13 Very Cool Stories and Why Jesus Told Them

If you want kids to do God’s Word and not just hear it—you’re in exactly the right place.
 
Each session focuses on one key Bible truth—kids will discover it, think about it, talk about it, pray about it, and apply what they learn. You’ll drive that point home through Bible exploration, fun discussions, giggle-worthy games, and oh-wow activities that engage kids in multiple ways.
 
Just add an adult or teenage leader to these easy-to-lead sessions to keep kids engaged, entertained, and growing in their faith! Each session is

• Flexible—sessions work for 1 or 2 kids, 12 kids, or more
• Multi–aged—suitable for all elementary kids
• Low–prep—using easy-to-find supplies
• 45 minutes of fun—with time stretchers to fill an hour
• Relational—children grow close to Jesus and each other

Perfect for any children’s ministry program—Sunday school, children’s church, and more!

Help kids discover the faith-building, life-changing truths tucked into 13 of Jesus’ very cool stories. They will meet a lost and found son, a rich fool, disgruntled vineyard workers, a pretty good Samaritan, and many others. And along the way, kids will explore the eternal truths Jesus wrapped in those stories—and what those truths mean in their lives.
 

Mikal Keefer has published more than 20 children's and youth books. He's an active volunteer leader in children's ministry at Church of the Good Shepherd in Loveland, Colorado. Mikal is married and the father of two children.

Contents
How to Use These SessionsPage  7
 SESSION 1: The Story of the Good ShepherdPage 9Trust Jesus. John 10:11–15

SESSION 2: The Story of the Good SamaritanPage 17We can help our neighbors.  Luke 10:30–37
SESSION 3: The Story of the VineyardPage 25Life’s not fair—but God is always loving. Matthew 20:1–15
SESSION 4:  The Story of the Lost CoinPage 33God wants you—a lot! Luke 15:8–10
SESSION 5: The Story of the Found SonPage 41God is forgiving. Luke 15:11–32
SESSION 6: The Story of the 10 TalentsPage 49Use your talents to serve God. Matthew 25:14–29
SESSION 7: The Story of the Rich FoolPage 57Keep God first! Luke 12:16–21
SESSION 8: The Story of the Two BuildersPage 63Obey Jesus. Matthew 7:24–27
SESSION 9: The Story of the Vine & BranchesPage 71Stay connected to Jesus. John 15:1, 4–5
SESSION 10: The Story of the Mean ServantPage 79We can forgive others. Matthew 18:21–35
SESSION 11: The Story of the Wedding FeastPage 87You’re invited to God’s party! Luke 14:16–24
SESSION 12: The Story of the Mustard SeedPage 95God helps our faith grow. Matthew 13:31–32
SESSION 13:  The Story of the Precious PearlPage 103Jesus is worth everything. Matthew 13:45–46