Leader’s Guidestorage.cloversites.com...iv submerge • Leader’s Guide Perissi is raed duliae is ae r lal ur use l 2015 esur. Faith Development for Students Your students are constantly

Leader’s Guide

Fall2015

www.deepbluekids.com

LG Submerge CVR001.indd 4-1 4/8/15 9:38 AM

Vol. 1 • No. 1 • FALL 2015

EDITORIAL / DESIGN TEAMNathan Maben-Tenney ..........................................Editor/WriterHeidi Hewi� ...................................................... Production EditorKellie Green ..........................................................................Designer

ADMINISTRATIVE TEAMNeil M. Alexander .............................................................PublisherMarjorie M. Pon ...................................Associate Publisher and

Editor of Church School Publications (CSP)Phillip D. Francis ........................Senior Design Manager, CSPLeeDell B. Stickler ......Senior Editor, Children’s Resources

Submerge: Ages 11+, Leader’s Guide: An offi cial resource for The United Methodist Church approved by the General Board of Discipleship and published quarterly by Cokesbury, a division of The United Methodist Publishing House, 2222 Rosa L. Parks Blvd., P.O. Box 280988, Nashville, TN 37228-0988. Price: $10.99. Copyright © 2015 Cokesbury. All rights reserved. Send address changes to Submerge: Ages 11+, Leader’s Guide: Subscription Services, 2222 Rosa L. Parks Blvd., P.O. Box 280988, Nashville, TN 37228-0988 or call 800-672-1789. Printed in the United States of America.

To order copies of this publication, call toll free: 800-672-1789. You may fax your order to 800-445-8189. Telecommunication Device for the Deaf/Telex Telephone: 800-227-4091. Or order online at cokesbury.com. Use your Cokesbury account, American Express, Visa, Discover, or MasterCard.For information concerning permission to reproduce any material in this publication, write to Rights and Permissions, The United Methodist Publishing House,

2222 Rosa L. Parks Blvd., P.O. Box 280988, Nashville, TN 37228-0988. You may fax your request to 615-749-6128. Or e-mail [email protected].

Scripture quotations are from the Common English Bible. Copyright © 2011 by the Common English Bible. All rights reserved. Used by permission. www.CommonEnglishBible.com

15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24— 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1

PACP10001424-01

Scope and Sequence 2015–16

Summer2016

Spring2016

Winter2015–16

Fall2015

UNIT 1: Dive Deeper Into…Advent and ChristmasSession 1: Faith (Isaiah’s Prophecy)

Session 2: Waiting (Elizabeth and Zechariah)

Session 3: Courage (Mary and Joseph)

Session 4: Incarnation (Jesus Is Born)

UNIT 2: Dive Deeper Into…Christmas and EpiphanySession 5: Worshipping (The Magi)

Session 6: God’s Grace (The Baptism of Jesus)

Session 7: Being Called (Jesus Calls the Twelve)

Session 8: How to Treat Others (The Sermon on the Mount)

Session 9: Having a Healing Faith (Jesus Heals Many People)

UNIT 3: Dive Deeper Into…the Life of JesusSession 10: Sharing (Jesus Feeds 5,000 People)

Session 11: Knowing Jesus (The Transfi guration)

Session 12: Praising Jesus (The Entry Into Jerusalem)

Session 13: Justice (The Cleansing of the Temple)

UNIT 1: Dive Deeper Into…GenesisSession 1: Caring for Creation (Creation)

Session 2: Avoiding Jealousy (Cain and Abel)

Session 3: Resolving Confl icts (Abraham and Lot Separate)

Session 4: Confronting Rivalries (Jacob and Esau)

UNIT 2: Dive Deeper Into…Exodus and the JudgesSession 5: Using Our Talents (Joseph Interprets Dreams)

Session 6: Calling (God Calls Moses)

Session 7: Courage (Moses Sends the Spies)

Session 8: Trusting God (Deborah, Barak, and Jael)

UNIT 3: Dive Deeper Into…Samuel and the KingsSession 9: Listening to God (God Speaks to Samuel)

Session 10: Following God’s Will (Saul Disobeys God)

Session 11: Seeking God’s Help (Solomon’s Wisdom)

Session 12: Choosing Our Actions (The Divided Kingdom)

Session 13: God’s Promise (Jeremiah’s Prophecy)

UNIT 1: Dive Deeper Into…Lent and EasterSession 1: Sharing Communion (The Last Supper)

Session 2: Suff ering (Jesus’ Betrayal, Arrest, and Trial)

Session 3: Death (Jesus’ Death)

Session 4: Resurrection (Jesus’ Resurrection)

UNIT 2: Dive Deeper Into…the Easter SeasonSession 5: Overcoming Doubt (Thomas and the Disciples)

Session 6: Encountering Jesus (The Disciples on the Beach)

Session 7: Proclaiming (The Great Commission)

Session 8: Waiting (The Ascension)

UNIT 3: Dive Deeper Into…the Book of ActsSession 9: The Holy Spirit (Pentecost)

Session 10: Sharing (Forming Communities)

Session 11: Courage (The Martyrdom of Stephen)

Session 12: Welcoming All (Peter and Cornelius)

Session 13: Working Together (The Jerusalem Council)

UNIT 1: Dive Deeper Into…Stories of Faithful WomenSession 1: Cleverness (Miriam Looks A� er Moses)

Session 2: Friendship (Ruth and Naomi)

Session 3: Covenant (Hannah Dedicates Samuel)

Session 4: Selfl essness (Esther, Mordecai, and Haman)

UNIT 2: Dive Deeper Into…Signs in John’s GospelSession 5: Hospitality (The Wedding at Cana)

Session 6: Faith (Jesus Heals the Royal Offi cial’s Son)

Session 7: Compassion (Jesus Heals the Man at Bethsaida)

Session 8: Authentic Discipleship (Jesus Heals the Man Born Blind)

Session 9: Empathy (The Raising of Lazarus)

UNIT 3: Dive Deeper Into…Advice From PaulSession 10: Faithful Living (Paul on Faithful Living)

Session 11: Working Together (Paul on Working Together)

Session 12: Christian Love (Paul on Christian Love)

Session 13: Avoiding Confl ict (Paul on Avoiding Confl ict)

If you have questions or comments, call Curric-U-Phone toll free: 800-251-8591. Or e-mail [email protected].

Cokesbury.com | 800.672.1789Community Resource Consultants

Lessons taught in Sunday school reinforced and brought to life in 3D!Deep Blue Adventure AppChildren have fun while learning Bible truths and God’s Word to share with friends.

• Parental dashboard feature.

• Mini games include Scripture jumble; Trivia, Break Out; and Glider Game.

• Video wall feature.

• Customizable avatars.

• Fun weekly mini quests.

Visit DeepBlueKids.com for more information.

brought to life in 3D!Deep BlueChildren have fun while learning Bible truths and God’s Word to share with friends.







Deep Blue CV3 ad.indd 1 3/16/15 9:26 AM


Permission is granted to duplicate this page for local church use only. © 2015 Cokesbury.

Fall2015

Cover Credits: Cover design by Kellie Green; logo design by Keitha Vincent; background by Shutterstock®

ContentsWritten by Nathan Maben-Tenney

ii Submerge Componentsiii Before You Beginiv Faith Development for Studentsvi Suppliesviii Student Worship Helps

UNIT 1: Dive Deeper Into…Genesis1 September 6 Session 1: Caring for Creation7 September 13 Session 2: Avoiding Jealousy13 September 20 Session 3: Resolving Conflicts19 September 27 Session 4: Confronting Rivalries

UNIT 2: Dive Deeper Into…Exodus and the Judges25 October 4 Session 5: Using Our Talents31 October 11 Session 6: Calling37 October 18 Session 7: Courage43 October 25 Session 8: Trusting God

UNIT 3: Dive Deeper Into…Samuel and the Kings49 November 1 Session 9: Listening to God55 November 8 Session 10: Following God’s Will61 November 15 Session 11: Seeking God’s Help67 November 22 Session 12: Choosing Our Actions73 November 29 Session 13: God’s Promise

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ii submerge • Leader’s Guide


ii submerge • Leader’s Guide

Submerge Components

Leader’s Guide

A quarterly resource that contains instructions for each session. Leaders are encouraged to choose activities that best suit the needs of their students.

Submerge Magazine

A quarterly resource that contains articles that connect to the lives of students. Many articles include individual reflection prompts, so each student is encouraged to have her or his own copy.

Diver’s Log

An annual resource that encourages students to engage in creative thought and to write, doodle, or draw prayer concerns. Each student is encouraged to have his or her own copy.

Fall 2015 • Session 4

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Confronting Rivalries

Bible Verse

Let there be peace on your walls; let there be rest on your fortifications.

(Psalm 122:7)

Did You Know?

God’s covenant promise to Abraham and Sarah results in the birth of Isaac. Isaac

marries Rebekah, who gives birth to twins, Jacob and Esau. The account of their

birth chronicles that the brothers’ rivalry began in utero. The boys “pushed against each

other,” and Jacob was born “gripping Esau’s heel” (Genesis 25:22, 26). The name Jacob

derives from the Hebrew noun for heel. Elsewhere in the Old Testament, the verb for

heel is used to describe one brother usurping another.

This ominous birth doesn’t bode well for the brothers’ relationship in the future. At

some point, Jacob convinces Esau to sell his birthright for a bowl of stew. In ancient

Hebrew culture, the birthright allowed the oldest son to collect a larger share of

his father’s inheritance. This act of selling the birthright is largely symbolic, as only

the father could recognize one son as the heir. This is why Jacob, with the help of his

mother, tricks Isaac into giving Jacob Esau’s blessing.

We have all experienced rivalries with others, whether they be siblings, classmates,

or individuals on an opposing sports team. Remind your students that unchecked

competition can be detrimental to their relationships with others. Jacob and Esau

were estranged for many years because of the animosity that resulted from their

sibling rivalry. Invite your students to put aside any bitter feelings of competition

that they might be harboring, in order to reconcile with someone.

Exploration Points

• Rivalries can get in the way of our friendships with others.

• Reconciliation requires a change of heart.

Session 4

September 27

Bible Story

Genesis 25:19-34 and

27:1-40

Compass Point

God calls us to

reconcile with one

another.

Requires

preparation.


Fall 2015 DeepBlueKids.com iii


Before You BeginEach session is organized according to the following rhythm:

Jump In

These are activities that help move your students into your space and introduce the session theme. It is recommended that the Diver’s Log be made available to students as they arrive, allowing them to work independently at their own pace. The game is intended to facilitate participation in a fun and active manner.

Dive Deeper

These are activities centered around the Bible story. Each session includes a short reproducible reading based on the scripture that is intended to reinforce the Bible story. Where appropriate, humor and pop culture references are used. The discussion questions use the Bible story as a jumping-off point to help students think about ways to connect scripture to their everyday lives.

Grow Stronger

These are activities that further encourage students to make the connection between what they are discussing and their everyday lives. The articles in the Submerge Magazine focus on practical faith application. Whenever possible, service opportunities are written into the session. The creative expression activity invites students to reflect on the session theme through art and discovery.

Worship

Each session closes with a short devotion. Students are encouraged to be active in leading worship. Reproducible “Student Worship Helps” are provided on pages viii-x so that students are adequately equipped to lead the devotion.

What You Should Know About…Games

Core supplies are used repeatedly throughout the 2014–15 curriculum year. A fully stocked game closet should include the following:

bandanas, bins, blindfolds, cones, dry-erase board set, foam noodles (full and half size, summer), flying discs, Hula Hoops®, kitchen brooms, masking tape, plastic cups, plastic pitchers, safety goggles, soccer ball, table tennis balls, tennis balls, yardstick

Discussion Questions

You may have concerns about your students’ ability and willingness to reflect on their faith with their peers. The more they practice this spiritual

discipline, and the stronger their relationships with one another become throughout your time together, the greater their participation will become. Consider arranging permanent small groups and assigning an adult leader to lead each one so that your students get to know better those with whom they are sharing. Or arrange your time so that students are having these conversations while engaged in another activity, such as the session’s creative expression project.

Creative Expression

All attempts have been made to keep supply costs to a minimum; however, some projects and activities may require the purchase of unique supplies.


iv submerge • Leader’s Guide


iv submerge • Leader’s Guide

Faith Development for StudentsYour students are constantly connecting with

others. Between school, family, friends, sports, and other extracurricular activities, they interact with a number of people in their everyday lives. Even during down time, they remain connected through texting, social and gaming networks, and the use of digital devices.

In spite of all these opportunities for social connection and interaction, maintaining and nurturing friendships in adolescence can be challenging. Feeling connected to their peers is a priority for students, especially as they establish their own identities and develop their own interests, independent from their families.

Keep this in mind as you journey together with your students. Programs for your students should be as relational as possible. Develop and coordinate opportunities for your students to interact with one another. This will help them develop faithful and faith-filled friendships as they transition into teenagers.

This focus on relationships extends beyond your students’ friendships with one another. While they desire independence, students also seek out attention from others. Most enjoy connecting with adults who can listen, mentor, and guide them as they mature. Get to know your students as you help them get to know one another.

The greatest gift you can give your students is the opportunity to grow in their understanding of scripture and their relationship with God. Being familiar with the people and events of the Bible, and connecting these stories to their experiences, can help your students better integrate their faith into their everyday lives.

Most of all, invite your students to find unique, fun, and new ways to grow in their relationship with God. Introduce your students to various prayer and worship practices, and allow them to discover and nurture their gifts and talents in service to God and the community. This will help strengthen their faith as they enter their teenage years.

The chart on the following page shows the central learning concepts that undergird the Submerge program. Each session emphasizes one or more of the objectives presented in each of the four categories. It is our hope that you will find in Submerge a program that allows your students to explore together as they deepen in biblical understanding and faith commitment.


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Fall 2015 DeepBlueKids.com v

Developing Faith Foundations Engaging Faith Traditions

• To be guided in developing and practicing critical thinking skills

• To develop a sense of belonging to the faith community

• To meaningfully participate in the worship, mission, and life of the congregation

• To develop faithful friendships with church members of various age levels

• To be able to affirm one’s self as belonging to God

• To identify gifts, talents, and passions that can be used in service to the faith community

• To learn the organization and structure of the Bible

• To know the various types of writings in the Bible

• To explore the Bible stories in historical context

• To learn how to use study tools such as a concordance, atlas, and so forth

• To increase and use vocabulary related to the Christian faith

• To learn about the history and teaching of the church

Relating to God and the Church Relating Faith to Life

• To be guided in understanding the meaning of church membership

• To have a sense of belonging to both the local church and the larger faith community

• To verbalize experiences and questions about God and faith, including doubts

• To find guidance for disciplines of prayer and Bible reading

• To see Christian growth as a lifelong process

• To learn the importance of responsibility in the covenant relationship with God

• To discover ways that others have lived out their faith in various circumstances

• To identify and discuss the ways that they can live out their faith in their everyday lives

• To be guided and assisted in practicing spiritual disciplines

• To clarify their sense of right and wrong in light of Christian faith

• To identify and respond to issues of fairness and justice

• To serve with others in the community and world


vi submerge • Leader’s Guide


SuppliesOn these two pages are checklists of all of the supplies you will need for each session. Some supplies, such as pens, pencils, and colored pencils, are used each session. Many of the game supplies, such as bins, cones, and tennis balls, are used most sessions. Some of the art supplies are used only once or twice a quarter.

vi submerge • Leader’s Guide

Session 1 Session 2

q pens

q pencils

q colored pencils

q bins

q cones

q tennis balls

q permanent markers

q dry-erase board set

q magazines

q newspapers

q cardstock

q scissors

q glue sticks

q pens

q pencils

q colored pencils

q cones

q masking tape

q yardstick

q tennis balls

q permanent markers


q small box

q index cards

Session 3 Session 4 Session 5 Session 6

q pens

q pencils

q colored pencils

q bins

q cones

q tennis balls


q banner paper

q permanent markers

q pens

q pencils

q colored pencils

q masking tape

q yardstick

q tennis balls

q permanent markers

q kitchen brooms


q macramé or hemp cord

q clay beads

q scissors

q pens

q pencils

q colored pencils

q cones

q tennis balls

q masking tape

q flying discs


q index cards

q pens

q pencils

q colored pencils

q bins

q cones


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Session 7 Session 8 Session 9 Session 10

q pens

q pencils

q colored pencils

q cones

q masking tape

q 2 bandanas

q 2 Hula Hoops®

q banner paper

q permanent markers

q pens

q pencils

q colored pencils

q cones

q kitchen brooms

q soccer ball

q cardstock

q charcoal pencils

q pens

q pencils

q colored pencils

q blindfolds

q paper

q permanent markers

q banner paper

q pens

q pencils

q colored pencils

q bins

q cones

q tennis ball

q plastic pitchers

q safety goggles

q banner paper

q permanent markers

q Hula Hoops®

q paper

Session 11 Session 12 Session 13

q pens

q pencils

q colored pencils

q bins

q cones

q tennis balls


q individual stretched canvases

q acrylic paint and brushes

q paper towels

q pens

q pencils

q colored pencils

q bins

q masking tape

q cones

q tennis balls

q kitchen brooms

q banner paper

q permanent markers

q modeling clay

q paper towels

q pens

q pencils

q colored pencils

q masking tape

q plastic cups

q table tennis balls

q permanent markers

q banner paper

q purple or blue acrylic paint and brushes

q paper towels


viii submerge • Leader’s Guide


Student Worship HelpsSession 1 Session 2 Session 3

SAY: The Lord is good to everyone and everything; God’s compassion extends, to all his handiwork! (Psalm 145:9)

PRAY: God of wonder, thank you for making the universe. Help us be mindful of our role as co-creators. May we care for the earth and for one another. Amen.

SAY: Turn away from evil! Do good! Seek peace and go after it! (Psalm 34:14)

PRAY: God of compassion, thank you for sending Jesus to teach us how to be in relationship with others. Help us be thankful for our family and friends. Amen.

SAY: Let the Lord give strength to his people! Let the Lord bless his people with peace! (Psalm 29:11)

PRAY: God of peace, thank you for sending Jesus to show us the way of resolving conflicts. May we strive to be peacemakers each and every day. Amen.

Session 4

SAY: Let there be peace on your walls; let there be rest on your fortifications. (Psalm 122:7)

PRAY: God of reconciliation, thank you for sending Jesus to show us the way of forgiveness. May we be willing to offer forgiveness to others. Amen.


Fall 2015 DeepBlueKids.com ix



SAY: Serve the Lord reverently. (Psalm 2:11a)

PRAY: God of love, thank you for giving us unique gifts and talents. May we use them in service to you, that we may share the love of Jesus with others. Amen.

SAY: You led your people like sheep under the care of Moses and Aaron. (Psalm 77:20)

PRAY: God of action, thank you for calling us into service. May we follow the example of Jesus and do all that we can to help those in need. Amen.

SAY: You are definitely my rock and my fortress. Guide me and lead me for the sake of your good name! (Psalm 31:3)

PRAY: God of presence, thank you for sending the Holy Spirit to be present with us. Grant us courage to confront all difficult situations with faith. Amen.

Session 8

SAY: Because your faithful love is right in front of me—I walk in your truth! (Psalm 26:3)

PRAY: God of truthfulness, thank you for sending Jesus to show us what it means to trust in you at all times. Help us have this same faith in our everyday lives. Amen.


x submerge • Leader’s Guide



SAY: He is our God, and we are the people of his pasture, the sheep in his hands. If only you would listen to his voice right now! (Psalm 95:7)

PRAY: God of proclamation, help us listen for your voice at all times. May we remember that you call each of us to share the good news of Jesus. Amen.

SAY: Lord, teach me what your statutes are about, and I will guard every part of them. (Psalm 119:33)

PRAY: God of faithfulness, thank you for sending Jesus to show us how to follow your commands. Help us live out Jesus’ teachings each and every day. Amen.

SAY: My mouth speaks wisdom; my heart’s meditation is full of insight. (Psalm 49:3)

PRAY: God of guidance, thank you for being present with us at all times. Help us remember that we can always turn to you whenever we need help. Amen.

Session 12 Session 13

SAY: I’ve chosen the way of faithfulness; I’m set on your rules. (Psalm 119:30)

PRAY: God of mercy, thank you for your compassion. May we be faithful in our discipleship. Help us make good choices in our everyday lives. Amen.

SAY: Lord, let your faithful love come to me—let your salvation come to me according to your promise. (Psalm 119:41)

PRAY: God of hope, thank you for this time to prepare for the arrival of Jesus. Help us remember the reason for Advent as we ready our hearts for Christmas. Amen.


Fall 2015 • Session 1 DeepBlueKids.com 1


Caring for CreationBible Verse

The Lord is good to everyone and everything; God’s compassion extends, to all his handiwork! (Psalm 145:9)

Did You Know?

T he story of Creation in Genesis 1 and 2 is actually two distinct accounts. In Genesis 1, we are told that God creates everything in a specific order, beginning

with light and darkness on the first day and ending with humans on the sixth. In this account, God speaks creation into existence with commands. The language is one of life being made: first the plants, then the animals, and finally human beings. This account is concerned with the structure of the created world and is distinct from that found in Genesis 2.

The Genesis 1 story has much to teach us about being caretakers of God’s creation and what it means to be made in the divine image. We don’t reflect the image of God only in our relationships with others. God’s command to take charge of creation is an invitation to help care for and nurture all that God has made. Creation care is more than making good use of the earth’s resources. First Corinthians 3:9 reminds us that we are God’s coworkers in ensuring that there is wholeness in creation.

Help your students understand that they have the opportunity to reflect God’s love and care each and every day in their interactions with creation. Invite your students to consider how they can reflect God’s image, and see God’s image reflected, in relationships with the entire created world. Encourage them to think about their role in caring for God’s creation and the impact that their everyday decisions have on the environment.

Exploration Points• We reflect the image of God in our relationships with the created world.

• God invites us to be coworkers in caring for creation.

Session 1September 6

Bible StoryGenesis 1:1–2:4

Compass Point God asks us to care for God’s creation.

Requires preparation.

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2 September 6 submerge • Leader’s Guide


SuppliesDiver’s Log, pens, pencils, colored pencils

Suppliesbins, cones, tennis balls, permanent markers, dry-erase board set

Jump InChoose from the following activities those that best suit your group.

Di V er ’S Log• Make pens, pencils, and colored pencils available.

• Give each student a copy of the Diver’s Log. Invite them to write their name on the back. This will be their journal to use each week throughout the year.

• Encourage them to respond to the prompt on page 2 and to write, doodle, or draw their prayer concerns on page 3.

• After some amount of time, invite your students to share their responses as they are comfortable.

SAY: Our Bible reading is the Creation story from Genesis 1. God instructs the first humans to take care of creation. We’re going to talk today about what that means.

ASK: What animal did you create? Is it like anything that currently exists? How did it feel to create something from your imagination? What activities are you involved with that include creating, building, or using your imagination?

gA me - JuST For KiCKS

Place bins on their side against a wall, one for each group of four to six students. Place a cone some distance away from each bin.

• Divide your students into teams of two. Depending on the number of students, assign two or three teams to each cone.

• Give each player a tennis ball, and make permanent markers available. Invite each player to mark a ball with a unique design or symbol.

• Inform your students that the game is like a team kicking miniature golf challenge.

• Players from each team will alternate kicking the tennis ball from the cone. The object is to kick the ball into the bin in as few kicks as possible.

• The round is complete only when every player from each pair has kicked a goal. The team score for each round is the combined number of shots from each pair.

• Use a dry-erase board to keep score. Repeat as time and interest allow.

SAY: Your score was decided by your team’s ability to minimize the number of shots that were taken. Our ability to care for God’s creation requires us to protect and look after the natural world as a whole community.

ASK: What are some of your everyday decisions that affect the well-being of the environment? How can individual actions make a collective difference?




SuppliesBibles (CEB)

SuppliesLeader’s Guide


SuppliesSubmerge magazine, pens

SuppliesSubmerge magazine

Dive Deeper r eAD The Bi BLe

• Invite your students to look up Genesis 1:1–2:4 and to take turns reading.

r eAD in g - W h AT A W eeK Photocopy page 5, one for each student.

• Assign each of the roles.

• Invite your students to do the reading together.

ASK: Do you ever think about what it means to be created in God’s image? What do you think it means? In one word, how would you describe what this means to someone who has never read the Bible?

DiSCuS S iT - CA r i ng For Cr eATion

Photocopy page 6, one for each adult discussion leader.

• Divide your students into groups of four to six.

• Assign each group an adult discussion leader.

• Invite your leaders and students to spend time discussing the questions.

TiP: If your group is small, consider discussing the questions as one group.

Grow StrongerPeDAL P oW er : geT on You r BiKe

• Give each student a copy of the Submerge magazine. Invite them to write their name on the back. This will be their magazine to use each week throughout the quarter.

• Encourage them to read the article on page 3.

ASK: What do think about the idea of riding your bike to school instead of having someone drive you? What are some other changes you can make to your daily routine to help care for creation?

i n The gAr Den• Invite your students to read the article on pages 4-5.

ASK: What can we do to promote environmental stewardship within our church? What are some ways our church is involved in caring for God’s creation? What other ideas do you have about how we can care for creation?




Suppliesmagazines, newspapers, cardstock, scissors, glue sticks, permanent markers


Cr eAT i Ve exPreSSion - CreATion CoLLAge

Gather the necessary supplies.

• Make magazines, newspapers, cardstock, scissors, glue sticks, and permanent markers available.

• Invite your students to create individual collages that represent creation and the ways they can care for the environment.

• Encourage them to use photos and headlines from the magazines and newspapers.

• After some amount of time, invite your students to share their creations as they are comfortable.

• Display the artwork in your space or elsewhere in your church.

TiP: If you have tablet devices and wifi available, consider having your students create digital collages instead.

Worship

Photocopy page viii, one for each worship volunteer.

• Invite one student to read today’s Bible verse.

• Invite a second student to read the prayer.




Reading - What a WeekreADer 1: God decided it was time to create everything in the world. Before this, the earth was without shape or form.

It was just a massive and deep sea. There was no land and no light, and there certainly was no life. But the Spirit of God swept over the waters as God said, “Let there be light.”

reADer 2: As God said this, light appeared. God separated the light from the dark and called them Day and Night. This was the on the first day. On the second day, God said, “Let there be a dome to separate the waters from each other.” As God spoke, it happened. God called this dome Sky.

reADer 3: God commanded the waters to come together so that dry land could appear. God called the land Earth and the waters Seas. Then God said, “Let the earth grow plant life.” As God spoke, all kinds of trees, grasses, flowers, and plants came to life. This happened on the third day.

reADer 1: On the fourth day, God created the sun and the moon. God said, “Let the sun rule over the day and the moon rule over the night.” And this is what happened. God also created the stars, the planets, the asteroids, and all of the heavenly bodies in space.

reADer 2: On day five, God created all of the animals that live in the water and in the sky. God said, “Let the waters swarm with living things, and let birds fly high above.” God created sharks and whales, fish and amoebas, and all the birds of the air.

reADer 3: And now we get to day six. God said, “Let the earth produce every kind of living thing: livestock, crawling things, and wildlife.” As God spoke, these things came into being; every type of animal and insect that lives on land was created. God looked at everything and saw that it was good.

reADer 1: But God was not finished. God said, “Let us make humans in our image to resemble us. They can take charge of creation and care for it.” So God created humanity in God’s image. God created women and men in God’s own divine image. This also happened on the sixth day.

reADer 2: Then God blessed the first humans and instructed them to be caretakers of creation. God said, “I give this to you. I give you the plants that yield seeds and the trees that produce fruit for food. To all of the animals and birds I give the green grass for food. Take charge of creation and care for it.”

reADer 3: God surveyed all creation, all that had been created in these six days. God saw that everything was supremely good because it was what God had intended. On the seventh day, God rested from work. What a week it had been.




Discuss It - Caring for CreationSAY: Genesis 1:2 describes the earth as being without shape or form before creation. It says that it was dark over the

deep seas. Bible experts debate what this means. Some say that God created the universe from nothing. Others say that this verse means that God began with something and brought order out of chaos, like a sculptor shaping clay.

ASK: Have you ever thought about how God created the world? Do you think it is important how God worked, and whether God started with something or nothing? Why or why not? How does thinking about creation as bringing order out of chaos help you think about your own creative actions, such as working with tools or creating art?

SAY: The Bible says that God created human beings only after creating all of the world: the separate oceans and the sky, the planets and the stars, the land and all that grows on it, and every living creature on earth. Imagine what it would have been like to watch God bringing all of this into being.

ASK: How would you react if you were able to witness all of this? What do you think it looked like? What do you think would be the most exciting thing to watch God create? What are the places and animals in the created world that help you connect with God? How does being in these places or around these animals help you feel closer to God?

SAY: In Genesis 1:28, God instructs human beings to “take charge” of creation. Bible experts say this is an invitation to help care for and nurture all that God has made. God gives us the responsibility to take care of the world and all living creatures that are described as “supremely good” in Genesis 1:31.

ASK: What do you think it means to take charge of creation? Do you think that caring for God’s creation is important? Why or why not? What are some ways you already care for God’s creation in your everyday life? What are some other ways you can incorporate creation care into your daily routine?

SAY: First Corinthians 3:9 says that we are “God’s coworkers.” Some translations of the Bible say “co-creators.” This verse reminds us that we are responsible for tackling some of the major environmental concerns that we face today, such as climate change and protecting animal species from extinction.

ASK: What are some of the environmental issues you’ve heard about? Does thinking of yourself as a coworker of God affect how you think about these issues? Why or why not? Being that we are created in God’s image, what abilities has God given us to confront some of these issues?




Avoiding JealousyBible Verse

Turn away from evil! Do good! Seek peace and go after it! (Psalm 34:14)

Did You Know?

The conflict between Cain and Abel is one of many accounts of sibling disunity in the Book of Genesis. Cain and Abel, Isaac and Ishmael, Jacob and Esau, Joseph and his

brothers—in each of these stories, jealousy and rivalry inevitably result in conflict and disagreement. This pattern of family or household conflict also is visible in the other accounts of broken relationships in Genesis: Abram and Lot, Sarah and Hagar, and Rachel and Leah, among others.

Within this body of stories, the account of Cain and Abel is the most tragic. Jealous that Abel’s offering finds favor with God, Cain lures his brother into a field and kills him. The author does not offer an explanation as to why Abel’s offering is accepted and Cain’s is rejected. Some biblical scholars have theorized that Abel offered the best of his flock, while Cain presented a mediocre offering. Others theorize that Cain presented his offering with an attitude of indifference.

The account of Cain and Abel provides ample opportunity to discuss the importance of maintaining healthy relationships with others. Help your students understand that feelings of jealousy inevitably arise in our bonds with family, friends, and others. Being a follower of Jesus doesn’t mean that we’ll never have these feelings, but it does help us address them in healthy and productive ways. Invite your students to consider positive ways of addressing such feelings in their own everyday lives.

Exploration Points• It is important to recognize and resolve unhealthy feelings of jealousy.

• We offer our best selves in service to God.


Bible StoryGenesis 4:1-16

Compass Point Jealousy hurts our relationship with God and with each other.






Suppliescones, masking tape, yardstick, tennis balls, permanent markers, dry-erase board set



• Give each student their copy of the Diver’s Log.



SAY: Our Bible reading is the story of two brothers, Cain and Abel. The Bible tells us that they were the sons of Adam and Eve. A conflict between them leads to tragedy.

ASK: What words or drawings did you use to represent family relationships? How does your family support and care for one another? How do you deal with conflict?

gA me - DiABoLiCAL BowLing

Place cones on one side of your space, one for each group of four to six students. Use masking tape and a yardstick to make a 3 foot-by-3 foot box around each of the cones. Tape a bowling line on the floor some distance away from the cones.

• Divide your students into groups of four to six. Assign each group to a cone.

• Give each player a tennis ball, and make permanent markers available. Invite each player to mark a ball with a unique design or symbol.

• Inform your students that the game is like lawn bowling. The object is to roll the ball so that it stops as close to the cone as possible within the scoring box.

• Each player may attempt to play offensively by aiming for the cone or defensively by knocking another player’s tennis ball out of the box.

• Players will rotate bowling order each round, with the first person from the previous round bowling last in the next round.

• At the end of each round, a player receives three points for a ball that is touching the cone and one point for a ball in the scoring area (or on the line).


SAY: Our game was pretty competitive. It might have been easy to become upset at another player or to focus on seeking revenge instead of playing the game.

ASK: What are some everyday situations that cause conflict or result in jealousy? How do you usually deal with these situations when they come up?








Suppliesdry-erase board set


• Invite your students to look up Genesis 4:1-16 and to take turns reading.

r eAD in g - J eA Lou S AgA i n Photocopy page 11, one for each student.



ASK: What are some ways Abel could have expressed what he was feeling to God? How should he have dealt with the jealousy he felt toward his brother?

DiSCuS S iT - AVoi Di ng J eA LouSY






Grow StrongerDo n ’ T m eh T h i ngS u P

• Give each student their copy of the Submerge magazine.

• Invite them to read the article on pages 6-7.

SAY: Bible experts have different ideas about why Cain’s offering was rejected. Some say that Abel gave the best of his flock, while Cain just presented any old crops. Others say that Cain gave his offering with an “I don’t care” attitude.

ASK: What ideas did you come up with for ways to improve your faith friendship with God? How can you incorporate these practices into your everyday life?

g ro uP Time - T h e BeST of ou rSeLVeS• Invite your students to write down some of their gifts and talents on a large dry-

erase board.

ASK: How can we use these gifts and talents to serve God? Why is this important?




Suppliessmall box, index cards, permanent markers


Cr eAT i Ve exPreSSion - LeTTing go


• Make index cards and permanent markers available.

• Invite your students to write or draw something that represents any feelings of jealousy they might be experiencing in their lives.

• Inform them that whatever they write or draw on the index card is confidential.

• After some amount of time, invite your students to place their cards in the box.

PrAY: God of forgiveness, we turn our feelings of jealousy over to you. Grant us the strength to move away from envy. Remove any animosity or resentment from our hearts. May we follow the example of Jesus in how we treat others. Amen.

Worship







Reading - Jealous AgainnArrATor: We’ve all been a little jealous of someone. It happens. It’s a matter of how you handle it. Take Cain and Abel.

eVe: Cain! Abel! Get up! It’s time for you to do your chores. It’s off to work for you two.

ABeL: Sure thing, Mom. It’s a beautiful day! Perfect for sitting out in the pasture with the sheep.

CAin: All right, all right. I’m walking out to the field. Why does he get to just sit around and watch the sheep, while I’ve got to plant crops, pull weeds, and harvest it all. His job is so much easier! This stinks!

eVe: Don’t forget to select an offering to give to God. Remember, we always give God the best of what we have.

nArrATor: Cain and Abel went out to do their chores and to pick out their offerings.

ABeL: Woolly, you’re my favorite sheep, but I’ve got to give you away. It’s nothing but the best for God.

CAin: All of this wheat looks the same. I guess this bundle of grain will be okay. It’s not like it matters. Why can’t we just get God a gift card or something? It would be better than a handful of wheat stalks.

nArrATor: Well, Cain, I don’t think they had gift cards in Bible times. Besides, that’s not the point. Offering is about giving the best of yourself. Anyway, the brothers presented their offerings to God.

VoiCe of goD: Abel, thank you for the gift. How thoughtful of you to give me your favorite sheep.

CAin: What about my gift, God?

VoiCe of goD: Uhhh…thanks, I guess? Maybe you should have Abel help you pick out an offering next time.

CAin: Come on, God! What’s so great about Abel’s gift? It’s just one of his stupid sheep!

VoiCe of goD: Why are you so upset? If you do the right thing with a good heart, then your gift will be acceptable. But just going out to the field to pick any old crop—is this offering the best of your work?

nArrATor: Cain was jealous of his brother. He blamed Abel for the fact that God wouldn’t accept his offering.

CAin: Hey, brother, do you want to go out in the field and toss around the football? Or maybe look for buried gold?

nArrATor: I’m not sure how Cain tricked Abel into going out into the field, but I’m sure this isn’t it. When they were in the field, Cain attacked Abel and killed him. Cain thought he could get away with it, but God knew.

VoiCe of goD: Cain, where’s Abel?

CAin: How should I know? Am I supposed to keep track of my younger brother all the time?

VoiCe of goD: What have you done? You’ve killed your brother out of jealousy. Your punishment for this will be severe.

nArrATor: Cain was forced to wander the earth after this. Look, we all get jealous sometimes. But being resentful and lashing out at others isn’t the way to handle it. And always be nice to your siblings. I’m just saying…




Discuss It - Avoiding JealousySAY: Genesis 4:2 says that Cain and Abel each had different responsibilities on the family farm. Cain farmed the land,

while his younger brother, Abel, took care of the animals. In biblical times, the youngest son in the family was responsible for taking care of the sheep and other animals.

ASK: Which of these two jobs would you rather have? Which do you think is easier? Why? What are the chores for which you are responsible at home? How are the responsibilities divided up between the members of your family? Do you think they’re divided up fairly at your house? Why or why not?

SAY: Cain and Abel each presented offerings of their work to God. Cain offered some of the land’s crops, while Abel gave the oldest lamb from his flock. We are told that God accepted Abel’s offering but not Cain’s. This caused Cain to become jealous of his younger brother.

ASK: Why do you think God accepted Abel’s offering but not Cain’s? How would you have felt if you had been in Cain’s situation? When have you been jealous of a family member or close friend? What caused you to experience jealousy? How did it affect your relationship with the person? How did you work things out?

SAY: Cain lured his younger brother into a field and attacked him. Cain was punished by God with a curse that would make it impossible for him to grow food. This forced Cain to wander around the earth. God promised to protect Cain from the people he would encounter while wandering.

ASK: Do you think Cain felt remorse for killing his brother? Why or why not? How do you think Adam and Eve felt when they found out that their older son had killed their younger son? Do you think God’s punishment was too easy, too harsh, or just right? Why? How did God show compassion to Cain even after all that Cain had done?

SAY: Each of us experiences jealousy in our everyday life, whether it’s against a brother or sister, classmate, friend, or someone else. Recognizing these feelings when they start to develop can help us address them before they affect our relationships with others.

ASK: What are some ways you can deal with your feelings of jealousy before they get out of hand? Who do you turn to for advice when you’re feeling jealous of another person? Do you ever turn to God when you’re experiencing these emotions? How can your faith help you deal with these feelings?




Resolving ConflictsBible Verse

Let the Lord give strength to his people! Let the Lord bless his people with peace! (Psalm 29:11)

Did You Know?

The story of Abraham (Abram) marks a turning point in Genesis. Biblical scholars call the events that come before this—namely, everything between Creation and

the Flood—the Primeval Story. Beginning with Abraham and Sarah, Genesis recounts God’s unique relationship with the patriarchs and matriarchs who make up the ancestors of the Israelite people. The biblical narrative in Genesis traces Abraham’s journey from Ur to Haran, Haran to Shechem, Shechem to Egypt, and Egypt to Hebron.

Abraham’s nephew Lot, and Lot’s household, traveled with Abraham and Sarah during this migration. Upon arriving in Canaan from Egypt, a conflict arose between Lot’s shepherds and Abraham’s, as there wasn’t enough land for both herds. In order to avoid a dispute, Abraham suggested to Lot that their two households separate. Abraham offered Lot his choice of land, stating that he would travel in the opposite direction. Lot chose the fertile land in the Jordan Valley, while Abraham settled in Hebron.

This account is an opportunity to discuss conflict resolution with your students. Like Abraham, we are called to act as peacemakers in our everyday lives. We are invited to work toward equitable compromises that consider the needs of all parties. Much as Abraham offered Lot his choice of land, we model generosity and compassion in our relationships with others. Invite your students to think about conflict resolution tools that they can incorporate into their everyday lives.

Exploration Points• We are called to resolve disputes peacefully.

• We can model generosity in our interactions with others.



Compass Point Our faith helps us resolve conflicts.






Suppliesbins, cones, tennis balls, dry-erase board set






SAY: Our Bible reading is about conflict resolution. Abraham, who is also called Abram, and his nephew Lot are able to work peacefully through a disagreement.

ASK: How do you work through conflict with your family members? friends? classmates and teammates? Why is it important to settle disagreements?

gA me - ShoT SeLeCTion

Place bins against a wall, one for each team of four to six students. Place two cones some distance away from each bin. One cone should be closer to each bin (front line) and the other should be farther away (back line).

• Divide your students into groups of four to six. Assign each group to a bin.

• Give each player a tennis ball.

• Inform your students that the game is like a team basketball shot challenge.

• Prior to each round, the entire team must decide together whether to shoot from the front line or the back line.

• Once the team decides, every player on the team must shoot from the same line throughout the round.

• The round is complete only when every player has taken a shot.

• Each front line basket is worth one point. Each back line basket is worth two.

• Use a dry-erase board to keep score among the various teams.

• Play for a determined number of rounds. Repeat as time and interest allow.

SAY: You had to decide as a team which shot to attempt each round. This involved finding a workable solution that took into account everyone’s concerns.

ASK: What strategy did you use for selecting which shot to attempt? Was every player happy with your decision? How were you able to work out a solution?








Suppliesnone



r eAD in g - W e CA n Wor K i T ouT Photocopy page 17, one for each student.



ASK: How does Abraham resolve the conflict between his shepherds and Lot’s shepherds? What does he do to make sure that Lot is okay with his proposal?

DiSCuS S iT - r eSoLV i ng ConfLiCTS






Grow StrongerBuiL D in g PeACe: T h e r i Ch monD YouTh PeACe ProjeCT


• Invite them to read the article on pages 8-9 and to respond to the prompt.

SAY: Each of us has the opportunity to serve as a peacemaker in our interactions with others at home, at school, and in our community.

ASK: What situations do you see in your everyday life that can lead to conflicts or disagreements? What are some healthy ways to work out these conflicts?

SerVin g oT h er S - T h AT Ki nD of DAY• Find out if there is a cleaning or organizing project that your students can do to help

serve your church community.

ASK: What opportunities do you have to share generously with others each day? Why is it important for you, as followers of Jesus, to practice random acts of kindness?




Suppliesbanner paper, permanent markers


Cr eAT i Ve exPreSSion - PeACe murAL• Make banner paper and permanent markers available.

• Invite your students to work together in groups of four to six to create banners that represent peace.

• Encourage them to use symbols, words, or artistic interpretations of what it means to be a peacemaker.



TiP: If you have tablet devices and wifi available, consider having your students create a digital mural that can be displayed using an LCD projector.

Worship







Reading - We Can Work It OutnArrATor: You’ve probably heard of Abraham. He is recognized as the ancestor of God’s people, the Israelites.

Abraham’s family moved around a lot, but eventually ended up in the land of Canaan, just as God had promised.

ABrAhAm: All right, fourth time’s the charm. I’m hoping that we won’t have to move again. Let’s put up our tents and get settled in.

nArrATor: Abraham and his family had just returned from Egypt, where they had lived during a time of famine. They had returned to the area God had promised to Abraham and his descendants. It was the fourth time Abraham had moved.

ABrAhAm: Home, sweet home! I hope there’s a pizza place nearby.

nArrATor: Congratulations, Abraham.

ABrAhAm: Thanks. Wait, who’s Abraham? I’m Abram. And you’re the Narrator. You can’t break into the story like this.

nArrATor: Sorry, Abraham. I mean, Abram. It’s the only way that I can let everyone know why you’re called Abram in the Bible story. Later on in Genesis, God makes a promise to you and Sarah—I mean, Sarai. You get new names.

ABrAhAm: New names from God? Very well, then. You just keep calling me Abraham. Tell the story while I rest for a bit.

nArrATor: Anyway, Abraham and his entire household settled near Bethel where they had lived before. This included Abraham’s family and workers and all family and workers of his nephew Lot. And lots of sheep.

LoT’S ShePherD: What are you doing here? This land is reserved for Lot’s sheep. We were grazing here first.

ABrAhAm’S ShePherD: So what? God gave the land to Abraham, not to Lot. This land is for Abraham’s livestock.

nArrATor: There were so many people, and the flocks were so large, that the land couldn’t support both groups. It led to conflict between the two teams of shepherds. This bothered Abraham, so he went to talk to his nephew.

ABrAhAm: Lot, we’re family. Let’s not fight over the land. We can work it out. Let’s separate. You can have first pick. It’s up to you. Whatever you choose, I’ll go in the opposite direction with my family and workers.

nArrATor: Lot looked out across the land. He saw a place that was lush and green and had a good water source.

LoT: Really, you’ll let me choose? That’s so generous. Okay, I choose the Jordan Valley over there in the east.

ABrAhAm: Very well, then. I’ll head toward the oak trees in Hebron. Don’t be a stranger. I want to see you before next summer’s family reunion. Drop by when you get settled in.

nArrATor: After Lot left, God spoke to Abraham and gave him some news.

VoiCe of goD: Look in every direction where you’re standing. All the land will belong to your descendants forever.

ABrAhAm: Awesome. Wait, Narrator, will I have children in the future? Because right now it’s jut Sarai and me.

nArrATor: That’s a story for another time. Just enjoy the moment right now. Enjoy the moment.




Discuss It - Resolving ConflictsSAY: The Bible tells us that Abraham and his family moved many times throughout his life. During this time, God

promised to be present with Abraham and to give him a home. Think about your own experiences with moving or changing schools.

ASK: What do you think it was like for Abraham to move so often? If you have moved or changed schools, what was that experience like? If you haven’t, what do you imagine would be the hardest part about it? How is God present with you in difficult situations?

SAY: Abraham and his family returned to the land promised by God after spending time in Egypt during a famine. Abraham’s shepherds and those who worked for his nephew Lot got into an argument about the land. The Bible says that both groups had so many animals and so much stuff that the land couldn’t support them.

ASK: What affect do you think Abraham and Lot had on the environment around them ? How do our everyday choices about food, travel, and stuff affect God’s creation? What do you think it means to live sustainably? What are some changes you can make in your everyday life to be a better caretaker of God’s creation?

SAY: After the arguments between their shepherds, Abraham went to Lot in order to talk about the conflict between their households. Abraham said that there shouldn’t be any disputes between their herders, or between them, because they were family. Abraham came up with a solution that worked both for himself and for Lot.

ASK: When have you worked to resolve a conflict with someone else? What was the cause of the disagreement? What solution did you come up with? How did you make sure that everyone was okay with the outcome? How did everything work out in the end?

SAY: Abraham suggested that they move to opposite sides of where they lived to make sure there was plenty of room. He even offered Lot first choice of the land. This was more than an act of kindness. It also worked as a plan to include Lot in the peacemaking process and to get him to “buy into” it.

ASK: Why is it important to involve others in conflict resolution? What strategies can you think of that might help resolve conflicts? Who are some people you can turn to when you need help resolving conflicts in your everyday life? What role does your faith play in being a peacemaker?




Confronting RivalriesBible Verse

Let there be peace on your walls; let there be rest on your fortifications. (Psalm 122:7)

Did You Know?

God’s covenant promise to Abraham and Sarah resulted in the birth of Isaac. Isaac married Rebekah, who gave birth to twins, Jacob and Esau. The account of their

birth chronicles that the brothers’ rivalry began in utero. The boys “pushed against each other,” and Jacob was born “gripping Esau’s heel” (Genesis 25:22, 26). The name Jacob derives from the Hebrew noun for heel. Elsewhere in the Old Testament, the verb for heel is used to describe one brother usurping another.

This ominous birth didn’t bode well for the brothers’ relationship in the future. At some point, Jacob convinced Esau to sell his birthright for a bowl of stew. In ancient Hebrew culture, the birthright allowed the oldest son to collect a larger share of his father’s inheritance. This act of selling the birthright was largely symbolic, as only the father could recognize one son as the heir. This is why Jacob, with the help of his mother, tricked Isaac into giving Jacob Esau’s blessing.

We all have experienced rivalries with others, whether they be siblings, classmates, or individuals on an opposing sports team. Remind your students that unchecked competition can be detrimental to their relationships with others. Jacob and Esau were estranged for many years because of the animosity that resulted from their sibling rivalry. Invite your students to put aside any bitter feelings of competition that they might be harboring so that they may reconcile with someone.

Exploration Points• Rivalries can get in the way of our friendships with others.

• Reconciliation requires a change of heart.


Bible StoryGenesis 25:19-34 and 27:1-40

Compass Point God calls us to reconcile with one another.






Suppliesmasking tape, yardstick, tennis balls, permanent markers (2 colors), kitchen brooms, dry-erase board set


Di V er ’S LoG• Make pens, pencils, and colored pencils available.




SAY: Our Bible reading is about a rivalry between two brothers.

ASK: Do you have any rivalries with your siblings, classmates, or anyone else? Against whom are you competing? What is the reason for your competition?

GA me - Broom BAShBALL

On one side of your space, use masking tape to make 3 foot-by-3 foot boxes, one for each two teams of four to six students. Tape a bowling line on the floor some distance away from each box.

• Divide your students into teams of four to six. Assign two teams to each box.

• Give a broom to each set of teams and a tennis ball to each player. Make permanent markers available. (Opposing teams will each use a different color.) Invite each player to mark a ball with a unique design.

• Inform your students that the game is like shuffleboard. The object is to use the broom to hit the ball into the scoring box.

• Each player may attempt to play offensively by aiming for the box, or play defensively by trying to knock out a ball belonging to a player on the other team.

• Players from each team will take turns shooting. Alternate which team shoots first each round.

• A round is complete when each player from both teams has played. Each ball that is in the box at the end of the round scores one point for the team.

• Use a dry-erase board to keep score.

• Repeat the game as time and interest allow.

SAY: Our game was pretty competitive. It might have been easy to form a rivalry with the other team, or with any of the individual players on the other team.

ASK: What are some situations that lead to the development of rivalries? Do you think rivalries are okay? Why or why not?









Dive Deeper r eAD the Bi BLe

• Invite your students to look up Genesis 25:19-34 and 27:1-40 and to take turns reading.

r eAD iN G - Dou BLe-Cr oSSeD Photocopy page 23, one for each student.



ASK: Do you think Esau deserved to lose his birthright after symbolically selling it for a bowl of stew? Why or why not?

DiSCuS S it - CoNfr oNt i NG r i VALrieS





tiP: If your group is small, consider discussing the questions as one group.

Grow StrongerA L L - tim e Gr eAt eSt r i VA Lr i eS



SAY: Knowing the difference between friendly rivalries and unhealthy rivalries is important.

ASK: What are some examples of healthy rivalries? What are some examples of unhealthy rivalries?

G ro uP time - Wor K i t ou t• Invite your students to speak about their own experiences of reconciling with

others.

• Encourage them to use a dry-erase board to write down ideas about ways to mend broken relationships.




Suppliesmacramé or hemp cord, clay beads, scissors


Cr eAt i Ve exPreSSioN - SiGNS of frieNDShiP


• Make macramé or hemp cord, clay beads, and scissors available.

• Invite your students to create friendship bracelets or other items they can give to family members and friends.

• Encourage your group to be creative.

• After some amount of time, invite your students to share their creations.

Worship







Reading - Double-CrossedNArrAtor: Do you ever compete with your brothers or sisters? It can’t be as confrontational as the relationship

between Esau and Jacob. They were competing with each other before they were born.

reBeKAh: It feels like there’s a boxing match going on in my stomach. What’s going on?

VoiCe of GoD: Rebekah, you will give birth to two competing nations. The older will serve the younger.

NArrAtor: It’s funny to think of twins as being the older or younger brother. Anyway, Isaac and Rebekah were surprised to find out they were having twins.

iSAAC: Twins? But I bought only one car seat and one crib. How was I supposed to know?

VoiCe of GoD: What do you think I meant when I told Rebekah that she will give birth to two nations?

NArrAtor: God does have a point there. Esau was born with lots of red hair, which is how he got his name. The Hebrew word for hair sounds like Esau. Jacob was born gripping his brother’s heel. Can you guess the Hebrew word for heel?

iSAAC: I’m 60 years old. I’m too old to care for two babies.

NArrAtor: The boys grew up. Jacob was quiet and preferred to stay home. Esau was an outdoorsman. Isaac was closer to Esau, while Rebekah was fond of Jacob. One day, Esau came home from hunting. Jacob was boiling stew.

eSAu: I’m starving. Let me have some of that stew.

JACoB: I’ll trade it to you for your birthright.

NArrAtor: In ancient Israelite culture, the oldest son had unique rights called a birthright. This allowed the oldest son to receive the majority of the family wealth when his father died.

eSAu: What good is my birthright if I die today of hunger? Sure, why not?

NArrAtor: Esau sold his birthright, but only Isaac’s formal recognition of Jacob as his heir would confirm that Esau had given up his birthright. Esau wasn’t worried. Fast forward a few years.

iSAAC: Esau, my son, I’m really old and it is time for me to bless my heir. Take your hunting gear and hunt some delicious food. Make me something to eat, and then I will bless you.

NArrAtor: Rebekah overheard Isaac and sprang into action.

reBeKAh: Jacob, you’re my favorite. You were smart enough to get the birthright from your clueless brother. You need to get this blessing. Put on Esau’s clothes and these animal skins. Go to your father and tell him you’re Esau.

JACoB: Father, it’s me, Esau. I’ve been out hunting and I’m here for my blessing.

NArrAtor: Jacob was blind, so he blessed Jacob. The brothers didn’t speak to each other for a long time after Jacob double-crossed his brother. Check out Genesis 33:1-17 to read about their reunion.




Discuss It - Confronting RivalriesSAY: Even though they were twins, Esau and Jacob had very different personalities and interests. Esau enjoyed hunting

and spending time outdoors. Jacob was quiet and preferred staying at home. Because of this, Isaac was closer to Esau, and Rebekah was closer to Jacob.

ASK: Do you identify more with Esau or Jacob? Why? What do you think their relationship was like growing up? How do you think they felt knowing that each of them was the special child of one parent? Do your interests or hobbies affect how much time you spend with certain family members? How so?

SAY: Jacob convinced Esau to sell his birthright for a bowl of stew. In Bible times, the birthright allowed the oldest son to collect a larger share of inheritance. Esau’s act of selling the birthright is symbolic, as only his father could recognize one son as the heir. But it does represent the rivalry that existed between the brothers.

ASK: Based on ancient customs, who would hold the birthright in your family? Do you think it’s fair that the oldest son inherits so much of the family property? Why or why not? Have you ever bought and sold or traded anything with your siblings or friends? How did things turn out?

SAY: When Esau and Jacob were older, it was time for Isaac to name his heir. Isaac told Esau to go hunting for some wild game and to prepare a special meal. Rebekah overheard this and came up with a plan so that Jacob could steal the birthright blessing and inherit Isaac’s wealth.

ASK: Why do you think Rebekah helped Jacob trick Isaac into blessing Jacob? How do you think Esau felt when he found out his mother had helped Jacob do this? How do you think this affected Esau’s relationship with his mother? How do you think this affected Jacob’s relationship with his father?

SAY: A little competition with others can be fun, such as during a family game night or a Thanksgiving flag football game. Competing with others too often can hurt our relationships with others and take the joy out of activities that we enjoy doing.

ASK: When have you witnessed or been a part of a healthy rivalry? When have you witnessed or been part of an unhealthy rivalry? Has a rivalry or competition ever damaged your relationship with another person? How? What are some ways that you can prevent this from happening in the future?




Using Our TalentsBible Verse

Serve the Lord reverently. (Psalm 2:11a)

Did You Know?

The story of Joseph and his journey into Egypt closes out most of the final fourteen chapters of Genesis. Excluding Jacob, more chapters are devoted to recounting

the events of Joseph’s life than any of the patriarchs. Joseph’s story explains how God’s people came to reside in the land of Egypt. It sets up the Exodus narrative of the Israelite people being liberated from slavery, their journey into the Promised Land, and the establishment of the Israelite kingdom.

Like Jacob, his father, Joseph had an intense sibling rivalry. This resulted in Joseph being sold by his brothers to Egyptian traders. Imprisoned in Egypt, Joseph used his talent of interpreting dreams to help a fellow inmate. The pharaoh became aware of Joseph’s talent and sought his help. In the employment of the pharaoh, Joseph was able to avert a famine and save the lives of many people. He also had the opportunity to reunite with his family and offer forgiveness to his brothers.

Joseph’s story reminds us that we can use our own God-given gifts and talents to shape the world in which we live. God invites us to use our gifts and talents to accomplish God’s work and to serve those in need. Invite your students to consider the gifts and talents they have received from God. Encourage them to think about the many ways that they can use these gifts and talents in service to God’s community of love.

Exploration Points• Each of us receives gifts and talents from God.

• We use our gifts and talents to serve God and to help others.

Session 5October 4


Compass Point God gives us gifts and talents to share.



26 October 4 submerge • Leader’s Guide



Suppliescones, tennis balls, masking tape, flying discs, dry-erase board set






SAY: Our Bible reading is about Joseph using his talent of interpreting dreams to advise the pharaoh.

ASK: What is your most unique talent? What is your silliest talent? What gift or talent do you possess that not many people know about?

gA me - KnoCK iT off

Place cones against a wall, one for each team of four to six students. Place a tennis ball on top of each cone, as if they are being used as baseball tees. Tape a throwing line on the floor some distance away from the cones.

• Divide your students into teams of four to six. Assign each to a cone.

• Give each team a flying disc, and invite them line up behind the throwing line opposite the cone to which they were assigned.

• Inform your students that the game is similar to disc golf. The object is to toss the flying disc at the cone so that it knocks the tennis ball off.

• Players on each team will take turns throwing.

• A throw that knocks the tennis ball off the cone is worth three points. A throw that hits the cone without knocking the ball off is worth two points.

• Use a dry-erase board to keep score among the various teams.

• Play for a determined number of rounds. Repeat as time and interest allow.

SAY: Your team’s score was determined by everyone’s ability to accurately throw the flying disc. This might come naturally to some of us, but for others it might require practice.

ASK: What are some of your gifts or talents that come naturally? What about gifts or talents that require a lot of practice?











r eAD in g - A Qu i CK r u nDow n Photocopy page 29, one for each student.



ASK: Why do you think the chief wine taster forgot about Joseph? How do you think Joseph reacted when he saw the wine taster again? What do you think Joseph said to him? What would you have said to the wine taster?

DiSCuS S iT - u Si ng ou r TA LenTS






Grow StrongerTAL en TeD r i Der S: forT r eSS BmX



SAY: The members of the Fortress BMX team are having fun and using their interest in BMX to share the good news of Jesus with others.

ASK: What are some ways you can use your gifts, talents, and interests to share God’s love with others?

wAL K iT o uT: enDi ng h u nger one STeP AT A Time• Invite your students to read the article on pages 30-31.

• Decide as a group how to become involved in the CROP Hunger Walk throughout the month of October.




Suppliespens, index cards


Cr eAT i Ve eXPreSSion - #mY TALenTS


• Make pens and index cards available to your students.

• Invite them to list their gifts, talents, or interests using hashtags, as if it were a message on a social networking or microblogging site.

• After some amount of time, invite your students to share their lists as they are comfortable.

Worship

Photocopy page ix, one for each worship volunteer.






Reading - A Quick RundownnArrATor: Here’s a quick rundown of the story of Joseph and how he ended up interpreting the pharaoh’s dreams. It

started because 17-year-old Joseph was punking his ten adult brothers.

JoSePh: What’s up, brothers? Look at this coat Dad bought me. Isn’t it nice? Hey, I had the strangest dream last night. All of you were bowing to me. Isn’t that weird? All of you bowing to your younger brother?

nArrATor: Not cool, Joseph, not cool. One day, Joseph’s brothers were taking care of the flocks. Joseph was sent out to find them and report back to their father. The brothers were upset by this.

The BroTherS (group): No more bragging! Let’s kill him!

nArrATor: One of the brothers, Reuben, stopped the others.

reuBen: Don’t kill him. Let’s throw him in that shallow well over there. We’ll decide what to do with him later.

nArrATor: That’s what the brothers did. Then they saw a group headed to Egypt. Judah, another one of the brothers, convinced the others to sell Joseph.

JuDAh: Reuben is right. We just want to get rid of him for a while, not kill him. Besides, we can make some cash.

nArrATor: So they sold Joseph to the traveling salespeople, who sold him to an Egyptian named Mr. P. This guy was the chief of the pharaoh’s royal guard. Things went well for a while.

mr. P.: You’re all right, Joseph. It’s hard to find honest workers these days. How would you like to be in charge of running my house and all my businesses?

nArrATor: So Joseph became Mr. P’s business manager. That is, until he was accused of a crime that he didn’t commit. Then Joseph was sent to the slammer. Lock-up. The clink. The graybar hotel. I’m talking about jail.

wiLL wine TASTer: Hey, man. I’m Will Wine Taster. Over there is Brady Baker. I guess we’ll be in the same unit as you.

nArrATor: The head of the prison was impressed with Joseph’s work and put Joseph in charge of all the prisoners, including Will Wine Taster and Brady Baker. One day, Joseph saw that both of them were upset.

JoSePh: Hey, guys, what’s wrong?

wiLL wine TASTer: We’ve both had dreams about the pharaoh, but no one can tell us what they mean.

JoSePh: Try me. One of my gifts is understanding dreams. Let me take a crack at it.

nArrATor: Joseph interpreted their dreams correctly. He asked Will Wine Taster to remember him, but the wine taster forgot all about Joseph when he was released from jail.

wiLL wine TASTer: What was the name of the guy who helped me out in jail? I can’t remember.

nArrATor: I think you know the rest of the story. But what a long, strange trip Joseph took to Egypt.




Discuss It - Using Our TalentsSAY: Joseph’s brothers got upset with him and sold him to some traders. The traders took him to Egypt, where he worked

as a servant in someone’s house. Later, Joseph was sent to prison for something he didn’t do. Eventually, Joseph became the second most powerful person in Egypt.

ASK: How do you think Joseph felt as he experienced all of these major changes? How would you have felt if you were in Joseph’s situation? When have you experienced sudden changes in your life? Who or what helped you get through everything?

SAY: The pharaoh had disturbing dreams and asked the Egyptian religious leaders for help. None of them understood the dreams, so the pharaoh turned to Joseph. Before seeing the pharaoh, Joseph had to get all cleaned up and put on new clothes. He went from being a prisoner to talking to the pharaoh at the palace.

ASK: What do you think Joseph said when told that he would meet the most powerful person in Egypt? What would you have said? Why do you think the Egyptian religious leaders couldn’t help the pharaoh? Have you ever met with someone important or famous? What was it like?

SAY: Joseph told the pharaoh that his ability to interpret dreams came from God. He went on to say that the dreams were warnings from God about a future disaster. Think about the gifts and talents you have received from God and the ways God speaks to you.

ASK: What are the gifts and talents God has given you? Who are the people who have recognized your gifts and talents? How do your gifts and talents line up with your interests and passions? What are the ways God communicates with you?

SAY: Joseph used his God-given gifts and talents to warn the pharaoh. Later, the pharaoh asked Joseph to be in charge of preparing for the famine. This allowed Joseph to save the lives of many people in and around Egypt. Think about how you can share your gifts and talents with others.

ASK: How can you share your gifts and talents in your everyday life? at school? in your after-school activities? with the church? How can you use your gifts, talents, and interests to serve people in need in our community?




CallingBible Verse

You led your people like sheep under the care of Moses and Aaron. (Psalm 77:20)

Did You Know?

The story of the Exodus, from the time in Egypt until the arrival in Canaan, is told in the biblical books of Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. Generations

after the Israelites migrated, the Egyptian leaders feared that the Israelite population had become too large. The Egyptians enslaved the Israelites, forcing them to work in the fields and to build the cities. God saw the suffering of God’s people and raised up Moses and Aaron to lead them to freedom.

Moses was a reluctant leader. He protested that he was not the right person for the job and that the Israelites would not believe him. When God revealed the holy name, Moses was still not satisfied that the Israelites would believe him. God performed a series of signs in order to demonstrate God’s power. Moses insisted that he was not a good speaker and asked God to send someone else in his place. God instructed Moses to appoint Aaron as a spokesperson and sent Moses on his way.

At one time or another, each of us has been reluctant to take on a responsibility or to assume a position of leadership. We may feel that we aren’t equipped or don’t possess the right qualities. Help your students understand that God equips us with the necessary tools and community support when we are called to serve. Encourage them to consider the various ways they can use their gifts and talents in service to your church and community.

Exploration Points• Each of us is called to share God’s love with others.

• Working together, we help build up God’s community of love.

Session 6October 11

Bible StoryExodus 3:1–4:17

Compass Point God calls us to serve.






Suppliesbins, cones






SAY: In our Bible reading, God has a conversation with Moses. People have invented codes to make sure that their messages are kept private.

ASK: Did you come up with a code? How does it work? What are the ways you keep your one-on-one conversations with friends private?

gA me - Shoe-in, Shoe-ouT

Place bins against a wall, one for each team of four to six students. Place a cone some distance away from each bin.

• Divide your students into teams of four to six. Assign each group to a cone.

• Inform your students that the game is a relay race with two legs. Each player on a team will run the relay twice.

• During the first leg , players on each team will run from the cone to the bin, remove their shoes, place them in the bin, and run back to the cone.

• During the second leg, players on each team will run from the cone to the bin, retrieve their shoes, put them on their feet, and run back to the cone.

• The first team to complete both legs of the relay wins.

• Repeat as time and interest allow.

SAY: You had to remove your shoes as part of our relay race. In our reading, Moses removes his shoes when God appears before him in the form of a flaming bush. In Bible times, people removed their shoes at holy places as a sign of respect.

ASK: Do we have holy places today? What places do you think are holy? Is there anything that we do at church or other places to show respect?










• Invite your students to look up Exodus 3:1–4:17 and to take turns reading.

r eAD in g - no mor e exCu SeS Photocopy page 35, one for each student.



ASK: How do you think Aaron felt when Moses told him that he would have to help lead the Israelite people to freedom? Has a family member or friend ever volunteered you to do something? What was it?

DiSCuS S iT - CA LLi ng






Grow StrongerBuiLT To ri De: SA LemTown BoArD Co.



SAY: The team at Salemtown is living out their call to bring positive change to their community through their love of skateboarding.

ASK: How might you be called to live out your faith by sharing your gifts, talents, and interests with others?

wAL K iT o uT: enDi ng h u nger one STeP AT A Time• Invite your students to read the article on pages 30-31 (if you haven’t already

done so).

• Collect any offering money that was brought in ( if your group is doing so).




Suppliesnone


Cr eAT i Ve exPreSSion - CALL ouT• Send your students out around your church campus in groups of four to six with

their cell phones.

• Encourage them to take photos that represent various ministries and projects in which your church is involved.

• Have your students return to your gathering space after some amount of time.

• Invite them to share the photos with the entire group.

ASK: How have the people of our congregation been called to help and serve others? How might you use your gifts and talents to serve in the church and in our community?

Worship







Reading - No More ExcusesnArrATor: One day, Moses was out taking care of the flock. He saw flames coming out of a bush. The funny thing is, the

bush was on fire but wasn’t burning up. Moses approached the flaming bush. Suddenly, he heard a voice.

VoiCe oF goD: Moses, Moses!

moSeS: I’m here, flaming bush! Wait, how do you know my name?

VoiCe oF goD: That’s easy. I’m the God of your ancestors Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Would you mind standing back a little farther? You’re on holy ground. You should probably take off your shoes.

moSeS: It’s cool that you’re talking to me, God. But I’ve gotta ask: Why are you here?

VoiCe oF goD: I need you to lead all your fellow Israelites to freedom. I’m sending you to talk to the pharaoh.

moSeS: Talk to the pharaoh? Who am I to talk to the pharaoh?

VoiCe oF goD: Relax there, big guy. I’ll be with you.

nArrATor: Excuse number one is denied.

moSeS: But what if the other Israelites don’t believe me? Who should I say sent me?

VoiCe oF goD: Tell them I Am has sent you. That’s my name, you know. Actually, my full name is I Am Who I Am.

nArrATor: Excuse number two is denied.

moSeS: But what if the people still don’t believe me? What should I do?

nArrATor: God turns the walking stick that Moses is holding into a snake before turning it back into a stick.

VoiCe oF goD: Don’t worry, I’ll perform some signs like that. The people will believe you.

nArrATor: Excuse number three is denied.

moSeS: This is all good, God, but you know I’m a bad public speaker. I get all nervous and stuff.

VoiCe oF goD: That’s easy. Bring your brother along. Aaron is a great speaker.

nArrATor: Excuse number four is denied.

moSeS: Please, God, can you just send someone else? Please? Anybody besides me?

VoiCe oF goD: No can do, Moses. I’ve got a plan, and you’re my man.

nArrATor: Excuse number five is denied.

moSeS: Okay, but I’m really going to need you to do some miraculous stuff. I better hold on to this walking stick…




Discuss It - CallingSAY: Moses was out in a field taking care of sheep when he saw a flaming bush. The plant was on fire without burning up.

Moses went to check it out when a voice started talking to him from the bush. The voice identified itself as God and spoke to Moses by name.

ASK: What do you think it was like for Moses to be called by name as he watched this amazing sight? What do you think Moses was thinking as he experienced this? Why do you think God appeared to Moses in the form of the flaming bush? What other ways could God have chosen to get his attention?

SAY: God told Moses that he must go speak to the pharaoh and lead the Israelites out of Egypt. Moses was unsure that the people would believe he really had spoken to God, so he asked to know God’s name. God’s name is I Am Who I Am, which can also be translated as I Will Be Who I Will Be.

ASK: How do you think Moses felt when he learned that God had such a big task for him? What questions do you think Moses had for God? Do you think that knowing God’s name is important? Why or why not? What do you think God’s name says about the way that God is at work in the world?

SAY: Moses tried to get out of being a leader by offering different excuses. Each time, God reassured Moses that he was the right person for this job and that God would be with him throughout. Finally, Moses ran out of excuses and just asked God to pick someone else for the job.

ASK: Have you ever tried to get out of doing something by offering excuses? What were you avoiding? What excuses did you offer? Why do you think Moses was so afraid of the job that God wanted him to do? How would you have responded if God asked you?

SAY: God called Moses to serve in a special way and promised to give him special abilities as he led the people to freedom. God invites each of us to serve in unique ways and has given us special gifts and talents through the work of the Holy Spirit that we can use to build God’s community of love.

ASK: What are some ways that you already use your gifts and talents to build God’s community of love? What are some other ways that God might be calling you to serve people in need? What are the different ways that God speaks to us today?




CourageBible Verse

You are definitely my rock and my fortress. Guide me and lead me for the sake of your good name! (Psalm 31:3)

Did You Know?

The Israelites left Egypt and began their journey to the Promised Land. At Paran, God instructed Moses to send one representative from each of the tribes to

explore Canaan. The spies spent forty days surveying the geography, vegetation, inhabitants, and cities of Canaan and the surrounding region. They discovered that the fertile land was filled with abundant fruit and vegetation. They also found that the region was inhabited by numerous groups of people who lived in heavily fortified cities.

The twelve spies reported all of this back to Moses, Aaron, and the Israelite community. Fearing the difficulty of conquering the territory, ten of the spies conspired to give a false report about the land being inhabited by giants. The Israelites decided that they should return to Egypt rather than take possession of the land promised to them by God. Among the spies, only Joshua and Caleb tried to convince the others that they could conquer the land with God’s help. The community ignored them.

The trepidation of the ten spies is understandable. Each of us has faced a difficult situation that has caused panic or fear. Like Joshua and Caleb, we must remember that God is present to guide us through these circumstances. Invite your students to think about the situations that require courage. Remind them that God promises to be with us in such times. Invite them to consider the ways they experience God’s presence through their relationships with others.

Exploration Points• Our faith gives us courage to confront difficult situations.

• God places people in our lives to support us in trying times.

Session 7October 18

Bible StoryNumbers 13:1–14:10

Compass Point Our faith gives us the courage to face tough situations.






Suppliescones, masking tape, 2 bandanas, 2 Hula Hoops®






SAY: In our Bible reading, the spies sent to explore the Promised Land aren’t very heroic. They get scared and lie about what they see.

ASK: What do you think it means to have courage? Is courage important?

gA me - CAPTure The FLAg

Use cones to mark the boundaries of the game area. Divide the court in half using masking tape. Place a cone in the rear right area of each side of the court, with a bandana hanging out of the top. Place one Hula Hoop® in the rear left area of each side of the court.

• Divide your students into two teams. Assign each team to one side of the court.

• The goal is to be the first team to capture the other’s flag and return to their half.

• Players may leave their side of the court and run across the line to capture the flag.

• A player who is tagged while on the other team’s half is escorted to the Hula Hoop® “jail.” Any jailed player must keep one foot inside the Hula Hoop®.

• A player may free teammate(s) from jail by high-fiving the prisoner(s) without being tagged. The player and the freed prisoners receive safe passage back to their half.

• During a jail-break, a player who is tagged before high-fiving a teammate is jailed.

• If a player captures the other team’s flag and is tagged before reaching home base, he or she is escorted to jail and the flag is returned to the cone.

• Play for a specified amount of time or until one team captures the flag.

SAY: You had to work together and avoid being caught. In our reading, Moses sends a group of spies to secretly explore the land promised by God.

ASK: How do you think our game is like the work of a spy? How is it different?










• Invite your students to look up Numbers 13:1–14:10 and to take turns reading.

r eAD iN g - T h er e mi gh T Be gi ANTS Photocopy page 41, one for each student.



ASK: Why do you think the spies made up the story about seeing giants instead of creating another excuse? What would you have said to the people if you had wanted to stop the Israelites from conquering the land?

DiSCuS S iT - Cou r Age






Grow StrongermiC hAeL oh er : TACKLi Ng Bi g ChALLeNgeS



SAY: Michael Oher had to overcome a lot of challenges to get where he is today.

ASK: How did Michael show courage in his ability to work hard at school? Who are the people in Michael’s life who had faith in him and supported him through tough times?

WAL K iT o uT: eNDi Ng h u Nger oNe STeP AT A Time• Invite your students to read the article on pages 30-31 (if you haven’t already

done so).

• Collect any offering money that was brought in ( if your group is doing so).






Cr eAT i Ve exPreSSioN - NAmiNg CourAge


• Make banner paper and permanent markers available.

• Invite your students to work together in groups of two to three to name people whose faith led them to demonstrate courageous faith.

• Encourage them to develop their own criteria for determining who is included, whether it’s a friend or family member, historical figure, or another individual.

• In the case of well-known figures, invite students to use the wifi capabilities on their phones to look up biographical details that they can share with the group.

• Have your students write the names of the individuals on the paper.

• Bring everyone together and have each group share some information about the people they included on the list and why they were selected.

Worship







Reading - There Might Be GiantsNArrATor: With Moses and Aaron leading the people, God freed the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. The people were

camped in the Paran desert. God gave Moses some special instructions.

VoiCe oF goD: Hey, Moses, listen up! As promised, I’m giving my people the land of Canaan. I need you to send twelve guys, one from each tribe, to explore the land. Make sure they’re super stealth so they don’t get caught.

moSeS: You mean like spies? Do you have any awesome spy gadgets for them to use? Should I give them all spy names?

VoiCe oF goD: You’ve watched too many spy movies, Moses. Like I said, twelve guys, one from each tribe. Have them explore the land and bring back a report.

NArrATor: Moses gathered together the twelve leaders chosen for the spy mission.

moSeS: Okay, guys, get out there and do your job. Survey the land and inspect the fruit trees. Check out the cities. Pay attention to their sizes and fortifications. Look at the people who live there. Be brave. Go, Team Spies!

NArrATor: The twelve went out and explored the land for forty days. They brought back pomegranates, figs, and grapes. The whole community gathered to hear their report.

moSeS: So, what did you find? Tell us everything.

SPY 1: Here’s the good news. The land is full of milk and honey. And the fruit trees are huge. Look at these grapes!

moSeS: So, what’s the bad news?

SPY 2: The land is full of many powerful people. The descendants of the Anakites live there, and many other groups.

NArrATor: In Bible times, the Anakites were large, legendary warriors.

CALeB: It’s not that bad. We can take the land with our armies. Besides, God has promised it to us. God is on our side.

SPY 1: That’s not true! We saw giants even bigger than the Anakites. We saw the Nephilim!

NArrATor: The Nephilim were mythological giants mentioned in Genesis. The people believed that the Nephilim were the ancestors of the Anakites, even bigger and more powerful.

SPY 2: We were the size of grasshoppers next to them. There is no way we could win a battle. Giants, I tell you!

NArrATor: There were no giants. Ten of the spies had made up the story because they were afraid. The Israelites shouted at Moses and Aaron and talked about going back to Egypt. Only Caleb and Joshua showed courage.

JoShuA: The land is good. God has promised to lead us to safety.

CALeB: Don’t abandon your faith and don’t be afraid.

NArrATor: The people didn’t listen to Joshua and Caleb, and they rebelled against God. Because of this, they wandered in the wilderness for forty years.




Discuss It - CourageSAY: God told Moses to select a leader from each of the twelve tribes to explore the land of Canaan. This was the land

that God had promised to the Israelites. The twelve spies were told to report back on the land and trees, the people who live there, and the size and strength of the cities.

ASK: How do you think the twelve spies felt when they were chosen for the mission? Do you think they volunteered or were picked by Moses? What questions do you think they had for Moses? When have you been selected to be part of a special team or group? What was your project or task?

SAY: The group spent forty days exploring the land. They reported good news and bad news. The good news was that the land had lots of resources. The bad news was that it was full of people with well-protected cities, including some people they thought were descendants of large warriors. Caleb, one of the spies, told the people to stay positive.

ASK: How do you think the spies kept their identity hidden throughout their time exploring? What do you think they saw that led them to believe that the descendants of the Anakites lived in the cities? When have you had to deliver bad news to someone? How do you stay positive when you receive bad news?

SAY: Ten of the spies were scared of the idea that the Israelites would have to conquer Canaan. They made up a story about giants living in the land who were even bigger than the descendants of the large warriors. This caused the Israelites to start shouting at Moses and Aaron about how they had been better off as slaves in Egypt.

ASK: Thinking about God’s plan to give the land to the Israelites, why do you think the spies were fearful? Have you ever made up a story to get out of doing something? How did things turn out? What are some of the things you’re afraid of? How do you deal with your fears?

SAY: Caleb wasn’t the only spy who told the truth and invited the Israelites to trust God. The people started talking about picking a new leader and going back to Egypt. Joshua joined Caleb in telling them to have courage and to trust that God would help them conquer the land.

ASK: Who are the people who help you face difficult situations with courage? How do these people support you? How do you offer support to the people you care about when they face difficulties? How does your faith help you through difficult situations?




Trusting GodBible Verse

Because your faithful love is right in front of me—I walk in your truth! (Psalm 26:3)

Did You Know?

After crossing into Canaan, the land promised by God, the Israelites entered into a series of conflicts with the inhabitants. They were guided through these

skirmishes by a series of judges. These were religious, political, and military leaders raised up by God in order to help the people keep their covenant with God. Deborah was a prophet and arbitrator, who advised the leaders of the Israelite army. Barak was a military leader commanding the Israelite army as they prepared for battle with the Canaanites.

After Barak insisted that Deborah accompany him into battle, Deborah prophesied that God would make sure the Canaanite commander Sisera was captured by a woman. As the battle between the Israelites and Canaanites began, Sisera fled to the encampment of Heber the Kenite, because there was peace between the Canaanite king Jabin and Heber. Heber’s wife Jael met Sisera outside the encampment and invited him to hide in a tent. Jael killed Sisera while he napped, fulfilling the prophecy.

This story depicts two strong women of the Bible who are sometimes overlooked: Deborah, the prophet and judge; and Jael, who saved the Israelites from Sisera even though she was a Kenite. The story also shows how a group—sharing responsibilities, trusting God, and trusting one another—can accomplish more than they imagined. Remind your students of the importance of placing their trust in God and the value of working together in order to accomplish great things.

Exploration Points• We place our trust in God when we face difficult situations.

• God puts people in our lives who support us.

Session 8October 25

Bible StoryJudges 4:1–5:31

Compass Point We place our trust in God.






Suppliescones, kitchen brooms, soccer ball






SAY: In our Bible reading, the Israelite general Barak won’t go into battle unless the prophet Deborah goes with him. We often turn to our friends for support when we need it.

ASK: How do your friends support you? What are the ways you help your friends? Why is this important?

gA me - Broom BALL

Use cones to set up goals on opposite ends of your space and to mark the boundaries of the game area.

• Give each player a broom.

• Divide your students into two teams. Assign each team a goal to defend.

• Inform your students that the game is an indoor version of floor hockey.

• Play will begin with a face-off in the middle of the space. Face-offs are also used to restart play after a goal is scored.

• If a player hits or kicks a ball out of bounds, the other team receives possession on the line from the spot where it was hit or kicked out.

• Determine if your players will play with or without designated goalkeepers. A game without assigned goalkeepers likely will result in more goals.

• Play for a determined amount of time or until one team scores a certain number of points.

SAY: Being a good teammate means working together and trusting one another in order to accomplish something. We will see an example of this in our reading today.

ASK: What are some of your experiences being part of a sports team, performance ensemble, or drama group? Why is trust important when you’re part of a group?










• Invite your students to look up Judges 4:1–5:31 and to take turns reading.

r eAD iN g - Pow er t r i o Photocopy page 47, one for each student.



ASK: How do you think Heber felt when he found out that Jael killed Sisera? How do you think this affected his truce with the Canaanites?

DiSCuS S it - t r u St i Ng goD






Grow Strongerr eL iAN Ce A LLi A NCe: w h om Do You turN to?



SAY: It is important for us to turn to God when we face challenges. Our relationship with God gives us courage and strength to get through tough situations.

ASK: What are some of the ways you connect with God? What do you do to connect with God in your everyday life?

wAL K it ou t: eNDi Ng h u Nger oNe SteP At A time• Collect any offering money that was brought in ( if your group is doing so).

• Send the money to the address listed in the magazine, or give the money to the person in charge of sending the money.




SuppliesBibles (CEB), cardstock, charcoal pencils


Cr eAt i Ve exPreSSioN - eVerYDAY SigNS


• Make cardstock and charcoal pencils available.

• Read Psalm 26:3 several times.

• Invite your students to reflect on how they experience signs of God’s presence in their everyday relationships with family, friends, the created world, and so forth.

• Encourage them to write, doodle, or draw the ways they experience God’s faithful love, which is in front of them.


Worship







Reading - Power TrioNArrAtor: Meet Barak, the leader of the Israelite army. Barak and the Israelites are preparing to battle the Canaanites.

BArAK: They have 900 iron chariots, soldiers who train for battle, and Sisera as a general. This doesn’t look good.

NArrAtor: So Barak stalls. Deborah isn’t happy when she finds out. As a judge and prophet, she helps lead the army and is one of the most powerful people in Israel.

DeBorAh: What’s the holdup? You know what God said. It’s time to take care of the Canaanites.

BArAK: I’ll go if you go.

DeBorAh: Are you kidding? Fine, but this won’t bring you fame. People will say that God helped a woman defeat Sisera.

BArAK: People can say what they want. I don’t care, as long as Sisera and the Canaanites are defeated.

DeBorAh: Sisera and his troops are on their way. Take your army and head down the mountain.

NArrAtor: The Canaanites see the Israelites approaching. Everyone panics, including Sisera.

SiSerA: What’s going on? This is crazy! I’m getting out of here.

NArrAtor: Barak and the Israelites defeat the Canaanite army. Meanwhile, Sisera runs to the camp of Heber the Kenite.

heBer the KeNite: What’s up? I’m Heber the Kenite. I’ve got a funny name and I get along with everybody.

NArrAtor: It’s true. Heber is a funny name. And Heber has a truce with the Canaanites, so they leave him alone. Sisera feels safe when he sees Heber’s wife Jael.

SiSerA: Things are crazy out there. Can I just hide out here for a while and get a cup of water?

JAeL: Of course. Stay as long as you need. You know what, have some milk. It will make you strong. And help you sleep.

SiSerA: Thanks. I’m dead tired. I’m just going to sit here and take a nap.

JAeL: You look dead…dead tired, I mean. I’ll make sure no one bothers you.

NArrAtor: Sisera falls asleep quickly. While he’s sleeping, Jael… Well, I’ll let Jael show you what she did.

JAeL: Take that! Take that!

NArrAtor: Jael drives a tent stake through Sisera’ head. Soon after this, Barak arrives at the camp.

BArAK: Sisera is dead? All right! No more Canaanites! We make a good team, don’t you think? Like a power trio.

DeBorAh: Don’t get ahead of yourself. Thank Jael. What did I tell you? God made sure that a woman took care of Sisera.

NArrAtor: The Canaanites don’t bother Israel for a long time, thanks to the power trio of Deborah, Barak, and Jael.




Discuss It - Trusting GodSAY: After entering the land promised by God, the Israelites were led by a series of judges. These weren’t judges like we

think of them, even though they did settle disputes between the Israelites. The judges also helped lead the army, advised the leaders of the twelve Israelite tribes, and led the people in worship.

ASK: Why do you think the Israelites had many leaders instead of one king? Do you think it works better for lots of people to share leadership or for one person to lead everyone? When have you helped lead a group or team? What gifts and talents are needed to lead other people?

SAY: Deborah, a prophet and judge, told Barak to assemble an army at Mount Tabor based on God’s instructions. Barak said that he would go only if Deborah went with him. Deborah told Barak that she would go with him, but that it meant he wouldn’t receive the credit for conquering Sisera and the Canaanite army.

ASK: Why do you think Barak wanted Deborah to go with him? Have you ever asked a friend or someone else to go along with you for support? What would you have done in Barak’s situation? Do you think it matters who receives credit for defeating the Canaanites? Why or why not?

SAY: Deborah’s presence gave Barak and the Israelite army courage to fight the Canaanites. Sisera ran away and was killed in his sleep by Jael, a Kenite woman. Together, with God’s help, Deborah, Barak, and Jael each did her or his part to defeat Sisera and the Canaanites.

ASK: Who or what gives you courage? When have you shown courage in the face of danger or fear? When have you worked together with others to accomplish a task or to complete a project? What are the ways we can work together to help build God’s community of love?

SAY: The story of Deborah, Barak, and Jael is about our ability to trust God. Deborah told Barak that God would help the Israelites overpower Sisera and the Canaanites. Barak wasn’t convinced and asked Deborah to go with him into battle. In the end, everything happened just as God had promised.

ASK: Is it ever difficult to place your trust in God? When? What are the ways God helps you overcome tough situations? When are the times you ask God for help in your everyday life? How do you experience God’s presence in these situations?




Listening to GodBible Verse

He is our God, and we are the people of his pasture, the sheep in his hands. If only you would listen to his voice right now! (Psalm 95:7)

Did You Know?

Samuel occupies a unique role in Israelite history. Samuel was raised by his mother according to the Nazirite customs laid out in the Book of Numbers. He was sent at

a young age to live with Eli the priest and to serve as his apprentice. Biblical scholars consider Samuel to be the last of the judges and the first of the major prophets. At God’s direction, Samuel anointed the first two kings of Israel. Nazirite, priest, prophet, and judge—Samuel served God in many different ways.

While Samuel was serving under Eli, remarkable things happened. God visited Samuel and revealed to Samuel prophetic words about God’s plans to restore right leadership in the land of Israel. This was remarkable for two reasons. First, scripture tells us that it was rare for people to receive prophetic revelation at this time. Second, and even more remarkable, is that there is a general consensus among biblical scholars that all of this occurred when Samuel was about twelve years old.

Emphasize with your students that God called Samuel when Samuel was about their age. Remind them of the importance of engaging in certain practices such as prayer, worship, creative expression, and so forth that can help them listen and respond to God. Encourage them to consider various practices and locations that promote open communication with God. Discuss some of the many different ways we are called by God to serve others and to build God’s community of love.

Exploration Points• Listening to God requires patience and practice.

• God calls each of us to serve in a variety of ways.

Session 9November 1

Bible Story1 Samuel 3:1–4:1a

Compass Point God calls each of us by name.



50 November 1 submerge • Leader’s Guide



Suppliesblindfolds






SAY: In our Bible reading, God speaks to Samuel in the sanctuary tent. There are many places where we can experience God’s presence.

ASK: Where do you feel closest to God? How do you connect with God in your everyday life?

gA me - LiSten UP


• Divide your students into pairs.

• Give each pair a blindfold, and have one person in each pair put it on.

• Invite all the blindfolded members of your group to line up on one side of your space. Have their partners line up on the opposite side.

• Explain that the game is like a team version of Marco Polo. The object is for the blindfolded teammate in each pair to reach their partner and give them a high-five.

• The non-blindfolded person in each pair must guide her or his teammate to the opposite side of the space by calling out the partner’s name.

• The blindfolded person in each pair must walk to the opposite side of the space by listening for their name as it is called by their teammate.

• When all blindfolded teammates have reached their partner, invite each pair to switch so that everyone has a chance to play both roles.

SAY: You had to listen for your partner’s voice as he or she called out your name, all while blindfolded and facing the distraction of other voices.

ASK: How difficult was it to listen for your teammate’s voice amid the distractions? What are the distractions we face when we listen for God’s voice?








Suppliespaper, permanent markers


• Invite your students to look up 1 Samuel 3:1–4:1a and to take turns reading.

r eAD in g - CA LLer i D Photocopy page 53, one for each student.



ASK: Are there times when it is easier to hear God’s voice and to connect with God? What about times when it is harder to hear God’s voice?

DiSCUS S it - L i St eni ng to goD






Grow StrongerLiSten UP!


• Invite them to read the article on pages 20-21 and to respond to the prompts.

SAY: God speaks to us in a variety of different ways.

ASK: What are the ways God speaks to you through others? How do you connect with God in nature? What about when you’re being creative?

e xP erien Ce i t - Si Lent Pr AY er• Take your students to a prayerful location on your church campus, such as a garden,

chapel, the sanctuary, or so forth.

• Make paper and permanent markers available.

• Invite your students to write, doodle, or draw their reflections as they pray silently.






Cr eAt i Ve exPreSSion - We’re LiStening



• Invite your students to share their favorite songs or music downloads stored on their phone that help them connect with God.

• Invite your students to reflect on how God calls them to serve as they listen to music.

• Encourage them to make a list of the ways they can serve in your church and around your community.

• After some amount of time, invite your students to come together and discuss what they wrote.

Worship

Photocopy page x, one for each worship volunteer.






Reading - Caller IDreADer 1: Samuel’s mother, Hannah, had prayed for a child. She promised God that if she gave birth to a son, he would

be dedicated to God. So at a young age, maybe around four or five, Samuel was sent to Shiloh to live with the priest Eli. Samuel’s family visited once year, when they went to the sanctuary tent at Shiloh to worship God.

reADer 2: Samuel helped Eli with some of the work needed to run the sanctuary tent. God’s people would come from around Israel to worship and make sacrifices. God’s chest was kept in the sanctuary tent. The chest held the Ten Commandments. The chest was very holy and reminded the people of God’s presence with them.

reADer 3: Samuel slept in the sanctuary tent where God’s chest was kept. Samuel may have slept there as part of his chores. Someone would have to keep an eye on things at night. Anyway, one night when Samuel was about 12 or 13, he was lying down in the sanctuary tent about to fall asleep. Suddenly, he heard a voice.

reADer 1: “Samuel, Samuel,” the voice said. “I’m here,” Samuel responded. Thinking that it was Eli who had called him, Samuel ran to Eli’s room and said, “I’m here. You called me?” Eli replied, “I didn’t call you. Go lie down.” So Samuel went back to the sanctuary tent to lie down.

reADer 2: Again, a voice called out, “Samuel, Samuel.” Again, Samuel ran to Eli and said, “I’m here. You called me?” Eli replied, “I didn’t call, my son. Go lie down.” So Samuel went back to the sanctuary tent. But the voice called Samuel a third time. He ran to Eli a third time.

reADer 3: Eli realized this time that it was God who was calling Samuel. This was remarkable, because the Bible tells us that God didn’t often speak to prophets at this time. Eli told Samuel that he should go lie down. Eli also told Samuel how he should respond if God called him again.

reADer 1: God did call Samuel again. “Samuel, Samuel.” Samuel responded, “Speak, Lord, your servant is listening.” God revealed to Samuel how Eli’s sons would be punished for disobeying God and for being corrupt. Samuel wondered how he could share this news with Eli.

reADer 2: The next morning, Eli asked Samuel what God had said. Eli said, “Don’t hide anything from me. May God deal harshly with you if you hide even one word from everything God said.” So Samuel told Eli what God had said. Eli responded, “He is the Lord. He will do as he pleases.”

reADer 3: God called Samuel by name and revealed great truths to him. Because of this, Samuel became a great prophetic leader of Israel. God calls each of us by name and invites us to use our gifts and talents to build God’s community of love. How are each of us called to serve?




Discuss It - Listening to GodSAY: Just before our Bible story, Samuels’ mother dedicated Samuel to God’s service. This means that Samuel left his

family at a very young age and lived with the priest Eli in the town of Shiloh. The Bible says that Samuel saw his family only once a year.

ASK: How do you think Samuel felt when his parents dropped him off with Eli? How would you feel if you had to go live with someone you didn’t know? What do you think it was like for Samuel to see his family only once a year? What would you miss most about your home if this happened to you?

SAY: While living with the priest Eli, Samuel helped with the sacrifices and cared for the meeting tent. The meeting tent was where God’s chest was kept and where the Israelite people worshipped God. It also was where Samuel slept. It would be like you living at church and sleeping in the sanctuary where you have worship.

ASK: How would you feel if you lived at our church and had to sleep in the worship space? What do you think your jobs would be around the church? What would you want your jobs to be? Do you think it would be fun to live at our church? Why or why not?

SAY: One night, Samuel woke up when he heard a voice speaking to him. Samuel thought it was Eli calling him, so he went to find Eli and woke him. This happened to Samuel three times before Eli realized that Samuel was hearing the voice of God.

ASK: How would you respond if you heard God’s voice like Samuel did? Who would you tell if you heard God speaking to you? Do you think anyone would believe you if you told them that God had spoken to you? What do you think God would say to you?

SAY: We know that God speaks to us through many different ways. We can hear God’s voice when we read the Bible, pray, worship, and many other ways. We also know that God calls us to serve in a variety of ways according to our gifts and talents.

ASK: What are the ways that God speaks to you? How do you listen for God’s voice? What are the ways you talk with God? How are you being called to serve? How can you use your gifts and talents to help others in your everyday life?




Following God’s WillBible Verse

Lord, teach me what your statutes are about, and I will guard every part of them. (Psalm 119:33)

Did You Know?

After being ruled by a series of judges, the Israelites approached Samuel and asked for a king. The other nations around Israel were monarchies, and the Israelites

wished to follow the example of their neighbors. Samuel knew that this was a bad idea, yet still presented the people’s request to God. Upon God’s instructions, Samuel warned the Israelites about what would happen when they were ruled by a king. The people refused to listen, and they clamored for a king. God told Samuel to anoint Saul as the king of Israel.

At first, Saul was faithful to God and secured many military victories. This faithfulness soon waned. Saul was instructed to attack the Amalekites and to destroy their entire civilization. This seems repugnant today, but the practice prevented groups from waging war in order to gain wealth. Saul disobeyed God’s command, sparing the best animals from the Amalekite flocks as plunder. He then made up an excuse that the animals were saved for God. Saul valued wealth and honor above his friendship with God.

Your students may find some of the details of this account disturbing. It is important to understand the ancient concept of war as a defensive strategy, rather than as a tool of gaining territory or goods. Saul was instructed to do battle for the former, yet chose the latter. Invite your students to consider what it means to abide by God’s will in every aspect of their lives. Encourage them to consider how they can live faithfully each and every day.

Exploration Points• We are called to follow God’s commands.

• Faithfulness means living according to God’s will each and every day .

Session 10November 8

Bible Story1 Samuel 15:1-35

Compass Point It is important to pay attention to God’s commands.






Suppliesbins, cones, tennis ball, plastic pitchers, safety goggles






SAY: In our Bible reading, Saul ignores God’s instructions. Sometimes, it can be hard for us to follow rules.

ASK: When do you have a hard time following rules? Why do you think it’s so easy to ignore the rules sometimes?

gA me - PitCher’S DueL

Place bins on opposite sides of your space as goals. Use cones to mark the boundaries of the game area.

• Divide your students into two teams. Give each player a plastic pitcher and a pair of safety goggles.

• Assign each team a goal to defend. Inform your students that the game is like a modified version of lacrosse.

• Play will begin with a face-off in the middle of the game area. Face-offs are also used to restart play after a goal is scored.

• To begin a face-off, each team stands opposite each other facing their goal. Bounce the tennis ball on the ground, and allow the teams to battle for possession.

• Players move the ball by using the pitchers to toss and catch the ball. A player is allowed only two steps with the ball before passing or shooting.

• A foul is called if a player takes more than two steps, touches the ball with a hand, or engages in reckless play. The other team takes the ball from the spot of the foul.

• A loose ball may be recovered by scooping it off the ground with a pitcher.

• Play for a determined amount of time or until the game reaches a certain score.

SAY: Our game worked only if everyone played by the rules.

ASK: How difficult was it to follow the rules of the game? What would happen if our sports and games didn’t have any rules? Would they still be fun?










• Invite your students to look up 1 Samuel 15:1-35 and to take turns reading.

r eAD iN g - BA D CA LL, SAu L Photocopy page 59, one for each student.



ASK: How do you think Samuel felt when he had to deliver the news to Saul that Saul had messed up? Who helps you out when you get in trouble?

DiSCuS S it - FoLLow i Ng goD’S wiLL






Grow Strongert rACK B AC K: h i Ki Ng h ow -toS



ASK: How is hiking safety like staying on the right path in your friendship with God?

g ro uP time - CoV eNA NtSAY: One way to become better at being more faithful is to form a covenant. This is a group agreement about how we will live out our faith and support one another.


• Invite your students to come up with some covenant ideas, such as praying for one another, reading the Bible each day, serving in the community, and so forth.

• Encourage your group to come up with a covenant that they will agree to live by for some period of time.




SuppliesHula Hoops®, cones, paper, permanent markers


Cr eAt i Ve exPreSSioN - Aim high

Place Hula Hoops® on one side of your space. Place a cone opposite each hoop.

• Make paper and permanent markers available to your students.

• Invite your students to create paper airplanes. Encourage them to use the markers to individualize their planes.

SAY: Following God’s will for your life sometimes can be tough. But it gives you something to aim for and helps you become the person God wants you to be.

• Invite your students to hold up their paper airplanes.

SAY: It’s kind of like your planes. If I told you to “fly them,” you’d probably ask, “Where?” But if I told you to “stand at a cone and aim for a hoop,” it gives you something to aim for, even if you try and miss. Following God’s will gives you something to aim for in your life, even if you don’t always hit the target.

• Invite your students to fly their planes.

Worship







Reading - Bad Call, SaulNArrAtor: Saul was anointed the first king of Israel. For a while, he did an okay job. He followed God’s instructions and

did what he was supposed to. But after a while, things went downhill. The prophet Samuel went to see him.

SAmueL: Hey, Saul. Listen to these instructions from God. You’ve got to defeat the Amalekites because of what they did to Israel. Put them under the ban. You know what that means? Spare no one!

NArrAtor: In Bible times, the ban was practiced where every human and animal in a civilization was destroyed. It sounds cruel, but it stopped people from using war to gain stuff and make money.

SAuL: Will do, Sammy. Relax! You know I always do what the Big Boss says. I’ve got this.

NArrAtor: I doubt this is how Saul spoke to the prophet Samuel. Anyway, he gathered the Israelite troops and marched toward the Amalekite city.

SAuL: Okay, troops. Attack! Attack!

NArrAtor: Saul’s army killed all the people, except for the Amalekite king. They also saved the best animals and livestock and other valuable items. Saul had disobeyed God, and God was unhappy.

VoiCe oF goD: Samuel, I’m beginning to regret making Saul king. I told him to do what was necessary to keep Israel safe. Now he’s trying to make a profit off of this battle.

NArrAtor: Samuel went to find Saul and talk to him about this.

SAuL: Hey, Sammy! I followed your instructions and did just as God wanted.

SAmueL: No, you didn’t. God said no taking the livestock. I see sheep and cattle over there.

SAuL: Oh yeah, umm…those animals over there? Uhh, we were going to give them to God. Yep, that’s right! As a sacrifice. That’s why we kept them.

SAmueL: Enough! Stop lying! God anointed you king of Israel and gave you instructions: to put the Amalekites under the ban. And you didn’t follow those instructions. You and your troops took plunder for yourselves—to get rich!

SAuL: Okay, I messed up. I let the troops take some plunder. I didn’t want to. They kind of made me. Anyway, we really planned on offering sacrifices to God. I promise!

NArrAtor: Bad call, Saul. Bad call.

SAmueL: You messed up? That’s all you can say? You couldn’t follow God’s simple instructions. You tried to sneak one by. Because of this, God rejects your kingship. The crown will be given to someone more worthy than you.

NArrAtor: And that was that. Saul failed as a leader and disobeyed God instructions. God regretted making Saul king. Soon after this, a young David was anointed as the future king of Israel. But that’s a story for another day.




Discuss It - Following God’s WillSAY: The prophet Samuel gave Saul God’s instructions to attack the Amalekites and put them under the ban. In Bible

times, the ban was a practice of destroying an entire population. Bible experts believe that this type of war was used in times of self-defense as a way of stopping people from starting battles in order to steal and plunder.

ASK: How did you feel when you read God’s instructions that Saul was to destroy the Amalekites and their animals? What questions do you think Saul had about this? What questions would you have asked if you had been in Saul’s situation? Would you have tried to talk God out of it? Why or why not?

SAY: Saul disobeyed God’s instructions. This wasn’t the first time that Saul had disobeyed God’s commandments. In 1 Samuel 13:1-18, Saul offered sacrifices before going into battle. Only the religious leaders could do this. Because of this disobedience, Samuel told Saul that none of Saul’s children would inherit the throne.

ASK: Why do you think Saul had trouble following God’s instructions? If you had been in Samuel’s shoes, what would you have said to Saul about his bad decisions? When do you have trouble following God’s instructions? Who do you turn to when you need help understanding what it means to live faithfully?

SAY: In 1 Samuel 15:11, God says: “I regret making Saul king.” This is repeated in 1 Samuel 15:35, where it says: “the Lord regretted making Saul king over Israel.” The only other place in the Bible where it says that God felt regret is the story leading up to the Flood, where it says that God “regretted making human beings” (Genesis 6:6).

ASK: Have you ever thought about whether or not God regretted doing certain things? Do you think God feeling regret makes God more sympathetic to our mistakes? Do you think God feeling regret makes God more likely to forgive our mistakes? Why or why not?

SAY: Following God’s will for our life is about more than just attending church on Sunday. It means living faithfully each and every day and allowing our faith to influence everything that we say and do. Think about what following God’s will means for your everyday life.

ASK: What are the ways that you live out your faith in your everyday life? What are some ways that living faithfully influences your relationships with your family and friends? How does your faith affect how you treat other people? Why is following God’s will for your life important?




Seeking God’s HelpBible Verse

My mouth speaks wisdom; my heart’s meditation is full of insight. (Psalm 49:3)

Did You Know?

Solomon succeeded his father as the king of Israel upon David’s death. Solomon was the final monarch to rule over the united kingdom of Israel before it was divided

into the two smaller kingdoms of Israel and Judah. Solomon is noted for his wisdom and wealth, as recounted in 1 Kings. He used his wealth to undertake an extensive building campaign in Jerusalem. It was under Solomon’s reign that the first permanent temple was constructed in Jerusalem and dedicated to God.

Shortly after Solomon ascended to the throne, God appeared to Solomon in a dream. Solomon was informed by God that he could ask for anything and God would give it to him. Solomon asked for wisdom in order best to govern the people and lead them in the ways of God. God commended Solomon for asking for good judgment instead of wealth or victory. Solomon demonstrated this wisdom and good judgment in his interaction with the two women fighting over the infant.

Invite your students to consider the ways that God guides them in their daily lives. Remind them that, like Solomon, they can approach God with their requests for help. Encourage them to think about the everyday situations where they can use God’s nurture and support. Invite them to think about the people God has placed in their lives to offer encouragement. Consider discussing fun and unique prayer practices that your students can use outside of church.

Exploration Points• God is always available to assist us in our need.

• We can go to God for help at any time.


Bible Story1 Kings 3:1-28

Compass Point We can ask for God’s guidance at any time.






Suppliesbins, cones, tennis balls, dry-erase board set






SAY: In our Bible reading, Solomon asks God for wisdom so that he can better lead the Israelite people.

ASK: What does it mean to have wisdom? Is being wise different than being smart?

gA me - Before the BounCe

Place bins against a wall, one for each team of four to six students. Place a cone some distance away from each bin.

• Divide your students into teams of four to six. Assign each team to a cone. Invite one player from each team to stand near the bin. This player is the Rebounder.

• Give each team a tennis ball.

• Inform your students that the game is a basket shooting contest with a twist.

• The Shooter will attempt to throw the ball into the bin, either on the fly or after it bounces off the wall.

• The Rebounder can score for the team if she or he catches a missed shot before it hits the ground and can shoot the ball into the basket.

• A basket made by the Shooter earns three points, while the Rebounder earns one.

• Have the players on each team rotate from Shooter to Rebounder and from Rebounder to the end of the line.

• Play for a determined amount of time or until the game reaches a certain score.


SAY: You had the opportunity to support your teammate by grabbing the rebound and putting the ball in the basket.

ASK: What are the ways your friends and family members help you out? How does your faith guide and support you?










• Invite your students to look up 1 Kings 3:1-28 and to take turns reading.

r eAD in g - Ch ooSi ng W i SeLY Photocopy page 65, one for each student.



ASK: Why do you think God appeared to Solomon in a dream? What other Bible stories can you think of where God communicates via dreams?

DiSCuS S it - SeeKi ng goD’S heLP






Grow StrongerYou got it!



ASK: What gifts and talents have you received from God? How can you use them to serve others?

g ro uP time - A Li t t Le h eLP• Invite your students to share some ways they have helped those around them or

have received help from family, friends, or others.

• Encourage them to use the dry-erase board to write down any thoughts.

ASK: How was God at work through the people who helped you? How did God work through you so that you could help another person? What does this show us about how God wants us to look after one another?




Suppliesindividual stretched canvases, acrylic paint and brushes, paper towels


Cr eAt i Ve exPreSSion - guiDeD


• Make individual stretched canvases, acrylic paint and brushes, and paper towels available.

• Invite your students to reflect on the ways that God guides them in their daily lives.

• Encourage them to paint their reflections.


• Allow the artwork to dry.


Worship







Reading - Choosing WiselynArrAtor: King David died, and Solomon inherited the throne from his father. One day, Solomon went to Gibeon to

worship God. That night, God appeared to Solomon in a dream.

VoiCe of goD: Hey, Solomon. It’s me, God. I’m appearing to you in a dream. Pretty neat, huh? Ask for anything right now, and I’ll give it to you.

SoLomon: Wait, is this really happening? Is God really appearing to me in a dream? Or am I dreaming that I’m dreaming that God is talking to me?

VoiCe of goD: You’re over thinking this. I’m really here talking to you. So what will it be? What do you want?

SoLomon: Wow, this is big. You gave my father so much, and now you’ve made me king. I don’t know if I’m up for the job.

nArrAtor: Solomon thought for a while about what he should ask for.

SoLomon: God, I want to do as much as I can to make sure all your people follow your ways. I’ll need help with this. Will you give me wisdom to make good choices and help me lead your people?

VoiCe of goD: Lots of people in your place would ask for money, power, or long life. You’ve asked for wisdom.

SoLomon: I’m going to need your help if I want to be a good leader.

VoiCe of goD: You’ve got it, Solomon. I’m giving you wisdom. And because you made such a wise choice, I’m also giving you something extra: wealth, fame, and a long life.

nArrAtor: Solomon woke up from his dream. Some time later, two women came to him with a conflict.

WomAn 1: King Solomon, please help me. I recently gave birth to a baby, and so did my roommate. But her son died one night. When she realized what had happened, she switched babies. She took my son!

WomAn 2: That’s not true. It’s her son who died, and now she’s just trying to take my baby.

WomAn 1: No, Your Majesty. My baby is alive! Please believe me!

WomAn 2: She’s lying! This is my baby!

nArrAtor: The women went back and forth like this until finally Solomon spoke.

SoLomon: Bring me my sword. We’ll cut the child in two and give half to each of them.

WomAn 1: No, Your Majesty. Give her the child. Just don’t hurt him!

WomAn 2: Cut the child in half! If I can’t have him, neither can she!

SoLomon: Give the child to the first woman. She is the mother.

nArrAtor: All of Israel heard about Solomon’s decision, and they knew that God’s wisdom was with him.




Discuss It - Seeking God’s HelpSAY: God appeared to Solomon in a dream and told Solomon that he could receive anything that he wished. Solomon

asked for wisdom so that he could be a better leader and help the Israelites follow God’s commands. God was pleased by Solomon’s request.

ASK: If God appeared to you and promised you anything, what would you ask for? Why? Would you ask for something that benefited only you, or would you ask for something that also helped others? What do you think God would say about your choice?

SAY: Solomon was made king of Israel when he was about 20 years old. He told God that he was too young and inexperienced to lead Israel, which is why he asked for wisdom. Solomon took his leadership responsibility seriously and knew that he wouldn’t succeed without God’s help.

ASK: How would you feel if you became a leader in charge of so many people? Do you think you have the skills to be successful? Why or why not? Who would you turn to for guidance? Have you ever served as a leader of a team or group? What was the experience like?

SAY: God gave Solomon wisdom and good judgment. Solomon was able to use these gifts to help settle the disagreement between the two women. God has given each of us gifts, talents, and skills that we can share with others as we build God’s community of love.

ASK: What are some of the gifts, talents, and skills you have received from God? How do you use these in your everyday life? How do you use them to serve God? What are some other ways that you can use them to build God’s community of love?

SAY: Solomon asked for God’s wisdom and guidance, knowing that he would face difficult decisions as he led the people of Israel. God has promised us the Holy Spirit to help lead us and guide us in our everyday lives. The Holy Spirit is God’s presence with us.

ASK: What are the ways the Holy Spirit can help us in our daily lives? How can the Holy Spirit guide us when we face tough situations? Do you think God’s presence with us should change how we approach certain challenging situations? Why or why not?




Choosing Our ActionsBible Verse

I’ve chosen the way of faithfulness; I’m set on your rules. (Psalm 119:30)

Did You Know?

Solomon was the last king to rule the united monarchy of Israel. After his death, a civil war broke out, resulting in Israel’s division into the kingdoms of Israel and

Judah. The southern kingdom of Judah was made up of the tribal territories of Judah and Benjamin and included the city of Jerusalem. The northern kingdom of Israel comprised the territory of the remaining ten tribes. Its capital city was Samaria, and it had a place of worship at Bethel.

Both kingdoms experienced political instability and invasion. The books of 1 and 2 Kings and 1 and 2 Chronicles detail how assassinations, wars, briberies, and shifting political allegiances affected both kingdoms. Many rulers of both kingdoms tolerated and encouraged the worship of idols. This lack of leadership and utter faithlessness resulted in the collapse of both Israel and Judah. Israel fell to the Assyrians about 722 b.c., while Judah lasted until 587 b.c.

The account of Rehoboam and Jeroboam’s actions highlight the incompetence and faithlessness of the rulers of the divided kingdoms. Remind your students of the importance of being faithful in their everyday lives. Invite them to consider how their everyday choices affect their friendship with God. Encourage them to think about the obstacles that get in the way of this friendship and the ways they can remove these barriers.

Exploration Points• Our faith influences the decisions that we make each day .

• We are called to make choices that build God’s community of love.


Bible Story1 Kings 12:1-33

Compass Point Our faith helps us make good choices.






Suppliesbins, masking tape, cones, tennis balls, kitchen brooms






SAY: In our Bible reading, Israel is split into two kingdoms. Both are led by a series of mostly bad rulers who make some pretty terrible choices.

ASK: Are some of your everyday choices more important than others? What makes them more important?

gA me - Shot on goAL

Place bins on their side against a wall, one for each team of four to six students. Tape a starting line on the floor some distance away from the bins. Place several cones between the starting line and each bin to serve as obstacles.

• Divide your students into teams of four to six. Assign each team to a bin, and have them line up at the starting line.

• Give each player a tennis ball. Give each team a kitchen broom.

• Inform your students that the game is a hockey stick drill relay.

• Players from each team will take turns weaving the ball around the cones with the broom. After moving past the last cone, the player must hit the ball into the bin.

• A player must hit the ball into the bin before returning to the starting line.

• Once at the starting line, the player hands the broom to a teammate in order to begin the next leg of the race.

• The first team to have every player complete the relay wins. Repeat as time and interest allow.

SAY: In our game, you had to make it through the cones without being distracted so that you could focus on the task of making a goal.

ASK: What are some distractions that keep us from focusing on our goals? How can these distractions cause us to make poor decisions?










• Invite your students to look up 1 Kings 12:1-33 and to take turns reading.

r eAD in g - Du mB A nD Du mBer Photocopy page 71, one for each student.



ASK: Which of the two kings do you think made the worst choice? Why?

DiSCuS S it - Ch ooSi ng ou r ACtionS






Grow StrongergAm e on



ASK: How does your faith help guide the decisions that you make every day?

g ro uP time - gr At i t u De gr A ffitiSAY: In our Bible reading, the kings took their relationship with God and with the people for granted. One way to be faithful in our everyday lives is to be grateful for what we have. Let’s spend some time thinking about this.


• Invite your students to think about the people and things for which they are grateful.

• Encourage them to write, doodle, or draw representations of these people and things on the banner paper.




Suppliesmodeling clay, paper towels


Cr eAt i Ve exPreSSion - ShAPeD BY fAith


SAY: The choices we make each day are shaped by our friendship with God. Let’s spend some creative time thinking about the ways that God guides us each and every day.

• Make modeling clay and paper towels available.

• Invite your students to reflect on the ways that God guides them in their daily lives.

• Encourage them to create symbols that reflect their friendship with God.




Worship







Reading - Dumb and DumbernArrAtor: King Solomon died, and his son Rehoboam became king. Rehoboam was a pretty bad king. The people were

overworked, and they sent Jeroboam to speak to the new king.

JeroBoAm: King Rehoboam, your father nearly worked us to death, but we were loyal to him. If you decrease our work, all the people will serve you just like we served him.

nArrAtor: King Rehoboam asked for advice from the officials his father had consulted.

rehoBoAm: How should I respond to these people?

roYAL offiCiAL: Serve the people and listen to their request. Speak kindly to them, and they will be loyal to you.

nArrAtor: Sounds reasonable, right? Rehoboam ignored this advice. Instead, he asked some of his friends.

rehoBoAm: Hey, guys, how should I handle this thing with the workers? They’re pretty upset.

frienD 1: Boo hoo, they have to work! Who cares? You show those stupid workers who’s the boss!

frienD 2: Dude, they’re crying like little babies. Give them more to do. Show them you’re even tougher than your dad!

nArrAtor: Bad advice. Too bad Rehoboam listened to his friends.

rehoBoAm: I’ve thought about your request. Here’s my answer. If you thought working for my father was tough, then you ain’t seen nothing yet! Now get back to work!

JeroBoAm: You better watch your back! Why should we care if a descendant of David and Solomon is on the throne?

nArrAtor: Shortly after this, King Rehoboam sent one of his officials to check on the workers. They killed the official and started a rebellion. Rehoboam was forced to flee back to Jerusalem.

PeoPLe: Jeroboam is king! Jeroboam is king!

nArrAtor: Jeroboam ruled over the ten northern tribes. His kingdom was called Israel. Rehoboam was king over the southern tribes of Judah and Benjamin, which was called Judah. Judah included the city of Jerusalem, where the temple was located. This bothered Jeroboam.

JeroBoAm: I can’t have the people of my kingdom travel to Judah to worship. They might become loyal to Rehoboam again. I need to keep them here in Israel to worship!

nArrAtor: Jeroboam had workers make two golden calves. He had them placed in two cities in Israel.

JeroBoAm: People of Israel, these calves are your gods. You don’t need to worship in God’s temple anymore.

nArrAtor: And this is the story of King Dumb and King Dumber. Rehoboam was dumb for treating his workers badly and not listening to his officials. That’s how he lost the northern part of the kingdom. Jeroboam was dumber for encouraging the people to worship idols. Yikes!




Discuss It - Choosing Our ActionsSAY: After Solomon died, his son Rehoboam became king. A group of workers, led by Jeroboam, asked to meet with the

new king about their unfair workload. The workers promised to be loyal to Rehoboam if the king would decrease the amount of work they had to do.

ASK: What do you think it was like for Rehoboam to become king and to have to deal with this issue? If you became a leader of our country today, what issues would you have to deal with? When have you experienced a situation that was unfair? How did you try to work it out?

SAY: Rehoboam consulted with his father’s advisors about how to respond to the request. The royal officials told him to respect the workers and listen to their concerns. Rehoboam ignored their advice and asked his friends instead. His friends told him to show the workers who’s boss and to let them see that Rehoboam was tougher than Solomon.

ASK: Why do you think Rehoboam ignored the advice of the royal officials? Who would you have listened to if you were in Rehoboam’s situation? When have you listened to your friends’ advice? Did it help the situation or make it worse? What happened in the end?

SAY: The workers rebelled against Rehoboam and made Jeroboam king. Jeroboam ruled over the ten northern tribes, the kingdom of Israel. Rehoboam maintained control of the tribes of Judah and Benjamin, the southern kingdom of Judah. Because the temple was located in Judah, Jeroboam had his workers create two golden calves for the people in Israel to worship.

ASK: How do you think most Israelites reacted when their country was divided into the separate kingdoms of Israel and Judah? How do you think people would react if our country was divided into two? How do you think the people in the northern kingdom felt when told that they would have to worship golden caves instead of God?

SAY: Both Rehoboam and Jeroboam made bad decisions. Rehoboam treated the workers badly and did not respect them. Jeroboam created idols so that the people in Israel stopped worshipping God. Both of these actions separated the two kings from God and from the community of people they were supposed to serve.

ASK: What are the everyday decisions we make that cause us to feel closer to God or to feel separated from God? Who are the people you turn to for advice about making good decisions? What are some things we can do each day to help us feel closer to God?




God’s PromiseBible Verse

Lord, let your faithful love come to me—let your salvation come to me according to your promise. (Psalm 119:41)

Did You Know?

Today is the first Sunday of the church season of Advent. The word comes from the Latin word adventus, meaning “coming.” Advent marks the beginning of the new

Christian year. It is a time when we prepare for the arrival of Jesus and the fulfillment of God’s promise to make all things new. Advent is a time when we stop to think about our relationship with God. It also is a time when we look forward to the coming of God’s community of love in the arrival of Jesus.

During Advent the church reads from the Old Testament prophets who speak about the future arrival of the Messiah. Jeremiah chronicles the temple’s destruction and the Babylonian exile of God’s people. In the midst of this pain and suffering, Jeremiah writes about the healing that will take place when Israel is restored. According to Jeremiah, God will raise up a leader from David’s line, who will be called righteous. We know this prophecy points to the future arrival of Jesus.

Invite your students to reflect on the meaning and purpose of Advent. Remind them that it is a time to prepare for the arrival of Jesus and all that it means. Encourage your students to consider how Jesus’ arrival is a fulfilment of God’s promise to bring healing to the world. Consider introducing an Advent service project. Encourage your students to undertake daily spiritual practices through Advent, such as praying, reading the Bible, keeping a gratitude journal, and so forth.

Exploration Points • Advent is a time when we prepare for the arrival of Jesus.

• Jesus’ birth is a sign of God’s promise to be present with us.


Bible StoryJeremiah 33:14-16

Compass Point God promises to be present with us.






Suppliesmasking tape, plastic cups, table tennis balls, permanent markers






SAY: Today is the first Sunday in the church season of Advent. It is a time when we think about God’s promise to send Jesus.

ASK: How is God’s promise to send Jesus like the promises that we make? How is it different?

gA me - CATCh UP

Tape two lines on opposite sides of your space.

• Divide your students into teams of two. Give each player a cup.

• Give each team a table tennis ball, and make permanent markers available. Invite each pair to mark a ball with a unique design or symbol.

• Invite the first player from each pair who is holding the table tennis ball to line up along one of the masking-tape lines.

• Invite the second player from each team to line up along the other masking-tape line, opposite their teammate.

• Instruct those holding the table tennis balls to turn around and face away from the other line.

• Inform your students that the game is a complicated version of catch.

• Players will take turns throwing the table tennis ball over their shoulder.

• Their teammate must try to catch the ball “on the fly,” using only the plastic cup.

• The pair that makes the most successful catches wins.

SAY: You had to face backward and forward while playing the game. Advent is a time when we look forward to Jesus’ arrival while looking back at Jesus’ birth.

ASK: What are some of the ways our church celebrates Advent and prepares for the arrival of Jesus?










• Invite your students to look up Jeremiah 33:14-16 and to take turns reading.

r eAD in g - Pr ofoU nD Pr oPh eTS Photocopy page 77, one for each student.

SAY: During Advent, we often hear some of the Old Testament prophecies about Jesus read in worship. Let’s put them together in a litany that we’ll read together.



ASK: Are any of these scripture passages read during Advent at our church?

DiSCUS S iT - goD’S Pr omi Se






Grow StrongerPo PSTAr: Pr omi Se of Pr eSenCe



ASK: What are some signs of God’s presence that you experience each day?

g ro UP Time - A DV enT T en• Make banner paper and permanent markers available.

• Encourage your students to come up with a list of ten fellowship and/or service project ideas.

• Invite your group to vote on their favorite.

• Set up a date/time to meet if it will take place outside of your normal scheduled time together.




Suppliesbanner paper, purple or blue acrylic paint and brushes, paper towels


Cr eAT i Ve exPreSSion - PUrPLe DAYS


SAY: Each church season has a special color. For Advent, the color is purple or blue. Purple is the color of royalty, while blue represents hope.

• Make banner paper, purple or blue paint and brushes, and paper towels available.

• Invite your students to create Advent banners.

• Encourage them to paint symbols or words that tie into the theme of Advent, such as Promise, Faith, Hope, Love, Joy, Peace, and so forth.



Worship







Reading - Profound ProphetsreADer 1: In the days to come the mountain of the Lord’s house will be the highest of the mountains. It will be lifted

above the hills; peoples will stream to it. Many nations will go and say, “Come, let’s go up to the Lord’s mountain, to the house of Jacob’s God so that he may teach us his ways and we may walk in God’s paths.” (Isaiah 2:2-3a)

reADer 2: Instruction will come from Zion; the Lord’s word from Jerusalem. God will judge between the nations, and settle disputes of mighty nations. Then they will beat their swords into iron plows and their spears into pruning tools. Nation will not take up sword against nation; they will no longer learn how to make war. (Isaiah 2:3b-4)

reADer 3: A shoot will grow up from the stump of Jesse; a branch will sprout from his roots. The Lord’s spirit will rest upon him, a spirit of wisdom and understanding, a spirit of planning and strength, a spirit of knowledge and fear of the Lord. He will delight in fearing the Lord. (Isaiah 11:1-3a)

reADer 1: The wolf will live with the lamb, and the leopard will lie down with the young goat; the calf and the young lion will feed together, and a little child will lead them. The cow and the bear will graze. Their young will lie down together, and a lion will eat straw like an ox. (Isaiah 11:6-7)

reADer 2: A nursing child will play over the snake’s hole; toddlers will reach right over the serpent’s den. They won’t harm or destroy anywhere on my holy mountain. The earth will surely be filled with the knowledge of the Lord, just as the water covers the sea. (Isaiah 11:8-9)

reADer 3: The Lord God’s spirit is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me. He has sent me to bring good news to the poor, to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim release for captives, and liberation for prisoners, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor and a day of vindication for our God. (Isaiah 61:1-2)

reADer 1: The time is coming, declares the Lord, when I will fulfill my gracious promise with the people of Israel and Judah. In those days and at that time, I will raise up a righteous branch from David’s line, who will do what is just and right in the land. In those days, Judah will be saved and Jerusalem will live in safety. And this is what he will be called: The Lord Is Our Righteousness. (Jeremiah 33:14-16)

reADer 2: As for you, Bethlehem of Ephrathah, though you are the least significant of Judah’s forces, one who is to be a ruler in Israel on my behalf will come out from you. His origin is from remote times, from ancient days. Therefore, he will give them up until the time when she who is in labor gives birth. The rest of his kin will return to the people of Israel. (Micah 5:2-3)

reADer 3: He will stand and shepherd his flock in the strength of the Lord, in the majesty of the name of the Lord his God. They will dwell secure, because he will surely become great throughout the earth; he will become one of peace. (Micah 5:4-5a)




Discuss It - God’s PromiseSAY: Jeremiah was a prophet who wrote during a tough time. God’s temple was destroyed along with the entire city of

Jerusalem. God’s people were made to leave their homes in Judah and travel a long way to the kingdom of Babylon. Despite all this, Jeremiah wrote with hope about God’s promise to be with the people and to save them.

ASK: How do you think people responded to Jeremiah’s hopeful message when they experienced so much tragedy? Do you stay hopeful when you’re in a tough situation? How do you experience God’s promise to be with you when times are rough?

SAY: Prophets like Jeremiah often wrote about the future. The prophets in the Bible told others about how God would send a ruler who would bring peace. We know that the prophets were talking about the Messiah sharing God’s community of love with the world. They received some of the details about Jesus before anyone else.

ASK: Have you ever received special news before anyone else? What was it like to know something before others knew about it? Did you share the news with anyone? Why do you think God revealed different details about Jesus’ birth to different prophets?

SAY: In movies, people who prophesy about the future sometimes are shown as wizards or fortune-tellers. In Bible times, prophets were regular people chosen by God to help the people understand God’s message. Prophets also helped the people improve their friendship with God.

ASK: Are there people in your life who help you grow closer to God? Who are they? How do they help you understand God’s message? What are the ways they help you grow closer to God? Are there ways God uses you to help others know about God?

SAY: Today begins the church season of Advent. The term Advent comes from the Latin word adventus, which means “coming.” This is a time when we prepare for the birth of Jesus. We focus on what it means that God sent Jesus to come down to earth and live with us.

ASK: Are there special things we do at church during Advent to focus on the meaning of this season? How is the church decorated differently? Do you notice anything different about the worship service? Is there anything special that you do at home to celebrate Advent and prepare for the birth of Jesus?


Vol. 1 • No. 1 • FALL 2015

EDITORIAL / DESIGN TEAMNathan Maben-Tenney ..........................................Editor/WriterHeidi Hewi� ...................................................... Production EditorKellie Green ..........................................................................Designer

ADMINISTRATIVE TEAMNeil M. Alexander .............................................................PublisherMarjorie M. Pon ...................................Associate Publisher and

Editor of Church School Publications (CSP)Phillip D. Francis ........................Senior Design Manager, CSPLeeDell B. Stickler ......Senior Editor, Children’s Resources

Submerge: Ages 11+, Leader’s Guide: An offi cial resource for The United Methodist Church approved by the General Board of Discipleship and published quarterly by Cokesbury, a division of The United Methodist Publishing House, 2222 Rosa L. Parks Blvd., P.O. Box 280988, Nashville, TN 37228-0988. Price: $10.99. Copyright © 2015 Cokesbury. All rights reserved. Send address changes to Submerge: Ages 11+, Leader’s Guide: Subscription Services, 2222 Rosa L. Parks Blvd., P.O. Box 280988, Nashville, TN 37228-0988 or call 800-672-1789. Printed in the United States of America.

To order copies of this publication, call toll free: 800-672-1789. You may fax your order to 800-445-8189. Telecommunication Device for the Deaf/Telex Telephone: 800-227-4091. Or order online at cokesbury.com. Use your Cokesbury account, American Express, Visa, Discover, or MasterCard.For information concerning permission to reproduce any material in this publication, write to Rights and Permissions, The United Methodist Publishing House,

2222 Rosa L. Parks Blvd., P.O. Box 280988, Nashville, TN 37228-0988. You may fax your request to 615-749-6128. Or e-mail [email protected].

Scripture quotations are from the Common English Bible. Copyright © 2011 by the Common English Bible. All rights reserved. Used by permission. www.CommonEnglishBible.com

15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24— 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1

PACP10001424-01

Scope and Sequence 2015–16

Summer2016

Spring2016

Winter2015–16

Fall2015

UNIT 1: Dive Deeper Into…Advent and ChristmasSession 1: Faith (Isaiah’s Prophecy)

Session 2: Waiting (Elizabeth and Zechariah)

Session 3: Courage (Mary and Joseph)

Session 4: Incarnation (Jesus Is Born)

UNIT 2: Dive Deeper Into…Christmas and EpiphanySession 5: Worshipping (The Magi)

Session 6: God’s Grace (The Baptism of Jesus)

Session 7: Being Called (Jesus Calls the Twelve)

Session 8: How to Treat Others (The Sermon on the Mount)

Session 9: Having a Healing Faith (Jesus Heals Many People)

UNIT 3: Dive Deeper Into…the Life of JesusSession 10: Sharing (Jesus Feeds 5,000 People)

Session 11: Knowing Jesus (The Transfi guration)

Session 12: Praising Jesus (The Entry Into Jerusalem)

Session 13: Justice (The Cleansing of the Temple)

UNIT 1: Dive Deeper Into…GenesisSession 1: Caring for Creation (Creation)

Session 2: Avoiding Jealousy (Cain and Abel)

Session 3: Resolving Confl icts (Abraham and Lot Separate)

Session 4: Confronting Rivalries (Jacob and Esau)

UNIT 2: Dive Deeper Into…Exodus and the JudgesSession 5: Using Our Talents (Joseph Interprets Dreams)

Session 6: Calling (God Calls Moses)

Session 7: Courage (Moses Sends the Spies)

Session 8: Trusting God (Deborah, Barak, and Jael)

UNIT 3: Dive Deeper Into…Samuel and the KingsSession 9: Listening to God (God Speaks to Samuel)

Session 10: Following God’s Will (Saul Disobeys God)

Session 11: Seeking God’s Help (Solomon’s Wisdom)

Session 12: Choosing Our Actions (The Divided Kingdom)

Session 13: God’s Promise (Jeremiah’s Prophecy)

UNIT 1: Dive Deeper Into…Lent and EasterSession 1: Sharing Communion (The Last Supper)

Session 2: Suff ering (Jesus’ Betrayal, Arrest, and Trial)

Session 3: Death (Jesus’ Death)

Session 4: Resurrection (Jesus’ Resurrection)

UNIT 2: Dive Deeper Into…the Easter SeasonSession 5: Overcoming Doubt (Thomas and the Disciples)

Session 6: Encountering Jesus (The Disciples on the Beach)

Session 7: Proclaiming (The Great Commission)

Session 8: Waiting (The Ascension)

UNIT 3: Dive Deeper Into…the Book of ActsSession 9: The Holy Spirit (Pentecost)

Session 10: Sharing (Forming Communities)

Session 11: Courage (The Martyrdom of Stephen)

Session 12: Welcoming All (Peter and Cornelius)

Session 13: Working Together (The Jerusalem Council)

UNIT 1: Dive Deeper Into…Stories of Faithful WomenSession 1: Cleverness (Miriam Looks A� er Moses)

Session 2: Friendship (Ruth and Naomi)

Session 3: Covenant (Hannah Dedicates Samuel)

Session 4: Selfl essness (Esther, Mordecai, and Haman)

UNIT 2: Dive Deeper Into…Signs in John’s GospelSession 5: Hospitality (The Wedding at Cana)

Session 6: Faith (Jesus Heals the Royal Offi cial’s Son)

Session 7: Compassion (Jesus Heals the Man at Bethsaida)

Session 8: Authentic Discipleship (Jesus Heals the Man Born Blind)

Session 9: Empathy (The Raising of Lazarus)

UNIT 3: Dive Deeper Into…Advice From PaulSession 10: Faithful Living (Paul on Faithful Living)

Session 11: Working Together (Paul on Working Together)

Session 12: Christian Love (Paul on Christian Love)

Session 13: Avoiding Confl ict (Paul on Avoiding Confl ict)

If you have questions or comments, call Curric-U-Phone toll free: 800-251-8591. Or e-mail [email protected].

Cokesbury.com | 800.672.1789Community Resource Consultants

Lessons taught in Sunday school reinforced and brought to life in 3D!Deep Blue Adventure AppChildren have fun while learning Bible truths and God’s Word to share with friends.







brought to life in 3D!Deep BlueChildren have fun while learning Bible truths and God’s Word to share with friends.







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