Bible verses about independence offer children a biblical view of freedom. God says we find freedom not by doing whatever we want. Instead, true freedom comes from following Jesus and depending on God.
This is an important message, especially in a culture that preaches self-reliance. Near holidays like Independence Day, Sunday school lessons can emphasize making wise choices as followers of Jesus.
Children’s ministry leaders and pastors: Help kids see that in God’s kingdom, freedom is a gift. Independence doesn’t mean doing life alone or without rules. True, lasting freedom comes from trusting in and obeying God.
Read on for ways to teach this in age-appropriate ways. Plus, find 20 helpful Bible verses about independence to include in Sunday school lessons.
Explaining Christian Freedom to Kids
When kids think of independence, they picture doing things all by myself. No one telling me what to do or setting rules. But biblical freedom is very different!
In class, emphasize these themes: Jesus provides freedom from sin and fear. We can’t live well without God’s help. Growing up means more responsibility and more need for God. Freedom is a chance to love and serve others. Obeying God leads to the greatest kind of freedom.
Options abound for teaching dependence on God. For example:
- Object lesson — Have kids try to walk a straight line blindfolded (i.e., living without God’s guidance). Then let them walk with someone guiding them (i.e., trusting God).
- Discussion — What are some ways you can be independent and still depend on God?
- Craft — Make a Freedom in Jesus banner with Scripture verses.
- Holiday tie-in — Near July 4th, teach about the difference between political freedom and spiritual freedom.
- Bible verses about independence — Choose some of the 20 Scriptures listed below.
Here are talking points for Bible lessons about depending on God:
1. Freedom Through Jesus
Key idea: Jesus sets us free to live the way God wants us to live.
Because Jesus loves us and died for us, he set us free from sin. So we don’t have to be stuck doing wrong things anymore. We can choose to do what is right and good because of his power.
2. Depending on God
Key idea: We never outgrow our need for God.
Even when you can do more things on your own as you grow up, you’ll always need God’s help. Being independent doesn’t mean you stop trusting God. In fact, the more we depend on him, the more we can do good things and make wise choices.
3. Freedom That Serves Others
Key idea: We use our freedom to serve, not to sin.
God gives us freedom so we can love and help other people—not so we can be selfish or do whatever we want.
4. Obedience Brings True Freedom
Key idea: Obedience to God leads to joy and freedom, not restriction.
Some people think freedom means not having rules. But God’s rules protect us and help us live happy, free lives. When we obey God, we live the best way possible.
20 Bible Verses About Independence and Freedom
These Scriptures highlight different aspects of Christian freedom. Teach kids how freedom and dependence on God go hand in hand.
Freedom Through Christ
- So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. John 8:36
- It is for freedom that Christ has set us free.” Galatians 5:1
- Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. 2 Corinthians 3:17
- But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves of God, the benefit you reap leads to holiness. Romans 6:22
- Through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death. Romans 8:2
