Prepare your session
Tips on preparing this week's sessions for children and young people
Use the Jump menu on the right to find Bible notes and other resources.
Prepare your children's session
Prepare your very young children's session
Prepare your young people's session
Prepare your children's session
Read Bible notes on Matthew 10:24-39
There are some very challenging words in this passage; Jesus presents some stark imagery about sharing our faith. How do you think Jesus is perceived today? What is society’s view of him and the church?
Think about times and places when you have noticed a conflict between the demands of your faith and the demands of the secular world. Were you able to speak out about your faith? Were people hostile, open or indifferent? Even in our church communities we don’t always speak out as much as we might.
Consider how the children can share their own story and experience of faith while being respectful of other people’s beliefs and experiences.
Prepare your very young children's session
Provide the following play materials for very young children throughout the session: building block challenge for the children to work together on.
Prepare your young people's session
Read Bible notes on Matthew 10:24-39
Jesus knew life wasn’t always going to be easy for his followers, but he exhorted them to spread his message anyway. He didn’t sugar-coat things, either, reminding them that if the master is called offensive names, his disciples should expect even worse. Even so, he told them not to be afraid, because, although their bodies were on the line, their souls were safe.
Do you find it easy to share the message of Jesus with friends and family? What sort of opposition would you face if you did?
This week is Refugee Week and the young people may be thinking about the hardships faced by people fleeing from their homes. This may be a helpful way in to conversations about Christians who suffer for their faith.