Lesson: Matthew 11:22 (Ages 3-5)

📖 Matthew 11:22 – Ages 3-5

Explanation

In this verse, Jesus is teaching us about how important it is to listen to Him and follow His teachings. Imagine if you have a special toy that you really love and take good care of. Now, imagine if someone else came and didn't play with the toy nicely or took it away from you. That person would be in more trouble than if they had never played with your toy at all.

In the same way, Jesus is saying that the cities of Tyre and Sidon, who did not have the opportunity to learn about Him like the people He was talking to, will have an easier time on judgment day than those who heard about Him but didn't listen or follow Him.

So, it's important for us to remember to listen to Jesus, be kind to others, and follow His teachings so that we can make Him happy and be ready for when He comes back one day.

Kid's Story

Once upon a time, there was a little squirrel named Sammy who loved to gather nuts for the winter. One day, Sammy noticed his friend, Joey the rabbit, struggling to find food. Without hesitation, Sammy shared his nuts with Joey, even though he knew he would need them later.

Later, as Sammy was resting in his cozy tree, he heard a wise owl named Olivia talking about kindness and sharing with others. Sammy realized that he had done a good thing by helping Joey, even though it meant he might have less for himself.

Remembering the verse from Matthew 11:22, Sammy understood that being kind and helping others is more important than having lots of nuts stored up. He felt happy knowing that he had done the right thing, and that being generous is a blessing in itself.

Prayer Prompt

Dear God, thank you for your love and guidance. Help us to always listen to your words and be kind to others. Amen.

Discussion Questions

1. Why do you think Jesus said that it will be more bearable for some places on the day of judgment?
2. How can we make sure we are doing what Jesus wants us to do so that we will be ready for the day of judgment?
3. Can you think of a way to show kindness and love to others, like Jesus teaches us to do?
4. What do you think it means to be accountable for our actions when we make choices?
5. How can we pray and ask Jesus to help us choose what is right and good?

Life Application

In Matthew 11:22, Jesus is warning people who had seen His miracles but still did not believe in Him. For young children, this verse can teach them about the importance of believing in Jesus and following His teachings. They can apply this message in their lives by being thankful for the things Jesus has done for them, such as loving them and helping them. Children can also remember to be kind and loving towards others, just as Jesus has shown kindness and love to them. By believing in Jesus and following His ways, children can experience His love and blessings in their everyday lives.

Craft or Activity

Let's create a simple sorting game using pictures or cutouts of different cities or places. You can include pictures of Tyre and Sidon along with pictures of other cities. As you go through each picture, you can talk about how Jesus mentioned Tyre and Sidon in the Bible verse and why it will be more bearable for them on the day of judgment. This hands-on activity will help reinforce the message that Jesus shared in Matthew 11:22 in a fun and interactive way for young children.

Memory Verse or Rhyme

In Tyre and Sidon, they'll have it light,
But for those who reject God, it won't be right.
Remember to love and follow His way,
So on Judgment Day, you'll be okay!

Songs or Videos

One song that kids might enjoy is "God's Love is Bigger Than a Burger" by Colin Buchanan. This fun and catchy song conveys the message that God's love is greater than anything else in the world, including our favorite things like burgers.

Another great song is "The B-I-B-L-E" which is a classic children's song that teaches kids the importance of reading and following the Bible. This song can help reinforce the message of Matthew 11:22 by emphasizing the significance of God's Word in our lives.

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