Lesson: Galatians 1:1 (Ages 3-5)
📖 Galatians 1:1 – Ages 3-5
Explanation
Paul is saying that he didn't become an apostle, which is like a special messenger for Jesus, because people told him to or gave him a special job. Instead, Jesus and God chose him for this important job. It's like when your best friend picks you to be the line leader at school, not because the teacher said so, but because your friend thinks you are the best person for the job. Paul wants us to remember that Jesus and God have a special plan for each of us, just like they did for him.
Kid's Story
Once upon a time, there was a little squirrel named Sammy who loved to explore the forest. One day, Sammy found a shiny acorn and wanted to share it with his friends. As he scampered through the trees, he heard a gentle voice calling his name.
It was a wise old owl perched on a branch. The owl told Sammy about a special messenger named Paul, who was chosen by Jesus Christ and God the Father. Sammy learned that just like Paul, he didn't need anyone's permission to share his joy and kindness with others. He could do it because God had given him the gift of love.
From that day on, Sammy shared his acorns with all his forest friends, spreading happiness wherever he went. And whenever he felt unsure, he remembered that he was chosen by God, just like Paul.
Prayer Prompt
Dear God, thank you for sending Paul to teach us about Jesus and how much You love us. Help us remember that Paul was chosen by Jesus and God, not by people. Thank you for raising Jesus from the dead, showing us Your amazing power and love. Amen.
Discussion Questions
1. Who sent Paul to teach about Jesus - was it people or God?
2. Who raised Jesus from the dead according to this verse?
3. What does it mean to be an apostle of Jesus Christ?
4. How can we know that Paul’s message came from God?
5. Why is it important to listen to what Paul teaches us about Jesus?
Life Application
Paul is telling us that he became an apostle, or messenger of Jesus, because Jesus chose him, not because people said he could. For young children, this verse can teach them that they are special and loved by Jesus just as they are. They can remember that they don't need to rely on what others say about them to know that they are important. This can help them be confident in who they are and trust that Jesus has a special plan for them. So, when they are at home, school, or with friends, they can remember that Jesus chose them and loves them just the way they are.
Craft or Activity
To help young children understand Galatians 1:1, you can engage them in a simple craft activity. You can create a craft where children make a paper chain representing the chain of authority from God to Paul. Have them color or decorate each link of the chain with symbols of God, Jesus, and Paul. As they create each link, you can explain how God sent Jesus, who then chose Paul to be his messenger. This hands-on activity can visually represent the message of the verse in a fun and interactive way for young children to remember.
Memory Verse or Rhyme
Let's chant with glee,
About Paul we'll see,
Sent by God, not men, you see,
Through Jesus and the Father, raised from the dead, that's key!
Songs or Videos
One great Christian song for kids that relates to the message of Galatians 1:1 is "Who You Say I Am" by Hillsong Kids. This song reminds us that our true identity comes from God, just as Paul's authority as an apostle came directly from Jesus Christ and God the Father.
Another wonderful song that reflects the message of Galatians 1:1 is "I Am Yours" by Lauren Daigle. This song emphasizes our relationship with God and our belonging to Him, much like how Paul recognized his calling and authority as an apostle through Jesus Christ and God the Father.
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