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When Noah, his family, and the animals entered the ark, the rains began and continued for forty days. The whole earth was covered in water. Even after the rains stopped, the ark continued to float for a total of 150 days until it was grounded on top of Mt. Ararat.
While the water receded, Noah sent a raven and a dove out from the ark to see if they could find dry land.
Eventually, God told Noah and his family to come out of the ark when the water had receded enough. The first thing that Noah did was to build an altar and offer some of the animals and birds as a sacrifice to God in thanks for keeping all of them safe. At that time, God caused a rainbow to appear in the sky. God said that this was a symbol of His promise to never destroy the world again by water.Bible verses used in this episode:
Genesis 7:11-9:17
Outline:
The Flood (Genesis 7:11-24)Leaving the Ark (Genesis 8:1-19)Worship and the Agreement (Genesis 8:20-9:17)Tips for teaching children:
Sing the “Rise and Shine” SongMake any rainbow craft
Discuss the ways people might feel God has forgotten or abandoned them. When you see God remembering Noah, what comes to mind from your own experience of life? Read through the story, focusing on aspects suggesting God is on a rescue mission. What aspects of this story suggest that this is a rescue mission? Where is God’s mercy seen in this story?Ask the class to share some interesting rainbows they have seen. Or you could ask the class to bring to class pictures of rainbows, ones that have captured their attention. Follow up with these questions: “In Genesis 9:12-17, what is the sign of the covenant, and what purpose does it serve? Who does God make the covenant with (see Genesis 9:12-14)? What are the implications of this covenant?
Tips for teaching adults:Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:
Bible Lesson: The Flood and God’s Promise
Scriptures quoted from the International Children’s Bible®, copyright ©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.
Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.
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As time went by, people became more and more evil. Only Noah was obedient and pleased God. God gave Noah special instructions to build a huge boat (ark). This ark would keep Noah and his family safe from the floods that were about to cover the earth. The ark was also big enough to carry enough animals to repopulate the earth when the flood was over.
Noah believed in God and obeyed him so everyone on the ark was safe.
Bible verses used in this episode:
Genesis 6:5-7:16
Hebrews 11:7
Outline:
Humans had become wicked (Genesis 6:5-7:16)Only Noah followed God (Genesis 6:8-10)Noah builds and loads the ark (Genesis 6:11-7:16)Tips for teaching children:
Children who enjoy math can convert the dimensions of the ark into metric or imperial measurements. They could also research the sizes of soccer or football fields (or any big building or stadium) and compare the sizes to the ark.Make a replica of the ark.Sing the song: Rise and ShineEat animal crackersYoung children will enjoy filling a tub with water and floating a toy boat on it.Tips for teaching adults:
In preparation for the class day, ask participants to research some of history’s worst floods. They can share their findings with the group. Research could include loss of life, the financial cost of the damages, the extent of the flood and after-effects of the flood. Discuss the power of water and the devastation it can cause.Noah was a good and obedient man who walked with God. God rescues his entire family because of his obedience and goodness. Discussion starters:What does this invite us to consider about God’s nature and how He interacts with people? How can our faithfulness to God be the channel of blessing to others? What does this have to say about the importance of our faithfulness to God for the sake of others?
Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:Bible Lesson: Noah Builds an Ark & Loads Animals
Scriptures quoted from the International Children’s Bible®, copyright ©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.
Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.
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Two of Adam and Eve’s sons were Cain (a farmer) and Abel (a shepherd). Abel was faithful and offered the best meat from the best lamb in his flock to God as a sacrifice. Cain offered some produce from his crops as his offering to God. God was pleased with Abel’s sacrifice but not with Cain’s. This made Cain so angry that he killed his own brother, Abel. In punishment, God exiled (or banished) Cain from the area he knew as home.
Bible verses used in this episode:
Genesis 4:1-16, 25
Colossians 3:23
Hebrews 11:4
Ephesians 4:26-27
Outline:
Two brothers offer sacrifices to God (Genesis 4:1-4a)Cain is jealous when God only accepts Abel’s sacrifice (Genesis 4:4b-7)Cain kills Abel (Genesis 4:8)Cain is banished (Genesis 4:9-16)Eve has another son, Seth (Genesis 4:25)Tips for teaching children:
To introduce the story, bring pairs of items and ask children to compare them and decide which is the best. Abel gave his best.Explain that an altar was a structure, usually made of stacked rocks, where people lay items and gave them up to show devotion to God.Talk about anger and how to diffuse it. Half-fill one clear glass with water. Half-fill an identical clear glass with white vinegar. Tell the children that these glasses represent Cain and Abel’s hearts. (Point to the glass of water) Abel’s heart was good, and he wanted to give his best to God. (Put a drop or two of green food colouring in the vinegar glass and stir it.) The green glass represents Cain’s heart. He was jealous of his brother and didn’t give his best to God. Let’s see what happens to their hearts when they give gifts to God. Ask one child to put a teaspoon of baking soda in the glass of water (nothing will happen to the water). Abel gave his gift, and God was pleased. Abel felt good because he knew he had given his best. Now, let’s see what happened to Cain’s heart. (Have another child put a teaspoon of baking soda in the green vinegar glass). As the water bubbles and boils, talk about how jealousy made Cain’s heart upset and angry.
Cain responded to God’s acceptance of Abel’s sacrifice with anger and jealousy. Discussion questions: Why are anger and jealousy so bad? What advice would you give to Cain as he seethes with anger to diffuse and re-direct it?Although the text isn’t clear why God accepts Abel’s sacrifice and rejects Cain’s, the text in verses 3-4 does imply that Abel brought his best, Cain did not. Discussion questions: Why did God accept Abel’s sacrifice and reject Cain’s? What can we learn about how we approach God in our worship and in our service to him?Challenge the class to supply needed items for a mission church or food pantry. The quality of the items should be what the class would want for themselves.
Tips for teaching adults:Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:
Scriptures quoted from the International Children’s Bible®, copyright ©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.
Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.
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Adam and Eve were happy in the Garden of Eden, where God provided for all of their needs. God gave them only one rule: do not eat from the tree in the middle of the garden. The serpent came to Eve, tempted her with lies, and convinced her to eat from the tree. Then, Eve gave some of the fruit to Adam, and he also ate it. They both realized their sin and guilt for disobeying God at that point. For the first time, people experienced shame. Because of their sin, God banished Adam and Eve from the garden.
When teaching this lesson, emphasise that God loves us and makes rules that will help us be healthy and happy. Satan wants bad things to happen to us, so he tempts us to disobey God.
Bible verses used in this episode:
Genesis 2:15-17 and 3:1-24James 4:7Outline:
God told Adam not to eat fruit from the dangerous tree, the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil. (Genesis 2:15-17)Adam and Eve listen to the Snake and experience temptation, sin and shame. (Genesis 3:1-7)God speaks with Adam and Eve. (Genesis 3:8-13)The consequences of their disobedience. (Genesis 3:14-24)Tips for teaching children:
Explain the words “temptation” and “sin”When you talk about the snake, wrap a chenille wire around your finger to form a “snake”. Alternatively, roll Play-Doh to form a snake.Try this activity to help children understand the idea of choosing between right and wrong. Provide two paper plates for each child. Help them draw a sad face on one and a happy face on the other. Describe a situation the children might find themselves in and state a dilemma and choice. Children should hold up the corresponding plate.
Bake two batches of your favourite cookies and bring them to class. One batch of cookies will be normal, but the other batch should be made with salt instead of sugar. When they take a bite, they will know how awful it tastes and will not eat it. This is your cue to introduce the class today to the Fall of Man. Tell the class that something may look good and desirable, but actually, it is not. This is the nature of sin. It promises life but ultimately brings death. Don’t forget to offer the class the good cookies afterwards.Ask the class to read Genesis 2:15-24 and discuss the following questions: In what ways has God shown that he loves and cares for his creation and Adam and Eve? “Has he shown his love and care for you in a similar way? Explain.”1 John 2:15-16 is drawing upon the story in Genesis 3. Read this and then discuss:What connections do you see between 1 John 2:16 and Genesis 3:6? In what ways can we identify with Eve’s situation? In what ways can we relate to 1 John 2:16?
Tips for teaching adults:Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:
Bible Lesson: The Fall of Man
Scriptures quoted from the International Children’s Bible®, copyright ©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.
Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.
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After spending six days creating the world, God considered the seventh day a special day to rest. God did not rest because He was tired; He did not become exhausted or run out of energy. God’s work of creation was perfect, and the seventh day was a day to reflect on what He had completed.
God also wants us to rest and consider His work and how He takes care of us.
Bible verses used in this episode:
Genesis 1:1 and 2:1-3Isaiah 40:28-29 God does not become weary or run out of energy.Psalm 19:1-4 God rested, knowing the creation itself would point people to Him.Exodus 20:8-11 God later commanded His people to remember this seventh day as a day of rest. Psalm 23:1-2 As our shepherd, God provides safety, peace and rest. Matthew 11:28-29 Jesus invites us to come to Him for rest. Psalm 148:7-13 A Psalm of reflection on God’s creationOutline:
God created our world (Genesis 1:1)God rested (Genesis 2:1-3)Tips for teaching children:
Spend time relaxing and reflecting on God and what He has done (play calming music, breathe deeply)Serve food (like ice cream) and savour each bite. Talk about the flavours and textures and how each bite makes you feel. Use this as a lead-in to taking time to think about things instead of just rushing through.Tips for teaching adults:
I would ask these questions in an adult class: What do we learn about God in this text? What do we learn about ourselves? How has your life and work over the past 6 days blessed others?” If resting on day 7 suggests that God is now present and ruling over his creation, then how can your life and work show that you believe God is in control and present in his world?Organise a day out on Saturday as a class to have a picnic and enjoy the day together. Spend some time thinking of ways you can re-organise your life so that you can enjoy more moments like these. Conclude your day together by thanking God for his care over his creation and that he has given you the opportunity to bless others through your work and life.Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:
Bible Lesson: Day 7-God Rested
Scriptures quoted from the International Children’s Bible®, copyright ©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.
Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.
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On the last day of creation, God created animals. After this, it was finally time for God to create man and woman. There was something special about this last creature of creation. God created man and woman in His “own image.” As seen in Adam and Eve, people are distinct from animals and have a have a special relationship and partnership with God.
Bible verses used in this episode:
Genesis 1:24-31; 2:7, 18-25Other helpful verses about animals:
They belong to God: Job 12:7-10; Psalm 50:10-11Praise God for His care of creation. Psalm 145Used to describe peace. Isaiah 11:6-9Kindness towards animals. Exodus 23:5; Proverbs 12:10; Proverbs 27:23Examples of truths. Job 12:7-10; Job 35:11; Proverbs 30:24-31; Matthew 10:29-31; James 3:7-10God knows us. Psalm 139:13-16Outline:
God created animals (Genesis 1:24-25)God created people (Genesis 1:26-27)God blessed what he created (Genesis 1:28-31)Tips for teaching children:
Play a game where one child makes an animal sound, and the other children guess the animal.Show illustrations of the human body. This might include the skeleton, muscles, etc. Talk about how amazing God’s creation of the human body is. Take a pulse or listen to a heartbeat.Tips for teaching adults:
Psalm 8 is a beautiful reflection on Genesis 1. I suggest asking one person to read verses 1-2, another to read verses 3-8, and then the first reader to read the last verse. Ask the class to discuss the relationship between God, humans, and animals. How does this make you feel? How can you exercise your care over the creation in a way that honours God and reflects his wisdom?Project: Organise a project to clean up and beautify a park. This project can include children. Beautifying a park may involve picking up rubbish, clearing out dead plants, removing dead limbs, and planting new things appropriate to the park. Afterwards, meet somewhere and reflect on this project in light of Genesis 1:26-31. Ask the group, “ How were we partnering with God in taking care of his creation?”Research the prayer of St. Basil the Great, (influential 4th-century Christian leader, teacher and preacher) and his prayer about animals.Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:
Bible Lesson: Day 6- God Created Animals and People
Scriptures quoted from the International Children’s Bible®, copyright ©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.
Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.
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God filled the oceans with all sorts of creatures on the fifth day. He also created birds on this day. Not only did He create these creatures, He made them with the ability to reproduce.
Bible verses used in this episode:
Genesis 1:20-23Jesus said diversity in the Kingdom of God is like fish in a net (Matthew 13:47)Jesus compared following Him to fishing for men (Matthew 4:19)Jesus miraculously used two fish and five loaves to feed a crowd of over 5,000 people (John 6:1-15)God knows every bird (Psalm 50:11a)God protects us like a mother bird protects her chicks (Psalm 91:4)People who trust God will rise up like eagles (Isaiah 40:31a)Outline:
The creation story is found in Genesis chapters 1 and 2God created creatures if the sea and birds. (Genesis 1:20-23)Tips for teaching children:
Make a craft with feathers or shells.Young children can learn to draw a simple fish shapeDecorate boiled eggs
For a fun exercise, ask the class to google the question, “What are names of the birds mentioned in the Bible?” I think everyone will be surprised at the various bird species named in the Bible.Guide the class into reading the following texts: Luke 12:6-7; Matthew 6:26-28; Deuteronomy 22:6-7. Each of these texts teaches us something about the life of the follower of God. Lead the class in a discussion by asking the class, “What can we learn from the birds about our life as God’s people from these texts?” and “How are birds used to teach us about our life with God?”
Tips for teaching adults:Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:
Bible Lesson: Day 5-God Created Birds & Fish
Scriptures quoted from the International Children’s Bible®, copyright ©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.
Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.
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Before the fourth day, there was a type of light, but on this day, God created the sun to give a bright light that was called day. He also created the stars and moon we see in the night sky. Because of this, there could be seasons and time as we know it today.
Bible verses used in this episode:
Genesis 1:14-19Psalm 19:1-2Deuteronomy 4:19Psalm 84:11Job 9:9-10Psalm 147:4-5Philippians 2:14-16Outline:
The creation story is found in Genesis chapters 1 and 2God created the sun, moon and stars. (Genesis 1:14-19)Tips for teaching children:
Take the children outside to stargaze at night or notice sunlight and shadows during the day.Young children can practice drawing circles for the sun and moon and then master the skill of drawing stars.Make crafts using black paper and star stickers or glitter.Tips for teaching adults:
Begin the class by mentioning these fun facts about the sun:The sun is about 100 times wider than the earth.It takes light 8 ½ minutes to travel from the sun to the earth. When you look at the sun you are seeing what it looked liked 8 ½ minutes ago.The hottest part of the sun is its core – 15 million0 C (27 million F.). It’s surface (photosphere) is a balmy 5,5000 C (10,000 F). The big mystery is that its atmosphere (corona) gets hotter the further away from the sun and can reach temps around 2 million0 C (3.5 million F). Choose four people to read the following texts, Psalm 50:1-2; Psalm 84:11; Isa.60:19-20 and Malachi 4:2. Lead a discussion around the question, “What are some analogies between God and the sun?” Organise a trip outside either during the day or during the night. Have the group look up at the sky and ask them to think about God. While they are looking at the sky, read Psalm 8 and Psalm 136:1-9. Ask the class the following questions: What word best describes what you are experiencing: awe, humility, wonder, love, being special? Why? How does the sun, moon or stars remind us of God’s love? Lead the class in prayer praising and thanking God for his wisdom, power, love, and goodness.Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:
Bible Lesson: Day 4-God Created Sun, Moon, & Stars
Scriptures quoted from the International Children’s Bible®, copyright ©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.
Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.
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On the third day of creation, God separated land and sea and caused dry land to appear. God also created vegetation on the third day. The creation must have begun to take on beauty and majesty. The creation of our world was done in an orderly fashion, leading up to its completion. God was building a beautiful, healthy place that would eventually be ready for humanity.
Bible verses used in this episode:
Genesis 1:9-13
Romans 1:20
Soil: Luke 8:4–15
Rock: Psalm 18:2 and Matthew 16:16-18
Rock and Sand: Matthew 7:24-27
Grass and Flowers: Isaiah 40:8
Trees and Fruit: Psalms 1:1-3 and Galatians 5:22-23
Vine and Branches: John 15:5
Outline:
The creation story is found in Genesis chapters 1 and 2God formed land and created plants (Genesis 1:9-13)Tips for teaching children:
Both adults and children can try to list as many words as possible concerning first land and then plants. If you wish you could divide the children into teams and make it a contest.Eat fruit or vegetable snacks.Make a collage or mosaic picture using seeds and plant parts.Make a sand candle.Plant a seed and check back to see if it grew.
Organise a class project to clean up and beautify a local park. If possible, include children in this project. This project may involve picking up rubbish, clearing out dead plants, removing dead limbs, and/or planting new things appropriate to the park. Lead a discussion on our role as stewards of the land God has given us. Include in the discussion reflecting on how important it is to take care of the land and how important the land is to us. NOTE: You may have to get permission from the city council to do this project or parts of it.
Tips for teaching adults:Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:
Bible Lesson: On Day 3 God Created Land & Plants
Scriptures quoted from the International Children’s Bible®, copyright ©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.
Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.
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As this day began, we find that water covered the entire earth. On this second day of creation, God separated the water so that sky appeared above the seas. For the first time ever, the Earth would have experienced things associated with sky and water: clouds, wind, waves, etc.
Bible verses used in this episode:
Genesis 1:6-8Job chapter 37 (God has complete power over all aspects of weather.)Mark 4:37-41 (Jesus can command the weather.)John 4:14 (Following Jesus is like drinking from never-ending springs of water.) Acts 1:9-11 (The resurrected Jesus ascended into clouds, and one day, He will return in the same way.)Outline:
The creation story is found in Genesis chapters 1 and 2On the second day, God separated water so there was water and sky (Genesis 1:6-8)Tips for teaching children:
Challenge the children to list as many words as possible about water and air.Write (or have children write) “God made the clouds” on blue paper. Young children can glue cotton wool to the paper.Collect weather reports and share them with the children.Make a mobile with paper clouds.Have children tape streamers or ribbon to a stick and wave them in the breeze.Fly a kite.
Have the class members go outside and look up at the sky. Ask the group to describe what they see (prompt them by asking about the sky's colour, apparent shape, expanse, etc.). Read Job 22:14 and reflect on the following:What does this text mean?How does this make them feel? What does it say about God? Read and reflect upon Psalm 8. How does the psalmist feel about God and about himself when he observes the creation? What can we learn from the creation about God’s relationship to us?
Tips for teaching adults:Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:
Bible Lesson: Day 2-God Created Sky & Water
Scriptures quoted from the International Children’s Bible®, copyright ©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.
Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.
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God created our world. Until this time, the earth was “formless and empty.” Darkness was everywhere. There is so much we cannot comprehend about how our world came into existence, but in Genesis, God reveals what He wants us to know: He created.
On the first day of creation, God spoke, and light appeared. This was not the sun’s light because the sun was not created until the fourth day. This was a special light from a source only God knew.When teaching, emphasise that nothing—not even light—existed until God created it on the first day of creation.
Bible verses used in this episode:
Genesis 1: 1-51 John 1:5-9John 8:12Psalm 119:105Matthew 5:14-16Psalm 27:1
The creation story is found in Genesis chapters 1 and 2God created light on the first day of creation (Genesis 1:1-5)
Outline:Tips for teaching children:
Talk about this first day of creation within the context of the entire creation week. Help the children find Genesis 1:1 in their bibles.Look up other verses in the bible that mention light.Explore light using various experiments and methods like a prism, magnifying glass, blacklights, fairy lights, lamps, etc.Sing This Little Light of MineTips for teaching adults:
Make a plan for your class to go on a field trip to watch the early morning change from darkness to light. As you are experiencing the change from a time of darkness to a time of light, lead the class in reflecting upon the experience. You might ask the following to help get them thinking:What do you see? How does moving from darkness to light make you feel?What does this tell you about God? Ask the group to think of texts in the Bible that talk about light and darkness and read the texts that come to mind. Conclude this experience by reading Romans 13:11-13.Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:
Bible Lesson: Day 1- God Created Light
Scriptures quoted from the International Children’s Bible®, copyright ©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.
Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.
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One of the subjects Paul discussed in his letter to the churches of Galatia was a comparison of living with our “sinful self” and living “by the Spirit.” If a person lives out selfish desires, the ultimate result is a sinful life. Sin is the fruit. In contrast, when Christians allow the Holy Spirit to control their lives, they will do the good things that please the Holy Spirit and God. This kind of life is the fruit of the Spirit.
Bible verses used in this episode:
Galatians 5:16-26Galatians 5:22-23Luke 6:43-45Matthew 7:15-20Matthew 12:30-37Outline:
Two choices. Who will lead? (Galatians 5:16-18)Choice One: Self in Control (Galatians 5:19-21)Choice Two: The Spirit in Control (Galatians 5:22-26)Tips for teaching children:
Consider what words need defining in this Scripture. Be more general with younger children. Be ready to answer older children's questions, particularly about the sins listed. In all cases, be appropriate to the age of the child.Eat fruit as you talk about the Fruit of the SpiritSing the Fruit of the Spirit Song
Invite class discussion to help participants better understand the implications of a Spirit-led life. Discussion starters might be as follows:Firstly, imagine a world where everyone lives according to the sins listed in Galatians 5:19-21. Then compare that with a life guided by the Spirit as found in Galatians 5:22-23. How might each world play out to its logical conclusion? Where would living out the desires of the flesh lead? What kind of family, neighbourhood, community and nation would result from this? Create a chart listing the fruit of the Spirit and provide each participant with a copy. Encourage them to keep a tally over the next 2-3 weeks. They can place a tick or check mark on the chart each time they witness other Christians displaying the fruit. For example, if they see someone hold the door open for someone else to pass through first – they could tick off “love” and “patience.” Compare results. Spend time in prayer to thank God for these displays of the Spirit.
Tips for teaching adults:
Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:Bible Lesson: The Fruit of the Spirit
Scriptures quoted from the International Children’s Bible®, copyright ©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.
Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.
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The church in Corinth had many problems, and Paul addressed those in the two letters he wrote to them. He instructs that their internal bickering and selfishness could be solved if they practised one thing: LOVE. In this chapter, Paul gives practical advice on what love is and how to practice it.
When teaching, emphasise that love is how you treat people and not just an emotional feeling.
Bible verses used in this episode:
1 Corinthians 13
Outline:
Good actions mean nothing if not based on love (1 Corinthians 13:1-3)Love is expressed in action (1 Corinthians 13:4-7)Love lasts forever (1 Corinthians 13:8-13)Tips for teaching children:
Make a craft involving hearts. A good phrase to write on the crafts is “Love never ends” from 1 Corinthians 13:13. Discuss each attribute of love in the context of a child’s world.Encourage children to memorise 1 Corinthians 13:4-7. They can finish this off with the first phrase of verse 13 (love never ends)Sing songs about love:Ha-la-la-la SongHello Hello SongLove is Something If You Give It AwayL-O-V-E Song
Questions and conversation starters: Share about the most loving thing someone has done for you. Why did you consider it the most loving? What makes it stand out? Discuss what aspects of love are the most challenging. Imagine a church that is fully loving. What would the Sunday worship assembly be like? How would members interact with one another? As a class, choose one of the qualities of love Paul mentions in this chapter, and then, for one month, practice this quality toward one another in the class. You might brainstorm ways this can be done. For instance, to practice “love is kind", you might write a note of encouragement, take someone out to eat and pay for their meal or speak affirming words to them.
Tips for teaching adults:Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:
Bible Lesson: Chapter of Love
Scriptures quoted from the International Children’s Bible®, copyright ©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.
Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.
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During the Passover meal, Jesus gave new meaning to the unleavened bread and fruit of the vine. He told the disciples that from now on, they were to eat and drink it to remember the significance of his death on their behalf.
We take the Lord’s Supper each week as a memorial celebration of Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection.
Bible verses used in this episode:
1 Corinthians 11:23-34
Matthew 26:26-30Mark 14:22-26Luke 22:14-20I Corinthians 12:27Exodus 12:12-131 Peter 1:18-19Ephesians 1:7Outline:
Description of the Lord’s Supper (I Corinthians 11:23-26)Teachings about the Lord’s Supper (1 Corinthians 11:27-34)Tips for teaching children:
Guide the children in making homemade communion bread and grape juice. For fun, you could press grapes to make the juice.Artwork: Have children draw or paint a cross in the centre of a paper. Draw pictures of the bread and wine on either side of the cross representing Jesus’ body and blood. Underneath the picture, children can write, “Do this to remember me.” I Corinthians 11:24
Questions:What are some memorable times in taking the Lord’s Supper? Do any of them stand out? Why?Why is the Lord’s Supper meaningful to you? How is it special?Have the class brainstorm different ways to practice celebrating the Lord’s Supper that highlight its importance. For instance, the Lord’s Supper is an act of unity of God’s people. What practice in taking the Lord’s Supper will convey the thought of unity of the church? (My suggestion: hand out the bread and fruit of the vine, and after the prayer for the bread, have everyone eat it together. Do the same for the cup).
Tips for teaching adults:
Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:Bible Lesson: Meaning of the Lord’s Supper
Scriptures quoted from the International Children’s Bible®, copyright ©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.
Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.
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Paul wrote a letter to the church in Ephesus to help them understand God’s power and how He wants Christians to behave. To help them be “strong in the Lord”, Paul uses an example of a soldier’s battle armour to explain that God gives Christians spiritual weapons of strength to fight Satan.
Bible verses used in this episode:
Ephesians 6:10-18Ephesians 1:21-22James 4:71 Peter 5:8-9Colossians 2:15Romans 8:37-39Old Testament References to Armour:
Isaiah 59:16-17Isaiah 11:5Isaiah 49:2Isaiah 52:7Outline:
The Spiritual Battle (Ephesians 6:10-13)How to stand (Ephesians 6:14-17)Pray (Ephesians 6:18)Tips for teaching children:
The subject of evil powers and the Devil is very serious and should be handled carefully with children. Children should be aware of the enemy and understand that he wants to turn us against God. On the other hand, they need to know that God has more power than the Devil. If we pray and follow God, then we do not need to be afraid or worry that the Devil might overpower us. Teachers should stress the power and love of God over any mention of the Devil.Show illustrations of soldiers of Paul’s time and talk about the various pieces of armour Paul mentioned.Video games often depict an enemy attacking the “good guy”. In the games, the player usually tries to load the “good guy” with weapons and powers so that he can fight the enemy. Ask older children to share about a game. Compare this to being prepared with God’s power to fight our enemy, the Devil.Tips for teaching adults:
Questions for Discussion: How do these evil spiritual forces manifest themselves in our world (including our social, political and religious structures)? How does prayer fit into this battle? What is the purpose of each of these pieces of armour? How do they work together to protect the wearer? Paul was on the front line of the battle. What evidence of the battle is there in your congregation?Spend time in prayer for one another, committing as a group to put on God's full armour and help one another do the same.Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:
Bible Lesson: The Christian Armour
Scriptures quoted from the International Children’s Bible®, copyright ©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.
Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.
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From infancy and throughout his life, Timothy studied the Scriptures and learned about God. His father was an unbelieving Greek, but his mother and grandmother were followers of God and taught him well. As a young man, Timothy joined the Apostle Paul on missionary journeys and continued serving God in many ways over his lifetime. He was like a son to Paul and one of his most trusted co-workers.
Emphasise that we can be like Timothy and begin to learn about God from an early age.
Bible verses used in this episode:
Acts 16:1-52 Timothy 1:3-72 Timothy 3:14-151 Thessalonians 3:21 Timothy 5:23Hebrews 13:231 Corinthians 4:17Tips for teaching children:
Show the class some of the material used to teach children younger than them. They will notice that the material seems babyish. Let them enjoy that they have “matured in the Lord” since that time.Arrange to have the children visit a class of younger children and observe their class.Tips for teaching adults:
Use this free online concordance to find the 25 references to Timothy in the New Testament. Provide these verses to the class and ask them to describe Timothy.Consider the following discussion questions: What is something new that you have learned about Timothy? Is there anyone you know that reminds you of Timothy? How?How did Timothy demonstrate his faithfulness to God and his friendship to Paul? What one or two things about Timothy do you want to be more like? How can Timothy encourage you in your faith?
Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:Bible Lesson: Timothy
Scriptures quoted from the International Children’s Bible®, copyright ©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.
Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.
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For the two years Paul was in Rome, he was allowed to live in his own rented house with Roman guards keeping an eye on him. While there, he often invited the Jews to come to his house and hear about Jesus. Some of them became Christians. From later writing we know Paul also spent time writing epistles (letters) to the churches he had visited. Many of these letters are the books we find in our New Testaments today.
We can tell others about Jesus using various media, including books, letters, websites, podcasts, videos and more.
Bible verses used in this episode:
Acts 28:16-31Verses where Paul mentions prison:
Ephesians 3:1Ephesians 4:1Philippians 1:17Philippians 1:13Colossians 4:3Colossians 4:182 Timothy 2:9Philemon 9-10Outline:
Paul speaks to people about Jesus while under arrest in Rome (Acts 28:16-31)Paul writes letters (Romans, Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, Thessalonians, Timothy, Titus, Philemon)Tips for teaching children:
Help the children find the table of contents in their Bibles and point out all of Paul's epistles.Write notes or send pictures to someone to explain something from God’s word.Older children could brainstorm various media that could be used to teach about Jesus. After brainstorming, guide the children in designing their own versions. This could include cards and letters, bookmarks, website articles, podcast episodes, videos and more.
Questions to ask the class: What is Paul hoping to accomplish by meeting with the Jewish leaders right after he gets to Rome? What does the ending of the Book of Acts mean to you? How would you write Acts 29 if you were carrying on with the thought of 28:31? How is the message about Jesus ‘unhindered’ in your community?Imagine that you are Paul. Write a brief letter from Paul to your congregation and say what you believe Paul would want to say. Be prepared to read your brief letter to the class and discuss it.
Tips for teaching adults:Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:
Bible Lesson: Paul's Last Days and Letters from Prison
Scriptures quoted from the International Children’s Bible®, copyright ©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.
Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.
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Having been falsely accused and imprisoned, Paul was transported by ship to Rome under military escort. During the storms, an angel told Paul that he and every man on board would be saved. Heavy storms blew the ship off course and caused it to break up near the island of Malta. God's protection meant Paul finally arrived in Rome after surviving a storm, a shipwreck, and even a snake bite.
When we are in danger, we can ask God to protect us.
Bible verses used in this episode:
Acts 27:1 through 28:16
Outline:
Paul and a Roman guard set sail for Rome (Acts 27:1-12)A Storm and a Shipwreck (Acts 27:13-440Paul on the island of Malta (Acts 28:1-11)Paul travels from Malta to Rome (Acts 28:11-16)Tips for teaching children:
Trace Paul’s trip on a mapSpread a blue cloth or bedsheet and have children hold it along the outside edges. Place a toy boat inside. Children can have fun moving the cloth around and watching the boat toss around like a storm.Provide a printed copy of the scripture for each child. Older children can follow your instructions and examine the scripture. Instruct them to:circle the place namesunderline the names of peoplehighlight stated emotionsdraw pictures in the margins
Check out the VizBibleMaps website for an excellent map of Paul’s mission journeys, including his journey to Rome. Be sure to note the copyright information on the More Info tab at the bottom of the page.Read these two chapters but with a twist. When you get to Acts 27:24, have someone play the link to the sounds of a storm at sea while the text is read all the way down to the end of chapter 27. Storm at Sea 1Storm at Sea 2 (StormAtSea.mp3 – Pixabay)Here are some questions you can ask the class: Who has experienced a storm at sea? What emotions did you experience? What did you do? How does God reveal himself in this story? How does Paul demonstrate his faith on this voyage? How would you want to demonstrate your faith?
Tips for teaching adults:Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:
Bible Lesson: Paul Survives a Shipwreck
Scriptures quoted from the International Children’s Bible®, copyright ©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.
Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.
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Paul had been falsely accused of causing trouble in Jerusalem. Although innocent of these accusations, he was kept prisoner in Caesarea and made to appear before a succession of governors and leaders, including Felix, Festus and even King Agrippa. At each court appearance, Paul spoke freely about his Christian faith. His accusers could never prove him guilty, and Paul eventually used his right as a Roman citizen to ask to be sent to Rome to appear before Caesar's court.
Emphasise using every opportunity to tell others about Jesus.
Bible verses used in this episode:
Acts 24-26
Outline:
Paul before Governor Felix (includes the Jerusalem Jews and lawyer) Acts 24:1-27Paul Before Governor Festus (includes appearance before King Agrippa) Acts 24:27-26:32Tips for teaching children:
Practice words and phrases to use when talking about JesusHave children draw themselves in the centre of a piece of paper. They can add other children around themselves. As you discuss ways to talk about Jesus, have the children draw speech bubbles.
Divide into three groups and read the scriptures below. Aterwards, come back together and report what the main ideas or points were. What did you learn about Paul and his faithfulness to Jesus in these three situations?One group reads and summarises Paul’s trial before Felix in chapter 24.Another group can read Chapter 25 and summarise Paul’s trial before Festus. A 3rd group can read chapter 26 and summarise Paul’s speech before Agrippa. Questions: Read Acts 9:15-16 and ask how Paul fulfilled Jesus’ commission. How has Paul demonstrated his faithfulness to Jesus and Jesus’ commission? How are Paul’s words and actions helpful or encouraging to you? Who is Jesus sending you to tell them about him? Who needs to hear the message about Jesus? Pray for those people and pray for an opportunity to tell them the message about Jesus
Tips for teaching adults:
Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:Bible Lesson: Paul on Trial
Scriptures quoted from the International Children’s Bible®, copyright ©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.
Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.
For questions or comments email: [email protected] -
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Paul was under arrest in Jerusalem because of false accusations by the Jews. Paul’s Roman citizenship demanded a fair hearing, so the Roman commander in charge set up a meeting with Jewish priests and the Sanhedrin. This meeting ended in chaos, with Paul back in protective custody.
Paul’s young nephew overheard some of the Jews plotting to kill Paul, so Paul asked him to tell the commander. The commander had no choice but to arrange a large military escort to take Paul to Caesarea, the nearest headquarters of Roman rule.
One night, amidst all these events, Jesus appeared to Paul and told him to have courage because he would be going to Rome to testify about his faith.Emphasise that young people can do great things for God. Don’t wait until you get “older” to serve God.
Bible verses used in this episode:
Acts 22:30-23:351 Timothy 4:12Outline:
Paul appeared before the angry Jewish council (Acts 22:30-23:10)Jesus visits Paul (Acts 23:11)Paul’s nephew reports a plot (Acts 23:12-22)The Roman commander sends Paul on to Governor Felix (Acts 23:23-35)Tips for teaching children:
Talk about the effect Paul’s young nephew had on the situationMemorise 1 Timothy 4:12 and have the children list ways they can be an example of faith to others. Research online to learn about influential children in history and of our time.
Have a few people in the class google “Ananias, the High Priest” and “Felix, the governor” to learn a few more things about them, including something of their possible character. Share some highlights with the class to know more about these characters in the story. Ask the class: “Who was your favourite uncle? Why?” The hero of this story is Paul’s unnamed nephew. How have children been brave in your congregation? Find ways to honour the children of your congregation to make them feel special because they are.One more question: “Was Paul showing a lack of faith in Jesus’ promise when he sent his nephew to the Roman commander?” Why or why not?”
Tips for teaching adults:Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:
Bible Lesson: Paul’s Nephew Uncovers a Plot
Scriptures quoted from the International Children’s Bible®, copyright ©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.
Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.
For questions or comments email: [email protected] - Vis mere
