Bible Lesson on Jonah and the Whale for Kids
Jonah and the Whale: Teaching Kids Obedience and God’s Mercy
Obeying God isn’t always easy, as Jonah discovered. Kids will see how running from God leads to trouble—and how God’s mercy is bigger than our mistakes. This lesson shows children that God’s love pursues them no matter what.
You’ll get everything you need: a dynamic Bible story, fun “whale adventure” games, discussion prompts for small groups, and a Spirit-filled activation that teaches kids about obedience and God’s forgiveness.
LESSON OVERVIEW
Theme: Obedience & Mercy
Big Truth: When we run, God still reaches us with mercy.
Key Verse: “Salvation comes from the Lord.” — Jonah 2:9
Bible Story: Jonah 1–3
Pillar Focus: Voice (Hearing and obeying God’s call)
1) Introduction:
Sometimes we don’t want to do what God asks us to do. Oftentimes, it is because we don’t understand His plan, or it doesn’t look the way we thought it would, or it is fear or friends that are keeping us back. Jonah ran in the opposite direction—but God’s mercy found him. Today’s lesson is all about our obedience and the mercy of God that reaches out to us every single time!
2) Game: “Nineveh or Not?”
Call out places (Nineveh, Tarshish, Bedroom, Kitchen, Church, Nineveh, etc.). If you say “Nineveh,” kids run to a marked spot. Wrong place? Everyone laughs and resets. Talk about going God’s way.
3) Praise & Worship
Praise: “I’m Following Jesus,” “This Little Light of Mine”
Worship: “Reckless Love”
Encounter Time: Emphasize God’s kindness, drawing our hearts back. It is the goodness of God that leads us to repentance! Invite Kids to repent when they have been disobedient to God, and give space for the kindness of Jesus to wash over them.
4) Bible Story — Sermon with Props
Props:
Running shoe = running from God
Bible = God’s voice/command
Toy boat/paper ship = Jonah fleeing
Fan + water spray = storm
Toy figure in bowl = Jonah tossed overboard
Plush fish or cutout = swallowed
Heart sign “Mercy” = God’s compassion
Bible again = salvation and truth
5) Introduction: (Hold up a running shoe)
Have you ever wanted to run away from something? Maybe a chore, maybe homework, maybe a hard conversation. Sometimes we want to run from what we don’t like. But did you know people in the Bible ran away, too? Today, we’re going to talk about a prophet named Jonah—who ran from God Himself!
But here’s the good news: Even when Jonah ran, God didn’t let go. God’s mercy is bigger than our mistakes.
(Hold up a Bible)
Jonah was a prophet. That means God spoke to him clearly. One day, God gave Jonah a very specific assignment:
“Go to Nineveh. Tell them to turn from their wickedness, or judgment will come.”
Nineveh was a cruel and scary city. Instead of listening, Jonah did something surprising… (pull out a toy boat or a paper ship) Jonah ran the opposite direction! He boarded a ship going to Tarshish, as far away from Nineveh as possible.
Why? Because Jonah didn’t want mercy for Nineveh. He wanted them punished. Jonah thought he knew better than God.
Big truth: When we run, it’s usually because we don’t trust God’s plan.
(Bring out a fan and spray bottle with water mist)
As Jonah sailed away, God sent a mighty storm. The waves crashed, the wind howled, the sailors panicked. They cried out to their gods, but nothing worked. Finally, Jonah confessed:
“I serve the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. This storm is because of me—I ran from His command.”
The sailors were terrified. They didn’t want to hurt Jonah, but the storm grew worse. At last, they tossed Jonah into the sea… (drop a toy figure into a bowl of water) and instantly the storm stopped.
Here’s the mercy: Even when Jonah disobeyed, God spared the sailors and showed them His power.
(Hold up a big fish plushie or cutout)
Now, you’d think Jonah’s story ends here—sinking in the sea. But God had mercy. Instead of letting Jonah drown, God sent a huge fish to swallow him whole!
Inside the fish, Jonah spent three days and nights. Dark. Wet. Smelly. But in the belly of that fish, Jonah prayed.
(Read dramatically from Jonah 2)
“From deep in the realm of the dead I called for help, and You listened to my cry.”
“Salvation comes from the Lord.”
This was Jonah’s turning point. He realized: You can’t outrun God’s mercy.
Finally, God commanded the fish to spit Jonah out onto dry land. (pretend to “spit” with silly sound effect—kids will laugh, but message sinks in)
Jonah now obeyed. He went to Nineveh and preached God’s message: “In 40 days, Nineveh will be destroyed if you don’t turn back to God!”
A miracle happened. The people of Nineveh—men, women, even the king—repented. They fasted, prayed, and begged God for forgiveness. And God, full of mercy, forgave them.
(Hold up a red heart sign with “MERCY” written on it)
This is the heart of God: He doesn’t give us what we deserve. He gives us mercy.
Even though Jonah struggled, he was still angry that God forgave them—God used his obedience to save a city.
Conclusion: The God Who Runs After Us
(Hold up the running shoe again)
The story of Jonah shows us this: Even when we run, God doesn’t give up. He runs after us with mercy.
When Jonah disobeyed, God sent a storm to bring him back.
When Jonah was sinking, God sent a fish to save him.
When Jonah finally obeyed, God poured out mercy on an entire city.
That’s the God we serve. His mercy is bigger than our mistakes. His voice calls us back, again and again.
Big Truth: When we run, God still reaches us with mercy.
(End by holding the Bible up high)
So kids, remember Jonah’s prayer: “Salvation comes from the Lord.” If God calls you—obey quickly, because His plans are full of mercy!
6) Holy Spirit Activation
Invite the Kids to ask the Holy Spirit if there’s anything He has asked them to do and they have not obeyed. Some kids might feel shame or guilt in this and be sensitive to what the Lord is doing at this moment. Pray with them and give any guilt or condemnation to Jesus, and ask what Jesus wants to give them in return. This is a beautiful moment of being set free and encountering God! Afterwards, pray together for courage to obey Jesus out of love!
7) Small Group Questions:
Why did Jonah run away?
How did God show mercy?
Who needs mercy from you this week?
What is the Key verse for this week?
8) Prayer (Repeat-after-me)
“God, thank you for showing us mercy through your Son, Jesus Christ. I am so grateful that your mercies are new every day! Thank you for our chances with you never running out or running dry. I love you, Jesus, and I want to obey you when you ask me to. Amen!”
Bible Lesson on the Prodigal Son for Kids
The Prodigal Son: Teaching Kids Forgiveness & Homecoming
Kids will learn that God always welcomes His children back with open arms, no matter what mistakes they make. The Prodigal Son story teaches the joy of forgiveness, restoration, and God’s unconditional love.
You’ll get everything you need: Bible storytelling, puppet or skit activities, small group discussion prompts, and a Holy Spirit activation to help kids experience God’s welcoming heart.
LESSON OVERVIEW
Theme: Forgiveness & Homecoming
Big Truth: No matter what, the Father runs to welcome us back.
Key Verse: “While he was still a long way off, his father saw him…” — Luke 15:20
Bible Story: Luke 15:11–32
Pillar Focus: Presence (Living from the Father’s love)
1) Leader Introduction:
Have you ever messed up and felt afraid to come home? That has happened to almost all of us, no matter what our ages are. In this popular and most impactful Bible Story, Jesus shows us a Father who runs toward us with love. He never stops because He loves us! This would be an impactful time with your kids and even your leaders!
2) Game: “Far Country / Home” Run
Mark two walls: “Far Country” and “Home.” Call out scenarios: “Disobeyed—Far Country!” “Said sorry—Home!” Have the kids run from one side to the other to get them laughing.
Kids, just like you were running back and forth, Jesus runs after us! He will never leave us, and that is a hint for today’s Lesson!
3) Praise & Worship
Praise: “Homecoming” (Bethel Music), “Deep Cries Out” (Bethel Kids)
Worship: “Run to the Father” (Cody Carnes)
Encounter Time: Invite kids to picture the Father’s open arms, and them hugging Jesus!
4) Bible Story — Puppet Show
Cast (Puppets - these can be real puppets or even sock puppets):
Narrator (voice guiding the story)
Father
Younger Son
Older Brother
Pig (comic relief, but also an emotional moment)
Props & Visual Ideas:
Money bag (felt pouch with fake coins/dollar signs)
Pig trough (small bucket with paper scraps/slop)
Robe (small fabric draped on a puppet)
Ring (pipe cleaner shaped into a ring for a puppet finger)
Music cues: wild party music, sad violin music, joyful celebration music
Streamer or confetti for the feast celebration
SCRIPT
Scene 1 – At Home
Narrator:
“Once there was a father who loved his two sons very much. But one day, the younger son made a surprising request…”
Younger Son (excited, selfish tone):
“Father! I don’t want to wait until you die. Give me my share of the inheritance now! I want to go live my own life.”
Father (sad but calm):
“My son… everything I have is already yours. But if that is your choice… then here is your inheritance.” (hands over money bag prop)
Narrator:
“And so the younger son packed up his things and left home.”
Scene 2 – Wild Living
(Play upbeat, silly music. Younger Son dances, throws money, laughs. Pig puppet appears with sunglasses for comic relief.)
Younger Son:
“Woohoo! Look at me! I’m rich! Drinks for everyone!”
Narrator:
“He spent his money on wild living… until one day…”
(Music stops suddenly. Younger Son looks into empty money bag.)
Younger Son (worried):
“Oh no… it’s all gone. I have no money left!”
Narrator:
“About that time, a famine spread across the land. The younger son was so hungry, he went to work feeding pigs.”
Scene 3 – Feeding the Pigs
(Younger Son kneels beside Pig puppet, who snorts and slurps exaggeratedly from a food trough.)
Younger Son (disgusted, desperate):
“Ugh… pig slop. That looks… kinda tasty right now. I wish I could eat it.”
Pig (snorts, teasing):
“Oink! Hands off, buddy. This is my lunch.”
Narrator:
“Then the younger son remembered something very important…”
Younger Son (thinking, soft tone):
“My father’s servants have food to spare… and here I am starving. I will go home. I’ll tell my father, ‘I have sinned against heaven and against you. I don’t deserve to be your son. Just make me like one of your servants.’”
(He begins to walk slowly, head bowed, dragging a suitcase prop or bundle.)
Scene 4 – The Father’s Love
Narrator:
“But while the son was still a long way off, his father saw him…”
(Father puppet rushes in, arms wide open, excited tone.)
Father (joyful, loud):
“My son! My son! You’ve come home!”
(Father hugs Younger Son tightly. Audience should feel the emotion.)
Younger Son (teary, broken voice):
“Father… I have sinned against heaven and against you. I don’t deserve to be called your son.”
Father (interrupting, full of joy):
“Nonsense! Bring the best robe! Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet! Let’s have a feast—my son was lost, but now he’s found!”
(Father drapes robe prop on Son, slips ring prop on finger, happy music begins.)
Scene 5 – The Older Brother
Narrator:
“But not everyone was happy. The older brother came in from the field…”
Older Brother (angry, jealous tone):
“Father! All these years I’ve worked for you. I never disobeyed you. But you never threw me a party! Yet when he wastes your money and comes back, you celebrate?!”
Father (calm, loving):
“My son… you are always with me, and everything I have is yours. But we had to celebrate, because your brother was lost, and now he is found!”
(Older Brother looks conflicted—arms crossed, but slowly softens.)
Scene 6 – Closing
Narrator:
“And so the father showed mercy, forgiveness, and love. No matter how far we run, God is always waiting to welcome us back home.”
All Puppets Together:
“Because no matter what—our Father runs to welcome us back!”
5) Holy Spirit Activation
Let the kids sit in a straight line, and assign leaders to walk around and affirm the Kids. Saying statements like “You Belong.”, “Welcome Home.” “Nothing you can do will stop Jesus from loving you.”
6) Small Group Questions
Why did the son leave?
What did the Father do when he came back?
How can we welcome others like the Father?
What can I do this week to show people Jesus’ love?
7) Prayder (Repeat-after-me)
“Father God, thank you for loving me! Thank you for always welcoming me home every single time. Thank you that you are safe to run to, and that you forgive me and welcoming me. Holy Spirit, would you highlight family members and friends this week who need to know that you are celebrating them and love them, so I can share this amazing good news with them. Amen.
Bible Lesson on David and Goliath for Kids
David & Goliath: Teaching Kids Courage and Faith
David was just a young shepherd, but with God, he faced a giant. Kids will learn that courage isn’t about size or strength—it’s about trusting God in the face of fear. This lesson brings the story of David and Goliath to life, showing children that God fights for them, too.
You’ll get everything you need: exciting Bible storytelling, action-packed games, small group questions, and a Holy Spirit activation to inspire bold faith in every child.
LESSON OVERVIEW
Theme: Courage from God
Big Truth: With God, we can face our “giants.”
Key Verse: “The battle is the Lord’s…” — 1 Samuel 17:47
Bible Story: David & Goliath — 1 Samuel 17
Pillar Focus: Power (God’s strength at work through us)
Introduction
What’s your “giant”? A test, a bully, a fear? David was small, Goliath was huge—but God is bigger than any problem. In this lesson, kids will walk away knowing and having encountered God Almighty who covers them and gives them courage, in every situation. Courage doesn’t always mean to stand up for what’s right - courage also means to share your feelings, being vulnerable and showing up when it’s difficult. Courage is a matter of the heart first, not of action first. As you and your team prep for this lesson, let the Lord settle this in your heart. Courage is bravery, and courage comes from the Lord!
Game: Giant Cup Knockdown (Memory Verse)
Setup: Write each word of the key verse on plastic cups. Stack like a “giant.”
Play: Teams take turns tossing a soft ball; when cups fall, kids race to place the words in order. Recite together.
Praise & Worship
Praise: “Every Giant Will Fall” (Rend Collective Kids), “My Lighthouse”
Worship: “Oceans” (Hillsong)
Encounter Time: Invite Kids to picture what they are facing as an object or a color, and then to give that to Jesus, and then ask Jesus what He’s giving back to them!
Bible Story — Act Out
Instruction: This is an act out Skit! Everyone will be involved so make sure that everyone is setup properly!
Characters Needed:
Narrator (can be leader/teacher)
David (a brave kid or helper)
Goliath (tall volunteer, use cardboard sword/helmet for fun!)
King Saul (robe, crown or paper crown)
Israelites (kids on one side of the room)
Philistines (kids on the other side)
Opening Setup
Narrator: “Today, we’re stepping right into the Bible — into one of the most famous battles ever! Can you guess what it is? YES! The story of David and Goliath. But remember — this is not just about a little guy beating a big guy. It’s about God’s power to fight for His people! This is about God giving you courage and God fighting FOR YOU”
(Divide kids into 2 groups — Israelites vs Philistines. Set Goliath between them. David enters later.)
Scene 1: Goliath Boasts
Narrator: “The Philistines had a giant named Goliath — he was HUGE, over 9 feet tall!”
Goliath: (deep voice, stomping) “Who will fight me? If you beat me, we will be your servants! But if I win, YOU will serve US!”
(Philistines cheer loudly; Israelites look afraid, hiding faces, shaking, whispering “He’s too big!”)
Scene 2: David Volunteers
Narrator: “But one day, a young shepherd boy named David came to bring lunch to his brothers. He heard Goliath’s challenge.”
David: (steps forward, bold voice) “Why is everyone afraid? The Lord who saved me from the lion and the bear will save me from this giant too!”
(Saul looks at David in shock)
Saul: “You’re just a boy… here, at least wear my armor.”
(Helpers put oversized robe/helmet on David — make it look way too big. David stumbles around comically.)
David: (laughs, shakes it off) “No… I don’t need this armor. I have the Lord! And I’ll take my sling… and 5 smooth stones.”
Scene 3: The Battle
(David picks up “stones” — foam balls. Israelites cheer him on. Goliath stomps forward with sword.)
Goliath: (roars) “Come here, little boy! I’ll feed you to the birds!”
David: (strong voice, lifts sling) “You come with sword and spear, but I come in the name of the Lord Almighty! The battle belongs to the Lord!”
(David “swings” sling, throws foam ball — hits Goliath. Goliath dramatically stumbles, spins, and falls flat on the ground with a loud “BOOM.”)
Scene 4: Victory
(Israelites erupt in cheers, jumping up and down. Philistines pretend to run away. David stands victorious.)
David: “The Lord gave us the victory! The battle is the Lord’s!”
Narrator: “And that day, the whole nation of Israel learned something important — no giant is bigger than our God.”
Closing:
Leader/Narrator:
“Kids, just like David, we all face giants — fear, sickness, bullies, or problems that feel too big. But with God, every giant can fall. Remember this: You are courageous and The battle belongs to the Lord!”
(All kids together shout 3x: “I am Courageous! The battle belongs to the Lord!”)
Holy Spirit Activation
Kids write or draw their “giant” on scrap paper. Leaders guide: “Jesus, I give this to You.” Kids crumple and toss into a bin labeled “God’s Hands.” Pray peace and boldness.
Small Group Questions
What made Goliath scary?
Why was David brave?
What’s a “giant” you can give to God?
How can we help a friend who feels scared?
Prayer (Repeat-after-me)
“God, thank you that you are much bigger than anything I face or am going through. You never leave me alone but is with me in it. Thank you for your nearness, for giving me courage and for taking my hand in this beautiful life you have given me. Holy Spirit, help me to be like David! Amen.”
Free Bible Lesson for Kids on the Armor of God (Part 1 out of 6)
Armor of God: Teaching Kids Spiritual Strength
Teaching kids about the Armor of God doesn’t have to be boring or abstract. This week, they’ll learn how to put on God’s full armor—truth, righteousness, faith, and more—to stand strong against challenges. Kids will understand that God equips them to live boldly, make godly choices, and walk in victory.
You’ll get everything you need: a fun Bible story, interactive games where kids “put on” armor pieces, small group questions, and a powerful Holy Spirit activation that teaches kids to rely on God’s strength.
LESSON OVERVIEW
Theme: The Armor of God
Big Truth: The Truth sets us free!.
Key Verse: “Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” – Ephesians 6:11
Bible Story: Paul Teaches on the Armor – Ephesians 6:10–18
Pillar Focus: Power (Learning to stand strong in God’s strength)
1) Introduction:
In every battle, Soldiers wear armor to protect themselves, but God gives us spiritual armor to protect our hearts and minds. The armor isn’t heavy or scary—it’s God’s gift to us so that we can walk in victory with Him every day! In this 6 Week Curriculum, Kids will learn about how they can wear this armor and withstand the enemy in every area! Ps. This is the first lesson in a 6-week Curriculum called BATTLE READY! Each week, we will explore a different aspect of the Armor of God.
2) Game: Memory Verse Puzzle
Welcome Kids! Today, our Memory Verse is Ephesians 6:11! We’re going to play a fun game to help remember this verse!
Instructions: If you have a big group, it could help to divide your kids into smaller groups! Kids sit in a circle. Toss a ball around—each child says the next word in the memory verse when they catch it. If they forget, the group helps!!
3) Worship:
Instructions: Today is fun, but yet a Battle Ready day! The Praise and Worship songs should be punchy, fun, and declaring who Jesus is - because He has the Victory! Let’s go!
Praise Songs: “God’s not dead” by Newsboys & “Praise” by Elevation Worship
Worship Song: “Battle Belongs” by Phil Wickham
4) Bible Story – Sermon Style with Props
Instructions: For the next 6 weeks, we will become battle-ready with the Armor of God, and today is all about the Belt of Truth! Kids need to know that it is the truth that sets them free, and having this as a belt around their waist holds everything together (just like a normal belt would do)!
Props: A Big, oversized belt (from your local store or made out of cardboard - these will need to be durable for 6 weeks since this is part 1 of the armor), Dramatic Music, etc.
Bible Passage: Ephesians 6:10–18
Narrator: Welcome to BATTLE READY week one! Kids, today we are going to learn about how we get to withstand the enemy, and be battle-ready in every season, in every emotion that comes up, or relationship that may hurt us. God gave us a very specific armor to put on every single day, and these are not just guidelines - it’s a must to put these on!
Today we are going to learn about the first part of our Armor - that is, Drumroll please…
THE BELT OF TRUTH!!
So, kids, can anyone tell me why we need a belt around our waist? (Wait for answers) Yes! It is meant to keep our pants up. Truth is like this belt. Paul writes in Ephesians that one way we can withstand the enemy.
Let’s read this passage together: READ Ephesians 6:10–18!
Firstly, Paul instructs that our battle is not against flesh and blood. I know for me, I can get so angry at my friend or my parents because of what they say or what they do. Sometimes, I can feel very sad one moment, and sometimes I can be so hard on myself. I can take up too much responsibility that isn’t mine. That weighs me down with not being kind to myself, thinking everything is my fault, and keeping unforgiveness and resentment in my heart towards my friends and parents.
How many of you have felt like that before? Did you know that there is a Spiritual World that we can’t see, but that exists? Paul speaks about this! The way that we can combat the enemy and his evil schemes is by putting on the full armor of God!
The Belt of Truth is very important because if we don’t know the truth, then we won’t be free. Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life, and being girded with His Truth about ourselves, about Him, and others is crucial!
Let’s figure out together which ones are truths and which ones are lies:
I am full of fear (LIE)
I don’t have a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind (Truth)
I am beautiful (Truth)
I am ugly (LIE)
Jesus sometimes loves me (LIE)
Jesus always loves me no matter what (TRUTH)
Jesus sometimes has a plan for my life (LIE)
Jesus has a plan for my life! (TRUTH)
A few ways that we can know if what we are thinking is true are knowing what Jesus says in His Word, is asking the Holy Spirit!
CLOSING: Putting on this Belt of Truth helps us keep our dignity, our privacy, our holiness, and innocence. So, are you believing some lies today? Because if you are - this belt of truth might not be fully buckled up and ready. You know what the good news is? Jesus breaks the power of lies and tells us the truth - every single time! He came to dismantle the enemy and break its power over our lives so that we can live in full truth with Jesus, who is the very Person of Truth!
So, let’s put on the belt of truth together! Everyone, stand up, and on the count of three, we’re going to buckle it together. One - two - three - Buckle!
God has given you everything you need to stand strong in Him. You are not weak—you are protected!” Everyone repeated after me: I am Strong! I am Protected!
5) Holy Spirit Activation: I AM statements.
Instructions: Invite the kids to ask Jesus what He says about them, and then let them make a list of what He says. Then, let them repeat it with “I am” statements. For example: “I am strong”, “I am beautiful”, “I am capable”, “I am a good child”, “I am loved.”
6) Small Group Questions:
Instructions: This group time could possibly be a very tender moment with Jesus, so pay attention and make space for the kids to reflect and invite Jesus into the spaces they feel are not adequate. It’s time to break those lies and embrace the truth!
What is one truth that Jesus says in the Bible about you?
Why do you think God gives us His armor?
How can you “put on” the armor every day?
* As a reflection question, let the kids write down truths about themselves in the small group!
7) Prayer:
Jesus, thank You for giving me Your armor. Thank you for giving me the Belt of Truth that I can put on every day, and remind myself of your Truth! Holy Spirit, will you remind me of the truth? I believe every single word you say about me! I love you, Jesus! Amen.
Bible Lesson on Noah’s Ark for Kids
Kids Ministry Lesson on Noah’s Ark: Trusting God’s Plan
Let’s be real—teaching kids about Noah’s Ark can sometimes feel like a cute animal story… but the real message is so much bigger. It’s about radical obedience, trusting God even when it doesn’t make sense, and His amazing promise to never leave us.
This week’s Kids Ministry Lesson dives into the story of Noah’s Ark in a way that kids won’t forget. We’ll go beyond the animals and the ark and show kids the heart of God—a God who keeps His promises and rescues His people.
You’ll get everything you need: an engaging live Bible story, interactive games, small group discussion prompts, and a Holy Spirit activation to help kids experience God’s faithfulness and respond with bold faith.
LESSON OVERVIEW:
Theme: God Keeps His Promises
Big Truth: God always keeps His promises—even through storms.
Key Verse: “I have set my rainbow in the clouds, and it will be the sign of the covenant…” — Genesis 9:13
Bible Story: Noah’s Ark — Genesis 6–9
Pillar Focus: Presence (Trusting God’s heart and staying close to Him in hard times)
1) Introduction:
Storms can feel big and scary—thunder, wind, and rain! Today, kids will learn that even when life’s storms come, God keeps His promises and protects His people. Noah trusted God’s heart when no one else did—and God made a forever promise sign with a rainbow that we still see today!
2) Game: Animal Pair-Up Relay
Setup: Print animal pictures (two of each). Scatter one set on one side of the room and the matching set on the other.
Play: Teams send one runner at a time to grab an animal and find its match. Once matched, they “walk into the ark” two-by-two to a taped “boat” on the floor.
Tie-in: God brought animals in pairs and kept them safe. God keeps His promises!
3) Praise & Worship
Praise: “Every Move I Make” (Shout Praises Kids), “God’s Not Dead (Like a Lion)” (Newsboys Kids)
Worship: “Goodness of God” (Bethel)
* Encounter Time: Invite kids to take their Bibles and look up a promise from God and meditate on it after Worship!
4) Bible Story — Sermon (Interactive)
Props: Large cardboard “ark,” blue fabric for water, stuffed animals, spray bottle (mist).
Preach this sermon. For a more creative one, add it to different scenes/themes.
Kids, today we are going to learn about one of the most popular Bible characters ever told! Can you guess what it is? Drumroll… Noah’s Ark!
1. God Speaks to Noah
(Theme: God looks for those who walk with Him)
The world was full of people who had forgotten God. They were unkind, selfish, and did whatever they wanted. Therefore, sin was everywhere… But—listen to this—Noah was different. The Bible says, “Noah walked faithfully with God” (Gen. 6:9).
While everyone else was ignoring God, Noah chose to love Him, obey Him, and talk with Him. And God had one incredible plan about all of this.
👉 Action moment: Ask kids to stomp their feet like the world full of noise… then quiet down. Whisper: “But Noah walked with God.”
👉 Kids Action: Pretend you’re hammering—God told Noah: “Build an ark! Make it strong, make it big. You and your family will be safe.”
This ark wasn’t a little boat. It was HUGE—longer than a football field! God gave Noah every instruction—how wide, how tall, how many floors. Why? Because God had a rescue plan.
2. The Animals Arrive
(Theme: God brings everything needed for His plan)
When the ark was ready, something amazing happened. God told Noah: “Bring two of every kind of animal, male and female, to keep them alive with you.” (Gen. 6:19–20).
Imagine it—lions and lambs, elephants and eagles, giraffes and grasshoppers—all walking right up to the ark. They didn’t run away or fight. They just came because God called them.
Noah didn’t have to chase them—God brought them. That’s how powerful our God is.
3. The Flood
(Theme: God protects His people in the storm)
When everyone was inside, the Bible says “the Lord shut them in” (Gen. 7:16), meaning that no one could go out or come in unless it was the right time!
And then—WHOOSH! The sky broke open. Rain poured down, harder than anyone has ever seen. Even some bible teachers believe that it has never rained on the earth up until that time. It didn’t rain for one day, not for two days, not for 3 days - Kids, guess how many days it rained for? 40 DAYS AND 40 NIGHTS!
Water covered the mountains. Everything outside the ark was swept away. But inside? God’s people were safe.
The Bible says, “But God remembered Noah” (Gen. 8:1). That means God never forgot them for a moment. After 150 days, the waters began to go down. Finally, the ark came to rest on the mountains of Ararat.
Noah sent out a raven… then a dove. The dove came back with a fresh olive leaf in its beak. That was the sign—new life had begun.
4. The Promise
(Theme: God keeps His word forever)
When the earth was dry again, Noah built an altar and worshiped God. And God made a promise: “Never again will I destroy all life with a flood.”
Then God put a sign in the sky—a rainbow. Every time we see a rainbow, it’s a reminder: God keeps His promises.
5) Closing
When you see a rainbow, remember: God keeps His promises—yesterday, today, forever. Even when life throws its storms, God promises to keep us safe. No matter what you are facing today, whether it is a small amount of fear or loneliness - God is here to protect you! He keeps His Promises!
6) Holy Spirit Activation
Invite the kids to gather with a friend and pray together for each other. Let them ask each other what they need prayer for, and pray for that. Pay attention to kids who might not have a partner to pray with, pull them in, and pray with them!
7) Small Group Questions
Why did God ask Noah to build the ark?
How did Noah show trust?
What does the rainbow mean?
What promise of God helps you when you feel scared?
8) Prayer:
“Jesus, thank You for keeping Your promises. Just like with Noah, you promised to keep him and his family safe and bring them to dry land - and you did exactly that. Holy Spirit, help me to stay close to you like Noah did, keep me close to your heart, and help me to trust you in every storm. Amen.”
Free Bible Lesson for Kids on Love (The Good Samaritan)
Free Bible Lesson for Kids: Loving like Jesus
Teaching on the love of God is sometimes a complex topic, but it is actually simple. In this lesson, your kids will learn that Jesus loves them and that love can be shared with everyone around them. This kind of love is not just a feeling, or a Valentine’s Day - it is a person. Love is a Person, and His name is Jesus. Through this lesson, your kids will meet the lover of their Soul, Jesus, and learn how to share that with someone else.
This week’s Kids Ministry Lesson is all about Love—God’s love for us, and His call for us to love others with that same kind of radical, real love.
You’ll get everything you need: a powerful Bible story, games, small group prompts, and a Holy Spirit activation that helps kids actually experience the love of God and extend it to others.
LESSON OVERVIEW
Theme: Love Like Jesus
Big Truth: Jesus loves me no matter what—and helps me love others too.
Key Verse: “Love each other as I have loved you.” – John 15:12
Bible Story: The Good Samaritan – Luke 10:25–37
Pillar Focus: Presence (Learning to love like Jesus by being close to His heart)
1) Introduction:
Teaching on the love of God is sometimes a complex topic, but it is actually simple. In this lesson, your kids will learn that Jesus loves them and that love can be shared with everyone around them. This kind of love is not just a feeling, or a Valentine’s Day - it is a person. Love is a Person, and His name is Jesus. Through this lesson, your kids will meet the lover of their Soul, Jesus, and learn how to share that with someone else.
2) Game: Memory Verse Puzzle
Instructions: Divide your kids into different groups, with your classroom leaders joining in on each group, and let them come up with a name for their team and a warcry!
Next, have the Key Verse printed out on big pieces of cardstock paper cut into puzzles (make it more than 10 pieces of paper), and put it in various sections of the room.
On the count of 3, let the kids run one by one to gather 1 piece of the puzzle until they have all the pieces (They have to place the puzzle piece upside down!). They can only start putting the puzzle together once all the papers are there!!
The team that completes the Memory Verse puzzle first wins a prize!
3) Praise & Worship:
Instructions: Praise & Worship is, if not, probably the most important aspect of your kids’ time with Jesus and each other. The Holy Spirit comes when we glorify Jesus (John 16:14). So, prep yourself and your classroom leaders to be sensitive to what the Lord wants to and is doing during this time! God is the best leader - so let Him lead.
Praise Songs: “Turn it up” by Planetshakers, “Deep cries out” by Bethel Kids
Worship Song: “How He loves us” by Kim Walker Smith
*During the worship song, encourage kids to find a space where they feel Jesus wants them to sit or be. Encourage your leaders to walk around praying for kids who you can see is being touched by God or need a touch from Him.
4) Bible Story - ACT OUT
Instructions: In this Bible Story, Kids will learn about the greatest commandment by Jesus!
Characters Needed:
Narrator
Jesus
Pharisee
Disciples (to stand around and listen)
Introduction: Kids! Have you ever heard about the Great Commandment? Can anyone tell me (Pause) It is to LOVE ONE ANOTHER! Today, we will learn about what Jesus said exactly to someone who thought he knew more than Jesus…
*Have Jesus, the disciples, and the Pharisee come in and act out as you are narrating:
Narrator: One day, a Pharisee (who was an expert in the law - basically, he knew the Old Testament much better than anyone else) went up against Jesus, thinking he could test Him.
Pharisee: “Oh, Teacher, tell me - what must I do to have eternal life?”
Narrator: Jesus immediately questioned him back…
Jesus: “You tell me first - what is written in the law? How do you understand the law about eternal life?”
*The disciples are leaning in even closer, knowing that they are about to learn something they’ve never heard before. Let them look back and forth between Jesus - excited to see what’s going to go down.
Pharisee: “Well, it is to love your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind and love your neighbour as yourself.”
Jesus: “Well done, you have answered correctly. Do this and you will live.”
*Jesus, the Pharisee, and the Disciples can exit the room.
Narrator: The Pharisee answered correctly, and Jesus said that this was how you can have eternal life. Jesus, on the other hand, continued on with a Parable. Let’s read it together in the Bible: Jesus said, “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, when he was attacked by robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him, and went away, leaving him half dead. A priest happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side. So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn, and took care of him. The next day, he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper. ‘Look after him,’ he said, ‘and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have
Next, Jesus asked the Pharisee, Which one of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of the Robbers? Kids - which one do you think (Pause for answers and take the answers)
Yes! The clever Pharisee, just like you, said the one who had mercy on him.” Jesus then commanded us to do the same.
Closing: You see, Kids, Jesus gives us two commandments here. 1) Love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, soul, and strength, and the second one is… Yes! Love your neighbour as yourself. Look at your friend next to you and repeat after me: “You are created to love God and love me!”
Sometimes it is difficult to love our neighbour (or those closest to us), especially if they say things that might hurt us or treat us differently. The Good News is that Jesus died on the cross and was resurrected back to life because HE LOVES US! Because He loved us first, when we love others, we don’t do it out of our own love - it’s Jesus’ love that changes us and those around us!
5) Holy Spirit Activation
Instructions: The Holy Spirit is the one who shows us Jesus (John 16:13-14), and fills us with His Love. Take time during this activation for the Holy Spirit to come and encounter and fill your kids with God’s love. Invite your kids to ask Jesus where He would like them to sit or be, and let them follow His leading. Next, let them ask the Holy Spirit to come and fill them with the love of God.
*The Holy Spirit might show them a picture, or use their feelings; encourage the kids to lean into that moment and ask the Holy Spirit why He is doing what He is doing.
6) Small Group Questions
Instructions: Gather your kids into small groups with a leader, and discuss these questions together.
What is the Bible Verse for today?
How can you love yourself better?
What can you do this week that might be a bit risky, but where you can share Jesus with someone?
Who are two people that you can pray for today?
7) Prayer
Instructions: Encourage your kids that this prayer is one they get to pray every single day, and it is necessary as such as well. Let your kids repeat this after you.
Jesus, thank you for loving me. Thank you that you died for my sins and that you filled me with your love. Holy Spirit, take my hand and lead me to the right people who need your love today and this week. Jesus, will you come and fill me with your love every day!