Lesson: Mark 6:20 (Ages 9-11)

📖 Mark 6:20 – Ages 9-11

Explanation

In this Bible verse, it talks about a man named Herod who was a ruler at that time. Herod was afraid of a man named John because he knew John was a good person who followed God's ways.

Even though Herod felt uneasy when John spoke to him about doing the right things, he still found John's words interesting. This shows us that sometimes even when we hear something that makes us uncomfortable, it's important to listen because it might be something that can help us grow and become better people.

Just like Herod, we should be open to listening to others who share God's teachings with us, even if it challenges us. It's a reminder to always be willing to learn and grow in our faith, even if it's not always easy.

So, remember, being open to hearing God's word and being willing to learn from it, even when it's hard, can help us become stronger in our faith and better people in God's eyes.

Kid's Story

Once upon a time, in a magical forest, there lived a wise old owl named Oliver. All the animals respected Oliver because he was kind and always gave good advice. One day, a mischievous squirrel named Sammy started causing trouble in the forest.

Worried about Sammy's behavior, Oliver decided to talk to him. Sammy didn't want to listen at first, but Oliver's gentle words touched his heart. Oliver explained that even though King Herod was afraid of John the Baptist, he still listened to him because he knew John was a good and holy man.

Sammy realized that he should listen to Oliver's advice just like King Herod listened to John. From that day on, Sammy became a better squirrel, and the forest was a happier place for everyone. And Oliver smiled, knowing that his wisdom had made a difference.

Prayer Prompt

Dear God, thank you for protecting us and surrounding us with righteous and holy people like John. Help us to be brave like John in sharing your message, even when it might make others uncomfortable. Amen.

Discussion Questions

What do you think it means to be a righteous and holy person like John the Baptist?

Why do you think Herod listened to John even though he was disturbed by what he said?

How do you think John's courage in speaking the truth can inspire us to do the same in our lives?

Do you think it is important to listen to people who speak truth, even if it makes us uncomfortable? Why or why not?

How can we show courage and stand up for what is right, even when it may be difficult, like John did?

Life Application

In Mark 6:20, we see that Herod respected John the Baptist as a good and holy person, even though he didn't always agree with him. Children can apply this by showing respect to others, even when they have different opinions or beliefs. They can listen to others with an open heart and mind, just like Herod listened to John. This can help them build positive relationships with family, friends, and classmates, even when they may not always see eye to eye.

Craft or Activity

Let's create a "Listening Ears" craft to help children understand and remember the message of Mark 6:20. You will need construction paper, scissors, markers, and yarn.

1. Cut out two large ear shapes from the construction paper.
2. On one ear, write "Listen to God's Word" and on the other ear, write "Obey God's Word."
3. Decorate the ears with colorful markers and designs.
4. Punch a hole at the top of each ear.
5. Thread a piece of yarn through the holes to connect the ears, creating a wearable "Listening Ears" craft.
6. Explain to the children how Herod was interested in what John the Baptist said, even though it made him uncomfortable. Encourage them to wear their "Listening Ears" as a reminder to listen to and obey God's Word, even when it challenges them.

This hands-on activity will engage the children and help reinforce the message of Mark 6:20 in a fun and interactive way.

Memory Verse or Rhyme

Herod feared, but still gave an ear,
To John's words that he did hear.
Even when he felt quite vexed,
He listened close, he was perplexed.
So let's remember, like Herod did,
To listen well and keep our lids.

Songs or Videos

One great Christian song for kids that relates to the message of Mark 6:20 is "Be Bold, Be Strong" by the Kids Praise Kids. This song encourages children to be bold and strong in their faith, just like John the Baptist was righteous and holy in the eyes of Herod.

Another wonderful song is "I Am a C-H-R-I-S-T-I-A-N." This song not only teaches kids how to spell the word "Christian," but also reminds them to stand firm in their faith and follow Jesus, even when faced with challenges, just like John the Baptist did as he spoke boldly about God's truth to Herod.

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