Teaching Kids About Faith: Peter Walking on Water

Teaching children about faith can be both a rewarding and challenging endeavor. Introducing them to biblical stories, like Peter walking on water, serves as a powerful tool to illuminate complex spiritual concepts in an engaging manner.

This narrative not only captivates young minds but also offers valuable lessons on trust and courage.

The Story of Peter Walking on Water

The story of Peter walking on water is one of the most compelling episodes in the New Testament, found in the Gospel of Matthew. It begins with Jesus instructing his disciples to get into a boat and cross the Sea of Galilee while he went up a mountainside to pray alone. As night fell, the disciples found themselves battling strong winds and waves, struggling to make headway.

In the early hours of the morning, Jesus approached the boat, walking on the water. The disciples, terrified and thinking they were seeing a ghost, cried out in fear. Jesus immediately reassured them, saying, “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” Peter, always the bold one, responded, “Lord, if it’s you, tell me to come to you on the water.” Jesus invited him, and Peter stepped out of the boat, walking towards Jesus on the water.

As Peter walked, he noticed the wind and became frightened, beginning to sink. He cried out, “Lord, save me!” Jesus reached out his hand and caught him, saying, “You of little faith, why did you doubt?” They both climbed into the boat, and the wind died down. The disciples were amazed and worshipped Jesus, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.”

Key Lessons from the Story

The account of Peter’s venture onto the water serves as a profound illustration of faith’s power and the human struggle with doubt. At its core, the narrative reveals the remarkable strength that unwavering belief can bestow upon individuals. By stepping out of the boat, Peter exemplifies the courage required to take risks in the face of uncertainty. This act of stepping into the unknown is crucial in teaching children that faith often requires action and bravery, even when the outcome isn’t guaranteed.

Yet, Peter’s moment of fear and subsequent sinking underscores the reality of human fragility. It reminds us that doubt is a natural part of the faith journey. This duality in Peter’s experience can help children understand that wavering is not a failure but a part of growth. When Peter cries out for help, it is a powerful testament to the importance of seeking support in moments of weakness. Jesus’ immediate response to Peter’s plea exemplifies unconditional love and readiness to assist, reinforcing the idea that seeking help is not a sign of defeat but an act of wisdom.

Furthermore, the calming of the storm upon Jesus and Peter’s return to the boat highlights the tranquility that faith can bring amidst life’s tempests. This aspect of the story can be particularly comforting for children, who may face their own “storms” in various forms. The reassurance that faith can provide a sense of peace and stability, even when circumstances are tumultuous, is an invaluable lesson.

Activities to Reinforce the Story

Engaging children in activities that bring the story of Peter walking on water to life can deepen their understanding and make the lessons more memorable. These hands-on experiences can help solidify the concepts of faith, trust, and courage in a fun and interactive way.

Role-Playing the Scene

Role-playing allows children to immerse themselves in the story, fostering empathy and a deeper connection to the characters. Set up a simple stage with a blue sheet to represent water and a small boat made from cardboard or chairs. Assign roles to the children, such as Peter, Jesus, and the other disciples. Encourage them to act out the scene, focusing on Peter’s initial confidence, his moment of doubt, and Jesus’ reassuring presence. This activity not only makes the story more tangible but also helps children internalize the emotions and lessons embedded in the narrative.

Crafting a Boat and Waves

Creating a boat and waves craft can be a delightful way for children to visualize the story. Provide materials like paper plates, construction paper, glue, and markers. Guide the children in making a small boat from the paper plate and cutting out wave shapes from the construction paper. They can decorate the boat and waves, adding details like Peter and Jesus. As they craft, discuss the story, emphasizing the moments of faith and doubt. This hands-on activity not only reinforces the narrative but also allows children to express their creativity while reflecting on the story’s themes.

Faith and Trust Exercises

Exercises that focus on faith and trust can help children apply the story’s lessons to their own lives. One effective activity is a trust walk, where one child is blindfolded and guided by a partner through a simple obstacle course. This exercise emphasizes the importance of trust and reliance on others, mirroring Peter’s reliance on Jesus. Another activity could be a “faith jar,” where children write down moments when they felt scared or doubtful and how they overcame those feelings. These exercises encourage children to reflect on their own experiences with faith and trust, making the story’s lessons more personal and relevant.