Children: Jesus forgives Peter (John 21:15-19)
This is one of my all time favourite stories - Jesus forgives Peter for denying him three times. Did Peter deserve forgiveness? No! But, Jesus offered it freely.
READ & WATCH
The story can be found in John 21:15-19. Here is a longer retelling of the story from Saddleback Kids which incorporates some of the important background.
THINK
How many times did Peter deny knowing Jesus?
How many times did Jesus ask Peter if he loved him?
What did Jesus ask Peter to do?
What does this story teach us about Jesus?
EXPLORE
Have fun with this colouring page, word search and crossword!
Jesus prepared breakfast for his disciples on the beach. He cooked fish for them over a fire. Have you ever tried to BBQ breakfast? Why not give it a go this Sunday - you could BBQ bacon and eggs, or even pancakes! As you do, chat to your family about the special breakfast Peter and Jesus had.
Jesus instructed Peter to ‘feed my sheep’. He wasn’t asking Peter to become a farmer, he was giving him a very special job - to look after Jesus followers. Peter went on to tell many people about Jesus and to care for the new church as it grew. Isn’t it amazing that Jesus not only forgave Peter but gave him an important job? You can remember this by making your own sheep craft. There are lots of choose from here.
PRAY
This is a great week to thank Jesus for his forgiveness! Just like Peter, we often make mistakes. We know that Jesus forgives us when we ask him. Why not go outside and find a quiet place to pray. Take a moment to say sorry to Jesus and then read 1 John 1:9 to remind yourself that you are forgiven!
SING
Here are two songs to get you moving this Sunday, and to help us reflect on God’s goodness! The first is called You Forgive Me, and the second When I L:ook. Enjoy!