In this lesson, children learn that God is pleased when we live in truth and do good, even when it is hard. This lesson suits ages 5 to 11 and takes 20 to 30 minutes to teach.
Big Idea
God loves it when we do what is good and true, and we can help our friends do the same.
Memory Verse
3 John 1:11
Beloved, don’t imitate that which is evil, but that which is good. He who does good is of God. He who does evil hasn’t seen God.
(WEB)
Hold up one hand as a stop sign for “don’t copy what is bad,” then give a thumbs up for “copy what is good.” Do both motions together while saying the verse out loud with the children.
The Story: 3 John 1 for Kids
A man named John wrote a letter to his dear friend Gaius. John loved Gaius very much, and he wanted him to know that. Gaius was a kind person who helped other Christians, even when they were strangers passing through his town.
Some travelers came to John and told him how good Gaius was. They said, “You are walking in the truth.” John was so happy to hear it. He said that there was no greater joy than hearing that his children in faith were living in truth.
John also wrote about a man named Diotrephes. Diotrephes liked to be the boss and wanted everyone to look up to him. He did not welcome John’s messengers and even pushed other people out of the church. John said that if he came to visit, he would talk about what Diotrephes was doing.
Then John gave Gaius a gentle warning. He said, “Dear friend, do not copy what is wrong. Copy what is good.” Next, John told Gaius about a helper named Demetrius, whom everyone spoke well of. John said that he and his friends also told the truth about Demetrius.
John said he had many more things to tell Gaius, but he would rather talk face to face. He ended his letter with peace and greetings from friends.
Read It Together
3 John 1:2
Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be healthy, even as your soul prospers.
(WEB)
Point out that John prays Gaius will be well and healthy, just as his soul is doing well. Explain that God cares about our whole selves, body and heart, and that prayers for friends are a loving thing to do.
3 John 1:4
I have no greater joy than this, to hear about my children walking in truth.
(WEB)
Show how John calls the believers his children and says he is glad when they walk in truth. Ask children who in their life helps them choose what is right, and tell them that is a special kind of joy.
3 John 1:5-6
5 Beloved, you do a faithful work in whatever you accomplish for those who are brothers and strangers. 6 They have testified about your love before the assembly. You will do well to send them forward on their journey in a way worthy of God…
(WEB)
Point out that Gaius is praised for caring for travelers and sending them on their way well. Explain that helping people in practical ways, like sharing food or a bed, pleases God.
Talk About It
- What is one thing Gaius did that showed he was walking in the truth?
- Why do you think John felt so happy when he heard good news about his friends?
- How did Diotrephes act differently from Gaius, and how did that make you feel?
- What is one good thing you can copy from someone you know this week?
- How can you help a new person at church or school feel welcome, like Gaius did?
Activity Ideas
Thumbs Up Truth Drawing
You will need paper, crayons or markers, and tape. Ask each child to draw a picture of something good they did this week, such as sharing a toy or helping at home. Then tape the drawings to a wall in the room so everyone can see how the class is walking in truth together.
Stop and Go Game
You will need an open space and a teacher’s voice. Call out things that are bad, like “snatching a toy,” and have children freeze with a stop sign hand. Call out good things, like “sharing a snack,” and have them walk in place and give a thumbs up. Play a few rounds so children practice choosing good actions.
Good Choice Card at Home
You will need an index card, a pen, and a sticker if you have one. Write “I will copy what is good” on the card and help your child decorate it. Ask them to take it home and place it somewhere they will see each morning, such as on the fridge or by their bed, to remind them of the lesson.
Teacher Notes
For adults, this short letter shows that living in truth and doing good is both personal and communal. John rejoices in those who walk in faithfulness, honors hospitality toward fellow believers, and warns against a leader who seeks power and rejects others. The passage invites us to imitate what is good and to support those who serve the truth.
With children, avoid overstating Diotrephes as a villain they should fear or mock. Keep the focus on choosing what is good and encouraging one another, rather than on naming or shaming a particular person.
A Prayer to Close
Dear God, thank you for helping us know what is good and true. Help us copy the people who love you and help others. Help us be kind to our friends and welcoming to new people. We want to walk in your truth every day. Amen.
