Jesus Loves His Friends
Children's church (3-6) · leader guide · Anchor: Matthew 18:5-6· preview
From the sermon Treatment of Disciples
Leader Notes
Duration: 5 minutes
Tone: Warm, gentle, and reassuring. Use a calm voice and simple words. Sit at the children's level. If a child gets restless, invite them to stand and do the motions with you, or offer a quiet fidget toy.
Main Idea: Jesus loves us, and when people are kind to us, they are being kind to Jesus too.
Anchor Scripture
Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me. — Matthew 18:5
Story Time
Leader: Today we are going to hear about how much Jesus loves His friends — and that means YOU!
Read aloud (slowly and expressively):
One day, Jesus was talking to His friends. He wanted them to know something very important. Jesus said, 'When you are kind to one of My little friends, you are being kind to Me!' Jesus loves us so much. When someone gives us a hug, shares a toy, or says a kind word, it makes Jesus happy. Jesus sees everything, and He loves when people are kind to His friends.
Motion Activity
Leader: Let's do some motions together!
- 'Jesus loves us' — Put both hands over your heart.
- 'When someone is kind' — Reach out and pretend to give a gentle hug.
- 'It makes Jesus happy' — Point up to the sky and smile big!
Repeat 2-3 times, inviting the children to do the motions with you.
Yes/No Question
Leader: Now I have a question for you. You can answer 'yes' or 'no.'
Ask: Does Jesus love you?
Expected answer: Yes!
Leader response: That's right! Jesus loves you SO much. And when people are kind to you, they are being kind to Jesus too.
Coloring Page
Leader: Now you get to draw a picture! Draw a picture of someone being kind to you — maybe a friend sharing, or someone giving you a hug. Remember, when people are kind to you, it makes Jesus happy!
Provide crayons and blank paper. Circulate and affirm each child's drawing.
Closing
Leader: Jesus loves you, and He is always watching over you. Let's remember to be kind to each other, because that makes Jesus happy!
Optional short prayer (if appropriate for your setting): 'Thank You, Jesus, for loving us. Help us be kind to each other. Amen.'