Jeremiah the Prophet
Bible Story

Jeremiah the Prophet

Project in classBig-screen mode for Sunday school: large text, full screen and slide clicker support.Lesson kitA 45-minute plan, questions and a printable sheet for Sunday school.Where it happened: Jerusalem and BethanySee it on the Bible map and find other stories from the same place.

Story summary

God told young Jeremiah that he knew him before he was born and had chosen him to be a prophet. Jeremiah thought he was too young and didn’t know how to speak. God touched his mouth, put his words in it, and promised to always be with him and protect him.

Where it is in the Bible: Jeremiah 1

Lesson for kids

No one is too small for God to use; he gives us the words and the courage we need.

Questions to talk about as a family

After reading, use these questions to help your child remember and apply the story.

  1. Since when had God known Jeremiah?
  2. Why did Jeremiah think he couldn’t do it?
  3. What did God promise him?

The full story: Jeremiah the Prophet

Part 1

A long, long time ago, there lived a young man named Jeremiah. One day, something amazing happened: God spoke directly to him! It was a big surprise.

God said He had a very special plan for Jeremiah. This plan existed even before Jeremiah was born! He was chosen for an important mission: to be a prophet, a messenger from God to the people.

“Before I formed you in your mother’s body, I chose you. Before you were born, I set you apart.” — Jeremiah 1:5

Part 2

Jeremiah was a little scared. He looked at himself and felt small and inexperienced for such a big and serious task. He didn't think he was the right person.

With a heavy heart, he answered God, explaining his fear. How could a young boy speak to kings and entire nations?

Jeremiah: Oh, Sovereign Lord! I don’t know how to speak, because I am only a child.

Part 3

But God was very kind and patient with Jeremiah. He calmed him down and said that age didn't matter, because strength and courage would come directly from Him.

Then the Lord reached out His hand and touched Jeremiah's mouth. With this special touch, God showed that He would give Jeremiah all the words he needed to say. Jeremiah would not speak alone.

God: Now I am putting my words in your mouth.

Part 4

God explained Jeremiah's mission in more detail. He would speak to kings, queens, and entire nations! It was a job that would change the world.

His messages would be very powerful. Some would be to pull up and tear down bad things, like a gardener clearing the ground. Others would be to build and plant good things, full of hope and love.

Part 5

God knew that being a prophet wouldn't be easy. Some people wouldn't like to hear the messages of truth. So, He made a final promise to fill Jeremiah with courage.

He promised to always be by Jeremiah's side, like a strong shield to protect him from all evil. No matter the challenge, Jeremiah would never be alone in his great adventure with God.

“Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you to rescue you.” — Jeremiah 1:8

Devotionals on this story