What Is the Kingdom of God? Helping Kids Understand the Greatest Treasure of All
One of the big ideas we’re exploring in our Hidden Treasure series is the Kingdom of God. In every parable, Jesus gives us a glimpse of this kingdom—not a faraway place, but a way of living here and now that reflects God’s love, justice, and grace.
But what exactly is the Kingdom of God? And how can we help young children begin to understand it?
The Kingdom of God Is God's Dream for the World
In the United Methodist tradition, we believe that the Kingdom of God is not just about heaven after we die. It's about God’s reign of love, peace, and justice breaking into our world today. When we love our neighbor, care for the poor, forgive others, and seek justice—we are living as citizens of God's Kingdom.
Jesus' parables invite us to imagine what this kind of world looks like. He said the Kingdom is like a tiny mustard seed that grows into something amazing. Like a lost sheep being found. Like a father who forgives his son with open arms.
In these stories, Jesus is painting a picture of God’s dream for how we treat each other and live together.
How Can Families Talk About the Kingdom of God?
This can be a hard concept for kids (and adults!), but here are some practical ways to bring it to life at home:
1. Use the Language of God’s Kingdom
Try saying things like:
2. Celebrate Signs of the Kingdom
Point out moments of love, justice, generosity, or healing. These are glimpses of God's Kingdom in action. You might say:
When we say, “Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven,” we’re asking for God’s way of love to shape our lives right now. Pray these words slowly and talk about what they mean. Ask your child:
A Kingdom Built on Grace
The United Methodist Church teaches that we are saved and sustained by God’s grace. In the Kingdom of God, we are all invited—not because we earn it, but because God loves us. That’s a message even young children can grasp and carry with them.
As your family explores Jesus' parables, remind your children that they are part of something big and beautiful—God’s Kingdom here and now. When they show kindness, forgive others, and live with courage and compassion, they are helping that Kingdom grow.
Family Challenge This Week
Pick one parable of Jesus and ask:
Let’s keep uncovering these treasures together—because the Kingdom of God is closer than we think.
But what exactly is the Kingdom of God? And how can we help young children begin to understand it?
The Kingdom of God Is God's Dream for the World
In the United Methodist tradition, we believe that the Kingdom of God is not just about heaven after we die. It's about God’s reign of love, peace, and justice breaking into our world today. When we love our neighbor, care for the poor, forgive others, and seek justice—we are living as citizens of God's Kingdom.
Jesus' parables invite us to imagine what this kind of world looks like. He said the Kingdom is like a tiny mustard seed that grows into something amazing. Like a lost sheep being found. Like a father who forgives his son with open arms.
In these stories, Jesus is painting a picture of God’s dream for how we treat each other and live together.
How Can Families Talk About the Kingdom of God?
This can be a hard concept for kids (and adults!), but here are some practical ways to bring it to life at home:
1. Use the Language of God’s Kingdom
Try saying things like:
- “That was really kind—just like how God wants us to treat each other in His Kingdom.”
- “When we forgive and help others, we’re helping God’s Kingdom grow.”
2. Celebrate Signs of the Kingdom
Point out moments of love, justice, generosity, or healing. These are glimpses of God's Kingdom in action. You might say:
- “When you shared with your friend, that reminded me of the Kingdom of God.”
- “When people march for justice or bring food to someone who’s sick, they’re helping bring God’s dream to life.”
When we say, “Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven,” we’re asking for God’s way of love to shape our lives right now. Pray these words slowly and talk about what they mean. Ask your child:
- “What do you think it would look like if the world was more like heaven?”
- “What can we do today to help God’s Kingdom come?"
A Kingdom Built on Grace
The United Methodist Church teaches that we are saved and sustained by God’s grace. In the Kingdom of God, we are all invited—not because we earn it, but because God loves us. That’s a message even young children can grasp and carry with them.
As your family explores Jesus' parables, remind your children that they are part of something big and beautiful—God’s Kingdom here and now. When they show kindness, forgive others, and live with courage and compassion, they are helping that Kingdom grow.
Family Challenge This Week
Pick one parable of Jesus and ask:
“What does this story show us about God’s Kingdom?”
Then, look for one small way your family can live out that truth in your home or community.
Let’s keep uncovering these treasures together—because the Kingdom of God is closer than we think.
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