In this lesson, children learn that Jesus was tempted but chose to obey God. Matthew 4:1–11 shows us that even when He was tired and hungry, Jesus trusted God’s Word. Because He overcame temptation, we can trust Him to help us when we are tempted too.
This passage teaches children:
- What temptation is
- How Jesus responded
- How we can stand firm using Scripture
Welcome & Icebreaker
Game: “Would You Choose?”
Ask fun choice questions:
- Would you choose broccoli or candy for dinner?
- Would you choose homework or TV?
- Would you choose telling the truth or avoiding trouble?
Explain:
Sometimes choices are easy and fun. But sometimes choices are HARD. Today we’ll learn about a time Jesus had to make hard choices!
Scripture Focus: Matthew 4:1–11
After His baptism, Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness. He fasted for forty days and became very hungry. During that time, Satan came to tempt Him.
The First Temptation
Satan said, “If You are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.”
Jesus answered:
“Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.”
Even though He was hungry, Jesus trusted God instead of using His power for Himself.
The Second Temptation
Satan took Jesus to the highest point of the temple and told Him to jump, saying angels would protect Him.
Jesus replied:
“Do not put the Lord your God to the test.”
Jesus refused to demand proof from God.
The Third Temptation
Satan showed Jesus all the kingdoms of the world and offered them to Him in exchange for worship.
Jesus said:
“Worship the Lord your God, and serve Him only.”
Jesus chose obedience over power and glory. After this, Satan left, and angels came to care for Him.
Jesus overcame temptation by trusting God’s Word.
Key Teaching Points for Children
When teaching Matthew 4:1–11 to kids, emphasize:
- Being tempted is not a sin.
- We all face temptation.
- God’s Word helps us choose what is right.
- Jesus understands what it feels like to be tempted.
This makes the lesson relatable and practical.
Discussion Questions (5–10 minutes)
Ask:
- Was Jesus really hungry? (Yes!)
- Was it wrong to eat bread? (No.)
- So what made the temptation wrong? (It wasn’t God’s way or timing.)
- What do we learn from Jesus?
- When are YOU tempted?
Help kids understand:
Temptation is when we feel pulled to do something wrong.
Jesus understands what it feels like to be tempted!
Memory Verse with Motions
Matthew 4:10:
“Worship the Lord your God, and serve Him only.”
Add motions:
- “Worship” — raise hands
- “the Lord your God” — point upward
- “serve Him only” — hands over heart
Repeat it multiple times, increasing speed for fun.
Activity for Kids
For Preschoolers:
For Elementary Students:
Why This Lesson Matters
Matthew 4:1–11 teaches children that:
- Obedience is more important than comfort.
- God’s Word is powerful.
- Jesus is our example.
- We are never alone in our struggles.
When children learn to respond to temptation with truth, they build a foundation for lifelong faith.
Teaching about temptation is not about making children feel guilty. It is about showing them that Jesus is faithful.
Matthew 4:1–11 reminds us that obedience is possible through God’s strength. When children learn to respond with truth, they begin building a strong spiritual foundation that will guide them for years to come.