This lesson teaches children that Jesus helps us forgive people and treat them as family, even when it is hard. It is best for children ages 5 to 11 and takes about 20 to 30 minutes.
Big Idea
Jesus helps us forgive others and welcome them back as brothers and sisters, just as he welcomes us.
Memory Verse
Philemon 1:6
That the fellowship of your faith may become effective, in the knowledge of every good thing which is in us in Christ Jesus.
(WEB)
Have children cup their hands together in front of their chests, then open them wide like a flower blooming. Each time they say the verse, they open their hands a little more to show how good things grow when we share what we have with Jesus.
The Story: Philemon 1 for Kids
A man named Paul was in prison far from home, but he was not sad about it. He was busy writing letters to his friends who loved Jesus. One of those friends was a man named Philemon, who had a church that met in his house.
Paul had a new friend named Onesimus. Onesimus had once worked for Philemon, but he had run away and caused trouble. Now Onesimus had become a Christian, and Paul had grown to love him like a son. Paul wanted Onesimus to stay and help him, but he knew Onesimus belonged to Philemon.
So Paul sent Onesimus back with a letter. In the letter, Paul wrote to Philemon, “Please welcome him back.” Paul asked Philemon to treat Onesimus not as a servant but as a dear brother in Jesus.
Paul even said that if Onesimus owed anything, Paul would pay it. Paul wanted Philemon to know that Jesus makes people family, no matter what they have done before. Paul trusted that Philemon would do the loving thing.
Paul ended his letter with kind words and a request for a room to stay in when he was free again. He knew that Philemon and his church were praying for him. Paul sent greetings from his friends who were with him, and he prayed that God’s grace would be with them all.
Read It Together
Philemon 1:4-5
4 I thank my God always, making mention of you in my prayers, 5 hearing of your love, and of the faith which you have toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all the saints…
(WEB)
Point out that Paul thanked God for Philemon and prayed for him often. Show children that we can thank God for the people in our lives and pray for them every day.
Philemon 1:15-16
15 For perhaps he was therefore separated from you for a while, that you would have him forever, 16 no longer as a slave, but more than a slave, a beloved brother, especially to me, but how much rather to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord.
(WEB)
Explain that Paul hoped Onesimus would be seen as a dear brother, not just a servant. Remind children that in Jesus, everyone is special and equal, and we are all brothers and sisters in God’s family.
Philemon 1:20
Yes, brother, let me have joy from you in the Lord. Refresh my heart in the Lord.
(WEB)
Point out that Paul wanted Philemon to bring him joy and refresh his heart in the Lord. Ask children how they can bring happiness to someone else by loving them in Jesus’ name.
Talk About It
- How do you feel when someone says sorry to you and means it?
- What did Paul ask Philemon to do for Onesimus, and why do you think he asked?
- Who is someone in your life that might need a welcome or a second chance?
- What is one way you can show love to a person who has made a mistake?
- How does knowing Jesus forgives us help you forgive others?
Activity Ideas
Welcome Home Card
You will need paper, crayons or markers, and glue. Have each child draw a picture of a house with a door and write “Welcome Home” on the front. Inside, they can draw a family holding hands. Talk about how Onesimus was welcomed back into Philemon’s home, and how Jesus welcomes us into his family.
Forgiveness Relay
You will need two cups, a few soft balls or rolled up socks, and a open space. Divide the class into two teams and have them pass the balls from cup to cup using only spoons or their hands. Each time a ball is passed, the child says something kind or forgiving to the next person. Explain that Jesus wants us to pass on kindness and forgiveness to others.
Family Circle Prayer Jar
You will need a clean jar, paper, and a pen. Have each family member write the name of someone they want to pray for on a slip of paper and place it in the jar. Take turns drawing a name each evening and praying for that person, just as Paul prayed for Philemon and his church.
Teacher Notes
For adults, this short letter shows how the gospel changes relationships. Paul does not demand that Philemon forgive Onesimus, but he appeals to love and reminds Philemon that both of them belong to Christ. The letter invites the church to see former enemies or failures as brothers and sisters, which is a challenge for every generation.
Be careful not to suggest to children that forgiveness means ignoring harm or that people in danger must stay in unsafe situations. Keep the focus on God’s love and kindness, and encourage children to talk with a trusted adult whenever they feel hurt or unsafe.
A Prayer to Close
Lord Jesus, thank you for welcoming us into your family. Help us to forgive others the way you forgive us, and to treat everyone with kindness and love. Teach us to pray for our friends and family, and to bring joy to the people around us. We love you and trust you. Amen.
