Lesson: Acts 16:35 (Ages 9-11)

📖 Acts 16:35 – Ages 9-11

Explanation

In Acts 16:35, we learn about a time when some important leaders sent police officers to tell others to let go of some men who were in trouble. This shows us that even powerful people can change their minds and do the right thing.

Imagine if you were playing a game with your friends, and someone made a mistake and got in trouble. Then, another friend who is in charge says, "It's okay, let them keep playing." That's like what happened in this Bible verse!

Just like how the leaders decided to be kind and release the men, we can also learn to show kindness and forgiveness to others, even if we have the power to punish them. It's important to remember that being kind and forgiving is a wonderful way to follow God's teachings and make the world a better place.

Kid's Story

Once upon a time in a bustling town, there was a mischievous squirrel named Sammy. Sammy loved to play tricks on his friends, but one day his pranks went too far and he accidentally broke Mrs. Owl's favorite vase.

Mrs. Owl was very upset and she demanded that Sammy be punished. The town's chief magistrate heard about the incident and decided to send the police to talk to Sammy. When the police arrived, they spoke to Sammy and explained the situation.

Sammy felt guilty for what he had done and realized that he needed to take responsibility for his actions. He apologized to Mrs. Owl and promised to make it right by helping her clean up the mess and by saving up his acorns to buy her a new vase.

Just like in Acts 16:35, when the chief magistrates sent the police to release the men, Sammy learned that sometimes it's important to admit when you've made a mistake and to make amends. And from that day on, Sammy became known as the most helpful and responsible squirrel in town.

Prayer Prompt

Dear God, thank You for protecting Your followers in times of trouble. Help us to trust in Your power and goodness, knowing that You are always with us. Amen.

Discussion Questions

1. What happened when daylight came in Acts 16:35?
2. Who sent the police to release the men mentioned in this verse?
3. Why do you think the chief magistrates decided to release those men?
4. How do you think the men felt when they were released by the police?
5. What can we learn from this verse about God's protection and provision for His followers?

Life Application

In Acts 16:35, we see how the chief magistrates recognized their mistake in arresting Paul and Silas without a fair trial, and they sent the police to release them. This verse teaches us the importance of admitting when we are wrong and making things right.

Children can apply this message in their daily lives by learning to apologize when they make a mistake or wrong someone. If they accidentally break a sibling's toy, they can say sorry and try to fix it or make amends. If they forget to do a chore at home, they can admit their oversight and make sure to do it promptly.

At school, if they say something hurtful to a classmate, they can apologize and make an effort to be kinder. They can also speak up if they see someone being treated unfairly or bullied, just like the chief magistrates corrected their wrongdoing by releasing Paul and Silas.

With friends, if they have an argument or disagreement, they can follow the example of Acts 16:35 by resolving the issue peacefully and coming to a mutual understanding. It's important for children to learn the value of admitting mistakes, seeking forgiveness, and making things right in their relationships and interactions with others.

Craft or Activity

Let's create a "Release Those Men" puzzle activity!

Materials needed:
- Cardstock or heavy paper
- Colored pencils or markers
- Scissors

Instructions:
1. On the cardstock, write out the words "Release Those Men" in big letters.
2. Cut the cardstock into puzzle pieces, making sure to cut through the letters as well.
3. Mix up the puzzle pieces and have the child put the pieces back together to reveal the message.
4. As they complete the puzzle, you can discuss the verse from Acts 16:35 and talk about how God helped Paul and Silas in their time of need.

This hands-on activity will engage the child in a fun way while reinforcing the message of the Bible verse.

Memory Verse or Rhyme

When daylight came, the men were free,
Sent by the magistrates, you see.
Acts sixteen, verse thirty-five,
God's power helped them to survive!

Songs or Videos

A great song for kids that relates to the message of Acts 16:35 is "My God Is So Big" by Cedarmont Kids. This song reminds children that God is powerful and can do amazing things, just like how He helped Paul and Silas in the Bible story. Another wonderful song is "Every Move I Make" by Hillsong Kids, which talks about how we can trust God in every situation just like Paul and Silas did when they were in prison. Both of these songs can help kids understand the message of God's faithfulness and power in difficult times.

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