Leaders Equip, Believers Grow Together

Opening Question

Ask: 'What does it mean when we say someone is a good coach or teacher?'

Expected answers: They help you learn, they show you how to do things, they make you better at something.

Leader note: Kids may talk about sports coaches or school teachers. Affirm those examples and connect them to church leaders who help us learn about Jesus.

Redirect if off-topic: If a child talks about something unrelated (like a favorite game), gently say: 'That sounds fun! But let's think about people who teach us or help us grow.'

Scripture Focus

And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ. (Ephesians 4:11-13)

Say: 'God gives the church leaders — like pastors and teachers — to help us grow up in our faith. Just like a coach helps a team get better, church leaders help us learn to serve God and love each other.'

Question 2: Growing Up

Ask: 'How can you tell if someone is growing up and not staying a little kid forever?'

Expected answers: They get taller, they learn new things, they can do harder stuff, they act more grown-up.

Leader note: The sermon talked about maturity — not staying 'children' but growing up in Christ. Help kids see that growing as a Christian means learning more about Jesus, loving others better, and serving in the church.

Redirect if off-topic: If answers drift to toys or games, say: 'Good thought! But let's think about how people change as they grow older.'

Question 3: Working Together

Ask: 'Why do you think God wants us to be part of a church family instead of just learning about Jesus by ourselves?'

Expected answers: We can help each other, we learn together, it's more fun, we're stronger together.

Leader note: The sermon emphasized that Christianity isn't just 'me and my Bible' — we're designed to grow together as a church body. Each person has a part to play (like in 1 Corinthians 12).

Redirect if off-topic: If a child says 'I don't know' or talks about something else, prompt: 'Think about a team or a family. What's good about doing things together?'

Activity: Draw Your Part

Instructions: Give each child paper and crayons. Say: 'The Bible says the church is like a body, and every part is important. Draw a picture of one way you can help at church or show love to someone this week.'

Examples to suggest if needed: Praying for a friend, helping set up chairs, singing in worship, being kind to someone new, obeying your parents.

Time estimate: 5 minutes.

Wrap-up: Let a few kids share their drawings. Affirm each one and remind them: 'God gave each of us gifts to use. When we all use our gifts, the church grows strong and shows Jesus to the world!'

Closing Prayer

'Dear God, thank You for giving us leaders who teach us about You. Help us to grow up in our faith, to love each other, and to use the gifts You've given us. Make our church strong and full of Your love. In Jesus' name, amen.'