The calling of the disciples and the idea of “fishing for people” is a fun story that can lend itself well to activities and crafts. Children do not always readily comprehend the idea of a metaphor, but can understand the concept of reaching out to others and following directions. The focus of these crafts, then, is on following in Christ’s footsteps and telling others about Him. A decorative ornament celebrates the following element; a fish-themed “invitation” welcomes others to church; and an egg carton naturally showcases the 12 disciples.
Bible Verses or Craft Captions to Consider…
And Jesus said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you become fishers of men.” 18 And immediately they left their nets and followed him. -Mark 1:17-18
And immediately he called them, and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired servants and followed him. -Mark 1:20
I will follow Jesus!
Follow in His footsteps…disciple of Christ
Let’s fish for people…Fishers of Friends
Disciples of Jesus…I can be one, too!
I hope to “sea” you at church…let’s “catch” up at Sunday school!
More Teaching Ideas for Children’s Ministry
Watch our video demonstration of this children’s sermon on YouTube
Watch the demonstration of these craft ideas and Sunday School lesson on Mark 1:14-20
Compare our preschool Bible lesson on “Fishers of Men”
Compare the lesson on this passage from rfour.org
Craft one: “Fishy Invitation”
You will need:
- Construction paper or cardstock
- Goldfish crackers (optional)
- Scissors
- Glue or tape
- String or pipe cleaners
- Crayons or markers
- Stickers or other decorations
Procedure:
- Draw a fish shape on a piece of paper or cardstock.
- Decorate the paper with captions, verses, stickers, and a personal message inviting others to Sunday School.
- Add stickers, eyes, glitter, or other “fish” elements as desired.
- Cut out the fish shape. Add a string or pipe cleaner if desired. Tape or string goldfish crackers, if desired. Identify a recipient and invite a friend to church!
Craft Two: “Follow in His Footsteps” Decoration
You will need:
- Paper plates
- Glue or tape
- Markers or crayons
- Stickers, glitter, or other decorations
- Pipe cleaners or string
- Scissors
- Construction paper
- Goldfish (optional)
Procedure (use one of these ideas or adapt and do others):
1. Trace (or stamp, if you’re feeling adventurous) a foot onto paper.
2. Add labels, captions, verses, and other decorations to the plate.
3. Cut out the foot, and attach to the plate with glue or tape.
4. If desired, attach a string or pipe cleaner to hang the plate as a decoration.
Craft Three: “Carton of Disciples”
You will need:
- Paper or cardstock
- Scissors
- Markers or crayons
- Popsicle sticks or finger puppets
- Tape or glue
- Fabric, cloth, or google eyes (optional)
- Egg carton
Procedure (use one of these ideas or adapt and do others):
1. Select your mode of “disciple puppets”, using popsicle sticks, clothespins, wooden pieces, or finger puppets.
2. Decorate your disciples, adding clothing, faces, or other elements as desired.
3. Use paper to label your carton as well as your individual disciples.
4. Place the disciple puppets into the egg holders in the carton. Feel free to add extra elements to reflect the disciple stories (fish decorations, money, etc.).
5. Have fun re-telling Gospel stories and recalling your disciples!