“These Twelve Jesus Sent Forth”
COME FOLLOW ME NEW TESTAMENT
(March 6-12, Matthew 9–10; Mark 5; Luke 9)
ACTIVITIES & SONGS FOR FAMILIES & PRIMARY TEACHERS
comefollowme, comefollowme2023, new testament, march 12-16, heal, apostles, sacrifice, Come Follow Me Index
“These Twelve Jesus Sent Forth”
Your kiddos will LOVE these activities and songs for Come Follow Me (March 6 - 12, Matthew 9–10; Mark 5; Luke 9) New Testament topics.
TOPICS/ACTIVITIES:
[Click each topic to go to that section of the page.]
Matthew 9:18–30; Mark 5:22–43
Jesus has the power to heal me. (PRIMARY)
- Spiritual First Aid: Help & Healing craft
- The Lord Takes Our Sorrows object lesson
- Jesus Miracles folder game
- Healing Object Lesson
Matthew 10:39, Luke 9:23-26, Luke 9:61-62
Following Jesus Christ requires sacrifice. (PRIMARY)
Luke 9:23-26 - Take Up My Cross (FAMILY)
Matthew 10:1–10
Jesus called Twelve Apostles and gave them power to do His work. (PRIMARY/FAMILY)
The Twelve Apostles can teach me about Jesus. (OLDER PRIMARY)
- Matthew 10:1-10 Activity Page / Prophets Cards Hunt
- Prophets & Apostles Testify of Jesus Christ - Follow the Leader / Prophets Cards Hunt
NEW TESTAMENT 2023 READING TRACKER COLORING CHARTS FOR KIDS!!
A fun, easy way to motivate and keep track of scripture reading in 2023!
Print out these super fun New Testament 2023 Reading Charts, hang on your kids bedroom wall or keep with their scriptures and let them color in each book or picture number as they complete the weekly readings.
(Get when you join the printables library - under "CFM 2023 READING COLORING CHART")
NEW TESTAMENT 2023 KIDS CFM ACTIVITY PRINTABLES BUNDLE (JAN - JUNE & JULY-DEC)
This Come Follow Me 2023 Kids Activity Book for Families & LDS Primary gives you simple, easy Come Follow Me printables for church and home.
With activity suggestions for every week of the month (Jan-June), you'll always have something quick and easy to give your kiddos to further engage them in the lessons each week while giving them plenty of variety* and fun while learning!
(42+ PGS of fun for Jan-Jun & lots more July-Dec! - Get when you join the printables library).
Includes: Coloring Pages, Scripture Trace & Color, Mobile crafts, Write/Draw activities, Puzzles,
Matching and more!
[NOTE: Many of the Jan-June activities can be re-used if you didn't use them the first time for similar lesson topics later in the year!]
Hello and welcome to LDS Primary Printables. I'm so excited you are here! LDS Primary Printables provides Come Follow Me, Gospel Topics, Primary Events, and Primary Singing Time Resources for Families, Primary Teachers and Primary Music Leaders.
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SPIRITUAL FIRST AID
SACRIFICE FOR JESUS
SPIRITUAL
TEMPORAL
PROPHETS HUNT
& POWERS
Following Jesus Christ Requires Sacrifice
Matthew 10:39, Luke 9:23-26, Luke 9:61-62
What might it mean to “lose” our life and to “find” it?
In this context, the phrase “save his life” means to live selfishly rather than seeking to serve God and His children.
In what ways do you think people who focus on their own will and selfish desires will eventually “lose” their lives?
To lose our lives for His sake is more than being willing to die for Him. It means to be willing to give of ourselves each day to serve Him and the people around us. It means submitting our will to His. It means caring more for others than we do ourselves. It means serving others each day.
What do you think it means that we will find our lives as we lose them for His sake?
(See Elder Maxwell quote)
Related Scripture - Mosiah 3:19
ACTIVITY
Write several Christlike qualities on pieces of paper and the opposites of those qualities on other pieces of paper (such as love and selfishness, humility and pride, and so on). Write the words save and lose as headings on the board, and invite the children to sort the qualities under the appropriate headings. Give the children time to ponder the Christlike qualities on the board and to choose one to develop more fully.
OTHER ACTIVITIES
Jesus & Idols coloring craft - Teach your kids about the power of putting the Lord first in their life with this unique, fun puzzle coloring craft. Each piece of the Jesus figure contains an example of a way we can put the Lord first
while the idol figure contains "idols" examples (worldly desires), things that we often put in place of or give more importance to than God.
Temporal/Spiritual folder game - Draw a circle, identify whether the pictured item is temporal or spiritual, then add to the correct side. Read scriptures and discuss related lesson material during the game.
President Monson Quote
“I believe the Savior is telling us that unless we lose ourselves in service to others, there is little purpose to our own lives. Those who live only for themselves eventually shrivel up and figuratively lose their lives, while those who lose themselves in service to others grow and flourish—and in effect save their lives” (President Monson, “What Have I Done for Someone Today?” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2009, 8
President Faust Quote
President James E. Faust (1920–2007) of the First Presidency taught that losing our lives means overcoming selfishness and committing ourselves to the service of others:
“For each of us unselfishness can mean being the right person at the right time in the right place to render service. Almost every day brings opportunities to perform unselfish acts for others. Such acts are unlimited and can be as simple as a kind word, a helping hand, or a gracious smile.
“The Savior reminds us, ‘He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it’ [Matthew 10:39]. One of life’s paradoxes is that a person who approaches everything with a what’s-in-it-for-me attitude may acquire money, property, and land, but in the end will lose the fulfillment and the happiness that a person enjoys who shares his talents and gifts generously with others.
“… The greatest fulfillment in life comes by rendering service to others, and not being obsessed with ‘what’s in it for me’” (“What’s in It for Me?” Ensign, Nov. 2002, 21–22).
Elder Maxwell Quote
Elder Maxwell taught that losing our lives means submitting our will to God’s will, thereby finding our true identity: “So many of us are kept from eventual consecration because we mistakenly think that, somehow, by letting our will be swallowed up in the will of God, we lose our individuality (see Mosiah 15:7). What we are really worried about, of course, is not giving up self, but selfish things—like our roles, our time, our preeminence, and our possessions. No wonder we are instructed by the Savior to lose ourselves (see Luke 9:24). He is only asking us to lose the old self in order to find the new self. It is not a question of one’s losing identity but of finding his true identity!” (“Swallowed Up in the Will of the Father,” Ensign, Nov. 1995, 23).
President Benson Qute
President Ezra Taft Benson (1899–1994) listed some ways modern-day followers of Jesus Christ can “lose their lives” as the Savior taught: “Opportunities to lose oneself for the good of others present themselves daily: the mother who serves her children’s needs; the father who gives his time for their instruction; parents who give up worldly pleasure for quality home life; children who care for their aged parents; home teaching service; visiting teaching; time for compassionate service; giving comfort to those who need strength; serving with diligence in Church callings; community and public service in the interest of preserving our freedoms; financial donations for tithes, fast offerings, support of missionaries, welfare, building and temple projects. Truly, the day of sacrifice is not past” (“This Is a Day of Sacrifice,” Ensign, May 1979, 34).
President Ezra Taft Benson described what happens in the lives of those who “lose their lives” for the Savior: “Men and women who turn their lives over to God will find out that he can make a lot more out of their lives than they can. He will deepen their joys, expand their vision, quicken their minds, strengthen their muscles, lift their spirits, multiply their blessings, increase their opportunities, comfort their souls, raise up friends, and pour out peace. Whoever will lose his life to God will find he has eternal life” (“Jesus Christ—Gifts and Expectations,” New Era, May 1975, 20).
Additional Thoughts
Even before the Savior’s Crucifixion, the image of “taking up one’s cross” (see Mark 8:34) would have been a familiar and perhaps troubling one for the disciples. Crucifixion was a common means of execution in the Roman Empire, and its victims were made to carry their own crossbeams to the place of execution (see John 19:16–17). By using this imagery, the Savior vividly taught His disciples what they must be ready for and called upon them to follow His example by submitting to the will of the Father in their lives. Luke 9:23 adds that we should be willing to take up our cross daily and follow Jesus.
The Joseph Smith Translation explains: “And now for a man to take up his cross, is to deny himself all ungodliness, and every worldly lust, and keep my commandments” (Joseph Smith Translation, Matthew 16:26 [in Matthew 16:24, footnote e]).
WHAT YOU NEED:
I'll Take Up My Cross coloring page - in the printables library in the CFM 2023 Kids Activity Bundle (Jan - June)
Taking up our cross entails denying ourselves and our wants/desires in order to do what God wants us to do. This isn’t just a one-time event either. The scriptures say “daily”. This needs to be a conscience effort every single day to put God first instead of ourselves. Then look at Luke 9:25. This tells us why we shouldn’t be following after the world and our own desires…we lose everything! This life is such a short part of eternity. We need to follow after Him daily in order to live eternally with Him again someday.
Tell the children about a time when you gave up something in order to get something better. Invite the children to share examples of their own. Then read together Luke 9:23–25. Explain that Jesus wants us to be willing to give up anything to follow Him. While He may not ask us to literally give up our lives, what does He ask us to give?
Joseph Smith Translation, Matthew 16:26 [in Matthew 16:24, footnote e]: "...And now for a man to take up his cross, is to deny himself all ungodliness, and every worldly lust, and keep my commandments."
What does it mean to look back after putting our hand to the plow? Why would this attitude make us not fit for the kingdom of God?
WHAT YOU NEED:
Picture of person plowing a field
When I was growing up, my grandpa and my dad did a bit of farming. I have fond memories of riding my grandpa’s mule between the fields. My family spent long hours with hand on the plow, preparing fields, and laying out rows. Great value was placed on the rows being straight, for as the crop came up, it had to be plowed again and again to keep it free of grass or weeds. As a young boy growing up in South Mississippi, I was blessed to have a few opportunities to hold the plow and do my best to keep in step with the mule. There is an art to guiding a mule. He will go where you want him to go, as long as you know where you are going. You can’t plow and be distracted. You will plow a crooked row and perhaps damage existing plants. Once you put your hand to the plow of following Jesus, if you don't look forward, without distraction, you will live a crooked, tentative life. Plowing requires a single-minded focus, and so does following Jesus. (Eddie Davidson) (Eddie Davidson)
Jesus was not suggesting it was a sin to have an affection for home or an obligation toward those at home. These people were not asking for a moment to take care of what was necessary—they were putting forward an excuse that would not allow them to follow. That excuse could have been anything. It could have been family, it could have been treasure, it could have been pleasure. If you will notice, the way this would-be disciple worded it said it all, “But first…”
Is there anything wrong with that? Is there anything wrong with having a priority higher than following Christ? YES! Jesus said to him, “No one, after putting his hand to the plow and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.” (Luke 9: 62)
The world is good at distracting us from hearing and following Him. God doesn't want anything to distract us from Him, not EVEN our friends and family. God comes first and we shouldn't let even our friends and family lead us away from Him. (Connection - Use stories of pioneers and those that have been cut off from their family for joining the church, etc. to illustrate this point.) God is to be obeyed and followed rather than any man and their philosophies.
ASK: WHAT "BUT FIRST" EXCUSES AND JUSTIFICATIONS DO WE GIVE FOR NOT FOLLOWING JESUS?
It's too hard.
I don't have the time.
Someone else will do it better.
"But he/she did..."
I deserve...Entitlement
Let us never be found saying: “Lord, I will follow, but first…” ” Lord, I will serve, but first…” “Lord, I will go be a missionary, but first…” “Lord, I will forgive, but first…” The “FIRST” in your life is always to be following Christ.
Priorities - Straight & Narrow Walk
WHAT YOU NEED:
Scotch or wall tape
Phone/Tablet
Picture of Friends
Picture of Family
Picture of sports/movie/famous figures and influencers
Few toys
Sports ball (football, basketball, volleyball)
Scriptures
Picture of Jesus
Food
etc.
PREP:
Place a straight line of tape going across the room. On either side of the line, place the variety of objects and pictures.
Read Matthew 7:13-14: “Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereafter: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.”
Let kids walk along the line and as they do, ask a variety of questions (examples below).
Note: If your room is small and the line is short, let kids walk back-and-forth on the line till you are done asking questions. TAILOR YOUR QUESTIONS BASED ON THE AGE OF THOSE YOU TEACH.
Ex Younger Primary Kids:
You have lots of time to play with your toys? How much of that time do you use to learn about Jesus? Do you know your primary songs by memory? The articles of faith?
Do you share your toys or do you just keep them always for yourself? What would Jesus do?
When you are on the tablet/phone, do you ever watch things about Jesus or just play games?
Do you try to help people in your family and be kind? Do what your parents ask?
Ex Older Primary/Teens:
Is there anything you see around you that distracts you from Jesus?
Is there anything you see around you that can bring you closer to Jesus?
Whose words do you value more, your friends or Jesus?
Who do you look up to more, your favorite actor/actress, sports star, influencer, or Jesus?
Who in your life is bringing you closer to Jesus and who isn't?
Is there anything you are doing with the things around you that is not righteous, that does not bring light and bring you closer to Jesus?
How much time do you spend on technology verses in the scriptures, learning more about Jesus and serving others?
Do we value and look up to influencers, sports/movie/other famous figures more than Jesus?
What worldly noise is distracting you from hearing and feel the spirit? (Check out the Holy Ghost folder game portion on noise and the Spirit).
Do you worry more about being popular, having lots of followers or being close to Jesus and becoming more like Him?
[See Jesus/Idols and temporal/spiritual games for additional activities on priorities and seeking eternal things rather than worldly things].
Jesus requires wholehearted devotion from His followers. He knows human nature. If we allow ourselves divided hearts, we will fall. "No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon." (Matt 6:24)
Does something always comes first over God? Something always will, until you determine that Christ will be first above all. We should come forth boldly, and resolve to give ourselves with our whole hearts, to Him. There can be no excuse for us not following Jesus… no “but first.” The priority of our life, the focus of our existence must be to follow Him and become more like Him.
Prophets
Jesus called Twelve Apostles and gave them power to do His work.
The Twelve Apostles can teach me about Jesus.
WHAT YOU NEED:
Matthew 10:1-10 Activity Page - available in the Prophets Activity Bundle*
*Learn more about the bundle and all the activities in the bundle in the Prophets post.
Explain that during his lifetime, Jesus calls Apostles to help Him build His Church. Ask if anyone knows any of the names of the apostles of Jesus time. As you read Matthew 10:1–10, let the kids color, cut out (or help them cut out) and paste the apostles and powers picture strips on the Matthew 10:1-10 activity page. Briefly discuss.
Let the children count the Apostles on their activity page or in the picture Christ Ordaining the Apostles (Gospel Art Book, no. 38) and then of the current Quorum of the Twelve Apostles (get pictures by visiting the Prophets post or google). Explain that we have twelve Apostles today, just as in Jesus’s time. Share your testimony of the Lord’s Apostles and of something they have taught recently.
Find information about each of Jesus's Apostles HERE.
Prophets & Apostles Testify of Jesus Christ
WHAT YOU NEED:
Prophets Cards (click picture above on the right to go to pdf)
Prep: Add some of the teachings of each apostle on the back of each card, along with the details about their lives.
Explain that not long after Christ was resurrected, the Apostles were called to be His witnesses (see Acts 1:8). As you study the New Testament, you can read of many instances when the Apostles testified that Jesus Christ is the Son of God (see also Acts 2:36; 5:27–32; 10:36–44). The Apostles today continue in this call as special witnesses—just listen to any general conference and you will see how they testify of Christ.
Invite a child to hold up a picture of the First Presidency and a picture of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Ask the child to lead the other kids around the room to a picture of Jesus. Testify that the prophets and apostles lead us to Jesus Christ.
Hide pictures of the Apostles around the room and let kids find as they sing songs about prophets & apostles, or simply place all the cards in a basket and let a child draw one. Share several examples of Apostles’ testimonies of Christ (and as time allows, other past prophets and apostles). After each child reads their card (or teachers read the card for younger kids or those that need help reading), share the testimony of that apostle as well (click the links below to go to the testimonies of the prophet and apostles).
Testimonies of the Prophets & Apostles of the Restoration
Testimonies of the Modern Prophets & Apostles
Invite kids to share their testimonies. Let them fill out the "MY TESTIMONY" activity page (in class or take-home) - see picture below - available in the printables library. Share your testimony of Jesus and His gospel.
SEE THE PROPHETS RESOURCES POST
FOR A WHOLE LIST OF ADDITIONAL FUN, ENGAGING ACTIVITIES & LESSON IDEAS ON PROPHETS
SING & FOLLOW ALONG WITH LESSON ACTIVITY VIDOES HERE...
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