​Read all or parts of ACTS 13:1-3; 14:1-23 from your Bible or watch the Bible story video.

STORY: 

  Last week, we learned how Paul became a Christian. Once an enemy to Christians, Paul began sharing Jesus with others. After Paul spent time with other believers, the Holy Spirit chose Paul and Barnabas to become missionaries. A missionary is a Christian chosen by God who obeys His command to go and tell another group of people the good news about Jesus. 

   Paul and Barnabas began their missionary travels and went to the town of Lystra. But in Lystra, after Paul healed a man, Paul encountered an obstacle: the people in Lystra began to worship Paul and Barnabas! Paul told the people that they were not gods. He tried to tell them about the one true God and His Son, Jesus.
 

   Paul and Barnabas faced more trouble when some Jews from Iconium and Antioch turned people against them. Paul was dragged out of the city and stoned. Paul was willing to risk his life for the gospel because the gospel is the only way for people to be saved. When people hear about Jesus and trust in Him, they are saved from their sins.

   Even though Paul and Barnabas had hardships on their missionary journey, many people trusted in Jesus. God chose Paul to be a missionary, and He used Paul to help people experience salvation and a changed life through faith in Jesus. 

DISCUSSION QUESTION #1:  Even though Paul and Barnabas faced troubles in the cities they went to, what was something good that happened? 

ANSWER:  Discuss how Paul and Barnabas led many people to trust in Jesus. Tell kids that they did not let their hardships keep them from telling people the most important news. Remind kids that they also showed others that Jesus is worth everything, even losing their lives. Tell kids that many churches were started as well. 

DISCUSSION QUESTION #2:  God had a plan for Paul’s life even when he suffered. How can this truth encourage you when you face hard times?

ANSWER:  Answers will vary. Remind kids that we are loved by God and that He always wants what is best for us. Tell kids that sometimes challenging times make us run to God more and help us trust Him in ways we never could without the challenges. Help kids understand that God is with us and gives us courage, like He did for Paul, when we have hardships. 

MORNINGS:

Dear Heavenly Father,

   Thank You for how You called Paul to share the gospel with all people. Give us courage and strength to share the good news, knowing You will save anyone who trusts in Jesus. In Jesus’ name, amen.

EVENINGS: 

Dear Heavenly Father, 

  Thank You for Your Son, Jesus. Thank You for loving us first and for showing us Your love for us through Jesus' sacrifice on the cross. Thank you that we who trust in Jesus have the guarantee to live forever with you! Help us keep You at the center of our lives and to love others by sharing Jesus with them. In Jesus' name, amen.