In this lesson, children learn that God stays close to His people even when they are in danger, and that He keeps His promises. This lesson suits children ages 5 to 11 and takes about 20 to 30 minutes to teach.
Big Idea
God is always with us, even when things are scary or hard. He keeps His promises, and He can be trusted to take care of us.
Memory Verse
Acts 23:11
The following night, the Lord stood by him, and said, “Cheer up, Paul, for as you have testified about me at Jerusalem, so you must testify also at Rome.”
(WEB)
Have children hold both hands up high like a brave person standing strong, then fold them over their heart as they say the words slowly. Practice it together twice so the motion helps them remember God’s promise.
The Story: Acts 23 for Kids
Paul was in Jerusalem, and he stood before the council, which was a group of leaders who ran the Jewish religion. Paul looked at them and said he had lived his whole life doing what was right before God. The high priest, Ananias, was angry and told the people beside him to hit Paul on the mouth. Paul did not like that unfair order and spoke up to say so.
When some of the people standing nearby heard Paul speak harshly to the high priest, they asked him why he would say such a thing. Paul said he did not know Ananias was the high priest, and he said God’s Word tells people not to speak evil of their leaders. Then Paul noticed that the council was split, with some people who believed in life after death and some who did not. He told them he was being judged because he believed God would raise the dead.
The argument grew so loud and fierce that the Roman commander feared Paul would be pulled apart. He sent soldiers to rescue Paul and bring him safely to the army barracks. That night, the Lord came to Paul and said, “Cheer up, Paul! You have told people about Me in Jerusalem, and you will tell them about Me in Rome too.” Paul needed to hear that promise, because he was in a very frightening place.
Soon after, more than forty men made a plan to kill Paul. They promised each other they would not eat or drink until they had done it. Paul’s nephew heard about the plot and quickly told Paul. Paul asked a soldier to take the young man to the commander, and the young man told him everything. The commander made a careful plan to protect Paul.
The commander sent Paul away at night with two hundred soldiers, seventy horsemen, and two hundred spearmen. They rode all the way to Caesarea, to the governor named Felix. The commander wrote a letter explaining what had happened and why Paul was being sent. When Felix read it, he said he would hear Paul’s case once his accusers arrived, and he kept Paul in Herod’s palace to wait.
Read It Together
Acts 23:1
Paul, looking steadfastly at the council, said, “Brothers, I have lived before God in all good conscience until today.”
(WEB)
Point out that Paul told the council he had lived with a clear conscience before God. Ask children what it means to live in a way that pleases God even when others are watching.
Acts 23:16-17
16 But Paul’s sister’s son heard they were lying in wait, and he came and entered into the barracks and told Paul. 17 Paul summoned one of the centurions, and said, “Bring this young man to the commanding officer, for he has something to tell him.”
(WEB)
Show children how God used a young nephew to protect Paul. Point out that God can use even young people, and that Paul trusted others to help him.
Talk About It
- What did you think Paul felt when people were angry at him and wanted to hurt him?
- How do you think Paul felt when the Lord told him he would go to Rome?
- When have you felt scared, and what helped you feel brave?
- Why do you think God used Paul’s nephew to warn Paul about the plan?
- What is one way you can remind yourself that God is with you this week?
Activity Ideas
Paper Heart Shield Craft
You will need paper, crayons or markers, scissors, and glue. Have each child draw a large shield shape on paper and decorate it with words or pictures showing that God is with them. Let them write or draw one scary thing and one promise from God on the shield. Encourage children to take the shield home and keep it as a reminder that God protects them.
Stand Strong Freeze Game
You will need an open space and a teacher who can call out instructions. Tell children to move around like they are walking through a busy crowd, then call out “Freeze, stand strong!” and have everyone plant their feet and hold their heart. Repeat several times, and each time say a short phrase like “The Lord is with me.” Finish by having children say the memory verse together while standing strong.
Take-Home Promise Card
You will need index cards, a pen, and a small envelope or rubber band. Write the memory verse reference on each card and let children decorate it. Ask them to share the card with someone at home and say the verse together at bedtime. Encourage families to keep the card near the bed or on the refrigerator as a reminder that God keeps His promises.
Teacher Notes
For adults, this chapter shows that God’s plans continue even when people oppose the gospel. Paul faces hostility from religious leaders and political authorities, yet the Lord stands with him and promises that he will testify in Rome. Adults can take comfort that God’s purposes cannot be stopped by human conspiracies or fear.
Avoid overstating to children that God will always rescue us from danger in the same way He rescued Paul. Paul was in danger, but many faithful people throughout history have suffered greatly. Instead, emphasize that God is always present and faithful, even when the outcome is not what we hope for.
A Prayer to Close
Dear God, thank You that You are always with us, even when we feel scared or unsure. Help us be brave like Paul and trust that You keep Your promises. Remind us that You are close to us every day. Amen.
