Revelation 3:20 – Jesus Knocks at the Door
Scripture Reference: “Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me.”
Objectives:
- Children should understand that Jesus is right near us all the time.
- Children should have an opportunity to sit quietly with the Lord this week, listening for His voice in prayer.
Possible Lesson Plan:
- Open with prayer.
- Play with the classroom door today. First the teacher should stand outside and knock. What do the children do? Do they ask the teacher to enter? Do they open the door. When the door is opened, have a snack or treat to give. Then reread the verse. Practice again with each student taking turns knocking and the others opening the door. Try a bit of discussion:
Why do we knock?
What would happen if we knocked and no one opened the door?
How does Jesus “knock” on our doors?
What does He promise if we open the door?
- Review the parable of the wedding feast and of the bridegroom. Sing the song “I cannot come” (Invite Dr. Pat and her guitar if you don’t know it!):
I cannot come to the banquet; don’t bother me now.
I have married a wife; I have bought me a cow.
I have fields and commitments that cost a pretty sum.
Pray hold me excused, I cannot come.
Even these small children can probably remember a time when they were “too busy” for Jesus – wanted to play or watch TV instead of going to church or evening prayers. Let each share such a time.
- Now, replay your door play. The teacher is Jesus. When he knocks on the door, each child in turn can open the door. Ask the child, “Will you come with Jesus to Church today?” or “Will you come to Jesus in prayer today?” or “Will you invite Jesus to bless your food today?” or something similar. Give the child the chance to say, “Yes” to Jesus.
- Make a Jesus Door craft: Take a sheet of construction paper. Color the icon of Jesus and glue it on the paper. Cut out a brown construction-paper door. Use tape for hinges and a piece of pipe cleaner or brad for the doorknob. Attach the door over Jesus. Write on the paper above the door, “Behold, I stand at the door and knock.”
- End with prayer: Ask each child to sit quietly and listen for the voice of Jesus each day this week.