In this lesson, children learn that Jesus came into the world to save sinners, and that God shows mercy to people who have done wrong. This lesson is for children about ages 5 to 11, and it takes about 20 to 30 minutes to teach.
Big Idea
Jesus came to save people who have done wrong, and God is always ready to forgive anyone who asks. Even people who once made big mistakes can be loved and used by God.
Memory Verse
1 Timothy 1:15
The saying is faithful and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.
(WEB)
Ask the children to put both hands on their heart when they say “Christ Jesus came into the world,” then open their arms wide on “to save sinners.” Practice it three times together so the motion helps the words stick.
The Story: 1 Timothy 1 for Kids
A man named Paul wrote a letter to his good friend Timothy. Paul was a leader in the early church, and he loved Timothy like a son. In the letter, he wanted Timothy to stay strong in faith and teach people the truth about God.
Paul told Timothy that some people were spending their time arguing about silly stories and long lists of names. These arguments did not help anyone love God more. Paul wanted everyone to focus on love that comes from a clean heart and real faith.
Then Paul told a story about himself. He used to hurt followers of Jesus, and he did not understand that Jesus was the Savior. But Jesus showed him mercy anyway. Paul said, “I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief.” Jesus forgave him and gave him a job to do.
Paul wanted everyone to know that Jesus came to save sinners, and Paul called himself the worst of them. If Jesus could forgive Paul, then Jesus can forgive anyone who turns to him. Paul hoped this would show others how patient and kind Jesus is.
At the end of the letter, Paul gave a praise to God, the King who lives forever and is wise and good. Then he told Timothy to keep faith and a good conscience and to fight the good fight. Paul hoped Timothy would never give up.
Read It Together
1 Timothy 1:5
But the goal of this command is love, out of a pure heart and a good conscience and sincere faith…
(WEB)
Point out that the goal of Paul’s teaching is love that comes from a pure heart. Ask the children what a pure heart means to them, and explain that it means wanting to do what is right and kind.
1 Timothy 1:13-14
13 Although I was before a blasphemer, a persecutor, and insolent. However, I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief. 14 The grace of our Lord abounded exceedingly with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus.
(WEB)
Show the children that Paul once did bad things but God still showed him mercy. Point out the word grace, and explain that grace is a gift God gives even when we do not deserve it.
1 Timothy 1:17
Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, to God who alone is wise, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.
(WEB)
Remind the children that God is the King who lives forever and never changes. Point out the words wise, honor, and glory, and let the class say “Amen” together at the end of the verse.
Talk About It
- What did Paul say about himself when he remembered the bad things he used to do?
- How did Jesus show Paul mercy even though Paul had hurt people?
- What kind of love does Paul want people to have, and where does it come from?
- Why do you think Paul wanted Timothy to keep his faith strong?
- Is there a time when someone forgave you, and how did that make you feel?
Activity Ideas
Heart Drawing Craft
You will need paper, crayons or markers, and scissors. Have each child trace a heart shape on the paper and cut it out. Ask them to write or draw one way Jesus shows mercy to them inside the heart, then hang the hearts on a string across the room as a reminder.
Mercy Freeze Game
Play music while the children dance around the room. When the music stops, they freeze, and you say a line like “Jesus came to save sinners.” Everyone then gives a big thumbs up, shows a smile, and starts dancing again. This helps them move and remember the message.
Take-Home Forgiveness Jar
You will need an empty jar, paper slips, and a pencil. Give each child a few slips and ask them to write one time they needed forgiveness or one time they forgave someone. They can place the slips in the jar at home each week and read them together at dinner to remind the family that God’s mercy is always available.
Teacher Notes
For adults, this chapter shows that the gospel is about grace that reaches even the worst sinner. Paul names himself as the chief of sinners, which reminds every believer that salvation is a gift and not something earned. The chapter also warns against arguments that distract from love and faith, and it calls the church to stay focused on Christ.
With children, avoid overstating Paul’s specific history or the lists of sins in verses 9 and 10. Keep the focus on the simple truth that Jesus came to save sinners and that God forgives those who turn to him.
A Prayer to Close
Dear God, thank you for loving us even when we make mistakes. Thank you that Jesus came to save sinners, and that you show mercy to everyone who asks. Help us to love others with a pure heart and to keep our faith strong each day. Amen.
