Share the Word
Ways to present Matthew 10:24-39
Activities marked with an asterisk 
next to the activity title are in addition to the resources in the Ready to go sessions. Suggested timings for these activities are also shown. NB The inclusion of additional activities varies from week to week.
A version of the story for very young children
Tell the story using the hand actions.
Jesus said, ‘Don’t be afraid! (shake one finger)
It can be hard following me, but God cares for each of you. (hold hands out)
God cares for every little sparrow,
but you are more special to God. (interlock thumbs to make a bird)
You are so special that God knows how many hairs are on your
head. (point to head)
Even when things are hard and tough, (bang fists together)
don’t be afraid.’ (shake one finger)
FOR CHILDREN
Read the story and pause at the 
to share these points with the children (see Stop and share below). Then use the activity to explore the passage together. (10 mins)
Click on the image to view a PDF.
Stop and share
- Good disciples remember their teacher’s example, even if their message is not heard.
- Do you know how many hairs there are on your head? What does that tell you about God?
- Although things may be tough, Jesus says that we should not be afraid, we can rely on God
Action mimes W E
- Encourage mime actions for the following words: hidden, dark (hand over eyes), secret (finger on lips), whisper (whispering), shout (shouting), sparrows (flap arms), hair (point to hair), tell, say (talking).
FOR YOUNG PEOPLE
Envelope opening 5 mins W E A
- Break up the Matthew passage into five blocks (vv: 24-25, 26-31, 32-33, 34-38 and 39) and seal in five unmarked envelopes. Give out the envelopes for some young people to read each piece separately, asking the whole group whether it is more frightening or reassuring. Then read the whole passage to the group, this time in the correct order.
- What is about to happen here?
- What aspects of the Gospel message would you want to ‘shout from the rooftops?’
- Does fear stop us from sharing our faith? What does God have to say about this?