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Lesson: Paul’s Life Well Lived (Acts 18-28)

Kelly Henderson — Wed, 16 May 2012 12:12:40 +0000

The following lesson is a review of Paul’s ministry from Acts 18-28. The students will have an opportunity to remember the many ways Paul, empowered by the Holy Spirit, faithfully served Jesus in each circumstance he faced as he shared the Good News.

The lesson was prepared for older students and can be adapted. The following is only a suggested guide to help your class review Acts 18-28. Click here to see all the lessons in this curriculum series.

Bible Story: Paul’s Life Well Lived
Scripture: Acts 18-28
Target Age Group: Age 9 – 11 (U.S. 3rd – 5th Grade)
Learning Context: Sunday School
Target Time Frame: 60 minutes
Printer Friendly Bible Lesson: Note: There is a print link embedded within this post, please visit this post to print it. this lesson plan
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Supply List: Bibles, butcher paper, crayons, markers, blank index cards for activity #2

Learning Goal: Students will learn that Paul’s life models a life that was well lived as a follower of Jesus. A life well lived for Jesus will hear Him say, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

Learning Activity #1: As students arrive direct them to butcher paper (taped to the top of a table if possible) and have them choose a scene from Acts 18-28 that is one of their favorite. They can write their favorite memory verse along with their picture if they want.

Learning Activity #2: Ask the students to call out different events from the life of Paul. For each, write a few words (or sketch a picture) on a blank index card. Once you have about 10, have the children arrange the pictures that represent Paul’s journey from Acts 18-28 in proper chronological order. They should check their work using the book of Acts.

Optional Coloring Sheet: Download and print our free coloring story cards about the conversion of Paul on the road to Damascus.

Test: Review Questions

Memory Verse: Matthew 25:21 “His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’”

Bible Lesson: Paul’s Life Well Lived

Our lesson today is an overview of Paul’s life from Acts 18-28. (Choose volunteers to read the following selected verses or have a sword drill type activity allowing students to race to get to the passage first.)

Philippians 3:12-14 “Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”

Does anyone want to take a guess the author of the book of Philippians is? (Paul) Can you guess where he wrote this book? (While under house arrest in Rome)

2 Timothy 4:7-8 “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day-and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for His appearing.”

Act Out Review Scenes

We have been journeying through Acts and have witnessed Paul’s life as a follower of Christ. His life has been an example for all believers to model. He was empowered with the Holy Spirit and enabled to do all God asked him to do. As a way to end our journey with Paul we will play charades with different scenes of his third missionary journey and trip to Rome.

(Have scenes already written on slips of paper for students to pick and act out for the class. If possible let the students choose a scene when they arrive so they can familiarize themselves from the Scripture passage to help them act out the scene when it’s their turn. Some scenes may need choosing some other students to help.)

Suggested scenes:

Paul making tents with Priscilla and Aquila (Acts 18:2-3)
Seven sons of Sceva (Acts 19:13-16)
Riot in Ephesus (Acts 19:23-41)
Paul raises Eutychus from the dead (Acts 20:8-10)
Agabus prophesies about Paul being arrested in Jerusalem (Acts 21:10)
Paul is arrested in Jerusalem (Acts 21:27-34)
40 Jews plan to secretly kill Paul but his nephew overhears their plan and tells Paul (Acts 23:12-22)
Paul’s trial before King Agrippa and Bernice (Acts 26)
Paul’s shipwreck (Acts 27)
Paul bit by viper at Malta (Acts 28:2-6)
Paul preaches while under house arrest in Rome (Acts 28:30-31)

Group Discussion

It has been fun to learn about Paul together. From what we have learned about Paul what would he want us to do with what we have learned? Obey the Lord Jesus and allow the Holy Spirit to control you and empower your life as you follow Jesus.

What one thing have you learned from Paul’s life that you are putting into practice in your life as you follow Jesus? (Allow students to share)

Close in prayer.

Lesson: Paul Finally Arrives in Rome

Kelly Henderson — Wed, 09 May 2012 12:14:05 +0000

This lesson is about Paul’s experience in Malta and finally arriving in Rome where he remained under house arrest. The students will learn how the Holy Spirit enabled Paul to use whatever situation he was in to point others to Jesus.

This lesson was created for older elementary students and is only a suggested guide for your ministry needs. Click here to see all the lessons in this curriculum series.

Bible Story: Paul Arrives in Rome
Scripture: Acts 28
Target Age Group: Age 9 – 11 (U.S. 3rd – 5th Grade)
Learning Context: Sunday School
Target Time Frame: 60 minutes
Printer Friendly Bible Lesson: Note: There is a print link embedded within this post, please visit this post to print it. this lesson plan
You Can Help: Please share your feedback and suggestions to improve this children’s Bible lesson. Click here to respond

Supply List: Bibles, snake, ‘fire pit’, sticks

Learning Goal: Students will learn that the Holy Spirit enables all believers to use their circumstances to point others to Jesus.

Test: Review Questions

Memory Verse: Philemon 1:6 “I pray that you may be active in sharing your faith, so that you will have a full understanding of every good thing we have in Christ.”

Memory Verse Activity: Create a dice for students to roll that has places/situations where they can share the Good News. (School, neighborhood, grocery store, hospital, etc.) or put pictures on paper plates and have students throw a bean bag on to the one they choose. When the place/situation is revealed have students share how children their age can share the Good News.

Bible Lesson: Rome at Last!

(Open with prayer)

(If you studied the lesson on Acts 27 begin by allowing students to re-enact the Shipwreck)

Let’s open our Bibles to Acts 28. The last we heard of Paul and the passengers they were frantically swimming with pieces of a broken and sinking ship.

All of the passengers swam safely to the shore of an island. They survived a terrible shipwreck and were standing cold and wet on the shore of an island.

Let’s stop for a minute and put ourselves in Paul’s shoes. Let’s briefly recap the last few years of his life. Where had he been for the last 2 years? (Imprisoned in Caesarea) Where did God promise Paul he would go to share the Gospel? (Rome) What happened as Paul set sail to Rome? (A terrible storm came and the shipwrecked)

How would you feel if you were living Paul’s life? How would you react to his circumstances? What would be a very natural reaction to so much difficulty? (Quit) How was Paul able to persevere no matter what circumstance he faced? (The Holy Spirit gave him courage and power to persevere)

The Holy Spirit enabled Paul to see each situation that he faced as an opportunity to share the Good news with others. As we continue our journey with Paul to Rome let’s keep our eyes open for how he used the situation to point others to Jesus rather than throw a pity party and quit.

Let’s turn our attention back to Acts 28:2. The people living on the island must have heard the noise and cries of the people from the shipwreck. The islanders were walking in the direction of the survivors. A thought that must have crossed Paul and the rest of the survivors’ minds was: “Were these people friends or enemies? Did they survive a shipwreck to be killed on an island of complete strangers?” Knowing what you already know about Paul do you think he was afraid that he was going to be killed on this island? (Why or why not?)

Let’s read verse 2 to find out what kind of people were coming to the group of survivors. God’s word tells us that they showed the survivors unusual kindness. They must have spoken kind and comforting words. They welcomed everyone to the island of Malta. Immediately they began to start a fire so the survivors could get warm.

Paul helped the people from Malta by going and gathering a bunch of sticks to help keep the fire burning. As he threw his sticks onto the fire a viper slithered out of the sticks to avoid the burning hot flame and clamped his fangs right on the hand of Paul. (Choose a student to be Paul to act this story out. Have the pretend snack under your ‘fire pit’ and ss he throws the stick into the fire pull it out and latch it on his arm.)

The natives of the island stood there with their eyes wide open. One of the people said, “Surely this man is a murderer. He should have died at sea but since he didn’t he is going to die by the poison of this viper.” The people of this island most likely didn’t worship the One True God and they had their own superstitious beliefs. They thought that because this viper had bitten Paul he must have been a sinful man and the gods were going to kill him because of it. What they didn’t know is that Paul was a servant of the Most High God and He had a plan for Paul’s life. He had told Paul that he would be going to Rome to share the Gospel of Jesus with the Roman people.

The natives stood there waiting to see Paul fall to the ground and start writhing in pain with froth coming from his mouth as he gasped for his last breath. That’s not what they saw. They saw this man shake the viper of his hand and the slimy creature flew into the fire and Paul went on warming himself by the fire.

The natives were still waiting to see Paul’s hand swell up as big as a balloon and fall down dead. They waited and watched, and waited and watched but Paul did not fall down dead. God did not allow Paul to be harmed by the poison of the viper.

“This man is not a murderer,” they said. “This man must be a god.” They were amazed that a man could survive a bite from a very poisonous viper!

On the island of Malta there was a chief official named Publius. He invited Paul and his friends to stay with him for three days. While staying at Publius’ house, his father became very ill. He had a high fever and was not able to get out of bed. Paul went into his room and got on his knees and prayed for this man and asked God to heal him. God healed Publius’ father.

When the news got around the island that Paul had healed Publius’ father many people who were sick and had diseases came to Paul so that they could be healed. God healed those people who had come to Paul to be healed.

The Bible doesn’t tell us that any of these people believed in the Lord Jesus. Do you think Paul told these people in Malta about Jesus? Do you think he let the people believe it was his power healing the people?

The Holy Spirit enabled Paul to use this opportunity to point the people on Malta to Jesus. They were blessed because Paul was on their island. They treated Paul and his friends kindly and gave them things they would need when they would be traveling on a ship to Rome.

After three months of being on the island of Malta, Paul and his friends boarded a ship called the Twin Brothers and they set sail for the city of Rome. When they finally arrived in Rome, many believers who lived in Rome came and greeted him as he got off the ship. When Paul saw them he was greatly encouraged and thanked God for sending them to him.

Paul has finally arrived in Rome. All the prisoners were taken to a prison, except for Paul. He was allowed to live in a house by himself with a soldier who guarded him.

Paul used every opportunity that God gave him to share the Good News. Being allowed to live in his own home with a prisoner guarding him was a great opportunity to share the Good News to anyone who could come to his house.

After three days of being in Rome Paul invited the leaders of the Jews to come to his house. Let’s read verses 23-24.

These Jews heard Paul explain the Good News. All these years the Jewish people had been waiting for God to send the Savior. Now they had heard the truth that God had sent His Son Jesus as the Savior of the world.

As they heard Paul’s message some of the people believed what Paul was saying but others did not believe. The two groups did not agree with one another and when Paul saw them disagreeing he quoted a verse from Isaiah. Choose volunteers to read verses 26-27.

The Jews left Paul’s house and continued to disagree with each other. One group believed Paul and the other did not and they were continued to quarrel among themselves as they left.

Paul stayed in his home guarded by a soldier for 2 years and whoever came to him to hear him preach about Jesus he welcomed into his home. Read verse 31. Every time someone came to him he freely taught him/her the Good News. The Holy Spirit enabled Paul to use whatever situation he was in to point others to Jesus.

Paul didn’t waste any time feeling sorry for himself. He wasn’t bitter, angry or resentful toward God or those who were responsible for his imprisonment. The Holy Spirit enabled Paul to trust God and walk with Him no matter what his circumstances were. Philippians 1:12-13 “Now I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel. As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ.”

As a result of Paul’s willingness to use each opportunity that God gave him to point others to Jesus many people believed in Jesus.

Paul lived over 2,000 years ago. I don’t think we could ever know until we get to heaven how many people have become believers because Paul was obedient to the job God had given him to do. He allowed the Holy Spirit to empower him to do whatever God told Him. Even as we read about Paul’s life the Holy Spirit can use his example to cause people to believe in the Lord Jesus.

Today believers have the same exciting privilege and responsibility to obey God and do what He tells us to do. Each of us has been placed in our situations so we can share the Good News about Jesus with those we come in contact with. The Holy Spirit will empower believers to do whatever God asks him/her to do.

Close in prayer.

Review Questions:

What is the name of the Island the survivors landed on?
How did the people of Malta treat the survivors?
Why did the people think Paul was a murderer?
How did God use Paul on the island of Malta to help others learn about God?
When Paul was in Rome how was his life as a prisoner different than the lives of other prisoners?
What happened when Paul taught the Jews about the Scriptures and how Jesus is the Savior?
How long did Paul teach anyone who visited his house about Jesus?
The people on Malta were very kind to Paul. How can you show kindness to someone this week?

Personal Application Questions:

The believers who met Paul when he arrived in Rome encouraged him. How can you encourage another believer this week?

For believers: What is hindering you from boldly sharing the Gospel with others?

For unbelievers: Have you heard the Good News and have chosen not to believe? Today you can be saved. Each day you put off believing that Jesus died for your sins, was buried and rose again you are closing your heart and mind to the Truth making it harder for you to be saved.

Bible Lesson: Paul Sails to Rome

Kelly Henderson — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 12:10:39 +0000

The following lesson is based on Paul’s trip to Rome. The focus of this lesson is that no matter how hard the enemy tries to stop God’s work in a believer’s life, believers can trust that God will do what He says He will do. The Holy Spirit enables believers to trust God and persevere during difficult times.

This lesson was created for older elementary students and is only a suggested guide for your ministry needs. Click here to see all the lessons in this curriculum series.

Bible Story: Paul Sails to Rome
Scripture: Acts 27
Target Age Group: Age 9 – 11 (U.S. 3rd – 5th Grade)
Learning Context: Sunday School
Target Time Frame: 60 minutes
Printer Friendly Bible Lesson: Note: There is a print link embedded within this post, please visit this post to print it. this lesson plan
You Can Help: Please share your feedback and suggestions to improve this children’s Bible lesson. Click here to respond

Supply List: Bibles, cardboard boxes to create a ‘ship’, map of ship’s travels,

Learning Goal: Students will learn that God keeps His promises and the Holy Spirit enables believers to trust God when facing difficulties.

Learning Activity #1: Create a ‘ship’ from card board boxes. On the inside of the ship students can draw a picture, write a favorite Scripture verse and initial and date it (that way if you teach this lesson each year there will be a memorial of the students that ‘traveled’ with Paul on his way to Rome). This can be a very simple (or complicated) project. If you need inspiration, just search for cardboard boats on Google images.

Test: Review Questions

Memory Verse: Job 42:2 “Then Job replied to the LORD: I know that You can do all things; no plan of Yours can be thwarted.” You can use our Bible memory games to help the kids have fun while learning.

Bible Lesson: Paul Sails to Rome

(Begin with prayer)

Every day there is a battle going on. We can’t always see this battle with our eyes because it is an unseen war. The enemy is Satan and he hates God and does anything he can to destroy God and the things God loves. Satan knows God loves believers. He knows that once a man, woman, boy or girl believes in Jesus he can do nothing to destroy their soul by keeping them from heaven. He does know that he can wage war against God’s work in this world by attacking believers and fighting against them.

Satan knows he is fighting a losing battle but that doesn’t stop him from trying to do as much damage and destruction as he can to keep believers from spreading the Good News.
We have witnessed this unseen battle throughout our study of Acts. Whenever there has been persecution against followers of Jesus it was the unseen spiritual battle taking place. Can you think of examples of persecution against believers that was intended to keep them from sharing that Jesus died, was buried and rose again? (Stoning Stephen, Simon the sorcerer, imprisonment, etc.)

Believers do not need to fear Satan because God is all-powerful. Nothing that God’s enemy does against Him will ever stop God from doing all that He has said He will do. When we face difficulties that the enemy has intended to harm us or keep us from obeying God we can trust that God will take care of us and enable us to get through whatever comes against us.

Paul has been a perfect example to us from God’s Word how believers can trust God in any situation. The Holy Spirit has given Paul power to share the Good News. The Holy Spirit has enabled Paul to persevere in times of great difficulty.

All believers will face difficulties as we serve God and share the Good News with others. We can trust the Holy Spirit to give us power to obey God and persevere no matter what difficulty we face.

(Depending on the size of your ‘ship’ and your class you can tell the story from inside the ship)

Let’s turn in our Bibles to Acts 27. Finally after 2 years of being imprisoned in Caesarea, Paul is finally on a ship heading for the destination God told him he would go. (Acts 23:11 “Take courage! As you have testified about Me in Jerusalem, so you must also testify in Rome.”)

Paul boards a ship along with other prisoners. A centurion named Julius is in charge of making sure the prisoners do not escape on this long journey to Italy. Also on this ship are two of Paul’s friends. Luke (his name isn’t mentioned but remember he wrote Acts and he writes ‘we ‘indicating he is with Paul) and Aristarchus a believer that had traveled from Thessalonica travel with Paul.

(Use map showing the travel route) The ship sets sail from Caesarea and stops in Sidon the next day. Let’s read verse 3. Why do you think Julius showed Paul kindness? (Allow responses. Paul treated others with gentleness and respect even when he was being unfairly treated)

The winds were making sailing very difficult so the captain sailed the ship as safely as he could arriving in Myra. In Myra, Julius found that an Alexandrian ship was leaving for Italy. He got all the prisoners and Paul’s friends on the ship and they began to sail. The traveling went slowly because the winds made it difficult to travel. The captain of the ship traveled slowly along the coast of Crete and with great difficulty arrived at a place called Fair Havens.

A lot of time had passed since Paul had left Caesarea. At this time it is in the fall (after the Day of Atonement). Travelling at this time of year is very dangerous. Read verse 10. Julius heard what Paul said but listened to the advice of the captain and the owner of the ship. They felt that Fair Havens was not a good place to stay for the winter. They decided to sail to Phoenix hoping they could stay there for the winter.

As the winds softly blew they set sail thinking they would be able to get to Phoenix liked they planned. Unfortunately as they began to sail the Northeaster, a very strong wind storm with hurricane force winds came against them. The ship was unable to go in the direction the captain wanted to take it so the ship was driven along where the wind sent it.

Sometimes ‘storms’ or difficulties come into our lives quickly and the confusion that comes may feel like the ship that Paul is on that is just traveling along where the storm takes it. We can trust God to help us when these storms come. God is powerful and in control even when things in our lives seem out of control. He will give us peace even when the difficulties like the loud winds of the storm make it hard to understand.

Read 16-18. If you were on this ship, how would you feel?

In the days that Paul was traveling by ship they didn’t have gps systems to tell them where they were so they could make corrections and go the way they wanted to. Sailors used the stars in the sky to help them to navigate. Let’s read verse 20. How would these weather conditions affect the navigation of the ship? (They couldn’t see the stars so they had no idea where they were)

How did the passengers on the ship feel about ever making it to dry land alive? (They gave up all hope of being saved)

Through physical eyes this situation looked impossible. Nothing is impossible with God. He had a plan for Paul’s life and He told Paul he would go to Rome. If God said Paul would go, nothing not even a life-threatening storm was going to stop him.

Let’s read verses 21-26. God sent an angel to encourage Paul. The Holy Spirit gave Paul courage and he encouraged the frightened passengers to trust God.

When believers face difficult times, God comforts us. When we are comforted by God we can share that comfort with others. (2 Corinthians 1:3-4)

Fourteen days of drifting on the sea in a terrible storm have passed. The sailors were afraid and wanted to save their own lives. Even after hearing Paul’s share that God would keep them safe, they pretended to let down some anchors they planned to escape on the life boat. Paul said to Julius, “Unless these men stay on the ship you cannot be saved.” Julius told his soldiers to cut the ropes from the lifeboat and it fell into the ocean.

Early the next morning before the sun came up Paul encouraged the passengers to eat something. He knew that they would need strength to swim once they were close to shore. Let’s read the words he spoke to encourage the passengers in verses 33-37. Luke tells us how many people are on the ship. How many were there? (276)

The Holy Spirit gave Paul courage to speak words of encouragement to all the passengers. He helps all believers to encourage others when they are facing difficult times.

When the sun began to rise they could see a sandy beach. The sailors decided to steer the ship to run aground. The ship hit a sand bar and the force of the ship crashing into it caused the ship to break into pieces because the waves were still strong.

As the ship is quickly falling apart the soldiers didn’t want any prisoners to escape so they planned to kill them all. Julius did not want Paul to be harmed so he told them they could not kill the prisoners. Julius ordered all who could swim to jump in and swim. Those who could not swim need to grab a board and paddle to safety.

Let’s read verse 44. Every person reached the land safely just as God said. Not one life was lost. God’s Word can be trusted. He will always do what He says He is going to do.
We began our lesson by talking about God’s enemy trying to keep God’s people from doing what God told them to do. In this story in the unseen world it seems like Satan was doing everything in his power to kill Paul in a shipwreck. God’s power kept Paul safe. God’s power will keep you and I safe from the enemy’s attempts to destroy. Let’s trust Him!

Close in prayer.

Review Questions:

What are some difficulties that children your age face? How can you be like Paul and encourage others to trust God in that difficulty?
What encouraged you from this lesson about Paul’s difficult journey to Rome?
What Scriptures can you memorize to help you trust God when ‘storms’ come into your life and threaten to discourage you? (Teacher: Prepare a sample of helpful memory verses)

You might enjoy our Boats in the Bible lesson as a possible follow-up to this one. It includes a “ship themed” Gospel illustration.

Bible Lesson & Skit: Paul’s defense before Agrippa

Kelly Henderson — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 12:35:48 +0000

The following lesson is a drama created for students who have been studying the Book of Acts. The previous lessons have been Paul’s trial before Felix and Festus. Finally Paul appears before Agrippa before his departure for Rome. This lesson is only a guide to help you as you prepare for your students. Adapt to your individual classroom needs.

From Paul’s life, students will learn that the Holy Spirit helps believers effectively share how they became a Christian. Click here to see all the lessons in this curriculum series.

Bible Story: Paul’s defense before Agrippa
Scripture: Acts 26
Target Age Group: Age 9 – 11 (U.S. 3rd – 5th Grade)
Learning Context: Sunday School
Target Time Frame: 60 minutes
Printer Friendly Bible Lesson: Note: There is a print link embedded within this post, please visit this post to print it. this lesson plan
You Can Help: Please share your feedback and suggestions to improve this children’s Bible lesson. Click here to respond

Supply List: Costumes, print outs of drama for each student to read (Highlight the speaking parts for the volunteers who will act out the character), yellow, black, red, white and green construction paper, wordless book guide for students

Learning Goal: Students will learn that the Holy Spirit helps believers effectively share how they became a Christian.

Learning Indicator: Students will demonstrate their understanding by answering review questions. They will also have an opportunity to share the Good News in a safe environment helping prepare them for daily opportunities.

Learning Activity #1: (Before class make wordless books from construction paper. Using the colors yellow, black, red, white and green cut construction paper into four squares. Staple squares in this order: Yellow, black, red, white and green. Make enough books for each student. Use this example as a guide to type up a simpler version for students to take home. This will enable them to read and practice using their wordless book with others.) As you wait for the students arrive, teach the students how to share the Wordless book. Demonstrate it a few times and then have students practice with each other.

Memory Verse: 1 Peter 3:15 “But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.”

Memory verse activity: Role play what sharing the Good News looks like with gentleness and respect and how it looks sharing with an argumentative and arrogant attitude.

Bible Lesson: Paul’s defense before Agrippa

(Pray before beginning the drama)

Characters: Festus, King Agrippa, Bernice, narrator and Paul

(King Agrippa and Bernice walk in to the room with their heads held high. Everyone claps and cheers. Agrippa and his sister sit in their seats of honor.)

Narrator: While King Agrippa and his sister are seated in their seats of honor Festus stands and speaks to them.

Festus: King Agrippa and other guests, look at this man! Every Jew from Jerusalem and Caesarea has come to me, demanding for him to be put to death. I have not found him guilty of any crime deserving death. But because he has asked to be judged by the Emperor, I have decided to send him to Rome.

I need to write a letter to the Emperor explaining why I have sent Paul to him. I need to know what to write so after you hear his defense I will know what to write. It makes no sense to send a prisoner to the Emperor without stating what crime he has committed.

King Agrippa: Paul you have permission to speak and defend yourself.

Paul: King Agrippa, I am glad for this chance to defend myself before you today on all these charges my own people have brought against me.

You know a lot about our religious customs and the beliefs that divide us. So I ask you to listen patiently to me.

All the Jews have known me since I was a child. They know what kind of life I have lived in my own country and in Jerusalem. If they wanted to, they could tell you I was a Pharisee, a member of a group that is stricter than any other.

Now I am on trial because I believe the promise God made to our people long ago. Day and night our twelve tribes have earnestly served God, waiting for His promised blessings. King Agrippa, because of this hope, some of our leaders have accused me of committing a crime. Why should any of you doubt that God raises the dead to life?

Narrator: Everyone in the room is listening carefully to Paul as he makes his defense. They knew that Paul spoke truthfully about God’s promises. Paul begins to help the audience to see that he once felt the same way about Christians when he first heard them teaching that Jesus is the Promised Messiah who was crucified, buried and raised to life on the third day.

Paul: Before Jesus saved me I did everything I could to fight against the Name of Jesus from Nazareth. I did this first in Jerusalem, and with permission from the chief priests I put many of God’s people in jail. I even voted for them to be killed. I often had them punished in our synagogues, and I tried to force them to deny their faith in Christ. In fact, I was so angry with them, that I went looking for them in foreign cities so I could persecute them as well.

Narrator: It must have been painful for Paul to remember the sins he was guilty of before God. Paul shares how Jesus saved him from his sins and how his life was different after believing.

Paul: King Agrippa, on the day I traveled to Damascus to persecute Christians, I saw a light brighter than the sun. We all fell to the ground. I heard a voice say to me, “Saul, Saul, why are you so cruel to me? It’s foolish to fight against me!” I asked, “Who are you?” “I am Jesus! I am the one you have been persecuting. I have chosen you to be My servant. You are to tell others what you have learned about Me and what I will show you later. I will protect you from the Jews and from the Gentiles that I am sending you to. I want you to open their eyes, so they will turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God. Then their sins will be forgiven, and by faith in me they will become part of God’s holy people.”

Narrator: Paul explains to Agrippa that he was obedient to what the Lord Jesus had commanded him to do.

Festus: (Jumps up and interrupts Paul) “Paul you are out of your mind!! All of your great learning is making you crazy!”

Narrator: The Holy Spirit gives every believer the power to effectively share the Good News with others. Paul was empowered by the Holy Spirit to acknowledge that Festus was being used by the enemy as a distraction to keep Agrippa from hearing the truth about Jesus.

Paul: I am not crazy, most excellent Festus. What I am saying is true and makes perfect sense.

Narrator: The Holy Spirit enabled Paul to answer Festus’ accusation of being crazy with gentleness and respect.

Paul: (Turns his attention again to Agrippa) “I know the king is familiar with all these things I have spoken about. None of these things have taken place in a secret corner but out in the open. King Agrippa do you believe the prophets? I know that you do.”

Agrippa: Do you think you can persuade me in such a short time to become a Christian?

Paul: Whether it takes a short time or a long time I pray that you and everyone who heard this message today will become a Christian just as I am. However, I do not pray that you would have to be a prisoner as I am.

Narrator: The King, Bernice and Festus leave the room to discuss what they should do with Paul.

Agrippa: Festus, this man has committed any crime. He doesn’t deserve to be in prison for any reason. If Paul would not have asked to stand before Caesar he could be set free at this very moment.

Narrator: Paul’s time to set sail for Rome has finally come. The Holy Spirit enabled Paul to be patient during this time of being a prisoner. Paul faithfully and truthfully shared his faith in the Lord Jesus Christ each time he had to give a defense. All believers can trust that the Holy Spirit will help them to share faithfully the Good News about Jesus.

THE END

Close in prayer.

Review Questions:

What can you do on a daily basis so you can be prepared to give an answer to those who ask you why you believe in Jesus? (Pray, read and study God’s word, memorize scripture)
How different does your life look after you have become a Christian?

Lesson: Paul’s trial before Felix

Kelly Henderson — Mon, 09 Apr 2012 12:39:36 +0000

This lesson is about Paul’s trial before Felix. He is falsely accused but Paul knows he has a clear conscience before God and man. This lesson teaches students that believers should always strive to keep a clear conscience. This is only a guide for the lesson. Adapt to your individual classroom needs.

From Paul’s life the students will be challenged to strive to keep a clear conscience before God and man.. The lesson was prepared for older elementary students but can be easily modified. This is only a suggested guide to help you teach your students. Click here to see all the lessons in this curriculum series.

Bible Story: Paul’s Trial Before Felix
Scripture: Acts 24
Target Age Group: Age 9 – 11 (U.S. 3rd – 5th Grade)
Learning Context: Sunday School
Target Time Frame: 60 minutes
Printer Friendly Bible Lesson: Note: There is a print link embedded within this post, please visit this post to print it. this lesson plan
You Can Help: Please share your feedback and suggestions to improve this children’s Bible lesson. Click here to respond

Supply List: Bibles, Visuals for story (court, judge, etc.) stoplight (for object lesson on the conscience), dice for Learning Activity #1

Learning Goal: Students will learn that believers should always strive to keep a clear conscience before God and man.

Learning Activity #1: Have several examples where students can make a right choice and keep a clear conscience. Make a cube with pictures of different places (school, church, store, playground etc.) As student rolls the dice and a place is revealed create a scenario that allows a right choice and a wrong choice. (Example: You buy a candy bar and the cashier gives you back too much money. What are your choices when you realize that you have been given back too much money? Keep the money, give back the extra money. The right thing to do is to give the extra money back. Why? It would be stealing to take the extra money. By giving the money back you will have a clear conscience.)

Test: Review Questions listed below

Memory Verse: Acts 24:16 “So I strive always to keep my conscience clear before God and man.”

Bible Lesson: Paul’s Trial before Felix

Introduction: Keeping a clear conscience. Keys for Kids devotional

Using an image of a stop light explain how our consciences are like stop lights. When we are about to do something that we shouldn’t our conscience is warning us to stop. If we stop we avoid danger. If we ignore that warning over and over again our conscience is no longer sensitive to doing what is right. If you are a believer the Holy Spirit is like a traffic light. He will warn you if you are about to go somewhere or do something you shouldn’t. If you obey His warning, you will have a clear conscience. If you ignore Him you will have a guilty conscience. You can have a clear conscience once again by confessing your sin. If you continue to disobey the Holy Spirit you harden your heart to Him and can’t hear Him as clearly as you can when you are walking in obedience to Him.

As we have followed the life of Paul in the Book of Acts we have seen a believer who obeys the Holy Spirit and as a result has a clear conscience before God and man.
Let’s recite our memory verse: Acts 24:16 “So I strive always to keep my conscience clear before God and man.”

Let’s turn in our Bibles to Acts 24.

Paul is falsely accused before Felix. Acts 24:1-9

Paul was in Caesarea for five days before his accusers arrived. The high priest Ananias with some of the elders and a lawyer named Tertullus came to make their charges against Paul before Felix.

Have you ever been in a court room? In a courtroom a judge is seated to hear the case that is brought before him/her. He/she will hear statements from both sides of the issue and make a decision of what to do.

In our lesson today the person that is like the judge in the courtroom is the Governor of Caesarea, Felix. He is seated waiting to hear this case against Paul that has been brought to him so he can decide what should happen to Paul.

The high priest and the unbelieving Jews of Jerusalem have brought a lawyer named Tertullus to present their charges against Paul to Felix. The following are the charges they have brought against Paul (Read verses 5-8):

Paul is a trouble maker who stirs up riots among the Jews all over the world.
He is the ringleader of the Nazarene sect and even tried to desecrate the temple.

After Tertullus brought these charges against Paul for the unbelieving Jews, the Jews that were present indicated that they were in full agreement with the charges made.

Paul has been falsely accused. None of the charges that were presented to Felix were true. From our study from Acts who was really responsible for stirring up riots when Paul was preaching the Gospel? (Unbelieving Jews)

Jesus was falsely accused by unbelieving Jews. Believers can expect that people may falsely accuse them (lie about them). 1 Peter 2:12 tells us to “live such good lives among the pagans that though they may accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day He visits us.”

Paul makes his defense before Felix. Acts 24:10-22

After hearing the unbelieving Jews’ side of the issue, Felix nods to Paul to present his side. Paul doesn’t have a lawyer speak for him. The Holy Spirit enables Paul to speak in his own defense.

Paul states that the facts that he is presenting can be proved to be true (Read verses 10-16).

Paul states:

Twelve days ago he went to Jerusalem to worship.
He was not found arguing with anyone at the temple or stirring up trouble in the synagogues or in the city.

Paul admits:

He worships the God of his fathers.
He is a follower of the Way (Christians) (which the unbelieving Jews call a sect).
He believes all that is written in the Law and the prophets.
He believes in the same hope as these Jews that there will be a resurrection of both the righteous and the wicked.

As a result of Paul’s beliefs he makes every effort to always keep his conscience clear before God and man.

What does it mean to have a clear conscience? How do you feel when you have a guilty conscience? (Weighed down, sick to your stomach, etc.)

How can a believer keep a clear conscience before God and man?

Obey God and confess sins when we disobey. (1 John 1:9) “Draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water.” (Hebrews 10:22)
Stay in God’s Word so your life will be in alignment with God’s Ways. (Ephesians 5:26, Psalm 119:9,11,105)

Paul makes his defense against the unbelieving Jews’ accusations (Verses 17-21):

He went to Jerusalem after being away for several years to bring gifts to the poor and to make an offering.
He was ceremonially clean when he was found in the temple courts.
He was not with a crowd of people when he went to the temple.
He was not involved in a disturbance. The Jews from Asia should be present to make a case if they have something against him.
He already stood before the Sanhedrin. Those that were present should make their case what crime he committed. He is on trial because he shouted ‘It is concerning the resurrection of the dead’ that he is on trial before Felix.

Paul boldly proclaims God’s Word to Felix and Drusilla. Acts 24:23-27

Felix was very familiar with the Way (Christianity-belief in Jesus-that He died, was buried and rose again the third day) that Paul spoke about. He ended the proceedings and said he would decide the case when Lysias the commander arrived. He ordered a centurion to guard Paul and allowed him to have some freedom and allowed his friends to take care of him.

A few days after the trial, Felix and his wife Drusilla brought Paul before them to hear him speak. Paul spoke about faith in Jesus Christ. Paul also spoke to them about righteousness, self-control and the judgment to come. When Felix heard Paul’s message it frightened him. He sent Paul away. Let’s read what he says to Paul in verse 25.

Felix was hoping that Paul would pay him to release him. Paul would not have a clear conscience if he bribed Governor Felix to be set free. The power of the Holy Spirit living inside him enabled him to be obedient to be a prisoner. Paul had the Lord Jesus’ comfort and promise that he would testify about Him in Rome. Paul would wait and do things God’s way even if that meant he had to sit in prison while he waited.

Let’s read verse 27. Paul was left in prison for two years. Felix had an opportunity to do what was right and release Paul because he had not committed a crime but he wanted to grant a favor to the Jews so he kept Paul in prison.

As we close how is your conscience today? Can you say with Paul “I strive always to keep my conscience clear before God and man?”

Can you relate more to Felix? Does the truth about Jesus make you afraid and you don’t want to hear it?

How do you respond when you hear the news that Jesus died on the cross for your sins, was buried and rose again the third day so you can be made right with God? If Jesus were to come today would you live forever in heaven with Him because you believe by faith that He has paid the price for your sins, or would you be separated from God forever in a place called hell because you chose not to accept the gift of eternal life? You don’t have to respond like Felix did, today you can believe in the Lord Jesus and be saved from your sins.

(Close in prayer)

Review Questions:

What crime did the unbelieving Jews accuse Paul of? (Being a troublemaker, stirring up riots, desecrating the temple)
Who did Paul say he worshiped? (The God of our fathers)
What does Paul say the real reason is that he is being accused? (For his belief in the resurrection of the dead)
What did Paul speak to Felix and Drusilla about? (Faith in Jesus Christ, righteousness, self-control and the judgment to come)
How did Felix respond? (He was afraid and sent Paul away until it was a more convenient time)
How many years was Paul in prison? (2)
Why did Felix leave Paul in prison? (As a favor to the Jews)

Easter Lesson: Resurrection Facts from Acts

Kelly Henderson — Tue, 03 Apr 2012 14:00:24 +0000

This Easter lesson was created to focus on the importance of the resurrection and reviews what the students have learned from studying the Book of Acts.

This lesson was prepared for older students but can be adapted to the needs of your ministry.

Learning Goal: Students will learn that the resurrection is vitally important in sharing the Good News.

Optional Activities: You can print our free Easter coloring sheets or watch a video clip about Jesus Resurrection. If time allows, you might consider a special craft for Easter.

Bible Story: Resurrection Facts from Acts
Scripture: Various verses from Acts
Target Age Group: Age 9 – 11 (U.S. 3rd – 5th Grade)
Learning Context: Sunday School
Target Time Frame: 60 minutes
Printer Friendly Bible Lesson: Note: There is a print link embedded within this post, please visit this post to print it. this lesson plan
You Can Help: Please share your feedback and suggestions to improve this children’s Bible lesson. Click here to respond

Supply List: Bibles, Visuals for the lesson, verses on slips of paper for students to look up in advance of Bible lesson, Easter Books, Resurrection Eggs, plastic eggs for memory verse,

Learning Activity #1: As students arrive they can choose a slip of paper with Bible references verses on it from this lesson. Using their Bible they will discover who the resurrected Jesus appears by locating these scripture passages.

Learning Activity #2: Use resurrection eggs to tell the Easter Story.

Memory Verse: John 11:25-26 “Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in Me will never die. Do you believe this?”

Memory Verse Activity: Place words/phrases of verse in plastic eggs and have an egg hunt looking for all eggs. When all eggs are recovered put the verse together in the correct order.

Bible Lesson: Resurrection Facts from Acts

(Open with prayer.)

For several months we have been journeying through the Book of Acts. We have discovered that the followers of Christ have been powerful in spreading the Good News because after Jesus ascended into heaven God sent the Gift of the Holy Spirit. In our last lesson we learned that the Holy Spirit empowered Paul to be patient as he was imprisoned waiting to be sent to Rome. This week we are going to pause and have a lesson to prepare our hearts to celebrate Easter.

Why do Christians celebrate Easter? (Allow responses) Christians celebrate Easter because Jesus died on the cross for our sins, was buried and was raised to life on the third day.

We live in a cultural with many different beliefs about God. Christians hold a very different worldview than the different religions. A Christian is a follower of Christ who has placed his/her faith in Jesus. We believe that all men, women, boys and girls are born sinners because Adam and Eve disobeyed God’s one commandment (Romans 3:23). Through Adam and Eve’s sin, death entered God’s created world (Romans 5:12). Sin separated God’s most special creation, people from Him. God cannot allow sin in His presence. God had a remedy for the sins of all people. Before Adam and Eve ever sinned, before the foundation of the world, it was God’s plan to send Jesus His Son to die and shed His blood (Revelation 13:8) to cleanse people from their sins and make them righteous in His sight. (2 Corinthians 5:21)

What we are going to do today is take what we have learned from the Book of Acts so far and refresh our hearts with the truth about Jesus’ resurrection and why it is an important truth that cannot be removed from the message of the Good News.

Convincing Proof

In one of our earliest lessons from our study of the Book of Acts we learned that Jesus stayed on the earth for 40 days after His resurrection. In Acts 1:3 Luke tells us that over those 40 days Jesus gave many convincing proofs of His resurrection.

Who saw the resurrected Jesus? (Allow students who have looked up the Scriptures of witnesses of Christ’s resurrection to share. Matthew 28:1-10, Mark 16:9-11, Luke 24:13-15, 33-34, 36-43, John 20:24-29, John 21:1-14, Mark 16:14, 1 Corinthians 15:6, 7)

Each of these eyewitness accounts of seeing a resurrected Jesus is recorded in God’s Word so by faith we can believe that Jesus died was buried and is alive!

Convicting Truth

In Peter’s first sermon after God sent the Gift of the Holy Spirit on the Day of Pentecost he boldly proclaims the Good News which includes the resurrection of Jesus. Choose volunteers to read Acts 2:22-24 and 2:31-33.

When the crowd heard Peter teach about Jesus’ death, burial and resurrection there was a response. They were convicted. Let’s read Acts 2:37.

There will always be a response when the Good News of Jesus is shared. Either a person will respond by believing in Jesus or by rejecting Jesus. As the person hears that Jesus died on the cross for our sins, was buried and rose again on the third the Holy Spirit convicts his/her heart to respond. He/she will respond by rejecting the message or accepting the message.

Accepting the message: Acts 2:41, 4:4

Rejecting the message: Acts 4:1-3, 18 The religious leaders were very disturbed by what the apostles were teaching so they arrested Peter and John and put them in jail.

How did Peter respond to their question of what power or name was the lame man healed? Read Acts 4:10-12. (Notice that each time Peter shares the Gospel message it always includes Jesus’ death and resurrection.)

The religious leaders did not accept the Gospel message and believe. Instead they commanded the apostles not to teach at all in the name of Jesus. (Acts 4:18)

The message of Christ’s death, burial and resurrection is powerful. A person who accepts by faith that Jesus is the Savior will be saved and receives eternal life. A person who hears this same message and chooses to reject the gift of salvation remains in his/her sinful state and is an enemy of God who will face the punishment for sin. (Death and separation from God forever (2 Thessalonians 1:8-9))

We have seen throughout our study in Acts those who have believed the message of Christ’s death, burial and resurrection and those who have rejected the message.

Those who have rejected the message persecuted believers. Can you remember any examples from Acts where believers were persecuted by those who don’t believe? (The apostles Acts 5:17-42; Stephen Acts 7; the Church Acts 8; Paul Acts 9:23-30, 14:19-20, 16:22-24, etc.)

Which of these groups do you belong to?

Committed to Truth

From our study in Acts so far we have seen that Christ followers are committed to sharing the truth about Jesus no matter what. They didn’t allow trials or persecution keep them from spreading the Good News throughout the world. They didn’t change the message of salvation to make their life easier. They were committed to the truth.

In our current lessons about Paul we see that he is on trial because of his belief in the resurrection. (Acts 23:6, 8; 24:15, 21; 25:19) Paul was being unfairly treated by those who didn’t believe that Jesus died, was buried and rose again. He faced some very difficult circumstances as a result in his decision to obey God and clearly proclaim the truth about Jesus. He didn’t compromise the message of salvation so his life would be free of difficulty.

The same is true for believers today. Believers must be committed to the truth of the message of salvation. Believers have been commanded to go into all the world and make disciples. To make true disciples of Jesus we must be committed to the truth from God’s word no matter what trials or difficulties we face as a result.

Just as it was for the believers in the Book of Acts all believers have the privilege and responsibility of proclaiming the truth about salvation. Many people today add to or take away from the truth about how to be saved. The message of salvation is very important! It is a matter of eternal life or death!

In a day when there are so many beliefs about God, it is very important to know why we believe what we believe and that what we believe is found clearly taught in Scripture. (“Dear friends, although I was very eager to write to you about the salvation we share, I felt I had to write and urge you to contend for the faith that was once for all entrusted to the saints.” Jude 3)

To be committed to Truth we must:

Study and know what God’s Word teaches. (2 Timothy 2:15)
Obey God’s Word. (Acts 5:29)
Boldly proclaim the Truth. (1 Peter 2:9)

Let’s close in prayer asking God to help us to boldly proclaim the message of Christ’s death, burial and resurrection during this week before Easter and every day after. If you are not a believer and want to know more about how you can be saved please speak to us and we will show you from Scripture how you can be saved.

(Close in prayer.)

Review:

How long did Jesus remain on the earth after His resurrection? (40 days)
Name some witnesses who saw the Resurrected Jesus?
What is the Good News that all believers are to share? Jesus died on the cross for our sins, was buried and was raised from the dead three days later.
What do you do on a daily basis that reveals you are committed to the truth of the Gospel?

Acts 20 Lesson: Paul’s Farewell Journey Begins

Kelly Henderson — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 13:19:05 +0000

The following lesson is a continuation of the journey through the Book of Acts. The lesson covers Paul’s farewell to believers as he heads toward Jerusalem and the story of Eutychus following to his death during Paul’s late night preaching.

From Paul’s life the students will be challenged to live a trustworthy life before others. The lesson was prepared for older elementary students but can be easily modified. This is only a suggested guide to help you teach your students. Click here to see all the lessons in this curriculum series.

Bible Story: Paul’s Farewell Journey Begins
Scripture: Acts 20
Target Age Group: Age 9 – 11 (U.S. 3rd – 5th Grade)
Learning Context: Sunday School
Target Time Frame: 60 minutes
Printer Friendly Bible Lesson: Note: There is a print link embedded within this post, please visit this post to print it. this lesson plan
You Can Help: Please share your feedback and suggestions to improve this children’s Bible lesson. Click here to respond

Supply List: Bibles, Map of Paul’s journey, visuals for story, two sets cards (index cards or cut squares of construction paper) with the letters that spell TRUSTWORTHY with phrases from Acts 20:24 on the other side of each card,

Learning Goal: Students will learn that followers of Christ must live trustworthy lives.

Learning Activity #1: Trust acronym. Students will brainstorm ways followers of Christ build trust before others.

Learning Activity #2: Have students act out the scene where Eutychus falls from the window.

Memory Verse: Acts 20:24 “However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me-the task of testifying to the gospel of God’s grace.”

Memory Verse Activity: Have a relay race using two sets of cards (I used square pieces of construction paper) with letters that spell the word trustworthy. The back of these cards will have the phrases for the memory verse. Divide class into two teams. Have them race to the stack of cards taking one card and returning to tag the next student in line. When all the cards are retrieved the students figure out what the letters spell. Once they spell trustworthy have them turn each card over to discover the memory verse and have them recite it.

Bible Lesson: Paul’s Farewell Journey Begins

(Introduction to Bible Lesson)

The only One who can be fully trusted is God Himself. Besides God can you name anything or anyone you trust? (Allow responses) (We trust that a chair is going to hold us when we sit on it. We trust that when we turn the faucet on water will come out. There are people we trust because we have built a relationship with them and know that they are trustworthy.)

Let’s think about followers of Christ and how their lives are an example of building trust. We are going to use an acronym of the word trust and think of ways a follower of Jesus models a trustworthy person. (Let students share their responses. The following is an example to help if they get stuck and need some guidance.)

T-teach God’s Word, take the Gospel, truthful

R-reach out to those in need

U-uphold others in prayer, understand God’s Word

S-share the Gospel with others

T-turn others to Jesus

We have been on a journey through the Book of Acts. We met Paul when he persecuted believers. We travelled with him on the road to Damascus where he met the Lord Jesus Christ and became a follower of Christ. As we have read about his life from the pages of Scripture we have an excellent example of a trustworthy follower of Christ.

Let’s turn in our Bibles to Acts 20. (Briefly review what took place the last time you studied from Acts 19-Riot in Ephesus.) Choose a volunteer to read verse 1. Paul is still in Ephesus and is preparing to leave. Before he leaves he sends for the disciples.

From this chapter we are going to highlight Paul’s example of a trustworthy follower of Christ.

1. A trustworthy believer encourages other followers of Christ.

Since Paul was leaving Ephesus what are some things he may have told the disciples to encourage them? (Allow responses) After Paul encouraged the disciples he said, “Good bye” and travelled to Macedonia. (Show map and have students trace the direction Paul would be going)

As we look at the map of Macedonia which places do you think Paul stopped in as he passed through? (Philippi, Berea, and Thessalonica)

As we have followed Paul we have seen his great love and care for the believers he met in each place he taught. Let’s read the first part of verse 2. What did Paul do as he travelled through Macedonia? (Spoke many words of encouragement).

Do you know any believers who need encouragement? How can you be an encouragement to them?

Paul travels from Macedonia to Greece (show on map). He stays for 3 months. What do you think Paul did during those three months?

Paul wanted to go to Jerusalem and after visiting the believers in Greece he was going to get on a ship that sailed toward Jerusalem (Syria). (Show map) However, when he learned that a group of Jews were waiting for him at the docks to harm him he travelled back toward Macedonia and would get to Jerusalem a different way. Paul had some travel companions, each from a different area where he shared the Good News and taught God’s Word. (Berea-Sopater, from Thessalonica-Aristarchus and Secundus, from Derbe-Gaius and Timothy, and from the province of Asia-Tychicus and Trophimus)

From Macedonia the 7 men who were travelling with Paul and Luke got on a ship and travelled to Troas and waited there. Paul and Luke stayed in Philippi to celebrate the Feast of Unleavened Bread. Five days later they joined the others in Troas.

Let’s read verse 7. In this verse we see another example from Paul’s life as a believer that we have seen consistently as he traveled from place to place

2. A trustworthy believer faithfully shares God’s Word.

The believers were gathered together in an upstairs room of a house to take part in the Lord’s Supper. Paul taught the people for hours. It was getting very late but the people were listening to Paul’s teaching and were eager to hear what he was teaching them about Jesus.

That night a young man (he was possible between the ages of 8-14) named Eutychus was sitting in a window sill. He sat there listening to Paul teach. There were many lanterns burning and it was possible very warm in the room where they met. Eutychus got very drowsy and began to fall asleep while sitting in a window sill. Let’s read what happens to Eutychus in verse 9.

Paul ran down the stairs and put his arms around Eutychus. The power of the Holy Spirit healed the young man and he was raised back to life. Once Eutychus was back on his feet Paul returned upstairs where the believers took part in breaking bread (the Lord’s Supper). Paul continued to teach until daylight and then he left Troas.

(If you have time you can trace Paul and his companions’ journey to Miletus.)

Paul and his traveling companions arrive in a place called Miletus. Paul didn’t have a lot of time left to get to Jerusalem in time to celebrate the day of Pentecost. He knew if he went into Ephesus he would want to visit the families and that would keep him from being able to make it to Jerusalem in time. He sent a message to the elders (leaders over the church (body of believers) in Ephesus) to meet him in Miletus.

Paul shared a message with them. The things he shares with them are reminders to them of his trustworthy life that he lived before them. Let’s briefly look at the things he reminded them about his life:

Paul served the Lord with great humility and tears. (Verse 19)
Paul was severely tested by the plots of the Jews. (Verse 19)
Paul faithfully taught everything he could to help other believers. (Verse 20)
Paul shared the Good News with Jews and Greeks telling they must repent and believe in Jesus. (Verse 21)

Paul told the Ephesian elders that the Holy Spirit was leading him back to Jerusalem and he was going even though he didn’t know what was going to happen to him there. He only knew that in every city the Holy Spirit warned him that he would face prison and hardships. Paul told them that they would never see his face again.

Since Paul knew that he would not see these believers again he gave them instructions to take care of the followers of Christ that these elders would be responsible for. Paul said that teachers would come to Ephesus and try to lead people away from God’s truth.

Paul’s final words were about how he set an example to work hard to earn money and help the weak because Jesus said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”

It was time to say farewell to these believers from Ephesus. They all knelt down to pray. After praying the Ephesian elders hugged Paul and wept as they said good bye. Their hearts were saddened because Paul said they would never see his face again. They loved this man who faithfully served them and earned their trust by the way he lived.

Although it was a very sad day for these Ephesian elders they could go home and know that if they lived a life as Paul modeled they could live a life that is trustworthy and one that pleases Jesus.

How about us? If others lived the way we do in speech, attitudes and actions would they be living a life that is trustworthy and one that pleases Jesus?

Close in prayer.

Review Questions:

True or False: Paul spoke many words of discouragement to the believers as he traveled. (False-Encouragement)
True or False: Paul stayed in Greece for 18 months. (False-3 months)
True or False: Paul avoided a plot by the Jews by not sailing to Syria. (True)
True or False: Timothy was one of Paul’s traveling companions. (True)
True or False: Paul and Luke celebrated the Feast of Booths in Philippi. (False-Feast of Unleavened Bread)
True or False: Eutychus fell out a window and died. (True)
True or False: Paul taught for a few hours that night in Troas. (False-he taught all night until daylight)
True or False: Paul met with the Ephesian elders in Miletus. (True)
Why was Paul going to Jerusalem? (The Holy Spirit was telling him to go there)
What did Paul know was going to happen when he got to Jerusalem? (Prison and hardships)
What can we do to be more trustworthy in our example to others?

Acts 15-16 Lesson: New Missionary Teams

Kelly Henderson — Tue, 28 Feb 2012 16:46:20 +0000

This lesson combines the Jerusalem council, Barnabas and Paul’s disagreement and Paul’s call to Macedonia. The focus on the lesson is how the Holy Spirit resolves conflict and directs believers in the way they should go.

This Bible study was prepared for older elementary students and is only a guide to help you teach your students. Please adapt to the needs of your students. This is only a suggested guide to give an idea how to teach this lesson. Make adjustments and adapt to the needs of your students. Click here to see all the lessons in this curriculum series.

Bible Story: Jerusalem Council and New Missionary Teams
Scripture: Acts 15-16:10
Target Age Group: Age 9 – 11 (U.S. 3rd – 5th Grade)
Learning Context: Sunday School
Target Time Frame: 60 minutes
Printer Friendly Bible Lesson: Note: There is a print link embedded within this post, please visit this post to print it. this lesson plan
You Can Help: Please share your feedback and suggestions to improve this children’s Bible lesson. Click here to respond

Supply List: Bibles, map, Faith equation cards (explained in activity #1), Written letter that paraphrases what the apostles and elders concluded to send to the Gentile believers, (an option would be to use the ERV that uses vocabulary that the students would understand adapting the phrase ‘don’t be involved with sexual sin’ to don’t use your bodies in an impure way.)

Learning Goal: Students will learn that the Holy Spirit shows obedient believers what to do in all circumstances.

Learning Activity #1: (Faith equation-create cards similar to math cards) The aim of this activity is to teach students that Faith plus nothing =Salvation. Create a Faith card, and an =Salvation card. On other cards create +Nothing, +Reading my bible, +Going to church, +Praying,+Tithing,+Helping the poor, +Sharing the Gospel, etc. Teaching the activity: Have 2 volunteers read Ephesians 2:8-9 and Titus 3:4. Have the cards laying face up on table or floor (where all students can see). We just read two scriptures that tell us the equation of being saved from our sins. Looking at these cards what would you put together that is the correct equation? (Faith +Nothing=Salvation) When we add anything to faith in Christ we create an unbiblical equation. When we share the Good News with others we want to present the Truth from God’s Word and nothing else. Adding anything to Faith in Jesus Christ alone will always equal a wrong answer just as 2+3=4 does.

Test: Review Questions

Memory Verse: Psalm 32:8 “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you.”

Bible Lesson: Jerusalem Council and New Missionary Teams

(Faith equation activity)

The Holy Spirit resolves conflict between Jewish and Gentile Believers Acts 15:1-35

Let’s turn in our Bibles to Acts 15. Read verse 1.

Who came to the church in Antioch? (Men from Judea)

What did the Jews from Judea make the equation for salvation? (Faith + Circumcision=Salvation)

Read verse 2. Where did Paul and Barnabas go? (Jerusalem)

Why did they go to Jerusalem? (To discuss this question that had caused a debate about whether Gentiles had to do anything besides believe in Jesus to be saved)

How did the Holy Spirit help resolve the problem between Jewish and Gentile believers?

They had a meeting with the apostles and elders in Jerusalem to discuss the issue. (Verse 6)
Peter, Paul and Barnabas shared how God showed them that He makes no distinction between Jews and Gentiles because all people are saved by faith in Christ. (Verses 7-12)
James an elder in the Jerusalem church (half-brother of Jesus (James 1:19)) agrees that what Peter, Paul and Barnabas are sharing agrees with what God taught in the Scriptures. (Acts 15:13-18)
James decides the best way to deal with this issue is to send a letter to Gentile believers to abstain from food offered idols, meat from strangled animals and blood, and to keep their bodies pure.

When the meeting was over Paul, Barnabas along with Judas and Silas returned to the Antioch church bringing the letter with them.

Choose a volunteer to read the letter (or verses 23-29 if you don’t have a letter prepared).

When the Holy Spirit resolves difficulties people will be encouraged and strengthened in their faith. Read verse 31.

The Holy Spirit uses disagreement to send two missionary teams. Acts 15:36-16:5

Paul and Barnabas remained at the Antioch church preaching God’s Word. Judas and Silas had returned to the church in Jerusalem.

While staying in Antioch, Paul must have prayed for and thought about the believers he met on his first missionary journey. After being away from them for a few years he really wanted to go back and visit them and see how they were doing. Barnabas agreed that they should travel and visit the believers. He told Paul that he wanted to bring John also called Mark with them on this trip.

Read verse 38-39. Why did Paul and Barnabas disagree? (Paul didn’t think it was wise to take Mark since he left them on their first trip)

Paul and Barnabas didn’t allow their disagreement to keep them from serving the Lord Jesus. They both had valid opinions. They chose to continue to go into the world and share the gospel. The Holy Spirit used this disagreement to send out two groups of missionaries instead of one.

Let’s look at our map and see which direction each of these missionary teams went. (Barnabas and Mark sailed to Cyprus. Paul and Silas went through Syria and Cilicia.)

Read Acts 16:1. (Show on a map the places mentioned) While in Derbe Paul added another member named Timothy to his missionary team.

Paul, Silas and Timothy began to travel from town to town visiting the believers. In each town they stopped town they shared the letter that the leaders in Jerusalem had written for the Gentile believers. Let’s read Acts 16:5. Paul’s visits to the believers brought encouragement and even more people were saved.

When believers obey the Lord Jesus the Holy Spirit uses difficulties to continue God’s work so others can be saved and other believers can be encouraged.

The Holy Spirit directs Paul where to go with the Gospel. Acts 16:6-10

When it was time for Paul and his team to move on to another city to share the Good News, how do you think they knew where to go? (Allow responses)

Paul was a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit lived in his heart. The Holy Spirit directed Paul where he should go and where he should not go.

Let’s read Acts 16:6-8. The Bible doesn’t tell us how or why the Holy Spirit stopped Paul but he knew that God was keeping him from going in the direction of Asia.

Suppose we were going to go on a mission trip to another state. We thought that state is where God wanted us to go. We pack up go to the airport and while we are waiting to get on the plane the flight to where we are going is cancelled because of terrible weather. We can’t go to the place we were planning but God puts a person in our path at the airport who has never heard about Jesus and we share the Good News with him and he is saved. This is an example of how we follow Jesus and when things don’t go as we planned, we trust that the Holy Spirit is leading us in the way God wants us to go.

When the Holy Spirit told Paul no, he obeyed and traveled in a different direction trusting that God would clearly show him where to share the Good News next. As Paul and his team travel to a place called Troas, God made His directions perfectly clear. Let’s read how God did this in Acts 16:9.

When Paul saw the man from Macedonia begging him to come and help, he knew that this was from God. Paul immediately obeyed what he knew God was telling him to do and Silas, Timothy and Luke (who joined the team in Troas) got on a ship and prepared to travel to Macedonia.

There are many ways that the Lord shows us what we should do and what we should not do. In order to know that we are following the Holy Spirit’s directions we must pray, stay in God’s Word and be sensitive to what He is leading you to do and also what He may be preventing you from doing.

One way to know if God is trying to prevent you from going in a direction is by making you have an uncomfortable feeling in your heart. This uncomfortable feeling should cause you to pray. After asking God for peace and you still have no peace it may be God saying not to do what you were planning to do or to wait.

Our next lesson continues with Paul and his missionary team’s adventure to Macedonia. We will see how the Holy Spirit continues to empower and guide Paul as he obeys God.

In our lesson we have talked about how the Holy Spirit helps believers solve difficulties and gives direction. If you have never believed by faith that Jesus saves you from the penalty of sin, you don’t have the Holy Spirit in your life to help you. If you have any questions or want to talk to us about how you can be saved please talk to us after we pray.

Close in prayer.

Review Questions:

What is the faith equation? (Faith + Nothing=Salvation)
Why did Paul and Barnabas leave the Antioch church and travel to Jerusalem? (Jews came to Antioch telling Gentiles they had to be circumcised to be saved)
How did the Holy Spirit help resolve the problem between the Jewish and Gentile believers? (Wrote a letter for the Gentile believers telling them 3 things not to do)
Why did Paul and Barnabas go on the second missionary trip on two different teams? (They had a disagreement)
How did the Holy Spirit use Paul and Barnabas’ disagreement? (Used 2 teams to share the Good News instead of only 1)
Who joined Paul’s missionary team in Derbe? (Timothy)
How did Paul know that God wanted him to travel to Macedonia? (He had a vision of a man begging him to come to Macedonia)
What changes do you need to make to help you be able to recognize the Holy Spirit’s direction in your life? (Confess any known sin, turn away from it, spend more time in prayer and studying God’s Word)

Lesson: King Josiah of Judah Part #1

Kelly Henderson — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 13:03:58 +0000

This lesson is Part 1 in the study of King Josiah. It continues the study of Israel’s kings. King Josiah is the last southern king who does what pleases the Lord. His successors are wicked and are taken captive by Babylon. The captivity of Judah follows on the heals of the Assyrians taking the Northern Kingdom captive (2 Kings 17:7-41). Believers can find many applicable truths from God’s Word by studying the lives of His people during the reigns of Israel’s kings. A day is coming when God will judge the world because of wickedness (Isaiah 13:9,13 Micah 5:15, Zephaniah 1:14-18).

Believers like Josiah can live as salt and light in the wicked world that we are placed in. Living a righteous life will not stop the day of God’s wrath but can make a difference in the lives affected by our obedience to Jesus. As you teach this lesson students will discover that God’s Word can transform their lives when they respond with repentant and obedient hearts.

This Bible study is only a guide. Be sure to modify the lesson to the needs of your students. Click here to see all the Bible lessons in this series.

Bible Story Title: King Josiah Part #1
Bible Passage: 2 Kings 22, 2 Chronicles 34:1-29)
Target Age Group: Age 9 – 11 (U.S. 3rd – 5th Grade)
Learning Context: Sunday School
Target Time Frame: 60 minutes
Printer Friendly Bible Lesson: Note: There is a print link embedded within this post, please visit this post to print it. this lesson plan
You Can Help: Please share your feedback and suggestions to improve this children’s Bible lesson. Click here to respond

Supply List: Bibles, Building blocks(cardboard bricks, Legos, wooden blocks or whatever you have available to build for learning activity #1), visuals to help teach the lesson, lesson notes, pencils/pens

Learning Goal: Students will learn that God is pleased when a person hears God’s Word and responds with a humble, obedient heart.

Learning Activity #1: Divide class into two teams. Play a relay race. (Line team one up on one side of the room. When you give the signal to begin one student runs to the other side of the room where the blocks are laying and they take one block and place it on the ground. They run back and tag the next student. Let them race for 1 minute to build a structure as high as they can. The second team has one minute to take apart the structure one block at a time. The building team gets a turn to rebuild to any blocks left and continue to build for 30 seconds this time. The second team gets 30 seconds to remove blocks (one at a time). The first team gets to build again for 15 seconds and then the second team gets their 15 seconds to remove the blocks (one at a time). Use this activity to review the history of idolatry that the kings of Israel have participated in. A wicked king would reign and build up altars and create objects so the people would worship idols. A righteous king would reign and use his reign to tear down and destroy the wicked altars and idols. A wicked king would come back into power and rebuild the evil places of worship and then another good king would tear them down. Allow students to recall kings that were wicked and built altars to idols and kings that tore down the altars. God’s people were in a cycle of sin that would eventually lead them to be captives in a foreign land as a result of their wickedness to God and His punishment for their sin.

Learning Activity #2: Sing Trust and Obey (Teach the lyrics if this is an unfamiliar hymn)

Learning Activity #3: Create notes for the students to follow along with as you teach the lesson. For each principle about God’s Word leave a blank for the students to fill in as you come to it. (A simpler preparation is to just write the principles on the board or a large sheet of paper with blanks that can be filled in by the students.)

Test: Review Questions

Memory Verse: 2 Kings 22:19 “Because your heart was responsive and you humbled yourself before the LORD when you heard what I have spoken against this place and this people, that they would become accursed and laid waste, and because you tore your robes and wept in My presence, I have heard you declares the LORD.”

Bible Lesson: King Josiah

The Book that we hold in our hands should be our most treasured possession. This Book is alive. What does it mean when I say that? The Bible is the Word of God. Let’s read 2 Timothy 3:16-17 “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” The Bible is God’s words to each of us. When we read them His Holy Spirit instructs us and teaches us what He wants us to learn.

Listen to what Jesus said about God’s Word: “Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.” Matthew 4:4

The lessons we have been studying about Israel’s kings show us how desperately evil man can be when they do not live a life that obeys God’s Word. Only when a person makes the study of God’s word as important to his/her daily life as we make eating meals, can we truly know how God’s Word feeds us and strengthens us.

Let’s turn to 2 Kings 22. In our building block activity we likened the building up to the kings that built altars to worship false gods and the tearing down as the kings who came into power and removed the wickedness from the kingdom. Hezekiah used his reign to make reforms and turn the hearts of the people back to God. Manasseh his son started out as a very wicked king. Review some of the evil things he did during his reign (2 Kings 21). He repented of his wickedness before God and God forgave him. He worked to remove the wicked idolatrous things he had built during his reign (2 Chronicles 33:12-20). After Manasseh’s death his son Amon was a wicked king who worshiped idols and only reigned for 2 years.

If you were living during this time in history what do you think life would be like for you? (Allow responses) How do you think people could worship a false god by throwing their own child into a pit of fire as an offering to that god?

Sin darkens the hearts of every man, woman, boy and girl. Sin causes people to do the most wicked things. (Ephesians 4:17-19) Without the One True God ruling over our lives we are all capable of doing wicked things. (Jeremiah 17:9, Romans 7:17-24)

Let’s jump right back into the building, un-building, building, un-building cycle we have been seeing in our study. Read 2 Chronicles 34:1-2.

As we study about King Josiah we are going to learn unchangeable truths about the Word of God.

Josiah became a king when he was 8 years old. That is very close to how old your are right now. What kind of young man was Josiah? (Godly, did what was right in God’s eyes)

1. God’s Word is Light.

As a young king someone who was caring for him must have had a godly influence in his life. (Some Bible Scholars believe the high priest Hilkiah was the one who taught Josiah and influenced his life.) Someone was sharing the Word of God with Josiah so that he would know how to live a life that pleases God. A life that pleases God doesn’t happen by accident. Our natural instincts lead us to live selfish, wicked lives.

God’s Word lights our path. When we hear God’s Word and obey it causes us to seek Him and He uses His Word to give us more light to see Him more clearly. (Psalm 119:105) Read 2 Chronicles 34:3a (the first part of the verse). How old is Josiah at this point? (16 years) Who did Josiah seek? (The God of his father David) The Godly influence from Josiah’s younger years affected him and caused him to seek the Lord.

When God puts someone in your life as a Godly influence He is giving you light so that you will seek Him. No one can come to Jesus unless God draws him. (John 6:44, 65) When God reveals His Light (the Truth of His Word) through Godly influences He is drawing (calling) you to seek Him. Will you choose to seek Him and follow Him?

2. God’s Word cleanses. (Psalm 119:9-11)

Let’s read the second half of verse 3-4. How old is Josiah now? (20) It has been four years since he began to seek the Lord. Over that time period Josiah could see that the way God’s people were living did not represent the God he was following.

Once again we see a Godly king tearing down the wicked altars and carved idols that the people worshiped false gods with. Josiah wanted to purge (cleanse) the kingdom of the wickedness that did not please God.

As we read God’s Word He shows us things that we are doing in our lives that don’t reflect who He is. When we hear and obey God’s Word He cleanses us and enables us to stop doing the things that don’t please Him. What sinful habit is God showing you that you need to get rid of in your life?

3. God’s Word is Eternal. (2 Kings 22:3-10)

Read 2 Kings 22:3. How old is Josiah? (8+18=26) The next thing that we learn about King Josiah’s reign is that he sends Hilkiah to hire men to repair the temple. While the temple was being repaired Hilkiah found the Book of the Law. (Many believe it was the first five books of the Bible (the Pentateuch) or just the Book of Deuteronomy) Deuteronomy 31:26 “Take this Book of the Law and place it beside the ark of the covenant of the LORD your God. There it will remain as a witness against you.” (It is possible that when Solomon had the temple built the Book of the Law was placed in the cornerstone of the temple.)

If Hilkiah ‘found’ the Book of the Law it makes us realize that in many ways God’s people had ‘lost’ the Book of the Law. Their lives did not reflect the life that God told them to live. This discovery of Hilkiah’s is similar to many people’s lives today. They have a copy of God’s Word and it’s not actually lost. It’s right where they left it collecting dust because it is never opened and studied.

Whether the Bible is collecting dust on a shelf or not, God’s Word is eternal. (Psalm 119:89, 160, Isaiah 40:8, 1 Peter 1:23-25) If we choose not to read God’s Word it doesn’t change the fact that what God has spoken in His Word will not come to pass.

Where can your Bible be found? Is it collecting dust or is it something you pick up and read and study every day?

4. God’s Word requires a response. (2 Kings 22:11-20, 2 Chronicles 34:19-28)

Read 2 Kings 22:11. How did Josiah respond when he heard God’s Word read? (He humbled himself-tore his robes) Read verse 13. What did he tell Hilkiah and the other attendants to do? (Inquire of the Lord about what is written in this Book) Why did Josiah think that God was angry with His people? (Because they had not obeyed His Words and lived according to His laws)

Read verse 15. What did Huldah the prophetess say God was going to do? (Bring disaster upon Judah because God’s people were disobeying His Word)

Josiah is spared of God’s coming punishment because he responded with a humble heart when he heard the Words of God. Let’s read what God says about Josiah response in verses 18-20.

How these final verses apply to you and me:

No one is without excuse before God. All men, women, boys and girls are under God’s judgment (punishment) because of sin. (Romans 1:18-20, 3:23, Ephesians 2:1-3)
God has made a way for men, women, boys and girls to be saved. He sent His sinless Son Jesus to die on the cross for the sins of all. He was buried and three days later God raised Him from the dead. As Josiah heard and believed God’s Words it’s the same for us today. If we hear and believe that Jesus is the Savior for our sins we are rescued from the punishment of our sins.

As we prepare to close in prayer what is your response to our study of God’s Word? What changes has He shown you that you need to make in your life? Will you take this time that we are still before Him and talk to Him about what He has shown you? If you have not been saved please speak to us after we pray and we can show you from the Scriptures how you can know that your sins are forgiven by faith in Jesus.

Close in prayer.

Review Questions:
(Choose your students’ favorite review game to answer the questions from this lesson)

How old was Josiah when he became king? (8)
When did Josiah begin to seek God? (16)
Name a principle of God’s Word from this lesson on Josiah.
How did Josiah respond when he heard God’s Word read? (Tore his clothes, sent Hilkiah to find out what was written)
Why was Josiah spared from God’s coming punishment? (He had a humble responsive heart to God’s Word)
What new thing did you learn from our lesson today?
How are you going to put into practice what you learned?

Lesson: Manasseh Repents & Finds Mercy

Kelly Henderson — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 14:59:34 +0000

This lesson reveals the extent of Manasseh’s wickedness. Yet once again, we see God’s mercy when a wicked sinner repents. The students will discover that because of God’s great mercy. He forgives all sins when a person repents and turns to Him.

This Bible study is only a guide. Be sure to modify the lesson to the needs of your students. Click here to see all the Bible lessons in this series.

Bible Story Title: Manasseh repents and receives God’s mercy
Bible Passage: 2 Chronicles 33
Target Age Group: Age 9 – 11 (U.S. 3rd – 5th Grade)
Learning Context: Sunday School
Target Time Frame: 60 minutes
Printer Friendly Bible Lesson: Note: There is a print link embedded within this post, please visit this post to print it. this lesson plan
You Can Help: Please share your feedback and suggestions to improve this children’s Bible lesson. Click here to respond

Supply List: Bibles, paper plates or construction paper for two sided face (smile/sad), pens/pencils, paper

Learning Goal: Students will learn that God is merciful and always forgives repentant sinners.

Learning Activity #1: Review the kings. Using small plates or circles cut from construction paper put a smiley face on one side and a sad face on the other. Read names of Kings that you have studied so far and allow students to show happy face or sad face indicating whether the king was pleasing to God or evil in His sight.

Learning Activity #2: Teaching students how to use concordance. Have them look in the concordance of their Bible (if they don’t have one have Bibles they can use that do) and look up the word Mercy. Have them look at the different verses for mercy and have them write their favorite one down. At the end of the activity have students share the verses they wrote down.

Test: Review Questions

Memory Verse: Exodus 34:6-7a “And He passed in front of Moses, proclaiming, “The LORD, the LORD, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin.”

Bible Lesson: Manasseh repents and receives God’s Mercy

(Use the Review the Kings activity to introduce the Bible lesson.)

King Hezekiah was a good king who did what was right in God’s sight. When he became king the land was filled with wickedness and the people were not worshiping the One True God. They were worshiping false gods or idols. As he began to reign Hezekiah brought great changes in his kingdom. If you were growing up as a child of King Hezekiah what do you think you would know about God? (Worship God only, worship according to God’s laws, trust Him when enemies come against you, etc.)

Hezekiah was a good example for his sons to see how to live a life that pleases God. After he died his son Manasseh became king. Let’s turn in our Bibles to 2 Chronicles 33 to discover how he reigns as king over God’s people.

Read verse 1. How old was Manasseh when he became king? (12) How long did he reign as king? (55 years)

Read verse 2. Does this shock you? How could a child of a good king do evil in the eyes of the Lord? (Allow responses)

All people are sinners. (Romans 3:23)
Our hearts are desperately evil. (Jeremiah 17:9)
There is nothing good in man only God can empower us to please Him. (Romans 7:18-8:17)

2 Chronicles 33:3-9 Manasseh’s wickedness

Hezekiah worked to bring people back to God and in a few short years his son brought the southern kingdom back into a spiritually dark place.

Evil things that Manasseh did:

Rebuilt high places and built altars for Baal.
Bowed down and worshiped the stars.
Built altars to false gods/idols and placed them in the Lord’s temple and put altars in the courtyard of the temple.
Sacrificed his sons to the god named Molech by throwing them into a fire.
He practiced sorcery, divination and witchcraft.
Put a carved image in the Temple

All of the things Manasseh did were openly rebellious toward God. Everything he did broke God’s laws. From what you know about God and His word what laws did Manasseh break? (You shall have no other gods before Me. You shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything. You shall not bow down to them.)

When a person sins it always affects others. Let’s read verse 9.

We may never be a king but we will always have someone who is watching our life. How we live is important.

If others follow your example would they be living a life that pleases God?

In our world we are exposed to lies people believe about God. If the world that we live in knows little about what the Word of God teaches the more lies people believe about God. One lie that people say about God is that in the Old Testament a harsh God punishing sin, and in the New Testament God is kind and compassionate. That is an inaccurate statement because God is the same God in the Old Testament as in the New. God is just. He hates sin. He gives us teachers to teach us His truth and to warn us of punishment if we choose to sin. He forgives us when we repent and turn from sin.

We have seen a kind compassionate God throughout the history of Israel’s kings. He faithfully sent prophets to kings who were sinning to warn them of coming punishment. Some kings listened and repented and some did not.

2 Chronicles 33:10-11 God’s warning and punishment

As we return to Manasseh let’s see if God wipes Manasseh out because of his wickedness or if God warns him. Read verse 10.

We are not much different than these people in the Old Testament. Have you ever had a parent or teacher who told you how to avoid punishment and you ignored them? What happens when you ignore a clear warning from someone in authority? (You face the consequence of your decision not to obey)

Manasseh and the people in his kingdom chose to ignore God. He sent enemies (the Assyrian army) to invade the land of Judah. They captured Manasseh. What did they do to him? (Read verse 11) This was a very humiliating thing for a king to experience.

2 Chronicles 33:12-13 Manasseh’s repentance

Read 33:12-13. God disciplines His children because He is a good father who desires His children to live the abundant life He can give. His purpose for allowing any difficulty is to turn our hearts to Him so we can live a life that pleases Him. (Hebrews 12:5-11)

God heard Manasseh’s prayer and saw his humility and forgave him.

Manasseh sinned in many ways against God. None of those sins were too bad for God to forgive. It is the same with all people. No sin we have ever committed is too hard for God to forgive. The only sin God cannot forgive is an unrepentant heart. All God requires for our sins to be forgiven is to repent and turn away from our sins and turn to Him.

God provided a way for our sins to be completely forgiven by sending Jesus to die in our place on the cross. He shed His blood, was buried and rose again the third day. All who believe in the Lord Jesus can have every sin past, present and future sin forgiven.

2 Chronicles 33:14-20 Fruit of Manasseh’s repentance

True repentance will be evident by the way a person lives after pleading for God’s forgiveness. How do we know that Manasseh was truly sorry for the wicked life he lived? Read verses 15-16. (He got rid of the idolatrous altars and idols that he used to worship, and restored the altar of the Lord)

When a person is truly repentant of his/her sins before God they are a new creation. (2 Corinthians 5:17)
As a new creation the Holy Spirit enables a believer to put off the sinful actions and attitudes and live a life that pleases God. (Ephesians 4:22-24)

What should you do if you are a believer and you know that you sinned? All your sins were forgiven the moment you believed in Jesus. When we knowingly sin as a believer it affects our relationship with God. (He never takes away our salvation…when we believe in Jesus we receive eternal life) Our relationship with God is similar to relationships we have in our lives. If I offend or hurt someone I love and I don’t admit that I was wrong and say I am sorry it causes there to be distance in that relationship. My sin caused Jesus to die. When I sin as a child of God it hurts my relationship with Him. He will always be my Father but my sin puts distance in our relationship. When I confess it to Him, He cleanses me and restores me to a close relationship with Him. (1 John 1:9)

Manasseh’s life started out wicked and very displeasing in God’s sight. We close our lesson seeing God’s great mercy towards a great sinner who humbled himself and repented. As we pray which stage are you in Manasseh’s life? Are you at the place where you are a sinner separated from God by your sinful life? Have you been saved and have allowed sin to creep into your life and habits? Maybe you are walking closely with Jesus. You can thank Him for His great mercy towards you. Wherever you find yourself in Manasseh’s life, talk to God about it as we start our prayer time in silence.

Close in prayer.

Review Questions:

Who is Manasseh’s father? (Hezekiah)
How long did Manasseh reign as King? (55 years)
What did Manasseh do that was evil?
How did Manasseh and the people respond to God’s warning? (Ignored Him)
Why did God forgive Manasseh? (He humbled himself and repented)
How can we tell that Manasseh truly repented? (He removed the wicked altars/idols)
What sin is so great that God could never forgive? (None except not believing that Jesus is the Savior)