The next story which is found in the book of Matthew is about John the Baptist. There are only a few short verses found about his story here (Matthew 3:1-17); however, you can find out more information about him through reading the other gospels such as in Luke chapter one which speaks of the events surrounding his birth (which is also a very interesting story). The few verses about John the Baptist show John as a unique individual, wearing a garment of camel’s hair with a leather belt and eating a unique diet of locusts and wild honey (Matthew 3:4).
I think the key concept to teach children from John the Baptist’s story is that John was willing to serve the Lord. John was willing to do whatever he needed to serve the Lord. John the Baptist prepared the way for Christ and Christ’s ministry here on earth.
This is a great opportunity to expand to children that we all have a something we can do for the Lord, and that we all have a place. I think it would be a good time to talk about the example of the body and its parts given in 1st Corinthians 12. Help your children think of ways that they can be of service to others, and thus serve the Lord. It would be wonderful to explain to your children that we can share Christ with others, and explain ways that they can do that.
Ask your children questions to help them think of things they can do for the Lord. How can you serve the Lord? How can you tell your friends about Jesus? Why should we tell others about Jesus? Children will probably be intrigued by John’s character, so take this occasion to nourish their interest in the Bible and learning about the Lord.
Read “Bible Stories: Escape to Egypt”