Lesson: John 18:20 (Ages 6-8)

📖 John 18:20 – Ages 6-8

Explanation

Jesus is saying that He has always shared His teachings openly with everyone. Just like how when you have a special toy, you love showing it to all your friends so they can enjoy it too, Jesus wanted everyone to know about God's love and how to live in a good way.

He taught in the synagogue and the temple, which were like special places where people gathered to learn about God. Jesus didn't keep any secrets because He wanted everyone to understand His message of love and kindness.

Think of Jesus like a bright light shining in a dark room. His teachings bring light to our hearts and help us see the right path to follow. Jesus wants us to be honest and loving, just like He showed us by the way He lived His life.

Kid's Story

Once upon a time, in a bustling village, there was a curious little squirrel named Sammy. Sammy loved to climb trees and listen in on conversations happening below.

One day, Sammy overheard a group of birds whispering about a secret treasure hidden in the forest. Excited, Sammy scurried over to join them, eager to learn more. But when Sammy asked about the treasure, the birds grew quiet and refused to share any more details.

Confused and disappointed, Sammy remembered the words of Jesus, "I have spoken openly to the world." Realizing that true friends share openly and honestly, Sammy decided to share all the acorns hidden in his tree with the birds, teaching them the joy of being honest and open with each other.

And from that day on, Sammy and the birds became the best of friends, always sharing openly and never keeping secrets from each other.

Prayer Prompt

Dear God, thank you for always speaking openly to us. Help us to listen to Your words and learn from Jesus's example of teaching openly. Amen.

Discussion Questions

1. Why do you think Jesus said that He spoke openly to the world?
2. Where did Jesus teach? Why do you think He chose to teach in those places?
3. How do you think Jesus wanted people to feel when He said He didn't speak in secret?
4. Do you think it's important to share the good news with others openly like Jesus did? Why or why not?
5. How can you follow Jesus' example of speaking openly about God's love and teachings in your own life?

Life Application

This verse from John 18:20 shows us that Jesus always spoke openly and honestly. Children can apply this message in their lives by always telling the truth and being honest in all situations. At home, they can be truthful with their parents and siblings, even when it's difficult. In school, they can speak up honestly in class discussions and group projects. With friends, they can be truthful and trustworthy, just like Jesus was. Being honest and open, like Jesus, helps build strong relationships and shows integrity in everything they do.

Craft or Activity

One fun activity to help children understand John 18:20 is to create a "Truth Box." Have the children decorate a small box with colorful designs and the words "Truth Box" on it. Inside the box, provide small cards with different scenarios written on them. Some can be true statements, while others can be false or misleading.

Ask the children to read each scenario aloud and decide if it represents something true or false. Encourage them to discuss why they think each statement is true or false. This hands-on activity can help children grasp the importance of honesty and speaking openly, just like Jesus did.

Memory Verse or Rhyme

Jesus taught for all to hear,
In the temple, loud and clear.
No secrets, no hidden things,
His words like a bell that rings.

Songs or Videos

One great Christian song for kids that relates to the message of John 18:20 is "The B-I-B-L-E" by Cedarmont Kids. This song emphasizes the importance of reading and knowing the Bible openly and sharing its teachings with others.

Another wonderful song is "This Little Light of Mine," also by Cedarmont Kids. This song encourages children to let their light shine and share the love of Jesus openly with everyone they meet, just like Jesus taught openly in the synagogue and temple.

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