Truth Taught: Jesus is the light of the world, bringing salvation and hope in a world darkened by sin.
Materials:
- A candle or flashlight
- A dark blanket or sheet to create a dark space
- Bible
Instructions:
- Darken part of the room by covering a space with a blanket or using a large box. Ask the children: How do you feel when it’s dark? Does it feel a little scary? Explain that the dark can sometimes make us feel unsafe or nervous because we can’t see what’s around us, and bad things can happen in the dark when we can’t see clearly.
- Light a candle or turn on a flashlight inside the darkened space. Watch how the light fills the space, and ask: How do you feel now that the light is shining? What changed?
- Read John 8:12 (NLT): “Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, ‘I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.’”
- Explain: Just like this light made the darkness go away, Jesus brings salvation into our lives. The world can feel dark and scary because of sin, but when we follow Jesus, he saves us and brings us into his light, so we don’t have to fear the darkness anymore.
- Read Matthew 5:14-16 (NLT): “You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. … Let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.”
- Explain: Not only is Jesus the light of the world, but he calls us to be lights too. When we follow him and let his light shine through us, we can help bring hope and show others how to find salvation in him.
Aha Moment: The immediate comfort of light breaking through the darkness illustrates how Jesus brings salvation, freeing us from fear and sin.