Lesson: Matthew 24:3 (Ages 9-11)

📖 Matthew 24:3 – Ages 9-11

Explanation

One day, Jesus sat with his friends on a special hill called the Mount of Olives. His friends, the disciples, had some big questions in their hearts. They asked Jesus when important things would happen and how they would know when Jesus would come back and the world would end.

Imagine you are waiting for a friend at the playground, and you ask them when they will arrive and how you will recognize them. In a similar way, the disciples asked Jesus about the signs of his return and the end of the world.

Jesus' friends wanted to know what signs to look for, like how the sky changes colors before a storm. Jesus shared important things with them, just like you would share clues with a friend to recognize you at the playground.

So, this Bible verse reminds us that just as the disciples asked Jesus about the signs of his coming back, we can also look forward to Jesus' return and be ready by following his teachings with love and kindness. It's like waiting for a dear friend to arrive, and we want to be ready to welcome Jesus with open hearts when he comes back one day.

Kid's Story

Once upon a time, in a land filled with talking animals, a curious rabbit named Rosie hopped up the Mount of Olives to meet wise Mr. Owl. Rosie, eager to learn, asked, "Mr. Owl, when will exciting things happen, and how will we know when it's happening?"

Mr. Owl, perched on a branch, replied, "Dear Rosie, just like the disciples asked Jesus long ago, we too wonder about important things. Jesus will give us signs to know when He is coming again and the world will end."

Rosie nodded, understanding that just like the disciples, she needed to be patient and watchful for Jesus' signs. She hopped back down the mountain, excited to share the news with her friends. From then on, Rosie waited eagerly, knowing that Jesus' return would be a wonderful and special event.

Prayer Prompt

Dear God, thank you for always being with us to answer our questions and guide us. Help us to trust in You and Your timing, just like the disciples did when they asked Jesus about the signs of His coming and the end of the age. Amen.

Discussion Questions

1. What do you think the disciples were feeling when they asked Jesus about when certain things would happen?
2. Why do you think the disciples asked Jesus for a sign of His coming and the end of the age?
3. How do you think Jesus felt when the disciples came to Him with these questions?
4. Can you think of a time when you had questions about something important, like the disciples did? How did you feel?
5. How can we show our trust in Jesus even when we don't have all the answers to our questions?

Life Application

This Bible verse teaches us that Jesus' disciples came to Him with questions about the future and His second coming. Children aged 9-11 can apply this message in their everyday lives by remembering to seek guidance and understanding from Jesus when they have questions or concerns. Just like the disciples went to Jesus with their questions, children can talk to Jesus through prayer when they are unsure or curious about something.

When faced with uncertainty or challenging situations at home, school, or with friends, children can remember to turn to Jesus for wisdom and comfort. They can pray and ask Jesus for help in understanding difficult topics, making decisions, or dealing with tough emotions. By seeking Jesus in prayer, children can find peace and confidence in knowing that He is always there to listen and guide them through any situation.

Craft or Activity

One fun activity to help children understand and remember the message of Matthew 24:3 is to create a "Signs of the Times" poster. Provide children with markers, stickers, and colorful paper. Have them create a poster showing different signs that Jesus mentioned in the Bible that indicate His second coming and the end of the age. Encourage them to be creative and include symbols or drawings that represent things like wars, earthquakes, false prophets, and other signs Jesus spoke about. This hands-on activity can help children engage with the message of Matthew 24:3 in a visual and memorable way.

Memory Verse or Rhyme

On the Mount of Olives, Jesus sat,
Disciples came with questions that!
"When will these things come to be?
And the signs of Your return, we want to see!"

Remember this verse, clear and bright,
Jesus' words bring us hope and light!
His coming we eagerly await,
To guide us through the end, He's never late!

Songs or Videos

A great Christian song for kids that relates to the message of Matthew 24:3 is "Jesus is Coming Soon" by Colin Buchanan. This song talks about the anticipation of Jesus' return and how we should be ready for that day. Another wonderful song is "We'll Understand It Better By and By" by the Cedarmont Kids, which speaks about trusting God's timing and understanding His plans for us in the future. Both of these songs can help children grasp the message of Matthew 24:3 in a fun and engaging way.

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