Teaching Sunday School with Empathy
The idea of teaching Sunday School with empathy is nothing new or groundbreaking, but as Sunday School teachers in children’s ministry, we often teach our children about sharing God’s love and teaching biblical principles. However, one element we sometimes overlook, though it’s woven throughout the Bible, is empathy. Jesus modeled empathy in his ministry, often looking beyond actions to understand the hearts and struggles of those he met. So, what does it mean to teach with empathy, and how can it shape our Sunday School classrooms?
Understanding Empathy in Teaching
Empathy isn’t just a feeling. It’s a perspective. When we empathize, we step into another’s shoes and try to understand what they’re feeling. For some of us, this comes naturally, but for others, it may not and is sometimes not in the forefront when it comes to teaching. In the context of teaching, empathy means listening actively, seeing each child as an individual, and recognizing the unique experiences they bring to our classrooms. Many children face challenges at home, school, or within themselves that we may not be aware of. When approaching teaching with empathy, we make space for these realities, allowing kids to feel seen and valued. You may already be implementing this in your classroom without even thinking about it.
Why Empathy Matters in Christian Teaching
Empathy matters because it reflects the heart of Christ. Jesus didn’t just heal people or perform miracles. He took the time to understand their pain, fears, and needs. Similarly, teaching with empathy lets us reflect on Jesus’ compassion in our interactions with kids. When we practice empathy, we invite children into a safe space where they’re free to share, ask questions, and grow. Empathy helps break down barriers, creating an environment where kids can truly experience God’s love. We should be leading by example, just how Jesus has.
Empathy also builds trust. When children know that we care about them beyond their behavior or performance, they feel secure. This trust becomes the foundation for spiritual growth as kids become more open to learning, exploring, and understanding their faith.
The Benefits of Teaching with Empathy
Teaching with empathy has practical benefits, too. Here are a few ways empathy transforms our classrooms:
Empathy Builds Better Relationships: Children sense when an adult truly cares. By taking time to listen and respond with compassion, we strengthen bonds and help kids feel they belong.
Increased Engagement: Children who feel valued are more likely to engage in activities and discussions. They feel more comfortable asking questions, participating in group activities, and even stepping out of their comfort zones. The same is true outside of Sunday School. I hear about it from my son’s middle school teachers. He’s usually quiet in class, but he is starting to feel comfortable and confident in some classes to speak up.
Improved Behavior: Empathy often leads to fewer behavior issues because it helps address the root causes. When a child feels understood, they’re less likely to act out for attention or from frustration. Instead, they can trust us and learn from a place of openness. If you’ve been approaching bad behavior in a way that isn’t effective, then evaluate your approach. Time to change things up. Instead of coming from a place of misunderstanding, try to use empathy to understand why certain behaviors arise.
Practical Ways to Incorporate Empathy in the Classroom
Building empathy into your teaching doesn’t require grand gestures. Small, consistent actions make the most significant difference. Here are a few ways to bring empathy into your Sunday School classroom:
Start with “How are you?”: Take a moment at the beginning of each class to check in with each child. Sometimes, a simple question can help you understand their feelings and needs. That’s why at the beginning of each of my video lessons, I always say to start with small talk before diving into the lesson. I’ll write it here too, ask your kids how their week was. What’s something fun or interesting they did?
Be Patient and Non-Judgmental: Every child has a story. Before jumping to conclusions about behavior or responses, consider what might be happening behind the scenes. Give grace in moments of frustration, just as God gives grace to us.
Encourage Sharing in a Safe Environment: Create an atmosphere where children feel safe sharing their thoughts and questions without fear of judgment. Reinforce that there’s no “wrong” question or “bad” answer. This builds confidence and respect for one another.
Model Empathy in Your Actions: Kids often mimic what they see. By showing empathy in your own actions, whether it’s helping a child who’s feeling left out or giving extra attention to a child who’s struggling, you model how empathy looks in action.
Empathy as a Long-Term Impact
Teaching with empathy has lasting effects. Children who feel loved and valued are likelier to develop a personal relationship with Christ. They also learn to reflect empathy, impacting their families, friendships, and future relationships. Imagine the ripple effect of instilling empathy early: a generation of kids who grow up loving and supporting others like Jesus.
The Biblical Foundation for Empathy
Empathy isn’t just a helpful teaching approach—it’s deeply rooted in biblical principles. When we look at Jesus’ ministry, we see Him constantly modeling empathy, compassion, and understanding.
"When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them and healed their sick." - Matthew 14:14
"...Love your neighbor as yourself." - Matthew 22:39
"So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you..." - Matthew 7:12
Each of these verses are examples of ways Jesus demonstrated empathy. In Matthew 14:14, Jesus shows his compassion for the sick, the poor, and the marginalized. He didn't just see crowds, he saw each and every person as an individual with needs, fears, and pains. He reached out, listened, and acted from a place of love. When we teach with empathy, we follow in Jesus' footsteps. We recognize each child's value and honoring the sotries they bring into our classrooms.
In Matthew 22:39, Jesus commands us to "Love your neighbor as yourself." This is one of the most direct biblical calls to empathy. Loving our neighbors requires us to care about their well-being as we would our own. Empathy demands us to go beyond surface-level kindness. Instead, we should actively consider the needs, feelings, and perspectives of others, responding with the same care and concern we'd hope to receive.
The Reward of Empathetic Teaching
Empathy in teaching isn’t always easy. It takes time, patience, and a willingness to invest in each child’s journey. But as Christian educators, we’re called to love as Christ loved. And when we take that leap of empathy, we’re blessed to see growth, connection, and transformation in our classrooms.
Teaching with empathy is more than a technique, it’s a reflection of God’s heart for His children. By making empathy a foundation of our teaching, we’re not just educating minds but nurturing souls. In doing so, we’re shaping the next generation to carry forward the love and compassion of Christ.
If there’s anything you can take away from this blog post, let it be to lead by example. Lead in the characteristics that you are teaching your children through these Bible lessons. Empathy is what will help you reach your children, because when we approach all things in life with empathy, we gain a better perspective in how we should respond.
