Gentiles Became Part of the Church
DECEMBER 14, 2025
Gentiles Became Part of the Church
Even though some people tried to stop it, the gospel spread throughout the earth—not only to Jews but also to Gentiles. The good news about Jesus is for everyone. God calls us to celebrate when others believe and help them know and love Jesus more.
Read all or parts of ACTS 11:1-26 from your Bible or watch the Bible story video.
ELEMENTARY GK STORY:
LIL' GK STORY:
STORY:
God had called Peter to tell everyone the good news about Jesus, no matter who they were or where they came from. So Peter shared the gospel not only with Jews, but with Gentiles. God gave His Holy Spirit to new Gentile believers in Caesarea, and they were baptized.
Before long, the apostles and other believers throughout Judea heard that Gentiles had believed the good news about Jesus. They were surprised, so Peter shared about his vision where God had explained that the gospel is for all people. Then the believers praised God and understood that Jesus had come for the Gentiles, too!
The church at Jerusalem heard about some new Gentile believers in Antioch, so they sent Barnabas there. Barnabas loved God and was full of faith and the power of the Holy Spirit. When Barnabas arrived, he saw that God was gracious to these believers and he encouraged them to keep following God.
DISCUSSION QUESTION #1: How were the Gentiles saved?
ANSWER: Gentiles were saved just as the Jewish believers were: by faith in Jesus. Discuss how the Bible records how the Gentiles repented of sin, turned to Jesus, and were given the Holy Spirit.
DISCUSSION QUESTION #2: Do you rejoice when others trust in Jesus? Why?
ANSWER: Discuss how the greatest event that can happen in anyone’s life is to trust in Jesus as his or her Savior. Tell kids that salvation is more special than birthdays, vacations, getting new toys, etc. Encourage kids to celebrate and praise God when they hear about someone trusting in Jesus.
WORK ON MEMORIZING OUR SCRIPTURE VERSE!
Lil' GK verse
Elementary GK verse
Or learn it through song!
Lil' GK Scripture Song
Elementary GK Scripture Song
MORNINGS:
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You that Your plan for salvation includes all people. We pray that You will lead more people to trust in Jesus. Give us hearts that desire to rejoice when others believe. Amen.
EVENINGS:
Dear Heavenly Father,
God, thank You for believers like Peter and Barnabas who spread the good news. Help us share the good news of Jesus with people, everywhere. Send Your Spirit to open their hearts and minds to trust in Jesus. Amen.
