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May 5, 2013 “A Living Hope” 1 Peter 1:3-12

(Click below to print our lesson or click here for Word document: A LIVING HOPE SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON).  Below you will find activities to reinforce the lesson.  Enjoy!

I have given birth to four children.  Each pregnancy was different.  Each brought their own measure of joy, hope and expectation.  Each has with them dreams of what can be in their future.

It is not just at the times of an impending birth when one thinks about the future.  Our future racks up some big income in the markets.  We plan, put aside and save for our future.  There’s absolutely nothing wrong with that.  I believe God would have us to be good stewards in this area.  But we have become obsessed about the future.  Many companies are cashing in on either our hopes or our insecurities about the future.

As previously stated, there’s nothing wrong with being prepared.  Instead of play to the hysteria of the  markets moving up and down, one should invest reasonably and soberly in their future.  Especially when it comes to our spiritual future.  Sometimes the circumstances of life are not always favorable (like the markets), but if one has proportionally laid up their faith (their stock) in Christ then there is a hope for their future.

This is where this week’s lesson finds us.  Peter is writing a letter of encouragement to those who were dwelling in the area we know as modern-day Turkey.  His readers were enduring hardships and Peter’s intent was to help them to gain a new perspective.  He would not downplay their trials, but he would try to get them to look beyond their trials into the future which they have already invested in through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Vs. 3

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.”  If anyone wants to know about blessing God, about praising Him, they have to look no further than the book of Psalms.  In it, over and over again, the name of the Lord is to be praised “from this time forth and for evermore,” (Ps. 113:20, KJV).  In Psalms we are told “praise is comely for the upright,” (Ps. 33:1, KJV).  Other Bible versions have translated the word “comely” to say “fitting,” and rightly so.

It is God “which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope.”  God’s name is to be “blessed” because of His sovereignty in procuring the plan of salvation for us.  It is through the work of “the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead” that we now possess a “lively hope.”

When Jesus, according to the will and predestined plan of our heavenly Father, went to Calvary’s cross, He did so with one purpose in mind to reconcile mankind back to God (see 2 Cor. 5:18, 19; Col. 1:20).  When He shed His blood we “who were sometimes far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ,” (Eph. 2:13, KJV).  And when Christ rose from the dead He became the firstfruits of them that slept, 1 Cor. 15:20, opening up the door of opportunity for all who believe in Him to follow the same course.

This is all because of His “abundant mercy” which has “begotten us again unto a lively hope.”  It was nothing we have done to deserve the “mercy” of God.  It is “abundant” toward us because of His love.  His love compelled Him to make a way of escape for man to be freed from his sins.  Those who have believed and accepted that gift of salvation have a future to look forward to.  Their hope is “lively” meaning it is alive!  Their hope is alive because the Savior in whom they placed their faith is alive!

Vs. 4

“To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away.”  I have this thing about wanting to leave a legacy.  One time we went on a trip and along the way we were able to see mountains, rivers and farms that we don’t get to see on our daily route.  Passing by these farms made me wonder about the people who lived there.  I thought about their children and how they were probably being raised and taught how to run that farm once their parents are no longer here.  The thought of building up to pass it on is a beautiful concept to me. I admire these people to work hard to leave a legacy.  Nonetheless, I also have reality which lets me know that anything I can build is subject to rot and decay.  But the inheritance that God has stored up for us shall never pass away.  It is “an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away.”

“Reserved in heaven.”  We have in America the Federal Reserve which is responsible for the banking systems in this country.  As secure as it may seem, the investments that we have in this system will one day perish.  One way or another what is housed there will not endure forever.  Be it by robbery, destroyed by events or natural causes over the course of time (aging system  and disintegration), the things that we place stock in there will be no more.  But when our stock of the future is “reserved in heaven,” it is an everlasting treasure, an inheritance that will never fail nor be taken from us.  It’s an enduring salvation.

Vs. 5

“Kept.”  That word deals with safety.  It gives the feeling of being held on to even in the most turbulent of times.  Picture a life saver ring.  When one is overcome by the water and begins to drown, someone from a more stable place (boat or the shore) tosses them this ring to save their life.  God “kept” us and saves our spiritual lives by His “power” through “faith.”  God’s “power” is “able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,” (Eph. 3:20, KJV).  His “power” can do an extraordinary thing in our life now and that which is to come in relation to our faith.

This “power” is only in operation via “through faith unto salvation.”  It’s one’s faith in the saving work of Christ that will be “revealed in the last time.”  The cover will be pulled back in that day.  No more hiding.  The truth will be revealed and those who are dependent on God’s “power” through salvation are “kept.” 

Vs. 6

“Wherein ye greatly rejoice.”  Hard circumstances are not trivial to the one who is going through them.  I don’t really take too kindly when people dismiss the suffering of some.  If the shoe were on the other foot, as they say, you would want someone to sympathize with you.  Peter was not dismissing their hurt and confusion over the events his readers now find themselves in.  He himself knows a thing or two about suffering .  Unlike the unbelievers, his readers have a hope.  This hope is a tool for them to use and employ in the fight for their faith.  Since they have such a spectacular future to look forward to they can now, in their current situation, “greatly rejoice.” 

“Now” is only a “season” and as with any season it is only allotted a certain amount of time to hang around (although this year, winter had a hard time letting go ).  The “seasons” of this life have to let go and make room for the anticipation of something better.

“Heaviness through manifold temptation” reminds us of the patience of Job and all he went through.  Though the word “manifold” is old and not used often now, it still means the same thing – a lot!  Have you ever been in a time of life where it just seems that one thing piles up on top of another?  These pile-ups can be as catastrophic in our faith if it is not firmly planted in our future in Christ, as a car wreck of multitudes.  These “temptations” which here means trials, can be too much to handle if not properly put into perspective through the eyes of hope.

Vs. 7

“The trial of your faith.”  Let’s turn that around to read “Faith on Trial” because that’s exactly what it means.  When God asked Abraham to sacrifice Issac He did not do so for evil intentions.  He did it to see where Abraham’s heart was, where his faith and allegiance lay.  No test in life or in the spirit is without purpose.  Tests are designed to see what is on the inside of an individual be it knowledge (in the natural) or faith (in the spiritual).

“More precious than gold.”  Gold symbolizes wealth.  Gold symbolizes prosperity.  Gold symbolizes endurance and stability.  Gold symbolizes power and the best things this world has to offer.  Yet, even in its most valued state it is still subject to corruption.  Gold is not eternal.  It will tarnish and over time it too will perish.

But faith is more “precious.”  Honest and true faith is more valuable than any amount of gold this world can offer.  Since faith is not an actual physical material, it is not subject to perishing.  It has an enduring quality that cannot be found in the most precious of materials.  A quality that will pass from this life to the next.

“Though it be tried with fire.”  Our faith is akin to gold in its refining process.  Gold has to be filtered through extreme degrees of heat to purify it from all the imperfections that may tarnish its character.  Faith also goes through hard and difficult circumstances to see the purity of it.  Eventually, when gold gets on the other side of the fire time will still take its toll on it and it will pass away like any other thing on this earth.  But when faith gets to the other side of trials, it does that it “might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ.”  When Jesus Christ comes back it will be clearly shown who had genuine faith and who did not.

Vs. 8

“Whom having not seen, ye love.”  Jesus told Thomas after His resurrection, “Because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed,” (John 20:29, KJV).  2 Corinthians 5:7 declares, “For we walk by faith, not by sight,” (KJV).  “Yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory.”  Since you are walking by what you “believe” and not by what you see, in the end you will be rewarded with “joy unspeakable and full of glory.”  Eye has not seen, nor ear heard what God has in store of us (Is. 64:4).

Vs. 9

“Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls.”  Pay day is coming after a while.  You will “receive” what your faith has invested in “the salvation of your souls.”  Psalms 37:18 declares this wonderful truth, “The LORD knoweth the days of the upright: and their inheritance shall be for ever,” (KJV).  The “salvation of your souls” is the forever inheritance!

Vs. 10 – 12

For years it had been prophesied and for years it had been “searched diligently” for, but the “prophets” themselves never laid a natural eye on the “grace that should come.”  Jesus Himself admitted, “That many prophets and righteous men have desired to see those things which you see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which you hear, and have not heard them,” (Matt. 13:17, KJV).  But with their spiritual eye they testified beforehand the suffering of Christ, and the glory that should follow.”

It was “revealed” to them to “minister” to us now.  Peter said, “The things, which are now reported unto you by them have preached the gospel unto you with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven.”  We are the benefactors of that foretelling and it is now “preached the gospel” via the “Holy Ghost sent down from heaven.” 

“Which things the angels desire to look into.”  Despite what many believe, angels are ministering spirits and do not have omniscient ability.  They are not God.  They work on God’s behalf but they do not possess the same authority and power that God does.  We see a lot of people unduly worshiping angels.  When people tried to bow down and worship angels in the Bible, the angels themselves quickly set them straight (see Rev. 19:10;  22:9).  And of their knowledge in that coming day, Jesus said not even the angels in heaven know of it (Matt. 24:36).  Here, like the prophets, the angels “desire to look into,” to fully understand.  But the believers now are “receiving” what they themselves could not fully comprehend.

Below you will find Coloring Pages and Activities to help reinforce this week’s lesson.  Enjoy!

A Living Hope Wordsearch: A LIVING HOPE WORDSEARCH  Answers: A LIVING HOPE WORDSEARCH ANSWERS

A Living Hope Crossword: A LIVING HOPE CROSSWORD  Answers: A LIVING HOPE CROSSWORD ANSWERS

A Living Hope Wordscramble: A LIVING HOPE WORDSCRAMBLE  Answers: A LIVING HOPE WORDSCRAMBLE ANSWERS

A Living Hope Draw the Scene B&W: A LIVING HOPE DRAW THE SCENE BLACK AND WHITE

A Living Hope Draw the Scene Colored: A LIVING HOPE DRAW THE SCENE COLORED

Here are some great activities to help suppliment this week’s lesson:

Lapbook:

Take a regular manila folder and fold in half. Using the following coloring sheets (reduce the sizes to 3.5 x 5) and this lesson title sheet: A Living Hope Title Page your students can make a lapbook to remind them of the different aspects of this week’s lesson. (Coloring sheets used are: “Born Again” Coloring from Church House Collection, “Treasures in Heaven” from Sermon4kids, “P is for Power” Coloring from Twistynoodle.com, “Rejoice” Coloring from Cortright.org, “F is for Faith” from Ministry to Children, “I Love Jesus” from Twistynoodle.com).  Have your students decorate the inside and out!  Have fun with it!  Enjoy!

Puppet:

This week’s lesson is based on “a lively hope.”  The word “lively” means living.  What better way to represent this than with the use of a puppet that moves (as if it’s alive, Pinnochio anyone?).  Let your students put together one of these printed out (on cardstock) from Free Coloring and Crafts.  This is an excellent idea that tells your students our faith is alive!  They can move them and play with them and just have fun.  I used brads instead of string (my preference, it seemed easier).  There are several options to choose from.  If your students are too young a paper bag puppet may be a better choice.  Go to ABCteach.com  for some great choices to choose from.  The one I did is pictured below.  Enjoy!

Here’s an easy last minute put together idea.  Print out this puzzle template on cardstock from DLTK.  Let the students draw and color any picture that reminds them of hope in today’s lesson.  Next, simply have them cut it out (you may have to help younger children).  Don’t forget to take sandwich bags for them to carry this activity home in.  Enjoy!

Below are other activities and coloring idea links by verse.  Different teachers like to focus on different things therefore there are lots to choose from.  Enjoy!

Vs. 3 – “Begotten Us Again”

“Look on the Inside” from Sermons4kids

“Born Again” Coloring from Church House Collection

“Born Again” Handwriting Worksheet from Church House Collection

“Born Again” Maze from Church House Collection

How Many Words Can You Find in “Born Again” from Church House Collection

“Born Again Butterfly Magnet” Craft from Sundayschoolcrafts.net

“Born Again” Activities from Kids Sunday School Place

“New Creation” Activities and Coloring from Calvarycurriculum

“Butterfly and Caterpillar Crafts” from DLTK

“Born Again” Sermons, Activities and Coloring from Sermons4kids

“The Butterfly” Sermons, Activities and Coloring from Sermons4kids

Vs. 4 – “Inheritance . . . Reserved in Heaven”

“Inheritance in Heaven” Coloring from Abdaacts

“Treasures in Heaven” from Sermon4kids

“Heaven” from DLTK

“Heaven” from MSSScrafts

“H is for Heaven” from Ministry to Children

“Heaven” from Calvarywilliamsport

“Heaven” Printables from DLTK

Vs. 5 – “God’s Power”

“God is the Best Father” Coloring from Ministry to Children

“P is for Power” Coloring from Twistynoodle.com

“God Power” Coloring from Colortime.com  (I absolutely love this one!)

Vs. 6 – “Rejoice”

“Rejoice” Coloring from Cortright.org

“Rejoice” Coloring from Freefuneaster.com

“Glory of the Lord” Coloring page from Karla Dornacher

“Rejoice” from Ministry to Children

“Be Glad in the Lord” from Karla Dornacher

Vs. 7 – “Faith”

“F is for Faith” from Ministry to Children

“Faith Brings Victory” from Childrens Gems in My Treasure Box

“Don’t Lose Faith” from Biblehome.org

“Grow in Faith” from Childrens Gems in My Treasure Box

Vs. 8 – “I Love Jesus”

“I Love Jesus” from Twistynoodle.com

“Love the Lord Your God” from http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s3Gf4eys-Ns/URVCctsNHfI/AAAAAAAAcFs/ZhHI5aBHcOU/s1600/Love+The+lord+your+God.jpg

“I Love Jesus” Bracelet Crafts from Craft Kits and Supplies (just an idea, can be done from any supplies)

“I Love Jesus” Penant from Sharonministries.org (just an idea)

P.S.  ******You may want to take pictures of your students this week to prepare for Mother’s Day Activities on next week*******

Related articles

• Sunday School Lesson “Standing Firm in Hope” 2 Thessalonians 2:1-3, 9-17 (wordforlifesays.com)
• Sunday School Lesson “Living With Hope” 1 Thessalonians 4:13 – 5:11 (wordforlifesays.com)
• Sunday School Lesson “Promises Kept” Luke 24:36-53 (wordforlifesays.com)
• Sunday School Lesson “New Power to Proclaim the Truth” Acts 2:1-13 (wordforlifesays.com)

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May 12, 2013 “Equipped for Godliness” 2 Peter 1:3-14 (Activities and Printable Word Document Lesson can be found below. Enjoy!)

My husband fixes stuff and he’s very good at it.  You name it: HVAC, plumbing, kitchen stuff, bathroom stuff, minor electrical stuff and so on.  And if he can’t fix it he has great connections for those who can.  One thing I know by watching him down through the years is that you have to have the right tool for the right job.  I can totally relate because when I am in the kitchen cooking, things go a lot smoother if I have all the necessary tools to get the job done right.

God is so precious in His love toward us.  He did not drop us off on this side of salvation and leave us ill-equipped. He has empowered us with everything we need to run this Christian race.  But we are the ones responsible for picking up the tools out of our spiritual tool boxes and putting them into action.

Vs. 3                                                                                                                                       

“According to his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness.”  The most famous phrase that every Christian longs to hear is “Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord,” (Mt. 25:23, KJV).  In that coming day, when this is spoken to us, it will bring great joy to our souls because it says, “We’ve made it!”  But we didn’t get there on our own.  God, through His “divine power” equipped us for the journey that led to our spiritual success.

He “hath given us all things that pertain unto life and godliness.”  I am particularly drawn to the word “all” here. That word speaks of the way God does everything.  God is complete and thorough in everything He gets involved with and when He got involved with us, He left no stone unturned.  He continued in His pattern of perfection in giving the Christian everything they needed in their spiritual life.

His goal is for us “to be conformed to the image of his Son,” (Rom. 8:29, KJV) and to have “the mind of Christ,” (1 Cor. 2:16, KJV).  He would not impress such a calling upon our lives without the proper resources for the job.  Because it is “through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue.”

Vs. 4

“Partakers of the divine nature.”  When we were kids we longed to be a part of something good.  Many strive to share in the attraction of the more popular groups.  Even into adulthood we see this pulling of acceptance into something beyond ourselves.  Here, Peter reminds us that God has opened the door through His “great and precious promises” to share in all that Christ is, His “divine nature.” 1 John 1:2 tells us that we are “now . . . the sons of God” and “we shall be like him,” (KJV).

“Having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.”  Not only were we grafted into His glorious nature, but at the same time, we were pulled out (escaped) of our old nature.  “And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness,” (Eph. 4:24, KJV).

John strictly warns us “And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of the Father abideth for ever,” (1 John 2:17, KJV, emphasis in bold mine to reiterate point of lesson).  Why?  Because He brought us out of all the old (escaped) and put us into the new and there we abide forever.  (This would be a great time to start putting the bug in your students’ ear about salvation and even beginning a call to salvation here.  Acts 3:19, “Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord,” (KJV). (see also Acts 2:28; 2 Cor. 5:17; Rom. 12:1-2).

Vs. 5

“Add to your faith.”  God gave us the promises.  His plan of salvation gave us the way of escape from the world’s system.  But we have the responsibility to also work to nurture our own spiritual growth, to “giving all diligence.”  When someone is diligent that means they are putting forth a conscientious effort to pay careful heed to and give it their all.  We do this by “adding” or building and working on different characteristics of a Christ-filled life.

“Faith.”  “Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen,” (Heb. 11:1, KJV).  Faith is the basic element for which everything in the spirit is built on.  We heard the gospel with faith.  We believe the message therein by faith.  We started a life anew into godliness by faith.  Everything begins with faith.  Faith views your future through spiritual eyes that allow them to see the greater that God has in store for us.

“Virtue.”  Anytime we hear the word “virtue” our minds automatically take us to Proverbs 31 and the telling of the virtuous woman.  The word here speaks of one’s moral excellence and according to Peter, it is for every child of God to grown in.  In order for one to live an excellent life, one of “virtue,” they have to “put away” those things that are opposing to the spirit of Christ, (Eph. 4:31, KJV).

“Knowledge.”  We live in the information age and accessing knowledge takes little effort.  This “knowledge” that Peter is speaking of is an experiential knowing – and it takes work!  The Christian is responsible for learning more of Him and His ways.  Yes, God has initially “given us all things,” but if we love Him and His ways, we have to get down in there and get our hands dirty.

Jeremiah 9:24 says, “But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I am the LORD which exercise lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I delight, saith the Lord,” (KJV).  A soul equipped for godliness knows the Equipper.  He has an intimate fellowship with Him.

Have you ever ordered furniture from a catalog or bought a boxed desk, shelf or drawers from the store?  When you get it home and open the box all you see is pieces everywhere.  What you have before you does not resemble the finished product in the picture on the front of the box.  You have to bust out the directions and get familiar with everything before you can see the finished results at the end.  It all takes the effort of knowing.  We have to get into God’s Word, get familiar with Him and His plan, work in it until we see that life of godliness produced in the end.

“Temperance.”  Self-control as most folks like to call it.  We see that Paul also included this in his list of the fruit of the Spirit, Gal. 5:22-23.  God’s people are to be studied and well-adjusted.  They are not to be given to flying off the handle with every life annoyance or trouble.  Things that are upsetting are going to happen in life, a Christian takes it all in stride.  It’s not that things don’t bother them but they believe more in the Sovereignty of God’s hand at work than impulsively rushing ahead on their own.

“Patience.”  In our instant everything world many are prone to have microwave faith but this does not build a character of endurance.  After all, it is a race that we are in and the only ones who will cross the finish line are those who endured to the end, Mt. 24:13.  Often, this requires much patience.  Troubles don’t last always but it’s hard to wait to see the end.  James 1:4 says, “Let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing,” (KJV).

“Godliness.”  Godliness is what we are equipped for but it in and of itself is a characteristic to be worked on also.  WWJD, ever heard of it?  That movement came about from Charles Sheldon’s book “In His Steps” (a must read for every Christian).  In it people challenged their life decision’s against the backdrop of if Jesus were here and alive today, how would He handle and respond to certain circumstances.  The question was the plumb line in which to be guided.  A life of “godliness” is lived in pursuit of Him.  It’s living and walking uprightly for Him.  That’s our plumb line to guide us.

“Brotherly kindness.”  “Let brotherly love continue,” is what the writer of Hebrews exclaimed (Heb. 13:1, KJV).  The relationships that the saints have with one another are to be marked by kindness and love.  The saints share a bond of brotherhood (and sisterhood) that compels them to support one another, encouraging them through the hard struggles of life.

“Charity.”  Working under the operation of love.  Jesus said, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another,” (John 13:34, KJV).  Jesus wants us to treat one another as He does, with love.  Love is what pushed Him through to the cross.  Love is what will allow us to push through our adversity.  The most turbulent of situations can be buffered by knowing that someone loves you and has your back.  No one says it better than Paul in his letter to the Corinthians:

“Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up.  Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.  Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.  And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity,” (1 Cor. 13:4-8, 13, KJV).

After reading that, how did you do?  Are you equipped with love?

Vs. 8

“For if these things be in you and abound.”  These characteristics that Peter speaks of have to be internalized within each of us.  Most people can detect when one’s attitude toward them is not genuine.  Most people can tell the difference between a sincere and an insincere smile.  Even God said in Isaiah, “This people draw near me with their mouth, and with their lips do honour me, but have removed their heart far from me,” (29:13, KJV).  It wasn’t “in” them.  And what is not “in” an individual cannot “abound,” it cannot grow.

But Peter taught that if we nourish what God has fully equipped us with it will grow and produce spiritual fruit in your life.  “They make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.”  The emphasis here is on the word “they.”  “They” is speaking of those characteristics we are to add.  We can’t do it on our own.  Until we fully internalize all that Christ is by brining into our faith all of these characteristics He possessed, we cannot grow in the true “knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

Vs. 9

“But he that lacketh these things is blind.”  They are short-sighted.  In verse 3 it tells where we have been “given all things that pertain to life and godliness.”  If any one of these is not up to par in our spirit it is due to spiritual neglect.  I have been watching my plants for nearly a week.  Busyness has prevented me from caring for them as I should.  Every day I say to myself, “I’ll get out there and water them today.”  But as the day goes on, I declare the next day will be when I get to it.

It wasn’t until I started seeing leaves drop and plants wilt that I took serious note of their condition.  Once I saw their dire state I could no longer turn a blind eye to them.  I hastened to get them the nourishment they needed before it’s too late and I lose them.  The same is true in our spiritual lives. Don’t wait for it to start falling apart before you pay attention to it.

Living in spiritual blindness prohibits them from seeing all God has in store for them.  They “cannot see afar off.”  Eph. 4:18 states, “Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart,” (KJV).  They have let their spiritual equipment go into decline and “hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins.”

Forgetfulness often plagued the children of Israel.  Psalm 105:5 says, “Remember his marvelous works that he hath done; his wonders, and the judgments of his mouth,” (KJV).  Throughout this particular psalm, the psalmist recounts the faithfulness of God and how He brought them through everything!  And I do mean everything!  By the time we get to Psalm 106:13 it says, “They soon forgot his works; they waited not for his counsel,” (KJV).  This was a repeated pattern and still is today.  Deuteronomy warns, “Only take heed to thyself, and keep thy soul diligently, lest thou forget the things which thine eyes have seen, and lest they depart from thy heart all the days of thy life: but teach them thy sons, and thy son’s sons,” (4:9, KJV).  We have a personal obligation to remember the goodness of God in our life, to stir up our hearts and minds to think on His goodness and faithfulness even in adversity.

Vs. 10

“Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure.”  There we see that word “diligence” again.  We have to be on point with these matters of our salvation.  We have to be on constant guard not to lose the tools and equipment that God has supplied us with.  A dull knife does not cut very well, but a sharp one will slice through the toughest of materials with the ease of butter.  A dull spirit that has not been properly equipped with the sharpening of the spiritual tools will not be useful to stand in the day of adversity.  But show me a spirit sharpened and honed in on what God supplied in the first place and I’ll show you someone who worked “diligently to make their calling and election sure.”

“Make . . . sure” means to prove and show it secured what God has placed in you.  As the fire proves the gold so you are to work these characteristics into your spiritual life as a test of what you are “sure” is in you, and that’s the spirit of God. Show others through your life that you have been “called” out to live for Him.  Paul picks it up and tells us, “I  . . . beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called,” (Eph. 4:1, KJV).  In other words, “make . . . sure!”

“For if ye do these things, ye shall never fail.”  “I don’t know why this keeps happening over and over again to me!” is the exclamation of many.  We often hear a lot of preaching in the church on how to be successful.  But little is taught on how to avoid failure.  And we are not speaking of financial, business or any other type of material failure.  We are talking of failure to follow through with the commands that God has already placed on our lives; the kind of failure that keeps us from the future that He has laid out for us.  It all starts with one simple word “do!”  “If ye do these things” speaking of those characteristics again, “ye shall never fail.”  If those things are fulfilled in your life, they keep you in tuned to God and to others around you causing you to fruitful in both areas and veering from sin.

Vs. 11-14

The following of these characteristics serve to bring you closer to Him.  Following their guide will lead you to His “kingdom.”  Peter considered it “negligence” on his part not to continually teach these truths to his readers.  Leaders have a lot of responsibility on their shoulders.  A leader who does not himself lead with diligence will have followers that don’t know what they are doing.  They will have followers ill-equipped for the task.  Isaiah 62:6 God said, “I have set watchmen upon thy walls . . .,” (KJV).  A watchmen is to be on diligently guard for care, instruction, protection and direction.  This is why Peter took his job so seriously and put them in “remembrance” so they would “know them, and be established in the present truth.”  There is nothing more heart-warming for a leader than to see those under his charge “established in . . . truth.”

While he was still in his earthly body, Peter was determined to “stir you up.”  People needed to be reminded who that have at work in them and whose side they are on.  They need to remember the importance of the working of the spirit on the inside of them.  They need to be encouraged to stay the course and follow all the way through to the end.  Peter’s “tabernacle” (his body) would fade one day as we all will.  Leaders are to take every opportunity while they have the chance to make a difference in the lives and his/her students/readers.  An effectual leader sticks in there until the very end and seizes the opportunities that arise to “establish in the present truth.”

Word For Life Says Sunday School Lesson: Equipped for Godliness Sunday School Lesson ( Click here for WORD Document or just hit the print button below)

Wordsearch: Equipped for Godliness Wordsearch Answers: Equipped for Godliness Wordsearch Answers

Crossword: Equipped for Godliness Crossword  Answers: Equipped for Godliness Crossword Answers

Wordscramble: Equipped for Godliness Wordscramble  Answers: Euipped for Godliness Wordscramble Answers

Draw the Scene: Equipped for Godliness Draw the Scene

Brotherly Kindness Draw the Scene: Brotherly Kindness Draw the Scene

Peter Puppet:

Using the coloring sheet from Ministry to Children printed on cardstock and big craft sticks, I made a Peter stick puppet.  This is an easy craft for your students to do.  Enjoy!

My Spiritual Tool Box:

Using this coloring sheet from Coloringpages101.com for the tool box and this coloring sheet from Kiboomu Kids Crafts for the tools, students can put together their own spiritual tool box on construction paper and attach the verse printout Equipped For Godliness Verse Printable to help them remember to use what God has given them.  Enjoy!

My Spiritual Tool Belt:

The site Kiboomu Kids Crafts tool craft can also be adapted to this lesson.  Have students make their tool belt as pictured above and attach the verse printout Equipped For Godliness Verse Printable somewhere on the belt.  Kids can also write the different characteristics on each tool (don’t forget to use cardstock for this project).  This will be loads of fun for your students and an awesome way to reinforce today’s lesson.  Enjoy!

“I Can Remember” Binoculars:

Coming from verse 9 in today’s lesson, this craft will help students to remember what God has done for them.  People forget and “cannot see afar off,”  but our students won’t be blind to the greatness of God in their lives.  Go to Elementary Programs Chapter and scroll all the way down until you see the binoculars for directions.  Or, you can do what I did.  Decorate two toilet paper holders (construction paper, markers, paint, what ever you want) and tape them together on the inside top and bottom.  Next, punch two holes in the side and weave through with yarn.  And there you have it.  Enjoy!

Other Activities, Coloring Pages and Ideas:

“Children’s Activities about Saint Peter” from Ehow.com

“Jesus is All You Need” Bible Lesson from Sermons4kids (2 Peter 1:3)

“Faith Comes First” Activities from Ministry to Children (2 Peter 1:5)

Vss. 5-8

These fruit of the Spirit activities will go nicely with reinforcing this particular portion of the lesson:

“Fruit of the Spirit” Coloring Page from Ministry to Children

“Fruit of the Spirit Tree” Coloring Page from Bible Fun Factory

“Fruit of the Spirit” Lesson, Activities and Coloring from Sermons4kids.com

“Design a Basket” Printable from A Kid’s Heart

“Fruit of the Spirit” Activities from MSSScrafts.com

“Fruit of the Spirit” Activities from Christian Preschool Printables

“Fruit of the Spirit” Game from Ministry to Children

“Fruit of the Spirit” Song and Video from Ministry to Children

Check Out These Links for Mother’s Day Ideas and Activities:

DLTK

Apples4theteacher.com

Daniellesplace.com

Enchantedlearning.com

Activity Village

Artisthelpingchildren.org

Ehow.com

Dayformothers.com

Photo Credit: Gospelgifs

Hey guys, thanks stopping by and visiting!   We are glad you like this site.  We always enjoy having company come over.  Please go to our NEW Facebook and be one of the first to like us.  There you will receive new posts, updates, devotions, Sunday School lesson ideas and more (all the great little extras and things you won’t find here).  Thank you for your support!  (Click the Facebook logo or here) I look forward to meeting you!

Sunday School is a vital part of any ministry. In it one is able to experience a deeper knowledge of God’s Word. We here at “Word For Life Says” want to help you help others. Below you will find resources to help you prepare for your upcoming lessons. May God bless you!

“SERVING ONE ANOTHER”  1 PETER 4:1-11   MAY 19, 2013

(Click here to print Word Document for lesson: SERVING ONE ANOTHER Sunday School Lesson or use the print button at the bottom of this page.  Below you will find activities to reinforce this week’s lesson with your students.  Enjoy!) ***I am truly sorry for the mix-up.  Though the posted lesson on the site was right, I accidently linked you to the wrong Word document.  The right lesson is linked above now “Serving One Another.”  Again, please accept my apologies.****

I wonder if anyone in our day and age really understands the concept of service?  Does anyone really grasp the meaning of what it is to serve another?  If you’ve recently gone to a fast-food restaurant or a big box store or any consumer outlet where things are acquired, purchased or eaten, you know what I mean.  The lack of good customer service drives me away from some establishments regardless of how cheap their prices are.

One of my teenage daughters worked her first job in a national fast-food chain.  Can I tell you something amazing?  At this establishment where she worked they took customer service very seriously.  If it was raining outside, some of the employees were on post at the front door, umbrellas in hand, waiting to assist patrons to and from their cars who didn’t have one.  Another example is that when taking orders they were required to ask for names (and not numbers) so that orders are not mixed up, it also added a personal touch to the whole process.  They will even serve the order at the customer’s table if need be.  At a fast-food place?  Simply unheard of!

They really do place great emphasis on caring for the customer.  The people there are at that place of employment to work.  Every day they are urged to step outside of themselves to assist others.  Oh, if more would catch on to this concept!  But, the infectious, self-serving mentality, which permeates this world’s culture doesn’t allow people to see or even consider others over themselves.  This self-serving disease has even entered the body of Christ, the church.

In light of all that Christ has done for us, Peter teaches that we have a unique responsibility to show one another love through service.  Think about the life of Christ.  He said, “Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many,” (Mt. 20:28, KJV).  Here is the King of all kings and the Lord of all lords, humbling Himself as a commoner and serving.  His focus was never on receiving anything, yet to give it all.  The pattern of the Church should be likeminded.

Vs. 1

“Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh.”  The ministry of Christ was a serious ministry.  With it came much pain.  Pain of ridicule and unbelief.  Pain of being slandered and gossiped about.  Then, there was the physical pain.  His suffering on the cross is what drew us to love Him.  The pain He endured on our behalf is what pricked our hearts to get to know more of this man who would put Himself through so much agony for us.  Many of us have seen the movie “The Passion of the Christ.”  It was a movie that I could only watch once because the suffering was very real.  Those to whom Peter was writing knew a thing or two about suffering, also.  They, themselves, were suffering persecution.  The church was under attack when officials realized that Christianity was not just a branch off of Judaism, rather it was a whole new way of life, a whole new religion.  It was a spiritual revolution.

Christ’s suffering was strongly emphasized in Peter’s first letter, and with good reason.  Knowing his audience needed the courage to push forth through their own adversities, Peter took them back to the picture of the perfect suffering of the perfect Savior.  Peter admonished them to “arm yourselves likewise with the same mind.”  To arm oneself is to be prepared for the fight.  It is to gain arsenal to keep in store for when the battle ensues.  The thing that they were told to store up within them was the “same mind.”  Peter later told them in verses 12-13 (not in today’s lesson) “Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s suffering . . .,” (KJV).  They were to approach their suffering the same way that Christ did.

“For he that suffereth in the flesh hath ceased from sin.”  Compromise eases a lot of suffering (temporarily) in life.  But he who is affiliated with Christ does not look for sinful means to bring instant gratification to the flesh.  All ties to sin have to be cut off.  “And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts,” (Gal. 5:24, KJV).  There can be no appeasement of sin here.

Vs. 2

“That he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men.”  Our “time” on this earth is precious and few.  Many nonchalantly go through their days; carefree and careless of how the spend their time.  “Time” is not a resource that can be regained once it’s gone  because it constantly and consistently moves forward.  That’s why Ephesians 5:16 talks about “Redeeming the time, because the days are evil,” (KJV).  We can not waste this opportunity running after “the lusts of men.”  Our time must be spent in the holier pursuit of “the will of God.”  After all, was this not also the example Christ gave us?  Not only of suffering, but a life of obedience.  “For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me,” (John 6:36, KJV).  How many of us spend our days contemplating and operating in God’s will?  This is where our priorities are to be.  Even at the tender age of twelve, Jesus was focused on God’s will.  “Why did you seek Me?  Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business,” (Lk. 2:49, NKJV).  He was focused on the one priority of serving God with His life.  That’s what happens when we put our priorities into perspective against the backdrop of our “time” here on this earth.

Vs. 3-4

“For the time past of our life may suffice us to have wrought the will of the Gentiles.”  I have often heard people speak and testify of their lives before they were born again.  They tell of how they were good at sinning.  In that old nature, they speak of one who has walked the way of the world.  But that was “time past.”  That’s who the old man used to be.  That was the old stuff one used to do.  Peter teaches but now “ye run not with them.”  Speaking of my own personal testimony, I have had several friends that I couldn’t “hang” with anymore because our lifestyles were in opposition of each other.  It’s not that we don’t love one another anymore but the way I live now is “strange” to them.  People often cannot handle or understand the transformation that has taken place in your life when you get involved with Jesus.  The life that you live is now alien to them and their lifestyle becomes alien to you.  In turn what usually happens is there becomes a rift in the relationship.  People who were once close companions of yours will even begin “speaking evil of you.”  Jesus Himself said, “If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you,” (John 15:19, KJV).

Vs. 5

Even in the midst of these trying times Peter reminds us who has the final say in the matter.  God Himself!  God is the judge of everyone’s lifestyle whether they are alive (quick) or dead, friend or foe.  Isn’t it nice to know that we don’t have settle accounts on our own?  We have this great, big wonderful God who has our back every step of the way even during the roughest of times?  They themselves will have to “give account.”  Too bad a lot of people don’t know the seriousness of their actions.  One day they will stand before Him and they will have to answer for everything.  Romans 14:12 tells us, “So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God,” (KJV).

Vs. 6

If you have read any of the books that tell the tale of modern-day persecution such as “Tortured for Christ,” you get a glimpse of some of the suffering that Peter’s readers may have endured; even to the point of death.  Though it is tremendously hard to hear of these stories, we know that those who went on in death, who were secured in Christ, now “live according to God in the spirit.”  How was this accomplished?  Through the preaching of the “gospel.”  “The gospel” tells the story of Christ and opens blind eyes to the reality of God and His kingdom.  As a matter of fact, the Bible tells us, “Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God,” (Rom. 10:17, KJV).  The “gospel” is preached as a fishing rod used to draw men out of the world of sin, that when they hear it they would want to be saved.

Everyone will be judged according to what they did in the “flesh.”  The Bible tells us, “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God,” (Rom. 3:23, KJV).  What that means is that we were all spiritually dead.  All of us need salvation.  All of us need to hear and respond to the “gospel.”  Only those who accept God’s plan of salvation through Jesus Christ will “live according to God in the spirit.” 

Vs. 7

“But the end of all things is at hand.”  In several of our lessons throughout this quarter we have hit home on the fact that there will be a final end one day.  Much of humanity goes about their day oblivious to the fact that our existence on this planet is not permanent.  Our time here on earth is fleeting.  Ready or not, one day Jesus will come back and God’s ultimate plan will be wholly fulfilled.  It’s not as far off as it may seem.  If we speak in terms of Jesus’ return we only have to look at the world around us to see the end is drawing near.  If we look in the terms of each of us individually, we are only here for a season and then we take the way of all the earth.  We will not live eternally here.  There are two ways out of here, either we will be caught up to meet Jesus in the air (1 Thes. 4:17), or we will die.  After that we will reach our permanent destination for better or for worse.

Peter’s wanted his readers to get the better end of the deal.  “Be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.”  Earlier in this same epistle Peter wrote, “Wherefore gird up the loins of your  mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ,” (1Peter 1:13, KJV).  We have to get serious about our future and prepare ourselves for that “end.”  We do this with a focused mind and a prayerful heart.  Jesus warned us to “Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak,” (Mt. 26:41, KJV).

Vss. 8-9

“And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves.”  In last week’s lesson charity was one of the characteristics that Christians were to add.  Love makes the difference!  There’s no way around it.  God is love.  Jesus died because of love.  And now we are admonished to have that same “fervent charity” toward one another.  Christians are to have a love for each other that cannot be easily extinguished by life’s difficulties.  Paul wrote, “Ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another,” (Gal. 5:13, KJV).  This hits home with the gist of our lesson.  The love and compassion we have in us should be poured out to the saints in service.

“For charity shall cover the multitude of sins.”  God’s love, through His Son Jesus, covered a “multitude” of my sins and yours.  Peter is teaching us to be imitators of our heavenly Father.  Proverbs 10:12 tells us, “Hatred stirreth up strifes: but love covereth all sins,” (KJV).  Both of these verses pronounce love as a covering.  It’s not that we don’t see, feel or hurt at the wrongs of others, it’s all about what we choose to do with it.  Much like God, our love is to be so on-fire for one another that it causes us to look beyond the faults of others and see to their needs (Dottie Rambo).  That’s how we serve one another.

“Use hospitality one to another without grudging.”  This is one who is serving but their heart is not in it.  In fact, they even resent the one whom they are serving.  Saints of God need each other!  We are in this together!  We may not always agree with one another but our love for one another as brothers and sisters in Christ should provoke us to help and care for each other.  Opening up our resources to share in what we have “without grudging” is a mark of a true Christian.

Vs. 10

“As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another.”  What God has endowed us with is not just for our benefit, rather it is to “minister” (serve).  There are so many bible verses that back this up (Pr. 11:25; Pr. 22:9; Mt. 5:2; Mt. 10:8; Acts 20:35; 1 Cor. 4:7; 2 Cor. 9:6).  Anything we have is from God.  There is nothing that we obtained on our own.  Whether it is temporal or spiritual, all that we have “received” should be used to “minister one to another.”  Jesus Himself said, “Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom.  For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again,” (Luke 6:38, KJV).  There should be no fear of loss due to service.

“As good stewards of the manifold grace of God.”  How many times and in how many ways has God bestowed grace upon us?  Too many to count?  Yeah, me too.  What that means is we do not have the right to withhold from our brothers and sisters in Christ because God did not withhold from us.  We have this promise, “For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly,” (Ps. 84:11, KJV).  He gives “grace.”  He doesn’t hold back anything good.  As “stewards,” or managers of the grace that we have received, we are to dole it out to others also.

Vs. 11

“If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth.”  “If any man” received a gift from God, whether it is to “speak” or to “minister” according to his “ability which God giveth,” he is to use it for all.  This verse gives the command “let him.”  Him that possesses it is responsible not to hoard it to himself, rather distribute to others in the body of Christ.  “Freely ye have received, freely give,” (Mt. 10:8, KJV).

“That God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.”  Everything we do with everything He gives it for His glorification.  Our service toward one another should shed a light on the world for all men to see.  “Let your light so shine before all men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven,” (Mt. 5:16, KJV).  Through our service, through our works, we should stand out above the crowd of normalcy.  When our works/service shines it opens a door of opportunity for the world to see God through us and He receives “praise.”  Serving One Another eventually ends up with God getting the praise He deserves.  Your service matters in God being “glorified!” Awesome!

Below you will find activities to help you reinforce the lesson for this week.  Enjoy!

“Serving One Another” Wordsearch: Serving One Another Wordsearch  Answers: Serving One Another Wordsearch Answers

“Serving One Another” Crossword: Serving One Another Crossword  Answers: Serving One Another Crossword Answers

“Serving One Another” Draw the Scene: Serving One Another Draw the Scene

Below are activites that you saw on a previous lesson: The Privilege of Serving.  Since these subjects are so closely related we put them here again to give you even more resources for the lesson this week.  Enjoy!

THE HAND CLAPPER:

In getting across the idea of “Serving,” I used crafts incorporating the hands since that’s what we use the most to serve and help others. Enjoy!

Here’s a craft I came up with called “The Hand Clapper”(below). It’s just like the hand clapper/noise makers you can buy, but this one can be made by you and your students.  They will get a kick out of this!

Materials:

card stock, hot glue, big craft sticks, buttons, crayons/markers for decorating, scripture cutout (below)

1. Click here to:Print handprint (I used the 5×7 setting to get two to a page).
2. Have students decorate/color as they like (it’s easier to do it before cutting it out). Mine is roughly done just for demonstrative purposes.
3. Cut out handprints and lay them on top of each other.
4. Using hot glue, glue buttons on the inside of the fingers (I found that 3 buttons for each hand was enough).  Exercise caution when using hot glue or when letting students use it.  You can use regular glue but I think hot glue works best and is faster at drying and letting the children play with their new toy immediately.
5. Put a large craft stick in the middle of the two hands and hot glue.
6. Cut out and attach the verse reference to your project: SERVING ONE ANOTHER VERSE CUTOUT (The picture above shows the verse cutout for The Privilege of Serving.  If you are doing this project substitute it with the Serving One Another cutout instead).
7. Shake and make some noise! Enjoy and have fun.

(This project can be done effectively with 2 or 3 handprints.  The picture above is done with 3.  It’s easier with two and uses less buttons and supplies and still gets a nice clicking sound.  If you choose to use three handprints, you’ll need to use two crafts sticks for stability.  You’ll also have to attach buttons on both sides of the middle handprint to get your clicking sound.)

LACE IT UP HANDPRINT:

Another craft idea, is to simply print out this Lace It Up Handprint (below) (on cardstock) that the students can decorate and lace with ribbon or yarn.  Attach the verse reference  to the finished product:  SERVING ONE ANOTHER VERSE CUTOUT - PDF OF LACE IT UP HANDPRINT

HANDPRINT NECKLACE:

Continuing with our hand theme, print out a handprint (on cardstock)  to make a Hanprint Necklace (below); or let the child trace their hand print onto construction paper and cut out.  Punch one hole in the top.  Using ribbon or yarn and cut up straws, make this necklace for kids to wear and display “It’s a Privilege to Serve.” (Guess what?  I had some leftover beads from a previous project and added them.  But this is not necessary.  It works just fine with straws since beads can get pricey). Let them decorate it as they see fit. Enjoy! (Don’t forget to attach the verse to it to reinforce the lesson).

Other “Serving” Lesson Helps and Activities:

“Serving Others”

“Crafts for Kids to Serve Others”

“Serving God”

“Serving God Everyday”

“Teaching Children to Serve (30 Project Ideas)”

“Empty Chair and Prayer Wall” 

“Marshmallow Sheep Memory Verse” from Mssscrafts:

“I Can Be a Service Star” (above: Click Here (Activity Credit Sugardoodle.net)

“Love and Service Go Hand and Hand” (above: click here – Acitivity Credit Sugardoodle.net/Alana’s File)

Coloring Page “Helping Out At Home” (above: Click Here, Credit: edupics.com)

“Even a Child is Known by his Doing” Coloring Page from blogspot.com

“Jesus Serving” Coloring Pages:

“I Love You So Much That I Died For You” Coloring Page from blogspot.com

“Jesus Washed the Disicples Feet” at Bible Printables

Other Coloring Pages and Activities:

Vs. 2 – “But to the will of God” – Obeying:

“I Obey God” Coloring Page from Lessons4sundayschoool.com

Vs. 8 – “Have fervent charity among yourselves” – Love:

“I Will Love Others” Coloring Page from Happy Clean Living (You have to scroll down to it)

“Love One Another” Puzzle from lds.org

“Love Each Other” from Coloring Page from  Sermons4kids

Vs. 11 – “To him be praise and dominion” – Praise:

“Sing Praises to the Lord” Coloring Page from Lessons4sundayschool.com

“I Worship God” Coloring Page from Lessons4sundayschool.com

Photo Credit: Gospelgifs

Hey guys, thanks stopping by and visiting!   We are glad you like this site.  We always enjoy having company come over.  Please go to our NEW Facebook and be one of the first to like us.  There you will receive new posts, updates, devotions, Sunday School lesson ideas and more (all the great little extras and things you won’t find here).  Thank you for your support!  (Click the Facebook logo or here) I look forward to meeting you!

Sunday School is a vital part of any ministry. In it one is able to experience a deeper knowledge of God’s Word. We here at “Word For Life Says” want to help you help others. Below you will find resources to help you prepare for your upcoming lessons. May God bless you!

“The Hope of His Coming” 2 Peter 3:3-15a  May 26, 2013

After the lesson are great activities and coloring sheets to help you reinforce the lesson.  Enjoy!

(Click here to print our lesson in Word document: THE HOPE OF HIS COMING Sunday School Lesson or click the print button below.  Enjoy!)

Waiting for things and promises to come to pass can be extremely hard sometimes.  Especially if you have been hearing it for a while but have yet to see the fruition of it.  This is a matter that Peter addressed in this portion of his letter.  The gospel has been preached for some time by now.  Those that believed were hopefully waiting for the promises preached to come to pass.  They’ve heard the story of Jesus’ ascension and the urging to keep focused for His return.  Yet, the scoffers (unbelievers) were making it hard to hold onto their faith.  They ridiculed their beliefs and mocked their faith.

Peter taught there’s a different end for us (believers) and those (unbelievers).  Those that believe should never let go of the promise that He is coming back again regardless of how long it seems to us.  Just look at this way, we are thanking God for His patience and longsuffering because it gives more people a chance to be saved.  I think that’s well worth the wait, don’t you?

2 Peter 3:3 “Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts,”

“Knowing this first.”  Peter wrote in 1 Peter 4:12, “Think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you,” (KJV).  Yet, it still amazes us when we go through hardship.  We are still taken aback at any signs of adversity.  Here, Peter said the “first” thing you should know is there are going to be “scoffers.”  There are going to be people who don’t believe and because they don’t believe they will mock and make fun of you for what you believe in.  If you have ever watched a clown perform you have probably laughed.  Why?  Because much of their performance is mocking the actions of another and the way they jokingly do it tickles our funny bone.  “Scoffers” work in much the same way except it’s not funny at all.   I think if we had the preset mindset to “know” these things will happen it will prepare us for when those times do come.

“Walking after their own lusts.”  The word “lusts” has an s on the end of it signifying that there are various pursuits of ungodliness that the unbeliever delves into.  They scorn and mock that which is right with the end purpose of being able to do what they want to do.  We see this attitude alive in the world now.  We see Christians are rallied against because they take a stand for their beliefs, yet at the same time, the mindset of the world is the Christian better not say anything about the beliefs of others.  For if they do then they are considered intolerant of others for not supporting their lifestyles.  All so that the unbeliever can continue “walking in their own lusts.”  “Lusts” are sinful desires that go against the plan and design that God has for the human race.

2 Peter 3:4 “And saying, Where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation.”

As already stated, one of the ways they ridicule is to make fun of what the Christian believes in.  A large part of gospel preaching is focusing on and preparing people for the return of Christ.  Since the scoffer is not looking to store up heavenly treasures and does not believe this even will take place their job is to try to tear down and even use human reasoning against those who do believe.  “Where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers feel asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation.”  Their reasoning, yesterday came and went and nothing happened.  Last year came and went and nothing happened.  As a matter of fact, since the world was created, days and years came and went and nothing happen.  “Where is the promise of his coming?”

Most people based everything they believe or don’t believe on what they see with their natural eyes and their short-sighted minds.  When the unbeliever looks down through history they don’t see the chain of events that brought salvation to mankind.  They don’t see the promise of good that God has stored up for our futures.  They don’t see the fulfilling prophecies that brought God’s kingdom closer to man.  When they look down through history all they see is a normal course of events.  They don’t see this beautiful, epic love story where God tries to woo mankind back to Himself.  To them nothing has changed since, “In the beginning God created the heaven and earth,” (Gen. 1:1, KJV).  Since they don’t see it, they don’t mind letting their hatred for those of us who do see it show.

I recently took a trip to the zoo (you may have seen some of my pictures), and the saddest part of the trip was at the Great Ape house.  There, as we walked around and took pictures, I took joy in the families enjoying their time together.  But one mom pulled her child to the side and said, speaking of the apes, “We are direct descendants of them.”  No attribution to creation by God what so ever.  The sad part is this child will probably grow up to be a “scoffer” also for when statements like that are made you know where their heart lays.

2 Peter 3:5-7 “For this they willingly are ignorant of, that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of the water and in the water: Whereby the world that then was, being overflowed with water, perished: But the heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men.”

“They willingly are ignorant.”  Here it gives the impression of one’s choice in the matter.  God is not going to arm wrestle someone into faith.  God has blessed every human being with a free will that they choose or not choose to follow Him.  “Willingly” implies truth or no truth, they will not comply.  Their minds are made up to purposely follow a life of sin.  Here, their ignorance will not allow them to believe in the order of Creation as stated in the Bible.  For too long man has opposed God’s truth to his own finite theories of evolution.

“The earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep.  And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters,” (Gen. 1:2, KJV).  Before God stepped in there was just chaos.  Our lesson speaks of “the earth standing out of the water and in the water.”  This was God’s doing!   Nothing that we see in this world today existed nor did it evolved from some species.  But on the third day of creation God said, “Let the waters under the heaven be gathered together in one place, and let dry land appear: and it was so.  And God called the dry land Earth; and the gathering of together of the waters called he seas: and God saw that it was good,” (Gen. 1:9-10, KJV).  Though the order of creation is apparent and evident some still choose to disbelieve.  The apostle Paul said this doesn’t excuse them.  “For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse,” (Rom. 1:20, KJV).

Scoffers laugh and jeer because God is taking so long for the time of His coming when they should be rejoicing He is taking His time. ”Because sentence against an  evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil,” (Ecc. 8:11, KJV).

Everything that we see around us today will perish.  Jesus Himself stated that “Heaven and earth shall pass away,” (Mt. 24:35, KJV).  Psalm 102:26 tells us, “They shall perish, but thou shalt endure . . .,” (KJV).  One day, their hope which is not in God will die.  Yet, they still ignore the one who will “endure.”  Go figure?  Still God is patient today but there will come a time for “judgment and perdition of ungodly men.”  He is reserving everything for that fulfilling time.  “Upon the wicked he shall rain snares, fire and brimstone, and an horrible tempest: this shall be the portion of their cup,” (Ps. 11:6, KJV).  It will happen!

2 Peter 3:8-9 “But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.  The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to usward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.”

But we, as His children, are not to operate in “ignorance.”  We are to be fully aware of the ways of God.  One thing is God is not on a timetable such as we are.  We mark our days by when the sun rises and sets at night.  We mark our seasons by the temperature in the air, the budding or non-budding of plants, and by the harvest we reap in.  We mark our lives by age milestones.  When you are a child you can’t wait to hit the double-digit numbers and be 10.  After that other milestones are marked such as when becoming a teenager (13), sweet sixteen, at 18 you are considered a legal adult and so forth.  God is infinite.  He cannot be marked by time.  “I am the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty, (Rev. 1:8, KJV).  There never a time when He wasn’t because He always was!  With that being said, “One day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.”

“For the Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness.”  God is not an unreliable resource to depend upon like man.  Many get confused along the way because they attribute man’s faulty characteristics to the holy and perfect God.  When someone promises something but takes a long time fulfilling it we tend to lose faith in that person.  But God cannot be counted in the same category as man.  His not moving right now is not due to “slackness” or an inability to perform.  Habakkuk  tells us, “For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry,” (2:3, KJV).  Shortly after that in the next verse he says, “The just shall live by his faith,” (2:4b, KJV).  Every word of God for good or for bad, for happy or for sad, for those who believe or for those who don’t believe will come to pass!

For right now He is withholding His hand of judgment so that as many people as possible can be saved.  If you have seen the movie Titanic you can relate.  Person after person plunged into the icy depths with no hope of salvation save the few life boats in working order.  When Fifth Officer Lowe turned back and spotted the frozen bodies in the water he said, “We waited too long,” (IMDb).  For us and everyone out there, there is hope for salvation.  God’s waiting won’t add to the demise of the people as in the Titanic.  Rather, His “longsuffering” is because He is “not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.”  Will all come and get into the lifeboat of Jesus?  No.  But God loves mankind so much that He wants to get as many people as possible out of the waters of sin that seek to drown them for all eternity.

2 Peter 3:10 “But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the earth shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.”

“But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night.”  There’s something to be said for preparing for the unknown.  In life we put all kinds of securities in place such as home alarm systems to warn against intruders and we stock-up supplies in the event of some horrific storm.  Our future in Christ is not an unknown yet, still knowing what will take place, some disregard all warnings.  Jesus said, “If the goodman had known in what watch the thief would come, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to be broken up,” (Mt. 24:43, KJV).  Thieves are not known for announcing their arrival.  The element of surprise works in their favor.  It catches people off guard when they least expect it.  Here we are told that when we least expect it, it will happen.

“The heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.”  Everything will be gone!  Nothing on this earth will last forever.  Yet, day by day, people put more stock in the things this world possesses and the “works” they are able to do with their own hands rather than God.  This is why Jesus said, “Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth,” (Mt. 6:19, KJV) because the earth and all that is in it will vanish one day.  As stable and as strong as we think a mountain is, Revelation 16:20 tells us, “And every island fled away, and the mountains were not found,” (KJV).  All will “pass away!”  Peter’s emphasis for us is not what’s going to happen with the world for we should already be prepared for that.  His concern in dealing with the Christian is what’s happening with us personally.

2 Peter 3:11 “Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness.”

“Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness.”  Peter didn’t really want to focus on the times and seasons of the future.  He wanted to focus on his readers inner man and how it is representing itself to the waiting world.  How do we live our lives in light of our eternity?  Knowing that “all these things shall be dissolved” how do we let that information guide us in our life decisions and choices?  Do we act as carefree and irresponsible as those who live with no hope of a better future?  Or, do we make sure the faith we profess on the inside is shining as a beacon on the outside to draw even more people to Christ?

How we live matters!  Talk is cheap!  Actions speak louder than words!  We’ve heard those sayings most of our lives but usually only apply it to someone we are in an argument with.  What Peter really wants us to do is mind our own steps in life.  It’s easy to pick away at the life of another and the choices they have made when we are not as careful to judge our own.  Jesus asked, “And why do you look at the speck in your brother’s eye, but do not consider the plank in your own eye?” (Mt. 7:3, NKJV).  Our eternity is not bound up here rather we are pressing toward the goal of heaven.  We are working toward the end of salvation.  With that being said we have to mind “what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness.”  We won’t have to answer for nobody but ourselves and how we lived.  And, how we will live matters!

2 Peter 3:12-14 “Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat?  Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.  Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless.”

In these three verses we see the word “look” three times.  At the time of this writing Peter was nearing his end.  This would be the last letter he wrote so he knows something of waiting in expectation of a better future.  Hard times and trials tend to dash one’s hope.  But Peter expressed that “we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth.”  We are not to stop anticipating the better that God has for us.  The unbelievers and scoffers live the way they live because they don’t have this assurance.  But we have the “promise.”  “God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?” (Num. 23:19, KJV).  God is the author of the promise and God makes good on His promises therefore we should never stop looking! (see also Rom. 8:31-39).

“Wherein dwelleth righteousness.”  Speaking of our eternal home, the Bible tells us, “There shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb’s book of life,” (Rev. 21:27, KJV).  A lot of works carried out by men and woman today will not see the light of heaven tomorrow.  “Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God?  Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners shall inherit the kingdom of God,” (1 Cor. 6:9-10, KJV).  Not on this list?  It doesn’t matter.  If you are not born again then you will not walk the streets of glory (see John 3:5).  Only the righteous will be there.  (This would be a good point to make a call to salvation for your students urging them to prepare themselves for that coming day).

“Be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace.”  ”When someone is diligent that means they are putting forth a conscientious effort to pay careful heed to and give it their all,” that’s what I  wrote in a previous lesson Equipped  For Godliness and I think it applies nicely here.  Since that day is inevitable, and since we don’t know the day or the hour, we have to be ready to “be found of him in peace.”  Romans tells us, “The wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men,” 91:18, KJV).  In that day those that are not “found of him in peace,” will surely wish they were.

“Without spot and blameless.”  Israel was initially supposed to be the nation that would show the whole world how to have a relationship with God.  They were to be examples of His righteousness but failed.  Nevertheless, God had a plan to bring a Savior into the world “without blemish and without spot,” (1 Peter 1:19, KJV).  Now, we are being called to live like Jesus.  “He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked,” (1 John 2:6, KJV, see also 1 Peter 1:13-25; Matthew 5:48).

2 Peter 3:15a “And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation.”

“The longsuffering of our Lord is salvation.”  Have you ever really had an off day and thought to yourself that you were glad today was not the day when He came back?  Yeah, me too.  There are others that don’t know Him and it is during this waiting period of His “longsuffering” they have a chance to accept and experience salvation.  His love compels Him to wait a little longer.  He won’t hold off forever.  Things will change despite what the scoffers believe.  Our job in the process is to hope in His coming and live like we do.

Below you will find resources and links to help support you in teaching your lesson this week.  Enjoy!

“The Hope of His Coming” Wordsearch: The Hope of His Coming Wordsearch  Answers: The Hope of His Coming Wordsearch Answers

“The Hope of His Coming” Crossword: The Hope of His Coming Crossword  Answers:  The Hope of His Coming Crossword Answers

“The Hope of His Coming” Draw the Scene: The Hope of His Coming Draw the Scene

Addtional Resources:

Updated New Activities!!!

2 Peter 3:9 “Repentance” Puzzle – Have children draw a picture on the puzzle template about today’s lesson and then cut out.  Enjoy!  Puzzle PDF: 2 Peter Chpt 3 Vs 9 Puzzle (Don’t forget to use cardstock!)

Use these “I Believe Jesus Is Coming Back” Circles to make a necklace or a button.  For the necklace, punch a hole and string it through.  You can decorate it with other adornments if you wish.  For the button, decorate and tape a safety pin to the back.  Enjoy!  Jesus is Coming Back PDF: JESUS IS COMING BACK (Don’t forget to use cardstock!)

If you didn’t use the Peter Puppet craft two weeks ago it can be used here.  Enjoy!

Peter Puppet:

Using the coloring sheet from Ministry to Children printed on cardstock and big craft sticks, I made a Peter stick puppet.  This is an easy craft for your students to do.  Enjoy!

Vs. 4 – Where is his coming?

This simple activity can be put together using this coloring sheet from Coloring Page Book and this verse cutout Verse cutout for 2 Peter verse 4.  Enjoy!

“The Seat of Scoffers” Coloring Page from Ministry to Children

Vs. 5 – Creation:

This simple activity can be done by using this coloring sheet from Sunday School Resources and this verse cutout Verse cutout for 2 Peter 3 verse 5.  Enjoy!

“God Made the World” Coloring Page from Bogardpressblog.org (The original lesson from this site calls for stickers to be put in the place of missing objects such as clouds, water, rocks and trees.  I’m sure your students will enjoy this page just as much if they can draw and color their own missing items instead of stickers.  Enjoy!)

“Creation” Coloring Page from Worldsundayschool.com

“In the Beginning” Coloring Page from Abdaacts

“God Made the Land” Coloring Page from Churchleaders.com

 For all types of Creation Crafts click here.  Some are pictured below.  Click on the picture to take you to their site for crafting instructions.  Enjoy!

Photo Credit: Our Crafts -N- Things

Photo Credit: Chocolate on my Cranium

Photo Credit: Pinterest.com

Vs. 8 – Day of the Lord as a thousand years:

This simple activity can be done with this coloring sheet from Enchanted Learning and this verse cutout Verse cutout for 2 Peter 3 verse 8.  Enjoy!

Vs. 9 – Repentance:

“Repentance” Activities from Kidssundayschool.com

“I Can Repent” Coloring Page from Camille’s Casa

“Repentance” Coloring Page from Melonheadz

Vs. 10 – Jesus’ Second Coming:

“As a Thief in the Night” Activities and Coloring from Calvary Curriculum

“Jesus’ Second Coming/Ascension” Coloring Page from Free Christian Coloring Pages

“Jesus’ Second Coming” Coloring Page from Abdaacts (suited more to older children)

“Jesus’ Second Coming” Coloring Page from Daniel Revelation Bible Studies

“The Second Coming” Activities and Coloring from Calvary Curriculum

“Jesus’ Return to Earth” Coloring from Christiananswers.net

“Create – A – Crown” Craft from Crayola.com

“The Day and Time Not Known” from Missionarlington.org

“When is Jesus Coming Back” from Missionarlington.org

“Jesus is Coming Again” Activities and Coloring from Sermons4kids

“Craft Ideas on the Second Coming” from Ehow.com

Vs. 11 – What manner of persons ought ye to be:

“Psalms 1″ Coloring Book from Ministry to Children

Vs. 13 – New heaven and new earth:

“New Heaven and New Earth” Coloring and Activities from Calvary Curriculum

Vs. 14 – Without spot/blameless:

Idea: On a chalkboard or a dry erase board draw many spots in varied colors.  Talk to the children about how these spots represent sin.  Have one or more students come to the board.  They get a chance to erase those spots as Jesus did for us on the cross.  Now, we want to try to keep the board clean .  Enjoy!

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Sunday School is a vital part of any ministry. In it one is able to experience a deeper knowledge of God’s Word. We here at “Word For Life Says” want to help you help others. Below you will find resources to help you prepare for your upcoming lessons. May God bless you!

“Holy, Holy, Holy!” Isaiah 6:1-8      June 2, 2013

(Click here to print the Word document for this week’s lesson: Holy, Holy, Holy Sunday School Lesson or use the print button below.  Stay tuned for class projects, coloring and more after the lesson.  Enjoy!)

I love how this new quarter is starting off.  We are opening up this new series of by taking the focus off of us in complete adoration of Him.  If truth be told, when was the last time God became our sole and complete focus?  Do we just get through our times of prayer and devotions, or do we really get in tuned to His majesty?

Isaiah, in today’s lesson, had to get focused on God real quick.  When one is whisked away in a vision to the position of standing before the Almighty you know that play time is over.  It’s time for sober seriousness in the presence of God.  And if you didn’t know how to worship God before, I guarantee once you stand before He that is enthroned in the heavenlies, you will learn how to praise!  Once you stand for the sinless, you will quickly begin to understand your own sinfulness.

Isaiah 6 takes us to a place that only a few have been privileged to view in visions.  A place where we hope to reside one day.  Looking at heaven through the eyes of Isaiah prepares us for the extreme holiness of God.  It let us know that we are a people of unclean lips also and we better be prepared to live in that blessed place.  A place where holiness supersedes everything, where we can learn to cry out with the seraphims, “Holy, Holy, Holy!”

Isaiah 6:1 “In the year that king Uzziah died I saw also the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up, and his train filled the temple.”

“I saw also the Lord sitting upon a throne.”  I have loved the vision of God sitting on a throne for some time now.  When I pray, I imagine myself coming before a King, bowing before His presence and humbling lifting my eyes to Him in supplication and petition.  Because of our lack of a monarchy here in the States we don’t really appreciate what it is to come before royalty in utter humility.  But there, in the his vision, Isaiah sees God on a throne where we would expect Him to be.  Reigning in all sovereignty and power as the ultimate King of all kings, and Lord of all lords.

A “throne” is a place of rulership, which in turn is a  place of judgment.  Israel had been long divided as a nation at this point in history.  The ten kingdoms to the north were referred to as Israel while the two kingdoms to the south were Judah.  God’s people were divided from each other but they were also divided from God.  The people had drawn away from God through sin and rebellion (See Isaiah 1:2-4).  God was now “sitting” in the seat of judgment.  Proverbs 20:8 tells us, “A king that sitteth in the throne of judgment scattereth away all evil with his eyes,” (KJV).

“High and lifted up.”  Where else would He be?  God is exalted above all!  Psalm 108:5 rejoices and says, “Be thou exalted, O God, above the heavens: and thy glory above all the earth,” (KJV).  God is above!  Not Beneath!  There are many kingdoms established upon this earth but God supersedes all!  He is “lifted up!”  Every rule of man must bow to the ultimate King.  “The princes of the people are gathered together, even the people of the God of Abraham: for the shields of the earth belong unto God: he is greatly exalted,” (Psalm 47:9, KJV).  God’s dominion outranks every other power imaginable!

“His train filled the temple.”  Many of us are familiar with the idea of “train” on a bridal gown.  When she walks into the room and precedes down the aisle everyone focuses on the floor to see how long the train is.  The long, flowing fabric embellished with love moves down behind her giving her a royal appearance.  God didn’t need the appearance of royal, He is King.  His “train,” the hem of His holy garment, marked His majestic stance above all else.  It “filled the temple.”  Can you imagine seeing God on His throne in heaven with heavenly hosts gathered all around and His flowing garment encompassing and enveloping everything with His glory?  Amazing!

Isaiah 6:2 “Above it stood the seraphims: each one had six wings; with twain he covered his face, and with twain he covered his feet, and with twain he did fly.”

“Above it stood the seraphims.”  As I studied this I found out that this is the only place in the Bible where the word seraphim appears.  This is a unique opportunity that God has given to Isaiah.  For those whom God draws near to Himself and are willing to be a vessel for His use, will experience unique opportunities that are not privileged to everyone else.

“Each one had six wings; with twain he covered his face, and with twain he covered his feet, and with twain he did fly.”  These seraphim dwelt with God in heaven yet felt a need to “cover” themselves.  Here is tells us twice of them being “covered.”  First, with the “face” and then with the “feet.”  Why the need to feel covered?  They know their unworthiness before this Judge who sits on the throne.  Residing in heaven with Him, they don’t know of His majesty, they know He is majestic.  His holiness transcends all others therefore, they “cover” themselves.  How brash is mankind in thinking that he can approach God in any form or fashion?  When the residences of heaven bow and cover, what more should we do when in his presence?

Isaiah 6:3 “And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the LORD of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory.”

“And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the LORD of hosts.”  This time if year is wonderful in that I can keep my windows open and experience nature.  One of the things I get to experience is the birds calling and communicating to one another.  They are sounding off their beautiful sonnets in hopes of attracting a mate or just relaying and revealing stuff in their own bird language.  The seraphim’s message to one another, and for us to witness through Isaiah’s vision, is that the holiness of God is like no other.  We cannot, with a human perspective, imagine how far and beyond us His holiness is.  Here “one cried unto another . . . Holy, holy, holy.”  Anytime Jesus wanted to teach a truth with great emphasis He would use the phrase “Verily, verily.”  Saying it twice really brought the attention in to the point He was making.  Here, twice was not enough when professing the holiness of God.  They announced it three times.  That means we cannot comprehend it, we just better be ready to stand before it.

“The whole earth is full of his glory.”  Everything on the earth gives God the full glory in the way they were created except for man.  When the trees sway in the wind they glorify God because they are fulfilling their design.  When the squirrel gathers nuts it does so at the command of God over its life.  All of creation speaks of the glory of God.  We may not hear it audibly but we can see it all around us.

“The earth is the LORD’s, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein,” (Psalm 24:1, KJV).  Everything is under God’s ownership, therefore, “Let every thing that hath breath praise the LORD.  Praise ye the LORD,” (Psalm 150:6, KJV).  Jesus, on His triumphal entry into Jerusalem said, “I tell you that, if these should hold their peace, the stones would immediately cry out,” (Luke 19:40, KJV).  Why?  Because “the whole earth is full of his glory!”  The magnificence of God can be seen throughout all His creation and if we don’t sing with the seraphim, “Holy, holy, holy,” then the rocks will cry out in our place!

Isaiah 6:4 “And the posts of the door moved at the voice of him that cried, and the house was filled with smoke.”

“The posts of the door moved at the voice of him that cried.”  A voice so thunderous.  A voice so powerful, so awe-strikingly moving to be heard that is caused the door posts in heaven to shake.  And this is just speaking of the seraphim.  No wonder when the children of Israel gathered around Mt. Sinai they were afraid to hear the voice of God speaking to them.  “And they said unto Moses, Speak thou with us, and we will hear: but let not God speak with us, lest we die,” (Exodus 20:19, KJV).  To be in God’s awesome, holy presence is nothing to be played with.  When we enter into the place where true holiness resides we enter in with the humility that His tabernacle deserves.

“And the house was filled with smoke.”  There is no mistaking when God is in the building or inhabiting the mountain.  Back to the children of Israel at Mt. Sinai it says, “And all the people saw the thunderings, and the lightnings, and the noise of the trumpet, and the mountain smoking: and when the people saw it, they removed, and stood afar off,” (Exodus 20:18, KJV).  What is our response at the true presence of God in our lives?  How do we act when we approach His glory?  The children of Israel “stood afar off” and in our next verse Isaiah was moved with his own unworthiness, what of our own humility before Him who sits on the throne?

Isaiah 6:5 “Then said I, Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips, for mine eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts.”

“Then said I.”  What follows is a personal testimony of a man faced with his own sinfulness.  This is his personal statement of what happened in his own heart when he stood before the presence of the Almighty.  This was his response before the Creator of all the heaven and all the earth.  Think about it, what will you say before Him who knows all and sees all, yet called you before His throne?

“Woe is me!”  Can you sense the agony of sin standing before the Sinless?  It’s as if someone pulled back a curtain to reveal all the evils in human nature and the sight of his own role in humanity made Isaiah say, “Woe!”  When was the last time we woed at our own incompleteness without Him?  Even the most best behaved person on the face of this earth would have to “woe” before the Almighty.  This is all about Him and our complete unworthiness to be before Him.  But thank God for where Christ has placed us now:

“Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession.  For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.  Let us therefore COME BOLDLY UNTO THE THRONE OF GRACE, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need,” (Hebrews 4:14-16, KJV, All Capital Emphasis Mine).

“For I am undone.”  This reminds me of the testimony of some who, in a life-changing moment, saw their life flash before their eyes.  This is what Isaiah was experiences.  Every sin, every wrong, and every transgress comes to the forefront  when there’s nothing to hide behind anymore.  Standing before the Revealer of all he declared “I am undone.”  “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God,” (Rom. 3:23, KJV).  Standing in His glory one soon realizes just how “short” from being worthy he truly is.

“Because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips.”  Jesus, in condemning the scribes and Pharisees said it best.  “But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man,” (Mt. 15:18, KJV).  Using the uncleanness of his own lips and those of people in general, he could see that his life was not ready to stand before the King of all kings and the Lord of all lords.  The uncleanness of the lips is synonymous with the uncleanness of the heart.  Continuing in Matthew Jesus further said, “For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies: These are the things which defile a man  . . .,” (15:19-20a, KJV).  But Jesus started off His chastisement saying, “Out of the mouth come forth from the heart.”  What is our conversation saying of our hearts?  Do we really understand how “unclean” we are?

“For mine eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts.”  It only takes a moment to see the miraculous to change your life forever.  Many people desire to see God or an angel on this side of glory as some sort of sign.  They don’t know what they ask for.  Every time I read of one of the instances in the Bible when man came face to face with one of God’s angels and he fell down before him in fear, I know that would be my response also.  How much more before the King?  The majority of us will never experience the sight of Him until we get to heaven “For we walk by faith, not by sight,” (2 Cor. 5:7, KJV).  OH!  But if we did, I’m sure it would have the same impact on us as it did on Isaiah “For mine eyes have seen the king, the LORD of hosts.”

Isaiah 6:6-7 “Then flew one of the seraphim unto me, having a live coal in his hand, which he had taken with the tongs from off the altar.  And he laid it upon my mouth, and said, Lo, this hath touched thy lips; and thine iniquities is taken away, and thy sin purged.”

Using the set of wings that was not for covering himself in humility, one of the “flew” into action.  The seraphim performed the action of getting and placing the “live coal” on Isaiah’s lips but he was not responsible for the purging of the sin.  We know that in the Bible altars were places of sacrifice.  Upon the altars were sin offerings, burnt offerings, peace offerings, heave offerings, wave offerings and such.  So we can only assume that the altar where the “live coal” was is symbolic for removing of sins also since this is what the seraphim used it for.  The point of these verses is not the “altar” rather the change in man after being touched by that which was on the “altar.”

If there is true confession.  If there is true repentance.  If there is true salvation, then that life will never be the same again.  Having “iniquities  . . . taken away” lightens the load of humanness and lets us focus more on the divine.  “Old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new,” (2 Cor. 5:17, KJV).  This new stance before God leads to a new outlook on life.  His will becomes our will.  His work becomes our work as we see in the next verse.

Isaiah 6:8 “Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?  Then said I, Here am I; send me.”

What a conclusion!  After all that has transpired the Lord speaks up.  Wings flew, voices thundered and sins were purged but now He speaks.  Not directly to Isaiah but He speaks to be heard by Isaiah.  How many times have God spoken to us but His pleas have gone unheeded?  “Well, I’ve never heard Him speak to me!”  God usually doesn’t speak audibly as He did in the ancient days, but He still speaks.  One of the easiest ways to find out what God has to say on a matter is to read His Word.  Nothing in the Bible has changed since it was written and His Word is as reliable and infallible as always.  For more ways to hear from God today check out this article on Crosswalk.com.

The question of the “Lord” was “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?”  “Whom” is there that is prepared his heart and mind to follow the will of God and go is the real question?  One cannot go unless they had first prepared.  I imagine that’s why we don’t hear the Lord speak until after the sins were purged.  Sin does more than defile you before the Lord it also hinders any work that He wants to do in you and through you.  Now that Isaiah is prepared the Lord wants to know will he go?

To be willing to “go” means to allow oneself to commissioned to service.  When my son’s commanding officer tells him to “go” he must fully obey the orders given or suffer the consequences.  Here, the “Lord” was asking is there one who allows Him to commission himself to His service.  Romans 12:1 teaches us to “Present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service,” (KJV).  After witnessing everything he did in the throne room of heaven Isaiah had no problem responding with a resounding, “Here I am; send me.”  He didn’t know what his life would look like after that but he was ready to “go.”

What about us?  After seeing the glories of heaven and hearing of all the sights and sounds that Isaiah witnessed are we ready to respond as Isaiah did?  Is it not our “reasonable service” to want to be used by the Lord?  Isaiah answered the call of God on his life and he was never the same.  We are today still talking and teaching of the prophecies he spoke because he said, “Here I am; send me.”  What will God do through you?  After witnessing the “Holy, holy, holy” how will we respond?

Lesson Activities:

Wordsearch: HOLY HOLY HOLY WORDSEARCH  Answers: HOLY HOLY HOLY WORDSEARCH ANSWERS

Crossword: HOLY HOLY HOLY CROSSWORD  Answers: HOLY HOLY HOLY CROSSWORD ANSWERS

Vs.3 – Holy Holy Holy:

One activity your students can make is to put together this fan.  Simply print out the PDF on cardstock and the let the students decorate it with a scene from the lesson in heaven.  Attack a large craft stick with glue or tape.  Enjoy! PDF: Fan template (Make sure your printer settings are not on “shrink to printable area” because it may come out too small.  Rather, have it set on “fit to printable area” to come out bigger. 

Another activity that can be done is this “Holy Holy Holy” Glitter sheet.  Use the sheet as is to color or do as I did.  I colored and cut out the words and glued them on blue construction paper (sky).  Then, using a white crayon you can make clouds.  Finally, since it is a holy place where these words are being uttered, I used gold glitter to bring out the words “Holy, Holy, Holy!”  Enjoy!  PDF: Holy coloring sheet

Another activity that can be done is to make this Holy Holy Holy Puzzle.  Simple print out the PDF on cardstock and let the children decorate with a scene from heaven.  Cut it out and enjoy!  PDF: Holy holy holy puzzle

Vs. 4 – The door posts shook at the voice:

Students can put together this simple activity using the coloring sheet from Twistynoodle.com and the verse cut out Verse cutout for Isaiah 6 verse 4.  Enjoy!

Vs. 5 – Unlcean lips:

This activity can be a great reminder for students of the unclean lips in the lesson (which represent sin).  I used brown and black to color the lips to signify dirt.  An idea to use would to be to gather actual dirt and allow the children to rub it on or glue it on to the lips.  Enjoy!  PDF: Unclean lips

Vs. 8 – Whom shall I send?:

The call of God on Isaiah’s life was also a main point in this lesson.  This megaphone activity allow students to remember how God called Isaiah into action.  Simply use the coloring sheet from Edupics.com and this verse cut out Whom shall I send Verse Cut Out to create.  Enjoy!

Other Activities and Resouces:

“Sin Revealed” from Kidssundayschool.com (Great object lesson to go with being “undone” and “unclean lips” because it shows how our sin can’t hide before God).

“Sanctified Lips” from Calvarycurriculum.com

“Isaiah” Lesson and Activities from Missionarlington.org

“Seraphim” from Sundayschoollessons.com

“Isaiah Powerpoint” from Bibleforchildren.org

“Isaiah Coloring Book” from Bibleforchildren.org

“Throw Away Your Sins Game” from Kidssundayschool.com

“Don’t Stain Your Reputation Bulletin Board” from Kidssundayschool.com

“Megaphone Paper Cup Craft” from Meaningfulmama.com (This craft can be adjusted to the call of Isaiah in verse 8)

“Isaiah Coloring Sheet” from Coloringpages7.com 

Related articles

• Sunday School Lesson “The Hope of His Coming” 2 Peter 3:3-15a (wordforlifesays.com)
• Sunday School Lesson “Equipped for Godliness” 2 Peter 1:3-14, May 12, 2013 (wordforlifesays.com)
• Sunday School Lesson “Living With Hope” 1 Thessalonians 4:13 – 5:11 (wordforlifesays.com)

Photo Credit: Gospelgifs.com

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“SING AND SHOUT!”   Isaiah 12:1-6  June 9, 2013

After the lesson are great activities and coloring sheets to help you reinforce the lesson.  Enjoy!

(Click here to print the lesson in Word document: Sing and Shout Sunday School Lesson or click the print button below.  Enjoy!)

Introduction:

“Praise waiteth for thee, O God, in Sion . . .,” Psalm 65:1a, KJV

“Praise ye the LORD: for it is good to sing praises unto our God; for it is pleasant;

and praise is comely,” Psalm 147:1, KJV

“O sing unto the LORD a new song; for he hath done marvellous things . . .,” Psalm 98:1a, KJV

Above are just a few of the “praise” verses that I have highlight in my personal Bible, for there are many.  And, rightly so.  For any Christian “praise” should never be far from one’s lips or their heart.  Not just the stand-up-in-church-and-sing-a-song-praise, rather, an adoration of the heart that cannot be contained.  It must overflow and spill out of the vessel that holds it.

That’s what Isaiah foresaw in today’s text.  Though often he had to prophecy of judgment and the hardship that the people would face due to their negligence of their faith in God and their worship of false idols, there were times like today’s lesson covers, where his mission is one of comfort.  He gets to encourage the people that though what they may be experiencing now is hard, there will come a time when they will feel so glorious about what God is doing in their lives, praise will be their natural reaction.  His salvation through the coming King will evoke a worship that cannot be contained.

We have much to praise God for.  I often hear people testify “If He never does another thing for me, I’ll praise Him and thank Him for what He has already done!”  That is a very appropriate stance before God.  Though God has done much for His people, one only has to look as far as their own personal salvation to have enough to praise God for.  We know where we stood before His intervening love in our lives (condemned), and we know where we stand now (saved), that alone should cause God’s people to worship.

Let’s take a look into the story of Israel and what Isaiah is prophesying over them and why they should praise.  Then, let’s view that for ourselves so that we can join in that future and declare today that we can “Sing and Shout!”

Isaiah 12:1 “And in that day thou shalt say, O LORD, I will praise thee: though thou was angry with me, thine anger is turned away, and thou comfortedst me.”

Israel, through their long history of rebelling against the God who delivered them, had suffered much.  Time and time again they saw their lives from a captive state, serving under the oppression of others.  And time and time again, when they cried out to God, He became their deliverer once more.  Unfortunately for Israel, they never stayed in that appreciative state for long.  For after a leader/deliverer had passed off the scene they reverted back to their own sinful inclinations.  Because of this they repeatedly were subjected, of their own doing, to hardship of falling prey to nations mightier than they.  But, for a remnant of God’s people, this will not be the final say.  “For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us,” (Ro. 8:18, KJV).

“And in that day.”  As Isaiah looks down through the years in the future, he sees something better to come.  Imagine, living under the wrath of God, then, release.  Well, technically, we should all know what that feels like.  In the chapter before, Isaiah prophesied, “And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots,” (Is. 11:1, KJV).  This verse and those following we identify as the Messiah, the Lord Jesus Christ.  He is coming back, and when He comes back “with righteousness shall he judge,” (Is. 11:4, KJV).  “That day” is referenced in our lesson twice and marks the beginning of reasons to praise Him.  “That day” speaks of the reign of the coming King.  Though Assyrian affliction was their present circumstance, their sin circumstance was the greater concern as it is with all mankind.  There will come a “day” when it will all be over and the King of kings will come in all His glory to render judgment.

“Thou shalt say,” speaking of the remnant, “O LORD, I will praise thee.”  There is never a wrong time to “praise” God.  But Isaiah said they had a special reason to “praise thee.”  The reason was “though thou wast angry with me, thine anger is turned away, and thou comfortedst me.” 

God has every right to be angry especially when it comes to His people.  God had already done everything possible to secure a relationship with His people.  Look back through history and review their deliverance from Egyptian bondage.  It was with a mighty hand and a mighty plan that they crossed the Red Sea to the other side on dry land.  Shortly after the people indulged in idol worship.  Such has been their relationship with God.

In His righteousness God must judge all sin and transgression.  His ultimate plan in dealing with mankind’s sin problem came through the death of His innocent Son, the Lord Jesus Christ.   The Bible tells us “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God,” (Rom. 3:23, KJV).  Therefore, we were all predisposed to incur the wrath of God but, as with Israel, we “praise” God because His “anger is turned away” through the salvation of His Son.  “For his anger endureth but a moment; in his favour is life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning,” (Ps. 30:5, KJV).  So, we He comes back we can join in the Israelites song of deliverance and salvation, rejoicing in all that He has done for us.  Better yet, we can sing it NOW and be “comfortedst” in the truth of His reign.  “Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered,” (Ps. 32:1, KJV).

Isaiah 12:2 “Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the LORD JEHOVAH is my strength and my song; he also is become my salvation.”

One of my favorite Psalms to quote and pray is Psalm 118, and it has been for years.  I believe everybody, not just Israel, can find a prayer to link to throughout this particular psalm.  Almost exactly in the middle of this psalm is verse 14 where we see similar wording that Isaiah used here in today’s text.  “The LORD is my strength and song, and is become my salvation,” (Ps. 118:14, KJV, see also Ex. 15:2).  The need to praise God for His faithfulness in our lives is universal.  Every one, everywhere, should have a reason to praise God.

Why?  Because “God is my salvation.”  The emphasis on this portion of scripture is on the word “is.”  To me “is” is present tense.  To me “is” is right now, currently in effect.  What “is” God, the one to whom it is referenced?  God “is” my salvation.  This is what He “is” not just what He does.  He “is!”  They, as well as us, will praise God in that day because they realize that “salvation” is who He “is.” 

“I will trust, and not be afraid.”  Because of who He is in their life they can find peace in that day.  When was the last time you allowed yourself to sit back and envision that day?  A time when every evil and everything that makes you afraid dissipates?  Previously in Isaiah 11:6 he said, “The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; and the calf and the young lion and the fatling together; and a little child shall lead them,” (KJV, also read vss. 7-9).  Peace!  What Isaiah was speaking to the people was a time far off.  Something they probably had a hard time comprehending through the afflictions of evil they were currently experiencing.  Isaiah, in an effort to encourage them of the future (something that’s always hard to think of when one is hurting), told them there will come a time where they will say, “I will trust, and not be afraid.”

One of my favorite books to read is The Hiding Place.  The experiences written therein really centers one in their faith.  It always amazes me how the Ten Boom family so readily put themselves in harms way to save others.  As you read, you begin to experience through their words the agony of being in a place of oppression such as a concentration camp.  Every time one of the guards spoke, there was a reason to be afraid.  One never knew what dire consequences could be dealt at any given command.  Thinking back on the testimony of that book, I can imagine what the Israelites life must have looked like with evil reigning over them.  But, Isaiah said one day that will all be lifted and in the place of fear will be “trust.”

That’s what being secured in Jesus does, in invokes “trust.”  The Bible tells us in Revlation 19:11-16 (KJV):

^“11 And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war.

¹² His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns; and he had a name written, that no man knew, but he himself.

¹³ And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God.

¹⁴ And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean.

¹⁵ And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God.

¹⁶ And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, King Of Kings, And Lord Of Lords.” (Biblegateway.com)

How can one not “trust?”  His victory over evil will be so complete there will be nothing left to fear!

“He is my strength and my song; he also is become my salvation.”  To me this is a symbol of reliance and praise.  The fact that God is our strength relieves us of feeling that we have to carry the burden alone.  That our trust in Him is so complete that we emphatically believe that He is more than able to carry us through.  Because of that, we praise Him!  We rejoice in Him and He is our “song!”  This lesson is all about praising Him.  Through our sinfulness we naturally would incur His wrath, but through “salvation” we rest in Him and praise!  “Salvation” is a beautiful thing and it’s too bad many don’t believe in it.  “Salvation” is nothing but love to a people who don’t deserve it.  Later, in Isaiah 53, he reveals the ministry of Christ so effectively that one must believe in this “salvation.”  (Study and get familiar with Isaiah 53, then hone in on a key verse such as verse 11 where it declares, “By his knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many; for he shall bear their iniquities,” KJV).  Jesus bore our sin and wickedness, our wrongs and failures so that we could obtain “salvation.”  Therefore, I will sing “he is my strength and my song!”

Isaiah 12:3 “Therefore with joy shall ye draw water out of the wells of salvation.” 

This verse reminds me of the time in John 4:4 where Jesus, “must needs go through Samaria,” (KJV).  What an interesting day that turned out to be.  Not for Jesus, but for the woman He would meet at the well.  Daily routines are just that, routine.  One doesn’t expect anything out of the ordinary, only what is normally supposed to happen.  Jesus switched the Woman at the Well day up dramatically and eventually brought salvation to her whole town.  But a lot conversation took place in between His first request for water and the town seeing His testimony themselves.  In that conversation, after asking for water and being questioned by the woman, Jesus told the woman, “If thou knewest, the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water,” (John 4:10, KJV).

Between the story of the woman at the well and what Isaiah is presenting here in today’s lesson, we see water as a symbol of “salvation.”  When one is thirsty they seek to alleviate that thirst with water.  A lack of indoor plumbing in ancient biblical times meant that one would most likely find their refreshment in a well.  We’ve all seen the pictures.  It’s a little structure that is dug in the ground to catch the rain water when it came.  In order to get to the water, a bucket or pitcher would be lowered using a rope to haul the water that is deep down and raise it to the surface for the enjoyment of the drinker.  Once the thirst is quenched, the soul of him who partook in its refreshment is happy.

The psalmist said it like this, “O God, You are my God; Early will I seek You; My soul thirsts for You; My flesh longs for You in a dry and thirsty land where there is no water,” (Ps. 63:1, NKJV).  The soul of man thirsts for salvation and when he is able to draw from the refreshment thereof, he has “joy!”  Our time before salvation was like living in a “dry and thirsty land where there is no water.”  But now, we are able to “draw water out of the wells of salvation” and we do it “with joy!”  (See also Is. 55:1).

Jesus offers us “living water” to “draw . . . out of the wells of salvation.”  Jesus said, “If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink.  He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water,” (John 7:37-38, KJV).  (At this point in the lesson, this would be a good time to make a call to salvation).  Isaiah prophesied about it this “water,” Jesus offered it, and in Revelation we see it again (compare Rev. 7:17; 22:1-2, 17).

Isaiah 12:4 “And in that day shall ye say, Praise the LORD, call upon his name, declare his doings among the people, make mention that his name is exalted.”

Now, we hit another “praise break” is what my kids would call it.  But, literally it is true.  Singing forth His “praise” is something that should come natural to a child of God.  “Praise” goes beyond just playing music or singing a song.  “Praise” is the worship and adoration one feels on the inside, because of what He did, manifesting itself on the outside.  If one never has a manifestation of “praise” that shows on the outside, I would have to question what they have on the inside.  As the young people would say, “I’m just saying . . .?”

“Praise the LORD!”  It’s the simplest of instructions and it should be the easiest to carry through.  If you are grateful for what He has done, “Praise the LORD!”  If you know apart from Him you are nothing, “Praise the LORD!”  If you know that you could not save yourself (and, you couldn’t), “Praise the LORD!”  If you are thankful that He brought you out of that world of sin, “Praise the LORD!”  There is no great logic behind it, He saved you and I when we deserved His anger.  Yet, His mercy and compassion compelled Him to reach for us through Jesus Christ.  Therefore, “Praise the LORD!”

“Call upon his name.”  “He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him,” (Ps. 91:15, KJV).  God is not shy; He said “call!”  If you look back through the history of the Bible, the greatest people were people of prayer.  They were people who knew how to “call upon his name.”  Prayer is not work, it is a privilege.  God wants to hear from little old us.  Why?  Because He loves us and saves us.  And now that we are in a relationship with Him, He wants us to fellowship with Him through prayer.  There are too many references to prayer throughout the Bible to list here, but I urge you to grow deeper with Him through prayer and don’t shy away from it (see 1 Chron. 16:11; 2 Chron. 7:14; Mt. 7:7; MK. 11:24; Jn. 15:7 and 1 Jn. 3:22,  just to name a few).  Later, Isaiah told the people, “And it shall come to pass, that before they call, I will answer; and while they are yet speaking, I will hear,” (Is. 65:24, KJV).  Call Him, He’s waiting to hear from you.

“His name.”  Jesus said, “Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full,” (John 16:24, KJV).  Colossians 3:17 tells us, “And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father by him,” (KJV).  We seal everything in “His name.”  All authority is in “His name.” (see also Is. 50:10; Jn. 14:13; Eph. 5:20).

“Declare his doings among the people, make mention that his name is exalted.”  SPEAK IT OUT!  Tell the world about the Mighty God you serve!  “Declare” and “make mention” means open up your mouth and tell somebody!  In the New Testament Jesus got, as we say in our area, “for real, for real” about this.  He said, “Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven.  But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven,” (Mt. 10:32-33, KJV).  God is worthy to be talked about.  Romans 10:14 asks us, “How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?” (KJV).  They can’t believe in whom they have never heard about.  Tell it like it is!  Spread the Good News!

“Be thou exalted, Lord, in thine own strength: so will we sing and praise thy power,” (Ps. 21:13, KJV)!

Isaiah 12:5 “Sing unto the LORD; for he hath done excellent things: this is known in all the earth.”

Here we see praise coming to the forefront again in the command to “sing.”  You can look at my article titled “Sing!” for further encouragement.

“For he hath done excellent things.”  You don’t have to go far to see what “excellent things” Isaiah speaks of.  All one has to do is turn the page in their own book to the beginning of the story to see how bad off we were without Him.  Flipping through to the middle pages shows us how we need Him on a regular basis in our daily walk.  And, advancing to read what the end says when we rejoice with Him for all eternity, we can truly declare “he hath done excellent things.”  “Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised,” is what the psalmist declared, Ps. 48:1, KJV.

“This is known in all the earth.”  According to the Pulpit Commentary the word “known” means to “publish it – noise it abroad.”  Romans 1:20 says,  “For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse,” (KJV).  It’s “known!”  Psalm 19:1 says, “The heavens declare the glory of GOd; and the firmament shewth his handywork,” (KJV).  It’s “known!”  Acts 14:17 says, “Nevertheless he left not himself without witness, in that he did good, and gave us rain from heaven, and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness,” (KJV).  It’s “known!”  If you don’t praise Him for it, the earth will, Luke 19:10!  It’s “known!”  It’s already “published!”

Isaiah 12:6 “Cry out and shout, thou inhabitant of Zion: for great is the Holy One of Israel in the midst of thee.”

Because it’s “known” the lesson tells us to “cry out and shout, thou inhabitant of Zion!”  In the O.T., Zion was the City of God, Ps. 48; 87.  It was the city where David captured and named after himself, 2 Sam. 5:6-9.  And it was the epicenter of worship for the Jews, Ps. 78:68-69.  But, in Hebrews 12:22-24 it tells of that future Zion (Sion) that we obtain through the blood of Jesus Christ.  Revelation supports this idea when it pictures Jesus standing on Mt. Zion, Rev. 14:1.   Isaiah later shows us, “The redeemed of the Lord shall return, and come with singing unto Zion; and everlasting joy shall be upon their head: they shall obtain gladness and joy; and sorrow and mourning shall flee, (Is. 51:11, KJV).  It’s definitely a reason to “cry out and shout!” 

“For great is the Holy One in the midst of thee.”  This verse, along with Isaiah 60:19-21, is reminiscent of what we see in Revelation 21 & 22.  God is “in the midst.”  At this point, victory has been obtained.  The time of sorrow and mourning is passed.  Now is the time to enjoy being in the presence of the King for all eternity, never to be separated or driven away captive again “Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto him with psalms.  For the Lord is a great God, and a great King above all gods. O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the Lord our maker, (Ps. 95:2-3, 6, KJV).  In other words, because of who He is and what He has done let us “Sing and Shout!”

Below you will find resources to help you support your lesson for this week.  Enjoy!

Wordsearch: SING AND SHOUT WORDSEARCH  Answers: SING AND SHOUT WORDSEARCH ANSWERS

Crossword: Sing and Shout Crossword  Answers:  Sing and Shout Crossword Answers

Wordscramble: SING AND SHOUT WORD SCRAMBLE  Answers:  Sing and Shout Word Scramble Answers

Draw the Scene:  SING AND SHOUT DRAW THE SCENE

More Activities!!!:

“Sing and Shout!” Party Hat:

Simply print out the PDF: Sing and Shout Party Hat onto cardstock, decorate and cut out.  Bring the two corners together and staple or tape together.  Punch two holes on the side and string through with yarn.  And there, you have your party hat to Sing and Shout to the Lord in celebration!  Enjoy!

“Sing and Shout!” Tambourine:

Simply print out the PDF: Tambourine Temmplate onto paper.  Let the students decorate.  Attach two paper plates together with beans or rice on the inside (I used staples but you can use glue or tape also).  Glue the decorated template onto the outside of one of the plates and continue to decorate your tambourine.  If you desire, I made construction paper ribbons to attach and decorate mine with.  Use about 1″ strips of construction paper or leftover wrapping paper or what ever you have on hand.  Enjoy!

Now that you have your hat and your tambourine, it’s time to “SING AND SHOUT!” unto the Lord!!!

More Coloring Sheets and Activities:

“A Heart of Worship” from Ministry to Children

“Let the World Praise the Lord” from Ministry to Children

“Praise the Lord” from Childrensministry.com

“Why Do We Praise God?” from Kidssundayschool.com

“Praising God with Your Hands” from Ezinearticles.com

“I Will Praise God” Coloring Page from Twistynoodle.com

“Sing Praise to the Lord” Coloring Page from Lessons4sundayschool.com

“Psalm 147:1″ Coloring Page from Ilovejesus.com

“O Sing to the Lord a New Song” Coloring Page from Karla Dornacher

“Make a Joyful Noise” Coloring Page from Karla Dornacher

“Sing Unto the Lord” Coloring Pages from Childrens Gems in MY Treasure Box

“Praise the Lord” Coloring Page from Church House Collection

“Whe We Praise God” Coloring Page from Hem of His Garment

Don’t forget Father’s Day is coming next week.  You might want to start preparing projects and taking pictures of students for activities.  Enjoy!

“Father’s Day Ideas” from Ministry to Children

“Father’s Day Trophy” from Preschool Crafts for Kids

“Father’s Day Rocks!” paperweight from Preschool Crafts for Kids

“Father’s Day Shirt and Tie Card Craft” from Preschool Crafts for Kids

“Father’s Day Handprint Card” from Crafty-crafted

“Two More Father’s Day Crafts” from Craftsforkidslets.com

“Father’s Day Printables and Cards” from Allcrafts.net (This site has several great ideas.  Enjoy!)

Allkidsnetwork.com has several great Father’s Day ideas.

Other Father’s Day Sites:

Storytimecrafts.org

Parentdish.com

Simpsonized Crafts and then some

“Easy Father’s Day Crafts” from Blue Paper

Related articles

• Sunday School Lesson “Holy, Holy, Holy” Isaiah 6:1-8 (wordforlifesays.com)
• Sunday School Lesson “The Hope of His Coming” 2 Peter 3:3-15a (wordforlifesays.com)
• Sunday School Lesson “A Living Hope” 1 Peter 1:3-12 (wordforlifesays.com)

Photo Credit: Gospelgifs.com

Hey guys, thanks stopping by and visiting!   We are glad you like this site.  We always enjoy having company come over.  Please go to our NEW Facebook and be one of the first to like us.  There you will receive new posts, updates, devotions, Sunday School lesson ideas and more (all the great little extras and things you won’t find here).  Thank you for your support!  (Click the Facebook logo or here) I look forward to meeting you!

Sunday School is a vital part of any ministry. In it one is able to experience a deeper knowledge of God’s Word. We here at “Word For Life Says” want to help you help others. Below you will find resources to help you prepare for your upcoming lessons. May God bless you!

“Meaningless Worship Condemned”  Isaiah 29: 9-16,  June 16, 2013

(Click here for Word document: MEANINGLESS WORSHIP CONDEMNED Sunday School Lessson or simply click the print button below.  Enjoy!)

Insincerity.  Is there any greater form of scorn?  For in it, you look at the face of adoration and love, but dig deeper and you find a pretender.  One that is phony and filled with hatefulness.  It’s hurtful from a human perspective, how much worse for the one who treats God in this manner?

That is the accusation before the people in this week’s lesson.  God is rebuking them for surface worship.  Surface worship is only what can be seen with the naked eye.  But, as the Bible declares, “The Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart,” (1 Sam. 16:7, KJV).  And, it is in the heart where He wishes to see true devotion and adoration.

In today’s lesson, Isaiah once again becomes the mouthpiece of God.  This message of rebuke calls for self-examination in not only the readers of his day, but in ours as well.  Is our worship filled with empty rituals or are our hearts in tune with the beat of God’s?  Do we rely on our programs to draw us in His presence, or can we, with all humility of soul and spirit, approach Him on His throne to seek a closer relationship with Him?  Dig into today’s lesson and see how we measure up with God’s idea of worship in comparison to our own.

Isaiah 29:9-10 “Stay yourselves, and wonder; cry ye out, and cry: they are drunken, but not with wine; they stagger, but not with strong drink.  For the LORD hath poured out upon you the spirit of deep sleep, and hath closed your eyes: the prophets and your rulers, the seers hath he covered.”

“You reap what you sow.”  We often associate that saying with Galatians 6:7, and more than often apply it to finances.  This bold truth makes an impact in every area of our lives.  Here, we see because of the pride and complacency of Jerusalem, God has allowed them to reap what they have already sown.

God loves to bless His people, and He will.  Sometimes, one can put God into the role of a disciplinarian where chastisement becomes necessary.  This is what we see when it says the LORD is pouring out “the spirit of deep sleep” upon His people.

Their spiritual status before God was in la-la land.  They didn’t treasure Him and His ways.  They weren’t spiritually awake and in tuned to their relationship with Him.  Therefore, God handed them over to what they were already doing.

“Stay yourselves and wonder.”  Take a time-out and think about your own selves.  Think about how far you have let this go.  Think about where your life is now headed and where it once was when your worship was sincere.  Think about the path you take, for now you “stagger.” 

One who walks with a “stagger” is inconsistent.  “I could wish you were cold or hot,” is what was said to the inconsistent lukewarm church in Revelation 3:15, NKJV.  These kinds of people’s steps are not “ordered” in the Lord (Ps. 119:133).  Instead, their spiritual life acts like a “drunken” man who can’t get his bearings in life.

Because of this, God has “closed your eyes.”  We see many miracles in the Bible where God opens the eyes of the blind, but here God has closed their eyes; He has closed their understanding.  The leaders, “the prophets and your rulers, the seers hath he covered.”  Those that rely on their own wisdom have become as what Jesus called them, “blind guides,” (Mt. 23:24, KJV).

In order for God’s people to be in a proper relationship with Him that inspires true worship, they have to have their spiritual “eyes” linked up with Him in sincerity and truth.  Anything else will keep your view of Him “covered,” disabling one’s capacity for proper worship.

Isaiah 29:11-12 “And the vision of all is become unto you as the words of a book that is sealed, which men deliver to one that is learned, saying, Read this, I pray thee: and he saith, I cannot; for it is sealed; And the book is delivered to him that is not learned, saying, Read this, I pray thee: and he saith, I am not learned.”

Prophets and seers, two of the above named leaders, were known for seeing “visions.”  Seeing a vision means nothing if there is no understanding or interpretation.  Because their “eyes” are closed and “covered” they can’t comprehend what they so-called see.  They can’t “read” the things of God.  Their understanding of it is “sealed.”  They don’t know God’s ways.  “Therefore I said, Surely these are poor; they are foolish: for they know not the way of the Lord, nor the judgment of their God,” (Jer. 5:4, KJV).

For a leader to be effective they have to have a certain measure of understanding to the ways of God for themselves.  Romans 10:3 puts it like this, “For they, being ignorant of God’s righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God,” (KJV).  Rituals will not suffice.  The appearance of “righteousness” will not make the grade.  They will keep on being ignorant as “the words of a book that is sealed.”

Later, Isaiah himself, unbeknownst to him backs up Paul’s point in Romans.  Isaiah tells them, “All our righteousness are as filthy rags,” (Is. 64:6, KJV).   One’s dependence on their own pride will keep them as the one who says, “I am not learned.”  Comprehension comes from the desire of the true seeker.  The true seeker sincerely submits “to the righteousness of God.”

Isaiah 29:13-14 “Wherefore the Lord said, Forasmuch as this people draw near me with their mouth, and with their lips do honour me, but have removed their heart far from me, and their fear toward me is taught by the precept of men:  Therefore, behold, I will proceed to do a marvelous work among this people, even a marvelous work and wonder: for the wisdom of their wise men shall perish, and the understanding of their prudent men shall be hid.”

In prayer this morning, my heart kept singing that old hymn “Draw Me Nearer.”  First, I sang it in prayer on behalf of some special people I was praying salvation for.  Then, I sprang forth in song for myself.  A heart that constantly pulls to be nearer to God is what He desires.

Through Isaiah’s rebuke, it showed that this is not what He was receiving.  We call it “lip service” when someone does a lot of talking but doesn’t follow through in sincere action.  God identified it as a greater evil.  So much so, He said they “Have removed their heart far from me.”  This is the action on the part of the people.  This was of their own doing.  They have separated their devotion of God from their hearts while playing church on the outside.

This is also a dire warning to the church today.  Let us not approach God with just rituals and programs, but let our hearts come near Him in love and worship for who He is and all of His glory.

The people worried themselves more with what was being “taught” by men, then blessing God with a life wholly dedicated to Him, inside and out.  Our worship should be seeking His glory.  This is all about what’s real versus what’s fake; what are His ways as opposed to our own.  One will never see His glory as Moses did (Ex. 33) if they insist on worship that is not devoted to Him.

So, God in essence said, “I’m gonna do something about that.”  What He really said is, “Behold, I will proceed to do a marvelous work.”  I’m going to do the unexpected.  I’m going to flip your world upside down.  Since, you rely on the “wisdom of their wise men and the understanding of the prudent” more than drawing nearer to Me, I’m going to cause those things to “perish” and be “hid.”  This is almost the same thing we see in verses 11 & 12.

Isaiah 29:15 “Woe unto them that seek deep to hide their counsel from the LORD, and their works are in the dark, and they say, Who seeth us? And who knoweth us?”

“You can’t hide what’s inside!” is a phrase we hear all over; from children’s cartoons to songs to show to books, etc.  It’s a popular saying and no truer can it be applied than here in this message Isaiah is relaying for God.  The word “counsel” can also mean “purpose.”  God knows the “who’s, what’s, when’s, why’s and how’s” of everything!  Yet, mankind continually thinks He is aloof and unknowing so they try to “hide their counsel.”  Or, hide their reasons, purpose and sins.

God is omniscient and what that means is there is no “counsel” (however you want to use it) that He can’t find out about.  Mankind “seek deep to hide,” but God can go deeper still.  This is why the Bible tells us, “Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do,” (Heb. 4:13, KJV).  After declaring God “understandeth my thoughts afar off,” (Ps. 139:2) and “thou knowest it all together,” (Ps. 139:4), David, the writer of Psalm 139 summed it all up by saying in verse 6, “Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high, I cannot attain unto it,” (KJV).  Stop trying to hide it, God knows all about it.  Every counsel.  Every reason.  Every purpose is “naked” before Him!

Isaiah 29:16 “Surely your turning of things upside down shall be esteemed as the potter’s clay: for shall the work say of him that made it, He made me not? or shall the thing say of him that framed it, He had no understanding?”

You guys have your way of thinking “upside down!”  You’re acting like “clay” that tries to talk back to the “potter” and makes demands and questions that way it was made and how things should go.  Ludicrous!  Your way of thinking won’t bring you into sincere worship of the Lord.  Following your own ways will only lead you to evil and destruction.  The Lord pleaded in Jeremiah 18:11, “Return ye now every one from his evil way, and make your ways and your doings good,” (KJV).   The people’s response was, “There is no hope: but we will walk after our own devices, and we will every one do the imagination of his evil heart,” (Jer. 18:12, KJV).  That’s “upside down” and in God’s sight, it will not work.

In every way, shape and form, meaningless worship will always be condemned by God because it’s empty and futile and it will not produce the relationship He seeks with us.  “Let your heart therefore be perfect with the Lord our God, to walk in his statues, and to keep his commandments, as at this day,” (1 Kings 8:61, KJV).  The exhortation from 1 Kings applies to us also because only when one’s heart is turned toward God and His ways will there be meaning in worship.  God bless!

Below you will find resources to help you reinforce the lesson for this week.  Enjoy!

Wordsearch: Meaningless Worship Condemned Wordsearch  Answers:  Meaningless Worship Condemned Wordsearch Answers

Crossword:  Meaningless Worship Condemned Crossword  Answers:  Meaningless Worship Condemned Crossword Answers

Draw the Scene:  Meaningless Worship Condemned Draw the Scene

Isaiah 29:13 Coloring Sheet:  PDF Is. 29 vs 13 Coloring Sheet (Use coloring sheet as is or make a decorated poster.  Enjoy!)  (Special Note: Print out from PDF or download for accurate print.)

“Hangman”:  This old game is excellent for lesson reinforcement.  Simply print the worksheet from Printactivities.com, get your verses or phrases from the lesson you want to use or the students want to use with each other, play and enjoy!  (A single hangman page can be found at Thetripclip.com.  Enjoy!)

Photo Credit: Printactivities.com

“My Heart Worships God!” Plague:

Using large or small, colored or plain crafts sticks and this PDF Heart Worships or Red Heart Worships and string and tape,  students can decorate and create a plaque to hang anywhere to remind them of today’s important lesson.  SImply tape the string to the back of the plaque.  Enjoy! (Don’t forget, using cardstock is best if available).

“My Heart Worships God!” Person:

With this project your students can make a replica of themselves as dedicated people who have a heart to worship God.  Simply make a person template out of cardstock or download one such as Art Venturers.  Let students decorate the person to be like them.  Then, print out the PDF Small Heart Worships or Small Heart Worships Red and attach the heart to the person with glue.  Next, to give the person the ability to “hang around” whereever your students wish, glue a clothespin on the back and there you have it.  Enjoy!  (Don’t forget, cardstock works best if available).

Vs. 16: “Potter’s Clay”

Photo Credit: Prekinders.com

If you wish to illustrate this portion of the lesson one good idea is to make homemade play dough.  I usually use a No Cook formula such as the one found on Prekinders.com.  You students can form whatever they wish and you can ask them silly questions such as, “Did your play dough tell you to make it like that?” etc.  Wait for the silly responses and giggles from your students and tell them why this way of thinking was “upside down.”

Other Activities:

“Discovering the Divine” from Ministry to Children (This page has several resources that can be applied to this lesson including: “The Heart of Longing,” “The Worth of Knowing God,” and “God Incomprehensible.”)

“Isaiah Powerpoint” from Bibleforchildren.org

“Isaiah Coloring Book” from Bibleforchildren.org

“Isaiah Coloring Sheet” from Coloringpages7.com

“W is for Worship” Coloring Page from Ministery to Children

“Family Worship” Coloring Page located at Avirtuouswoman.org

“I Worship God!” Coloring Page from Lessons4sundayschool.com

“Worship” Coloring Page from Supercoloring.com

“Worshiping On The Knees” Coloring Page from Supercoloring.com

“Heart, Soul and Might” Coloring Page from Ministry to Children

Photo Credit: Ministry to Children

“Love the Lord Your God” Coloring Page from Sandwichink.com

Photo Credit: Sandwichink.com

“Love the Lord” Coloring Page from Christianpreschoolprintables.com

“Love the Lord” Activity Set from Christianpreschoolprintables.com (This page has several things that can be printed out to express the point of loving God with our heart in this week’s lesson.  Enjoy!)

“Love the Lord Your God” Coloring Page from Childrens Gems in My Treasure Box

“Love the Lord Your God” Maze from Calvarywilliamsport.com

Father’s Day Activities:

“Father’s Day Ideas” from Ministry to Children

“Father’s Day Trophy” from Preschool Crafts for Kids

“Father’s Day Rocks!” paperweight from Preschool Crafts for Kids

“Father’s Day Shirt and Tie Card Craft” from Preschool Crafts for Kids

“Father’s Day Handprint Card” from Crafty-crafted

“Two More Father’s Day Crafts” from Craftsforkidslets.com

“Father’s Day Printables and Cards” from Allcrafts.net (This site has several great ideas.  Enjoy!)

Allkidsnetwork.com has several great Father’s Day ideas.

Other Father’s Day Sites:

Storytimecrafts.org

Parentdish.com

Simpsonized Crafts and then some

“Easy Father’s Day Crafts” from Blue Paper

Photo Credit: Gospelgifs.com

Hey guys, thanks stopping by and visiting!   We are glad you like this site.  We always enjoy having company come over.  Please go to our NEW Facebook and be one of the first to like us.  There you will receive new posts, updates, devotions, Sunday School lesson ideas and more (all the great little extras and things you won’t find here).  Thank you for your support!  (Click the Facebook logo or here) I look forward to meeting you!

Sunday School is a vital part of any ministry. In it one is able to experience a deeper knowledge of God’s Word. We here at “Word For Life Says” want to help you help others. Below you will find resources to help you prepare for your upcoming lessons. May God bless you!

“The Glorious New Creation / Worship in the New Creation”

Isaiah 65:17-21, 23-25,  June 23, 2013

(Click here for WORD document: The Glorious New Creation Sunday School Lesson, or imply click the print button below.  Enjoy!)

In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth and everything He created was good (Gen. 1).  Good enough to go on as He made it to.  Good enough to live in and support life.  It was good!  It was excellent!  It was the way God purposed everything to be!

Then, sin entered in and too good became bad and the beauty turned ugly.  The Bible declares, “For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain,” (Rom. 8:22, KJV).  Creation is tired of sin.  It wants things back to the status of being “good.”  It wants to enjoy the way it was created in the beginning.

Isaiah’s message of hope brings assurance that one day creation will get its wish.  There is coming a day when the curse of humanity’s sin will be lifted and “all things become new,” (2 Cor. 5:17, KJV).

Isaiah 65:17 “For, behold, I create new heavens and a new earth: and the former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind.”

“Behold, I.”  As He did in the beginning so He does again.  God is identifying Himself as the one who will once again “create.”  Six times in today’s lesson God says, “I.”  In using “I,” He is stating what humanity has failed to realize:  It’s all about Him!  God is saying this is what’s going to be done by Me.

Three of those “I’s” that were spoken had to do with “create”:  “I create new heaven and a new earth,” “Be ye glad and rejoice for ever in that which I create,” and “I create Jerusalem a rejoicing.”  The other of these “I” statements are the “I will’s”:  “I will rejoice in Jerusalem,” “I will answer,” and “I will hear.”   All are prominent promises that will play out in our glorious future to come.

Since God has clearly identified Himself as the One in charge of all that’s going to take place, let’s take a closer look into what He is going to bring to pass.

“Behold, I create new heavens and a new earth.”  This is no strange concept for the Christian.  As a matter of fact, it’s what we’re banking on.  It’s what we’re looking for.  “Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness,” (2 Pet. 3:13, KJV).  It is what we have been holding onto and “being fully persuaded, that what he had promised, he was able also to perform,” (Rom. 4:21, KJV).

The promise here is a “new heaven and a new earth.”  In Revelation 21:1, through the vision of John, we see the completion of that promise that currently seems so far off.  What I like about this particular portion of Scripture is the promise is “new.”  Not re-created, not refurbished, but “new.”  When it comes to full fruition of its appearing as prophesied in Revelation, it’s something that just at that time is brought into existence and manifested.  Never has it been tread upon.  Never has it been soiled.  It can be compared to no other because it is “new.”

“And the former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind.”  The beauty, the pureness and the holiness of this new place will usurp any preconceived notions or ideas we may have had regarding it.  It’s going to be so glorious that we couldn’t “remember” what we left behind even if we wanted to.  The wording in the language used here reminds us of what the Apostle Paul said in 2 Corinthians 5:17 in regard to our own personal newness of salvation we have in Christ.  “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new,” (KJV, see also a beautiful poem titled “Broken Mirror” for futher encouragement of this verse).  New creatures need a new habitat.  Some place that’s not like the old world they left behind.

Isaiah 65:18 “But be ye glad and rejoice for ever in that which I create: for, behold, I create Jerusalem a rejoicing, and her people a joy.”

“But be ye glad and rejoice for ever in that which I create.”  This will be a time of eternal jubilation.  Let’s face it, with promises such as “God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away,” (Rev. 21:4, KJV), how can one not find that this place is a place to “rejoice for ever?”  “For ever,” can you imagine?  An eternity that looks nothing like what we see today will be ours.  I hardly watch the news anymore because all I see is sin, sadness and the desperation of humanity.  “But” since all that stuff will pass away, there you and I can “rejoice for ever.”  That’s something to be “glad” about.

Isaiah 65:19 “And I will rejoice in Jerusalem, and joy in my people: and the voice of weeping shall be no more heard in her, nor the voice of crying.”

“I will rejoice in Jerusalem, and joy in my people.”  At the time of Isaiah’s prophecy, Jerusalem was not on God’s nice list.  All the judgments that Isaiah had to prophesy against His “people” leaves a record that God was not too pleased with them.

As it was with Jerusalem so it is with us.  God is not pleased when it’s our own ways and vices we choose to follow.  Like Jerusalem also, all sin brings with it judgment such as the ones Isaiah prophesied about.  But God Himself is looking forward to that day more than we when He can finally experience that uninterrupted love relationship with man He sought in the beginning.  This puts Him in the position to “rejoice.”

The Bible says, “Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him,” (1 Cor. 2:9, KJV).  We cannot begin to fathom what’s awaiting us there.  We can read about it all we want, but God knows what’s in store for those “that love him.”  Oh my, He can’t wait to take “joy in my people” there.  I’m getting excited and can’t wait either.

“And the voice of weeping shall be no more heard in her, nor the voice of crying.”  It’s not that one will have to stop their ears to prevent from hearing weeping and crying, it’s that it doesn’t exist there!  “Weeping and crying” come from sin, sadness, pain and mourning.  But, in that glorious “new heaven and new earth” nothing that causes those sorrowful emotions exist – they won’t enter into that place.  “And there shall in no wise enter into it anything that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb’s book of life,” (Rev. 21:27, KJV).  Nothing that brings tears to your eyes will be allowed.  The only people that are going to be there with the Lord are people who are saved and written “in the Lamb’s book of life.”  (This would be a great time to present the case for salvation to your students).

Isaiah 65:20 “There shall be no more thence an infant of days, nor an old man that hath not filled his days: for the child shall die an hundred years old; but the sinner being an hundred years old shall be accursed.”

There are a lot of interpretation and opinions of what these next three verses mean, so instead of picking my way through them I prefer to focus on the promise in them.

Every time I read through Genesis and see the lifespan of some of the individuals in it, it boggles my mind: Adam (930 years old, Gen. 5:5); Seth (912 years old, Gen. 5:8); Enosh (905 years old, Gen. 5:11); Cainan (910 years old, Gen. 5:14); Mahalalel (895 years old, Gen. 5:17); Jared (962 years old, Gen. 5:20); Enoch (365 years old, Gen. 5:24); Methuselah (969 years old, Gen. 5:27); Lamech (777 years old, Gen. 5:31); and Noah (950 years old, Gen. 9:29).  Wow!  The lowest number was 365 years by Enoch and that was only because God took him, Genesis 5:24.

So, what we see is God’s promise of the future is things reverting back to the way they were supposed to be.  “Infant” mortality will not be the norm.  A life that “hath not filled his days” will not be the norm.

Isaiah 65:21 “And they shall build houses, and inhabit them; and they shall plant vineyards, and eat the fruit of them.”

“They shall build . . . and inhabit – they shall plant . . . and eat.”  Everything you put your hands to do there shall prosper.  Is this not what we see in the promise of Psalm 1?  “And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper,” (vs. 3, KJV).  Nothing we put our hands to do will fail or fall through the cracks.  The next verse reiterate this point so well.

Isaiah 65:23 “They shall not labour in vain, nor bring forth for trouble; for they are the seed of the blessed of the LORD, and their offspring with them.”

“They shall not labour in vain.”  All that we put our hands to do will pay off!  God’s people work, but they prosper in their work!  Job 36:11 declares, “If they obey and serve him, they shall spend their days in prosperity, and their years in pleasures!” (KJV).  “And let the beauty of the LORD our God be upon us: and establish thou the work of our hands upon us; yea, the work of our hands establish thou it!” (Ps. 90:17, KJV).  Prosperous!  Established!  It’s “not” in “vain!”

“For they are the seed of the blessed of the LORD, and their offspring with them.”  The Bible tells us how blessed was Abraham in his relationship with God and how his seed was blessed.  God promised, “I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing: And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all the families of the earth be blessed,” (Gen. 12:2-3, KJV).  In the N.T., as Christians we are told that we are “the seed” of Abraham.  “And if ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise,” (Gal. 3:29, KJV).  We are part of that “seed of the blessed of the LORD,” inheritors of all that God has promised to His people.

Isaiah 65:24 “And it shall come to pass, that before they call, I will answer; and while they are yet speaking, I will hear.”

“Before they call, I will answer; and while they are yet speaking, I will hear.”  Oh, to be such close proximity of God, in relationship and in presence, that the lips don’t have to utter the prayers He already hears.  This fallen world of sin separates the communication between God and man.  But, under this “new” the old rules, the old order of things don’t exist anymore.  Reconciliation and healing has permanently taken place between God and man.  As a result, that heavenly Father/child relationship He sought in the garden before the need to hide behind leaves, that which was previously torn, has now become whole.

Isaiah 65:25 “The wolf and the lamb shall feed together, and the lion shall eat straw like the bullock: and dust shall be the serpent’s meat.  They shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain, saith the LORD.”

“The wolf and the lamb.”  Natural adversaries are made to be at peace with one another (see also Isaiah 11).

“The lion shall eat straw” is the result of the promise of the rest of this verse where it states “they shall not hurt or destroy in my holy mountain.”  No more will they seek to have appetites satisfied at the expense of another creature, because God’s “holy mountain” is a place of refuge for man and beast.

Below you will find resources to help you reinforce this week’s lesson.  Enjoy!

Wordsearch: The Glorious New Creation Wordsearch  Answers: The Glorious New Creation Wordsearch Answers

Crossword: The Glorious New Creation Crossword  Answers: The Glorious New Creation Crossword Answers

Draw the Scene: The Glorious New Creation Draw the Scene

Our Heaven/Verse Coloring Sheet: PDF Heaven Coloring Sheet (Using the idea to paint with Q-tips found on Pinterest and my heaven/verse coloring sheet, I made this creation below.  Gives a break from crayons and adds a new dimension to your students projects (you still may want to do the verse itself with crayons/markers/colored pencils because it’s a little difficult with Q-tips).  What a fun way to do a coloring sheet!  For stability and a splash of additional color, I first glued the coloring sheet to construction paper, but cardstock works great too.  Enjoy!)

Here’s another great idea to use our Our Heaven/Verse Coloring Sheet: PDF Heaven Coloring Sheet.  Simply print out on cardstock this time (I don’t suggest construction paper because the first time I did it, it leaked through).  Color the verse with markers/crayons/colored pencils.  This time instead of using paint, we’re going to use salt/glue/food coloring/water/paintbrush.  Huh??? Oh, yeah!  Your students are going to get a kick out of this new way to color a sheet.  Thank you JugglingwithKids.com/pinterest for this amazing idea.  Below is a sample one I did. (Don’t forget, pour extra salt into a ziploc bag and mark as crafting salt, and use for future projects.)  Enjoy!

Heaven Mobile:  Using the PDF: Heaven Mobile Page 1 and the PDF: Mobile Heaven Page 2 any student would love to make their own mobile of heaven.  They can color the main page 1 and attach the clouds using string.  In the clouds, students can let their imaginations go and draw pictures about heaven: what are they looking forwards to, what do they expect to see there, what are some of God’s promises there, etc.  (Don’t forget, cardstock is best when doing this project).  Below is a sample.  Enjoy!

Other Activities:

“New Heaven and New Earth” Coloring and Activities from Calvary Curriculum

“Heaven” Ideas/Lesson from Ministry to Children

“Heaven” Ideas from Mssscrafts.com (several great ideas to choose from)

“Heaven” Ideas from DLTK (several great ideas to choose from including the two pictured below):

Photo Credit: DLTK

Photo Credit: DLTK

“Heaven is God’s Home” Coloring Page from Lessons4sundayschool.com

“Heaven, Revelation 21″ Coloring Page from Calvarywilliamsport

“Heaven” Coloring Page from Hellokids.com

More to Choose From:

“Isaiah Powerpoint” from Bibleforchildren.org

“Isaiah Coloring Book” from Bibleforchildren.org

“Isaiah Coloring Sheet” from Coloringpages7.com

“W is for Worship” Coloring Page from Ministery to Children

“Family Worship” Coloring Page located at Avirtuouswoman.org

“I Worship God!” Coloring Page from Lessons4sundayschool.com

“Worship” Coloring Page from Supercoloring.com

“Worshiping On The Knees” Coloring Page from Supercoloring.com

Related articles

• Sunday School Lesson “Sing and Shout!” Isaiah 12:1-6 (wordforlifesays.com)
• Sunday School Lesson “Holy, Holy, Holy” Isaiah 6:1-8 (wordforlifesays.com)
• Sunday School Lesson “The Hope of His Coming” 2 Peter 3:3-15a (wordforlifesays.com)
• Sunday School Lesson “Equipped for Godliness” 2 Peter 1:3-14, May 12, 2013 (wordforlifesays.com)
• “It’s All About Him!” (wordforlifesays.com)

Photo Credit: Gospelgifs.com

Hey guys, thanks stopping by and visiting!   We are glad you like this site.  We always enjoy having company come over.  Please go to our NEW Facebook and be one of the first to like us.  There you will receive new posts, updates, devotions, Sunday School lesson ideas and more (all the great little extras and things you won’t find here).  Thank you for your support!  (Click the Facebook logo or here) I look forward to meeting you!

Sunday School is a vital part of any ministry. In it one is able to experience a deeper knowledge of God’s Word. We here at “Word For Life Says” want to help you help others. Below you will find resources to help you prepare for your upcoming lessons. May God bless you!

“Joyful Worship Restored / Restoring Joyful Worship” Ezra 3:1-7

June 30, 2013

(Click here for WORD document: Joyful Worship Restored Sunday School Lesson or simply click the print button below.  Enjoy!)

Introduction:

I often hear the phrase, “Absence makes the heart grow fonder.”  Of course, every time I hear it it’s referenced to relationships and love.  But, in essence, isn’t that what we have playing out in today’s lesson.  During years of captivity in Babylon, God’s people were not in a position to draw near Him as they were used to.  They were not free to worship Him as was once prescribed for their people.  Not until they didn’t have it, did they begin to appreciate it.  They have been suffering with the absence of that love relationship with God through worship.  Fondly thinking on it, they want it back.

Now, they are home once again.  The feelings of nostalgia are rending their hearts restless.  These restless hearts can only be settled with the peace and love of “Joyful Worship Restored.”

“Restored.”  Is there a word more beautiful?  It represents something that was broken and torn apart being put back together again.  A spiritual Humpty Dumpty, if you will.  Instead of all the king’s horses and all the king’s men trying to piece together a broken egg, here the people realize they have a personal responsibility to do their part to repair the brokenness in their worship to God.  Today’s lesson shows us the steps they take toward restoration.

Ezra 3:1 “And when the seventh month was come, and the children of Israel were in the cities, the people gathered themselves together as one man to Jerusalem.”

In Leviticus 23:33-34, it tells us, “And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, Speak unto the children of Israel, saying, The fifteenth day of this seventh month shall be the feast of the tabernacles for seven days unto the LORD,” (KJV).  No longer in captivity, the people are now “in the cities” and the time has come, with this holy season at hand for celebrating; to get the worship restored once again.

With the people probably still feeling the sting of captivity and dealing with the “people” (vs. 3) around them, they wanted to be sure they got their new life in freedom off on the right foot.  Wouldn’t you?  Think of how pliant a child is after a time of correction.

“The people gathered themselves together as one man.”  Some call this corporate worship, something that includes everyone in the vicinity.  I don’t like that saying.  I prefer a more personal approach.  I prefer to look on it as being unified.  “Together as one man” implies no division in their thoughts or plans to get the job done.  Oh, how much more would the body of Christ be able to achieve if we worked “together as one man?”  But, isn’t this what Jesus prayed and admonished among His people, “That they all may be as one,” (John 17:21a, KJV)?  Togetherness and unity among members matters in the body of Christ.

Ezra 3:2 “Then stood up Jeshua the son of Jozadak, and his brethren the priests, and Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, and his brethren, and builded the altar of the God of Israel, to offer burnt offerings thereon, as it is written in the law of Moses the man of God.”

Every time I see those three words “it is written” it always takes my mind back to the temptation of Jesus and His rebuttal to Satan.  When something is “written” in God’s law it is to be taken seriously.  Today, we just jot things down, put reminders on post its, or set a phone app to take notes.  We write, but most of what we write is either trivial or treated as such.  But, when it comes to God’s law/the Bible, what is written is to be taken very seriously.  God’s word is His bond and people would do well to take careful heed to what “is written.” 

So, what was written “in the law of Moses the man of God?”  Leviticus 23:36 tells us, “Seven days ye shall offer an offering made by fire unto the LORD,” (KJV).  This part of God’s plan for this time of celebration could not be done without a proper “altar.”  A broken “altar” meant broken worship because during that time until Christ came one the scene, one’s devotion to God was expressed through the “altar” and the sacrifice made on it.

Ezra 3:3 “And they set the altar upon his bases; for fear was upon them because of the people of those countries: and they offered burnt offerings thereon unto the LORD, even burnt offerings morning and evening.”

“For fear was upon them because of the people in those countries.”  What would it be like to finally return home from being in captivity just to live in fear once more?  This is what they were expressing.  With the effects of captivity still fresh, dealing with other opposing people would not be ideal in their new situation.  This new situation and the fear it brought cold only be healed by bringing themselves back to God.  With that they “set the altar upon his bases,” and they were working to re-establish worship the way God prescribe.  “And thou shalt observe the feast of weeks, of the firstfruits of wheat harvest, and the feast of ingathering at the years end,” (Ex. 34:22, KJV).

“And they offered burnt offerings thereon unto the LORD, even burnt offerings morning and evening.”  God was very specific, as He always is, with the instructions He gave them for the “burnt offerings.”  “Command the children of Israel, and say unto them, My offering . . . shall ye observe to offer unto me in their due season . . . This is the offering made by fire which ye shall offer unto the LORD; two lambs of the first year without spot day by day, for a continual burnt offering,” (Num. 28:2-3, KJV).  Here in today’s lesson we see the people taking special measure to adhere to what was previously prescribed by God Himself.

Ezra 3:4-5 “They kept also the feast of tabernacles, as it is written, and offered the daily burnt offerings by number, according to the custom, as the duty of every day required; And afterward offered the continual burnt offering, both of the new moons, and of all the set feasts of the LORD were consecrated, and of every one that willingly offered a freewill offering unto the LORD.”

Not only did they re-establish “as the duty of every day required,” but being in the “seventh month” our lesson tells us “they kept also the feast of tabernacles.”

When one studies and compares the time Moses received these instructions from God and the people coming back from captivity, they realize there are many similarities between the two.  In Leviticus 23:10 God, speaking of the Promised Land, said, “When ye come into the land which I give unto you,” (KJV), and here in our lesson we see the people coming back into their land that God gave them.  He said, “Ye shall bring of the firstfruits of your harvest unto the priests, (vs. 2), and in our lesson the “priests” had a significant role in bringing the people closer to God.

You really have to read through all of Leviticus 23 (KJV) to fully appreciate all that was taking place during that seventh month: “A memorial of blowing trumpets, an holy convocation,” (vs. 24); “a day of atonement: it shall be a holy convocation, “(vs. 27); “the feast of tabernacles,” (vs. 34), which today’s lesson emphasizes that culminates in celebration.  “Ye shall rejoice before the LORD your God seven days,” (vs. 40) and “ye shall celebrate it in the seventh month,” (vs. 41).

The reason: “That your generations may know that I made the children of Israel to dwell in booths, when I brought them out of Egypt: I am the LORD your God,” (vs. 43, KJV).  Coming back from captivity, their worship is reaffirming the people in their relationship with God.  He is still their God.  He fulfilled His promise and brought them out of 70 years of captivity at the appointed time and so it is with joy they seek to worship.  Absence really does make the heart grow fonder.  Not only were they worried about setting in order “the feast of the tabernacles” but “all the set feasts of the LORD that were consecrated.”

“They willingly offered a freewill offering unto the LORD.”  Nobody had to force them to worship.  Nobody had to pump and prime them to do what was right before the Lord.  The heart that seeks to draw nearer to God is a heart that “willingly” submits itself to approaching Him His way.  Here, it was through a “freewill offering.”  Hebrews 10:22 tells us, “Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith,” (KJV).  Whether with a physical offering or with the heart, one’s worship toward God must be of their own choosing, “willingly.”

Ezra 3:6 “From the first day of the seventh month began they to offer burnt offerings unto the LORD.  But the foundation of the temple of the LORD was not yet laid.”

“From the first day of the seventh month began they to offer burnt offerings unto the LORD.”  Everything that was to be done during that month was done: all the feasts, celebrations and offerings, “from the first day of the seventh month.”  There’s no substitute for showing God He has priority in your worship and in your life.  There was no hesitation or debating what would be done.  Rather, “from the first day” they got down to business.

“But the foundation of the temple of the LORD was not yet laid.”  Worship can’t wait.  Getting right with God can’t wait.  Restoring fellowship and bringing back the service of the LORD can’t wait for the foundation of the temple to be laid.

It’s important for them to eventually get the building back in shape for worship, but it was even more important to deal with their hearts first.  The “foundation” of the physical building can be laid later, but the foundation of the spiritual building needs to be laid immediately.  The Apostle Paul taught, “Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?” (1 Cor. 3:16, KJV).  This takes precedence over all else.

Ezra 3:7 “They gave money also unto the masons, and to the carpenters; and meat, and drink, and oil, unto them of Zidon, to them of Tyre, to bring cedar trees from Lebanon to the sea of Joppa, according to the grant that they had of Cyrus king of Persia.”

To me, this verse is the most specialists of all (J I did that on purpose).  I know that sounded like a giddy teenager but when I tell you why, you may feel the same way too!  This verse really resonates how bad God Himself wanted worship restored with His people.  Here’s the kicker – He told Isaiah the exact name of the person who would “grant” the opportunity and funds to return home and worship, “Cyrus king of Persia.”

So, what!  “What’s so special about that?” is what you may be wondering.  The special thing about that is Isaiah prophesied that Cyrus would be the one to step up and grant this liberty approximately 150 years before it happened!  Amazing!  What that tells me is all those years before any event occurred; He made provision for their worship to be restored!  Can we really see in this lesson how much God loves His people and how much He wants to be in constant fellowship with them?  His love for us is AWESOME to keep providing ways for us to be near Him!

With that, our lesson tells us, “They gave money also unto the masons, and to the carpenters; and meat, and drink, and oil, unto them . . . according to the grant that they had of Cyrus king of Persia.”  They used the “grant” (money) to pay for the work to be started on total restoration of the building.  But thank God, in today’s lesson they had “JOYFUL WORSHIP RESTORED” in their spirit’s first!

Below you will find activities to help you reinforce this week’s lesson.  Enjoy!

Wordsearch: Joyful Worship Restored Wordsearch  Answers: Joyful Worship Restored Wordsearch Answers

Crossword:  Joyful Worship Restored Crossword  Answers: Joyful Worship Restored Crossword Answers

Draw the Scene: Joyful Worship Restored Draw the Scene

Memory Verse Coloring Sheet: Joyful Worship Coloring

Additional Activities:

Make your own “Altar!”:  Since today’s lesson of having worship restored is based around the altar, I have several crafting ideas to do with altars.

Tissue Box Altar:

Great if you have extra tissue boxes in the recycling.  Simply cover the tissue box with construction paper all the way around (I used black, my preference) and then attach rocks (purchased from dollar store) to just the front (or if you have that much patience, all the way around ). You are going to want to drop a few rocks inside to weigh it down.  I used hot glue for the rocks but you can use regular glue especially if your students are younger it just takes longer to dry.  Put fire colored tissue or construction paper coming out of the top and there you have it.  Enjoy!

This one is even easier to make.  Using the same tissue box example but instead of using rocks, I used the coloring sheet from Mssscrafts.  Simply color and attach with regular glue.  Enjoy!  (Of course, you could also use the coloring sheet as is.  They also have one with words.  Enjoy!)

Special Note:  The idea of doing a tissue box altar came to me while visiting Bible Class Creations but I tweaked mine.  There they used white contact paper to cover and drew red ricks with permanent marker.  You could also cover it in gold wrapping paper because the temple altars were covered in gold.  The possibilities are endless.  Enjoy!

Altar on Paper:

The altar paper is great if you like the idea of using rocks but didn’t have enough time to obtain tissue boxes.  Again, purchase rocks from dollar store, print out Mssscrafts coloring sheet on cardstock this time.  Color and glue to any color construction paper.  Then add your rocks.  You can also attach the PDF: Joyful Worship Cut Out.  Finally, glue tissue paper fire to the top and there you go.  Enjoy!

More Ideas:

“Scripture Scrolls” from Artisthelpingchildren.org (Two of our verses in today’s lesson: vs. 2 & 4 states “as it is written.  This activities will help emphasize this portion of the lesson.  Enjoy!)

“Altar” Coloring Sheet from Silk.net

“Altar” Coloring Sheet from Freeldsart.com

“Sacrifice at the Brazen Altar” from Photobucket

“Cyrus Helps the Exiles Return” from Calvarycurriculum.com

“Jump for Joy” Coloring Sheet from Freekidscoloring.com

“The Gift of Joy” Coloring Sheet from Twistynoodle.com

I introduced the lesson with a reference to Humpty Dumpty.  If you would prefer to approach the lesson from this angel, here are some choices for you.  Enjoy!

“Humpty Dumpty Bags”  from Pre-Kpages.com (With this idea you can make the bag as shown.  Then, my addition would be get a print out of eggs such as the ones from Milliande and write reasons or words of worship on them. You can also attach the PDF: Joyful Worship Cut Out to the back of the bag.  Don’t forget to decorate!  Talk about how it is good to keep worship between God and us.)

“Humpty Dumpty Egg Puzzle” from Mom to 2 Posh Lil Divas.  This really brings out the putting back together (restoring) aspect.  Their cute idea, putting Humpty together again with colored band-aids.  Enjoy!

“Paper Plate Humpty” from Nursery Rhyme Activities.  This is very easy to do with hardly any effort.  Simply attach the PDF: Joyful Worship Cut Out to the back to help them remember the lesson.  Enjoy!

“Stuffed Humpty Dumpty” from Mrs. Kilburn’s Kiddos (Very cute idea.  Use the same concept as above and attach the PDF: Joyful Worship Cut Out to the back.  Enjoy!)

Related articles

• Sunday School Lesson “Sing and Shout!” Isaiah 12:1-6 (wordforlifesays.com)
• “Meaningless Worship Condemned” Sunday School Lesson for June 16, 2013 (wordforlifesays.com)
• “The Glorious New Creation / Worship in the New Creation” Sunday School Lesson, Isaiah 65:17-21, 23-25, June 23, 2013 (wordforlifesays.com)
• Sunday School Lesson “Holy, Holy, Holy” Isaiah 6:1-8 (wordforlifesays.com)

Photo Credit: Gospelgifs.com

Hey guys, thanks stopping by and visiting!   We are glad you like this site.  We always enjoy having company come over.  Please go to our NEW Facebook and be one of the first to like us.  There you will receive new posts, updates, devotions, Sunday School lesson ideas and more (all the great little extras and things you won’t find here).  Thank you for your support!  (Click the Facebook logo or here) I look forward to meeting you!

Sunday School is a vital part of any ministry. In it one is able to experience a deeper knowledge of God’s Word. We here at “Word For Life Says” want to help you help others. Below you will find resources to help you prepare for your upcoming lessons. May God bless you!

The Temple Restored / Restoring The Temple

Ezra 3:8-13; July 7, 2012

(Click here for Word document: The Temple Restored Sunday School Lesson or simply click the print button below.  After the lesson, follow below to play and create with ideas for reinforcement of today’s lesson.  Enjoy!)

The temple; that sacred place where Solomon, on his knees, prayed the favor of God toward all that looked toward the city of Jerusalem, toward the temple, to be upon them (1 Kings 8).  Though the heavens cannot contain God (1 Kings 8:27), the temple is that special place where He allows His name to dwell (1 Kings 8:29).

At the dedication of the original temple, much of Solomon’s prayer was in regard to God and the temple: that His eyes may be open toward the temple day and night (1 Kings 8:29); that the prayers and supplication of the people would be heard when they pray toward this place (1 Kings 8:30); that God would judge oaths taken in the temple (1 Kings 8:31-32); that God would forgive their sins and redeem them from the suffering of their sins when they prayed in the temple (1 Kings 8:33-36); in times of famine, pestilence and sickness; whatever supplication, when hands are raised toward the temple, that God would forgive and act (1 Kings 8:37-40).

The temple was to ever become a source for the foreigner (1 Kings 8:41-43).  Prayer was also offered for times of battle.  When one is engrossed in war, they were to look toward the city, the temple and pray (1 Kings 8:44-45).  In times of captivity, when the people came to themselves, they were to pray toward the city, the temple, and God would hear from heaven and maintain their cause and forgive (1 Kings 8:46-53).

The temple was the central worship place for the people.  It is where they associated the presence of God to be.  The temple was holy.  The temple stood as a reminder that God was among His people.  The temple was no more.

It was time to bring it back to life once again.  It was time to restore this holy edifice of God and for the people to meet once again there in worship.  Captivity has stripped them of this privilege.  Returning home and not having the temple standing to greet them is not what they wanted to happen.  After having the altar restored (last week’s lesson), it was time to get the temple rebuilt, sanctified and back to serving God and man once again.  This is where we pick up with this week’s lesson: “The Temple Restored.”

Ezra 3:8-9 “Now in the second year of their coming unto the house of God at Jerusalem, in the second month, began Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, and Jeshua the son of Jozadak, and the remnant of their brethren the priests and the Levites, and all they that were come out of the captivity unto Jerusalem; and appointed the Levites, from twenty years old and upward, to set forward the work of the house of the LORD.  Then stood Jeshua with his sons and his brethren, Kadniel and his sons, the sons of Judah, together, to set forward the workmen in the house of God: the sons of Henadad, with their sons and their brethren the Levites.”

In last week’s lesson we left off with the people paying for services that would start the temple renovations.  After using the grant from Cyrus to pay for the materials and work, there was a waiting period for items, men and such to be secured for the task at hand.  This is why we see in our lesson on this week that they are “in the second year of their coming unto the house of God . . . in the second month,” a seven month period of time.

Those responsible for overseeing the work were “Zerubbabel” the governor (see also Hag. 2:2; Zech. 4:2), “Jeshua” the high priest (see also Ezra 4:3; 5:2), “and the remnant of their brethren the priests and the Levites (see also Num. 1:50; 3:6; 1 Chron. 23:27) . . . from twenty years old and upward.”

“To set forward the work of the house of the LORD.”  Out of all the things the temple was to the people, the most important thing they were to remember was this was “the house of the LORD.”  The “work” that they were doing was for God.  There were many years of reflection during those 70 years of captivity, to look back on all the could have’s and the should have’s, on all the things that were supposed to be done for Him.  Now, they have a chance once again to show God honor by setting forth “the work of the house of God.”

Will God’s glory once again fill the place till there’s no room to minister (1 Kings 8:11)?  They didn’t know.  But what they did know was the original promise God spoke to Solomon, “Concerning this house . . . if thou wilt walk in my statutes, and execute my judgments, and keep all my commandments to walk in them; then I will perform my word with thee . . . And I will dwell among the children of Israel, and will not forsake my people Israel,” (1 Kings 6:12-13).  They lost that in captivity, but through “the work of the house of the LORD” their hope is to regain a full, uninterrupted fellowship with Him once again.  With that, they “set forward the work.”  The materials are gathered and the plans are laid out and now it’s time to get down to business.

Ezra 3:10-11 “And when the builders laid the foundation of the temple of the LORD, they set the priests in their apparel with trumpets, and the Levites the sons of Asaph with cymbals, to praise the LORD, after the ordinance of David king of Israel.  And they sang together by course in praising and giving thanks unto the LORD; because he is good, for his mercy endureth for ever toward Israel.  And all the people shouted with a great shout, when they praised the LORD, because the foundation of the house of the LORD was laid.”

“And when the builders laid the foundation of the temple of the LORD.”  If you’ve ever seen a picture of the temple as a whole, then you would realize that the laying of the “foundation” was a huge undertaking (check out links for pictures and videos below to help support your study of this lesson).  It is said that the “area of the temple mount was 144,000 square meters – the size of about 20 football fields,” (Biblewalks.com).  The work was done without excavators, bulldozers and pavers we see in construction today.  All work was done manually, putting one’s all into it until the task was done.

“They set the priests in their apparel with trumpets.”  The priests were consecrated men, from Aaron’s family, set apart for God’s use in the temple and for all offices and tasks of the priesthood.  Even their garments were not like others (Ex. 29:5-9).  From the MITRE on his head, to the breastplate with 12 stones, all the way down to the pomegranates on the hem, the “apparel” of the priests was designed to serve before the Lord.  Here, the priests are fully dress in their formal priestly attired, and because the foundation has been laid, are blowing “trumpets.”  Along with the “Levites the sons of Asaph with cymbals” both groups set forth to “praise the LORD!”

What a glorious day!  With the foundation laid, they were one step closer to full restoration.  The journey has been long in coming, but now the time for celebrating is at hand.  “Praise the LORD!”  It was time to celebrate God!  It was time to glorify Him for all He has done in bringing the people home again and bringing them closer to Him again.  “Let the people praise thee, O God, let all the people praise thee,” (Psalm 67:3).

In 1 Chronicles 16, David brought up “the ark of God . . . and they offered burnt sacrifices and peace offerings before God,” (16:1).  Then, “he appointed certain of the Levites to minister before the ark of the Lord, and to record and to thank and praise the Lord God of Israel,” (16:4).  In that group, leading as chief was “Asaph,” (16:5).  In the lesson text, we see the people celebrating “after the ordinance of David king of Israel,” and using the “sons of Asaph.”

“And they sang together by course  . . . because he is good, for his mercy endureth for ever toward Israel.”  Their celebrating and glorification of God was in response to all the “good” that He has shown them.  He gave them a promise of return, and it came to pass.  He showered them with undeserved “mercy” in restoring them once again to Himself.  Idol worship had taken them from the land and separated their fellowship with God.  Now, they are hone and everything is coming back together again.  A restored heart is a happy heart.  And, God is worthy of “praising and giving thanks” to.

“And all the people shouted with a great shout, when they praised the LORD, because the foundation of the house of the LORD was laid.”  In verse 10, there was described the enormous task of laying the foundation.  Here in verse 11, it is completed.  All the digging into the bedrock and working tirelessly has paid off.  The base on which the rest of the temple would stand is finished.  They can see real progress, tangible evidence of what would soon arise from the ashes to stand on the footprints of that “foundation.” 

This is a time of rejoicing.  Looking at the foundation, they can see where the altar would go and where the walls will stand.  They can, with their mind eye, envision the priests serving in the courts and the people brining their offerings to worship God.  They can see where the Sea would stand and life restored in the temple once again.  This is the meeting place of God and His people would once again identify themselves as His through their worship in the restored temple.  So, they “praised the LORD!”

Ezra 3:12-13 “But many of the priests and Levites and chief of the fathers, who were ancient men, that had seen the first house, when the foundation of this house was laid before their eyes, wept with a loud voice; and many shouted for joy: So that the people could not discern the noise of the weeping of the people: for the people shouted with a loud shout, and the noise was heard afar off.”

The “ancient men, that had seen the first house . . . wept with a loud voice.”  The foundation of this “house” did not live up to the expectation of those who had first-hand knowledge of the “first house.”  In the 70 years of captivity people were born who had never seen the splendor of Solomon’s temple.  But, the “ancient men” did and the first did not match up with what they see before them now, and so they “wept with a loud voice.”

When Solomon oversaw the construction of the first temple, he had unlimited resources to build and furnish the house of God.  Though they have a grant from Cyrus king of Persia to rebuild, they cannot match what Solomon did, or even all that David had laid up also in preparation of the first temple built.  Zerubbabel, a descendent of David, would oversee this construction, but it’s glory will not compare to those who went before him.

“And many shouted aloud for joy.”  The temple was the center of their worship practices.  It separated who they were and who they worshipped from all the other nations around them.  The temple was a key component in making the people whole again in their identity as a nation and in their relationship with God.   No matter the outcome, to “many” this was a step in the right direction.  With that mindset they “shouted aloud for joy.”

“The people could not discern the noise.”  Some were “weeping” and some were shouting for “joy.”  All came together “and the noise was heard agar off.”  The intensity of the sounds coming from both sides show the emotional response involved when people who were separated from God come near Him again.  The atmosphere was charged.  Hearts were touched.  Some wanted to see more, to see a better outcome.  Some were just happy have what they did.  Together, they made a “noise” so great as to be “heard afar off.” 

What did the peoples around them think when they heard the “noise?”  I don’t know, but clearly for the returnees, this was no ordinary day or event.  Their heart and their hopes were bound up in “The Temple Restored.”

Below you will find activities to help you reinforce this week’s lesson.  Enjoy!

Wordsearch: The Temple Restored Wordsearch  Answers:  The Temple Restored Wordsearch Answers

Crossword:  The Temple Restored Crossword  Answers:  The Temple Restored Crossword Answers

Draw the Scene:  The Temple Restored Draw the Scene

Memory Verse Coloring Page:  Ezra 3 11 Memory Verse

Updated Project Idea: “Lay a Foundation”:

Make Moon Sand:  Simply mix 8 cups of flour with 1 cup of baby oil and there you have.  I made a double batch and am going to divide it among my students to build, play and lay their own foundation just like in our lesson.  Break out the sand toys and have fun!!! So easy and really works!!!  Enjoy!!! 

Make Some Bricks:

A great idea for really getting your hands in there and demonstrating the laying of the foundation is to make plaster of paris , or use clay, playdough or paper mache to make bricks (not shown here) for the students to decorate.  For the plaster of paris, you can even use ice cube trays to make bricks and dry at home.  Then, when you get to class, have the students decorate and build with them.  This will be a blast especially for the little boys in your class.  Ah, who am I kidding, little girls love to build just as much (at least mine do) – !!!

Special Video Links and Sources for Lesson Support:

“Solomon’s Temple – 3D Ariel Tour” from Youtube (A very nice, short video tour.  This is great for allowing your students a birds eye of what things really looked like).

“Temple in Jerusalem” from Youtube

“Lesson in Pictures” from Youtube

“Second Temple” from Foundationsforfreedom.net (A great, up-close picture of the temple).

“The Temple of Jerusalem” from Jerusalem Insiders Guide

Other Resources and Links:

“Ezra Coloring Page” from Bible Class

“Rebuilding the Temple” from Calvarycurriculum.com

“Build a Church” from Artist Helping Children. (This is an easy idea.  If you want to do a project but have no time except to print something out, than this is the way to go. Don’t forget to use cardstock.  Print out front and back, decorate and assemble.  Enjoy!) (My 10 year old designed the one below ):

“Rebuilding the Temple” Coloring Page from Whatsinthebible.com

“Ezra and Nehemiah” Coloring Page from Abdaacts (Fantastic, detailed coloring page for older students).

The Following Activities would be great for supporting verses 8-10 in talking of the High Priests, the Levites, their apparel and the music they played.  Enjoy!

“High Priest” Coloring Page from Biblewise.com

“Making A Paper Figure of a High Priest” from Newchurchvineyard.org

“High Priest” Coloring Page from 3dtabernacle.com

“How to Make Musical Instruments for Kids” from Ehow.com

“Homemade Kazoo Craft” from Preschool Crafts for Kids (Below is a sample done by my daughter ):

“Water Bottle Shakers” from Thecraftingchicks.com (Decorate outside any way you wish and fill with beads, beans or whatever.  Very easy project to help the children “Praise the Lord!”  Again, done by my daughter ):

“Straw Pan Flute” from Classic-play.com

Vs. 12 – Ancient men wept and many shouted for joy:

A great way to get your students involved in the lesson is to play “If You’re Happy and You Know It!”  Click here for a great Youtube clip on this.  Enjoy!

Another way to express the sadness of some and the joy of others in the lesson is to make a pair of Happy/Sad faces for the children to display.  Simply make a happy face on one paper plate and a sad face on another (or, color and cut our PDF: Sad Face and Smile Face and glue to plates).  Attach to a crafts stick or clothes pin and the children can demonstrate verse 12 in the lesson.  Enjoy!  Below is an example:

Related articles

• “Joyful Worship Restored / Restoring Joyful Worship” Ezra 3:1-7 June 30, 2013 (wordforlifesays.com)

Photo Credit: Gospelgifs

Hey guys, thanks stopping by and visiting!   We are glad you like this site.  We always enjoy having company come over.  Please go to our NEW Facebook and be one of the first to like us.  There you will receive new posts, updates, devotions, Sunday School lesson ideas and more (all the great little extras and things you won’t find here).  Thank you for your support!  (Click the Facebook logo or here) I look forward to meeting you!

Sunday School is a vital part of any ministry. In it one is able to experience a deeper knowledge of God’s Word. We here at “Word For Life Says” want to help you help others. Below you will find resources to help you prepare for your upcoming lessons. May God bless you!

July 17, 2013

“Celebrating With Joy / Dedicating the Temple”

Ezra 6:13-22

¹³ Then Tatnai, governor on this side the river, Shetharboznai, and their companions, according to that which Darius the king had sent, so they did speedily.

¹⁴ And the elders of the Jews builded, and they prospered through the prophesying of Haggai the prophet and Zechariah the son of Iddo. And they builded, and finished it, according to the commandment of the God of Israel, and according to the commandment of Cyrus, and Darius, and Artaxerxes king of Persia.

¹⁵ And this house was finished on the third day of the month Adar, which was in the sixth year of the reign of Darius the king.

¹⁶ And the children of Israel, the priests, and the Levites, and the rest of the children of the captivity, kept the dedication of this house of God with joy.

¹⁷ And offered at the dedication of this house of God an hundred bullocks, two hundred rams, four hundred lambs; and for a sin offering for all Israel, twelve he goats, according to the number of the tribes of Israel.

¹⁸ And they set the priests in their divisions, and the Levites in their courses, for the service of God, which is at Jerusalem; as it is written in the book of Moses.

¹⁹ And the children of the captivity kept the passover upon the fourteenth day of the first month.

²⁰ For the priests and the Levites were purified together, all of them were pure, and killed the passover for all the children of the captivity, and for their brethren the priests, and for themselves.

²¹ And the children of Israel, which were come again out of captivity, and all such as had separated themselves unto them from the filthiness of the heathen of the land, to seek the Lord God of Israel, did eat,

²² And kept the feast of unleavened bread seven days with joy: for the Lord had made them joyful, and turned the heart of the king of Assyria unto them, to strengthen their hands in the work of the house of God, the God of Israel. (Biblegateway.com)

Lesson Summary:

This is the third lesson when we are discussing building.  Two weeks ago an altar was restored and built.  In last week’s lesson the foundation of the temple was finished.  Now, here we see the entire completion of the temple.  And now it’s time to really party.  The people are ecstatic at having the work done.  Is there a better feeling than to sit back and view a job well done?  Especially, if you were in the position of these people.  Time and time again they had to face setbacks at getting the show on the road.  Enemies would instigate and stir up trouble for the people; anything they could do to halt their progress (Ezra 4).

But, isn’t that what enemies are famous for, halting the progress of God’s people?  Never fear, king Darius is here, and he, after much review and investigation reordered Cyrus’s “decree concerning the house of God at Jerusalem: ‘Let the house be rebuilt’” (Ezra 6:3), and he stated, “Let the cost be paid at the king’s expense from taxes on the region beyond the River,” (Ezra 6:8). 

Alas, one of the worse enemies they had to overcome came not from the outside, rather the complacency of the people themselves.  They had reached a point of feeling that everything was hunky-dory the way it was, leaving God’s house unfinished they went to work establishing houses and things for themselves.  Proving more than patient, God spoke to the prophet Haggai (along with Zechariah) to stir the people back to work (Ezra 5:1; Haggai 1).  It was time to get the show on the road once again and finish the work they started.  God’s house cannot be the temple it was designed to be with just a foundation.  There was way more work to be done.  And, with all key players in place, today’s lesson takes us to the final completion and dedication the temple in Jerusalem.

It was time to build and build they did.  How exciting this must have been for the elders and the people to see progress.  With great zeal and tremendous effort the work was completed.  In verses 14 and 15 we see the word “finished.”  Oh, the joy that must have flowing through the veins of the people.  Happiness had to be at a boiling point and ready to spill over the elation of all that has transpired over these years.  Coming back from captivity with nothing but a decree and access to supplies.  Arriving home and viewing utter devastation and ruin.  The work looks impossible and task seems too long.  But, they finally did it!

Put yourselves in their shoes and walk that scene for just a moment.  Instead of the “From the pit to the palace” messages we hear from stories like Joseph, we have a “From Tribulation to the Temple.”  All the years of trouble and toil have faded away; looking up at the completed temple that they longed to see at their first arrival brings an overwhelming sense of joy.  “We never thought we’d see the day, but here it is.”  This joy cannot be contained.  Tears had to be flowing.  Neighbors were probably hugging each other and making a joyful noise in the streets, not being able to wait until the official dedication.  “It’s here!  It’s really here!”

They were ready to dedicate it, and dedicate it they did.  It may not have been the abundance Solomon offered when he dedicated the first temple, but their hearts were just as joyful.  They brought to the house of God a sizeable offering, particularly for a sin offering.  They had to get this right.  So, with the priests and Levites tending their respective places and duties, they people set out to do what was “written in the book of Moses,” (Ezra 6:18). 

It wasn’t enough to just rebuild a building.  They had to rebuild their worship to God who housed the building.  Their worship was the most important thing to get straight because it was their worship of that which is false that led them away.  This time would be different.  At this dedication they were determined to do it God’s way.  As they found out, any other way just won’t work.  One can never follow God or worship Him on their own terms.  It must be His way through and through.

With that, they kept the Passover and the feast of unleavened bread.  Remember that sacred feast that Jesus was determined and glad to share with His disciples one more time before His crucifixion (Luke 22:15)?  We call it The Last Supper or The Lord’s Supper, but at the dedication of the temple this was a blessed command for all the people to remember where God brought them from.  For the returning captives this would not only take their mind back to the stories of their historical roots and being freed from Egypt, but their own recent deliverance from captivity was very real and very fresh.  What a better way to celebrate God and what He has done in bringing about their deliverance than through the keeping of the blessed, holy tradition? 

As they did in Egypt, so they did now.  There was a separation between the holy and the unholy; between God’s people and the heathen of the other nations.  This separation meant more than just physically placing distance between us and them.  It meant any of their ways that were not like God; were not written in the book of Moses had to go.  They had to be a purified people.  Their hearts had rend with the reality of “Let’s do this right for God.”  Their mindset was to delineate themselves from the “filthiness of the heathen.”  After all, God is holy.  This sacred ceremony is holy and nothing should contaminate its prescribed order. 

Today, believers have a similar command from the Apostle Paul in the New Testament where he says:

“Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?

And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel?

And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.

Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive,” (2 Corinthians 6:14-17)

The people at the dedication didn’t know that Paul would write this in the future, but one thing is for sure, they wanted to be “received” by God.  Anything that would bring a hindrance to their worship had to be removed.  God is their priority.

They dedicated, they kept their feasts and they depart from all filthiness.  Verse 22 says, “For the LORD had made them joyful.”  They reaped the worse of life, captivity because of their sins.  But, thank God that was not the end of the story.  Because of His love and determination to have them as His to worship and fellowship once again, their story ended with “joy” that came from the Lord.  Looking at all He did in keeping His promise to an unfaithful people, how could they experience anything other than joy.

They have a reason to celebrate and so do we.  God has not only provided them a way to restore worship but He has for us, too.  It is through His Son, our Lord Jesus Christ that we can be reconciled back into a love relationship with God, to a place of true worship once again.  We may not be dedicating a great edifice, and yet, we are.  As the above portion of Scriptures states, “Ye are the temple of the living God . . . I will dwell in them . . . I will be their God.”  Tell me that’s not a reason for “Celebrating With Joy!” 

(Click here for a print out in Word of today’s Lesson Summary: Celebrating With Joy Lesson Summary or simply click the print button below.  Below you will find activities and resources to help with the reinforcement of this week’s lesson.  Enjoy!)

“Celebrating With Joy”:

Wordsearch:  Celebrating With Joy Wordsearch  Answers: Celebrating With Joy Wordsearch Answers

Crossword:  Celebrating With Joy Crossword  Answers:  Celebrating With Joy Crossword Answers

Draw the Scene:  Celebrating With Joy Draw the Scene

“Dedicating the Temple”:

Wordsearch:  Dedicating the Temple Wordsearch  Answers:  Dedicating the Temple Wordsearch Answers

Crossword:  Dedicating the Temple Crossword  Answers:  Dedicating the Temple Crossword Answers

Draw the Scene:  Dedicating the Temple Draw the Scene

“Party Time”:  Since we are talking about celebrating I thought it would be great to bring back the party hats.  You can print the PDF: Celebrate With Joy Hat onto cardstock, decorate, cut out and celebrate with those in the lesson!  Don’t forget to punch two holes on the side and use yarn or string to tie.  Enjoy your party! 

“Marshmallow Temple/Church”:  Yup!!! That’s what I said.  Give students some marshmallows and some toothpicks and let them at it!!!  They can build their own temple/church, and when they are done – YUMMY TREAT!!!!  How cool is that! This is sooo easy (something teachers need) and your students will love it! Enjoy!

“Solomon’s Temple Craft Project”:  This project will give students an opportunity to design and build a temple just as they did in the less.  Simply click on the picture and it will take you to that site with full detailed instructions.  This is recommended for children that are a little older.  Enjoy!

Photo Credit: Sojourn Kids

Below you will find even more ideas to reinforce this week’s lesson.  Enjoy!

Ezra 6 – “The Bible in Pictures” from Kingjamesbibleonline.org

“Completion, Dedication of the Temple” -  Coloring sheets and activities from Calvarycurriculum.com

“I AM With You, I Will Bless You” Coloring sheet for Haggai in encouraging the people to rebuild.  Haggai is one of the prophets mentioned in verse 14 and this goes with the lesson.

“Not By Might, Nor By Power” Coloring sheet for Zechariah.  The temple of God is built by the power of God and not by human strength.  Zechariah was the other prophet mentioned in verse 14 and this also goes with the lesson.

“Haggai Activities” to support the lesson from Missionarlington.org  Lesson overview and activities that easy to apply to younger children (including making a temple out of graham crackers and frosting, there’s an idea).  Enjoy!

Vs. 19 – “They kept the Passover”:  Below you will find activities to help show your students how they celebrated for joy at the dedication of the temple.  Enjoy!

“Moses Parting the Sea”:  This is a very easy craft to do to remind the students why the celebration of Passover was so important to begin with.  Click on the picture below and go to the site.  There you will find template to print out and instructions for this project.  Enjoy!

Photo Credit: Artists Helping Children

“Passover Coloring Sheets and Activities” from Passoverfun.com

“Passover Activities” from Ministry to Children

Related articles

• “The Temple Restored/Restoring The Temple” Ezra 3:8-13 July 7, 2013 (wordforlifesays.com)
• “Joyful Worship Restored / Restoring Joyful Worship” Ezra 3:1-7 June 30, 2013 (wordforlifesays.com)
• “Meaningless Worship Condemned” Sunday School Lesson for June 16, 2013 (wordforlifesays.com)
• Sunday School Lesson “Sing and Shout!” Isaiah 12:1-6 (wordforlifesays.com)
• “The Glorious New Creation / Worship in the New Creation” Sunday School Lesson, Isaiah 65:17-21, 23-25, June 23, 2013 (wordforlifesays.com)
• Sunday School Lesson “Holy, Holy, Holy” Isaiah 6:1-8 (wordforlifesays.com)
• Sunday School Lesson “The Hope of His Coming” 2 Peter 3:3-15a (wordforlifesays.com)

Photo Credit: Gospelgifs

Hey guys, thanks stopping by and visiting!   We are glad you like this site.  We always enjoy having company come over.  Please go to our NEW Facebook and be one of the first to like us.  There you will receive new posts, updates, devotions, Sunday School lesson ideas and more (all the great little extras and things you won’t find here).  Thank you for your support!  (Click the Facebook logo or here) I look forward to meeting you!

Sunday School is a vital part of any ministry. In it one is able to experience a deeper knowledge of God’s Word. We here at “Word For Life Says” want to help you help others. Below you will find resources to help you prepare for your upcoming lessons. May God bless you!

“Fasting and Praying”

Ezra 8:21-23, 31-32    July 21, 2013

(Click here for Word document: Fasting and Praying Sunday School Lesson  or simply click the print button below.  After the lesson, follow below to play and create with ideas for reinforcement of today’s lesson.  Enjoy!)

Introduction:

Before their captivity, humility was not a trait the returning exiles were known for.  So much so, God specifically dealt with it one on one (between them and Him).  “After this manner will I mar the pride of Judah, and the great pride of Jerusalem,” (Jer. 13:19).

Isaiah also warned that their wickedness and rebellion were marking them as a people who forsake their God:

 “Hear, O heavens, and give ear, O earth!  For the LORD has spoken: ‘I have nourished and brought up children, and they have rebelled against Me; The ox knows its owner and the donkey its master’s crib; but Israel does not know, My people do not consider.’  Alas, sinful nation, a people laden with iniquity, a brood of evildoers, children who are corrupters!  They have forsaken the LORD, they have provoked to anger the Holy One of Israel, they have turned away backward,” (Isaiah 1:2-4, NKJV).

Lo and behold, it still took 70 years in captivity for the lesson to be learned.  And, learned it was.

Last week’s lesson left off with the rebuilding and the completion of the second temple in Jerusalem.  After which was the dedication, followed by the celebrating of Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread.  Those in attendance and participating in those events were those who arrived from captivity under the leadership of Zerubbabel.  Years later, there would be two more waves of returnees that would arrive back in Jerusalem under the separate leadership of Ezra and Nehemiah.

Ezra begins to take the lead in chapter 7 where it opens with a genealogy that links him with “Aaron the chief priest,” (Ezra 7:5).  There he is described as “a skilled scribe in the Law of Moses,” (Ezra 7:6).  Sometime between chapter 6 and 7 (about 60 years, also when Queen Esther’s story played out), Ezra requested of King Artaxerxes to return to Jerusalem.  Ezra 7:6 tells us, “The king granted him all his request, according to the hand of the LORD his God upon him.”

After gaining permission from the king, he gathered “some of the children of Israel, the priests, the Levites, the singers, the porters, and the Nethinims, unto Jerusalem, in the seventh year of Artaxerxes the king,” (Ezra 7:7).  Thus, the four month long journey began (Ezra 7:9), traveling almost 900 miles.  Whew!

Shortly after the journey began, Ezra stopped and camped with the people at “the river that runneth to Ahava,” (Ezra 8:15a).  While there, he took stock of all in the company and “found there none of the sons of Levi,” (Ezra 8:15b).  Before continuing the journey, he sent back for “men of understanding,” (Ezra 8:16, 18), “ministers for the house of our God,” (Ezra 8:17).  When these men and the 220 Nethinims arrived at the camp (Ezra 8:20), then Ezra proclaims the fast that starts this week’s lesson.

Ezra 8:21 “Then I proclaimed a fast there, at the river of Ahava, that we might afflict ourselves before our God, to seek of him a right way for us, and for our little ones, and for all our substance.”

“Then I proclaimed a fast there, at the river Ahava.”  Many biblical characters are noted to have fasted (Moses, Ezra, Esther, Daniel and Jesus, just to name a few).  Fasts varied and lasted from 1 day to 3 days to 21 days to 40 days.  Every year on the Day of Atonement, the people would afflict their souls, (Lev. 16:30-31).

Here, in the lesson text, Ezra follows the same course to “afflict ourselves before our God.”  When the body is “afflicted” in this manner it’s not giving into its cravings and desires; it’s not given into its natural passions and hunger.  I often hear people jokingly say that it was that which went into the mouth (eating) that started the whole sin process in the first place (an act of disobedience).  When one participates in a fast it puts God as number one priority over what the body naturally wants, therefore causing affliction.  In essence, through their personal denial of selfish wants they are worshipping God by putting Him first.

Ezra’s purpose for the fast he proclaimed was “to seek of him a right way” for everything.  At this point in time, all the pride that drove the people of Israel to their sins (see introduction) was gone.  The counsel, protection and the “right way” of God was what mattered now.  The word “right” can also mean straight.  A pathway not marred with the crookedness of this world, rather one that leads to the will of God (see Mt. 7:13-14).

For Ezra and the returnees, it was imperative to “seek of him.”  One’s reliance on their own intellect and skill often leads to the wider path marked with sin and rebellion (see again, Mt. 7:13-14).  For Ezra and the people, they can honestly say, “Been there, done that, don’t want to go back!”  “Seek the LORD while He May be found; Call upon Him while He is near,” was the advice Isaiah gave before the captivity (Is. 55:6), now the returnees have no problem looking to God for counsel and help.

Ezra 8:22 “For I was ashamed to require of the king a band of soldiers and horsemen to help us against the enemy in the way: because we had spoken unto the king, saying, The hand of our God is upon all them for good that seek him; but his power and his wrath is against all them that forsake him.”

Ezra, sometime during the request to return, expressed to the king “The hand of our God is upon all them for good that seek him; but his power and his wrath is against all them that forsake him.”  In that statement, there is shown great reliance on God to bring the people through.  At the same time, there is a dire warning for those who opposed His will and His way.  After making such a declaration, Ezra said, “I was ashamed to require of the king a back of soldiers and horsemen to help us against the enemy in the way.”

 Every time we read in Scripture about the children of Israel they are comparatively in large numbers as opposed to the remnant that was returning with Ezra.  Therefore, the help of armed guards or soldiers would have been useful to help them reach their destination without fear of “the enemy.”  But, after stating “The hand of our God is upon all them for good,” Ezra didn’t want there to be any doubting of their reliance or ability of God to follow through with what they already stated.

“The hand of our God” is a place of safety.  Isaiah said, “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness,” (Is. 41:10).  In keeping with the theme of being safe in His hands, Jesus said, “Neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand,” (John 10:28).  This all goes back to humbly relying on Him!

Ezra 8:23 “So we fasted and besought our God for this: and he was entreated of us.”

“And he was entreated of us.”  Their humility before God; their prayer and fasting showered God’s favor over all they prayed for.  “He was entreated of us” shows God’s love toward those who humble themselves before Him in sincerity of heart, seeking His way.  This is fulfilling a promise He made to His people, “If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land,” (2 Chron. 7:14), or in this case, see them safely back to their land.

This is a far cry from their position before God before their captivity (see introduction).  Now, in their humble and dependent state, they looked to God and God heard and “was entreated of us.”  God answered their prayer.  When He comes on the scene, Jesus told His disciples, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you,” (Luke 11:9).  They set out to “seek of him a right way” and they received their answer to that prayer and fasting.

Ezra 8:31-32 “Then we departed from the river of Ahava on the twelfth day of the first month, to go unto Jerusalem: and the hand of our God was upon us, and he delivered us from the hand of the enemy, and of such as lay in wait by the way.  And we came to Jersualem, and abode there three days.”

Our lesson text goes from verse 23 to verse 31.  During that time, Ezra distributed the money (silver, gold) and vessels of silver and gold to the chief of the priests and ten of their brethren with them (Ezra 8:24-25).  These were to serve as an “offering of the house of our God, which the king, and his counselors, and his lords, and all Israel there present, has offered,” (Ezra 8:25).  After giving them the charge over it to “watch and keep until ye weigh them . . . in the chambers of the house of the LORD,” (Ezra 8:29).

With that they traveled on and reached their destination safely.  They prayed and fasted before God and God entreated of them.  No one the exact details of the four month long journey, but one thing that is know is their prayer and fasting worked.  God “delivered us from the hand of the enemy, and such as lay in wait by the way.”  Traveling on the road, especially carrying the treasures they had that was weighed out in the in-between verses could have proved dire for the people.  But, in their worship and humbleness toward God, they started their journey through prayer and fasting “to seek of him a right way.”  That in turn led to their journey being complete and successful.  Any supposed attacks from any “enemy” did not prosper or come to pass.  Now, that’s a far cry from where they started from.

Conclusion:

This lesson should resonate in the heart and mind of every Christian.  Our worship before God demands that we seek His will and His way first.  When we put Him at the head of our journey our travels in life would be so much easier.  Prayer and fasting is one of the ways that our lesson shows that we can seek God and show Him the priority that He deserves in our lives.  Self-reliance will eventually fail, no matter how good it seems at the start.  But, one’s dependence on God will never fail because God cannot fail.

Below are activities to help with the reinforcement of this week’s lesson.  Enjoy!

Wordsearch: Fasting and Praying Wordsearch  Answers:  Fasting and Praying Wordsearch Answers

Crossword:  Fasting and Praying Crossword  Answers:  Fasting and Praying Crossword Answers

Draw the Scene:  Fasting and Praying Draw the Scene

Memory Verse: PDF: Praying Memory Verse  In the middle of the page, students can trace and color their hand in a praying position. Or, you can also use black or colored construction paper to trace, cut out and glue to the middle of the page to reinforce the lesson. Another idea would be to trace the hand and use the salt technique found here, or colored sand, or glitter to fill it in.  The options are endless!  Enjoy!

 “Ezra by the River Ahava Craft:  Using very simple items, I made Ezra by the river Ahava (at least my version ).  All of this can be drawn on paper or cut out with construction paper as you see here.  My Ezra is a craft stick/popsicle stick I had laying around.  No google eyes, no problem.  Color them in with markets.  Same with goldfish, I just happen to have these things available.  This craft will help the students to remember their fasting and praying by the river Ahava.  If you don’t have felt for Ezra, simply marker his clothes in or use construction paper – NO PROBLEM.  Attach our memory verse Ezra 8 23 Verse Cut Out and there you have it.  Your own Ezra by the river.  Enjoy!

“Lace It Up Prayer Handprint”:  Use this PDF: PDF OF LACE IT UP HANDPRINT and our verse cut out: Ezra 8 23 Verse Cut Out make a lace it up handprint.  Simply print out on cardstock and decorate.  Punch appropriate holes and let students lace it up with yard or string.  Don’t forget to add the verse cut out in the room. 

“Ezra Coloring Page” from Bible Class

Prayer Activities for Kids:

“Prayer Pocket” from Ehow.com

“Prayer” from Msss (several options to choose from)

“Prayer” from Kids Sunday School (several options to choose from)

“My Prayer Book” from Toddleractivitiesathome.com (This cute prayer book is made in the shape of praying hands – wonderful idea!)

“Prayer Garden” from Two Shades of Pink (Very creative use of paper and popsicle sticks to make a prayer garden!)  Mssscrafts also has a printable Flower and Vase that you can use for the same concept.  Enjoy!

“The Jelly Bean Prayer” from Church House Collection (Very easy coloring page that also teaches colors.  Extra bonus of a treat if you can find real jelly beans this time of year to go with it.  Enjoy!)

“How 2 Pray” Coloring Page from Ministry to Children

“Connect the Dots Praying Hands” from Kids Sunday School

“Several Praying Coloring Sheets” from Pics6.this-pic.com

“The 5 Ws of Prayer” from Sermons4kids

“God’s Cell Phone” from Sermons4kids

“Prayer Pail” from Lubirdbaby.com  (This is a wonderful and easy way to help kids to remember to pray for different family members and situations.  Very creative!)

Related articles

• “The Temple Restored/Restoring The Temple” Ezra 3:8-13 July 7, 2013 (wordforlifesays.com)
• Sunday School Lesson “Celebrating With Joy / Dedicating the Temple” Ezra 6:13-22 July 14, 2013 (wordforlifesays.com)
• “Joyful Worship Restored / Restoring Joyful Worship” Ezra 3:1-7 June 30, 2013 (wordforlifesays.com)

Photo Credit: Gospelgifs.com

Hey guys, thanks stopping by and visiting!   We are glad you like this site.  We always enjoy having company come over.  Please go to our NEW Facebook and be one of the first to like us.  There you will receive new posts, updates, devotions, Sunday School lesson ideas and more (all the great little extras and things you won’t find here).  Thank you for your support!  (Click the Facebook logo or here) I look forward to meeting you!

Sunday School is a vital part of any ministry. In it one is able to experience a deeper knowledge of God’s Word. We here at “Word For Life Says” want to help you help others. Below you will find resources to help you prepare for your upcoming lessons. May God bless you!

Lesson for July 28, 2013

“Gifts for the Temple”

(No printable lesson this week, but there are lesson reinforcement ideas listed below.  Enjoy!)

Worsearch:  Gifts for the Temple Wordsearch  Answers:  Gifts for the Temple Wordsearch Answers

Crossword:  Gifts for the Temple Crossword  Answers:  Gifts for the Temple Crossword Answers

Ezra 8:28 Memory Verse Coloring Page: PDF Gifts Memory Verse:

Ezra 8:28 Coloring Page Memory Verse

Ezra 8:28 Coloring Page Memory Verse 2

PDF: Memory Verse Page 2 Gifts Memory Verse 2

“Offering Box”  Students can decorate and create their own offering boxes.  This is great if you don’t have a lot of time to gather supplies.  A time when you need something QUICK AND EASY.  Simply print out on cardstock PDF: Offering Box, bend edges in and TAPE TOGETHER (I strongly recommend taping.  For this project it’s so much easier than gluing and it’s less messy, something every teacher appreciates ).  Make sure the Money For God part is at the top and wordforlifesays logo is at the bottom.  Don’t forget to cut a slit in it for money.  Enjoy! (Of course, your students will decorate theirs.  I left a rough picture as a demonstration ).

Offering Box Template

 Below you will find other resources about offerings to help with the reinforcement of this week’s lesson.  Enjoy!

“Chip Can Bank” This wonderful idea comes from the folks at Craft Solutions.  Click on the picture below to go to their site to find out more about how to make a Chip Can Bank.  Enjoy!  (Hey, listen up !  Don’t let the lack of a chip can hinder you.  This activity can be done with just about anything: coffee can, milk carton (little church) and so on.  The possibilities are endless ).

Photo Credit: Craft Solution

“No One Can Serve Two Masters” Coloring Page by Ministry to Children

“Giving for Orphan Care” Coloring Page by Ministry to Children

“God Loves a Cheerful Giver” Memory Verse Coloring Page by Mssscrafts

“God Love a Cheerful Giver” Offering Plate Craft by Mssscrafts 

“Make Your Own Money Sack Craft” from Mssscrafts 

“Offering Crafts” from Ehow (Many ideas for offering crafts including painting a paper plate gold.  Fancy!  Make it look like a real offering plate.  Throw in some chocolate gold coins to represent money or use plastic money from your local dollar store.  Enjoy!)

Related articles

• “Fasting and Praying” Sunday School Lesson Ezra 8:21-23, 31-32 July 21, 2013 (wordforlifesays.com)
• Sunday School Lesson “Celebrating With Joy / Dedicating the Temple” Ezra 6:13-22 July 14, 2013 (wordforlifesays.com)
• “Meaningless Worship Condemned” Sunday School Lesson for June 16, 2013 (wordforlifesays.com)
• “The Temple Restored/Restoring The Temple” Ezra 3:8-13 July 7, 2013 (wordforlifesays.com)
• “Joyful Worship Restored / Restoring Joyful Worship” Ezra 3:1-7 June 30, 2013 (wordforlifesays.com)
• Sunday School Lesson “Sing and Shout!” Isaiah 12:1-6 (wordforlifesays.com)
• “The Glorious New Creation / Worship in the New Creation” Sunday School Lesson, Isaiah 65:17-21, 23-25, June 23, 2013 (wordforlifesays.com)

Photo Credit: Gospelgifs.com

Hey guys, thanks stopping by and visiting!   We are glad you like this site.  We always enjoy having company come over.  Please go to our NEW Facebook and be one of the first to like us.  There you will receive new posts, updates, devotions, Sunday School lesson ideas and more (all the great little extras and things you won’t find here).  Thank you for your support!  (Click the Facebook logo or here) I look forward to meeting you!

Sunday School is a vital part of any ministry. In it one is able to experience a deeper knowledge of God’s Word. We here at “Word For Life Says” want to help you help others. Below you will find resources to help you prepare for your upcoming lessons. May God bless you!

August 4, 2013

The Festival of Booths/The Feast of Tabernacles

Below you will find activities and resources to help reinforce this week’s lesson.  Enjoy!

Wordsearch: The Festival of Booths Wordsearch  Answers:  The Festival of Booths Wordsearch Answers

Crossword:  The Festival of Booths Crossword  Answers:  The Festival of Booths Crossword Answers

Word Scramble:  The Festival of Booths Word Scramble  Answers:  The Festival of Booths Word Scramble Answers

Draw the Scene: The Festival of Booths Draw the Scene

To expand your knowledge of The Feast of Tabernacles below are some great links:

“Sukkot Explained for Kids” from NSW Board of Jewish Education

“Festival of Tabernacles” from Chabad.org

“Festival of Booths” from Journeys of Jesus

“The Feast of Tabernacles” from Heartofwisdom.com

Crafts, Coloring and Activities:

“Ezra Reads the Law”  Coloring and Activities from Calvary Curriculum

“Ezra Reads the Law” from Children.ccc.com (Bring bed sheets to class to make tabernacles, hmmm.  Printable mini scrolls, interesting.  These ideas you will find here.  Enjoy!)

“Make an Edible Kosher Sukkah” from Bible Belt Balabusta (Here you will find directions for making a snack and a craft all in one.  An edible booth, graham crackers anyone?)

Photo Credit: Bible Belt Balabusta (Click to find out more)

Click on the picture below for Bible Belt Balabusta even more detail for her Instant Edible Sukkah.

Photo Credit: Bible Belt Balabusta

“Feast of Tabernacles” Coloring pages from Printablecolouringpages.co.uk

“Sukkot Free Jewish Coloring Pages for Kids” from Familyholiday.net

“Returning to the Word of God” from Ministry to Children

“Israel’s Thanksgiving Feast” from Ministry to Children

“Make a Scroll” to emphasize the reading of the Law.  The picture below is from Our Out of Sync Life.  To visit their site for further directions simply click the picture below.  Enjoy!

Photo Credit: Our Out of Sync Life (Click on picture to go to their site for further directions. Enjoy!)

“Thankful Scroll” from Little Wonders’ Days (Instead of making individual scrolls to remember the lesson by, here this project includes the whole class.  I really like this idea of joining together to make one big, giant scroll to hang on a door.  Enjoy!)

Related articles

• “Joyful Worship Restored / Restoring Joyful Worship” Ezra 3:1-7 June 30, 2013 (wordforlifesays.com)
• “Fasting and Praying” Sunday School Lesson Ezra 8:21-23, 31-32 July 21, 2013 (wordforlifesays.com)
• “Meaningless Worship Condemned” Sunday School Lesson for June 16, 2013 (wordforlifesays.com)
• “Gifts for the Temple” Sunday School Lesson, Ezra 8:24-30, July 28, 2013 (wordforlifesays.com)
• Sunday School Lesson “Celebrating With Joy / Dedicating the Temple” Ezra 6:13-22 July 14, 2013 (wordforlifesays.com)

Photo Credit: Gospelgifs.com

Hey guys, thanks stopping by and visiting!   We are glad you like this site.  We always enjoy having company come over.  Please go to our NEW Facebook and be one of the first to like us.  There you will receive new posts, updates, devotions, Sunday School lesson ideas and more (all the great little extras and things you won’t find here).  Thank you for your support!  (Click the Facebook logo or here) I look forward to meeting you!

Sunday School is a vital part of any ministry. In it one is able to experience a deeper knowledge of God’s Word. We here at “Word For Life Says” want to help you help others. Below you will find resources to help you prepare for your upcoming lessons. May God bless you!

August 11, 2013

“Corporate Confession of Sins/Community of Confession”

Nehemiah 9:2, 6-7, 9-10, 30-36

(Click here for Word document: Corporate Confession of Sins Sunday School Lesson or simply click the print button below.  Enjoy!  Don’t forget to stick around and check out some of the activities and printables below to support this week’s lesson. )

Introduction

1 John 1:9 is a widely known verse in Scripture.  It says, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to five us our sins, and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”  The word “confess” simply means to acknowledge.  Acknowledging that one is a sinner and has sinned is the key in receiving God’s forgiveness.  For, as 1 John 1 continues to read, “If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us,” (1 john 1:10).

It is God’s word that has been having a marvelous effect on the people.  After the reading of the law in last week’s lesson (the word), the people were prompted to go all out in their celebration of “The Festival of Booths/The Feast of Tabernacles,” (click here for on that lesson).  That feast went on from “the eve of the 15^th day of Tishrei until the 22^nd day of Tishrei (inside Israel), outside Israel it lasts for one extra day,” (click here to find out more from Sukkot Explained for Kids).

Today’s lesson occurs in the 24^th day of this month, Nehemiah 9:1.  With the spirit of celebration still so fresh that same verse tells us, “The children of Israel were assembled with fasting, and with sackcloths, and earth upon them.”

Last week’s lesson showed how their hearts were moved with how far they have drifted from God.  Nehemiah 8:9 says, “They wept.”  Now, with their hearts still tender at the thought of their sins in comparison with God’s graciousness (Neh. 9:31), as a people united as one, they are moved into a deeper spirit of confession before the Lord.

Nehemiah 9:2 “And the seed of Israel separated themselves from all strangers, and stood and confessed their sins, and the iniquities of their fathers.”

“And the seed of Israel separated themselves from all strangers.”  When one is seeking a closer relationship with God “separating themselves” from those that oppose God’s view is crucial.  This is why the Apostle Paul admonished those in Corinth to, “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord,” (2 Cor. 6:17).  He questioned, “What agreement has the temple of God with idols?” (2 Cor. 6:16).

The “strangers” that were in the land were not God’s covenant people.  They were probably people who had moved into the area during the captivity of the Jews (Ezra 3:3, see also “Joyful Worship Restored” lesson).  “Strangers” would not understand the need for the people to worship the one true God the way Israel did for they were idol worshippers and believed in serving many gods.  This would have been a hindrance for God’s people to come nearer to Him.  Therefore, they “separated themselves.”

“And stood and confessed their sins, and the iniquities of their fathers.”  Whew!  Talk about getting started out on the right foot.  That’s exactly what they were doing.  This was their chance to start over, to have a fresh start.  In order for the fresh (or new, as we call it in the N.T., 2 Cor. 5:17), the old stuff has to be dealt with.  In their “confession” they are not only dealing with their individual sins, but they are also confessing “the iniquity of their fathers.”  With the same respect for reading the law in last week’s lesson, the people “stand” before God and let it all out.

Nehemiah 9:6 “Thou, even thou, art LORD alone; thou hast made heaven, the heaven of heavens, with all their host, the earth, and all things that are therein, the seas, and all that is therein, and thou preservest them all; and the host of heaven worshippeth thee.”

Verses 3-5 (not in today’s lesson) further picture the people standing, reading from the law and confessing at several “parts” of the day.  At that time, the Levites play a key role in praying and giving the command to “Bless the LORD your God for ever and ever . . .,” (vs. 5).

In their blessing they declare in verse 6, “Thou, even thou, art LORD alone.”  Isaiah once wrote, “Ye are my witnesses, saith the Lord, . . . that ye may know and believe me, and understand that I am he: before me there was no God formed, neither shall there be after me.  I, even I, am the Lord; and beside me there is no savior,” (Is. 43:10-11, see also Is. 44:6; Mk. 12:29).

All throughout the Bible it testifies that there is only one God and no other.  Everything else that tries to compare itself with Him is fraudulent.  It’s not the real thing.  It was imperative for these returnees to acknowledge and celebrate that truth up front because it was looking at the fast gods and the ways of the other peoples that got them in trouble in the first place.

“Thou hast made heaven, the heaven of heavens, with all their host, the earth, and all things that are therein, the seas, and all that is therein, and thou preservedst them all.”  In their praises and recognizing God as being God alone, they take their minds all the way back to the time of creation.  He not only is God alone, but He is Creator of all “therein.” 

All one has to do is simply take a travel back to the beginning of the Bible in the book of Genesis to see the story play out of how everything came to be.  Everything came to be because of God!  That’s why Isaiah further explained, “For thus saith the Lord that created the heavens; God himself that formed the earth and made it; he hath established it, he created it not in vain, he formed it to be inhabited: I am the Lord; and there is none else,” (Is. 45:18).  “I am the Lord; and there is none else,” reminds me of someone signing off on a contract.  I created it, I signed off on it.  Me and me alone!

“And the host of heaven worshippeth thee.”  In our very first lesson of the summer quarter we started off with a lesson titled “Holy, Holy, Holy” where Isaiah was whisked away in a vision to the throne room of God of God.  There he viewed Seraphims crying out, “Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of hosts,” (Is. 6:3).

The people in confession before the Lord in this lesson are not in God’s throne room, but they are still standing in His presence with reverent adoration.  Here, they understand that not only the things created on earth will praise God, but “the host of heaven worshippeth thee.”  This is reminiscent  of what is shown in Philippians where it says, “That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth , and things under the earth; And that every tongue  should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father,” (Phil. 2:10-11).  In that verse is the picture of things in heaven worshipping God and “confessing.”

Nehemiah 9:7 “Thou art the LORD the God, who didst choose Abram, and broughtest him forth out of Ur of the Chaldees, and gavest him the name of Abraham.”

Israel’s relationship with God as a people started through one man, “Abraham.”  In Genesis 12:1 God spoke to “Abram” saying, “Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father’s house, unto a land that I will shew thee.”  “So Abram departed as the LORD had spoken unto him,” (Gen. 12:4).  In Genesis 15 God reminded Abram that He is the one that called him out of Ur, (Gen. 15:7), and that day “the LORD made a covenant with Abram,” (Gen. 15:18).

The people are now recalling the fact that everything they have and everything they are is because God is the one who made this covenant with their forefather, “Abraham,” (Neh. 9:8, not in today’s lesson).  In their confession it is especially helpful to remember where God brought them from as a people.  They didn’t acquire the land or even the privilege to be called God’s chosen people on their own.  They have that status because of the covenant God preciously made through “Abraham.”

Nehemiah 9:9-10 “And didst see the affliction of our fathers in Egypt, and heardest their cry by the Red sea; And shewedst signs and wonders upon Pharaoh, and on all his servants, and on all the people of his land: for thou knewest that they dealt proudly against them.  So didst thou get thee a name, as it is this day.”

God is the one that saw when they cried out in Egypt.  God is the one that looked down from heaven and saw “taskmasters afflict them with their burdens,” (Ex. 1:11).  God is the one who sent Moses to the people in Egypt with a message, “I will bring you up out of the affliction of Egypt,” (Ex. 3:17).  After leaving Egypt and fleeing from before Pharaoh, blocked by the “Red sea,” God is the one who said, “Wherefore criest thou unto me? speak unto the children of Israel, that they go forward,” (Ex. 14:15).  With that the rod was lifted over the sea and the people went through on dry ground, (Ex. 14:16).  God is the one!  God is the one responsible for saving them!  Confessing is more than just reciting one’s sins; it is acknowledging who God is through it all!

In all the plagues, and in all the “signs and wonders,” God dealt with Pharaoh and His “name” and fame spread throughout all the land.  Over 40 years later, Rahab testified, “For we have heard how the LORD dried up the water of the Res Sea for you, when ye came out of Egypt,” (Joshua 2:10).  They heard what was done to the Amorites.  She said, “As soon as we heard these things, our hearts did melt, neither did there remain any more courage in any man, because of you: for the LORD your God, he is God in heaven above, and in earth beneath,” (Joshua 2:11).

Standing there confessing, the people are reminded of this, too.

Nehemiah 9:30 “Yet many years didst thou forbear them, and testifiedst against them by thy spirit in thy prophets: yet would they not give ear: therefore gavest thou them into the hand of the people of the lands.”

In verses 11-29, the people continued to bring back to mind their history and their relationship with God.  They recalled how He led them, fed them and took care of them.  They also recalled how they forsook Him and served false idols, were disobedient and rebellious.  Standing there, they also though on His love which, “In thy manifold mercies forsook them not” (vs. 19) and how He heard them from heaven and “delivered them according to thy mercies” (vs. 28).

Continuing in the recitation of their past they said, “Yet many years didst thou forbear them.”  For “many years” God was patient with His people.  God could’ve at any time dealt with the severity of their sins.  Yet, He withheld Himself.  In an attempt to win them over with His love and warnings He, “testifiedest against them by the spirit of thy prophets.”

God used men such as Isaiah and Jeremiah to call the people back to Him.  These men told them their ways were not pleasing to the Lord (Is. 1:2-4) and that they would end up in captivity (Jer. 25:11-14).  But, as our lesson states, “Yet would they not give ear.”  They refused to listen.

“Therefore gavest thou them into the hand of the people of the lands.”  There comes a time for talking to stop because the hearer refuses to listen any longer.  At that time, one must let them suffer the consequences of their choices.  This is what God did.  Jeremiah 44:22a says, “SO that the LORD could no longer bear, because of the evil of your doings.”  Enough was enough when it came to trying to talk to them.  He said, “Because of the abominations which ye have committed; therefore is your land a desolation, and an astonishment, and a curse, without an inhabitant, as at this day,” (Jer. 44:22b).

Nehemiah 9:31 “Nevertheless for thy great mercies’ sake thou didst not utterly consume them, nor forsake them; for thou art a gracious and merciful God.”

At a point when they could have been totally erased from the books of history, God in His “mercies,” did not “utterly consume them.”  There is a song by the Mississippi Mass Choir that says, “Your grace and mercy, brought me through.  I’m living this moment because of You.  I want to thank You, and praise You too.  Your grace and mercy brought me through.”

This is what the people were acknowledging.  This is a song they could’ve readily sung.  They knew they were not delivered in and of themselves.  They knew they were undeserving of yet another chance.  But, “Thou art a gracious and merciful God.”

Nehemiah 9:32 “Now therefore, our God, the great, the mighty, and the terrible God, who keepest covenant and mercy, let not all the trouble seem little before thee, that hath come upon us, on our kings, on our princes, and on our priests, and on our prophets, and on our fathers, on all thy people, since the time of the kings of Assyria unto this day.”

“Our God . . . who keepest covenant and mercies, let not all the trouble seem little before thee.”  In spite of all they did, God has never reneged on His original covenant.  What a revelation!  God did everything to avoid them to go into captivity but they didn’t listen.  Before their captivity Isaiah prophesied by name that there would be a man by the name of Cyrus that would release the people from their captivity (Is. 44:28), and all through the fulfilling thereof God kept His “covenant.”  Now, they are back home worshipping once again with restored buildings, restored walls and restored hearts because of “God!”

Nehemiah 9:33 “Howbeit thou art just in all that is brought upon us; for thou hast done right, but we have done wickedly:”

God is perfect (Ps. 18:30; 2 Sam. 22:31; Deut. 32:4).  He is without fault in any of His decisions and choices.  Here, the people know that they are the ones that have done wrong.  They have acted “wickedly” in their continual straying from God and His commands.  In other words, they were confessing that it was their own fault.

What a humbling experience.  They were sorrowful over all, they as individuals and as a nation had done.  They laid no charge to God, for He has “done right.”  2 Corinthians 7:10 says, “For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation.”  Reading this, one can get a sense of their hearts breaking over their sins and the sins of their ancestors.

Nehemiah 9:34 “Neither have our kings, our princes, our priests, nor our fathers, kept thy law, nor hearkened unto thy commandments and thy testimonies, wherewith thou didst testify against them.”

“Nor . . . kept thy law.”  As the Levites continued to lead the people in their confession they admitted before the Lord that no one did as they were supposed to.  Blame for their shortcomings laid on the shoulders of all.  “Kings, princes, priests and our fathers.”  Everyone from the throne to the tents strayed from keeping “the law.”

Isaiah called them out years before hand.  He said, “That this is a rebellious people, lying children, children that will not hear the Law of the LORD,” (Is. 30:9).  They could not keep what they refused to listen to.  When Isaiah first came on the scene God spoke through him and said, “Come now, and let us reason together . . . though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be white as snow; thou they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.  If ye be willing and obedient,” (Is. 1:18-19a).  All reasoning fell through and the people rebelled against God, “nor . . . kept the law.” 

Nehemiah 9:35-36 “For they have not served thee in their kingdom, and in thy great goodness that thou gavest them, and in the large and fat land which thou gavest before them, neither turned they from their wicked works.  Behold, we are servants this day, and for the land that thou gavest unto our fathers to eat the fruit thereof and the good thereof, behold, we are servants in it.”

“They have not served thee.”  Deuteronomy 28 is loaded with blessings.  At the other end of the spectrum, it is loaded with curses also.  God gave the people a strict warning about walking in disobedience.  He warned that curses would overtake them, (Deut. 28:15).  One of the consequences would be “Because you did not serve the LORD your God with joy and gladness of heart, for the abundance of everything, therefore you shall serve your enemies . . .,” (Deut. 28:47-48).  Their confession matches up with what God spoke.  They said, “We are servants this day.” 

Conclusion

A few weeks back the lesson showed the people fasting and praying, which is always a good discipline.  But, fasting and praying mean little without a sincere and contrite heart.  Through their confession they were taking care of matters of the heart.  This is why through his personal confession of sin David said, “Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me,” (Ps. 51:10).  Confession and seeking forgiveness from God is a part of one’s personal, and as shown in the lesson, corporate worship.

God bless you!

Below are activities to help reinforce this week’s lesson. (Tip: Click on PDF link for printing accuracy and not the picture.  Enjoy!)
Wordsearch: Confession Wordsearch Answers:  Corporate Confession of Sins Wordsearch Answers

Crossword:  Confession Crossword  Answers:  Corporate Confession of Sins Crossword Answers

Word Scramble:  Confession Word Scramble  Answers:  Corporate Confession of Sins Word Scramble Answers

Click the Youtube link below to see in video a great object lesson in regard to sin.  Enjoy!

“Confession Puppets”  Use the boy or girl templates from Teacherhelp.org for the faces of these paper bag puppets, students can make a puppet that looks just like them.  They can use their puppets to decorate with clothes and arms and legs or whatever comes to mind.  These puppets can serve as a reminder of our individual responsibility to take care of our sin with God.  Don’t forget to use our Speech Bubble Verse to attach to the back of your Puppet (printing on cardstock is advised).  Enjoy!

PDF: Nehemiah 9 33 Verse

“Grace Rocks” Click on Autumn Teekell’s photo below to find out more about her idea.  This is a wonderful addition to any lesson especially since we are talking on God’s graciousness and mercifulness.  Enjoy!:

Photo Credit: Autumn Teekell (Click here to follow her for instructions)

Activities, Crafts and Coloring About Sin:

“Becoming All New” Coloring Page from Childrensbiblelessonsplace.com

“Sin Revealed” Activity from Kids Sunday School Place

“Sin Spoils” Activity from Kids Sunday School Place

“Object Lesson for Sin and Forgiveness” from Yahoo! Voices

“Children’s Activities About Sin” from Ehow.com

“A Heart for Jesus Activity” from Kids Sunday School Place

“Jesus Cleanses Us From Our Sticky Sins Activity” from Christianity Cove

“Covered By Christ Activity and Coloring” from Ministry to Children

“Forgive Us Our Sins” Coloring Page from Ministry to Children

“If We Confess Our Sins” Coloring Page from Coloring Page Spot

“Girl and Boy Prayer Coloring Pages” from Ministry to Children (These prayer coloring sheets are great because they have empty speech balloons.  In those balloons children can right their own confession/prayer.  Enjoy!)

“1 John 1:9 Butterfly Coloring Page” from Childrenschapel.org

“Children’s Bible Object Lesson on Sin” from Creative Bible Study

Activities, Crafts and Coloring About Obeying God:

“Obedience Games for Kids” from Ehow.com (This is great!  Some of the old classics are brought out to teach children about obeying/following directions like Simon Says, Red Light, Green Light and more.  Enjoy your play time with your students as you revisit your past with this idea. )

“Warning Signs” Activity from Kids Sunday School Place

“The Rewards of Obedience” from Ministry to Children

Related articles

• “Meaningless Worship Condemned” Sunday School Lesson for June 16, 2013 (wordforlifesays.com)
• The Festival of Booths/The Feast of Tabernacles Sunday School Lesson, Nehemiah 8:13-18, August 4, 2013 (wordforlifesays.com)
• “Gifts for the Temple” Sunday School Lesson, Ezra 8:24-30, July 28, 2013 (wordforlifesays.com)
• “The Glorious New Creation / Worship in the New Creation” Sunday School Lesson, Isaiah 65:17-21, 23-25, June 23, 2013 (wordforlifesays.com)
• Sunday School Lesson “Celebrating With Joy / Dedicating the Temple” Ezra 6:13-22 July 14, 2013 (wordforlifesays.com)
• “Fasting and Praying” Sunday School Lesson Ezra 8:21-23, 31-32 July 21, 2013 (wordforlifesays.com)

Photo Credit: Gospelgifs.com

Hey guys, thanks stopping by and visiting!   We are glad you like this site.  We always enjoy having company come over.  Please go to our NEW Facebook and be one of the first to like us.  There you will receive new posts, updates, devotions, Sunday School lesson ideas and more (all the great little extras and things you won’t find here).  Thank you for your support!  (Click the Facebook logo or here) I look forward to meeting you!

Sunday School is a vital part of any ministry. In it one is able to experience a deeper knowledge of God’s Word. We here at “Word For Life Says” want to help you help others. Below you will find resources to help you prepare for your upcoming lessons. May God bless you!

August 18, 2013

“Dedication of the Wall”

Nehemiah 12:27-36, 38, 43

(Click here for the WORD document of the lesson: Dedication of the Wall Sunday School Lesson or simply click the print button below.  Enjoy!)

Introduction

“In the Bible times most cities were walled and fortified for protection against an enemy.  Those living in a city without walls would be interested in having walls built for them,” (Bible History Online, click here for more).

Walls (picture here) were essential in the care and well-being of the people who depended upon them.  Walls offered a sense of security as opposed to feeling opened and unguarded to one’s enemies.  Walls also identified a certain area as belonging to that city, to those people.  For all the above reasons is why Nehemiah was interested in getting involved in the rebuilding of the walls of Jerusalem.

Yet, as with any project one seeks to do for God and/or His people, they can always expect some sort of adversity from opposing forces.  Nehemiah experienced this first hand.  “What are these feeble Jews doing?  Will they fortify themselves?  Will they offer sacrifices?  Will they complete it in a day?” came the taunting of their enemies.  “Will they revive the stones from the heaps of rubbish – stones that are burned?  . . . Whatever they build, if even a fox goes up on it, he will break down their stone wall,” they mocked (Neh. 4:2-3).

This is what the Jews faced as they sought to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem.  Their enemies despised their attempt at restoration, chiding their valiant efforts at work.  Nonetheless, their work did not cease.  Nehemiah offered up a prayer of confidence to God, “Hear, O our God, for we are despised,” (Neh. 4:4).  And, the work was completed, “So we built the wall, and the entire walls was joined together up to half its height, for the people had a mind to work,” (Neh. 4:6).

Even when their enemies became all the more angry and outraged at them,  they did what they could as a people and continued on leaving their trust in the hands of God, “Our God will fight for us,” (Neh. 4:20).  “So the wall was finished on the twenty-fifth day of Elul, in fifty-two days.  And it happened, when all our enemies heard of it, and all the nations around us saw these things, they were very disheartened in their own eyes; for they perceived that this work was done by our God,” (Neh. 6:15-16).

Their hard work and devotion spent toward the completion of the wall paid off.  Yet, none of it would be possible without God’s continual protection, help and intervention.  Now that it’s completed it’s time to dedicate and celebrate.  It’s time to worship God and offer up thanksgiving for what He has done.  This is where this week’s lesson picks up.

“Let the Preparations Begin!”

Nehemiah 12:27 “And at the dedication of the wall of Jerusalem they sought the Levites out of all their places, to bring them to Jerusalem, to keep the dedication with gladness, both with thanksgivings, and with singing, with cymbals, psalteries, and with harps.”

Throughout all of these lessons we have been learning a great deal about how our ancient brothers and sisters celebrated.  It seemed that with every success and every milestone this people made toward their overall restoration was a cause to rejoice.

Their rejoicing and celebrating, though we may think is simply done, was a rather complicated affair.  In our day we can whip up a party in no time flat when friends and relatives decide on a get together.  But, for these returnees there was a whole lot more involved in their festivities. In their hearts, their celebration went past the activity itself to focus on the One who led them to that point to experience such a time of jubilee.  In their observances of these joyful times, their all was to worship God.  This could not be done lightly in a quick get together affair.  There had to be precise planning that honors God who is at the core of the celebration.

Here, in verse 27, some of the preparations for the dedicating of the walls get underway.  As part of their preparation they first “sought the Levites out of all their places.”  The Levites were descendants of the tribe of Levi.  These men were consecrated for the service of the Lord.  They worked alongside the priests in the house of God, assisting and managing God’s services and the work therein.  These special men were called “out of their places” to come and assist/work at the dedication ceremony.  They places where they were probably called from was “in Judah, and in Benjamin,” (Neh. 11:36) because they had no inheritance of their own for “the LORD is their inheritance,” (Deut. 18:2).

The purpose of seeking these men was to “keep the dedication.”  That word “keep” can also mean to “work” in.  In other words, their services were being sought to help work in the celebration at the “dedication.”  They were being called into active duty to participate in getting the people and the celebration itself to the point of honoring God.

“With gladness, both with thanksgiving, and with singing, with cymbals, psalteries, and with harps.”  This was going to be an all-out affair as opposed to the “solemn assembly” that was noted in Nehemiah 8:18 of “The Festival of the Booths” Sunday school lesson.  I imagine it did not take any convincing for them to respond to the call to action for this was a time of “gladness.”  They were going to celebrate and worship God with “thanksgiving, and with singing.”  As Psalm 50:23 says, “Whoso offereth praise glorifieth me.”  With their “cymbals, psalteries, and with harps” they gathered themselves to prepare to praise God.  These are instruments often found in use when the people praised God.  Psalm 150:5 says, “Praise him upon the loud cymbals: praise him upon the high sounding cymbals.”

“The Singers”

Nehemiah 12:28-29 “And the sons of the singers gathered themselves together, both out of the plain country round about Jerusalem, and from the villages of Nethophathi; Also from the house of Gilgal, and out of the fields of Geba and Azmaveth: for the singers had builded them villages round about Jerusalem.”

Both of these verses speak of “the singers.”  These are those who make and sing beautiful melodies that honor God.  1 Chronicles 15:16 talks of “lifting up the voice with joy.”  As the musical instruments would be put into play and so would the human mouth enjoined with the heart.

God had done a tremendous thing for the people in the way He has worked through time to orchestrate their release from captivity, including all the plans He set in advance to secure everything they needed to rebuild and restore.  Now, as they are preparing for this great celebration of worship they put “singers” into place who will help draw the people in the right atmosphere of praise by “lifting up the voice with joy.”  Never underestimate the power of good, anointed music in God’s worship services.  “Serve the Lord with gladness: come into His presence with singing,” (Psalm 100:2).  This is what Rob Smith quoted from bishop J.C. Ryle in his article on The Briefing titled The Role of Singing in the Life of the Church:

There is an elevating, stirring, soothing, spiritualizing, effect about a thoroughly good hymn, which nothing else can produce. It sticks in men’s memories when texts are forgotten. It trains men for heaven, where praise is one of the principal occupations. Preaching and praying shall one day cease for ever; but praise shall never die. The makers of good ballads are said to sway national opinion. The writers of good hymns, in like manner, are those who leave the deepest marks on the face of the church. (Click here to read the article in its entirety.  It’s packed full of great information.)

“Time to Clean Up”

Nehemiah 12:30 “And the priests and the Levites purified themselves, and purified the people, and the gates, and the wall.”

All things were “purified” before the service began.  The fact of the matter is we serve a holy God.  There is no spot or blemish in Him.  In honoring God for His holy status, “the priests and the Levites purified themselves.”  The leaders of the people were not exempt from this process.  In fact, as leaders, they were the first partakers of the ritual.  Albert Einstein once said, “Setting an example is not the main means of influencing others, it is the only means.”  These men, as leaders, recognize first their own need to be “purified” (which requires an honest reflection of self) so that they can set an example for all else to follow.

The word “purified” brings to mind the process of which silver is refined.  One way of refining is to heat it to a very high degree to get out all the impurities and waste so that it can be the precious metal it is meant to be.  When these men took to purifying themselves they were separating themselves from the impurities of the world to draw close to a God who is nothing but pure.

“And the people, and the gates, and the wall.”  The word shipshape pops into my mind at this point.  They were getting their “house” in order, so to speak.  “The people” followed what the leaders did before them.  Then, “the gates and the walls” were taken care of.  In the following verse these two structures were key factors in their worship and had to get up to par with everything else.  It was the walls that were being dedicated therefore they had to be holy which means to “set apart.” There is a difference between holy and unholy, between the clean and the unclean, so they and the walls and the gates that hung from the walls needed to be “purified,” (see also Ezekiel 22:26).

“Getting Into Position to Worship”

Nehemiah 12:31-36 “Then I brought up the princes of Judah upon the wall, and appointed two great companies of them that gave thanks, whereof one went on the right hand upon the wall toward the dung gate: And after them went Hoshaiah, and half the princes of Judah, And Azariah, Ezra, and Meshullam, Judah, and Benjamin, and Shemaiah, and Jeremiah, And certain of the priests’ sons with trumpets; namely, Zechariah the son of Jonathan, the son of Shemaiah, the son of Mattaniah, the son of Michaiah, the son of Zaccur, the son of Asaph: And his brethren, Shemaiah, and Azarael, Milalai, Gilalai, Maai, Nethaneel, and Judah, Hanani, with the musical instruments of David the man of God, and Ezra the scribe before them.

Really getting into these you can see the preparations for the service and how the service itself was carried out.  Think of your own church for a moment.  For a program to go off just right on a Sunday morning there are several factors that come into play: light/sound check, who is making and designing the programs itself?  Who is going to say the prayer and read the Scripture?  What groups are singing and what songs will they sing, and so on and so on?  A lot of behind the scene stuff goes on.  So, getting into position to worship best describes these verses because it reminds me of our own local preparations.

In the Bible the walls itself have been used for protection, for a place for the watchman to stand and for soldiers to guard what’s within.  Here, the wall itself is used for the place of worship.  Can you imagine ascending this great structure to sound out the glories of God?  Awesome!  It’s an event I would have wanted to see.

Now, the choirs are mounting the walls.  The text says there are “two great companies appointed” which other versions call choirs.  We can now understand better the need for the gathering of the singers in verses 28 and 29.  One choir went to the “right” and “the other company . . . went over against them.”

Their singing was going to focus on giving “thanks.”  Psalm 100:4 says, “Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.”  They had an attitude of gratitude which would be the right frame of mind for any who worship before the Lord.

They knew where they had come from and the struggles it took to get where they currently are.  That knowledge comes out in a heart overflowing with “thanks.”  “Sing unto the LORD with thanksgiving; sing praise upon the harp unto our God,” is the command that comes from Psalm 147:7.  They were blessed because of Him and they were not going to take God for granted again (for a short posting on this check out my article: “How Blessed Are You?”).

“Time to Rejoice!”

Nehemiah 12:43 “Also that day they offered great sacrifices, and rejoiced: for God had made them rejoice with great joy: the wives also and the children rejoiced: so that the joy of Jerusalem was heard even afar off.”

In the verses in between the two great companies, the leaders/rulers, and those that had trumpets all stood together.  Verse 42 says, “And the singer sang loud.”  Praise was going up before God mightily.  The service was in full effect.

“Also that day they offered great sacrifices and rejoiced.”  As part of their worship they gave unto the Lord.  There is worship in giving.  This is not about trying to pay God back, for one could never return to Him all the graces, love and mercies He has favored our lives with.  But, because they were so thankful, aside from singing they wanted to show God in more ways than one their genuine appreciation, “for God had made them rejoice with great joy.”

“The wives also and the children rejoiced.”  Everybody had a reason to be thankful and everybody “rejoiced.”  Psalm 32:11 says, “Be glad in the LORD and rejoice.”  If God has made you happy than you should show it.  (This reminds us of the song “If You’re Happy and You Know it” which would be great to implement with younger students for this lesson).  This is not just for the leaders but the Bible says, “Let everything that hath breath praise the LORD.  Praise ye the LORD,” (Ps. 150:6).

“So the joy of Jerusalem was heard afar off.”  Such was their “joy” that it could not be contained within the city walls.  When they let it out, they really let it out.  Their praise for God traveled and His testimony rang out and was “heard afar off.”  I wonder what their enemies must have thought at that moment.  If they didn’t believe God’s people were truly back before, they surely understood it now.

This is same noise they “heard” at the laying of the foundation of the temple in our lesson: “The Temple Restored” Ezra 3:13.  When God’s people get really glad about what He has done for them the effects can be far reaching.

Conclusion

The dedication of the wall was more than a story about a wall.  It was about the ins and outs of worship.  Not only the importance of preparing for worship with holiness on the mind, but also one’s attitude of gratitude during worship.

Like the people in Jerusalem, God has brought us a mighty long way and we should be glad about what He has done.  Think of your own life, your own testimony and where you would be if God had not intervened to save you.  Now praise Him because He did.  He reached out where you and I were and pulled us out of the muck and mire.  In turn, we should have no problem publically praise our God.  Get glad about so that other people will know what a great God we serve.

Below you will find Activities, Resources and Coloring Pages to help support the lesson for this week.  Enjoy!

Wordsearch:  Dedication of the Wall Wordsearch  Answers:  Dedication of the Wall Wordsearch Answers

Click on PDF link above to print accurately

Crossword:  Dedication of the Wall Crossword  Answers:  Dedication of the Wall Crossword Answers

Click on PDF link above for accurate printing

Match the Word:  Dedication of the Wall Match the Word  Answers:  Dedication of the Wall Match the Word Answers

Click on PDF link above for accurate printing

“Dedication of the Wall” Activity:

This is a very simple and easy activity for your class to do.  Simply print out the PDF: wall 2 on cardstock. Click on the link here for the men print out from Mssscrafts.com (use cardstock also).  Color and decorate and glue your little guy/gal onto a popsicle/craft stick.  Punch a little hole into your paper and slip him through.  There on the wall he can sing and give God the glory like those in today’s lesson.  Enjoy!

“Moon Sand Wall”:

Click here and scroll down for directions. Enjoy!

That’s right, it’s back!  If you still have your moon sand from our lesson “The Temple Restored“ here’s another great opportunity to use it.  Let students build walls using plastic cups, blocks or what ever you find lying around.  This is always an entertaining idea and the kiddos love it!  And if you still have it from our previous lesson that means no preparation on your part !  If you missed that lesson and would like to know more click on the picture above and it will take you right to it.  Enjoy!

“Wall of Praise”:

This is also a simple, throw together craft for busy teachers.  Visit your local dollar store and get popsicles and rocks, that’s it.  Have the children put together this wall and glue our memory verse: Wall Verse onto the back of their creation.  What a fun way to remember having joy on top of the wall.  Enjoy!

“Pop up Wall”:

This too is an easy craft to make.  Using a Christmas activity from Activityvillage.co.uk for a Pop up Santa printed on cardstock, we kept the chimney (or in our case we call it a wall) and put our little guy through as we did in the picture above.  Any student would enjoy this one and he can make him go up and down on top of the wall.  Doesn’t he look happy up there?  Enjoy!

“Build Your Own Wall”:

The easiest of all, if you have blocks or Lincoln Logs students can build their own walls as a great, hands on activity without any mess (except to clean up the blocks )!  Enjoy!

“Make Musical Instruments:”

This lesson puts great emphasis on their praising God using musical instruments and not just the wall.  Another good idea would be to make homemade musical instruments such as were seen in our lesson “The Temple Restored.”  Enjoy!

More Resources For This Lesson:

“Nehemiah 9:5 Coloring Sheet” from Abdaacts.  This goes great with our lesson.

“A Heart of Worship” from Ministry to Children

“Let the World Praise the Lord” from Ministry to Children

“Praise the Lord” from Childrensministry.com

“Why Do We Praise God?” from Kidssundayschool.com

“Praising God with Your Hands” from Ezinearticles.com

“I Will Praise God” Coloring Page from Twistynoodle.com

“Sing Praise to the Lord” Coloring Page from Lessons4sundayschool.com

“Psalm 147:1″ Coloring Page from Ilovejesus.com

“O Sing to the Lord a New Song” Coloring Page from Karla Dornacher

“Make a Joyful Noise” Coloring Page from Karla Dornacher

“Sing Unto the Lord” Coloring Pages from Childrens Gems in MY Treasure Box

“Praise the Lord” Coloring Page from Church House Collection

“When We Praise God” Coloring Page from Hem of His Garment

Related articles

• The Festival of Booths/The Feast of Tabernacles Sunday School Lesson, Nehemiah 8:13-18, August 4, 2013 (wordforlifesays.com)
• “Corporate Confession of Sins/Community of Confession” Sunday School Lesson, Nehemiah 9:2, 6-7, 9-10, 30-36, August 11, 2013 (wordforlifesays.com)

Photo Credit: Gospelgifs.com

Hey guys, thanks stopping by and visiting!   We are glad you like this site.  We always enjoy having company come over.  Please go to our NEW Facebook and be one of the first to like us.  There you will receive new posts, updates, devotions, Sunday School lesson ideas and more (all the great little extras and things you won’t find here).  Thank you for your support!  (Click the Facebook logo or here) I look forward to meeting you!

Sunday School is a vital part of any ministry. In it one is able to experience a deeper knowledge of God’s Word. We here at “Word For Life Says” want to help you help others. Below you will find resources to help you prepare for your upcoming lessons. May God bless you!

August 25, 2013

“Sanctifying the Lord’s Day / Sabbath Reforms”

Nehemiah 13:15-22

(Click here for WORD document: Sanctifying the Lord’s Day Sunday School Lesson or simply click the print button below.  Enjoy!)

Introduction

“Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy,” (Ex. 20:8), was one of the Ten Commandments God spoke to the people.  He continued on and said, “Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work: But the seventh day is the Sabbath of the LORD thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work . . . For in six days the LORD made heaven and earth . . . and rested the seventh day: wherefore the LORD blessed the Sabbath day, and hallowed it,” (Ex. 20:9-11).  The Sabbath day was the Lord’s Day and it was hallowed.  That day was dedicated and consecrated to God.

One of the things Nehemiah is known for is his reforms.  More than just the walls needed to be repaired and dedicated to God (see last week’s lesson).  The way the people approached their day of worship/rest and their relationship with God needed to be brought back to the holiness it was intended to be.

In regard to some of his reforms leading up to today’s lesson, Nehemiah noticed upon his return to Judah (for he left for a time to report to King Artaxerxes), Tobiah was living in the house of God!  Tobiah was an enemy of the work that God’s people were doing, yet he was living in God’s house (Neh. 13:4-5).  Nehemiah, at that time, kicked him and all of his belongings to the curb (Neh. 13:7-8).  Then, he commanded the chamber to be “cleansed” and “the vessels of the house of God” be brought back (Neh. 13:9).

Other issues were the Levites were not receiving their portion for the work they did (Neh. 13:10) and the people were co-mingling with whom they were forbidden (Neh. 13:1-3).  They were also guilty because they “married wives of Ashdod, of Amman, and of Moab” (Neh. 13:23) which was also forbidden (Neh. 13:23).

So, with that Nehemiah had a lot of work on his hands to get these people straightened out.  The issue that today’s lesson deals with is their lack of devotion to the Sabbath day.  God’s holy day was not being revered as it should and Nehemiah set out to immediately rectify the situation.

“The Unholy, Holy Day”

Nehemiah 13:15-16  “In those days saw I in Judah some treading wine presses on the Sabbath, and bringing in sheaves, and lading asses; as also wine, grapes, and figs, and all manner of burdens, which they brought into Jerusalem on the Sabbath day: and I testified against them in the day wherein they sold victuals. 

There dwelt men of Tyre also therein, which brought fish, and all manner of ware, and sold on the Sabbath unto the children of Judah, and in Jerusalem.”

In these two verses, we see the words “on the Sabbath” three times, emphasizing the case against them for this particular day.  That word “sabbath” means “cease.”  Any Bible student will easily remember the origin of that word started with God Himself.  After six days of work creating all the heavens, the earth and everything therein, God Himself declared the seventh day to be a day of rest (see lesson introduction).

In Nehemiah 10, the people made an oath before God.  As part of that oath they declared from their own mouths, “And if the people of the land bring ware or any victuals on the sabbath day to sell, that we would not buy it of them on the sabbath, or on the holy day,” (Neh. 10:31).

Now, upon his arrival back in Judah, Nehemiah saw this “holy day” being treated with contempt in an unholy manner.  The word “holy” means “to set apart.”  That day was to be “set apart” in a distinctive manner from all other.  But, it wasn’t.  He saw “some treading wine presses on the sabbath, and bring in sheaves, and lading asses.”  There was nothing distinct about their observance of the sabbath for they were treating it as a regular, ordinary work day.

They even had “men of Tyre” coming and seeking to sell “all manner of ware” and they “brought fish” also.  When Nehemiah left though they renewed their oath with God (see Neh. 10:31), they quickly reverted back to their sinful practices and influence of the merchants and peoples around them.

Not only did the people not heed Nehemiah, but once again they ignored God Himself.  “Speak unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily my Sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the LORD that doth sanctify you,” (Ex. 31:13).  God sanctified them and now as a sign they were supposed to keep and “Sanctify the Lord’s Day.”  The two go hand in hand.  God set them apart as a holy people; likewise they were to do the same with the sabbath.  They were to set it apart from all others because that what’s sanctify means.

There is this promise in Isaiah 56:2 in regard to the sabbath: “Blessed is the man that doeth this, and the son of man that layeth hold on it; that keepeth the sabbath from polluting it, and keepeth his hand from doing any evil.”

“What Are You Doing?!”

Nehemiah 13:17-18 “Then I contended with the nobles of Judah, and said unto them, What evil thing is this that ye do, and profane the sabbath day?

Did not your fathers thus, and did not our God bring all this evil upon us, and upon this city? yet ye bring more wrath upon Israel by profaning the sabbath.”

One of the meanings of the word “contend” is to “make a charge.”  In his questioning, “What evil thing is this that ye do,” Nehemiah was charging them with the sin they were committing before God.  The evidence was all around.  Nehemiah witnessed the practices of the people and they were just as guilty as their fathers who had gone before them.

“Did not your fathers thus, and did not our God bring all this evil upon us, and upon this city.”  In just a relatively short period of time history was repeating itself.  George Santayana said, “Those who do not remember the past are condemned to repeat it.”  How soon have these people forgotten where these sins have gotten them, their “fathers” in the first place?

Nehemiah continued, “Yet ye bring more wrath upon Israel by profaning the sabbath.”  That word “more” by any definition means to add on to.  In repeating the same sins of their “fathers” they were putting themselves in position to receive greater “wrath” from God.

“Close it Up and Shut it Down!”

Nehemiah 13:19 “And it came to pass, that when the gates of Jerusalem began to be dark before the sabbath, I commanded that the gates should be shut, and charged that they should not be opened till after the sabbath: and some of my servants set I at the gates, that there should no burden be brought in on the sabbath day.”

Seeing that the heart of the people were not intent on doing right, Nehemiah, as governor of the land, works immediately to set things in order.  This story with Nehemiah reminds me of the time of when I was growing up before cable television.  I had the privilege of viewing many old westerns that came on.  And, if one thing you know about a western is when the sheriff is back in town, things change.  With Nehemiah back and in charge, he quickly began to close up the city and shut down the evil practices.

At sunset, when the “gates . . . began to be dark” he ordered that they “should be shut.”  Jewish times for marking days “begin with the onset of night (the appearance of the stars),” (SimpleToRemember.com).  As the sabbath approached he positioned the people to honor it as they should and they would “not be opened till after the sabbath.”  For, honoring God’s special days are a part of worship.

As a measure of security, Nehemiah positioned some of his own “servants . . . at the gates, that there should no burden be brought in on the sabbath day.”  On guard, the servants were there to prevent a breach in all Nehemiah was trying to do.

“The Warning and the Assignment”

Nehemiah 13:20-22a “So the merchants and sellers of all kind of ware lodged without Jerusalem once or twice.

Then I testified against them, and said unto them, Why lodge ye about the wall? If ye do so again, I will lay hands on you.  From that time forth came they no more on the sabbath.

And I commanded the Levites that they should cleanse themselves, and that they should come and keep the gates, to sanctify the sabbath day.”

When it comes to making money some people will risk life and limb it seems to earn a buck.  These “merchants and sellers” were not easily dissuaded by Nehemiah’s reforms.  “Once or twice” they showed up hoping to still sell their wares.

Seeing this, Nehemiah gave them a dire warning.  If they persisted in coming on the sabbath, they would be arrested and charged.  He said, “If ye do so again, I will lay hands on you.”  As governor of the land, he was working within his power and authority to not only threaten, but to carry out what he said he would do.

After Nehemiah’s warning, the merchants ceased coming on the “sabbath.”  What a play on words here since we remember the word “sabbath” means to “cease.”  They got the hint and “came they no more.”

“And I commanded the Levites that they should cleanse themselves, and that they should come and keep the gates.”  After the completion of the wall, Nehemiah 7:1 says, “Now it came to pass, when the walls was built, and I had set up the doors . . . the Levites were appointed.”  Here, Nehemiah is calling them to purify themselves to get back into position where they belonged; where they were previously assigned.

“Remember Me”

Nehemiah 13:22b “Remember me, O my God, concerning this also, and spare me according to the greatness of thy mercy.”

At the close of this part of his reforms in dealing especially with the sabbath, Nehemiah uttered a prayer of remembrance.

These reforms that Nehemiah was instituting took a lot of work, dedication, organization and a flat footed desire to do God’s will.  With that he prayed, “Remember me, O my God.”

Often in the Bible we see people praying for God to “remember” them (see Ps. 106:4; Jer. 15:15).  Their desire is to call God’s attention to their cause and their case.  Though humanity, I believe, will probably always pray this way, let me leave you with assurance from Psalms and Proverbs: “The righteous shall be in everlasting remembrance,” (Ps. 112:6) and “The memory of the just is blessed,” (Pr. 10:7).

Hebrews 6:10 tells us, “For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love.”  God is not absent-minded and does not forget you or all that you have done for Him.

Conclusion

As our lesson shows “Sanctifying the Lord’s Day” is a part of worship.  In it we deliberately set aside time for God and give precedence to Him in our lives.  To mark it as an ordinary day would be a great travesty to one’s relationship with God.  If you will do right by God, God will remember you.

Below you will find activities to support the lesson for this week.  Enjoy!

Wordsearch:  Sanctifying the Lord’s Day Wordsearch  Answers:  Sanctifying the Lord’s Day Wordsearch Answers

Click PDF for accurate printing

Crossword:  Sanctifying the Lord’s Day Crossword  Answers:  Sanctifying the Lord’s Day Crossword Answers

Click PDF for accurate printing

Match the Word:  Sanctifying Match the Word  Answers:  Sanctifying Match the Word Answers

Click PDF for accurate printing

Draw the Scene:  Sanctifying the Lord’s Day Draw the Scene

“Sanctifying the Lord’s Day” Coloring Page: Sanctify Coloring Page

Click PDF link above for accurate printing

More Activities and Coloring Resources:

“Remember the Sabbath, Keep it Holy” Coloring Page from Church House Collection

“Exodus 20:8 Memory Verse” Coloring from Mssscrafts.com

“Ten Commandment” Coloring and Activities from Mssscrafts.com (Since our lesson deals with keeping the Sabbath Day holy as was commanded in Exodus 20:8 (one of the Ten Commandments) this would be a good idea to explore.  Enjoy!)

“Invite a Friend to Church” Craft from Sunday School Crafts

“Stained Glass Window” Craft from Sunday School Crafts (Many churches we enter on the Lord’s Day have Stained Glass Windows.”  This simple craft can be made with leftover wrapping paper, magazines, cellophane or anything.  These following template of windows may be useful in your design: Storyboardstoys.com; Sandra’s Handmade Crafts.  Enjoy!)

“Ten Commandments Stained Glass Coloring Page” from Miniturechurch.co.uk

“Easy Stained Glass Craft” from DLTK

“Matching Pieces Church” Activity from Mssscrafts.com

“Family Going to Church” Coloring Page from Raindrop.org

“Going to Church/The Sabbath” Activities from Mssscrafts.com

“Online Games for Sabbath” from Sabbathkids.com

“Keeping the Sabbath” Activity from Christianitycove.com

“Shabbat/Sabbath Crafts for Kids” from Ehow.com

“Circle the Church That’s Different” from Church House Collection

“How Many Words Can You Make Out of Sabbath” Activity from Church House Collection

“Easy Exodus 20:8 Craft” from Church House Collection

Related articles

• “Dedication of the Wall” Sunday School Lesson, Nehemiah 12:27-36, 38, 43, August 18, 2013 (wordforlifesays.com)
• The Festival of Booths/The Feast of Tabernacles Sunday School Lesson, Nehemiah 8:13-18, August 4, 2013 (wordforlifesays.com)
• “Corporate Confession of Sins/Community of Confession” Sunday School Lesson, Nehemiah 9:2, 6-7, 9-10, 30-36, August 11, 2013 (wordforlifesays.com)
• “Gifts for the Temple” Sunday School Lesson, Ezra 8:24-30, July 28, 2013 (wordforlifesays.com)

Photo Credit: Gospelgifs
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Hey guys, thanks stopping by and visiting!   We are glad you like this site.  We always enjoy having company come over.  Please go to our NEW Facebook and be one of the first to like us.  There you will receive new posts, updates, devotions, Sunday School lesson ideas and more (all the great little extras and things you won’t find here).  Thank you for your support!  (Click the Facebook logo or here) I look forward to meeting you!

Sunday School is a vital part of any ministry. In it one is able to experience a deeper knowledge of God’s Word. We here at “Word For Life Says” want to help you help others. Below you will find resources to help you prepare for your upcoming lessons. May God bless you!

September 1, 2013

“God Created All / God Creates”

Psalm 104:5-9, 24-30

(Please note: Lesson is later to come.  Thank you!)

Below you will find activities to help support this week’s lesson.  Enjoy!

“Photos for Lesson” from Bridge to the Bible (Here you will find a plethora of photos to illustrate the lesson for this week.  Enjoy!)

Wordsearch: God Created All Wordsearch  Answers: God Created All Wordsearch Answers

Click PDF above for accurate printing

Crossword:  God Created All Crossword  Answers:  God Created All Crossword Answers

Click PDF above for accurate printing

Word Scramble:  God Created All Word Scramble  Answers:  God Created All Word Scramble Answers

Click PDF above for accurate printing

Draw the Scene: God Created Draw the Scene (Psst! How cool would it be to add sticker stars?!)

Click PDF above for accurate printing

“God Created All Collage”: PDF God Created Collage (Use this printable and some pictures cut out of old magazines and such so students can make Creation Collages.  Enjoy!)

Click PDF link above for accurate printing

Below are even more activities to support this week’s lesson.  (Note: in dealing with creation the options are endless so below I have linked some of my favorites.  Most of these links are from Genesis (the beginning of creation) and can be easily applied to this week’s lesson.  Enjoy!)  All of them are worth checking out.  You might be surprised by some of the ideas!

“In the Beginning” Coloring Sheet from Abdaacts.com (This coloring sheet is perfect for older children and teens due the intricate design.  Enjoy!)

“Ocean in a Bottle with Fish” Craft/Activity from Learning Ideas (This is a super cute, clever and fantastic way to have students make their own ocean in a bottle.  This is a must try! I believe students everywhere would be excited about this one.  Enjoy!) Don’t use a weighted toy like I did because he keeps looking down. Go to the site listed above for an excellent idea.  Get as elaborate or not as you want.  Demonstration pictures below:

“Psalm 104 Fill in the Blanks” from Biblewise (A worksheet for students to fill out to help with lesson reinforcement.  Enjoy!)

“Psalm 104 Coloring Book” from Bridalweather.com (Yes, you read right, a coloring book!  Here is you will find 35 pages of coloring from all throughout Psalm 104.  Enjoy!)

“Creation Sunday School Ideas” from Biblefunzone.com (This is a paid member site but just scrolling through it will any teacher wonderful ideas to instill in this week’s lesson.  Enjoy!)

“God Created” Craft Project for Children from Ministrytochildren.com

“Genesis Chapter 1: In the Beginning” from DLTK.com (Click here for many easy and printable craft ideas to support this week’s lesson.  Enjoy!)

“Every Color Under Heaven” Bible/Group Activity from Children’s Ministry (This participation activity allows children to break away from the arts and crafts table to go interactive with Psalm 104.  Enjoy!)

“Creation” Craft and Printable Ideas and Resources from Mssscrafts.com

“Children’s Activities on Creation” from Ehow.com (Learn how to reinforce this week’s lesson through the use of puppets, draw and tell, flower bouquet and matching days activities.  There sure to be something here for every class.  Enjoy!)

“Creation Object Match” from When You Rise (There are several creation ideas on this site but this one you find 3D objects for students to match to the correct number day.  It keeps hands busy and is a great educational tool also.  Enjoy!)

Free Printable Copy of “God Gave Us the Earth” from Kinder-Craze (This is great for students who are just learning to read because it combines learning to read and spell GOD with the fun activity of making their own creation book.  This is educational and fun.  A win win, if you ask me.  Enjoy!)

“7 Days of Creation” Coloring Pages from Faith Formation (Here you will find giant numbers on each page filled with things from that day’s creation.  Enjoy!)

“Printable Creation Collage Craft” from Christian Preschool Printables (Want a fun activity but no time to plan?  This one’s for you.  Simply print out the free sheets and assemble.  Enjoy!)

“Days of Creation” Coloring Pages from Ministry to Children

“Creation Lapbook” from Lapbooklessons.com (If you are into lapbooks, then this one is for you.  Includes photos to add.  Enjoy!)

“Creation Wheel” from Chocolate on my Cranium

Related articles

• “Gifts for the Temple” Sunday School Lesson, Ezra 8:24-30, July 28, 2013 (wordforlifesays.com)
• “Dedication of the Wall” Sunday School Lesson, Nehemiah 12:27-36, 38, 43, August 18, 2013 (wordforlifesays.com)
• “Corporate Confession of Sins/Community of Confession” Sunday School Lesson, Nehemiah 9:2, 6-7, 9-10, 30-36, August 11, 2013 (wordforlifesays.com)
• Sunday School Lesson “Celebrating With Joy / Dedicating the Temple” Ezra 6:13-22 July 14, 2013 (wordforlifesays.com)
• “Sanctifying the Lord’s Day / Sabbath Reforms” Sunday School Lesson, Nehemiah 13:15-22, August 25, 2013 (wordforlifesays.com)
• “Fasting and Praying” Sunday School Lesson Ezra 8:21-23, 31-32 July 21, 2013 (wordforlifesays.com)
• The Festival of Booths/The Feast of Tabernacles Sunday School Lesson, Nehemiah 8:13-18, August 4, 2013 (wordforlifesays.com)

Photo Credit: Wallpaper4god.com Click to visit site

Hey guys, thanks stopping by and visiting!   We are glad you like this site.  We always enjoy having company come over.  Please go to our NEW Facebook and be one of the first to like us.  There you will receive new posts, updates, devotions, Sunday School lesson ideas and more (all the great little extras and things you won’t find here).  Thank you for your support!  (Click the Facebook logo or here) I look forward to meeting you!

Sunday School is a vital part of any ministry. In it one is able to experience a deeper knowledge of God’s Word. We here at “Word For Life Says” want to help you help others. Below you will find resources to help you prepare for your upcoming lessons. May God bless you!

September 8, 2013

“Created Male and Female / God’s Image: Male and Female”

Genesis 2:18-25

(Click here for WORD document: Created Male and Female Sunday School Lesson, or simply click the print button below.  Enjoy!)

Introduction

In 2011, a movie title “We Bought a Zoo” came out, which depicts the story of a man named, Benjamin Mee.  In this movie, the young widow moves his family to a struggling zoo after the loss of his wife.  There, he seeks to rebuild the zoo and more importantly rebuild the family relationship.

Near the end of the movie when the fully restored zoo first opens up, Lily Miska asks Kelly, “If you had to choose between people and animals, who would you pick?” Looking at the people whom they have both come to care for she responded to her own question and said, “Me, too.  People!” (IMDb click for full source).

In our lesson, after man was created, he was alone and had no one else like himself.  The animals were great and served as some source of companionship but they could never fulfill the needs of the man the way someone like him would.  This mimics what is implied in the movie.  Animals are great but they are not people.  People need people.  Humans need other humans to love and interact with to be whole and complete.

God, in today’s lesson, saw that it was not good for man to be alone.  Man needed someone else and God was going to remedy that situation right now.

Genesis 2:18 “And the LORD God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him.”

This lesson opens up with “And the LORD God said,” verifying that God Himself is the one making the statement that follows.  This is critical because it’s not only stating God’s authorship in the words, but also in the actions that follow.

“It is not good that the man should be alone.”  At the end of everything God created He said, “It was good,” (Gen. 1:31).  But, here in this verse, something causes God to say, “It is not good.”  And, that something is the loneliness of man.  This verse specifically points out “the man” using a singular stance, meaning just one.  The usage of the words like this reemphasize his being “alone.”

Was Adam feeling unfulfilled?  Viewing the monkeys swinging in the trees together as a community or rabbits chasing each other in a game of bunny tag, did the sight dishearten Adam and make him long for more?  We don’t know.  All we do know is what the Scriptures tell us, and that is, man is “alone” and in God’s eyes “it was not good.”

There is an article on Ehow.com titled “The Effects of Long-Term Loneliness and Isolation” written by Phillip Chappell.  In it, according to the University of Chicago psychologists Louise Hawkley and John Cacioppo, in speaking of loneliness said, “long-term exposure can have negative emotional and physical effects.”  The areas of one’s life that can be affected are: “stress, sleep, social behavior and emotions.” (click here to read complete article).

Was this what Adam was experiencing?  Again, we don’t know.  But, for the man He created, I can imagine that God did not want to see any despondency in Adam due to being “alone.”  So, God sought to remedy the situation.

“I will make him a him an help meet for him.”  God is not finished creating just yet.  All that He created was good.  Every creature, the way He made them was perfect.  But, the man Adam needed someone that was like himself.  He needed a “help meet.”  He needed a mate, a companion, someone whom he could share life with.

So, God with His marvelous creative abilities said, “I will make,” someone for him.  God was going to give Adam an appropriate and compatible companion with whom he could communicate and share life.

Genesis 2:19-20 “And out of the ground the LORD God formed every beast of the field, and every fowl of the air; and brought them unto Adam to see what he would call them: and whatsoever Adam called every living creature, that was the name thereof.

And Adam gave names to all cattle, and to the fowl of the air, and to every beast of the field; but for Adam there was not found an help meet for him.”

“And out of the ground the LORD God formed every beast . . . and every fowl.”  Here is a reiteration of what already occurred.  In last week’s lesson “God Creates All” we see when the psalmist is celebrating God.  “O LORD, how manifold are thy works! in wisdom hast thou made them all . . .,” (Ps. 104:24).  Out of those manifold works, we see here where the Lord made these animals stated above.

Adam himself was also brought forth from the dust of the “ground.”  Genesis 2:7 says, “And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living being.”

“And brought them to Adam to see what he would call them: and whatsoever Adam called every living creature, that was the name thereof.”  In Genesis 2:15 it says, “The LORD God took the man, and put him into the garden of Eden to dress it and to keep it.”  I have always looked upon that verse and the verse in our lesson with the naming of “every living creature” as jobs that were given to Adam by God. 

A lot of people try to distinguish why Adam was responsible for the naming of the animals at this meet and greet with the animals, and not God.  God could’ve done it all, and yet, God has always invited man to participate in what He is doing.    God has never promoted laziness but has always encouraged man in taking on responsibility.  I think it’s amazing how God is allowing Adam to work at or “speak things” as He Himself does.  Whatever Adam speaks over the animal, whatever he calls them “that was the name thereof.”

I believe, also (just my personal opinion) that when one works at something, be it “to dress and keep the garden” or naming “every living creature,” there becomes more of an interest; more of a personal involvement and investment in the care of what God already created.  With that, “Adam gave names to all.”

God’s observation in verse 18 begins to stand out even more in verse 20.  “But for Adam there was not found an help meet for him.”  After naming the animals was it now more apparent to Adam himself that there was no one else like him?  Again, we don’t know but what is known is that the reiteration of this point means that God wanted it specially noted and referenced.  Twice in this lesson the need for a “help meet” appropriate for Adam is implied and stated.

Genesis 2:21-22 “And the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and he slept: and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof;

And the rib, which the LORD God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man.”

“And the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and he slept.”  It was time for the first human surgery to commence.  This was not done by doctors in the medical field who have piled on degrees to learn of the human body.  This was done by He who created the human body from mere dust.  Awesome!  Using the first case of anesthesia, Adam slept.  As with modern day anesthesia he was completely under, knocked out and totally unconscious.  This was done that God might create the “help meet” he needed as a companion.

“And He took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof; And the rib, which the LORD God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man.”

Why did God decide to make Eve in a different way than He did Adam?  Why didn’t He form Eve from the dust of the ground also?  There’s a lot of speculation with no definitive answer.  All we know is God left a very detailed and illustrated version of Eve coming into existence differently than Adam.

Most seem to suggest this was done to exhibit unity in the human race as well as unity in marriage.  We do know that as Genesis 1:27 states, “In the image of God created he him; male and female created he him.”  Woman may have been formed differently than man, but she, too, was made “in the image of God.”  And, God “brought her unto the man.”  The woman was presented to man from God.  What a gift!

Genesis 2:23-25 “And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man.

Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.

And they were both naked, the man and his wife, and were not ashamed.”

“And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh.”  Some way or another, Adam was made aware of the procedure that transpired and when he saw the woman he immediately recognized her being the result of it; her as being from him.

Adam’s declaration is she is no longer just a part of his body, rather “now,” meaning presently, after God created her, she is fully and completely of him and from him, from the inside out.  He said, “bone of my bones (inside), and flesh of my flesh (outside).”  Twice here he used the word “my” which not only shows unity, but also a responsibility to and for her.  She was now a permanent part of his life.

“She shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man.”  Though I have referred to the “Woman” as Eve several times throughout this lesson, she does not actually take on that name until Genesis 3:20.  I referenced her as Eve for familiarity purposes.

Here, we see Adam’s first response was to call her “Woman.”  She was a part of man, but different from man.  She was the feminine side of man.   Notice that both the words “Woman” and “Man” are capitalized.  At this time their proper names weren’t being used by each other, therefore the need for capitalization of their titles.

She was “taken out of Man” is reiterating her origin as being different from Adam and all other created beings.  Everything else was from dust, but not her (refer back to verse 19).  She was designed specifically to fulfill the purpose of being a compatible “help meet” for “the man.”

“Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife.”  When God looked at Adam and saw that it was not good for him to be alone, He remedied the situation by making him somebody that was perfect for him.  Now, she becomes a priority to the man.  “Cleave” means to “cling.”  She was taken out of him, for him and now his job was to stay with her.  That sounds like marriage vows already.

Here, he is showing a commitment to be with his wife; in a relationship where intimacy and love can be cultivated and nourished.  In an article titled “Building a Great Marriage,” Paul and Linda J. Bucknell write:

“An intimate marriage is characterized by the understanding that my spouse is vitally important to me.  We are not just meeting each other’s basic needs.  We have come to believe, on the authority of God’s Word, that our union is more blessed than our separateness,” (click here for full article).

With his commitment to Eve, I imagine Adam felt the same way.  After all he stated, “And they shall be one flesh.”  In the article stated above they also point out:

“A couple must increasingly come to the point where they have only one love  . . . they still resolve to be committed to loving them . . .” (article here).

This is an on purpose act of love to “be one flesh.”  To be unified wholly and completely together in every area of life.

“And they were both naked, the man and his wife, and were not ashamed.”  When my youngest was in Pre-K, I volunteered a lot at her school.  Her teacher was very thorough in all areas of subject but had a deep interest in art.  One of my assignments with the students was to go through an art catalog and show different works to the students (they had a field trip coming up to the museum).  I was to point out and ask about lines, shapes, shading and such in the works.

Before releasing me to the students she made sure to emphasize the need to stay away from “inappropriate” works, namely, “naked” works, and with good reason.  Pictures and works like these are considered by most as “inappropriate” and they bring about a certain amount of shame.

Most of the searches on the internet and in books for Adam and Eve’s story will reveal their nakedness covered behind trees and leaves or something else.  Our world is somewhat sensitive to these types of displays of the human body in its “naked” form.  I often groan passing by my local art collage for some of these displays are often erected outside or in windows for the whole world to see.

Here, in our lesson, “they were both naked . . . and were not ashamed.”  This is the Age of Innocence.  During this period of time there was nothing present that could make them feel “ashamed.”  There was no sin and no wrong.  They were completely pure.  The need to cover came immediately after they sinned, Genesis 3:6-7.  As soon as their “eyes were opened . . . they knew they were naked.”  But here, as God made them they had no reason to be “ashamed.”

Conclusion

This story shows God care in taking care of man.  God saw that man was alone and made someone specifically designed for him.

Below you will find resources to assist with your lesson this week.  Enjoy!

Wordsearch: Created Male and Female Wordsearch  Answers:  Created Male and Female Wordsearch Answers

click PDF above for accurate printing

Crossword:  Created Male and Female Crossword  Answers:  Created Male and Female Crossword Answers

click PDF above for accurate printing

Word Scramble:  Created Male and Female Word Sramble  Answers:  Created Male and Female Word Sramble Answers

click PDF above for accurate printing

More Resources and Links for Lesson Support:

“The Story of Adam and Eve” from DLTK (Here you will find many activities including coloring and crafts.  Some will even be good to use for next week’s lesson also.  Enjoy!)

“Adam and Eve” Coloring Page from Calvarywilliamsport.com

“God Made Me” Simple/Printable Craft from Calvarywilliamsport.com

“God Made Me” from DLTK

“Adam and Eve” Maze from Calvarywilliamsport.com

“Help Adam Name the Animals” Activity from Calvarywilliamsport.com

“Adam and Eve” Coloring Page from Indysda.org

“Adam and Eve” Coloring Page from Coloringpagesabc.com

“Genesis 2:21″ Coloring Page from Church House Collection

“The Garden of Eden” Activity from Kids Sunday School Place (This is very interesting and creative.  Children get to make their own scenery of the Garden of Eden and fill in the missing pieces.  Comes already colored or in black and white for students to color.  This one is sure to please teacher and students alike.  Enjoy!)

SAMPLE: CLICK ABOVE LINK FOR FULL PROJECT

“Male and Female” Activity from Free Children’s Bible Lessons (This activity has students line up and participate in answering several questions about males and females.  I love activities that get students physically involved.  Enjoy!)

“God Makes Adam and Eve” Activities and Coloring from Calvarycurriculum 

“Adam Names the Animals” Skit from Kids Sunday School Place

“Adam and Eve Bible Printables” from Bible Story Printables (Here you will find several easy printable activities to help with this week’s lesson.  Enjoy!)

“Adam and Eve Finger Puppets” from Christian Preschool Printables

SAMPLE: CLICK ABOVE LINK FOR FULL PROJECT

“Adam and Eve Lapbook” from Lapbooklessons.com

“Adam and Eve Lapbook” from Lapbooklessons.com

“The First Man” Bible Story and Activities from The Children’s Chapel

“Adam and Eve Coloring for Older Children” from Abdaacts

“The Garden of Eden Coloring for Older Children” from Abdaacts

“God Made Adam and Eve” Crafts/Coloring/Activities from Mssscrafts.com (Several options and ideas to choose from.  Enjoy!)

Related articles

• “God Created All / God Creates” Sunday School Lesson, Psalm 104:5-9, 24-30 September 1, 2013 (wordforlifesays.com)
• “Gifts for the Temple” Sunday School Lesson, Ezra 8:24-30, July 28, 2013 (wordforlifesays.com)
• “Dedication of the Wall” Sunday School Lesson, Nehemiah 12:27-36, 38, 43, August 18, 2013 (wordforlifesays.com)

Photo Credit: Mightymag.org Click here to visit the site

Hey guys, thanks stopping by and visiting!   We are glad you like this site.  We always enjoy having company come over.  Please go to our NEW Facebook and be one of the first to like us.  There you will receive new posts, updates, devotions, Sunday School lesson ideas and more (all the great little extras and things you won’t find here).  Thank you for your support!  (Click the Facebook logo or here) I look forward to meeting you!

Sunday School is a vital part of any ministry. In it one is able to experience a deeper knowledge of God’s Word. We here at “Word For Life Says” want to help you help others. Below you will find resources to help you prepare for your upcoming lessons. May God bless you!

September 15, 2013

“Knowledge of Good and Evil”

Genesis 3:8-17, 22-23

(Click here for WORD Document: Knowledge of Good and Evil Sunday School Lesson, or simply click the print button below.  Enjoy!)

Introduction

Once upon a time in a land far away, and in a time long ago, there lived a man and a woman.  The man and the woman loved each other very much and they lived in perfect paradise together.

Then, one day, an enemy of the man and woman, who hated them very much, came with a lie to beguile them.  Promising they would be like God, he persuaded them to do wrong, losing all of their perfect paradise.

Sound like a fairy tale?  Sometimes people view the story of Adam and Eve in that way.  It sounds so fantastic and almost like a fantasy when we read of the creation of man, the perfect state they live in and their downfall due to deception.  But, this is no fairy tale, nor a fantasy.  This story is very real and the results therein are still impacting mankind today.

Genesis 3:8 “And they heard the voice of the LORD God walking in the garden in the cool of the day: and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the LORD God amongst the trees of the garden.”

The “and” here in our lesson signifies something came before this verse.  That something was an encounter with evil.  The woman, somehow apart from the man, was beguiled by the devil’s lies through the use of the serpent.  He told her, “For God doth know that in that day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil,” (Gen. 3:5).

Listening to the serpent and seeing with her eyes the fruit, the Bible says, “She took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat,” (Gen. 3:6).  Their “eyes were opened” and in their sin they saw their nakedness and hid.  This is where the lesson picks up when “they heard the voice the LORD God walking in the garden.”

“Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the LORD God amongst the trees of the garden.”  In their state of innocence, before their sin, they had intimate fellowship with God.  So, when they “heard” His “voice,” they were familiar with His “presence.”  Only this time it wasn’t as welcoming as it once was.  His presence exposed their shame, and with that, they “hid themselves.” 

What does hiding imply?  To hide means there is something that one does not want uncovered.  There is something that one does not want revealed.  They thought to hide their sin from God “amongst the trees,” but, alas, this attempt was futile.

Genesis 3:9 “And the LORD God called unto Adam, and said unto him, Where art thou?” 

“Where art thou?”  Our God is omnipresent which basically means He is everywhere at the same time (see Ps. 139:7-10).  And, our God is omniscient which means He knows everything that’s going on from the inside out.  Psalm 44:21 says that He even knows “the secrets of the heart.”  With that being said, God knew exactly where Adam was.  Trees could not hide man’s sin.  Later in history Jonah also would find out the impossible feat of trying to hide from God.  Everything is opened to God; everything is exposed; there is nothing hid from Him, (see Heb. 4:13).

Genesis 3:10 “And he said, I heard thy voice in the garden, and I was afraid, because I was naked; and I hid myself.”

Matched against the presence of God sin will make man tremble and be “afraid.”  God is holy and His people are called to be holy, (1 Peter 1:16).  But, when the unholy nature of man faces God, it tries to hide.  I imagine, previously the voice of God was a comfort to Adam.  Here in the knowledge of his sin, fear has taken over.  Sin took away peace and opened the door for all other opposing emotions.

Genesis 3:11 “And he said, Who told thee that thou wast naked? Hast thou eaten of the tree, whereof I commanded thee that thou shouldest not eat?”

“Who told thee that thou wast naked?”  Questions are designed for the purpose of extracting information from an individual and securing an answer.  Once again, God knew the answer but did Adam fully comprehend what he had done?  With the questioning it will cause Adam to search inside himself for an answer, a way to reply.  That searching will show the impact of what he has done, peeling back layers of revelation.  “How do I answer?  I would have to admit this and that.”

“Hast thou eaten of the tree, whereof I commanded thee that thou shouldest not eat?”  In other words, “Have you disobeyed Me?” is what God was asking.  Adam was given one rule to follow.  “Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat: But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die,” (Gen. 2:16b-17).  One rule; one command.

God’s word is His “commands.”  What God says outranks all else.  One’s real intimacy with God is revealed in how well they keep his commandments.  1 John 2:3 says, “And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments.”  The psalmist said, “Thy word I have his in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee,” (Ps. 119:11).  Hiding God’s word in one’s heart will help them not to have to hide behind trees later.

Genesis 3:12 “And the man said, The woman whom thou gavest to be with me, she gave of the tree, and I did eat.”

In last week’s lesson she was “bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh,” (Gen. 2:23).  She was the one made specifically for him.  Here, there is an almost disdainful ire about him when he talks about “the woman whom thou gavest to me.”  What intimacy they once shared, sin has now caused a rift in their relationship, hence the beginning of the blame game.

Genesis 3:13 “And the LORD God said unto the woman, What is this that thou hast done? And the woman said, The serpent beguiled me, and I did eat.”

Now God is going down the line questioning everyone involved.  The woman’s response, “The serpent beguiled me, and I did eat.”  Through that bite of fruit knowledge was gained, with that the realization that she had been deceived or “beguiled.”  Some say hindsight has 20/20 vision.  But the Bible says, “The just shall live by faith,” (Hab. 2:4).

Genesis 3:14-15 “And the LORD God said unto the serpent, Because thou hast done this, thou art cursed above all cattle, and above every beast of the field; upon thy belly shalt thou go, and dust shalt thou eat all the days of thy life:”

Actions have consequences, for the good or for the bad.  Here, it was all bad.  Disobedience to God’s commands always leads down a treacherous path.  That’s why the Bible says, “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path,” (Ps. 119:105).  God’s commands shine the way to keep man from that pathway that leads to destruction.

God then speaks to the “serpent.”  He’s not questioning him for information.  For now, it’s time to deal with the matter at hand, “Because thou hast done this, thou art cursed.”  “Cursed” is a word no creature wants to hear.  God has spoken against the “serpent.”  He said “upon thy belly shalt thou go, and dust shalt thou eat all the days of thy life.”  The serpent would be the least favored of all animals and would pay tremendously for his part in the fall of man. 

Speaking of the “dust thou shalt eat,” David Guzik wrote on his commentary at Enduringword.com:

“This was true of the serpent as an animal, but it is also true of Satan. To eat dust has the idea of total defeat (Isaiah 65:25, Micah 7:17). God’s judgment on Satan is for him to always know defeat. He will always reach for victory, but always fall short of it.” (Click here for commentary)

“I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel.”  If one has ever seen the movie “The Passion of the Christ” they may very well remember that very vivid scene when Jesus rose up from prayer in the Garden of Gethsamne and crushed the head of the serpent under His feet.  The prophecy that God speaks in this verse foretells Jesus’s victory over Satan once and for all.  “It shall bruise thy head.”  For if the “head” is “bruised” than the body is defeated and broken, both literally and metaphorically.

Genesis 3:16 “Unto the woman he said, I will greatly multiply thy sorrow  and thy conception; in sorrow thou shalt bring forth children; and thy desire shall be to thy husband, and he shall rule over thee.”

In layman’s terms, “It’s going to be hard for you.”  God designed a woman’s body to conceive and bear children, but now because of sin, “sorrow” is attached to that.  With the word “multiply” added it implies much “sorrow.”  The labor process and child-birth are very painful experiences that a woman has to go through to bring that new little babe into the world.

“Thy desire shall be thy husband, and he shall rule over thee.”  Let’s talk about that word “desire.”  Some believe this portion of the text goes along with what was just said regarding child birth.  That despite the pain she feels she will still “desire” physically for her husband.  And, for some this “desire” is looked upon as her wanting to have his position and take control; a battle of the sexes, if you will.  In Genesis 2:24 it says, “And they shall be one flesh,” but now there appears to be some contentions and struggling.  Their unity has been frayed by their sinful desires.

Genesis 3:17 “And unto Adam he said, Because thou hast hearkened unto the voice of thy wife, and hast eaten of the tree, of which I commanded thee, saying, Thou shalt not eat of it: cursed is the ground for thy sake; in sorrow shalt thou eat of it all the days of thy life.”

One moment of sin marred the life of man as long as he is on this earth.  Here, we see the words “cursed” and “sorrow” making reappearance.  This time it is the man who would suffer anguish for his role in disobeying God’s commands.  Previously, God gave him the position of “dressing and keeping the garden” while he dwelt in the garden, Gen. 2:15.  Outside of the garden the “ground” that he would work would have its own labor and toil.

“All the days of thy life.”  In Genesis 3:19 (not in today’s lesson) it says, “In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground.”  “Sweat” is its own indication of how hard and unpleasant this was going to be for man.

Genesis 3:22-23 “And the LORD God said, Behold, the man is become as one of us, to know good and evil: and now, lest he put forth his hand, and take also of the tree of life, and eat, and live for ever: Therefore the LORD God sent him forth from the garden of Eden, to till the ground from whence he was taken.”

“The man is become as one of us, to know good and evil.”  In Genesis 3:7 it tells us, “The eyes of them both were opened.”  Innocence is now gone and “good and evil” has been uncovered and revealed to them both.

There’s an old phrase that states, “Ignorance is bliss,” which means “not knowing something is often more comfortable than knowing it,” (click here at Dicitonary.com for resource).  As soon as their eyes were opened they knew things that they didn’t know before and it did not make life easier or happier for them.  As a matter of fact, with that knowledge, their world was turned upside down.  Now, they probably wished they didn’t know so much about “good and evil,” for now, their lives have been changed forever.

“Lest he put forth his hand, and take also of the tree of life, and eat, and live for ever.”  One of the hardest aspects of parenthood is when a child loses his parents trust.  Once lost it can be hard to regain.  Adam and Eve disobeyed the first rule so what would prohibit them from taking of “the tree of life” also?  Not wanting to risk them living forever in their sinful state God took protective measures.

“Therefore the LORD God sent him forth from the garden of Eden.”  Banished; kicked out; made to leave – nothing about any of those words feel good.  They were no longer allowed to enjoy the paradise they once knew.  Sin stripped them of the privilege to reside in this perfect place.  They were now to go out and deal with the elements of earth the best way they could through hard work and toil till the day they died.

Genesis 3:24 (not in today’s lesson) says, “He drove out the man; and he place at the east of the garden of Eden Cherubims, and a flaming sword which turned every way, to keep the way of the tree of life.”  Forcefully, God evicted man from a place that was designed just for him to meet his ever need.  Man would forever miss this place where there was no trouble or toil.  He may even try to re-enter, but God put angelic guards in the way to prevent access.  It’s like the sheriff who seals the doors after an eviction.  What once was their possession was now unlawful for them to own.  They would not be allowed to trespass.

Below you will find resources to help support the lesson for this week.  Enjoy!

Wordsearch:  Good Evil Wordsearch  Answers:  Knowledge of Good and Evil Wordsearch Answers

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Crossword:  Good Evil Crossword  Answers:  Knowledge of Good and Evil Crossword Answers

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“How Many Words Can You Make?”  PDF: Good Evil How Many Words

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“Knowledge of Good and Evil Tree” PDF: Good And Evil Tree (On the squares on the tree, students can write or draw 5 ways we can obey God.  Enjoy!)

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“Adam and Eve Coloring Sheet” – PDF: Adam Eve Coloring Sheet (Use this coloring sheet to have students draw their own Garden of Eden in the background. Enjoy!)

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“Garden of Eden Coloring Sheet: – PDF: Garden of Eden (Print coloring sheet and let the students draw a picture of their own Adam and Eve in the coloring page. Enjoy!)

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“Tie the Snake” – This is such a simple craft to put together especially if your husband, brother, or father has old ties (and they all do ) laying around unused.  Keep him flat or stuff him with batting, newspaper or whatever floats your boat   Attach some googley eyes and your students have an interesting snake puppet of their very own.  Enjoy!

At least it convinced the kitten it was real

This is the unstuffed version.

“Spiral Snake” – Go to Coloring Pages 101 to print out the coloring page.  Let children decorate it any way they want to.  Cut out the spiral snake and hang by a string, drape over something or just let him slither on the floor.  This is a very easy project for students and teachers alike.  If you want to get fancy, perhaps gluing sequins, stars or other stuff to add a bit of sparkle to our little guy.  Enjoy!

More Interesting Snake Crafts:

“Slinky Link Snake” from The Education Center (Remember those old Christmas chain links we would make as kids.  Their back in snake form.  Simply attach the head and you’ve got yourself a snake.  Go to the site for further instructions.  Enjoy!)

“Simple Snake Craft” from Gift of Curiosity (This one uses pipe cleaners, googly eyes and beads.  Easy!)

“Yarn Snake”

“Slithering Snake Craft” from Chicago Parent (This one uses tubes from paper towels.  Genius!)

“Hand Print Snake“

“Slithery Snake Craft” from I Heart Crafty Things (This one uses printable downloads and brads.  Simple!)

“Accordion Snake” from Crystal’s Tiny Treasures

Below are more resources and links for lesson support:

“The First Man” from Children’s Chapel (Several activities to choose from.  Enjoy!)

“Adam and Eve” from Calvary’s Kids Pages (Several activities to choose from.  Enjoy!)

“Adam and Eve Disobey God” from Ministry to Children

“Adam and Eve Lapbook” from Lapbook Lessons

“Adam and Eve Bible Crafts” from Christian Preschool Printables (Here you will find several printable activities to choose from.  Very Easy!  Enjoy!)

“Adam and Eve – The First Sin Bible Lesson” from Ministry to Children

“Adam and Eve Bible Printables” from Bible Story Printables

“Adam and Eve Printable Craft” from Sunday School Lady

“Adam and Eve Craft Worksheet” from Sunday School Resources

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