January is a month of New Beginnings with God” is a wonderful theme for a series of Sunday School lessons!
Let’s kick off the new year with a fresh start in our walk with God! This month, we’ll explore exciting Bible stories about new beginnings and discover how God is always with us on this amazing journey. Imagine a blank canvas, a brand new year filled with possibilities! This January, we’ll learn how God paints beautiful and unique masterpieces in our lives. Get ready for exciting stories, fun activities, and a fresh start with God!
The new year is a time of renewal and hope. This month, we’ll delve into the profound truth that with God, every day is a new beginning. We’ll explore how God restores, redeems, and empowers us to live a life of purpose and joy.
New Year Sunday School Lesson
Children’s Sermon Lesson: New Year, New Life in Christ John 1:10-18
A new year is often a time when people make goals and resolutions to transform and change themselves. However, we know that on our own we can do nothing. True change must come from the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. This message reminds children that we are adopted into God’s family, and we have new identity in Him. Any change we hope to achieve comes through Him and new life we have in Him.
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John 1:10-18 English Standard Version
10 He was in the world, and the world was made through him, yet the world did not know him.
11 He came to his own,[a] and his own people[b] did not receive him.
12 But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God,
13 who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God.
14 And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son[c] from the Father, full of grace and truth.
15 (John bore witness about him, and cried out, “This was he of whom I said, ‘He who comes after me ranks before me, because he was before me.’”)
16 For from his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace.[d]
17 For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.
18 No one has ever seen God; the only God,[e] who is at the Father’s side,[f] he has made him known.
Free January Children’s Church Lessons
For children’s ministry, January presents a unique opportunity to focus on:
- New Beginnings with Jesus:
- Theme: Explore the concept of fresh starts with God. Emphasize that every day is a new chance to grow closer to Him.
- Bible Stories:
- Creation (Genesis 1-2): God’s creative power and the wonder of a new beginning. https://youtu.be/yZ1Fd_SPC18?si=KWj9-h3wjWgvfBaq
- The Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32): Forgiveness, second chances, and God’s unconditional love. https://youtu.be/DJgROx4wFKM?si=dNFRscKuNEBF40ed
- Jesus’ Baptism (Matthew 3:13-17): Jesus’ commitment to God’s will and a new chapter in His ministry. https://youtu.be/T0XT4lNJasg?si=m184BJ–rHsI5D7g
- Activities:
- “New Year’s Resolutions for God”: Help children set goals to grow in their faith.
- Acts of Kindness: Encourage children to perform acts of kindness as a way to show God’s love.
- “New Beginnings” Art Project: Have children create artwork that represents new beginnings or their hopes for the new year.
- Growing in Faith:
- Theme: Encourage children to nurture their relationship with God.
- Bible Stories:
- The Parable of the Sower (Matthew 13:1-9): How to receive and nurture God’s Word.
- The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37): Showing love and compassion to others as an expression of faith.
- Activities:
- “Faith Journal” Start-up: Encourage children to start a journal to record their thoughts and feelings about God.
- Memory Verse Games: Help children memorize key verses about faith and obedience.
- “Seeds of Faith” Planting Activity: Have children plant seeds and discuss how their faith needs to be nurtured.
January / New Year Bible Lessons
For children, January, the first month of the year, offers a unique opportunity to explore themes of new beginnings, hope, and growth, all deeply rooted in biblical principles.
The Bible begins with the awe-inspiring account of God creating the universe from nothing (Genesis 1-2). This powerful story of creation serves as the ultimate symbol of new beginnings. Children can learn about God’s incredible power and the wonder of His creation, from the vast expanse of the sky to the smallest creatures on Earth.
Just as God created the world anew, January provides a chance for children to experience a “fresh start” in their relationship with Him. It’s an opportunity to rededicate themselves to prayer, Bible reading, and acts of kindness.
The Parable of the Sower (Matthew 13:1-9): This parable beautifully illustrates the importance of nurturing the seeds of faith. Children can learn that God’s Word is like a seed that needs to be planted, watered, and allowed to grow in their hearts.
Setting Spiritual Goals: Just as children may set personal goals for the new year, they can also set “spiritual goals” – such as praying more often, sharing their faith with others, or being more kind and helpful.
The Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32): This poignant parable teaches children about the importance of forgiveness and the joy of reconciliation. It emphasizes that God always welcomes us back with open arms, no matter how far we may have strayed.
- Forgiving Others: Children can learn to practice forgiveness in their own lives, both giving and receiving. They can be encouraged to apologize for their mistakes and to extend grace to others.
Walking with Jesus in the New Year
Jesus’ Baptism (Matthew 3:13-17): This event marks the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry and serves as an example of obedience and commitment to God’s will. Children can learn to follow Jesus’ example by making choices that honor God.
January in Children’s Ministry:
- Creative Activities: Engaging activities can bring these biblical concepts to life. Children can create artwork depicting the Creation story, plant seeds and observe their growth, participate in “kindness” projects, and write letters of apology.
- Music and Worship: Incorporating uplifting and age-appropriate Christian songs can enhance the learning experience and create a joyful atmosphere.
- Storytelling and Games: Interactive storytelling and games can make Bible stories more engaging and memorable for children.
By focusing on these biblical themes and incorporating creative and engaging activities, children’s ministry can provide a meaningful and memorable experience for children in January. It’s a time to cultivate a deeper understanding of God’s love, to nurture their faith, and to embark on a journey of spiritual growth in the new year.