Download Lesson 2 - Free Church of Scotland

JUNIOR SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSONS
YEAR 4
LESSONS 1 – 20
Lesson 1
Aim:
Elisha and Naaman
2 Kings 5:1–16
To show the importance of obedience to God.
You will need – Bibles, worksheets, pens/pencils, pictures of ‘important’ people (optional);
information about the Leprosy Mission or similar (optional).
Introduction
Ask the children if they have ever seen anyone ‘important’ (royalty, politician, sports star,
celebrity, etc.), and listen to their stories or supply one of your own. Explain that the man
in today’s story was very important in his country, but he had a problem.
Point 1
An Important Man
Help the children to find 2 Kings 5:1 and read it together (older children could find it for
themselves) and ask who he was, and the reason for his problem. Explain that leprosy is
a skin disease which can lead to terrible deformity and was at that time incurable. People
with leprosy were considered unclean and had to live apart as people were so afraid of
catching it (the children may remember stories of Jesus healing lepers).
So Naaman had a very serious problem.
Point 2
A Faithful Girl
Read verses 2, 3 (or ask a volunteer). Explain that Aram and Israel had been at war, and
that raiding parties still crossed the border, and this young girl had been captured. Talk
together about what it must have been like for her, and the things she might have had to
learn to do. Note what she said to her mistress and point out that even in exile the girl had
not forgotten God, and how He showed His power through His servant Elisha. Ask the
children if they think it would have been difficult for her to speak up, and talk together
about this.
Point 3
A Worried King
Read verses 4-7 and ask why the king was worried, and why he thought the King of Aram
had sent Naaman to him. Point out that, although the young girl remembered God, the
King of Israel seemed to have forgotten all about Him.
Point 4
A Faithful Prophet
Read verses 8-10. Note Elisha’s rebuke to the king and ask what he asked the king to do.
Picture together the important chariot and horses arriving outside Elisha’s house. Ask
what Elisha did, and what he asked Naaman to do. What do the children think about this?
Point 5
An Angry Soldier
Naaman was furious! Read verses 11 and 12 and discuss why he was so annoyed. Ask
what he was expecting to happen.
Point 6
Wise Servants
Read verses 13 and 14. Ask about the advice of the servants and whether the children
think it was good advice. Ask what happened when Naaman followed it. Ask the children
if they think there was something special about the water in the Jordan river and help them
to understand that the cure was due to Naaman’s obedience to God, through Elisha, and
nothing at all to do with the water. How do they think Naaman felt now?
Point 7
A New Believer
Read verses 15 and 16. Talk together about Naaman’s return to Elisha and how they
think he is feeling now. Read part of verse 15 together as a group: “Now I know that there
is no God in all the world except in Israel.
Point out that Elisha refused a gift as he wanted Naaman to know that it was God Who
had healed him and not Elisha, that he was healed by God’s grace and not by any ‘power’
that Elisha might have. It was not something that could be bought. Explain that God
wants us to obey Him, not just know about Him, but to do what He says – to trust Him,
believe in Him and obey Him in our everyday lives, not in big extravagant gestures, but in
the ordinary things we do at home and in school every day. Enlarge on this as you feel
appropriate.
Pray with the children, thanking God for His care over each one of us and asking that He
would help us to follow and obey Him in our lives every day.
Remember the topics in the Prayer Spot for this week.
Help the children to complete the worksheet.
[If you have time and feel it is appropriate you could show some of the literature from the
Leprosy mission, if you have it available.]
Lesson 2
Aim:
Elisha and the Syrian Host
2 Kings 6:8–23
To show the mercy of God.
You will need – Bibles, worksheets, pens/pencils.
Introduction
Ask the children about what annoys them and makes them feel cross – listen to their
comments for a few minutes, giving an example of your own if you feel it appropriate.
Explain that in today’s lesson the King of Aram was becoming very cross indeed and
they’re going to find out why.
[Teachers’ Note: you may wish to explain that Aram (NIV) and Syria (KJV) were different
names for the same country to the north of Israel].
Point 1
An Enraged King (verses 8-12)
Help the children to find 2 Kings 6:8. Read verses 8-12 dramatically, while the children
follow in their Bibles (or tell the story in your own words if you prefer). Ask a few questions
to make sure they have understood, finally asking what it was that so enraged the king.
Ask how the man of God (Elisha) knew all the enemies’ plans, making sure they
understand that it was God Who revealed them to him.
Point 2
Surrounded (verses 13-17)
Ask what the children think the king of Aram would want to do, and continue reading/telling
the story to the end of verse 17, bringing out the fear of the servant who could only see the
enemy army and feel overwhelmed, and then his wonder as his eyes were opened to see
the horses and chariots of fire, and realised that the Lord is with them. [You may wish to
comment on the relevance of this in our own lives, when sometimes we see only the
problem and forget about God, if you feel it appropriate at this point.]
Point 3
Struck Blind (verses 18-20)
Continue the story explaining that just as the servant’s eyes were opened to see the
horses and chariots of fire around them, so Elisha prayed that the Aramæans would be
struck blind so that they could see nothing at all. Point out how unsuspectingly they
followed Elisha as he led them into the trap. Ask how the enemy soldiers would have felt
when they realised where they were, and what they would expect to happen to them. Ask
a volunteer to read verse 21 to find out what the King of Israel wanted to do, and discuss
what the children think about that.
Point 4
An Act Of Mercy (verses 22-23)
Finish the story in your own words, pointing out that not only were they not harmed, but
that a feast was prepared for them before they were sent safely back home. Ask the
children to comment on this, and to give their reaction to this turn of events. Ask about the
result of this act of mercy and point out if necessary that the fighting stopped.
Remind the children that the soldiers had come to capture Elisha and did not deserve his
act of kindness.
Point out that we are completely undeserving of the love and kindness that God lavishes
on us (ask the children for examples) and most of all we are undeserving of the wonderful
gift of His Son, Who died to take the punishment that we deserve for our sin. Talk about
this, and God’s love and mercy as much as you feel is appropriate for your class.
Pray with the children, thanking God for the Bible and the wonderful things we learn from
it, and for His love and mercy in sending the Lord Jesus to be our Saviour.
Remember the topics in the Prayer Spot for this week.
Help the children to complete the worksheet.
Lesson 3
Aim:
Jonah - 1
Jonah 1
To show we cannot hide from God.
You will need – Bibles, worksheets, pens/pencils, simple map (optional)
Introduction
Play a quick game of ‘opposites’ – give the children a series of quick-fire commands, eg.
‘stand’, ‘sit’, turn right’, turn left’, etc. and the children respond by doing the opposite.
Now ask about jobs and chores the children are responsible for at home and in school,
and discuss which ones they enjoy, and which they really do not like doing.
Say that today we’ll learn how God gave the prophet Jonah a special job to do, but instead
of obeying God he set off in the opposite direction.
Point 1
Running away (verses 1-3)
Help the children to find the Book of Jonah in their Bibles. Read verses 1-3 (or ask a
confident reader). Explain that Nineveh was an important city, probably a long way from
where Jonah lived. It was well known to be a wicked city (verse 2) and God asked Jonah
to go and preach there, and warn the people about their wickedness. Ask the children to
check verse 3, and find put what Jonah did instead. Explain that some scholars believe
Tarshish to be the city of Tartessus in SW Spain. Not only was Jonah running away from
God, but he was going as far as he could in the opposite direction (show the map if you
have one). Suggest to the children that Jonah had forgotten something and help them to
see the futility of trying to run away from God.
Point 2
The storm (verses 4-6)
Before reading verses 4-6 ask the children if they know what God did. Read the verses
and discuss them together, bringing out the danger, and the panic of the sailors (who must
have been well used to storms at sea) and the fact that Jonah seems to have been asleep
through it all. Note that the sailors each called to their own god (they probably came from
several different parts and worshipped many gods), and the captain asked Jonah to do the
same not knowing who Jonah’s God was.
Point 3
Drawing Lots (verses 7-10)
Explain that drawing lots seemed to have been a common custom in the ancient world –
experts are not sure what form it took (perhaps they used sticks or marked pebbles). But
God, Who was in control of this as He is of every situation, caused the lot to fall on Jonah
as the guilty one. Ask the children to read verse 8 all together (perhaps giving them a
phrase each) as the sailors urgently question Jonah. Note his reply (verse 9) as he
acknowledges the sovereignty of the Lord (the One from Whom he is running away!).
Read verse 10 and talk about the reaction of the sailors and why they were so scared.
Point 4
The Lord Provided (verses 11-16)
Ask confident readers to help you read to the end of verse 16 and by question and answer
bring out:





Jonah’s willingness to die to save the sailors;
their reluctance to throw him into the sea;
their plea to the Lord to forgive them for doing so;
the calm as soon as Jonah hit the sea;
their
sacrifices
and
vows
to
the
Lord.
(We’re not told that they turned away from the other ‘gods’, but they acknowledged that the
God of Israel was powerful and greatly to be feared).
The Lord was in control of the situation (as He always is) – ask a volunteer to read verse
17: “But the Lord provided ……….”
Point out that although Jonah tried to run away from God that the Lord had not forgotten
him and was with him every step of the way, teaching him that it is not possible to run
away from God.
Suggest that perhaps we do something like that – perhaps not run away physically like
Jonah , but we push away thoughts of God; perhaps something we’ve heard in Sunday
School or church which makes us feel uncomfortable, or that God is trying to speak to us,
but we try to push the thoughts away.
Talk more about this if you feel it is appropriate, and at a level that is relevant to your
class.
Pray with the children, thanking God that He never leaves us to ourselves and is longing
for each one of us to acknowledge Him and trust in Him.
Remember the topics in the Prayer Spot for this week.
Help the children to complete the worksheet.
Lesson 4
Aim:
Jonah - 2
Jonah 2
To show that God hears and answers prayer.
You will need – Bibles, worksheets, pens/pencils; red, orange and green paper circles as
‘traffic lights’ (optional), sheet of paper for list (optional).
Introduction
If you have the space, ask the children to crouch or lie for 2 minutes without moving (time
them). While they are still ask them to imagine it is dark (close their eyes), probably smelly
(hold their noses), and wet. Two minutes may seem a long time, but remind the children
that Jonah was confined for 3 days and 3 nights. Ask them to remind you where he was,
and how he got there.
[Teacher’s Note: if the children are sceptical, or think it is just a ‘fairy tale’, there is
anecdotal evidence in the 18th and 19th centuries of people being swallowed by fish and
surviving (do a web-browser search if you are interested). But remind the children that this
is a true story from God’s Word and that God can do amazing things.]
Point 1
Prayer (verse 1)
Help the children to find Jonah chapter 2 and ask them to read the first verse for
themselves and tell you what Jonah was doing. Ask what he may have been praying
about, and listen to their suggestions. You may want to point out that it is not uncommon
for people in desperate and dangerous situations to pray to God even if they are not in the
habit of praying.
Say that Jonah’s prayer was different.
Point 2
Prayer of thanksgiving (verses 2-9)
Read the prayer together – verses 2-9 – or share it out among confident readers.
Ask the children if they can tell what the prayer was about and refer them to verse 9a if
necessary, explaining that it is a prayer of thanks to God (and not, as we might expect, a
prayer of moans and self-pity). Discuss what Jonah is thanking God for, eg. answering his
call of distress (verse 2), listening to his cry when he was at the point of death (verse 2),
saving his life when he was sure he was going to drown (verses 3-7), and point out how he
acknowledged God at the end of verse 6.
Explain that God always hears our sincere prayers to him and always answers them,
though not always in the way we expect (do they think Jonah had expected a big fish?!).
Point 3
A living God (verses 8-10)
Explain that Jonah realises that people who worship false gods (perhaps he was thinking
about the sailors) miss out on the undeserved love and kindness of a living and loving God
Who alone can answer prayer. Help the children to understand that prayer is not
superstition or magic, but coming in faith and trust to the loving and true God Who delights
to hear and answer our prayers according to His gracious will, and in the way that is best
for us.
Read verse 10 to find out how Jonah was saved from inside the fish. Explain that the
‘salvation’ mentioned in verse 9 is much more than this and refers to the saving work of
the Lord Jesus Christ through His death and resurrection. Enlarge on this as much as you
feel appropriate to the understanding of your class.
Conclusion:
Stress again that God always answers our sincere prayers to Him, but
that sometimes the answer might be ‘no’ or ‘wait’. Show the ‘traffic lights’ if you have
them. Remind them that prayer is not like going to a shop with a shopping list; also that
sometimes we might pray for things that might be bad for us (give example of parent and
child, eg. a 4-year-old child asking for a knife to play with – the children might have other
suggestions).
But our loving God answers our prayers in the way that is best for us, and we can trust
ourselves fully to Him.
Ask the children to suggest things to thank God for and list their suggestions (encourage
them to look beyond just material blessings). Pray with the children, including things from
the list, and pausing occasionally for them their own, silently or audibly.
Remember the topics in the Prayer Spot for this week.
Help the children to complete the worksheet.
Lesson 5
Aim:
Jonah - 3
Jonah 3 & 4
To show that God’s love is for all who believe and trust in Him.
You will need – Bibles, worksheets, pens/pencils; A4 paper or game for introducing the
activity (optional), questions for quick recap quiz (optional), rolled up piece of paper with the
king’s decree on it (Jonah 3:7-9), pictures of people from different cultures (optional).
Introduction
Give the children a piece of paper and ask them to make a boat (or anything else you feel
confident making). Give them a few minutes to attempt it, then stop them and carefully
show them how to do it, while they start again following your instructions. [Alternatively
you could ask them to play a game, giving no instructions, then stop them and start again
as you show them how to play it properly].
Say that Jonah deliberately ignored God’s instructions and got himself into a mess.
But now he’s ready to start again.
Point 1
An Important City (verses 1, 2)
Ask the children to remind you what God had asked Jonah to do (Jonah 1:2, lesson 3,
point 1) and have a quick-fire recap quiz to remind them of the story so far.
Help the children to find Jonah ch. 3. Read verses 1 and 2 and ask what Jonah was to do,
and how he responded this time. Explain that Jonah was a prophet, and that a prophet’s
job was to pass on messages from God. Note that Nineveh was a big and important city
with at least 120,000 inhabitants (Jonah 4:11). Help the children to put it in context
suggesting important cities they know.
Point 2
A Message Received (verses 3-9)
Read the verses together and help the children to picture Jonah going through the city,
preaching the message, and how the people reacted when they heard him. Explain that
putting on sack-cloth was a custom to show that the people were very, very sorry (the
sack-cloth would be very scratchy and uncomfortable). Talk about the reaction of the king
when he heard the message (note that he even sat in the dust) and talk about the decree
(special law) he made. Read it out dramatically from the rolled up ‘parchment’ if you have
it.
Point 3
A Compassionate God (verse 10)
Read verse 10 and talk together about God’s response to the Ninevites actions, and talk
more about the love and compassion of God, Who always accepts those who come to him
and ask for His forgiveness with true repentance, in a way that you feel is appropriate to
your class.
Point 4
An Angry Prophet (chapter 4)
Point out that Jonah’s task was not so very difficult after all as he did not have to try and
persuade the people – they received his message straight away, so he must have been
very pleased.
Read ch. 4:1 (or ask a volunteer). Ask the children what they think about that, and why
Jonah was angry. Listen to their suggestions, and explain that the Israelites were God’s
chosen people and did not want God’s love and forgiveness to be shown to anyone else.
Explain that he tells God that’s why he ran away – he knew God as a God of love and
compassion, and he did not want him to forgive the people of Nineveh; he thought His
goodness was to be shown only to the people of Israel.
Continue the story, explaining how Jonah found a place to sit to see what would happen to
the city (perhaps he was still hoping it would be destroyed?) and that God made a vine
grow to shelter him from the sun.
Note how upset he was when the vine died, and how God contrasts the life of the vine
which grew up in a day and died in a day, with the thousands of people who lived in
Nineveh. Jonah thought only about himself and his comfort but God was concerned about
the thousands of people in the city.
Conclusion:
Explain that God’s love and forgiveness through the blood of the Lord
Jesus is for everyone who trusts in Him, not just for people in Scotland (or the Free
Church!), but for “whoever believes in Him …” (John 3:16) all over the world. Ask the
children to call out the names of countries they know, and show pictures, eg. from
Missionary magazines, if you have them.
Pray with the children, thanking God for His love and forgiveness through the death of
Jesus, and pray for Christians in some of the countries the children have mentioned,
especially remembering Christians in countries where it is dangerous to be a Christian.
Remember the topics in the Prayer Spot for this week.
Help the children to complete the worksheet.
LESSON 6 IS A REVISION LESSON USING THE NOTES FOR LESSONS 1- 5
Lesson 7
Aim:
Jesus - the Source of Living Water
John 4:1-30, 39-42
To show that salvation comes only through Jesus, and that we need to
experience it for ourselves.
You will need – Bibles, worksheets, pens/pencils; map (optional), bottle (jug) of water and
plastic cups (optional).
Introduction
Brainstorm with the children the many uses of water, and then talk about how much water
they have already used today. Offer a drink of water to anyone who wants one, and ask if
they are likely to be thirsty again.
Say that today we will learn about Jesus offering Living Water.
Point 1
A Surprised Woman
In your own words explain that Jesus was travelling back from Judea to Galilee, passing
through Samaria as it was the shortest way, even though Jews and Samaritans normally
avoided each other. (A map would be helpful if you have one). Go on to explain that
Jesus was tired after all the teaching and travelling, and sat to rest in the heat of the day (it
was probably about mid-day) at a well (a historical well, built on a patch of land bought by
Jacob – Gen. 33:19) while the disciples went into the village to buy food.
Picture with the children the surprise of the woman when she saw Him sitting there and
realised He was a Jew. Imagine her greater surprise when He spoke to her. Ask a
volunteer to read verse 7 to find out what He asked. Explain that she would have been
astonished that He spoke to her at all – Jewish rabbis (teachers) did not normally speak to
women, far less a Samaritan woman, and no Jew would ever ask a Samaritan for a drink
as they considered them to be unclean. Ask another child to read verse 9 to see her
reply.
Point 2
Living Water
Read verse 10 together (or ask a volunteer) and ask what Jesus offered to give the
woman and ask how she misunderstood (verse 11). Explain that she probably thought
she meant flowing water (as a stream), but that there was none nearby, only water from
the deep well, and she could see He had nothing to use to draw water.
Read verses 13 and 14 to the children, then ask a volunteer to read verse 15, showing that
she still misunderstood, and thinks it’s some kind of ‘magic water’ and that she wouldn’t
need to come to the well every day!
Ask the children if they think Jesus is really talking about water, and help them to
understand that He is talking about lasting satisfaction to meet the deep needs and
longings in our hearts, which only God can satisfy.
Point 3
True Worship
Ask the children to do some detective work, and find out about the woman’s life-style
(verse 17). Point out that Jesus knew all this before He asked the question in verse 16
(just as He knows all the secrets of our lives). Explain that she decided He must be a
prophet and tried to have a discussion about the disagreement between the Jews and the
Samaritans about the best place to worship God. Jesus explains that it is not where but
how we worship God that is important – sincerely and whole-heartedly.
Point 4
Good News to share (verses 28-30, 39-42)
Ask what the woman did when she came to some understanding of Who Jesus was, and
suggest that the news was far too good to keep to herself – she had to share it with her
neighbours. Ask about their reaction, and point out that the news shared by the woman
brought them to Jesus, but that when they heard Him for themselves they came to believe
that He is the Saviour of the world.
Conclusion:
Say that it is good to share the Good News about Jesus with our
friends and to invite them to Church or Sunday School. Say that it is important not just to
know about Jesus, but to know Him for ourselves, and experience the ‘Living Water’ –
salvation and forgiveness that Jesus gives to those who put their trust in Him. Read verse
42b again “… Now we have heard …” and talk briefly about it in a way that is relevant to
your class.
Pray with the children, thanking God for the temporal blessings of water, but above all for
the ‘Living Water’, forgiveness, and friendship with God that have been made possible
through the Lord Jesus Christ.
Remember the topics in the Prayer Spot for this week.
Help the children to complete the worksheet.
Lesson 8
Aim:
Jesus - the Bread of Life
John 6:1-15, 25-40
To show that only Jesus can satisfy.
You will need – Bibles, worksheets, pens/pencils; packed lunch-box (optional), crusty bread
or sandwiches in box (optional).
Introduction
Show the packed lunch-box and ask the children if they ever take a packed-lunch to
school, and what they like to have in it. Talk about that for a few minutes. Say that a
packed lunch played a big part in today’s story, and that it is a story they know well.
Point 1
Miraculous Bread (verses 1-15)
Help the children to find John 6 and ask them to read the chapter heading (if using a
modern version). Once they recognise the story say that you are going to reverse roles
and that today they are going to tell the story to you. Help them out if necessary by asking
pertinent questions at strategic points, and try to ensure that one child does not dominate
the story-telling, while helping any child who is unfamiliar with the story to understand it
and feel included.
Help them to see the wonder of this well-known story, ensuring that they understand that
the food was not created by ‘magic’, but was due to the awesome power of the Lord
Jesus. Comment on the fact that everyone had plenty to eat, and that there was lots left
over, showing that there is nothing mean or small about the blessing poured on us by our
wonderful God. Open the packed lunch-box and share the bread or sandwiches if you
have prepared some (beware of allergies!) and while the children are eating say that you
will take over the story-telling to find out what happened next.
Point 2
Bread for our souls (verses 25-29)
Summarise the passage simply in your own words, referring to particular verses where
necessary. Explain that after feeding all the people Jesus went off by Himself for a while
(verse 15), but the people searched for Him, probably not to give glory to God for the
miraculous food, but because they were hoping for more. Jesus told them to stop
concentrating on food for their stomachs, and other material benefits (give examples)
which don’t last, but to work for food for their souls, which leads to eternal life, by believing
in Him (verse 20). Explain that while it is a good thing to behave well and be kind and
helpful to others and try to please God, we cannot earn eternal life as the people thought
(verse 28). It is given to us when we believe in Him (verse 27). You may wish to talk more
about this.
Point 3
Bread of Life (verses 29-40)
Go on summarising, explaining that now the people would like Jesus to prove himself by a
miraculous sign, like the manna in the desert (Exodus 16:14) which they called the ‘bread
from heaven’ (ask the children if they remember the story of the manna); but Jesus tells
them that He is the true Bread from heaven, sent by God to give His life for the world
(verse 33).
Read verse 35 together, ensuring that the children (who tend to take things literally)
understand that He is not telling about physical hunger and thirst, but that in dying for us,
Jesus has done absolutely everything that was necessary for our salvation and to give us
eternal life. There is nothing for us to do except to commit our lives to Him, truly believe in
Him, and to ask Him to help us live our lives every day, in everything we do, and wherever
we are.
Now read verse 40 together and emphasise the love of God Who wants us and everyone
who believes to receive eternal life, and one day be with Him for ever. Talk more about
this as you feel appropriate.
Pray with the children, thanking God for His great love for us through the Lord Jesus, and
asking that He would help us to be less taken up with the world about us and commit our
lives to Him.
Remember the topics in the Prayer Spot for this week.
Help the children to complete the worksheet.
Lesson 9
Aim:
Jesus - the Good Shepherd
John 10:1-16
To show that Jesus loves and protects His people.
You will need – Bibles, worksheets, pens/pencils; simple drawing or Lego, card or paper
model of a sheep-pen (optional).
Introduction
Play a quick ‘jobs quiz’. Read out a number of jobs to the children, including some tricky
ones, and ask them to say what these people do (eg. joiner, greengrocer, podiatrist) and
make sure you include ‘shepherd’. This could be a team game. Alternatively challenge
the children to mime a job for their class-mates to guess, choosing ‘shepherd’ to mime
yourself. Talk about some of the things a shepherd does. Say that today we will learn
about Jesus, the Good Shepherd, and help them to find John 10.
Point 1
The sheep pen (verses 1-6)
Ask the children if they can think of anyone in the Bible who was a shepherd (eg. Jacob,
Joseph, Moses, David) and say that today we will find out why Jesus described Himself as
the Good Shepherd. Explain that in Jesus’ time sheep and shepherds were a very
common sight, so that Jesus, great Teacher that He was, chose illustrations from things
everyone could understand. First He talks about the sheep-pen (explain that his would
have been a walled enclosure, open to the sky, with only one entrance). Show your
picture or model if you have one.
Read verses 1-6 and ask about the people who climb over the walls, and what they are
probably trying to do. By question and answer try to bring out that the good shepherd
goes in the proper (and only) way, and calls his own sheep which respond and come to
him because they recognise his voice and follow him. [Explain that in Palestine a
shepherd led his sheep rather than driving them with a sheep-dog, and they followed him
because they knew his voice]. Ask what happens if a stranger tries to lead them. Explain
that here Jesus is talking about looking after and caring for His followers, as a shepherd
takes care of his sheep, and keeping them safe from false teachers. Ask how the people
responded (verse 6).
Point 2
The Gate (verses 7-9)
Show your model again (or if you have enough children ask them to hold hands in a circle
leaving a gap). Point out that there is only one way in and out. Read verses 7 and 9 (ask
2 volunteers) to find out how Jesus describes Himself, and help the children to see that if
He is the Gate then the only way in and out is through Him, that the only way to be saved
is through Him, and that He will keep His own sheep safe as they follow Him and stay
close to Him wherever they go, and protect them from the false teachers who want to lead
them astray.
Make sure the children understand that the sheep are those who believe and love and
trust the Lord Jesus, and that includes us.
Talk more with the children about Jesus being the Gate, and be prepared perhaps to
answer their questions, as they are being bombarded on all sides – in school, the media
and society in general, with the idea the ‘all religions lead to God’.
Point 3
The Good Shepherd (verses 10-15)
Ask volunteers to read verses 10-15. Explain that the ‘hired hand’ was paid to look after
the sheep – they did not belong to him. Talk about what they did when things got tough.
Contrast that with Jesus the Good Shepherd Who knows each one of His sheep, loves
and cares for each one of them, and lays down His life for them.
Point 4
Other sheep (verse 16)
Ask a volunteer to read verse 16 and ask who the other sheep might be, and help the
children to understand that now, and down through the ages, Jesus has followers all over
the world – people from all nations who look to Him as their Good Shepherd: “…one flock
and one Shepherd …”
Pray with the children, thanking Jesus for being our Good Shepherd, for knowing and
loving each one of us and for laying down His life for us, and ask that He would help us to
follow Him. Thank Him for our brothers and sisters in Him all over the world.
Remember the topics in the Prayer Spot for this week.
Help the children to complete the worksheet.
Lesson 10
Aim:
I am the Resurrection and the Life
John 11:17-44
To show that death is not the end for those who love Jesus.
You will need – Bibles, worksheets, pens/pencils; packet of seeds, flower or plant, or picture
(optional), bag of compost and some small pots or plastic cups (optional).
Introduction
Show your seeds and ask the children to describe them, and look at the picture on the
packet, and discuss what would happen if you sowed the seeds and looked after them.
Show the flower or plant if you have one and marvel that a seed which looks so dry and
dead should grow into something so wonderful.
[Teachers’ Note: Be sensitive during this lesson towards any child who has seriously ill
relatives, or who has suffered a recent bereavement.]
Point 1
A Sad Family (verses 17-20)
Explain that Jesus had got very sad news when he heard of the death of His friend
Lazarus who lived in the village of Bethany with his 2 sisters. Go on to explain that, to the
surprise of His disciples, Jesus waited for a couple of days before going to see them. But
He had a reason for that, as He has for everything He does.
Help the children to find John 11 in their Bibles. Read verses 17-20 and discuss it
together. Explain that it was the custom for friends to visit the family to comfort them
during the time of mourning. Note that as soon as Martha heard of Jesus’ arrival she went
out to meet Him.
Point 2
Eternal Life (verses 21-27)
Ask 2 volunteers to read verses 21-27, taking verse about and suggest that although
Martha must have been puzzled that Jesus had not come straight away, she still believed
He could do something (verse 22). Talk about their conversation together, and point out
that Martha already believed that Lazarus would rise again ‘on the last day’ (when God will
judge the world). Read verses 25, 26 again and help the children to understand that even
though our bodies will die one day our spirits (the real ‘you’, inside us) will live on with Him
for ever if we believe and trust in Him, as Martha did.
Point 3
Jesus’ Sadness (verses 28-37)
Remind the children that although Jesus is God the Son, He was also fully human, and
could feel emotions just like us. Here we see how very sad He was at the death of His
friend. Point out that both Martha (verse 21) and Mary (verse 32) thought that Jesus could
have prevented their brother from dying, and some of the Jews thought that He couldn’t
have loved Lazarus that much or He would have kept him from dying.
Ask the children what they think about that. Explain that Jesus had a much greater plan
for God’s glory.
Point 4
Raised to Life (verses 38-44)
Tell the story in your own words emphasising Martha’s objection (verse 39), Jesus reply
(verse 40), and His prayer (verse 41). Dramatically build up the tension as Jesus calls to
Lazarus to come out of the tomb.
How do the children think Lazarus’ sisters and friends feel now? And what about Lazarus
himself?
Conclusion
Say that this is not the only time Jesus raised someone from the dead (the children may
know the other occasions), but it was a rare miracle. Explain that sadly we will all die one
day, as our bodies get old or sick or hurt, but our spirit, the real person inside, will not die,
and those who believe in Jesus will be with Him for ever and have eternal life (see John
3:16). Share with the children the comfort of knowing that when our bodies die it is not the
end and that those who love Him go to be with Him for ever.
Talk more about this in a simple way, being sensitive about not frightening or pressurising
the children in any way.
Pray with the children, thanking God for Jesus and for the promise of eternal life through
Him. Remember anyone who may be feeling sad because of the death of a loved one.
Remember the topics in the Prayer Spot for this week.
Help the children to complete the worksheet.
Lesson 11
Aim:
Jesus – The True Vine
John 15:1-17
To show that we must stay close to Jesus and depend on Him.
You will need – Bibles, worksheets, pens/pencils; dead twig, small branch with some leaves
(optional), bunch of grapes (optional).
Introduction
Brainstorm the children for as many types of fruit they can think of in 30 seconds (or
choose your own time). Then ask them to choose their favourite, and if they know what
country it comes from, and how it is ‘made’. (Make sure they understand that all fruit has
to be grown!)
Say that today we will learn what Jesus had to say about a different kind of fruit.
Point 1
Pruning the vine (verses 1-5)
Explain that one day Jesus spoke to his friends about a vine – establish that the children
understand what a vine is, and explain that ‘grape gardens’ known as vineyards were a
very common sight in Palestine, so that once again Jesus is teaching the people using
something they would understand.
Help the children to find John ch. 15. Ask a confident reader to read verses 1-5 and talk
about it together. Explain that it is necessary for gardeners to check their bushes and to
cut away any dead wood and non-fruit-bearing branches, to keep the plant healthy and
strong and ensure lots of fruit. Ask if they understand what Jesus means when He says,
“Remain in Me …..” (verse 14). Show your branch with some leaves (if you have one).
Point out that it still has leaves, but ask what will soon happen to it and why, and explain (if
necessary) that it is no longer connected to the main stem and is unable to receive
moisture and nutrients. Explain that in the same way if we don’t stay close to Jesus we
are not able to receive His love and power.
Point 2
Dead branches (verses 6-8)
Ask another volunteer to read verses 6-8 and talk about it, asking what happens to dead
branches when they are cut off. Show your dead twig (if you have one) and ask what has
happened to it. Hang your bunch of grapes (if you have it) on the twig and ask if it would
be possible for it to grow fruit by itself. Explain that in the same way we must stay close to
Jesus if we are to live lives that honour Him and show others by the way we live that we
belong to Jesus.
Ask what they think Jesus means by “bear much fruit ….” (verse 8) and talk about ways
we can show by our lives, at home, at school, in the playground, etc. that we are following
Jesus.
Point 3
Bearing fruit (verses 9-17)
Read verses 9-17 (or ask a volunteer) and again talk about it together. Point out that
Jesus tells us that if we love Him we will obey His commands (verses 10, 12) and ask what
it is He commands us to do (verses 12, 17). Point out that verse 13 talks about the
greatest love of all, and ask the children about it, pointing out that Jesus did not just talk
about loving us, but gave Himself for us on the cross. Ask about the “fruit that will last …..”
(verse 16) and point out that if we stay close to Jesus, and obey His command to love
others, it should show in the way we live (cf. John 13:35).
Help the children to think of situations and scenarios (eg. playing football, at home with our
brothers and sisters, in the classroom, etc.) where staying closely connected to Jesus and
loving others as He commanded would make a difference to the way we act and react, and
the ‘fruit’ we show in our lives.
Conclusion
Show the children the two branches again and remind them that we must stay close to
Jesus as the true Vine, give our lives to Him as our Saviour, and stay close by trusting and
talking to Him every day.
Talk more about this in a way you feel is appropriate.
Pray with the children, giving thanks for Jesus and asking that He would help us to stay
close to Him and live lives that show we love him, in our attitudes and the way we behave,
and thank him for His love and forgiveness when we so often let Him down.
Remember the topics in the Prayer Spot for this week.
Share the grapes with the children as you help them to complete the worksheet.
LESSON 12 IS A REVISION LESSON USING THE NOTES FOR LESSONS 7-11
Lesson 13
Aim:
Daniel at Court
Daniel 1
To show the importance of honouring God and His laws.
You will need – Bibles, worksheets, pens/pencils.
Introduction
Ask the children about their favourite subject in school, and why they like it. Ask if anyone
learns another language, and allow them to demonstrate. Now ask them to imagine they
have been picked for an important competition (general knowledge quiz, maths challenge,
athletics, etc.) and discuss how they would go about training for it. If you have the space
and feel it is appropriate have a quick keep-fit training session to increase their alertness
(deep breathing, running on the spot, stretching, etc.)
Say that today’s lesson is about four young people who were in special training.
Point 1
Captured (verses 1-2)
Help the children to find the Book of Daniel ch. 1. Explain that this is a sad part of the
history of God’s people when, because of their disobedience and failure to keep their
covenant with Him, God allowed Jerusalem to be captured by their enemies, the
Babylonians, and people and treasures were carried off to Babylon, including Daniel and
his three friends.
Point 2
Special Training (verses 3-7)
Read the verses together and discuss the king’s orders to Ashpenaz – who he was to
choose, the qualities they had to have, what they had to learn, why they were being
trained and any special privileges they were to be given, etc. Note that among them were
Daniel and his three friends, usually known as Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego. How
do the children think they were feeling?
Point 3
Different Food (verse 8-14)
Ask the children to remind you of the special treatment given to the young men (verse 5a).
Ask what they were to be given to eat and drink, and what the children think the king’s
food would be like. Either read verses 8-14 or tell it in your own words. Explain that
Daniel felt he could not eat the king’s food for two reasons:
The first portion of both the food and the wine would have been given as an offering to
idols before being brought to the king’s table;
2. God had declared that some animals were ritually ‘unclean’, and not to be eaten, and
He had given special laws about the way food was to be prepared (Leviticus 11).
So Daniel knew he would be dishonouring God if he ate such food.
1.
Build up the tension as the day of the ‘weigh-in’ draws near.
[Teachers’ Note: Beware of giving the impression that eating only vegetables is the only
diet that is acceptable to God!]
Point 4
Top of the Class (verses 15-21)
Read to the end and discuss the result.
Note verse 17, “God gave …………”. Daniel and his friends honoured God and God
helped them physically, and to learn the difficult language and literature, and note that in
matters of wisdom and understanding they were ten times better than all the rest, not just
among the young men but in the whole kingdom. Help the children to understand that
their wisdom came from God, and not from pagan writings nor from idols as did the others.
Conclusion
Say that God wants us to remember His law and to honour him in our daily lives too, for
example, to be respectful of His Day and His Name – to avoid the misuse of His Name that
we hear all about us. Talk together about this, and other ways of honouring God in our
day-to-day lives (eg. attitude to parents), perhaps asking them to suggest something they
will try to change during the week.
Say we honour God most of all by accepting the gift of His Son, and trusting in Him as our
Saviour.
Pray with the children, asking God’s forgiveness for the way we fit in with the world, and
asking His help to honour Him in our lives day by day.
Remember the topics in the Prayer Spot for this week.
Help the children to complete the worksheet.
Lesson 14
Aim:
Nebuchadnezzar’s Dream
Daniel 2
To show the importance of being part of God’s Kingdom.
You will need – Bibles, worksheets, pens/pencils; simple sketch of the statue (optional).
Introduction
Ask the children about their dreams, and allow a few minutes for them to recount any
dreams they may have had. Ask if they have ever wakened from a really exciting dream
but been completely unable to remember what it was about.
Say that in today’s story, King Nebuchadnezzar had a dream that worried him, and he
wanted to find out what it was about.
[Teachers’ Note: Explain that in Bible times God sometimes used dreams to speak to
people.]
Point 1
An Impossible Task (verses 1- 13)
Remind the children that Daniel and his three friends were advisers in the king’s court,
following the successful training that we heard about in lesson 13. (Ask the children to
remind you what had happened).
Ask a volunteer to read verses 1-3 and talk about it together, asking what the king had
asked his magicians and wise men to do.
Now ask a volunteer to read verses 4-6 (older children could read it for themselves) to see
fully what the king was asking. Ask what the children think about this.
Read verses 7-13 and ask what the magicians and advisers think about the king’s
unreasonable behaviour, and his reaction to this. Point out that this put Daniel and his
friends in a very serious situation as they too were advisers in the king’s court.
Point 2
Answered Prayer (verses 17-23)
Ask what the children think Daniel asked his friends to do when he heard about the
situation, and then check verse 18 to see if they were right. Point out that unlike the gods
mentioned in verse 11 our God, Daniel’s God, the God of Heaven, is very interested in
what is happening to His children. And He answered their prayer – Daniel dreamed the
same dream!
If you have time, read together Daniel’s poem of praise and thanks to God, noting that he
gives all the credit to God for His wisdom and understanding.
Point 3
The Dream (verses 24-35)
Tell in your own words about Daniel’s interview with Nebuchadnezzar (verses 24-28) and
his claim that only God could interpret the dream: “…..and there is a God in heaven …….”,
verse 28. Show your drawing of the statue (if you have one) while you read verses 31-35
together. Establish that the children understand the decrease in value of the materials in
the statue, and the significance of the clay/iron mix, explaining if necessary that clay is
brittle, weakening and bringing down and destroying the whole statue when hit by the huge
rock (verse 34). Help the children to contrast the complete destruction of the statue with
the rock which filled the whole earth, and was not of human origin.
Point 4
The meaning of the dream (verses 36-48)
Summarise in your own words the meaning of the dream, explaining that the diminishing
value of the metals indicates that the rulers of the succeeding kingdoms will become less
powerful, from the absolute power of Nebuchadnezzar, to the divided kingdom many years
later. But God’s Kingdom will never be destroyed, it will never end and it will fill the whole
earth, and will be made up of people from every corner of the earth, who love and follow
Him as their God.
Conclusion
Explain that it is important that we know that we are part of God’s Kingdom by believing
and trusting in the Lord Jesus here on earth, and that one day we will go to be with Him for
ever as part of His Kingdom that never ends (John 3:16). Talk more about this in a way
that is appropriate for your class.
Pray with the children, asking that each one of us would put our trust in Jesus and know
that we are part of that Kingdom which will never end.
Remember the topics in the Prayer Spot for this week.
Help the children to complete the worksheet.
Lesson 15
Aim:
Daniel’s Friends in the Fiery Furnace
Daniel 3
To show that God honours those who stand up for Him.
You will need – Bibles, worksheets, pens/pencils; literature from the persecuted church –
eg. Barnabas Trust, CSW, Release International, etc. (optional).
Introduction
Ask if anyone has seen a pipe-band, brass band, or any other kind of band on parade or
playing in a park, etc.
Go on to ask if anyone has ever been at the unveiling of a statue, or at the opening
ceremony of a new church, school, sporting event or sale of work. Allow them to tell you
about it, and be prepared with an example of your own if necessary.
Say that today Daniel’s friends were at a ceremony which turned out to be a very great
problem for them.
Point 1
Dedication of the Statue (verses 1- 7)
This is a story which lends itself to dramatic story-telling. Set the scene for the dedication
of the statue with all the pomp and ceremony – the bands, and musical instruments.
Explain the instructions to bow down and worship whenever the music played – and the
threats for those who didn’t.
Point 2
The Dilemma (verses 8-12)
Discuss with the children the dilemma this caused for Daniel’s friends, Shadrach, Meshach
and Abednego. Imagine them left standing when everyone else bowed down to the
statue. Describe the glee of the astrologers who couldn’t wait to denounce them to the
king (verses 8-12) and immediately went running to him with their tales – they were
probably jealous of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego as they had found favour with the
king (Daniel 2:40)
Point 3
The King’s Threats (verses 13-19)
Continue with the story in your own words describing the interview with King
Nebuchadnezzar who was really enraged and renewed his threats – note particularly his
comment in verse 13 (last sentence).
Read verse 16-18 dramatically to the children, stressing the men’s faith in God (verse 17)
and paying particular attention to verse 18 (“….even if He does not ….” NIV). Discuss the
bravery of the men, their complete faith and trust in God, and their willingness to die for
Him if necessary rather than bow down before an idol.
Briefly compare this with the situation of the persecuted Church in parts of India, China,
Pakistan, and in many other countries, explaining how dangerous it is for boys and girls
and their families to follow Jesus in these places. Talk together about this for a few
minutes, showing some literature if you have any.
Point 4
Walking in the Flames (verses 21-25)
Continue with the story, explaining that in his fury the king had ordered that the furnace be
heated seven times hotter than usual and noting that we are told twice that the men were
tightly bound (verses 21 & 23). Ask a volunteer to read verses 24 & 25 and ask what it
was that made the king leap to his feet. Ask the children who they think the fourth person
in the furnace was.
Point 5
Unharmed (verses 26 – end)
Continue reading/telling the story to the end, noting that the men were not even singed by
the flames.
Tell about Nebuchadnezzar’s praise and acknowledgment of God, though he does not
seem to have trusted Him for himself – note that the decree he issued was accompanied
by threats! Point out the promotion of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego (verse 30).
Conclusion
Ask the children how they think Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego felt when they knew
they were to be thrown into the flames. Remind the children that they did not know God
would save them from being burned, but they stood up for Him anyway. Talk with the
children about times they might stand up for Jesus, and the difficulties they might face –
not a fiery furnace but perhaps name-calling and ridicule. Encourage the children to share
situations, and offer help and encouragement to those who find it difficult to make a stand
with family, friends at school, and other situations.
Pray with the children, thanking God that He has promised to be with us always, and
asking for the courage to speak up for Him in the situations we face. Remember boys and
girls and families who live for Jesus in countries where it is very dangerous to be a
Christian.
Remember the topics in the Prayer Spot for this week.
Help the children to complete the worksheet.
Lesson 16
Aim:
Daniel and Belshazzar’s Feast
Daniel 5
To show the importance of treating God with honour and reverence.
You will need – Bibles, worksheets, pens/pencils; party items (balloons, poppers, candles,
party biscuits, etc.) (optional).
Introduction
Show the party items (if you have any) and ask when they would be used. Ask the
children about any parties they have been to and allow them to tell you about this for a few
minutes, encouraging quieter children to join in.
Say that today we will hear about a party that got out of control.
Point 1
A Bad Party
Help the children to find Daniel 5 and ask them to find the name of the king, explaining that
he was probably Nebuchadnezzar’s son. Explain that he was having a great big party with
lots of food and drink (verse 1). But then he did something really wrong. Read verses 2-4
(or ask confident readers) to find out what it was. Talk together about this, helping the
children to see the blasphemy of Belshazzar’s actions, not only desecrating the Temple
vessels but using them to praise and worship idols (verse 4).
Point 2
The Writing on the Wall
Read verses 5-8 yourself, emphasising the word ‘Suddenly …’ (NIV), trying to convey in
your voice the drama of the occasion, and the terror felt by the king. Remind the children
that the God Belshazzar was deliberately dishonouring was watching, as He always is.
Point 3
Enter Daniel
Explain that the queen (possibly the Queen Mother) who was not at the banquet (verse 16)
remembered how helpful Daniel had been to Nebuchadnezzar in interpreting dreams (ask
the children to remind you – lesson 14). Ask a volunteer to read verse 12, asking all the
children to join in with the last sentence (“…Call for Daniel …” NIV)
Read or relate the gist of Belshazzar’s words to Daniel (verse 13-16) and ask the children
to find out what reward he was offered. Ask them what they think of Daniel’s reply (verse
17) and discuss it briefly.
Point 4
The Reason for the Message
Explain that Daniel reminded Belshazzar of the greatness of the previous king
(Nebuchadnezzar) who was famous and feared throughout the world, and who, like
Belshazzar, had become very proud and arrogant (remind the children about the golden
statue – lesson 15) and had lost everything, even his mind, until he acknowledged God
and His power.
By contrast Belshazzar ignored all this. Read (or ask a confident volunteer) to read verses
23-24.
Point 5
The Writing Explained
Ask 3 volunteers to read verses 26-28 and explain them simply.
Note that Daniel was rewarded (verse 29) and Belshazzar suffered the consequences of
his blasphemy against God.
Conclusion
Explain that Belshazzar must have known about the incidents in the life of
Nebuchadnezzar, but he chose not only to ignore God but to provoke Him. He most
certainly knew where the gold and silver dishes came from, and deliberately used them to
flout God. What a dangerous thing to do!
Remind the children that God loves us and wants us to love and acknowledge Him through
trusting in the Lord Jesus. He is sad when we ignore and forget about Him, and even
sadder when we turn our backs and refuse to acknowledge Him – but God is loving and
patient (2 Peter 3:9) and longs for us to come to Him for forgiveness, something
Belshazzar was unwilling to do. Talk about this as much as you feel appropriate.
Pray with the children, thanking God for His love for us, and asking Him to forgive us and
to preserve us from deliberately offending Him.
Remember the topics in the Prayer Spot for this week.
Help the children to complete the worksheet while you share the party biscuits if you have
them, perhaps with a drink of juice!
Lesson 17
Aim:
Daniel in the Den of Lions
Daniel 6
To show the importance of worshipping God in the face of opposition.
You will need – Bibles, worksheets, pens/pencils.
Introduction
Give the children a set time (about 2 minutes) to think of as many animals from the Bible
as they can, either individually, or as a group. Check their list, and if they have included
lions ask what story they appear in.
Say that Daniel in the lions’ den is one of the best known stories in the Bible, and that
today the children are going to help you find out why Daniel was thrown to the lions, and
what we can learn from his refusal to turn his back on God.
Point 1
Jealous Officials
Remind the children that Daniel had been a very important person in the kingdom and
explain that under the new king, Darius, who succeeded Belshazzar he became even
more important to the point that he was going to be put in charge of the whole kingdom
(verse 3). Ask the children how the other officials might have felt about this (read verse 4
to check), and talk together about their plot to find fault with Daniel’s behaviour, and the
fact that they could find no wrong-doing (verse 4). Say that they could think of only one
way to get Daniel into trouble with the king. Read verse 5 together to find out what it was.
Point 2
The Plot
Read verses 5-9 together, and discuss the plot made by the officials. Note that the king
allowed himself to be flattered into signing a decree he was later to regret. Ask what the
children think about the king’s role in the plot.
Point 3
Daniel’s Reaction
Ask what Daniel did when he heard about the new law (verse 10). Ask a confident reader
to read the verse to check the answer, and note the words, “… just as he had done before
…” (NIV), and point out that Daniel refused to stop worshipping and praying to God, even
although he knew the consequences. Talk together about this.
Point 4
The King’s Reaction
Note that the officials were spying on Daniel (verse 11) and could not wait to report him to
the king who had made a law that could not be changed (verses 12b and 15). Ask how
the king felt about what he had done (verse 14) and what he tried to do to help Daniel
(verses 14 & 18). Read his comment to Daniel (verse 16b) when the time came for him to
be thrown to the lions, and point out that the king had noticed Daniel’s consistent faith in
God (“… the God Whom you serve continually …” NIV). What do the children think about
the king and the law he made, and why do they think he made it?
Point 5
The Lions’ Den
Share out the reading of verses 17-23 among confident readers. Explain the lions were
kept deliberately hungry so that they would devour their prey immediately. Point out that
although we know how the story ended, Daniel did not know that the lions would not attack
him. But he trusted completely in God to do what He thought was best, and God honoured
his faith by shutting the mouths of the lions so that not even a scratch was found on him
(verse 23).
Point 6
A God to be Trusted
Note the king’s reaction (verse 23), the punishment of the officials, and the king’s new
decree.
Read verses 26 and 27 out loud together. The king knew about God and acknowledged
Him as the living and powerful God, One Who rescues and saves and is in charge of
everything in heaven and earth, but we don’t know if he trusted God for himself.
Conclusion
Say that it is possible to know all about God, to have lots of Bible knowledge in our heads
and to know all the Bible stories, but God wants us to trust Him in our hearts, and to know
Jesus as our Lord and Saviour. Daniel trusted Him completely. He knew the
consequences, but did not waver from his daily worship of God, and did not try to hide it.
Give the children the opportunity to share any difficulties they experience at school and
from their friends for going to church and Sunday School, and trying to live God’s way.
Offer them help and support and promise to pray for them.
Pray with the children, thanking God for Daniel’s stand and asking for the courage to
openly worship and acknowledge Him in the face of opposition and ridicule.
Remember the topics in the Prayer Spot for this week.
Help the children to complete the worksheet.
LESSON 18 IS A REVISION LESSON USING THE NOTES FOR LESSONS 13-17
Lesson 19
Aim:
The Coming of Christ
Genesis 3
Isaiah 7:1-14, 9:1-2 & 6-7
To explore God’s promise of a Saviour.
You will need – Bibles, worksheets, pens/pencils; banknote and packet of sweets (both
optional); short quiz about the Fall (optional).
Introduction
Ask the children if they ever make promises (eg. to tidy their room, feed the goldfish, etc.)
and if they manage to keep them. What about promises made to them? Are they always
kept? Show the banknote and point out the words, “……..Bank promise to pay the Bearer
on Demand ……….Pounds”. This is an official promise. Show the packet of sweets, and
promise the children you will share it at the end of the lesson.
Say that today the children will help you to find clues and promises from God about the
coming of Christ long before He came into the world as a baby.
Point 1
God’s Wonderful World
Get the children to brainstorm items from God’s created world – help them to see that
everything comes from God. He created not only animals, birds, etc. but things like the
law of gravity, the raw materials from which we make so many things; and of course the
brains and the abilities He gave to men and women who found ways to use the marvellous
resources God has given us. Stress that God has given us a beautiful and wonderful
world, and He was very pleased with it (Gen.1:31). But things went wrong …………..
Briefly recap. the story of the Fall (Gen. 3:1-13, 21-24) (perhaps in the form of a quiz).
Point 2
The Promise of Defeat for Satan (Gen. 3:14-17)
Now look at Gen. 3: 14-15 where God tells the snake he will be punished for what he has
done, and explain that God is really talking to Satan (who took the form of a snake) telling
him that one day he will be crushed and defeated (verse 15). Ask the children who they
think would be able to do that, and discuss this briefly.
Point 3
The Promise of “God with Us” (Isaiah 7:1-14)
Help the children to find Isaiah ch. 7. Explain that Isaiah was a prophet whose job was to
bring the people messages from God. Explain that he lived in violent and troubled times.
Explain that Ahaz, the King of Judah, the descendant of David, was being threatened by
Ephraim and Aram, who had joined together against him, and that God promised him a
sign to strengthen his faith and resolve (verses 9&14). Read verse 14, and explain that
while it probably referred to the wife of Isaiah who had a baby (Is. 8:2), for us it has a much
greater meaning. Help the children to find Matthew 1:23 while keeping their finger at
Isaiah 7:14. Ask two confident readers to read these two verses. Explain that God,
through the prophet Isaiah, is pointing ahead to the One Who will come, the One Who is
really Immanuel – God with us, and Who came down to earth to be with His people. Talk
about this together.
Point 4
The Promise of a Light for the World (Isaiah 9:1-2)
Ask the children to imagine they are in a room where it is too dark to see properly (or
outside when it becomes very dark and gloomy before a heavy shower) then the light is
switched on, or the sun comes out and the darkness is chased away. Explain that that is
what it would be like for the people in Isaiah 9. They had had many years of war, and had
turned their backs on God, and were living in gloom and despair (8:22). But God has not
forgotten them. Note the promises to honour Galilee (9:1) (ask the children to remind you
what happened in Galilee), and to send His light into the world (Isaiah 42:6, 49:6 “…a light
for the Gentiles …”) - the promise of salvation through Jesus that is to come.
Point 5
The Promise of a Child to be Born (Isaiah 9:6-7)
Read Isaiah 9:6, 7 and talk about the wonderful promise of a Child Who will be born, with
all these marvellous titles (read them again slowly) and explain them simply – One Who
will rule wisely and well, Who will protect as a father and Who will bring peace and
wholeness to people’s lives – and Who is the mighty God! A descendant of David (Matt.
1:6, 16), He will rule justly and righteously – and forever (verse 7). Read verses 6 and 7
again allocating different verses or phrases to the children as you read it together. Talk
together about the Child Who is to be born, and help the children to marvel at this
wonderful prophecy.
Conclusion
Point out that the people of Isaiah’s time could only look forward with longing for these
promises to come true, but we can look back and see that God did indeed keep His
promises – that the Saviour did indeed come just as He said, that He defeated Satan by
rising from the dead. Explain that we can know the power of the risen Lord in our lives
now, if we put our trust in Him. Talk more about this, in a way that is appropriate for the
class.
Pray with the children, thanking God that He keeps His promises, and for the Lord Jesus
Christ, Who is our Lord and Saviour.
Remember the topics in the Prayer Spot for this week.
Help the children to complete the worksheet, and remember to share the sweets if you
promised them!
Lesson 20
Aim:
The Annunciation and Mary’s Song
Luke
1:26-56
To show the importance of believing God’s Word.
You will need – Bibles, worksheets, pens/pencils.
Introduction
Ask the children what they do when they feel really happy (eg. laugh, sing, dance, turn
cart-wheels, etc.).
Now ask about a time when they felt really happy, or what it is that makes them happy,
and allow them to talk about this for a few minutes.
Say that today we’ll learn how Mary was given news that made her so happy that she
made up a song to God.
Point 1
A Special Visitor (verses 26-29)
Ask the children to remind you of some of the prophecies they learned about last week.
Ask if anyone can remember the name of the place that was to be honoured (Isaiah 9:1).
Encourage the children to find Luke 1:26, and to read the verse aloud when they find it,
noting the name of the place mentioned. Explain that a young woman called Mary lived
there and one day she had a very special visitor. Read verses 27-29 and help the children
to find out as much as they can about Mary, and who the very special visitor was. Ask
how they think Mary must have felt.
Point 2
Amazing News (verse 30-33)
Point out that the angel must have guessed how Mary was feeling because of his first
words (verse 30). Read verses 31-33 to find out the momentous news she was given.
Explain that Mary was an ordinary girl from a small town, and God greatly blessed her in
this wonderful way not because she was perfect (no-one is perfect apart from the Lord
Jesus – Romans 3:10) but because He chose her to be the mother of his Son. Note the
titles He was to be given (explain that ‘the Most High’ was a frequently used name for God
in the Old Testament) and the Name He was to be called – ask if the children know what it
means (Matt.1:21). Remind the children that Jesus was a descendant of David, but that,
unlike David, His throne and Kingdom will last forever.
Point 3
The Son of God (verses 34-38)
Note Mary’s objection (verse 34) that the Baby would need a father, and she wasn’t
married, and the angel’s wonderful reply that this would all come about from the power of
the Holy Spirit, so the Baby to be born really would be the Son of God (note “…the Holy
One …” verse 35 NIV).
Explain that the angel mentioned Mary’s cousin Elizabeth, who was to have a baby in her
old age, to show that with God nothing is impossible (verse 37). Read the verse together.
Ask a volunteer to read Mary’s reply (verse 38) as she took in the amazing news, noting
how she submitted to God’s plan for her.
Point 4
The Visit to Elizabeth (verses 39-45, 56)
Comment on Mary’s visit to her cousin Elizabeth, who was also expecting a special baby
(you may wish to fill in the background to Elizabeth’s pregnancy). Note the reaction of the
baby, and Elizabeth’s greeting, especially verse 43, “…the mother of my Lord …” (NIV).
Point out that Mary stayed three months with Elizabeth (verse 56).
Point 5
Mary’s Song (verses 46-55)
Explain that Mary was so overcome by events and by Elizabeth’s greeting that she makes
up a song of praise to God (which is often known as ‘The Magnificat’). Point out that the
song is like a Psalm and read it together before talking about what it means.
Notice that in the first few verses (46-49) she pours out praise to God for what He has
done for her. His mercy includes all those who honour Him (explain that ‘to fear’ means ‘to
honour or revere’, not being afraid of Him, verse 50). ‘His arm’ (verse 51) refers to all His
powerful acts as Mary recalls His mercy to His people, and the powerful things He has
done (ask the children to suggest a few examples). We can see that Mary knew her Bible
as she ends her song by mentioning the promise God made to Abraham (Gen 22:16-18)
and praising Him for remembering that promise.
Conclusion
Point out that Mary believed the angel’s words even although it seemed so amazing and
impossible, and she believed that “nothing is impossible with God” (Luke 1:17 NIV). Say
that, although sometimes it can be difficult, especially when people at school (even
teachers) or elsewhere try to disprove or pour scorn on stories like the virgin birth, it is
important that we believe and trust in God’s Word. Explain that faith means believing what
we can’t see (Hebrews 11:1) Talk with the children about the problems they may face
about the Bible, in school or elsewhere, and assure them that you and other Christian
friends will always be willing to help and discuss problems with them.
Pray with the children, thanking God for Mary’s faith to believe Him and asking that we will
believe and trust in God and His Word. Thank Him that nothing is impossible with Him.
Remember the topics in the Prayer Spot for this week.
Help the children to complete the worksheet.