Umbrella of Authority | Object Lesson

This is an object lesson that can help you teach your class about the importance of respecting the authority that God has put in our lives!

Needed

• Umbrella
• Spray bottle filled with water (or small cup of water)
• Bible

Begin by explaining that today’s lesson is all about authority—a word that simply means “someone who has the right to lead, guide, or make decisions.” Tell the children that God cares deeply about authority and that He places certain people in our lives to teach us, correct us, and protect us. Use examples they know—parents, pastors, teachers, grandparents, even the rules at home or school. All these exist because God designed order, not chaos.

Talk about how life would look without authority. Describe how, if you had never had parents, you might have tried to live on nothing but Twinkies every day! The kids will laugh, but it makes a strong point—without people guiding us, we make silly or even harmful choices.

Next, guide them to think about who their authorities are. Let them call out ideas as you list a few: parents, pastor, Sunday school teacher, family members, and so on. Explain that these people play important roles in their lives because God Himself placed them there. Reference Romans 13:1, which reminds us that all authority comes from God and that those in leadership are there because He allowed it.

Now bring the focus to respecting authority. Explain that respect means more than just liking someone—it’s shown through obedience, listening, and having a good attitude. Mention Ephesians 6:1–3, which says to obey your parents in the Lord, “for this is right.” Let the children know that obedience and respect keep them under the protection that God designed.

Hold up the umbrella and explain that it represents authority. When we stay under the umbrella—listening and obeying those God has placed over us—we are protected. Give examples: when a teacher warns them not to cheat on a test, and they obey, that obedience keeps them from sinning. When a parent gives good advice and they follow it, that wisdom helps them avoid trouble.

Then, use the spray bottle to lightly mist the umbrella. Explain that these drops represent temptations or problems the enemy tries to throw at us. But when we stay under authority, those things can’t reach us. We stay safe, dry, and covered.

Now, step out from under the umbrella and let the water fall directly on you. Explain that when we refuse to listen or decide to “do it our own way,” we walk out from under that covering. Suddenly, we get soaked—we face consequences and problems we wouldn’t have had if we’d just stayed under authority. The visual will stick in their minds: obeying and respecting those in charge keeps us protected.

Wrap up by teaching that even when we disagree or when leaders make mistakes, the Bible tells us in 1 Timothy 2:1–2 to pray for all those in authority. Remind them that being in leadership isn’t easy, and prayer shows respect even when obedience isn’t possible.

Finally, point out that the Bible says in Leviticus 19:32 to “rise up before the gray head” and honor the older and wiser. Tie it all together by reminding the class that God is the ultimate Authority over everyone. He deserves our highest respect and obedience because all other authority comes from Him.

End by reminding them: when you obey your parents, teachers, and pastor, you’re not just following rules—you’re staying under God’s umbrella of protection.

*Tags: authority, listen, obedience, obey, obey your parents, obey your pastor, obey your teacher