Happy Birthday Church (Acts 2:1-21) Pentecost Sunday School Lesson & Activities

Pentecost is an important and exciting event in the history of the church. Jesus promised to send the Holy Spirit, and that promise was fulfilled at Pentecost. We see God’s power evidenced and the gospel of Jesus spread to many. Pentecost is often called the “birthday” of the church, so this lesson uses elements of a birthday party to relate to the special day. Emphasis is heavy on the gift concept, relating to how we receive the Holy Spirit as a gift, not just on Pentecost but always.  

Before the saving work of Jesus, our salvation was dependent on following the law. Christ promised to fulfill that law and send the Holy Spirit to energize the church. The events of Pentecost assure and remind us that Jesus worked for us, spoke truth, and wants us to share His love with one another. He gave us the gift of His spirit to comfort and help us, and to build faith in us and in others. We should be encouraged and energized to share the Gospel and the love of God.

Passage: Acts 2:1-21; Romans 8:26-27; John 16:13-15

Teaching Age Level: Kindergarten-6th grade (children 6-12 years old)

Learning Context: Children's Church, Sunday School, Kids Ministry

Materials Needed: Candles, balloons, gift bags, straws, construction paper, decorative materials, streamers, party horns, hair dryer, cups, glue, tape, paper plates, scissors, pencils, balls, Bible (all optional, depending on which activities you choose to use—except for the Bible, you need that for sure).

This free Sunday School lesson plan for Pentecost is designed for Kindergarten through 6th grade students. It focuses on the Holy Spirit as a gift, emphasizing the importance of Pentecost in the history of the Church.

The lesson plan includes:

• An object lesson using birthday party elements to introduce the concept of Pentecost as the Church's birthday.
• Bible readings from Acts 2:1-21, Romans 8:26-27, and John 16:13-15, with explanations and discussion questions.
• Suggested games and activities include language learning, balloon races, and themed snacks.
• Craft instructions for making a "Dove from Above" and a "Flame of the Spirit."
• A word search puzzle based on the lesson's vocabulary.

The lesson aims to teach children about the Holy Spirit, the significance of Pentecost, and the importance of sharing God's love with others.

More Resources Online

• Watch the video demonstration of the object lesson. 
• Watch the video example for the craft projects.
• Watch the video Bible story “God Sends the Holy Spirit” from Saddleback Kids Club
• Watch the video Bible story “Pentecost” from Crossroads Kids
• See also Pentecost Bible Study Lesson for Kids from Acts 2:1-21
• See also Pentecost Youth Ministry Lesson on Acts 2:1-21 for teenagers