Subtitle: Exploring John 10:1-18 and the Parable of the Good Shepherd
Introduction
In this Sunday school lesson, we will explore the meaning of the Good Shepherd as portrayed in John 10:1-18. This lesson will provide children with an understanding of Jesus’ role as the Good Shepherd and how it relates to their own lives. We will also engage in fun activities and games that reinforce the core message.
Section 1: The Good Shepherd Bible Lesson
Begin your lesson by reading John 10:1-18 aloud to your class. Make sure to pause and explain any difficult words or phrases. Encourage the children to ask questions and share their thoughts as you read.
Subsection 1.1: Key Points
- Jesus is the Good Shepherd who lays down His life for His sheep.
- Jesus knows His sheep, and His sheep know Him.
- The Good Shepherd leads His sheep and provides for their needs.
Section 2: The Lord is My Shepherd Sunday School Lesson
Subsection 2.1: Psalm 23
To expand on the theme of the Good Shepherd, read Psalm 23 aloud to the class. Discuss how this Psalm connects to the message in John 10:1-18. Explain that both passages emphasize the love, care, and protection provided by the Good Shepherd.
Subsection 2.2: Object Lesson
Materials needed: a shepherd’s staff or a long stick, a toy sheep or stuffed animal
Hold up the shepherd’s staff and ask the children what they think it is. Explain that shepherds use this tool to guide and protect their sheep. Use the toy sheep to demonstrate how a shepherd might use the staff to care for the flock. Connect this object lesson to Jesus as the Good Shepherd and how He guides and protects us, His flock.
Section 3: The Good Shepherd for Kids – Activities and Games
Subsection 3.1: Good Shepherd Sunday School Games
- “Follow the Shepherd” – A variation of “Follow the Leader,” where one child is chosen to be the shepherd, and the other children are the sheep. The shepherd leads the sheep through various activities, and the sheep must follow the shepherd’s actions.
- “Lost Sheep” – A game of hide and seek where one child is the shepherd and the rest are sheep. The shepherd must search for the lost sheep, while the sheep make quiet “baa” noises to help the shepherd locate them.
Subsection 3.2: Angels Visit Shepherds Sunday School Lesson
As a final activity, read Luke 2:8-20 to the class. This passage tells the story of angels appearing to shepherds to announce the birth of Jesus. Discuss the role of shepherds in biblical times and how God chose them to be the first to hear the good news. This emphasizes the importance and value of shepherds, further connecting to the Good Shepherd theme.
Conclusion
Through exploring John 10:1-18, Psalm 23, and engaging in fun activities, your class will have gained a deeper understanding of Jesus as the Good Shepherd. Encourage the children to remember that they are part of Jesus’ flock and that He is always there to guide, protect, and care for them.