Lesson: Luke 18:16 (Ages 9-11)

📖 Luke 18:16 – Ages 9-11

Explanation

In this verse, Jesus is telling us that children are very important to Him. He wants children to come to Him because the kingdom of God is like a special club that belongs to kids like you.

Imagine the kingdom of God as a giant playground where there are lots of fun games and treats waiting for you. Jesus is like the best friend who invites you to join in the fun and enjoy all the good things in this special place.

When Jesus said, "Let the little children come to Me, and don't stop them," He was telling everyone that kids are loved and valued by Him. Just like how you feel happy and welcomed when you're invited to a friend's birthday party, Jesus wants children to feel happy and loved in His kingdom.

So, remember that Jesus loves you very much and wants you to be a part of His kingdom, where you are cherished and cared for. It's like being in a big, loving family with Jesus as your best friend forever.

Kid's Story

Once upon a time, in a bustling village, there was a curious little girl named Lily. She loved to explore and discover new things. One day, she heard that Jesus was visiting their town. Excited, she ran to see Him, but the grown-ups tried to stop her, saying she was too young to understand.

But Jesus saw her eagerness and called out, "Let the little children come to Me!" Lily's eyes lit up as she approached Him. Jesus smiled warmly and told everyone that the kingdom of God belongs to those with childlike faith, like Lily.

From that day on, Lily shared the story with her friends and taught them that Jesus loves all children, no matter how young. She learned that faith and love are what truly matter in God's eyes.

Prayer Prompt

Dear God, thank you for loving us like Jesus loved the children in the Bible. Help us to always remember that we are welcome in Your kingdom, just like the little children. Amen.

Discussion Questions

What do you think Jesus meant when He said, "Let the little children come to Me"?
Why do you think Jesus said that the kingdom of God belongs to children?
How do you think Jesus feels about children?
Do you believe that children are important to Jesus? Why or why not?
How can we show that we are like children in our faith and trust in God?

Life Application

In Luke 18:16, Jesus is showing us that children are important to Him and are welcome in His kingdom. Children can apply this message in their daily lives by always remembering that they are loved and valued by Jesus.

At home, children can show love and respect to their family members, knowing that they are also loved by Jesus. They can also be kind and helpful to their siblings and parents, just as Jesus loves and cares for them.

In school, children can be inclusive and friendly to everyone, just like Jesus welcomed the children to come to Him. They can stand up against bullying and show compassion to classmates who may be feeling left out.

With friends, children can be good examples of Jesus' love by being kind, honest, and forgiving. They can include others in their play and always be a friend who brings joy and positivity to those around them.

By remembering Jesus' words in Luke 18:16, children can spread His love and kindness wherever they go, making the world a better place for themselves and others.

Craft or Activity

Let's create a "Kingdom of God" crown craft! Start by cutting strips of construction paper and have the children decorate them with colorful markers or stickers. Then, have them write or draw things that represent the kingdom of God, such as love, kindness, peace, and joy. Finally, help them staple or tape the strips together to create a crown they can wear. As they wear their crowns, remind them that Jesus wants all children to come to Him and that the kingdom of God is a place of love and acceptance for everyone, including them.

Memory Verse or Rhyme

Jesus loves the little ones, it's true,
In Luke 18:16, He said, "Let them come to Me, too!"
The kingdom of God is for kids like you and me,
So trust in Jesus, and His love you'll see!

Songs or Videos

One wonderful Christian song for kids that relates to the message of Luke 18:16 is "Jesus Loves the Little Children." This song celebrates the love and importance of children in Jesus' eyes, just like in the verse you mentioned. Another great song is "Children of the Light" by Steve Green, which also highlights the significance of children in God's kingdom. Both songs beautifully convey the message of Jesus welcoming and cherishing children.

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