I’m excited to share the first week from our latest children’s ministry curriculum at the Sunday School Store. Camping is a perfect choice for your summertime ministry. Keep reading to learn about the series or download the free sample lesson to get a closer look.
- You can download the week #1 lesson (PDF)
- Click here to purchase the series at the Sunday School Store.
In a world of constant noise, screens, and distractions, this summer series invites kids to “unplug” and discover how getting away from it all can bring us closer to God. Through powerful Bible stories of outdoor encounters with God, children will learn that sometimes we need to step away from everyday life to really experience His presence. Just like camping helps us appreciate nature by leaving behind our usual routines, these lessons show how finding quiet moments with God can transform our faith and our lives.
Main Idea: Get outside and get closer to God!
Gospel Connection: The ultimate way God made Himself known wasn’t through a burning bush or shining mountaintop—it was through Jesus dying on a cross for our sins and rising again. Every miracle in this series points to the greatest truth: God loves us so much that He sent Jesus to make a way for us to have a forever relationship with Him, and when we trust in Jesus’ sacrifice, God forgives our sins completely and welcomes us into His family.
Why use CAMPING in your Kids’ Sunday School?
This curriculum is relatable and appealing to children. It offers a fun and memorable context for learning. The series focuses on getting closer to God by “unplugging” and finding quiet moments, which is a valuable lesson for kids. It uses well-known Bible stories with outdoor settings to illustrate key spiritual truths. Each week has a clear and concise main idea that is easy for children to understand and remember. The curriculum connects all the stories back to the Gospel message of Jesus’ sacrifice and God’s love. The lessons encourage children to apply the teachings to their own lives, such as trusting God’s promises, listening to His call, standing strong against temptation, and recognizing Jesus’ glory. The inclusion of James 1:17 in multiple translations reinforces the message of God’s goodness and unchanging nature.
4-Week Lesson Overview
Week 1 – Only God Can Count That High
- Bible Story: Abraham Counts the Stars (Genesis 15:1-6)
- Main Idea: God keeps His amazing promises, even when they seem impossible
- Summary: God told Abraham to look up at the sky and count the stars. There were too many to count! God promised Abraham a big family, even when it seemed impossible. This week, we learn that God always keeps His promises, and we can trust Him!
Week 2 – When God Starts the Campfire
- Bible Story: Moses and the Burning Bush (Exodus 3)
- Main Idea: God calls ordinary people to do extraordinary things.
- Summary: One day, Moses saw a bush on fire, but it didn’t burn up! Then, he heard God’s voice. God had a special job for Moses. This week, we learn that God speaks to us in special ways and has a plan for us too!
Week 3 – The Ultimate Survivor Test
- Bible Story: Jesus in the Wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11)
- Main Idea: God’s Word helps us stand strong against temptation
- Summary: Jesus spent time alone in the wilderness, and the devil tried to trick Him. But Jesus used God’s words to stay strong! This week, we learn that God’s Word helps us make good choices and stand strong!
Week 4 – Miracle on the Mountaintop
- Bible Story: Jesus on the Mountaintop (Matthew 17:1-13)
- Main Idea: Jesus reveals His true glory as God’s Son
- Summary: Jesus took His friends up a big mountain, and something amazing happened—His face shined bright like the sun! This week, we learn that Jesus is God’s Son, and He is full of light and love!