In the Gospel of Mark, Jesus begins His ministry with a simple but life-changing invitation: “Follow me.” Along the shores of the Sea of Galilee, ordinary people are called to leave what they know and walk with Him. This story reminds us that following Jesus is not only for adults or biblical heroes. It is a call for all of us, including children, to listen, trust, and respond in faith.
This Sunday School lesson, based on the Methodist Lectionary reading from Mark 1:14–20, is for January 25 (Third Sunday after Epiphany). It helps children understand that Jesus calls us in our everyday lives and invites us to follow Him with love and obedience.
Scripture Focus
- Gospel Reading: Mark 1:14–20
- Theme: Following Jesus
- Key Message: Jesus calls ordinary people to follow Him, and we can follow Him every day through our choices and actions.
Bible Story: Jesus Calls the First Disciples
Tell the story of Mark 1:14–20 in simple, engaging language.
Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee when He saw fishermen doing their daily work. Jesus did not look for important or famous people. Instead, He called ordinary workers and said, “Follow me.” Immediately, they left their nets and followed Him.
Key Points for Children:
- Jesus meets people where they are.
- Jesus invites us to follow Him right now, not someday.
- Following Jesus means trusting Him and living in loving ways.
Discussion Questions
Encourage children to think and share:
- How can we follow Jesus at home, school, or church?
- Who did Jesus call to follow Him?
- What were they doing when Jesus called them?
- What does it mean to follow Jesus today?
Memory Verse
“Jesus said, ‘Follow me.’”
Mark 1:17
Activities
Activity 1: “Drop the Nets”
Give each child a paper “net” with a word or picture showing something that might keep them from following Jesus (such as being unkind or not listening). Invite them to drop the net and share one way they can follow Jesus instead.
Activity 2: “Following Jesus” Footsteps Craft
Have children trace their feet on paper and draw or write ways they can follow Jesus, praying, helping others, telling the truth, or being kind. Display the footprints as a reminder that following Jesus is a daily journey.
Activity 3: Coloring Activity
Why This Lesson Matters
This lesson invites children to hear Jesus’ call as something meant for them. As they learn how Jesus called ordinary people to follow Him, children begin to understand that faith is lived out in simple, everyday ways. Following Jesus becomes less about knowing the right answers and more about choosing love, kindness, and trust.
As children listen to Jesus’ invitation, they are gently reminded that He walks with them each day. This story helps plant the seeds of discipleship, shaping a faith that grows through listening, responding, and walking in Jesus’ way.
Feel free to use this presentation in your next class.