May 31, 2026 – Go and Share Jesus’ Love

After Jesus rose from the dead, He gave His followers an important mission—to go and tell others about Him. This mission wasn’t just for the disciples; it’s for us too! We can share Jesus with others by being kind, helping people, and talking about His love in our everyday lives. Core Teaching Theme: This lesson teaches children that they are part of God’s big plan to share the good news of Jesus. The Great Commission shows that everyone who follows Jesus has a role in telling others about Him. Children will learn that “going” doesn’t mean traveling far away—it can happen at home, school, or with friends. Through simple acts of kindness and words of love, they can reflect Jesus to others. The lesson also emphasizes that Jesus promises to always be with us, giving us courage and comfort as we live out this mission. Lesson Length: Approximately 30 minutes total Curiosity: 5 minutes Belief: 10 minutes Faith: 8 minutes Identity: 5 minutes Closing: 2 minutes

LEADER PREP

Leader Devotional & Invitation (for you, before teaching) In Matthew 28:16–20, we see a powerful moment after Jesus has risen from the dead. He gathers His disciples and gives them what we now call “The Great Commission.” He tells them to go and make disciples of all nations, teaching others about Him and baptizing them. But before He sends them, He reminds them of something important: all authority belongs to Him. And after He sends them, He gives them a promise—He will always be with them.

As you prepare to teach this lesson, take a moment to reflect on what it means that Jesus sends you. This mission isn’t just for the disciples long ago—it’s for every believer today. That includes you in your daily life, your interactions, your conversations, and even in this moment as you prepare to teach children. You are already living out this calling by investing in the next generation.

Think about how you share Jesus in your own life. It may not always be through big, bold conversations—it may be through kindness, patience, encouragement, or simply showing love when it’s hard. Jesus’ command to “go” doesn’t require a passport; it requires a willing heart. Where is God calling you to reflect His love right now?

Teaching children is one of the most meaningful ways to live out this mission. You are planting seeds of faith that can grow for a lifetime. Even if it feels small, even if it feels simple—God uses these moments in powerful ways. Remember, you are not doing this alone. Jesus is with you, just as He promised.

As you step into this lesson, allow yourself to be encouraged. You are part of God’s plan. You are equipped, called, and supported by the presence of Christ. Let that truth give you confidence and joy as you lead. Leader Prayer Lord Jesus, thank You for calling me to be part of Your mission. Help me to share Your love with the children I teach today. Give me patience, wisdom, and joy as I lead. Remind me that I am not alone—that You are always with me. Use this lesson to plant seeds of faith in each child’s heart. Amen.

Bible Background (Understanding the Story)

This passage takes place after Jesus has risen from the dead. The disciples meet Him on a mountain in Galilee, where Jesus appears to them one last time before returning to heaven. Some of them worship Him, while others are still unsure and amazed at what they are seeing. Even in their uncertainty, Jesus speaks to them with authority and purpose.

Jesus tells them that all authority in heaven and on earth belongs to Him. Then He gives them a command—to go and make disciples of all nations. This means they are to tell others about Jesus, teach them how to follow Him, and help them grow in their faith. He also tells them to baptize believers as a sign of their new life in Him.

The most important message for children to understand is that Jesus sends everyone who follows Him to share His love. This doesn’t mean they have to go far away—it means they can share Jesus right where they are. And most importantly, Jesus promises that He will always be with them, giving them courage and comfort wherever they go.

Key Vocabulary

Disciples – People who follow Jesus and learn from Him Nations – All people everywhere in the world Command – Something someone tells you to do that is important Authority – The power or right to give orders and make decisions Mission – A special job or purpose given to someone

Supply Checklist

Bible Printed memory verse (optional for display) Whiteboard or poster paper Markers or crayons Small cards or paper for activities Stickers or small rewards (optional) Any printed activity sheets (if using) Prep Time Approximately 10–15 minutes to review the lesson, gather supplies, and prepare materials.

Welcome Question (displayed): Who is someone you like to share good news with, and why?

Before Kids Arrive

Write the welcome question where kids can see it (board or screen). Set up a simple open space for movement. No supplies are needed for today’s activity. Be ready to greet each child warmly as they enter. Prayer Over the Space (Pray quietly before kids arrive): Jesus, thank You for each child who will walk into this room today. Prepare their hearts to learn about Your love and Your mission for them. Help this space feel safe, joyful, and welcoming. Give me the right words and a kind spirit as I lead. Amen.

Leader Tip

Younger children (K–2) may need examples to help them answer the question, while older children (3–5) will likely enjoy sharing stories or personal experiences. Encourage all answers and affirm participation.

As Kids Arrive (Leader Script)

“Hey! I’m so glad you’re here today! Come on in and check out our question: Who is someone you like to share good news with, and why?”

(Allow responses)

“That’s awesome! Why do you like telling them things?” “Do they get excited when you share good news?” “What kind of good news do you usually tell them?”

“If you’re not sure, that’s okay! Maybe it’s a parent, a friend, or even a teacher—someone who listens and cares about what you say.”

At Start Time (Leader Script)

“Alright friends, let’s come together!”

(Pause and gather attention)

“Have you ever had really exciting news—like a birthday, a trip, or something fun—and you just couldn’t wait to tell someone?”

(Pause for responses)

“It feels really good to share something exciting, doesn’t it? Today, we’re going to talk about the most important news ever—and how Jesus asks us to share it with others!” Curiosity Activity – Game or Object Lesson: “Pass the Good News!”

Leader Instruction

This activity helps children experience how messages are shared from one person to another, introducing the idea of spreading good news about Jesus.

Step-by-Step:

1. Have children sit or stand in a line or small circle.
2. Whisper a simple, positive message to the first child (e.g., “Jesus loves everyone!”).
3. Each child whispers the message to the next person.
4. The last child says the message out loud.
5. Compare the final message to the original.
6. Repeat with a new message if time allows.

Leader Tips for Management: Encourage whispering (not shouting) to keep things calm and fun. Remind kids to listen carefully so the message stays the same. Celebrate effort, even if the message gets a little mixed up.

Transition (Leader Script)

“That was fun! Sometimes messages can get a little mixed up when we pass them along—but today we’re going to hear a message from Jesus that is very clear and very important. Let’s listen closely to what He tells His followers to do!”

Leader Instruction

This is the time to help children hear and experience God’s Word. Focus on telling the story clearly and simply, while helping children imagine what it was like to be there. Keep them engaged with small movements, pauses, and questions. The goal is for them to understand that Jesus gave His followers—and us—a mission. Teaching Tips for Volunteers: Use a calm and inviting voice as you tell the story Pause often to let children think and respond Encourage participation without forcing it Use simple gestures to help bring the story to life Keep the focus on what Jesus says and promises Prayer of Invitation (Leader Script): “Dear God, thank You for Your Word. Help us to listen, understand, and learn what You want to teach us today. Open our hearts and minds to hear from You. Amen.” Bible Time Rhyme (say with motions): “Open up the Bible wide (open hands like a book) God’s Word is our guide (point upward) Listen close and hear inside (cup hands around ears)” Storytelling (Leader Script): “Today’s story happens after Jesus came back to life.

Jesus’ disciples went to a mountain in Galilee, just like Jesus had told them to do. (gesture walking with fingers)

When they saw Jesus… they worshiped Him. (bow head slightly) But some of them still had questions. (shrug shoulders)

Then Jesus came closer to them. (take a small step forward)

He said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.’

That means Jesus has all power. (stretch arms wide)

Then He gave them an important command. He said, ‘Go and make disciples of all nations.’ (point outward in different directions)

That means they were to go and tell everyone about Him.

He also said, ‘Baptize them… and teach them to obey everything I have commanded you.’

Jesus wanted His followers to help others learn about Him and follow Him too.

Then Jesus made them a promise. (place hand over heart)

He said, ‘And surely I am with you always… to the very end of the age.’

That means Jesus would always be with them—no matter where they went.

(Pause)

Can you imagine how the disciples felt hearing that Jesus was sending them out?

(Pause for responses)

And how do you think it feels to know that Jesus is always with us too?

(Pause for responses)

Let’s stand up and pretend we are going out like the disciples—take a few steps in place! (march in place)

Where could you go to share Jesus’ love? (look around the room)

Remember… Jesus is with you wherever you go.” Engagement Tips:

Ask: “Where can you go to share Jesus?” (home, school, playground)

Have children point in different directions when saying “all nations” Let children march in place to act out “going” Encourage a quiet whisper response: “Jesus is with me” Connecting the Wonder Truth (Leader Script): “Jesus gave His followers a mission—to go and share His love with others. And that mission is for us too!

We don’t have to go far away. We can share Jesus right where we are—at home, at school, and with our friends.

And the best part? Jesus promised to always be with us.

Let’s say this together: ‘Jesus sends us to share His love wherever we go!’” Word of Wonder (Memory Verse): “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations.” — Matthew 28:19 Motions: “Go” (point forward) “make disciples” (bring hands together like inviting someone) “all nations” (sweep arms wide) Practice: Whisper the verse together Say it in a normal voice Say it loudly with confidence and motions Optional Engagement Game: “Go & Share Freeze Game” Have children walk around the room. When you say “GO,” they move. When you say “SHARE,” they freeze and say one way they can share Jesus (kindness, helping, praying, etc.). Repeat a few times to reinforce the idea that we can share Jesus anywhere!

Leader Instruction

This is a time to help children connect the Bible story to their everyday lives. Remind them that Jesus didn’t just give this mission to the disciples long ago—He gives it to us too! Help them see that sharing Jesus can happen in simple ways, like being kind, helping others, and using loving words.

Encourage every child to participate, even if their answers are short. Affirm each response with kindness and remind them that learning to follow Jesus is something we practice a little more each day. Tips for Volunteers: Give children time to think—silence is okay! Repeat or rephrase questions if needed for clarity Celebrate every answer (“That’s a great thought!”) Keep the tone light, encouraging, and pressure-free

Discussion (Leader Script)

Younger (K–2):

1. What did Jesus tell His friends to do?

(Guide: Go and tell others about Him / share His love)

1. Who is Jesus asking to share His love today?

(Guide: Us / everyone who follows Him)

1. How can you show Jesus’ love to someone?

(Guide: Be kind, help someone, share, use kind words)

1. Who can help you when it feels hard to be kind or brave?

(Guide: Jesus, God, parents, teachers)

1. What is one way you can share Jesus’ love this week?

(Guide: Help a friend, be kind at school, talk about Jesus)

Older (3–5):

1. Why do you think it’s important that Jesus asked His followers to share His message with others?

1. Sometimes we feel nervous or unsure—how do those feelings affect whether we share Jesus with others?

1. How does knowing that Jesus is always with you help you when something feels hard?

1. What is one real-life situation this week where you could trust God and share His love?

(Remind leaders: Encourage honest reflection—there are no wrong answers.) Faith Practice Moment (Optional but Encouraged) Leader Script: “Let’s take a moment to talk to God together. Put your hands over your heart.”

Leader: “Jesus, help me share Your love.” Children: “Jesus, help me share Your love.”

Leader: “Be with me wherever I go.” Children: “Be with me wherever I go.”

Leader: “Help me be kind and brave.” Children: “Help me be kind and brave.”

Leader: “Amen.” Children: “Amen.”

Transition (Leader Script)

“Jesus didn’t just give us something to do—He reminds us who we are. We are His followers, and we are part of His big plan. Let’s talk about what that means for who we are every day.”

Craft Activity – “Go & Share Footprints” Supplies: Paper (white or colored) Crayons or markers Optional: child’s shoe or foot outline (or pre-drawn footprint template)

Leader Instruction

This activity helps children understand that they are called and chosen by Jesus to share His love wherever they go. Just like footprints show where someone has been, this craft reminds children that wherever they walk—in their homes, schools, and communities—they carry the love of Jesus with them. It connects directly to the Great Commission in Matthew 28:16–20, where Jesus sends His followers out with a purpose.

As children create their footprints, they will begin to see themselves as part of God’s mission. This is not just something adults do—it is something they are invited into right now. Their identity is not just “a kid,” but a follower of Jesus who can show kindness, love, and truth to others every day.

Younger Kids (K–2): Have children trace their shoe or a footprint template. Inside the footprint, they can draw pictures of places they go (home, school, playground) or people they love. Encourage them to color and decorate their footprint.

Older Kids (3–5): Have children trace their shoe or draw a footprint. Inside or around the footprint, have them write one or two ways they can share Jesus’ love this week (help a friend, be kind, pray for someone, invite someone to church).

Pre-draw or pre-cut footprints for younger children to save time Classroom Management Tips: Keep markers/crayons shared at tables to reduce passing items around Give a 1-minute warning to wrap up before transitioning to closing Instructions:

1. Give each child a piece of paper and something to draw with.
2. Help them trace their shoe or provide a footprint template.
3. Ask them to decorate their footprint with drawings or words based on their age group.
4. Walk around and encourage them, asking, “Where can you share Jesus this week?”
5. Invite a few children to share what they created (optional, time permitting).

Leader Script (Identity Connection): “Look at your footprints! These remind us that wherever we go, Jesus sends us. You are not too young—you are chosen by Jesus to share His love. When you walk into your home, your school, or anywhere you go, you carry His love with you. You are a follower of Jesus, and He promises to always be with you. So this week, remember—your feet can go and show His love everywhere!”

Review the Wonder Truth Jesus sends us to share His love with others wherever we go.

Let’s say it together one more time: Jesus sends us to share His love with others wherever we go!

Where are some places you can share Jesus’ love this week? Closing Questions What is one kind thing you can do to show someone Jesus’ love? Who is one person you can tell about Jesus?

Closing Prayer

Dear Jesus, Thank You for loving us and choosing us to share Your love with others. Help us to be kind, brave, and ready to tell others about You. Remind us that You are always with us wherever we go. We love You! Amen. Optional Sending Activity “Go & Show Challenge” Before next week, choose one person to show Jesus’ love to—by helping them, encouraging them, or being extra kind.

When you come back, be ready to share what you did!