Lesson: Acts 28:7 (Ages 9-11)

📖 Acts 28:7 – Ages 9-11

Explanation

In Acts 28:7, we learn about Publius, who was an important person on the island where Paul and others had landed. Publius welcomed and took care of them for three days. This shows us the importance of showing kindness and hospitality to others, just like how Publius did.

Imagine if you had a friend who came to your house and you welcomed them with a big smile, shared your toys, and made sure they felt at home. That's similar to what Publius did for Paul and his friends. By being kind and hospitable, we can make others feel loved and cared for, just like Jesus teaches us to do.

So, this verse reminds us to be like Publius – to show kindness and hospitality to those around us, whether they are friends, family, or even strangers. This way, we can spread love and warmth just like Publius did, and it pleases God when we treat others with care and kindness.

Kid's Story

Once upon a time, in a far-off land, there lived a kind-hearted squirrel named Sammy. Sammy loved to share his acorns with his friends. One day, a big storm hit the forest, and many of Sammy's friends lost their homes.

Remembering the story of Publius in Acts 28:7, Sammy decided to help his friends just like Publius helped Paul and his companions. He gathered all his friends and invited them to stay in his cozy treehouse. For three days, Sammy shared his acorns, told stories, and made his friends feel at home.

By the end of the storm, Sammy's friends were thankful for his hospitality. They learned that kindness and generosity can make a big difference in someone's life, just like Publius welcomed and entertained Paul and his friends. And Sammy felt happy knowing he had helped his friends in their time of need.

Prayer Prompt

Dear God, thank you for showing us the importance of hospitality through Publius in Acts 28:7. Help us to be kind and welcoming to others just as he was. Amen.

Discussion Questions

1. Why do you think Publius welcomed and entertained Paul and his friends hospitably for three days?
2. How do you think Paul and his friends felt when Publius welcomed them so kindly?
3. How can we show kindness and hospitality to others like Publius did for Paul and his friends?
4. Why do you think it's important to be hospitable to strangers and friends alike?
5. How do you think Paul and his friends showed their gratitude to Publius for his hospitality?

Life Application

In Acts 28:7, we see Publius showing hospitality by welcoming and entertaining Paul and his companions for three days. Children can apply this message in their lives by showing kindness and hospitality to others. They can welcome friends or classmates who may be new or feeling left out, by including them in activities and making them feel at home. Children can also show hospitality at home by helping with chores or setting the table for family meals. By being welcoming and hospitable, children can reflect God's love and kindness to those around them.

Craft or Activity

To help children understand and remember Acts 28:7, you can have them create a "Hospitable Host" gratitude jar. Provide each child with a jar or container and various craft materials like stickers, markers, and colored paper. Encourage them to decorate the jar and write "Hospitable Host" on it.

Explain to the children that just like Publius welcomed and entertained Paul and his companions hospitably, they can show hospitality and gratitude to others. Instruct the children to write down acts of kindness they receive or witness from others on small pieces of paper. These acts can be big or small, such as someone sharing their toys or a friend inviting them to play.

Have the children fill their gratitude jars with these notes of kindness throughout the week. Encourage them to reflect on the importance of showing hospitality and gratitude, just like Publius did. This hands-on activity will help reinforce the message of Acts 28:7 in a fun and interactive way.

Memory Verse or Rhyme

In Malta, Publius showed us grace,
Welcoming us to his place.
Three days of hospitality so kind,
Acts 28:7, in our hearts, we'll find!

Songs or Videos

One Christian song that relates to the message of Acts 28:7 is "Love One Another" by Yancy. This song emphasizes the importance of showing hospitality and love to others, just as Publius welcomed and entertained Paul and his companions.

Another song that kids may enjoy is "The Fruit of the Spirit" by Go Fish. This song talks about the different qualities that the Holy Spirit produces in our lives, including kindness and hospitality, which are demonstrated by Publius in Acts 28:7.

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