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Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it. ~ Proverbs 22:6 KJV

  • Sunday School Lessons

    Find Sunday School Lessons - Teach kids of all ages with these easy to follow bible stories and lessons.

  • Sunday School Coloring Pages

    Find Sunday School Coloring Pages - Print these FREE coloring pages to use with your lessons or as time fillers.

  • Sunday School Games

    Find Sunday School Games - Teach kids about the bible and help them learn their bible verses with these easy to follow bible games.

    Showing posts with label Sunday School Lessons. Show all posts
    Showing posts with label Sunday School Lessons. Show all posts

    Tuesday, January 14, 2014

    In this free bible story of Moses in the River, you'll find all you need to teach a full Sunday school lesson. This lesson is perfect for all ages up to about 10 years of age. Of course, you can add more details and facts to make it great for pre-teens and teens, as well.

    Remember, even small children as young as one or two years old love hearing bible stories along with playing games. For this lesson, we've added a link to a fun game (bottom of the page).

    As an added bonus: You can print off the bible story picture below to use as a visual.

     

    Bible Verse for This Lesson

    Proverbs 3:5 KJV
    Trust in the Lord with all thine heart;

    Moses in the River Sunday School Lesson

    Our bible story today comes from the book of Exodus chapter 2.

    In Egypt, there was a not-so-nice Pharaoh who was afraid of the people of Israel. He thought that the more Israelites there were, the easier it would be for them to take over his kingdom.

    To make himself more safe, he made the Israelite people into slaves. But, that wasn't all.

    He also decided that there were too many Israelites. So, he made a very bad cruel law. This law said that when a baby boy was born to an Israelite family, the baby was to be thrown into the river and drown.

    How horrible!

    During this time, there was a mommy who had a baby boy. She didn't want the Pharaoh to take him, so she decided to hide him secretly. She hid him in their house for three months.

    When she could no longer hide him, she made him a basket out of reeds and sealed it with a special tar to help the basket float.

    River Reeds
    Photo courtesy of Philip Halling, Wikimedia
    Then, she put the little baby boy inside the basket and took it to the river (Nile River).

    There in the tall reeds on the riverbank she set the basket to float. The little baby's sister stayed nearby to watch over him and the basket. Her name was Miriam.

     We don't know how long the baby was safe in the basket in the river. But, we do know that his sister stayed watch over him.

    One day, the Pharaoh's daughter came down to the river to take a bath. Can you imagine how Miriam must have felt. Here she was watching over her small baby brother when the mean Pharaoh's daughter came near?

    Or maybe, she was hoping his daughter would find her brother? Perhaps she was a nice kind princess and the baby's mother, Jochebed, hoped she would love her baby enough to save it?

    What Happened to the Baby?

    So, what do you think happened to the little baby in the basket floating in the river?

    When the princess saw the basket, she sent one of her servant's to get it. When she opened it and found the little baby, she knew right away it must be an Israelite baby. The bible tells us that the little baby was crying when she found it.

    Instead of staying hid, Miriam stepped out to talk to the princess.

    She asked, "Do you want me to find someone to take care of the baby for you?"

    Secretly, Miriam was going to get her very own mother.

    You can see Miriam hiding
    in the reeds if you look closely.
    Photo courtesy of Wikimedia.
    When the princess agreed, Miriam ran to find her mother, Jochebed. When Jochebed came to the princess, the princess said, "Take the baby with you and take care of him."

    Think about how relieved his mother and sister must have been. Even though, when the baby grows older, he will go and live with the princess, they got to spend the next few years with him and made sure he was safe.

    Once the little boy grew old enough, Jochebed took him to live with the princess where he grew up.

    Does anyone know what the princess named this little baby?
     
    Wait for answers.

    She named him Moses because the name Moses means 'to draw out' and that's what she did - drew him out of the water.
     

    Watch the Story of Moses


    This is the Disney movie of the life of Moses which won an Academy Award!
     
    If you have time, you can show this whole movie to your Sunday school class or even break it down into two weeks, if needed.
     
     
    

    Play the Find Baby Moses Game

    For some extra fun on Sunday morning, check out this FREE Sunday school game we call - Finding Baby Moses!

    It's similar to hide-and-seek and easy or hard enough for all ages!

    Find More FREE Bible Stories and Sunday School Lesson!!!!

     

    Monday, January 6, 2014

    For a quick Sunday school lesson, try using this Sunday school game. This is especially great if you are short on time or need to add a little extra something to your lesson.

    You'll have to prepare in advance for this one, but don't worry. It only takes a few minutes.

    What you'll need:
    • tape
    • markers or crayons - 4 different colors
    • paper or index cards
    • scissors
    10 Commandment Sunday School Game and Lesson
    Photo courtesy of Jimmy_Joe, Wikimedia

    10 Commandment Sunday School Game

    We like to call this game Holy Name Scramble.
     
    Before class, cut out 18 small squares. We used 3 x 2 inch squares for ages 4 to 7, but for older kids you could make the squares a bit smaller or for smaller kids make the squares a bit larger. The size is totally up to you.

    On the squares, you'll need to write the words "God", "Jesus", "Christ", and "Lord".

    Use one letter for each card. Each word will need to have it's own color (see picture below). We used purple, blue, green, and red. The picture below isn't very good. I took it with my phone, but you get the idea.


     
     
     
    
    Next, we hid the letters along the walls and hallways using tape. We lined the kids up against one wall. On the count of three, the kids took off running to find the letters.

    Tip: Since we have small children, we told the kids to only find 2 letters each. This allowed all of the kids to find letters without feeling left out. Once everyone found two letters, we let them go search again.

    When the kids found the letters, they raced back to the table to unscramble the words. Since each word was one color, it was easier for them to figure out each one.

    Tip: For older kids, use only one color and let them figure out what each word is. This will take longer and often they will find they have missed a letter and will have to go searching for it.

    Get the FREE
    10 Commandments Word Search
    Object of this Game/Lesson


    The object for this game is to teach kids about the holy names of our Lord and Savior and how precious these names are. Talk to your Sunday school class about how these names aren't meant to be used when we are angry or thrown around in everyday language for no reason at all.

    Ask the kids, "Have you ever heard anyone say, Oh, my and then add God's name to it?"

    Then ask, "Did you know that was a sin?"

    Refer to the Commandment number 3 and explain how keeping God's name holy is one of the 10 Commandments we are to follow.

    If we use the Lord's name in vain, how can we be witnesses to others?

    As Christians, we need to set an example and not act or talk like the world.

    Extra! Extra! Print this Out


    To finish off this lesson, print out one of these 10 Commandment coloring page for the kids to color.

     

    Saturday, December 28, 2013

    Bible stories are great to teach your Sunday school kids about the word of God, but teaching them facts along the way are great too!

    It's amazing how often I set down to study my Sunday school lesson for my young class only to find I've learned two or three things I didn't know myself.

    I'm sure you've been there too.

    During this lesson, I hope you learn something as well as teaching your children in Sunday school this week.

    First Kings of Israel

    First King of Israel


    The people of Israel wanted a king, so God gave them Saul. One of the cool things about Saul was that he was secretly anointed by Samuel.

    The bible tells us that Saul was tall and handsome. When I think of a king, I think of a tall, handsome man, do you?

    Ask the kids in Sunday school what they think a king might look like. Wait for answers.

    If you have a crown or kingly clothes (maybe from a Christmas play), you could let the kids dress up like kings during the lesson or after. You could even play the "The King Game".

    When Saul was made king, the people were not sure if this was the king they really wanted. Over time, Saul proved to be an able king and the people accepted him.

    Of course, being a king is hard and sometimes kings make bad decisions.

    Ask the kids, "Do you remember David who killed the giant Goliath?"

    When Saul was upset, David would play a musical instrument called the lyre to sooth him. After David killed Goliath, David began to become popular with the people and Saul became jealous.

    Saul became so jealous he wanted to get rid of David. Jealousy is a bad thing and never leads to anything good.

    Ask the kids, "Have you ever been jealous?"

    We've all been jealous at one time or another of someone else. Think about it - maybe you've been jealous of someone's grade on a test. What about the clothes they were wearing? Maybe your friend plays football, but your parents won't let you? You could also be jealous of a brother or sister not getting in trouble when you think they should have.

    Jealousy comes in many forms and you have to watch out for it. Whenever you feel like you are jealous, stop and pray that God will help you.

    A Final Note on the Second King of Israel


    After many years, David became the second king of Israel. He was a great king and wrote many psalms in the bible. David not only killed Goliath and played the lyre, he also had seven older brothers which means he was the youngest.

    In most cases, when someone becomes king, it is the oldest son - not the youngest.

    In David's case, he was not only the youngest, but his father wasn't a king either. How could David have become king when his daddy wasn't a king?

    Wait for kids to answer.

    The answer is through God. As you've leaned before...for with God, nothing shall be impossible!

    David was king for 40 years and died when he was 70 years old.



     

    Monday, December 2, 2013

    So many Christmas traditions surround the holidays that often the true meaning of Christmas gets lost in the shuffle. What is the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Christmas? Is it the lights, the presents, the hustle and bustle of Black Friday deals, getting together with family, Santa Claus, Christmas music, or old Christmas movies?

    The list could go on and on, but the first thing that should pop into our heads (and stay there) is the birth of Jesus.
     
    Stop right now and sign up (to the right) to receive FREE Sunday school material!
     
    Photo courtesy of Malene Thyssen
    http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Malene
     
    Before beginning the Christmas story with your kids, set the scene a bit. Maybe you could say something like this:

    Imagine, it's a dark night and you are alone in your bed. You are awoke by a bright light. As you look around, you see someone in your room whom you've never seen before - an angel. You are scared. What should you do? Should you run or scream?

    The angel begins to speak to you and you calm down and know that this angel is bringing you a message from heaven - a message from God.

    This is what happened to Mary, Jesus' mother. She was scared, but thankfully she didn't run away.

    The Christmas Story


    Just like the scene above, Mary received a surprise visit from the angel Gabriel. The angel had come with a message from God.

    Gabriel first told Mary, 'Don't be afraid. I have good news for you'.

    You see, Mary was very special to God and needed her to be the mother of Jesus. Gabriel had come to tell her the news. Imagine - out of all the women (or girls) in Israel, Mary was the chosen one.

    Mary didn't understand how she could have a baby right now.

    Gabriel said, 'For with God, nothing shall be impossible!' (Luke 1:37 KJV)

    Mary didn't argue or say she didn't want to right now. Instead, she said, 'Whatever you say, I'll do.' (Luke 1:38 KJV)

    If only we would say, "Yes Lord, whatever you say, I'll do it." It can be hard especially if it means being nice to another child at school, minding mom or dad, or even not arguing with your brother or sister. We should all try to be more like Mary and do what God needs us to do.

    Gabriel also told Mary that her cousin, Elisabeth, was also going to have a son. This was also a miracle because Elisabeth was old and had never had any children. The bible tells us that Elisabeth's son was to be called John (later known as John the Baptist). His job from birth was to tell others about the coming Messiah (Jesus).

    Mary wanted to visit her cousin Elisabeth and set out on the journey to see her. Mary stayed three months before journeying back home to tell Joseph about the coming baby.

    Get Christmas coloring pages...

    What Will Joseph Do?


    When Mary told Joseph about the angel's message from God and about the coming baby, Joseph was unsure of what to do.

    Should he still marry her?

    Joseph worried. One night while Joseph slept, Gabriel came to him in a dream. The angel told him not to be afraid to make Mary his wife. This dream was all it took for Joseph to marry Mary. You see, Joseph was to help Mary raise Jesus.

    The Road to Bethlehem

    During this time, Caesar Augustus decided that everyone that was under his rule should come to Bethlehem to be counted so that they could be taxed. (Be prepared to explain this if children ask what taxing or counted means.)

    Inside Bethlehem
    Photo Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons


    So, Joseph and Mary set off on their long journey to Bethlehem.

    When they arrived at the city, it was crowded because of all the other people who had traveled there to be counted. Every place was full. The bible tells us that there was no room for them in the inn.

    Where would they sleep? It was time for Mary to have baby Jesus. There were no hospitals. There wasn't even a room inside a house where she could lay. What would they do?

    Because there was no room in the inn, Mary delivered baby Jesus, wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger. We don't know if she was in a stable or a cave of some sort which was where stables normally were in those days. We believe this may have been the case, but the bible does not say. She may have given birth out under the stars.

    What We Can Learn


    The story of the birth of Jesus is surrounded with many wonders which goes along with the wonders of the Christmas holidays. There is so much we can learn, but for younger kids stick to the basics (below). For older kids, you can dig a little deeper into the story.

    We learn that no matter how scared we are if God needs us, we should be willing to obey - just like Mary. We also find that Jesus wasn't born in a fancy house or expensive hospital. He was born and laid in a manger. A manger is a place where the animals eat their food. It probably was dirty and smelt bad.

    Mary didn't have a warm soft blanket to wrap Jesus in either. Instead, she wrapped him in swaddling clothes. Swaddling clothes are strips of cloth that often were used to wipe down the animals with. Jesus didn't have expensive clothes. We often think we have to have the best clothes or the newest styles. If Jesus didn't have to have expensive clothes, we sure don't either.

    This holiday season, don't focus on how many toys or clothes you get. Instead, focus on the birth of Jesus and how many people you can tell the story to.
     

    Tuesday, November 5, 2013

    The bible story about the rich young ruler makes for a great Sunday school lesson. It can be told quickly, if needed, or it can be made into a lesson complete with discussions where the whole class can get involved.

    When Jesus is talking to the rich young ruler, he ask him about the 10 Commandments. This is a great opportunity to touch on all ten which will also lead into a different branch of the story.

    You can find this bible story in Matthew 19:16-30, Mark 10:17-31, and Luke 18:18-30. We used the King James Bible and the King James Bible Commentary for this lesson.

    When teaching this Sunday school lesson, a great verse to go over along with the 10 Commandments is...

    Luke 1:37 KJV
    For with God nothing shall be impossible.
     
     
    In Matthew 19:26 (KJV), Jesus is talking to his disciples about the rich young ruler and how difficult it is for the rich to get into heaven (more on that below). Jesus tells his disciples, that with men things are impossible, but with God all things are possible.
     
    Rich Young Ruler
    Sunday School Lessons
    Photo Courtesy of Theodore Scott, Wikimedia Commons
     
     
     

    Rich Young Ruler Sunday School Lesson

    One day, a young man came to Jesus and said, "What good thing must I do to have eternal life?"
     
    You see, Jesus knows everything and he knew what was in the rich young ruler's heart. So, Jesus said to the young man, "Keep the commandments."
     
    Jesus was talking about the 10 Commandments.
     
    The rich young ruler asked, "Which commandment must I keep?"
     
    Jesus said, "Thou shalt do no murder. Thou shalt not commit adultery. Thou shalt not steal. Thou shalt not bear false witness. Honor thy father and thy mother, and Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.
     
    The young man replied, "I have done all of these things since I was a young boy."
     
    Then, Jesus said, "If you have kept all the 10 Commandments and are perfect, take everything that you have and give it to the poor. Then, come and follow me. You will have treasure in heaven."
     
    When the rich young ruler heard what Jesus told him to do, he got up and walked away very sad. How could he give up all that he had for he was very rich?
     
    Instead of choosing to follow Jesus, the young man decided he would rather be rich here on earth than in heaven.
     
    Ask the kids what they love more than anything. Wait for answers.
     
    Some may answer their toys, their games, their pets or even their parents. Then, explain that we are to love God even more than those things we love the most.
     
    We are to put God above all else. Of course, God doesn't expect us to give everything we have away, but he does expect us to put him first. When it is time for church, we shouldn't complain that our favorite TV show is on or that we'd rather play outside.
     
    Instead, we are to be excited about going to church or Sunday school to hear about God and what we can do to tell others about him. We should want to hear bible stories and tell others so they may want to ask Jesus into their hearts too.
     
    http://sunday-schoollessons.blogspot.com/2013/11/rich-young-ruler-sunday-school-activity.html
    Get this FREE printable
    Sunday School Word Scramble
    for this Sunday School Lesson!

    Jesus Talks to His Disciples

     
    Even in bible times, Jesus taught his disciples just like we are learning now. When the rich young ruler walked away, Jesus used what happened as an opportunity to teach his disciples something important.
     
    What did he teach them? Let  your Sunday school kids try to answer.
     
    He taught them that it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to get into heaven.
     
    To help show the kids how small the eye of a needle is, you should have one with you for them to see.
     
    The disciples were amazed at what Jesus had said and asked, "Who then can be saved?"
     
    You see, Jesus was saying that most, but not all, rich people think more about the money they have right now than they do about life after they die. Many rich people believe that if they have enough money, they can buy all that they want, but sadly, they can not buy their way into heaven.
     
    To answer the disciples, Jesus said, "With men this is impossible (getting into heaven); but with God all things are possible."
     
    What did he mean?
     
    Men can't do anything on their own, especially get into heaven. Thankfully, with God all things are possible. We must put our trust in God if we expect to get anywhere in this life or the life hereafter.
     

    Extra for Sunday School Teachers

     
    This would be a good time to have the children bow their heads and say a prayer. You may even want to ask if anyone would like to ask Jesus to come into their hearts.
     
     

    Saturday, October 26, 2013

    Learning about the fruit of the spirit at a young age will help your Sunday school children grow to live a more Godly life. Without the basic knowledge of how God expects us to live, children may never grow to let God shine through and may even come short of the glory of God.

    Fruit of the Spirit
    Photo Courtesy of Yosarian, Wikimedia


    While learning to get by in this world is a necessity, our eternal life is the most important thing children need to know about and how to share that knowledge with others.

    That being said, let's begin our Sunday school lesson about the fruit of the spirit.

    What Are the Fruits of the Spirit?


    The fruit of the spirit can be found in Galatians 5:22-23. I've added the verse below for you.
     
    22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,
    23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
     
     
    There are 9 elements to the fruit of the spirit as you can see in the verses above. For younger children, you may have to work on two at a time while older children can do three, four or even five one week and finish up the others in the weeks to come.
     
    Trying to do all 9 in one lesson may result in the kids forgetting them or even becoming confused.
     
    One of the best ways to learn all of the fruits is by learning them just as they are in the bible. Start with the first part of the verse - But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness.
     
    Again, if you have smaller children, just work on two - But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy.
     
    Many kids learn visually, so having these printed on a large piece of poster board will be your best option. Of course, if you have a black board or a dry erase board, those will work great too.
     
    Print this on the board...
     
    But the
    fruit of the Spirit
    is
    love
    joy
    peace
    longsuffering
    gentleness
     
    
    
    Don't add the other fruits until you are ready. Having too much on the poster board will only cause confusion.
     
    When the kids have learned the first part, then and only then should you move on to the last part of the verse...
     
    goodness
    faith
    meekness
    temperance
    against such there is no law.
     
     
    So, what do these fruits mean?
     

    Meaning of the Fruit of the Spirit

     
    
    Get the FREE Fruit of the Spirit
    Sunday school Song
    and activity!
    First, it is important to know that God calls them the fruit of the spirit not 'fruits'. The best way to
    describe this is to say that it is ONE fruit with nine elements. The first three elements are in relation to God. The second three are in relation to man. The last three are in relation to one's (inner) self.
     
    If you'd like to study these using the elements above, only do three each time you meet that way you can talk about the relation to God, man, and one's self as well.
     
    We'll start with the first one and go through all nine. I've listed them below in case you need them.
     
    • love - to be self-sacrificing and show a Christlike love.
    • joy - to have an inner rejoicing in the Lord.
    • peace - to have the peace (salvation) that only Christ can give and no one can take it away.
    • longsuffering - showing patience in times of trouble or suffering especially when those troubles are brought on by other people such as being provoked.
    • gentleness - to be kind, gracious, tender, and mild
    • goodness - always ready to do good and to be moral
    • faith - being true to his promise and tasks he performs
    • meekness - having controlled strength and listening to hear God
    • temperance - self-control
    And, last but not least, the end of the verse. What does 'against such there is no law' mean?
     
    This means that there is no law that says you can not possess these virtues. There are so many laws in this world telling us what we can and can't do, it is good to know that no man can take these things away from us.
    
    
    

    Sunday, October 20, 2013

    The bible story of Zacchaeus can help teach kids that no matter what they've done in their lives or will do, Jesus loves them and will forgive them. Kids should always be taught God is a forgiving God and if they truly are sorry for what they've done, God will forgive them. They will also understand the importance of loving others and sharing God's word.

    They can always start new and fresh without having to worry if God still loves them - He does.

    Zacchaeus Tree - Jericho
    Photo Courtesy of Tango7174, Wikikmedia

    Zacchaeus

    One day, Jesus was going to the city of Jericho. A crowd of people were gathered around to see Jesus as he walked by. Behind the crowd, a man was trying to see Jesus but couldn't.

    Ask the kids, "Why do you think he couldn't see?"

    Wait for answers.

    The bible tells us he was little of stature. This meant that he wasn't very tall at all. His name was Zacchaeus.

    Zacchaeus was a tax collector. A tax collector's job was to collect money the people owed the government, but Zacchaeus always took more money than he was suppose to take.

    Guess what he did with the extra money.

    He put it in his own pocket! He became very rich, but he was lonely. You see, all the people knew Zacchaeus took more money than he was suppose to, so no one liked him.

    He may have been rich, but he had no friends.

    Even if Zacchaeus would have tried to make his way to the front of the crowd to see Jesus, no one would have let him through because they didn't like him.

    So, Zacchaeus came up with a plan.


    The Sycamore Tree


    Zacchaeus wanted to see Jesus so badly he decided to run ahead of the crowd to find a spot so he could see. As he ran up the road, he saw a sycamore tree.

    Ask, "What do you think he did when he came to the sycamore tree?"

    Wait for answers.

    He climbed right up into the tree!

    Now, he would be able to see Jesus. He may have been shorter than the others in the crowd, but he would be able to see Jesus better than most.

    While he sat in the tree, Jesus came walking by. But, instead of walking past Zacchaeus sitting in the tree, he walked right up to him.

    Jesus looked right up in the tree and said, "Zacchaeus, come down because I am going to your house." (Luke 19:5 KJV)

    How did Jesus know his name? Did you know Jesus knows everyone's name?

    Point to the kids and say, "Jesus knows _________ name and he knows _________ name." Fill in the blanks with the kids in your class.

    Zacchaeus quickly came down out of the tree. The bible tells us that when the people in the crowd saw Jesus talking to Zacchaeus and then going to his house, they began to talk amongst themselves.

    They couldn't understand why Jesus would want to go to Zacchaeus's house. He was a cheat and a liar. He took their money and was rich because he stole from them. How could Jesus want to spend time with him?

    What We Learn


    Think about this for a minute - why would Jesus want to spend time with a cheater and a liar? Why not spend time with someone who already believes in him and loves him?

    Jesus knew that Zacchaeus needed him. He knew that Zacchaeus needed to know about God. No one in town liked Zacchaeus. How would he ever know how much God loved him and how to get to heaven if no one told him?

    You see, because Jesus took the time to talk to Zacchaeus, the bible tells us that salvation came to his house (Luke 19:9 KJV).

    Talk to the kids about the following:

    If you have Jesus in your heart, one day when you get to heaven, you'll see Zacchaeus there.

    Maybe you have kids in your class at school that no one likes or you have people in your family that you'd rather not be around. Instead of not talking to them, try telling them about Jesus or being a friend.

    Not everyone will want to hear about Jesus, but some will. How will you ever know if you don't try?

    You can pray for that person and ask God to help them too. Remember, God can do anything and you can ask him for anything.

    After Zacchaeus was saved, he knew he had done all the people wrong. He decided to give half of what he owned to the poor and anyone who he took money from, he game them 4 times as much back.

    Bible Verse for this Lesson


    Romans 13:8 KJV
    ...for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law.


    Even though Zacchaeus didn't always do what was right, Jesus loved him. Do you think that after Zacchaeus was saved, he never did anything wrong again?

    No.

    We all make mistakes, but God loves us no matter what.

    When we make a mistake, we need only to ask God to forgive us just as Zacchaeus did.

    Wednesday, October 9, 2013

    While many of us only dream of falling in love at first sight and having someone love us so much it seemed like a fairy tale, Jacob experienced it. This bible story is a true real life love story about a man falling in love with a woman only to find out he had been tricked into marrying the wrong girl and guess who tricked him - her very own father!
    Jacob
    Photo: the Providence Lithograph Company

    Jacob Sunday School Lesson

    After Jacob left his home, he traveled toward Haran where some of his family lived. He had been traveling for a very long time. Finally, he was close to his destination and as he walked near the city, he came upon a well.

    At the well were many shepherds. they were waiting to water their flock.

    Ask the kids, "Do you know what shepherds are? What is there job?"

    Wait for answers.

    Some kids may not know what a well is either so you may want to be prepared to answer questions about it.

    A well is a hole in the ground where shepherds would water their flocks. Often, a big rock or stone was put over the opening of the well and was only removed when it was time to give the animals their drink.

    Jacob asked the shepherds if they knew where Laban and his family lived.

    The shepherds knew Laban and said, "Look, here comes his daughter Rachel to water the flock."

    Rachel was a shepherdess which means she was a girl shepherd.

     
    Teach "Jacob's Ladder" bible story!

    Jacob Makes a Deal


    When Jacob saw Rachel coming, he went to the well, rolled the stone from the well's opening, and watered Rachel's flock for her. When Jacob told Rachel who he was, she quickly ran to tell her father Laban.

    
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    After Rachel told him about Jacob being in Haran, Laban ran back to Jacob, hugged him, kissed his cheek, and brought him back to his house where Jacob talked about his mother and the rest of his family.

    After a month, Laban decided he would pay Jacob to work for him.

    Now, Jacob had a plan because he loved Rachel and said, "I will work for 7 years if I can marry your younger daughter Rachel."

    The bible tells us that Jacob loved Rachel so much that the 7 years he worked seemed like only a few days had past which meant he loved her very, very much.

    After the 7 years had passed, Jacob went to Laban and asked to marry Rachel as per their agreement. Laban gathered everyone together a held a big feast so he could marry her.

    Jacob is Tricked


    In those days, a marriage was quite different from the marriages of today and Jacob hadn't seen the face of his bride until after he was married to her. When he realized it wasn't Rachel he married, but instead her older sister Leah, Jacob was furious!

    He went to Laban very mad and asked, "What have you done? I worked 7 years to marry Rachel. Why did you trick me into marrying Leah?"

    Laban answered and said, "It is not right for the younger sister to get married before the older sister and so I had to give Leah to you instead of Rachel."

    Guess what happened next.

    Laban wanted Jacob to stay and work for him, so he said, "If you will stay and work for me another 7 years, I will let you marry Rachel too."

    Jacob agreed and in one week, he finally married the girl he loved so much.

    What We Learn

    One thing we can learn from this bible story is that not everyone can be trusted. Sometimes, even our friends will try to trick us and often get us into trouble just like Satan tries to trick us. God doesn't want us to get others in trouble on purpose. He wants us to be loving and kind and do our best to do what he would like us to do. We need to know what is right so we don't let Satan trick us into doing something we shouldn't.

    Another thing we learn is that we don't always get what we want. Sometimes we may want a new game or even a certain food for dinner, but we may not always get it. We need to learn to be patient and calmly wait for the things we want.

    Lastly, you should explain to the kids that God does not condone having two wives, but in bible times this happened often. Sometimes, men would have more than two and one man, King Solomon, had 1000 wives (1 Kings 11 KJV). Whew!!

     

    Bible Verse for this Sunday School Lesson


    1 Corinthians 10:31 KJV
     
    Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.

     

    Sunday, September 29, 2013

    Jacob was a trickster. He tricked his twin brother out of his birthright for a bowl of soup. He also tricked his nearly blind father, Isaac, into giving him a blessing which was meant for his brother.

    
    Jocob's Ladder
    Sunday School Lessons
    Photo: the Providence Lithograph Company
    Wikimedia Commons
    But, even after all of his tricking and scheming, God loved him and blessed him. This same Jacob became the father of the twelve tribes of Israel. Of course, you can see by the title of this lesson that this isn't what our Sunday school lesson is about today.

    Today we are going to talk about Jacob's ladder.

    This bible story is one that many children love to hear. It is an amazing bible story that has several details the kids will always remember. First, they will remember the ladder. Second, they will remember the angels walking up and down it. Third, they will remember that Jacob used a rock for a pillow.

    Let's get started.

    Jacob's Ladder - Sunday School Lesson


    Our story today begins when a young man named Jacob was sent on a journey to a different land to find himself a wife. You see, where Jacob lived, the women all worshipped idols and his father wanted to make sure he married a girl that loved God.

    Jacob started on his journey to find himself a wife who loved God.

    Jacob traveled and traveled. Finally, night began to fall and Jacob was very tired. But guess what! Jacob didn't pull out a tent, a blanket and a pillow so he could sleep. There were not hotels anywhere.

    Instead, he found a spot on the ground to lie down and used a rock for his pillow!

    Can you imagine how uncomfortable that must have been? How nice and comfy is your pillow? If you ever get a chance to use a rock for a pillow, try it. It is cold and hard and not comfortable at all.

    (Teachers - if you can find a small rock that could be used for the children to lay their head on, it would give them a better understanding of how Jacob must have felt.)

    Teach "Jacob Falls in Love" Bible Story!

    Jacob's Ladder
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    Jacob's Ladder
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    When Jacob fell asleep, he had a dream.

    Ask the children, "Have you had a dream you remember?"

    Wait for answers.

    Jacob's dream was a bit different than most dreams because this dream had been sent from God. God was letting Jacob know that even though he hadn't always done everything right, God still loved him and had a plan for Jacob.

    In Jacob's dream, there was a ladder, but it wasn't a normal ladder that you might use at home. It was a special ladder that stretched from earth all the way up to heaven.

    On this ladder were angels. The angels were walking up and down the ladder and at the very top, near heaven, was God.

    Then, God spoke to Jacob in his dream and said, "I am going to give you the land where you are now. I will also give it to your children and your children's children. You will have many, many children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great great grandchildren. I will be with you wherever you go and I will make sure that you come back to this place where you are sleeping."

    (Teachers - you can read God's exact words in Genesis 28:13-15 KJV)

    When Jacob woke up, he realized that God was near and he didn't even know it. The bible tells us that Jacob was afraid. He said, "This is the house of God and the gate of heaven."

    In the morning, Jacob took the rock that he used as his pillow and set it upright. Then, he poured oil on it. He wanted this place to be remembered and to be special.

    What was the name of this special place? Bethel which means 'The House of God'.

    God kept his promise to Jacob and brought him safely back to that land just as he had said. Jacob had many children including Joseph who you may remember as having a 'coat of many colors'.

    
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    What We Can Learn


    Did you know that God has a plan for you too? Did you know that God will never leave you? He will be with you wherever you go. No matter what you do or what happens in your life, God is there.

    Isaiah 41:10 KJV
     
    10 Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.

    Depending on what age children you have, you can use the first part of this verse or more.

    In our class, we sometimes just say "Fear thou not; for I am with thee:", but the entire verse is great!

     

    Monday, September 16, 2013

    It's important for you to know as a Sunday school teacher that this bible story happened near the beginning of Jesus' ministry. He was only now calling the first of his 12 disciples. This true story happened not long after he was baptized by John the Baptist.

    Simon Peter cast out his fishing net just as Jesus said.
    Photo: Oxfordian Kissuth, Wikimedia Commons


    Fishers of Men Sunday School Lesson


    At the beginning of this Sunday school lesson, Simon Peter, Andrew, James, and John were on the shore of the Sea of Galilee. They had been fishing all night long and their large fishing nets needed to be washed.

    You see, these four men were fisherman. It's not like when we go fishing to catch fish. It's not like when mommies or daddies go fishing for the weekend. This was Simon Peter, Andrew, James, and John's job. Fishing is how they made money.

    Each night, they would go out onto the sea, drop their huge nets into the water and pull the fish back in. The next day, they would take the fish they caught into town to sell them.

    On the night when this bible story happened, the four fishermen had worked all night long to catch fish and hadn't caught even one.

    As they were working to wash out their fishing nets, Jesus came walking along the shore. He wasn't alone though. Many, many people were following him hoping to hear him teach and to preach.

    When Jesus came near Simon Peter's boat, he walked right up to it and stepped inside.
    
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    He told Peter to push his boat out a little ways into the water and Simon Peter obeyed.

    That's when Jesus began to teach. He taught all those people sitting in Simon Peter's boat on the Sea of Galilee. After Jesus was finished, he told Simon Peter to take his boat out into the deep water of the sea and let down his net again.

    Remember, these men had fished all night long without catching a single fish. They were probably tired and disappointed. They probably didn't want to try again, but because Jesus told him too, Simon Peter obeyed.

    When Simon Peter let down his net into the water, the bible tells us that they caught a great multitude of fishes. It was so many their nets began to break. They called the other men on the shore and told them to come and help. When the men arrived in their boats to help, the bible says there was so many fish that both boats were so filled they began to sink.

    Simon Peter, Andrew, James, and John was so astonished, they realized right then they were standing in the presence of the Messiah.

    Jesus told them to not be afraid. He also told them they were to not catch fish anymore.

    They were to be fishers of men.

    This meant instead of working day in and day out to catch real fish, they were to go out into the world to tell people about Jesus Christ so they might be saved and go to heaven one day.

     

    Get the Fishers of Men Game

    What We Can Learn from this Sunday School Lesson

     
    We learn that just like Simon Peter, we need to obey God in whatever he says to do. Simon Peter could have told Jesus there was no fish in the sea and went about his business. Instead, he obeyed Jesus and caught more fish than ever before.

    Sometimes, we may not understand what God needs us to do or why, but we don't have too. We only need to obey because God knows best.

    Second, we learn that we are to be fishers of men just like the men in the story.

    We should tell everyone about Jesus and how he died on the cross for us. We should let them know they can be saved and go to heaven one day if only they accept Jesus into their hearts.

    When we tell others about Jesus, we are being fishers of men.


     

    Saturday, August 31, 2013

    In this Sunday school lesson, we are going to be talking about Jesus' first miracle - Jesus turns the water into wine. After Jesus was baptized by John and tempted in the wilderness by Satan, he began calling his disciples.

    During this time, he along with his mother was invited to a wedding. Our Sunday school lesson begins here.

    Miracles of  Jesus
    Sunday School Lessons
    Photo: Wikimedia Commons

    Miracles of Jesus - Water Into Wine


    Ask the children, "How many of you have ever been to a wedding?"

    Wait for answers.

    Weddings today normally last a few hours or, in some cases, the better part of a day. In bible times, weddings would last several days even a week. Those getting married would be in charge of food and drinks for all the guests for all the days the wedding lasted. It must have been a lot of hard work.

    At one particular wedding, Jesus was invited. He along with his disciples and his mother attended the wedding.

    There must have been quite a few people there because all of the wine the guests were drinking at the wedding had been drank long before the wedding feast was over.

    A feast is sort of like a huge party with lots of food and drinks. Today, we would call it the reception.

    Mary, Jesus' mother, overheard the servants talking about the wine being gone.

    She immediately went to Jesus to tell him so that he could fix the problem. When Mary told him the wine was gone he said, "Woman, what have I to do with thee? mine hour is not yet come." (John 2:4 KJV)

    
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    Jesus' First Miracle Maze
     


    When Jesus called his mother 'woman', he was doing it out of respect.

    Then, Jesus' mother went to the servants. She told them to do whatever Jesus told them to do. (John 2:5 KJV)

    Nearby, six very large stone water pots sat. In those days, it was custom to wash your guest's feet. These water pots had held the water the servants had washed the guest's feet with, but now they were empty.

    
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    Jesus told the servants to take the water pots and fill them with water again. The servants did as Jesus
    said. They took the pots and filled them up to the brim with water.

    Then, a miracle happened. It was Jesus' first miracle that we are told about in the bible. Here is what happened...

    Jesus told the servants to dip from the pot and take it to the governor of the feast to drink. The servants did as they were told. When the ruler tasted the water, it wasn't water at all! Jesus had turned it into delicious wine.

    The servants, Jesus' mother, and his disciples knew that he had performed a miracle.

    This was the first miracle of Jesus, but not the last. While Jesus was here on earth, he perform many, many miracles.






     

    Monday, August 12, 2013

    The temptation of Jesus Christ should be used
    as an example to resist temptation using the
    Word of God.
    Photo: Percita, Wikimedia Commons
    Many children don't know that Jesus Christ was tempted by the devil while he lived here on earth.

    In Sunday school, kids learn about the many wonderful things that Jesus did while he was here - turning the water into wine, making the blind man see, walking on water, dying on the cross, rising from the dead, and many, many other miracles.

    But, not too many teachers teach the temptation of Jesus. I've often wondered why.

    This is a great Sunday school lesson to teach kids. Knowing that even Jesus Christ himself was tempted by the devil just as we are each and every day reassures me - I am not alone.

    It also gives me a better sense of understanding what I need to do to resist him. Jesus knew the scriptures and used the verses within the scriptures against the devil. We need to learn and teach the scriptures to our class to help them fight the evils of this world too.

    Temptation of Jesus Christ Sunday School Lesson


    After the baptism of Jesus, he was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil (Matthew 4:1 KJV). He was in the wilderness forty days and forty nights and the bible tells us that he fasted during that time.

    Fasting means to not eat anything.

    Ask the kids, "How long have you went without eating?"

    Wait for answers.

    Many kids will only have gone a few hours while others may have gone a day or two if they have been sick or practice fasting themselves.

    It will be hard for young children to imagine not eating forty days. This is okay as long as you get the point across that he was very, very hungry after not eating for so long.

    First Temptation of Jesus Christ


    The bible tells us that the 'tempter', who is the devil, came to Jesus and said, "If you really are the Son of God, turn these stones into bread so you can eat them.
     

    Of course, Jesus could have quickly turned the stones into bread and eaten them because he was so hungry, but he didn't. Instead, he said back to the devil, "Man doesn't live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God."

    Jesus was quoting this scripture from the book of Deuteronomy 8:3 KJV. He meant that bread may keep you alive here on earth, but without God you can't have eternal life. We need to feed our spiritual part too. How do we do that? By coming to church, Sunday school, reading and memorizing the bible, and praying.

    Second Temptation of Jesus Christ


    Then, the devil took Jesus to the top of the temple. He said to Jesus, "If you really are the Son of God, throw yourself down off this temple. Then, the devil did something that we don't realize he can do - he quoted the scriptures.

    He said, "It is written, He shall give his angels charge concerning thee: and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone." (Psalm 91:11-12 KJV)

    Ask the kids, "Did you know the Devil knew the scriptures?"

    Wait for answers.

    The devil wanted Jesus to jump or throw himself off the temple then call his angels to catch him so he wouldn't get hurt.

    Again, Jesus did not. Instead, he counters the devil with another verse of scripture, "It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God."

    Third Temptation of Jesus Christ


    The last time Jesus is tempted the devil takes him to a high mountain. He shows him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory.

    The devil says to Jesus, "If you will bow down to me, I will give you all that you see."

    Then, Jesus replied, "Get away Satan. For it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve."

    The devil left him and the angels came to him.

    What We Learn from this Sunday School Lesson

    We learn a lot from this Sunday school lesson and it may be hard to teach younger children it all. So, for this lesson we will focus on some important details kids can relate to.

    First, when Jesus lived here, he was just like us. He got hungry. He go thirsty. He was tempted to sin. He chose not to sin just like we can choose not to sin. It is a choice and we need to make the right choice.

    Second, Jesus knew the scriptures by heart. When faced with doing something he shouldn't, he quoted the verses of scripture to help him through. The devil knows them too.

    Third, we need to learn bible verses to help us through each day. Kids may not realize the importance of learning verses and may feel it is too much like 'school'. Don't let that stop you as a teacher. You will just have to find new creative and fun ways to get them learning.

    Bible verses can be taught by playing games, having contests, repeating them each time you meet, and many other ways.

    Fourth, we are to worship God only.

    Fifth, we learn that with God nothing shall be impossible. We need only to lean on him when we are tempted and he will help us through.

    Talk to the kids about ways they are tempted in their lives: lying, cheating, stealing, disobeying, or other things your kids may be going through.

    Good luck and may God bless you as you teach the word of God.


     

    Monday, August 5, 2013

    Wading in the Jordan River!
    Imagine being baptized in the Jordan River
    just like John baptized Jesus!
    People are still baptized there today.
    Photo: Alicia Bramlett
    John the Baptist was Jesus' cousin. His mother was Elisabeth whom if you remember, was pregnant with John when Mary went to her to tell her she was going to have a baby. You can read this part of the story in Luke 1:41-44 KJV.

    41 And it came to pass, that, when Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost:
    42 And she spake out with a loud voice, and said, Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb.
    43 And whence is this to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?
    44 For, lo, as soon as the voice of thy salutation sounded in mine ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy.

    While the above verses is a full Sunday school lesson in itself, we are not going to focus on that part of the story.

    Instead, we're going to focus on the part of John the Baptist's life when Jesus came to be baptized. Many folks don't realize the importance of baptism. Hopefully, this lesson will help teach your class about Jesus' example through the story of John who became known as 'John the Baptist'.

    John the Baptist - Baptism of Jesus


    John wasn't always known as John the Baptist. He was born as a baby just months before Jesus' was born in Bethlehem and guess what - he was Jesus' cousin!

    When they grew up, John began telling the people about the coming Messiah.

    Ask the kids, "Do you know who the Messiah is?"

    Wait for answers.

    
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    The Messiah is Jesus. That's right - Jesus is the Messiah that John the Baptist was telling everyone about.

    John preached to people all the time. John was actually born to preach. Of course, there was something different about this preacher.
    
    He didn't have his own church. He didn't even preach in the towns near a church. Instead, he would go to a river (the Jordan River) and start telling anyone who would listen about the coming Messiah.

    One day, when John was telling the people they should ask for forgiveness for their sins and be baptized, Jesus came walking toward him.

    Jesus was there to be baptized by John.
    

    John looked at Jesus and said, "You should baptize me. You've never done anything wrong. You don't have to ask for forgiveness of your sin and most certainly don't have to be baptized."

    Jesus wanted to set an example to everyone. You see, baptism is to show others outwardly what has happened inwardly.

    What does this mean?

    It means that when you have asked for forgiveness and Jesus has come to live in your heart, you are baptized to show others what has happened. You are showing that you are now a child of God and want others to know it to.

    After the Baptism of Jesus


    After John Baptized Jesus, the holy spirit came down from heaven in the form of a dove and God spoke from heaven.

    He said, "This is my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased."

    You see, God was very proud of his Son, Jesus. Jesus was setting a example for us to follow even today.

    If you have asked Jesus to come into your heart, have you been baptized?

    If not, talk to your kids about baptism a bit more and if anyone wishes to be baptized, be sure to talk to their parents and your preacher.


     

    Friday, July 26, 2013

    Sunday school lessons can be taught using many different techniques. Not every Sunday school class has to be the same. For instance, do you stick to a routine each Sunday? Do you have the kids sit in the same chairs, around the same table, or in the same spot on the floor? Does snack time come at the end of each lesson?

    This week, shake things up a bit and have the kids doing something totally different!

    The more fun stuff you do in class that is out of routine the more kids will look forward to coming. They won't know what you're going to do next and won't be able to wait to get to Sunday school each week!

    The best mind set I can give you is think like it is VBS all the time!

    That being said, let's take a look at how to use bible verses as this week's Sunday school lesson.

    Sunday School Lessons
    can be taught playing and having fun!
    Photo: Daniel Schwen, Wikimedia


    Sunday School Lessons Using Bible Verses


    For this Sunday school lesson, you'll need:

    • yarn or twine
    • large index cards
    • marker
    • an empty 2 liter plastic bottle (you can fill it 3/4 full with water)
    • a table or area to lay out the cards
    Decide on which verse you would like to teach the kids. For this example, we are going to use:

    Psalm 100:2 KJV
     
    Serve the Lord with gladness: come before his presence with singing.

    Teaching kids the importance of serving the Lord with gladness is a lesson all in itself, but go a bit further and add on the second part. Every time we come before the Lord we should do it joyfully with singing.

    Does this mean he expects us to sing all our words?

    I don't think so, but when the opportunity presents itself, we shouldn't be ashamed. We should do it willingly and joyfully.

    Have you ever read the book, "90 Minutes in Heaven"?

    There is a part in the book that talks about how the preacher is in heaven. He describes how he hears hundreds of voices singing. They are singing different songs, but the voices are so beautiful, the songs sound amazing together. If you've never read it, you should.

    I think God enjoys music. He loves to hear singing and loves it when we sing.

    What You Need to Do
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    kids in Sunday school!

    Divide your class into two teams.

    Write one word of the bible verse onto each index card. You need two of each so that each team has the whole verse. If you don't have enough kids, give two words to each child, but still only put one word on each card. This means that some kids will have two index cards. If needed, some kids can have three.

    Tape the string or yarn onto the back of the index cards. It should be long enough to go around a child's neck.

    Have the kids form a circle. Place the bottle in the center. Let the kids take turns spinning the bottle. To make things fair, the bottle will need to go around at least 3 times before it can stop. This will help eliminate cheating and allow the child spinning to get back into place.

    When the bottle's top lands on a child, that child gets to put his card onto the table. If that child has another card, let him get back into the circle. If he doesn't, he will stand by the cards to help put the verse in order as the kids continue playing. The kids can move in closer as more kids move out of the circle.

    Keep the game moving fast by letting the next child go immediately.

    Continue playing until one team finishes putting his verse into order.

    What You Learn


    The kids learn not only to work as a team, but they will learn the bible verse. Talk about the importance of the verse. You can choose whatever verse you wish for this Sunday school lesson.

    The main point of the verse above is that we should serve the Lord willingly and joyfully. When it is time for church, we shouldn't complain about not wanting to go or about how the big game or movie is coming on TV. We should be ready to go willingly when it is time.

    When it is time to read our bible at night, we shouldn't say 'I'm too tired'.

    What if God was too tired for us?

    Always do things for the Lord willingly and happily. NO grumbling or complaining.

    Philippians 2:14 KJV
     
    Do all things without murmurings and disputings.