Lesson: Matthew 27:13 (Ages 9-11)

📖 Matthew 27:13 – Ages 9-11

Explanation

In this Bible verse, Pilate, who was a Roman governor, asked Jesus a question. He was trying to see if Jesus would defend Himself against the many accusations people were making. It's like when someone tells you something bad about your friend, and you have a chance to explain or defend your friend.

But Jesus didn't need to defend Himself because He knew the truth and trusted God's plan for Him. It shows us that even when people say mean things about us, we can trust God to take care of us.

Just like Jesus, we can be strong and trust that God is with us, no matter what others say. It's a reminder to be brave and hold on to our faith, even when things are tough.

Kid's Story

Once upon a time, a curious squirrel named Sammy overheard the animals in the forest gossiping about his friend, Remy the rabbit. They were saying mean things about Remy, and Sammy didn't know what to do.

Feeling upset, Sammy decided to seek advice from Wise Owl, who lived in the tallest tree in the forest. Wise Owl listened patiently and then asked Sammy, "Do you hear how many things they are saying about Remy?"

Sammy nodded, his eyes wide with worry. Wise Owl gently explained, "Just like how Pilate questioned Jesus, sometimes people say unkind things about others. It's important to stand up for your friends and speak the truth, even when it's hard."

Sammy realized that true friends support each other, just like how Jesus faced his accusers with courage and honesty. From that day on, Sammy always stood up for his friends and spoke out against gossip in the forest.

Prayer Prompt

Dear God, thank you for always listening to us, even when others may say things that are not true. Help us remember that just like Jesus, we can trust in You no matter what others may say. Amen.

Discussion Questions

1. Why do you think Pilate asked Jesus if He heard all the things the people were saying about Him?
2. How do you think Jesus felt when He was being accused by the people?
3. What do you think Jesus might have been thinking about or feeling during this moment with Pilate?
4. How can we show kindness and courage, like Jesus did, when people say unkind things about us?
5. Why do you think it's important to stay true to what we believe, even when others may speak against us?

Life Application

In this verse, Pilate is questioning Jesus, who remained silent despite the accusations against Him. Children can apply this message in their own lives by remembering to stay calm and composed when faced with false accusations or gossip from others. They can choose to respond with grace and wisdom, just as Jesus did, rather than reacting impulsively or defensively. This can help them handle conflicts or misunderstandings at home, school, or with friends in a mature and respectful manner, showing others the love of Jesus through their actions.

Craft or Activity

Let's create a "Truth or Lie" game to help children understand and remember Matthew 27:13. Write down statements related to the Bible on cards, some true and some false. Have the children take turns reading the statements out loud and guessing if they are true or false. This activity will help them grasp the concept of people making false accusations against Jesus, just like in the verse from Matthew.

Memory Verse or Rhyme

When Pilate asked, "What do they say?"
Jesus stayed silent, showing the way.
Even when falsely accused, He stood tall,
Teaching us to trust in God through it all!

Songs or Videos

A great Christian song for kids that relates to the message of Matthew 27:13 is "He Will Not Speak" by Seeds Family Worship. This song teaches kids about Jesus' silence before Pilate despite false accusations. Another wonderful song is "Jesus, What a Savior" by Sovereign Grace Kids, which highlights Jesus' willingness to endure false accusations for our sake. Both songs can help kids understand the significance of Jesus' actions in this verse.

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