This story is featured in a collection of Bible stories for kids called Do Not Be Afraid: Bible Stories for Kids about Hope.
John 20:19–23
When Jesus was arrested, the disciples scattered and fled in fear. After he died, though, they gathered back together again in sadness. Still, they were afraid for their lives. They started to have doubts that Jesus would rise again, until finally, he appeared to them.
As you read this story, pay attention to how Jesus greets the fearful disciples.
On the third day after Jesus died, the disciples gathered together behind locked doors. They were hiding for fear of the Jews that had killed Jesus. They were sad and afraid.
Suddenly, Jesus appeared in the middle of the room. “Peace be with you,” he said to them.
The disciples were amazed. They thought Jesus was dead, yet here he stood among them. Some of them had doubt that it truly was Jesus, so the Lord showed them the wounds in his hands and in his side.
When they saw that it was Jesus, the disciples rejoiced! Their Lord was alive! He was risen!
Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you.”
Then Jesus did something quite unexpected. He opened his mouth and breathed on them. “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive someone’s sins, they will be forgiven.”
The Holy Spirit took away their fear. Jesus gave them peace and the power to share that peace with the whole world.
Pentecost Reflection Questions
- How did Jesus greet the sad and fearful disciples?
- What fears do you have right now that you can offer up to the Lord, seeking his Holy Spirit to comfort you?
- How can you bring the gift of peace in the world today?
Download & Print this Story and Reflection Questions
You can read this story to your kids online or download a PDF printout along with discussion questions here:
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