Pray Authentically!  Bible Craft Ideas for the Parable of the Pharisee and Tax Collector Luke 18:9-14

Print Friendly and PDF

 God loves our prayers and wants to hear from us, but sometimes it can be challenging to know how to pray. We might worry about the way that we offer our prayers to God, or if we are in group settings, we might be concerned over how others perceive us. These crafts aim to focus on the benefits and blessings of prayer, and remind students to pray for others.  A pop-up poster presents a reminder of the story Jesus told. A prayer necklace (or garland) offers a display-able or wear-able note of potential prayers.

Don’t miss the complete Sunday School lesson and Children’s Sermon from Luke 18:9-14.

YouTube video

Craft one: “Pop-Up Prayer Poster”

You will need:

  • Crayons or markers
  • Scissors
  • Glue or tape
  • Paper (Construction/cardstock)
  • Popsicle sticks
  • Additional decorations (stickers, glitter, etc.)

Procedure:

  1. Decorate construction paper of cardstock with verses and captions.
  2. Create two puppets of a sort, with at least one of them on a popsicle stick.
  3. Accordion fold one of the papers so that it appears “puffed up” (or push up on a stick). Place the other puppet in a “folding up and down” position, as kneeling.
  4. Place additional decorations as desired.
  5. Use the paper to recall the story of the Pharisee and Tax Collector.  

Craft Two: “Humble Prayer Necklace”  

You will need:

Procedure:
1. Cut out various small shapes from paper or cardstock.       
2. On the shapes, write prayer needs and thanksgiving notes, focusing on God’s grace and helping others.            
3. Hole punch the notes, and string them onto yarn, ribbon, or pipe cleaner.   
4. Use the prayer as a necklace, bracelet, or hanging garland to remember to pray regularly and without ceasing!  

Free Freedom in Christ Sunday School Lesson

True freedom in Christ — a Bible lesson with printable activities. Kids and PreK tracks in one download.

Download the Free Sample →

Bible Verses or Craft Captions to Consider… (Luke 18:9-14)

For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.”   -Luke 18:14

The Pharisee is puffed with pride…

The Tax Collector bows humbly!

Lord have mercy…

When we pray…

Saved by grace!

Free 4-week curriculum sample pack preview
Free 4-Week Sample Pack (Ages 6–12)
Free PreK 6-week curriculum sample pack preview
Free PreK 6-Week Sample (Ages 3–5)
Fruit of the Spirit Kids curriculum preview
Fruit of the Spirit (Ages 6–12)
Prayer Power Lab children's ministry curriculum preview
Prayer Power Lab (Ages 6–12)
Summer 2026 Children's Ministry Curriculum Bundle
Summer Curriculum Bundle

Faith alone…no need to boast or brag.

New Sunday School Curriculum: Our Bible lessons are designed to keep the kids’ attention and show how God's Word makes a difference. Every series is flexible enough for a wide-age group and affordable enough for small churches. Download a free Bible lesson in pdf or view our latest Sunday School curriculum for small churches.

Free 4-week curriculum sample pack preview
Free 4-Week Sample Pack (Ages 6–12)
Free PreK 6-week curriculum sample pack preview
Free PreK 6-Week Sample (Ages 3–5)
Fruit of the Spirit Kids curriculum preview
Fruit of the Spirit (Ages 6–12)
Prayer Power Lab children's ministry curriculum preview
Prayer Power Lab (Ages 6–12)
Summer 2026 Children's Ministry Curriculum Bundle
Summer Curriculum Bundle

Leave a Comment