SCHEDULE OF BIBLE LESSONS The mission of our Bible Classes may be stated as: “To prepare our students, from the scriptures, to become faithful, functioning members of the body of Christ. We want to give them the tools to make the right decisions based on the Bible. We cannot give them all the answers, but we can teach them how to find them for themselves, that they will achieve full assurance of a home in Heaven.” For each of our Bible classes, this document lists a broadly stated goal and examples of themes to be taught each quarter to achieve our mission. The schedule is structured to fit the breakout of classes we have available at the present and will be amended if/when a different breakout is in effect. The schedule may be reviewed and modified as we progress and learn how to best apply it. The exact materials, methods and weekly lesson plans to be used to teach the topics is to be determined by each teacher with the support of the education deacon or others as required. Purchased lessons from reputable publishers or material generated by the teachers or a combination may be used. Catalogs from the publishers are available for review. Most publishers maintain websites. A sizable inventory of published lesson materials is available in our storeroom to allow teachers to review specific content. The cycle of topics to be presented each quarter will repeat in an ongoing sequence. It is recognized that at start-up, students will not enjoy the full benefit of this schedule and that as promotions occur each year some topic sequence may be less than ideal. However, advantages of the program outweigh these unavoidable drawbacks. Promotion will occur the first class meeting in June of each year except for the move from Cradle Roll to age two – three. (See notes for these classes)
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CRADLE ROLL -- SUNDAY AM Goal: I can leave mommy and enjoy being a member of a class. Themes: God loves me. God made me. God made everything. The Bible is God's word. We behave in class. We learn to Share. Please & thank you become natural. Topics for cradle roll ages 0-2 (Promotion from cradle roll to the class for ages 2-4 may be flexible and not necessarily at the June promotion date but rather be based on readiness of each child) Every Quarter of tenure of each student Establish a loving, supportive yet firm atmosphere that promotes a desire to regularly attend class. Be sensitive to the needs of each child. Work with child and parent to make both comfortable with class. Using visual aids, both purchased and home made, such as finger plays, stuffed and toy animals and other figures, pictures, mirrors, etc., teach the suggested themes. Teach cheerful yet meaningful songs. Help establish the correct time to move each child to the age two – three year-old Toddler class
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AGES TWO AND THREE -- SUNDAY AM Goal: I want to come to church to learn about God. Themes: I behave at church. I know God from the Bible. Who is God? Who is Jesus? God and Jesus love me. I learn major bible events: Creation, Noah, Abraham, Joseph, Moses, etc. I practice praying to God and thinking of others. I learn more about sharing and please and thank you. Topics for ages 2-3 (Promotion into this class may be flexible, based on readiness of each child) At the toddler age, repetition is a necessary part of the learning process. Every class should incorporate some basic Bible knowledge, such as: Prayer is talking to God. How does God talk to us? The Bible. The Bible is God’s word. The Bible has two parts. The Old Testament and the New Testament There are 66 books in the Bible. Children should become familiar with the names of the books of The Bible. The Old Testament is about God’s people, the Israelites or the Jews (“Jews” is a little easier for the toddlers) The New Testament is about God’s Son, Jesus The purpose of the Jews was to bring about Jesus. The purpose of Jesus is to bring about salvation. How did Jesus bring about salvation? He died on the cross. Why did Jesus die on the cross for us? He loves us and he wants us to go to heaven. Those who follow God’s word today are called Christians. Christians are God’s people today. Toddlers should also know that they can please God by being quiet when the teacher is talking, by sharing, using manners, being careful with The Bible, and behaving in the auditorium so that Mom and Dad can listen and worship. In addition to the above items that should be addressed at every Bible class, the toddlers are ready for a weekly lesson from The Bible that is built on throughout the quarter. As used in the following description, the words know, understand, etc., are relative to the age of the students. However, if these topics are at least mentioned, the toddlers will have a good foundation for when they move to the next class.
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First Quarter – Creation and Noah’s Ark Toddlers should know that God is all-powerful, that there are consequences for not following Him, and that God provides for those who follow Him. Second Quarter – Abraham Toddlers should begin to understand that Abraham was the father of the Jews; that Abraham served God and God took care of Him in return. Likewise, God will take care of us if we serve Him also. Third Quarter – Joseph Toddlers should begin to understand that Joseph is a descendant of Abraham. The twelve sons of Israel are important (making the connection to the twelve tribes may be possible for the older toddlers), that Joseph served God and God took care of him in return. Likewise, God will take care of us if we serve Him also. Fourth Quarter -- Moses Toddlers should know that the Israelites (Jews) were God’s people. Today God’s people are called Christians. They should know that God takes care of those who serve Him, and they should begin to understand that God punishes those who do not follow Him. They should also begin to understand that God has laws for us to follow today just as He did in the Old Testament. Fifth Quarter – Joshua and the Promised Land Toddlers should know about courage, trust and obedience even when others are fearful and do not believe God will provide. God gave instructions about how to live in the Promised Land. God’s keeps his promises to people who obey Him. Sixth Quarter – David Toddlers should again understand that the Israelites were God’s people. Today God’s people are called Christians. They should know that God takes care of those who serve Him, and punishes those who do not follow Him. Seventh Quarter – Jesus and The Apostles Toddlers should be made aware that Jesus was a Jew and a descendant of all of the above people. Toddlers should realize that Jesus is God’s son, that He is able to perform miracles; that He loves us so much that He died on the cross for us. Eighth Quarter – The Church Toddlers should also realize that we can live with Him in heaven if we follow The Bible. They should begin to understand that Jesus established the church as we know it today and that God’s people today are called Christians.
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AGES FOUR AND FIVE -- SUNDAY AM Goal: I want to come to church to learn about God. Themes: I behave at church. I know God from the Bible. Who is God? Who is Jesus? God and Jesus love me. I learn major bible events: Creation, Noah, Abraham, Joseph, Moses, etc. Praying to God. Thinking of others. More sharing and please and thank you. Notice that the topics are the same as those for the age 2-3 class but should now be presented at an increased level of detail. Repetition is a good thing. Topics for ages 4-5: First Quarter – Creation and Noah’s Ark Students should know that God is all-powerful. There are consequences for not following Him. God provides for those who follow Him. Second Quarter – Abraham Students should begin to understand that Abraham was the father of the Jews; that Abraham served God and God took care of Him in return. Likewise, God will take care of us if we serve Him also. Third Quarter – Joseph Students should begin to understand that Joseph is a descendant of Abraham. The twelve sons of Israel are important (making the connection to the twelve tribes may be introduced), that Joseph served God and God took care of him in return. Likewise, God will take care of us if we serve Him also. Fourth Quarter – Moses Students should know that the Israelites (Jews) were God’s people. Today God’s people are called Christians. They should know that God takes care of those who serve Him, and they should begin to understand that God punishes those who do not follow Him. They should also begin to understand that God has laws for us to follow today just as He did in the Old Testament.
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Fifth Quarter – Joshua and the Promised Land Students should know about courage, trust and obedience even when others are fearful and do not believe God will provide. God gave instructions about how to live in the Promised Land. God’s keeps his promises to people who obey Him. Sixth Quarter – David Students should again understand that the Israelites were God’s people. Today God’s people are called Christians. They should know that God takes care of those who serve Him, and punishes those who do not follow Him. Seventh Quarter – Jesus and The Apostles Students should be made aware that Jesus was a Jew and a descendant of all of the above people. Students should realize that Jesus is God’s son, that He is able to perform miracles; that He loves us so much that He died on the cross for us. Eighth Quarter – The Church Students should also realize that we can live with Him in heaven if we follow The Bible. They should begin to understand that Jesus established the church as we know it today, and that God’s people today are called Christians.
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GRADES ONE AND TWO -- SUNDAY AM Goal: I want to know the bible because this pleases God. Themes: I learn of the major people and events in the bible and how events flow relative to each other, i.e. Chronology. I know and can find the books of the bible. I know the distinction between the Old Testament and the New Testament. I respect and memorize passages of the scripture. I know the purpose of the bible in my life. I have been introduced in an age appropriate manner to serious biblical teachings, like heaven and hell, sin and its consequences and taking responsibility for my actions. Topics for grades 1-2 This age group will again begin in Genesis and work their way through both Testaments, chronologically, hitting the major Bible stories and figures along the way. The toddler curriculum has laid down a basic foundation that should be built upon. Topics that were introduced should be continued with increased detail and new emphasis. This age group is beginning to interact with each other more and more. There needs to be an increasing emphasis on being kind to one another and sharing God’s word with others and how we accomplish that. First quarter: Creation thru Isaac: Emphasis on the plan that God set in motion and the promises He makes that He unfailingly keeps. Using God’s Word: Memorization of books of the Bible, beginning with the Old Testament. Begin to learn to read the names of the books. Very early beginning to find the first five books in their Bibles. Learn to differentiate between the Old and New Testaments. Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter) Second quarter: Jacob and Joseph More promises: continuing the plan. Learn to name the twelve sons of Jacob. Using God’s Word: Should be quite a ways down the road in having those OT books memorized. Should be able to locate the first five books easily. Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter) Third quarter: Moses God’s chosen people. Consequences of doing as God asks or not doing as God asks. Using God’s Word: What is a book? What is a chapter? What is a verse? Learn to find a book and chapter. Old Testament books should be memorized. Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter) Fourth quarter: Joshua, Judges, Ruth Men (and women) of God: Obeying even when it’s hard. Using God’s Word: Continue to work on the Old Testament books (if you don’t use it, you lose it!) Now we add Joshua, Judges and Ruth to the books we will look up. 7
Start to find the verses in those books that we are very familiar with. Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter) Fifth quarter: Samuel, Saul, David and Solomon Choosing a king. Even a good man makes mistakes. Using God’s Word: Since new students will come to the class during this quarter, the second year students should be taught how to mentor the new members in learning to look up the previously introduced books while new books continue to be introduced. Now we add I & II Samuel, I & II Kings, and Chronicles to the books we will look up. Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter) Sixth quarter: Elijah and Elisha: Prophets of God: Doing God’s work. Using God’s Word: Now we add Ezra, Nehemiah and Esther to the books we will look up. Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter) Seventh quarter: Jonah, Daniel and Esther: Standing for God in the face of adversity Using God’s Word: Now we add Job, Psalms and Proverbs to the books we will look up Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter) Eighth quarter: Jesus birth, boyhood and early ministry: God’s greatest promise fulfilled Using God’s Word: Introduce the idea that Jesus was promised from the beginning. As the children gain understanding of the concept, support it by looking up prophesies of Jesus from the Old Testament Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter)
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GRADES THREE AND FOUR -- SUNDAY AM Goal: I want to know the bible because this pleases God. Themes: I learn details of the life and mission of Jesus and the establishment of His church. I can on my own place in time the major people and events in the bible and how events flow relative to each other – Chronology. I know and can find all the books of the bible. I know the distinction between the OT & NT. I respect and memorize passages of the scripture. I know the purpose of the bible in my life. I have been introduced in an age appropriate manner to serious biblical teachings, like heaven and hell, sin and its consequences and taking responsibility for my actions. Topics for grades 3-4 First Quarter – Miracles of Jesus: The power of Jesus Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter) Second Quarter – Parables of Jesus: Jesus teaches us how to live Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter) Third Quarter – Later ministry of Jesus: Jesus shows us how to live Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter) Fourth Quarter – Final months of Jesus: Crucifixion, Resurrection and Ascension: Fulfillment of God’s plan and the promise of Jesus Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter) During the 4th grade year, the children can begin familiarization with the New Testament books and memorizing their order. Weekly repetition of the books of the Old and New Testaments along with the memory verse of the quarter will help to “write the scriptures on their hearts”. Vital Bible verses for life should be stamped on their hearts with weekly repetition throughout this 2-year period. For the children who have entered the program on the “off years”, their trip through the Bible over the last three years has been a little inverted. For this reason, we will begin this year with an overall chronology of the Bible. Then, we can continue with where the 3rd grade year concluded.
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Fifth Quarter – Chronology of the Whole Bible Who was alive at the same time? How long ago did things happen? Where did all this happen? Using God’s Word Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter) Begin memorizing NT books and continue with OT books Sixth Quarter – The First Days of the Church Day of Pentecost Early Church Conversion of Paul Using God’s Word Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter) Continue recitation of books of the Bible throughout year. Children should be able, with help, to look up all scriptures used during the lessons. Seventh Quarter – Paul’s Missionary Journeys Emphasis is on not only where he went, but also especially WHY he went and how we can apply that to our life. Paul’s love for the people he was teaching should be emphasized. Using God’s Word Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter) Learning to use the helps in most of our Bibles, such as maps, cross-references and concordances can be discussed here. To emphasize that all in the Bible really happened, maps of today’s world and globes showing where we live in relationship to where Paul went can help the children grasp the reality. Eighth Quarter – The Church That Christ Gave Us Organization of the church Local churches are autonomous, but all are part of Christ’s Church God’s Pattern for Worship Using God’s Word Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter) God’s Word is our guide for worship, not decisions made by man. Show that studying God’s Word is the only way to know what God wants from us.
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GRADES FIVE AND SIX -- SUNDAY AM Goal: I learn to apply the bible to my actions and attitudes. Themes: I increasingly learn the responsibility and privilege of being a Christian. I more fully understand the consequences of my actions. I am taking responsibility for learning on our own -- self-study. I learn the evil nature of sin. I learn that my daily choices and decisions take me in a definite direction. I learn how to judge right vs. wrong action in self and others. I am preparing to choose to become a Christian. Topics for grades 5-6 Using God’s Word – Memory verses for these two years should be “Salvation” verses. Repetition of the Books of the Bible should be continued and children should be able to look up all verses used during the lessons.
First Quarter – What Does God Expect from the Local Church? Evangelism Edification Benevolence God tells us exactly what He wants from us as a congregation and me as a Christian Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter) Second Quarter – What Does God Expect from Me to become a member of His Church? Hear Believe Repent Confess Be Baptized Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter)
Third Quarter – What Does God Expect from Me to Live as a member of His Church? What is expected of me to live as a faithful member of Christ’s Church? As part of the Body of Christ (my duties in the church – male and female roles can be discussed here) As part of my family (roles in the house can be discussed here: Husband/Father is the head of the house according to God’s plan; Children are to respect their parents – the first law with a promise – Ephesians 6:1-2) As part of the world (with regard to evangelism, being an example, and being different from the world) Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter) Fourth Quarter – What Does God Expect of Me as a Person? Living the ”Fruit of the Spirit” (Galatians 5:22-23) and the Beatitudes from the “Sermon on the Mount”(Matthew 5:2-12) Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter)
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Fifth Quarter – The Bible is God’s Word What does “inspired” mean? Who did God talk to? (Who are the writers of the Bible?) Mechanics of writing the Bible in Old Testament times and in New Testament times. The people of the New Testament knew the scriptures. How? (Exactitude of scribes copying the scrolls, reading of the scriptures by the priests, importance of studying to the Jews) A reminder of the physical make-up of the Bible: chapters, verses, larger partitions such as Books of History, Books of Law, Books of Prophesy, etc. Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter) Sixth Quarter – History of the Bible as it has come down to us Again, the carefulness of scribes copying the scriptures (burning a manuscript if it had a mistake, etc) 1000’s more ancient copies of Bible than there are copies of writings of Aristotle, Socrates, etc. Historical accuracy of the Bible that had been doubted has been proven by scientific and archaeological findings through recent centuries and continues even today Different translations – Why the scripture reader may be reading a scripture that sounds a little different from what I’m reading in my copy of the Bible Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter) Seventh Quarter – God’s Plan from the Beginning Jesus is coming, Jesus has come, and Jesus is coming again Prophesies made in OT fulfilled in NT Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter) Eighth Quarter – God’s Laws Make Sense in My Life Some of the Old Testament Laws seemed incomprehensible to them, but with our prospective can make sense (Dietary laws, Cleanliness, Family laws, commands that were meant as shadows of the Coming Christ, etc) Some laws for us seem on the surface to be incomprehensible: How does baptism wash away my sins? Why can’t we use an instrument in worship? Etc. With study, we can understand the sense of the commandments God gives us. Commandments God gives us that are different from the way the world lives give us a better life. (morality, modesty, language, marriage and divorce, etc) Some laws may not be to our liking, but we must have faith that God knows what He’s doing, just as the Jews had to have faith that the Old Law was for their benefit. Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter)
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GRADES SEVEN AND EIGHT -- SUNDAY AM Goal I accept the idea that God is more important to me than -----. Themes: I fully understand the chronology of the Bible and appreciate the significance of the New Covenant. I decide that I must gain a saving relationship with God through baptism. I know how to behave around non-Christians -- how to respond to temptation, peer pressure --- I know how to make personal choices and decisions using God's word and how to face personal issues with prayer and the Bible. I understand the details of a long list of specific sins, many of which have been dismissed by the world as of no consequence. Topics for grades 7-8 This is the beginning of the transition from childhood to adulthood – from being presented (i.e. – spoon fed) material to being exposed to material that they must draw the lessons from on their own. This may well be their first exposure to male teachers in Bible class – and this can be a lesson. This is not a ‘hard and fast’ curriculum for these two years; but rather a flexible ‘framework’ of subject matter. These are the ages at which the children who have grown up in the Church are reaching decisions about whether or not they will be obedient to God in baptism. A curriculum that incorporates obedience and baptism as recurring themes is important – whether overtly or more subtly. This curriculum incorporates two years that can be presented as individual years – without one being a pre-requisite for the other. Every student attending consistently through these two years should understand (at the end of the two years) that their ultimate life goal must be the salvation of their own soul – with a knowledge of baptism as the first, and indispensable, step in that process. Year Study: The Ministry of Christ and Establishment of the Church (a study of Acts): First quarter – The Ministry of Christ (centered in Luke’s account) Second quarter – The Ministry of Christ (concluded); The establishment of the Church (start) Third quarter – The establishment of the Church (cont.) Fourth quarter – The establishment of the Church (concluded) Year Study – Key Lessons from the First Century Church First quarter – The First Century World Second quarter – Lessons from Paul to Timothy Third quarter – Judaizing Teachers and others who would have God bend to their will Fourth quarter – Lessons from ‘The Elder’ (I John – III John) 13
HIGH SCHOOL GRADE 9, 10, 11, 12 -- SUNDAY AM Goal: I learn how to define and defend MY faith and that I am to be a servant – others before self. Themes: I strengthen my faith through detailed study. I learn practical lessons of living – openly practicing Christianity. I fully learn that I am an example to others all around me. I learn how to communicate my faith. I am becoming prepared for leadership roles and am learning how to teach others. I learn through direct topical study how to deal with doctrinal & social issues to include but not limited to matters like: does God exist, Bible Hermeneutics, infallibility of the Bible, maintaining Biblical worship, creation vs. evolution, pre-marital sex, marriage and divorce, abortion and much more. Topics for grades 9, 10, 11, 12 With the high school class, there will be Bible students who have had a well-rounded study of Bible basics from toddler to high school; however, there may also be new Bible students who will require a grounding of their faith. No matter how long a student has studied the Bible, doubts and outside influence will test one’s faith. A study of the authority of Scripture via Christian Evidences can only help to reinforce their faith and further ground them in the truth. 1st Year Study: Building/reinforcing a foundation of faith in God and His authority First, second and third quarter: The consequences of disobedience to God. Use Nehemiah as the springboard and then bring in the other numerous examples of how God dealt with disobedience. Stress the fact that the OT as a school master brings us unto Christ Forth quarter: A Study centered on the book of Ruth to teach every boy to respect women and every girl that their service to God, though perhaps less public, is no less important; and can be just as life-changing for precious souls. 2nd Year Study:
First and second quarter: Existence of God Does God exist? Does Satan exist? Creation vs. evolution Infallibility of the Bible
Third and fourth quarter: Authority of God’s Word/Christ’s authority Bible hermeneutics (word studies, context, cultures) Maintaining Bible worship church of Christ vs. other religions, denominations, sects and cults
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3nd and 4th Year Study: Strengthening and expressing one’s faith in today’s world First through Eighth quarters: Difficult questions about Christianity (Listed below in no particular order are examples of the many issues facing the student. These are the same topics as listed for Sunday am class. Sunday and Wednesday teachers to coordinate topics to either reinforce the same topic or take up different topics.) Why am I here? (purpose of life) Why do I have to be different? (peer pressure, dancing, mixed swimming, modesty, etc) Influences (influencing vs. being influenced) Substance abuse (drugs, alcohol, tobacco, etc.) Premarital sex Abortion Marriage (should I marry only a Christian?) Marriage and divorce (what does God say?) Capital punishment Can a Christian serve in the Military? If we are faced with “Obey the Government or Obey God”, how do we behave? How do I deal with a teacher or instructor who teaches material counter to Biblical fact? Biblical answers to the very real stresses of life Archeological evidences of Bible events. Scientific evidences in the Bible Other subjects as identified by student’s needs and accepted by teacher
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CRADLE ROLL -- WEDNESDAY PM At this time we do not have cradle roll students. If we acquire students we will activate a class that has identical goals and format as the Sunday am cradle roll. Goal: I can leave mommy and enjoy being a member of a class. Themes: God loves me. God made me. God made everything. The Bible is God's word. We behave in class. Sharing. Please & thank you. Topics for cradle roll ages 0-2 (Promotion from cradle roll to the class for ages 2-4 may be flexible and not necessarily at the June promotion date but rather be based on readiness of each child) Every Quarter of tenure of each student Establish a loving, supportive yet firm atmosphere that promotes a desire to regularly attend class. Be sensitive to the needs of each child. Work with child and parent to make both comfortable with class. Using visual aids, both purchased and home made, such as finger plays, stuffed and toy animals and other figures, pictures, mirrors, etc., teach the suggested themes. Teach cheerful yet meaningful songs. Help establish the correct time to move each child to the age two – three year-old Toddler class
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AGES ZERO - THREE -- WEDNESDAY PM Goal: I want to come to church to learn about God. Themes: I behave at church. I know God from the Bible. Who is God? Who is Jesus? God and Jesus love me. I learn major bible events: Creation, Noah, Abraham, Joseph, Moses, etc. Praying to God. Thinking of others. More sharing and please and thank you. The topics are the same as those for Sunday am. Repetition is a good thing. Coordinate with Sunday teachers. Class duration is short (30 min.) so lessons should focus on asking questions about the lessons learned last Sunday, pictures/flannel-graph story telling and songs. Topics for ages 0-3 (If in the future we activate a cradle roll, promotion into this class may be flexible, based on readiness of each child) At the toddler age, repetition is a necessary part of the learning process. Every class should incorporate some basic Bible knowledge, such as: Prayer is talking to God. How does God talk to us? The Bible. The Bible is God’s word. The Bible has two parts. The Old Testament and the New Testament There are 66 books in the Bible. Children should become familiar with the names of the books of The Bible. The Old Testament is about God’s people, the Israelites or the Jews (“Jews” is a little easier for the toddlers) The New Testament is about God’s Son, Jesus The purpose of the Jews was to bring about Jesus. The purpose of Jesus is to bring about salvation. How did Jesus bring about salvation? He died on the cross. Why did Jesus die on the cross for us? He loves us and he wants us to go to heaven. Those who follow God’s word today are called Christians. Christians are God’s people today. Toddlers should also know that they can please God by being quiet when the teacher is talking, by sharing, using manners, being careful with The Bible, and behaving in the auditorium so that Mom and Dad can listen and worship. In addition to the above items that should be addressed at every Bible class, the toddlers are ready for a weekly lesson from The Bible that is built on throughout the quarter. As used in the following description, the words know, understand, etc., are relative to the age of the students. However, if these topics are at least mentioned, the toddlers will have a good foundation for when they move to the next class.
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First Quarter – Creation and Noah’s Ark Toddlers should know that God is all-powerful, that there are consequences for not following Him, and that God provides for those who follow Him. Second Quarter – Abraham Toddlers should begin to understand that Abraham was the father of the Jews, that Abraham served God and God took care of Him in return. Likewise, God will take care of us if we serve Him also. Third Quarter – Joseph Toddlers should begin to understand that Joseph is a descendant of Abraham. The twelve sons of Israel are important (making the connection to the twelve tribes may be possible for the older toddlers), that Joseph served God and God took care of him in return. Likewise, God will take care of us if we serve Him also. Fourth Quarter -- Moses Toddlers should know that the Israelites (Jews) were God’s people. Today God’s people are called Christians. They should know that God takes care of those who serve Him, and they should begin to understand that God punishes those who do not follow Him. They should also begin to understand that God has laws for us to follow today just as He did in the Old Testament. Fifth Quarter – Joshua and the Promised Land Toddlers should know about courage, trust and obedience even when others are fearful and do not believe God will provide. God gave instructions about how to live in the Promised Land. God’s keeps his promises to people who obey Him. Sixth Quarter – David Toddlers should again understand that the Israelites were God’s people. Today God’s people are called Christians. They should know that God takes care of those who serve Him, and punishes those who do not follow Him. Seventh Quarter – Jesus and The Apostles Toddlers should be made aware that Jesus was a Jew and a descendant of all of the above people. Toddlers should realize that Jesus is God’s son, that He is able to perform miracles; that He loves us so much that He died on the cross for us. Eighth Quarter – The Church Toddlers should also realize that we can live with Him in heaven if we follow The Bible. They should begin to understand that Jesus established the church as we know it today and that God’s people today are called Christians.
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AGES FOUR AND FIVE -- WEDNESDAY PM Goal: I want to come to church to learn about God. Themes: I behave at church. I know God from the Bible. Who is God? Who is Jesus? God and Jesus love me. I learn major bible events: Creation, Noah, Abraham, Joseph, Moses, etc. Praying to God. Thinking of others. More sharing and please and thank you. The topics are the same as those for Sunday am., and are the same as those presented in age 0-3 but now at an increased level of detail. Repetition is a good thing. Coordinate with Sunday teachers. Class duration is short (30 min.) so lessons should focus on asking questions about the lessons learned last Sunday, pictures to color, flannel-graph story telling and songs. Topics for ages 4-5: First Quarter – Creation and Noah’s Ark Students should know that God is all-powerful. There are consequences for not following Him. God provides for those who follow Him. Second Quarter – Abraham Students should begin to understand that Abraham was the father of the Jews; that Abraham served God and God took care of Him in return. Likewise, God will take care of us if we serve Him also. Third Quarter – Joseph Students should begin to understand that Joseph is a descendant of Abraham. The twelve sons of Israel are important (making the connection to the twelve tribes may be introduced), that Joseph served God and God took care of him in return. Likewise, God will take care of us if we serve Him also. Fourth Quarter – Moses Students should know that the Israelites (Jews) were God’s people. Today God’s people are called Christians. They should know that God takes care of those who serve Him, and they should begin to understand that God punishes those who do not follow Him. They should also begin to understand that God has laws for us to follow today just as He did in the Old Testament.
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Fifth Quarter – Joshua and the Promised Land Students should know about courage, trust and obedience even when others are fearful and do not believe God will provide. God gave instructions about how to live in the Promised Land. God’s keeps his promises to people who obey Him. Sixth Quarter – David Students should again understand that the Israelites were God’s people. Today God’s people are called Christians. They should know that God takes care of those who serve Him, and punishes those who do not follow Him. Seventh Quarter – Jesus and The Apostles Students should be made aware that Jesus was a Jew and a descendant of all of the above people. Students should realize that Jesus is God’s son, that He is able to perform miracles; that He loves us so much that He died on the cross for us. Eighth Quarter – The Church Students should also realize that we can live with Him in heaven if we follow The Bible. They should begin to understand that Jesus established the church as we know it today, and that God’s people today are called Christians.
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GRADES ONE - TWO - THREE -- WEDNESDAY PM Goal: I want to know the bible because this pleases God. Themes: I learn of the major people and events in the bible and how events flow relative to each other, i.e. Chronology. I know and can find the books of the bible. I know the distinction between the Old Testament and the New Testament. I respect and memorize passages of the scripture. I know the purpose of the bible in my life. I have been introduced in an age appropriate manner to serious biblical teachings, like heaven and hell, sin and its consequences and taking responsibility for my actions. Topics for grades 1-2-3 This age group will again begin in Genesis and work their way through both Testaments, chronologically, hitting the major Bible stories and figures along the way. Because each year new students will arrive a graphic “time line” needs to always be before the students. The toddler curriculum has laid down a basic foundation that should be built upon. Topics that were previously introduced should be continued with increased detail and new emphasis. This age group is beginning to interact with each other more and more. There needs to be an increasing emphasis on being kind to one another and sharing God’s word with others and how we accomplish that. First quarter: Creation thru Isaac: Emphasis on the plan that God set in motion and the promises He makes that He unfailingly keeps. Using God’s Word: Memorization of books of the Bible, beginning with the Old Testament. Begin to learn to read the names of the books. Very early beginning to find the first five books in their Bibles. Learn to differentiate between the Old and New Testaments. Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter) Second quarter: Jacob and Joseph More promises: continuing the plan. Learn to name the twelve sons of Jacob. Using God’s Word: Should be quite a ways down the road in having those OT books memorized. Should be able to locate the first five books easily. Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter) Third quarter: Moses God’s chosen people. Consequences of doing as God asks or not doing as God asks. Using God’s Word: What is a book? What is a chapter? What is a verse? Learn to find a book and chapter. Old Testament books should be memorized. Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter) Fourth quarter: Joshua, Judges, Ruth Men (and women) of God: Obeying even when it’s hard. Using God’s Word: Continue to work on the Old Testament books (if you don’t use it, you lose it!) 21
Now we add Joshua, Judges and Ruth to the books we will look up. Start to find the verses in those books that we are very familiar with. Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter) Fifth quarter: Samuel, Saul, David and Solomon Choosing a king. Even a good man makes mistakes. Using God’s Word: Since new students will come to the class during this quarter, the second year students should be taught how to mentor the new members in learning to look up the previously introduced books while new books continue to be introduced. Now we add I & II Samuel, I & II Kings, and Chronicles to the books we will look up. Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter) Sixth quarter: Elijah and Elisha: Prophets of God: Doing God’s work. Using God’s Word: Now we add Ezra, Nehemiah and Esther to the books we will look up. Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter) Seventh quarter: Jonah, Daniel and Esther: Standing for God in the face of adversity Using God’s Word: Now we add Job, Psalms and Proverbs to the books we will look up Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter) Eighth quarter: Jesus birth, boyhood and early ministry: God’s greatest promise fulfilled Using God’s Word: Introduce the idea that Jesus was promised from the beginning. As the children gain understanding of the concept, support it by looking up prophesies of Jesus from the Old Testament Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter) Ninth Quarter – Miracles of Jesus: The power of Jesus Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter) Tenth Quarter – Parables of Jesus: Jesus teaches us how to live Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter) Eleventh Quarter – Later ministry of Jesus: Jesus shows us how to live Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter) Twelfth Quarter – Final months of Jesus: Crucifixion, Resurrection and Ascension: Fulfillment of God’s plan and the promise of Jesus Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter) 22
GRADES FOUR - FIVE - SIX -- WEDNESDAY PM Goal: I want to know the bible because this pleases God. Themes: I learn details of the life and mission of Jesus and the establishment of His church. I can on my own place in time the major people and events in the bible and how events flow relative to each other – Chronology. I know and can find all the books of the bible. I know the distinction between the OT & NT. I respect and memorize passages of the scripture. I know the purpose of the bible in my life. I have been introduced in an age appropriate manner to serious biblical teachings, like heaven and hell, sin and its consequences and taking responsibility for my actions. Topics for grades 4 - 6 During the 4th grade year, the children can begin familiarization with the New Testament books and memorizing their order. Weekly repetition of the books of the Old and New Testaments along with the memory verse of the quarter will help to “write the scriptures on their hearts”. Vital Bible verses for life should be stamped on their hearts with weekly repetition throughout this 2-year period. For the children who have entered the program on the “off years”, their trip through the Bible over the last three years has been a little inverted. For this reason, we will begin this year with an overall chronology of the Bible. Then, we can continue with where the 3rd grade year concluded.
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First Quarter – Chronology of the Whole Bible Who was alive at the same time? How long ago did things happen? Where did all this happen? Using God’s Word Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter) Begin memorizing NT books and continue with OT books Second Quarter – The First Days of the Church Day of Pentecost Early Church Conversion of Paul Using God’s Word Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter) Continue recitation of books of the Bible throughout year. Children should be able, with help, to look up all scriptures used during the lessons. Third Quarter – Paul’s Missionary Journeys Emphasis is on not only where he went, but also especially WHY he went and how we can apply that to our life. Paul’s love for the people he was teaching should be emphasized. Using God’s Word Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter) Learning to use the helps in most of our Bibles, such as maps, cross-references and concordances can be discussed here. To emphasize that all in the Bible really happened, maps of today’s world and globes showing where we live in relationship to where Paul went can help the children grasp the reality. Fourth Quarter – The Church That Christ Gave Us Organization of the church Local churches are autonomous, but all are part of Christ’s Church God’s Pattern for Worship Using God’s Word Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter) God’s Word is our guide for worship, not decisions made by man. Show that studying God’s Word is the only way to know what God wants from us.
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Goal: I learn to apply the bible to my actions and attitudes. Themes: I increasingly learn the responsibility and privilege of being a Christian. I more fully understand the consequences of my actions. I am taking responsibility for learning on our own -- self-study. I learn the evil nature of sin. I learn that my daily choices and decisions take me in a definite direction. I learn how to judge right vs. wrong action in self and others. I am preparing to choose to become a Christian. Using God’s Word – Memory verses for these two years should be “Salvation” verses. Repetition of the Books of the Bible should be continued and children should be able to look up all verses used during the lessons.
Fifth Quarter – What Does God Expect from the Local Church? Evangelism Edification Benevolence God tells us exactly what He wants from us as a congregation and me as a Christian Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter) Sixth Quarter – What Does God Expect from Me to become a member of His Church? Hear Believe Repent Confess Be Baptized Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter)
Seventh Quarter – What Does God Expect from Me to Live as a member of His Church? What is expected of me to live as a faithful member of Christ’s Church? As part of the Body of Christ (my duties in the church – male and female roles can be discussed here) As part of my family (roles in the house can be discussed here: Husband/Father is the head of the house according to God’s plan; Children are to respect their parents – the first law with a promise – Ephesians 6:1-2) As part of the world (with regard to evangelism, being an example, and being different from the world) Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter) Eighth Quarter – What Does God Expect of Me as a Person? Living the ”Fruit of the Spirit” (Galatians 5:22-23) and the Beatitudes from the “Sermon on the Mount”(Matthew 5:2-12) Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter)
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Ninth Quarter – The Bible is God’s Word What does “inspired” mean? Who did God talk to? (Who are the writers of the Bible?) Mechanics of writing the Bible in Old Testament times and in New Testament times. The people of the New Testament knew the scriptures. How? (Exactitude of scribes copying the scrolls, reading of the scriptures by the priests, importance of studying to the Jews) A reminder of the physical make-up of the Bible: chapters, verses, larger partitions such as Books of History, Books of Law, Books of Prophesy, etc. Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter) Tenth Quarter – History of the Bible as it has come down to us Again, the carefulness of scribes copying the scriptures (burning a manuscript if it had a mistake, etc) 1000’s more ancient copies of Bible than there are copies of writings of Aristotle, Socrates, etc. Historical accuracy of the Bible that had been doubted has been proven by scientific and archaeological findings through recent centuries and continues even today Different translations – Why the scripture reader may be reading a scripture that sounds a little different from what I’m reading in my copy of the Bible Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter) Eleventh Quarter – God’s Plan from the Beginning Jesus is coming, Jesus has come, and Jesus is coming again Prophesies made in OT fulfilled in NT Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter) Twelvth Quarter – God’s Laws Make Sense in My Life Some of the Old Testament Laws seemed incomprehensible to them, but with our prospective can make sense (Dietary laws, Cleanliness, Family laws, commands that were meant as shadows of the Coming Christ, etc) Some laws for us seem on the surface to be incomprehensible: How does baptism wash away my sins? Why can’t we use an instrument in worship? Etc. With study, we can understand the sense of the commandments God gives us. Commandments God gives us that are different from the way the world lives give us a better life. (morality, modesty, language, marriage and divorce, etc) Some laws may not be to our liking, but we must have faith that God knows what He’s doing, just as the Jews had to have faith that the Old Law was for their benefit. Monthly memory verse (three total for a quarter)
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GRADES SEVEN AND EIGHT -- WEDNESDAY PM Goal I accept the idea that God is more important to me than -----. Themes: I fully understand the chronology of the Bible and appreciate the significance of the New Covenant. I decide that I must gain a saving relationship with God through baptism. I know how to behave around non-Christians -- how to respond to temptation, peer pressure --- I know how to make personal choices and decisions using God's word and how to face personal issues with prayer and the Bible. I understand the details of a long list of specific sins, many of which have been dismissed by the world as of no consequence. Topics for grades 7-8 This is the beginning of the transition from childhood to adulthood – from being presented (i.e. – spoon fed) material to being exposed to material that they must draw the lessons from on their own. This may well be their first exposure to male teachers in Bible class – and this can be a lesson. This is not a ‘hard and fast’ curriculum for these two years; but rather a flexible ‘framework’ of subject matter. These are the ages at which the children who have grown up in the Church are reaching decisions about whether or not they will be obedient to God in baptism. A curriculum that incorporates obedience and baptism as recurring themes is important – whether overtly or more subtly. This curriculum incorporates two years that can be presented as individual years – without one being a pre-requisite for the other. Every student attending consistently through these two years should understand (at the end of the two years) that their ultimate life goal must be the salvation of their own soul – with knowledge of baptism as the first, and indispensable, step in that process. Year Study: The Ministry of Christ and Establishment of the Church (a study of Acts): For Wednesday the emphasis is on harmony of Gospels, map studies and prophesies. Coordinate with Sunday am teachers to provide context. First quarter – The Ministry of Christ Second quarter – The Ministry of Christ (concluded); The establishment of the Church (start) Third quarter – The establishment of the Church (cont.) Fourth quarter – The establishment of the Church (concluded) Year Study – Key Lessons from the First Century Church First quarter – The First Century World Second quarter – Lessons from Paul to Timothy Third quarter – Judaizing Teachers and others who would have God bend to their will Fourth quarter – Lessons from ‘The Elder’ (I John – III John) 27
HIGH SCHOOL GRADE 9, 10, 11, 12 -- WEDNESDAY PM Goal: I learn how to define and defend MY faith and that I am to be a servant – others before self. Themes: I strengthen my faith through detailed study. I learn practical lessons of living – openly practicing Christianity. I fully learn that I am an example to others all around me. I learn how to communicate my faith. I am becoming prepared for leadership roles and am learning how to teach others. I learn through direct topical study how to deal with doctrinal & social issues to include but not limited to matters like: does God exist, Bible Hermeneutics, infallibility of the Bible, maintaining Biblical worship, creation vs. evolution, pre-marital sex, marriage and divorce, abortion and much more. Topics for grades 9, 10, 11, 12 With the high school class, there will be Bible students who have had a well-rounded study of Bible basics from toddler to high school; however, there may also be new Bible students who will require a grounding of their faith. No matter how long a student has studied the Bible, doubts and outside influence will test one’s faith. A study of the authority of Scripture via Christian Evidences can only help to reinforce their faith and further ground them in the truth. 1st through 4th Year Study: Building/reinforcing a foundation of faith in God and His authority (Listed below in no particular order are examples of the many issues facing the student. These are the same topics as listed for Sunday am class. Sunday and Wednesday teachers to coordinate topics to either reinforce the same topic or take up different topics.) Does God exist? Does Satan exist? Creation vs. evolution Infallibility of the Bible Bible hermeneutics (word studies, context, cultures) Maintaining Bible worship church of Christ vs. other religions, denominations, sects and cults Why am I here? (purpose of life) Why do I have to be different? (peer pressure, dancing, mixed swimming, modesty, etc) Influences (influencing vs. being influenced) Substance abuse (drugs, alcohol, tobacco, etc.) Premarital sex Abortion Marriage (should I marry only a Christian?) Marriage and divorce (what does God say?) Capital punishment Can a Christian serve in the Military? If we are faced with “Obey the Government or Obey God”, how do we behave? How do I deal with a teacher or instructor who teaches material counter to Biblical fact? Biblical answers to the very real stresses of life Archeological evidences of Bible events. Scientific evidences in the Bible Other subjects as identified by student’s needs and accepted by teacher
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