Lesson 1: March 3, 2024

God Who Keeps Us

Lesson Scripture: Jude

Focus Scripture: Jude 17-25

Key Verses: But you, beloved…keep yourselves in the love of God. Jude 20-21 (NRSV UE)

Jude 17-25 (NRSV UE)

17 But you, beloved, must remember the words previously spoken by the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ,

18 for they said to you, “In the last time there will be scoffers, indulging their own ungodly lusts.”

19 It is these worldly people, devoid of the Spirit, who are causing divisions.

20 But you, beloved, build yourselves up on your most holy faith; pray in the Holy Spirit;

21 keep yourselves in the love of God; look forward to the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life.

22 And have mercy on some who are wavering;

23 save others by snatching them out of the fire; and have mercy on still others with fear, hating even the tunic defiled by their bodies.

24 Now to him who is able to keep you from falling and to make you stand without blemish in the presence of his glory with rejoicing,

25 to the only God our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, power, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen.

Word Power!!!

- Jude – The brother of Jesus who wrote one of the shortest letters of the New Testament.

Getting Ready!!!

Bobbi was not very happy at her school. She was a member of Community Temple African Methodist Episcopal Church, and she had been taught to believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. When her parents enrolled her into a Jewish private school, she was not prepared for the teasing and hostility that she sometimes faced. Some of her classmates said that she was weird because Christians drank blood. She tried to explain what Holy Communion meant, but they wouldn’t listen. That night at dinner, she told her parents that she wanted to transfer to another school.

Her father asked, “Do you think that is the best decision, Bobbi? Remember what Pastor Jones said about how we must defend the Lord in the world? We don’t want you to be unhappy, but we also know that it is important that you speak up for your faith. Let everyone know that you are not going to argue with them but you do want them to respect your beliefs just as you respect theirs.”

Bobbi just shrugged her shoulders and continued to eat her dinner. Her mother suggested that she pray about it and read her lesson from church school about being brave for the Lord. “If you want,” her mother added, “I will go to school with you tomorrow.” The next day, Bobbi and her mom went to school and spoke with the principal. Later, the principal allowed Bobbi to speak at the school-wide assembly, so that she could express her feelings.

Into God’s Word!!!

Jude is one of the shortest books in the Bible. This brother and disciple of Jesus had the task of speaking to the church about being strong in their faith and maintaining the assurance of God’s love and protection. Christians during this time were mistreated and punished because of their beliefs. Jude had an encouraging word for them and wanted them to feel that they were important in God’s eyes. Just as many of them may have had to defend themselves in a community where people did not accept Jesus as the Son of God, we as Christians may find ourselves needing to do so from time to time. In looking at the key Bible verse for today’s lesson, what do you think are the most important words to remember when you feel alone or threatened by someone who does not believe as you do?

Using God’s Word

Words God Gives Us to Say

Below, write some of the words that you identified in the section above and then write a sentence using those words to express your feelings to persons who are not respectful about your faith.

Bobbi had a perfect opportunity to express herself without having a personal argument or conflict with anyone. That might not be an opportunity that you would have, but there are other ways to express your feelings and concerns when people are not respectful. The AME Church believes in love and forgiveness as it is taught in the Bible, and we also believe in self-worth and the uplifting of our people. This means that we should uphold our faith and our belief in Jesus Christ who lives within us. When God keeps us, it means that God is with us every step of the way. Whether it is at school, at play, or in the middle of unrest or conflict, if you keep your faith and hope in God, you will find the strength to live your life with courage. When you feel fearful or anxious, do what Bobbi’s mom suggested, and ask the Lord for direction. The words will come, and you will be even more confident the next time a challenge arises!

Remix!!!

God is the same loving and protective Father to us every day, and if we are prayerful, there is no challenge that we cannot overcome. Jude called for his people to be faithful and strong. He urged them to be in harmony with one another and to resist those who would doubt the faith. Also, he said, “Keep yourselves in the love of God.” This means that you remember and keep within your heart the love that God has for you. How do you think this will help you in your everyday life? Is it something that you believe would help if you found yourself in a situation like Bobbi’s? Do you think that it is important to pray each day for protection and help from God? Why or why not?

Praise God!!!

V-I-C-T-O-R-Y!

Each person should choose a letter above, and then call out that letter one after the other. After the last letter is called, the entire group will read the word. Because God keeps us, we have victory. God loves you, God loves me! Because of God’s love, we have the victory!

Closing Prayer

(Each month you will have a closing prayer that will help strengthen your relationship with the Lord and help you to be a better person. Can you memorize it?)

Dear Lord, help us to have faith in you so that when challenges come our way, we will meet them with strength and confidence. Amen!

Lesson 2: March 10, 2024

Meeting the Test

Lesson Scripture: 2 Corinthians 13:1-11

Focus Scripture: 2 Corinthians 13:5-11

Key Verse: Finally, brothers and sisters, farewell. Be, restored listen to my appeal; agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you. 2 Corinthians 13:11(NRSV UE)

2 Corinthians 13:5-11 (NRSV UE))

5 Examine yourselves to see whether you are living in the faith. Test yourselves. Do you not realize that Jesus Christ is in you?—unless, indeed, you fail to meet the test!

6 I hope you will find out that we have not failed.

7 But we pray to God that you may not do anything wrong—not that we may appear to have met the test but that you may do what is right, though we may seem to have failed.

8 For we cannot do anything against the truth but only for the truth.

9 For we rejoice when we are weak but you are strong. This is what we pray for, that you may be restored.

10 So I write these things while I am away from you, so that when I come I may not have to be severe in using the authority that the Lord has given me for building up and not for tearing down.

11 Finally, brothers and sisters, farewell. Be restored; listen to my appeal; agree with one another; live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.

Word Power!!!

- Examine – To look at or to study; to think about how something or someone functions.

- Paul – An apostle of Jesus Christ who was converted to Christianity and who wrote most of the New Testament letters.

Getting Ready!!!

The sign read: TESTS TODAY. At Allen Elementary School, all third-grade students were testing today in order to be promoted to the fourth grade. Because of the pandemic, this was their first group examination. Some of the students felt afraid and did not know what to expect. If they failed, they would have to repeat the third grade and would not be able to graduate with their class in two years. The year-end examination was going to be a big challenge for most of them.

Into God’s Word!!!

Paul was an important apostle of Jesus Christ. He built churches and explained to the people how to live faithfully for the Lord and what to do in times of trouble. In this passage of 2nd Corinthians, he is explaining to them that they should pray for one another and be careful not to fall into traps that would cause them to fail. The most important advice that he gives is to test themselves to be sure that they do not fall into any traps. Also, he urges them to pray for one another that they will remain strong. The students at Allen Elementary may have felt afraid about their test. It is no surprise that the students felt fearful since they had not been in school for the first one or two years. What could they do to feel better about their examination? Think about the last time you were afraid and how you managed to feel better.

In this puzzle are three of the words that Paul talks about. There are two more that can help us to feel more confident when we are faced with failures or mistakes. Can you find them?

Using God’s Word!!!

We all make mistakes, and from time to time, we face difficult situations that may cause us to fail. However, if we are about to take on a challenge or new situation that we are not sure about, the Bible explains to us what we can do. When we live in peace and pray for one another, it means that as a group we are stronger. It might be your family, a club that you are in, or a group at church. Either way, if there is something that you want to accomplish and you are not sure about whether you can succeed, approaching it from the way that Paul explains here is a perfect way to start. For example, why not have prayer before going to compete in a game? Each Sunday before your church school class begins, say a prayer that it will go well. Most of all, when you do try and fail, do not let that failure become bigger than it should be. Pray that you will learn from your mistakes and do better the next time.

Remix!!!

All the members of the third-grade class at Allen Elementary School may not pass the test, but they all can quietly pray for each other that they will be able to do the best that they can. When was the last time that you prayed for someone or for yourself before taking on a challenging task?

There are three things from the lesson today that are important to remember. They are:

1. Live in harmony in peace with one another.

2. Pray for one another, especially in times of trial or trouble.

3. Every now and then, think about how you are living and ask yourself if it is pleasing to God.

Can you think of someone who may be feeling a little sad or afraid right now? Make a pretty card to give to them or send them a nice text to brighten their day.

Praise God!!!

Play your favorite praise song! One suggestion is “Every Praise” by Hezekiah Walker.

Closing Prayer

(Each month you will have a closing prayer that will help strengthen your relationship with the Lord and help you to be a better person. Can you memorize it?)

Dear Lord, help us to have faith in you so that when challenges come our way, we will meet them with strength and confidence. Amen.

Lesson 3: March 17, 2024

Suffering for Doing Good

Lesson Scripture: 1 Peter 3:8-17

Focus Scripture: 1 Peter 3:8-9,13-17

Key Verse: Have unity of spirit, sympathy, love for one another, a tender heart, and a humble mind. 1 Peter 3:8 (NRSV UE)

1 Peter 3:8-9, 13-17 (NRSV UE)

1 Peter 3:8-9

8 Finally, all of you, have unity of spirit, sympathy, love for one another, a tender heart, and a humble mind.

9 Do not repay evil for evil or abuse for abuse, but, on the contrary, repay with a blessing. It is for this that you were called—that you might inherit a blessing.

13-17

13 Now who will harm you if you are eager to do what is good?

14 But even if you do suffer for doing what is right, you are blessed. Do not fear what they fear, and do not be intimidated,

15 but in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be ready to make your defense to anyone who demands from you an accounting for the hope that is in you,

16 yet do it with gentleness and respect. Maintain a good conscience so that, when you are maligned, those who abuse you for your good conduct in Christ may be put to shame.

17 For it is better to suffer for doing good, if suffering should be God’s will, than to suffer for doing evil..

Word Power!!!

- Sympathy – A feeling of concern and love for someone who is hurting or sad.

- Humble – Being kind and modest; not boasting about accomplishments.

- Peter – A leading disciple of Jesus Christ who became an apostle and leader of Christian disciples.

Getting Ready!!!

In news stories across the country, we can find examples of where Good Samaritans (persons who help others, at times at their own risk) are rewarded for their kind deeds. In other situations, however, someone meaning to do good may end up being punished or hurt. For example, a teacher attempting to break up a fight at a school was suspended for pulling a student away to keep them from hitting someone else. According to the story, although this teacher meant well, a rule that stated teachers should not forcefully touch students but rather get help from security, meant that this teacher had not followed the policy. Good intentions did not matter in this case, and the teacher was punished.

Into God’s Word!!!

Peter is another apostle of Jesus Christ, but unlike Paul, he walked with Jesus while the Lord was on the earth. Jesus named him the most important disciple and gave him responsibility for carrying on with leading the new Christians. In his letter, he talks about being humble and being in unity with one another. In our church, we talk about modesty and humility as well (found in our book of rules called The Doctrine and Discipline). This is particularly true when we describe the way we should lead and teach. We are to keep our messages simple, dress carefully, and refrain from attracting too much attention to ourselves. The attention should be on Jesus Christ and the Gospel. The teacher who tried to break up a fight was doing good. In this instance, things did not turn out well for that person; does that mean that they did not do the right thing? Sometimes we suffer even when we try to do good. It is the same thing that happened with Jesus who ended up on the cross. Although he loved everyone, and persons who followed him, such as Peter, were sometimes beaten for preaching the Word, Jesus suffered. Still, we must remain faithful in doing good and never turn our backs on God.

In the exercise below, circle the number that you believe is the right way to respond to the terrible things people may do or say. Think about today’s lesson before you answer.

When someone calls you a name:

1. Call them a name right back

2. Walk away or ignore them

When someone doesn’t say “thank you” when you do something nice for them:

1. Decide that you will never do anything nice for them again

2. Ask them if what you did or offered was okay

When someone hurts your feelings:

1. Tell them how you felt about what they did and try to talk it over

2. Tell them that they are mean and stop being friends with them

Using God’s Word!!!

When we suffer for doing the right thing, it can be very discouraging. When Jesus was on the earth, he healed people, gave them hope, and offered them salvation. Yet, in the end, that same community sent Jesus to the cross to be crucified. In life, you may find that you are misunderstood when you’re trying to do something nice for someone, or you may misunderstand something that someone does for you and take it the wrong way. In other situations, it may seem like people who do wrong get away with it, and people who do right are not rewarded. As you read today’s lesson, think about what Peter said and decide how it relates to you. Think especially about how being humble will help.

Remix!!!

It is important to be humble, to be loving, and to be united. This advice that Peter gives is just as important for us today as it was in biblical times. These lessons, so far, deal with groups of people that were living during the time of the apostles. Yet, they can apply to us as individuals from day to day. We must not seek vengeance against those who hurt us, we should love and be sympathetic toward each other. We should not seek attention or boast about ourselves but be humble in all that we do.

When people compliment you, what do you say to them? Can you give an example of how boasting or not caring about another person can hurt a relationship?

Praise God!!!

Listen to an old school song by Sister Sledge called, “We Are Family.” Get together in two groups and write your own poem or spoken word presentation for next week’s praise!

Closing Prayer

(Each month you will have a closing prayer that will help strengthen your relationship with the Lord. Can you memorize it?)

Dear Lord, help us to have faith in you so that when challenges come our way, we will meet them with strength and confidence. Amen.

Lesson 4: March 24, 2024

Stephen, A Man Filled With Power

Lesson Scripture: Acts 6

Focus Scripture: Acts 6:5, 7-15

Key Verse: Stephen, full of grace and power, did great wonders and signs among the people. Acts 6:8 (NRSV UE)

Acts 6:5, 7-15 (NRSV UE)

Acts 6:5

5 What they said pleased the whole community, and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit, together with Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolaus, a proselyte of Antioch.

7-15

7 The word of God continued to spread; the number of the disciples increased greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests became obedient to the faith.

8 Stephen, full of grace and power, did great wonders and signs among the people.

9 Then some of those who belonged to the synagogue of the Freedmen (as it was called), Cyrenians, Alexandrians, and others of those from Cilicia and Asia, stood up and argued with Stephen.

10 But they could not withstand the wisdom and the Spirit with which he spoke.

11 Then they secretly instigated some men to say, “We have heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses and God.”

12 They stirred up the people as well as the elders and the scribes; then they suddenly confronted him, seized him, and brought him before the council.

13 They set up false witnesses who said, “This man never stops saying things against this holy place and the law,

14 for we have heard him say that this Jesus of Nazareth will destroy this place and will change the customs that Moses handed on to us.”

15 And all who sat in the council looked intently at him, and they saw that his face was like the face of an angel.

Word Power!!!

- Martyr (mar’-ter) – A person who gives his or her life for a cause or belief.

Getting Ready!!!

Today was Palm Sunday and the Jackson-Harris family was on their way to worship. As they reached the corner, they saw some young boys picking on a homeless man and hitting him with their fists. Millie’s father called 911 to ask them to come and assist the man. Millie wondered why her family didn’t stop to help and asked her father why they hadn’t stayed to help the man. Her father explained that sometimes it’s better to let the police handle violent situations, and that they were on their way to church. Millie thought about it for a while, but really felt bad about leaving the homeless person. She decided she would ask her dad more questions about it later when they got home.

Into God’s Word!!!

This story regarding Stephen, who was a great spokesperson and evangelist for the Lord, shows how he was willing to give his life for what he believed. While he was being stoned, others stood by watching, including Paul, who we’ve already learned something about. Later Paul was changed when Jesus converted him, but right now he assisted others in killing Stephen by holding their coats. The only thing Stephen had done was to preach the word of Jesus to the onlookers and call them out for being disobedient to God. Because they were angry, they stoned Stephen to death. Perhaps there was someone in the crowd watching who felt like Millie but was not brave enough to intervene. What do you think about persons who watch a violent act take place and neither step in to help or call someone to assist?

In this country, there are not very many incidents where people are forced to become martyrs like Stephen for their religious beliefs. But it does happen elsewhere. What are some of the things that you think a person can do if they see an innocent person being injured or attacked?

In the box below, write at least two ways to help someone who is in trouble, such as someone who is being bullied or mistreated.

Using God’s Word!!!

On the very first Palm Sunday when Jesus rode into Jerusalem, people threw down their cloaks and clothing for Jesus to ride on. They raised palms in the Lord’s honor. It must have been a very festive occasion! Unfortunately, today we see many instances where people, such as in the case of the George Floyd murder, watch helplessly while somebody’s life is taken away. Just as with our Bible story, people can be violent and unstable with no sense of scruples. As black people, we must learn to not only defend ourselves against racist attacks, but we should find ways to assist those who are victims. Maybe you can step away with a cell phone to call for help. Maybe you can yell out to try and frighten the individuals who are being violent. Perhaps you can write down a license number. Unlike our Bible story, God calls on us to respect others even when they do something or say something with which we disagree.

Remix!!!

Being a martyr such as Stephen - who was a devoted follower - was for Jesus was the highest honor that one could pay to the Lord.’ Because in this country we are free to worship whom we choose, being a martyr may be a position in which we never see ourselves. Nevertheless, there is a call to serve the Lord sacrificially no matter where you live. Did you fast or give something up for the Lenten season? Do you understand why fasting is important? Are you willing to do what is right even if you know you might be in danger?

Praise God!!!

(Spoken Word or Rhyme)

Present your group interpretation of “We Are Family.”

Closing Prayer

(Each month you will have a closing prayer that will help strengthen your relationship with the Lord. Did you memorize it?)

Dear Lord, help us to have faith in you so that when challenges come our way, we will meet them with strength and confidence. Amen.

Lesson 5: March 31, 2024

Filled With Amazement

Lesson Scripture: Mark 16

Focus Scripture: Mark 16:1-8

Key Verse: “Do not be alarmed; you are looking for Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He has been raised; he is not here.” Mark 16:6 (NRSV UE)

Mark 16:1-8 (NRSV UE)

1 When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of James and Salome bought spices, so that they might go and anoint him.

2 And very early on the first day of the week, when the sun had risen, they went to the tomb.

3 They had been saying to one another, “Who will roll away the stone for us from the entrance to the tomb?”

4 When they looked up, they saw that the stone, which was very large, had already been rolled back.

5 As they entered the tomb, they saw a young man dressed in a white robe sitting on the right side, and they were alarmed.

6 But he said to them, “Do not be alarmed; you are looking for Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He has been raised; he is not here. Look, there is the place they laid him.

7 But go, tell his disciples and Peter that he is going ahead of you to Galilee; there you will see him, just as he told you.”

8 So they went out and fled from the tomb, for terror and amazement had seized them, and they said nothing to anyone, for they were afraid.

Word Power!!!

- Nazareth (nae’-zah-reth) – The home of Jesus.

Getting Ready!!!

“What about Resurrection Day is most important to you?”

Dr. Vivian was the youth pastor at the community church. Today, the youth had gathered to work on a special play. It was about the women who visited the tomb of Jesus and spoke to the angel. Each of the students had written a short monologue on how the resurrection made them feel. They decided this would be something different from the usual speeches on Resurrection Sunday.

It was Raphael who was having trouble with his part. He said that he was not female, and that this didn’t make much sense for him. His classmates tried to help him and told him to think of it as something that anyone would feel, and not to worry about being a male. After a brief hesitation, he said to Dr. Vivian, “The most important thing to me is that it gives me something to celebrate every year with my friends.”

“That’s great, Raphael! Now all you must do is finish that thought!” Dr. Vivian clapped her hands and the class all joined in with her.

Into God’s Word!!!

The story about the resurrection of Jesus is one that we hear every year. Raphael’s point was well taken; it means that by celebrating the same holy day each year, we may find ourselves thinking of it as a regular calendar event. However, it is much more than that. When the women came to the tomb, they expected to find a dead Savior. What they found, instead, was an empty tomb and an angel who spoke to them. It is understandable that they were afraid, but today we should examine the miraculous moment as we read about this great faith experience. We should realize that it was the meaning of the salvation story for all humankind, no matter who they are or where they are from.

The play that the youth decided to perform was called, “Resurrection Day Is for Everyone.” They did this because they felt that Raphael would feel more comfortable with the theme, and they wanted to emphasize the point that salvation was not about gender. As you read our Bible passage, think about yourself as an individual who was at the tomb and write a short part that you would have read for the play. Ask yourself, ‘How did the women probably feel, and what does it all mean to me?’ Then answer! Below is a space for you to jot down your thoughts. There are a few words provided for you to help you get started. They represent some of the reactions of the women in today’s Bible story.

What Resurrection Day Means to Me

(Helpful words: surprise, fear, amazement, wonder, hope, joy)

Using God’s Word!!!

The resurrection story is told in each of the Gospels, but in Mark, the women are emphasized who were followers and caregivers of Jesus. As they reached the tomb, their faith must have been affected in some way by finding it empty. In our lives, we may sometimes think of our faith as being empty or not enough to get us through our daily challenges. But the resurrection of Jesus Christ proves to us that we, too, are victorious and no longer need to be afraid. We, like Jesus, are risen! We are risen from fear. We are risen from hopelessness. We are risen from sin! Do you know what it means to give your life to Jesus? If not, do so today. You may speak to your pastor, or to your church school leader. It is a simple matter of accepting the Lord as your Savior! As you participate in your Resurrection Day experience, remember that it is not just a celebration but a moment to recall the most important part of the salvation story.

Remix!!!

Use the part you wrote for the presentation that Raphael’s church school class worked on to share with someone else. Find a friend or a relative and show them what you experienced today by reading what you wrote for the play.

Did you agree with Raphael that it was something to celebrate each year? Do you see how the yearly celebration can be made into something more important and meaningful? Enjoy Resurrection Day but also enjoy and remember the amazement and wonder of the women at the tomb. Color this picture of the tomb to share, too!

Praise God!!!

In a circle, read your part of the play!

Closing Prayer

(Are you able to say this prayer without looking at it?)

Dear Lord, help us to have faith in you so that when challenges come our way, we will meet them with strength and confidence. Amen.

Lesson 6: April 7, 2024

Jesus Heals a Paralyzed Man

Lesson Scripture: Luke 5:17-26

Focus Scripture: Luke 5:17-26

Key Verse: “Friend, your sins are forgiven you.” Luke 5:20 (NRSV UE)

Luke 5:17-26 (NRSV UE)

17 One day while he was teaching, Pharisees and teachers of the law who had come from every village of Galilee and Judea and from Jerusalem were sitting nearby, and the power of the Lord was with him to heal.

18 Just then some men came carrying a paralyzed man on a stretcher. They were trying to bring him in and lay him before Jesus,

19 but, finding no way to bring him in because of the crowd, they went up on the roof and let him down on the stretcher through the tiles into the middle of the crowd in front of Jesus.

20 When he saw their faith, he said, “Friend, your sins are forgiven you.”

21 Then the scribes and the Pharisees began to question, “Who is this who is speaking blasphemies? Who can forgive sins but God alone?”

22 When Jesus perceived their questionings, he answered them, “Why do you raise such questions in your hearts?

23 Which is easier: to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven you,’ or to say, ‘Stand up and walk’?

24 But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—he said to the one who was paralyzed—“I say to you, stand up and take your stretcher and go to your home.”

25 Immediately he stood up before them, took what he had been lying on, and went to his home, glorifying God.

26 Amazement seized all of them, and they glorified God and were filled with fear, saying, “We have seen incredible things today.”

Word Power!!!

- Empathy – To feel concern; to have interest in someone else’s condition.

Getting Ready!!!

The word empathy that is mentioned in the Word Power section is important to our lesson. When people are friends and have a relationship of trust, they usually care about one another’s situation. If one gets into trouble, the others will try to assist. That means they have empathy for that person. Do you have a friend that you care about and who you believe cares about you? If they became ill, what do you think you would try to do to help? In this story, we see that four people came together to help their friend who was sick, and they took him to the one person who could help: Jesus Christ.

Into God’s Word!!!

While Jesus was teaching in a home, four friends brought a sick friend with them so that he could be healed. They were not able to get into the door of the house, so they got on top of the roof, managed to open a space, and lowered their friend down in front of Jesus. This kind of effort demonstrated how much they cared about their friend and wanted him to get well. According to our Bible story, Jesus was impressed with the faith of his friends and healed him. In addition, he forgave the man for his sins and changed his life forever. In a modern-day example, if five boys were playing on the playground, and one of them fell and seriously hurt his leg, what would be the responsible thing for the other four boys to do? Today, we will act out the scene from the Bible story to answer that question.

Using God’s Word!!!

When friends are in trouble, and especially when they are not able to help themselves, God expects us to step in and assist them. When we show empathy for others, we are expressing God’s love toward them. Five persons in your group or class should pretend to be on a court or playground area. One of the participants will pretend to fall and be unable to walk on his/her own, and the others will need to assist. Pretend that you do not have any devices or cell phones to call for help.

Remix!!!

As you worked through your production and demonstration of the Bible story, you should have begun to feel what it must have been like to help someone else in need. What part of the demonstration affected you the most? Were you able to see why Jesus said that their faith had made their friend whole? As you go through your week, think of a way to help someone who may be in trouble or who may simply need a friend.

Praise God!!!

Choose your favorite song from church or from your choir and sing together! Your teacher may help you choose one that everyone can sing.

Closing Prayer

(Each month you will have a closing prayer that will help strengthen your relationship with the Lord. Can you memorize it?)

Lord! You are an awesome God, and this I know. My faith in you will grow and grow! Amen.

Lesson 7: April 14, 2024

Faith in Jesus

Lesson Scripture: Luke 7:1-10

Focus Scripture: Luke 7:1-10

Key Verse: “I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such faith.” Luke 7:9 (NRSV UE)

Luke 7:1-10 (NRSV UE)

1 After Jesus had finished all his sayings in the hearing of the people, he entered Capernaum.

2 A centurion there had a slave whom he valued highly and who was ill and close to death.

3 When he heard about Jesus, he sent some Jewish elders to him, asking him to come and heal his slave.

4 When they came to Jesus, they appealed to him earnestly, saying, “He is worthy to have you do this for him,

5 for he loves our people, and it is he who built our synagogue for us.”

6 And Jesus went with them, but when he was not far from the house, the centurion sent friends to say to him, “Lord, do not trouble yourself, for I am not worthy to have you come under my roof;

7 therefore I did not presume to come to you. But only speak the word, and let my servant be healed.

8 For I also am a man set under authority, with soldiers under me, and I say to one, ‘Go,’ and he goes, and to another, ‘Come,’ and he comes, and to my slave, ‘Do this,’ and the slave does it.”

9 When Jesus heard this he was amazed at him, and, turning to the crowd following him, he said, “I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such faith.”

10 When those who had been sent returned to the house, they found the slave in good health.

Word Power!!!

- Centurion (sen-tur’-eon) – An officer in the Roman army during the time of Jesus.

Getting Ready!!!

F – A – I – T – H”…this is a word that is an especially important part of the Christian walk. There is scripture that says that when we do not have faith, we cannot please God. That would probably explain why Jesus Christ was so pleased with the soldier who was not of the same religion but had complete faith that Jesus could heal. Even though he himself was an immensely powerful man, he respected the power of Jesus Christ as the Son of God. Each letter in the word faith could mean something important to you and others who are learning about Jesus. Let’s see if we can decide what they are!

Into God’s Word!!!

Jesus traveled many places while he was on earth to teach and heal his people. In this story, the centurion had a sick servant but knew that because Jesus was terribly busy he might not have time to visit him. Yet, he also knew that the power that Jesus had would allow him to heal his servant no matter where Jesus was at the time. He expressed this belief to Jesus and Jesus was incredibly pleased and marveled at the faith of the centurion. If a soldier from Rome could have this kind of faith in Jesus, then certainly people who knew Jesus personally and those of us who worship him today should have faith as well. Use the words in the square to write a short paragraph about the meaning of faith. You may need to add your own words because some of the words in the square may not work. Ask your teacher for help or use a dictionary if you need to define a term.

Using God’s Word!!!

Having faith means that you believe something will happen although you do not have the proof. For example, when your parents get in the car each day to start it, they believe it will start again because they have seen it happen in the past. However, if they were to get in a car that they had never seen before and the car was old, to believe that it would start would take faith. This is what happened in our Bible story; accordingly, in your everyday life, faith is what you should strive to possess as well. Jesus has been and always will be a master healer, but sometimes we will suffer illness and discomfort for a longer time than we might want. Either way, we should believe that the Lord loves us and wants what’s best for us. Pray and put your life in the hands of Jesus Christ along with your parents, doctor, friends, pastor, and others who love you. To be sure, the Lord is standing with you each and every day! You will be all right!

Remix!!!

Learning to trust the Lord completely is a not a painless process. How many times have you hoped for something to happen in the future but had doubts? When this happens, you may feel anxious and have a nervous feeling about the future. It is far better to do as the centurion and believe that no matter how far away Jesus may seem to be, he has the power to heal and restore. The next time doubts arise in your heart, remember these three steps:

Say a prayer

Remember what Jesus did for the centurion

Do not continue to worry; have faith

Praise God!!!

As a way to praise the Lord, take the words that you chose from the circle and draw them on colorful paper. Put them on display or a board with the title: HAVING FAITH IN JESUS.

Closing Prayer

(Each month you will have a closing prayer that will help strengthen your relationship with the Lord. Can you memorize it?)

Lord! You are an awesome God, and this I know. My faith in you will grow and grow! Amen.

Lesson 8: April 21, 2024

A Sinful Woman’s Faith

Lesson Scripture: Luke 7:36-50

Focus Scripture: Luke 7:36-39, 44-50

Key Verse: [Jesus] said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.” Luke 7:50 (NRSV UE)

Luke 7:36-39, 44-50 (NRSV UE)

Luke 7:36-39

36 One of the Pharisees asked Jesus to eat with him, and when he went into the Pharisee’s house he reclined to dine.

37 And a woman in the city who was a sinner, having learned that he was eating in the Pharisee’s house, brought an alabaster jar of ointment.

38 She stood behind him at his feet, weeping, and began to bathe his feet with her tears and to dry them with her hair, kissing his feet and anointing them with the ointment.

39 Now when the Pharisee who had invited him saw it, he said to himself, “If this man were a prophet, he would have known who and what kind of woman this is who is touching him, that she is a sinner.”

44-50

44 Then turning toward the woman, he said to Simon, “Do you see this woman? I entered your house; you gave me no water for my feet, but she has bathed my feet with her tears and dried them with her hair.

45 You gave me no kiss, but from the time I came in she has not stopped kissing my feet.

46 You did not anoint my head with oil, but she has anointed my feet with ointment.

47 Therefore, I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven; hence she has shown great love. But the one to whom little is forgiven loves little.”

48 Then he said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.”

49 But those who were at the table with him began to say among themselves, “Who is this who even forgives sins?”

50 But he said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”

Word Power!!!

- Alabaster – A fine white mineral that was of immense value and very expensive in biblical times.

Getting Ready!!!

Today, we are going to write down some of the worst mistakes that we have made or some of the terrible things that have happened to us because of other people. You may choose one event; do not print your name on your paper. This is because someone else will be reading it and will say what they would have done had the event happened to them.

Mrs. Amad was talking to her church school class about forgiveness and what it feels like to make a mistake that hurts someone else. The class was about to go through an exercise that would help them to discuss their feelings without any judgment or embarrassment.

Into God’s Word!!!

When Jesus forgave a woman who the community thought was very sinful, he made it clear that because she was willing to repent and show love and respect for him, she deserved forgiveness and love from him. Even though people who were listening criticized her and wanted to make her feel bad, Jesus defended her and said that they were wrong for judging the woman.

In order to think about forgiveness and learning how to start over again after making mistakes, prepare to do the same exercise that Mrs. Amad’s class did. Think about the most hurtful thing that has happened to you or the worst mistake that you have made that may have hurt someone else. If you cannot think of one, then think of something that you have heard about or have seen on the news. Do not print your name on your paper. Once you are done, your teacher will collect your paper and then share it with other classmates. The decision may be to read each slip of paper to the entire class and have people react, or to have each of the class members exchange theirs with each other. If that happens, as you receive your slip of paper from another person, be honest about how it makes you feel or what you would have said or done.

Using God’s Word!!!

The woman in our story was washing the feet of Jesus. What kind of person do you think it takes to wash the foot of another person and then soothe it with oil? Although some churches practice this tradition, many people would not want to do something like this today. They would think it was gross! In addition to being humble, this woman, who had committed sins and made many mistakes, was repentant. Although you may not wash another person’s feet, understand that you are expressing a similar act when you apologize to someone you have hurt, or accept someone’s apology who has hurt you. As you read the Bible story, look at what Jesus says about how others that he knew had not offered to wash his feet or anoint his head with oil. Today, are you taking the time to talk to someone who is lonely, feed someone who is hungry, or offering to help someone who is in trouble? This is what Jesus wants of us, and why he told the woman her sins were forgiven. When we are humble and apologetic for the wrongs we have done, Jesus will reward us with forgiveness and love!

My Promise to the Lord!

In the space below, write one thing you will do to show love to someone this week:

Remix!!!

Jesus was full of compassion and love for the sinful woman that others disliked and shamed. It was not much different from persons today who may be different and who are bullied or attacked because of that difference. When the woman washed Jesus’ feet, she was expressing her love and humility. In return, she was rewarded with forgiveness for her sins. What was the most important lesson that Jesus taught the others who were bullying and criticizing the woman? How can you help someone who is mistreated by other people or judged by them? Perhaps what you wrote in the exercise above answers that question. Regardless, as you grow in your relationship with the Lord, think about the woman who washed Jesus’ feet, who entered the room a sinner but left a saved human being.

Praise God!!!

https://youtu.be/U0TaADfUxPw

Listen to Tye Tribbett’s song, “We Gon’ Be All Right”

Closing Prayer

(Each quarter you will have a closing prayer that will help strengthen your relationship with the Lord. Can you memorize it?)

Lord! You are an awesome God, and this I know. My faith in you will grow and grow! Amen.

Lesson 9: April 28, 2024

A Child Is Healed

Lesson Scripture: Matthew 15:21-28

Focus Scripture: Matthew 15:21-28

Key Verse: Jesus answered her, “Woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish.” And her daughter was healed from that moment. Matthew 15:28 (NRSV UE)

Matthew 15:21-28 (NRSV UE)

21 Jesus left that place and went away to the district of Tyre and Sidon.

22 Just then a Canaanite woman from that region came out and started shouting, “Have mercy on me, Lord, Son of David; my daughter is tormented by a demon.”

23 But he did not answer her at all. And his disciples came and urged him, saying, “Send her away, for she keeps shouting after us.”

24 He answered, “I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.”

25 But she came and knelt before him, saying, “Lord, help me.”

26 He answered, “It is not fair to take the children’s food and throw it to the dogs.”

27 She said, “Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters’ table.”

28 Then Jesus answered her, “Woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish.” And her daughter was healed from that moment.

Word Power!!!

- Canaanite – A particular group of people who were disliked and considered ungodly by Jews; they were not well-received into the Jewish community during biblical times.

Getting Ready!!!

Help me!” Meelah was lost. She and her mother were visiting the United States from Africa. While waiting for the train, her mother got a call and walked toward the seating area to take it. Meelah followed her mother, but then she got distracted by vending machines. Before she knew it, she got lost in the crowd and was separated from her mom. The noise from the oncoming train and announcements made it impossible to hear her mother who was calling for her. Afraid and frustrated, Meelah began to cry. Several white boys saw her crying and began making fun of her and what she was wearing. “Aww, are you looking for your mommy?” they laughed. “Did you leave her back at home in a tree?” Suddenly, a police officer walked up and told the boys to leave. He looked down at Meelah and asked her if she was lost. She told him yes and that she had lost her mom. “Don’t worry,” the police officer said, “I will help you find her.”

“I Am Beautiful!”

Color Meelah’s dress and make it pretty.

Into God’s Word!!!

When people dress or look differently, they can be subjected to teasing. In this country, people from all diverse backgrounds can live in the same community, but that does not mean that they will be well accepted. Like the Canaanite woman’s situation, those who are natives of a particular community will be uncomfortable with people of other cultures or who come from other places. The young white boys who were teasing an African girl because of her appearance did so, in part, because they did not understand or appreciate the importance of tolerance. Jesus loves all of us and expects us to love each other no matter our background or culture.

Using God’s Word!!!

The Canaanite woman was an outcast in the Jewish community. She was from a group of people with whom the Jews had a poor history and was not wanted in their midst. The Jews who were with Jesus at that moment were ready to push her away; for them, she had no value. Jesus, however, wanted to see how persistent she would be in her request for him to heal her daughter; he did not say yes to her immediately. Fortunately, the Canaanite woman proved to have faith, and because of that, Jesus granted her wish. Keep in mind, though, that everyone is not able to withstand the kind of ridicule and rejection that the Canaanite woman experienced. Some people end up isolating themselves, or even worse. Feeling lonely and rejected is not a healthy condition to be in, nor is it what Jesus wants for his children. Be sure to show love and respect for everyone, even if they are different from you. Help others wherever you can as long as it is safe to do so.

Act It Out

In a small group, select one person to be kind to Meelah and another to be mean as were the boys in the story. Decide what each of you will say and then share with the class each scene.

Remix!!!

If you were to act out the scene at the subway, what would you have said to Meelah to encourage her? Also, how would you have reacted if you had seen the white boys mistreat her? Remember that just as the Canaanite woman was rejected, people today who come from other countries and other backgrounds are mistreated as well. They may be immigrants coming into the country or children at school who speak a different language. What they need from you and other Christians is respect and love. The Old Testament commandment that says “love your neighbor as yourself” does not refer to just the person who lives next door in your community. It refers to every human being who lives on God’s great earth.

Praise God!!!

Jesus loves me, this I know. For the Bible tells me so! Listen to this song, and then sing it with your class.

Closing prayer

(Each month you will have a closing prayer that will help strengthen your relationship with the Lord. Can you memorize it?)

Lord! You are an awesome God, and this I know. My faith in you will grow and grow! Amen.

Lesson 10: May 5, 2024

Forgiveness Is a Gift

Lesson Scripture: Romans 3:21-30

Focus Scripture: Romans 3:21-29

Key Verses: For there is no distinction, since all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God; they are now justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus. Romans 3:22b-24 (NRSV UE)

Romans 3:21-29 (NRSV UE)

21 But now, apart from the law, the righteousness of God has been disclosed and is attested by the Law and the Prophets,

22 the righteousness of God through the faith of Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no distinction,

23 since all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God;

24 they are now justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus,

25 whom God put forward as a sacrifice of atonement by his blood, effective through faith. He did this to demonstrate his righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had passed over the sins previously committed;

26 it was to demonstrate at the present time his own righteousness, so that he is righteous and he justifies the one who has the faith of Jesus.

27 Then what becomes of boasting? It is excluded. Through what kind of law? That of works? No, rather through the law of faith.

28 For we hold that a person is justified by faith apart from works prescribed by the law.

29 Or is God the God of Jews only? Is he not the God of gentiles also? Yes, of gentiles also,…

Word Power!!!

- Justified – When we have the right relationship with God and as God favors our lives, we are justified.

Getting Ready!!!

When we think of justice, it may be in terms of a court case or a hearing. We want to have justice when we have been wronged and take counsel from a judge or administrator for a decision. It is a little different when we’re talking about justified or justification in the terms of our faith. After we accept the Lord as our Savior and commit to a daily walk with him, we are in a right relationship, as noted in our Word Power segment above. This means that our actions and behavior should demonstrate that relationship each day. When we sin or make mistakes, we do not have to go through a complicated process to make amends to the Lord. We only have to repent.

Into God’s Word!!!

When Jesus died for us on the cross, he removed the necessity for us to make sacrifices as in the Old Testament. At that time, the people sacrificed animals and offered the blood in order to be forgiven. To atone for their sins, high priests would pray for the people and offer the sacrifices to the Lord. When Jesus came to die on Calvary, all of that became unnecessary.” Pastor Smith was preaching about forgiveness and how the crucifixion of Jesus saved all persons. Kaylah wondered what it must have been like for Jesus to give his life in such an awful way. She remembered hearing something about how the Lord was whipped and a crown of thorns was placed on his head. When church was over, Kaylah planned to speak to her church school teacher. Today, they were doing a special activity about the cross.

Using God’s Word!!!

Understanding everything about the crucifixion may not be quite easy. Even adults must really work hard at discussing the day that Jesus died on the cross. The most important lesson to know is that when he gave his life and then was raised from the dead, everyone who believed in him would be saved. That includes you and me! When you read about Calvary and Jesus’ death during Resurrection Day and the Lenten season, be sure to ask questions about anything you may not understand. For today, just keep in mind that when you do wrong, that is not the end of the story. You only must repent, ask the Lord to forgive you, and you are forgiven.

Popsicle Stick Crosses

Kaylah’s class was going to make crosses out of popsicle sticks for their activity. Gather your own sticks and supplies and work with your class to make a beautiful cross. You may color it first or use cloth or other material to cover the sticks. Be imaginative and do the best you can in this artwork for Jesus!

Remix!!!

It is important to remember that the New Testament brought a new way of living for God’s people. Because of the cross, we do not have to go through the same sacrificial steps that the people did during the time of Moses and others. Do you see the difference? Do you understand why Jesus’ death saves us all? Be assured that the Lord loves us all, even when we make mistakes as Paul says in this story today. We all fall short, but we all can go to the Lord when we do! Be sure to share your beautiful cross with friends, your family, and your church.

Praise God!!!

Listen to the chorus of “Alas, and Did My Savior Bleed.” It begins with … “At the cross, at the cross where I first saw the light.” Try to sing along and learn the chorus before you end your class.

Closing Prayer

(Each month you will have a closing prayer that will help strengthen your relationship with the Lord. Can you memorize it?)

Jesus, thank you for loving me so! Thank you for the cross. Because of your sacrifice, I am no longer lost. Amen.

Lesson 11: May 12, 2024

Strong in Faith

Lesson Scripture: Romans 4

Focus Scripture: Romans 4:13, 16-21

Key Verse: Hoping against hope, [Abraham] believed that he would become “the father of many nations.” Romans 4:18a (NRSV UE)

Romans 4:13, 16-21 (NRSV UE)

Romans 4:13

13 For the promise that he would inherit the world did not come to Abraham or to his descendants through the law but through the righteousness of faith.

16-21

16 For this reason the promise depends on faith, in order that it may rest on grace, so that it may be guaranteed to all his descendants, not only to the adherents of the law but also to those who share the faith of Abraham (who is the father of all of us,

17 as it is written, “I have made you the father of many nations”), in the presence of the God in whom he believed, who gives life to the dead and calls into existence the things that do not exist.

18 Hoping against hope, he believed that he would become “the father of many nations,” according to what was said, “So shall your descendants be.”

19 He did not weaken in faith when he considered his own body, which was already as good as dead (for he was about a hundred years old), and the barrenness of Sarah’s womb.

20 No distrust made him waver concerning the promise of God, but he grew strong in his faith as he gave glory to God,

21 being fully convinced that God was able to do what he had promised.

Word Power!!!

- Sarah and Abraham – The mother and father of the nation of Israel. God blessed them for their faith.

Getting Ready!!!

The Old and New Testaments have many stories that are connected and have similar themes. This happens when writers in the New Testament write about an event from the Old Testament or when something that was promised in the Old Testament happens later in the New Testament. Paul is one person who would talk about people from the Old Testament and how promises that God made were fulfilled during his time. Abraham was considered to be the father of the nation of Israel, and Paul talked about Abraham and his great faith.

Into God’s Word!!!

So, why was Abraham’s faith so remarkable? Ask your teacher to give more details about Abraham’s story and his son Isaac. You will be returning to the Old Testament of the Bible in the book of Genesis to learn about what happened. In summary, because Abraham believed God and did not doubt when God put him to the test, he passed it in flying colors! The test was whether his son Isaac would live. During Abraham’s time, people made sacrifices to God. Usually, the sacrifices were a type of animal. Abraham believed that God would provide an animal to sacrifice so that he would not have to sacrifice his only son. When they got to the place where the sacrifice was to be made, Abraham prepared his son to be sacrificed. However, as he was about to take his son’s life, God provided a ram for Abraham just in time!

How does this relate to Paul in today’s Bible story? Paul wanted to teach the church at Rome that the same kind of faith Abraham had was the faith they should have. This applies to us, as well. Even though it is difficult at times, if you honestly believe that God is going to keep God’s promises to you, then you must be willing to wait for whatever it is you have asked God for; that is what faith is all about.

Abraham’s Faith - color the picture below, and then write one sentence about what the picture means.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Using God’s Word!!!

Today, as we live our lives trusting God, we will grow in faith as we learn to depend on God for the things we want or need. It may be that we must trust God even when we cannot see a way to solve our problem. It may mean that after making sacrifices of our own, such as giving up important possessions or not being able to go somewhere that we wanted to visit, that God still does not answer our prayer. But that does not mean that God does not love us, nor does it mean God will not answer at a later time. What was the most important lesson that you learned today about Abraham and his son? Believing God as he did is not something many of us could do. Killing your own son or daughter is too horrible to think about, but this story does show us just how God rewards us when we have that kind of faith. The next time things seem exceedingly difficult or hard to accept, remember Abraham and the great faith he had in God.

Remix!!!

What was the sentence that you wrote to describe the picture of Abraham and Isaac? How would you use what you wrote about that picture in your own life from day to day? Paul taught us that as far back as Abraham’s time, God was keeping God’s promises and demonstrating the kind of reward that we will have when we are faithful. Do you think you will be able to wait on God for something that you are asking God for now? Give it a try! Wait, and trust God and do not doubt. Let your teacher or class know later what happened as you put your faith to the test.

Praise God!!!

I will have the faith of Abraham, and I will believe. God who was the God of Abraham, is the same God for you and me! (To complement the praise, use percussion instruments or hand clapping!)

Closing Prayer

(Each month you will have a closing prayer that will help strengthen your relationship with the Lord. Can you memorize it?)

Jesus, thank you for loving me so! Thank you for the cross. Because of your sacrifice, I am no longer lost. Amen.

Lesson 12: May 19, 2024

Faith Gives Us Peace

Lesson Scripture: Romans 5:1-11

Focus Scripture: Romans 5:1-11

Key Verse: Since we are justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Romans 5:1 (NRSV UE)

Romans 5:1-11 (NRSV UE)

1 Therefore, since we are justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ,

2 through whom we have obtained access to this grace in which we stand, and we boast in our hope of sharing the glory of God.

3 And not only that, but we also boast in our afflictions, knowing that affliction produces endurance,

4 and endurance produces character, and character produces hope,

5 and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit that has been given to us.

6 For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly.

7 Indeed, rarely will anyone die for a righteous person—though perhaps for a good person someone might actually dare to die.

8 But God proves his love for us in that while we still were sinners Christ died for us.

9 Much more surely, therefore, since we have now been justified by his blood, will we be saved through him from the wrath of God.

10 For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of his Son, much more surely, having been reconciled, will we be saved by his life.

11 But more than that, we even boast in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.

Word Power!!!

- Pentecost – The holy day that our church celebrates when the Holy Spirit came to earth and filled worshipers and followers of Christ.

Getting Ready!!!

Does anyone know what Pentecost means?” Reverend Clark’s class was talking about Pentecost at church school. Benny raised his hand excitedly. “Yes, Benny?”

“I know! I learned about it last year. It’s when the Holy Spirit came to earth from heaven.”

“That’s correct, Benny, and it’s a good start. When the Holy Spirit came on that day, persons who were in a room together worshiping the Lord were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak and understand others’ languages. It was a miracle, and it began the tradition that we have in our church today of celebrating the Holy Spirit fifty days after Resurrection Day. Now, let’s learn a little more.”

Into God’s Word!!!

Get all excited because today is Pentecost! As Clark’s class was talking about in our story, fifty days ago, we celebrated Resurrection Day. Once Jesus was raised from the dead, he stayed on earth to mingle with his followers. Then, when he left the earth, Jesus promised that the Holy Spirit would come to be with them. You can read more about this in the book of Acts. Today, let’s talk about the peace that we have because of the presence of the Holy Spirit.

When you are afraid and pray to God for protection, God hears you through the power of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit carries your messages to heaven. Jesus prays for you and asks God to help you. Think of it this way: God is the creator of everything. Jesus is the one who sits at the right hand of God and speaks to God for us. The Holy Spirit helps us to understand what to say and helps us to feel better about our circumstance. Look at the phrases below. Do you understand what they mean?

creates us

prays for us

comforts us

Using God’s Word!!!

What in your life is bothering you right now? Is there something that you need to have peace with or to feel better about? Write your own special prayer here and be sure to say it each day until peace is in your heart.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Remix!!!

Although Pentecost happened thousands of years ago, the message that we learn from that day is that peace belongs to each of us through the Holy Spirit. When we pray to the Lord and earnestly ask for peace in our lives, the Holy Spirit will comfort us. It does not mean that we will not have trouble or disappointment, but what it does mean is that we will be stronger and more confident when we do. Do you understand what Pentecost means now? You can think of it as the birthday of the church when the Holy Spirit came to the people of God. Symbols such as a dove or fire represent the Holy Spirit in our lives. Color the picture below or draw your own picture. Place it on a poster board, color it, and make it beautiful. Then, post it on your church’s bulletin board or wall!

Praise God!!!

Take pictures of your Pentecost poster, and then post it to your favorite social media. You may also do a video of the group coloring your picture. Happy Pentecost!

Closing Prayer

(Each month you will have a closing prayer that will help strengthen your relationship with the Lord. Can you memorize it?)

Jesus, thank you for loving me so! Thank you for the cross. Because of your sacrifice, I am no longer lost. Amen.

Lesson 13: May 26, 2024

A New Path to God

Lesson Scripture: Romans 10:1-21

Focus Scripture: Romans 10:5-13

Key Verse: “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Romans 10:13

Romans 10:5-13 (NRSV UE)

5 Moses writes concerning the righteousness that comes from the law, that “the person who does these things will live by them.”

6 But the righteousness that comes from faith says, “Do not say in your heart, ‘Who will ascend into heaven?’ ” (that is, to bring Christ down)

7 “or ‘Who will descend into the abyss?’ ” (that is, to bring Christ up from the dead).

8 But what does it say? “The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart” (that is, the word of faith that we proclaim),

9 because if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.

10 For one believes with the heart, leading to righteousness, and one confesses with the mouth, leading to salvation.

11 The scripture says, “No one who believes in him will be put to shame.”

12 For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; the same Lord is Lord of all and is generous to all who call on him.

13 For “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.”

Word Power!!!

- Salvation – The greatest gift of all that Jesus gave us by dying on the cross and then being raised from the dead.

Getting Ready!!!

We have learned so much about faith this quarter, and through the stories told by Paul the apostle and others, that we see what it means to believe in the Lord during times of trouble. Yet, the most important lesson to remember is that when we confess that we believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, we are saved. One of the important verses in this Bible passage today is verse 9 that says exactly that. Also, the Key Verse, verse 13, explains that this gift is for everyone.

Into God’s Word!!!

Paul preached the love of God and salvation for all in his letters to Rome and other churches. This meant that even individuals who did not know Jesus could be saved by simply believing in him and accepting him as their Lord and Savior. This is true today! No matter who you are, black or white, male or female, old or young, the love of Jesus is for us all. One way that you can do your part by spreading this good news is to show Jesus’ love to others and to tell them about the Lord whenever you can.

Using God’s Word!!!

Faith Lessons

In the puzzle below are some words from our lessons that refer to our being saved by believing on Jesus Christ, and how we can spread the love of Jesus to others.

ACROSS
2. what Jesus feels for us and what we should feel for others
3. when we talk to God
4. this is what we have when we confess Jesus as our Savior

DOWN
1. the day that the Holy Spirit came to Earth
3. we have this when we rely on Jesus and give our troubles to him

Remix!!!

What were some of your favorite words in the puzzle? Why did you choose them? Do you believe that as a Christian you can tell others about Jesus? Do you think it would be too difficult to say something about the Lord to your friends? Think about that and discuss it with your teacher, your pastor, or your family. Remember that telling others about the Lord can be done through your actions as well. As we end the season of Resurrection Day and Pentecost, let us carry the love of Jesus, the words we say, and the things that we do, in our everyday interactions with others.

Praise God!!!

Jesus loves the little children, all the children of the world! Red, brown, yellow, black, and white, they are precious in his sight. Jesus loves the little children of the world! (Repeat)

Closing Prayer

Have you learned your prayers this quarter? Will you remember them?

Jesus, thank you for loving me so! Thank you for the cross. Because of your sacrifice, I am no longer lost. Amen.

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