Lesson: Matthew 25:18 (Ages 6-8)

📖 Matthew 25:18 – Ages 6-8

Explanation

In this Bible verse, Jesus tells a story about a man who gave his servants some money called talents. Two of the servants worked hard and doubled the money they were given. But the third servant was afraid, so he buried the money in the ground to keep it safe.

Just like the man in the story gave talents to his servants, God gives us special gifts and talents too. These gifts can be things like being kind to others, helping people, or being a good friend. God wants us to use these gifts to make the world a better place, just like the two servants who worked hard and doubled their money.

But the third servant was scared and didn't use his talents. This reminds us that God wants us to be brave and not hide our gifts. We should share our talents with others and use them to bring joy and goodness to the world.

So, let's remember to be brave like the two servants, use our gifts to make a difference, and not be afraid to share the love and kindness that God has given us!

Kid's Story

Once upon a time, there was a little squirrel named Sammy who loved collecting acorns. One day, Sammy's friend, Mr. Owl, gave him three shiny acorns and asked him to take care of them.

Sammy was so excited but instead of planting them or sharing with his friends, he buried them in a secret hole. He thought he was keeping them safe.

One day, a big storm came, and Sammy forgot where he buried his acorns. He felt sad and worried because he couldn't find them. Mr. Owl gently reminded Sammy that he should have used the acorns to grow more trees or share them with others.

From that day on, Sammy learned that it's important to use what we have wisely and share our blessings with others, just like the lesson in Matthew 25:18.

Prayer Prompt

Dear God, thank you for all the talents and gifts you give me. Help me to use them wisely and not hide them away like the servant in the Bible story. Amen.

Discussion Questions

1. Why do you think the servant in the story decided to bury the talent instead of using it?
2. How do you think the master felt when he found out what the servant had done with the talent?
3. What do you think the servant could have done differently with the talent he was given?
4. How can we use the gifts and talents God gives us to make a positive impact in the world?
5. Why is it important to be responsible and faithful with the things God has entrusted to us?

Life Application

This verse teaches us that God has given each of us unique talents and abilities, and He wants us to use them wisely and not hide them away. Children can apply this message in their daily lives by being brave and trying new things, like helping their family with chores at home, participating in school activities, or sharing their talents with friends. By being courageous and using their gifts to help others and bring joy, children can honor God and make a positive impact in their homes, schools, and friendships.

Craft or Activity

One fun activity to help children understand and remember the message of Matthew 25:18 is to create a "talent treasure hunt."

You can prepare different clues that lead the children to various locations where "talents" (coins, small toys, or treats) are hidden. Each child can start with a certain number of talents, representing the gifts and abilities that God has given them.

As they find each talent, they can reflect on how they can use their own talents in positive and productive ways, just like the servants in the parable. Encourage them to share their talents with others, invest them wisely, and not be afraid to use what they have been given.

This hands-on activity can help reinforce the importance of stewardship and using our gifts for God's glory, just like the servants who multiplied their talents in the parable.

Memory Verse or Rhyme

Listen closely, don't be funny,
Use your talents, make them sunny.
Don't hide them away, let them shine bright,
God gave them to you, use them right!

Songs or Videos

One song that relates to the message of Matthew 25:18 is called "My God is So Big." This song emphasizes the importance of using the gifts and talents God has given us instead of hiding them away. Another great song is "This Little Light of Mine," which encourages children to let their light shine and not hide it under a bushel, just like the parable of the talents teaches us. Both songs are fun and engaging ways to help kids understand the importance of using their talents for God's glory.

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