withdrew to a quiet place to pray: A Lesson on the Importance of spending time with God - Mark 1

No objects needed – Just one child to come up front.

(Start with a child standing up front of the other kids, ready to participate in the interactive exercise.)

Good morning children! I'm so excited to talk to you today about something very special – the importance of finding quiet time alone with God. But first, let's try something together.

(Point to the child standing up front.)

I need your help, everyone. On the count of three, let's all call out to our friend here with lots of demands and requests. Take 10 seconds to think of what you want the to do. Ready?

(Count to three, and have the group call out loudly to the child.) This should be fun.

Now, how do you feel? (Allow the child to share their feelings.)

It can be overwhelming when everyone is demanding our attention, right? Sometime you can’t even think properly. Just like in our game, life can get really noisy with school, friends, chores, and activities. But guess what? We have a special friend who knows exactly how we feel – Jesus!

In the Bible, in the book of Mark, it says that Jesus often withdrew to lonely or quiet places to pray. You see, Jesus understood the importance of finding a quiet spot away from the noise and pressure. So many people wanted to talk to him, to be healed, or to get something from him.

Imagine if Jesus were here with us today. (In fact He is here because he said “I am with you always”. He might say, "Hey, friends, sometimes you need to step away from all the noise and find a quiet place to talk to God. It's like having a special meeting with your best friend."

Just like we need a break from the demands of our noisy game, we also need a break from the demands of life. When we spend quiet time with God, it's a chance to share our thoughts, dreams, worries, and joys. God loves hearing from us, and it helps us feel more at peace.

Here are a few reasons why finding quiet time with God is so important:

Peace in the Noise:
- When life gets noisy and busy, spending time alone with God helps us find peace in the midst of it all.
Guidance and Wisdom:
- Sometimes we don’t know what to do. God can give us guidance and wisdom when we take the time to listen to Him. It's like having the best GPS for our lives!
Sharing Our Hearts:
- Just like we share things with our friends, God wants us to share our hearts with Him. He cares about everything we feel and think.

So, kids, let's remember the lesson from our game. Just as we gave our friend a break from all the noise and demands, we too need a break sometimes. Jesus showed us the way by withdrawing to pray, and we can do the same.

Children’s Prayer: Dear God, thankyou that when we are busy and upset we can always come away to a quiet place and meet you in prayer. In Jesus’ name – Amen!

Kids sermon - The Good Samaritan

The Good Samaritan - Children's Object lesson idea: Check it out!

There are a number of different angles one could take on the parable of the Good Samaritan. 1. Who is my neighbour? (2) Authentic love (3) The risk and cost of showing genuine love. (4) Don't be suprised of where we might find examples of true love. (5) How we can be very busy but loose sight of the command to love. (6) How we can easily seek to justify ourselves ie "Who is my neighbour?" Etc.

Kids sermon a New Commandment to Love

Kids sermon - A new commandment love (John 13)

By this shall all know you are my disciples

Children’s sermon: John 13:31-35 The commandment to love one another

Children’s sermon idea: (Have on hand items of clothing, hats or badges that represent various occupations and people.) Discuss with the children how they can recognize various people by what they wear. Discuss how we might recognize a group of Christians. Jesus said “By this shall all know that you are my disciples.” It’s our love for one another that should show that we are Christians.

Object lesson items: Clothing items worn by various people / professions. You might need to borrow some clothing items from members of your congregation.

Children’s sermon: Good morning children. In this box I have various garments that people wear. (Bring out a hard hat.) What person might wear a hat like this? That’s right. If you saw someone wearing this they might be a workman or a carpenter. (Hold up a fireman’s coat and hat.) What kind of person would wear this clothing? Right – a firefighter. (Continue with some more items of clothing that are easily identifiable.) You did very well. I have one more question. How can you recognize that someone is a Christian? If you saw a group of people how would you know they were Christians?

That’s right. Christians wear different kinds of clothing. It’s not that easy to tell right away. However, in our bible reading today from the gospel of John, Jesus said that there was one thing that would let others know we are Christians. Jesus said that if we had love for one another other people in the world would be able to tell that we are Christians. Others can’t tell that we follow Jesus by looking at what we wear. However, they should be able to tell that we follow Jesus by how we love each other. Jesus said, “by this shall all know you are my disciples, if you love one another.” Let’s pray and ask God to help us love each other so that other would recognize us as Christians and want to know about Jesus and his love.

Children’s Prayer: Dear God, please give us power through the Holy Spirit to grow in our love for each other. In that way others might be able to see that we follow Jesus and that they too might decide to follow him and know his wonderful love. In Jesus’ name – Amen.

Kids sermon Feed my Sheep (short video)

Children's message Feed my Sheep (Short idea via video) Jesus is the good shepherd who looks after his sheep and feeds them

Kingdom Priorities

-Seek first the Kingdom of God - Matt. 6: 25-34 also Worry, Ministry, self seeking, seek ye first the Kingdom of God -

(For use as a Children's Sermonor as an introduction to a creative Sunday School lesson)

Props: None (Spontaneous drama this morning)

Time:5 Minutes

Basic Children's sermon Idea: Set up a “static” dramatic contrast to show the kids what it means to “seek first the kingdom” and not to worry too much about food and clothing etc.

Full Children's Story Good morning children. This morning in our Bible reading Jesus says that we shouldn’t spend too much time worrying about food and clothing. We should focus most of our attention on doing the work of Kingdom of God. This morning I’ll show you the difference. Now, I need some people over on this side of the children. Betty, John and Karen. Would you come forward here and show us some of the kingdom ministry that God wants us to do. John, you sit in this chair with your hands over your face as if you are very sad and discouraged. Betty, would you knell down beside him with your hand on his shoulder like you are trying comfort him. Karen, why don’t you stand here ….(-do some ministry task: bandage a wound, read the bible, share some food, etc.) Now I want you to just stay there holding that position. Now, I need some more volunteers to help me over on this side. (Ask a few members of the congregation to come forward to the other side of the children.) Bill, Frank, George and Tom, please come forward and stand right here. Now I want you to be very worried about your clothes this morning. Bill, look at Frank’s nice sweater. I want you to be look very worried that his sweater is nicer than yours. George, I want you to look very worried about the color of your hair. Hold your hands like this pretending to look into a mirror. Don’t forget to look very worried! (Keep assigning tasks.) Keep looking at each other up and down and worry about your clothing. (I had to keep reminding the congregation that this was serious and not to laugh too much. However, a little snickering simply adds to the obvious ridiculousness of the picture.)

(Speak to the children) Now kids, I want you to look at these two pictures. I want you to point to the group that is doing God’s Kingdom work. That’s right! This is the work of the Kingdom of God. Jesus, who is our King, would certainly want us to be spending our time doing this sort of thing. But look at this group over here. Look at how worried they are. They are spending all their time worried about what they are wearing and what other people are thinking about them. Of course we want to look nice, and have nice clothes. That’s fine. But some people spend so much time worrying about clothes and the latest fashions (point actors on the left) that they never get around to doing God’s Kingdom work! (Point to your other group). Listen to what Jesus said…(read Matt 6:25-34) He said for us to seek first the Kingdom of God. Let’s take Jesus seriously and always live our lives putting the Kingdom first and worries about what style of clothes we wear second.

Pray: (before praying you could get the “worriers” to come over and join the group doing the work of the Kingdom of God.) “Lord. Thank you that you have provided for our needs. Most of us here have a place to live, nice clothes and good food. Help us not to worry too much about these things, but rather to seek first your kingdom. In Jesus name, Amen”

(Option: Get the kids to do the acting)

Copyright Andrew Hewlett 2009 sundaychildrensfocus.com Feel free to use this story at your Sunday morning service but please give credit to sundaychildrensfocus.com and consider linking to this site. Thank you! Blessings, A.H. PS - Please click the facebook "like" button.

Lectionary Lesson: Jesus sends us out

Children's Story on Jesus sending out the disciples

Theme: Jesus sends out his disciples

Text: Mark 6:1-13 Lectionary: Trinity 4 disciples sent out

Props: None (This is in keeping with the idea that the disciples were instructed to take nothing for the journey.)

Basic idea: A Simple interactive drama on how Jesus sent his disciples out and that he sends us (his disciples today) out into the world.

Full Story: Good Morning Children. I want to read to you a bible passage from the 6^th chapter of Mark’s gospel. It’s about Jesus sending out his disciples. (Read the text – paraphrase if necessary) Jesus knew there were many people in the world that were hurting and in need so he called his followers who were learning about him (his disciples) and sent them out to bring healing. He also sent them out with the important message about turning away from sin (what we do wrong) and turning to God. Since we are also disciples of Jesus lets pretend that we are being sent out by him this morning. First of all the bible says that Jesus called the disciple to himself. He knew they needed to spend time with him first before going out into the world. They needed to know his love and his power. So come in close together. (Get the children to huddle in close) Then Jesus sent them out two by two to preach repentance (turning away from what is wrong and turning to God), teach, to heal and to overcome the power of evil.

Explain that on this journey Jesus told them not to take extra things with them. Explain that we need to remember that sometimes people don’t need “things” to help them; they just need a message (repentance and the good news of Jesus) and prayer (for healing and restoration). Those two things are very powerful. God used the disciples when they didn’t have any “things” to give. God will use us to bring life and healing to others even when we don’t have things to give. The message of repentance and faith in Jesus Christ, and our powerful prayers are of central importance in the world.

1. Small congregation: Quickly, tell the congregation that you are dividing them into two groups. Ask all the people who were born on an even numbered year to remain seated, leaning forward with their heads in their hands (these are the people needing healing). Tell the rest of the congregation to stand up and turn around facing the opposite direction. (These are the people needing to repent and turn to God).

2. Larger congregation: (Use the same idea but use only a limited number of church rows)

(Explain that the disciples will be sent out two by two and will be asked to quickly go out into the “world” to touch (in Jesus’ name) the people needing healing and that after receive this “healing touch” to stand up - representing their healing. The people needing repentance (have their backs turned) can turn around when the young disciples look at them and say “repent and turn to God.”

Set up the children in groups of twos and make sure they know what to do. Send the children out with the message of repentance and the power to heal.”

Chaos should ensue (it makes it fun) until all the people are standing facing forward. Check to make sure no one has been missed. Ask the children to gather again. Explain that this was a fun drama but that God really does send us into the world as his disciples. God wants us to share the good news of “repentance and faith” in Jesus Christ and also to pray for those in need.)

Pray: God, thank you for sending the disciples into the world to preach and to heal. Thank you that we are your disciples and that you send us into the world with the Good News of Jesus and also with the power to pray for people – that God would bring healing to then and help them in all their needs. In Jesus’ name. Amen

(Note: If some people are in wheel chairs and can’t stand up ask them to raise their hands as a sign that they haven’t been completely healed yet but they have been made whole by Jesus)

Let the children come unto me

“Let the children come unto me” A skit for the Children’s

Sermon or Sunday school class

Children’s Sunday school lesson on Humility:This children sermon is a bit more complicated than usual – but I do think it is effective. I did this lesson right in the church sanctuary as an interactive children’s sermon. It takes some set up so it would also lend itself well for a group Sunday school lesson (As a alternate simply use the "Kingdom fort" as an object lesson and demonstrate how we have to humble ourselves to enter.)

Basic idea: Make a “Kingdom fort” out a card table and blanket. Arrange to have a big, rich “important” person ask to enter the fort. Explain that they have to humble themselves and get down on their knees to get inside. When they explain that this is beneath their dignity invite the children to easily come through the small entrance. Discuss Mark 10:15 “anyone who does not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.”

Props: Card table, blanket, (option: use a big piece of cardboard to make a small entrance)

Dark sunglasses, cigar and hat for the “proud” person. (They will need a quick private briefing before the story starts.

Full Story: Good Morning children. I’d like you to come over here this morning. This morning I have a special fort here. I call it the “Kingdom Fort.” Who wants to come inside? (Have your big important person come up from the congregation and interrupt you.) ”Excuse me; my name is Blade Steele – the millionaire movies star. I think it is only appropriate that I go first before these children./Hmm. Nice to meet you. However, not just anyone can come into this Kingdom fort, you see…/ But you don’t understand who I am, I’m Blade Steele the rich…/ But Mr. Steele the only way you can get inside is if you get down on your knees and crawl…/ Well, I could never do such a thing, however perhaps this money might make things easier (flash some bills)…/No, I’m sorry Mr. Steele… but you can certainly try.

(Pull back the blanket revealing a very small entrance. Mr. Steele tries unsuccessfully to get in.)

Hmmm. That’s too bad it doesn’t look like you can get in without kneeling down. Please stand back Mr. Steele. I think some of these children would like to come in. (Show the entrance to the young children. They easily enter the Kingdom fort.) Hey! All the children made it. Let’s give them a cheer. I’m glad you like the fort. You were all small enough to enter. I’d like you to come back out here for a moment because I have something important to say to you. Listen to this passage in the Bible. (Read Mark 10:13-16) The disciples didn’t think Jesus wanted to be with the young children but Jesus said they were wrong. He reached out and held the children and said that unless we were like a little child we could not enter the Kingdom of God. That is what our little play was about. Mr. Steele thought that he could get into the Kingdom fort because he was so important and had so much money. But he was so full of selfish pride that he wasn’t willing to get on his knees and make himself small. Jesus said we could only enter his Kingdom if we were willing to humble ourselves like little children.

Children’s Prayer: Thank you God that you love us so much. Thank you that even though we might be very young and small you still welcome us into your family. May we always be willing to humble ourselves and make ourselves small to enter your Kingdom. In Jesus’ name – Amen!

Let the children come unto me

Children's sermon idea: Let the children come unto me

Object Lesson -Not of this World

Kids sermon / object lesson Not of this World

Object Lesson Text: John 17:6-19

Objects: Toy duck, teddy bear or any stuffed animal (or a live animal if possible)

Children's Sermon idea: Jesus said that as Christians we are “not of this world.” Heaven is our true home. Place a bird, duck or some other animal (It could be a real animal.) on one of your church chairs beside other members of your congregation. Discuss with the children how this little animal would feel in this strange place away from the duck pond. Discuss with the children how heaven is our true homeand the implications of being “not of this world.”

Full Children's Sermon : Good morning children. I want to read to you something that Jesus said. It’s found in the Gospel of John, chapter 17, vs 13-18. (Read the text). Jesus said that we are “not of this world” in the same way that he is “not of this world.” Isn’t that interesting? As Christians and followers of Jesus our true home is heaven and this world is just a place we are visiting. I’ll explain to you what that is like. Look what I brought to church this morning. (Hold up a little duck). Imagine someone brought a little duck to church – this is just a toy duck but we can pretend. We’ll put him / her right here beside Mr. Johnston with all the other people in our church. How do you think this little duck will feel? (Discuss the fact that he is away from his real home at the duck pond. Discuss how he might feel out of place. Discuss how the people might get upset with the bird quacking and flying around etc.) That’s right. It would be difficult because this church is not the duck’s real home. I’m sure he would sit here dreaming about his true family and friends at home in the duck pond. Jesus said that as Christians and followers of Jesus our true home is heaven and that we are only visitors in this world. Because heaven is our true home we might sometimes feel like this little duck here this morning. Sometimes other people will make fun of us because we follow Jesus. Sometimes others just won’t understand what being a Christian is all about. Sometimes we will feel like this world is not our home. But that’s ok. Our real home is with God in heaven. Even here our earth we are members of the Kingdom of God. One day we will be with God in heaven but in the meantime there is so much for us to do here. Jesus sends us into this strange world to show his love, his power and his life to the many people who are lost and don’t know him.

Kids Prayer: Dear God. Thank you that we have a wonderful home with you in heaven. While we are here on earth help us to share the love of Jesus in word and example. When we feel out of place and uncomfortable in this world help us to remember your son Jesus said he would always be with us. We ask this in the name of Jesus – Amen.

Copyright Andrew Hewlett sundaychildrensfocus.com 2009

(Feel free to use this story but please give me credit and consider putting a link on your web site – Blessings, A.H.)

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Parable of the Ten Virgins

Parable of the Ten Virgins – Always be ready -

Children’s sermon overview:

This is an object lesson that will help your kids and congregation understand the important message of the Parable of the Ten Virgins (Matt 25) while highlighting the importance of being prepared in times of need. Use oil lamps or flashlights to make the lesson interactive and relatable. If you use flashlight you could always start by showing of what an “old fashioned flashlight” (ie a oil lamp) looked like.

Note: If you are doing this in front of the whole congregation you could have someone turn out the lights. Then pretend to be in a fluster until you pull out your flashlight – only to discover the batteries are dead! Then relate this to being prepared for the coming of Christ.

Object lesson items:(if you are doing this in a separate room apart from the congregation)

Ten lamps or flashlights (five should have fully charged batteries, while the other five should be out of power). Adjust the numbers if you don’t have too many children.
A darkened room or space where lights can be dimmed.
A copy of Matthew 25:1-13 or rehearse a paraphrased version.

Object Lesson:

Start by briefly introducing the Parable of the Ten Virgins and its message of preparedness. Mention that we'll be using lamps or flashlights to illustrate this lesson. To keep things simple (and depending on the age of the children) you could retell the parable by referring to wise and foolish “people”.

a. Set the Scene: Dim the lights in the room to simulate a power outage. Explain to the participants that we will pretend that there is a sudden blackout, and you need their help to find a solution.

b. Divide the Lamps: Hand out the ten lamps or flashlights to the participants, five with working batteries or oil, and five that are out of power. (You could hand them out before too)

c. Role Play: In the darkened room, have five participants with working lamps act as the "wise virgins /people," and five with non-working lamps act as the "foolish virgins." Encourage the "wise virgins" to help and share their light with the "foolish virgins."

d. Light of Preparedness: Discuss with the participants how being prepared helps us not only in power outages but also in life's unexpected challenges. Link this to the parable and the importance of being ready to meet / serve Jesus at any time.

Invite participants to think about situations in their lives where being prepared is crucial. Encourage them to share their thoughts and discuss how they can apply the lesson from the parable to their daily lives as followers of Jesus.

Emphasize the importance of being prepared spiritually, not just for power outages, but for life's trials and challenges.

Summarize the main points of the lesson, reiterating the importance of being spiritually prepared for Christ's return and being a source of light to others in times of darkness.

Children’s Prayer: Dear God, Help us always to be prepared and ready for when the power might go out in out our homes. Also, help us also to be living in such a way that we will be ready to meet Jesus when he returns – In Jesus’ name – Amen!

Parable of the Wedding Banquet

Children’s sermon on the Parable of the Wedding Banquet / Feast -

Matthew 22: 1-14

Kids talk idea: Ask the children to use their imagination to pretend they invited their friends to a party and ask them how they would feel if everybody was busy. Play to them a series of (pre-recorded) excuses on a phone answering machine (with the standard “beep” after each excuse). Read out a paraphrase of the parable of the Wedding Banquet and explain how God would feel if we never had time for him. (You could flesh this out by saying in the end you might invite others you didn’t know quite as well.)

Prepare: Arrange to have 4 or 5 friends to phone in a short excuse to your home answering machine (Best to do this all at one time). You could have some fun with the excuses. Then record the series of answers on your cell phone or a voice recorder so that you can play it back to the children on Sunday morning. (Use well known people in the congregation and make sure the excuses are pretty pathetic!)

Full Children’s Sermon:

Good morning Children! How many of you have ever had a party and invited friends and family to come? (Allow time for response) Did you send out invitations or phone people to see if they could come? How would you feel if you were planning a really special party and when you invited them to come they all had an excuse why they couldn’t come! How would you feel? Would you be sad? Would you be angry? Now, I have something I would like you to listen to. Imagine I was planning on getting married and was going to have a big party to celebrate. Imagine I sent out messages to all my friends to come and celebrate at my party. Imagine how I would feel if I heard responses like this on my answering machine: (Play the fun responses you have recorded.)

How would you feel? (Interact with the children) That’s right, I would feel very sad and I might even feel mad!

In our bible reading this morning from Matthew chapter 22 Jesus tells a parable about how God wants us to come to Him and be a part of his wonderful family and Kingdom. Jesus tells us that this is like a wonderful party! (Read a simple paraphrase of the parable) Isn’t that sad. Jesus is telling us that God wants us to follow him and join him in a wonderful celebration but most people are too busy with other things! Children, I know you have many important things to do in life. However, I hope and pray that you always have time for God (the Father) and Jesus His Son! If we miss out on following God and being a friend of Jesus it would be like missing out on the best party of all!

Children’s Prayer: Dear God, Thank you that you love us and want us to be a part of your great family and family celebration. Help us to never be so busy that we put other things before you or your son, King Jesus. In Jesus’ name – Amen!

Prophet without honor

A prophet without honor Mark 6: 1-13

Children’s sermon idea: Show the children some visual symbols we use to honor people. Explain how Jesus was not always honored by those around him. Help the children understand how we are not always honored or understood when we share the love of Jesus with others.

Props: Anything that we use to honor people. An Olympic medal, a fancy chair, large sign with the words “THANK YOU”.

*(As an alternative / addition you could have the congregation give a cheer of approval or a frown)

Full Children’s sermon: Good morning children! Do you see this medal? What sort of person would you give this to? That’s right, someone how won a race or did really well at some sports event. Who would you give a giant thank you card to? Yes, someone who did something that you really appreciated. Who might you get to sit in a really fancy chair like this? Sometimes people show their appreciation by cheering. I’m going to get the congregation to give you followers of Jesus a big cheer. (Prompt the congregation to rousing cheer.) Wow! That felt pretty good, didn’t it! We all like to be appreciated and we all like it when people say thank you for something we did. There is a word that explains how we might feel. It’s the word “honor” (You might want to unpack this a bit. You could also ask the congregation to frown as that look at the children.)

You probably know that Jesus travelled around doing good wherever he went. But did you know that not everyone was happy with him? Not everyone honored him. In fact, sometimes even those very close to him did not understand or honor him for the wonderful things he did. You might think that everybody would be happy with what he did but that is not what always happened.

As followers of Jesus, we will not always be appreciated or honored for the good things we do. In fact, sometimes close friends may make fun of us or get angry at us. This happened to Jesus, and it will sometimes happen to us. When that happens, it might make us sad, but we should not stop doing good and showing love to others! It’s nice when people honor us with a cheer or a word of thanks, but we need to keep following Jesus even when nobody seems to care.

(You might want to wrap up the message by getting the congregation to give a big cheer for the kids.)

First Place / Gold Medal

Children’s Prayer: Dear God, thank you that Jesus kept on showing love to people even when some didn’t appreciate it. When people don’t say thank you (and honor) us, help us to know that YOU love us. That is the most important thing. In Jesus’ name – Amen!

Copyright SundayChildrensFocus.com Andrew Hewlett 2021

(Feel free to use this on Sunday morning but please give credit to this site and “Like” us on your social media platform. Thank you! A.H.)

Render Unto Caesar - Render unto God

Render unto Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s – Matthew 22 21 -

Giving to Caesar and Giving to God – Matthew 22 -

Overview:

In this object lesson, use jars and coins to help children understand the concept of "Rendering unto Caesar what is Caesar's" from Matthew 22. The lesson aims to teach children about the importance of fulfilling their civic responsibilities while also remembering their spiritual duties. I believe it’s also important to include the idea that we are stewards of all that God entrust to us. Note: You could also include the idea that the religious leaders tried to trick Jesus.

Materials:

Two clear jars or containers, labeled "Caesar" and "God."
Coins (real or play money).
Bible (Matthew 22:15-22).

Interactive Text for Children:

Teacher: Today, we're going to learn an important lesson from the Bible about giving to Caesar and giving to God. Do any of you know what "Caesar" means?

Child: (Responds)

Teacher: Great! Caesar was like a king or a leader in the Bible times, and he wanted people to give him money, just like our government collects money from us today. The government uses the money to build roads, provide drinking water and many other important things.

Now, I have two jars here. (Show the labeled jars) This one says "Caesar," and this one says "God." (Point to each jar as you say its name. Under the label “God” write; giving to our church, giving to missionaries, helping the poor etc.Under the label on the jar named “Caesar” write: building roads, providing for the leaders of our country, etc. Ask the children if they understand this.

Child: (Answers may vary)

Teacher: We're going to use these jars to learn a lesson about money and responsibilities. The Bible tells us that everything we have belongs to God. So, we should give a part of what we have to God to show our love and thankfulness and to support His church (Place some coins in the "God" jar)

Child: (Observe and engage)

Teacher: But, the Bible also says that we should give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar. In our time, Caesar means our government, and we give them money to help our community and our country become a better place. (Place some coins in the "Caesar" jar)

Child: (Observe and engage)

Teacher: Now, let's try something fun! I'm going to give each of you some coins. (Distribute coins) You can decide whether you want to put your coins in the "Caesar" jar or the "God" jar. If you put it in the "Caesar" jar, it's like paying taxes to help our country. If you put it in the "God" jar, it's like showing love and thanks to God. Perhaps you want to give some to each.

Child: (Children place their coins in the jars)

Teacher: Great job, everyone! Just like we've learned, it's essential to give to both Caesar and God. By paying our taxes, we help make our community better, and by showing love and thanks to God, we strengthen our faith, help the family of God (our church) and our missionaries.

Child: (Engage in a short discussion or questions, if time permits)

Teacher: Let's close with a simple prayer. Dear God, thank you for all the blessings you give us. You are the owner of everything and everything we have is yours. Help us to be responsible and caring citizens by giving to Caesar and giving to you. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Resources for the Sunday Morning Children's Story

My prayer is the someday soon this web site would be a great, FREE resourse for children's sermons and Sunday school - Coming up: Object lessons and talks for Christmas - Jesus is the reason for the season! He is the greatest gift of all.

Whether one is Anglican (Episcopal), Baptist, Catholic, Evangelical, Orthodox or Penticostal - children need to hear the gospel presented in a lively and biblical way

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