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Have you ever thought about what it was like to follow Jesus during His earthly ministry? Jesus’ closest followers, the apostles, left everything behind to walk with Him, learn from Him, and share His message with the world. Now, your kids can dive into their stories and discover valuable lessons about faith, courage, and God’s amazing plan with our new Kids’ Apostle Study.
Why Study the Apostles with Kids?
The apostles—ordinary men transformed by Jesus—played an extraordinary role in the early church. Jesus, not the apostles, is the central focus of the Bible. Kids can see how God’s power worked through the apostles to point others to Christ and spread His message. Studying their lives is not just a history lesson; it’s an opportunity for children to:
See God Use Ordinary People
The apostles weren’t perfect. They doubted, argued, and even failed. Yet, Jesus called them to do incredible things. This shows kids that God can use them, no matter their age or weaknesses.
Learn to Trust Jesus in All Circumstances
Peter stepped out of the boat in faith, and Paul preached while in chains, marking the apostles’ lives with trust in Jesus during challenges. These stories encourage kids to place their faith in Jesus, even when life is hard.
Understand Their Role in God’s Plan
Jesus tasked the apostles with spreading the Gospel to the world. Kids can see how God invites all of us to be part of His mission, teaching them that their faith has a purpose.
Connect the New Testament Stories
The apostles’ stories weave through the Gospels and Acts. Studying them helps kids understand how the Bible fits together and builds a deeper love for God’s Word.
Before diving in, it’s helpful to understand the difference between a disciple and an apostle.
A disciple is a follower or student of Jesus—someone who learns from His teachings and seeks to live according to His example. Because of the Great Commission in Matthew 28:18-20, all believers today are considered disciples, as we are called to grow in faith and share the Gospel with others.
In contrast, an apostle is a messenger or one who is sent out with a specific mission and authority. Jesus chose the apostles to follow Him and to preach the Gospel, establishing the early church (Luke 6:13, Acts 1:8).
Why is Paul Included in the Apostle Study? Paul was not one of the original twelve apostles but was uniquely called by Jesus after His resurrection. On the road to Damascus, Jesus appeared to Paul and appointed him as the apostle to the Gentiles (Acts 9:1-19). Paul’s journeys and writings shaped the early church and spread the Gospel, earning him the same authority and mission as the other apostles.
What About Judas Iscariot? Judas Iscariot, though infamous for betraying Jesus, is still considered one of the original twelve apostles. He was chosen by Jesus and sent out with the others to preach and heal (Matthew 10:1-4). Judas’ role, while tragic, fulfilled prophecy and played a part in God’s redemptive plan. After his death, he was replaced by Matthias. This ensured the number of apostles remained twelve as a reflection of the twelve tribes of Israel (Acts 1:15-26).
What’s Inside the Kids’ Apostle Study?
This study helps make the apostles’ lives relatable and meaningful for children. It includes:
- A learning guide with profiles of each Apostle. Learn about each apostle’s background, calling, and unique contributions to the early church by reading key verses.
- Symbols and displayable cards. Each apostle is paired with a symbol that represents their life or ministry, making it easier for kids to remember their stories. I printed our cards on heavy card stock and used my handy-dandy corner rounder to make them look extra special.
- Coloring Pages and Bible Verses for Reflection. Key Scriptures help children connect the apostles’ experiences to God’s Word. Coloring helps keep little hands busy and ears listening!
- Discussion Questions. Thoughtful prompts encourage kids to reflect on what they’ve learned and apply it to their lives.
For some added fun, check out the selection of kids’ books I’ve chosen to compliment your Apostle Study!
You might also enjoy: The Apostles’ Creed for Kids
The Benefits of Studying the Apostles
Studying the apostles is a powerful way to inspire kids to:
- Step Out in Faith- Like Peter stepping out of the boat, kids can learn to trust Jesus in their own lives.
- Embrace Diversity in God’s Family- From Simon the Zealot to Matthew the tax collector, the apostles came from different backgrounds, showing kids that God’s Kingdom is for everyone.
- Be Bold for Jesus- Paul’s courage in preaching the Gospel, even in prison, encourages kids to share their faith boldly.
- Recognize God’s Grace- The apostles weren’t perfect, but Jesus forgave and restored them. This helps kids understand God’s grace and forgiveness in their own lives.
The Kids’ Apostle Study is perfect for family Bible time, Sunday School lessons, homeschool Bible studies, small groups or co-ops. By exploring the lives of the apostles, your kids will not only learn about history, but they’ll also see how God’s power works through His people. Let’s raise the next generation of disciples who follow Jesus with the same courage and faith as the apostles.
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