Children's church lesson: The Sheep and Goats

Story

Say: Today we are going to read a story Jesus told his disciples.  The story shows us how important it is to help other people.  There are two different types of animals in today’s story.  The first is sheep.  What sound do sheep make? (B-A-A-A) That’s right.  The second type of animal is goats.  What sound do goats make? (M-A-A-A)  You got it.  Every time you hear the word Sheep you need to make a “B-A-A-A and every time you hear the word Goat you need to make a “M-A-A-A” sound.

Read “Sheep and Goats” in the any children's story bible pausing when appropriate for “B-A-A’S” and “M-A-A’s”.

Lesson

Say:  When did Jesus say his followers were like sheep? (When they cared for each other)  That’s right.  When would they be like goats? (If they didn’t care)  What did Jesus say it was like every time his followers cared for someone (It was like they were caring for Jesus)  What did Jesus say would happen if they cared for others (they would be welcomed into heaven)

In this story Jesus was saying that we show our love for him and his father, God when we love and care for others.  We love others by helping them when they need it.  In the story what were some of the ways Jesus’ disciples had helped others (visiting them in prison, feeding them and giving them clothes) how would you feel if you were hungry and someone gave you something to eat? (Let them answer)  What are some ways that we can help other people like Jesus wants us to? (Give them plenty of time to answer)  That’s right; these are all great ways to help others. 

Helping others is important, so I have a homework assignment, let’s see if we can all do something to help someone this week! 

Memory Verse

We should love one another. – 1 John 3:11

Big Idea

Helping others is important because we show Jesus our love for him when we help others.

Prayer (Take prayer joys and requests)

Say a short prayer asking God to help us to care for other people like he wants us to.     

Craft

The children will glue cotton balls onto a sheep picture. 

Game Options

Play sheep, sheep, goat (duck, duck, goose)