Return of the Dead Guy March 6 - christchurchil.orgchristchurchil.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/LG-LF-March.pdf · FEATURE PRESENTATION: We know that sometimes you want to “mix

252 Groups March 2016, Week 1 Large Group, K-3

©2016 The reThink Group. All rights reserved. • www.ThinkOrange.com If you change the content of this document, please add to the copyright: Adapted by (your name/organization name/date).

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Return of the Dead Guy March 6

Bible History: Return of the Dead Guy (Lazarus raised to life) • John 11:1-45 Bottom Line: Whatever happens, remember how powerful God is. Memory Verse: “In this world you will have trouble. But be encouraged! I have won the battle over the world.” John 16:33b, NIrV Virtue: Hope—believing that something good can come out of something bad. Basic Truth: I can trust God no matter what.

Story: Communicating God’s Truth in Engaging Ways (Large Group, 35 minutes) Engage kids’ hearts through a dynamic and interactive Bible story, worship, and prayer experience in a Large Group setting.

GETTING READY 1. Opener/Closer What You Need:

Host Cue card with Life App definition Camping tent Empty box Roll of toilet paper Small flashlights for every kid, divided into bags; 1 bag per Small Group (these will be used

again in Week 4) Music and Sound Effects (SFX):

Upbeat music to use as kids enter and exit the room Large Group Visuals (downloadable from the website):

Memory Verse Bottom Line Slide

What You Do:

Download the slides and have them ready to use. If you do not have CG capabilities, you have Orange’s permission to enlarge and print the slides on paper.

Set up the tent on the stage and put the empty box and roll of toilet paper (see Bible story notes) inside. Host should be inside the tent before your kids enter the Large Group area.

Make a plan for turning on and off the lights in the room. If your room doesn’t get very dark even with the lights off, consider covering up the windows or any other light sources that you can.

Use poster board to create a cue card with the Life App definition. If you’d like to purchase smaller lights in bulk for each kid check this out:

http://amzn.to/1PCbKnY (Note: You will use the flashlights again during Week 4.)

2. Bible Story

http://amzn.to/1PCbKnY



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What You Need: Storyteller Host Bible Tent (same as the Opener) Table 1 roll of toilet paper “Bethany” sign Prop box containing:

o Blanket o Blank piece of paper o Pen (feather pen is even better) o “Day 1” and “Day 2” signs (optional)

Large Group Visuals (downloadable from the website):

Bottom Line Slide What You Do:


Create a sign that says “Bethany” on it and place it near the tent. Place the table on the opposite side of the stage from the tent and “Bethany” sign. Hide the roll of toilet paper in the tent. (Optional) Create two signs: one that says “Day 1” and one that says “Day 2”. Keep them off

stage until the Host enters during the story.

3. Worship What You Need:

Worship Leader(s) Music and Sound Effects (SFX):

“Let It Be Known” from Movin’ Me* “Sing and Shout” from Walk This Way*

*Live lyrics video available from https://amberskyrecords.com/ What You Do:

Download all songs (available on AmberSkyRecords.com) and have them ready to use. Download and print this week’s tech sheet for everyone helping with Large Group.

https://amberskyrecords.com/



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4. Additional Resources GET REEL: This month with Get Reel 2.0, we’ll discover what it looks like to have hope when everything seems to be going wrong.

This week, we recommend playing the Discovery video to inspire the key faith skill of Navigate the Bible. Our Host literally jumps into the Bible to help us discover how God wants us to learn what He says and apply it to our lives. Also on Get Reel 2.0, you can enhance your environment with an M.C. Haggis video. M.C. Haggis and his sidekick Shamus McFamus tell us all about this month’s widget.

FEATURE PRESENTATION: We know that sometimes you want to “mix things up” to keep kids engaged with the most important thing you do every week in your Large Group: tell the Bible story.

You also like having a back-up plan in case your Host or Storyteller cancels at the last minute. This is why our Large Group script is interchangeable with the Feature Presentation DVDs so you can plug and play the way you need to each week. Similar to the flow we create with our Large Group script, Feature Presentation also has weekly Intro and Outro videos with a Host. The Intros set up the Bible story and Life App, while the Outros smoothly transition from Large Group to Small Group. For the K-3 age group, we recommend playing 252 Story, which brings you the Bible story in a simple and direct way through a professional Leader accompanied by illustrations.

Widget*: Hope by the Dozen * widg·et [wij-it] –noun 1. Something unspecific whose name is either forgotten or not known. 2. A device that is very useful for a particular job Origin: 1925–30; perhaps an alternative form of gadget

All it takes is one difficult situation to make it feel like you’re stuck in the dark. That’s why this month’s widget offers a whole carton of reminders that good can come out of bad. Give the kids and families in your ministry HOPE BY THE DOZEN, a special set of tattoos to use on Easter eggs. Each sticker offers a reason for holding on to hope. As families work on their eggs together, they have a chance to remember the amazing hope we have through what Jesus did for us when he gave His life and rose again. Families can keep it simple and just apply the decals to their Easter eggs, or go all out and add them to eggs they dye.



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Return of the Dead Guy March 6

Bible History: Return of the Dead Guy (Lazarus raised to life) • John 11:1-45 Bottom Line: Whatever happens, remember how powerful God is. Memory Verse: “In this world you will have trouble. But be encouraged! I have won the battle over the world.” John 16:33b, NIrV Virtue: Hope—believing that something good can come out of something bad. Basic Truth: I can trust God no matter what.

Story: Communicating God’s Truth in Engaging Ways (Large Group, 35 minutes) Engage kids’ hearts through a dynamic and interactive Bible story, worship, and prayer experience in a Large Group setting. SFX: Play high-energy music as kids enter – “Time to Get Started” CG: Welcome to Lighthouse Welcome ANNE: “Welcome to Lighthouse. We are glad to see you.”

Anne says announcements and exits. Host is inside the tent with the empty prop box, with the door zipped up. The kids shouldn’t know he is in there.

LIGHTS: After Anne exits stage, turn off the lights Opener HOST: (Talking from within the tent) “Oh, no! What’s going on? Why are the lights off? Hello? Is anyone out there? (Unzip the tent and squint out into the darkness.) Oh, hey, you guys! I’m glad you’re here. I don’t like being in the dark, and I especially don’t like being in the dark ALONE!” “I got this new tent and thought it might be cool to try it out before I go camping for real. But now that I think about it, if I go camping in the woods, I’ll have to be in the dark all night long! I’m not sure I’m up for that!” “Speaking of the dark, I’m not sure how I’m supposed to share what we’re talking about this month if I’m sitting here in the dark. I don’t know what to do! Can you guys help? Maybe your Small Group Leaders have some ideas.”

Small Group Leaders pass the flashlights out to the kids and instruct them to turn them on. They will likely shine them in Host’s face, which is fine.

(Block the light with your hand.) “Wow. That’s a lot of light. That’s definitely going to help, but I think I need the light up here if it’s going to help me be able to read. Can you guys relay your flashlights up to me?”

Small Group Leaders help the kids figure out how to pass



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the flashlights up one by one and hand them to Host, who places them inside the tent. By the time all the flashlights are in the tent, the tent should glow. Host remains in the tent.

“Wow. That’s awesome! Look how cool my tent looks now! You guys really helped me turn this situation around. That reminds me of our virtue, which I can actually read to you now that I can see. (Read from the cue card.) Hope is believing that something good can come out of something bad.” “Things looked pretty dark and scary for me a little while ago when the lights went out, but thanks to you guys, we made something pretty great out of a bad situation.” LIGHTS: Lights suddenly come back up “Oh, good! We have light! I’m so glad that didn’t last long. We’ll need the lights if we’re going to sing and dance, after all!”

TNT enter as Host scoops up the flashlights and puts them in the empty prop box, then exits the tent and stage with the box.

Worship TNT LEADER: “Oh yeah. Stand to your feet. We are going to worship God together. Psalm 96:2 says, ‘Sing to the Lord. Praise him. Day after day tell about how he saves us.’ (NIrV) That’s what we’re going to do as we sing about how love is patient, kind! Our God loves us. He is powerful and strong, so let’s celebrate and praise Him.” SFX: “Follow the Way of Love” “We have a new song to sing today. It’s all about how we should stand on the promises that Jesus made as our forever friend and savior. Psalm 95:1 says, ‘Come, let us sing for joy to the Lord. Let us give a loud shout to the Rock who saves us.’ (NIrV) Let’s learn this song together and give God our praise for all He has done.” SFX: “Standing on the Promise”

Storyteller and Host enter as Worship Leaders exit. Host is carrying the box of Bible story props and Storyteller is holding a Bible. Host sets the piece of paper, pen, and the “Day 1” and “Day 2” signs (optional) on the table.

SETTING UP THE STORY STORYTELLER: “I’m thrilled to be here with you guys today to tell you a true story found in the book of John (hold up the Bible). Now is the book of John found in the New Testament or the Old Testament? (Kids reply). The New Testament. In fact, John is the forth book of the New Testament. [Host’s name] has volunteered to help me out by playing the role of Lazarus. Let’s welcome Lazarus to Lighthouse. (Lead applause.) “A man named Lazarus lived in the town of Bethany …



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Host walks toward the Bethany sign.

“… with his sisters Martha and Mary. But one day, Lazarus got sick.

Host coughs.

“He got really, really sick. Host wraps up in a blanket.

“In fact, Lazarus was dying. Host slowly lowers himself to the ground.

SEND FOR JESUS STORYTELLER: “Things weren’t looking so good for Lazarus, but he did have one really big thing going for him: Lazarus and his sisters were friends with Jesus. In fact, Jesus had stayed with them many times. Jesus loved Lazarus and his sisters very much. Mary and Martha knew what to do.

Storyteller walks over to the table. He pretends to write a message on the piece of paper. Storyteller then folds it into a paper airplane.

CG: John 11:3 “They sent a message to Jesus (throw the paper airplane to the other side of the stage, away from Host), who was on the other side of the Jordan River from Bethany. They sent Jesus this simple message: ‘The one you love is sick.’ (John 11:3, NIrV) “When Jesus got the message, He said that Lazarus’s sickness wouldn’t end in death. But Jesus didn’t rush off to Bethany like you would have thought He would. (Pick up the signs.) Instead, He spent two more days where He was.” (Put the signs down one at a time.) LAZARUS DIES STORYTELLER: “Two days later, when Jesus made plans to leave for Bethany, His disciples became worried. After all, it hadn’t been all that long ago since people had tried to kill Him at the temple in Jerusalem—and Jerusalem was very close to the town of Bethany. Why would He want to risk going back? CG: John 11:14b-15 “But Jesus insisted. He told the disciples (read directly from John 11:14b-15), ‘Lazarus is dead. For your benefit, I am glad I was not there. Now you will believe. But let us go to him.’ (NIrV) “Jesus and the disciples left for Bethany. (Walk toward the Bethany sign.) But when they arrived, they found out that Lazarus had not only died, but he had been buried for four days already!” HOST: “Aw, man.

Host gets up off the ground, goes into the tent, and zips it



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up. While Storyteller continues with the story, Host should wrap himself up in toilet paper and then lie down at the back of the tent.

STORYTELLER: “Many friends had gathered to comfort Mary and Martha as they grieved their brother and laid his body in a tomb. When the sisters heard that Jesus was coming, Mary stayed behind while Martha rushed out to meet Jesus. Let’s see what she had to say to Him.” CG: John 11:23-26 (Read John 11:23-26.) “‘“Lord,” Martha said to Jesus, “I wish you had been here! Then my brother would not have died. But I know that even now God will give you anything you ask for.” Jesus said to her, “Your brother will rise again.” Martha answered, “I know he will rise again. This will happen when people are raised from the dead on the last day.” Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even if they die. And whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?” “Yes, Lord,” she replied. “I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God. I believe that you are the one who is supposed to come into the world.”’ (NIrV) “Martha then rushed home to get Mary. She told her Jesus was looking for her. Together, the sisters returned to the place where Jesus waited outside the village. Mary threw herself down at Jesus’ feet, her tears mixing with the dust.” CG: John 11:32 She cried (read John 11:32), ‘Lord, I wish you had been here! Then my brother would not have died.’ (NIrV) “Seeing how upset everyone was at Lazarus’ death, the Bible says that Jesus became sad and troubled. He asked where Lazarus was. As they led Jesus to the tomb, He began to cry. “People noticed Jesus crying and realized how much He must have loved Lazarus. But they also wondered why Jesus hadn’t healed Lazarus like He had healed so many others.” JESUS RAISES LAZARUS STORYTELLER: “Jesus followed the crowd to the tomb—a large cave with a heavy stone in front. (Walk over to the tent.) ‘Take away the stone,’ He said. (John 11:39, NIrV) CG: John 11:39-40 “But Martha protested. (Read John 11:39, NIrV) ‘But Lord … by this time there is a bad smell,’ she said. ‘Lazarus has been in the tomb for four days.’ “Jesus responded to Martha, ‘Didn’t I tell you that if you believe, you will see God’s glory?’ (John 11:40, NIrV) “So they took away the stone.”

Storyteller unzips the tent, but Host stays toward the back



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of the tent, lying down. CG: John 11:41-42 “Let’s see what happened next. (Read John 11:41b-42.) ‘Then Jesus looked up. He said, “Father, I thank you for hearing me. I know that you always hear me. But I said this for the benefit of the people standing here. I said it so they will believe that you sent me.” Then Jesus called in a loud voice. He said, “Lazarus, come out!”’ (NIrV) (Clear your throat.) Maybe I wasn’t loud enough. Jesus shouted, ‘Lazarus, come out!’

Host gets up and comes out of the tent, wrapped up in toilet paper.

“That’s right! Lazarus stumbled out—alive and well. He blinked in the bright light and tried to flex his hands and feet, still wrapped in linen cloths.” “Jesus told the people around to take the burial clothes off of Lazarus and let him go.”

Host begins to take the toilet paper off. Storyteller can help some, and then Host exits, hands raised in a victory pose.

WRAPPING UP THE STORY STORYTELLER: “That is an INCREDIBLE story, isn’t it? The Bible says that many of the Jews who had come to visit Mary and Martha saw what Jesus did and believed in Him! Well, of course they did! How could you NOT believe that Jesus was the Son of God after you saw Him bring a dead man back to life? Not only did they know that He was from God, they also knew now that God is more powerful than anything—including death!” “And you and I need to remember that truth too. No matter what happens, no matter what you face, you and I need to remember something very important.” CG: Bottom Line Slide [Bottom Line] “Whatever happens, remember how powerful God is. “It’s true! And remembering that the all-powerful God is on your side will help you get through anything. Let’s pray and ask God to help us have hope in Him.” Pray STORYTELLER: “Dear God, we want to have hope. We want to believe that something good can come out of something bad. But the only way we can do that is by remembering that You are our source of hope. No matter what happens, help us remember how powerful You are. We ask these things in Jesus’ name, amen.”

Host enters with prop box full of flashlights (from the Opener) as Storyteller exits.

Closer HOST: “If you’re alone and in the dark, and things are looking pretty scary, it is helpful to have a light. (Hold up one flashlight.) It’s true. And if you want to feel a little more secure, it’s good to have a backup plan … (hold up second flashlight) or two … (hold up as many flashlights as you can) or more.



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“But what happens when your light goes out? (Gently drop one flashlight back into the box.) And your second light goes out? (Drop another one.) And your backup plan falls through? (Drop another one.) How do you have hope when something happens that you totally aren’t prepared for? Like if you get really sick … or if your parents get separated … or if someone you love dies. You know, when times are really, really dark.” (Gently drop all of the flashlights back into the box.) “Well, you might try remembering what Jesus did for Lazarus. Lazarus was dead and buried in a dark cave when Jesus told him to ‘come out.’ And out Lazarus walked, alive and well.” “In fact, you might try remembering other stories from the Bible where God showed how powerful He is. Like how He parted the Red Sea when Moses was leading the Israelites out of Egypt. Or the time Jesus fed over 5,000 people with only a few loaves of bread and fish. Or you can remind yourself of how God made the world and everything in it.” “One way you can remind yourself of the things God has done is by reading His Word, the Bible. Listen to what Jesus said to encourage His disciples in the book of John.” CG: Memory Verse Slide “‘In this world you will have trouble. But be encouraged! I have won the battle over the world,” John 16:33b. (NIrV) “When times are dark, or when you feel alone and scared, one way you can have hope is by remembering how incredibly powerful God is. He’s in charge. He’s in control. And He loves you. You’re in good hands. So the one thing to remember today is this.” CG: Bottom Line Slide [Bottom Line] “Whatever happens, remember how powerful God is. “Say that with me.” HOST and KIDS: [Bottom Line] “Whatever happens, remember how powerful God is.” HOST: “It doesn’t matter how dark it gets. God’s more powerful than everything! So, maybe I can do this camping-in-the-dark thing after all. I may just need one or two of these (pick up a couple of flashlights out of the box). On second thought, maybe I’ll just take all of these.”

Dismiss children to their Small Groups. SFX: Play high-energy music as the kids exit – To God Be the Glory/Doxology CG: Small Groups Slide



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The Savior’s Playbook March 13

Bible History: The Savior’s Playbook (Jesus encourages the disciples) • John 14–16 (Supporting: John 12–13) Bottom Line: Whatever happens, remember what Jesus promised. Memory Verse: “In this world you will have trouble. But be encouraged! I have won the battle over the world.” John 16:33b, NIrV Virtue: Hope—believing that something good can come out of something bad. Basic Truth: I can trust God no matter what.



Host Flashlight

Music and Sound Effects (SFX):

Upbeat music to use as kids enter and exit the room Storm sound effects

o SFX: Light rain o SFX: Big drops of rain o SFX: Heavy downpour o SFX: Thunder booms


Hope Slide Memory Verse Slide Bottom Line Slide

What You Do:


Download the music and SFX from a resource such as iTunes® or the Orange download panel and have it ready to play.

2. Bible Story What You Need:

Storyteller Host Bible



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Binder (with script for Storyteller) Table At least 4 chairs (13 would be ideal) Prop box with:

o Place cards o Cue cards o Plates, cups, utensils, etc. o Play food (optional)




Make place cards for at least Jesus, Peter, John, and Thomas (if you have set up chairs for all of the disciples, then make place cards for all of them). They should be readable from the back of the room.

Make cue cards for the Host with the disciples’ lines from Story. Print script for the Storyteller and put in the binder. Have Host practice setting up the table for the Passover on the stage, including practicing the

timing so that it corresponds with the Bible story set up.



“Better Than the Best Thing” from Turn It Up* “I Will Follow” from Zapped*




This week, we recommend playing the Dear God video to inspire the key faith skill of Dialoguing with God. Also on Get Reel 2.0, you can enhance your environment with graphic motion loops (animation slides) of the theme and Life App.




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The Savior’s Playbook March 13

Bible History: The Savior’s Playbook (Jesus encourages the disciples) • John 14–16 (Supporting: John 12–13) Bottom Line: Whatever happens, remember what Jesus promised. Memory Verse: “In this world you will have trouble. But be encouraged! I have won the battle over the world.” John 16:33b, NIrV Virtue: Hope—believing that something good can come out of something bad. Basic Truth: I can trust God no matter what.

Story: Communicating God’s Truth in Engaging Ways (Large Group, 35 minutes) Engage kids’ hearts through a dynamic and interactive Bible story, worship, and prayer experience in a Large Group setting. SFX: Play high-energy music as kids enter – “Time to Get Started” CG: Welcome to Lighthouse Welcome ANNE: “Good Morning Lighthouse! We are glad you are here with us. I have a couple of announcements.”

Anne shares announcements and exits. Host enters. Opener HOST: “What is up, you guys? Welcome back to Lighthouse, where we are on week two of talking about something so wonderful … something that can change your day—or at least how you view your day. That’s right, I’m talking about hope!” CG: Hope Slide “Hope is believing that something good can come out of something bad. Last week you showed the host (insert name) that he/she could have hope even when they were scared of the dark. But the dark isn’t the only thing you can get scared of. Do any of you get scared of … storms?! (Pause for response.) “I know—me too! So I figured the best way for us to get over our fears is by making our OWN storm! Some of you might have already done this in Small Group. Trust me, this is gonna be awesome. Let’s divide into three groups (the kids don’t need to move, but give them an imaginary line so they know which group they’re a part of). When I move in front of your group, you need to switch your movement to match mine. Then keep doing that movement until I give you a new one to do. “Does everyone have their hands and feet all warmed up? Raise your hands up and give me some wiggly fingers. Nice. Now wiggle your toes. Okay, you should be good to go now. Let’s do this.”

Standing in front of one of the groups, rub your hands together quickly. Gradually move on to the other two groups until everyone is doing the motion. Then move on



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to the next motions (snapping, clapping, patting their legs, then stomping on the ground a few times), starting the group in waves as you did with the first motion. Each time, encourage the group to get louder and faster. Then do the motions in reverse until everyone is slowly rubbing their hands together and then becoming completely still.

“That was great fun, you guys! I wish all storms were like that. Then I’d never have a reason to be scared. But I think we can do EVEN better. Let’s try that one more time and see if we can make it even more like a real storm.”

Repeat everything as you did before, but this time, use the sound effects to add to the storm. Act as though you don’t even notice the real sound effects. You’ll only go through the first half of the storm (through the thunder booms) before the lights go out).

(SFX played a few seconds after the entire group of kids is creating that sound) SFX: Light rain SFX: Big drops of rain SFX: Heavy downpour SFX: Thunder booms LIGHTS: As soon as the thunder booms, cut the lights

Host immediately turns on a flashlight. “WOW! That was incredibly amazing, you guys! You just made a real storm.” LIGHTS: Lights back up “Whew, glad we didn’t have to stay in the dark for long! That was super cool, though. I HOPED it would be good, but it was even better than I expected! No need to fear storms anymore. I’ll just remember how much fun we had making our own storm! Let’s keep the fun going now as we make more fun sounds in worship!”

TNT enters as Host exits. Worship TNT LEADER: “Stand to your feet, everybody. We’re gonna get loud today. Anybody here ever feel like shouting and getting loud? (Pause for response.) Well, Psalm 47:1-2 says ‘Clap your hands, all you nations. Shout to God with cries of joy. Do this because the Lord Most High is wonderful.’ (NIrV) Jesus is amazing. Let’s sing and shout this song to praise Him. Here we go.” SFX: “Better Than the Best Thing” “Yeah. That rocked. I love singing worship to God with all of you. This next song is talks about how we are to stand on the promises of Jesus. Let’s choose to follow God and go where He is calling us to no matter what the road ahead looks like. No matter what happens in life, let’s follow Him. Make this your prayer today as we sing.”



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SFX: “Standing on the Promises” Storyteller and Host enter as TNT team exit.

SETTING UP THE STORY STORYTELLER: “How’s everyone doing today? (Pause for responses.) Awesome. I’m super excited to have [Host’s name] out here to help me this morning. While I get started, [Host’s name], why don’t you get started on setting up the Passover meal like Jesus had asked the disciples to do?”

Host gets to work setting up the table, chairs, plates, cups, utensils, food (optional), place cards, and cue cards. Put Jesus’ place card at the head of the table. Whenever Host is speaking to Jesus, he should address the head of the table. Try to time it so that the physical setup continues through the Bible story setup, and Host is sitting down in Peter’s seat just as the “Passover” section of the story starts.

“Today we’re going to talk about the encouraging words that Jesus had for His disciples during the last meal they shared together. (Hold up the Bible.) It’s found in the book of John, chapters 14-16.”

Storyteller can read the script from the binder, but should be familiar enough with the script that he isn’t looking down the whole time, but is engaging with the audience.

“For many months, the Jewish religious leaders had been troubled by Jesus. He performed miracles and taught large crowds, saying things that challenged the way they thought and lived. They were things like what He said in Luke 6:27, ‘Love your enemies. Do good to those who hate you.’ (NIrV) When Jesus raised His friend Lazarus from the dead, even more people took notice and started to follow Jesus. That’s when the religious leaders got serious about their plans. They knew Jesus would soon be coming to Jerusalem, so they plotted to arrest Jesus and have Him killed.” “Jesus knew these leaders were planning to kill Him. But He also knew God could use even this for good. So He didn’t stay away from Jerusalem. As He entered the city on a donkey, huge crowds waved palm branches to welcome Him.” CG: John 12:13 “Listen to what the people shouted as Jesus rode past them in John 12:13 (read directly from the Bible), ‘Hosanna! Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord. Blessed is the king of Israel!’ (NIrV) the crowd cried out. Once inside the city, Jesus explained to the crowd what was about to happen.” CG: John 12:13 (Read from John 12:25, 32) ‘Anyone who loves their life will lose it. But anyone who hates their life in this world will keep it and have eternal life. … I am going to be lifted up from the earth. When I am, I will bring all people to myself.’”



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PASSOVER STORYTELLER: “If the disciples were uncertain about what Jesus meant by all that, they were about to get really confused. That evening, Jesus and the disciples gathered to eat the Passover meal together. Jesus knew things were about to get bad—really bad. You can find this in John 13.”

Storyteller should read Jesus’ quotes directly from the Bible. Host pretends to eat and drink when not delivering lines.

“Jesus said, ‘One of you is going to hand me over to my enemies.’ (John 13:21, NIrV) You see, Jesus knew the rest of His friends would run away. He told Peter: ‘Where I am going you can’t follow now. But you will follow me later.’” (John 13:36, NIrV) HOST as PETER: (Sitting in Peter’s seat) “Lord … why can’t I follow you now? I will give my life for you.” (John 13:37, NIrV) STORYTELLER: “Jesus told Peter, ‘Before the rooster crows, you will say three times that you don’t know me!’ (John 13:38, NIrV) “And it was true. Before another day passed, Jesus would be betrayed … arrested … left alone. He would be killed. He knew His friends would be devastated. But even in the midst of this terrible darkness, Jesus wanted to give them hope.” JESUS SPEAKS STORYTELLER: “‘Do not let your hearts be troubled. … There are many rooms in my Father’s house,’ (John 14:1-2, NIrV) Jesus encouraged them. ‘That’s where I’m going. And while I’m there, I’ll get a place ready for you. Then I’ll come back. And I’ll take you to be with me there. You know the way to the place where I am going,’ He said.” (John 14:4, NIrV) HOST as THOMAS: (Moving to Thomas’ seat) “‘Lord, we don’t know where you are going. So how can we know the way?’” (John 14:5, NIrV) STORYTELLER: “Jesus told the disciples, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’ (John 14:6, NIrV) The disciples tried to keep up with what Jesus was revealing.” HOST as JOHN: (Moving to John’s seat) (Rubbing his forehead) “Seriously, this is making my head hurt. It sounds like Jesus is telling us He’s going to leave us?” STORYTELLER: “That’s exactly what Jesus was telling them. But it was also so much more than that. Jesus continued encouraging His disciples. Jesus said, ‘If you love me, obey my commands … I will ask the Father. And he will give you another friend to help you and to be with you forever. That friend is the Spirit of truth. He lives with you, and he will be in you.’” (John 14:15-17, NIrV) HOST as JOHN: (Still in John’s seat and looking around at the other seats) “So ... God’s Spirit will be with us?” HOST as PETER: (Moving to Peter’s seat) “That’s what it sounds like He’s saying. Pretty cool!”



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STORYTELLER: “Jesus told the disciples that the Holy Sprit would teach them everything and remind them of all of the incredible things that He had said to them.” AFTER THE PASSOVER STORYTELLER: “As Jesus continued to encourage His friends, they all left the upper room where they had shared the Passover meal and started toward the Garden of Gethsemane. Jesus told them more about His Holy Spirit as they walked.”

Host picks up the place cards for Peter and John, as well as the cue cards, and slowly walks across the stage. Every time Host delivers a line, he should hold up the card with that disciple’s name on it.

Jesus went on. “He will guide you into all the truth. … What the Holy Spirit receives from me he will show to you.’” (John 16:13, 15) HOST as PETER: “Wow. Just … wow.” STORYTELLER: Jesus continued to speak words of encouragement to His disciples. “‘In a little while, you will no longer see me. Then after a little while, you will see me. … Now it’s your time to be sad. But I will see you again. Then you will be full of joy. … I have not been speaking to you plainly, but a time is coming when I will speak clearly. … I have told you these things, so that you can have peace because of me. In this world you will have trouble. But be encouraged! I have won the battle over the world.’” (John 16:16, 22, 25, 33) HOST as JOHN: “It sounds like there is definitely going to be trouble, but we don’t have to worry, because Jesus has already beat it!” STORYTELLER: “Great attitude, John! Sounds like you’ve got some hope! [Host’s name], thank you for your help playing the disciples. You were awesome!”

Host bows and exits. WRAPPING UP THE STORY STORYTELLER: “Sadly, things got pretty intense after that. A few short hours later, Jesus was arrested. The terrible things He had spoken of came true. In the middle of the darkness, Jesus’ friends forgot to hold onto the hope He gave them.” “They forgot Jesus had promised to be with them again. But three days later, they would see everything He said begin to come true.” “The disciples forgot something that you and I must do if we want to have hope in the midst of hard times. And that is: … CG: Bottom Line Slide [Bottom Line] “Whatever happens, remember what Jesus promised. Just like Jesus promised He would send His Holy Spirit to help His disciples, and just as He promised that they would never be alone, and just as He promised that He was preparing a place for them in heaven, He has promised the



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same things to you and me. So, [Bottom Line] whatever happens, remember what Jesus promised. And that will be a lifeline that can carry you through whatever storm you’re facing. Let’s pray and ask God to help us remember.” Pray STORYTELLER: “Dear God, thank You for sending Jesus to be our Savior. But also thank You for sending Him to earth to be our hope. When we’re going through hard times, help us to remember that You have promised to always be with us. We know that we can [Basic Truth] trust You no matter what, and that is how we can know that something good can come out of something bad. Thank You for loving us. We love You. And we ask these things in Jesus’ name, amen.”

Host enters as Storyteller exits. Closer HOST: “We talked about storms earlier today, but there are actually two kinds of storms: a real storm with rain and lightning and thunder, and a storm in your life—something hard that happens. There are going to be times in your life when you’re going to be a bit overwhelmed. Things are going to happen that you won’t see coming. It could be an accident of some kind. It could be someone that you love getting sick. It could be a really hard time at school. It could be … I don’t know what it could be, because I don’t see it coming either.” “But the good news is that if you’re a follower of Jesus, you have a lot to be hopeful about. Jesus promised to prepare a place for you in heaven, in His Father’s house. He also sent His Holy Spirit to help and guide you as you deal with whatever storm comes your way.” “And Jesus made another promise. He said, ‘In this world, you WILL have trouble.’ That doesn’t sound good, but you know what it means? Any storm you face, any problem you have, any kind of trouble you’re in, Jesus saw it coming. He knew it was going to happen even when you didn’t. And what’s even better is what Jesus said next.” CG: Memory Verse Slide “He said, ‘In this world you will have trouble. But be encouraged! I have won the battle over the world,’ John 16:33b. (NIrV) “So if you want to have hope during a storm or through all kinds of trouble, here’s the one thing to remember: CG: Bottom Line Slide [Bottom Line] “Whatever happens, remember what Jesus promised. Say that with me.” HOST and KIDS: [Bottom Line] “Whatever happens, remember what Jesus promised.



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HOST: “Storms don’t last forever. And you don’t have to deal with them alone. That’s why we have some amazing Small Group Leaders who hang out with you every single week. They are there to help! And speaking of Small Groups, it’s time to head out and spend some time in your groups. See you next week!”

Dismiss children to their Small Groups. SFX: Play high-energy music as the kids exit – John 3:16 CG: Small Group Slide



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Son of God Is Not Dead March 27

Bible History: Son of God Is Not Dead (Resurrection; Easter) • John 20:1-18 Bottom Line: Whatever happens, remember God loves you. Memory Verse: “In this world you will have trouble. But be encouraged! I have won the battle over the world.” John 16:33b, NIrV Virtue: Hope—believing that something good can come out of something bad. Basic Truth: I can trust God no matter what.



Host 20 glow in the dark eggs. Glow sticks for each Lighthouse kid 1 Easter basket

Music and Sound Effects (SFX):

Upbeat music to use as kids enter and exit the room Upbeat music to use during the game


Hope Slide Memory Verse Slide Bottom Line Slide

What You Do:


Download the music from a resource such as iTunes® and have it ready to play. Wait to break the glow sticks until right before Large Group. Place a glowing glow stick inside

each bottle, and set the bottles on stage in the traditional formation of bowling pins. You will need to set up two sets of bottles.

Alternate option: Pour a little glow-in-the-dark paint inside each bottle and shake it around so that the inside of the bottle is coated with the paint. Use a heavier egg as the bowling ball (like a Cadbury® egg) if you use this option. Set the bottles on stage in the traditional formation of bowling pins.

Figure out how far back you want your bowlers to stand on the stage and make a line on the stage with painter’s tape.



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Download a countdown clock for the game. Optional: Collect party supplies for worship time in the Closer.

2. Bible Story What You Need:

Storyteller Bible 12 boxes with 6 flashlights (the same exact setup as last week) Large, thin white sheet (same as used last week) Box of small flashlights (enough flashlights for each kid and SGL in the room) (Note: These can

be the same flashlights that you used in Week 1, but be sure to have extra on hand for Easter Sunday attendance. Or if you’d like to purchase smaller lights in bulk for each kid check this out: http://amzn.to/1PCbKnY)




Check your boxes from last week to be sure that they are still set up in the right formation. Check the batteries in your flashlights to be sure they still work.



“Happy Day” from Live It Out* “This Little Light” from Living Inside Out*




This week, we recommend playing the One Thing video to inspire kids to Personalize Scripture and learn to Articulate Their Faith. Also on Get Reel 2.0, you can enhance your environment with a Countdown video to create anticipation and set up your Large Group production.

http://amzn.to/1PCbKnY




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Son of God Is Not Dead March 27

Bible History: Son of God Is Not Dead (Resurrection; Easter) • John 20:1-18 Bottom Line: Whatever happens, remember God loves you. Memory Verse: “In this world you will have trouble. But be encouraged! I have won the battle over the world.” John 16:33b, NIrV Virtue: Hope—believing that something good can come out of something bad. Basic Truth: I can trust God no matter what.


Note: Cross is on stage with spot light on it. House lights –border lights are on.

SFX: Play high-energy music as kids enter – To God Be the Glory CG: Welcome to Lighthouse – Easter Version

Host enters with an Easter basket full of plastic glow in the dark eggs.

Opener HOST: “Haaaaaaaaaaappy Easter, everyone! It’s here! The day is finally here! It’s the best day all year because we are celebrating the best thing that ever happened! If you were with us last week, you might remember TNT performed “The Three Trees.” It was incredible. But a lot has happened this week to Jesus these things were pretty bad. But when things look dark, that’s when we can have hope!” CG: Hope Slide “Hope is believing that something good can come out of something bad. Easter is all about celebrating Jesus and the ‘something good’ we can focus on anytime we need hope! We’ll talk all about that something good—something REALLY, REALLY good—in just a few minutes! But before we get to that, I’ve got a fun game for us to play. All month long we’ve talked about having hope even when we can’t see what is going to happen—when we’re in the dark. Today we are going to see something good come out of the dark because we are going to play … LIGHTS: Lights out “… glow-in-the-dark Easter Egg! Let’s turn the lights back up for a second.” LIGHTS: Lights up



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HOST: “I need two volunteers to come on stage. As you can see I have a basket full of glow in the dark Easter eggs. Here is how we are going to do this. When the lights turn off, you are to pick the one Easter egg you think has a prize in it. If the egg has a prize, you get to keep it. Choose the egg and then hang on to it. Don’t open the egg.” LIGHTS: Lights out “Three … two … one … GO!

2 kids pick their eggs. Once everyone has their eggs, Host continues.

HOST: “On the count of three, open your Easter egg and show the audience what is inside. One, two, three. (2 kids open Easter egg.) Both eggs had prizes in them. How do you feel right now? (Kids respond). Surprised. Excited. Confused. You didn’t expect to see a prize in both eggs. And the prize was a cross. Well, those same feelings are the feelings that Jesus’ friends felt on that first Easter. They were surprised, confused and didn’t expect what had happened.” LIGHTS: Lights up when game is over “You will hear more about Jesus’ friends in a moment. But I’d say something good came out of the dark, wouldn’t you?! You guys get up on your feet and let’s worship God!”

TNT Worship team enter as Host exits. Worship TNT LEADER: “Yeah, Happy Easter. Let’s sing and celebrate that Jesus is alive. With Him in our lives it is truly a happy day. Let’s sing how His light will shine in us. ” SFX: “This Little Light” TNT LEADER: “This next song is talks about how we are to stand on the promises of Jesus. Let’s choose to follow God and go where He is calling us to no matter what the road ahead looks like. No matter what happens in life, let’s follow Him. Make this your prayer today as we sing.” SFX: “Standing on the Promises”

Storyteller enters with the box of flashlight/glow sticks and sets it to the side.

SETTING UP THE STORY STORYTELLER: “Before we get started with our Bible story today, I need a few people to help me. First, Host/ Anne can you play the role of Mary Magdalene?”

Host enters. HOST/ANNE: “I would love to.” Host exits. Changes into Bible times rob. STORYTELLER: “I also need several people to play the role of the disciples. (Choose a few kids and



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bring them to the front of the audience, huddled up together.) Okay, the rest of you are going to represent the 500, but I’ll explain that later.” LIGHTS: Dim lights, Spot light on Cross

Note: If it’s not possible to dim your lights, turn on a lamp or other small light so that it’s not pitch black in the room. You just want it to be dark enough to see the glow of the cross in the boxes, but light enough that people can safely walk around the room as needed.

“Let me bring you up to speed about what has happened. Last week, things got pretty dark and sad. Jesus was arrested and beaten.” LIGHTS: Dim lights lower “They put a thorn of crowns on His head. (Storyteller places crown of thorns on the cross). He was hung on a cross where they placed a sign that read, ‘King of the Jews’—even though few people believed that was true. They cast lots for His clothes, gave Him vinegar to drink, and then … He died.” LIGHTS: All stage lights should be off now. Spot Light is dimmed but gets brighter. Stage lights gradually brighter, but not too bright. AN EMPTY TOMB STORYTELLER: “Things were also looking really dark for Jesus’ friends. He was dead. Mary Magdalene was sure of it, because she had seen Him die on a cross on Friday afternoon. Later that evening, two of Jesus’ friends, Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea, had taken Jesus’ body, wrapped it in linen cloths, and laid it in a cave—a tomb—cut into the rock. Mary had followed and seen them do it.” (Storyteller hangs white linen on the cross.)

Host/Mary enters stage and reacts to what is being said. Goes to the large center open doorway on stage and pretends that is the tomb.

“We pick up our story in John 20. Now, early on Sunday morning, Mary arrived at the garden where the tomb was. But something was different. The huge stone! Where was the large stone that had been placed over the entrance to the tomb?! “Her heart was probably pounding out of her chest as she stooped down to peer inside. Though it was dark, she could see what she needed to know. It was empty!’ “Without stopping to think, she rushed out of the garden and ran to the home where Jesus’ friends were staying.” MARY TELLS DISCIPLES STORYTELLER: “Pounding on the door, she called out to the disciples inside.” HOST/MARY: ‘Open the door. Quick! They’ve taken the Lord out of the tomb!’ STORYTELLER: “One of the disciples flung the door open to a frantic Mary. What in the world was she



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talking about?” Mary turns to disciples and says the next line. HOST/MARY: “‘Jesus is gone. ‘We don’t know where they’ve put Him!’ STORYTELLER: “Peter and John were among the group of Jesus’ disciples inside—and they probably stood in shock for a moment. Can you imagine hearing this news for the first time? Then the two men took off for the garden. John arrived first and stopped in amazement as he caught sight of the open tomb. He stood outside the tomb and peered in. There was no body! Only the linen strips that they had wrapped Jesus in were still there. (Storyteller hangs white linen on the cross.) “Peter shoved past John, straight into the tomb. There he found the cloth that was wrapped around Jesus’ face. “What could this mean? The two disciples were confused, as anyone would understandably be. They had seen Jesus die. He was dead. So, did someone steal His body? But why would they do that? “The men knew they needed to tell the other disciples what had happened and form a game plan. Peter and John left the garden, but Mary Magdalene stayed behind, exhausted from running and crying. It seemed impossible that everything Jesus had done—teaching and healing and gathering followers—should end this way. “As she stood outside the tomb crying, Mary bent down to look inside the tomb again. What she discovered nearly made her heart stop. Two shining angels sat inside, robed in white. They were sitting where Jesus’ body had been! They asked, “Mary why are crying?” HOST/MARY: ‘“They have taken my Lord away. I don’t know where they have put him.”’” (John 20:13, NIrV) JESUS APPEARS STORYTELLER: “Mary turned and saw a Man standing behind her. The Man also asked her why she was crying. ‘Who are you looking for?’ He asked. (John 20:15a, NIrV) “Mary shook her head, trying to figure out who would be walking in the garden so early. Maybe it was the gardener. HOST/MARY: ‘Sir, did you carry him away? Tell me where you put him. Then I will go and get him.’ (John 20:15b, NIrV) STORYTELLER: “The Man gently spoke her name. ‘Mary,’ He said. LIGHTS: Dim lights lower almost dark “Slowly, Mary looked through her tears up at the Man’s face. It was Jesus. It was Jesus!” (Walk over and take the Bible and one flashlight/Glow stick out of the box.) HOST/MARY: “‘Teacher!’



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STORYTELLER: “Mary found herself laughing and crying at the same time. She fell down and buried her face in His robe. Jesus was alive! (Turn on the flashlight/glow stick and hand it to Mary.) “Jesus spoke to Mary kindly. (Open the Bible and read John 20:17) ‘Jesus said, “Do not hold on to me. I have not yet ascended to the Father. Instead, go to those who believe in me. Tell them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’”’ (NIrV)

Pull out several flashlights/glow sitcks and hand them to Mary. Have her take them to the group of disciples.

“Just as Jesus instructed, Mary hurried back to find His friends. She had completely forgotten her exhaustion and tears. For the second time that day, Mary pounded on the door.” HOST/MARY: ‘Open the door! Quick! I’ve seen Him! I’ve seen Jesus! He is alive!’ (To the disciples) You can turn on your flashlights/glow sticks now.” WRAPPING UP THE STORY STORYTELLER: “The news didn’t stop spreading there, though.

Host/Storyteller hand the box to a Small Group Leader and have her pass out the flashlights/glow sticks to all of the kids in the room. Instruct the kids to turn on their flashlights/glow sticks when they receive them.

“Over the next weeks, Jesus appeared to His closest friends, and then to nearly 500 people! All of those people could see with their own eyes that God keeps His promises! And then those people spread the word to more and more people, and today, 2,000 years later, we are STILL talking about the miracle of Jesus’ resurrection.” “But guys, think about it. All these lights that are shining through the darkness—they’re only lit because of the cross. (Go to cross which has spot light on it.) Jesus’ death was sad, but it led to the greatest thing: His death and resurrection means that you and I can live with God forever. We can receive the gift of eternal life if we just believe that Jesus died on the cross to pay the price for our sins—for the things we’ve done wrong. Talk about something good coming out of something bad, right?! It’s just like Jesus said when He walked this earth.” CG: Memory Verse Slide “‘In this world you will have trouble. But be encouraged! I have won the battle over the world,’ John 16:33. (NIrV) “Jesus is living proof that whatever happens, God loves you. Because God has come through on all of His promises—including His promise to send us a Savior, we know that we can [Basic Truth] trust God no matter what. God has not only told us time after time, but God has shown us with His actions just how much He loves us.” CG: Bottom Line Slide



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[Bottom Line] “Whatever happens, remember God loves you. “Let’s thank God for loving us.” Pray STORYTELLER: “Dear God, thank You for loving us, in the midst all the ways we mess up every day. We didn’t deserve something good to come out of the bad, but You kept Your promise and sent us a Savior so we could be with You forever. Thank You for sending Jesus and for raising Him to life after He died to pay for our sin. We believe Jesus is alive, and that’s what we are celebrating together today. We love You and we pray these things in Jesus’ name, amen.”

Host enters as Storyteller exits. Closer HOST: “Imagine for a second that you are a disciple. And your friend, Jesus, was just killed. And you’re worried that the people who killed Him are going to be trying to find you next. You’re scared. You’re hiding. You’re in the dark.” “And then there’s a knock on the door and everything changes. The stone that blocked the entrance to Jesus’ tomb has been rolled away and Jesus isn’t in there anymore. God brought Jesus back to life! “Can you imagine? God is stronger than anything. He’s stronger than anything you might be afraid of—snakes, spiders, the dark, whatever. He’s even stronger than death itself. “But it’s even better than that, because when Jesus died on the cross, He died for a reason. He died to pay for your sins and my sins, for all the wrong things we have done. So not only is God stronger than your fears, not only is God stronger than death—He’s strong enough to take away the sins of the world.” “And He did this because He loves you so much. God loves you even when you break the rules and do things that are bad. He’s not out to punish you, because Jesus already took the punishment for you. God loves you no matter what other people think about you. He loves you no matter what YOU think about you. God loves you no matter what. So, you need hope? Here’s one big thing to remember.’ CG: Bottom Line Slide [Bottom Line] “Whatever happens, remember God loves you. That’s so important to remember, so let’s say it together.” HOST and KIDS: [Bottom Line] “Whatever happens, remember God loves you.” HOST: “That’s right. You don’t have to be afraid. You don’t have to hide. God loves you. Keep on hoping, everybody. Keep a nightlight if you need one. And always remember God loves you. That’s something worth celebrating.”

SFX: Play high-energy music as the kids exit – This Little Light CG: Happy Easter Slide



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Documents

Return of the Dead Guy March 6 - christchurchil.orgchristchurchil.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/LG-LF-March.pdf · FEATURE PRESENTATION: We know that sometimes you want to “mix