Discovering Truth
Through a Biblical Worldview

Recommended for 4th-6th Graders

• Lesson 1:  Understanding Biblical Worldview
• Lesson 2:  Discovering Our Purpose and Identity
• Lesson 3:  Living Out Loud in a Quiet World
• Lesson 4:  Exploring Life’s Big Questions

Lesson 1:
Intro


Lesson 2:
Purpose


Lesson 3:
Out Loud


Lesson 4:
Questions

4th-6th Grade
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Today, we embark on an extraordinary adventure into understanding a Biblical Worldview. But what does that mean?

Well, a worldview is like a pair of glasses through which we see everything around us – it shapes how we understand the world, make decisions, and interact with others.

And a Biblical Worldview? That’s seeing the world the way God teaches us in the Bible!

A Biblical Worldview is a set of beliefs and ideas that Christians use to understand and respond to the world around them.

Hello Adventure!

Objective: Our mission is to discover how a Biblical Worldview can guide us in our daily lives, helping us make choices that honor God. We’ll explore how this viewpoint affects our understanding of nature, human relationships, and our own purpose.

Prayer Time

“Heavenly Father, thank You for bringing us together today. Help us to understand Your world the way You see it. Guide us as we learn about a Biblical Worldview and show us how to apply Your truths in our lives.

Help us, Lord, to see the world through Your eyes—to recognize truth from falsehood and right from wrong. Give us the courage to stand firm in our beliefs and to live according to Your Word, even when it’s challenging or when others walk a different path.

Strengthen our faith, Lord, and deepen our understanding of who You are and who You’ve called us to be. Let Your Holy Spirit guide us in all truth, filling us with Your peace and wisdom.  Amen.”

Ice Breaker: “The Worldview Web”

This ice breaker is designed to visually demonstrate how our individual beliefs connect to form a larger worldview, highlighting our interconnectedness and the diversity of thoughts within our group. It’s a fun, interactive way to start our session on exploring different worldviews and understanding how each person’s view contributes to the tapestry of our class’s collective perspective.

Materials Needed:

• A large ball of yarn or string
• Space to form a circle with the group

Have all participants form a large circle. This can be done in a classroom, outdoors, or any space where you can move a little.

Introduce the Concept: Explain the activity by saying, “Today, we’re going to create a giant spider web, which will help us see how our beliefs are woven together to form a bigger picture called a worldview. Each of you will contribute to building this web by sharing something you believe about the world.”

Start the Web: Hold onto the end of the yarn, and share your own belief to start. For example, you might say, “I believe in the importance of honesty.” After sharing, gently toss the ball of yarn to a student across the circle.

Student Participation: The student who catches the yarn will then hold onto a part of the string and share their belief. For example, they might say, “I believe that everyone deserves respect.” They then hold their piece of the yarn, creating a line from you to them, and toss the ball to another person in the circle.

Continue Weaving the Web: This process continues with each student catching the yarn, holding a piece, sharing their belief, and then tossing the yarn to another student. Remind them to choose someone who hasn’t had a turn yet.

Observe the Web: Once everyone has shared and the yarn has been passed around to form a complex web, take a moment to observe how interconnected the yarn—and thus, your beliefs—are. Point out how each piece of yarn relies on the others to maintain the structure of the web, symbolizing how our shared and differing beliefs create a community.

Discussion

Ask questions like, “What did you notice about our web? Were there any beliefs that surprised you or that you strongly relate to? How does this web reflect the idea of a worldview?”

Concluding the Activity:
To conclude, emphasize the value of understanding and respecting diverse beliefs within a community. Highlight that while we may hold different views, together they create a rich and complex network of ideas that define our class’s unique worldview.

Introducing the Story

Every day, without even realizing it, we see the world in a certain way. This is shaped by our beliefs, what our families teach us, and what we learn from the Bible. Today, we’ll explore what it means to see the world through God’s eyes – that’s what we call a Biblical Worldview. We’ll talk about how this view can change the way we see nature, treat other people, and understand our place in the world.”

Imagine if we could put on special glasses that helped us see everything the way God does. What do you think we would see differently? That’s what we’re going to find out today!

Get ready to dive deep into understanding how a Biblical Worldview can transform the way we live, think, and interact with the world around us. Are you excited to see the world through God’s special glasses? Let’s get started!

Introducing Biblical Wordview

Today, we’re diving into a big idea called “Biblical Worldview.” Now, what does that mean? Imagine you’re wearing a pair of glasses, but these aren’t ordinary glasses. These glasses are special because they help you see the world the way God wants us to see it. That’s what a Biblical Worldview is like—seeing life through God’s eyes.

Before we dive into our story, let’s think about what the Apostle Paul said in Romans 12:2, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” This verse is like our guide, telling us not to just follow what everyone else does or thinks, but to let God change the way we think and see the world.

Storytelling

Let’s tell a story to make this clear. There was once a group of four friends, all from different parts of the world, with different ideas and beliefs. They decided to go on a treasure hunt in a vast, mysterious jungle. Each friend had a different map, guiding them based on their beliefs and understanding of the world.

The first friend, Alex, thought the jungle was scary and full of danger. His map showed him where to go to avoid scary things, but because he was always careful to stay away from danger, he missed seeing some really cool parts of the jungle, like hidden waterfalls and colorful birds.

The second, Bailey, treated the jungle like a giant playground. She rushed from one adventure to another, always looking for the next fun thing to do. Her map led her to the biggest trees and the fastest rivers, but she moved so fast that she missed quieter, beautiful moments, like watching butterflies or finding cool, calm spots to rest.

Charlie, the third friend, didn’t have a map, so he got lost a lot. He wandered around, feeling confused and not knowing which way to go. This made it hard for him to enjoy the jungle because he was too worried about trying to find the right path.

Finally, there was Paityn. Paityn had a special map that her family had given her, filled with wisdom and good advice. It helped her see the jungle as a beautiful, peaceful place. She followed paths that showed her how everything in the jungle worked together. Paityn’s journey was calm and full of purpose, helping her appreciate the beauty of nature and learn important lessons about life.

She was living out Romans 12:2, not just following along with everyone else but being transformed by God’s truth.

Key Moments to Discuss:

• Differences in Perspective: Just like in our story, everyone sees the world differently. But Paityn’s perspective, guided by her special map, represents a Biblical Worldview. She saw the world not just for what it is, but for what it could be through God’s eyes.
• Choices and Consequences: Each friend made choices based on their map, leading to different experiences. This shows us how our worldview affects our decisions and our journey through life.
• Finding the Treasure: The real treasure was not a chest of gold but understanding, peace, and seeing the world filled with God’s love and purpose. Paityn, with her Biblical Worldview, helped her friends see the jungle and life in a new, hopeful way.

Discussion Questions

 

1.  “How do you think following Romans 12:2 and not just copying everyone else can change the way we see the world and treat others?”

Potential Response: “I think if we follow Romans 12:2, it means we’re trying to do what God wants instead of just doing what everyone else is doing. This could make us kinder because we’d be thinking about what’s really good and right, not just what’s popular.”

2. “What kind of ‘map’ do you think you’re using to navigate your life? Is it one of fear, fun, confusion, or guided by God’s wisdom?”

Potential Response: “I think sometimes I use a ‘fun’ map because I just want to do things that are exciting. But I’m learning that a map guided by God’s wisdom is better because it helps me make smarter choices, not just fun ones.”

3. “How can looking at the world through God’s eyes change how we treat others and the decisions we make?”

Potential Response: “If we look at the world through God’s eyes, we might see people the way He does. Like, maybe we’d see that someone who is mean sometimes might be having a tough time and needs kindness. So, we might decide to be nicer to them instead of getting mad back.”

4. “Can you think of a time when you saw something one way, and then learned something new that changed your view?”

Potential Response: “Yes, once I thought a new student was unfriendly because she was always quiet. But then I learned she was just really shy and missed her old school. After I knew that, I tried to be more understanding and started talking to her more. We’re friends now!”

Connecting the Story

Like the jungle adventure, life is full of paths and choices. A Biblical Worldview, guided by verses like Romans 12:2, helps us see beyond the immediate and understand God’s greater plan. It encourages us to make decisions filled with love, wisdom, and purpose.

Remember, each day gives us a chance to put on our ‘God glasses’ and see the world through His love and truth, just like Paityn did. By doing so, we can find the true treasure in loving God and loving others, and lead a life transformed by His grace.

Play & Learn

Now that we’ve dived into the concept of a Biblical Worldview through our storytelling, let’s put these ideas into action with some interactive activities.

These will help reinforce our understanding and application of seeing the world through God’s eyes, guided by Romans 12:2, which tells us, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing, and perfect will.”

Activity 1: “Worldview Glasses”

Objective: The goal is for the children to create glasses that symbolize seeing the world through a Biblical lens, reinforcing the concept of a Biblical Worldview.

Materials:

• 
  Eyeglasses Cutout Template
  . Enough for each child.
• Sizzors, Glue or double-sided tape
• Cellophane. Clear or colored (or both)
• Set up a decoration station with markers, stickers, and other craft supplies.
• 
  Worldview Glasses Activity Scenario Cards

Step-by-Step Guide:

Explain to the children that they will be making special glasses that help them see the world as God wants us to see it. Relate this back to our story and Romans 12:2, discussing the idea of viewing the world differently from how others might.

Assembly: Hand out the glasses frame outlines and cellophane pieces for the lenses. Show the children how to attach the cellophane to the frames using tape or glue to create their ‘worldview glasses.’ Ensure each child has their own set to work on.

Have students write the words of Romans 12:2 on the inside of the glasses arms. Use an abbreviated version if needed.

Decoration: Once the glasses are assembled, invite the children to the decoration station. Encourage them to decorate their glasses in a way that reflects kindness, love, and God’s creation. While they work, engage them in conversation about how a Biblical Worldview might change the way we see everyday situations.

Reflection: After everyone has finished decorating, gather the children and ask them to put on their glasses. Present different scenarios or pictures, and ask how they might view these situations through their ‘worldview glasses.’ Encourage them to think about choices they can make that align with God’s teachings.

Reinforce the idea that these glasses represent the choice to see the world in a kind, loving, and God-pleasing way. Remind them of Romans 12:2 and encourage them to try to see the world through these lenses every day.

Using the Glasses and Scenario Cards in Role-Playing:

Divide the children into small groups and distribute one scenario card to each group. Ensure each group has a diverse set of scenarios over the course of the activity to cover a range of issues.

Setup: Instruct each group to read their scenario aloud and discuss it among themselves first. They should decide who will play each role in the scenario. Encourage them to use their decorated glasses while role-playing to remind them to view the situation from a biblical perspective.

Role-Playing: Each child takes a turn acting out what they would do in the situation based on their understanding of biblical teachings. Other group members can offer suggestions or alternative actions based on different virtues like kindness, patience, or honesty.

After acting out the scenario, the group discusses the actions taken and talks about how those actions reflect a biblical worldview. This discussion should focus on why certain choices might please God and how they can apply these lessons in real life.

Activity 2: “My Worldview Map”

Objective: This activity helps children visualize how they can navigate life using the Bible as their guide, similar to how a map guides someone on a journey.

Materials:

• Prepare large sheets of paper or butcher paper, enough for each child. These will serve as the base for their maps.
• Write out or print small papers with Bible verses, including Romans 12:2, and prepare them along with glue or tape.
• Arrange markers, crayons, and colored pencils in an accessible area for children to use.

Step-by-Step Guide:

Start by explaining that just as explorers use maps to find their way, we can use the Bible and God’s teachings to help guide us through life. Each child will create their own life ‘map’ that includes roads, paths, or landmarks representing different parts of their lives (home, school, church, etc.).

Map Creation: Distribute the large sheets of paper and drawing materials. Assist the children in outlining their life maps, encouraging them to think about the important areas and paths in their lives. Help each child start by drawing a large circle in the middle of their paper, representing themselves.

From this center point, guide them to draw lines outward, leading to different significant areas or aspects of their lives. These could include:

    🏠 Home: A house symbol

    🏫  School: A book or school building symbol

    ⛪  Church: A cross or church building

    🫂  Friends: Interconnected smiley faces

    🎮  Hobbies: Icons representing their favorite activities

Applying Scripture: Introduce the Bible verses, including Romans 12:2, and explain how these can act as signposts on their maps. Help each child decide where to place their verses on the map, guiding them to consider where they need guidance or wish to remember God’s will in their daily lives.

Assist children in choosing which verses to place along the paths on their map. For instance, they might place Romans 12:2 on the path to school to remind them to stay true to their values in that setting.

Here are a few Bible verses that align well with the idea of using Scripture as guidance in our daily lives, suitable for inclusion in your map-making activity to help children visualize how biblical principles influence various areas of their life:

★ Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

This verse is perfect for the path leading to school or decisions, emphasizing reliance on God rather than solely on personal judgment.

★ Philippians 4:13 – “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

Great for paths related to challenges, such as learning new subjects or participating in sports.

★ Matthew 5:9 – “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”

Ideal for the area involving friendships or social interactions, encouraging children to foster peace and understanding among peers.

★ Ephesians 4:32 – “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.”

Suitable for family and home paths, reminding children of the importance of kindness and forgiveness within their family unit.

★ Joshua 1:9 – “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

A powerful encouragement for areas related to personal fears or challenges, such as moving to a new school or dealing with personal difficulties.

★ Colossians 3:23-24 – “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.”

This verse can be placed along paths dealing with work or hobbies, emphasizing the importance of doing one’s best as a form of service to God.

★ Psalm 119:105 – “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”

This verse can be central on the map, symbolizing how Scripture guides every step and decision in life.

Personalization: Encourage the children to personalize their maps with drawings, symbols, or words that represent their journey and aspirations. They can illustrate their families, favorite places, dreams, or how they can show kindness and faithfulness.

Once the maps are complete, allow each child to share their map with the group, explaining the significance of the places and verses they chose. This is a great opportunity for children to learn from each other and to understand different perspectives.

Wrap up by discussing how these maps can help remind them to live according to God’s guidance, making choices that reflect a Biblical Worldview. Encourage them to hang their maps in a place where they will see them every day as a reminder of the path they wish to follow.

Discussion Questions

1. “How do your ‘worldview glasses’ help you see situations differently?”

Possible Response: “They help me see how I can be kinder or how Jesus would want me to act.”

2. “What part of your ‘worldview map’ do you think is most important, and why?”

Possible Response: “The part where I put Romans 12:2 because it reminds me not to just do what everyone else does, but to think about what God wants.”

Conclusion of Activities:

Wrap up by reinforcing that our worldview affects how we see and respond to the world around us. Just like Paityn from our story, we can choose to navigate our lives with a map guided by God’s wisdom and love, helping us to see and act according to His will, as encouraged by Romans 12:2.

Jesus Connection

In our lesson on a Biblical Worldview, we’ve been learning about seeing the world through God’s eyes, like wearing special glasses that help us understand right from wrong and good from bad. Now, let’s talk about someone very special who lived His whole life this way: Jesus.

Understanding Romans 12:2:

First, let’s talk about what Romans 12:2 means: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing, and perfect will.”

Conforming vs. Transforming:

“Conforming means doing things just because everyone else is doing them. But God asks us to be different—to transform. That means changing our thinking to be more like Jesus’ thinking. Can you think of a time when you decided to do the right thing, even when others were doing something else? That’s transforming!”

Renewing Your Mind:

“Renewing your mind means to make your thoughts fresh and new with God’s help. It’s like updating an old, slow computer to work fast and correctly. We renew our minds by reading the Bible, praying, and doing things that please God. What are some things you do to feel close to God?”

Testing and Approving God’s Will:

“This part is like being a detective. By learning more about Jesus and what He teaches us, we can figure out what is good and what God likes. When you’re kind to others, help your friends, or forgive someone, you’re living in a way that makes God happy. What’s one kind thing you did this week?”

Jesus’ Life: A Model of Non-Conformity

Jesus lived His life in a way that was often different from everyone else. He didn’t just go along with what others were doing or saying if it wasn’t part of God’s plan. For example, when people were mean or unfair, Jesus chose kindness and fairness.

When everyone else walked past someone who needed help, Jesus stopped and helped. He showed us that being part of God’s family means sometimes doing things differently from others.

Discussion

Can you think of a story where Jesus did something unexpected or different from what others were doing?

Being the Hands and Feet of Jesus

Having a Biblical Worldview means we try to live like Jesus. We can be His hands by helping others, and His feet by going places to spread kindness and love. When we make choices that show love and respect, we are following Jesus’ example.

How Jesus Never Conformed to the World:

Even when it was hard, Jesus stayed true to God’s ways. He didn’t lie, cheat, or ignore people who needed help. He showed us what it means to be brave and kind, even when others aren’t. That’s not conforming to the world; that’s transforming it, just like Romans 12:2 tells us. By living like Jesus, we can help transform our world too.

Reflect: What are some ways we can live like Jesus at school, at home, or with our friends? How can we show we’re following a Biblical Worldview and not just doing what everyone else does?

Concluding:

Remember, a Biblical Worldview isn’t just about what we believe inside; it’s about how we show those beliefs through our actions, just like Jesus did. He never conformed to the wrong things of the world but instead showed us a better way to live—a way filled with love, kindness, and truth.

Every day, we have choices to make. Let’s choose to be like Jesus, to be the hands and feet that spread God’s love wherever we go. That’s what having a Biblical Worldview is all about.

Creative Expressions

In this craft, we’re going to create something that will remind us every day how we can walk in Jesus’ footsteps, embodying a Biblical worldview by being the hands and feet of Jesus in the world around us.

Objective: To create a visual and interactive reminder for children to live out their faith through actions, just like Jesus did, and not conform to worldly behaviors.

Materials Needed:

• Construction paper or cardstock
• Yarn or ribbon
• Markers, crayons, and decorative items (stickers, glitter glue, etc.)
• Hole punch
• Scissors

Detailed Instructions:

1. If you’re starting with plain paper, have kids trace their footprints and handprints. (It can be done with shoes on or off.)  You may need to assist some of the less coordinated.

2. Allow kids to then cut out their four prints using scissors.

3. Punch a hole at the top of each footprint and handprint shape for hanging later.

4. Personalizing: Have the children think about the ways they can follow Jesus in their daily lives – how can they show love, kindness, and courage like He did?

5. On the handprints, have them write or draw actions that represent being Jesus’ hands – acts of kindness and service.

On the footprints, have them note ways they can be His feet – going out into the world to spread love and positivity.

6. Decorating: Encourage the children to decorate their hands and footprints with markers, stickers, and other materials. This is a chance for them to creatively express their commitment to living like Jesus.

Discussion While Crafting: As the children work, engage them in conversation. Ask them to share what they’ve written or drawn and why. Discuss how these actions can make a difference in their lives and the lives of those around them.

Creating the Hanging Display: Once the handprints and footprints are decorated, thread yarn or ribbon through the holes to create a hanging display. This can be placed in their room or home as a daily reminder to walk in Jesus’ footsteps.

Sharing and Reflection:

Reflect on the completed project: “Every time you see your footprints, remember that you’re following Jesus’ path. Just like He helped and loved others, you can do the same in your home, school, and community.”

Discussion Questions

1. “How can following these footprints help us be more like Jesus?”
Possible Response: “By doing what the footprints say, we’re doing kind and good things, just like Jesus did.”

2. “What might make it hard to follow these steps in real life?”
Possible Response: “Sometimes other people might make fun of us, or it might be easier to do something else. But we can remember Jesus and try to be strong like Him.”

3. “How do you feel when you follow Jesus’ example and do something kind?”
Possible Response: “I feel happy and proud because I know I’m doing the right thing.”

Conclusion:

Wrap up by affirming each child’s work and their commitment to living out a Biblical worldview, just like Jesus. Encourage them to hang their handprints and footprints somewhere they will see them every day as a reminder of the path they’re choosing to walk – one of kindness, love, and faith.

Parting Thoughts

As we wrap up today’s lesson on developing a Biblical Worldview and following in Jesus’ footsteps, let’s gather around and think about what we’ve learned and how we can apply it in our daily lives.

Biblical Worldview Recap

• A Biblical Worldview is a set of beliefs and ideas that Christians use to understand and respond to the world around them.
• We started today by exploring what it means to have a Biblical Worldview, like wearing special glasses that help us see the world the way God wants us to.
• We talked about how Jesus lived His life differently from others, not conforming to the wrong things in the world but transforming it with love, kindness, and truth. Remember, our big verse for today, Romans 12:2, teaches us not to follow what everyone else is doing but to let God change the way we think and act.

Encouraging for the Week Ahead:

“This week, I challenge you to be the hands and feet of Jesus in your world. Look for ways to help others, to be kind, and to make choices that would make God happy. Remember the crafts we made? Let them be your reminder this week to see the world through God’s eyes and to spread His love everywhere you go.”

Prayer Time

Let’s close our eyes and bow our heads for our final prayer.

“Dear God, thank you for teaching us about Your love and how to see the world through Your eyes. Help us to remember everything we learned today about being like Jesus and not conforming to the world.

Give us strength and courage to make good choices and to be kind to others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Final Encouragement:

“Before we say goodbye, I want to remind you to take home your crafts and the handouts we’ve provided. They’ll help you remember to keep looking at the world in a way that pleases God. And don’t forget, next week we’ll explore more wonderful stories from the Bible and learn how we can live out God’s truths every day.”

“Have a fantastic week, and I can’t wait to hear all the wonderful things you’ll do by being the hands and feet of Jesus. Remember, you are loved, and you have the power to make a difference!”

Keep Exploring

After exploring what it means to have a Biblical Worldview and how we can be the hands and feet of Jesus, here are some follow-up activities to continue learning and growing outside of our lesson time. These activities are designed to engage both the children and their families, reinforcing the concepts we’ve discussed and encouraging real-world application.

  

1. Worldview Week Diary:

Objective: Encourage children to keep track of how they apply their Biblical worldview in daily life.

Materials Needed:

• A small notebook or diary for each child
• Pens, pencils, or crayons

Instructions for Parents and Teachers:
Give each child a diary and challenge them to write down one action each day that reflects living out a Biblical worldview. This could be a kind act, a moment of honesty, a decision that was different from the crowd, or a time when they shared Jesus’ love with someone.

At the end of the week, have a discussion about what they wrote. Share how these actions made them feel and how they think it impacted others.

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2. Family Service Project

Objective: Put faith into action by planning and participating in a service project as a family or class.

Instructions for Parents and Teachers:
Discuss with your children or class about a community service project you can do together. It could be as simple as cleaning up a local park, visiting a nursing home, or helping a neighbor in need.

Plan and carry out the project together. Afterward, reflect on the experience and how it relates to being the hands and feet of Jesus.

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3. Reflection and Sharing Time

Objective: Create a safe space for children to share experiences and reflections on applying their Biblical worldview.

Instructions for Parents and Teachers:
Once a week, set aside time for children to share experiences where they felt they were living out their Biblical worldview.

Encourage open discussion and positive reinforcement for shared stories and experiences. This can be a time of encouragement and growth for both the sharer and the listeners.

These follow-up activities aim to bridge the gap between learning about a Biblical worldview and living it out in everyday life. By engaging in these activities, children can see the practical implications of their faith and learn to navigate the world around them with love, kindness, and a perspective rooted in the teachings of Jesus.

Additional Tips for Teachers and Parents

Navigating the journey of instilling a Biblical worldview in children can be both rewarding and challenging. Here are some additional tips for teachers and parents to enhance the learning experience and ensure the message resonates deeply with the children.

1. Model the Behavior:
Children learn a lot by observing the adults around them. Strive to model a Biblical worldview in your own actions. Let them see you making choices and reacting to situations in ways that reflect Jesus’ teachings. Share your own experiences where you had to choose between conforming to the world or following God’s way.

2. Encourage Questions:
Create an environment where children feel safe to ask questions about what they’re learning. Some concepts might be difficult to understand, and having open discussions can help clarify their thoughts and feelings. Remind them that it’s okay to have questions about the Bible and their faith.

3. Use Everyday Situations:
Find teachable moments in everyday situations to discuss the Biblical worldview. Whether it’s a decision about how to treat a sibling or an ethical dilemma in a movie, use these opportunities to discuss what a Jesus-centered response looks like.

4. Provide Resources:
Offer children access to age-appropriate Bibles, storybooks, and online resources that reinforce Biblical teachings. Encourage them to read or watch stories from the Bible, and discuss how those stories can apply to their own lives.

5. Continuous Learning:
Encourage continuous learning and exploration of the Bible at home and in the classroom. Suggest setting aside a regular time for Bible reading and discussion, which can help deepen their understanding and application of a Biblical worldview.

6. Praise Efforts:
Acknowledge and praise children when you see them applying their Biblical worldview in real life. Positive reinforcement can motivate them to continue making choices that align with God’s teachings.

7. Pray Together:
Incorporate prayer into your discussions about a Biblical worldview. Pray with the children for wisdom, guidance, and strength to live according to God’s will, and encourage them to pray on their own as well.

8. Connect with Community:
Engage with your church or faith community to provide additional support and learning opportunities for the children. Group activities, Sunday school, and church services can all reinforce the lessons learned in class and at home.

9. Be Patient:
Understand that developing a Biblical worldview is a process that takes time. Be patient with the children as they grow and learn, and be there to guide them through their questions and challenges.

10. Feedback and Reflection:
Regularly ask for feedback from the children about what they’re learning and how they’re applying it to their lives. Encourage them to share their successes and struggles, and reflect together on how they can continue to grow in their understanding and application of a Biblical worldview.

By incorporating these tips into your teaching and parenting, you can help children build a strong foundation in their faith and navigate the world with a perspective that honors God and reflects His love and truth.

Joyful Noises

“I Have Decided to Follow Jesus”

This song emphasizes the personal commitment to follow Jesus, regardless of others’ choices. It’s a declaration that fits well with the theme of not conforming to the world but being transformed by renewing our minds, as encouraged in Romans 12:2. It can help children think about their own decisions to choose God’s ways over the world’s.

“This Little Light of Mine”

While this song is often suggested for its simplicity and joy, it’s also profoundly relevant to a lesson on Biblical Worldview. It encourages children to shine their light—representing truth, kindness, and Jesus’ love—in a world that often promotes the opposite. It’s a fun way for kids to remember to live out their faith and show others what it means to follow Jesus.

“My Lighthouse” by Rend Collective

This energetic song can help children understand that God is our guide and lighthouse, leading us through life. It reinforces the trust we should place in God’s guidance when shaping our worldview and making decisions.

4th-6th Grade
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Our world is full of questions about who we are and where we belong. There are so many places and things that people say can give us these answers—like what we’re good at, what we look like, or even what others say about us.

But the Bible shows us something different. It tells us that our true identity and purpose come from God. He made each of us in His image, unique and full of worth.

Hello Adventure!

Hello, wonderful explorers! Today, we’re setting off on an exciting adventure into the heart of what it means to discover our identity and purpose. But we’re not just looking for any answers; we’re diving deep into what the Bible tells us about who we are and why we’re here. It’s a journey to understand our true identity in Christ. 

Objective: Our mission is to discover that our true identity and purpose is not found in culture or society, but comes from God.

Prayer Time

“Dear God, thank You for loving us and making each of us special. As we learn more about our identity and purpose in You, help us to understand and remember that we are Your children, made in Your image. Show us how to live out the unique plan You have for each of us.

Guide us in Your ways, so we may walk in the path You have set for us, using our talents and gifts to glorify You. Teach us to serve others with love and to fulfill the roles You have designed for us in this world. Amen.”

Ice Breaker: “Who Am I”

This ice breaker helps students get to know each other while also introducing the concept of identity through a fun and interactive game. It emphasizes that, much like we may not immediately recognize the Bible character on our own sticky note, sometimes our own identities might feel like a mystery to us—but they are always known to God.

Materials Needed:

• Sticky notes (one for each participant)
• Markers
• List of Bible characters (ensure a diverse mix of well-known and lesser-known characters to increase the challenge and educational aspect)

Instructions:

Before the session, write the name of a different Bible character on each sticky note using the markers. Make sure the names are clearly legible.

Gather all participants in a circle and explain the objective of the game: “You will each have a sticky note with the name of a Bible character on it placed on your forehead. Without looking at your own note, you’ll ask yes or no questions to figure out which character you are!”

Hand out the sticky notes randomly to each participant. Ask them to avoid looking at their note and help each other place them on their foreheads without revealing the character names.

Playing the Game:
Participants take turns asking the group yes or no questions about their character, such as “Am I a woman?” or “Did I interact with Jesus directly in the Bible?”
Allow each person to ask only one question per turn to keep the game moving smoothly.

The game continues until each participant successfully guesses their Bible character.

Discussion Questions

“How did it feel to not know your own identity in the game? Does this relate to how we sometimes feel about ourselves in real life?”

“What helped you figure out who you were? How can we apply these strategies to understanding our own identities?”

“In what ways does knowing the stories of these Bible characters help us understand different aspects of God’s plan?”

“How does realizing that God knows each of us intimately, just as we came to know the characters, impact your feelings about your relationship with God?”

“How can we help each other in our community or church to better understand and support each other’s identities?”

“What are some ways we can remind ourselves and others about how God sees us, especially on days when we might feel uncertain about who we are?”

Concluding the Activity:
Wrap up the discussion by emphasizing the importance of community in helping us explore and affirm our identities as God’s children. Highlight that just as they worked together to discover the identities of the Bible characters, they can support each other in their spiritual journeys and personal growth.

Introducing the Story

In our culture, it’s common to look for our identity in many places—our hobbies, our looks, or even our friendships. But what if we told you that there’s something much more stable and true that can tell us who we are? Today, we’re exploring how being followers of Jesus changes everything about our identity and purpose. We’ll see how God’s view of us is the most important and discover the incredible plans He has for our lives.

Get ready! We’re about to uncover the most wonderful truth about ourselves through the eyes of our Creator. Let’s embark on this adventure with open hearts and eager minds.

Identity and Purpose in Christ

Gather around, as we dive into a story that’s not just a tale from long ago but a guide to understanding who we are today. This story isn’t about a far-off land or mythical creatures; it’s about you, me, and a journey to discover our true identity and purpose through God’s eyes.

Storytelling

Imagine standing in front of a giant mirror, but instead of showing your reflection, it shows you as different characters: an astronaut, a teacher, a doctor, a chef… With each change, you wonder, “Is this who I’m meant to be?” This mirror is like the world around us, offering endless reflections of who we could be, based on what we do or what others say about us.

But then, the mirror changes once more, and this time, it shows something different—not a job, a title, or a role, but you, surrounded by light, with the words “Loved, Chosen, Forgiven, Redeemed” floating around. This is how God sees you.

Let’s explore what these words mean, diving into the Bible to uncover the treasure of our true identity and purpose.

  

1. Loved Unconditionally

The Bible tells us in 1 John 3:1, “See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!“

Before you did anything to earn it, God already loved you immensely. You are His child, loved for who you are, not what you do.

“Think about this: even before you were born, before you did your first good deed or made your first mistake, God’s love for you was already overflowing. It’s like when your family loves you just because you’re you, not because you cleaned your room or got good grades. You are incredibly precious to God, simply because you exist. He loves you more than you can imagine, and nothing you do can make Him love you any more or any less. That’s the kind of unconditional love God has for you, His child.”

How does knowing you’re loved by God just because you’re you change how you see yourself?

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 2. Chosen for a Reason

In Ephesians 1:4-5, we learn that “He chose us in Him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in His sight. In love, He predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, according to His pleasure and will.”
God chose you to be part of His family, with a special role only you can fulfill.

“Did you know that out of all the people in the world, God picked you to be part of His amazing family? It’s true! Just like a coach picks team members for their unique skills, God chose you because He has a special plan that only you can do. Your role in God’s family is like a puzzle piece that fits perfectly. Without you, the picture wouldn’t be complete. This doesn’t mean you have to be perfect; it means that being yourself is exactly what God’s team needs. He’s excited about the part you’ll play in His big story.”

What does it feel like to know you were chosen by God even before the world was made?

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3. Forgiven Completely

Colossians 1:13-14 reveals, “For He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son He loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.“

Our mistakes don’t define us; God’s forgiveness does. He sees us as new creations, free from the past.

“Everyone makes mistakes; it’s part of being human. But here’s some really good news: our mistakes don’t have to stick to us like permanent stickers. Because of Jesus, God offers us forgiveness, which is like a do-over. When we say sorry and accept God’s forgiveness, He doesn’t just wipe our slate clean; He gives us a brand new one. It’s as if we get to start fresh, not as people weighed down by our past, but as new creations who are free to live joyfully and confidently. With God, every day is a new beginning, full of hope and possibilities.”

How does understanding God’s forgiveness help us forgive ourselves and others?

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4. Redeemed and Made New

Finally, 2 Corinthians 5:17 declares, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!“

Again, our mistakes don’t define us; God’s forgiveness does. He sees us as new creations, free from the past.

What does being a “new creation” in Christ mean for how we live our lives every day?

Discussion Questions

1. “How does it make you feel to know God loves you all the time?”
Possible Response: “It makes me feel really special. Even if I do something wrong or if my friends are being mean, I know God still loves me.”

2. “How cool is it that God picked you for His team before you were even born?”
Possible Response: “It’s awesome! It makes me feel important and like I have a special mission to find out.”

3. “How does knowing God forgives you help you forgive yourself or others?”
Possible Response: “It helps a lot. If God can forgive me for anything, I can forgive others too. It’s like letting go of a heavy bag I didn’t know I was carrying.”

4. “What does it mean to you to be a new person because of Jesus?”
Possible Response: “It’s like getting a brand new start every day. I can try to be better because I know I’m already made new by Jesus.”

5. “What word would you pick to describe you, knowing God loves and chose you?”
Possible Response: “Loved, because no matter what, I know God will always love me. That’s something I’m always sure about.”

6. “How do you think knowing you’re loved and chosen by God changes the way you decide to act?”
Possible Response: “It means I can choose to be kind and brave because I’m not scared. I want to be like that new kid’s friend because that’s what someone loved by God would do.”

Connecting the Story

As our story comes to a close, remember, the mirror showing “Loved, Chosen, Forgiven, Redeemed” is the truest reflection of who you are. Your identity isn’t built on shifting sands of opinions or circumstances but on the solid rock of God’s truth about you.

Now, with hearts full of these truths, let’s step into some activities that will help us bring these concepts to life and discover more about our unique purpose and identity in Christ.

Play & Learn

Now that we’ve dived into what the Bible says about our identity and purpose, let’s put those concepts into action with some interactive activities designed specifically for you, our 4th through 6th graders.

These activities will help reinforce our understanding of how deeply loved, chosen, and forgiven we are by God, and how we can live out our unique purpose.

Activity 1: “Identity Puzzle Pieces”

Objective: This activity aims to help children explore and articulate various aspects of their identity in a fun and interactive way, reinforcing the concept that each person is uniquely created by God with a purpose. It emphasizes how individual traits and talents come together to form a complete picture, reflecting God’s design.

Materials Needed:

• Large poster boards (one per group of 4-5 children)
• Pre-cut puzzle pieces from card stock (large enough for children to write on)
• Markers, crayons, and colored pencils
• Stickers and other decorative items
• Glue or double-sided tape

Instructions:

Start by discussing the concept of identity, explaining that just like a puzzle, our identity is made up of many different pieces—interests, talents, relationships, and beliefs.

Mention that each of us is like a unique puzzle designed by God, and each piece is important.

Divide the children into small groups and give each group a large poster board and a set of blank puzzle pieces.

Ask each child to choose a few puzzle pieces and write or draw something about themselves on each piece. Examples might include:

– One piece for a talent or hobby they have.
– One piece for an important relationship (like family or friends).
– One piece for something they believe in or value (like a verse from the Bible or a personal motto).
– One piece for their aspirations or dreams for the future.

Puzzle Assembly

Once all the children in the group have decorated their pieces, they should work together to assemble their puzzles on the poster board. They can arrange the pieces however they like, but they should fit together to form a complete picture.

Encourage them to discuss how their individual pieces contribute to the group’s overall picture, reflecting on how our individual identities contribute to our communities.

Have each group present their completed puzzle to the class. Each child can share one of their pieces and explain how it represents a part of who they are.

Discuss how all the different pieces are necessary to complete the puzzle, just like each person’s unique abilities and qualities are important in God’s eyes.

Discussion Questions

Lead a reflection on how this activity might help them see themselves and others differently. Ask questions like:

“How does seeing everyone’s pieces together change how you think about your own identity?”

“What did you learn about someone else that surprised you?”

Wrap up by emphasizing that just as every puzzle piece was needed to complete the picture, every child is valuable and plays a unique role in their community and in God’s plan.

Encourage the children to think about how they can help others in their community fit in and feel valued, just like they worked together to fit every piece into the puzzle. Suggest they bring this mindset to their interactions at school, at home, and during extracurricular activities.

Activity 2: “Path To Purpose Obstacle Course”

Objective: This interactive game helps children understand the journey of discovering their purpose in a fun, physical way. Through a series of obstacle challenges, the game simulates the various hurdles and decisions we encounter in life, emphasizing that each choice and challenge helps shape our God-given purpose.

Materials:

• Cones or markers to set up different sections of the obstacle course.
• Various props for obstacles, such as hoops, ropes for a tug-of-war section, bean bags for a throwing station, and puzzles or riddles.
• Signs with Bible verses or inspirational quotes that relate to purpose and determination.
• A bell or buzzer at the finish line.

Setup:

Create an obstacle course using cones, tape lines, chairs, and/or tables, that includes different types of challenges – each one designed to represent a different aspect of life’s journey toward discovering and fulfilling one’s purpose. Here are the stations/challenges:

Puzzle Station – Symbolizes solving problems and figuring out where talents and interests lie. Kids arrive at a table where a simple puzzle or a riddle awaits them. They must solve the puzzle or riddle before moving on. This station tests problem-solving skills and symbolizes piecing together one’s talents and interests.

Proverbs 16:9 – “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” This verse helps children understand that while we make plans, God guides us, helping us piece together our life’s purpose as He sees fit.

Tug-of-War Section – Represents overcoming personal and external challenges. This station involves a short tug-of-war challenge, either against a fixed object or as a team challenge. It represents overcoming personal and external challenges through strength and perseverance.

Ephesians 6:10 – “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.” This verse emphasizes reliance on God’s strength when facing challenges, reminding participants that overcoming obstacles is part of God’s plan for building resilience and character.

Precision Throw – Using bean bags to hit targets, symbolizing focusing on goals and making precise decisions. Students must throw bean bags into designated targets that vary in difficulty. This station emphasizes the importance of making precise decisions and aiming for goals.

Philippians 3:14 – “I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” This verse encourages focus and determination, inspiring children to aim for their goals with the confidence that God has set a purposeful path for them.

Balance Beam – Walk across a beam or a line of tape, representing staying balanced and focused amidst distractions. Students walk across a balance beam or a marked line while carrying a book or another object on their heads, focusing on maintaining balance and concentration amidst life’s distractions.

Psalm 119:105 – “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” This verse underscores the importance of God’s Word in guiding us, helping maintain spiritual balance and focus amidst the distractions of life.

Verse Memorization – Quick station where participants must read and then recite a Bible verse about purpose and perseverance. At this station, kids pick a card with a Bible verse about purpose and perseverance, read it, and then recite it from memory to a volunteer or record it on a provided device. This emphasizes the importance of scripture in guiding life’s path.

Jeremiah 29:11 – “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” This well-loved verse reinforces the theme of divine purpose, encouraging children to trust in God’s plan for their lives, which is always for their good and His glory.

Instructions:

Explain to the children that each part of the course represents different challenges and milestones in understanding and living out their God-given purpose.

Divide children into small teams or have them run the course individually, depending on the group size.

Running the Course: Children begin the obstacle course at the starting line, progressing through each station. At each station, they must complete the designated task before moving on.

Have participants line up at the start line. If in teams, the first member of each team will begin the course on your signal. If individuals are running the course, stagger their start times to manage congestion at the stations. Start the course with a clear signal (whistle, shout, or bell).

Navigate the Stations

Volunteers or staff should be positioned at each station to ensure safety, provide instructions, and help keep the activity moving smoothly. They can also offer encouragement and hints if a child struggles with a task. Ensure that all participants are engaged and that no one is left struggling alone for too long. Adjust challenges on the fly if necessary to accommodate younger or less able participants.

As participants complete the final station, cheer them on to the finish line where they can ring a bell or buzzer to signify their completion. Have volunteers or staff members guide completed participants to a designated waiting area where they can cheer on their peers and await the group debrief.

A few notes for this activity:

• Keep track of time for each participant or team if the course is being timed for competitive purposes. However, emphasize that the goal is personal best and learning, not just speed.
• Ensure smooth transitions between stations, adjusting the flow of participants as needed to avoid bottlenecks.
• Continually monitor each station for potential safety issues. Be prepared to pause the course or make necessary adjustments to ensure all children are safe.
• As children engage with each station, encourage them to think about how each activity could relate to real-life scenarios where they might need to apply their faith, make decisions, or use their talents.
• Once all participants have completed the course, gather them together. Discuss what they learned about facing challenges and how these can relate to discovering their life’s purpose.

Discussion Questions

1. “Which part of the course was the most challenging and why?”

2. “How do you think the challenges on this course can relate to finding your purpose in life?”

3. “What did you learn about teamwork and helping others through challenges?”

Conclusion of Activities:

Conclude by emphasizing that like the obstacle course, life’s path to purpose is filled with various challenges and learning opportunities, and that each step, whether easy or difficult, is part of God’s plan to shape us into who we are meant to be.

Jesus Connection

Let’s dive into how knowing Jesus helps us figure out who we are and what we’re meant to do. Imagine Jesus as the best guide on our adventure to discover our true selves.

Loved and Chosen Just Like Jesus:

Even before Jesus started doing all the amazing things He did—like teaching, healing, and showing kindness—God made it clear to everyone that Jesus was His beloved Son. When Jesus was baptized, it was a special moment. Imagine the sky opening up and God’s voice saying, “This is my Son, whom I love; with Him I am well pleased.” (Matthew 3:17)

Wow, right? Before Jesus performed any miracles, God was already pleased with Him, just because He was His Son. In the same way, before we do anything, God loves us immensely. We don’t have to earn God’s love by being perfect or the best at something. We’re already loved and chosen by Him, which is pretty awesome. It’s like being chosen for the best team before you even try out, simply because the coach—God—thinks you’re fantastic just as you are.

• Just like your parents have special nicknames for you because they love you, God has special names for us, like “beloved” and “chosen.” This makes us super special to God, no matter what.

Helping Others Like Jesus Did:

Think about this: Jesus could have spent His time here being treated like a king, but instead, He chose to serve others. He made friends with people who had no one else, healed those who were sick, and always had time to listen and care. Jesus once said, “I came not to be served but to serve others” (Mark 10:45).

He showed us that what makes us truly important isn’t how many people do things for us, but how many people we can help and love. Being important in God’s eyes is about making a difference, even in small ways, like sharing your lunch or standing up for someone who’s being picked on. Jesus teaches us that our hands are meant for helping, not just for holding onto things for ourselves.

• Think of someone who needs a friend or some help. How can you show them kindness this week? It could be as simple as sharing your snacks or helping with homework.

Starting Fresh with Forgiveness:

Everyone messes up sometimes, right? But here’s the amazing news: because of Jesus, it’s like we can press the reset button whenever we need to. When Jesus died on the cross and then came back to life, He made it possible for us to start over—no matter what. 2 Corinthians 5:17 says, “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.” That’s like turning over a new leaf every single day.

Our past mistakes? Gone. Our failures? Erased. Every morning, we wake up as new creations, ready to live our best day yet. It’s like playing a video game where you always have another chance to win, no matter how many times you’ve lost before.

• Imagine if every bad choice or mistake was like a stain on your favorite shirt. Jesus’ forgiveness is like the ultimate stain remover, making everything new again. How does it feel knowing you can start each day fresh?

Following Jesus’ Footsteps:

Knowing all this—knowing we’re loved, chosen, and can start fresh—fills us with confidence and happiness. And when we live like Jesus, showing kindness, love, and helping those around us, we’re doing exactly what we were made to do. It’s like if you were designed to be the world’s greatest inventor, painter, or storyteller; when you’re inventing, painting, or telling stories, you feel right.

That’s how we feel when we live like Jesus, doing good things for others and loving them just like He loves us. It’s not always about doing big things; even small acts of kindness show the world who we are and whose we are—God’s kids, living out our amazing purpose.

• Let’s make a “Following in Jesus’ Footsteps” chart. For one week, write or draw one thing you did each day that was like Jesus—maybe you shared, helped someone, or chose to be kind even when it was hard. See how being like Jesus can make a big difference in your day!

Wrapping Up:

Friends, Jesus shows us the best way to understand who we are and what we’re meant to do. Remember, in God’s eyes, you are super special—loved, chosen, and given a brand new start because of Jesus. Let’s live out that love by helping and caring for those around us, just like Jesus would.

Creative Expressions

Let’s get creative and make something that will help us remember everything we’ve learned about being loved, chosen, forgiven, and made new by God. This craft will be a daily reminder of our identity in Christ and how we can live out our purpose.

Objective: To create a personal bookmark that reflects each student’s understanding of their identity in Christ and serves as a reminder of how they can live out their God-given purpose.

Materials Needed:

• Heavy paper or cardstock cut into bookmark-sized strips
• Markers, colored pencils, and crayons
  Stickers with Christian symbols (crosses, doves, fish, etc.)
• Glue and glitter (optional for decoration)
  Hole punch and ribbons or yarn
• Printed Bible verses related to identity in Christ (Ephesians 2:10, 1 John 3:1, Mark 10:45, 2 Corinthians 5:17)

Instructions:

Start by thinking about what colors or symbols best represent your identity in Christ. Maybe blue for peace, a cross for faith, or a bright color to show joy. Use the markers, pencils, and crayons to decorate your bookmark in a way that shows what being loved, chosen, forgiven, and made new means to you.

Adding Bible Verses:
Choose one or more of the printed Bible verses that speak to you the most about your identity in Christ. Glue these onto your bookmark. You can decorate around them with drawings or stickers that match the theme of the verse.

Making It Sparkle:
If you like, add some glitter to your bookmark to make it stand out. Remember, the glitter is like the special touch that God puts on our lives, making us shine in our own unique way.

Finishing Touches:
Punch a hole at the top of your bookmark and thread a piece of ribbon or yarn through it. This ribbon can be a reminder of the connection we have to Jesus, tying us to Him.

Reflection and Sharing

After everyone has completed their bookmarks, it’s important to create a warm and inviting atmosphere for sharing. Arrange the seating in a circle to encourage a sense of community and togetherness. You might even light a candle (safely) in the center to symbolize the light of Christ that shines within each of us.

Before the sharing begins, guide the students through a brief moment of reflection. Ask them to hold their bookmarks and look at them quietly for a minute, thinking about what they’ve created and what it represents about their identity in Christ. Encourage them to think about the following questions silently:

“How do the colors, symbols, and verses on my bookmark represent who I am in God’s eyes?”

“What does this bookmark remind me about how I want to live out my purpose?”

Structured Sharing Time:

To ensure that everyone has a chance to share and feels comfortable doing so, you might introduce a “talking piece” — an object that only the person holding it can speak. This could be anything symbolic to the lesson, like a small cross or a heart-shaped rock.

As the talking piece is passed around the circle, invite each student to share their thoughts on the following:

The Design: “Explain the design of your bookmark. Why did you choose these particular colors, symbols, or decorations?”

The Verse: “Read the Bible verse(s) you included and share why it speaks to you about your identity in Christ.”

The Personal Meaning: “What does this bookmark mean to you personally? How will seeing it in your book remind you of who you are and how you want to live?”

Listening and Responding:

Encourage the rest of the group to listen attentively while each person shares. After someone has shared, before the talking piece moves on, invite anyone who feels moved to offer words of encouragement or a brief reflection on what was shared. This could be a simple affirmation like, “I really liked how you talked about forgiveness” or “Your bookmark reminds me that we’re all special to God.”

Wrapping Up the Sharing Time

Conclude the sharing session with a group affirmation. Have everyone place their bookmarks in the center of the circle (near the symbolic candle, if you used one) and say together, “We are all loved, chosen, forgiven, and made new by God.” This collective affirmation reinforces the lesson’s themes and the shared identity and purpose found in Christ.

Using Your Bookmark:

Keep your bookmark in your Bible or any book you’re reading as a constant reminder of who you are in Jesus. Every time you open your book, you’ll see your beautiful creation and remember that you are loved, chosen, forgiven, and made new to do great things for God.

Conclusion:
This craft isn’t just about making something pretty; it’s a way to express and remember the truths about our identity in Christ. It’s a personal reminder that we carry with us, helping us to live out our purpose with joy and confidence.

Parting Thoughts

As we come to the close of our journey today, exploring our identity and purpose through a Biblical worldview, let’s take a moment to reflect on the treasures we’ve discovered. Remember, each of you is a masterpiece created by God, loved immensely, chosen for a special purpose, forgiven completely, and made brand new in Jesus.

Recapping Our Adventure

• We Are Loved and Chosen: Just like Jesus was called God’s beloved Son, each of you is loved and chosen by God. You don’t have to earn His love; you are precious to Him just as you are.
• Called to Serve: We learned from Jesus that being great means serving others. Looking for ways to help and show kindness is part of our purpose.
• A Fresh Start: Jesus gives us a fresh start every day. Our mistakes from yesterday don’t have to define today or tomorrow. In Christ, we are new creations.
• Living Out Our Purpose: Armed with the knowledge of who we are in Christ, we can confidently live out our unique purposes, shining His light in all we do.

Your Identity Bookmark and Walking in Jesus’ Footsteps Journal:

Remember the crafts we made today—the “My Identity in Christ” bookmarks and the journals. Let these be daily reminders of your true identity and the steps you can take to live out your purpose. Look at your bookmark every time you open a book, and let it remind you of God’s love and your incredible value to Him. Use your journal to track your journey, noting the ways you choose to serve and love others like Jesus.

Prayer Time

Let’s close with a prayer, giving thanks and asking for God’s guidance as we seek to live out our identities in Him.

“Dear God, thank You for showing us through Your Word how much You love us, that we are chosen, forgiven, and made new. Help us to remember these truths every day and to live out the special purpose You have for each of us. Guide our steps, help us to serve others with kindness, and to reflect Your love in all we do. Amen.”

Going Forth:
As you go from here, remember that you carry with you the light of Christ. You are equipped to face whatever comes your way because you know who you are in Him. Look for opportunities to be His hands and feet in the world, serving and loving those around you. And always remember, you are a cherished child of God, with a purpose only you can fulfill.

Thank you for joining in this adventure today. Keep exploring, keep serving, and keep shining bright for Jesus!

Keep Exploring

As we wrap up our lesson on discovering our identity and purpose in Christ, let’s look forward to how we can continue this journey of exploration and growth. Here are some follow-up activities and ideas to help you keep reflecting on and living out your God-given identity and purpose.

1. Identity and Purpose Journaling:

Keep using your “Walking in Jesus’ Footsteps” journal to reflect on your daily experiences through the lens of your identity in Christ. Each week, try to write down:

• One way you saw yourself as loved, chosen, forgiven, or made new.
• One action you took to serve or help someone else, showing God’s love through your actions.

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2. Scripture Memorization Challenge:

Choose one of the key verses we talked about (Ephesians 2:10, 1 John 3:1, Mark 10:45, 2 Corinthians 5:17) and challenge yourself to memorize it. Write it on a card to keep in your pocket, or use your craft bookmark as a reminder. Share the verse with a friend or family member and explain why it’s important to you.

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3. Purposeful Acts of Kindness:

Plan to do one deliberate act of kindness each week. This could be something simple like writing a thank-you note to someone who has helped you, doing a chore at home without being asked, or spending time with someone who might be feeling lonely. Before you act, remind yourself of your purpose in Christ—to love and serve others.

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4. Family or Friend Discussion:

Share what you’ve learned about identity and purpose in Christ with your family or friends. You could:

• Lead a family devotion time where you share the key points from our lesson.
• Start a discussion with a friend about what it means to be loved and chosen by God.
• Ask a parent or guardian to help you find ways to serve others together as a family.

Conclusion and Encouragement

Remember, discovering our identity and purpose in Christ is a lifelong journey. Each day is an opportunity to learn more about who God has created you to be and how you can live out your unique purpose. Keep exploring, keep asking questions, and keep trusting God to guide you every step of the way. You are a cherished child of God, with a special role to play in His grand story.

Additional Tips for Teachers and Parents

Navigating the journey of instilling a Biblical worldview in children can be both rewarding and challenging. Here are some additional tips for teachers and parents to enhance the learning experience and ensure the message resonates deeply with the children.

1. Model the Behavior:
Children learn a lot by observing the adults around them. Strive to model a Biblical worldview in your own actions. Let them see you making choices and reacting to situations in ways that reflect Jesus’ teachings. Share your own experiences where you had to choose between conforming to the world or following God’s way.

2. Encourage Questions:
Create an environment where children feel safe to ask questions about what they’re learning. Some concepts might be difficult to understand, and having open discussions can help clarify their thoughts and feelings. Remind them that it’s okay to have questions about the Bible and their faith.

3. Use Everyday Situations:
Find teachable moments in everyday situations to discuss the Biblical worldview. Whether it’s a decision about how to treat a sibling or an ethical dilemma in a movie, use these opportunities to discuss what a Jesus-centered response looks like.

4. Provide Resources:
Offer children access to age-appropriate Bibles, storybooks, and online resources that reinforce Biblical teachings. Encourage them to read or watch stories from the Bible, and discuss how those stories can apply to their own lives.

5. Continuous Learning:
Encourage continuous learning and exploration of the Bible at home and in the classroom. Suggest setting aside a regular time for Bible reading and discussion, which can help deepen their understanding and application of a Biblical worldview.

6. Praise Efforts:
Acknowledge and praise children when you see them applying their Biblical worldview in real life. Positive reinforcement can motivate them to continue making choices that align with God’s teachings.

7. Pray Together:
Incorporate prayer into your discussions about a Biblical worldview. Pray with the children for wisdom, guidance, and strength to live according to God’s will, and encourage them to pray on their own as well.

8. Connect with Community:
Engage with your church or faith community to provide additional support and learning opportunities for the children. Group activities, Sunday school, and church services can all reinforce the lessons learned in class and at home.

9. Be Patient:
Understand that developing a Biblical worldview is a process that takes time. Be patient with the children as they grow and learn, and be there to guide them through their questions and challenges.

10. Feedback and Reflection:
Regularly ask for feedback from the children about what they’re learning and how they’re applying it to their lives. Encourage them to share their successes and struggles, and reflect together on how they can continue to grow in their understanding and application of a Biblical worldview.

By incorporating these tips into your teaching and parenting, you can help children build a strong foundation in their faith and navigate the world with a perspective that honors God and reflects His love and truth.

Joyful Noises

“Who You Say I Am” by Hillsong Kids

Adapted for children, this song echoes the truth that we are who God says we are: chosen, not forsaken, children of God who are free indeed. It’s a beautiful affirmation of our identity in Christ, making it perfect for reinforcing the lesson’s themes.

4th-6th Grade
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Our world is filled with voices and ideas pulling us in different directions. Just like a ship on a stormy sea needs a lighthouse, people around us need the light of Jesus to find their way.

But how do we shine brightly without getting lost in the storm? How do we stay strong in what we believe, even when it’s not popular?

These are big questions, and God’s Word has some amazing answers for us.

Hello Adventure!

Today, we embark on an exciting journey unlike any other. We’re going to learn how to be Beacons of Hope in a world that sometimes feels a bit upside down. Imagine being a lighthouse that stands firm, guiding ships safely to shore, no matter how stormy the sea. That’s what we’re called to be in our world today. Matthew 5:14-16 tells us, “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Jesus is telling us that we’re made to shine, to stand out, and to guide others to Him through our actions and words. 

Objective: It can feel challenging to be a beacon of hope when we’re faced with pressures to fit in or to hide our light. Maybe it’s being laughed at for not joining in on a mean joke, or feeling left out because we stand up for what’s right. But here’s the cool part: God promises to be with us, giving us strength and courage to be His light, even when it’s tough.

Prayer Time

Dear Lord, Thank You for each child here and the unique gifts You have given them. As we face different challenges and pressures from the world around us, we ask for Your strength and guidance. Help us to remember that we should always try to do what is right, just like Jesus did.

Give us courage to stand up for what we believe in and to choose kindness, even when others might not. Teach us to love others the way You love us, and to shine Your light in everything we do.

In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.

Ice Breaker: “My Light In The World”

Objective: This opening activity aims to get participants thinking creatively about how they can positively impact their surroundings. By using the metaphor of a flashlight, the activity illustrates how even small acts can brighten the lives of others and spread the love of Jesus.

Materials Needed:

• Small flashlights, one for each participant (LED keychain flashlights work well)
• Pieces of paper (enough for everyone)
• Pens or markers
• A darkened room (to effectively use the flashlights)

Setup and Introduction:

As participants enter, hand each person a small flashlight and a piece of paper.

“Today, we’re starting with a fun and thoughtful activity called ‘My Light in the World.’ Each of you has a flashlight, which we’ll use as a symbol of how you can shine Jesus’ light in your everyday life.”

Ask each participant to find a comfortable spot in the room and think about the ways they can make a difference in their school, neighborhood, or family.
Prompt them with suggestions to get started:

Think about a time when someone else’s kindness made your day better, or a situation where you felt you could have used some light in your life. Now, imagine how you can be that light for others.”

Give them a few minutes to write down one specific way they can shine Jesus’ light. This could be anything from offering a helping hand, sharing a kind word, inviting someone who is usually left out, or simply smiling at people more often.

Sharing in the Dark:

Once everyone has written down their idea, dim the lights in the room to create a darkened environment.

Invite kids to turn on their flashlights and, one by one, share what they’ve written. As each person speaks, instruct them to shine their flashlight towards the center of the room, creating a visual effect of their light joining with others.

Encourage the group to reflect on each shared idea and consider how all these small lights can come together to make a big difference.

 

Discussion Questions

After everyone has shared, lead a group discussion about the experience. Ask questions like,

“How did it feel to share your light? How did it feel to see all the lights together?”

Discuss the power of collective action and the impact of even the smallest gestures of kindness and love.

Concluding the Activity:

Conclude with a group affirmation or a short prayer, thanking God for the opportunity to be lights in the world and asking for the courage and creativity to carry out the ideas shared.

Remind everyone to keep their flashlights and their written ideas as a reminder of their commitment to shine brightly in their communities.

Introducing the Story

Today, we’re going to discover how, with God’s help, we can face cultural pressures with confidence and have a positive influence on society. (stand up to tough situations with courage and help make the world a better place.) We’ll learn to be brave, to love boldly, and to stand firm in our faith, shining as beacons of hope in our world.

Let’s get ready to explore how we can light up the world around us, showing everyone the love and hope of Jesus. Are you with me? Let’s shine bright, navigators!

A Beacon in Babylon

Let’s talk about a story that might seem familiar but holds deep truths for us today. This isn’t just any story; it’s a tale of courage, light, and the power to stand strong amid the storms of life and culture.

Storytelling

Imagine being taken far away from everything you know and love, to a place where your beliefs, your identity, and even your name are challenged. This happened to a young man named Daniel and his friends, who were taken to Babylon, a place with very different beliefs and practices from their own.

Daniel 1:8-16:

Daniel decided not to eat the king’s food and wine because that would make him unclean. So he asked Ashpenaz for permission not to make himself unclean in this way.

God made Ashpenaz want to be kind and merciful to Daniel. But Ashpenaz said to Daniel, “I am afraid of my master, the king. He ordered me to give you this food and drink. If you don’t eat this food, you will begin to look worse than other young men your age. The king will see this. And he will cut off my head because of you.”

Ashpenaz had ordered a guard to watch Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. Daniel said to the guard, “Please give us this test for ten days: Don’t give us anything but vegetables to eat and water to drink. Then after ten days compare us with the other young men who eat the king’s food. See for yourself who looks healthier. Then you judge for yourself how you want to treat us, your servants.”

So the guard agreed to test them for ten days. After ten days they looked very healthy. They looked better than all of the young men who ate the king’s food. So the guard took away the king’s special food and wine. He gave Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah vegetables instead.

Daniel 1:8-16 tells us that despite the pressure to conform to Babylonian culture, Daniel and his friends chose to stay true to their faith and beliefs. They were faced with a choice: eat the king’s rich food, which went against their dietary laws, or stand firm in their convictions. Daniel proposed a test, asking to eat only vegetables and water for ten days.

In the end, they looked healthier than those who ate the king’s food, showing that God honored their faithfulness.

The Challenge of Standing Out

Daniel and his friends stood out, not because they tried to be different, but because their faith and identity in God shone brightly in a culture that didn’t understand or respect their beliefs. They faced challenges and even danger, but their commitment to living out their faith influenced those around them, including kings and leaders.

Being a Beacon in Our World

Just like Daniel, we’re called to shine brightly in our world, even when it feels like we’re swimming against the current. It’s not about being against culture or hiding from it; it’s about showing a different way to live, one that’s full of love, kindness, and truth.

Think about a time you felt pressured to hide your faith or beliefs to fit in. How did it feel? What can Daniel’s story teach us about facing those moments with courage?

The Power of One Small Light

Sometimes, being a beacon of hope doesn’t mean making grand gestures. It can be as simple as choosing kindness over meanness, standing up for someone who’s being bullied, or sharing why your faith is important to you in a respectful conversation.

Discussion Questions

1. “Have you ever had to make a choice that set you apart from your friends or classmates because of your faith or beliefs? What happened?”

Potential Response: “Yeah, I remember a time when everyone was cheating on a test, and I chose not to. I was really worried I’d get a lower score, but I actually ended up doing okay. It felt good to know I didn’t compromise my integrity.”

2. “Why do you think it’s important to stay true to who we are and our beliefs, even when it’s difficult or when others don’t understand us?”

Potential Response: “Because it shows we’re strong in what we believe, and it might even make others curious about why we live the way we do. It’s like being a real-life example of our faith.”

3. “What are some small ways we can be a beacon of hope and light in our daily lives, at school or with our friends?”

Potential Response: “Simple things like helping someone who’s struggling, standing up for a classmate who’s being bullied, or just being a good listener can make a big difference. It’s like showing Jesus’ love in action.”

4. “Can you think of a time when someone’s small act of kindness made a big difference in your day? How did it make you feel?”

Potential Response: “One time, I forgot my lunch, and a friend shared theirs with me. It was a small thing, but it really meant a lot. It made me feel cared for and showed me how powerful kindness can be.”

Connecting the Story

Daniel’s story reminds us that our identity and purpose in Christ give us the strength to shine brightly, no matter our circumstances.

As we navigate our own “Babylons,” let’s remember that our light comes from God, and with Him, we can be beacons of hope and love in any culture.

Play & Learn

As we explore what it means to face cultural pressures with confidence and be a positive influence in society, let’s dive into some interactive activities.

These will help us understand how to apply the courage of Daniel and the call to be light in our everyday lives.

Activity 1: “Light in Action” Role-Play

Objective: This activity is designed to empower students to navigate challenging social situations with integrity and courage, inspired by biblical principles. Through role-play, they’ll practice standing firm in their faith and responding with kindness and wisdom.

Materials Needed:

• 
  Light In Action Activity Scenario Cards
• Decision Wheel: Create a large spinner or wheel divided into sections with different positive response options.
• Props: Gather simple props to help make the role-plays more engaging, such as school supplies, a pretend phone, or a notebook.

Instructions:

Briefly discuss the importance of responding to challenges in ways that reflect our identity in Christ. Introduce the scenario cards and decision wheel as tools to explore different responses.

Each group picks a scenario card at random. Give them time to discuss the situation and decide how they want to handle it. They can spin the decision wheel for inspiration but are not limited to the options presented.

Groups plan a short skit demonstrating their chosen response to the scenario. Encourage them to use the props and to think about what words and actions can positively influence the outcome.

Groups take turns performing their skits. Encourage the audience to pay close attention to the different approaches.

Reflection

After each performance, facilitate a class discussion. What did they think of the group’s approach?

Could they see themselves doing something similar? What other responses might also be effective?

Discussion Questions

“How did it feel to think of positive ways to handle tough situations? Can you see yourself doing this in real life?”

Potential Response: “It felt empowering to think of good ways to respond. I hope I can remember to do this when I’m actually facing something tough.”

Activity 2: “My Influence Map”

Objective: This reflective activity helps students visually map out their daily lives and identify specific, actionable ways they can be a positive influence in each area. It encourages them to see the potential for impact in their everyday interactions.

Materials Needed:

• Large Sheets of Paper: Enough for each student to have one.
• Markers, Colored Pencils, and Crayons: For drawing and decorating their maps.
• Stickers or Symbols: Prepare stickers or cutouts that can represent different environments or roles students have, such as a home for family, a book for school, and a ball for sports.
• 
  My Influence Map Example Actions

If you completed Lesson 1, you can replace the material list above with:

• Students Worldview Map from Lesson 1
• 
  My Influence Map Example Actions

Instructions:

Students start by drawing a map of their “world” on the large paper. This should include all the places they regularly interact with people, such as home, school, sports teams, clubs, and church.

Using the stickers or symbols, students mark these key areas on their map. Beside each symbol, they should write or draw one specific way they can shine Christ’s light there.

For each identified way to influence, students write a short plan on how they will implement this action in the coming week. Encourage them to be realistic and specific.

Sharing and Commitment: Pair students up to share their maps and plans. They should discuss what they think will be easy or challenging about their chosen actions. Encourage them to pray for each other, asking for courage and opportunities to act.

Discussion Questions

“Which part of your map are you most excited to bring light to, and why?”

Potential Response: “I’m excited to show more kindness at school because sometimes it feels like we really need it there. I think even just smiling at people can make a big difference.”

Conclusion of Activities:

These activities aren’t just about imagining what we might do in hypothetical situations; they’re about preparing us to live out our faith boldly and brightly in our real lives. Like Daniel, we have countless opportunities every day to stand firm in our beliefs and to shine our light in a world that often feels dark.

By practicing these responses and recognizing our areas of influence, we’re taking important steps toward becoming true beacons of hope and light in our culture.

As we wrap up today’s activities, remember that being a beacon isn’t always about doing big, noticeable things. Sometimes, it’s the small, consistent acts of kindness, faith, and courage that shine the brightest. Let’s go out and light up the world around us, one action at a time.

Jesus Connection

Let’s explore how Jesus provides us the perfect example and strength to face cultural pressures and be a positive influence on society. Jesus didn’t just live in the culture; He transformed it with love, truth, and grace. As we strive to be beacons of hope in our world, let’s look to Jesus for guidance and inspiration.

Jesus: Our Ultimate Role Model

Jesus lived in a time and place with its own cultural challenges, yet He never wavered from His mission or compromised His values. He engaged with all kinds of people, showing love and compassion to everyone from tax collectors to sinners, often challenging societal norms and expectations.

 Luke 5:27-32. In this passage, Jesus calls Levi, a tax collector, to follow Him and then dines with many tax collectors and sinners. The Pharisees and their scribes questioned this, to which Jesus responded, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.“

How does Jesus’ willingness to reach out to those who were excluded or looked down upon in His society inspire us to act in our own lives?

Potential Response: “It shows that being like Jesus means not just sticking with people who are just like us. We can be kind and make a difference by being friends with everyone, even if they’re not the popular or ‘cool’ kids.”

Facing Pressures with Confidence

Jesus faced misunderstandings, criticism, and even hostility with unwavering confidence because He knew His identity and purpose came from His Father. He lived out His mission with courage, showing us that our strength to face cultural pressures comes from our relationship with God.

John 15:18-19. Jesus warns His disciples, “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world.“

What are some pressures you feel to fit in or hide your faith, and how can knowing you’re chosen by God help you face them?

Potential Response: “Sometimes I’m scared to talk about going to church because I think others will think it’s weird. But knowing Jesus also felt left out for doing the right thing helps me not to be so worried about fitting in.”

Being a Positive Influence

Jesus didn’t just resist cultural pressures; He also actively worked to heal, teach, and uplift those around Him. We’re called to do the same—to not only stand firm in our beliefs but to actively spread kindness, justice, and love.

Matthew 5:13-16. This passage calls us to be “the salt of the earth” and “the light of the world,” encouraging us to let our good deeds shine before others to glorify our Father in heaven.

How can we be ‘salt and light’ in our schools, teams, or friend groups? Can you think of one action this week that could help someone see Jesus’ love through you?

Potential Response: “By being someone who always speaks kindly and helps out. This week, I can offer to help someone with their homework or invite someone sitting alone to join my friends and me.”

Conclusion:

Remember that facing cultural pressures isn’t about having all the answers or being perfect. It’s about leaning on Jesus, our ultimate role model, for strength and guidance. With Him, we can navigate any challenge and be a positive influence, transforming our corners of the world with His love.

Let’s move forward, inspired by Jesus’ example, ready to shine His light in all we do.

Creative Expressions

Salt and Light Mason Jars

Objective: To create a decorative mason jar that symbolizes our call to be salt and light in the world, inspired by Matthew 5:13-16.

Materials Needed:

• Mason jars, one per student
• White sand or salt to fill the bottom of the jars (representing “salt of the earth”)
• Small LED tea lights (symbolizing “light of the world”)
• Transparent colored paper or tissue paper
• Mod Podge or similar adhesive
• Paintbrushes for applying the adhesive
• Permanent markers
• Twine or ribbon for decoration
• Optional: Stickers or other decorative items that reflect Christian symbols

Instructions:

Begin by filling the bottom of each mason jar with white sand or salt, about an inch deep. This represents us being the salt of the earth, adding flavor and preserving goodness in the world.

Place a small LED tea light on top of the sand or salt inside the jar. This light will remind us that we are also called to be the light of the world, shining brightly to guide others.

Decorate with Color: Cut the colored paper or tissue into shapes, letters, or designs that you feel represent your light in the world. Using the paintbrush, apply Mod Podge to the outside of the jar where you’d like to place your paper pieces. Stick them on, then apply another layer of Mod Podge over the top to seal them.

Inscribe Your Jar: Use permanent markers to write or draw on the jar. You might include your favorite Bible verse about being light or salt, your name, or simply the words “Salt & Light.”

Finishing Touches: Wrap twine or ribbon around the neck of the jar for a decorative finish. Feel free to add any stickers or additional decorations that reflect your faith and individuality.

Discussion Questions

Once everyone has completed their Salt and Light Mason Jars, gather the group and encourage students to share their creations. Discuss the following:

1. What does your jar represent about your role as salt and light in the world

2. How can this jar remind you to be a positive influence in your daily life?

Potential Response: “My jar has bright colors to represent joy and love. It’ll remind me to spread happiness and God’s love wherever I go, just like light brightens a room.”

Reflection and Sharing

This craft is not only a fun and creative activity but also a meaningful reminder of our mission to be like Jesus—salt and light in our communities. By shining His light through our actions and words, and adding the preserving and flavor-enhancing qualities of salt to our world, we can make a significant impact.

Let your Salt and Light Mason Jar be a beacon in your room, reminding you daily of your calling and purpose.

Parting Thoughts

As we bring our lesson on being salt and light in a challenging culture to a close, let’s take a moment to reflect on what we’ve learned and how we can apply these lessons in our daily lives.

Our journey today has equipped us with the understanding and inspiration needed to face cultural pressures with confidence and to be a positive influence, just like Jesus.

Recap Of Our Adventure

• We learned from Daniel that standing firm in our faith, even in unfamiliar or difficult situations, can lead to incredible opportunities to shine God’s light.
• Jesus, our ultimate role model, showed us that engaging with those around us—offering love, grace, and truth—can transform lives and cultures.
• Through our crafts and activities, we’ve created tangible reminders of our identity and mission as Christians in the world.

Moving Forward with Purpose:

Remember, being salt and light isn’t limited to grand gestures or monumental acts. It’s found in the everyday moments—choosing kindness over indifference, standing up for what’s right, offering a word of encouragement, and sharing the love of Jesus in both word and deed.

Challenges for the Week Ahead:

Salt and Light Diary: Each day this week, jot down one way you were able to be salt or light in your world. It could be as simple as a smile to someone who looked lonely or as bold as sharing why you have hope in Christ with a friend.

Family Reflection: Share this lesson with your family during a mealtime. Discuss ways you can collectively be salt and light in your community.

Prayer Time

“Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for calling us to be salt and light in this world. Help us to remember the lessons of Daniel and the example of Jesus as we face the pressures and challenges of our culture.

Give us the strength and courage to shine Your light brightly, so others may see our good deeds and glorify You. Guide us this week as we seek to live out our purpose and make a positive impact on those around us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Final Encouragement

As you go from here, remember you are never alone in your efforts to shine. God is with you, providing the strength, wisdom, and courage needed to make a difference. Your light can brighten the darkest of places and lead others to the love and hope found in Jesus.

Carry your salt and light mason jars as a symbol of your commitment, and let’s look forward to the incredible ways God will use us to season and illuminate the world around us. Keep shining!

Keep Exploring

As our lesson on navigating cultural pressures and being a beacon of light concludes, the journey doesn’t end here. Continuing to shine in our daily lives requires ongoing reflection, commitment, and action. Here are some follow-up activities and ideas to keep the light bright and your salt savory in the days and weeks ahead.

1. Weekly Reflection Meetings: Organize small group meetings, either in person or online, where students can come together weekly to share their experiences of being salt and light. These meetings serve as a supportive space to discuss challenges, celebrate successes, and pray for each other.

Action Step: Set a regular time and day for the meetings. Encourage each participant to share at least one way they were salt and light in their week.

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2. Salt and Light Challenge Cards: Create a deck of challenge cards with simple, actionable ways students can be salt and light in their community. Each week, students can draw a new challenge to focus on.

Materials Needed: Index cards, markers, and a list of actions (e.g., “Compliment three people today,” “Help a family member without being asked,” “Invite someone new to join your lunch table”).

Action Step: Encourage students to keep the card with them as a reminder throughout the week. Share experiences at the next reflection meeting.

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3. Family Engagement: Encourage students to engage their families in being salt and light. This could involve family service projects, discussing Sunday’s sermon and how it applies to their mission, or simply praying together for specific needs in their community.

Action Step: Create a “Family Salt and Light Plan” where each member suggests one action the family can take together.

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4. Scripture Memory Verses: Select key verses about being salt and light and challenge students to memorize one each month. This helps ground their actions in biblical truth and provides spiritual encouragement.

Materials Needed: Memory verse cards.

Action Step: Check in at weekly meetings to recite the verses and discuss what they’ve learned from them.

Conclusion and Encouragement

The call to be salt and light doesn’t pause when our lesson ends; it’s a lifelong mission that grows and evolves with each step we take. By integrating these follow-up activities into your life, you continue to build upon the foundation laid in our time together.

Let’s keep our lights shining brightly and our salt seasoned generously, transforming our world one act of love at a time.

Additional Tips for Teachers and Parents

Fostering the ability in children to face cultural pressures with the confidence and love of Christ is an ongoing journey. As teachers and parents, your support, guidance, and example are invaluable. Here are some additional tips to help you nurture and encourage the young beacons in your care.

1. Lead by Example:
Children learn a great deal by observing the adults in their lives. Demonstrate how to be salt and light in your own actions. Whether it’s how you talk about others, handle difficult situations, or show kindness, let your actions reflect the teachings of Jesus.

Practical Application: Share stories from your own life where you had to stand firm in your beliefs or choose to be a positive influence. Discuss both the challenges and the outcomes.

2. Encourage Questions and Open Conversations:
Create an environment where children feel safe to express their doubts, questions, and thoughts about navigating cultural pressures. Use these discussions as opportunities to explore biblical principles together.

Practical Application: Dedicate time each week for open-ended discussions. Use prompts like, “Was there a moment this week when it was hard to be kind or truthful? How did you handle it?”

3. Use Real-Life Examples:
Identify and discuss real-life examples of individuals who exemplify being salt and light in their communities or the world. These can be historical figures, people from the Bible, or contemporary examples.

Practical Application: Choose a “Salt and Light” figure each month to study and discuss. Explore how their faith influenced their actions and the impact they made.

4. Foster Community Service:
Engage in service projects as a family or class. Serving together not only provides practical ways to be salt and light but also strengthens your sense of community and shared purpose.

Practical Application: Organize a monthly service project, such as volunteering at a local food bank, cleaning up a community park, or writing encouragement cards for nursing home residents.

5. Equip with Scripture:
Help children memorize scriptures that speak to being salt and light. Encourage them to turn to these verses when they need strength or guidance.

Practical Application: Create scripture cards together. Keep them in a place where they’re easily accessible, like on the refrigerator or in their school bags.

6. Celebrate Acts of Salt and Light:
Acknowledge and celebrate when children take steps to be salt and light, no matter how small. Positive reinforcement encourages them to continue these behaviors.

Practical Application: Create a “Salt and Light” board at home or in the classroom where you can post stories or pictures of acts of kindness or courage.

7. Cultivate a Missional Mindset:
Help children understand that being salt and light is part of their mission as followers of Christ. Discuss how even small acts can have a big impact on others and glorify God.

Practical Application: After watching a movie or reading a book, discuss the characters’ actions through the lens of being salt and light. Ask, “How did this character or story show the love of Jesus?”

Conclusion:
By implementing these tips, you’ll provide children with the tools, confidence, and support they need to navigate their world as salt and light.

Remember, your encouragement and example play a crucial role in helping them grow into faithful and impactful followers of Christ. Together, let’s cultivate a generation that shines brightly, transforming their surroundings with God’s love.

Joyful Noises

“This Little Light of Mine”

A classic choice that directly ties into the theme of shining brightly for Jesus. It’s an upbeat reminder for kids to let their lights shine in every situation.

“I Have Decided to Follow Jesus”

A declaration of commitment to follow Jesus, no matter the circumstances. This song encourages children to stand firm in their faith, even when faced with cultural pressures.

“He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands”

Reminds children of God’s sovereignty and care over everything. This song can help build trust and confidence in God’s control, especially important when navigating the challenges of being salt and light in the world.

4th-6th Grade
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In this lesson, we will explore what the Bible says about who we are, why we’re here, where we’re going, how we should live, and what the truth is.

We’ll learn about our incredible creation, discover God’s purpose for our lives, find out what our future holds with God, understand how to live according to His ways, and learn to identify the truth in a world full of different opinions. Each of these questions will help us understand more about ourselves and how we fit into God’s amazing plan.

I hope you’re ready to learn, share, and have fun as we explore these big questions together. Let’s get started!

Hello Adventure!

Today, we embark on a thrilling adventure, one that takes us deep into some of life’s biggest questions. Just like detectives, we’re going to use clues from the Bible to help us answer five important questions: “Where did I come from?” “Where am I going?” “Why am I here?” “How should I live?” and “What is the truth?” These questions are like the keys to understanding not just who we are, but how we fit into God’s amazing plan.

Objective: Our goal for today is to help each of you understand some of the most important questions about life from a biblical perspective. We aim to strengthen your faith and understanding, equipping you with the knowledge to confidently answer these questions not just in class but in your everyday lives.

What We’ll Discover:

• Where Did I Come From? – We’ll learn about our incredible creation and how each of us is wonderfully made by God.
• Where Am I Going? – We’ll explore what the Bible says about our journey beyond today and our future with God.
• Why Am I Here? – We’ll find out about God’s purpose for each of us and why He put us on this Earth.
• How Should I Live? – We’ll discover the ways God wants us to live our lives, treating others with kindness, standing up for what is right, and spreading His love.
• What Is the Truth? – We’ll learn how to identify truth in a world full of different voices and opinions, using the Bible as our ultimate guide.

Prayer Time

Dear God, thank You for bringing us together to explore these big questions about life. As we dive into Your Word, help us understand more about who we are, where we are going, and how we should live.

Give us clear minds and open hearts to receive Your truths.

In Jesus name, Amen.

Ice Breaker: “Who Am I?”

Purpose: This game will help us start thinking about identities and roles, warming us up for our deeper discussions on life’s big questions.

Materials Needed:

• Sticky notes
• Marker

Instructions:

Before the class, write down the names of different biblical figures on sticky notes—one for each child.

Game Play:

As each student enters the room, gently place a sticky note on their back without letting them see the name written on it.

Once everyone has arrived and has a sticky note, allow the students to take turns asking yes or no questions about the character on their back. Questions could be like, “Am I a woman?” or “Did I meet Jesus?”

They can ask only one question at a time and then must guess who they are based on the answers. They continue asking until they correctly guess their biblical figure.

Discussion Questions

After everyone has guessed their character, discuss briefly:

What is one major event or action this character is known for?

How might knowing this person’s story help us answer one of our big questions about life?

Introducing the Story

We’re going to dive into the Bible to find answers to the five big questions we talked about earlier. Each story we encounter will not only give us a deeper understanding of God’s plan but also show us how He has been guiding and loving us from the very beginning.

So, let’s open our hearts and minds to these incredible stories and discover how they connect to our own lives.

The Great Tapestry

As we journey through the story of creation and beyond, we’ll explore all five big questions that help us understand our place in God’s grand design: “Where did I come from?” “Where am I going?” “Why am I here?” “How should I live?” and “What is the truth?” Let’s dive into the biblical narrative that addresses each of these profound questions.

Storytelling

In this segment, we’ll use stories from the Bible to explore the five profound questions that shape our understanding of a biblical worldview. These stories help us see how God’s truths guide us through life.

★ Where Did I Come From? – The Creation Story (Genesis 1-2)

God created the world by simply speaking, and in six days, He made the heavens, the earth, and all living creatures. This shows us just how powerful and creative God is.

We are very special because God made us in His own image. This means we are different from all other creations. Every person is made with love and care, which means each of us is important and has a special job to do.

When God created the world, He wasn’t just making the sky, land, and animals. He was also starting a special relationship with people. We are the most important part of His creation because we are made to be like Him. This means we can show God’s love and goodness in the way we take care of the world and treat others.

Genesis 1:27 – “So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.“

This verse tells us that being made in God’s image means we can be creative, think deeply, build relationships, and know right from wrong. This makes us unique and gives us a special purpose.

Each person's life is intentional and valuable.

Discuss the specific ways God has equipped humans to be caretakers of the earth, from the diversity of skills to the command to rule over other creatures compassionately.

★ Where Am I Going? – The Promise to Abraham (Genesis 12:1-3)

When God promised Abraham that he would become a great nation, be blessed, and have a great name, it wasn’t just about Abraham. It was also about everyone who would come after him—including us. This promise means that everyone who is faithful will share in God’s blessings. It also hints at the coming of Jesus, through whom all nations would be blessed. This story helps us understand our future with God and how important it is to be faithful.

Abraham’s story shows us how faithful God is and how He has a plan for each of us. It reminds us that God’s promises last forever and that we are part of a big, amazing story that started a long time ago.

Genesis 12:2 – “I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing.“

This verse tells us that God’s promise to Abraham was not just about making Abraham happy. It was about making Abraham a blessing to others. This shows us that God’s plans are big and include making the world a better place through us.

God's promises are eternal and reliable.

Just as Abraham was promised to be a blessing to many, we are called to live lives that bless others in our communities and beyond.

★ Why Am I Here? – The Life of Joseph (Genesis 37, 39-50)

Joseph’s life had many ups and downs. He was sold into slavery by his own brothers but later became the second most powerful man in Egypt. Even though he faced many hardships, Joseph knew that God had a purpose for his life. God used Joseph to save many people during a great famine. This story shows us that we have a special purpose too, even when life is tough or uncertain. It encourages us to trust in God’s plan and find ways to help others, no matter what challenges we face.

Joseph’s story teaches us about being strong and trusting God. Despite many difficulties, Joseph’s faith in God’s plan gave him strength and wisdom. Because of this, he was able to save many lives.

Genesis 50:20 – “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.“

This verse shows us that even when others try to harm us, God can use those bad situations for good. Joseph’s life shows us that our challenges can prepare us for important roles that fulfill God’s plans.

We each have a divine purpose, even if it's not clear to us.

God equips us with unique talents and positions us in specific places and times to fulfill His plan.

★ How Should I Live? – The Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:1-17)

The Ten Commandments were given to Moses on Mount Sinai. They are direct instructions from God about how to live a good and righteous life. These commandments teach us how to have a good relationship with God and with other people. They include important rules like honoring our parents, not stealing, and not lying. These guidelines help us understand how to live in a way that makes society fair, loving, and faithful to God.

The Ten Commandments are very important for Christians because they show us how to live. They aren’t just rules; they help create a loving and just community.

Exodus 20:12 – “Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you.“

This commandment teaches us that respecting our parents and other authorities brings God’s blessings. It shows that respect is key to having strong families and communities.

The commandments show us how to live in a right relationship with God and others.

They protect us from harm and guide us to a fulfilling life.

★ What Is the Truth? – Jesus’ Teachings and Parables (Gospels)

Jesus often used parables, like the Parable of the Sower, to teach us about God’s kingdom and how we should live and believe. These stories reveal important truths about human nature, our relationship with God, and how we interact with others. Jesus teaches that truth is more than just an idea; it’s a way of life that comes from every word of God. By understanding and following Jesus’ teachings, we learn to see what is true in our daily lives and make decisions that show our faith.

Jesus’ parables are essential for understanding God’s kingdom and our part in it. They help us learn what God expects from us and how we should live.

Matthew 13:23 – “But the seed falling on good soil refers to someone who hears the word and understands it. This one produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown.“

The Parable of the Sower teaches us how important it is to be open to God’s word and let it change our lives. It challenges us to think about what kind of “soil” we are and how we can live in a way that is open to God’s truth and productive in the world.

Jesus' teachings offer practical wisdom for dealing with contemporary issues.

They encourage us to seek spiritual truths and live them out, impacting our communities positively.

These stories from the Bible provide more than historical accounts; they offer deep insights into how we can navigate our lives. By understanding our origins, destiny, purpose, moral foundation, and the essence of truth from a biblical perspective, we are better equipped to live lives that honor God and make a positive impact on those around us.

Discussion Questions

1. How does knowing that God made you on purpose change how you feel about yourself and how you treat other people?

Potential Response: Knowing that God made me on purpose makes me feel special and important. It also makes me want to be kind and respectful to others because I know God made them on purpose too.

2. How does God’s promise to Abraham about a blessed future make you think about God’s plans and promises for you?

Potential Response: God’s promise to Abraham shows me that God keeps His promises and has good plans for us. It makes me trust that He has good plans for my life too, even if I can’t see them right now.

3. How does Joseph’s faithfulness when things were tough help you trust God when you face your own problems?

Potential Response: Joseph stayed faithful to God even when things were really hard, and God helped him in the end. This makes me believe that if I trust God during my problems, He will help me too.

4. What are some ways you can follow the Ten Commandments in your everyday life?

Potential Response: I can follow the Ten Commandments by being honest, respecting my parents, not lying or stealing, and being kind to others. For example, I can honor my parents by listening to them and doing my chores without complaining.

5. How can the lessons from Jesus’ parables help you with problems and choices you face today?

Potential Response: The parables teach important lessons like being kind, forgiving others, and helping those in need. These lessons help me make good choices and handle problems in a way that pleases God, like forgiving a friend who hurt my feelings or helping someone who is sad.

Play & Learn

Engaging in activities helps to solidify the lessons learned from today’s Bible story, especially the theme of courage. These activities are designed to be interactive and enjoyable, allowing children to experience and practice the lesson in a safe environment.

Through creative and hands-on experiences, the kids will not only have fun but also deepen their understanding of how trusting in God can help them face their own challenges with identity and purpose.

Activity 1: “Creation Collage”

Objective: This activity will help children visually understand and reflect on the idea of being wonderfully made by God.

Materials Needed:

• Magazines, newspapers, or printed images
• Scissors
• Glue sticks
• Large sheets of paper or poster boards
• Markers, crayons, or colored pencils
• Bible

Instructions:

Gather a variety of magazines, newspapers, and printed images that children can use to create their collages. Ensure there are images that represent different aspects of life and creation, such as animals, plants, people, and natural landscapes.

Explain to the children that they are going to create a collage that represents the idea of being wonderfully made by God. Read Psalm 139:14, “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”

Creating the Collage:
Give each child a large sheet of paper or a poster board.

Ask them to cut out images from the magazines that they feel represent God’s creation and the idea of being wonderfully made.
Encourage them to think about the diversity of God’s creation and to include a variety of images.

Once they have selected their images, they can arrange and glue them onto their poster board.

Allow them to use markers, crayons, or colored pencils to add words or additional drawings to their collage.

 

Discussion Questions

After the collages are complete, ask the children to share their collages with the group.

1. What images did you choose and why?

2. How do these images remind you of God’s creation?

“These images remind me of the beauty and variety in God’s creation, which makes me appreciate the world more.”

3. How does knowing that you are wonderfully made by God make you feel?

“Knowing I am wonderfully made by God makes me feel special and loved.”

Let’s remember that each of us is a unique and wonderful creation of God. Just like the different images in your collages, God has made each of us special with our own unique qualities. This means that you are valuable and loved by God. Let’s celebrate our uniqueness and the amazing Creator who made us!

Activity 2: “God’s Plan Charades”

Objective: This game helps children learn about their identity and purpose in God’s plan through acting out biblical stories and concepts.

Materials Needed:

• Slips of paper with different biblical stories, characters, or concepts written on them
• A container to hold the slips of paper
• Timer (optional)

Instructions:
Write down different biblical stories, characters, or concepts related to the lesson on slips of paper and place them in a container. Examples include:

• Creation of the world
• Noah’s Ark
• David and Goliath
• Jonah and the Whale
• Jesus feeding the 5,000
• The Good Samaritan
• Jesus walking on water
• Moses parting the Red Sea
• The Ten Commandments
• The Parable of the Lost Sheep

Prepare enough slips so that each child gets multiple turns.
Introduction: Explain to the children that they are going to play “God’s Plan Charades.” This game will help them understand more about their identity and purpose in God’s plan through acting out biblical stories and concepts.

Read Ephesians 2:10, “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”

Playing the Game:
Divide the children into two teams.

One child from the first team draws a slip of paper from the container and, without speaking, acts out the story, character, or concept for their team to guess. They have one minute to get their team to guess correctly.

If the team guesses correctly within the time limit, they earn a point. If not, the other team gets one chance to guess and steal the point.

Alternate turns between teams until all slips of paper have been used or until a set amount of time has passed.

The team with the most points at the end wins.

Discussion Questions

After the game is complete, gather the children together to discuss what they learned.

1. Which story or character was the most fun to act out?

2. How did this game help you understand more about God’s plan for your life?

“The game helped me remember different Bible stories and how God works in our lives.”

3. How can you use what you learned today in your daily life?

“The game helped me remember different Bible stories and how God works in our lives.”

Conclusion of Activities:

Playing ‘God’s Plan Charades’ showed us that we can learn and remember God’s word in fun and creative ways. Each story we acted out reminds us of God’s power, love, and plan for our lives.

Remember that God has a unique path for each of us and that we can trust Him to guide us every step of the way

Jesus Connection

The most important part of our lesson is understanding how all of these big questions about life connect to Jesus, who is the center of God’s plan for us. Jesus’ life, teachings, death, and resurrection provide the answers to the fundamental questions of our existence.

★ Jesus and Our Creation

Jesus was present at creation and played a role in it.

John 1:1-3 – “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made.”

Jesus, referred to as the Word, was there at the very beginning of creation. This tells us that He has always been a part of God’s plan and that our creation was purposeful. Understanding that Jesus was involved in our creation helps us see our value and worth.

How does knowing Jesus was involved in creation make you feel about yourself and others?

Possible Response: It makes me feel special and loved because Jesus cared enough to be part of creating us. It also helps me see others as valuable too.

---

★ Jesus and Our Purpose

Jesus gives us purpose and calls us to follow Him.

Matthew 4:19 – “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.”

Jesus calls us to follow Him and live out our purpose by sharing His love and message with others. Our purpose is not just to exist but to actively participate in God’s plan by helping others know Him.

What are some ways you can follow Jesus and fulfill your purpose?

Possible Response: I can be kind to others, share about Jesus with my friends, and help those in need.

---

★ Jesus and Our Future

Jesus prepares a place for us and promises us eternal life.

John 14:2-3 – “My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.”

Jesus promises that He is preparing a place for us in heaven. This gives us hope and assurance about our future with Him. Knowing that our future is secure with Jesus helps us live with confidence and joy.

How does knowing Jesus is preparing a place for you in heaven affect your daily life?

Possible Response: It makes me feel safe and hopeful. I can face challenges knowing that I have a future with Jesus.

---

★ Jesus and Our Way of Living

Jesus shows us how to live through His example.

John 13:34 – “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.”

Jesus teaches us to live by loving others as He loves us. His life is the perfect example of how we should treat others, showing kindness, compassion, and forgiveness. Following Jesus’ example helps us live lives that honor God and positively impact others.

In what ways can you show Jesus’ love to others?

Possible Response: I can be kind, forgive others, help those who are hurting, and stand up for what is right.

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★ Jesus and the Truth

Jesus is the truth and the source of all truth.

John 14:6 – “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’”

Jesus is the ultimate truth, and His words guide us in understanding what is true in a world with many conflicting voices. By following Jesus, we can discern what is true and live according to God’s will.

How can you seek and follow the truth of Jesus in your daily life?

Possible Response: I can read the Bible, pray for guidance, and listen to what Jesus teaches us about living rightly.

Wrapping Up

Through these big questions about life, we see that Jesus is the answer. He was there at creation, giving us purpose and hope for the future. His example shows us how to live, and His truth guides us every day.

Remember that Jesus is the center of God’s plan for us, and by following Him, we find the answers to all of life’s biggest questions. Let’s keep our hearts and minds focused on Jesus, trusting Him to lead us every step of the way.

Creative Expressions

Promise Jars

Objective: This craft will help children remember God’s promises and understand His plan for their lives by creating jars filled with scripture verses and personal reflections.

Materials Needed:

• Small jars with lids (one for each child)
• Strips of paper or small note card
• Markers, crayons, or colored pencils
• Stickers and other decorative items (optional)
• Ribbon or yarn
• Bible

Instructions:

• Provide each child with a small jar and several strips of paper or note cards.
• Gather markers, crayons, colored pencils, stickers, and other decorative items for decorating the jars.

Explain to the children that they are going to create “Promise Jars” to help them remember God’s promises and how they relate to their lives. Read Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

Give each child a jar and several strips of paper or note cards.
Ask the children to decorate their jars with markers, stickers, and other decorative items. They can write their names and “Promise Jar” on the jars.

Provide a list of scripture references that contain God’s promises (e.g., John 14:27, Philippians 4:19, Romans 8:28). Have the children write these verses on the strips of paper or note cards. You can also have them write their own personal reflections or prayers on some of the strips.

Once they have written several promises and reflections, have them fold the strips and place them inside their jars.

Discussion Questions

While the children are working on their Promise Jars, discuss how each promise reminds them of God’s plan and love for them.

1. What promise did you include in your jar, and why?

2. How does your Promise Jar help you remember God’s plan for your life?

3. How can you use what you’ve learned today to trust in God’s promises?

“I can read the promises in my jar when I feel worried or unsure, and they help me trust in God.”

Reflection and Closing

Your Promise Jars are filled with reminders of God’s love and His promises for your life. Whenever you feel worried or need encouragement, you can take out a promise from your jar and be reminded of God’s faithfulness.

Keep your jar in a special place where you can see it and remember that God’s promises are always true and He is always with you.

Parting Thoughts

Today, we’ve answered some of life’s biggest questions by looking at what the Bible says. Each of you is a unique and special creation of God. He has wonderful plans for your life, and He promises to be with you every step of the way. Remember to seek Jesus in everything you do, because He is the answer to all of life’s questions.

As you go through your week, think about how you can apply what you’ve learned today. Whether it’s being kind to others, trusting God’s plan for your future, or sharing Jesus’ love with those around you, know that you are living out God’s purpose for your life.

Recap Of Our Adventure

Where Did I Come From?

We learned that we are wonderfully made by God, created in His image. This means that each of us is unique and valuable. Remember Psalm 139:14 and celebrate the fact that you are fearfully and wonderfully made.

Where Am I Going?

We explored God’s promise about our future. He has plans to prosper us and give us hope. We can look forward to a future with God, knowing that He is preparing a place for us, as Jesus promised in John 14:2-3.

Why Am I Here?

We discovered that our purpose is to follow Jesus and share His love with others. Ephesians 2:10 reminds us that we are created to do good works, which God has prepared for us to do. Each of us has a special role in God’s plan.

How Should I Live?

We learned that Jesus shows us how to live through His teachings and example. By loving others and living according to God’s commandments, we honor Him and make a positive impact on those around us. Remember John 13:34, where Jesus teaches us to love one another.

What Is the Truth?

We found that Jesus is the truth and the source of all truth. By following Him, we can discern what is true and live according to God’s will. John 14:6 reminds us that Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life.

Prayer Time

“Dear God, thank You for teaching us about Your amazing plan for our lives. Help us to remember that we are wonderfully made, that You have great plans for our future, and that Jesus is the answer to all of life’s questions.

Guide us to live according to Your will, loving others and sharing Your truth. Be with us this week as we seek to follow You. In Jesus’ Name,  Amen.”

Keep Exploring

A few take-home ideas for continuing the lesson outside the classroom on purpose and identity from a Biblical worldview.

1. Family Discussion:

Encourage the children to talk with their families about what they learned. They can share their Promise Jars and discuss the promises they wrote down.
Materials Needed: Promise Jars from the craft

Memory Verse Challenge:

Challenge the children to memorize Jeremiah 29:11. Offer a small reward for those who can recite it the following week.
Materials Needed: None

Prayer Journal:

Encourage the children to start a prayer journal where they write down their prayers and reflect on how God answers them.
Materials Needed: Notebook or journal, pen or pencil

Acts of Kindness:

Suggest that the children perform an act of kindness each day and reflect on how it feels to live out Jesus’ teaching to love one another.
Materials Needed: None

Additional Tips for Teachers and Parents

Fostering the ability in children to face cultural pressures with the confidence and love of Christ is an ongoing journey. As teachers and parents, your support, guidance, and example are invaluable. Here are some additional tips to help you nurture and encourage the young beacons in your care.

1. Engaging Different Learning Styles:
Use a variety of teaching methods, including visual aids, hands-on activities, and discussion, to engage different learning styles. Provide quiet time for reflection for children who need more time to process information.

2. Classroom Management:
Establish clear rules and expectations at the beginning of the lesson.

Use positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior and participation.

3. Real-Life Examples:
Share personal stories or examples of how God’s promises have been evident in your own life or in the lives of others.
Relate the lesson to current events or situations that the children might be familiar with.

4. Follow-Up Questions:
During the week, follow up with the children to see how they are applying what they learned.

Send a quick note or email to parents with key points from the lesson and suggestions for reinforcing the message at home.

Joyful Noises

“10,000 Reasons (Bless the Lord)” by Matt Redman”

This song encourages worship and gratitude, reminding us of God’s goodness and many blessings, which align with understanding our purpose and God’s plan.

“You Say” by Lauren Daigle

This song emphasizes our worth and identity in Christ, reinforcing the lesson about being wonderfully made and valued by God.

“I’ve Got Peace Like a River”

This song reminds children of the peace, love, and joy that come from knowing Jesus, reinforcing the lesson about God’s promises and His plan for our lives.

4th-6th Grade
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Today, we embark on an extraordinary adventure into understanding a Biblical Worldview. But what does that mean?

Well, a worldview is like a pair of glasses through which we see everything around us – it shapes how we understand the world, make decisions, and interact with others.

And a Biblical Worldview? That’s seeing the world the way God teaches us in the Bible!

A Biblical Worldview is a set of beliefs and ideas that Christians use to understand and respond to the world around them.

Hello Adventure!

Objective: Our mission is to discover how a Biblical Worldview can guide us in our daily lives, helping us make choices that honor God. We’ll explore how this viewpoint affects our understanding of nature, human relationships, and our own purpose.

Ice Breaker: “The Worldview Web”

This ice breaker is designed to visually demonstrate how our individual beliefs connect to form a larger worldview, highlighting our interconnectedness and the diversity of thoughts within our group. It’s a fun, interactive way to start our session on exploring different worldviews and understanding how each person’s view contributes to the tapestry of our class’s collective perspective.

Materials Needed:

• A large ball of yarn or string
• Space to form a circle with the group

Have all participants form a large circle. This can be done in a classroom, outdoors, or any space where you can move a little.

Introduce the Concept: Explain the activity by saying, “Today, we’re going to create a giant spider web, which will help us see how our beliefs are woven together to form a bigger picture called a worldview. Each of you will contribute to building this web by sharing something you believe about the world.”

Start the Web: Hold onto the end of the yarn, and share your own belief to start. For example, you might say, “I believe in the importance of honesty.” After sharing, gently toss the ball of yarn to a student across the circle.

Student Participation: The student who catches the yarn will then hold onto a part of the string and share their belief. For example, they might say, “I believe that everyone deserves respect.” They then hold their piece of the yarn, creating a line from you to them, and toss the ball to another person in the circle.

Continue Weaving the Web: This process continues with each student catching the yarn, holding a piece, sharing their belief, and then tossing the yarn to another student. Remind them to choose someone who hasn’t had a turn yet.

Observe the Web: Once everyone has shared and the yarn has been passed around to form a complex web, take a moment to observe how interconnected the yarn—and thus, your beliefs—are. Point out how each piece of yarn relies on the others to maintain the structure of the web, symbolizing how our shared and differing beliefs create a community.

Concluding the Activity:
To conclude, emphasize the value of understanding and respecting diverse beliefs within a community. Highlight that while we may hold different views, together they create a rich and complex network of ideas that define our class’s unique worldview.

Introducing the Story

Every day, without even realizing it, we see the world in a certain way. This is shaped by our beliefs, what our families teach us, and what we learn from the Bible. Today, we’ll explore what it means to see the world through God’s eyes – that’s what we call a Biblical Worldview. We’ll talk about how this view can change the way we see nature, treat other people, and understand our place in the world.”

Imagine if we could put on special glasses that helped us see everything the way God does. What do you think we would see differently? That’s what we’re going to find out today!

Get ready to dive deep into understanding how a Biblical Worldview can transform the way we live, think, and interact with the world around us. Are you excited to see the world through God’s special glasses? Let’s get started!

Introducing Biblical Wordview

Today, we’re diving into a big idea called “Biblical Worldview.” Now, what does that mean? Imagine you’re wearing a pair of glasses, but these aren’t ordinary glasses. These glasses are special because they help you see the world the way God wants us to see it. That’s what a Biblical Worldview is like—seeing life through God’s eyes.

Before we dive into our story, let’s think about what the Apostle Paul said in Romans 12:2, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” This verse is like our guide, telling us not to just follow what everyone else does or thinks, but to let God change the way we think and see the world.

Storytelling

Let’s tell a story to make this clear. There was once a group of four friends, all from different parts of the world, with different ideas and beliefs. They decided to go on a treasure hunt in a vast, mysterious jungle. Each friend had a different map, guiding them based on their beliefs and understanding of the world.

The first friend, Alex, thought the jungle was scary and full of danger. His map showed him where to go to avoid scary things, but because he was always careful to stay away from danger, he missed seeing some really cool parts of the jungle, like hidden waterfalls and colorful birds.

The second, Bailey, treated the jungle like a giant playground. She rushed from one adventure to another, always looking for the next fun thing to do. Her map led her to the biggest trees and the fastest rivers, but she moved so fast that she missed quieter, beautiful moments, like watching butterflies or finding cool, calm spots to rest.

Charlie, the third friend, didn’t have a map, so he got lost a lot. He wandered around, feeling confused and not knowing which way to go. This made it hard for him to enjoy the jungle because he was too worried about trying to find the right path.

Finally, there was Paityn. Paityn had a special map that her family had given her, filled with wisdom and good advice. It helped her see the jungle as a beautiful, peaceful place. She followed paths that showed her how everything in the jungle worked together. Paityn’s journey was calm and full of purpose, helping her appreciate the beauty of nature and learn important lessons about life.

She was living out Romans 12:2, not just following along with everyone else but being transformed by God’s truth.

Key Moments to Discuss:

• Differences in Perspective: Just like in our story, everyone sees the world differently. But Paityn’s perspective, guided by her special map, represents a Biblical Worldview. She saw the world not just for what it is, but for what it could be through God’s eyes.
• Choices and Consequences: Each friend made choices based on their map, leading to different experiences. This shows us how our worldview affects our decisions and our journey through life.
• Finding the Treasure: The real treasure was not a chest of gold but understanding, peace, and seeing the world filled with God’s love and purpose. Paityn, with her Biblical Worldview, helped her friends see the jungle and life in a new, hopeful way.

Connecting the Story

Like the jungle adventure, life is full of paths and choices. A Biblical Worldview, guided by verses like Romans 12:2, helps us see beyond the immediate and understand God’s greater plan. It encourages us to make decisions filled with love, wisdom, and purpose.

Remember, each day gives us a chance to put on our ‘God glasses’ and see the world through His love and truth, just like Paityn did. By doing so, we can find the true treasure in loving God and loving others, and lead a life transformed by His grace.

Play & Learn

Now that we’ve dived into the concept of a Biblical Worldview through our storytelling, let’s put these ideas into action with some interactive activities.

These will help reinforce our understanding and application of seeing the world through God’s eyes, guided by Romans 12:2, which tells us, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing, and perfect will.”

Activity 1: “Worldview Glasses”

Objective: The goal is for the children to create glasses that symbolize seeing the world through a Biblical lens, reinforcing the concept of a Biblical Worldview.

Materials:

• Eyeglasses Cutout Template . Enough for each child.
• Sizzors, Glue or double-sided tape
• Cellophane. Clear or colored (or both)
• Set up a decoration station with markers, stickers, and other craft supplies.
• Worldview Glasses Activity Scenario Cards

Step-by-Step Guide:

Explain to the children that they will be making special glasses that help them see the world as God wants us to see it. Relate this back to our story and Romans 12:2, discussing the idea of viewing the world differently from how others might.

Assembly: Hand out the glasses frame outlines and cellophane pieces for the lenses. Show the children how to attach the cellophane to the frames using tape or glue to create their ‘worldview glasses.’ Ensure each child has their own set to work on.

Have students write the words of Romans 12:2 on the inside of the glasses arms. Use an abbreviated version if needed.

Decoration: Once the glasses are assembled, invite the children to the decoration station. Encourage them to decorate their glasses in a way that reflects kindness, love, and God’s creation. While they work, engage them in conversation about how a Biblical Worldview might change the way we see everyday situations.

Reflection: After everyone has finished decorating, gather the children and ask them to put on their glasses. Present different scenarios or pictures, and ask how they might view these situations through their ‘worldview glasses.’ Encourage them to think about choices they can make that align with God’s teachings.

Reinforce the idea that these glasses represent the choice to see the world in a kind, loving, and God-pleasing way. Remind them of Romans 12:2 and encourage them to try to see the world through these lenses every day.

Using the Glasses and Scenario Cards in Role-Playing:

Divide the children into small groups and distribute one scenario card to each group. Ensure each group has a diverse set of scenarios over the course of the activity to cover a range of issues.

Setup: Instruct each group to read their scenario aloud and discuss it among themselves first. They should decide who will play each role in the scenario. Encourage them to use their decorated glasses while role-playing to remind them to view the situation from a biblical perspective.

Role-Playing: Each child takes a turn acting out what they would do in the situation based on their understanding of biblical teachings. Other group members can offer suggestions or alternative actions based on different virtues like kindness, patience, or honesty.

After acting out the scenario, the group discusses the actions taken and talks about how those actions reflect a biblical worldview. This discussion should focus on why certain choices might please God and how they can apply these lessons in real life.

Activity 2: “My Worldview Map”

Objective: This activity helps children visualize how they can navigate life using the Bible as their guide, similar to how a map guides someone on a journey.

Materials:

• Prepare large sheets of paper or butcher paper, enough for each child. These will serve as the base for their maps.
• Write out or print small papers with Bible verses, including Romans 12:2, and prepare them along with glue or tape.
• Arrange markers, crayons, and colored pencils in an accessible area for children to use.

Step-by-Step Guide:

Start by explaining that just as explorers use maps to find their way, we can use the Bible and God’s teachings to help guide us through life. Each child will create their own life ‘map’ that includes roads, paths, or landmarks representing different parts of their lives (home, school, church, etc.).

Map Creation: Distribute the large sheets of paper and drawing materials. Assist the children in outlining their life maps, encouraging them to think about the important areas and paths in their lives. Help each child start by drawing a large circle in the middle of their paper, representing themselves.

From this center point, guide them to draw lines outward, leading to different significant areas or aspects of their lives. These could include:

    🏠 Home: A house symbol

    🏫  School: A book or school building symbol

    ⛪  Church: A cross or church building

    🫂  Friends: Interconnected smiley faces

    🎮  Hobbies: Icons representing their favorite activities

Applying Scripture: Introduce the Bible verses, including Romans 12:2, and explain how these can act as signposts on their maps. Help each child decide where to place their verses on the map, guiding them to consider where they need guidance or wish to remember God’s will in their daily lives.

Assist children in choosing which verses to place along the paths on their map. For instance, they might place Romans 12:2 on the path to school to remind them to stay true to their values in that setting.

Here are a few Bible verses that align well with the idea of using Scripture as guidance in our daily lives, suitable for inclusion in your map-making activity to help children visualize how biblical principles influence various areas of their life:

★ Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

This verse is perfect for the path leading to school or decisions, emphasizing reliance on God rather than solely on personal judgment.

★ Philippians 4:13 – “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

Great for paths related to challenges, such as learning new subjects or participating in sports.

★ Matthew 5:9 – “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”

Ideal for the area involving friendships or social interactions, encouraging children to foster peace and understanding among peers.

★ Ephesians 4:32 – “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.”

Suitable for family and home paths, reminding children of the importance of kindness and forgiveness within their family unit.

★ Joshua 1:9 – “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

A powerful encouragement for areas related to personal fears or challenges, such as moving to a new school or dealing with personal difficulties.

★ Colossians 3:23-24 – “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.”

This verse can be placed along paths dealing with work or hobbies, emphasizing the importance of doing one’s best as a form of service to God.

★ Psalm 119:105 – “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”

This verse can be central on the map, symbolizing how Scripture guides every step and decision in life.

Personalization: Encourage the children to personalize their maps with drawings, symbols, or words that represent their journey and aspirations. They can illustrate their families, favorite places, dreams, or how they can show kindness and faithfulness.

Once the maps are complete, allow each child to share their map with the group, explaining the significance of the places and verses they chose. This is a great opportunity for children to learn from each other and to understand different perspectives.

Wrap up by discussing how these maps can help remind them to live according to God’s guidance, making choices that reflect a Biblical Worldview. Encourage them to hang their maps in a place where they will see them every day as a reminder of the path they wish to follow.

Conclusion of Activities:

Wrap up by reinforcing that our worldview affects how we see and respond to the world around us. Just like Paityn from our story, we can choose to navigate our lives with a map guided by God’s wisdom and love, helping us to see and act according to His will, as encouraged by Romans 12:2.

Jesus Connection

In our lesson on a Biblical Worldview, we’ve been learning about seeing the world through God’s eyes, like wearing special glasses that help us understand right from wrong and good from bad. Now, let’s talk about someone very special who lived His whole life this way: Jesus.

Understanding Romans 12:2:

First, let’s talk about what Romans 12:2 means: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing, and perfect will.”

Conforming vs. Transforming:

“Conforming means doing things just because everyone else is doing them. But God asks us to be different—to transform. That means changing our thinking to be more like Jesus’ thinking. Can you think of a time when you decided to do the right thing, even when others were doing something else? That’s transforming!”

Renewing Your Mind:

“Renewing your mind means to make your thoughts fresh and new with God’s help. It’s like updating an old, slow computer to work fast and correctly. We renew our minds by reading the Bible, praying, and doing things that please God. What are some things you do to feel close to God?”

Testing and Approving God’s Will:

“This part is like being a detective. By learning more about Jesus and what He teaches us, we can figure out what is good and what God likes. When you’re kind to others, help your friends, or forgive someone, you’re living in a way that makes God happy. What’s one kind thing you did this week?”

Jesus’ Life: A Model of Non-Conformity

Jesus lived His life in a way that was often different from everyone else. He didn’t just go along with what others were doing or saying if it wasn’t part of God’s plan. For example, when people were mean or unfair, Jesus chose kindness and fairness.

When everyone else walked past someone who needed help, Jesus stopped and helped. He showed us that being part of God’s family means sometimes doing things differently from others.

Being the Hands and Feet of Jesus

Having a Biblical Worldview means we try to live like Jesus. We can be His hands by helping others, and His feet by going places to spread kindness and love. When we make choices that show love and respect, we are following Jesus’ example.

How Jesus Never Conformed to the World:

Even when it was hard, Jesus stayed true to God’s ways. He didn’t lie, cheat, or ignore people who needed help. He showed us what it means to be brave and kind, even when others aren’t. That’s not conforming to the world; that’s transforming it, just like Romans 12:2 tells us. By living like Jesus, we can help transform our world too.

Reflect: What are some ways we can live like Jesus at school, at home, or with our friends? How can we show we’re following a Biblical Worldview and not just doing what everyone else does?

Concluding:

Remember, a Biblical Worldview isn’t just about what we believe inside; it’s about how we show those beliefs through our actions, just like Jesus did. He never conformed to the wrong things of the world but instead showed us a better way to live—a way filled with love, kindness, and truth.

Every day, we have choices to make. Let’s choose to be like Jesus, to be the hands and feet that spread God’s love wherever we go. That’s what having a Biblical Worldview is all about.

Creative Expressions

In this craft, we’re going to create something that will remind us every day how we can walk in Jesus’ footsteps, embodying a Biblical worldview by being the hands and feet of Jesus in the world around us.

Objective: To create a visual and interactive reminder for children to live out their faith through actions, just like Jesus did, and not conform to worldly behaviors.

Materials Needed:

• Construction paper or cardstock
• Yarn or ribbon
• Markers, crayons, and decorative items (stickers, glitter glue, etc.)
• Hole punch
• Scissors

Detailed Instructions:

1. If you’re starting with plain paper, have kids trace their footprints and handprints. (It can be done with shoes on or off.)  You may need to assist some of the less coordinated.

2. Allow kids to then cut out their four prints using scissors.

3. Punch a hole at the top of each footprint and handprint shape for hanging later.

4. Personalizing: Have the children think about the ways they can follow Jesus in their daily lives – how can they show love, kindness, and courage like He did?

5. On the handprints, have them write or draw actions that represent being Jesus’ hands – acts of kindness and service.

On the footprints, have them note ways they can be His feet – going out into the world to spread love and positivity.

6. Decorating: Encourage the children to decorate their hands and footprints with markers, stickers, and other materials. This is a chance for them to creatively express their commitment to living like Jesus.

Discussion While Crafting: As the children work, engage them in conversation. Ask them to share what they’ve written or drawn and why. Discuss how these actions can make a difference in their lives and the lives of those around them.

Creating the Hanging Display: Once the handprints and footprints are decorated, thread yarn or ribbon through the holes to create a hanging display. This can be placed in their room or home as a daily reminder to walk in Jesus’ footsteps.

Sharing and Reflection:

Reflect on the completed project: “Every time you see your footprints, remember that you’re following Jesus’ path. Just like He helped and loved others, you can do the same in your home, school, and community.”

Conclusion:

Wrap up by affirming each child’s work and their commitment to living out a Biblical worldview, just like Jesus. Encourage them to hang their handprints and footprints somewhere they will see them every day as a reminder of the path they’re choosing to walk – one of kindness, love, and faith.

Parting Thoughts

As we wrap up today’s lesson on developing a Biblical Worldview and following in Jesus’ footsteps, let’s gather around and think about what we’ve learned and how we can apply it in our daily lives.

Biblical Worldview Recap

• A Biblical Worldview is a set of beliefs and ideas that Christians use to understand and respond to the world around them.
• We started today by exploring what it means to have a Biblical Worldview, like wearing special glasses that help us see the world the way God wants us to.
• We talked about how Jesus lived His life differently from others, not conforming to the wrong things in the world but transforming it with love, kindness, and truth. Remember, our big verse for today, Romans 12:2, teaches us not to follow what everyone else is doing but to let God change the way we think and act.

Encouraging for the Week Ahead:

“This week, I challenge you to be the hands and feet of Jesus in your world. Look for ways to help others, to be kind, and to make choices that would make God happy. Remember the crafts we made? Let them be your reminder this week to see the world through God’s eyes and to spread His love everywhere you go.”

Final Encouragement:

“Before we say goodbye, I want to remind you to take home your crafts and the handouts we’ve provided. They’ll help you remember to keep looking at the world in a way that pleases God. And don’t forget, next week we’ll explore more wonderful stories from the Bible and learn how we can live out God’s truths every day.”

“Have a fantastic week, and I can’t wait to hear all the wonderful things you’ll do by being the hands and feet of Jesus. Remember, you are loved, and you have the power to make a difference!”

Keep Exploring

After exploring what it means to have a Biblical Worldview and how we can be the hands and feet of Jesus, here are some follow-up activities to continue learning and growing outside of our lesson time. These activities are designed to engage both the children and their families, reinforcing the concepts we’ve discussed and encouraging real-world application.

  

1. Worldview Week Diary:

Objective: Encourage children to keep track of how they apply their Biblical worldview in daily life.

Materials Needed:

• A small notebook or diary for each child
• Pens, pencils, or crayons

Instructions for Parents and Teachers:
Give each child a diary and challenge them to write down one action each day that reflects living out a Biblical worldview. This could be a kind act, a moment of honesty, a decision that was different from the crowd, or a time when they shared Jesus’ love with someone.

At the end of the week, have a discussion about what they wrote. Share how these actions made them feel and how they think it impacted others.

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2. Family Service Project

Objective: Put faith into action by planning and participating in a service project as a family or class.

Instructions for Parents and Teachers:
Discuss with your children or class about a community service project you can do together. It could be as simple as cleaning up a local park, visiting a nursing home, or helping a neighbor in need.

Plan and carry out the project together. Afterward, reflect on the experience and how it relates to being the hands and feet of Jesus.

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3. Reflection and Sharing Time

Objective: Create a safe space for children to share experiences and reflections on applying their Biblical worldview.

Instructions for Parents and Teachers:
Once a week, set aside time for children to share experiences where they felt they were living out their Biblical worldview.

Encourage open discussion and positive reinforcement for shared stories and experiences. This can be a time of encouragement and growth for both the sharer and the listeners.

These follow-up activities aim to bridge the gap between learning about a Biblical worldview and living it out in everyday life. By engaging in these activities, children can see the practical implications of their faith and learn to navigate the world around them with love, kindness, and a perspective rooted in the teachings of Jesus.

Additional Tips for Teachers and Parents

Navigating the journey of instilling a Biblical worldview in children can be both rewarding and challenging. Here are some additional tips for teachers and parents to enhance the learning experience and ensure the message resonates deeply with the children.

1. Model the Behavior:
Children learn a lot by observing the adults around them. Strive to model a Biblical worldview in your own actions. Let them see you making choices and reacting to situations in ways that reflect Jesus’ teachings. Share your own experiences where you had to choose between conforming to the world or following God’s way.

2. Encourage Questions:
Create an environment where children feel safe to ask questions about what they’re learning. Some concepts might be difficult to understand, and having open discussions can help clarify their thoughts and feelings. Remind them that it’s okay to have questions about the Bible and their faith.

3. Use Everyday Situations:
Find teachable moments in everyday situations to discuss the Biblical worldview. Whether it’s a decision about how to treat a sibling or an ethical dilemma in a movie, use these opportunities to discuss what a Jesus-centered response looks like.

4. Provide Resources:
Offer children access to age-appropriate Bibles, storybooks, and online resources that reinforce Biblical teachings. Encourage them to read or watch stories from the Bible, and discuss how those stories can apply to their own lives.

5. Continuous Learning:
Encourage continuous learning and exploration of the Bible at home and in the classroom. Suggest setting aside a regular time for Bible reading and discussion, which can help deepen their understanding and application of a Biblical worldview.

6. Praise Efforts:
Acknowledge and praise children when you see them applying their Biblical worldview in real life. Positive reinforcement can motivate them to continue making choices that align with God’s teachings.

7. Pray Together:
Incorporate prayer into your discussions about a Biblical worldview. Pray with the children for wisdom, guidance, and strength to live according to God’s will, and encourage them to pray on their own as well.

8. Connect with Community:
Engage with your church or faith community to provide additional support and learning opportunities for the children. Group activities, Sunday school, and church services can all reinforce the lessons learned in class and at home.

9. Be Patient:
Understand that developing a Biblical worldview is a process that takes time. Be patient with the children as they grow and learn, and be there to guide them through their questions and challenges.

10. Feedback and Reflection:
Regularly ask for feedback from the children about what they’re learning and how they’re applying it to their lives. Encourage them to share their successes and struggles, and reflect together on how they can continue to grow in their understanding and application of a Biblical worldview.

By incorporating these tips into your teaching and parenting, you can help children build a strong foundation in their faith and navigate the world with a perspective that honors God and reflects His love and truth.

Joyful Noises

“I Have Decided to Follow Jesus”

This song emphasizes the personal commitment to follow Jesus, regardless of others’ choices. It’s a declaration that fits well with the theme of not conforming to the world but being transformed by renewing our minds, as encouraged in Romans 12:2. It can help children think about their own decisions to choose God’s ways over the world’s.

“This Little Light of Mine”

While this song is often suggested for its simplicity and joy, it’s also profoundly relevant to a lesson on Biblical Worldview. It encourages children to shine their light—representing truth, kindness, and Jesus’ love—in a world that often promotes the opposite. It’s a fun way for kids to remember to live out their faith and show others what it means to follow Jesus.

“My Lighthouse” by Rend Collective

This energetic song can help children understand that God is our guide and lighthouse, leading us through life. It reinforces the trust we should place in God’s guidance when shaping our worldview and making decisions.

4th-6th Grade
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Our world is full of questions about who we are and where we belong. There are so many places and things that people say can give us these answers—like what we’re good at, what we look like, or even what others say about us.

But the Bible shows us something different. It tells us that our true identity and purpose come from God. He made each of us in His image, unique and full of worth.

Hello Adventure!

Hello, wonderful explorers! Today, we’re setting off on an exciting adventure into the heart of what it means to discover our identity and purpose. But we’re not just looking for any answers; we’re diving deep into what the Bible tells us about who we are and why we’re here. It’s a journey to understand our true identity in Christ. 

Objective: Our mission is to discover that our true identity and purpose is not found in culture or society, but comes from God.

Ice Breaker: “Who Am I”

This ice breaker helps students get to know each other while also introducing the concept of identity through a fun and interactive game. It emphasizes that, much like we may not immediately recognize the Bible character on our own sticky note, sometimes our own identities might feel like a mystery to us—but they are always known to God.

Materials Needed:

• Sticky notes (one for each participant)
• Markers
• List of Bible characters (ensure a diverse mix of well-known and lesser-known characters to increase the challenge and educational aspect)

Instructions:

Before the session, write the name of a different Bible character on each sticky note using the markers. Make sure the names are clearly legible.

Gather all participants in a circle and explain the objective of the game: “You will each have a sticky note with the name of a Bible character on it placed on your forehead. Without looking at your own note, you’ll ask yes or no questions to figure out which character you are!”

Hand out the sticky notes randomly to each participant. Ask them to avoid looking at their note and help each other place them on their foreheads without revealing the character names.

Playing the Game:
Participants take turns asking the group yes or no questions about their character, such as “Am I a woman?” or “Did I interact with Jesus directly in the Bible?”
Allow each person to ask only one question per turn to keep the game moving smoothly.

The game continues until each participant successfully guesses their Bible character.

Concluding the Activity:
Wrap up the discussion by emphasizing the importance of community in helping us explore and affirm our identities as God’s children. Highlight that just as they worked together to discover the identities of the Bible characters, they can support each other in their spiritual journeys and personal growth.

Introducing the Story

In our culture, it’s common to look for our identity in many places—our hobbies, our looks, or even our friendships. But what if we told you that there’s something much more stable and true that can tell us who we are? Today, we’re exploring how being followers of Jesus changes everything about our identity and purpose. We’ll see how God’s view of us is the most important and discover the incredible plans He has for our lives.

Get ready! We’re about to uncover the most wonderful truth about ourselves through the eyes of our Creator. Let’s embark on this adventure with open hearts and eager minds.

Identity and Purpose in Christ

Gather around, as we dive into a story that’s not just a tale from long ago but a guide to understanding who we are today. This story isn’t about a far-off land or mythical creatures; it’s about you, me, and a journey to discover our true identity and purpose through God’s eyes.

Storytelling

Imagine standing in front of a giant mirror, but instead of showing your reflection, it shows you as different characters: an astronaut, a teacher, a doctor, a chef… With each change, you wonder, “Is this who I’m meant to be?” This mirror is like the world around us, offering endless reflections of who we could be, based on what we do or what others say about us.

But then, the mirror changes once more, and this time, it shows something different—not a job, a title, or a role, but you, surrounded by light, with the words “Loved, Chosen, Forgiven, Redeemed” floating around. This is how God sees you.

Let’s explore what these words mean, diving into the Bible to uncover the treasure of our true identity and purpose.

  

1. Loved Unconditionally

The Bible tells us in 1 John 3:1, “See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!”

Before you did anything to earn it, God already loved you immensely. You are His child, loved for who you are, not what you do.

“Think about this: even before you were born, before you did your first good deed or made your first mistake, God’s love for you was already overflowing. It’s like when your family loves you just because you’re you, not because you cleaned your room or got good grades. You are incredibly precious to God, simply because you exist. He loves you more than you can imagine, and nothing you do can make Him love you any more or any less. That’s the kind of unconditional love God has for you, His child.”

How does knowing you’re loved by God just because you’re you change how you see yourself?

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 2. Chosen for a Reason

In Ephesians 1:4-5, we learn that “He chose us in Him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in His sight. In love, He predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, according to His pleasure and will.”
God chose you to be part of His family, with a special role only you can fulfill.

“Did you know that out of all the people in the world, God picked you to be part of His amazing family? It’s true! Just like a coach picks team members for their unique skills, God chose you because He has a special plan that only you can do. Your role in God’s family is like a puzzle piece that fits perfectly. Without you, the picture wouldn’t be complete. This doesn’t mean you have to be perfect; it means that being yourself is exactly what God’s team needs. He’s excited about the part you’ll play in His big story.”

What does it feel like to know you were chosen by God even before the world was made?

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3. Forgiven Completely

Colossians 1:13-14 reveals, “For He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son He loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.”

Our mistakes don’t define us; God’s forgiveness does. He sees us as new creations, free from the past.

“Everyone makes mistakes; it’s part of being human. But here’s some really good news: our mistakes don’t have to stick to us like permanent stickers. Because of Jesus, God offers us forgiveness, which is like a do-over. When we say sorry and accept God’s forgiveness, He doesn’t just wipe our slate clean; He gives us a brand new one. It’s as if we get to start fresh, not as people weighed down by our past, but as new creations who are free to live joyfully and confidently. With God, every day is a new beginning, full of hope and possibilities.”

How does understanding God’s forgiveness help us forgive ourselves and others?

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4. Redeemed and Made New

Finally, 2 Corinthians 5:17 declares, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”

Again, our mistakes don’t define us; God’s forgiveness does. He sees us as new creations, free from the past.

What does being a “new creation” in Christ mean for how we live our lives every day?

Connecting the Story

As our story comes to a close, remember, the mirror showing “Loved, Chosen, Forgiven, Redeemed” is the truest reflection of who you are. Your identity isn’t built on shifting sands of opinions or circumstances but on the solid rock of God’s truth about you.

Now, with hearts full of these truths, let’s step into some activities that will help us bring these concepts to life and discover more about our unique purpose and identity in Christ.

Play & Learn

Now that we’ve dived into what the Bible says about our identity and purpose, let’s put those concepts into action with some interactive activities designed specifically for you, our 4th through 6th graders.

These activities will help reinforce our understanding of how deeply loved, chosen, and forgiven we are by God, and how we can live out our unique purpose.

Activity 1: “Identity Puzzle Pieces”

Objective: This activity aims to help children explore and articulate various aspects of their identity in a fun and interactive way, reinforcing the concept that each person is uniquely created by God with a purpose. It emphasizes how individual traits and talents come together to form a complete picture, reflecting God’s design.

Materials Needed:

• Large poster boards (one per group of 4-5 children)
• Pre-cut puzzle pieces from card stock (large enough for children to write on)
• Markers, crayons, and colored pencils
• Stickers and other decorative items
• Glue or double-sided tape

Instructions:

Start by discussing the concept of identity, explaining that just like a puzzle, our identity is made up of many different pieces—interests, talents, relationships, and beliefs.

Mention that each of us is like a unique puzzle designed by God, and each piece is important.

Divide the children into small groups and give each group a large poster board and a set of blank puzzle pieces.

Ask each child to choose a few puzzle pieces and write or draw something about themselves on each piece. Examples might include:

– One piece for a talent or hobby they have.
– One piece for an important relationship (like family or friends).
– One piece for something they believe in or value (like a verse from the Bible or a personal motto).
– One piece for their aspirations or dreams for the future.

Puzzle Assembly

Once all the children in the group have decorated their pieces, they should work together to assemble their puzzles on the poster board. They can arrange the pieces however they like, but they should fit together to form a complete picture.

Encourage them to discuss how their individual pieces contribute to the group’s overall picture, reflecting on how our individual identities contribute to our communities.

Have each group present their completed puzzle to the class. Each child can share one of their pieces and explain how it represents a part of who they are.

Discuss how all the different pieces are necessary to complete the puzzle, just like each person’s unique abilities and qualities are important in God’s eyes.

Wrap up by emphasizing that just as every puzzle piece was needed to complete the picture, every child is valuable and plays a unique role in their community and in God’s plan.

Encourage the children to think about how they can help others in their community fit in and feel valued, just like they worked together to fit every piece into the puzzle. Suggest they bring this mindset to their interactions at school, at home, and during extracurricular activities.

Activity 2: “Path To Purpose Obstacle Course”

Objective: This interactive game helps children understand the journey of discovering their purpose in a fun, physical way. Through a series of obstacle challenges, the game simulates the various hurdles and decisions we encounter in life, emphasizing that each choice and challenge helps shape our God-given purpose.

Materials:

• Cones or markers to set up different sections of the obstacle course.
• Various props for obstacles, such as hoops, ropes for a tug-of-war section, bean bags for a throwing station, and puzzles or riddles.
• Signs with Bible verses or inspirational quotes that relate to purpose and determination.
• A bell or buzzer at the finish line.

Setup:

Create an obstacle course using cones, tape lines, chairs, and/or tables, that includes different types of challenges – each one designed to represent a different aspect of life’s journey toward discovering and fulfilling one’s purpose. Here are the stations/challenges:

Puzzle Station – Symbolizes solving problems and figuring out where talents and interests lie. Kids arrive at a table where a simple puzzle or a riddle awaits them. They must solve the puzzle or riddle before moving on. This station tests problem-solving skills and symbolizes piecing together one’s talents and interests.

Proverbs 16:9 – “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” This verse helps children understand that while we make plans, God guides us, helping us piece together our life’s purpose as He sees fit.

Tug-of-War Section – Represents overcoming personal and external challenges. This station involves a short tug-of-war challenge, either against a fixed object or as a team challenge. It represents overcoming personal and external challenges through strength and perseverance.

Ephesians 6:10 – “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.” This verse emphasizes reliance on God’s strength when facing challenges, reminding participants that overcoming obstacles is part of God’s plan for building resilience and character.

Precision Throw – Using bean bags to hit targets, symbolizing focusing on goals and making precise decisions. Students must throw bean bags into designated targets that vary in difficulty. This station emphasizes the importance of making precise decisions and aiming for goals.

Philippians 3:14 – “I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” This verse encourages focus and determination, inspiring children to aim for their goals with the confidence that God has set a purposeful path for them.

Balance Beam – Walk across a beam or a line of tape, representing staying balanced and focused amidst distractions. Students walk across a balance beam or a marked line while carrying a book or another object on their heads, focusing on maintaining balance and concentration amidst life’s distractions.

Psalm 119:105 – “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” This verse underscores the importance of God’s Word in guiding us, helping maintain spiritual balance and focus amidst the distractions of life.

Verse Memorization – Quick station where participants must read and then recite a Bible verse about purpose and perseverance. At this station, kids pick a card with a Bible verse about purpose and perseverance, read it, and then recite it from memory to a volunteer or record it on a provided device. This emphasizes the importance of scripture in guiding life’s path.

Jeremiah 29:11 – “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” This well-loved verse reinforces the theme of divine purpose, encouraging children to trust in God’s plan for their lives, which is always for their good and His glory.

Instructions:

Explain to the children that each part of the course represents different challenges and milestones in understanding and living out their God-given purpose.

Divide children into small teams or have them run the course individually, depending on the group size.

Running the Course: Children begin the obstacle course at the starting line, progressing through each station. At each station, they must complete the designated task before moving on.

Have participants line up at the start line. If in teams, the first member of each team will begin the course on your signal. If individuals are running the course, stagger their start times to manage congestion at the stations. Start the course with a clear signal (whistle, shout, or bell).

Navigate the Stations

Volunteers or staff should be positioned at each station to ensure safety, provide instructions, and help keep the activity moving smoothly. They can also offer encouragement and hints if a child struggles with a task. Ensure that all participants are engaged and that no one is left struggling alone for too long. Adjust challenges on the fly if necessary to accommodate younger or less able participants.

As participants complete the final station, cheer them on to the finish line where they can ring a bell or buzzer to signify their completion. Have volunteers or staff members guide completed participants to a designated waiting area where they can cheer on their peers and await the group debrief.

A few notes for this activity:

• Keep track of time for each participant or team if the course is being timed for competitive purposes. However, emphasize that the goal is personal best and learning, not just speed.
• Ensure smooth transitions between stations, adjusting the flow of participants as needed to avoid bottlenecks.
• Continually monitor each station for potential safety issues. Be prepared to pause the course or make necessary adjustments to ensure all children are safe.
• As children engage with each station, encourage them to think about how each activity could relate to real-life scenarios where they might need to apply their faith, make decisions, or use their talents.
• Once all participants have completed the course, gather them together. Discuss what they learned about facing challenges and how these can relate to discovering their life’s purpose.

Conclusion of Activities:

Conclude by emphasizing that like the obstacle course, life’s path to purpose is filled with various challenges and learning opportunities, and that each step, whether easy or difficult, is part of God’s plan to shape us into who we are meant to be.

Jesus Connection

Let’s dive into how knowing Jesus helps us figure out who we are and what we’re meant to do. Imagine Jesus as the best guide on our adventure to discover our true selves.

Loved and Chosen Just Like Jesus:

Even before Jesus started doing all the amazing things He did—like teaching, healing, and showing kindness—God made it clear to everyone that Jesus was His beloved Son. When Jesus was baptized, it was a special moment. Imagine the sky opening up and God’s voice saying, “This is my Son, whom I love; with Him I am well pleased.” (Matthew 3:17)

Wow, right? Before Jesus performed any miracles, God was already pleased with Him, just because He was His Son. In the same way, before we do anything, God loves us immensely. We don’t have to earn God’s love by being perfect or the best at something. We’re already loved and chosen by Him, which is pretty awesome. It’s like being chosen for the best team before you even try out, simply because the coach—God—thinks you’re fantastic just as you are.

• Just like your parents have special nicknames for you because they love you, God has special names for us, like “beloved” and “chosen.” This makes us super special to God, no matter what.

Helping Others Like Jesus Did:

Think about this: Jesus could have spent His time here being treated like a king, but instead, He chose to serve others. He made friends with people who had no one else, healed those who were sick, and always had time to listen and care. Jesus once said, “I came not to be served but to serve others” (Mark 10:45).

He showed us that what makes us truly important isn’t how many people do things for us, but how many people we can help and love. Being important in God’s eyes is about making a difference, even in small ways, like sharing your lunch or standing up for someone who’s being picked on. Jesus teaches us that our hands are meant for helping, not just for holding onto things for ourselves.

• Think of someone who needs a friend or some help. How can you show them kindness this week? It could be as simple as sharing your snacks or helping with homework.

Starting Fresh with Forgiveness:

Everyone messes up sometimes, right? But here’s the amazing news: because of Jesus, it’s like we can press the reset button whenever we need to. When Jesus died on the cross and then came back to life, He made it possible for us to start over—no matter what. 2 Corinthians 5:17 says, “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.” That’s like turning over a new leaf every single day.

Our past mistakes? Gone. Our failures? Erased. Every morning, we wake up as new creations, ready to live our best day yet. It’s like playing a video game where you always have another chance to win, no matter how many times you’ve lost before.

• Imagine if every bad choice or mistake was like a stain on your favorite shirt. Jesus’ forgiveness is like the ultimate stain remover, making everything new again. How does it feel knowing you can start each day fresh?

Following Jesus’ Footsteps:

Knowing all this—knowing we’re loved, chosen, and can start fresh—fills us with confidence and happiness. And when we live like Jesus, showing kindness, love, and helping those around us, we’re doing exactly what we were made to do. It’s like if you were designed to be the world’s greatest inventor, painter, or storyteller; when you’re inventing, painting, or telling stories, you feel right.

That’s how we feel when we live like Jesus, doing good things for others and loving them just like He loves us. It’s not always about doing big things; even small acts of kindness show the world who we are and whose we are—God’s kids, living out our amazing purpose.

• Let’s make a “Following in Jesus’ Footsteps” chart. For one week, write or draw one thing you did each day that was like Jesus—maybe you shared, helped someone, or chose to be kind even when it was hard. See how being like Jesus can make a big difference in your day!

Wrapping Up:

Friends, Jesus shows us the best way to understand who we are and what we’re meant to do. Remember, in God’s eyes, you are super special—loved, chosen, and given a brand new start because of Jesus. Let’s live out that love by helping and caring for those around us, just like Jesus would.

Creative Expressions

Let’s get creative and make something that will help us remember everything we’ve learned about being loved, chosen, forgiven, and made new by God. This craft will be a daily reminder of our identity in Christ and how we can live out our purpose.

Objective: To create a personal bookmark that reflects each student’s understanding of their identity in Christ and serves as a reminder of how they can live out their God-given purpose.

Materials Needed:

• Heavy paper or cardstock cut into bookmark-sized strips
• Markers, colored pencils, and crayons
  Stickers with Christian symbols (crosses, doves, fish, etc.)
• Glue and glitter (optional for decoration)
  Hole punch and ribbons or yarn
• Printed Bible verses related to identity in Christ (Ephesians 2:10, 1 John 3:1, Mark 10:45, 2 Corinthians 5:17)

Instructions:

Start by thinking about what colors or symbols best represent your identity in Christ. Maybe blue for peace, a cross for faith, or a bright color to show joy. Use the markers, pencils, and crayons to decorate your bookmark in a way that shows what being loved, chosen, forgiven, and made new means to you.

Adding Bible Verses:
Choose one or more of the printed Bible verses that speak to you the most about your identity in Christ. Glue these onto your bookmark. You can decorate around them with drawings or stickers that match the theme of the verse.

Making It Sparkle:
If you like, add some glitter to your bookmark to make it stand out. Remember, the glitter is like the special touch that God puts on our lives, making us shine in our own unique way.

Finishing Touches:
Punch a hole at the top of your bookmark and thread a piece of ribbon or yarn through it. This ribbon can be a reminder of the connection we have to Jesus, tying us to Him.

Reflection and Sharing

After everyone has completed their bookmarks, it’s important to create a warm and inviting atmosphere for sharing. Arrange the seating in a circle to encourage a sense of community and togetherness. You might even light a candle (safely) in the center to symbolize the light of Christ that shines within each of us.

Before the sharing begins, guide the students through a brief moment of reflection. Ask them to hold their bookmarks and look at them quietly for a minute, thinking about what they’ve created and what it represents about their identity in Christ. Encourage them to think about the following questions silently:

“How do the colors, symbols, and verses on my bookmark represent who I am in God’s eyes?”

“What does this bookmark remind me about how I want to live out my purpose?”

Structured Sharing Time:

To ensure that everyone has a chance to share and feels comfortable doing so, you might introduce a “talking piece” — an object that only the person holding it can speak. This could be anything symbolic to the lesson, like a small cross or a heart-shaped rock.

As the talking piece is passed around the circle, invite each student to share their thoughts on the following:

The Design: “Explain the design of your bookmark. Why did you choose these particular colors, symbols, or decorations?”

The Verse: “Read the Bible verse(s) you included and share why it speaks to you about your identity in Christ.”

The Personal Meaning: “What does this bookmark mean to you personally? How will seeing it in your book remind you of who you are and how you want to live?”

Listening and Responding:

Encourage the rest of the group to listen attentively while each person shares. After someone has shared, before the talking piece moves on, invite anyone who feels moved to offer words of encouragement or a brief reflection on what was shared. This could be a simple affirmation like, “I really liked how you talked about forgiveness” or “Your bookmark reminds me that we’re all special to God.”

Wrapping Up the Sharing Time

Conclude the sharing session with a group affirmation. Have everyone place their bookmarks in the center of the circle (near the symbolic candle, if you used one) and say together, “We are all loved, chosen, forgiven, and made new by God.” This collective affirmation reinforces the lesson’s themes and the shared identity and purpose found in Christ.

Using Your Bookmark:

Keep your bookmark in your Bible or any book you’re reading as a constant reminder of who you are in Jesus. Every time you open your book, you’ll see your beautiful creation and remember that you are loved, chosen, forgiven, and made new to do great things for God.

Conclusion:
This craft isn’t just about making something pretty; it’s a way to express and remember the truths about our identity in Christ. It’s a personal reminder that we carry with us, helping us to live out our purpose with joy and confidence.

Parting Thoughts

As we come to the close of our journey today, exploring our identity and purpose through a Biblical worldview, let’s take a moment to reflect on the treasures we’ve discovered. Remember, each of you is a masterpiece created by God, loved immensely, chosen for a special purpose, forgiven completely, and made brand new in Jesus.

Recapping Our Adventure

• We Are Loved and Chosen: Just like Jesus was called God’s beloved Son, each of you is loved and chosen by God. You don’t have to earn His love; you are precious to Him just as you are.
• Called to Serve: We learned from Jesus that being great means serving others. Looking for ways to help and show kindness is part of our purpose.
• A Fresh Start: Jesus gives us a fresh start every day. Our mistakes from yesterday don’t have to define today or tomorrow. In Christ, we are new creations.
• Living Out Our Purpose: Armed with the knowledge of who we are in Christ, we can confidently live out our unique purposes, shining His light in all we do.

Your Identity Bookmark and Walking in Jesus’ Footsteps Journal:

Remember the crafts we made today—the “My Identity in Christ” bookmarks and the journals. Let these be daily reminders of your true identity and the steps you can take to live out your purpose. Look at your bookmark every time you open a book, and let it remind you of God’s love and your incredible value to Him. Use your journal to track your journey, noting the ways you choose to serve and love others like Jesus.

Going Forth:
As you go from here, remember that you carry with you the light of Christ. You are equipped to face whatever comes your way because you know who you are in Him. Look for opportunities to be His hands and feet in the world, serving and loving those around you. And always remember, you are a cherished child of God, with a purpose only you can fulfill.

Thank you for joining in this adventure today. Keep exploring, keep serving, and keep shining bright for Jesus!

Keep Exploring

As we wrap up our lesson on discovering our identity and purpose in Christ, let’s look forward to how we can continue this journey of exploration and growth. Here are some follow-up activities and ideas to help you keep reflecting on and living out your God-given identity and purpose.

1. Identity and Purpose Journaling:

Keep using your “Walking in Jesus’ Footsteps” journal to reflect on your daily experiences through the lens of your identity in Christ. Each week, try to write down:

• One way you saw yourself as loved, chosen, forgiven, or made new.
• One action you took to serve or help someone else, showing God’s love through your actions.

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2. Scripture Memorization Challenge:

Choose one of the key verses we talked about (Ephesians 2:10, 1 John 3:1, Mark 10:45, 2 Corinthians 5:17) and challenge yourself to memorize it. Write it on a card to keep in your pocket, or use your craft bookmark as a reminder. Share the verse with a friend or family member and explain why it’s important to you.

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3. Purposeful Acts of Kindness:

Plan to do one deliberate act of kindness each week. This could be something simple like writing a thank-you note to someone who has helped you, doing a chore at home without being asked, or spending time with someone who might be feeling lonely. Before you act, remind yourself of your purpose in Christ—to love and serve others.

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4. Family or Friend Discussion:

Share what you’ve learned about identity and purpose in Christ with your family or friends. You could:

• Lead a family devotion time where you share the key points from our lesson.
• Start a discussion with a friend about what it means to be loved and chosen by God.
• Ask a parent or guardian to help you find ways to serve others together as a family.

Conclusion and Encouragement

Remember, discovering our identity and purpose in Christ is a lifelong journey. Each day is an opportunity to learn more about who God has created you to be and how you can live out your unique purpose. Keep exploring, keep asking questions, and keep trusting God to guide you every step of the way. You are a cherished child of God, with a special role to play in His grand story.

Additional Tips for Teachers and Parents

Navigating the journey of instilling a Biblical worldview in children can be both rewarding and challenging. Here are some additional tips for teachers and parents to enhance the learning experience and ensure the message resonates deeply with the children.

1. Model the Behavior:
Children learn a lot by observing the adults around them. Strive to model a Biblical worldview in your own actions. Let them see you making choices and reacting to situations in ways that reflect Jesus’ teachings. Share your own experiences where you had to choose between conforming to the world or following God’s way.

2. Encourage Questions:
Create an environment where children feel safe to ask questions about what they’re learning. Some concepts might be difficult to understand, and having open discussions can help clarify their thoughts and feelings. Remind them that it’s okay to have questions about the Bible and their faith.

3. Use Everyday Situations:
Find teachable moments in everyday situations to discuss the Biblical worldview. Whether it’s a decision about how to treat a sibling or an ethical dilemma in a movie, use these opportunities to discuss what a Jesus-centered response looks like.

4. Provide Resources:
Offer children access to age-appropriate Bibles, storybooks, and online resources that reinforce Biblical teachings. Encourage them to read or watch stories from the Bible, and discuss how those stories can apply to their own lives.

5. Continuous Learning:
Encourage continuous learning and exploration of the Bible at home and in the classroom. Suggest setting aside a regular time for Bible reading and discussion, which can help deepen their understanding and application of a Biblical worldview.

6. Praise Efforts:
Acknowledge and praise children when you see them applying their Biblical worldview in real life. Positive reinforcement can motivate them to continue making choices that align with God’s teachings.

7. Pray Together:
Incorporate prayer into your discussions about a Biblical worldview. Pray with the children for wisdom, guidance, and strength to live according to God’s will, and encourage them to pray on their own as well.

8. Connect with Community:
Engage with your church or faith community to provide additional support and learning opportunities for the children. Group activities, Sunday school, and church services can all reinforce the lessons learned in class and at home.

9. Be Patient:
Understand that developing a Biblical worldview is a process that takes time. Be patient with the children as they grow and learn, and be there to guide them through their questions and challenges.

10. Feedback and Reflection:
Regularly ask for feedback from the children about what they’re learning and how they’re applying it to their lives. Encourage them to share their successes and struggles, and reflect together on how they can continue to grow in their understanding and application of a Biblical worldview.

By incorporating these tips into your teaching and parenting, you can help children build a strong foundation in their faith and navigate the world with a perspective that honors God and reflects His love and truth.

Joyful Noises

“Who You Say I Am” by Hillsong Kids

Adapted for children, this song echoes the truth that we are who God says we are: chosen, not forsaken, children of God who are free indeed. It’s a beautiful affirmation of our identity in Christ, making it perfect for reinforcing the lesson’s themes.

4th-6th Grade
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Our world is filled with voices and ideas pulling us in different directions. Just like a ship on a stormy sea needs a lighthouse, people around us need the light of Jesus to find their way.

But how do we shine brightly without getting lost in the storm? How do we stay strong in what we believe, even when it’s not popular?

These are big questions, and God’s Word has some amazing answers for us.

Hello Adventure!

Today, we embark on an exciting journey unlike any other. We’re going to learn how to be Beacons of Hope in a world that sometimes feels a bit upside down. Imagine being a lighthouse that stands firm, guiding ships safely to shore, no matter how stormy the sea. That’s what we’re called to be in our world today. Matthew 5:14-16 tells us, “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Jesus is telling us that we’re made to shine, to stand out, and to guide others to Him through our actions and words. 

Objective: It can feel challenging to be a beacon of hope when we’re faced with pressures to fit in or to hide our light. Maybe it’s being laughed at for not joining in on a mean joke, or feeling left out because we stand up for what’s right. But here’s the cool part: God promises to be with us, giving us strength and courage to be His light, even when it’s tough.

Ice Breaker: “My Light In The World”

Objective: This opening activity aims to get participants thinking creatively about how they can positively impact their surroundings. By using the metaphor of a flashlight, the activity illustrates how even small acts can brighten the lives of others and spread the love of Jesus.

Materials Needed:

• Small flashlights, one for each participant (LED keychain flashlights work well)
• Pieces of paper (enough for everyone)
• Pens or markers
• A darkened room (to effectively use the flashlights)

Setup and Introduction:

As participants enter, hand each person a small flashlight and a piece of paper.

“Today, we’re starting with a fun and thoughtful activity called ‘My Light in the World.’ Each of you has a flashlight, which we’ll use as a symbol of how you can shine Jesus’ light in your everyday life.”

Ask each participant to find a comfortable spot in the room and think about the ways they can make a difference in their school, neighborhood, or family.
Prompt them with suggestions to get started:

Think about a time when someone else’s kindness made your day better, or a situation where you felt you could have used some light in your life. Now, imagine how you can be that light for others.”

Give them a few minutes to write down one specific way they can shine Jesus’ light. This could be anything from offering a helping hand, sharing a kind word, inviting someone who is usually left out, or simply smiling at people more often.

Sharing in the Dark:

Once everyone has written down their idea, dim the lights in the room to create a darkened environment.

Invite kids to turn on their flashlights and, one by one, share what they’ve written. As each person speaks, instruct them to shine their flashlight towards the center of the room, creating a visual effect of their light joining with others.

Encourage the group to reflect on each shared idea and consider how all these small lights can come together to make a big difference.

 

Concluding the Activity:

Conclude with a group affirmation or a short prayer, thanking God for the opportunity to be lights in the world and asking for the courage and creativity to carry out the ideas shared.

Remind everyone to keep their flashlights and their written ideas as a reminder of their commitment to shine brightly in their communities.

Introducing the Story

Today, we’re going to discover how, with God’s help, we can face cultural pressures with confidence and have a positive influence on society. (stand up to tough situations with courage and help make the world a better place.) We’ll learn to be brave, to love boldly, and to stand firm in our faith, shining as beacons of hope in our world.

Let’s get ready to explore how we can light up the world around us, showing everyone the love and hope of Jesus. Are you with me? Let’s shine bright, navigators!

A Beacon in Babylon

Let’s talk about a story that might seem familiar but holds deep truths for us today. This isn’t just any story; it’s a tale of courage, light, and the power to stand strong amid the storms of life and culture.

Storytelling

Imagine being taken far away from everything you know and love, to a place where your beliefs, your identity, and even your name are challenged. This happened to a young man named Daniel and his friends, who were taken to Babylon, a place with very different beliefs and practices from their own.

Daniel 1:8-16:

Daniel decided not to eat the king’s food and wine because that would make him unclean. So he asked Ashpenaz for permission not to make himself unclean in this way.

God made Ashpenaz want to be kind and merciful to Daniel. But Ashpenaz said to Daniel, “I am afraid of my master, the king. He ordered me to give you this food and drink. If you don’t eat this food, you will begin to look worse than other young men your age. The king will see this. And he will cut off my head because of you.”

Ashpenaz had ordered a guard to watch Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. Daniel said to the guard, “Please give us this test for ten days: Don’t give us anything but vegetables to eat and water to drink. Then after ten days compare us with the other young men who eat the king’s food. See for yourself who looks healthier. Then you judge for yourself how you want to treat us, your servants.”

So the guard agreed to test them for ten days. After ten days they looked very healthy. They looked better than all of the young men who ate the king’s food. So the guard took away the king’s special food and wine. He gave Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah vegetables instead.

Daniel 1:8-16 tells us that despite the pressure to conform to Babylonian culture, Daniel and his friends chose to stay true to their faith and beliefs. They were faced with a choice: eat the king’s rich food, which went against their dietary laws, or stand firm in their convictions. Daniel proposed a test, asking to eat only vegetables and water for ten days.

In the end, they looked healthier than those who ate the king’s food, showing that God honored their faithfulness.

The Challenge of Standing Out

Daniel and his friends stood out, not because they tried to be different, but because their faith and identity in God shone brightly in a culture that didn’t understand or respect their beliefs. They faced challenges and even danger, but their commitment to living out their faith influenced those around them, including kings and leaders.

Being a Beacon in Our World

Just like Daniel, we’re called to shine brightly in our world, even when it feels like we’re swimming against the current. It’s not about being against culture or hiding from it; it’s about showing a different way to live, one that’s full of love, kindness, and truth.

Think about a time you felt pressured to hide your faith or beliefs to fit in. How did it feel? What can Daniel’s story teach us about facing those moments with courage?

The Power of One Small Light

Sometimes, being a beacon of hope doesn’t mean making grand gestures. It can be as simple as choosing kindness over meanness, standing up for someone who’s being bullied, or sharing why your faith is important to you in a respectful conversation.

Connecting the Story

Daniel’s story reminds us that our identity and purpose in Christ give us the strength to shine brightly, no matter our circumstances.

As we navigate our own “Babylons,” let’s remember that our light comes from God, and with Him, we can be beacons of hope and love in any culture.

Play & Learn

As we explore what it means to face cultural pressures with confidence and be a positive influence in society, let’s dive into some interactive activities.

These will help us understand how to apply the courage of Daniel and the call to be light in our everyday lives.

Activity 1: “Light in Action” Role-Play

Objective: This activity is designed to empower students to navigate challenging social situations with integrity and courage, inspired by biblical principles. Through role-play, they’ll practice standing firm in their faith and responding with kindness and wisdom.

Materials Needed:

• Light In Action Activity Scenario Cards
• Decision Wheel: Create a large spinner or wheel divided into sections with different positive response options.
• Props: Gather simple props to help make the role-plays more engaging, such as school supplies, a pretend phone, or a notebook.

Instructions:

Briefly discuss the importance of responding to challenges in ways that reflect our identity in Christ. Introduce the scenario cards and decision wheel as tools to explore different responses.

Each group picks a scenario card at random. Give them time to discuss the situation and decide how they want to handle it. They can spin the decision wheel for inspiration but are not limited to the options presented.

Groups plan a short skit demonstrating their chosen response to the scenario. Encourage them to use the props and to think about what words and actions can positively influence the outcome.

Groups take turns performing their skits. Encourage the audience to pay close attention to the different approaches.

Reflection

After each performance, facilitate a class discussion. What did they think of the group’s approach?

Could they see themselves doing something similar? What other responses might also be effective?

Activity 2: “My Influence Map”

Objective: This reflective activity helps students visually map out their daily lives and identify specific, actionable ways they can be a positive influence in each area. It encourages them to see the potential for impact in their everyday interactions.

Materials Needed:

• Large Sheets of Paper: Enough for each student to have one.
• Markers, Colored Pencils, and Crayons: For drawing and decorating their maps.
• Stickers or Symbols: Prepare stickers or cutouts that can represent different environments or roles students have, such as a home for family, a book for school, and a ball for sports.
• My Influence Map Example Actions

If you completed Lesson 1, you can replace the material list above with:

• Students Worldview Map from Lesson 1
• My Influence Map Example Actions

Instructions:

Students start by drawing a map of their “world” on the large paper. This should include all the places they regularly interact with people, such as home, school, sports teams, clubs, and church.

Using the stickers or symbols, students mark these key areas on their map. Beside each symbol, they should write or draw one specific way they can shine Christ’s light there.

For each identified way to influence, students write a short plan on how they will implement this action in the coming week. Encourage them to be realistic and specific.

Sharing and Commitment: Pair students up to share their maps and plans. They should discuss what they think will be easy or challenging about their chosen actions. Encourage them to pray for each other, asking for courage and opportunities to act.

Conclusion of Activities:

These activities aren’t just about imagining what we might do in hypothetical situations; they’re about preparing us to live out our faith boldly and brightly in our real lives. Like Daniel, we have countless opportunities every day to stand firm in our beliefs and to shine our light in a world that often feels dark.

By practicing these responses and recognizing our areas of influence, we’re taking important steps toward becoming true beacons of hope and light in our culture.

As we wrap up today’s activities, remember that being a beacon isn’t always about doing big, noticeable things. Sometimes, it’s the small, consistent acts of kindness, faith, and courage that shine the brightest. Let’s go out and light up the world around us, one action at a time.

Jesus Connection

Let’s explore how Jesus provides us the perfect example and strength to face cultural pressures and be a positive influence on society. Jesus didn’t just live in the culture; He transformed it with love, truth, and grace. As we strive to be beacons of hope in our world, let’s look to Jesus for guidance and inspiration.

Jesus: Our Ultimate Role Model

Jesus lived in a time and place with its own cultural challenges, yet He never wavered from His mission or compromised His values. He engaged with all kinds of people, showing love and compassion to everyone from tax collectors to sinners, often challenging societal norms and expectations.

 Luke 5:27-32. In this passage, Jesus calls Levi, a tax collector, to follow Him and then dines with many tax collectors and sinners. The Pharisees and their scribes questioned this, to which Jesus responded, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.”

How does Jesus’ willingness to reach out to those who were excluded or looked down upon in His society inspire us to act in our own lives?

Potential Response: “It shows that being like Jesus means not just sticking with people who are just like us. We can be kind and make a difference by being friends with everyone, even if they’re not the popular or ‘cool’ kids.”

Facing Pressures with Confidence

Jesus faced misunderstandings, criticism, and even hostility with unwavering confidence because He knew His identity and purpose came from His Father. He lived out His mission with courage, showing us that our strength to face cultural pressures comes from our relationship with God.

John 15:18-19. Jesus warns His disciples, “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world.”

What are some pressures you feel to fit in or hide your faith, and how can knowing you’re chosen by God help you face them?

Potential Response: “Sometimes I’m scared to talk about going to church because I think others will think it’s weird. But knowing Jesus also felt left out for doing the right thing helps me not to be so worried about fitting in.”

Being a Positive Influence

Jesus didn’t just resist cultural pressures; He also actively worked to heal, teach, and uplift those around Him. We’re called to do the same—to not only stand firm in our beliefs but to actively spread kindness, justice, and love.

Matthew 5:13-16. This passage calls us to be “the salt of the earth” and “the light of the world,” encouraging us to let our good deeds shine before others to glorify our Father in heaven.

How can we be ‘salt and light’ in our schools, teams, or friend groups? Can you think of one action this week that could help someone see Jesus’ love through you?

Potential Response: “By being someone who always speaks kindly and helps out. This week, I can offer to help someone with their homework or invite someone sitting alone to join my friends and me.”

Conclusion:

Remember that facing cultural pressures isn’t about having all the answers or being perfect. It’s about leaning on Jesus, our ultimate role model, for strength and guidance. With Him, we can navigate any challenge and be a positive influence, transforming our corners of the world with His love.

Let’s move forward, inspired by Jesus’ example, ready to shine His light in all we do.

Creative Expressions

Salt and Light Mason Jars

Objective: To create a decorative mason jar that symbolizes our call to be salt and light in the world, inspired by Matthew 5:13-16.

Materials Needed:

• Mason jars, one per student
• White sand or salt to fill the bottom of the jars (representing “salt of the earth”)
• Small LED tea lights (symbolizing “light of the world”)
• Transparent colored paper or tissue paper
• Mod Podge or similar adhesive
• Paintbrushes for applying the adhesive
• Permanent markers
• Twine or ribbon for decoration
• Optional: Stickers or other decorative items that reflect Christian symbols

Instructions:

Begin by filling the bottom of each mason jar with white sand or salt, about an inch deep. This represents us being the salt of the earth, adding flavor and preserving goodness in the world.

Place a small LED tea light on top of the sand or salt inside the jar. This light will remind us that we are also called to be the light of the world, shining brightly to guide others.

Decorate with Color: Cut the colored paper or tissue into shapes, letters, or designs that you feel represent your light in the world. Using the paintbrush, apply Mod Podge to the outside of the jar where you’d like to place your paper pieces. Stick them on, then apply another layer of Mod Podge over the top to seal them.

Inscribe Your Jar: Use permanent markers to write or draw on the jar. You might include your favorite Bible verse about being light or salt, your name, or simply the words “Salt & Light.”

Finishing Touches: Wrap twine or ribbon around the neck of the jar for a decorative finish. Feel free to add any stickers or additional decorations that reflect your faith and individuality.

Reflection and Sharing

This craft is not only a fun and creative activity but also a meaningful reminder of our mission to be like Jesus—salt and light in our communities. By shining His light through our actions and words, and adding the preserving and flavor-enhancing qualities of salt to our world, we can make a significant impact.

Let your Salt and Light Mason Jar be a beacon in your room, reminding you daily of your calling and purpose.

Parting Thoughts

As we bring our lesson on being salt and light in a challenging culture to a close, let’s take a moment to reflect on what we’ve learned and how we can apply these lessons in our daily lives.

Our journey today has equipped us with the understanding and inspiration needed to face cultural pressures with confidence and to be a positive influence, just like Jesus.

Recap Of Our Adventure

• We learned from Daniel that standing firm in our faith, even in unfamiliar or difficult situations, can lead to incredible opportunities to shine God’s light.
• Jesus, our ultimate role model, showed us that engaging with those around us—offering love, grace, and truth—can transform lives and cultures.
• Through our crafts and activities, we’ve created tangible reminders of our identity and mission as Christians in the world.

Moving Forward with Purpose:

Remember, being salt and light isn’t limited to grand gestures or monumental acts. It’s found in the everyday moments—choosing kindness over indifference, standing up for what’s right, offering a word of encouragement, and sharing the love of Jesus in both word and deed.

Challenges for the Week Ahead:

Salt and Light Diary: Each day this week, jot down one way you were able to be salt or light in your world. It could be as simple as a smile to someone who looked lonely or as bold as sharing why you have hope in Christ with a friend.

Family Reflection: Share this lesson with your family during a mealtime. Discuss ways you can collectively be salt and light in your community.

Final Encouragement

As you go from here, remember you are never alone in your efforts to shine. God is with you, providing the strength, wisdom, and courage needed to make a difference. Your light can brighten the darkest of places and lead others to the love and hope found in Jesus.

Carry your salt and light mason jars as a symbol of your commitment, and let’s look forward to the incredible ways God will use us to season and illuminate the world around us. Keep shining!

Keep Exploring

As our lesson on navigating cultural pressures and being a beacon of light concludes, the journey doesn’t end here. Continuing to shine in our daily lives requires ongoing reflection, commitment, and action. Here are some follow-up activities and ideas to keep the light bright and your salt savory in the days and weeks ahead.

1. Weekly Reflection Meetings: Organize small group meetings, either in person or online, where students can come together weekly to share their experiences of being salt and light. These meetings serve as a supportive space to discuss challenges, celebrate successes, and pray for each other.

Action Step: Set a regular time and day for the meetings. Encourage each participant to share at least one way they were salt and light in their week.

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2. Salt and Light Challenge Cards: Create a deck of challenge cards with simple, actionable ways students can be salt and light in their community. Each week, students can draw a new challenge to focus on.

Materials Needed: Index cards, markers, and a list of actions (e.g., “Compliment three people today,” “Help a family member without being asked,” “Invite someone new to join your lunch table”).

Action Step: Encourage students to keep the card with them as a reminder throughout the week. Share experiences at the next reflection meeting.

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3. Family Engagement: Encourage students to engage their families in being salt and light. This could involve family service projects, discussing Sunday’s sermon and how it applies to their mission, or simply praying together for specific needs in their community.

Action Step: Create a “Family Salt and Light Plan” where each member suggests one action the family can take together.

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4. Scripture Memory Verses: Select key verses about being salt and light and challenge students to memorize one each month. This helps ground their actions in biblical truth and provides spiritual encouragement.

Materials Needed: Memory verse cards.

Action Step: Check in at weekly meetings to recite the verses and discuss what they’ve learned from them.

Conclusion and Encouragement

The call to be salt and light doesn’t pause when our lesson ends; it’s a lifelong mission that grows and evolves with each step we take. By integrating these follow-up activities into your life, you continue to build upon the foundation laid in our time together.

Let’s keep our lights shining brightly and our salt seasoned generously, transforming our world one act of love at a time.

Additional Tips for Teachers and Parents

Fostering the ability in children to face cultural pressures with the confidence and love of Christ is an ongoing journey. As teachers and parents, your support, guidance, and example are invaluable. Here are some additional tips to help you nurture and encourage the young beacons in your care.

1. Lead by Example:
Children learn a great deal by observing the adults in their lives. Demonstrate how to be salt and light in your own actions. Whether it’s how you talk about others, handle difficult situations, or show kindness, let your actions reflect the teachings of Jesus.

Practical Application: Share stories from your own life where you had to stand firm in your beliefs or choose to be a positive influence. Discuss both the challenges and the outcomes.

2. Encourage Questions and Open Conversations:
Create an environment where children feel safe to express their doubts, questions, and thoughts about navigating cultural pressures. Use these discussions as opportunities to explore biblical principles together.

Practical Application: Dedicate time each week for open-ended discussions. Use prompts like, “Was there a moment this week when it was hard to be kind or truthful? How did you handle it?”

3. Use Real-Life Examples:
Identify and discuss real-life examples of individuals who exemplify being salt and light in their communities or the world. These can be historical figures, people from the Bible, or contemporary examples.

Practical Application: Choose a “Salt and Light” figure each month to study and discuss. Explore how their faith influenced their actions and the impact they made.

4. Foster Community Service:
Engage in service projects as a family or class. Serving together not only provides practical ways to be salt and light but also strengthens your sense of community and shared purpose.

Practical Application: Organize a monthly service project, such as volunteering at a local food bank, cleaning up a community park, or writing encouragement cards for nursing home residents.

5. Equip with Scripture:
Help children memorize scriptures that speak to being salt and light. Encourage them to turn to these verses when they need strength or guidance.

Practical Application: Create scripture cards together. Keep them in a place where they’re easily accessible, like on the refrigerator or in their school bags.

6. Celebrate Acts of Salt and Light:
Acknowledge and celebrate when children take steps to be salt and light, no matter how small. Positive reinforcement encourages them to continue these behaviors.

Practical Application: Create a “Salt and Light” board at home or in the classroom where you can post stories or pictures of acts of kindness or courage.

7. Cultivate a Missional Mindset:
Help children understand that being salt and light is part of their mission as followers of Christ. Discuss how even small acts can have a big impact on others and glorify God.

Practical Application: After watching a movie or reading a book, discuss the characters’ actions through the lens of being salt and light. Ask, “How did this character or story show the love of Jesus?”

Conclusion:
By implementing these tips, you’ll provide children with the tools, confidence, and support they need to navigate their world as salt and light.

Remember, your encouragement and example play a crucial role in helping them grow into faithful and impactful followers of Christ. Together, let’s cultivate a generation that shines brightly, transforming their surroundings with God’s love.

Joyful Noises

“This Little Light of Mine”

A classic choice that directly ties into the theme of shining brightly for Jesus. It’s an upbeat reminder for kids to let their lights shine in every situation.

“I Have Decided to Follow Jesus”

A declaration of commitment to follow Jesus, no matter the circumstances. This song encourages children to stand firm in their faith, even when faced with cultural pressures.

“He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands”

Reminds children of God’s sovereignty and care over everything. This song can help build trust and confidence in God’s control, especially important when navigating the challenges of being salt and light in the world.

4th-6th Grade
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In this lesson, we will explore what the Bible says about who we are, why we’re here, where we’re going, how we should live, and what the truth is.

We’ll learn about our incredible creation, discover God’s purpose for our lives, find out what our future holds with God, understand how to live according to His ways, and learn to identify the truth in a world full of different opinions. Each of these questions will help us understand more about ourselves and how we fit into God’s amazing plan.

I hope you’re ready to learn, share, and have fun as we explore these big questions together. Let’s get started!

Hello Adventure!

Today, we embark on a thrilling adventure, one that takes us deep into some of life’s biggest questions. Just like detectives, we’re going to use clues from the Bible to help us answer five important questions: “Where did I come from?” “Where am I going?” “Why am I here?” “How should I live?” and “What is the truth?” These questions are like the keys to understanding not just who we are, but how we fit into God’s amazing plan.

Objective: Our goal for today is to help each of you understand some of the most important questions about life from a biblical perspective. We aim to strengthen your faith and understanding, equipping you with the knowledge to confidently answer these questions not just in class but in your everyday lives.

What We’ll Discover:

• Where Did I Come From? – We’ll learn about our incredible creation and how each of us is wonderfully made by God.
• Where Am I Going? – We’ll explore what the Bible says about our journey beyond today and our future with God.
• Why Am I Here? – We’ll find out about God’s purpose for each of us and why He put us on this Earth.
• How Should I Live? – We’ll discover the ways God wants us to live our lives, treating others with kindness, standing up for what is right, and spreading His love.
• What Is the Truth? – We’ll learn how to identify truth in a world full of different voices and opinions, using the Bible as our ultimate guide.

Ice Breaker: “Who Am I?”

Purpose: This game will help us start thinking about identities and roles, warming us up for our deeper discussions on life’s big questions.

Materials Needed:

• Sticky notes
• Marker

Instructions:

Before the class, write down the names of different biblical figures on sticky notes—one for each child.

Game Play:

As each student enters the room, gently place a sticky note on their back without letting them see the name written on it.

Once everyone has arrived and has a sticky note, allow the students to take turns asking yes or no questions about the character on their back. Questions could be like, “Am I a woman?” or “Did I meet Jesus?”

They can ask only one question at a time and then must guess who they are based on the answers. They continue asking until they correctly guess their biblical figure.

Introducing the Story

We’re going to dive into the Bible to find answers to the five big questions we talked about earlier. Each story we encounter will not only give us a deeper understanding of God’s plan but also show us how He has been guiding and loving us from the very beginning.

So, let’s open our hearts and minds to these incredible stories and discover how they connect to our own lives.

The Great Tapestry

As we journey through the story of creation and beyond, we’ll explore all five big questions that help us understand our place in God’s grand design: “Where did I come from?” “Where am I going?” “Why am I here?” “How should I live?” and “What is the truth?” Let’s dive into the biblical narrative that addresses each of these profound questions.

Storytelling

In this segment, we’ll use stories from the Bible to explore the five profound questions that shape our understanding of a biblical worldview. These stories help us see how God’s truths guide us through life.

★ Where Did I Come From? – The Creation Story (Genesis 1-2)

God created the world by simply speaking, and in six days, He made the heavens, the earth, and all living creatures. This shows us just how powerful and creative God is.

We are very special because God made us in His own image. This means we are different from all other creations. Every person is made with love and care, which means each of us is important and has a special job to do.

When God created the world, He wasn’t just making the sky, land, and animals. He was also starting a special relationship with people. We are the most important part of His creation because we are made to be like Him. This means we can show God’s love and goodness in the way we take care of the world and treat others.

Genesis 1:27 – “So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.”

This verse tells us that being made in God’s image means we can be creative, think deeply, build relationships, and know right from wrong. This makes us unique and gives us a special purpose.

★ Where Am I Going? – The Promise to Abraham (Genesis 12:1-3)

When God promised Abraham that he would become a great nation, be blessed, and have a great name, it wasn’t just about Abraham. It was also about everyone who would come after him—including us. This promise means that everyone who is faithful will share in God’s blessings. It also hints at the coming of Jesus, through whom all nations would be blessed. This story helps us understand our future with God and how important it is to be faithful.

Abraham’s story shows us how faithful God is and how He has a plan for each of us. It reminds us that God’s promises last forever and that we are part of a big, amazing story that started a long time ago.

Genesis 12:2 – “I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing.”

This verse tells us that God’s promise to Abraham was not just about making Abraham happy. It was about making Abraham a blessing to others. This shows us that God’s plans are big and include making the world a better place through us.

★ Why Am I Here? – The Life of Joseph (Genesis 37, 39-50)

Joseph’s life had many ups and downs. He was sold into slavery by his own brothers but later became the second most powerful man in Egypt. Even though he faced many hardships, Joseph knew that God had a purpose for his life. God used Joseph to save many people during a great famine. This story shows us that we have a special purpose too, even when life is tough or uncertain. It encourages us to trust in God’s plan and find ways to help others, no matter what challenges we face.

Joseph’s story teaches us about being strong and trusting God. Despite many difficulties, Joseph’s faith in God’s plan gave him strength and wisdom. Because of this, he was able to save many lives.

Genesis 50:20 – “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.”

This verse shows us that even when others try to harm us, God can use those bad situations for good. Joseph’s life shows us that our challenges can prepare us for important roles that fulfill God’s plans.

★ How Should I Live? – The Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:1-17)

The Ten Commandments were given to Moses on Mount Sinai. They are direct instructions from God about how to live a good and righteous life. These commandments teach us how to have a good relationship with God and with other people. They include important rules like honoring our parents, not stealing, and not lying. These guidelines help us understand how to live in a way that makes society fair, loving, and faithful to God.

The Ten Commandments are very important for Christians because they show us how to live. They aren’t just rules; they help create a loving and just community.

Exodus 20:12 – “Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you.”

This commandment teaches us that respecting our parents and other authorities brings God’s blessings. It shows that respect is key to having strong families and communities.

★ What Is the Truth? – Jesus’ Teachings and Parables (Gospels)

Jesus often used parables, like the Parable of the Sower, to teach us about God’s kingdom and how we should live and believe. These stories reveal important truths about human nature, our relationship with God, and how we interact with others. Jesus teaches that truth is more than just an idea; it’s a way of life that comes from every word of God. By understanding and following Jesus’ teachings, we learn to see what is true in our daily lives and make decisions that show our faith.

Jesus’ parables are essential for understanding God’s kingdom and our part in it. They help us learn what God expects from us and how we should live.

Matthew 13:23 – “But the seed falling on good soil refers to someone who hears the word and understands it. This one produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown.”

The Parable of the Sower teaches us how important it is to be open to God’s word and let it change our lives. It challenges us to think about what kind of “soil” we are and how we can live in a way that is open to God’s truth and productive in the world.

These stories from the Bible provide more than historical accounts; they offer deep insights into how we can navigate our lives. By understanding our origins, destiny, purpose, moral foundation, and the essence of truth from a biblical perspective, we are better equipped to live lives that honor God and make a positive impact on those around us.

Play & Learn

Engaging in activities helps to solidify the lessons learned from today’s Bible story, especially the theme of courage. These activities are designed to be interactive and enjoyable, allowing children to experience and practice the lesson in a safe environment.

Through creative and hands-on experiences, the kids will not only have fun but also deepen their understanding of how trusting in God can help them face their own challenges with identity and purpose.

Activity 1: “Creation Collage”

Objective: This activity will help children visually understand and reflect on the idea of being wonderfully made by God.

Materials Needed:

• Magazines, newspapers, or printed images
• Scissors
• Glue sticks
• Large sheets of paper or poster boards
• Markers, crayons, or colored pencils
• Bible

Instructions:

Gather a variety of magazines, newspapers, and printed images that children can use to create their collages. Ensure there are images that represent different aspects of life and creation, such as animals, plants, people, and natural landscapes.

Explain to the children that they are going to create a collage that represents the idea of being wonderfully made by God. Read Psalm 139:14, “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”

Creating the Collage:
Give each child a large sheet of paper or a poster board.

Ask them to cut out images from the magazines that they feel represent God’s creation and the idea of being wonderfully made.
Encourage them to think about the diversity of God’s creation and to include a variety of images.

Once they have selected their images, they can arrange and glue them onto their poster board.

Allow them to use markers, crayons, or colored pencils to add words or additional drawings to their collage.

 

Let’s remember that each of us is a unique and wonderful creation of God. Just like the different images in your collages, God has made each of us special with our own unique qualities. This means that you are valuable and loved by God. Let’s celebrate our uniqueness and the amazing Creator who made us!

Activity 2: “God’s Plan Charades”

Objective: This game helps children learn about their identity and purpose in God’s plan through acting out biblical stories and concepts.

Materials Needed:

• Slips of paper with different biblical stories, characters, or concepts written on them
• A container to hold the slips of paper
• Timer (optional)

Instructions:
Write down different biblical stories, characters, or concepts related to the lesson on slips of paper and place them in a container. Examples include:

• Creation of the world
• Noah’s Ark
• David and Goliath
• Jonah and the Whale
• Jesus feeding the 5,000
• The Good Samaritan
• Jesus walking on water
• Moses parting the Red Sea
• The Ten Commandments
• The Parable of the Lost Sheep

Prepare enough slips so that each child gets multiple turns.
Introduction: Explain to the children that they are going to play “God’s Plan Charades.” This game will help them understand more about their identity and purpose in God’s plan through acting out biblical stories and concepts.

Read Ephesians 2:10, “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”

Playing the Game:
Divide the children into two teams.

One child from the first team draws a slip of paper from the container and, without speaking, acts out the story, character, or concept for their team to guess. They have one minute to get their team to guess correctly.

If the team guesses correctly within the time limit, they earn a point. If not, the other team gets one chance to guess and steal the point.

Alternate turns between teams until all slips of paper have been used or until a set amount of time has passed.

The team with the most points at the end wins.

Conclusion of Activities:

Playing ‘God’s Plan Charades’ showed us that we can learn and remember God’s word in fun and creative ways. Each story we acted out reminds us of God’s power, love, and plan for our lives.

Remember that God has a unique path for each of us and that we can trust Him to guide us every step of the way

Jesus Connection

The most important part of our lesson is understanding how all of these big questions about life connect to Jesus, who is the center of God’s plan for us. Jesus’ life, teachings, death, and resurrection provide the answers to the fundamental questions of our existence.

★ Jesus and Our Creation

Jesus was present at creation and played a role in it.

John 1:1-3 – “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made.”

Jesus, referred to as the Word, was there at the very beginning of creation. This tells us that He has always been a part of God’s plan and that our creation was purposeful. Understanding that Jesus was involved in our creation helps us see our value and worth.

How does knowing Jesus was involved in creation make you feel about yourself and others?

Possible Response: It makes me feel special and loved because Jesus cared enough to be part of creating us. It also helps me see others as valuable too.

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★ Jesus and Our Purpose

Jesus gives us purpose and calls us to follow Him.

Matthew 4:19 – “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.”

Jesus calls us to follow Him and live out our purpose by sharing His love and message with others. Our purpose is not just to exist but to actively participate in God’s plan by helping others know Him.

What are some ways you can follow Jesus and fulfill your purpose?

Possible Response: I can be kind to others, share about Jesus with my friends, and help those in need.

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★ Jesus and Our Future

Jesus prepares a place for us and promises us eternal life.

John 14:2-3 – “My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.”

Jesus promises that He is preparing a place for us in heaven. This gives us hope and assurance about our future with Him. Knowing that our future is secure with Jesus helps us live with confidence and joy.

How does knowing Jesus is preparing a place for you in heaven affect your daily life?

Possible Response: It makes me feel safe and hopeful. I can face challenges knowing that I have a future with Jesus.

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★ Jesus and Our Way of Living

Jesus shows us how to live through His example.

John 13:34 – “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.”

Jesus teaches us to live by loving others as He loves us. His life is the perfect example of how we should treat others, showing kindness, compassion, and forgiveness. Following Jesus’ example helps us live lives that honor God and positively impact others.

In what ways can you show Jesus’ love to others?

Possible Response: I can be kind, forgive others, help those who are hurting, and stand up for what is right.

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★ Jesus and the Truth

Jesus is the truth and the source of all truth.

John 14:6 – “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’”

Jesus is the ultimate truth, and His words guide us in understanding what is true in a world with many conflicting voices. By following Jesus, we can discern what is true and live according to God’s will.

How can you seek and follow the truth of Jesus in your daily life?

Possible Response: I can read the Bible, pray for guidance, and listen to what Jesus teaches us about living rightly.

Wrapping Up

Through these big questions about life, we see that Jesus is the answer. He was there at creation, giving us purpose and hope for the future. His example shows us how to live, and His truth guides us every day.

Remember that Jesus is the center of God’s plan for us, and by following Him, we find the answers to all of life’s biggest questions. Let’s keep our hearts and minds focused on Jesus, trusting Him to lead us every step of the way.

Creative Expressions

Promise Jars

Objective: This craft will help children remember God’s promises and understand His plan for their lives by creating jars filled with scripture verses and personal reflections.

Materials Needed:

• Small jars with lids (one for each child)
• Strips of paper or small note card
• Markers, crayons, or colored pencils
• Stickers and other decorative items (optional)
• Ribbon or yarn
• Bible

Instructions:

• Provide each child with a small jar and several strips of paper or note cards.
• Gather markers, crayons, colored pencils, stickers, and other decorative items for decorating the jars.

Explain to the children that they are going to create “Promise Jars” to help them remember God’s promises and how they relate to their lives. Read Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

Give each child a jar and several strips of paper or note cards.
Ask the children to decorate their jars with markers, stickers, and other decorative items. They can write their names and “Promise Jar” on the jars.

Provide a list of scripture references that contain God’s promises (e.g., John 14:27, Philippians 4:19, Romans 8:28). Have the children write these verses on the strips of paper or note cards. You can also have them write their own personal reflections or prayers on some of the strips.

Once they have written several promises and reflections, have them fold the strips and place them inside their jars.

Reflection and Closing

Your Promise Jars are filled with reminders of God’s love and His promises for your life. Whenever you feel worried or need encouragement, you can take out a promise from your jar and be reminded of God’s faithfulness.

Keep your jar in a special place where you can see it and remember that God’s promises are always true and He is always with you.

Parting Thoughts

Today, we’ve answered some of life’s biggest questions by looking at what the Bible says. Each of you is a unique and special creation of God. He has wonderful plans for your life, and He promises to be with you every step of the way. Remember to seek Jesus in everything you do, because He is the answer to all of life’s questions.

As you go through your week, think about how you can apply what you’ve learned today. Whether it’s being kind to others, trusting God’s plan for your future, or sharing Jesus’ love with those around you, know that you are living out God’s purpose for your life.

Recap Of Our Adventure

Where Did I Come From?

We learned that we are wonderfully made by God, created in His image. This means that each of us is unique and valuable. Remember Psalm 139:14 and celebrate the fact that you are fearfully and wonderfully made.

Where Am I Going?

We explored God’s promise about our future. He has plans to prosper us and give us hope. We can look forward to a future with God, knowing that He is preparing a place for us, as Jesus promised in John 14:2-3.

Why Am I Here?

We discovered that our purpose is to follow Jesus and share His love with others. Ephesians 2:10 reminds us that we are created to do good works, which God has prepared for us to do. Each of us has a special role in God’s plan.

How Should I Live?

We learned that Jesus shows us how to live through His teachings and example. By loving others and living according to God’s commandments, we honor Him and make a positive impact on those around us. Remember John 13:34, where Jesus teaches us to love one another.

What Is the Truth?

We found that Jesus is the truth and the source of all truth. By following Him, we can discern what is true and live according to God’s will. John 14:6 reminds us that Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life.

Keep Exploring

A few take-home ideas for continuing the lesson outside the classroom on purpose and identity from a Biblical worldview.

1. Family Discussion:

Encourage the children to talk with their families about what they learned. They can share their Promise Jars and discuss the promises they wrote down.
Materials Needed: Promise Jars from the craft

Memory Verse Challenge:

Challenge the children to memorize Jeremiah 29:11. Offer a small reward for those who can recite it the following week.
Materials Needed: None

Prayer Journal:

Encourage the children to start a prayer journal where they write down their prayers and reflect on how God answers them.
Materials Needed: Notebook or journal, pen or pencil

Acts of Kindness:

Suggest that the children perform an act of kindness each day and reflect on how it feels to live out Jesus’ teaching to love one another.
Materials Needed: None

Additional Tips for Teachers and Parents

Fostering the ability in children to face cultural pressures with the confidence and love of Christ is an ongoing journey. As teachers and parents, your support, guidance, and example are invaluable. Here are some additional tips to help you nurture and encourage the young beacons in your care.

1. Engaging Different Learning Styles:
Use a variety of teaching methods, including visual aids, hands-on activities, and discussion, to engage different learning styles. Provide quiet time for reflection for children who need more time to process information.

2. Classroom Management:
Establish clear rules and expectations at the beginning of the lesson.

Use positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior and participation.

3. Real-Life Examples:
Share personal stories or examples of how God’s promises have been evident in your own life or in the lives of others.
Relate the lesson to current events or situations that the children might be familiar with.

4. Follow-Up Questions:
During the week, follow up with the children to see how they are applying what they learned.

Send a quick note or email to parents with key points from the lesson and suggestions for reinforcing the message at home.

Joyful Noises

“10,000 Reasons (Bless the Lord)” by Matt Redman”

This song encourages worship and gratitude, reminding us of God’s goodness and many blessings, which align with understanding our purpose and God’s plan.

“You Say” by Lauren Daigle

This song emphasizes our worth and identity in Christ, reinforcing the lesson about being wonderfully made and valued by God.

“I’ve Got Peace Like a River”

This song reminds children of the peace, love, and joy that come from knowing Jesus, reinforcing the lesson about God’s promises and His plan for our lives.