ELEMENTARY/ KIDS & FAMILIES date:
This resource is designed to allow your family to have time in God’s Word BEFORE your children attend church. Because God’s plan is for parents to be the primary spiritual nurturers of their children’s faith, we want YOU to be the one to introduce this part of The Big God Story to them. For additional support in spiritual parenting and to learn more about creating transforming environments in your home, be sure to pick up HomeFront: A Spiritual Parenting Resource from your church or download at HomeFrontMag.com. You can also access the HomeFront app for your iPhone, iPad, or Android device.
God Calls Us to Life with Him
4.11
Younger Kids
Did You Know? • In order to take up his new identity in Christ, Paul would no longer cling to his worldly identity as a Pharisee, a man from Tarsus, and a Roman citizen—three titles that carried a lot of status in his day.
Older Kids
• Pharisees were some of the most revered men in Jewish society. The word Pharisee means “set apart.” • Tarsus was a widely known center of excellence in philosophy and literature. Association with Tarsus would have been a badge of honor.
Teachable Moments
Acts 27—28
Remember Verse for the environment of IDENTITY
Fun Just forthey ’re going to hear about
Gather your children and tell them e following Jesus. Read an adventure at sea that Paul had whil urage your children to close Acts 27:27–43. As you read, enco wreck might have been like. ship the their eyes and imagine what for 14 days! Ask them to Remind them that the storm lasted if they’d been there. done have t describe what they migh
Your older child may desire more independence. Although it’s healthy for her to begin to have experiences outside of the home, she still needs plenty of guidance and safe limits from parents.
• Roman citizenship was coveted during Paul’s time. Citizenship allowed one to travel without restraint, gave one the right to vote, and exempted one from the death penalty (except in cases of treason).
Part of The Big God Story Paul in Rome
Your younger child may react impulsively when feeling stressed, tired, or insecure. Established routines continue to be an important part of managing your child’s emotions.
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! 2 Corinthians 5:17
After reading Acts 27:27–43, discuss the following together: • What happened when the ship struck land? • What were some of the things that happened to Paul as he journeyed with God? • How can living your life with God be an adventure?
Blessing For more information about blessing your child see the Blessing section in HomeFront: A Spiritual Parenting Resource.
A blessing to pray over your child: (Child’s name), may you see how God desires to use you to grow His kingdom and to help other believers live in their identity as His child. © 2014 David C Cook. TruResources are developed in partnership with ROCKHARBOR Church and a national network of family and children’s ministry leaders. All rights reserved.