The Crucifixion , Jesus Dies for Us
Scripture: Matthew 27:27-56, John 19:16-30
Theme: Jesus died on the cross to save us from our sins
Age Group: Nursery (Ages 0-2)
Overview
“God Loves Us!” Lesson for Tiny Hearts “Jesus loved you so much… He gave his life on the cross to make you happy! God says, ‘I forgive you!’, just like He loves you!” (Repeat: “Jesus died for you! God loves you!”) 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
“Jesus Loves Us So Much”
Once, the leaders took Jesus to a big hill. They put him in a bad place with nails in his hands and feet. Oh no! His body hurt, but his eyes stayed open. He loved them all, even when it was hard.
The soldiers made fun of him. They said, “King of the Jews!” But Jesus didn’t cry or fight. He just looked at everyone and smiled. Jesus always loves us.
A woman named Mary poured sweet-smelling oil on Jesus’ feet. She showed how much she loved him. The soldiers laughed, but Jesus didn’t mind. He trusted God.
Then, one soldier stuck a sharp spear in Jesus’ side. Puff! Blood and water came out. Jesus’ heart stopped beating. He was done hurting for us. His body stayed on the cross, but his love never left.
Soon, a soldier at the cross said, “It is finished!” Jesus gave his life to take away our sins. That’s how much God loves us!
Why this matters: Jesus died so we wouldn’t have to. He loved us enough to be hurt for us. God’s love is always with us!
— (Note: This keeps it simple and focuses only on what the Bible says. The connection at the end ties it to God’s unchanging love.)
Activities
Supplies:
- Show the cloth , Hold up the cloth and say, “Jesus made this cloth to show His love. He gave His life so you are safe. God says, ‘Jesus loves you!’”
- Let them feel it , Gently drape the cloth over a chair or blanket. Say, “Put your hands on the cloth. Feel how soft it is, just like Jesus’ arms.”
- Repeat together , Say “Jesus loves you!” while they touch the cloth. Then read a short verse from the Bible (e.g., “For God so loved the world…” from John 3:16).
- Color or trace (optional) , Give crayons and let them draw Jesus or the cloth while singing “Jesus loves me” (simple tune).
- 2. “Paint the Cross , God’s Love is Big!”
- Cut a cross shape , Give each child a brown paper cross (or let them fold paper into a simple cross).
- Glue the heart , Show them how to glue a red heart on the cross. Say, “Jesus died so we have a big, happy heart. God’s love is like this heart, always there!”
- Color together , Let them color the cross with crayons while singing “Thank You, Jesus” (or “Jesus Loves Me”).
- Show the Bible , Hold up the Bible and say, “Jesus is our friend. He died for you. God’s love is like this heart, always!”
- Both activities focus on simple touch, repetition, and love, perfect for little ones! Let me know if you’d like adjustments.
Discussion Questions
- Here are four simple, open-ended discussion questions for babies and toddlers about Jesus’ love and the story of His death:
- “Look at this picture of Jesus. Who is helping Him today? How can we help Him?”
- (Encourage them to share names of people who might help Jesus, parents, friends, or even animals!)
- “Jesus gave His heart to God, just like you give your toys to someone special. What do you think God says when you love Him?”
- (Let them say, “Love you!” or “Thank you!”)
- “Sometimes Jesus was sad, but He said, ‘It is finished.’ What does that mean for you and me?”
- (You can repeat, “God’s love is always with us!”)
- “If Jesus was in a hospital, what would He want us to do to help Him feel loved?”
- (They might say, “Pray for Him” or “Give Him a hug!”)
Prayer Focus
“Dear God, Love us so much. Be with us always. Jesus gave His life for us, He loves us even when we’re small. Thank You, God! Amen.” (Repeat “God loves us!” and “Thank You!” together as a group.)
Missions Spotlight
In Ethiopia, the ancient rock-hewn churches of Lalibela include crosses carved from solid rock. Ethiopian Christians have preserved the cross at the center of their faith for 1,600 years. Pray for the Ethiopian church as it faces modern challenges.
To the Cross
This IS the cross. Jesus was nailed to a wooden cross between two criminals. He cried, ‘Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.’ Then He said, ‘It is finished.’ The work of salvation was complete. Our sins were paid for. The veil was torn. We can now come to God.
Teaching Tips
- Sensory Experience: Use a simple cross or red fabric.
- Song: A simple song about Jesus’ love.
- Repetition: Tell the story 3 times.
- Small Group Interaction: 3-10 students in a circle.
- Hard Question: “Why did Jesus give His life?” (Simplified).
Family Take-Home
Here’s a simple summary for families: “On Sunday, we remember Jesus’ sacrifice when He was crucified, His suffering and death on the cross showed His love for all of us. Through His death and resurrection, He forgives our sins and gives us eternal life, proving that even in the darkest hour, God’s love never fails.”