Introduction
The Book of Matthew is an important part of the New Testament and teaches many valuable lessons for children. However, it can be difficult for kids to understand some of the more complex concepts presented in the book. To help children better comprehend the teachings of Matthew, here are 12 object lessons that can be used in children's church.
1. The Salt and Light Object Lesson
Matthew 5:13-16 tells us that we are the salt of the earth and the light of the world. For this object lesson, provide the children with salt and a flashlight. Explain to them that just as salt adds flavor to food, we can add flavor to the world by being kind and helpful to others. The flashlight can represent the light that we shine in the darkness by doing good deeds and living a righteous life.
2. The Parable of the Sower Object Lesson
Matthew 13:3-9 tells the story of a sower who sowed seeds on different types of soil. For this object lesson, provide the children with seeds and soil. Show them how seeds need good soil, water, and sunlight to grow properly. Explain to them that just like seeds, our faith needs to be nurtured in order to grow strong.
3. The Mustard Seed Object Lesson
Matthew 13:31-32 compares the kingdom of heaven to a mustard seed. For this object lesson, provide the children with a small mustard seed and a tree branch. Show them how something as small as a mustard seed can grow into something large and strong. Explain to them that our faith can also start small, but with time and nurturing, it can become strong and unshakable.
4. The Forgiving King Object Lesson
Matthew 18:21-35 tells the story of a king who forgave his servant's debt, but the servant refused to forgive a debt owed to him. For this object lesson, provide the children with play money and have them act out the story. Explain to them that just as the king forgave his servant, we should forgive others who wrong us.
5. The Ten Virgins Object Lesson
Matthew 25:1-13 tells the story of ten virgins who were waiting for the bridegroom. For this object lesson, provide the children with ten cups and ten candles. Have them act out the story, lighting the candles as the virgins did. Explain to them that just as the virgins were prepared for the bridegroom, we should also be prepared for the coming of Christ.
6. The Good Samaritan Object Lesson
Matthew 22:36-40 tells us to love our neighbors as ourselves. For this object lesson, provide the children with bandages and have them act out the story of the Good Samaritan. Explain to them that we should help others in need, even if they are strangers to us.
7. The Talents Object Lesson
Matthew 25:14-30 tells the story of a man who gave his servants talents to invest. For this object lesson, provide the children with play money and have them act out the story. Explain to them that we should use our talents and abilities to serve God and help others.
8. The Two Builders Object Lesson
Matthew 7:24-27 tells the story of two builders, one who built his house on rock and one who built his house on sand. For this object lesson, provide the children with sand and rocks. Show them how the house built on rock stayed strong while the house built on sand collapsed. Explain to them that we should build our lives on a strong foundation of faith in God.
9. The Sheep and Goats Object Lesson
Matthew 25:31-46 tells the story of the sheep and goats. For this object lesson, provide the children with pictures of sheep and goats. Explain to them that we should be like the sheep, helping those in need and showing kindness to others.
10. The Unmerciful Servant Object Lesson
Matthew 18:21-35 tells the story of a servant who refused to forgive a debt owed to him. For this object lesson, provide the children with play money and have them act out the story. Explain to them that just as the servant was unmerciful, we should be merciful to others.
11. The Transfiguration Object Lesson
Matthew 17:1-9 tells the story of the transfiguration of Jesus. For this object lesson, provide the children with a flashlight and a white cloth. Have them shine the flashlight on the cloth, showing how it becomes brighter. Explain to them that Jesus' appearance became brighter during the transfiguration, showing His divine nature.
12. The Great Commission Object Lesson
Matthew 28:16-20 tells us to go and make disciples of all nations. For this object lesson, provide the children with a map and have them act out the story of the Great Commission. Explain to them that we should share the good news of Jesus with others, no matter where they are in the world.
Conclusion
Using object lessons can help children better understand the teachings of the Book of Matthew. By providing them with tangible examples, they can more easily grasp complex concepts and apply them to their own lives. Use these 12 object lessons in children's church to help your students grow in their faith and understanding of the Bible.