In this lesson, children learn that God is in charge even when people refuse to listen to Him, and that His word always comes true. This lesson works for children ages 5 to 11 and takes about 20 to 30 minutes to teach.
Big Idea
God keeps His promises, even when people choose not to obey Him. We can trust God, even when the people around us do not agree with what He says.
Memory Verse
Jeremiah 43:10
And tell them, the LORD of Armies, the God of Israel, says: ‘Behold, I will send and take Nebuchadnezzar the king of Babylon, my servant, and will set his throne on these stones that I have hidden; and he will spread his royal pavilion over them.
(WEB)
Teach children to hold both hands up in front of them, then slowly bring them together and press them flat, like a mountain that stays strong. As you say the verse, have them do the motion together, reminding them that God’s plans stand firm.
The Story: Jeremiah 43 for Kids
Jeremiah was a prophet, and God had sent him to speak to the people of Judah. Jeremiah told them everything God had asked him to say. Some of the people did not like the message, and they did not want to hear it.
A man named Johanan and some of the other leaders gathered together and went to Jeremiah. They said, “You are not telling the truth. God did not send you! Your friend Baruch is tricking you into saying this.” They did not want to stay in their own land, so they decided to go to Egypt instead.
Johanan and the other leaders took the people with them. They took Jeremiah and Baruch too, even though Jeremiah had told them not to go. They traveled all the way to a city called Tahpanhes in Egypt.
God spoke to Jeremiah again while he was in Tahpanhes. God told him to take big stones and bury them in the mud and bricks at the front of Pharaoh’s house. Jeremiah did exactly what God asked, even though it seemed strange.
Then Jeremiah told the people what the stones meant. God said that King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon would come and set up his royal tent right on those stones. God was going to use this powerful king to do what He had said.
The people did not listen to God, but God still kept His word. Every single thing He had promised would happen, just as He said.
Read It Together
Jeremiah 43:1
When Jeremiah had finished speaking to all the people all the words of the LORD their God, with which the LORD their God had sent him to them, even all these words…
(WEB)
Point out that Jeremiah finished speaking everything God told him to say. Explain that Jeremiah did not change the message to make it easier for people to hear, and he was faithful to God even when it was hard.
Jeremiah 43:4
So Johanan the son of Kareah, and all the captains of the forces, and all the people, didn’t obey the LORD’s voice, to dwell in the land of Judah.
(WEB)
Show children that the people chose not to obey God’s voice. Help them see that disobeying God has real consequences, and that choosing to listen to Him is always the wiser path.
Jeremiah 43:10-11
10 And tell them, the LORD of Armies, the God of Israel, says: ‘Behold, I will send and take Nebuchadnezzar the king of Babylon, my servant, and will set his throne on these stones that I have hidden; and he will spread his royal pavilion over them. 11 He will come, and will strike the land of Egypt; such as are for death will be put to death, and such as are for captivity to captivity, and such as are for the sword to the sword.
(WEB)
Point out that God called Nebuchadnezzar His servant, even though he was a king of a foreign nation. Explain that God is powerful over every nation and every ruler, and nothing happens outside of His control.
Talk About It
- What did the people in this story choose to do when Jeremiah told them what God wanted?
- How do you think Jeremiah felt when the people would not listen to him?
- Why did God use the big stones to show what would happen in Egypt?
- What is one thing you can do when your friends do not want to do the right thing?
- How can you remember that God always keeps His promises, even when things seem hard?
Activity Ideas
Stone Painting Craft
You will need smooth stones, washable paint or markers, and a bowl of water with a towel. Give each child a stone and have them paint or draw a symbol that reminds them of God’s promises, such as a cross, a heart, or a sun. Let the stones dry, then talk about how God’s word is steady, just like a strong stone.
Stone Stack Game
You will need a pile of soft items such as stuffed animals or pillows, and a timer. Have children take turns building a tower with the soft items while you read a short line from the story. When the tower falls, remind them that people’s plans can fall apart, but God’s plans stand firm. Keep the game lively and short.
Take-Home Promise Card
You will need index cards, a pencil, and a small bag or envelope for each child. Have children write or draw one promise from God on the card, such as “God keeps His word.” Ask them to place it in the envelope and take it home to put on their bedroom wall or in their Bible. Encourage them to read it aloud with their family during the week.
Teacher Notes
For adults, this chapter shows that people can reject God’s warnings and still face the consequences of their choices. It also reveals God’s sovereignty, since He uses even a foreign king to carry out His purposes. Adults can see in Jeremiah a model of faithfulness when speaking truth that others do not want to hear.
Avoid overstating to children that every disobedient choice brings a dramatic punishment right away. Instead, focus on the simple truth that God’s word is trustworthy and that obeying Him is the best path. Let children know that God loves them and wants them to listen to His voice.
A Prayer to Close
Father, thank You that Your word always comes true. Help us to listen to You, even when others do not. Teach us to trust You every day. Amen.
