KIDS
速 速
PR EVI EW GU I DE
Kids
Let the
WORD OF CHRIST dwell in you richly,
TEACHING
and admonishing
one another in all
WISDOM
— Col 3.16a
2 Explore the Bible
FELLOW EXPLORERS, Explore the Bible: Kids began as an answer to a need that our team heard over and over again from KidMin leaders like yourselves—“Give us a curriculum that immerses kids in the Bible!” As a mom of three kids and a former KidMin leader, I share this passion and urgency. God speaks through His Word and if we expect life transformation, not just behavior modification, we need to give kids a deeper dive into the Scriptures. The truth is, we want kids to love God’s Word so much that they “hide it away in their hearts” so that when pressures of life and choices present themselves, they remember the truth so well that they “may not sin against (Him).” As we prayed for wisdom in crafting a quality curriculum for kids, we began by asking this question: “How do we help empower leaders to teach the Bible to kids in an exciting and engaging way that will make kids want to dig deep?” My career background is education—specifically museum education, where object-based learning is one of the main teaching methods used in educational exhibit design. It’s used to evoke inductive study and discovery learning. Our team decided to implement these methods as an entry point to looking at the biblical text. For example, what can we learn from looking carefully at a boat that underwater archaeologists discovered at the bottom of the Sea of Galilee? A boat that is similar to the one Jesus and His disciples rode through the storm in one dark night? Can it help kids want to ask more questions, know more of the story, or even imagine what it may have been like to see Jesus calm the storm? More than that, how can it lead to a deeper understanding that Jesus is all-powerful all throughout Scripture?
Explore the Bible: Kids will take kids on a book-by-book, truth-by-truth journey through the living Word. Through Scripture study, cross-referencing, historical maps, interactive infographics, and object-based learning, kids will experience the Bible like never before. Get ready to take a deeper dive, immersing young souls in the Scriptures and watching life transformation happen before your very eyes. Get ready to open this love letter to all of us and show kids what their Maker wants them to see and hear from Him. Get ready to Explore the Bible! Joyfully,
Jana Magruder Director of Kids Ministry Publishing LifeWay Christian Resources Explore the Bible
1
HOW TALL WAS GOLIATH? Depending on the type of cubit used, Goliath was somewhere in this range of height
Check out how the ark stacks up to other famous ships. Experience the gigantic size of Goliath compared to . . . your own dad. Kids explore the people, places, and objects of the Bible in historical context and compare them to modern-day life. Kids aren’t just learning the Bible—they’re experiencing it!
2 Explore the Bible
Kids will want to DIG DEEP! Explore the Bible: Kids pulls truth from the text. This book-by-book Bible study for groups of all ages takes kids on a journey into Scripture where they’ll see the Bible in a way that will make them want to dig deep—building a foundation for life transformation.
WHY:
WHAT:
We’re glad you asked! By engaging with the Scriptures in a creative way, kids will crave to learn more about Jesus through His Word.
A brand-new ongoing curriculum to help kids dig deep into Scripture.
WHO:
Kids of all ages— babies through preteens.
WHERE:
Anywhere you want to gather kids around the living Word of God.
WHEN:
Anytime! Explore the Bible: Kids can be used for Wednesday nights, Sunday mornings, Sunday nights— anytime you meet with the kids in your church.
Explore the Bible
3
s id K : le ib B e h t e r lo Exp g in n r a le d e s a b t c je b o uses ! to help kids DIG DEEP gists at underwater archaeolo ral drawing of how of Galilee, an architectu the bottom of the Sea ’s sling shot ked, a replica of David loo y all re ve ha y ma k Noah’s ar will explore examples of how kids and stones—these are s, and plore the people, place ex ds Ki . ek we ch ea the Bible compare them to historical context and objects of the Bible in d want to engaged right away an be ll wi ey Th . life ay -d modern
nd by OBJECTS: A real ship fou
know more! e book of books in both the Old
ING: We may start in on
CROSS-REFERENC
around to other the Bible, but quickly flip g text in a deeper, to understand our startin and New Testaments more powerful way.
E: VISUALS AND MOR S, IC PH A R G FO IN , MAPS es, and activity Guides, teaching pictur The amazing Explorer kids to visual learning tools for of ra tho ple a e lud inc sheets t. m connect with the tex interact with, helping the
Leader ING METHODS: Our DISCOVERY LEARN ns that start
rs to ask great questio Guides empower leade ghout Scripture. about who God is throu engaging discussions motivate methods help leaders d an s me ga on ati riz Memo on. arts through memorizati he ir the in d or W d’s kids to hide Go nnect nd extra activities to co yo be go fts cra ful ing Mean kids to the text.
4 Explore the Bible
Each week, kids explore the five Ws of each book:
WHO WHAT WHEN WHERE WHY
Explore the Bible
5
S D I K : E L B I B E H T E R O L P X E UNPACKS THE WORD. ipture where g point to connect to a story in Scr Passages are used as a launchin Explore the onstrated. Hands-on tools like the we see the truth in the passage dem s to bring context ily Cards are utilized during clas Bible: Kids Family App and Fam r at home. ilies to continue learning togethe to the lesson, and they equip fam
ludes: Each session inc
• Christ in Context connection • Leader Bible study
ions
• Small group and large group opt • Video experience
YOUNGER KIDS TOOL KIT The resources you need for one class packaged together: • One Younger Kids Leader Guide • One Younger Kids Poster Pack • One Younger Kids Explorer Guide • One pack Younger Kids Family Cards • One Younger Kids Enhanced CD • One Kids DVD
S? WANT WORSHIP RESOURCE 6 Explore the Bible
Kids Tool Kit with Worship. Purchase the Explore the Bible: sic, and more to deliver It’s filled with videos, scripts, mu rces each weekly session. a worship experience that reinfo
YOUNGER KIDS
HEBREWS
YOUNGER KIDS
Explorers Guide > Fall 2014 David Jeremiah, General Editor
LEADER GUIDE Help younger kids connect the Bible to present day. • Easy-to-follow session plans • Christ in Context statement for each Bible book connects the book studied to Christ Kids
• Each session digs into Scripture—kids will be using their Bibles • Small group/large group/small group format
to Scripture in informative and fun ways.
WHO IS
BIG WAVES
FUL OWERFUL ALL-POWER JESUS S ISISALL-P JESU
2 3 4 5
HEBREWS 1:1-4 TELLS
S ING
JES through ks to us God spea things. to all is heir
1
JESUS God mad
JESUS
ction
JESUS IS…
THE BIBLE DOES HT THE HEIG NOT TELL IN OUR WAVES OF THE Y. DRAW BIBLE STOR E NEXT WAV A 7-FOOT ING BOAT. FISH BEEN TO THE YOU HAVE WOULD
Color in the box in front of each true statement. Draw pictures of who Jesus is. Use the list to help you. God’s Son One of the 12 disciples All-powerful
. of God
SCARED?
Ruler over all things
er over has pow
JESUS
7
thro world
ABO UT
.
US ugh JES
gs. all thin . forgiven us to be ible for it poss heaven. God in hand of the right er sits at are high JESUS name and His the angels. JESUS than in rank
JESUS
6
e the
is a refle
US.
: US JES
Magazine-style guide provides younger kids in class with ways to connect
10/29/13 8:25 AM
JESUS? TH
EXPLORER GUIDE
ETB Cover Younger.indd 1
Is dead Lives in Arizona
made
BOAT DISCOVERY
Friend Loves all people
• 1986— EXTREME DROUGHT lowered level of Sea of Galilee
Healed people
8
Born in Germany
• Two brothers found the remains of an ANCIENT BOAT • Scientists took 12 DAYS to remove remains from sea
YOUNGER KIDS POSTER PACK
• Scientist used FOAM to preserve the boat
SEA OF GALILEE
• Boat soaked for seven years in special “BATHTUB” filled with chemicals to preserve it
• Meaning “circle”
(Draw a circle around the sea.)
• Freshwater lake in the hills of Northern Palestine
• Boat is now on display in a MUSEUM in Israel
(Color hills around the lake.)
Filled with leader-friendly resources that make teaching easy.
• Fed mainly by the Jordan River • 13 miles long and 8 miles wide • Subject to sudden and violent storms with waves up to 7 feet high
• Jesus possibly sailed on a boat like this when He CALMED THE STORM on this sea
CORE PASSAGE: HEBREWS 1:1-4
(Draw waves inside the sea.)
• Teacher helps
COOL AIR FROM THE MEDITERRANEAN SEA
WARM AIR RISING FROM SEA OF GALILEE
STORM
CONNECTION PASSAGE:
• Jesus calmed a storm on this sea
MATTHEW 8:23-27; MARK 4:35-41; LUKE 8:22-25
MEMORY VERSE:
• Visual aids
HEBREWS 1:2A
ETB October SAMPLE.indd 2
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ETB October SAMPLE.indd 3
11/8/13 3:56 PM
• Text Truth statements • Memory verses (in four translations)
CHRIST IN CONTEXT
• Christ in Context Poster
ENHANCED CD Filled with songs and printable items for use in each session.
IN
DVD Includes a video for each session that helps kids connect to the biblical
HATH IN THESE LAST DAYS
Equips parents with discussion questions that relate to each session.
BY HIS SON.
ScripturePassage.indd 1
JESUS
27 BOOks
new (HEBREWS 1:2A, KJV) menT TesTa
? JESUS WHO IS OWERFUL IS ALL-P
• Memory verse • Object of the week
5 divisiOns
majOr PrOPHeTs
SPOKEN UNTO US
text in the cultural and historical context of the lesson.
EXPLORE THE BIBLE: YOUNGER KIDS FAMILY CARDS
The Book of Hebrews describes how Jesus fulfills the promises and prophecies of the Old Testament as the Son of God and the Son of man. Jesus gave His life as THESE LAST DAYS, the final sacrifice for sin, 39 BOOks Old HE HAS SPOKEN TOestablishing US aTenew nT sTame covenant BY HIS SON. between God and His people. (HEBREWS 1:2A, HCSB) He is our mediator, creator, high priest, and rescuer. He HisTOr y POeTry is perfect and reigns over all.
10/29/13 8:08 AM
HisTOry
PaUl's leTTers
WHO IS JESUS?
JESUS IS ALL-POWERFUL
JESUS CALMS M THE STOR 5-41)
(MARK 4:3
FAMILY MEMORY VER SE: HEBREW
S 1:2A © 2014 LifeWay. Read and learn more abou in Hebrews 1:1-4. t Jesus Bible Components Explore the Bible Younger Kids
BibleComponents.indd 1
How could you use these descriptions of Jesus to tell someone who Talk Jesus is? about ho Name Jesus calmw descript 3 s of Jesu ions ou r storms s these ve from today. rses. 10/29/13 d.indd 1 ObjectCar ObjectCard.
8:07 AM
Explore the Bible
indd 2
5 divisiOns
7
10/29/13 8:07 AM
General leTTers
OLDER KIDS OLDER KIDS TOOL KIT The resources you need for one class packaged together: • One Older Kids Leader Guide • One Older Kids Poster Pack • One Older Kids Explorer Guide • One pack Older Kids Family Cards • One Older Kids Enhanced CD • One Kids DVD OLDER KIDS
LEADER GUIDE Help older kids dig into Scripture. • Easy-to-follow session plans
HEBREWS
Explorers Guide > Fall 2014 David Jeremiah, General Editor
• Christ in Context statement for each Bible book connects the book studied to Christ • Small group/large group/small group format • Suggests creative ways for leaders to tell the Bible story • Provides small group activity options • Object-based learning engages kids in each session
EXPLORER GUIDE
Kids
WHO IS JESUS? ETB Cover Older.indd 1
HOW DID GOD SPEAK? Through the prophets
A long time ago
By His
In these last days
SON WHO IS JESUS?
LOOK AT HEBREWS 1:1-3 IN YOUR BIBLE TO FIND THE MISSING WORDS.
GOD MADE HIM _________ OF ALL THINGS GOD MADE THE __________ THROUGH HIM JESUS IS THE _____________ OF GOD’S GLORY
THINGS JESUS
TH
EM
EDI
T ER
Rescuing the boat from the mud without damaging it (and before the water in the lake rose again!) was a challenge. It took 12 days and nights. Scientists carefully dug the boat out of the mud filled it with polyurathane foam. The foam acted like a cocoon that protected it so it could be moved to a museum.
R A NE A N
OM W CO O L
HE SAT DOWN AT THE ________ HAND OF GOD.
IN D
FR
WARM AIR RISING COOL AIR FROM THE SEA OF GALILEE MEDITERRANEAN SEA FROM
PROVERBS charakter
carakh jr
weekly text truth
In 1986, while the water in the Sea of Galilee was very low, two brothers spotted the remains of an ancient fishing boat. The boat was covered with mud, which had prevented it from decomposing.
HOT AFTERNOON AIR RISING OFF THE LAKE
HE DIED FOR OUR SINS.
WORDS TO KNOW
• Learn about the object that reminds kids of the Bible story and
• The Sea of Galilee is where Jesus calmed the storm. • It's 26 miles East of the Mediterranean Sea. • Cool air from the Mediterranean blows toward the Sea of Galilee where warm air rises in the afternoon. • When mixed together, a storm erupts! • Waves as tall as 7 feet high can be created. We don't know exactly how high the waves in this story were, but check out the 7 foot mark on the fishing boat on the next page!
ALL THINGS ARE ____________ BY HIS WORD.
DOES
• Unpack biblical text and study the meaning
RECIPE FOR A STORM
HE IS THE _____________ OF GOD’S ______________.
IS
THINGS JESUS
• Study connections between passages
BIG WAVES
JESUS IS THE SON OF GOD. WHEN
Magazine-style guide engages older kids as they dig deep into Scripture.
10/29/13 9:13 AM
STORM
OLDER KIDS POSTER PACK
For the next seven years, the boat soaked in a special “bathtub” filled with chemicals that would preserve it. It’s now on display the Yigal Allon Museum in Kibbutz Ginosar.
CORE PASSAGE:
Express image; exact copy; exact representation
HEBREWS 1:1-4
CONNECTION PASSAGE:
ECCLESIASTES
FIND THIS WORD IN HEBREW 1:3!
MATTHEW 8:23-27; MARK 4:35-41; LUKE 8:22-25
FAMILY BIBLE VERSE: HEBREWS 1:2A
SONG OF SONGS SONG OF SOLOMON
ISAIAH
JEREMIAH
LAMENTATIONS
Older Kids OCTOBER SAMPLE.indd 2
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Older Kids OCTOBER SAMPLE.indd 3
EZEKIEL
DANIEL
HOSEA
JOEL
WHO IS JESUS?
CHRIST IN CONTEXT
The Book of Hebrews describes how Jesus fulfills the promises and prophecies of the Old Testament as the Son of God and the Son of man. Jesus gave His life as the final sacrifice for sin, establishing a new covenant between God and His peopl e. He is our mediator, creator, high priest, and rescuer. He is perfect and reigns over all.
10/29/13 7:57 AM
S 1:2A
HEBREW about Jesus Read and learn more in Hebrews 1:1-4.
• Visual aids
ENHANCED CD Filled with music and printable items.
DVD Includes a video for each session that helps kids grasp a deeper understanding of the biblical text through exploring the cultural and historical context of Bible times.
EXPLORE THE BIBLE: OLDER KIDS FAMILY CARDS Equips parents with discussion questions that relate to each session.
JESUSuld co CALMS How TH the ORseM usKEe ST u AR yo(M
4:3ns 5- of) descriptio 41 l Jesus to tel o on some e wh Talk is? s Jesu about how Jesus calms Name 3 our storms descriptions today. of Jesus from these verses.
8 Explore the Bible 2 ObjectCard.indd O
• Teacher helps
10/29/13 9:13 AM
WERFUL WHO JESUS IS ALL-PO IS JESUS? JESUS IS AL L-POWERFU SE: L FAMILY MEMORY VER
BibleBooks.indd 3
Filled with leader-friendly resources that make teaching easy.
10/29/13 8:07 AM
• Memory verse • Object of the week
YOUNGER KIDS LEADER GUIDE
SAMPLE
Session
FOR THE LEADER
1
J I F G Hebrews 1:1-4 The Book of Hebrews reveals and explains truths about Jesus that are not treated in depth in other Bible books. In Hebrews we learn much about Jesus as the great High Priest, the perfect Sacrifice, and the Mediator of the new covenant. These truths call for believers to endure in their devotion to Jesus Christ even in times of severe trials. These major themes are all present in seed form in Hebrews 1:1-4. Keep in mind that the writer of Hebrews was addressing a beloved group of people. Like most churches today, the group probably included some strong believers and some weak ones. Perhaps there were a few who professed faith in Christ but were not genuine believers. Some believers at the time Hebrews was written may have shown bold devotion in the past but now were wilting in the face of persecution. The biblical writer showed loving pastoral concern for his readers. He was concerned that some of them might decide the cost of discipleship was too high. He may have feared that some were ready to cave in and go back to Judaism and its practices. So, what is the remedy for weak faith? The remedy starts with a better understanding of God’s Word and what it means. The meat of God’s Word is the answer for faltering faith! It fuels our faith and drives us deeper in our devotion to Christ. The writer of Hebrews knew that if his readers understood who Jesus is and what Jesus has done for them, then they would stand strong and not waver. The same is true for us. When our hearts are set on Jesus and His Word, then we can walk in faith without wavering. The antidote for weak faith is spiritual strength. We can think of it as building our spiritual and theological muscles. Studying the Book of Hebrews under the Spirit’s guidance will fortify us for the challenges of our day.
Explore the Bible Session 1: Jesus Is Fully Godl
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9
OVERVIEW
SESSION FOCUS SESSION TITLE: Jesus Is Fully God CORE PASSAGE: Hebrews 1:1-4 CONNECTION PASSAGES: Matthew 8:23-27; Mark 4:35-41; Luke 8:22-25 FAMILY MEMORY VERSE: Hebrews 1:2a TEXT TRUTH: Jesus is all-powerful.
TOOL LIST
SMALL GROUP OPENING scissors, “Bible Components” (enhanced CD) (Pre-reader option: markers or small stickers)
GROUP TIME Observe: “Hebrews” (Bible Book Posters), Explorer Guides, markers, paper, Bibles, “Hebrews 1:2a” (Poster Pack), scissors (Pre-reader option: index cards) Migrate: Explore the Bible Kids DVD Excavate: Bibles, Explorer Guides, markers, scissors, “Text Truth” strip (Poster Pack) SMALL GROUP TIME Games: “Jesus Statements” (enhanced CD),Gather 1 per team: canned food or
blocks, cotton balls or pom-poms, stack of blocks or set of tangrams, blank paper, scissors, small bag, masking tape, chair Crafts: “Jesus Statements” (enhanced CD) paper towel tubes (1 per child), scissors, masking tape or brown duct tape, brown paint, small containers of water, shallow containers for paint, painting smocks or shirts, newspaper, bamboo skewers, brown construction paper, hole punches (Optional: brown paper and glue or wood grain adhesive paper.) Bible Skills: scissors, bag, Bibles, “Text Truth” (Poster Pack), “Bible Books” (enhanced CD; Pre-reader option: alphabet letters [tiles, magnetic, paper, etc.].), marker
SESSION AT A GLANCE
SMALL GROUP OPENING 10 MINUTES
GROUP TIME 35 MINUTES
SMALL GROUP TIME
(Choose one or more activities)
GAMES
CRAFTS
30 MINUTES BIBLE SKILLS
10 Explore the Bible
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Explore the Bible: Younger Kids
BIBLE STORY
POINTS TO EMPHASIZE IN HEBREWS CORE PASSAGE: Hebrews 1:1-4 • • • •
Hebrews 1:1-4 tells who Jesus is. Jesus is our communicator with God. Jesus made it possible for us to be forgiven. Jesus is all-powerful.
CHRIST IN CONTEXT The Book of Hebrews describes how Jesus fulfills the promises and prophecies of the Old Testament as the Son of God and the Son of man. Jesus gave His life as the final sacrifice for sin, establishing a new covenant between God and His people. He is our mediator, creator, high priest, and rescuer. He is perfect and reigns over all.
JESUS CALMED A STORM CONNECTION PASSAGES: Matthew 8:23-27; Mark 4:35-41; Luke 8:22-25 CONNECTION STATEMENT: Jesus showed His power over nature because He is all-powerful.
A large crowd gathered near the Sea of Galilee to hear Jesus as He taught. The crowd filled the countryside. Jesus chose to sit in a boat on the sea to speak to the people. [Relate that voices carry across the water.] Jesus taught the people many things. He used parables, or stories, to teach the people. When evening came, Jesus said to His disciples, “Let’s go over to the other side of the lake.” Jesus and the disciples left the crowd behind and began to sail to the other side. Other boats sailed with them. Jesus moved to the back of the boat and lay down to rest on a cushion. Soon He was asleep. A big storm came up. Waves crashed over the boat, and the disciples were afraid. The disciples woke up Jesus and asked Him if He cared about them. Jesus spoke to the storm and the waves and wind became calm. “Why are you afraid?” Jesus asked the men. “Don’t you trust Me?” The men were afraid and surprised. They wondered who Jesus was that even the wind and waves obeyed Him.
Explore the Bible Session 1: Jesus Is Fully Godl
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GET STARTED
SMALL GROUP OPENING PREPARE scissors • Print and cut apart 2 copies of “Bible Components” (enhanced CD). • Mix up and lay papers facedown on the floor in a large grid.
PREPARE OPTION FOR PRE-READERS markers or small stickers • Print 2 copies of “Bible Components” (enhanced CD) and cut apart. • Place matching dots of colors or symbols or small stickers to the front side of matching papers. • Lay one set of papers faceup and the other facedown for kids to match.
• Invite the kids to take turns turning over two papers at a time. Kids will keep matches and turn over unmatched papers. • Encourage kids to read aloud the papers they turn over. • Guide kids to match paper colors together when all matches are made. • Comment: “These words and numbers are about a special book. What is that book? (Bible) Yes, the Bible. The Bible is one big story about God, divided into two parts: the Old Testament and the New Testament. Let’s learn some facts about the Old Testament first.” • Lead kids to read aloud the Old Testament facts. • Invite other kids to read aloud the New Testament facts. • Remark: “We will be exploring the Bible each week to learn what its message is to us. We should learn the basic information about the Bible first. The things we just read are the basics. Read over the Old Testament papers one more time. I’ll collect the papers and then ask a few questions to see what you remember.” • Allow kids to review papers and then collect them. • Quiz the kids about the information • Repeat the same activity using the New Testament information. • Conclude: “The Bible is the most important book. The Bible teaches us how to live, act, and how to have a relationship with God through Jesus.” OPTION FOR PRE-READERS • Invite the kids to take turns turning over one paper at a time and matching that paper to the one that is faceup. Kids will keep matches. • Read aloud each match. • Guide kids to match paper colors together when all matches are made. • Display and read aloud each Old Testament paper, briefly defining each term. • Invite kids to repeat each title after you. • Repeat the activity with the New Testament papers. • Lay out one set of papers faceup on the floor. • Invite kids to take turns choosing papers. • Whisper the word from the paper to the child and encourage him to say aloud his word or phrase. • Collect all papers. • Transition to Group Time.
12 Explore the Bible
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Explore the Bible: Younger Kids
GROUP TIME
OBSERVE (LOOKING AT AND NOTING DETAILS IN THE BIBLE) • Welcome kids and pray. • Invite the kids to read aloud the Hebrews poster information. (Pre-reader option: Read aloud the information.) • Say: “We’ll learn from the Book of Hebrews for the next several weeks. Let’s start with Hebrews 1:1.” • Invite a volunteer to read aloud Hebrews 1:1 or read aloud yourself. • Comment: “In Old Testament times, God spoke through prophets, people who told others what God wanted them to know. The prophets spoke at different times (festivals, major events, personal situations). God spoke in different ways (through clouds, to prophets, through events such as a famine). Listen to how God speaks to us now.” • Read aloud the first part of verse 2. • Continue: “After Jesus was born and grew, He was able to tell and teach people about God. God speaks to us now through Jesus’ words in the Bible. In some of our Bibles, Jesus’ words are noted in red letters.” • Distribute Explorer Guides, paper (cards for pre-readers), and markers. • Choose one option to do: ▸ Invite kids to list the descriptions of Jesus listed in verses 2-4. ▸ For pre-readers, invite kids to choose cards for you to read aloud. • Direct the kids to open their Explorer Guides to today’s session. • Guide the kids to use “8 Things Hebrews 1:1-4 Tells About Jesus” to check their answers. (Pre-reader option: Read aloud the list.) • State: “Is Jesus important? Yes! Jesus is very important. Jesus is allpowerful. Through Jesus, we can have a relationship with God. All people lost that relationship with God when Adam and Eve chose to disobey (sin) in the garden. In Old Testament times, the people gave sacrifices of animals and foods to have a relationship with God. A sacrifice is ‘a physical item (animal, grain, etc.) a person brings to God to express devotion, thanksgiving, and the need for forgiveness.’ God sent Jesus to earth to die as a way for us to have forgiveness and a relationship with God. No longer do we need to bring sacrifices to church. Jesus is our sacrifice. We are to love and respect Jesus while we follow what the Bible tells us to do and say. Remember, Jesus is all-powerful—He can do all things.” • Read aloud Hebrews 1:2a, inviting kids to repeat after you.
MIGRATE (MOVE FROM ONE BIBLE BOOK TO ANOTHER) • • • • •
Play “Hebrews: Session 1.” Inquire: “Who has been on a boat?” Allow a few kids to tell about boats. Discuss the video. Transition: “We learned in Hebrews that Jesus is all-powerful. Let’s read in the New Testament about how Jesus has power over nature.”
PREPARE “Hebrews” (Bible Book Posters), Explorer Guides, markers, paper, Bibles, “Hebrews 1:2a” (Poster Pack), scissors • Cut apart a memory verse translation to use.
PREPARE OPTION FOR PRE-READERS index cards, marker, Explorer Guides • Print on separate index cards the “8 Things Hebrews 1:1-4 Tells About Jesus” (Explorer Guide).
PREPARE DVD
Explore the Bible Session 1: Jesus Is Fully Godl
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13
GROUP TIME
PREPARE Bibles, Explorer Guides, markers, “Text Truth” (Poster Pack), scissors • Cut apart “Text Truth” strip.
BIG WAVES THE S BIBLE DOE HT THE HEIG NOT TELL IN OUR WAVES OF THE Y. DRAW BIBLE STOR E NEXT WAV A 7-FOOT ING BOAT. FISH TO THE E BEEN YOU HAV WOULD SCARED?
BOAT DISCOVERY • 1986— EXTREME DROUGHT lowered level of Sea of Galilee • Two brothers found the remains of an ANCIENT BOAT • Scientists took 12 DAYS to remove remains from sea • Scientist used FOAM to preserve the boat • Boat soaked for seven years in special “BATHTUB” filled with chemicals to preserve it • Boat is now on display in a MUSEUM in Israel • Jesus possibly sailed on a boat like this when He CALMED THE STORM on this sea
CORE PASSAGE: HEBREWS 1:1-4
CONNECTION PASSAGE:
MATTHEW 8:23-27; MARK 4:35-41; LUKE 8:22-25
MEMORY VERSE: HEBREWS 1:2A
SUGGESTION Print the references on separate index cards to distribute to groups. JESUS IS
D FULLY GOOWER FUL 2 3 4 5
1
God spe
aks to
is heir JESUS God mad
JESUS
ction
ugh JES
ABO UT
US.
JESUS IS… Color in the box in front of each true statement. Draw pictures of who Jesus is. Use the list to help you.
things. ugh
God’s Son
. JESUS
One of the 12 disciples All-powerful
. of God
er over has pow
JESUS
7
to all
thro world
is a refle
JESUS
6
e the
us thro
: US JES
TH
JESUS IS ALL-P
HEBREWS 1:1-4 TELLS
S ING
it pos made
Ruler over all things
gs.
all thin
us sible for
to
iven. be forg
Is dead Lives in Arizona
heaven. God in
of t hand the righ er are high name and His the angels. JESUS than in rank
Friend
at US sits
JES
8
Loves all people Healed people Born in Germany
SEA OF GALILEE • Meaning “circle”
(Draw a circle around the sea.)
• Freshwater lake in the hills of Northern Palestine (Color hills around the lake.)
• Fed mainly by the Jordan River • 13 miles long and 8 miles wide • Subject to sudden and violent storms with waves up to 7 feet high (Draw waves inside the sea.)
COOL AIR FROM THE MEDITERRANEAN SEA
WARM AIR RISING FROM SEA OF GALILEE
STORM
• Jesus calmed a storm on this sea
SUGGESTION Display “Matthew,” “Mark,” and “Luke” posters (Bible Book Posters) for kids to attach Connection Statement strips.
OPTION Distribute and use the Family Cards during small groups.
EXCAVATE (UNCOVER AND SEARCH THE SCRIPTURES) • Display the boat in an Explorer Guide. • Connect: “This is a replica (model) of a boat from the time when Jesus was on earth. The boats were simple shapes that relied on wind and people rowing to move. Would you be afraid to be on the ocean in such a boat? Boats on oceans now are usually large and made of metal. They have compartments that go below deck where people can eat and sleep. This boat shows areas at the front and back that someone could crawl into or put items inside to keep from getting wet. Imagine Jesus and several disciples being on a boat like this. Let’s learn about this boat trip.” • Lead one group of kids to open their Bibles to Matthew 8:23-27, another to Mark 4:35-41, and the last to Luke 8:22-25, assisting as needed. (Pre-reader option: Invite three kids to stand before the group with Bibles opened to the three books.) • Comment: “Many stories and words in the Bible are repeated. Many times things are repeated because we should learn something from each version of the story. Our Bible story is found in Matthew, Mark, and Luke.” • Tell the Bible story in your own words, or invite kids to read aloud the passages to compare and contrast. • Invite three kids to read aloud Matthew 8:24, Mark 4:37, and Luke 8:23. (Pre-reader option: Read aloud the three verses.) • Guide the kids to look at the picture of the Sea of Galilee in the Explorer Guide. • Read aloud facts about the Sea of Galilee and do the activities listed. • Read aloud the text about height of the waves (orange circle under “Big Waves”), allowing kids to color up to the 7-foot line. • Invite kids to complete the “Jesus Is …” activity. (Pre-reader option: Read aloud each statement, pausing for them to color in the box when needed.) • State: “We read the Bible story from the Books of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. What happened in the boat?” • Lead kids to briefly retell the story. • Invite two kids to display the Text Truth slip papers. • Say: “This statement [point] is our Text Truth—what we learn from our Bible passage. [Allow child to read aloud the statement.] This statement [point] is our connections statement that connects our Hebrews passage with our Bible story.” [Allow child to read aloud the statement.] (Pre-reader option: Read aloud statements.) • Distribute the Family Cards. • Say: “Jesus can calm storms and give us peace when we are afraid. Show your card to a friend and tell him the story about Jesus. When you see a boat, remember that Jesus calms storms and is all-powerful over nature. Put your card [say designated place] as you go to small groups.” • Guide kids to small groups.
14 Explore the Bible
6
Explore the Bible: Younger Kids
SMALL GROUP
BIBLE S
name, • Instruct: “I’ll invite you to pull a Bible book After say the name, and display it to everyone. n Whe e. Bibl your in book that find I say ‘go,’ Bible you find the book, stand up with your opened to the book.” a Bible • Invite a child to pull, say, and display book name. Say: “Go!” Bible. • Call on a child to show the book in his • Continue until each child gets a turn displaying a name. name. If • State: “This time I’ll show a Bible book to this the book is in the Old Testament, move the side of the room [point]. If the book is in t]. New Testament, move to this side [poin ral seve for es nam d alou read and • Display ect any rounds, pausing for kids to move. Corr wrong moves. es but • Challenge kids by not showing the nam simply calling them aloud. we study • Ask: “Which books of the Bible did ) In today? (Matthew, Mark, Luke, Hebrews (New) what testament are these books found? t abou In what book did we learn eight things s thing Jesus? (Hebrews) What are some of the we learned?” (See • Invite kids to recall the statements. g.) listin for e Guid Explorer strip. • Invite a kid to read aloud the Text Truth our is • Conclude: “Jesus is all-power ful. He any calm can He God. with r icato commun storm we face.” • Pray. letters Pre-reader option: marker, bag, alphabet res, etc.) (tiles, magnetic, printed on paper squa floor. • Place several Bible book names on the from rs • Invite kids to take turns pulling lette the to r lette the hing matc and the bag beginning letter of a Bible book name. name. • Lead the kids to say aloud each book d. foun • State in which testament the book is
GAME
RUN RACES
S
(Poster Tools: scissors, Bibles, bag, “Text Truth” Pack) anced Print and cut apart “Bible Books” (enh CD). Place in bag. Cut apart session 1 Text Truth strip.
KILLS
SEARCH FOR BOOKS
Tools: Gather 1 pe r team: canned fo od or blocks, cotton balls or po m-poms, stack of bl ocks or set of tangrams, blan k paper, scissors, sm all bag, masking tape, ch air Tape two star ting lines on the floor for lanes. Tape another shor t line a foot beyo nd where you placed relay items. Place the rela y items at the op posite end of the room from th e starting lines. Print “Jesus St atements” (enhan ced CD). Place a blank pa per behind the st atements and cut apart. M ix all papers and put into the small bag. • Form two team s behind the star ting lines. • Instruct: “We’ ll run several race s, one right after the other. The whole team wi ll finish each race before starting the next on e. Begin at your starting lines and run to th e st acked items. Do what is required, retu rn to yo ur team, tag the ne xt person in line, and go to the end of the lin e as the next pe rson runs.” • Describe the fo llowing races: 1) Demonstrate strength: Pick up a can/block and curl arm to shoulder 10 times . 2) Make wind: Bl ow a cotton ball/ po m -pom across the small er tape piece on the floor. 3) Design somet hing: Use the bl ocks/tangrams to make a design. 4) Chair: Sit in ch air while countin g to 10. 5) Find words: Pu ll a paper from th e bag without looking at it. Gu ess if something is written on it or not. • Assist kids as they run the race s. • Invite kids to te ll how the relays relate to Jesus: 1) Curls: People lift weights to ge t strong and powerful. Jesus is all-power ful. 2) Wind: Jesus ca uses the wind to blow and it can cause storm s. 3) Design: God de signed (created) the world through Jesus. Je sus was there in the beginning. 4) Chair: Jesus sit s at the right hand of God in heaven. 5) Words: Jesus knows everything we think or say. We can read Jesus’ words in th e Bible. • Say: “Jesus is all-power ful. He can calm storms and give us peace when we are afraid.”
Explore the Bible Session 1: Jesus Is Fully Godl
7
15
SMALL GROUP CRA
FTS
MAKE BOATS
t tape, brown paint, small ), scissors, masking tape or brown duc child per (1 s tube l towe er pap s: Tool er, bamboo skewers, brown t, painting smocks or shirts, newspap pain for ers tain con low shal r, wate of containers us Statements” (enhanced CD) construction paper, hole punches, “Jes tube. Draw a line lengthwise on each containers. into t Pour small amounts of pain child. Print “Jesus Statements” for each t pieces together. child) for crossbow of mast. Tape mas Cut some skewers in half (½ per Cover tables in newspaper. Place all items on the table. s instead of painting. ere wood grain adhesive paper to tube adh or er pap n ctio stru con n brow Option: Glue s make boats that look storm happened?” (on a boat) Let’ • Ask: “Where was Jesus when the .” n on. Put on the smocks for painting like the one Jesus might have bee • Assist kids with smocks. er tube. Push each first. Cut along the line on your pap • Guide: “Listen to your directions you the tape and closed. [Demonstrate.] We’ll give set of end pieces together and tape n the bottom of the sides of the tube and press dow help as needed. Gently pull open as the t. Use tape to stand a skewer up the tube to make the hull of the boa e seats if you like.” mast and construction paper to mak • Help kids form boats. scissors. • Distribute “Jesus Statements” and er. Slide the a hole in the top center of each pap ch pun and s boxe the • Say: “Cut apart [point] to form the mast.” papers on each side of your crossbow work. • Talk about the Bible story as kids calmed the storm. The disciples He . rful owe all-p • Apply: “Jesus is is.” Hebrews 1:1-4 exactly who Jesus wondered who He was. We read in ts. • Review the statements on the mas
MISSIONS CONNECTION
TECH CONNECTION
The world still has storms—from rain showers to flooding, capsizing waves on the seas and oceans, tornadoes, and hurricanes. We can help people after bad storms by going to help clean up, sending supplies, or sending money to purchase needed items such as food and water. Several groups such as the Red Cross, Salvation Army, and disaster relief teams go to assist people. Helpers can tell people about Jesus as they assist to meet the people’s needs. Ask the kids how they can help others when devastating storms happen.
Tell parents and kids about the free, downloadable Explore the Bible: Kids app for smart phones and iPad®. The app features an in-class feature along with activities for home. The app can help parents know what their child will learn each week. Kids can enjoy the fun activities and games as they review what they learned.
16 Explore the Bible
8
Explore the Bible: Younger Kids
EXPLORE THE BIBLE:
S R E T S O P E L IB B E H T F O BOOKS To explore the Bible, it helps to know your way around the Bible. Kids will learn the books
THE LAW
GENESIS
of the Bible and understand how each book fits into different genres through the Explore the Bible: Books
GOD CREAT HAS A PLAED EVERYTHING AN D N FOR HIS P EOPLE. W
of the Bible Posters— a must-have for helping kids explore the Bible! Each poster includes interesting
HO
Genesis was written by Mo promised lan ses to the Isr d. aelites
WHAT Is the Ch rist in Co
facts about the Bible including
WHEN
each poster is color-coded according to what genre it is. These posters make a bright and colorful addition
WHERE
WHYGenesis is th e foun
dation for his tory and theo Genesis reve logy for the als man’s ne ed for redemp and lays out God’s plan to tion send a redeem er.
entire Bible.
MON SOLOTES S G OF SON CCLESIA E PROVRBS
PSALMS JOB
ESTHER
NEHEMIAH
ARE THE
LY NUTS HISTORY MENTIONON ED IN
TS CONSUM ED WATER FROM STREAMET COMING FR PO S RY OM THE GR OUND. (GEN. 2:6)
& WISDOM
MARK
GOSPELS
OPHETS MINOR PR
10/29/13
JUDE
HN 3 JO N H 2 JO HN
1 JO
N
HEBREWS
2 PETER 1 PETER JAMES
PHILEMON TITUS
2 TIMOTHY
1 TIMOTHY
NS NIA ALO ESS ANS 2 TH SALONI ES IANS 1 TH OSS COL PHILIPPIANS EPHESIANS GALATIANS
NS 2 CORINTHIA S 1 CORINTHIAN ROMANS
ACTS
HISTORY
ERS
GENERAL
10:47 AM
REVELATIO
OPHETS MAJOR PR
TT PAUL’S LE
JOHN
THE RAVE N IS THE FIRST TYPE MENTIONED OF BIRD IN THE BIBLE. IT APPEAR S IN GENESIS 8:7, WHEN IT IS SENT OUT FROM THE ARK BY NO AH TO SEE IF TH E FLOOD WATERS HA VE ABATED . THE SECOND TYPE OF BIRD WAS A DOVE IN VERSE 8. ,
LUKE
MATTHEW
MALACHI
ZEPHANIAH HABAKKUK
NAHUM
AMOS
H MICA AH JON H DIA OBA
JOEL HOSEA
IEL DAN KIEL EZE TIONS LAMENTA JEREMIAH ISAIAH
ZECHARIAH HAGGAI
LAW
10
ALMONDS AN D PISTACHIOS
GOD DID NO T MAKE IT RA
IN IN THE GARDEN OF EDEN, SO THE PL AN
THE BIBLE. (GENE SIS 43:11)
YEARS.
books.indd
LES
969
EZRA
ED TO THE RIPE OLD AGE OF
2 CHRONIC
METHUSEL AH LIV
ES 1 CHRONICL 2 KINGS
THE LONGES T LIVING PERS ON IN THE BIBLE ?
1 KINGS
2 SAMUEL
JUDGES
L MUE 1 SA H RUT
JOSHUA
NUMBERS
MY ONO TER
DEU LEVITICUS
EXODUS
1
GENESIS
E L B I B E H T BOOKS OF
to any kids area! They’re a great tool to use along with the Leader Pack.
Poster.indd
lled to the
ntext? Everyth decided not ing was crea to give Him glo ted to give Go ry. God’s pla in Genesis. d glory. Peop n to redeem le people throug h His Son Jesu s is reveled The writing of Genesis is co nsidered to ha ve been some where around 1445 BC. Moses would have written from slavery this book some in Egypt to th where on Isr e land of Cana ael’s journey an.
author, audience, and purpose; and
Bookshelf
as they trave
LETTERS
PROPHECY 10/29/13
8:32 AM
Explore the Bible
17
YOUNGER KIDS
JESUS IS
EXPLORERS GUIDE
SAMPLE
D O G Y L L U F OWERFUL. 2 3 4 5
S G N I
HEBREWS 1:1-4 TELLS
ABO UT
: US JES
TH
JESUS IS ALL-P
ESUS. ough J r h t s to u peaks God s . things to all ir e h is J ES U S ESUS. ugh J o r h t e world ade th God m od. n of G flectio e r a is gs. J ES U S all thin r e v o iven. wer e forg has po b S o t U s S ru JE ible fo ven. it poss e d in hea a d m o S G f U do J ES ht han the rig t a s it s igher JESUS e are h m a n is . and H angels JESUS ank than the in r
1
6
7
8
JESUS IS … Color in the box in front of each true statement. Draw pictures of who Jesus is. Use the list to help you. God’s Son One of the 12 disciples All-powerful Ruler over all things Is dead Lives in Arizona Friend Loves all people Healed people Born in Germany
SEA OF GALILEE • Meaning “circle”
(Draw a circle around the sea.)
• Freshwater lake in the hills of Northern Palestine (Color hills around the lake.)
• Fed mainly by the Jordan River • 13 miles long and 8 miles wide • Subject to sudden and violent storms with waves up to 7 feet high (Draw waves inside the sea.)
COOL AIR FROM THE MEDITERRANEAN SEA
18 Explore the Bible
WARM AIR RISING FROM SEA OF GALILEE
STORM
• Jesus calmed a storm on this sea
G I B WAVES TH E O ES BIBLE D HEIG HT H T LL E NOT TE IN OU R WAVES O F TH E RAW TORY. D BIBLE S AVE NEXT TW A 7-FOO HING BOAT. IS F E H TO T E B EE N OU HAV Y D L U WO ? SCARED
BOAT DISCOVERY • 1986— EXTREME DROUGHT lowered level of Sea of Galilee • Two brothers found the remains of an ANCIENT BOAT • Scientists took 12 DAYS to remove remains from sea • Scientist used FOAM to preserve the boat • Boat soaked for seven years in special “BATHTUB” filled with chemicals to preserve it • Boat is now on display in a MUSEUM in Israel • Jesus possibly sailed on a boat like this when He CALMED THE STORM on this sea
CORE PASSAGE: HEBREWS 1:1-4
CONNECTION PASSAGES:
MATTHEW 8:23-27; MARK 4:35-41; LUKE 8:22-25
FAMILY MEMORY Explore theVERSE: Bible 19 HEBREWS 1:2A
MEDIA RESOURCES
VD ible: Kids D B e h t e r lo Exp re where aced adventu p ts fa a n o s Take kid istory and coop on the h s e th t e g ’ll y the ion, h week’s sess c a e d in h e b culture wn lives. text to their o l a lic ib b e th connecting
he Bible: Explore t PP Family A to namic tool Use this dy 3D pture, view ri c S e in m exa ing d play excit objects, an games.
20 Explore the Bible
S E C R U O S E R P I H S R O W Worship: Give opportunity for kids
the Bible to respond to what they learn from ship. through powerful and engaging wor hours Both Preschool and Kids Worship videos will include original songs, mission of what and activities, and a continuation le: Kids was learned in the Explore the Bib teaching hour.
Deliver a
WORSHIP EXPERIENCE
session. that reinforces each weekly
Kids Explore the Bible: rship Tool Kit with Wom ore! ic, and
Videos, scripts, mus • DVD • DVD-ROM • Enhanced CD Also available:
Preschool Tool Kit with Worship
Explore the Bible
21
E L B I B E H T E R O EXPL F O S P U O R G H WIT ALL AGES dy for all Book-by-book stu d students study the ages. Each week, adults an
me while kids study the sa re tu rip Sc of e ag ss pa same ed ok, incorporating relat bo e m sa e th in t ep nc co ut the Bible to create a narrative from througho kid-friendly lesson.
all ages. Memory verse for
eschool helps everyone from pr A Bible memory verse ts. on each week’s concep to adults dwell together
22 Explore the Bible
STUDY PLAN Studying the Bible
seem book-by-book may plore the Bible is daunting. That’s why Ex
year study cycles. Each designed around threee of biblical literature to cycle features every typ w of Scripture for your provide a balanced vie re oose to use the Explo kids. Families may ch a way to engage in the the Bible study plan as e: ew the study plan onlin Scriptures together. Vi
ible
reTheB LifeWay.com/Explo
Explore the Bible
23
速
Book-by-book studies for groups of all ages
Let the Word Dwell in You.
COMING
FALL 2014! PRESCHOOL & KIDS
Hebrews 速
PERSONAL STUDY GUIDE
Hebrews Fall 2014 > HCSB
David Jeremiah, General Editor
ADULTS
Hebrews
Personal Study Guide > Fall 2014
Kids
David Jeremiah, General Editor
YOUNG ADULTS
STUDENTS
Preview one month free. LifeWay.com/ExploreTheBible
24 Explore the Bible
速 速
Personal Study Guide > Fall 2014 David Jeremiah, General Editor
KIDS