This message focuses on how Jesus described who He was and the sacrifice He would have to make. Jesus used a farming analogy to explain how He would have to die in order to be glorified and bring life to others. This message discusses the life cycle of plants to show how Christ's death brought us salvation, and to remind us that sometimes we must let go of things to gain greater ones.

https://ministry-to-children.com/Jesus-died-to-give-life-sermon-John-12

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https://ministry-to-children.com/Jesus-died-to-give-life-John-12-lesson

Law/Gospel Theme: Jesus came to live a different sort of life, and of course came to give His life. He draws us to Himself by dying to cover our sins. Although the Christian life does involve an element of sacrifice, we are not saved by our works but through God-given faith. We might have to give up some things, but in doing so we gain greater blessings, including eternal life!

Optional Materials: Plants (flowers, vegetables, etc.), grain or flour, cross

Bible Passage: John 12:20-33

Message: Note: A variety of seeds or plants could be used for this illustration. Flowers work fine, as do things like grain, acorns, or other seeds and growing items.

Bible Verses/story to Reference: John 12:20-33
Now among those who went up to worship at the feast were some Greeks. 21 So these came to Philip, who was from Bethsaida in Galilee, and asked him, “Sir, we wish to see Jesus.” 22 Philip went and told Andrew; Andrew and Philip went and told Jesus. 23 And Jesus answered them, “The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified. 24 Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit. 25 Whoever loves his life loses it, and whoever hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life. 26 If anyone serves me, he must follow me; and where I am, there will my servant be also. If anyone serves me, the Father will honor him.

27 “Now is my soul troubled. And what shall I say? ‘Father, save me from this hour’? But for this purpose I have come to this hour. 28 Father, glorify your name.” Then a voice came from heaven: “I have glorified it, and I will glorify it again.” 29 The crowd that stood there and heard it said that it had thundered. Others said, “An angel has spoken to him.” 30 Jesus answered, “This voice has come for your sake, not mine. 31 Now is the judgment of this world; now will the ruler of this world be cast out. 32 And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.” 33 He said this to show by what kind of death he was going to die.