Paul’s Second Missionary Journey
Scripture: Acts 16:1-40
Theme: God opens doors and closes doors , we follow His leading
Age Group: Nursery (Ages 0-2)
Overview
“God’s Big Love!” “God is always with us, He opens doors for us to follow Him!” “When God says ‘Go!’ we trust Him, even if some doors close later!” “Love and joy! Let’s praise God for His kindness every day!” Optional reflection: children can draw a picture of Jesus helping their friends, then share one way they can help someone else this week. This extra activity supports the lesson’s theme and gives teachers a simple, lowprep option for extending the discussion.
Bible Story
God’s Kind Love for Everyone
One day, God called two men named Paul and Silas to travel far away. They carried the Good News about Jesus everywhere they went, sharing how God loves all people.
In one place, a girl had a special power, she could make people weak and cry. The people there were afraid, but God wanted them to know His love. Paul told them to pray, and God helped them believe.
The people in prison listened and believed too! They were so happy, they sang songs of joy. Even the jailer, who had been afraid, asked, “What shall I do to be right with God?” Paul said, “Believe in Jesus, and He will save you!”
The jailer and his whole family trusted God. That night, they were freed, and everyone was happy together. God showed them His love in a big, wonderful way!
— Why This Story Matters: God’s love is like sunshine, it shines for everyone, no matter what. Just like Paul and Silas shared His kindness, we can show love to others too. When we trust God, He makes us strong and happy, just like He did for those in prison!
Activities
Supplies:
- Show the Bible: Hold up the Bible and say, “God’s love is like paint, it fills our hearts with joy!” (Point to Acts 16:14-15 where Lydia believed and was happy.)
- Give crayons & water: Let toddlers draw with crayons, then add water to make “washable paint.” Let them color freely!
- Sing a simple song: “God’s love is like sunshine bright, it makes us feel so happy tonight!” (Repeat in a happy voice.)
- Clean up & pray: “God loves us so much! Let’s thank Him with a hug!” (Have them make eye contact.)
- 2. “Paul’s Happy Trip” Paper Chain
- Tell the story: “Paul and his friends traveled to share God’s love. When they preached, some believed, and others didn’t. But God’s love is always there!” (Point to Acts 16:31.)
- Punch holes: Teach toddlers to hold a paper strip and use the hole punch to make a chain.
- Glue & color: Let them decorate their strips with crayons. Then glue them to yarn to make a chain.
- Celebrate God’s love: “God’s love is like this chain, strong and always there!” (Hold up the chain and say, “He loves you today!”)
- Both activities use simple materials, encourage movement (painting, coloring), and reinforce God’s love in a fun way! Let me know if you’d like adjustments.
Discussion Questions
- Here are four simple, open-ended questions to help babies and toddlers explore God’s love from Paul’s journey:
- What color was the robe in the big city where Paul went?
- “God gave them clothes to wear like Paul and his friends did. How do you think God made your clothes for you?”
- Where did Paul go to tell about Jesus?
- “He went to houses where people lived together, just like you share toys with your friends! Who loves you and wants you to know Jesus too?”
- What did the jailer do when Paul and his friends were in prison?
- “He asked, ‘What shall I do?’ God answered and showed His love by letting them go. How can we show love when we feel afraid?”
- “Why did Paul and his friends stay at Lydia’s house?”
- “They stayed to help her and others, just like God wants us to love our neighbors. Who helps you and loves you every day?”
Prayer Focus
“Dear God, love is like sunshine, always shining on us, always keeping us safe and happy. You love baby Paul and all little ones, just as you love every person in the world. Help us to trust You and know You are with us, always! Amen.” (Repeat: “God loves us, God loves us, God is with us!”)
Missions Spotlight
In Greece (ancient Macedonia), where Paul first brought the Gospel to Europe, secularism is now widespread. Yet a small, faithful Greek church remains. Pray for a new movement of the Gospel in the land where European Christianity began.
To the Cross
Paul tried to go to Asia, but the Spirit said no. Then he had a vision of a man from Macedonia saying, ‘Come over and help us!’ God redirected Paul. The cross had made Paul a servant , he went where God sent him, not where he wanted to go.
Teaching Tips
- The Socratic Circle: Instead of answering questions directly, ask t
- Small Group Discussions: Divide the class into small groups of 3-4
- Visual Storytelling: Use pictures, props, or role-playing to help t
- Interactive Quizzes: End the session with a “True or False” quiz, w
Family Take-Home
Here’s a quick summary for families: Paul and his team traveled to Lystra and Derbe, where they helped strengthen churches before moving on. After a miraculous healing (turning a lame man into a believer), they faced persecution, but faith kept them going, leading to their eventual release and a final journey home in chains. (Great for a 2-minute discussion after reading Acts 16!)