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Jacob had twelve sons, but his favourite was Joseph. Joseph’s brothers were jealous, so they conspired together and sold him as a slave to some traders heading for Egypt. They told their father that Joseph was dead.
Bible verses used in this episode:
Genesis 37:1-36Genesis 35:23-26Outline:
Extreme family tensions and dreams (Genesis 37:1-11)Brothers take revenge (Genesis 37:12-32)Jacob’s grief (Genesis 37:33-35)Joseph ends up in Egypt (Genesis 37:36)Tips for teaching children:
Guide children in writing the names of their siblings on small cards to form prayer reminders. Pray for the siblings in class and then send the cards home so the children will be reminded to continue praying.Draw an outline of a coat and decorate it with paints, stickers or glitter.Learn the names of the 12 sons of Jacob (from Genesis 35:23-26)Sing the “Sons of Jacob Song” song.Tips for teaching adults:
A long-sleeved coat was a symbol of favouritism and status. Challenge class members to display objects or photos representing status and honour and discuss why these are considered important. There is much negative emotion in this story, leading to tragedy. Most of the students in your class can probably relate to the emotions in the story. Ask the class to think about and discuss the following questions: How is your family like or unlike this family? Have you felt like your sibling was favoured over you? How did this make you feel? How have you dealt with your feelings? Which character do you identify with? Why? Each of us might experience jealousy or resentment at times. How do you deal with jealousy and resentment in your life? How should you deal with these? Encourage the class to speak to one another about how they can deal with jealousy and resentment.Pray that we may learn to love and accept one another.Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:
Bible Lesson: Joseph Sold By His Brothers
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 deceived his brother and father, Jacob escaped to relatives in Haran. During the journey, Jacob dreamed of a stairway between heaven and earth on which angels were ascending and descending to the Lord at the top. God reassured Jacob of his blessing and promise. Undeserving as he was, this promise sustained Jacob over the next twenty years as he worked for his uncle Laban and built a family and wealth. Eventually, Jacob returned to his home and was surprised to find that his brother, Esau, welcomed him with open arms.
Bible verses used in this episode:
Genesis 28:10-33:20
Outline:
Jacob encounters God at Bethel (Genesis 28:10-22)A growing family and trickery at Haran (Genesis 29-31)Jacob returns to Canaan and makes peace with his brother, Esau (Genesis 32:1-33:11)Jacob’s family makes their home in the land of Canaan (Genesis 33:12-20)Tips for teaching children:
Dress up as one of the characters and tell the story from that character’s point of viewDesignate one area as “Canaan” and the other as “Haran.” Move between the areas as you tell the story. (Start in Canaan, go to Haran, and come back home to Canaan.)Make a craft involving a ladder. Alternatively, make a ladder of pretzel sticks and little marshmallows.Draw a family tree with Jacob, his wives and children.Tips for teaching adults:
This story is quite long (6 chapters), so it would be helpful to summarise it for your students instead of trying to go into too much detail or read the entire passage of Scripture. Use the outline above to help summarise, and then use the main points of the outline as "talking points." Draw questions from one or two sections of the story. For example, relate questions to Jacob’s dream of the ramp to heaven and his wrestling with God.Alternatively, spread the story over four teaching sessions. Refer to the outline above and cover one of the four points per session. To help students relate to the story, you might use one or more of these discussion starters:Which character do you identify with (or have at some point in your life)? Explain.How does Jacob’s character change throughout this story? God uses a scoundrel like Jacob to move his plans to bless the nations through him. What does this tell you about God?
Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:Bible Lesson: Jacob Goes to Haran
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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Esau and Jacob were the twin sons of Isaac and Rebekah. Esau should have inherited the responsibilities and blessings that come with being the oldest son, but he rashly sold his birthright to his younger brother for a pot of stew. Later, in an elaborate act of deception, Rebekah and her favourite son, Jacob, tricked the elderly and blind Isaac. He was fooled into promising Jacob the family blessing. Jacob escaped his angry brother by travelling to his mother’s people in the city of Haran.
Bible verses used in this episode:
Genesis 25:19-34Genesis 27:1-28 through 28:1-5Outline:
Twin sons are born to Isaac and Rebekah (Genesis 25:19-26)Esau sells his birthright to Jacob (Genesis 25:27-34)Rebekah and Jacob trick Isaac (Genesis 27:1-40)Jacob escapes to Haran to find a wife (Genesis 27:41-28:5)Tips for teaching children:
Before telling the story, place a blindfold on a child volunteer. Hand them various items that they can feel and identify. Afterwards, tell the children that there will be a blind person in today’s story.Use paper, a whiteboard, sand, and a stick to draw the four main characters (Isaac, Rebekah, Jacob, Esau). These can be simple stick figures. Help the children describe each character and what we have learned about them in today’s story. Help the children concoct a stew. You could begin with a simple broth made with an instant soup packet and boiling water. Supply various ingredients and spices so children can add what they wish.Tips for teaching adults:
Since this is a long story, perhaps you can divide the class into two groups and ask them to read the story and discuss aspects of the story. Hand each group a list of questions they are to discuss among themselves. After discussing these questions, gather the groups again to compare their discussion and responses.Here are a few questions to hand to the two groups: In what ways are deception and trickery manifested in the story? What do you see as a primary theme in this story? Why? Describe the characters of this story: Esau, Jacob, Isaac and Rebekah. What are the positive and negative aspects of their characters? What is one lesson to be learned from the story?Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:
Bible Lesson: Jacob, Esau, and the Birthright
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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Abraham wanted his son to marry a woman who worshipped the “true and living God,” so he sent a servant back to the land of his relatives to find a wife for Isaac. Rebekah and her family believed in God. She left her home and her family and travelled back to Canaan to become Isaac’s wife. Isaac married her and loved her, and they followed God together.
Bible verses used in this episode:
Genesis 24:1-672 Corinthians 6:14Outline:
Abraham sends his servant to find a wife for Isaac (Genesis 24:1-9)The servant encounters Rebekah and her family (Genesis 24:10-61)Isaac and Rebecca marry (Genesis 24:62-67)Tips for teaching children:
Gather wedding pictures to show the children. This is more fun if it is of people they know.Invite a married couple to talk to the children about what it is like to be married to a Christian.Trace the servant’s journey on a map.Tips for teaching adults:
You, the teacher, may best summarise this long chapter for the class. Or, if you have more time, divide up the chapter and choose several readers to read it aloud.Have the class name various marriage customs in our world today that they are familiar with, such as “arranged marriages” or “choosing your own partner”. Discuss the pros and cons of each of these customs.Ask the class to consider their own background and marriage. Then, we will open up a discussion about how the way we are brought up affects our marriage (good, bad, or just interesting).Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:
Bible Lesson: A Wife for Isaac
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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Abraham’s faith was tested when the Lord asked him to sacrifice Isaac on an altar. Abraham had a strong faith in God’s earlier promise that he would have many descendants, so he set out to prepare an altar and kill his only son. Abraham displayed this willingness to obey God unconditionally. At the last moment, an angel stopped Abraham from sacrificing his son.
Are we willing to give up (sacrifice) anything if it will help us to serve God better?
Bible verses used in this episode:
Genesis 22:1-192 Chronicles 3:1Hebrews 11:17-19James 2:20-24Outline:
Abraham prepares to sacrifice his son, Isaac (Genesis 22:1-10)Abraham passes the test (Genesis 22:11-14)The angel restates God’s promise (Genesis 22:15-19)Tips for teaching children:
Ask children to draw four squares on a piece of paper (or fold the paper into squares). In one square, they should write the word “GOD.” In each of the other four squares, they can draw pictures of people or things that are very important to them. Create “1st Place” ribbons from paper or actual ribbon. Children then talk about the people and things that are important to them and then glue the first-place ribbon on the square containing the word “God.”Zentangle the word “FAITH”. Instructions here.Tips for teaching adults:
Encourage your group to consider various aspects of the Scripture by presenting the following questions:Why does God test Abraham in this way? What does Abraham's willingness to sacrifice Isaac reveal about his faith and trust in God?How does God's intervention at the last moment change the narrative?What are two big takeaways from this story for you? Help the group contemplate sacrifice by asking them to:Use a piece of paper to write down a significant sacrifice they have made because of their faith and trust in God. Read these out to the class if they are comfortable to do so. Pray that each of us can grow into the faith of Abraham.Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:
Bible Lesson: Abraham Prepares to Sacrifice Isaac
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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Upon learning that the Lord was about to destroy the wicked cities of Sodom and Gomorrah, Abraham bargains with God to spare the city if he can find just ten righteous people. But only one man, Lot, was found righteous, and the cities were destroyed. As Lot and his family fled the city, Lot’s wife turned and looked back at the city despite being warned not to. She turned into a pillar of salt.
Sin causes pain and sorrow. A definition of “sin” for children could be: “Words, thoughts or actions against God or what He wants. These can be words, thoughts or actions we DO. It can also be words, thoughts or actions that we should do but choose NOT TO DO.”
Bible verses used in this episode:
Genesis 18:16-19:292 Peter 2:6-81 Corinthians 15:33Outline:
Abraham bargains with God (Genesis 16:33)The angels find evil in the city of Sodom (Genesis 19:1-9)Mercy for Lot and his family (Genesis 19:10-22)The destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 19:23-29)Tips for teaching children:
Cut out two large heart shapes. One of white paper and the other black. Leave the white heart whole, but cut the black heart into 5 or 6 pieces like a puzzle. Show the white heart and talk about a pure heart that wants to follow and please God.Next, lay the white heart down and begin covering it with the black “puzzle” pieces. As you place each piece, talk about sin that makes our hearts “dirty”. For example, for children, this might involve saying bad words, lying, or hitting someone. Talk about how God can make our hearts clean again when we tell Him we are sorry and ask for forgiveness. Remove the black pieces when you talk about forgiveness.The people in today’s story (in Sodom) were not sorry for their sins. They wanted to have a sinful heart.Tips for teaching adults:
What is Abraham asking God to do?What does he mean by asking, “Won’t you do what is right?” Does he think God might not do what is right? How does the text encourage us, the reader, to consider God’s mercy and justice?
The goal of discussion questions is not to receive one right answer. The teacher uses these questions to generate discussion. This opens up people's minds to see things in the text that would otherwise not be apparent at first glance.
For instance, ask the participants to read Genesis 19:25. Note that Abraham seemed very bold, and then ask:
How does the text suggest that Sodom’s biggest sin was violence and injustice? How does Sodom’s inhospitality contrast with the Lot’s hospitality as well as Abraham’s hospitality?
You could also ask the students to consider the sin of Sodom.Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:
Bible Lesson: Sodom and Gomorrah
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 changed Abram and Sarai’s names to Abraham and Sarah. When they hosted three visitors, they were told that God would give them a child within the year. The promise was fulfilled when Sarah gave birth to a son, Isaac, one year later. Abraham was 100 years old, and Sarah was 90 when Isaac was born.
Bible verses used in this episode:
Genesis 18:1-15; 21:1-7
Outline:
Abraham and Sarah offer hospitality to three visitors (Genesis 18:1-8)The Lord promises a son (Genesis 18:9-16)Isaac is born one year later (Genesis 21:1-7)Tips for teaching children:
Use sheets and blankets to construct a tentPrepare food as if for a guestSing God Answers Prayer and talk about how, sometimes, we have to wait for God to answer our prayers.
Here’s a fun conversation starter at the beginning of class: “What makes you laugh?” “What do you think is funny?”Some questions to get a conversation going: How did Abraham and Sarah show hospitality to these three visitors? How do you show hospitality to visitors to your house?What do you do to make them feel like they are important? Verse 14 is the key text in this story. Ask the class if anyone wants to share difficult things in their life. Pray about the hard things that were shared in the class. When is it hardest for you to trust God?
Tips for teaching adults:
Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:Bible Lesson: Abram’s Three Visitors
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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Abram and his nephew, Lot, both prospered while living in the land of Canaan. Their servants began to argue over whose flocks and herds should have the small amount of grass that was available. To solve the problem, Abram told Lot to choose an area for himself. Abram would take what was left. Lot chose the more fertile land and moved near a place where very bad people lived. Abram began living in a less fertile area, but God blessed him and told him that all that land would someday belong to his descendants.
Remember to make careful choices because choices have consequences.
Bible verses used in this episode:
Genesis 13:2-18Proverbs 3:5-6Proverbs 19:21Matthew 6:33James 1:5Outline:
A crowding problem (Genesis 13:2-7)Abram suggests Lot to choose new territory (Genesis 13:8-13)God restates land promises to Abram (Genesis 13:14-18)Tips for teaching children:
Place upright dominoes in a row. Push over one domino and watch all of the dominoes fall, one by one. Talk about decisions and how they set off consequences.Draw or paint a map of the places where this story takes place. Use this simple map as a guide.Tips for teaching adults:
Here are some conversational questions to stimulate discussion:Although the text doesn’t explicitly tell us, why do you think Abram let Lot choose first? Would there be any way for either Abram or Lot to know what the consequences would be of Lot’s choice? Although Lot got the lushest land, what two things does God promise Abram? If you were faced with a similar choice, would you have followed Abram’s example or Lot’s? Why?Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:
Bible Lesson: Abram Gives Lot First Choice
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 chose one man, Abram, to be the beginning of a new nation called God’s People. He told Abram to leave his home and relatives and set out travelling. Abram, his wife, Sarai, and nephew, Lot, left home. He began to travel and live in tents. The Lord also told Abram that his name would be great and the whole world would be blessed through this new nation. Abram believed in God and had living faith—the kind of faith that proves it is real by doing actions.
Bible verses used in this episode:
Genesis 12:1-9
Genesis 11:27-32
Hebrews 11:1
Hebrews 11:8
James 2:17
Outline:
God tells Abram to go (Genesis 12:1-3)Abram goes (Genesis 12:4-9)Tips for teaching children:
When talking about Abram’s movements from place to place, move to different locations in the room. Ur HaranShechemBethelSing the Father Abraham SongTips for teaching adults:
Plan on a day when the class can take a trip together; choose one person in the class to decide where the class will go. Only that person will know the destination. Everyone can take a picnic if it is a longer day. If it is a drive, car-pooling is suggested. If it is a walk, make sure all can walk to the destination. Enjoy spending time together on this journey. Ask the class what were they thinking and feeling not knowing where they were going. What was going through their minds?Here are some good conversation starters: “Imagine you are journeying with Abram. What kind of questions would you ask him? How long would you stay with him?” Where else in Genesis do we read of “blessing” and the promise of “descendants?” (Don’t forget Genesis 1:28 & 9:1 as part of the conversation). What were some of these blessings the peoples of the earth would receive through Abraham and his descendants?Link to free Bible Maps: https://open.bible/maps/ Check out the PDF map of “The World of the Patriarchs”. Be sure to note this at the top of the website about use of the maps: “The maps on this page are each included in the Biblica Open Bible Maps collection, copyright 2023 Biblica, Inc, and licensed under a CC-BY-SA license (see below for license terms and limitations).”Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:
Bible Lesson: God Calls Abram
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 Noah and his family left the ark, God planned for them to spread out over the whole earth and repopulate it. Instead, in their pride, they gathered in one place and began to build a tower. To intervene, the Lord confused and stopped their plans, causing everyone to speak different languages. Once again, people began to move away and spread all over the earth.
When teaching, emphasise the nature of unhealthy pride.
Bible verses used in this episode:
Genesis 11:1-9
Proverbs 11:2
Psalm 127:1
James 4:10
Outline:
The people congregate in one place (Genesis 11:1-2)They built a tower for themselves (Genesis 11:3-4)God intervenes (Genesis 11:5-9a)The people scatter (Genesis 11:9b)Tips for teaching children:
Play Jenga or stack blocks to make a towerContrast different kinds of pridepositive pride (self-respect or self-esteem) negative pride (feeling superior or having an overly high opinion of oneself)Invite a guest to class and ask them to explain something to the children in another language. Talk about why mixing up languages would have caused confusion.Tips for teaching adults:
Icebreaker before you begin teaching. Ask the participants to respond to the following, “What is the most important, magnificent or tallest thing you have built?” Or if you are not a builder: “What is the most important, magnificent or tallest building you have ever seen? Why?Use this material as a background to this story. Photo montage of a ziggurat and other related artifacts: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Etemenanki#/media/File:Etemenanki_Berlin.jpgWhen is it not good to “settle?” Are we building monuments, programmes or ministries to ourselves? Are we trying to make a name for ourselves or to draw attention to God’s name? How can we build for God instead of ourselves as individuals or a church?
Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:Bible Lesson: The Tower of Babel
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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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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