Lesson: Matthew 9:14 (Ages 6-8)

📖 Matthew 9:14 – Ages 6-8

Explanation

In this Bible verse, some friends of John the Baptist came to Jesus and asked why His disciples weren't fasting like they and the Pharisees did. Fasting means not eating for a while to pray and be closer to God.

Jesus answered like this: Imagine that you have a big party because you are so happy. You wouldn't fast during a happy celebration, right? That's why Jesus said His disciples didn't need to fast while He was with them because He brought great joy and happiness.

So, just like how we don't fast at a fun party, Jesus wanted His disciples to enjoy His presence and be happy with Him. He was like the best party ever, full of joy and love. And that's why they didn't need to fast at that time.

Kid's Story

Once upon a time, in a small village, there was a little lamb named Lily. Lily loved to follow the shepherd, learning all about Jesus from him. One day, Lily noticed that some of the other lambs asked the shepherd, "Why do we have to eat plain grass while the other animals get to eat sweet apples?"

The shepherd smiled and told Lily and the other lambs a story about Jesus and His disciples. He explained that just like how different animals eat different foods, people also have different ways to show love and respect to God. Some fast to show they are sorry for their mistakes, while others show their love in different ways.

Lily understood that everyone's relationship with God is unique, and it's essential to respect each other's ways of worship. From that day on, Lily learned to appreciate the diversity in how people show their love for God.

Prayer Prompt

Dear God,

Thank you for always being with us and teaching us important things. Help us to understand that everyone worships you in different ways, and that's okay. Just like how some people fast to be close to you, and others show their love in different ways. Help us to respect each other's ways of worship and always follow your teachings with love and kindness.

Amen.

Discussion Questions

What do you think the disciples of John and the Pharisees were asking Jesus about fasting?
Why do you think fasting was important to some people during the time of Jesus?
How do you think Jesus responded to the question about fasting?
Why do you think Jesus and His disciples approached fasting differently than the disciples of John and the Pharisees?
How can we show our love and dedication to God in ways other than fasting?

Life Application

In this verse, the disciples of John were asking Jesus why His disciples weren't fasting like they and the Pharisees did. This can teach children that it's important to focus on their relationship with God rather than simply following what others are doing. Children can apply this by remembering to seek God in their own unique way, whether it's through prayer, reading the Bible, or acts of kindness. They can also learn not to judge others based on their practices but to show love and understanding instead.

Craft or Activity

One fun activity to help children understand the message of Matthew 9:14 could be to create a "Fasting vs. Feasting" collage. Provide magazines, scissors, glue, and two large pieces of paper labeled "Fasting" and "Feasting." Ask the children to cut out pictures of different foods and activities that represent fasting (such as plain foods or someone praying) and feasting (such as delicious meals or people celebrating). Discuss how fasting and feasting are mentioned in the Bible, and how Jesus teaches us important lessons about when to fast and when to celebrate.

Memory Verse or Rhyme

When John's friends asked with care,
"Why don't Your disciples fast and share?"
Jesus replied, with love so vast,
"In My presence, joy will last!"

So remember, dear child, as you play and run,
In Jesus' love, we find our fun!

Songs or Videos

A great Christian song that relates to the message of Matthew 9:14 is "Trading My Sorrows" by Darrell Evans. This song talks about how we can trade our sorrows, pains, and burdens for the joy and peace that Jesus offers us.

Another wonderful song is "I Am a C-H-R-I-S-T-I-A-N." This fun and catchy song teaches kids about living for Christ and being faithful to Him in a simple and easy-to-remember way.

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