This lesson teaches children that Paul told young Timothy to train himself to love God, to be a good example, and to keep learning God’s Word. It works well for children ages 5 to 11 and takes about 20 to 30 minutes.
Big Idea
God wants us to grow strong in loving Him, and we can do that by praying, learning from the Bible, and being kind to others every day.
Memory Verse
1 Timothy 4:12
Let no man despise your youth; but be an example to those who believe, in word, in your way of life, in love, in spirit, in faith, and in purity.
(WEB)
Stand up straight with your hands on your shoulders, then reach both hands out to the sides as you say the words “be an example.” Repeat the motion each time you say the verse so your body remembers it too.
The Story: 1 Timothy 4 for Kids
Paul was an older friend who loved a young helper named Timothy. Paul wrote Timothy a letter to help him lead the church in the city where he lived. Some people were teaching things that were not true, and they were telling others not to marry or to avoid certain foods that God had made for everyone to enjoy with thanks.
Paul told Timothy that every good thing God made is good, and that we can receive it with thanks and prayer. Paul also said that bodies need exercise to stay healthy, but loving God helps us in every part of life, now and forever. Paul wanted Timothy to be strong in faith so he could help others do the same.
Paul did not want anyone to look down on Timothy because he was young. Instead, Paul said, “Be an example to those who believe.” Timothy could show people what it looks like to speak kindly, to live honestly, to love others, and to keep his heart pure.
Paul gave Timothy some simple jobs to do while he waited for Paul to come back. Timothy was to read God’s Word out loud, encourage people, and teach them what is true. Paul reminded him not to forget the special gift God had given him for this work.
Paul ended by telling Timothy to pay close attention to himself and to what he taught. If Timothy kept doing these good things, he would help save himself and the people who listened to him. Paul’s words were a loving reminder that God’s Word helps us grow.
Read It Together
1 Timothy 4:4-5
4 For every creature of God is good, and nothing is to be rejected, if it is received with thanksgiving. 5 For it is sanctified through the word of God and prayer.
(WEB)
Point out that God made good things, like food and good gifts, and that we can thank Him for them. Ask children to name one thing they are thankful for today.
1 Timothy 4:7-8
7 But refuse profane and old wives’ fables. Exercise yourself toward godliness. 8 For bodily exercise has some value, but godliness has value in all things, having the promise of the life which is now, and of that which is to come.
(WEB)
Explain that exercise helps our bodies, but loving God helps our whole lives. Show how training in godliness is like practicing a skill, such as reading or riding a bike, that gets better with time.
1 Timothy 4:13
Until I come, pay attention to reading, to exhortation, and to teaching.
(WEB)
Point out the three things Paul listed: reading, encouraging, and teaching. Ask children how they can read God’s Word, encourage a friend, and share what they learn about Jesus this week.
Talk About It
- What is one good thing God made that you enjoy, and how can you thank Him for it?
- How can you be a good example to your friends or family at school or at home?
- What helps you learn more about God, and when do you like to read or listen to His Word?
- Why do you think it matters that Paul told Timothy not to let people look down on him for being young?
- What is a kind thing you could do this week that would show other people what God is like?
Activity Ideas
Thankful Hearts Drawing
Give each child a sheet of paper, crayons, and a pencil. Ask them to draw a picture of one good thing God made, such as a sunny sky, a favorite fruit, or a pet. Let them write “Thank You, God” at the bottom and share their drawing with the group.
Train Like a Champion Game
Clear a space in the room and set out a few cones, pillows, or chairs as an obstacle course. Call out “training” words like “read,” “encourage,” and “teach,” and have children move through the course with a matching action each time. Play for five minutes so the children practice steady, joyful effort.
Example Card for Home
Give each child an index card and a marker. Ask them to write one way they can be an example at home this week, such as helping set the table or saying kind words to a sibling. Encourage them to place the card on the fridge or by their bed as a reminder.
Teacher Notes
For adults, this chapter shows that faithful Christian living includes gratitude for God’s good gifts, steady spiritual discipline, and a life that quietly models Christ to others. Paul links personal holiness with faithful teaching and encourages leaders to set an example in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity.
When teaching children, avoid overstating the idea that bodily exercise is only a metaphor for spiritual growth or that the passage addresses modern questions about diet or marriage in detail. Keep the focus on God’s goodness, thankfulness, and the everyday practice of loving Him and others.
A Prayer to Close
Dear God, thank You for the good things You have made and for Your Word that helps us grow. Help us to be good examples to our friends and family, and to be kind and honest every day. Teach us to read and listen to You so that we can love You more. Amen.
