Lesson: John 4:45 (Ages 9-11)
📖 John 4:45 – Ages 9-11
Explanation
In this verse, it's like when you go back to school after summer vacation, and all your friends are excited to see you. When Jesus went to Galilee, the people there were happy to see Him because they had heard about all the amazing things He did in Jerusalem during the big festival.
Just like when you do something really cool at school, and your friends who weren't there want to hear all about it, the Galileans wanted to welcome Jesus and hear all about the wonderful things He did. It's a reminder that when we do good things and show love to others, people will be excited to be around us, just like the Galileans were excited to see Jesus.
Kid's Story
Once upon a time, a curious and playful puppy named Scooter lived in a small town called Galilee. One day, Scooter heard exciting stories about a wonderful man named Jesus who did amazing things in Jerusalem during a big festival.
Eager to see Jesus for himself, Scooter decided to make the journey to Jerusalem. Along the way, he met many friendly animals who shared their own stories about Jesus. Scooter was filled with anticipation and couldn't wait to meet Him.
When Scooter finally arrived in Jerusalem, he saw Jesus performing miracles and spreading love to everyone. Scooter was amazed by all the wonderful things Jesus did, and his heart was filled with joy.
As Scooter returned to Galilee, he couldn't wait to share the good news with his friends. Just like the Galileans who welcomed Jesus with open arms, Scooter learned that sharing stories of Jesus's love and kindness can bring joy and unity to everyone around him.
Prayer Prompt
Dear God, thank you for showing us Your love through Jesus. Help us to welcome Jesus into our hearts just like the Galileans welcomed Him. Amen.
Discussion Questions
1. Why do you think the people in Galilee welcomed Jesus when He arrived?
2. How do you think the Galileans felt after seeing everything Jesus did in Jerusalem during the festival?
3. What can we learn from the way the Galileans responded to Jesus?
4. How do you think Jesus felt knowing that the people in Galilee welcomed Him because of what they saw Him do in Jerusalem?
5. How can we show our love and welcome Jesus into our own lives today?
Life Application
In John 4:45, we see that the people in Galilee welcomed Jesus because they had seen the amazing things He did in Jerusalem. This verse teaches us that when people see our actions and how we live our lives, they can be influenced to welcome Jesus into their own lives too.
So, as a child aged 9-11, you can apply this message by showing kindness, love, and compassion to those around you. At home, you can help your family members, be respectful, and share God's love with them through your words and actions. At school, you can be a good friend, stand up for what is right, and show others the love of Jesus by being kind and inclusive. With your friends, you can be a positive influence, encourage them to make good choices, and share the joy of knowing Jesus with them.
Remember, just like the people in Galilee welcomed Jesus because of what they saw Him do, others can be drawn to Jesus through your behavior and how you treat others. So, let your light shine brightly wherever you go, and show others the love of Jesus in all that you do.
Craft or Activity
One fun activity to help children understand and remember the message of John 4:45 is to create a "Welcome Him" banner. Provide the children with colorful paper, markers, stickers, and other craft supplies. Have them write "Welcome Him" on the banner and decorate it with symbols representing Jesus and his teachings. Encourage the children to discuss why it is important to welcome Jesus into our lives, just like the Galileans did in the verse. This hands-on activity can help reinforce the message of the verse in a creative and engaging way.
Memory Verse or Rhyme
When in Galilee, Jesus was received with glee,
The Galileans welcomed Him, filled with glee,
They saw His miracles in Jerusalem, you see,
During the festival, they shouted, "Yippee!"
Songs or Videos
One great Christian song for kids that relates to the message of John 4:45 is "Every Move I Make" by Hillsong Kids. This song talks about following Jesus and being joyful in His presence, just like the Galileans welcomed Him in Galilee.
Another wonderful song is "This Little Light of Mine." This song encourages children to let their light shine for Jesus, just as the Galileans recognized and welcomed Him because of the wonderful things He did.
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