YOUNGER KIDS

ACTS

Explorer Guide > Spring 2016 Vance Pitman, General Editor

Kids 

Quarter Overview Spring 2015 THE MISSION Following Christ’s crucifixion and resurrection, He charged His disciples to meet Him in Galilee. There, Jesus gave orders to spread the news about Him. Jesus promised to send a helper. He then ascended into heaven. Stories in this unit also include a focus on Easter.

ACTS (PART 1)

THE KINGDOM EXPANDED As the church in Jerusalem grew, God’s Spirit guided certain men to witness to those who were not of Jewish descent. Kids will hear stories of an Ethiopian man, a woman raised to life, a Roman centurion, the miraculous conversion of Saul, and Peter’s rescue from prison.

Explore the Bible: Younger Kids

The Book of Acts guides kids on a journey through the beginning of the church. The first part of Acts helps kids see what God had planned for the church’s mission, how the church grew, and how it expanded beyond the city of Jerusalem.

THE CHURCH GROWS

During the early days of the church, growth happened exponentially. The church met together and shared with one another, prayed for its leaders, collected offerings for those in need, and endured hardship. However, they were greatly persecuted because of their beliefs.

Table of Contents

EXPLORE THE BIBLE: YOUNGER KIDS LEADER GUIDE Spring 2016 Volume 2 • Number 3

5 JESUS ASCENDED INTO

HEAVEN Session 1 The Mission SUGGESTED FOR THE WEEK OF MAR. 6

13 PENTECOST

Session 2 The Mission SUGGESTED FOR THE WEEK OF MAR. 13

21 THE CHURCH SHARED

Session 3 The Church Grows SUGGESTED FOR THE WEEK OF MAR. 20

29 JESUS’ CRUCIFIXION AND

RESURRECTION Session 4 The Mission SUGGESTED FOR THE WEEK OF MAR. 27

37 PRAYING FOR BOLDNESS

Session 5 The Church Grows SUGGESTED FOR THE WEEK OF APR. 3

45 BELIEVERS IN THE EARLY

CHURCH Session 6 The Church Grows SUGGESTED FOR THE WEEK OF APR. 10

53 OBEDIENCE WHEN

OPPOSED Session 7 The Church Grows SUGGESTED FOR THE WEEK OF APR. 17

61 SEVEN MEN CHOSEN

Session 8 The Church Grows SUGGESTED FOR THE WEEK OF APR. 24

69 THE ETHIOPIAN MAN

Session 9 The Kingdom Expanded SUGGESTED FOR THE WEEK OF MAY 1

77 SAUL’S CONVERSION

Session 10 The Kingdom Expanded SUGGESTED FOR THE WEEK OF MAY 8

85 AENEAS AND DORCAS

Session 11 The Kingdom Expanded SUGGESTED FOR THE WEEK OF MAY 15

93 PETER AND CORNELIUS

Session 12 The Kingdom Expanded SUGGESTED FOR THE WEEK OF MAY 22

101

P ETER RESCUED FROM PRISON Session 13 The Kingdom Expanded SUGGESTED FOR THE WEEK OF MAY 29

Eric Geiger Vice President, Church Resources Vance H. Pitman General Editor Tim Pollard Publishing Team Leader Shelly Harris Content Editor Landry Holmes Manager, Kids Ministry Publishing Jana Magruder Director, Kids Ministry Send questions/comments: Tim Pollard, Explore the Bible: Younger Kids Leader Guide, One LifeWay Plaza, Nashville, TN 37234-0172. Or make comments on the Web at www.lifeway.com. Explore the Bible: Younger Kids Leader Guide (ISSN 23770236; Item Number 005678124) is published quarterly by LifeWay, One LifeWay Plaza, Nashville, TN 372340113, Thom S. Rainer, President. © 2015 LifeWay Printed in the United States of America. For ordering or inquiries, visit www.lifeway.com or WRITE LifeWay Customer Service, One LifeWay Plaza, Nashville, TN 37234-0113. For subscriptions or subscription address changes, EMAIL [email protected], FAX (615)251-5818, or write to the above address. For bulk shipments mailed quarterly to one address, EMAIL [email protected], FAX (615)251-5933, or write to the above address. We believe that the Bible has God for its author; salvation for its end; and truth, without any mixture of error, for its matter and that all Scripture is totally true and trustworthy. To review LifeWay’s doctrinal guideline, please visit www.lifeway.com/doctrinalguideline.



1

At A Glance SESSION

SUGGESTED FOR THE WEEK OF

CORE PASSAGE

TEXT TRUTH

1

March 6

Acts 1:1-11

We should tell others about Jesus.

2

March 13

Acts 2:1-15

God sent the Holy Spirit.

3

March 20

Acts 2:41-47

God’s people should love and help one another.

4

March 27

Luke 24:1-12

Jesus is alive!

5

April 3

Acts 4:1-13

Jesus is the only one who can rescue us from our sin.

6

April 10

Acts 4:36–5:11

God’s people should tell the truth.

7

April 17

Acts 5:25-35,38-42

We must obey God even when people say we shouldn’t.

8

April 24

Acts 6:1-10

We should serve others.

9

May 1

Acts 8:26-31,35,38-39

We should tell others about Jesus.

10

May 8

Acts 9:3-9,15-20

Jesus is the Son of God.

11

May 15

Acts 9:36-43

Jesus healed Aeneas and Dorcas.

12

May 22

Acts 10:9-15,43-48

Anyone can repent of their sin and trust Jesus as their Lord and Savior.

13

May 29

Acts 12:7-12,16-19

God always answers our prayers.

2

Explore the Bible: Younger Kids

BIBLE STORY

FAMILY MEMORY VERSE

Jesus Returned to Heaven (Acts 1:1-14,21-26)

Acts 1:8

A Special Gift (Acts 2:1-40)

John 16:13

Jesus Entered Jerusalem (Luke 19:28-48)

Acts 2:46

Jesus’ Crucifixion and Resurrection (Luke 23:1–24:12)

Acts 2:32

Peter and John Told the Good News (Acts 4:1-31)

Acts 4:12

Believers in the Early Church (Acts 4:32–5:16)

Acts 4:33

The Apostles Obeyed God (Acts 5:17-42)

Acts 5:29

Stephen Served Others (Acts 6:1-10)

Galatians 6:10

Philip Told Others About Jesus (Acts 8:4-13,26-40)

Acts 8:4

Saul Became a Christian (Acts 9:1-22)

Acts 9:20

Aeneas and Dorcas Were Healed (Acts 9:32-43)

Acts 9:42

Cornelius Believed in Jesus (Acts 10:1-43)

Acts 10:34

Peter Was Rescued from Prison (Acts 12:1-17)

Acts 12:5



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Get to Know Your Leader Guide

The weekly session plan is your tool for leading great Bible explorations. For free online training on how to lead a group, visit ministrygrid.com/web/explorethebible.

QUICK LOOK AT THE SESSION

CORE PASSAGE BIBLE STUDY FOR LEADERS

POINTS TO MAKE AND THE BIBLE STORY

OVERVIEW

FOR THE LEADER

SESSION FOCUS

JESUS RETURNED TO HEAVEN

CORE PASSAGE: Acts 1:1-11 CONNECTION PASSAGE: Acts 1:1-14,21-26 FAMILY MEMORY VERSE: Acts 1:8 TEXT TRUTH: We should tell others about Jesus.

CONNECTION PASSAGE: Acts 1:1-14,21-26

GET STARTED

1

Session

BIBLE STORY

10 MINUTES

GET STARTED TOOLS ¨ Witness: medium-sized box, duct tape, 7 plastic cups, marker, scissors

Jesus Ascended Into Heaven

Session 1: Jesus Ascended Into Heaven BIBLE STUDY TOOLS

¨ Jumping In: “Christ in Context: Acts” (Poster Pack) ¨ Examine the Text: Bibles, “Maps” (enhanced CD), markers ¨ Tell the Bible Story: Family Cards, “The Gospel” (enhanced CD) ¨ Family Memory Verse: “Acts 1:8” (Poster Pack)

Acts 1:1-11 The opening chapter of Acts is teeming with the expectation of a dynamic sequel regarding all that Jesus began to do and teach. Luke assured Theophilus and all subsequent readers that Jesus is alive and He continues His redemptive mission on earth. Furthermore, Luke explained that Jesus entrusted a strategic gospel mission to the apostles, as well as to all of the believers. The mission required a higher power because it could not be accomplished on the basis of human energy and effort. Therefore, Jesus promised the apostles the Holy Spirit. While Jesus ministered on earth, the apostles experienced the Spirit through Jesus. After Jesus ascended to heaven, the apostles would experience Jesus through the Holy Spirit. Although the apostles wondered if the time of the restoration of Israel’s kingdom was at hand, Jesus turned their focus away from an earthly kingdom and toward an eternal kingdom. When Jesus ascended into heaven, two angels reminded the apostles that He would return. A group of 120 believers gathered in prayer and waited for the promised fulfillment of the Holy Spirit. While waiting, Peter led them to select another believer to replace Judas Iscariot. The group proposed two worthy men who bore personal testimony about Jesus’ ministry and were witnesses to His resurrection. Trusting God’s guidance, the group selected Matthias to join the apostles as they awaited the fulfillment of Jesus’ promise and the coming of the Holy Spirit.

Session 1: Jesus Ascended Into Heaven

¨ Play the Video: Explore the Bible On Location Video ¨ Text Truth and Connection Statement: “Text Truth Strips” and “Connection Statements” (Poster Pack), “Acts” (Books of the Bible Posters) ¨ Review Family Cards: Family Cards SMALL GROUP TOOLS ¨ Explorer Guide: Explorer Guides, Bibles, pens

TIP: A picture of the object is available on the DVD-ROM for projecting in a large group Bible Study setting.

Suddenly, two men in white clothes appeared. They were angels! They asked the people, “Why are you staring? Jesus has returned to be with God. He will come again one day.” Jesus’ followers walked back to Jerusalem. They—the disciples and Jesus’ other followers—gathered together and prayed. Because Judas had betrayed Jesus and then died, the disciples needed to select a new disciple to join their group. The disciples wanted to pick someone who had followed Jesus just like they had and had seen and heard the many things Jesus had done during His time on earth. The disciples asked God for help. God helped them choose a man named Matthias.

NOTE: Downloadable versions of DVD items are available in the Digital Video Bundle. Downloadable versions of enhanced CD items are available in the Music and Print Extras Bundle. For free online training on how to lead a group, visit ministrygrid.com/web/explorethebible.

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5

Explore the Bible: Younger Kids

Session 1: Jesus Ascended Into Heaven

JUMPING IN • State: “Today we will be beginning a new book of the Bible.” • Show the “Christ in Context: Acts” Poster. Read over the points with kids.

SMALL GROUP

SMALL GROUP (30 MINUTES)

Explorer Guides, Bibles, pens

others about Jesus. kids tell others about • Pray, asking Him to help Jesus.

ACTIVITIES • Select one or more of the activities to complete as time allows.

BIBLE S

NEW TESTAMENT CUPS

L

OR

Tools: Bibles, box and cups from earlier, marker

cups. the New Testament on the inside of the ¨ Print the names of the first 7 books of earlier activity. ¨ Arrange the cups and box like in the

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CD) , Tools: copies of “The Gospel” (enhanced metal rim, markers, round paper key tags with pens, Bibles page. Review • Show kids the “The Gospel” kids. God’s Plan for Salvation with a tool to help • Explain: “Everyone can make you go.” you be a witness wherever key tags. • Provide each kid with 5-10 to decorate markers • Encourage kids to use the Scriptures from their tags with phrases and “The Gospel.” about what it • Continue talking with kids Jesus. for witness a be to means the gospel tags to • Encourage kids to attach sports bags, their backpacks, purses, jackets, and so forth. We should tell • Review today’s Text Truth:

TOOLS:

EXPLORER GUIDES • Guide boys and girls to locate today’s page “Jesus Ascended to Heaven.” • Help kids review today’s Bible story by completing “Story Sequence.” • Discuss the twelve disciples as kids fill-in the “Shape Code.” Lead kids to circle Matthias’ name. • Review today’s Text Truth: We should tell others about Jesus. • Ask for volunteers to take turns reading the information in “How Was It Made?” • Guide kids to examine the “Mount of Olives” and the information about this special place. • Remind kids of Acts 1:8 as you help them identify each area mentioned on the map.

EX P

REVIEW FAMILY CARDS • Invite a child to pass the Family Cards out to everyone. Session 1: Jesus Ascended Into Heaven • Encourage kids to think of things they can tell their families about what they learned today. • Mention: “Each time you see this object, you can remember God wants you to be His witness. He wants you to tell others about Him.” • Pray with kids. • Transition to Small Group.

GOSPEL TAGS

S KILL

to be His witnesses. Those must be very important words.” PLAY THE VIDEO

• Play the “Acts: Session 1” video. TELL THE BIBLE STORY • Ask: “How didthe thescript roadsprovided help people others about Jesus during Bible • Tell the Bible story using as atell guide. Who are some some important people we can tellJesus aboutsaid. Jesus?” • Say: “Earliertimes? we read about words Does anyone remember what those were?” Guide kids to look at verse 8. LEARN THE TEXT TRUTH AND CONNECTION STATEMENT Affirm children that Jesus wants them to be His witnesses, too! • Look together at the “Text Truth Strip” and “Connection Statement.” • Say: “Jesus talked to the disciples at the Mount of Olives.” Show the • Ask volunteers to read each one. object on the Family Cards. Comment: “This is a picture of the Mount • Invite a child to attach them to the “Acts” poster. of Olives. Each time you see this you can remember that Jesus spoke

AT I O N

(Acts) “What part of the Bible is the Bible we were studying in today?” • Ask: “Who remembers what book of of the New Testament!” to play a game to review some of the books Acts in?” (New Testament) “We are going will then read name written on box to knock down a cup. You (or a child) • Invite 1 child to hit the sides of the the cup that was knocked over. as they can. Once they find the to locate the book in their Bible as quickly • Mention that kids should then hurry “shh”. saying are they like lips their over book, kids should put their finger to give. Once you locate Acts you called, we will have a special response • State: “Each time the book of Acts is said to be His witness!” should stand up and say “In Acts Jesus has a turn to knock down cups. • Lead kids to continue playing until everyone tell others about Jesus. • Review today’s Text Truth: We should • Pray.

Session 1: Jesus Ascended Into Heaven

12

ACTS 1:8 PATHS Tools: tape

¨ Make 2 paths on the floor with tape. Each path should have the following stopping points made using the tape: 2 small “J’s”, 2 slightly little larger “J’s”, 2 “S’s”, and one circle at the end. Make more paths if you will have more than 2 groups. ¨ Think of True/False statements about Jesus to call out to kids or use the suggested statements on the enhanced CD. • Form kids into two groups. Ask: “Does anyone remember where Jesus said to be His witness?” (Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and the ends of the earth) Use the letters on the paths to help kids remember. “That’s right, Jesus wants us to be His witness near where we live, and even far away!” • Say: “In order to be a witness for Jesus, you have to know about Him. We are going to play a game to see how much you know.” • Explain: “I am going to give each team an opportunity to answer a true/false statement about Jesus. If your team answers correctly, you may have one person stand on the first J. No one will move if the answer is incorrect. As you answer correctly, your team member will keep moving forward. We will keep playing until one team has answered enough questions correctly to move their person all the way to the circle.” Variation: if you have a lot of kids, consider adding a child to the game board each time a correct answer is given. Kids continue to be added until all the spaces are filled (multiple children on the board instead of just one moving). • Encourage kids to keep reading their Bible and coming to church so they can learn more about Jesus. • Review today’s Text Truth: We should tell others about Jesus. Remind each child to be a witness for Jesus wherever they go. • Pray.

Explore the Bible: Younger Kids

11

USE THE ACTIVITIES TO APPLY THE TEXT TRUTH.

GET THE SESSION STARTED. LEAD KIDS THROUGH BIBLE STUDY.

Check out page 109 for more information about your Leader Guide!

4

GAME

CRA

first three verses. Lead count theDoes number of disciples mentioned in verse 13. (11) • Say: “Look at thekids firstto few verses. it sound like this person had TIP: thatorJudas had betrayed Jesus(had andheard) was no longer with them. never heardComment about Jesus had heard about Him?” “God A picture of the object is • State:to“Because no longer withabout them,Jesus they needed chose someone write theJudas Bookwas of Acts who knew and theto findavailable on the DVD-ROM someone to replace him. They needed someone to help them be witnesses things He said and did. Let’s keep reading.” for projecting in a large group forJesus Jesus.had They prayed toreally God, important and then Matthias chosen.” Bible Study setting. • Mention that something to tell thewas people. “These Guide kids• Comment: to look at verse 8. 12 men, along with others who knew about Jesus, were to be His witnesses. Jesus wanted them to be His witnesses • Mention: “Jesus told the people they were to be His witnesses. What do everywhere. wants be a witness for Him, too!” you think that means?” Jesus (answers will you vary)to“Jesus wants people who know kids in order them to be a witness for Jesus, you need to make about Him• Tell to tell others whatforthey know.” sure they some important information about • Comment Jesus also know told the people where they were to be His Him. witnesses. Explain “The Gospel.” Answer make time to talk Show the •Bible-times Map (enhanced CD).questions Point outand where Jerusalem, individually Judea, Samaria, and thewith rest kids. of the world are. Use the Modern Day Map (enhanced CD) to help kids understand what those areas might look like to them. LEARN THE FAMILY MEMORY VERSE • Review the memory verse with kids a few times. • Guide kids to make a star on the city or town they live in. Then have that one achild will say theKids first can word of the verse. FAMILY MEMORY VERSE them color• Explain their state using different color. then color theirThen guide PRE-READER OPTION: another child to join in to say the second word together. country a third color. Say each word for kids to • Continue a child inaround with each word everyone • Explain: “Jesus wantsadding us to tell those us in ouruntil city, as well as is saying the repeat. Continue the activity as entire verse. people in our state, our country, and our world. Jesus wants us to tell suggested. • Mention that as witnesses tell others, those people can tellofothers, too. everyone about Him!” Remind kids their family and friends are part their city. This helps information get to others faster because more people are telling. • Say: “Let’s keep looking at our passage.” Say: “The more thatand arewent witnesses tell others about Jesus, the • Help kids•understand that people Jesus left up to and Heaven. Say: “The more people will be able to hear.” last thing Jesus told people, before He went up to heaven, was for them

Explore the Bible: Younger Kids

SMALL GROUP

TOOLS:

“Acts 1:8,” “Text Truth Strips,” “Connection Statements,” “Christ in Context: Acts” (Poster Pack); “Acts” (Books of EXAMINE THE TEXT the Bible Posters); “Maps” and • Ask: “What part of the Bible is Acts in?” (New Testament) “What book “The Gospel” (enhanced CD); comes before it?” (John) “What book comes after it?” (Romans) “OK, now Explore the Bible: Kids video; find Acts in your Bibles.” Demonstrate how to use the table of contents. Bibles; Family Cards; Explorer important words there. Jesus wants to be Histowitnesses.” • Begin reading the passage together. Request for us volunteers read the • Ask kids if anyone remembers how many disciples there were. (12)Guides

Explore the Bible: Younger Kids

7

S

BIBLE STUDY (35 MINUTES)

WITNESS • Ask: “Who can tell me what the word ‘witness’ means?” Allow time for kids to answer. • Explain: “A ‘witness’ is someone who knows about or sees something and tells others about it.” • Form kids into two groups. • Explain that today groups are going to be a witness to something. • Instruct the first team to run down and put the cups in order to spell witness. Then the team will have to hit the sides of the box to make air shoot out to knock the cups down. Kids can turn the box to aim at the cups. Allow the team a specific number of tries. • Ask the other team: “OK, you are my witnesses. How many cups did they knock down?” Once they give you their answer, guide teams to switch tasks. • Say: “You guys are good witnesses! In our Bible passage today, someone talks about being a witness. Let’s see what He has to say.” • Transition to Bible Study.

10

Jesus told His followers to share the good news.

• Jesus will return. • We are to tell people about Jesus. • Jesus wants all people to hear about Him.

GET STARTED (10 MINUTES) BIBLE STUDY

CONNECTION STATEMENT:

KEY CONNECTIONS TO ACTS

BIBLE STUDY

OPTION FOR PRE-READERS • Number the cups as well so pre-readers can use the numbers to put them in order.

8

¨ Bible Skills: Bibles, box and cups from earlier, marker ¨ Crafts: “The Gospel” (enhanced CD), markers, round paper key tags with metal rim, pens, Bibles ¨ Games: tape

One day, Jesus walked with His disciples to a mountain outside of the city. Jesus told His followers to travel all over the world to tell other people about Him. As soon as He said that, Jesus was taken up to be with God again. The people stood around staring at the clouds where they had last seen Jesus. They probably were wondering what was going on. Would Jesus come back? Would they see Him again?

The Book of Acts records the continuation of Jesus’ ministry and the history of the early church. After Jesus’ ascension, the Holy Spirit came and empowered Jesus’ followers to share the gospel of Jesus Christ all over the world. Jesus’ ministry continued through His faithful followers and many people received Jesus as their Lord and Savior.

S FT

medium-sized box, duct tape, 7 plastic cups, marker, scissors • Cut a 6-inch circle in the front of the box. Seal each edge of the entire box with tape so no air leaks out except through the hole. • Print one letter of the word witness on each cup. • Place the cups on a table or the floor, and position the box about 5 feet away, at the same height.

SMALL GROUP

30 MINUTES

After Jesus died on the cross and God raised Him from the grave, Jesus appeared to His friends many times. For 40 days, Jesus taught them more about God and His Kingdom. Jesus told His followers to stay in Jerusalem until God sent the special helper—the Holy Spirit.

CORE PASSAGE: Acts 1:1-11

GET STARTED

TOOLS:

BIBLE STUDY

35 MINUTES

CHRIST IN CONTEXT:

Explore the Bible: Younger Kids

Session

FOR THE LEADER

1

Jesus Ascended Into Heaven Acts 1:1-11 The opening chapter of Acts is teeming with the expectation of a dynamic sequel regarding all that Jesus began to do and teach. Luke assured Theophilus and all subsequent readers that Jesus is alive and He continues His redemptive mission on earth. Furthermore, Luke explained that Jesus entrusted a strategic gospel mission to the apostles, as well as to all of the believers. The mission required a higher power because it could not be accomplished on the basis of human energy and effort. Therefore, Jesus promised the apostles the Holy Spirit. While Jesus ministered on earth, the apostles experienced the Spirit through Jesus. After Jesus ascended to heaven, the apostles would experience Jesus through the Holy Spirit. Although the apostles wondered if the time of the restoration of Israel’s kingdom was at hand, Jesus turned their focus away from an earthly kingdom and toward an eternal kingdom. When Jesus ascended into heaven, two angels reminded the apostles that He would return. A group of 120 believers gathered in prayer and waited for the promised fulfillment of the Holy Spirit. While waiting, Peter led them to select another believer to replace Judas Iscariot. The group proposed two worthy men who bore personal testimony about Jesus’ ministry and were witnesses to His resurrection. Trusting God’s guidance, the group selected Matthias to join the apostles as they awaited the fulfillment of Jesus’ promise and the coming of the Holy Spirit.

Session 1: Jesus Ascended Into Heaven

5

OVERVIEW

SESSION FOCUS CORE PASSAGE: Acts 1:1-11 CONNECTION PASSAGE: Acts 1:1-14,21-26 FAMILY MEMORY VERSE: Acts 1:8 TEXT TRUTH: We should tell others about Jesus. GET STARTED

10 MINUTES

GET STARTED TOOLS ¨¨ Witness: medium-sized box, duct tape, 7 plastic cups, marker, scissors BIBLE STUDY TOOLS ¨¨ Jumping In: “Christ in Context: Acts” (Poster Pack) ¨¨ Examine the Text: Bibles, “Maps” (enhanced CD), markers ¨¨ Tell the Bible Story: Family Cards, “The Gospel” (enhanced CD) ¨¨ Family Memory Verse: “Acts 1:8” (Poster Pack)

BIBLE STUDY

35 MINUTES

SMALL GROUP

30 MINUTES

¨¨ Play the Video: Explore the Bible On Location Video ¨¨ Text Truth and Connection Statement: “Text Truth Strips” and “Connection Statements” (Poster Pack), “Acts” (Books of the Bible Posters) ¨¨ Review Family Cards: Family Cards SMALL GROUP TOOLS ¨¨ Explorer Guide: Explorer Guides, Bibles, pens

¨¨ Bible Skills: Bibles, box and cups from earlier, marker ¨¨ Crafts: “The Gospel” (enhanced CD), markers, round paper key tags with metal rim, pens, Bibles ¨¨ Games: tape TIP: A picture of the object is available on the DVD-ROM for projecting in a large group Bible Study setting.

NOTE: Downloadable versions of DVD items are available in the Digital Video Bundle. Downloadable versions of enhanced CD items are available in the Music and Print Extras Bundle. For free online training on how to lead a group, visit ministrygrid.com/web/explorethebible.

6

Explore the Bible: Younger Kids

BIBLE STORY

JESUS RETURNED TO HEAVEN

CHRIST IN CONTEXT:

CONNECTION PASSAGE: Acts 1:1-14,21-26

After Jesus died on the cross and God raised Him from the grave, Jesus appeared to His friends many times. For 40 days, Jesus taught them more about God and His Kingdom. Jesus told His followers to stay in Jerusalem until God sent the special helper—the Holy Spirit. One day, Jesus walked with His disciples to a mountain outside of the city. Jesus told His followers to travel all over the world to tell other people about Him. As soon as He said that, Jesus was taken up to be with God again. The people stood around staring at the clouds where they had last seen Jesus. They probably were wondering what was going on. Would Jesus come back? Would they see Him again?

The Book of Acts records the continuation of Jesus’ ministry and the history of the early church. After Jesus’ ascension, the Holy Spirit came and empowered Jesus’ followers to share the gospel of Jesus Christ all over the world. Jesus’ ministry continued through His faithful followers and many people received Jesus as their Lord and Savior.

Suddenly, two men in white clothes appeared. They were angels! They asked the people, “Why are you staring? Jesus has returned to be with God. He will come again one day.” Jesus’ followers walked back to Jerusalem. They—the disciples and Jesus’ other followers—gathered together and prayed. Because Judas had betrayed Jesus and then died, the disciples needed to select a new disciple to join their group. The disciples wanted to pick someone who had followed Jesus just like they had and had seen and heard the many things Jesus had done during His time on earth. The disciples asked God for help. God helped them choose a man named Matthias.

CONNECTION STATEMENT: Jesus told His followers to share the good news.

KEY CONNECTIONS TO ACTS CORE PASSAGE: Acts 1:1-11 • Jesus will return. • We are to tell people about Jesus. • Jesus wants all people to hear about Him.

Session 1: Jesus Ascended Into Heaven

7

GET STARTED

GET STARTED (10 MINUTES) TOOLS: medium-sized box, duct tape, 7 plastic cups, marker, scissors • Cut a 6-inch circle in the front of the box. Seal each edge of the entire box with tape so no air leaks out except through the hole. • Print one letter of the word witness on each cup. • Place the cups on a table or the floor, and position the box about 5 feet away, at the same height.

WITNESS • Ask: “Who can tell me what the word ‘witness’ means?” Allow time for kids to answer. • Explain: “A ‘witness’ is someone who knows about or sees something and tells others about it.” • Form kids into two groups. • Explain that today groups are going to be a witness to something. • Instruct the first team to run down and put the cups in order to spell witness. Then the team will have to hit the sides of the box to make air shoot out to knock the cups down. Kids can turn the box to aim at the cups. Allow the team a specific number of tries. • Ask the other team: “OK, you are my witnesses. How many cups did they knock down?” Once they give you their answer, guide teams to switch tasks. • Say: “You guys are good witnesses! In our Bible passage today, someone talks about being a witness. Let’s see what He has to say.” • Transition to Bible Study. OPTION FOR PRE-READERS • Number the cups as well so pre-readers can use the numbers to put them in order.

8

Explore the Bible: Younger Kids

BIBLE STUDY

BIBLE STUDY (35 MINUTES) JUMPING IN • State: “Today we will be beginning a new book of the Bible.” • Show the “Christ in Context: Acts” Poster. Read over the points with kids. EXAMINE THE TEXT • Ask: “What part of the Bible is Acts in?” (New Testament) “What book comes before it?” (John) “What book comes after it?” (Romans) “OK, now find Acts in your Bibles.” Demonstrate how to use the table of contents. • Begin reading the passage together. Request for volunteers to read the first three verses. • Say: “Look at the first few verses. Does it sound like this person had never heard about Jesus or had heard about Him?” (had heard) “God chose someone to write the Book of Acts who knew about Jesus and the things He said and did. Let’s keep reading.” • Mention that Jesus had something really important to tell the people. Guide kids to look at verse 8. • Mention: “Jesus told the people they were to be His witnesses. What do you think that means?” (answers will vary) “Jesus wants people who know about Him to tell others what they know.” • Comment Jesus also told the people where they were to be His witnesses. Show the Bible-times Map (enhanced CD). Point out where Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and the rest of the world are. Use the Modern Day Map (enhanced CD) to help kids understand what those areas might look like to them. • Guide kids to make a star on the city or town they live in. Then have them color their state using a different color. Kids can then color their country a third color. • Explain: “Jesus wants us to tell those around us in our city, as well as people in our state, our country, and our world. Jesus wants us to tell everyone about Him!” Remind kids their family and friends are part of their city. • Say: “Let’s keep looking at our passage.” • Help kids understand that Jesus left and went up to Heaven. Say: “The last thing Jesus told people, before He went up to heaven, was for them to be His witnesses. Those must be very important words.”

TOOLS: “Acts 1:8,” “Text Truth Strips,” “Connection Statements,” “Christ in Context: Acts” (Poster Pack); “Acts” (Books of the Bible Posters); “Maps” and “The Gospel” (enhanced CD); Explore the Bible: Kids video; Bibles; Family Cards; Explorer Guides

TIP: A picture of the object is available on the DVD-ROM for projecting in a large group Bible Study setting.

TELL THE BIBLE STORY • Tell the Bible story using the script provided as a guide. • Say: “Earlier we read about some important words Jesus said. Does anyone remember what those were?” Guide kids to look at verse 8. Affirm children that Jesus wants them to be His witnesses, too! • Say: “Jesus talked to the disciples at the Mount of Olives.” Show the object on the Family Cards. Comment: “This is a picture of the Mount of Olives. Each time you see this you can remember that Jesus spoke Session 1: Jesus Ascended Into Heaven

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BIBLE STUDY

important words there. Jesus wants us to be His witnesses.” • Ask kids if anyone remembers how many disciples there were. (12) Lead kids to count the number of disciples mentioned in verse 13. (11) Comment that Judas had betrayed Jesus and was no longer with them. • State: “Because Judas was no longer with them, they needed to find someone to replace him. They needed someone to help them be witnesses for Jesus. They prayed to God, and then Matthias was chosen.” • Comment: “These 12 men, along with others who knew about Jesus, were to be His witnesses. Jesus wanted them to be His witnesses everywhere. Jesus wants you to be a witness for Him, too!” • Tell kids in order for them to be a witness for Jesus, you need to make sure they know some important information about Him. • Explain “The Gospel.” Answer questions and make time to talk individually with kids.

FAMILY MEMORY VERSE PRE-READER OPTION: Say each word for kids to repeat. Continue the activity as suggested.

LEARN THE FAMILY MEMORY VERSE • Review the memory verse with kids a few times. • Explain that one child will say the first word of the verse. Then guide another child to join in to say the second word together. • Continue adding a child in with each word until everyone is saying the entire verse. • Mention that as witnesses tell others, those people can tell others, too. This helps information get to others faster because more people are telling. • Say: “The more people that are witnesses and tell others about Jesus, the more people will be able to hear.” PLAY THE VIDEO • Play the “Acts: Session 1” video. • Ask: “How did the roads help people tell others about Jesus during Bible times? Who are some people we can tell about Jesus?” LEARN THE TEXT TRUTH AND CONNECTION STATEMENT • Look together at the “Text Truth Strip” and “Connection Statement.” • Ask volunteers to read each one. • Invite a child to attach them to the “Acts” poster. REVIEW FAMILY CARDS • Invite a child to pass the Family Cards out to everyone. • Encourage kids to think of things they can tell their families about what they learned today. • Mention: “Each time you see this object, you can remember God wants you to be His witness. He wants you to tell others about Him.” • Pray with kids. • Transition to Small Group.

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Explore the Bible: Younger Kids

SMALL GROUP

SMALL GROUP (30 MINUTES)

TOOLS:

EXPLORER GUIDES • Guide boys and girls to locate today’s page “Jesus Ascended to Heaven.” • Help kids review today’s Bible story by completing “Story Sequence.” • Discuss the twelve disciples as kids fill-in the “Shape Code.” Lead kids to circle Matthias’ name. • Review today’s Text Truth: We should tell others about Jesus. • Ask for volunteers to take turns reading the information in “How Was It Made?” • Guide kids to examine the “Mount of Olives” and the information about this special place. • Remind kids of Acts 1:8 as you help them identify each area mentioned on the map.

Explorer Guides, Bibles, pens

ACTIVITIES • Select one or more of the activities to complete as time allows.

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Tools: Bibles, box and cups from earlier, marker

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NEW TESTAMENT CUPS the New Testament on the inside of the ¨¨ Print the names of the first 7 books of earlier activity. ¨¨ Arrange the cups and box like in the

cups.

AT I O N

(Acts) “What part of the Bible is the Bible we were studying in today?” • Ask: “Who remembers what book of books of the New Testament!” g to play a game to review some of the Acts in?” (New Testament) “We are goin ) will then read name written on box to knock down a cup. You (or a child • Invite 1 child to hit the sides of the the cup that was knocked over. kly as they can. Once they find the to locate the book in their Bible as quic • Mention that kids should then hurry their lips like they are saying “shh”. book, kids should put their finger over to give. Once you locate Acts you called, we will have a special response • State: “Each time the book of Acts is s said to be His witness!” should stand up and say “In Acts Jesu yone has a turn to knock down cups. • Lead kids to continue playing until ever tell others about Jesus. • Review today’s Text Truth: We should • Pray.

Session 1: Jesus Ascended Into Heaven

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SMALL GROUP GAME

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GOSPEL TAGS

ced CD) , Tools: copies of “The Gospel” (enhan h metal rim, markers, round paper key tags wit pens, Bibles ” page. Review • Show kids the “The Gospel h kids. God’s Plan for Salvation wit a tool to help ke • Explain: “Everyone can ma go.” you you be a witness wherever tags. key 0 • Provide each kid with 5-1 rs to decorate rke ma • Encourage kids to use the res from iptu Scr their tags with phrases and “The Gospel.” s about what it • Continue talking with kid us. means to be a witness for Jes the gospel tags to • Encourage kids to attach kets, sports bags, their backpacks, purses, jac and so forth. We should tell • Review today’s Text Truth: others about Jesus. kids tell others about • Pray, asking Him to help Jesus.

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Explore the Bible: Younger Kids

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ACTS 1:8 PATHS Tools: tape

¨¨ Make 2 paths on the floor with tape. Each path should have the following stopping points made using the tape: 2 small “J’s”, 2 slightly little larger “J’s”, 2 “S’s”, and one circle at the end. Make more paths if you will have more than 2 groups. ¨¨ Think of True/False statements about Jesus to call out to kids or use the suggested statements on the enhanced CD. • Form kids into two groups. Ask: “Does anyone remember where Jesus said to be His witness?” (Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and the ends of the earth) Use the letters on the paths to help kids remember. “That’s right, Jesus wants us to be His witness near where we live, and even far away!” • Say: “In order to be a witness for Jesus, you have to know about Him. We are going to play a game to see how much you know.” • Explain: “I am going to give each team an opportunity to answer a true/false statement about Jesus. If your team answers correctly, you may have one person stand on the first J. No one will move if the answer is incorrect. As you answer correctly, your team member will keep moving forward. We will keep playing until one team has answered enough questions correctly to move their person all the way to the circle.” Variation: if you have a lot of kids, consider adding a child to the game board each time a correct answer is given. Kids continue to be added until all the spaces are filled (multiple children on the board instead of just one moving). • Encourage kids to keep reading their Bible and coming to church so they can learn more about Jesus. • Review today’s Text Truth: We should tell others about Jesus. Remind each child to be a witness for Jesus wherever they go. • Pray.

Session

FOR THE LEADER

2

Pentecost Acts 2:1-15 Pentecost was the day that Jesus fulfilled His promise. The Holy Spirit came to reside in all those who place their faith in Jesus. The Holy Spirit’s arrival was sudden. He came like a mighty wind into the hearts of believers and ignited their lives like flames of fire so they could boldly declare the message of the gospel. Since Pentecost was one of the main festival occasions, many faithful Jews traveled to Jerusalem to celebrate and worship. Jews and proselytes from several ethnic groups heard the truth about Jesus in their own particular dialect. They were astounded to hear Galileans speaking languages they could not possibly have known. Some listeners sneered and thought the joyful proclamation was the result of too much wine. But the believers were filled with the Holy Spirit. The arrival of the Holy Spirit marked the beginning of the church. The indwelling Spirit sealed believers to Christ and connected them to one another in an unprecedented union for an unwavering witness. Empowered by the Holy Spirit, Peter went on to explain the prophecies of Joel and the words of David concerning the events that had taken place: the resurrection of Christ and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on humanity. Endowed by the Holy Spirit and fueled by the gospel presentation in Peter’s first sermon, the Jerusalem church began its mission to continue the work of the Savior.

Session 2: Pentecost

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OVERVIEW

SESSION FOCUS CORE PASSAGE: Acts 2:1-15 CONNECTION PASSAGES: Acts 2:1-40 FAMILY MEMORY VERSE: John 16:13 TEXT TRUTH: God sent the Holy Spirit. GET STARTED

10 MINUTES

GET STARTED TOOLS ¨¨ A Special Gift: 2 gift bags or wrapped gift boxes, sticky notes, 2 different color markers, Family Cards BIBLE STUDY TOOLS ¨¨ Jumping In: “Christ in Context: Acts” (Poster Pack), “Acts” (Books of the Bible Poster) ¨¨ Examine the Text: Bibles ¨¨ Tell the Bible Story: index cards ¨¨ Family Memory Verse: “John 16:13” (Poster Pack)

BIBLE STUDY

35 MINUTES

SMALL GROUP

30 MINUTES

¨¨ Play the Video: Explore the Bible On Location Video ¨¨ Text Truth and Connection Statement: “Text Truth Strips” and “Connection Statements” (Poster Pack), “Acts” (Books of the Bible Posters) ¨¨ Review Family Cards: Family Cards SMALL GROUP TOOLS ¨¨ Explorer Guide: Explorer Guides, Bibles, pens ¨¨ Bible Skills: Bibles, 6 pieces of paper, marker, Giant Game Cube or a cardboard box

¨¨ Crafts: brown shipping paper, paint, straws, scissors, paint smocks, plastic tablecloth or newspaper ¨¨ Games: “Foreign Language Cards” (enhanced CD), scissors

Note: To order the Giant Inflatable Game Cube (005630803), call 1.800.458.2772 or order online at www.lifeway.com

NOTE: Downloadable versions of DVD items are available in the Digital Video Bundle. Downloadable versions of enhanced CD items are available in the Music and Print Extras Bundle. For free online training on how to lead a group, visit ministrygrid.com/web/explorethebible.

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Explore the Bible: Younger Kids

BIBLE STORY

A SPECIAL GIFT CONNECTION PASSAGE: Acts 2:1-40

Jesus had returned to heaven and the disciples obeyed His instructions to stay in Jerusalem. They were waiting for the special helper—the Holy Spirit—to come just as Jesus had promised. The disciples were gathered together when suddenly they heard a sound like a rushing wind. The sound filled the house they were staying in. Suddenly, Jesus’ followers knew the special helper had come to help them. The Holy Spirit helped the people to speak different languages.

CHRIST IN CONTEXT: The Book of Acts records the continuation of Jesus’ ministry and the history of the early church. After Jesus’ ascension, the Holy Spirit came and empowered Jesus’ followers to share the gospel of Jesus Christ all over the world. Jesus’ ministry continued through His faithful followers and many people received Jesus as their Lord and Savior.

Jesus’ followers went outside. A crowd of people from many different nations had come to Jerusalem. Jesus’ followers began to tell the people about Jesus. Suddenly, the people could hear someone talking to them in their own language. They were shocked and surprised. “Why can we hear someone speaking our language?” they all wondered. Peter stood up and began to teach the people about Jesus. Peter explained that God had told them all about Jesus through the Scriptures. Jesus had performed miracles, wonders and signs. The people had killed Jesus on a cross, but God had raised Him from the dead. Peter said, “We saw all of these things that happened. Now Jesus is with God. Jesus is Lord and Messiah!” Many people in the crowd realized that they were sorry for their sins. They asked Peter, “What should we do?” Peter replied, “Repent. You will be forgiven.” That day about 3,000 people repented of their sins and trusted Jesus as their Lord and Savior.

CONNECTION STATEMENT: The Holy Spirit helps us know, love, and obey God.

KEY CONNECTIONS TO ACTS CORE PASSAGE: Acts 2:1-15 • Jesus is the Messiah and Lord. • Peter boldly told the people about Jesus. • Many of the people repented of their sin and trusted Jesus as Lord and Savior. • The Holy Spirit gave Jesus’ followers the power they needed to tell others about Jesus.

Session 2: Pentecost

15

GET STARTED

GET STARTED (10 MINUTES) TOOLS: 2 gift bags or wrapped gift boxes, sticky notes, 2 different color markers, Family Cards • Print one letter of the words “Holy Spirit” on each note paper. Make 2 sets. Use a different color marker for each word. • Place the papers in the “gifts” prior to wrapping.

A SPECIAL GIFT • Ask: “Who remembers what we read about last time?” Give kids time to answer. Show the object on the Session 1 Family Cards. Remind kids: “Jesus spoke to people at the Mount of Olives. He told them to be His witnesses. He also told them to wait for a special helper. Let’s play a game to see if we can figure out who they had to wait for.” • Form kids into two teams. Explain that when you say “start” teams will unwrap their gift, and try to unscramble the letters to make two words. • Call “Start” and guide kids to begin unscrambling the words inside their gifts. Once kids are done, mention that Jesus told the people to wait for the Holy Spirit. Comment: “The Holy Spirit is a special gift God gave them.” Ask kids to name some things they may already know about the Holy Spirit. Say: “Let’s look at our passage and see what it has to say about this special gift.” • Transition to Bible Study. OPTION FOR PRE-READERS • Make a duplicate set of letters for each group. Attach them to the wall. • Make this activity a relay. Kids should run down, take a letter from the gift, and attach it to the matching letter on the wall. Once all letters are placed correctly, teams should sit down and spell the words out loud (like a chant). • Read the words to teams once they are done. • Say: “The Holy Spirit is a gift God gives us. Today we are going to read in the Bible and discover what it says about this special gift. • Transition to Bible Study.

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Explore the Bible: Younger Kids

BIBLE STUDY

BIBLE STUDY (35 MINUTES) JUMPING IN • Ask a volunteer to pray. • Introduce the “Acts” poster and read one or two of the questions and answers. Review the “Christ in Context: Acts” poster. Read over the points together with kids. EXAMINE THE TEXT • Give kids verbal clues to help them find Acts in their Bibles. • Say: “Last time we talked about important words Jesus told the people. Does anyone remember what He told them?” (to be His witnesses) “That’s correct, Jesus told the people to be His witnesses everywhere. Jesus also mentioned they were to wait because God was going to send someone to them. We just played a game to unscramble the name. Do you remember who Jesus told them to wait for?” (Holy Spirit) “Yes, Jesus told the people God would be sending His Holy Spirit to them. Today we are going to read in the Bible about when this happened!” • Lead kids to take turns reading Acts 2:1-2. • Mention: “The day God sent His Holy Spirit was called a special name. Does anyone see what it was called?” Lead kids to look in verse 1. • Continue: “The day was called Pentecost. What did it sound like when God sent the Holy Spirit?” (answers will vary slightly depending on translation) “Verse 2 says it sounded like a loud wind.” Encourage kids to try to make the sound of a loud wind. • State: “The Holy Spirit is a very special gift from God that He still gives to people. When people become Christians, they have the Holy Spirit inside them. The Holy Spirit helps people to know God, love Him, and obey Him.”

TOOLS: “John 16:13,” “Text Truth Strips,” “Connection Statements,” “Christ in Context: Acts” (Poster Pack); “Acts” (Books of the Bible Posters); Explore the Bible: Kids video; Bibles; Family Cards; Explorer Guides; index cards • Print the following references on individual cards: Joel 2:28-32, Psalm 16:8-11, Psalm 110:1. Make multiple sets if you have a large group.

TELL THE BIBLE STORY • Say: “OK, we’ve been talking about the Holy Spirit. Does anyone know how long the Holy Spirit has existed?” (forever) “God, the Holy Spirit, and Jesus have always existed. This might be hard to understand, but God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit are all God. God is so big and sometimes there are things about Him that are just too hard to explain.” • Remark: “Let’s keep reading in Acts.” Tell the Bible story using the script provided or use the following activity for strong readers. • Form kids into groups and give each group an index card with a reference on it. Guide kids to find their passage in the Bible and read it. Then, as a group, kids should turn back to Acts 2 and see if they can find words that look like their passage. Give groups time to read and locate the matching passage. Have groups share what verses in Acts matched their referenced passage. (Joel 2:28-32/Acts 2:17-21, Psalm 16:8-11/Acts 2:25-28, Psalm 110:1/Acts 2:34-35) • Explain: “Peter tried to help the people understand why the Holy Spirit Session 2: Pentecost

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BIBLE STUDY

was there. He reminded them of things already written in Scripture, and explained that these things were now happening. Peter also told them Jesus had come to earth, died on the cross, and rose again to save people. After Jesus died on the cross for people’s sins, He went up to heaven, and God sent the Holy Spirit. Peter was explaining that all of this was a part of God’s plan.” • Pose this question: “How did the people respond to the things Peter said?” Refer kids to verse 37. Help kids understand the people listened to what Peter said and believed. Ask: “What gift did Peter tell the people they would receive in verse 38?” (the Holy Spirit) Lead kids to understand the Holy Spirit is a gift from God, given to anyone who is saved from their sins. Be prepared to review The Gospel to help kids understand what it means to be a Christian. FAMILY MEMORY VERSE PRE-READER OPTION: Review the verse well with kids before you begin.

LEARN THE FAMILY MEMORY VERSE • Use the Internet to look up a few words from the verse in another language. Display “John 16:13.” Share both verses and allow kids to compare the two languages. You may opt to write down the other language so kids can see the words as well as hear them. • Guide kids to open their Bibles and find the verse. • Read the verse a few times with kids. • Explain: “We are going to say the verse together. Sometimes I am going to say a word in another language. When I do, I will toss the ball to someone. That person needs to say the word in our language and toss the ball back to me. Then everyone will keep going with the verse.” • Play through a few times. PLAY THE VIDEO • Play the “Acts: Session 2” video. • Ask: “Who does the Holy Spirit help us tell other people about?” “What did Jesus’ followers do right after the Holy Spirit came?” LEARN THE TEXT TRUTH AND CONNECTION STATEMENT • Review the “Text Truth Strip” and “Connection Statement” with kids. • Ask a child to attach the strips to the “Acts” poster. REVIEW FAMILY CARDS • Ask a child to pass the Family Cards out to everyone. • Show the object on the card to kids. Share: “These are the steps that Peter might have stood on when he preached the sermon we learned about today!” • Encourage children to brainstorm ways they can use the cards this week with their families. • Mention that each time they see the object kids can remember that the Holy Spirit is a special gift sent from God. • Move to Small Group.

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Explore the Bible: Younger Kids

SMALL GROUP

SMALL GROUP (30 MINUTES)

EXPLORER GUIDES • Distribute Explorer Guides and pens. Help kids locate today’s pages. • Ask a volunteer to read the information about the “Upper Room.” Invite a second helper to read “Spotlight On Jerusalem.” • Assist kids in finding the Scriptures in “Special Helper Match.” • Use the “Word Search” to review today’s Bible story. • Review the Text Truth: God sent the Holy Spirit. • Guide kids to look at the information about today’s object. TECH CONNECT (OPTIONAL) • Prior to class, download the Explore the Bible: Kids Family App. • Use the activity labeled “Explorer Plus” on the app. ACTIVITIES • Select one or more of the activities to complete as time allows.

TOOLS: Explorer Guides, Bibles, pens

NOTE: Today, missionaries who live in other countries need people to understand them, too. Many have to study another language for a very long time, sometimes even years, so that they can talk easily to the people in the country they serve in. If missionaries know the language of the people, they can teach the people God loves them. They can also Explain that Jesus came to earth, died on the cross, and rose again so they can be saved from their sins.

BIBLE S S KILL

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CUBE TOSS

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R AT I O N e Cube or a cardboard box one h Tools: Bibles, 6 pieces of paper, marker, Giant Gam attac or J, P, M, R. Place the papers in the cube paper: A, G, ¨¨ Print one of the following letters on each to each side of the box.

after it is tossed. Once the letter cube. I will call out the letter facing up • Say: “You will take turns tossing the and place your finger on it. e to a book that begins with that letter, is called, you will need to open your Bibl ready? Let’s begin.” the name of the book you found. Are you When I yell “special gift,” you will say turn. as many children as possible to have a • Select a child to toss the cube. Allow Book of Acts we learn God gives the in that kids ind Rem letter A is rolled. • Mention the book of Acts when the it. Christians a special gift—the Holy Spir Spirit. Holy the sent God : • Review the Text Truth • Pray.

pre-readers to find the table of contents in their Bibles. Allow Pre-Reader option: Show pre-readers where to point practice pronouncing the different books that they kids Help . ents cont of e tabl the g usin e gam play the to as you play that game.

Session 2: Pentecost

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SMALL GROUP GAME

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GIFT WRAP

straws, Tools: brown shipping paper, paint, lecloth or scissors, paint smocks, plastic tab newspaper

ng paper so each ¨¨ Cut sections of the shippi as wrapping child can have a piece to use paper. lecloth or ¨¨ Cover the table with the tab newspaper. helper did God send • Ask kids: “Which special t up to heaven?” to the people after Jesus wen (Holy Spirit) nd like when the • Question: “What did it sou ple?” (answers Holy Spirit came to the peo mention the wind) may vary, but be sure kids ke a special • Remark that kids can ma m remember the the p hel to wrapping paper that they will special gift God sent. Explain orate it. use their own “wind” to dec nt smock. pai a on slip to • Guide children on each child’s • Place a few dots of paint paper. ir straws to blow the • Show kids how to use the decorate it. paint around their paper to kids as they work. • Talk about the story with Holy Spirit. • Mention that God sent the • Pray.

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LANGUAGE MATCH Tools: “Foreign Language Cards” (enhanced CD), scissors

¨¨ Print and cut out a card for each child in your class. ¨¨ Be sure there are at least 2 copies of each word. • State: “In the passage today, after God sent the Holy Spirit, the people started talking in other languages. Only people from the places where those languages were spoken could understand them. We are going to play a game where the only people who will be able to understand you are the ones speaking the same language as you.” • Review the words on the cards and how to say them. Guide kids to practice saying them along with you. • Hand each child a card and instruct them not to show anyone else. Encourage kids to read the card and practice how to say the word silently. • Explain: “When I say ‘Start’ you will begin walking around saying the word that is on your card. While you are walking, you should also listen to see if anyone else is speaking the same language you are. When you find someone speaking the same language as you, you should both link arms and keep walking and talking.” • Say “Start!” and guide kids to begin. • Continue playing the game until everyone has found their language matches. If time allows, guide kids to switch cards and play again. • Remind kids the Holy Spirit is a special gift, sent by God. Review the Text Truth: God sent the Holy Spirit. • Pray.

Pre-Reader option: Help pre-readers be sure they understand the word on their card. Direct teachers to walk around and whisper each child’s word in their ear before the game begins.

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Explore the Bible: Younger Kids

Session

FOR THE LEADER

3

The Church Shared Acts 2:41-47 As Peter preached the gospel, the death and resurrection of Jesus was still fresh news. Peter’s sermon was pointedly relevant, deeply Scriptural, and thoroughly Christ-centered. In response to his listener’s question, “What does it mean?” Peter explained that what had happened was a fulfillment of Joel’s messianic prophecy (Joel 2:28-32). Furthermore, Peter offered a clear explanation about the authority of Jesus when he cited David’s messianic psalms (Psalms 16; 110) and concluded with the passionate declaration that the crucified Jesus was both “Lord and Messiah.” Peter was filled with the Spirit, but he was also filled with God’s Word. As a result, those who heard the message were compelled to reach a verdict about Jesus in their own lives. Consequently, Peter urged them to repent of their sins and be baptized as a testimony of their surrender to Christ. The response to Peter’s message was staggering as 3,000 people became new believers. A community of Christ-followers was born and they prioritized teaching, fellowship, the breaking of bread, and praying. They loved one another and they displayed grace to everyone in Jerusalem. Their example continues to shine across the centuries and beckons churches today to manifest the mission of Jesus.

Session 3: The Church Shared

21

OVERVIEW

SESSION FOCUS CORE PASSAGE: Acts 2:41-47 CONNECTION PASSAGES: Luke 19:28-48 FAMILY MEMORY VERSE: Acts 2:46 TEXT TRUTH: God’s people should love and help one another. GET STARTED

10 MINUTES

GET STARTED TOOLS ¨¨ Bucket Challenge: 4 buckets, rope or yarn, scissors, 6-10 table tennis balls BIBLE STUDY TOOLS ¨¨ Jumping In: “Christ in Context: Acts” (Poster Pack) ¨¨ Examine the Text: Bibles, Family Cards ¨¨ Tell the Bible Story: marker, index cards, items that can be used as props to play out the Bible story (optional)

BIBLE STUDY

35 MINUTES

SMALL GROUP

30 MINUTES

¨¨ Family Memory Verse: “Allergy Alert” (enhanced CD); “Acts 2:46” (Poster Pack); simple, nonmessy snack (ex: fruit snacks or crackers) ¨¨ Play the Video: Explore the Bible On Location Video ¨¨ Text Truth and Connection Statement: “Text Truth Strips” and “Connection Statements” (Poster Pack), “Acts” and “Luke” (Books of the Bible Posters) ¨¨ Review Family Cards: Family Cards

SMALL GROUP TOOLS ¨¨ Explorer Guide: Explorer Guides, Bibles, pens ¨¨ Bible Skills: Bibles, buckets with rope from earlier, 2 sets of the New Testament cards from “Bible Book Cards” (enhanced CD), paper clips, tape, scissors ¨¨ Crafts: various craft supplies (ex: markers, paint, paper, stickers, leaves, string, pencils, glue) ¨¨ Games: “Allergy Alert” (enhanced CD), uncooked spaghetti, o-shaped cereal or small beads

NOTE: Downloadable versions of DVD items are available in the Digital Video Bundle. Downloadable versions of enhanced CD items are available in the Music and Print Extras Bundle. For free online training on how to lead a group, visit ministrygrid.com/web/explorethebible.

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Explore the Bible: Younger Kids

BIBLE STORY

JESUS ENTERED JERUSALEM CONNECTION PASSAGE: Luke 19:28-48

Jesus had traveled all over to tell people about God. Now, it was time to go to Jerusalem. As He got closer to Jerusalem, Jesus sent two of the disciples into a nearby village. Jesus told them, “You will find a young donkey. Bring it here. If someone asks you what you are doing, tell them that the Lord needs the donkey.” The two disciples did exactly as Jesus told them. They brought the donkey to Jesus and put their robes on the animal. Jesus began to ride up the road to Jerusalem.

CHRIST IN CONTEXT: The Book of Acts records the continuation of Jesus’ ministry and the history of the early church. After Jesus’ ascension, the Holy Spirit came and empowered Jesus’ followers to share the gospel of Jesus Christ all over the world. Jesus’ ministry continued through His faithful followers and many people received Jesus as their Lord and Savior.

People gathered along the road and spread their robes across the road. The people praised God and said, “The King who comes in the name of the Lord is the blessed One.” The religious teachers did not like what the people were doing. They didn’t want the people to like Jesus. The religious leaders told Jesus to stop the people. Jesus said, “If the people are silent, the rocks would praise Me.” When Jesus entered the city of Jerusalem, He went to the temple complex. He threw out the people who were taking too much money from people. The temple was supposed to be a place for people to pray and learn about God. Jesus was upset that people were not making good choices in the temple. Every day that week Jesus taught in the temple complex, but the religious leaders did not like Him. They began to look for a way to get rid of Jesus, but they couldn’t find one yet because all of the people loved what Jesus was doing and saying.

CONNECTION STATEMENT: The people celebrated Jesus.

KEY CONNECTIONS TO ACTS CORE PASSAGE: Acts 2:41-47 • The people were united to praise Jesus as He entered Jerusalem. • The religious leaders were upset and did not like the attention Jesus was getting from the people. • God’s people helped each other and were united. This helped the church grow because more people heard the good news about Jesus.

Session 3: The Church Shared

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GET STARTED

GET STARTED (10 MINUTES) TOOLS: 4 buckets, rope or yarn, scissors, 6-10 table tennis balls • Tie pieces of rope around 2 buckets. Leave 2-3 feet at the end before you cut it. Attach at least a few on each bucket so more kids can participate at one time. • Drop half of the table tennis balls in each bucket with rope.

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BUCKET CHALLENGE • Explain: “You are going to have to complete a task together with your teammates. In order to accomplish it, everyone will have to work with one another to get the job done well. If anyone doesn’t help, or you just don’t work together well, your team won’t be able to complete the task.” • Choose kids to form two teams (one child per rope on the buckets). Lead kids to hold onto the rope. • Mention: “Everyone is going to have to work together. You will each hold on to your own rope, and work together to move your bucket over to the one sitting on the floor. Then you will carefully tip the bucket to dump your table tennis balls into the bucket below.” • Direct kids to begin once you have finished with instructions. • Guide everyone to be encouraging and to help their team. • Play a few times to allow all children an opportunity to participate. • State: “To complete the task, everyone had to work together. If only one person had held onto their rope, or if everyone went in different directions, you could not have accomplished it. It took unity (working together) to accomplish it. Today we are going to look at some passages where people were in unity.”

Explore the Bible: Younger Kids

BIBLE STUDY

BIBLE STUDY (35 MINUTES) JUMPING IN • Ask for a volunteer to pray. • Point to the “Christ in Context: Acts” Poster. • Review each point with kids. EXAMINE THE TEXT • Say: “Alright, who remembers what book of the Bible we are studying?” (Acts) “Who remembers what part of the Bible Acts is in?” (New Testament) “Who can name the first 5 books of the New Testament?” (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Acts) “OK, now that we are sure what book we are looking for, let’s find it! Once you find Acts in your Bible, rub your belly like you are hungry.” • Lead kids to take turns reading Acts 2:41-47. • Encourage children to get into groups of 2. Ask a volunteer to name how many things verse 42 says the people did. (4) Explain what each one of these things means in ways younger children can understand. Guide pairs to brainstorm times your church does each of these things. Provide time for groups to share their examples. Be sure to mention that the people did these things together, in unity. Ask: “Which one is your favorite thing that we do at church?” Invite as many kids to answer as time allows. • Lead pairs to look through verses 44-45. Ask: “Does this sound like they were working together or not?” (they were working together) “Yes, the people sold everything they had and used the money to give to anyone who had a need. They worked together, in unity, to make sure everyone in the church was taken care of. God’s people should love and help each other.” • Mention: “The people in this passage took care of one another, worshiped together, ate together, they had unity with one another. They got along and did things together.” Direct pairs to talk about what it might have been like if the people did not get along. Remind children it’s important for God’s people to love and help one another. • Show the object on the Family Cards. Comment: “Each time you see the baptistry you can remember these people loved and helped one another. It can be a reminder that you should love and help others, too.”

TOOLS: “Allergy Alert” (enhanced CD), simple, non-messy snack (ex: fruit snacks or crackers); index card; marker; items that can be used as props to act out Connection Passage (optional); “Acts 2:46,” “Text Truth Strips,” “Connection Statements” (Poster Pack); “Luke,” “Acts” (Books of the Bible Posters) • Print the following references on individual index cards: Luke 19:28-31; Luke 19:32-35; Luke 19:36-40; Luke 19:41-44; Luke 19:45-46; Luke 19:47-48.

EXAMINE THE TEXT PRE-READER OPTION: Help kids locate the Book of Acts. Read Acts 2:41-47 to the kids.

TELL THE BIBLE STORY • Form six groups and hand an index card to each group. Give groups multiple cards if you have a small number of kids. • Explain: “Your group needs to read the passage printed on the card, and be prepared to act it out for everyone.” Encourage children to use as many of the actual words from the Bible as they can. Consider providing props for kids to use. Allow plenty of time for preparation. • Lead each group to share their portion, in order. Session 3: The Church Shared

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BIBLE STUDY

FAMILY MEMORY VERSE PRE-READER OPTION: Be sure to review the verse well with pre-readers. Say the verse and invite kids to say it with you. Every time a word is said, kids should pass the snack. Randomly omit words and challenge the kids to name the word that is missing. If they get it correct, keep going saying the verse and passing the snack. If they don’t, start the verse all over. Kids can have the snack once they make it through the verse completely.

• Discuss the passage with kids after they act it out. • Mention: “Who noticed some people that were working together?” Pause to give kids time to answer. “Jesus asked the disciples to go and get the donkey, they went to get it, and the owner let them take it. They each worked together to get this done. This is an example of how God’s people should love and help one another.” • Ask: “Did you hear a time when people were doing the same thing in unity?” (when the people praised God as Jesus rode into town) Say: “Even though the people did not completely understand who Jesus really was, they did recognize that He was special, and had done amazing things.” Emphasize that together they praised Jesus. LEARN THE FAMILY MEMORY VERSE • Display “Acts 2:46.” Review the verse together a couple of times. • Say: “One of the things the people did together was eat. Yum! I have a way we can practice the verse, and eat, too!” • Tell kids: “We are going to each say one word of the verse. Every time someone says a word, they must pass the snack. If the wrong word is said, the snack has to go back to the beginning and we have to start over. We can’t have the snack until we completely say the verse.” Consider having multiple groups do this at one time if you have a large number of kids. PLAY THE VIDEO • Play the “Acts: Session 3” video. • Ask: “What did Joel learn about the bees? How did the believers in Acts care for one another?” LEARN THE TEXT TRUTH AND CONNECTION STATEMENT • Draw attention to the “Text Truth Strip” and “Connection Statement.” • Lead kids to attach the strips to the “Acts” and “Luke” posters, respectively. Review each point on the posters. REVIEW FAMILY CARDS • Show the object on the card. Ask kids if they remember what the object is. (baptistry) Encourage children to think about a part of today’s passages the object reminds them of. (when the 3000 were baptized) Remind kids after the people were baptized, they helped one another, and did things together. • Mention: “The object can help you remember God’s people should love and help one another.” • Point out the questions on the back of the card. Lead kids to use these to review today’s passage with their families. • Move to Small Group.

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Explore the Bible: Younger Kids

SMALL GROUP

SMALL GROUP (30 MINUTES)

EXPLORER GUIDES • Distribute the Explorer Guides and help kids locate today’s pages, “The Church Shared.” • Review the Bible story by leading kids to complete “Palm Branch Scramble.” Invite someone to read about what palm branches represented. • Help kids complete “Apply to You.” • Ask a volunteer to read aloud “Eastern Gate.” • Read about the “Baptistry.” • Share the information in “Spotlight on Pompeii.”

TOOLS: Explorer Guides, Bibles, pens

TECH CONNECT (OPTIONAL) • Prior to class, download the Explore the Bible: Kids Family App. • Use the activity labeled “Explorer Plus” on the app. ACTIVITIES • Select one or more of the activities to complete as time allows.

BIBLE S

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room. Hook two paper

in one group.) a small number of kids, do this together • Form kids into two teams. (If you have a time, in the correct order. You bucket to carry the cards down, one at • Tell kids: “Each team must use their other side, attach it to the . Each time you take a card over to the will need to work together to get it done is card, paper clip duo, card, cards will form a long train. (The pattern previous cards’ extra paper clip.” The paper clip duo … ) cards in order, carrying the cards one of the following tasks: putting the • Instruct teams to give their members clips. over, attaching the cards to the paper Play a few rounds so children make sure they have the order correct. to es Bibl their use to • Encourage groups have an opportunity to switch tasks. should love and help one another. • Review the Text Truth: God’s people • Pray.

s to find the their Bible to the table of contents. Guide team Pre-Reader option: Encourage pre-readers to open Testament. card that matches each book listed in the New

Session 3: The Church Shared

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COLLABORATIVE ART

rs, paint, Tools: various craft supplies (marke cils, glue) paper, stickers, leaves, string, pen thing both of the • Ask: “What was the one Mention that both passages had in common?” together in gs texts had people doing thin together to ked wor them. In Acts, the people the people e, Luk In take care of one another. as He us Jes d ise came together and all pra rode into town. ways they can • Challenge kids to brainstorm ether with tog k show love and help or wor

others. ng to require you to • State: “This project is goi else.” work with and help everyone h child only one eac • Hand out supplies, giving specific type of supply. is going to have • Explain: “Each one of you a project. The ke to work with others to ma want, but you you project can be anything items to create nt must use at least 5 differe g, this means thin it. Since you only have 1 nds some of frie give each of you will have to to give you e hav will what you have and they ne works ryo eve If some of what they have. amazing tty pre e som together, you can make things!” ative! • Encourage kids to be cre e kids with vid • Guide kids to begin. Pro work together if can y suggestions on how the nt. cta they are confused or relu k and share • Praise children as they wor together well. should love and • Comment: “God’s people help one another.” • Pray.

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Explore the Bible: Younger Kids

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SPAGHETTI CHALLENGE Tools: “Allergy Alert” (enhanced CD), uncooked spaghetti, o-shaped cereal or small beads • Explain: “In today’s passages, people worked together and got along. Some even praised God together as Jesus traveled down the road. We are going to play a game where you have to work together with someone else.” • Pair kids up and give them a piece of spaghetti. • Say: “One of you will need to hold the spaghetti in your mouth. The other one is going to help you by tossing a piece of cereal to you. The person with the spaghetti will try to scoop up the cereal onto their spaghetti without using their hands! We’ll see who can work together the best and can scoop up the most pieces!” Be clear that kids are scooping up the cereal off the floor or a table. They do not need to try to catch it in the air. • Give kids a set amount of time (ex: 1 minute) to play. Count up each team’s pieces and play again. Give pairs a new piece of spaghetti and have them switch positions. • Ask: “Was this a very good game for helping one another?” (probably not!) “How could we change the rules so you can help one another in a better way?” Brainstorm and try one of the ways suggested. • Look for opportunities to remind kids God’s people should love and help one another. • Invite kids to call out ways they can love and help others this week. • Pray.

Options: If holding the spaghetti in their mouth is too hard, guide kids to hold it in one hand. The second hand cannot help! Use coffee stirrers and pony beads if you have kids with a gluten allerg y.

Session

FOR THE LEADER

4

Jesus’ Crucifixion and Resurrection Luke 24:1-12 The cross and the resurrection are inseparable aspects of the saving work of Christ. The cross will always be a stumbling block of offense to those who are perishing (1 Corinthians 1:18). It cannot be sanitized or made acceptable to those who oppose Christ. While the cross testifies to the truth of God’s redeeming grace, the resurrection testifies to the triumph of God’s redeeming grace. That’s why Good Friday can never be biblically isolated from Resurrection Sunday. Jesus died so that we might live, and He lives so that we might bear witness to His power over sin and death. Peter’s message on the Day of Pentecost represented his deep conviction, derived from personal inspection of the empty tomb. On the morning of Jesus’ resurrection, women were the first ones to discover that the stone was rolled away, the tomb was empty, and the linen grave cloths were folded and empty. Peter ran to the tomb to investigate their claim. He walked inside. What he saw corroborated what the women saw, and profound amazement about the resurrection overwhelmed him. Consequently, the message of salvation through the resurrected Jesus became the seminal and pivotal message of the church—a message that affects the eternal journey of every person who hears it!

Session 4: Jesus’ Crucifixion and Resurrection

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OVERVIEW

SESSION FOCUS CORE PASSAGE: Luke 24:1-12 CONNECTION PASSAGE: Luke 23:1–24:12 FAMILY MEMORY VERSE: Acts 2:32 TEXT TRUTH: Jesus is alive! GET STARTED

10 MINUTES

GET STARTED TOOLS ¨¨ What Sticks: tape, scrap paper, markers or pencils BIBLE STUDY TOOLS ¨¨ Jumping In: Family Cards ¨¨ Examine the Text: Bibles ¨¨ Tell the Bible Story: 9 paper bags (any size), markers, “The Gospel” (enhanced CD) ¨¨ Family Memory Verse: “Acts 2:32” (Poster Pack)

BIBLE STUDY

35 MINUTES

SMALL GROUP

30 MINUTES

¨¨ Play the Video: Explore the Bible On Location Video ¨¨ Text Truth and Connection Statement: “Text Truth Strips” and “Connection Statements” (Poster Pack), “Luke” (Books of the Bible Posters) ¨¨ Review Family Cards: Family Cards

SMALL GROUP TOOLS ¨¨ Explorer Guide: Explorer Guides, Bibles, pens ¨¨ Bible Skills: Bibles, paper, markers ¨¨ Crafts: metal jewelry wire, string ¨¨ Games: shredded paper, shoe boxes or small bags, straws (1 per child), marker, envelopes

NOTE: Downloadable versions of DVD items are available in the Digital Video Bundle. Downloadable versions of enhanced CD items are available in the Music and Print Extras Bundle. For free online training on how to lead a group, visit ministrygrid.com/web/explorethebible.

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Explore the Bible: Younger Kids

BIBLE STORY

JESUS’ CRUCIFIXION AND RESURRECTION

CHRIST IN CONTEXT:

CONNECTION PASSAGE: Luke 23:1–24:12

The religious leaders did not like Jesus. They wanted to get rid of Him. One of Jesus’ disciples, Judas, agreed to betray Jesus. The religious leaders had Jesus arrested and taken to Pilate and King Herod. Finally, Pilate agreed to free a criminal, Barabbas, and let the people crucify Jesus. As Jesus was dying on the cross, suddenly, the veil in the temple split down the middle. Jesus called out to God and Jesus died on the cross. One of the soldiers at the cross began to praise God. He understood that Jesus was innocent.

The Book of Acts records the continuation of Jesus’ ministry and the history of the early church. After Jesus’ ascension, the Holy Spirit came and empowered Jesus’ followers to share the gospel of Jesus Christ all over the world. Jesus’ ministry continued through His faithful followers and many people received Jesus as their Lord and Savior.

Jesus was buried in a tomb and the Jewish people observed the Sabbath. On the morning after the Sabbath, a group of women took spices and perfumes to Jesus’ tomb. When the women arrived, the stone was rolled away and Jesus was not there. They were confused. Suddenly two men appeared and said, “Jesus is not here. He has been resurrected! Remember, He told you, ‘The Son of Man will be betrayed, crucified, and rise on the third day.’” The women remembered and went to the disciples and shared the good news. Peter ran to the tomb to see. He looked inside and only found the cloths Jesus’ body had been wrapped in. He was amazed! Jesus was alive!

KEY CONNECTIONS TO ACTS CORE PASSAGE: Luke 24:1-12

CONNECTION STATEMENT: Jesus died on the cross and God raised Him from the grave.

• Jesus is alive! • Jesus was like us in every way; yet, He did not sin—ever! • Jesus never sinned, but He paid the price for our sin.

Session 4: Jesus’ Crucifixion and Resurrection

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GET STARTED

GET STARTED (10 MINUTES) TOOLS: tape, scrap paper, markers or pencils • Attach strips of tape, sticky side out, to the wall in the shape of a cross.

WHAT STICKS • Invite kids to help you pass out paper and pencils. • State: “Think about all the things you know about Easter. Then write each one on a separate piece of paper.” • Give kids time to write down as many things as they can. • Say: “Now crumble each of your papers into a ball.” • Lead kids to take turns tossing the paper balls at the cross to try to get them to stick. • Take each one down and read them aloud. • Pick up any papers that have words that relate to the actual Easter story (examples: Jesus, cross, salvation, sins, rose again). Attach these papers to the cross, opened up so everyone can see the words. • Mention: “These are the most important things about Easter. Jesus died on the cross for our sins, was buried, and on the third day He rose again. Today we will examine some passages that tell us more about it.” • Transition to Bible Study. OPTION FOR PRE-READERS • Guide pre-readers to call out things as you write them on paper. • Give children the papers to crumble and toss.

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Explore the Bible: Younger Kids

BIBLE STUDY

BIBLE STUDY (35 MINUTES) JUMPING IN • Ask a volunteer to pray as you begin. • Introduce the object. Invite kids to guess what the object is. Explain that we will learn more about each of the pictures later. • Review the “Acts” poster. Read one or two of the questions and answers. EXAMINE THE TEXT • Remark: “We have been exploring the Book of Acts. For today, since it is Easter, our passage will be in the Book of Luke. Can anyone tell me which book of the New Testament Luke is?” (third) “Luke is one of the four what?” (gospels) “What are the four gospels?” (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John) “When I say, ‘Go,’ I want you to find Luke 24 as quickly as you can. Once you find it, hold your hand up and say ‘Jesus’ to let me know you found it.” • Ask: “Does anyone know why Jesus had to die on the cross?” (to save people from their sins) • Explain: “In verse 2 it says the women found the stone rolled away from the tomb. In Bible times, tombs were often caves carved out of a hillside. They would roll a stone in front to keep animals and people out. This was a very large and heavy stone.” • Ask: “What was missing when they went inside?” (Jesus or Jesus’ body) “Do you think they were expecting it to be there?” Encourage kids to look in the passage for clues as to why or why not. (Ex: they were taking spices for the body, they were surprised when they didn’t see Him, a large stone had been in front of the tomb) • Ask: “What does it mean that Jesus was resurrected?” (He is no longer dead; He is alive) “Why was this important?” (answers will vary, but could include: Jesus had said He would rise again and raising Jesus from the dead was something only God could do) • Discuss who the women went to tell. Explain that no one believed them and the people thought it sounded crazy. Ask kids to think about if they were there, would the things the women said seem crazy to them? (probably yes) Mention that if everyone had remembered the things Jesus had told them before He died, it probably wouldn’t have been very surprising. • Lead kids to look at Luke 24:12 to see who went to go see the tomb for himself. (Peter) Remark that Peter was amazed at what He saw, just like the women were. Jesus wasn’t dead—He was alive! He died on the cross and now He was raised from the dead. TELL THE BIBLE STORY • State: “We already looked in the Bible and discovered Jesus is alive. People went to His tomb and He wasn’t there. Now let’s examine some passages that tell us a little more about what happened before that. Open

TOOLS: “Acts 2:32,” “Text Truth Strips,” “Connection Statements,” “Christ in Context: Acts” (Poster Pack); “Acts” (Books of the Bible Posters); Explore the Bible: Kids video; Bibles; Family Cards; Explorer Guides; 9 paper bags (any size); markers; “The Gospel” (enhanced CD) • Write the following references on the bottom of individual bags: 1) Luke 23:1-5, 2) Luke 23:6-12, 3) Luke 23:13-25, 4) Luke 23:26-31, 5) Luke 23:32-43, 6) Luke 23:44-49, 7) Luke 23:50-56, 8) Luke 24:1-8, 9) Luke 24:9-12.

• Keep the bag with Luke 23:32-43 for you to use yourself during the activity.

EXAMINE THE TEXT PRE-READER OPTIONS: Invite kids to find the Book of Luke and say “Jesus.” Ask other adult helpers to read aloud the verses you are studying.

TELL THE BIBLE STORY PRE-READER OPTION: Tell the Bible story using the script provided as a guide.

Session 4: Jesus’ Crucifixion and Resurrection

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BIBLE STUDY

TIP: Be sensitive to each child and the different stages they may be at in their spiritual development. Some children will be hearing this for the first time, while others may have heard it a lot. Some may be ready to accept Christ as Lord of their lives, while others are far from it. Just be mindful of each child and the uniqueness of what God is doing in their lives.

your Bibles to Luke 23.” • Form kids into groups and distribute the paper bags. Explain: “You need to read your passage and talk about it with your group. Use your bag to write down names of important people in the passage and a simple description of what happened. Once you are done, open your bag up and form it to look like a rock or stone.” • Guide kids, and yourself, to share about each passage in order. Be prepared to fill in any gaps of important information not mentioned. • Lead groups to place their stone along the wall, to form a timeline of the events. • Look back over the stone timeline once all the groups have shared. • Mention: “God knew all of this was going to happen. He planned it. He allowed Jesus to die on the cross and rise again on the third day so people could be saved from their sin.” Use “The Gospel” (enhanced CD) to help you share the gospel with kids. Allow time for kids to ask questions. LEARN THE FAMILY MEMORY VERSE • Display “Acts 2:32” poster. Practice the verse a few times with kids. • Lead children to stand in a circle, facing out. • Explain: “Each person will say one word of the verse at a time, but it’s going to be tricky! Anyone can shout out the next word, but if two people say the same word at the same time, then we will have to start over.” You can also challenge kids by not allowing two people who are standing side by side go one after the other. • Start the group off by saying the first word. Encourage kids to go as quickly as they can. PLAY THE VIDEO • Play the “Acts: Session 4” video. • Ask: “What do you think Jesus’ followers felt or thought when He died? When He arose? When they found the empty tomb? How can we shine His light to others?” LEARN THE TEXT TRUTH AND CONNECTION STATEMENT • Ask volunteers to read the “Text Truth Strip” and “Connection Statement.” • Invite a child to attach them to the “Luke” poster. • Show kids the previous week’s strips and remind them of the stories. REVIEW FAMILY CARDS • Distribute Family Cards to each child. • Point to the object. Share that when kids see the tomb they can remember Jesus died on the cross and God raised Him from the grave. • Ask a few kids: “When will you use the questions this week with your family?” Affirm their answers and offer other suggestions. • Move to Small Group.

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Explore the Bible: Younger Kids

SMALL GROUP

SMALL GROUP (30 MINUTES)

TOOLS:

EXPLORER GUIDES • Distribute the Explorer Guides and help kids locate today’s pages, “Jesus’ Crucifixion and Resurrection.” • Review the Bible story by leading kids to complete “Circle the Answer.” • Help kids complete “Trace and Print.” • Ask a volunteer to read aloud “The Garden Tomb” and “The Church of the Holy Sepulchre.” Emphasize that we do not know exactly where Jesus’ tomb was. People like to celebrate these two spots, but really, we do not know. • Share the information in “Spotlight on Ecce Homo and Via Dolorosa.”

Explorer Guides, Bibles, pens

TECH CONNECT (OPTIONAL) • Prior to class, download the Explore the Bible: Kids Family App. • Use the activity labeled “Explorer Plus” on the app. ACTIVITIES • Select one or more of the activities to complete as time allows. BIBLE S

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Tools: Bibles, paper, markers

Luke 24:1-8 e of paper: Matthew 28:1-7, Mark 16:1-8, ¨¨ Print the following references on a piec pair a piece of paper. • Guide kids to find a partner. Give each you to look for things that are of these passages and read them. I want • Remark: “You will need to find all three e.” time you find something that is the sam the same in all three. Write down each ch the passages for similarities. • Allow plenty of times for pairs to sear thew, Mark, Luke, John). There to be written by a different person (Mat • Explain: “God led each of the gospels because they were written . Even though they sound a little different are many of the same stories in each book you found.” es lariti e story. Let’s take a look at all the simi by different people, they are still the sam gospels, the angel three all in call attention to the fact that to sure Be ngs. findi their e shar to • Invite each pair rrected. was no longer dead) because He was resu mentions that Jesus was not there (or that this is what we tion and God raised Him from the grave. Men • Remind kids Jesus died on the cross : Jesus is alive! celebrate on Easter. Review the Text Truth

“God led the 3 passages. Copy the list for each kid. Explain: Pre-Reader option: Make a list of 10 words from . Even book man. There are many of the same stories in each each of the gospels to be written by a different each of are still the same stories.” Say: “I am going to read though some parts sound a little different, they kids help mark when you hear the word.” Read slowly and these passages. Use your paper to print a check tion from above. identify the words. Continue with the conversa

Session 4: Jesus’ Crucifixion and Resurrection

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SMALL GROUP GAME

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NECKLACES REMINDER Tools: metal jewelry wire, string les to Luke 23–24. • Lead kids to open their Bib r the passages Encourage kids to look ove ed. Be sure you and name things that happen the cross, was mention that Jesus died on raised Him from buried in a tomb, and God the grave. king a necklace.” • Explain: “You will be ma the wire into the Show children how to bend an open circle. shape of a cross, a stone, and ind you Jesus Mention: “The cross will rem will remind you died on the cross. The stone open circle can He died and was buried. The pty because He remind you the tomb was em rose again!” each child to make • Provide plenty of time for one of each item. ng through the top • Help kids weave their stri ce. of each one to form a neckla only will you not it, r wea you • Remark: “As things, but other remember these important they ask about people will see it, too. When what Jesus did for it, you can tell them about them.” us is alive! • Review the Text Truth: Jes kids always • Pray and ask God to help for them and God d die us Jes t remember tha raised Him from the grave.

children look Pre-Reader options: Omit having guide kids back through Scripture. Instead, m today’s to name things they remember fro of time. Help passage. Make the shapes ahead w them to kids attach their shapes then allo add beads to the sides. or two Option: Consider constructing one shapes before class as examples.

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Explore the Bible: Younger Kids

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MESSAGE RELAY Tools: shredded paper, shoe boxes or small bags, straws (1 per child), marker, envelopes

¨¨ Print the phrase “Jesus is not here, He is alive!” on the inside of the envelope. ¨¨ Place the envelope at the bottom of the box. Fill the box with shredded paper. • Form kids into groups. Give each group a box and each child 1 straw. • Explain: “Teams will send two people down at a time. Pairs will use their straws together to grip paper, remove it from the box and place it on the floor next to the box. Each pair gets one try each time. You are not scooping it, you are holding onto the paper with the straws. Keep sending down pairs until all of the paper is removed and you find an envelope. Use your straws to bring your envelope back to your team, open it, and everyone shout out the message together!” • Say: “Start!” and have teams begin. If you have a small number of kids, do this activity all together. • Once teams discover their message and shout it, discuss the story. Mention: “Jesus died on the cross and God raised Him from the dead.” • Review the Text Truth: Jesus is alive! • Pray, thanking God for sending Jesus to die for our sins and for raising Him from the dead.

Options: Use kid-friendly spring chopsticks.

Session

FOR THE LEADER

5

Praying for Boldness Acts 4:1-13 Peter and John demonstrated remarkable courage when they ministered to the crippled man near the temple. Peter explained that he and John didn’t have any money to offer the man, but they did have a testimony about Jesus to give him. Obviously the healing stirred a lot of astonishment among the people. Consequently, Peter seized the opportunity to explain that the source of the power for the miracle was the resurrected Christ. Moreover, Peter challenged the crowd to repent of their sin and place their faith in Jesus. Peter and John’s courage put them in direct conflict with the religious and political authorities. They were arrested and detained by the temple police. On the next day, the Sanhedrin, the supreme Jewish court, interrogated Peter and John and threatened to punish them for their witness about Jesus. In response, Peter courageously proclaimed that salvation was the exclusive work of Jesus. Furthermore, Peter boldly declared that there was no other name under heaven whereby people could be saved, other than by the name of Jesus. As believers we are called to live a life of faith accentuated by courage for Christ. It’s normal to face fear. We don’t have to yield to fear, however, when we have opportunities to testify about Jesus.

Session 5: Praying for Boldness

37

OVERVIEW

SESSION FOCUS CORE PASSAGE: Acts 4:1-13 CONNECTION PASSAGES: Acts 4:1-31 FAMILY MEMORY VERSE: Acts 4:12 TEXT TRUTH: Jesus is the only one who can rescue us from our sin. GET STARTED

10 MINUTES

BIBLE STUDY TOOLS ¨¨ Jumping In: “Christ in Context: Acts” (Poster Pack) ¨¨ Examine the Text: Bibles, Family Cards ¨¨ Tell the Bible Story: paper, markers ¨¨ Family Memory Verse: “Acts 4:12” (Poster Pack)

BIBLE STUDY

35 MINUTES

SMALL GROUP

30 MINUTES

¨¨ Play the Video: Explore the Bible On Location Video ¨¨ Text Truth and Connection Statement: “Text Truth Strips” and “Connection Statements” (Poster Pack), “Acts” (Books of the Bible Posters) ¨¨ Review Family Cards: Family Cards

SMALL GROUP TOOLS ¨¨ Explorer Guide: Explorer Guides, Bibles, pens ¨¨ Bible Skills: Bibles, small white board, dryerase marker ¨¨ Crafts: duct tape, scissors, bright-colored permanent markers, hook and loop fastener dots ¨¨ Games: “Be Bold” (enhanced CD); ball; basket, bag, or box; tape

NOTE: Downloadable versions of DVD items are available in the Digital Video Bundle. Downloadable versions of enhanced CD items are available in the Music and Print Extras Bundle. For free online training on how to lead a group, visit ministrygrid.com/web/explorethebible.

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Explore the Bible: Younger Kids

BIBLE STORY

PETER AND JOHN TOLD THE GOOD NEWS

CHRIST IN CONTEXT:

CONNECTION PASSAGE: Acts 4:1-31

Peter and John had gone to the temple. On their way a man who couldn’t walk asked them for help. Peter told the man, “In the name of Jesus Christ, get up and walk.” The man’s legs became strong and soon he was jumping, walking, and praising God. People gathered around and Peter told the people about Jesus. The religious leaders were upset that Peter and John were telling people about Jesus. They arrested Peter and John. Many people heard Peter preach about Jesus. They repented of their sins.

The Book of Acts records the continuation of Jesus’ ministry and the history of the early church. After Jesus’ ascension, the Holy Spirit came and empowered Jesus’ followers to share the gospel of Jesus Christ all over the world. Jesus’ ministry continued through His faithful followers and many people received Jesus as their Lord and Savior.

The next day the religious leaders demanded that Peter and John explain what had happened to the lame man. Peter began to tell the leaders about Jesus. He told the leaders that they had rejected Jesus. Peter said, “The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.” Peter explained that people can only be rescued from their sin by Jesus. The religious leaders were amazed. The man who hadn’t been able to walk was now standing with Peter and John. The religious leaders did not know what to say or do. They told Peter and John not to teach about Jesus. Peter and John refused. They said, “We can’t stop telling about everything we saw and heard.” The leaders decided to let Peter and John go because so many people were praising God for the lame man being able to walk again. Peter and John returned to the other followers of Jesus and told them everything that happened. The other followers began to praise God and tell others about Jesus.

CONNECTION STATEMENT: Peter and John told people about Jesus.

KEY CONNECTIONS TO ACTS CORE PASSAGE: Acts 4:1-13 • God provided His followers with boldness to tell others about Jesus. • The religious leaders couldn’t stop Peter and John from telling about Jesus. • Only Jesus can rescue us from sin. Salvation only comes from Jesus. • The religious leaders had rejected Jesus, but Jesus is the foundation of the church. He is God’s gift to a sinful people.

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GET STARTED

GET STARTED (10 MINUTES) TOOLS: none

40

NONSTOP • Say: “We are going to play a game where you can’t stop talking. I will give some of you words to say, and you will need to stand in one place and say them over and over again. A few people will go around and try to make you stop, but you must keep talking.” • Assign random words to kids. Include words like: Jesus, tell, love, save, and sin. Instruct a few children to go around and make silly faces, tell them “stop”, or even try to surprise the children who are talking. Explain that no one is allowed to touch the speaker. • Guide children to begin. Let kids play for a few minutes, allowing time for the children to try lots of things to get the others to stop. • Ask: “Who was able to talk without stopping?” Give time for kids to share. “Was it hard to keep talking when people were trying to get you to stop?” (answers will vary) • Comment: “Sometimes people won’t want you to talk about Jesus. They may even try to make you stop. Jesus is the only One who can save people from their sins, so it is important we keep talking. We must keep telling people about Him. In today’s passage two men wouldn’t stop talking about Jesus. They spoke boldly about Him.” • Transition to Bible Study.

Explore the Bible: Younger Kids

BIBLE STUDY

BIBLE STUDY (35 MINUTES) JUMPING IN • Pray for kids before you begin. • Show the “Christ in Context: Acts” poster and discuss the points. • Briefly mention the things children have learned in Acts in previous sessions.

TOOLS:

EXAMINE THE TEXT • Challenge kids to name all of the books of the New Testament that come after the book of Acts. Mention that children can use their Bibles if they need to. • Lead kids to find Acts 4 in their Bibles. • Explain: “To understand why these things are happening in chapter 4, you need to first know some things from chapter 3.” Briefly summarize in your own words using the first paragraph of the story script provided to guide you. • Direct kids to read Acts 4:1-4. • Ask: “In verse 1, who was talking to the people?” (Peter and John) “Why were the Sadducees upset with them?” (they were telling about the resurrection of Jesus) “What did they do to them?” (put them in jail) “Did anyone believe the things Peter and John said?” (yes) “How many people does it say there were?” (5,000 men) • Lead kids to examine verses 8-10 to see Peter’s response. Ask: “How did Peter say the man was healed?” (in the name of Jesus) Remark that God gave Peter boldness to tell the people about Jesus. • Encourage children to examine verses 11-12. Show the object on the Family Cards. Say: “This is a cornerstone like the one mentioned in verse 11. It is very important in building, because everything else is built on it. Peter told them Jesus is the only One who can rescue people from their sin because salvation only comes from Him. Even though the religious leaders tried to ignore Him, and didn’t want people to talk about Him, Jesus is the foundation of the church. He is the cornerstone the whole church is built on.” • Encourage kids each time they see the object to remember Jesus is the cornerstone because He is the only One who can save people from their sins.

“Acts 4:12,” “Text Truth Strips,” “Connection Statements,” “Christ in Context: Acts” (Poster Pack); “Acts” (Books of the Bible Posters); Explore the Bible: Kids video; Bibles; Family Cards; Explorer Guides; paper; markers

TELL THE BIBLE STORY • Recap what kids have learned and share more by telling the Bible story using the script provided as a guide. • Summarize: “The religious leaders knew something amazing had happened (the lame man was healed) but they still did not want people to tell others about Jesus. They ordered Peter and John not to preach in the name of Jesus. This didn’t stop them. They told the leaders they could not stop talking about Jesus. The leaders finally let them go. After they were Session 5: Praying for Boldness

41

BIBLE STUDY

FAMILY MEMORY VERSE PRE-READER OPTION: Say the verse with kids instead of having them read it with a partner. Encourage pre-readers to follow along in their Bibles. Pre-readers can continue with the activity as suggested.

released, Peter and John prayed that God would give the people boldness, and He did!” • Ask: “Have any of you ever seen a movie poster?” (pause for answers) “They are bold posters that are designed to tell you about a movie. Let’s design some posters to boldly tell about Jesus.” Lead kids to use supplies to create a poster about something in the passage. • Give kids time to work and then encourage them to share. • Conclude: “Peter and John loved Jesus. They were excited to talk to people because they knew Jesus was the only One who could save people from their sins. They did not stop telling others about Him.” • Pray, asking God to give kids boldness to tell others about Jesus. LEARN THE FAMILY MEMORY VERSE • Direct kids to find Acts 4:12 in their Bibles or display the “Acts 4:12” poster. • Explain: “We are going to say the verse together, each saying one word at a time. We will say the verse multiple times and each time through, you will choose one word to say boldly. All the other words we will say normal, only that one will be spoken boldly. Each time through we will choose a new word.” • Lead kids to practice the verse a few different times. PLAY THE VIDEO • Play the “Acts: Session 5” video. • Ask: “Did Peter and John go to school to learn about God? How did they know about Jesus? Who can we tell others about?” LEARN THE TEXT TRUTH AND CONNECTION STATEMENT • Read the “Text Truth Strip” and “Connection Statement.” • Ask children who have been listening well to attach the strips to the “Acts” poster. REVIEW FAMILY CARDS • Show the object on the card and say: “Do you remember what this object is?” (cornerstone) “What is it used in?” (building) “Who is called the cornerstone of the church?” (Jesus) “The religious leaders may have rejected Jesus, but Jesus is the cornerstone of the church. He is the cornerstone because He is the only One who can rescue (save) people from their sins.” • Point out the questions on the back. Remind kids to challenge their families by asking them the questions. • Move to Small Group.

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Explore the Bible: Younger Kids

SMALL GROUP

SMALL GROUP (30 MINUTES)

TOOLS:

EXPLORER GUIDES • Distribute Explorer Guides and help kids locate “Praying for Boldness.”’ • Ask a volunteer to read aloud the “Nicanor Gate.” • Remind the boys and girls of Peter and John’s boldness. Help kids think about ways they can be bold by discussing each of the scenarios in “How Can You Be Bold?” Invite kids to write down a few of their thoughts. • Review the Bible story. Read aloud Acts 4:31 to remind kids of what happened when the people prayed. • Help kids complete “Pray.” • Invite a volunteer to read aloud “Building an Empire.” • Ask another volunteer to read the information about today’s object. Encourage kids to remember today’s Bible story when they see the object.

Explorer Guides, Bibles, pens

ACTIVITIES • Select one or more of the activities to complete as time allows.

BIBLE S S KILL

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Tools: Bibles, small white board, dry erase marker

EX P

WHISPER OR SPEAK BOLDLY

AT I O N

• Form two teams. e on the board. Once I show it I will write the name of a book of the Bibl . time a at one go will ms “Tea ain: • Expl ament. If the book is in the Old is in the Old Testament or the New Test it if de deci kly quic to need you you, to nt, your team will say the name name. If the book is in the New Testame the per whis will team your nt ame Test boldly.” • Lead teams to go as fast as they can. e out the correct answer. es whenever they need to in order to figur Bibl their use can kids that tion Men • the call out Old or New s to also find the book in the Bible after team e leng Chal : kids r olde for on Opti • Testament. books have been correctly identified. • Play as long as time allows or until all ly about Jesus. • Remind kids Peter and John spoke bold Truth: Jesus is the only One others about Jesus, too.” Review the Text tell and ly bold k spea can “You tion: Men • who can rescue us from our sin. • Pray.

name on e of content in their Bibles. Once you write a book Pre-Reader option: Show kids how to use the tabl tinue Con . to find a matching word in the table of contents ers read pree lleng Cha . them to it read d, boar the the game from above.

Session 5: Praying for Boldness

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SMALL GROUP GAME

S FT

BE BOLD BRACELETS lored Tools: duct tape, scissors, bright-co p fastener permanent markers, hook and loo dots h child, long • Cut a piece of tape for eac enough to be a bracelet. tape over on itself • Show kids how to fold the thing else. so that it won’t stick to any loop fastener dot to • Give everyone a hook and bracelet on their make a clasp to hold their arm. us is the only One • Review the Text Truth: Jes sin. who can rescue us from our print the words to rs rke ma the e • Tell kids: “Us You can also add “Be Bold” on your bracelet. e you wear this “Acts 4:12” on it. Everywher to be bold and tell bracelet it can remind you others about Jesus!” ut places and • Challenge kids to think abo celet. Ask: times they could wear the bra e about Jesus?” “How could you tell someon s understand they (answers will vary) Help kid ut Jesus. can talk boldly to others abo r bracelet for the ano ke ma to s • Encourage kid re are enough other family members if the supplies. kids be bold and • Pray, asking God to help e, school, and tell others about Him at hom everywhere else they go.

d Acts 4:12” Pre-Reader option: Print “Be Bol er where preon a piece of paper. Place the pap bracelets. readers can use it to copy on their

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Explore the Bible: Younger Kids

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BE BOLD BALL Tools: “Be Bold” (enhanced CD); ball; basket, bag, or box; tape

¨¨ Print the item and cut the letters out individually. ¨¨ Lay the letters on the floor all around the basket. Vary the distance the letters are from the basket to increase the difficulty. Be sure the letters are in order to spell “Be Bold.” Tape the letters securely in place. • Say: “We are going to play a game of Be Bold Basketball.” • Form kids into two teams. Ask the first player from each team to come up to the letter “B” and shoot. If they make the shot, the next person on their team comes up and goes to the next letter. If they miss, the next person must come up and attempt the same letter again. Teams rotate turns. When a team completes the entire phrase, they must stand up and shout “Be Bold.” • Each time a child comes up for their turn, ask them to name a time or place they can be bold and tell others about Jesus. • If kids are making the shots too easily, consider moving the letters further back. If they are having a hard time, move the letters closer. • Reiterate to kids to be bold as they tell others Jesus is the only One who can rescue us from our sin. • Pray for kids.

Option: Use other phrases from previous Text Truths to set up multiple games. Have kids rotate through each of them.

Session

FOR THE LEADER

6

Believers in the Early Church Acts 4:36–5:11 Have you ever wondered why some of the worst moments in the life of a church occur after some of the best times? The Jerusalem fellowship of believers enjoyed the extravagant blessings of God. What more could a church ask for? The apostles provided magnificent leadership. A deep sense of harmony prevailed among believers. The gospel was being shared and received throughout the region. The growth of the church was strong, and there was great generosity toward believers facing hardship. A man named Joseph, whom the apostles affectionately called Barnabas, brought the money he received from the sale of a field and presented it to the apostles. His example was contagious. Sometime later, a couple named Ananias and Sapphira sold a piece of their property and presented the money to the apostles also. Everything must have appeared wonderful. If we had been involved in the Jerusalem church, we would have thought that if the blessings became any more evident, then God would have to slow down so we could contain it all. What we couldn’t have seen because of our humanity, however, God saw clearly because of His sovereignty. The problem lay deep inside Ananias and Sapphira. They tried to deceive the church leaders by lying about the gift they were offering. The problem was not the donation, but the couple’s dishonest manipulation. When Peter confronted Ananias first, and Sapphira soon thereafter, God disciplined the couple with swift judgment. The lives of three individuals are put on display in this passage to underscore God’s expectation of truthfulness in His church.

Session 6: Believers in the Early Church

45

OVERVIEW

SESSION FOCUS CORE PASSAGE: Acts 4:36–5:11 CONNECTION PASSAGE: Acts 4:32–5:16 FAMILY MEMORY VERSE: Acts 4:33 TEXT TRUTH: God’s people should tell the truth. GET STARTED

10 MINUTES

GET STARTED TOOLS ¨¨ Sticky Lies: index cards, pencils BIBLE STUDY TOOLS ¨¨ Jumping In: “Christ in Context: Acts” (Poster Pack) ¨¨ Examine the Text: Bibles, “Maps” (enhanced CD), markers ¨¨ Tell the Bible Story: white board, dry erase marker ¨¨ Family Memory Verse: “Acts 4:33 (Poster Pack)

BIBLE STUDY

35 MINUTES

SMALL GROUP

30 MINUTES

¨¨ Play the Video: Explore the Bible On Location Video ¨¨ Text Truth and Connection Statement: “Text Truth Strips” and “Connection Statements” (Poster Pack), “Acts” (Books of the Bible Posters) ¨¨ Review Family Cards: Family Cards

SMALL GROUP TOOLS ¨¨ Explorer Guide: Explorer Guides, Bibles, pens ¨¨ Bible Skills: paper, markers ¨¨ Crafts: “Money Origami” (enhanced CD), markers ¨¨ Games: straws, cotton balls, paper, scissors, tape

NOTE: Downloadable versions of DVD items are available in the Digital Video Bundle. Downloadable versions of enhanced CD items are available in the Music and Print Extras Bundle. For free online training on how to lead a group, visit ministrygrid.com/web/explorethebible.

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Explore the Bible: Younger Kids

BIBLE STORY

BELIEVERS IN THE EARLY CHURCH

CHRIST IN CONTEXT:

CONNECTION PASSAGE: Acts 4:32–5:16

The believers worked together to tell people about Jesus. They shared their possessions with each other. Some of the people even sold things they owned and gave the money to the apostles to help those in need. Barnabas, whose named meant Son of Encouragement, was one of the people who sold a field that he owned and gave the money to the apostles. However, not all of the people made good choices during this time. Two of the people, Ananias and his wife Sapphira, sold a piece of property. They kept some of the money and gave the rest of the money to the apostles. Ananias said that he had given all of the money to the apostles. That wasn’t true. Ananias lied to God. When Peter asked Ananias about what he had done, Ananias suddenly died. A few hours later Ananias’ wife Sapphira came in and also lied. When Peter told her that he knew she been dishonest, Sapphira suddenly died. The people became very afraid. Many people in the church obeyed God. They told people about Jesus and healed many people who were sick. People would gather in the street because they wanted to be healed. Through the followers of Jesus, God healed many people. And many people decided to repent of their sin and trust Jesus as their Lord and Savior.

The Book of Acts records the continuation of Jesus’ ministry and the history of the early church. After Jesus’ ascension, the Holy Spirit came and empowered Jesus’ followers to share the gospel of Jesus Christ all over the world. Jesus’ ministry continued through His faithful followers and many people received Jesus as their Lord and Savior.

CONNECTION STATEMENT: Sin always has a price.

KEY CONNECTIONS TO ACTS CORE PASSAGE: Acts 4:36–5:11 • Sin is serious and has consequences. • God offers us forgiveness when we repent, but He also takes sin seriously. Sin has a price. • The early church shared with one another. They worked together and got along. They boldly told others about Jesus and God used them to heal many people.

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GET STARTED

GET STARTED (10 MINUTES) TOOLS: Bibles, scrap paper, pencils, duct tape or painters’ tape • Tape a spiderweb of tape crisscrossing an open doorway. Be sure the sticky side of the tape is facing the kids.

48

STICKY LIES • Explain: “Lying is a sin. Sin separates us from God and from other people. Can you think of a time you told a lie and it hurt someone else? Maybe it hurt your parents because they thought they could trust you.” • Distribute scrap paper and pencils to the boys and girls. Ask kids to write down one lie they have told someone before. • Invite kids to take turns wading their paper into a ball and tossing it into the spiderweb of tape until it sticks. • Conclude: “We like to think that lying isn’t a big deal. But sin is sin. And sin has consequences. Today we are going to learn about three people in the Book of Acts. One of them made some good choices. He helped the church. Two other people made some choices, including the choice to lie. Even if no one else knows we sinned, God always knows. God sees our hearts and everything we think, feel, and do.”

Explore the Bible: Younger Kids

BIBLE STUDY

BIBLE STUDY (35 MINUTES) JUMPING IN • Ask a child to pray for the group before you begin. • Display the “Christ in Context: Acts” poster or the “Acts” poster. • Ask volunteers to read the statements.

TOOLS:

EXAMINE THE TEXT • Guide kids to open their Bibles to Acts 4. Lead children to take turns reading Acts 4:32-37. • Ask: “Who sold their property and gave all of the money to the apostles?” (Barnabas) Mention that, at that time people shared all of their things and took care of anyone who had a need of any kind. Everyone gave everything they had to help one another. Help kids connect that this is why people were selling their property. • Continue: “Just when things were really good and exciting in the church, something very sad happened because of someone’s choice to sin.” TELL THE BIBLE STORY • Tell the Bible story using the script provided as a guide. • Ask kids to look back over the passage for the names of the two people who did not tell the truth. (Ananias and Sapphira) Lead kids to tell you what the couple lied about. Help children understand they were lying because they acted like all of the money they brought was all of the money they received for selling the property, but it wasn’t. They only brought some of the money they received. • Pose this question: “Who did Ananias and His wife lie to?” (God) Point kids to verse 4 to discover the answer. Explain: “Lies are something we think of in our heart. God knows our heart, He knows what’s inside of us, and what we are thinking. So when we lie, we are lying to God, too. Lying is very serious and has very real consequences.” • Point kids to verse 8. Ask a volunteer to read the verse again. Say: “Peter gave Sapphira a chance to tell the truth, and she still lied. Sometimes, when we lie, we keep telling lies to cover up the first lie. We keep lying more and more and the lies often get bigger and bigger.” • Invite the kids to compare and contrast Barnabas with Ananias and Sapphira. Write these on a white board. You may also choose to add Jesus to the activity. Emphasize that Jesus was the only One who never sinned. Remind kids of God’s grace and mercy. He offers us forgiveness of our sin if we repent. • Read aloud Acts 5:12-16. • Mention: “The apostles were doing really amazing things. Can your groups find some examples of this in the passage?” Encourage kids to look at verses 12-16. • Say: “Peter and the apostles were able to tell a lot of people about Jesus. Many people were saved and many people were healed from illness and

“Acts 4:33,” “Text Truth Strips,” “Connection Statements,” “Christ in Context: Acts” (Poster Pack); “Acts” (Books of the Bible Posters); Explore the Bible: Kids video; Bibles; Family Cards; Explorer Guides; Bibles; large piece of paper; markers; white board; dry erase markers

TIP: While this session focuses on lying, help kids understand that all sin is sin. Sin—any sin—separates us from God. Forgiveness of our sin is only through Jesus! Also, point kids to God’s grace. God graciously forgives us. We do not deserve God’s grace, but He offers it to us.

Session 6: Believers in the Early Church

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BIBLE STUDY

disease. If everyone had started lying it could have had some really awful consequences.” • Remark that God’s people should always tell the truth. LEARN THE FAMILY MEMORY VERSE • Guide children to open their Bibles and find the verse. Display the “Acts 4:33” poster. • Review it a few times. • Write the verse on the white board but mix up the words or phrases. Invite kids to take turns helping you rearrange the verse in the correct order. PLAY THE VIDEO • Play the “Acts: Session 6” video. • Ask: “What treasure did Terra find? Why do people hide treasure? How was Jesus generous to us?” LEARN THE TEXT TRUTH AND CONNECTION STATEMENT • Read the “Text Truth Strip” and “Connection Statement” together. • Ask a couple of children to attach them to the “Acts” poster. REVIEW FAMILY CARDS • Show the object on the card as volunteers pass cards out. • Ask: “What does this money remind you of from the passage?” (answers will vary but should include that the couple lied about how much money they received) • Say: “The couple lied about money. So every time you see this money you can remember you should always tell the truth.” • Give kids ideas of times they could ask their families the questions on the card (examples: in the car, at dinner, while waiting for an appointment). • Move to Small Group.

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Explore the Bible: Younger Kids

SMALL GROUP

SMALL GROUP (30 MINUTES)

TOOLS:

EXPLORER GUIDES • Distribute Explorer Guides and help kids locate the “Believers in the Early Church” pages. • Invite a volunteer to read the information in “Solomon’s Colonnade.” • Ask another volunteer to share the information about Barnabas in “Spotlight On Cyprus.” Lead kids to complete the activity, “Helping.” • Review the object and remind kids of how it can help us remember today’s Bible story and Text Truth: God’s people should tell the truth. • Challenge kids to examine their hearts and think about their own actions. Guide them to quietly complete the “Confession” activity.

Explorer Guides, Bibles, pens

TECH CONNECT (OPTIONAL) • Prior to class, download the Explore the Bible: Kids Family App. • Use the activity labeled “Explorer Plus” on the app. ACTIVITIES • Select one or more of the activities to complete as time allows.

BIBLE S S KILL

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WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY? Tools: paper, markers

AT I O N

Proverbs 12:19, of paper: Leviticus 19:11, Colossians 3:9, e piec a on s ence refer wing follo the t ¨¨ Prin Proverbs 12:22 children the Bible mentions age do that was so bad?” (they lied) Tell • Ask: “What did the couple in the pass lying a lot. • Show the list of verses to kids. it. Find out what each one has to of these verses in your Bible and read • Explain: “I want you to find each one paper about what each verse says.” say about lying. Make some notes on your and read through each verse. • Allow plenty of time for kids to find Bible says about lying. some of the things they discovered the • Lead kids to find a partner and tell them should tell the truth. • Review the Text Truth: God’s people ys tell the truth. • Pray, asking God to help children alwa

to help them es with pre-readers. Guide kids to draw pictures Pre-Reader option: Read through each of the vers about and encourage them to share what they learned up ren child ner Part say. es vers the t wha er rememb lying. Pray.

Session 6: Believers in the Early Church

51

SMALL GROUP GAME

S FT

ORIGAMI HEART CD), Tools: “Money Origami” (enhanced markers, scissors of ¨¨ Print and cut out copies each child.

the money for

ctions and guide • Display the origami instru kids to choose one to make. dollars you printed. • Give everyone one of the tep through folding • Help walk kids step-by-s of a heart. their money into the shape r option if your • Consider using the simple are pressed for group is very young or you time. work. Mention: “The • Discuss the story as kids they received. couple lied about the money w they were not God knew their heart, He kne telling the truth.” uth” on their heart • Encourage kids to write “Tr once it’s complete. ple should always • Remind children God’s peo s to keep their tell the truth. Encourage kid ble so every time origami heart somewhere visi ber that sin always they see it they will remem has a price. ’s people should • Review the Text Truth: God tell the truth. • Pray.

“Truth” for Pre-Reader option: Print the word kids to copy onto their heart.

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Explore the Bible: Younger Kids

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KEEP IT UP Tools: straws, cotton balls, scissors, paper, tape • Provide each kid with a straw. • Help kids cut and fold a funnel-shaped piece of paper around the end of their straw. Secure with tape. • Provide each kid with a cotton ball. Place the cotton ball inside the funnel end of the straw. • Challenge kids to see who can blow air through their straw and keep their cotton ball up in the air. See who keeps their cotton ball up the longest. • Eventually everyone should tire. • Share: “This challenge was a lot like sin. It was fun in the beginning, but after a while, it was exhausting. It was hard. You couldn’t keep up.” • Say: “Today, we focused on the sin of lying, but that isn’t the only sin that we commit. The good news is that Jesus came to rescue us from sin! We can ask His forgiveness.” • Review the Text Truth: God’s people should tell the truth.

Session

FOR THE LEADER

7

Obedience When Opposed Acts 5:25-35,38-42 Imagine the scene. The early morning sun awakened Jerusalem to another day. The rays of light danced upon the white marble columns of Solomon’s portico, where hundreds of believers gathered to hear the apostles teach and preach. Not far away, the Sanhedrin convened and ordered the apostles to be transported from the jail to their council meeting. Confusion erupted when the temple police reported that the jail doors were locked but the apostles were not inside. Anger joined confusion when the Sanhedrin learned that the apostles were freely declaring the gospel to the people. The temple police diplomatically ushered the apostles into the council. There the high priest demanded that the disciples cease their evangelism. Peter and the apostles replied that they had to obey God and bear witness to the death and resurrection of Jesus. The Sanhedrin was not accustomed to their authority being dismissed by ordinary citizens. Members wanted to kill the apostles until Gamaliel persuaded them differently. He advised the council to leave the apostles alone because if they belonged to God, the council would be fighting against the Almighty. The Sanhedrin decided to flog all of the apostles and order them not to speak about Jesus anymore. Nevertheless, the apostles rejoiced after enduring a likely tortuous and bloody beating. They felt honored to endure the persecution for the sake of Jesus, and they remained faithful despite the opposition.

Session 7: Obedience When Opposed

53

OVERVIEW

SESSION FOCUS CORE PASSAGE: Acts 5:25-35,38-42 CONNECTION PASSAGES: Acts 5:17-42 FAMILY MEMORY VERSE: Acts 5:29 TEXT TRUTH: We must obey God even when people say we shouldn’t. GET STARTED

10 MINUTES

GET STARTED TOOLS ¨¨ Obstacles: tape, chairs, cones, boxes, paper plates BIBLE STUDY TOOLS ¨¨ Jumping In: Christ in Context: Acts” (Poster Pack) ¨¨ Tell the Bible Story: Bibles, large piece of paper, markers, sticky notes ¨¨ Examine the Text: pencils ¨¨ Family Memory Verse: “Acts 5:29” (Poster Pack)

BIBLE STUDY

35 MINUTES

SMALL GROUP

30 MINUTES

¨¨ Play the Video: Explore the Bible On Location Video ¨¨ Text Truth and Connection Statement: “Text Truth Strips” and “Connection Statements” (Poster Pack), “Acts” (Books of the Bible Posters) ¨¨ Review Family Cards: Family Cards

SMALL GROUP TOOLS ¨¨ Explorer Guide: Explorer Guides, Bibles, pens ¨¨ Bible Skills: Bibles, paper plates, phone or tablet, “Bible Books” (Books of the Bible Posters) ¨¨ Crafts: copies of “Stop Sign” (enhanced CD) on heavyweight paper, markers, scissors ¨¨ Games: tape, pompoms

NOTE: Downloadable versions of DVD items are available in the Digital Video Bundle. Downloadable versions of enhanced CD items are available in the Music and Print Extras Bundle. For free online training on how to lead a group, visit ministrygrid.com/web/explorethebible.

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Explore the Bible: Younger Kids

BIBLE STORY

THE APOSTLES OBEYED GOD

CHRIST IN CONTEXT:

CONNECTION PASSAGE: Acts 5:17-42

The religious leaders were watching the followers of Jesus. They were jealous, so they ordered that the followers of Jesus be arrested and thrown in jail. During the night, an angel of the Lord appeared and opened the doors of the jail. The angel told the followers of Jesus to go to the temple and tell people about Jesus. The people obeyed. The next day, they walked into the temple complex and began to tell about Jesus.

The Book of Acts records the continuation of Jesus’ ministry and the history of the early church. After Jesus’ ascension, the Holy Spirit came and empowered Jesus’ followers to share the gospel of Jesus Christ all over the world. Jesus’ ministry continued through His faithful followers and many people received Jesus as their Lord and Savior.

Meanwhile, the religious leaders gathered together and ordered the followers of Jesus be brought from the jail. The temple police came back and reported that the jail was locked and the guards were there, but the jail was empty. The people were gone! Everyone was confused. Suddenly, someone came and told the religious leaders that the men they had arrested were in the temple complex telling people about Jesus! Again, the apostles were brought to the religious leaders. Again, the religious leaders told them to stop teaching about Jesus. Peter and the apostles said, “We must obey God rather than men.” The religious leaders were very angry. One of the religious leaders named, Gamaliel, stood up and told the other leaders that they should be careful. He told them, “If these men are from God, then you will not be able to stop them. You don’t want to fight against God.” The religious leaders decided to listen to Gamaliel’s advice. They had the disciples beaten and again they told them not to talk about Jesus. Did the disciples listen to the religious leaders? No, they obeyed God. The disciples left and continued to tell everyone about Jesus. They would not stop talking about Jesus!

CONNECTION STATEMENT: Peter and John obeyed God.

KEY CONNECTIONS TO ACTS CORE PASSAGE: Acts 5:25-35,38-42 • The disciples refused to stop telling about Jesus. • The religious leaders were jealous of the attention the disciples were getting. • The message of Jesus cannot be stopped. People will tell others about Jesus.

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GET STARTED

GET STARTED (10 MINUTES) TOOLS: tape, chairs, cones, boxes, paper plates

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OBSTACLES • Tape a path on the floor. Place obstacles along the path. • Challenge kids to take turns balancing a paper plate on one hand while navigating the obstacle course. If the plate falls, they must start over. The second hand cannot be used to help balance the plate or keep it from falling. • Encourage kids to cheer each other on and not to give up or stop. • Ask: “What are some obstacles you face that stop you from talking about Jesus?” • Continue: “Do you think disciples faced obstacles when they told people about Jesus? Do you think they stopped or gave up? We will talk about this more during today’s Bible story. • Transition to Bible Study.

Explore the Bible: Younger Kids

BIBLE STUDY

BIBLE STUDY (35 MINUTES) JUMPING IN • Ask for a volunteer to pray before you begin. • Review each item on the “Christ in Context: Acts” poster.

TOOLS:

TELL THE BIBLE STORY • Encourage children to open their Bibles to Acts 5. (Pre-Reader option: stop here and tell the story) • Introduce some words kids should listen for (obey, God, tell, stop, Jesus) • Lead kids to locate verse 17. Call on a child to begin reading. “Randomly call on children to read until you reach verse 42 or share the Bible story in your own words using the script provided as a guide. • Ask: “Did anyone hear our words in the passage?” (answers will vary) • Mention: “Peter and John obeyed God even when many important religious people wanted them to stop. The people tried and tried to make them stop, but they wouldn’t. Peter and John knew obeying God was much more important than obeying man.” • Guide kids to call out examples of ways they should obey God. Write their ideas on individual sticky notes and attach them to the wall. Kids will use these ideas again in a little while. • Reiterate that no matter what happened to them, Peter and John obeyed God. Encourage kids to obey God even when people say they shouldn’t. EXAMINE THE TEXT • Form three groups. • Explain: “I am going to give each group something to look for in the Bible passage. You can look for the answers anywhere from verses 17-42 of chapter 5. When you find an answer, write it down and also list the verse number where you found it. Find as many examples as you can.” • Assign what each group will look for. The first group will look for who was trying to put Peter and John in jail and why. The second group will look for what Peter and John were teaching. The third group will look for who tried to stop the people from killing Peter and John and why. • Encourage kids to be sure everyone in their group participates in looking in the Bible for answers. Help as needed if kids get stuck. • Review group’s answers. Mention anything kids may have missed and the verse it is located in. • Ask: “The people tried to make Peter and John do what?” (stop telling about Jesus) “Did they?” (no) “Why not?” (answers could vary but be sure something is mentioned like: they obeyed God instead of man) • Say: “It is important to obey God even when people tell us not to. Let’s take a look at that list we made earlier.” • Lead kids to get into 2 circles, one inside the other, facing each other. Kids should be paired up in the circle, with one child directly in front of another.

“Acts 5:29,” “Text Truth Strips,” “Connection Statements,” “Christ in Context: Acts” (Poster Pack); “Acts” (Books of the Bible Posters); Explore the Bible: Kids video; Bibles; Family Cards; Explorer Guides; sticky notes • Print these words on a piece of paper: obey, God, tell, stop, Jesus.

EXAMINE THE TEXT PRE-READER OPTION: Tell groups what to listen for and retell the story. Have groups raise their hands or put their fingers on their noses when they hear an answer.

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• Explain: “We are going to play a game to try to think of ways people may try to stop you from obeying God. I will call out one of the ways we wrote down that you can obey God. You and the person you are standing in front of should quickly discuss ways friends and other people may try to stop you.” • Choose a paper off the wall and call out what is written on it. Give kids a set time to talk (30 seconds or 1 minute). Once time is up call for each child to move one space to their left (this should move the inner and outer circles in opposite directions). • Continue calling out examples off the note papers, having children discuss them, and then rotate. Bring kids back together after the circle has made it all the way around or you run out of papers or time. • Challenge kids to obey God even when it’s hard. Sometimes their friends or families won’t think they should obey God, they may even try to stop them. Encourage kids to stand firm and obey God. FAMILY MEMORY VERSE PRE-READER OPTION: Read the verse a few times to kids. Say it in a simple chant-like rhythm so kids can easily remember it. Continue the activity as listed.

LEARN THE FAMILY MEMORY VERSE • Guide kids to find Acts 5:29 in their Bibles and display the poster. • Lead children to read the verse together. • Say: “I am going to call out instructions of things you need to do. But you cannot stop saying the verse while you do them!” • Call out random actions like: hop on one foot, walk backward, stand on your toes, stand on one foot and switch each time you say a new word, stand on your heels, or blink. • Remark: “Peter and John did not stop telling people about Jesus. It is important to obey God even when someone tries to stop you.” PLAY THE VIDEO • Play the “Acts: Session 7” video. • Ask: “What did Joel learn about obstacles? Did Peter and John face obstacles? What did they do?” LEARN THE TEXT TRUTH AND CONNECTION STATEMENT • Look together at the “Text Truth Strip” and “Connection Statement.” • Invite a child to attach them to the “Acts” poster. REVIEW FAMILY CARDS • Ask someone to pass the cards out. • Point to the questions on the back. Remind kids these are great questions to use with their families at home or in the car. • Show the object. Encourage kids that each time they see it they can remember we need to obey God even when people say we shouldn’t. • Move to Small Group.

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Explore the Bible: Younger Kids

SMALL GROUP

SMALL GROUP (30 MINUTES)

TOOLS:

EXPLORER GUIDES • Distribute Explorer Guides and help kids locate today’s pages “Obedience When Opposed.” • Review the “Royal Stoa” by asking a volunteer to read it aloud. • Invite kids to recall the Bible Story as they solve the “Maze.” Ask: “Where were the disciples when the temple police found them? How did they get there?” • Ask a kid to read “Spotlight On Temple Complex.” Select a second kid to read “Tomb of Gamaliel.” • Conclude by inviting kids to complete the activity, “Color It,” to find a word to remember from today’s Bible story.

Explorer Guides, Bibles, pens

TECH CONNECT (OPTIONAL) • Prior to class, download the Explore the Bible: Kids Family App. • Use the activity labeled “Explorer Plus” on the app. ACTIVITIES • Select one or more of the activities to complete as time allows.

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le Books” (Books of the Bible Posters) Tools: Bibles, paper plates, phone or tablet, “Bib

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• Display the “Bible Books” poster. pair a paper plate. • Direct kids to find a partner. Give each As you toss it, you need to say plate back and forth like a flying disc. their toss to • Tell kids: “Partners will need d). I will be making sounds and r (one book each time the plate is tosse the books of the New Testament in orde you need to keep going.” doing things to try to get you to stop, but • Say: “Start” and guide kids to begin. . sounds randomly to try to get kids to stop • Use your phone or tablet to make alarm be stopped. People will not will s Jesu of sage mes dn’t stop telling, the • Mention: “Just like the disciples woul always tell others about Him.” Old Testament, too! • Consider challenging kids to say the . Remind kids of people in the God even when people say we shouldn’t obey t mus • Review the Text Truth: We s, Elijah, Noah, the disciples, and so on. Bible who obeyed this Text Truth: Jesu

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DON’T STOP

ced CD) on Tools: copies of “Stop Sign” (enhan sors heavyweight paper, markers, scis shapes and • Show one of the stop sign ind you of?” rem this ask kids: “What does (answers will vary) Peter and John • Say: “It reminds me that ple about Jesus. peo would not stop telling them to do, even told They obeyed what God to get them to though people were trying stop.” to cut out. • Give each child a stop sign decorate their stop to s • Provide markers for kid sign. te the Bible verse • Encourage children to wri p remind them to hel or other words that will say they should ers oth obey God even when stop. must obey God • Review the Text Truth: We uldn’t. sho we even when people say always obey to s kid p hel • Pray, asking God to they shouldn’t. Him even when others say

phrases for Pre-Reader option: Print sample pre-readers to copy.

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POM POM GOALS Tools: tape, pom-poms, straws

¨¨ Form kids into groups of 2-6. ¨¨ Give each group two pieces of tape. • Form two teams. Say: “Each team should use the tape to make a goal area.” • Explain the game once kids make their tape goals. Say: “Players will use their straws to try to blow the cotton ball into the other team’s goal. The other team will use their straws to try to stop your team from scoring.” • Drop a cotton ball on each team’s playing area and let them begin. Encourage kids to be persistent and keep trying to score, even if the other team keeps stopping them. • Talk with kids after they play. Ask teams if they felt like giving up. • Mention: “The disciples refused to stop telling people about Jesus. They knew it was better to obey God than man. Some people may try to stop you from obeying God, too. It is important to obey God even when others try to stop you.” • Review the Text Truth: We must obey God even when people say we shouldn’t. • Pray with kids.

Option: Play around a table to help the pom pom move easier.

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Session

FOR THE LEADER

8

Seven Men Chosen Acts 6:1-10 As the early church grew, so did its difficulties and challenges. Chapter 6 opens with a dispute about the distribution of goods to needy widows in the fellowship. Complaints and accusations of discrimination arose. The apostles could not give their full attention to the essential tasks of prayer and preaching while juggling the responsibility of supervision for the widows’ ministry. Consequently, the apostles led the congregation to select seven wise and godly men who could provide leadership and resolve the tension. The believers supported the proposal, disaster was averted, and the Jerusalem church continued to thrive. Stephen served as one of the seven, and he provided strategic evangelistic leadership. But his message about Jesus offended some of the listeners. They stirred up hostility and arranged for false witnesses to accuse him as he testified to the Sanhedrin. Chapter 7 throbs with the passion of Stephen’s message to the Sanhedrin. His application of Old Testament history and his theological insights were brutally honest when he explained that the Jewish people were betrayers and murderers of Jesus, the Righteous One. The response from the Sanhedrin was swift and aggressive. They threw Stephen out of the city and stoned him to death. Saul of Tarsus agreed with the execution sentence and served as an accomplice; the witnesses robes were laid at his feet. That was a frightening day for the church in Jerusalem. Widespread persecution broke out and believers fled to other places for safety. Saul, however, continued to terrorize believers as he moved unknowingly toward a dramatic encounter with Christ near Damascus.

Session 8: Seven Men Chosen

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OVERVIEW

SESSION FOCUS CORE PASSAGE: Acts 6:1-10 CONNECTION PASSAGE: Acts 6:1-10 FAMILY MEMORY VERSE: Galatians 6:10 TEXT TRUTH: We should serve others. GET STARTED

10 MINUTES

GET STARTED TOOLS ¨¨ 10 Step Relay: “Allergy Alert” (enhanced CD), saltine crackers, water, small cups BIBLE STUDY TOOLS ¨¨ Jumping In: “Acts” (Books of the Bible Posters) ¨¨ Tell the Bible Story and Examine the Text: Bibles ¨¨ Family Memory Verse: “Galatians 6:10” (Poster Pack), index cards, marker ¨¨ Play the Video: Explore the Bible On Location Video

BIBLE STUDY

35 MINUTES

SMALL GROUP

30 MINUTES

¨¨ Text Truth and Connection Statement: “Text Truth Strips” and “Connection Statements” (Poster Pack), “Acts” (Books of the Bible Posters) ¨¨ Review Family Cards: Family Cards SMALL GROUP TOOLS ¨¨ Explorer Guide: Explorer Guides, Bibles, pens ¨¨ Bible Skills: Bibles, paper bags, markers, tape, scissors, stapler (optional)

¨¨ Crafts: Bibles, “Secret Service” (enhanced CD) printed on heavyweight paper (1 per child), paper, scissors, markers, pens, tape, the lists made in Get Started ¨¨ Games: “Allergy Alert” (enhanced CD), items for a trail mix (ex: mini chocolate chips, o-shaped cereal, fishshape crackers), small plastic bags, small paper cups or measuring cups, bowls

NOTE: Downloadable versions of DVD items are available in the Digital Video Bundle. Downloadable versions of enhanced CD items are available in the Music and Print Extras Bundle. For free online training on how to lead a group, visit ministrygrid.com/web/explorethebible.

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BIBLE STORY

STEPHEN SERVED OTHERS CONNECTION PASSAGE: Acts 6:1-10

The church was growing very fast. Many people repented of their sin and trusted Jesus as their Savior and Lord. As the church grew, some of the people began to complain. Every day the widows of the church were given food to help take care of them, but some of the widows were being overlooked. The twelve disciples gathered the other followers of Jesus together and came up with a plan. The disciples knew that they needed to focus on teaching about Jesus. So they decided that the people needed to choose some men to help take care of the widows. The disciples told the people to select seven men who followed God and were known for obeying Him.

CHRIST IN CONTEXT: The Book of Acts records the continuation of Jesus’ ministry and the history of the early church. After Jesus’ ascension, the Holy Spirit came and empowered Jesus’ followers to share the gospel of Jesus Christ all over the world. Jesus’ ministry continued through His faithful followers and many people received Jesus as their Lord and Savior.

Seven men were chosen. The people chose Stephen, Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolaus. All of the men stood before the twelve disciples and the disciples prayed for the men. Again, many people heard the good news of Jesus and believed. The church continued to grow. Stephen, one of the new leaders, performed many miracles. He was full of grace and power from God. Some men came forward and began to disagree with Stephen. But they could not win against Stephen. Stephen had great wisdom and the Holy Spirit—God’s special helper—helped Stephen know what to say.

CONNECTION STATEMENT: Stephen was chosen to help the people.

The followers of Jesus continued to work together to take care of God’s people and to tell as many people as possible the good news of Jesus Christ.

KEY CONNECTIONS TO ACTS CORE PASSAGE: Acts 6:1-10 • God’s people have different jobs to do to take care of the work He has given them. • Stephen was full of the Holy Spirit and told people about Jesus. • We all have a part in telling others the good news of Jesus Christ.

Session 8: Seven Men Chosen

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GET STARTED

GET STARTED (10 MINUTES) TOOLS: “Allergy Alert” (enhanced CD), saltine crackers, water, small cups

10 STEP RELAY • Invite kids to work together to complete each step of the relay. Each kid should be assigned at least 1 of the tasks. Create teams if you have more than 10 kids in your group. 1. Do 5 jumping jacks 2. Sing the alphabet song 3. Count backward from 10 to 1 4. Spell your name 5. Eat 2 saltine crackers 6. Drink 1 cup of water 7. Read 2 Timothy 3:16 aloud 8. Stand on 1 foot for 10 seconds 9. Tell something about Jesus 10. Say the name of two books of the Bible • Comment: “This game showed us how friends can come together to help and serve each other. They needed to work together to get it done. People all around us need help every day. Make a list of as many ways to serve others as you can.” Give kids a couple of minutes to work. • Encourage groups to share a few of their ideas. • Mention: “We can serve others at any time. We need to look for ways to serve others every day. God gives us all different ways we can serve others and each way is important. Today we will learn how the early church served one another.” • Transition to Bible Study. OPTION FOR PRE-READERS • Complete the list portion of the activity together as a group. • Guide kids to call out ideas as you can write them down on the paper.

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BIBLE STUDY

BIBLE STUDY (35 MINUTES) JUMPING IN • Ask a child to pray as you begin. • Select a few kids to read the facts on the “Acts” poster. TELL THE BIBLE STORY • Challenge kids to locate Acts in their Bibles as quickly as they can. Encourage kids to help any friend who may be struggling to find it. • Say: “You need to listen closely for two words as we read. The words are “seven” and “twelve.” Call on volunteers to read Acts 6:1-10. Recap what kids read using the Bible story script as a guide. • Ask: “What were the two words you were to listen for?” (seven and twelve) “Who were the Twelve?” (the twelve apostles, who went around preaching about Jesus) “Who were the seven?” (seven helpers chosen) “What were they chosen to do?” (to help take care of the people so the apostles could keep preaching) • Remark: “The seven were chosen to help. The twelve apostles could not preach and take care of the community by themselves, others needed to help and serve with them. Together they could divide the tasks and better take care of the community.” • Refer kids to verse 1 again. Ask: “Why did the apostles need help? What was the complaint being made?” (some of the widows were getting overlooked in the church’s food distribution) • Challenge pairs to brainstorm specific ways they can serve or help others in their class at church, at school, at home, and in their neighborhood. Add these ideas to the lists from earlier. • Mention that the people prayed for the seven men. Pray and ask God to help kids serve others around them.

TOOLS: “Galatians 6:10,” “Text Truth Strips,” “Connection Statements,” “Christ in Context: Acts” (Poster Pack); “Acts,” “Genesis” (Books of the Bible Posters); Explore the Bible: Kids video; Bibles; Family Cards; Explorer Guides; lists made in Get Started activity; index cards; markers • Print the words of Galatians 6:10 on individual index cards.

EXAMINE THE TEXT • Comment: “Now we are going to take a closer look at Stephen, one of the men chosen to serve the church.” • Lead kids to get into small groups (optional). • Guide groups to read verses 8-10 together. • Ask: “What was Stephen doing?” (answers could include he was doing signs and wonders) “Stephen was doing amazing things as he served others.” • Direct groups to look back over the verses and see why the people who were disputing Stephen could not stand against him. (his wisdom and the Spirit by whom he was speaking) Ask volunteers to look back and see what verse 5 said about Stephen again. (he was full of faith and the Holy Spirit) • Explain: “The Holy Spirit helped Stephen as he spoke to and served others. He had wisdom the people could not argue against because of the Holy Spirit. If you are a Christian, the Holy Spirit will be with you. He will help and guide you as you talk to or serve others.” • Suggest groups think of some ways the Holy Spirit helps you as you Session 8: Seven Men Chosen

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BIBLE STUDY

serve others. This is a hard concept for kids, so be ready to give some suggestions like: helps you remember things about God to say, helps you recall scripture, helps you do things you might not otherwise do, helps you be bold, helps you notice people that need help, helps you serve others with a joyful heart. • Say: “Close your eyes for a minute. Think about the people you see everyday. The people in your home, your school, on your bus, in your neighborhood, maybe in your local grocery store or bank. Anywhere you go, think about those people. Now consider how you could serve them. What are some simple things you could do to help them? Pray quietly and ask God to help you to see ways you can serve those around you, and to help you to do it.” FAMILY MEMORY VERSE PRE-READER OPTION: Pre-Reader can do the beginning portion of the activity by just looking for the matching words. To practice the verse, call out each word and have kids repeat them. Each time through say bigger chunks of the verse for kids to repeat.

TIP: If you have a small group, use one of these variations: have kids hold two cards each and children can switch the cards around in their hands, tape multiple cards to the wall for kids to move around.

LEARN THE FAMILY MEMORY VERSE • Give each verse index card out to individual children. Guide kids to hold them so everyone can see them. • Direct the remaining kids to locate Galatians 6:10 in their Bibles. Display the “Galatians 6:10” poster. • Explain: “Look at the verse in your Bible and work together to quickly help friends get in the correct order.” Once the verse is in order, comment: “Now let’s practice the verse a few times.” • Guide each child to hold their word up and have everyone say it. • Go through the verse a few times, encouraging kids to get faster each time. PLAY THE VIDEO • Play the “Acts: Session 8” video. • Ask: “What did Terra learn about the Dream Center? Why should we serve others?” LEARN THE TEXT TRUTH AND CONNECTION STATEMENT • Have a child show “Text Truth Strip” and “Connection Statement.” • Invite a volunteer to attach each one to the “Acts” poster. • Review the statements with kids. • Encourage kids to look for ways to serve others everyday. REVIEW FAMILY CARDS • Distribute cards to each child. • Show the object and explain: “Each time you see this plaque, remember you should look for ways to serve others.” • Give examples of ways kids can use the questions at home with their families. • Move to Small Group.

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Explore the Bible: Younger Kids

SMALL GROUP

SMALL GROUP (30 MINUTES)

EXPLORER GUIDES • Distribute Explorer Guides and help kids locate today’s pages “Seven Men Chosen.” • Invite a volunteer to read aloud the information about “The Synagogue of the Freedmen” and the object details. • Lead boys and girls to list the names of 7 people who serve in your church. Invite kids to share their responses with the group. Ask if any of the kids wrote down their own names. • Guide kids to complete “Ways to Serve.” Discuss the many different ways God’s people can serve others. Review the Text Truth. • Select a kid to read “Stephen’s Gates” to the group. Remind kids that the Bible is true. It is full of events that actually happened and people who really lived.

TOOLS: Explorer Guides, Bibles, pens

ACTIVITIES • Select one or more of the activities to complete as time allows.

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stapler (optional) Tools: Bibles, paper bags, markers, tape, scissors,

en the load of the apostles. le worked to serve the people and to light • Say: “In the passage today, seven peop en the load for your is going to require everyone to help light We are going to complete an activity that teammates.” to cut a 2-3 inch strip off r bags to each group. Demonstrate how • Form two or more groups and give pape e of one book of the New will lay flat. Teams should print the nam the top of each bag. Cut the piece so it le, using tape or a stapler. attach the strips to the bags, like a hand Testament on each strip. Direct kids to the bags on to the child’s arms. the bags. Mix the bags up and help slip • Guide teams to choose one kid to hold e kids to line up for a relay. load of the person holding the bags.” Guid • Explain: “Teams will help lighten the and run back. Once the last bag a bag off of the arm of their teammate Kids will run down, one at a time, slip the rest of the team. ing the bags should run down and join has been taken, the person that was hold they can use their Bibles for help. in New Testament order. Remind kids • Groups will then work to put the bags ing them in order, and yell: member should pick up some bags, keep Once teams have put them in order, each : We should serve others. ew the correct order and the Text Truth “We did it by helping each other!” Revi

up or print books of the Bible for pre-readers to print and look Pre-Reader option: Choose a smaller number of help to re the session. Encourage kids to use their Bibles befo bags the on nt ame Test New the of s book the match the words and put them in order.

Session 8: Seven Men Chosen

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SMALL GROUP GAME

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SECRET SERVICE BOX

hanced CD) Tools: Bibles, “Secret Service” (en per child), printed on heavyweight paper (1 e, the lists tap paper, scissors, markers, pens, made in Get Started

session for kids to ¨¨ Prepare a box before the see as an example. make a Secret • Explain: “You are going to to use. It will help Service box for your family uld serve others everyone remember you sho every day.” cret Service.” • Give each kid a copy of “Se pieces out, fold, Demonstrate how to cut the box and lid. and tape them to form the te their boxes with • Encourage kids to decora markers. Started for everyone • Display the lists from Get to see. as about serving • Ask: “Which of these ide e with your others could you use at hom or point to ones family?” Lead kids to call out n: “Serving our they think will work. Mentio e everyone helps families is a way to make sur This makes all out to get everything done. little bit easier for the tasks that need done a to encourage everyone. It’s also a good way others as you help them.” CD with ways to • Show the strips from the ers to read them. serve on them. Ask volunte out to use or Encourage kids to cut these paper (they can make their own using blank place their strips do both). Lead everyone to in their Secret Service box. ryone in your family • State: “Each morning eve the box, read it, should take an idea out of time during the and drop it back in. Some need to secretly day each family member will y pulled out.” complete the service idea the should serve • Review the Text Truth: We others. • t are already • Option: Provide boxes tha assembled.

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TRAIL MIX RELAY Tools: “Allergy Alert” (enhanced CD), items for a trail mix (mini chocolate chips, o-shaped cereal, fish-shape crackers), small plastic bags, small paper cups, bowls

¨¨ Place the food items in bowls in the center of the playing area. • Ask: “What was the complaint made in the passage?” (some of the widows were not getting food) “The apostles suggested finding seven men who obeyed God to help. The apostles could preach and the other men could help take care of the people.” • Remark: “We are going to play a game to where each team will work together, everyone doing their own part, to make a trail mix. Teams will be able to enjoy some of their trail mix themselves, and give some away to help others, too!” • Form kids into teams. Give each group plastic bags (2 per person) and a paper cup. • Explain the game: “One at a time team members will run over to the food and get one scoop. You will take it back, and carefully place some in as many bags as you can.” • Continue: “Then the next person will go, get another scoop of the same food, and place some in more bags. Each person gets the same food until each bag has some of that item in it. Then teams can work on a different food item (not moving on from each one until all bags have some in them).” • State: “The game will be done when all of your team’s bags have all items in them, are sealed, and shaken to mix them.” • Encourage teams to work together, each person playing a part to help. • Once finished, allow kids to enjoy one of the bags as a snack for themselves. The extra bags can be given to people in your church who may need food. If your church doesn’t have a ministry that can use them, send bags home with kids. Encourage children to look for someone to serve and give the snack to. • Review: We should serve others.

Session

FOR THE LEADER

9

The Ethiopian Man Acts 8:26-31,35,38-39 The church in Jerusalem felt the full assault of persecution. Many believers fled the city and took up residence in other places. Wherever they went, they shared the gospel message. Philip, who was one of the seven, traveled to Samaria and began proclaiming Jesus as Messiah. Many of the Samaritans were converted, and soon Peter and John joined Philip there. Although the area of Samaria was experiencing a genuine response to Jesus, the Lord instructed Philip to leave in search of an Ethiopian on a desert road. Philip’s obedience to share the good news about Jesus with an official reflected his confidence in God’s plan. There was no indication that Philip balked at the leadership of the Holy Spirit. He put aside his personal agenda in order to accomplish the Spirit’s agenda. Philip ran beside the Ethiopian eunuch’s chariot and developed a relationship with him. The Ethiopian invited Philip to ride in his chariot and explain the passage in Isaiah 53 that he was reading. Philip explained that Jesus fulfilled the prophecy of the suffering Messiah in Isaiah. Jesus was the Lamb of God who was humiliated and executed to atone for the sin of the world. The Ethiopian declared his faith in Jesus and asked Philip to baptize him. Philip left soon afterward to share the gospel in Azotus while the Ethiopian returned home rejoicing. Because of Philip’s obedience, the gospel was ignited in both Samaria and Africa.

Session 9: The Ethiopian Man

69

OVERVIEW

SESSION FOCUS CORE PASSAGE: Acts 8:26-31,35,38-39 CONNECTION PASSAGE: Acts 8:4-13,26-40 FAMILY MEMORY VERSE: Acts 8:4 TEXT TRUTH: We should tell others about Jesus. GET STARTED

10 MINUTES

GET STARTED TOOLS ¨¨ Tell Others: markers, large pieces of paper, tape (optional) BIBLE STUDY TOOLS ¨¨ Jumping In: Bibles ¨¨ Examine the Text: bin of markers, index cards ¨¨ Tell the Bible Story: items that can be used as objects to review the Bible story (ex: cross; scroll or Bible; stone; individual papers with the letters P, G, J, E, or S printed on them; a picture of a manger; a picture of a sheep), bag or basket

BIBLE STUDY

35 MINUTES

SMALL GROUP

30 MINUTES

¨¨ Family Memory Verse: “Acts 8:4” (Poster Pack) ¨¨ Play the Video: Explore the Bible On Location Video ¨¨ Text Truth and Connection Statement: “Text Truth Strips” and “Connection Statements” (Poster Pack), “Acts” (Books of the Bible Posters) ¨¨ Review Family Cards: Family Cards

SMALL GROUP TOOLS ¨¨ Explorer Guide: Explorer Guides, Bibles, pens ¨¨ Bible Skills: Bibles, Bible concordances, paper, pens ¨¨ Crafts: Bibles, “Tell” (enhanced CD), glue sticks, scissors, stapler or tape, heavyweight paper ¨¨ Games: ball

NOTE: Downloadable versions of DVD items are available in the Digital Video Bundle. Downloadable versions of enhanced CD items are available in the Music and Print Extras Bundle. For free online training on how to lead a group, visit ministrygrid.com/web/explorethebible.

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Explore the Bible: Younger Kids

BIBLE STORY

PHILIP TOLD OTHERS ABOUT JESUS CONNECTION PASSAGE: Acts 8:4-13,26-40

The church in Jerusalem entered a time of difficulty. Some people did not like the church and wanted to hurt the people. The followers of Jesus moved to new homes in new cities and they told people about Jesus in their new cities. A man named Philip traveled to Samaria to tell the people about Jesus. Crowds of people listened to Philip. When the people heard Philip tell about Jesus, they repented and believed in Jesus. A man named Simon had sinned by lying to and tricking the people. When he heard about Jesus, Simon repented and believed. He walked around with Philip and was surprised by all the miracles God performed. One day, an angel of the Lord appeared to Philip and told him to go to the road that went from Jerusalem to Gaza. Philip obeyed. When he got there, he saw a man from Ethiopia in a chariot. The man had been to Jerusalem to worship God. He was traveling back home. As he sat in his chariot, the man read aloud from the Scriptures written by the prophet Isaiah. The Holy Spirit—the special helper—told Philip to go to the chariot. Philip ran up and asked, “Do you understand what you are reading?”

CHRIST IN CONTEXT: The Book of Acts records the continuation of Jesus’ ministry and the history of the early church. After Jesus’ ascension, the Holy Spirit came and empowered Jesus’ followers to share the gospel of Jesus Christ all over the world. Jesus’ ministry continued through His faithful followers and many people received Jesus as their Lord and Savior.

CONNECTION STATEMENT: The Bible tells us about Jesus.

The man said, “How can I understand unless someone explains it to me?” Philip climbed into the chariot and began to explain that the prophet Isaiah was talking about Jesus and how He would die to rescue people from sin. Philip told the man the good news of Jesus and the man believed and was baptized. The Ethiopian man returned home very happy because he had repented and trusted Jesus as his Lord and Savior. Philip continued to travel and tell more and more people about Jesus.

KEY CONNECTIONS TO ACTS CORE PASSAGE: Acts 8:26-31,35,38-39 • The Bible tells about Jesus. God had been telling people about Jesus for a long time through the prophets and other writers of Scripture. • Philip told people about Jesus. People like Simon and the Ethiopian believed in Jesus because Philip told them about Jesus.

Session 9: The Ethiopian Man

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GET STARTED

GET STARTED (10 MINUTES) TOOLS: markers, large pieces of paper, tape (optional) • Print the phrase Tell others about Jesus on the pieces of paper. You will need one for each group of kids.

TELL OTHERS • Display one of the papers and say: “I need someone to read this for me.” Pause and allow time for a volunteer to read it. Continue: “What does that mean?” Again, allow time for kids to give a few responses. “We have an activity to do that will challenge you to think of the who, what, where, and why of telling others about Jesus. Let’s form a few groups.” • Sort children into groups by birthday, color they are wearing, height, or hair color. • Give each group one of the papers and guide them to lay them on the floor or hang them on the wall. Ask a volunteer to pass out markers to everyone. • Tell kids: “I am going to call out ‘Who, What, Where, or Why.’ You will need to use the letters in the phrase to come up with as many words as you can to help answer that question. Each group should write their answers on their paper. This means, if I call ‘What’ you need to write down as many things as you can about what you can tell others about Jesus, using only the letters in the phrase.” • Say: “Let’s begin with ‘Who.’” Guide kids to start. • Give a few minutes for kids to work before you call out a new question. • After all questions have been called, guide groups to share the information on their paper. • Lead the group that is sharing to stand up as they read and tell others. • Comment: “You guys had some great ideas about telling others about Jesus. Today’s Bible passage talks about people who were telling others about Jesus, too. Let’s get our Bibles and see what it says.” • Transition to Bible Study. OPTION FOR PRE-READERS • Guide Pre-Reader to simply draw pictures or write words that begin with one of the letters on the paper.

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Explore the Bible: Younger Kids

BIBLE STUDY

BIBLE STUDY (35 MINUTES) JUMPING IN • Ask: “What book of the Bible are we studying?” (Acts) “I need everyone to stand up. I want you to hop on one foot to show me the number that will answer each of these questions. If the answer is three, you will hop three times. Do you understand?” Give kids time to ask any questions they may need to.” Mention that kids can refer to their Bibles to find the answer if needed. • Begin: “What part of the Bible is Acts in? Hop once for Old Testament and twice for New Testament.” (New, hop twice) “Acts is the _____book of the New Testament” (5th, hop 5) “True or false: 1 Corinthians comes directly after the book of Acts. Hop once for true and twice for false.” (false Romans comes after Acts, hop twice) “Jesus is not mentioned in the book of Acts. Hop once for false and twice for true.” (false, hop once) • Comment: “Good job! You can sit down and open your Bible to Acts now.” • Lead a volunteer to pray as you begin. EXAMINE THE TEXT • Say: “During this time there were people trying to hurt people who believed in and followed Jesus. Many people in the church were scattered to other places so that they could stay safe. They were still believers, though. Let me show you something.” • Show kids the markers and ask: “What are these?” (markers) “What do they do?” (answers will vary) Spill the bin of markers across the floor. Pose this question: “Now, what are they?” (still markers) “What do they do now?” (answers will vary, but should be the same as before) Remark: “That’s right, these are still markers and their purpose hasn’t changed. They are still used to help people write or color on things. The believers were still believers even though they were scattered. Their purpose didn’t change either. They still told people about Jesus wherever they went.” • Form kids into 5 groups. Hand each group one of the index cards. Lead kids to read their assigned passage, become familiar with it, and be prepared to tell the rest of the group about it. • Give plenty of time for children to read and study their passage. • Lead each group to stand and tell the others about their passage. Ask questions and be prepared to fill in any details kids may have missed. • Thank kids for sharing and telling others about what they read. • Mention that the believers shared what they knew about Jesus. Remind kids that they can tell others about Jesus, too.

TOOLS: “Acts 8:4,” “Text Truth Strips,” “Connection Statements,” “Christ in Context: Acts” (Poster Pack); “Acts” (Books of the Bible Posters); Explore the Bible: Kids video; Bibles; Family Cards; Explorer Guides; bin of markers; index cards; paper; misc. items that can be used as objects to review the story (ex: cross; scroll or Bible; stone; individual papers with the letters P, G, J, E, or S printed on them; a picture of a manger; a picture of a sheep), bag or basket. • Print the following references on the cards: Acts 8:4-8, Acts 8:9-13, Acts 8:26-31, Acts 8:32-35, Acts 8:36-40. • Place the Bible story objects in the bag. Include a Family Cards in the bag, too.

EXAMINE THE TEXT PRE-READER OPTION: Summarize the verses for PreReaders using the Bible story script provided as a guide.

TELL THE BIBLE STORY • Say: “We are going to review a little to see how much you remember from the passage and also, what you remember about Jesus.” • Explain: “In this bag I have some objects. Each one has something to do with our story or about Jesus. When I pull one out I want your group Session 9: The Ethiopian Man

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BIBLE STUDY

TELL THE BIBLE STORY TIP: Give other ideas to help review the story or life of Jesus with kids. (examples: E - the man was Ethiopian; P - Philip shared about Jesus, Philip obeyed God and told others, because Philip told others many people believed in Jesus; scroll - the man was reading a scroll)

to quietly discuss how you think it connects. Be prepared to share your ideas with the rest of the us.” • Begin pulling out items one at a time. Allow groups an opportunity to discuss them and come up with ideas of ways they connect. • Lead groups to share their answers. Talk about the passage the man was reading when you pull out the scroll or Bible. Remark that this passage is from the Bible before Jesus was born, but it is about Him. Comment: “The Bible tells about Jesus all throughout it. God used people, like the prophets, to tell others about Jesus long before Jesus was born in Bethlehem.” • Continue reviewing with kids as you pull objects from the bag. • Ask simple questions as you go along to help kids connect the pieces together with the passage. LEARN THE FAMILY MEMORY VERSE • Guide kids to find Acts 8:4. Ask a volunteer to read it to everyone. • Hand paper and markers to each group. Invite kids to print the verse on their poster. • Explain that you will hang the posters as a reminder we should tell others about Jesus • Encourage kids to practice the verse a few times with their groups. PLAY THE VIDEO • Play the “Acts: Session 9” video. • Ask: “What did Joel discover about transportation in Bible times? How did Philip help the man?” LEARN THE TEXT TRUTH AND CONNECTION STATEMENT • Give the “Text Truth Strip” and “Connection Statement” to children. Ask them to read them to the group. • Guide kids to attach the strips to the “Acts” poster. REVIEW FAMILY CARDS • Show the object on the card. Ask if anyone can tell you what this reminds them of from today’s passage. • Mention: “This chariot can remind you Philip told the man about Jesus. It should encourage you to tell others about Jesus, too.” • Discuss ways kids can use the questions at home with their families (ex: at dinner, family game night, before bed, in the car). • Pray, asking God to help kids be bold and tell others about Him. • Move to Small Group.

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Explore the Bible: Younger Kids

SMALL GROUP

SMALL GROUP (30 MINUTES)

TOOLS:

EXPLORER GUIDES • Give each kid an Explorer Guide and assist him in locating “The Ethiopian Man” pages. • Invite a helper to read about the “Dead Sea Scroll of Isaiah.” Ask: “Did the Ethiopian understand what Isaiah was saying?” “Why did Philip help him?” • Direct kids to the activity, “The Bible Tells About Jesus.” (answers: 1. Bethlehem; 2. three days; 3. with God/in heaven; 4. the Bible says only God knows; 5. to rescue us from our sin) • Share about the “Appian Way.” Ask a volunteer to share “Spotlight On Ethiopia.” • Review today’s object and invite kids to solve the “Crossword” to recap today’s Bible story.

Explorer Guides, Bibles, pens

ACTIVITIES • Select one or more of the activities to complete as time allows. BIBLE S S KILL

OR

L

et, try the word Tools: Bibles, Bible concordances (for phone or tabl pens

EX P

WORD STUDY

study tool on mystudybible.com), paper,

AT I O N

ne remember what the ing a scroll. A scroll is a Bible. Does anyo read was he , man the saw p Phili en • Say: “Wh s, written a long time ago. “He was reading a passage about Jesu s) (Jesu t?” abou ing read was man n Ethiopia s.” in the Bible that say things about Jesu We are going to look for other passages is and how to use it. (it helps nce orda your tablet). Explain what a conc on ite webs (or nce orda conc the • Show s) you look up verses about specific word available) to come and many concordances or tablets you have how on g ndin depe ren child (or child a • Invite look up the word Jesus. es and read them. locate some of the verses in their Bibl • Encourage kids to use their Bibles to up to resemble a scroll. ends yone. Demonstrate how to roll the • Give a piece of paper and pen to ever or verses as they find ones they like. • Guide kids to write down references Truth: We should tell tell others about Jesus. Review the Text they as s verse e thes use can they kids • Remind others about Jesus.

book or of paper. Ask a volunteer to help you find it in the piece a on us” “Jes word the t Prin on: opti der Pre-Rea Bibles. es found. Invite children to find the verses in their type it into the tablet. Show kids the list of vers them e of the references on their scroll so they can look som n dow copy to them Lead . kids with es vers Read the these verses child: “The Bible tells about Jesus. You can use up again at home with their families. Remind each to help you tell others about Jesus.” Pray.

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SMALL GROUP GAME

S FT

T-E-L-L ced Tools: Bibles, copies of “Tell” (enhan tape, or r CD), glue sticks, scissors, staple heavyweight paper er for

vyweight pap ¨¨ Copy the letters onto hea kids to trace. or find pictures in ¨¨ Copy the people pictures also color in magazines or online. Kids can themselves. pictures of people they draw a volunteer to tell • Display the letters and ask : “What does you what they spell. (Tell) Ask passage today?” this word have to do with our include Philip (answers will vary but should told the man about Jesus) to make something to • Mention: “You are going anyone, anywhere remind you that you can tell about Jesus.” ourage kids to • Distribute supplies and enc m out. If time is a trace the letters and cut the ng group, cut the concern, and you have a you letters out ahead of time. ers to one another • Show how to attach the lett lly. either vertically or horizonta pictures and glue ple peo out • Lead kids to cut age children to them on the letters. Encour with pictures, completely fill in the letters leaving no empty space. les to copy the • Guide kids to use their Bib ll” project. Bible verse across their “Te g this in your house?” • Ask: “Where will you han to display their Help children think of places ily to see. sign for them and their fam great way to remind • Mention: “This sign is a us. Each time you you to tell others about Jes re are lots of see the faces, remember the who need to hear people all around the world for them. People about what Jesus has done , and even in in your school, neighborhood good news about your family need to hear the Jesus! should tell others • Review the Text Truth: We about Jesus.

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S

CRA

TELL SOMEONE Tools: ball • Pose this question: “What were Philip and the other believers telling people about?” (Jesus) “That’s right, they were telling people about Jesus. We are going to play a game to challenge us to think of things we know about Him.” • Explain the game: “I am going to toss the ball to someone. As I toss it, I will say something I might say as I tell someone about Jesus.” • Mention that the game should be played as quickly as possible. • Make a statement to start the game and toss the ball. • Consider playing variations of the game, such as: if someone drops the ball they have to sit on their knees, the next time they drop it they are out; if anyone repeats a statement already mentioned then they are out; if kids cannot come up with something to say in 3 seconds they are out. • Play as many rounds as time allows. • Encourage kids to tell others about Jesus. Mention that it is important for people to tell others about Him. Comment: “Just like the Ethiopian man asked how could he understand if no one taught him, how can we expect people to hear about Jesus if no one tells them. God wants you to tell people about Him. I challenge you to look for someone each day to tell about Jesus.” • Review the Text Truth: We should tell others about Jesus. • Pray for kids. Ask God to help them see who they should tell about Him and to be bold as they tell.

Session

FOR THE LEADER

10

Saul’s Conversion Acts 9:3-9,15-20 Saul intended to imprison the messengers of Jesus and eradicate the gospel. The zealous Jew secured authoritative documents from the high priest so that he could arrest believers living in Damascus and extradite them to Jerusalem. Saul’s journey to Damascus was interrupted by a blinding light from heaven and the voice of Jesus asking why Saul was persecuting Him. Jesus told Saul to get up and go into Damascus, where he would receive further instructions. God commanded a man named Ananias who lived in Damascus to go to the house where Saul was staying and pray over him. Ananias was reluctant to do so—Saul’s violent reputation was widely known. The Lord explained to Ananias that Saul was His chosen instrument to present the gospel message to Gentiles and Jews as well as kings. Ananias obeyed the Lord and prayed over Saul, who immediately regained his sight and was baptized. Soon, Saul began testifying about Jesus in the synagogues and proclaiming Him as the Son of God and the Messiah. Some unbelieving Jews plotted to kill Saul and silence his witness, but his friends rescue the rescued him and escorted him out of the city and back to Jerusalem. While in Jerusalem Barnabas made sure that Saul was encouraged and welcomed into the community of faith. Another failed attempt to kill Saul led the believers to accompany him to Caesarea and bid him farewell to Tarsus. But Saul’s conversion jumpstarted an incredible ministry to the Gentiles that rippled throughout the Roman Empire.

Session 10: Saul’s Conversion

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OVERVIEW

SESSION FOCUS CORE PASSAGE: Acts 9:3-9,15-20 CONNECTION PASSAGE: Acts 9:1-22 FAMILY MEMORY VERSE: Acts 9:20 TEXT TRUTH: Jesus is the Son of God. GET STARTED

10 MINUTES

GET STARTED TOOLS ¨¨ Line Up: Bibles; items like blocks, clothespins, beads, or paper strips for kids to line up BIBLE STUDY TOOLS ¨¨ Jumping In: “Christ in Context: Acts” (Poster Pack) ¨¨ Examine the Text: Bibles ¨¨ Tell the Bible Story: props (optional); phone or tablet (optional) ¨¨ Family Memory Verse: “Acts 9:20” (Poster Pack), flashlight, paper, marker

BIBLE STUDY

35 MINUTES

SMALL GROUP

30 MINUTES

¨¨ Play the Video: Explore the Bible On Location Video ¨¨ Text Truth and Connection Statement: “Text Truth Strips” and “Connection Statements” (Poster Pack), “Acts” (Books of the Bible Posters) ¨¨ Review Family Cards: Family Cards

¨¨ Bible Skills: Bibles, flashlight, dry erase board (optional) ¨¨ Crafts: liquid glue, paper ¨¨ Games: “Bible Word Dominoes” (enhanced CD) on heavyweight paper, scissors

SMALL GROUP TOOLS ¨¨ Explorer Guide: Explorer Guides, Bibles, pens

NOTE: Downloadable versions of DVD items are available in the Digital Video Bundle. Downloadable versions of enhanced CD items are available in the Music and Print Extras Bundle. For free online training on how to lead a group, visit ministrygrid.com/web/explorethebible.

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Explore the Bible: Younger Kids

BIBLE STORY

SAUL BECAME A CHRISTIAN CONNECTION PASSAGE: Acts 9:1-22

A man named Saul was very serious about God’s Law. He did not believe that the disciples’ words about Jesus were true. So Saul began to hurt people who followed Jesus. One day Saul asked the high priest to send him to Damascus. Saul wanted to search the synagogues and arrest anyone he found that was teaching or believing in Jesus. As Saul traveled on the road to Damascus, a light from heaven appeared. Saul fell to the ground and heard a voice, say, “Saul, Saul why are you hurting Me?” “Who are you, Lord?” Saul asked. “I am Jesus. The one you are hurting. Get up and go to the city. You will be told what to do.”

CHRIST IN CONTEXT: The Book of Acts records the continuation of Jesus’ ministry and the history of the early church. After Jesus’ ascension, the Holy Spirit came and empowered Jesus’ followers to share the gospel of Jesus Christ all over the world. Jesus’ ministry continued through His faithful followers and many people received Jesus as their Lord and Savior.

CONNECTION STATEMENT: Saul believed that Jesus was the Son of God.

The men traveling with Saul were speechless. Saul got up but he couldn’t see anything. The men helped Saul to Damascus. In Damascus there was a disciple named Ananias. The Lord appeared to Ananias in a vision and told him, “Get up and go to the street called Straight. Go to the house of Judas and ask for the man named Saul. He is praying there. Saul has seen a vision of a man named Ananias coming to place his hands on him so he can see again.” Ananias was confused. “Lord, I have heard about this man and that he has hurt people who follow You.” But God told Ananias to go see Saul. God had a plan for Saul. Saul would go to the Gentiles (the people who weren’t Jewish) and tell them about Jesus. Ananias went and placed his hands on Saul. Something like scales fell from Saul’s eyes and he could see again. He was baptized and spent time with the believers in Damascus. He also went to the synagogues and began telling people that Jesus was the Son of God. The people were confused. “Isn’t this the man who came to take the followers of Jesus to prison?” But Saul learned more about Jesus and kept telling the people that Jesus was the Messiah! Saul understood that what the disciples had said about Jesus was true.

KEY CONNECTIONS TO ACTS CORE PASSAGE: Acts 9:3-9,15-20 • God chose Saul to take the message about Jesus to the Gentiles. • Saul also explained to the Jewish people that Jesus is the Messiah. • Saul did not let his past mistakes stop him from serving Jesus.

DEFINITION: Gentiles: anyone who is not Jewish

Session 10: Saul’s Conversion

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GET STARTED

GET STARTED (10 MINUTES) TOOLS: Bibles; various items like blocks, clothespins, beads, or paper strips for kids to line up

OPTION: Depending on translation, you may also want to include the word Lord in their search.

LINE UP • Form kids into a few groups and give each one their objects to line up. • Ask: “What book of the Bible have we been studying?” (Acts) “The Book of Acts has a lot to say about Jesus. I want each team to try to find the name of Jesus as many times as you can in the Book of Acts. Each time you find His name, set one of your items down. You will need to place them in a straight line as you go.” • Provide plenty of space for kids to work. Guide them to begin. • Give a set amount of time for groups to try to find the name of Jesus. Remind children they can only look in the Book of Acts. • Guide each group to tell you how many times they found His name. Mention: “The name of Jesus is special. Jesus is the Messiah. God sent Him to die on the cross for our sins. Our sin separates us from God. Because of our sin, Jesus is the Only Way we can be right with God.” • Remark: “The straight line you made with your objects reminds me about a part of our passage today. Listen as we read and see if you can figure out what it is.” • Transition to Bible study. OPTION FOR PRE-READERS • Print the name “Jesus” on a piece of paper for kids to see. • Encourage pre-readers to look for the word in the Book of Acts. • Since pre-readers will be a little slower to find it, work together as one group. Only provide one set of objects to use to form the straight line. • Assign certain chapters to each group so they can look for the name “Jesus.” When they find it, groups should call out what verse it is in, come and get an object from you, and place it in the straight line. • Use the conversation from the activity above as you work with prereaders.

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Explore the Bible: Younger Kids

BIBLE STUDY

BIBLE STUDY (35 MINUTES) JUMPING IN • Lead a child to pray for your group as you begin. • Review the “Christ in Context: Acts” poster with kids. • Encourage children to recall information they have already learned in previous sessions. Commend kids for what they remember, and also offer up any key ideas kids may have forgotten. EXAMINE THE TEXT • Lead kids to open their Bibles to Acts 9. • Ask: “Does anyone remember, from the last session, why the believers were scattered?” (people were trying to hurt believers) “Saul was one of the people trying to hurt believers. Saul caused trouble for them and so they scattered to get away from him.” • Lead children to take turns reading Acts 9:1-20. • Periodically pause to call special attention to some things. Comment about things like: “Do you know what the Way is?” (Jesus is the only Way to God, so some people refer to believers by this name) “Instantly, Saul was blind. He could see nothing. The people with him had to help him get to Damascus. Ananias had heard of Saul. He knew about Saul’s reputation for hurting believers. How do you think he felt when God asked him to go and find Saul to help him?” (he was probably afraid Saul would hurt him, too) “Ananias was obedient and went to Saul. He did exactly what God said to, he helped him. How did Saul respond after he regained his sight?” (he went and told people Jesus was the Messiah) • Remind kids that God chose Saul. He wanted him to tell the Gentiles (any who weren’t Jewish) that Jesus was the Messiah, the Son of God. • Once the passage has been read, say: “I want you to think about something for just a minute. Imagine you are one of the believers during that time. Think about all the things they knew about Saul, and how he hurt many people. Now, what would you think if Saul came into your town and started telling people about Jesus.” Encourage kids to partner up and talk about their answers. • Remark: “I’m sure it was hard for believers to trust or believe Saul at first. They might even have thought he was trying to trick them! And the Jews probably had a hard time believing what they were hearing! How could someone who wanted to put these people in jail, suddenly be saying the same things they were? Whether people believed him or not, Saul told Gentiles and Jews that Jesus was the Son of God. You can tell people Jesus is the Messiah, too.”

TOOLS: “Acts 9:20,” “Text Truth Strips,” “Connection Statements,” “Christ in Context: Acts” (Poster Pack); “Acts” (Books of the Bible Posters); Explore the Bible: Kids video; Bibles; Family Cards; Explorer Guides; paper; markers; misc. items that could be used to recreate the story; tape (optional)

TELL THE BIBLE STORY • Say: “We have read the story and now we are going to act it out!” • Assign parts to individuals. If you have a large number of children, form kids into groups so everyone can have a part. Session 10: Saul’s Conversion

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BIBLE STUDY

TELL THE BIBLE STORY OPTIONS: If you split kids into groups, have each group act out a different part; read the story and let kids act it out as you read; consider recording kids using your phone or tablet, send the video to parents for them to see.

FAMILY MEMORY VERSE PRE-READER OPTIONS: Clap your hands and say it like a chant so it is easier for kids to recall. Shine the flashlight on a child’s hand and direct them to say the first word of the verse. Continue shining the light and having kids say the next word. Repeat a few times, getting faster each time through.

• Encourage kids to use their Bibles, look back over the passage, and plan a skit. Consider providing props for kids to use, or encourage them to use paper or other items from around the room to make their own. • Allow time for children to work and plan. Be sure to give a few warnings about time, as children this age have a hard time managing their time. • Direct kids’ attention back to you. Lead the group to act out the story. • Remark: “God chose Saul to tell the Gentiles Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God. Saul obeyed God, and began to tell people. Saul could have been worried people wouldn’t believe him, or that they would want to hurt him for all of the bad things he had done to them. Instead, Saul didn’t let that stop him. He didn’t allow his mistakes in the past to stop him from telling others about Jesus.” LEARN THE FAMILY MEMORY VERSE • Encourage kids to look the verse up in their Bibles. • Review it a few times, everyone saying it together. • Assign each word from the verse to specific children for them to write on individual papers. • Position the papers on the floor or tape them on the wall. • Have kids stand in a circle. Roll the flashlight to a child and guide them to shine a light on the first word of the verse and say it. Lead them to roll the flashlight to someone else for them to shine the light on the second word and say it. Continue all the way through the verse. PLAY THE VIDEO • Play the “Acts: Session 10” video. • Ask: “What transformations did Terra learn about?” “How was Saul transformed in our Bible story?” LEARN THE TEXT TRUTH AND CONNECTION STATEMENT • Ask a child to read the “Text Truth Strip” and “Connection Statement.” • Invite someone else to attach them to the “Acts” poster. • Reiterate the points on the strips. REVIEW FAMILY CARDS • Ask: “How did we place the objects in the first activity?” (in a straight path) “That’s right. Now, what does a straight path remind you about from our story?” (God told Ananias to go to the street called Straight to find Saul) Show the object on the card. Mention that this is the street called Straight. Challenge kids to think about what that object can remind them of. Give kids time to offer suggestions. Mention: “The object can remind you Jesus is the Son of God and we should tell others about Him.” • Review the questions on the back with kids. Lead children to think of creative ways to use them at home with their families. • Move to Small Group.

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Explore the Bible: Younger Kids

SMALL GROUP

SMALL GROUP (30 MINUTES)

TOOLS:

EXPLORER GUIDES • Distribute Explorer Guides and lead girls and boys to locate today’s pages, “Saul’s Conversion.” • Help kids complete “Definition Match.” Use the words to review the Bible story with kids. Encourage children to recall as much information as they can about each word. • Ask a kid to read aloud the “Spotlight On Damascus” information. Invite a second kid to read about the distance between Damascus and Jerusalem. • Help kids review “The Gospel” by helping them unscramble the word from each phrase. Review the gospel as time allows. • Point kids to today’s object, the Street Called Straight,” and ask kids what part it played in today’s Bible story.

Explorer Guides, Bibles, pens Print the following words on individual papers: Saul, Ananias, God, Damascus, Straight, gentiles, Lord, Jesus, eyes, light.

ACTIVITIES • Select one or more of the activities to complete as time allows.

BIBLE S S KILL

OR

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d (opt • Tools: Bibles, flashlight, blindfold, dry erase boar

EX P

SHINE A LIGHT

ional)

AT I O N

be sure kids Mention the light led on the road?” (answers will vary, but • Ask: “What happened while Saul trave he was blind) that shined, God spoke to Him, and then can close their eyes). fold them so they cannot see (or they blind will I and up e com will on pers • Explain: “One on it. After they remove their it to any spot, and shine the flashlight They will flip through their Bible, open the light on. Everyone else will the book of the Bible they are shining blindfold, they will call out the name of it, stand up.” find book as quickly as you can. Once you need to open your Bibles and find that an opportunity to be the caller. • Play multiple rounds, giving each child ghout many of the books of the God’s Son. We can read about it throu • Mention: “The Bible tells us Jesus is Bible.” tell people that Jesus is the Son Gentiles Jesus was the Messiah. You can • Remark: “God chose Saul to tell the of God.” and the book after the one before the one called, the book called, • Challenge older kids to name the book called.

Use a dry read the name of the book of the Bible to them. Pre-Reader option: Pre-readers will need you to for. ing word for kids to see what book they are look erase board to write each book called. Display the

Session 10: Saul’s Conversion

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SMALL GROUP GAME

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BRAILLE MESSAGES Tools: liquid glue; paper

Jesus in braille ¨¨ Look up online the name and print the or letters to form the name, er. pattern out or copy it onto pap using the glue e tim of ¨¨ Create a sample ahead letters. the of so kids can feel the pattern d when he was • Comment: “Saul went blin ple who are blind Peo d. roa the traveling down think they read the cannot see, so how do you Bible?” (answers will vary) blind use their • Explain: “People who are called Braille. hands to read. It is a system l the words and Braille allows people to fee h letter or word is letters so they can read. Eac of raised dots.” formed up of different types make a message • Mention: “We are going to ple name or using Braille.” Show the sam is and encourage letters. Read what each one feel them. kids to close their eyes and ke the Braille ma to e glu • Help children use Remark that they word on their own papers. friends and family could use their paper to tell t Jesus is the Son about the Bible story or tha of God. kids to make • Provide plenty of paper for multiple messages. ir paper flat or else • Ensure children leave the up their words. the glue will run and mess us is the Son of • Review the Text Truth: Jes God. Pray.

do this Pre-Reader option: Pre-readers can sn’t really activity as is described above. It doe put the matter what order they choose to tool to use to letters in, it will still give them a about Jesus! go home and talk to their families

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BIBLE WORD DOMINOES Tools: “Bible Word Dominoes” (enhanced CD), scissors

¨¨ Copy “Bible Word Dominoes” on heavyweight paper and cut them out. (Make enough copies so each pair or group can have a set.) • Ask if anyone has ever played dominoes before. Show a few of the dominoes and say: “We are going to play Bible Word Dominoes. First you will mix up the tiles.” Demonstrate laying the tiles face down and mixing them up with your hand. “Then each person will draw one domino at a time until all of them have been chosen. Everyone will have the same number.” • State: “After all of the dominoes are chosen, the person with a birthday closest to today will be the first to go. They will lay a domino down. The next person must choose one of their dominoes that has one of the same words, and line the words up, connecting the dominoes. Each person will keep adding a domino to the board until one person is out.” • Form kids into pairs or small groups. Be sure to have a set of dominoes for every 1-2 children so there will be enough dominoes to play the game well. • Mention that kids can “pass” their turn if they do not have a tile with a matching word. • Variations: Play a mega domino game as a large group, going around the circle for kids to add in their domino tile or challenge older kids to lay their tile down in 5 seconds or their turn is passed to the next player (do not set a time limit for pre-readers). • Play as many rounds as time will allow. • Draw attention to some of the words on the dominoes. Use them as a review to have kids recall parts of the story. Consider having kids look the words up in the passage. • Review the Text Truth: Jesus is the Son of God. • Pray.

Session

FOR THE LEADER

11

Aeneas and Dorcas Acts 9:36-43 Miracles in the New Testament are always intentional demonstrations of God’s power and authority. As the early church grew and the message of the gospel spread, God worked through the apostles to perform a variety of miracles. Two miraculous acts of healing dominate this section of Scripture. Peter continued to travel around Judea, faithfully testifying about Jesus. He visited the “saints” who lived in Lydda. Because of the Spirit’s work through Philip’s missionary efforts, some of the residents in Lydda could have become believers after hearing Philip preach. Furthermore, some could have believed after traveling to Jerusalem for Pentecost and hearing Peter’s sermon. While staying in Lydda, Peter learned about a man named Aeneas who had been paralyzed and confined to a bed for eight years. Peter visited Aeneas and boldly declared to him, “Jesus Christ heals you. Get up and make your own bed.” Aeneas stood up and became a miraculous example, pointing many people throughout the area toward Jesus. Meanwhile, in Joppa, a coastal town 11 miles away, an inspiring Christ-follower named Dorcas died. Her death deeply grieved the community. Consequently, the believers dispatched two envoys to Lydda, pleading for Peter to come to Joppa and help. Arriving at her home, Peter was overwhelmed by the many widows who had been blessed by Dorcas’ ministry of mercy. After praying, Peter boldly announced, “Dorcas, get up!” The power of Jesus brought her back to life and Peter called the widows to return and celebrate. The miracle of Dorcas’ restoration spread rapidly around Joppa. Many individuals turned to the Lord when they saw and heard what Jesus had accomplished in her life. Peter decided to stay for an extended period of time. The work of strengthening the body of believers in Joppa could not be neglected. The Word of God was spreading as a powerful, living, and active force in the early church of the First Century.

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OVERVIEW

SESSION FOCUS CORE PASSAGE: Acts 9:36-43 CONNECTION PASSAGE: Acts 9:32-43 FAMILY MEMORY VERSE: Acts 9:42 TEXT TRUTH: Jesus healed Aeneas and Dorcas. GET STARTED

10 MINUTES

GET STARTED TOOLS ¨¨ Miracles: Bibles, “Jesus’ Miracles” (enhanced CD), pencils BIBLE STUDY TOOLS ¨¨ Jumping In: “Christ in Context: Acts” (Poster Pack), Bibles ¨¨ Examine the Text: self-adhesive bandages, marker ¨¨ Tell the Bible Story: self-adhesive bandages, paper ¨¨ Family Memory Verse: “Acts 9:42” (Poster Pack), selfadhesive bandages, marker

BIBLE STUDY

35 MINUTES

SMALL GROUP

30 MINUTES

¨¨ Play the Video: Explore the Bible On Location Video ¨¨ Text Truth and Connection Statement: “Text Truth Strips” and “Connection Statements” (Poster Pack), “Acts” (Books of the Bible Posters) ¨¨ Review Family Cards: Family Cards

¨¨ Bible Skills: Bibles, coat or robe, “Review Questions” (enhanced CD) ¨¨ Crafts: Bibles, markers, adhesive bandages ¨¨ Games: construction paper or fabric scraps, table tennis balls

SMALL GROUP TOOLS ¨¨ Explorer Guide: Explorer Guides, Bibles, pens

NOTE: Downloadable versions of DVD items are available in the Digital Video Bundle. Downloadable versions of enhanced CD items are available in the Music and Print Extras Bundle. For free online training on how to lead a group, visit ministrygrid.com/web/explorethebible.

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BIBLE STORY

AENEAS AND DORCAS WERE HEALED

CHRIST IN CONTEXT:

CONNECTION PASSAGE: Acts 9:32-43

Peter was a disciple of Jesus. He traveled from town to town to tell people about Jesus. One day, he walked down the street in the town of Lydda. He saw a man named Aeneas [ih NEE uhs]. Aeneas was paralyzed. Peter spoke to Aeneas, “Aeneas, Jesus Christ heals you. Get up.” Immediately, Aeneas stood up. People saw Aeneas and believed in Jesus. Near the town of Lydda was a town called Joppa. In Joppa, a disciple named Tabitha, who was also called Dorcas, was always doing good works and helping others. Dorcas became sick and died. She was placed in a room upstairs. The followers of Jesus had heard that Peter was in Lydda and they sent two men to beg him to come to Joppa. Peter agreed and traveled to Joppa. When he arrived, the people led him to the room where Dorcas was laid. The people were crying and showed Peter the robes and clothes that Tabitha had made to care for them. Peter sent all of the people out of the room. Then he knelt down and prayed. Peter turned and said, “Dorcas, get up!” She opened her eyes. Peter helped her stand up and called all of the people to come see that Dorcas was alive. Many people heard what happened and many repented of their sin and trusted Jesus as their Lord and Savior.

The Book of Acts records the continuation of Jesus’ ministry and the history of the early church. After Jesus’ ascension, the Holy Spirit came and empowered Jesus’ followers to share the gospel of Jesus Christ all over the world. Jesus’ ministry continued through His faithful followers and many people received Jesus as their Lord and Savior.

CONNECTION STATEMENT: Peter told others about Jesus.

KEY CONNECTIONS TO ACTS CORE PASSAGE: Acts 9:36-43 • Many people saw the power of the Lord through the miracles God performed through Peter. • The church continued to grow as more people repented of their sins and trusted in Jesus.

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GET STARTED

GET STARTED (10 MINUTES) TOOLS: Bibles, “Jesus’ Miracles” (enhanced CD) • Print copies of the worksheet item for each child.

MIRACLES • Give out the “Jesus’ Miracles” worksheet. • Say: “The Bible tells us about amazing things Jesus did. Some of these are called miracles. This means, it was something no human could do, only Jesus could do it. Some of these miracles are in the passages listed on the page. I want you to look them up, read them, and match the correct miracle to the reference.” • Place children in pairs, small groups, or have them work alone. • Provide plenty of time for kids to find as many of the passages as possible. • Review the answers. Comment: “All of these were amazing miracles Jesus did. Today we will read about some miracles that were done, in the power of Jesus.” • Transition to Bible study. OPTION FOR PRE-READERS • Guide pre-readers to help you look up the passages, one by one, in their Bibles. • Read the verses and discuss them briefly with kids. • Encourage pre-readers to draw a simple picture to show what each miracle was. • Use the conversation from the above activity.

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BIBLE STUDY

BIBLE STUDY (35 MINUTES) JUMPING IN • Ask a child who is sitting quietly to pray as you begin. • Display the “Christ in Context: Acts” poster for kids to see. • Read the statements on the poster. • Explain that as soon as you say: “Start!” kids should begin to look for Acts in their Bibles. Mention that you will be counting as children look. Encourage kids to go as quickly as they can. Remind everyone the table of contents is a great tool if they are ever unsure where a book is located. • Call: “Start!” and begin counting. Commend children for finding the book quickly. EXAMINE THE TEXT • Give out the self-adhesive bandages with verse numbers on them. Lead children to take turns reading the verses, each reading the number on their band-aid. Be prepared to offer assistance as kids attempt to read the difficult names in the passage. • Once the entire passage (Acts 9:32-43) has been read, ask kids, in order, to briefly tell what was going on in their assigned verse. Encourage children to use their own words, not just re-read it. • Explain: “Aeneas could not have healed himself. God used Peter to heal him. Why do you think Peter told Aeneas that Jesus Christ healed him?” (answers will vary) “Peter knew that it was only through Jesus that this man could be healed. He wanted to make sure everyone knew it was Jesus’ power that healed him, not Peter’s. He wanted people to believe in Jesus and be saved.” • Ask a few questions and encourage kids to use their Bibles to find the answers: “Why were the people crying when Peter arrived in Joppa?” (Dorcas had died) “What had Dorcas made for the widows? (coats and robes) TELL THE BIBLE STORY • Guide kids to return to their seats. • Review today’s passage with kids. Lead kids to name things they remember and discuss it. • Form into small teams of a few children each. • Ask: “Who has ever played the game picture charades?” Mention that kids are going to play a game that is a little like picture charades. Explain: “When it is your team’s turn, you will need to think about something from today’s passage. Then you will use the self-adhesive bandages to create a picture about it. The other teams will try to guess what the picture is.” Show kids how they can lay self-adhesive bandages out (leaving the backs on them) to create a picture. (sample ideas: Dorcas’ house, Aeneas’ bed, a road, robe made by Dorcas) • Provide an adequate amount of self-adhesive bandages so children can

TOOLS: “Acts 9:42,” “Text Truth Strips,” “Connection Statements,” “Christ in Context: Acts” (Poster Pack); “Acts” (Books of the Bible Posters); Explore the Bible: Kids video; Bibles; Family Cards; Explorer Guides; selfadhesive bandages; markers; pens; robe/coat • Print the numbers 32-43 on individual self-adhesive bandages.

EXAMINE THE TEXT PRE-READER OPTION: Summarize the verses using the Bible story script provided as a guide.

TELL THE BIBLE STORY PRE-READER OPTION: Read the Bible story and guide kids to draw a picture of something you say. Review their pictures.

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BIBLE STUDY

FAMILY MEMORY VERSE PRE-READER OPTION: Read the verse a few times to pre-readers so they become familiar with it. Assign each word of the verse to individual children without anyone else hearing. Lead them to sit in a row, but in random order. Mention that when someone taps them, they must say their word. Ask for a volunteer to come and try to put the verse (children) in order. Just like Aeneas could not move his arms and legs, the kids that have been assigned the words cannot either. Say: “You will need to tap someone’s shoulder to see what word they are. Once you hear all of the words, try to tap them in the correct order.” Play a few rounds as time allows.

create their scenes. • Consider telling teams which parts of the story to create so you can be sure to cover as many points as possible to review with kids. • Allot a specific amount of time for each team to create (ex: 30-45 seconds). Option: award teams 1 point for every correct answer. • Play as many rounds as time allows. • Help children understand Peter did not heal these men, God did these miracles through Peter. Peter rightly gave credit to Jesus for the miracle. Many people believed in Jesus and were saved because of these miracles. LEARN THE FAMILY MEMORY VERSE • Guide kids to find Acts 9:42. Mention that the “b” just means it is the second part of the verse. • Ask a volunteer to read the verse for everyone. • Break kids into pairs or small groups. Hand out pens and self-adhesive bandages or small strips of paper. Instruct each group to print the words of the verse on individual self-adhesive bandages. • Explain: “Aeneas was paralyzed. That means he could not move his legs and maybe even his arms. Each team needs to mix up their word selfadhesive bandages. Then when I call “Go!” you should try to blow the words in order. You cannot use your arms or legs! You can only blow air on them to make them move. Be sure to keep your Bible open to the verse in case you need to see it to double check the correct order.” Allow kids to use their hands to turn the bandages over if they flip. • Say: “Go!” and guide teams to begin. Play until all groups have their verse in the correct order. PLAY THE VIDEO • Play the “Acts: Session 11” video. • Ask: “What did Joel learn about art? What did he learn about Peter? Who changed Aeneas and Dorcas’ lives?” LEARN THE TEXT TRUTH AND CONNECTION STATEMENT • Look together at the “Text Truth Strip” and “Connection Statement.” • Invite a child to attach them to the “Acts” poster. REVIEW FAMILY CARDS • Ask a child to pass the cards out to everyone. • Show the loom on the card. Mention that looms are used to make clothes and rugs. Remind children that Dorcas made robes and coats for the widows. • Remark: “Each time you see the loom, remember that Jesus healed Aeneas and Dorcas.” • Move to Small Group.

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Explore the Bible: Younger Kids

SMALL GROUP

SMALL GROUP (30 MINUTES)

TOOLS:

EXPLORER GUIDES • Provide each kid with an Explorer Guide and assist him in finding today’s pages, “Aeneas and Dorcas.” • Review today’s Bible story by guiding kids to color and work with a partner in “Bible Clothing.” • Invite a volunteer to read “Home of Simon the Tanner” and recap how he was included in this part of Peter’s ministry. • Help kids review what they know about Peter by completing the “Who Was Peter?” activity. • Read aloud the information about Dorcas and the process of weaving. Ask: “What did Dorcas make? How did the people feel about Dorcas?” • Select a kid to read “Spotlight On Joppa” to discover more about one of the towns Peter visited.

Explorer Guides, Bibles, pens

ACTIVITIES • Select one or more of the activities to complete as time allows.

BIBLE S S KILL

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WHO REMEMBERS? Tools: “Review Questions” (enhanced CD)

AT I O N

• Form two or more teams. er in the passage we read tion. Your team will need to find the answ ques a out call to g goin am “I ain: • Expl le, grab the coat, put it on, and team members should run to the midd your of one it, te loca you Once er. earli be ready to give me the answer.” sure each team is equal distance teams stand a good distance back. Be have and le midd the in coat the e • Plac from the coat. eone to put on the coat. answer in the Bible before they send som the te loca t mus they ren child ind • Rem Jesus healed Aeneas and points like: Peter made sure people knew rate reite y briefl to ities rtun oppo for • Look use of the miracles they saw. Dorcas. People believed in Jesus beca s. ctly call out the next question for team corre ers • Option: Have the team that answ

Questions require kids to locate the answer in their Bibles. not do but s tion ques out Call on: opti der Rea Prerandomly call correct answers. To get kids using their Bibles, may need to be simple so children can recall the e board, or Consider printing them on paper, using a dry eras age. pass the in find to s team for s word key out typing them on a tablet for kids to see.

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SMALL GROUP GAME

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BANDAGE S REMINDER dages Tools: Bibles, markers, adhesive ban e in your Bibles • Say: “Find today’s passag e tell me who (Acts 9:32-43). Can someon (Jesus) “Peter Peter said healed Aeneas?” ling Aeneas. He knew he was not the one hea ers would know said this so Aeneas and oth k Peter did it.” and not be confused and thin t Truth together: • Invite kids to say the Tex cas. Jesus healed Aeneas and Dor make a gift for to ng goi are s kid • Mention that Jesus healed other to help them remember these people. bandages and some • Give each kid at least 2-3 markers. le verse, reference, • Guide kids to print the Bib on the outside or a phrase like “Jesus Heals” of their bandage wrapper. y their bandages • Encourage kids to give awa and His power to and tell others about Jesus heal. God for doing • Pray with kids, thanking miracles that only He can do.

-readers to Pre-Reader option: Encourage pre g it up in answer the question without lookin verse reference the Bible. Guide kids to copy the copy onto or print some simple words they can their bandages.

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COAT BALL Tools: construction paper or fabric scraps, table tennis balls

¨¨ Option: Cut papers in the shape of a coat or robe.

• Invite kids to say the Text Truth together: Jesus healed Aeneas and Dorcas. • Ask children: “What did the widows show Peter that Dorcas had made for them?” (coats or robes) • Comment: “We are going to play a game of ‘Coat Ball.’ For this game I need everyone to get into pairs.” • Allow time for kids to pair up. • Give each pair two “coats” (piece of paper or fabric scrap) and a table tennis ball. • Explain: “Each of you will use your coat to toss the ball to your partner. You must toss the ball with the coat and catch it with the coat. If one of you drops it, that person will sit down. Their partner will then pair up with someone else who also lost a partner.” • Mention: “You will only toss the ball on my command, that way we are all on the same round at the same time.” Guide kids to practice a few times to get the feel of it before the game officially begins. • Begin the game by saying, “Toss.” Once all teams have tossed their balls, give the command again. Continue, and each round allow kids to partner up with someone else as children are eliminated for dropping the ball. • Challenge kids to take a step back from one another periodically throughout the game. • Play the game until there is only one child left. • Variation: if a member of a team drops the ball, they are both out and must sit down; continue playing until there is only one team left. • Pray.

Session

FOR THE LEADER

12

Peter and Cornelius Acts 10:9-15,43-48 Learning the broader scope of God’s grace was a challenge to the early church. God directed Philip to connect with the Samaritans, and He directed Peter to build a friendship with Simon, a ritually impure “tanner” in Joppa. Discovering the depths of God’s grace took time and courage. God’s will concerning the Gentiles was communicated to Peter through a vision, instructing him to eat foods previously forbidden by the Law. While Peter was perplexed about the vision, he still obeyed God and traveled to Caesarea—almost 35 miles north of Joppa. This major port city had been lavishly built by Herod the Great and named after Caesar Augustus to ingratiate himself to the reigning emperor. When Cornelius, a Roman centurion stationed in Caesarea, placed his faith in Jesus, it marked a significant realization that God showed no partiality. The believers living in and around Jerusalem heard how the Gentiles had welcomed the gospel message, but they wanted an explanation. Consequently, Peter told them about the vision God sent him and concluded that God had granted the Gentiles the same gift that He granted the Jews when they believed in Jesus Christ. The message of Jesus was received in the city of Antioch, Syria. Antioch was the third largest city in the Roman Empire. When the news reached Jerusalem about the thriving growth of the gospel in Antioch, the Jerusalem church sent Barnabas to investigate. Barnabas rejoiced to see and experience the spiritual vitality in Antioch, but he wisely brought Saul from Tarsus to Antioch. There, the believers first received the title “Christian,” attesting to their devotion to Christ Jesus.

Session 12: Peter and Cornelius

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OVERVIEW

SESSION FOCUS CORE PASSAGE: Acts 10:9-15,43-48 CONNECTION PASSAGE: Acts 10:1-43 FAMILY MEMORY VERSE: Acts 10:34 TEXT TRUTH: Anyone can repent of their sin and trust Jesus as their Lord and Savior. GET STARTED

10 MINUTES

GET STARTED TOOLS ¨¨ My Favorites: sticky notes, paper, markers BIBLE STUDY TOOLS ¨¨ Jumping In: “Acts” (Books of the Bible Posters) ¨¨ Examine the Text: Bibles ¨¨ Tell the Bible Story: “Allergy Alert” (enhanced CD), small bag of assorted candy ¨¨ Family Memory Verse: “Acts 10:34” (Poster Pack)

BIBLE STUDY

35 MINUTES

SMALL GROUP

30 MINUTES

¨¨ Play the Video: Explore the Bible On Location Video ¨¨ Text Truth and Connection Statement: “Allergy Alert,” “Text Truth Strips,” and “Connection Statements” (Poster Pack); “Acts” (Books of the Bible Posters); paper plates; candy-coated chocolate pieces ¨¨ Review Family Cards: Family Cards

SMALL GROUP TOOLS ¨¨ Explorer Guide: Explorer Guides, Bibles, pens ¨¨ Bible Skills: “Bible Cube” (enhanced CD), tape, scissors ¨¨ Crafts: Bibles, duct tape, markers, scissors, hole punch ¨¨ Games: ball, large piece of paper, marker

NOTE: Downloadable versions of DVD items are available in the Digital Video Bundle. Downloadable versions of enhanced CD items are available in the Music and Print Extras Bundle. For free online training on how to lead a group, visit ministrygrid.com/web/explorethebible.

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BIBLE STORY

CORNELIUS BELIEVED IN JESUS

CHRIST IN CONTEXT:

CONNECTION PASSAGE: Acts 10:1-43

The church continued to grow as the disciples told people about Jesus. God wanted everyone to hear about Jesus, not only the Jewish people. He had a plan to help the disciples understand this important truth. A man named Cornelius was a centurion in the Italian Army. He loved and obeyed God. He was kind to the Jewish people and always prayed to God. One day, Cornelius had a vision. An angel of God came and told him that God had heard his prayers. Cornelius was told to send men to the city of Joppa to find Peter. Meanwhile in Joppa, Peter went to the roof of a house to pray. He was hungry and he had a special vision.

The Book of Acts records the continuation of Jesus’ ministry and the history of the early church. After Jesus’ ascension, the Holy Spirit came and empowered Jesus’ followers to share the gospel of Jesus Christ all over the world. Jesus’ ministry continued through His faithful followers and many people received Jesus as their Lord and Savior.

CONNECTION STATEMENT:

Peter saw heaven open and a large sheet was lowered down. On the sheet were all kinds of animals, reptiles, and birds. A voice said to Peter, “Get up Peter and eat.”

Peter learned that God does not have favorites.

Peter knew that God’s Law had rules about what the people could eat and couldn’t eat. He didn’t want to break God’s Law. Peter was confused. A second time the voice spoke and said, “What God has made clean, you should accept.” This happened three times and then Peter saw the sheet taken back to heaven. Peter was very confused by his vision. While he was trying to figure it out, the men sent by Cornelius arrived. God told Peter to go with the men. The next day Peter and the three men traveled to Cornelius’s house. Peter went inside and found many people there. Peter said, “You know the Law said that a Jewish person and a non-Jewish person should not visit together. But God has shown me that this rule no longer applies because of Jesus. Why did you send for me?” Cornelius explained that he had a vision that he should send for Peter. Everyone had come to Cornelius’ house to hear what God wanted Peter to tell them.

KEY CONNECTIONS TO ACTS CORE PASSAGE: Acts 10:9-15,43-48 • God invites all people to repent and trust in Jesus. • The Law had been fulfilled through Jesus and is no longer a requirement of Christian followers.

Peter said, “Now I understand. God doesn’t have favorites. In every nation, the person who believes is acceptable to Him.” Then Peter told everyone about Jesus. Jesus had been sent by God. He had died on the cross, but God had raised Him from the dead. Finally Peter said, “Everyone who believes in Jesus will receive forgiveness of their sins.” Many of the people believed in Jesus.

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GET STARTED

GET STARTED (10 MINUTES) TOOLS: Tools: Sticky notes, paper, markers • Print headings such as: food, candy, animal, color, Bible verse, holiday, ice cream on paper for kids to list their favorites of.

MY FAVORITES • Sit with children and begin to talk to them about some of your favorite things. • Say: “I have hung some signs around the room. Each of you needs to take some sticky notes and a pen. You will go to each sign, write your favorite type of that thing on a sticky note, then attach it to the wall under the sign. Once you have completed them all, come back and sit down.” • Review some of the children’s answers once everyone is done. • Ask kids to open their Bibles to Acts 10:34. Call on someone to read the verse. • Mention: “You all listed a lot of your favorite things here on the wall. Our passage is going to talk about favorites. Peter learned that Jesus did not show favoritism. Let’s take a look at what that’s all about.” • Transition to Bible Study. OPTION FOR PRE-READERS • Instead of having children write their answers on sticky notes, guide kids to group together by favorite things. • Call out one of the headings and have kids start saying their favorite type of that item. • Encourage children to find others that have the same favorite and stand together. • If no one has the same favorite as someone, then they will stand alone for that item. • Repeat the process for each item listed. • Use the conversation from above.

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BIBLE STUDY

BIBLE STUDY (35 MINUTES) JUMPING IN • Pray with kids before you begin. • Lead volunteers to read over the “Acts” poster.

TOOLS:

TELL THE BIBLE STORY • Ask: “What does it mean if something is your favorite?” (answers will vary) “Yes, it means you like that thing or person more than others. If something is your favorite, do you treat it differently?” (answers will vary) • Remark: “Usually if something is our favorite we treat it differently than other things. If it’s our favorite food, we may choose to eat it more often. Peter learned that Jesus didn’t have favorites. Let’s listen to the special way Peter learned this truth.” • Tell the Bible story using the script provided as a guide. EXAMINE THE TEXT • State: “That was a long story! Let’s look at some of the verses a little more closely. I have 3 signs here. One says Cornelius, one says Peter, and one says Others. I am going to form groups. Each group is going to look back over a specific part of the Scripture. Anything your group discovers about these three people, you should come up and add it to signs.” • Form groups and give each group a section of the passage to look over (Acts 10:9-15; 17-23; 34-40). • Give plenty of time for children to look for information. • Bring everyone back together and discuss what they found out about the people. • Comment: “Peter learned God did not have favorites, He loves everyone. God wants everyone to hear that Jesus can save them from their sins.” • Display the assortment of candies. Take turns holding up candies one by one. Guide kids to stand when you hold up their favorite. • Lead kids to think about this: “What happens to other things or people who are not our favorite?” (answers will vary) • Ask children to look back through the verses to see who Peter realized God was not showing favoritism towards. (Jews) • Remark: “The law did not permit Jews to associate with foreigners. Peter realized this law didn’t apply anymore because of what Jesus had done. Jesus fulfilled the law.” • Ask: “Can anyone tell me what it was that Jesus did?” (He died on the cross for their sins, God raised Him from the dead) • Remark: “Jesus came to save everyone. It does not matter their background, where they are from, or even what language they speak. Jesus came to die on the cross so that all who choose to repent and accept Jesus as Lord of their lives, will be saved. Peter learned that this good news was for everyone, not just the Jews.” • Challenge kids to think about their friends, classmates, and family. Lead

“Acts 10:34,” “Text Truth Strips,” “Connection Statements,” “Christ in Context: Acts” (Poster Pack); “Acts” (Books of the Bible Posters); Explore the Bible: Kids video; Bibles; Family Cards; Explorer Guides; paper; markers; candy coated chocolate pieces; assortment of different types of candies; paper plates; “Allergy Alert” (enhanced CD) • Print the following on individual papers: Cornelius, Peter, Others

EXAMINE THE TEXT PRE-READER OPTION: Read back over the story, guide kids to raise their hand when they hear information that needs to be added to the lists. Write down the statements children call out.

NOTE: Jesus perfectly obeyed the law God had given Israel. He satisfied God’s requirements. With Jesus’ death on the cross, He established a new covenant. Now God’s people are to share the good news of Jesus with all people, everywhere!

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BIBLE STUDY

children to quietly think about if there is anyone they haven’t told about Jesus because maybe the person is different, scary, not like them, or for any other reason. Encourage kids to think of someone they can tell the good news about Jesus to this week. FAMILY MEMORY VERSE PRE-READER OPTION: Challenge pre-readers to find the verse. Repeat the verse over and over with kids so they can easily say it. Complete the activity as above or consider doing this as one large group. Kids can sit in a circle and each go around and say one word. Every time the verse is completed with no mistakes, everyone can grab a candy-coated chocolate piece to eat.

LEARN THE FAMILY MEMORY VERSE • Ask everyone to get into pairs. • Encourage kids to find Acts 10:34 in their Bibles. Display the “Acts 10:34” poster. • Prompt a volunteer to read the verse to everyone. Practice it a few times. • Say: “This is a short verse this week. I think you can learn it pretty quickly. • Give each pair a small plate of candy-coated chocolate pieces. Explain: “You and your partner will each take turns saying one word of the verse. Every time you make it all the way through, with no mistakes, you can each grab 1 piece of your favorite color candy-coated chocolate pieces, and eat it. You will keep doing this until I call ‘Stop.’ ” PLAY THE VIDEO • Play the “Acts: Session 12” video. • Ask: “What happened in Peter’s vision? What did Peter learn? Who did Peter travel to see? Did Cornelius become a believer?” LEARN THE TEXT TRUTH AND CONNECTION STATEMENT • Read through the “Text Truth Strip” and “Connection Statement” together. • Direct children to attach them to the “Acts” poster. REVIEW FAMILY CARDS • Ask “What did Peter see in his vision?” (unclean animals) • Show the picture on the card as you have volunteers pass them out to everyone. • Explain: “Peter’s vision about clean and unclean animals was to teach him Jesus did not show favoritism. Anyone can be saved from their sins because of what Jesus has done.” • Encourage kids to keep the card somewhere they will see it throughout the week. • Remark: “Each time you see the object you can remember anyone can repent of their sin and trust Jesus as their Lord and Savior. Remind kids Jesus has no favorites.” • Pray with kids. • Move to Small Group.

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Explore the Bible: Younger Kids

SMALL GROUP

SMALL GROUP (30 MINUTES)

TOOLS:

EXPLORER GUIDES • Distribute Explorer Guides and help kids locate the “Peter and Cornelius” pages. • Use the “Acts 10 Word Search” to help kids recall today’s Bible story. • Ask a volunteer to read “Spotlight On Caesarea.” • Invite kids to examine the photos in “Array of Nations.” State: “Jesus died for each one of these people. Each one of them needs to hear that God does not have favorites, He died for them, too.” Remind children we need more missionaries so more people can hear the good news about Jesus. • Lead kids to break into pairs or small groups. Ask groups to pray that God would call out more missionaries to go and tell all the people of the world about salvation through His Son Jesus. • Guide kids to spread out a little and quietly complete the “Remember When” activity. • Close in prayer.

Explorer Guides, Bibles, pens

ACTIVITIES • Select one or more of the activities to complete as time allows.

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uctions. ¨¨ Cut the cube out and prepare it per instr cube. • Guide kids to take turns tossing the when it lands. Kids should call to find whatever is facing up on the cube es Bibl their use to ren • Challenge child out their answer once they find it. big group, each child taking a turn group. Examples include: play as one • Vary the game to fit the needs of your for one to roll and the other to rolls for everyone else to find; as pairs individually; in one group where a child . find; in small groups, each taking a turn in the New Testament?” ament. What book have we been studying Test New d rolle “You like: tion • Use conversa ed God does not have learn r Pete gospels. In Acts we read today that (Acts) or “Acts is the book right after the favorites, He died for everyone.” of today’s Text Truth: Anyone y’s passage as children play. Remind kids • Look for opportunities to discuss toda s as their Lord and Savior. can repent of their sin and trust Jesu

simply open d on the cube to pre-readers. Encourage kids to Pre-Reader option: Read the command displaye to read the name. their Bibles to the correct book, they do not need

Session 12: Peter and Cornelius

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SMALL GROUP GAME

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BIKE PLATES

scissors, hole Tools: Bibles, duct tape, markers, punch of duct tape the size • Help children cut pieces s will need to te. of a bicycle license pla Kid so there is no er eth tog cut 2 and stick them sticky side exposed. in the two top • Help kids to punch holes (so they will have te pla corners of the license a way to attach it at home). Bibles to Acts 10:34. • Guide kids to open their verse on one side the t Encourage kids to prin of their license plate. phrase on the other • Lead children to write a God does not em side to help them rem ber t this can be a tha n ntio choose favorites. Me y with friends. It reminder to them as they pla tell their friends can help them remember to have fun with to n ldre about Jesus. Help chi vanity plates own ir the this and even create it. on ase with a code-like phr cause some of your • Comment: “This may also nse plate means. friends to ask what the lice you would have an That would be great! Then ion with them easy way to start a conversat ” us! Jes of s about the good new a bike, they e hav t sn’ • Option: If a child doe to hang on sign a as e can use the duct tap r, or any doo t fron ir the r their book bag, nea it. see ht mig other place friends t Truth: Anyone • Remind kids of today’s Tex trust Jesus as and sin can repent of their their Lord and Savior. • Pray.

tements on Pre-Reader option: Print simple sta paper for pre-readers to copy.

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THINK QUICK Tools: ball, large piece of paper, marker • Lead kids to stand in a circle. • Guide kids to call out names of various people that they can tell about Jesus. • Explain: “I am going to toss the ball to someone. As I toss the ball I am going to say the first letter of a person’s name that I want to tell about Jesus. The person I toss it to will then quickly toss it to someone else, saying the letter of the name of someone they know who needs to hear about Jesus. We are going to play quickly.” • Mention: “If you take longer than 3 seconds to come up with a name, you will have to sit down. We will keep playing until there is only one person left standing.” • Begin playing. • Play as many rounds as time allows. • Remind kids Jesus died to save everyone. Anyone can repent of their sin and trust Jesus as their Lord and Savior. We need to be bold and tell everyone we know. • Pray.

Session

FOR THE LEADER

13

Peter Rescued from Prison Acts 12:7-12,16-19 Acts 12 opens with Herod attacking the church and closes with God striking Herod as the message of the gospel prevailed. The name “Herod” plays a significant role in the New Testament and a prominent role in Acts. At the forefront of the Herodian dynasty was “Herod the Great,” who ruled Judea from 37 B.C.–4 B.C. He was relentlessly devoted to Rome and aggressively ambitious for personal status. Herod rebuilt the temple in Jerusalem, but he also ordered the execution of the male babies of Bethlehem. Herod Antipas was the son of Herod the Great and ruled Galilee during Jesus’ ministry. He was responsible for the beheading of John the Baptist and mocked Jesus during His trial before the crucifixion. Herod Agrippa I, the grandson of Herod the Great, ruled Judea from A.D. 41–44. He executed James and imprisoned Peter. Herod Agrippa II, son of Agrippa I, exercised his reign from A.D. 50–93. He allowed Paul to present his testimony before a large group in Caesarea, concluding that Paul was deserving of neither imprisonment nor death. The dramatic feature of this chapter is the extraordinary power of God to direct the mission of His church despite hostile opposition. The early church faced resistance from the moment it began. New believers grew to expect pushback from Jewish and Roman authorities. They learned the value of perseverance and faithfulness in the face of adversity. On the night before Peter was scheduled to die by the sword, he was loosed from his shackles and allowed to make his way to a Jerusalem street without detection. The large number of believers who had gathered at Mary’s home to pray found it hard to believe that God had answered their prayer. Unfortunately, believers today still find it stunning when God accomplishes the unthinkable by means of the unexplainable. Perhaps that’s one reason we apply the word extraordinary to the power of God’s intervention.

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OVERVIEW

SESSION FOCUS CORE PASSAGE: Acts 12:7-12,16-19 CONNECTION PASSAGE: Acts 12:1-17 FAMILY MEMORY VERSE: Acts 12:5 TEXT TRUTH: God always answers our prayers. GET STARTED

10 MINUTES

GET STARTED TOOLS ¨¨ Number Chains: Bibles, paper strips, pens BIBLE STUDY TOOLS ¨¨ Jumping In: “Christ in Context: Acts” (Poster Pack), Bibles ¨¨ Examine the Text: Bibles, paper chains from Get Started activity ¨¨ Tell the Bible Story: blocks or boxes, paper, markers, tape

BIBLE STUDY

35 MINUTES

SMALL GROUP

30 MINUTES

¨¨ Family Memory Verse: “Acts 12:5” (Poster Pack) ¨¨ Play the Video: Explore the Bible On Location Video ¨¨ Text Truth and Connection Statement: “Text Truth Strips” and “Connection Statements” (Poster Pack), “Acts” (Books of the Bible Posters) ¨¨ Review Family Cards: Family Cards

SMALL GROUP TOOLS ¨¨ Explorer Guide: Explorer Guides, Bibles, pens ¨¨ Bible Skills: Bible, “Bible Chains” (enhanced CD), tape or stapler ¨¨ Crafts: paper clips, ribbon, scissors, markers ¨¨ Games: items for an obstacle course (ex: chairs, noodles, paper, or other items from around the room)

NOTE: Downloadable versions of DVD items are available in the Digital Video Bundle. Downloadable versions of enhanced CD items are available in the Music and Print Extras Bundle. For free online training on how to lead a group, visit ministrygrid.com/web/explorethebible.

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BIBLE STORY

PETER WAS RESCUED FROM PRISON CONNECTION PASSAGE: Acts 12:1-17

King Herod did not like the disciples. He attacked some of the people in the church. The Jewish religious leaders were happy about this, so Herod arrested Peter. Herod assigned four groups with four soldiers each to guard Peter. Peter was in prison, but the church prayed and prayed and prayed for him. One night Peter was sleeping between two of the guards when suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared. The angel woke Peter up and said, “Quick, get up!” The chains fell off of Peter. The angel told Peter to get dressed and put on his sandals. “Follow me,” the angel told Peter. The angel led Peter past the guards. Then they came to the iron gate that leads to the city. The gate opened by itself and they went outside to the street. Then the angel left Peter. Peter knew that God had sent the angel to rescue him from Herod. So Peter went to the house of a lady named Mary. The church had gathered there to pray for Peter. Peter knocked at the door in the gateway of the house. A servant named Rhoda answered the knock. When she heard Peter’s voice, she was so excited that she ran in to tell everyone that Peter was outside. “You’re crazy,” the people told Rhoda, but she insisted that it was true. Peter continued to knock on the door until they opened the door and saw him. Everyone was shocked. Peter told them about the angel who led him out of the prison. Peter asked the church to tell others about these things, then Peter left and went to a different place.

CHRIST IN CONTEXT: The Book of Acts records the continuation of Jesus’ ministry and the history of the early church. After Jesus’ ascension, the Holy Spirit came and empowered Jesus’ followers to share the gospel of Jesus Christ all over the world. Jesus’ ministry continued through His faithful followers and many people received Jesus as their Lord and Savior.

CONNECTION STATEMENT: God answered the people’s prayers and brought Peter to safety.

KEY CONNECTIONS TO ACTS CORE PASSAGE: Acts 12:7-12,16-19 • God answers prayers. • Sometimes God answers prayers in ways we do not expect. • God can overcome any obstacle.

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GET STARTED

GET STARTED (10 MINUTES) TOOLS: Bibles, paper strips, pens, tape

NUMBER CHAINS • Guide kids to get into groups of 3-5. • Lead children to open their Bibles to Acts 12. • Comment: “Each group needs to search through verses 1-17 for any numbers you see. Every time you find a number, write it down on one of the strips. Whether it is a specific number or it says something about it being a first or second, any kind of number should be written down. You are not reading all of the verses right now, just searching through them for numbers.” Challenge kids to list the verse they found the number in. • Provide time for teams to search the passage. • Lead groups to link their strips like a chain. • Ask kids to share how many and what kind of numbers their teams found. • Mention: “Your group needs to hold onto the number chain you made. Listen closely for those numbers as we read today’s passage.” Remark that the chain is also a clue about today’s Scripture text. Encourage kids to listen to figure out what it has to do with the passage. • Transition to Bible Study. OPTION FOR PRE-READERS • Pre-read the passage in a few different versions. • Use a piece of paper to print any number-type words that appear in the text. • Display the word list and encourage pre-readers to search for the words that match.

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BIBLE STUDY

BIBLE STUDY (35 MINUTES) JUMPING IN • Ask kids to name the book of the Bible they have been studying. (Acts) • Show the “Christ in Context: Acts” poster. • Lead children to read the points along with you. • Say: “Name a book of the Bible that starts with the letter ‘C’.” (answers will vary) Repeat using several other letters. Choose “A” as the last one you call. Mention that there are only 2 books that start with “A”. After children name the book of Acts, encourage kids to turn there. Direct children to find chapter 12. EXAMINE THE TEXT • Instruct groups: “As we read through the verses, listen for the numbers that your team found earlier.” • Call on children randomly to read the verses. • Ask: “Can someone tell me what the chain had to do with today’s passage?” (Peter was in shackles) Remark: “Now let’s take a closer look at those numbers.” • Give out individual number papers to groups. Adjust the number of groups so that you have the same number as papers. • Lead groups to look back through the verses to discover what their assigned number had to do with the story. Some numbers may be used multiple times. • Allow time for teams to search for information about their number. • Draw the group back together and review each number one by one. • Mention that Peter was faced with a lot of obstacles.

TOOLS: “Acts 12:5,” “Text Truth Strips,” “Connection Statements,” “Christ in Context: Acts” (Poster Pack); “Acts” (Books of the Bible Posters); Explore the Bible: Kids video; Bibles; Family Cards; Explorer Guides; paper; markers; large piece of paper; blocks or boxes, tape • Print any numbers found in the text onto individual pieces of paper. • Print the word “Prayer” on a piece of paper and attach it to a block or box.

TELL THE BIBLE STORY • Form a few groups. • Give teams blocks or boxes, paper, markers, and tape. • As you tell the Bible story, challenge groups to listen for obstacles in Peter’s way of being released from jail. Lead kids to write each obstacle they find on individual papers and attach them to the blocks or boxes. • Pause at times so kids have time to work on their task. • Ask teams to share the obstacles they found. As teams share, guide them to stack each obstacle one on top of the other. When teams are done, comment about the large number of things standing in his way from being freed. • Challenge kids to think for a minute about how they would feel in that situation. Would they think they would ever get out? • Say: “Peter certainly had a mountain of obstacles in his way. His situation seemed pretty helpless. Peter only had one kind of help.” Place the “prayer” block next the obstacles. “Prayer doesn’t always seem like much. Even against this mountain of obstacles it doesn’t look like much could be accomplished by it at all. But God can overcome any obstacle.” Begin Session 13: Peter Rescued from Prison

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BIBLE STUDY

removing the obstacle blocks one by one. “God can do things we cannot even expect or imagine.” • Mention that Peter and those praying for him never expected God to free him the way He did. • Lead kids to look back at verse 15. Ask: “What did the people think when Rhoda told them Peter was at the door?” (wording will vary depending on translation) “They basically thought she was crazy! They never expected God to do what He did! Even though they were praying for Peter to be released, God still did it in a way that no one expected.” • Reiterate: “God answers prayers. Even if it doesn’t look like what we expected, God always answers our prayers.”

FAMILY MEMORY VERSE PRE-READER OPTION: Read the verse to pre-readers. Have kids copy you as you say the verse a few times. Complete the rest of the activity as it is described.

LEARN THE FAMILY MEMORY VERSE • Ask a volunteer to read verse 5. • Say: “We saw that there were a lot of obstacles to overcome. But what were people doing for him?” (praying) “People were praying and prayer is powerful. Prayer is an opportunity for us to talk to God. God is big and powerful, and He can overcome any obstacle.” • Practice the verse with kids. At the beginning of the verse, guide kids to hold their hands like they are in shackles. For the second part of the verse, kids should separate their hands like the chains have been broken. PLAY THE VIDEO • Play the “Acts: Session 13” video. • Ask: “What did Joel learn about locksmiths? Did Peter need a locksmith? How did Peter get out of jail?” LEARN THE TEXT TRUTH AND CONNECTION STATEMENT • Guide kids to look at the “Text Truth Strip” and “Connection Statement.” • Ask volunteers to read them and attach the strips to the “Acts” poster. • Remind kids of how God answered the people’s prayers. REVIEW FAMILY CARDS • Direct a few kids to pass the cards out. • Show the shackles and say: “This object is a great reminder. Every time you see it you can remember how many obstacles Peter had against him. You can also remember God answered the people’s prayers and freed Peter, and He did it in an amazing way! God always answers prayers.” • Move to Small Group.

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Explore the Bible: Younger Kids

SMALL GROUP

SMALL GROUP (30 MINUTES)

TOOLS:

EXPLORER GUIDES • Provide each kid with an Explorer Guide. Remind kids that today they can take home their guide to remember all they have learned about Acts. Guide boys and girls to locate today’s pages, “Peter Was Rescued From Prison.” • Draw attention to the object. Remind kids that Peter faced many obstacles, but God defeated all of them. Help kids recall the obstacles and write them on the blocks in the activity, “Obstacles.” • Select a volunteer to read the information about the “Antonia Fortress.” • Direct everyone’s attention to the first-century house. • Instruct kids to spread out a little so they won’t be interrupted or distracted by a neighbor. Provide kids time to write or draw their thoughts in the “Prayer” activity space.

Explorer Guides, Bibles, pens

ACTIVITIES • Select one or more of the activities to complete as time allows.

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cut them

he was in prison?” (chains/shackles) • Ask kids: “What was on Peter when by finding the books of the have to free their “shackled” teammate • Mention that with this activity kids will Bible listed on each chain. Bible Chains on his arms or legs. one person to be “chained” and slip the • Form teams. Direct groups to choose Mention that teams have to book of the Bible listed on the chains.” • Explain: “Teams will have to find each in their Bible, they need to book chain at a time. Once they find that work together, and they can only do one next one. the can be removed and they can go on to show it to a teacher, and then that link ys answers our prayers!” alwa ved, teams should jump and shout “God • Say: “Once the chains have been remo any difficult situation they t abou any obstacle. Encourage children to pray • Remind kids that God can overcome may be facing.

the activity as it is described above. Guide kids to find Pre-Reader option: Pre-readers can complete this the book. te loca can refer to the table of contents to help them matching book name in their Bibles. Pre-readers

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SMALL GROUP GAME

markers Tools: paper clips, ribbon, scissors, t Peter faced. • Review the obstacles tha n’t look very good Mention: “The situation did had lots of guards for Peter. He was in prison, ckles on him, surrounding him, he had sha d. But God can and it just did not look goo heard the prayers overcome any obstacle. God it.” Ask: “Do of the people and answered a way the people you think He answered it in Remark: “God expected?” (probably not ) way we think does not always do things the we need and He should. God knows what ws is best. The He answers in a way He kno is God always important thing to remember answers prayers.” clips out for kids. • Lay the ribbon and paper the paper clips to • Show children how to link them to make a one another. Kids can link rker, or any other necklace, bracelet, Bible ma with. creative item they come up ase on the phr ple sim a t prin to s • Lead kid ething like: ribbon. Phrases could be som can overcome God answers prayers or God obstacles. ribbon through the • Help children weave their paper clip chain. use the chain as • Encourage kids to wear or answers our a reminder that God always prayers. yer requests they • Lead kids to share any pra the specific may have. Pray with kids for requests mentioned.

phrases Pre-Reader option: Have sample printed on paper for kids to copy.

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OVERCOME THE OBSTACLES Tools: items for an obstacle course (ex: chairs, noodles, paper, or other items from around the room) • Form two teams. • Explain: “Each team will provide an obstacle course for the other team to complete. You can use any of the items I have provided.” Give each team a specific space they can utilize to set up their course. • Give plenty of time for kids to be creative! • Lead teams to complete the others team’s course. Every team member must make it through the course before you go on to the next team. • Remind children God can overcome any obstacle as kids play. • Challenge teams to repeat the courses varying the way they get through it each time (ex: hop, walk backwards, crawl). • Help children understand God is not constrained by the obstacles we see. Even though we may not understand how God can get us out of or through a situation, He can. • Encourage kids to pray and take their requests to Him daily. Guide kids to talk to God about the hard things they are facing. • Mention: “God always answers our prayers.” • Pray for kids.

Glossary of terms

Each of these terms will help you as you delve into teaching Explore the Bible: Younger Kids.

• CHRIST IN CONTEXT Message of Jesus in a particular Bible book

• CONNECTION PASSAGE Related Scripture and story that connects to the Text Truth and Core Passage

• CONNECTION STATEMENT Statement to connect the Core and Connection Passages

• CORE PASSAGE Focal passage for all age groups

• EXPLORER GUIDE Kids’ activity magazine

• FAMILY CARDS Collectible cards for kids to take home to help parents talk about the session and memorize Scripture

• PRE-READER OPTION Modifications to include kids who have not yet developed reading skills

• TECH CONNECTION Reminder about the free family app available for teachers and families

• TEXT TRUTH Main point of the Core Passage to communicate to children

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Coming Summer 2016 1 Samuel The Book of 1 Samuel guides boys and girls on an adventure through three prominent lives in a pivotal transition point for the Israelite nation. Kids will learn stories of Samuel (the final judge of Israel), Saul (the first king of Israel), and David (Saul’s successor).

DATE

CORE PASSAGE

CONNECTION PASSAGE

MEMORY VERSE

June 5

1 Samuel 1:10-18,26-28

1 Samuel 1:1–2:11,18-21

1 Samuel 2:1

June 12

1 Samuel 3:1-10,17-21

1 Samuel 3:1-21

1 Samuel 3:10

June 19

1 Samuel 5:1-6; 6:11-16

1 Samuel 4:1–7:1

Psalm 21:13

June 26

1 Samuel 8:4-9,19-22

1 Samuel 7:15–8:22

1 Samuel 8:7

July 3

1 Samuel 12:12-25

1 Samuel 9–10

1 Samuel 12:20

July 10

1 Samuel 15:7-15,22-23

1 Samuel 13,15

1 Samuel 15:22

July 17

1 Samuel 16:4-13

1 Samuel 16:1-13

1 Samuel 16:7

July 24

1 Samuel 17:32-37,42-50

1 Samuel 17:1-50

1 Samuel 17:46

July 31

1 Samuel 18:1-5; 20:35-42

1 Samuel 19:1-12; 20:1-42

1 Samuel 18:3

Aug. 7

1 Samuel 22:6-17

1 Samuel 24:1-22

Psalm 31:7

Aug. 14

1 Samuel 25:14-17,32-38**

Esther 3:7–7:8; 8:3-17

1 Samuel 25:32-33

Aug. 21

1 Samuel 26:7-12,21-25

1 Samuel 26:1-25

Romans 12:17

Aug. 28

1 Samuel 30:6-8,18-25

1 Samuel 30:1-25

1 Samuel 30:6

Tools For Digging Deep! YOUNGER KIDS TOOL KIT The resources you need to lead one class: • One Younger Kids Leader Guide • One Younger Kids Explorer Guide • One pack Younger Kids Family Cards • One Younger Kids Poster Pack • One Kids Enhanced CD • One Kids DVD YOUNGER KIDS LEADER GUIDE Helps younger kids connect the Bible to present day • Leader-friendly session plans for small- and large-group learning • Options for including pre-readers • Activities to encourage kids to dig, explore, and discover the Bible YOUNGER KIDS EXPLORER GUIDE Engage younger kids in class with a colorful, fact-filled magazine. • Identifies each object that reminds kids of the Bible story and Text Truth • Weekly pages with colorful illustrations, info-graphics, and photos • Fun-to-do Bible-focused activities relate to the Bible content and application. • Send home at the end of the quarter for kids to keep YOUNGER KIDS POSTER PACK Filled with leader-friendly resources that make teaching easy • Christ in Context poster(s) • Text Truth statements • Family Memory Verse posters (ESV, HCSB, KJV, NIV) • Additional visual aids and resources YOUNGER KIDS FAMILY CARDS • Equip parents with discussion questions that relate to each session. KIDS ENHANCED CD • Bible-related music • Printable teacher tools and session helps KIDS DVD • Includes a video for each session to help kids connect the biblical text in the cultural and historical context of the session. KIDS TOOL KIT WITH WORSHIP • Second-hour option • Kid-friendly worship experience that reinforces every weekly session

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THE GOSPEL GOD’S PLAN FOR ME

The word gospel means “good news.” It is the message about Christ, the kingdom of God, and salvation.

GOD RULES. The Bible tells us God created everything, including you and

me, and He is in charge of everything. Invite a volunteer to recite Genesis 1:1 from memory or read it from his Bible. Read Revelation 4:11 and Colossians 1:16-17.

WE SINNED. Since the time of Adam and Eve, everyone has chosen to disobey God (Romans 3:23). The Bible calls this sin. Because God is holy, God cannot be around sin. Sin separates us from God and deserves God’s punishment of death (Romans 6:23).

GOD PROVIDED. Read John 3:16 aloud. God sent His Son, Jesus, the

perfect solution to our sin problem, to rescue us from the punishment we deserve. It’s something we, as sinners, could never earn on our own. Jesus alone saves us. Read Ephesians 2:8-9.

JESUS GIVES. Jesus lived a perfect life, died on the cross for our sins, and rose again. Because Jesus gave up His life for us, we can be welcomed into God’s family for eternity. This is the best gift ever! Read Romans 5:8; 2 Corinthians 5:21; or 1 Peter 3:18.

WE RESPOND. We can respond to Jesus. “The ABCs of Becoming

a Christian” is a simple tool that helps us remember how to respond when prompted by the Holy Spirit to the gift Jesus offers.

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ADMIT

BELIEVE

CONFESS

Admit to God that you are a sinner. The first people God created chose to sin and disobey God. Ever since then, all people have chosen to sin and disobey (Romans 3:23). Tell God you messed up and you are sorry for doing your own thing and turning away from Him through your thoughts, words, and actions. Repent, turn away from your sin. (Acts 3:19; 1 John 1:9) Repent doesn’t just mean turning from doing bad things to doing good things. It means turning from sin and even from your own good works and turning to Jesus, trusting only in Him to save you.

Believe that Jesus is God’s Son and receive God’s gift of forgiveness from sin. You must believe that only Jesus can save you and you cannot save yourself from your sin problem—not even by praying to God, going to church, or reading your Bible. Your faith or your trust is only in Jesus and what He did for you through His life, death, and resurrection. (Acts 16:31; Acts 4:12; John 14:6; Ephesians 2:8-9)

Confess your faith in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. Tell God and tell others what you believe. If Jesus is your Savior, you are trusting only in Him to save you. Jesus is also Lord, which means He is in charge and calling the shots in your life. You can start following Him and doing what He says in the Bible. You are born again into a new life and look forward to being with God forever. (Romans 10:9-10,13)

Explore the Bible: Younger Kids

E H T E R O EXPL ! R E H T E G BIBLE TO Who can resist the

opportunity to sit down with your kids and dig into God’s Word together? It’s especially fun with a cool app that delivers 360-degree views of objects and exciting games. And when the app provides fresh content each quarter to reinforce what kids are learning and is absolutely FREE—well, it’s pretty much a no-brainer.

FREE!

The Explore the Bible Family App is available for mobile devices and tablets.Download it today from the iTunes® App store or Google Play!

Kids

EXPLORE THE BIBLE Book-by-book studies for groups of all ages.

Want to use Explore the Bible with other age groups? Preview Explore the Bible for students and adults at LifeWay.com/ExploreTheBible Now you can choose the Bible translation that appears in your study!

CHECK OUT THESE ADDITIONAL STUDY OPTIONS TO MEET ALL OF YOUR PROGRAMMING NEEDS THROUGHOUT THE WEEK:

WWW.LIFEWAY.COM

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© 2015 LifeWay. Made in USA.

BIBLE STUDIES FOR LIFE: KIDS

WORSHIP FOR LIFE: KIDS

THE GOSPEL PROJECT FOR KIDS

Combine creative teaching elements and hands-on learning to teach kids Bible truth and give them specific ways to apply it to their lives. Age-specific content is based on the Levels of Biblical Learning and packaged in a way that helps you disciple kids and strengthen families. biblestudiesforlife.com

Solid biblical teaching, engaging worship, group games, and take-home family resources— all wrapped in a fun, energetic experience that your kids will love! Use it as a stand-alone large group program or hand-in-hand with

The entire gospel story like kids have never seen it before! Each week, through videos, music, activities and more, kids connect biblical events to God’s ultimate plan of redemption through Christ. gospelproject.com/kids

Spring 2016

Bible Studies For Life: Kids.

lifeway.com/worshipforlife