Children’s Ministry Curriculum Archive

Children’s Ministry: How to go from mediocre to great

Motivating Kids Rick Chromey writes, “No matter his environment, circumstance, or students, Jesus taught for a change. He built cultural bridges through story and simile. He used object lessons, teachable moments, and experiences to communicate truth. Jesus often left his students ‘emotionally disturbed.’ He aimed for the heart and caused the religious leaders to leave mad, the rich young ruler to depart sad, and Zacchaeus …

Discipleship begins with our children.

Children learn to walk through life by watching adults walk through life. Mike Breen provides an important insight: “We get the importance of information, right? In fact, our whole system for discipleship is currently built around it. • Information from Sunday teaching/preaching from the pulpit? (Check) • Information from Bible studies in small groups or Sunday school? (Check) • Information from books we read? (Check) …

What does a disciple of Jesus look like?

Scripture describes what a mature disciple looks like. John 15 outlines five characteristics of Jesus’ disciples: A disciple abides in Christ through the Word and prayer ( verse 7 ) A disciple bears much fruit ( verse 8 ) A disciple responds to God’s love with obedience ( verses 9-10 ) A disciple possesses joy ( verse 11 ) A disciple loves as Christ loved …

What does Jesus call children’s ministry teachers to do?

Jesus’ Great Commission “Make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:18-20) is the church’s primary purpose. Through 20 centuries, Jesus’ final challenge has stirred His followers to action. Discipleship is much more than “part-time Christianity.” Jesus’ preeminent passion, the focus of His ministry, His earthly delight—was His twelve disciples. It is certainly true that He ministered to the masses, but Christ poured His life into those …

Where are today’s Christian kids?

Once upon a time, Christian parents asked their children after church, “What did you learn about God?” Today, the question is often, “Did you have fun?” Not too long ago, churches offered Bible training for all ages—wanting to fully equip children to serve Christ. Today, many churches offer high-energy, entertainment-based programs—wanting to keep kids happy and to make recruiting easy. Children rarely use their Bibles.

Boundaries and Discipline: Respect Begins at Home

Many people don’t know what to do when a child becomes disrespectful. Billy Graham notes, “A child who is allowed to be disrespectful to his parents will not have true respect for anyone.” In this week’s important and practical lesson by Dr. Scott Turansky, we’ll learn what to do when a child crosses a clearly defined boundary. Application Idea: share the article with your team …

The Last Words of Jesus

Do you recall a cherished, final conversation with a beloved parent or grandparent? Those significant, last words may have been carefully chosen to motivate you for the rest of your life. As Easter approaches, we’ll hear the life-altering stories of Jesus’ crucifixion, burial, and resurrection. But what were Christ’s last words with the eleven disciples?