Jesus Loves Little Children Like You
Children's church (3-6) · leader guide · Anchor: Matthew 18:1-4· preview
From the sermon Great or Humble?
Leader Notes
Duration: 5 minutes
Tone: Warm, gentle, and reassuring. Use a calm storytelling voice. Sit at the children's level if possible. If a child gets restless, invite them to stand and do the motions with you, or offer a quiet toy to hold while listening.
Key Idea: Jesus says children are special and important in God's Kingdom. We can trust God like little children trust their parents.
Anchor Scripture
At that time the disciples came to Jesus saying, 'Who is the greatest in the Kingdom of heaven?' And calling to him a child, He put him in the midst of them and said, 'Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the Kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the Kingdom of heaven.'
— Matthew 18:1-4
Story Time: Jesus and the Little Child
One day, Jesus' friends asked Him, 'Who is the most important person in God's Kingdom?' Jesus looked around and saw a little child. He called the child over and put the child right in the middle of everyone. Then Jesus said something amazing: 'If you want to be great in God's Kingdom, you need to be like this little child.' Jesus loves children so much! He said children are very special to God.
Motion Activity
Let's do some motions together!
- Point up high: 'Jesus is great!'
- Hug yourself: 'Jesus loves me!'
- Reach out your hands: 'I can trust Jesus!'
(Repeat 2-3 times, encouraging children to say the words with you.)
Leader Note: Keep energy gentle but joyful. If a child is shy, that's okay — let them watch.
Yes or No Question
Does Jesus love little children like you?
Expected Answer: Yes!
Leader Note: Affirm warmly: 'That's right! Jesus loves you so much. You are so special to Him.'
Coloring Page Activity
Draw a picture of Jesus with a little child, or draw yourself with Jesus.
Leader Note: Provide crayons and blank paper. As they color, quietly remind them: 'Jesus loves you. You are special to Him.' Allow 2-3 minutes for coloring. Praise their work warmly.
Closing Prayer (Leader)
'Dear Jesus, thank You for loving children. Thank You that we are special to You. Help us to trust You every day. Amen.'
Leader Note: Keep the prayer short and simple. Invite children to fold their hands or close their eyes, but don't force it.