God decided to create the world.On the first day, God created the light, separating light and darkness. God
called the light “day” and the darkness “night.”Everything was covered with water. On the second day, God separated the
waters and made a space between, calling it “sky.”On the third day, God gathered all the water, calling it “seas.” He caused
the dry ground to appear, calling it “land.” He created the vegetation such asplants, trees and fruits.
On the fourth day, God created the sun to shine during the day. He alsomade the moon and the stars to shine during the night.
On the fifth day, God created every type of fish that lives in the water. Hemade all the birds that fly in the sky.
On the sixth day, God created all the animals, such as: cattle, snakes, etc.Then God said, “Let us make man similar to us.” God created the first man, Adam,and later the first woman, Eve. Adam and Eve were to take care of His creation.
The world that God created was very good!On the seventh day, God rested from all the work.
Adam and Eve lived in the beautiful Garden of Eden. They took care ofthe beautiful garden, the plants, the flowers and the animals.
In the cool of each evening, God came to talk with them.God let them eat fruit from all the trees, except one. It was in the middle
of the garden. One day, Eve walked in the garden. She came close to the treefrom which she was not suppose to eat its fruit. A snake talked with her andtried to get her to disobey God and eat that fruit. She looked at the fruit andsaw that it was so beautiful, pleasant and desirable. Finally, she picked fruitfrom that tree and ate it. Eve gave some of the fruit to Adam and he ate it too.
Later in the day when they heard the voice of God calling them, they hid.They were afraid. God knew that they disobeyed Him, but He still loved them.God gave them skins of animals to wear. Then God punished Adam and Eveand they had to leave the beautiful garden.
Adam and Eve had two children, Abel and Cain.Abel was a shepherd and he took care of the sheep. By faith, Abel wanted
to thank God for His help. God created the sun, the water and the plants thathelped the sheep to grow. He brought some of the fattest portions from the first-born of his flock of sheep as an offering to God. Abel was thankful he could dothis, because God deserved the best offering. God was very happy with Abel’soffering.
His brother, Cain, was a farmer that took care of plants. Cain only broughtsome fruits of the soil to God. God was not happy with Cain’s offering.
God accepted Abel’s offering but not Cain’s offering.As a result, Cain was very angry. God told him to control his anger. What
did Cain do? Cain was so angry that he attacked and killed his brother. So Godpunished Cain. He no longer was a farmer, but a wanderer, going from place toplace. Cain left the Lord’s presence and lived in the land of Nod.
Noah was a righteous man, which means that he was a good man whoobeyed God. He lived in favor with God. But God was very sad with the badthoughts, evil and violence that everyone else was doing on earth.
God ordered Noah to build a very large boat called an ark. God gaveNoah instructions on how to build the boat. Noah obeyed God. When the boatwas finished, God told Noah to take inside the boat his family: his wife, theirthree sons and their three daughters-in-law. Noah was also told to take a pair,male and female, of every kind of creature: animals, birds, etc. Also Noah wasto take enough food for his family and all the creatures. Noah obeyed. ThenGod closed the door.
Noah was 600 years old when the flood-rains came. For 40 days it rainedvery, very hard, flooding the earth. When the rain stopped, it took a very, verylong time for the water to go down and the land to dry. Then God told Noah thateveryone could leave. Noah, his family and all the creatures came out of theboat. They had been in the boat for 370 days.
The first thing that Noah and his family did was to worship God. They builtan altar and gave thanks to God for giving them protection.
God put a beautiful rainbow in the sky as a sign that never again will therebe a flood to destroy the earth.
After the flood, the great rain, God told Noah’s family to multiply andscatter throughout the whole earth (Genesis 9:7). Noah’s family grew. They didnot scatter but stayed close to one another. Everyone spoke the same lan-guage.
One day they said to each other: “Let’s build a city with a tower thatreaches upward to the sky. We will be famous. We will not have toscatter over all the earth.”
God was sad with their actions and attitude. They disobeyed God. SoGod changed the way they talked, their language. No one understood what theperson by his side was saying. So each person found others that spoke thesame way as he spoke and then grouped together. Now each person in hisgroup could understand one another. Yet, one group could not understandwhat the other groups were saying.
Because of all the confusion, they stopped building the city with the tower.The name of that city was called Babel.
Then the different groups moved and scattered in different directionsaround the world. Each group speaking their own language and understand-ing each other within their group.
Many, many years have passed since the people tried to build a tower in thecity of Babel. Because God had confused their language, the people scattered todifferent parts of the earth.
One day God spoke to a man named Abram. He asked Abram to leave hiscountry, his family and his father’s home. He was to go to a place that He would showhim. Abram had faith in God and trusted Him. Abram obeyed God. Abram took hiswife Sarai, his nephew Lot and everything that he had. They left his home in Ur andtraveled a long distance. They arrived in the Promised Land, Canaan. There Abrambuilt an altar and worshiped God.
After awhile the shepherds of Lot began to fight with his uncle Abram’s ser-vants. Abram said that they should separate. He let Lot choose where to go. Lotchose the fertile land on the plain of Jordan. Abram moved in the other direction,living in mountainous and less fertile areas. God again promised to be with him. InHebron, Abram built an altar and worshiped the Lord.
Later God changed Abram’s name to Abraham and Sarai’s name to Sarah.Abraham had a son named Ishmael with Sarah’s maidservant Hagar.After a very long time, God blessed Abraham and Sarah with a son named
Isaac. Abraham was one hundred years old and Sarah was ninety-one years old.Abraham had faith in God. When God tested him, Abraham was willing to give
his son Isaac to God.God promised to bless him, giving him descendants as numerous as the stars
in the sky, because he obeyed Him.Abraham was known as God’s friend (JAMES 2:23).
Isaac was the son of Abraham and he married Rebekah. They had twin sons calledEsau and Jacob. Esau was born first. They grew. Jacob liked to be in the fields, huntinganimals. His brother, Jacob, liked to be near the home.
One day Jacob was cooking a stew. Esau had spent the day in the field and arrivedvery hungry. He asked his brother for some food. But Jacob only gave him food when Esaupromised to give him his birthright. (This meant that now Jacob would receive a largerinheritance than his brother Esau.)
Time passed and his father Isaac became old and blind. The father asked his sonEsau to hunt and prepare a special meal that he liked. After that he would give him thespecial blessing for the oldest son. Esau obeyed and left.
Jacob deceived his father. He dressed in Esau’s clothes. Because his brother wasvery hairy, Jacob covered his hands and neck with goatskins to trick his father. Jacob wentinto his father’s tent with the prepared food that his father liked. He lied to his father andsaid that he was Esau. The father could not see. The father noticed that the voice was ofJacob, but the hands were hairy. He could smell the odor of Esau’s clothes. Thinking thatthis was his son Esau, Issac gave the special blessing for the oldest son. Then Jacob left,and soon afterwards Esau arrived. He discovered that his brother Jacob had deceived hisfather and received the special blessing. Esau was very, very angry.
Jacob was afraid of his brother and he received permission to visit his Uncle Laban’shome. He quickly left. On the road Jacob stopped to rest. He used a stone as a pillow andslept. He dreamed and saw a ladder that went from the ground to the sky. Angels went upand down the ladder. God told Jacob that He would be with him everywhere he went andprotect him. Jacob made a promise that he would serve God.
Jacob visited and worked for his Uncle Laban for many, many years. He married andGod blessed him. One day he decided to return home. On the journey God changedJacob’s name to Israel. Jacob sent many gifts ahead to his brother. When Esau saw hisbrother, he ran to Jacob. They cried and hugged each other. Esau forgave his brother forthe wrong things that he had done to him. They lived in peace with one another.
When Jacob arrived in Canaan he made an altar and worshiped God.
2. What is there in the story that you do not understand?
3. Who are the main people in the story?
4. What problems did the people face?
5. How did the people face their problems?
6. How have you faced similar problems?
7. Is there someone in the story who is similar to you or who is different from you?
8. What does the story tell about God?
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1. Why did Isaac love Esau more than his other son? Why did Rebekah love Jacob morethan Esau?
2. Do you think it is right for a mother or father to love one child more than another? Why?Have you ever felt that way? How does it make you feel?
3. Why did Jacob lie and deceive his father?--- Was he right? Why not?--- How did Esau feel when he found out?--- What were the consequences of Jacob’s lying?--- What did Jacob do?
4. What happens when someone lies to someone and then the lie is discovered? Whatshould you do if you have lied to someone?
5. What did Jacob dream when he stopped to sleep? What did God tell him?
6. How does God protect and take care of you? What are some things you can do toprotect yourself from harm?
7. What did Esau do when he saw his brother Jacob return? Did Esau forgive his brother?What happened? How was their relationship after this encounter?
Jacob had twelve children. Joseph was next to the youngest son. The father lovedJoseph more than his other children and gave him a beautiful, colorful robe.
Joseph’s brothers did not like him. One day they sold Joseph to a caravan of peoplegoing to Egypt. But God was with Joseph. There he was sold to Potiphar, captain of theking’s guard. He took care of Potiphar’s home and all his belongings. One day Potiphar’swife told a lie about Joseph and he was put into prison. God was still with Joseph, takingcare of him and protecting him.
In prison the guard found favor in Joseph and put him in charge of all the prisoners.Two prisoners, the chief cup bearer and the chief baker, had dreams, Joseph told themwhat they meant. Soon afterwards the cup bearer went back to work for the king.
Two years later the king of Egypt had two dreams and he was sad, because he didnot know what the dreams meant. The cup bearer told the king about Joseph and he wasbrought to the palace. With God’s help, Joseph told the king what the dreams meant.There would be seven years when there would be lots of crops and food. Afterwards therewould be seven years of drought, with little rain and very little food.
The king put Joseph in charge, second-in-command of Egypt. Joseph helped takecare of the country. He had the people store and save food during the prosperous years,when there was lots of food. This way the people could buy food during drought years,when little food could be grown.
One day his brothers came to Egypt to buy food and Joseph gave them food. Whenthey found out that he was their brother, they asked him to forgive them for the wrong thingsthat they had done against him. He forgave them. He invited his whole family to come livein Egypt where he could help take care of them. Joseph was happy to be together againand to see his father again.
Joseph told his family that God was always with him, helping to take care of his life.
2. What is there in the story that you do not understand?
3. Who are the main people in the story?
4. What problems did the people face?
5. How did the people face their problems?
6. How have you faced similar problems?
7. Is there someone in the story who is similar to you or who is different from you?
8. What does the story tell about God?
Page 2
1. Did Jacob love one son more than the others? Who? What did he give his favorite son?
2. Do you know a parent who loves one child more than another? Is this right? Why not?
3. Why did the brothers sell their brother Joseph? Was it right to do this? Why not?
4. Have you ever been treated wrongly? What happened?
5. How can you avoid or stop someone from mistreating you? When should you resistand flee or fight back? Why? When should you let it pass without doing anything atthat time? Why?
6. Besides God, who can you ask for help if you are being mistreated?
7. What did Joseph do in Potiphar’s home in Egypt? Who was with Joseph? Why wasJoseph put in prison? What happened when he was in prison? Who was with Joseph?
8. How can God help you face problems when someone is mistreating you?
9. The brothers asked Joseph to forgive them for the things they had done wrong to him.Did Joseph forgive his brothers for treating him wrongly? What did he do? (Joseph
forgave them but he did not allow them to continue to mistreat him.)
10. Should you forgive someone who has mistreated you? Why would this be difficult todo? Why should you do it? If you forgive that person, should you allow him tocontinue to mistreat you? Why not?
Many, many years passed since Joseph died. His family stayed in Egypt and multiplied.They were called the Israelites or Hebrews. The king in Egypt was called Pharaoh. The newking of Egypt did not know about Joseph. He did not like the Israelite people. The king and thepeople of Egypt mistreated the Israelites and put them to work as slaves. Pharaoh even orderedthat all newborn Hebrew boys be killed.
During that time a Hebrew baby boy was born and the parents hid their baby. The babygrew and began to make louder sounds. They were afraid the soldiers would find their child. Sothe mother made a waterproof basket and put her baby boy inside. She placed the basket byreeds on the edge of a river. The baby’s sister, Miriam, hid close by and watched him.
The king’s daughter arrived to take a bath. The princess saw the basket, opened it andsaw the baby crying. She felt sorry for him and decided to keep him. The baby’s sister went andgot their mother. The princess paid her to nurse and take care of the baby until he was bigger.The baby grew and went to live with the princess in the palace. She gave him the name ofMoses. Many years passed and Moses grew to be a man.
One time Moses became very, very angry and killed an Egyptian who was being mean toa Hebrew slave. Moses fled when he heard the king was angry with him. Moses went to live inthe land called Midian and took care of Jethro’s flock.
Many, many years passed. One day, Moses was taking care of Jethro’s flock when hesaw a bush on fire. It was burning, but it did not burn up. He did not understand what washappening, so he went closer. God spoke and told Moses to take off his sandals. Moses obeyed.God told Moses to return to Egypt and to help the Hebrew slaves leave Egypt and go to a goodland He promised them. Moses trusted God and obeyed.
The Israelites were slaves in Egypt. (A slave is forced to work for someone and does notreceive any money for working.) Not only were the Israelites forced to work, but they were badlytreated by the king and the people in Egypt.
God spoke to Moses to help lead the Israelites away from Egypt. Moses obeyed. He andhis brother Aaron went to speak to Pharaoh, the king of Egypt. They asked the king to free theIsraelites and let them leave. The king said: “No!”
Therefore, God sent plagues or bad disasters to the people of Egypt. In order to stop aplague, the king said that he would let the Israelites leave Egypt. Yet, the king would soonchange his mind and then not let them go. Then God would send another plague. The plagueswere:
1. Water in the Nile River changed to blood.2. Frogs covered the land.3. Dust became gnats and were on the people and animals.4. Flies covered the land.5. The livestock of the people of Egypt died.6. Boils were on the people and animals.7. Hail smashed everything growing.8. Locusts came and ate everything.9. Darkness came over the land for three days.
God prepared a tenth plague, because Pharaoh was so hard and still would not let Hispeople go.
10. All the Israelites were told to put blood from a lamb on the top and sides of theframes around their doors of their houses. The Israelites obeyed God. At midnight, the Lordstruck down the firstborn, the oldest child, in each family, and the firstborn of all livestock inEgypt. The angel passed over the houses that had the blood on the doorframes. King Pharaohcried when his son died. Finally Pharaoh let the Israelite slaves leave. Trusting in God, Mosesquickly led the Israelites out of Egypt.
2. What is there in the story that you do not understand?
3. Who are the main people in the story?
4. What problems did the people face?
5. How did the people face their problems?
6. How have you faced similar problems?
7. Is there someone in the story who is similar to you or who is different from you?
8. What does the story tell about God?
1. What are slaves? How did Pharaoh, the king of Egypt, treat the Israelite slaves?
2. What are plagues? Why did God send plagues to Egypt?
3. What are some of the plagues that God sent to the people in Egypt?
4. Do you think it took courage for Moses to go to the king of Egypt to ask him to let theIsraelites leave and tell him about the plagues God was sending? Why? Who didMoses trust to help him?
5. What are some problems and/or natural disasters that you, your family and friends havehad or are facing?
6. Who are some people that can help you face and resolve these problems?
7. How can God help you face and overcome your problems?
8. Did the king of Egypt want to let the Israelite people leave Egypt? Was he fightingagainst God’s will? Why did Pharaoh finally let them go? Who was more powerful: theking of Egypt or God?
9. Why is it important for us to follow God’s will?
God helped free the Israelite people so that they could leave Egypt. Moses obeyedGod, guiding the people toward the Promised Land.
They traveled through a desert. God showed them which way to go. God led themby a pillar of cloud during the day, protecting them from the hot sun. By night, God ledthem by a pillar of fire, lighting the way and keeping them warm from the cold nights.
Pharaoh, the king of Egypt, decided to bring the Israelite people back to Egypt. SoPharaoh and his army went after the Israelites. The Israelites arrived at the Red Sea.They were afraid. Pharaoh’s army was behind them and the Red Sea was in front of them.How could they get on the other side safely? God told Moses what to do. Moses lifted uphis staff toward the water. God sent a strong wind that separated the water and made adry pathway in the middle. Then the Israelite people walked safely to the other side!Afterwards the water returned to normal and covered Pharaoh’s army. The Israelite peoplewere safe, because God protected them.
During their long journey, they became thirsty and hungry. When they were thirsty,God told Moses to strike a rock and water would come out for the people to drink. Godsent manna, a type of bread to eat. Also God sent quail, a type of bird, to eat. Godprovided for their needs.
Because Moses was having so much work to do, his father-in-law, Jethro, gave himsome helpful advice. Moses was glad for his helpful words and chose capable men tohelp him with all his responsibilities and work.
God was always faithful, protecting and guiding the Israelite people toward thePromised Land.
2. What is there in the story that you do not understand?
3. Who are the main people in the story?
4. What problems did the people face?
5. How did the people face their problems?
6. How have you faced similar problems?
7. Is there someone in the story who is similar to you or who is different from you?
8. What does the story tell about God?
1. Who led the Israelite people away from Egypt?
2. How did God lead the Israelite people during the day? During the night?
3. How did the Israelites feel when they realized King Pharaoh and his army marched afterthem to take them back to Egypt?
4. How did God protect the Israelites when they came to the Red Sea and needed to passsafely over to the other side?--- What did Moses do?--- What happened to King Pharaoh and his army?
5. Are you ever afraid? When? What are some bad situations that we face?
6. Who are some people who can help us when we are afraid or face bad situations? How?
7. Can God help us when we are afraid or when we face a bad situation? How?
8. Who gave good advice to Moses? What did Moses do?
9. Who are some people who have given you good advice? Who are some people who cangive you good advice when you need it? What should you do after you get good advice?Why?
10. How did Moses help the Israelites? How can you help other people?
11. Moses led the Israelites to follow God. How can we influence others to follow God?
The Israelite people left Egypt and they crossed the Red Sea safely. Now they arrivedand camped at the foot of Mount Sinai. The mountain was covered with a dark cloud, lightningwas flashing, and the people could hear loud thunder. God was on the mountain. Mosesclimbed up the mountain to talk with God, but the people stayed below at the foot of the mountain.God gave Moses the Ten Commandments for His people to follow (Exodus 20:1-17). They are:
1. Worship only God in heaven.
2. Do not make or worship idols.
3. Use God’s name with respect.
4. Keep the Lord’s Day holy.
5. Respect your parents.
6. Do not kill.
7. Married couples should be faithful to each other.
8. Do not steal.
9. Do not lie.
10. Do not envy the possessions of other people.
God gave instructions for the people to build the Tabernacle, a place to worship Him.Because they traveled so much, the Tabernacle was like a tent that could be moved. Skilledmen made the large tent from animal skins and wood. Inside the Tabernacle, the two tablets ofthe Ten Commandments were put inside a golden chest called the Ark of the Covenant. Acourtyard was around the outside of the Tabernacle. All the people brought special gifts to theLord. When finished, a cloud covered the Tabernacle, showing God was present.
All the Israelites worshiped God in His holy place, the Tabernacle.At the end of Moses’ life, he climbed up Mount Nebo, across from Jericho. Moses saw in
a distance the Promised Land, the land of Canaan. Moses lived 120 years.God chose Joshua to be the new leader to the Israelite people.
After Moses, Joshua became leader of the Israelite people. God told Joshua to bestrong and courageous. Whenever he was afraid, trust in Him. God promised to be withhim wherever he went. Joshua always tried to obey God.
God told Joshua that it was time to enter the Promised Land. They went to theJordan River. The river was very full of water. How could they pass to the other side?They did what God told them. The religious leaders, called Levite priests, carried the Arkof the Covenant with the Ten Commandments inside. When the priests’ feet touched thewater, God stopped the flow of the water. All the Israelite people walked safely to theother side. Now they had finally arrived in Canaan, the Promised Land. Thanks to thepower of God!
They were close to the first city, Jericho. A huge wall was all around the city. Godtold Joshua how to conquer the city and everyone obeyed. A chosen group marchedaround the city once every day for seven days. Everyone was quiet, except for theLevite priests who blew their trumpets. Then on the seventh day, they marched seventimes. On the seventh time, they shouted loudly when the priests blew their trumpets.The wall around Jericho fell down! The Israelite soldiers conquered the city! They gavethanks to God for His help.
Later Joshua said: “...As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord”(Joshua 24:15B NIV). Joshua always served God during his life.
2. What is there in the story that you do not understand?
3. Who are the main people in the story?
4. What problems did the people face?
5. How did the people face their problems?
6. How have you faced similar problems?
7. Is there someone in the story who is similar to you or who is different from you?
8. What does the story tell about God?
Page 2
1. Who was the new leader after Moses? What did God tell Joshua when he became thenew leader? Did he follow God’s leadership? How?
2. Who are some leaders in your church? Your city? Our country? What happens whenthey leave their job? How are new leaders elected to take their places?
3. Should leaders follow God’s leadership? Why?
4. What are some ways you can help the leaders in your church, community, work, schooland nation?
5. How did the Israelite people cross the Jordan River safely?
6. Did God help the Israelites conquer Jericho? What happened?
7. What are some problems or difficult battles that you, your family, friends, community ornation face? Who can help you? How can you receive God’s help?
8. Joshua said, “...Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve...But as for me andmy household, we will serve the Lord” (JOSHUA 24:15 NIV). Have you chosen to followand serve God? Would you like to make that decision today? (If you do, pray and letGod know of your decision.) What are some ways you can serve God?
After the death of Joshua, God sent thirteen strong leaders to guide and lead thepeople of Israel. These leaders were called judges. This story tells about two judges,Gideon and Samson.
THE JUDGE GIDEON
The cattle and crops of the people of Israel were being taken away by their enemies,the Midianites. An angel from God told Gideon to conquer this enemy, and said, “You cando this with God’s help.”
Gideon left with many, many soldiers, thirty-two thousand men! God said, “Thereare too many men. Let the men, who are afraid, return to their homes.” Gideonobeyed and let those men leave. Now there were only ten thousand men.
God thought that there were still too many soldiers! When the soldiers came to ariver, they were thirsty. So all the soldiers who put their face in the water to drink water hadto return home. All the soldiers who cupped the water with their hands, bringing it to theirmouths, were able to stay. Now only three hundred Israelite soldiers were going to fightagainst the huge enemy army. Yet the Israelites trusted in God to help them.
Finally the Israelite soldiers arrived at the enemy’s camp. In the middle of the night,all together the Israelite soldiers followed Gideon’s example, blowing their trumpets, break-ing their jars and raising up their lighted torches. The loud noises awoke the enemy soldiersand the lights startled them. All the commotion made them afraid! God caused them to fightagainst themselves while running away. The Israelites won with God’s help.
THE JUDGE SAMSON
Many years passed, and Samson became a judge to the Israelite people. Ever sincehe was born, Samson was dedicated to God. His hair had never been cut. As he grew,Samson was stronger than any other man. One day he killed a lion with only his hands!Many times Samson fought against the Philistines, the enemy of the Israelite people. Withthe help of God, he won many victories. Samson led the Israelite people for twenty years.
2. What is there in the story that you do not understand?
3. Who are the main people in the story?
4. What problems did the people face?
5. How did the people face their problems?
6. How have you faced similar problems?
7. Is there someone in the story who is similar to you or who is different from you?
8. What does the story tell about God?
Page 2
1. What did the judges of Israel do? How many judges did Israel have? Name twojudges that were in our Bible story.
2. Gideon started with 35,000 soldiers and ended up with 300 soldiers. Name the twothings that happened so that there would be fewer soldiers. Why did God want Gideonto do that?
3. Do you think God wants us to be totally dependent upon Him, giving Him honor for ourvictories? Why?
4. What did Gideon’s army do at the camp of their enemy, the Midianites? How did theMidianites react? Who helped Gideon’s army win?
5. What are some problems, whether big or small, that we face today? How can Godhelp us?
6. How strong was Samson? Give an example of how strong he was. Who made Samsonthat strong?
7. What are some ways that we can use our talents and abilities? Should people usetheir talents and abilities only for themselves? To help others? To serve God? Why?How?
2. What is there in the story that you do not understand?
3. Who are the main people in the story?
4. What problems did the people face?
5. How did the people face their problems?
6. How have you faced similar problems?
7. Is there someone in the story who is similar to you or who is different from you?
8. What does the story tell about God?
1. Why did Elimelech, Naomi and their two sons leave Bethlehem and move to Moab?What happened to Naomi’s family after living in Moab for ten years?
2. Who were Naomi’s daughters-in-law? What did Naomi tell Orpah and Ruth to do whenshe decided to return to her home in Bethlehem?
3. What did Orpah do? What did Ruth do? Do you think it was hard for Ruth to leave herparents and country and move to a strange, foreign land? Why? Why do you thinkRuth went with her mother-in-law Naomi?
4. Have you ever moved from one country to another country? Moved from one place toanother? Where did you move? Was it hard? Why?
5. When they arrived in Bethlehem, what did Ruth do to get food for them to eat?Who was Boaz? Did he help Ruth? How? Why?
6. How can you help a foreigner or new person that moves into your community, schooland/or church?
7. As God had Boaz help Ruth, who are some people who can help you when you facechanges in your life, such as a move, a death in the family, a new job, a newschool, a new church? What are some other ways God can help you?
A mother called Hannah dedicated her son Samuel to God. She took her young child toShiloh, where he lived and helped the priest Eli at the Tabernacle. Eli was the religious leaderof Israel. He was getting old and he was almost blind.
One night the boy Samuel was sleeping in the tabernacle. (He probably was helping Eliby making sure the candles remained lighted all night in the tabernacle, as was required.)During the night, Samuel heard a voice calling his name:
VOICE (GOD): “Samuel, Samuel!”
NARRATOR: Samuel quickly went to Eli andsaid,
SAMUEL: “Sir, did you call me? Here Iam.”
ELI: “No, I didn’t call you. Go back tobed.”
NARRATOR: Samuel returned to his bed.For the second time the Lord called out:
VOICE (GOD): “Samuel, Samuel!”
NARRATOR: Once again Samuel got up andwent to Eli, saying:
SAMUEL: “Sir, did you call me? Here Iam again.”
ELI: “Son, I did not call you. Return toyour bed.”
NARRATOR: Now for the third time the Lordcalled out:
VOICE (GOD): “Samuel, Samuel!”
NARRATOR: Once again Samuel got up andwent to Eli, saying:
SAMUEL: “Sir, did you call me? Here I am.”
NARRATOR: Finally Eli understood that it wasGod calling Samuel. Eli said,
ELI: “Samuel, it is the voice of God callingyou. Return to your bed and, when thevoice calls again, say, ‘Speak, o God, foryour servant listens.’ ”
NARRATOR: Samuel returned to his bed. Forthe fourth time, God called out:
VOICE (GOD): “Samuel, Samuel!”
NARRATOR: This time Samuel stayed in hisbed and said,
SAMUEL: “Speak, God, for your servantlistens.”
NARRATOR: God had special plans forSamuel’s life. He became a priest andprophet of God, respected by all the peoplein Israel.
2. What is there in the story that you do not understand?
3. Who are the main people in the story?
4. What problems did the people face?
5. How did the people face their problems?
6. How have you faced similar problems?
7. Is there someone in the story who is similar to you or who is different from you?
8. What does the story tell about God?
Page 2
1. Who dedicated her son Samuel to God?
2. Is it important for parents to dedicate their children to God? Why?
3. How old was Samuel when he went to the tabernacle to help the priest Eli? Why didEli need help?
4. What are some ways you can help in your church?
5. Was Samuel just a boy or an adult when God called him?
6. Does it matter how old a person is when God calls him? Why?
7. How many times did God call Samuel during the night? Was Samuel listening?What did Samuel do the first three times? What happened on the fourth call?
8. How does God talk to people today? Should we listen? Why?
9. Do you think God has a special plan for each person’s life? How can you discoverGod’s plan for your life?
Years passed, and prophet the Samuel was getting old. It was time to choose anew leader. The people of Israel did not want another judge. They wanted a king to rulethem.
Saul was an Israelite youth, taller than any other man. One day, he left his homewith his servant, trying to find some of his family’s donkeys that were lost. He went to thehome of Samuel, the religious leader. Perhaps the prophet would help him find hisdonkeys.
Samuel told Saul that his donkeys were already found. He also explained to Saulthat God had chosen him to be the king of Israel. He then anointed Saul as king bypouring oil on his head.
Later Samuel called together the Israelites for a meeting where he would presentthe new leader. Where was Saul? They found him hiding in the baggage! They broughthim before the people. Then Samuel said that God had chosen Saul to be the first kingof Israel. Everyone shouted, “Long live the king!”
Saul became a great king. Later in life Saul disobeyed God. Then he becamesick. A boy named David was called to the palace to play his harp. The smooth-sound-ing music helped King Saul feel better. The king’s son Jonathan became a close friendof David.
King Saul ruled Israel for forty-two years.
BIBLE STORY:
Bible Story 17: SAUL, CHOSEN BY GOD AS
2 Timothy 2:15
FIRST KING OF ISRAEL
PART 1: PERSONAL QUESTIONS
1. What did you learn from the story?
2. How can you apply this story to your life?
Page 1
SCRIPTURE:
MEMORY VERSE:
1 Samuel 8:1-10,19-22; 9:1-20,26-27; 10:1,16-24; 13:1;14:47-48; 15:10-11; 16:17-23
2. What is there in the story that you do not understand?
3. Who are the main people in the story?
4. What problems did the people face?
5. How did the people face their problems?
6. How have you faced similar problems?
7. Is there someone in the story who is similar to you or who is different from you?
8. What does the story tell about God?
1. Why did Saul go to the prophet Samuel? What happened? Why did Samuel pour oilon Saul’s head?
2. Was Saul a youth or an adult when he was anointed by oil as king? Does it matter howold you are in order to serve God? Why?
3. Why do you think Saul was hiding among the baggage when he was to be presented asthe new leader? Are you ever afraid? What are some reasons why someone maybecome afraid? Who can help us when we are afraid?
4. Did Saul begin his reign by obeying God? Was Saul obedient to God in his later years?Is it important to obey God all your life or just sometimes? Why?
5. Who helped calm Saul when he was sick? How? How can you help someone who issick?
6. Who was a great friend to David? Who are some of your friends? How can you be agood friend to them?
7. David liked music and he played the harp. In fact, there are many songs written by Davidin the book of Psalms in the Bible. What are some things that can be done with music?How can you use your musical abilities? How can you improve your music? What aresome other talents that you can develop?
David was handsome, healthy and brave. He liked music and sometimes he went tothe palace to play his harp for King Saul. His music was soothing to the king when he wassick. David was a very good friend to Jonathan, the king’s son.
David helped his father take care of their sheep in the field. One day, his father askedhim to take some food to his three older brothers and find out how they were doing. Theywere helping King Saul fight against their enemies, the Philistines.
Early the next morning David left. When he arrived at his brothers’ campsite, he sawon the hillside their enemies, the great Philistine army. The leader of the Philistines wasGoliath, who was very strong and large. He was over nine feet tall. No Israelite soldier hadcourage to fight against him!
David told King Saul that with God’s help he would fight Goliath. The king insistedthat David wear his personal helmet and coat of armor. David put these on, but he was notable to walk around. Why? He was not used to wearing them. So he took them off. Withonly his slingshot and his staff, a long shepherd’s stick, David went toward Goliath. Whenhe arrived at the stream, he chose one, two, three, four, five smooth stones and put theminto his shepherd’s bag.
When David was close to Goliath, he took a stone from his bag and put it in hisslingshot. He slung his slingshot around, around and around, and then he finally let it go.The stone hit Goliath’s forehead and the great warrior fell to the ground! David won thebattle with God’s help!
Later David became the king of Israel, seeking to serve God. David wrote manysongs that are in the book of Psalms in the Bible.
Bible Story 18:
Page 1
PART 1: PERSONAL QUESTIONS
1. What did you learn from the story?
2. How can you apply this story to your life?
1 Samuel 16:1-13,23; 17:1-51; 18:1-52 Samuel 2:4; 1 Kings 2:10-11
2. What is there in the story that you do not understand?
3. Who are the main people in the story?
4. What problems did the people face?
5. How did the people face their problems?
6. How have you faced similar problems?
7. Is there someone in the story who is similar to you or who is different from you?
8. What does the story tell about God?
Page 2
1. Who was David? Describe him.
2. What did Jesse ask his son David to do? Did David obey immediately? What didDavid do?
3. Should you obey your parents, a boss, an elder? When? Are there times when youshould not obey? When? (Example: Do not obey if asked to steal.)
4. What happened when David arrived at his brothers’ campsite? Who were theirenemies? Who was leading the enemy’s army? Describe Goliath.
5. King Saul and his soldiers did not have courage to fight against their enemy Goliath.--- Did David have courage to face Goliath and his army?--- What did David say to King Saul?--- What did the king tell him to do?--- What happened when David put the king’s helmet and armor on himself?--- Tell what happened when David went to the river and when he met Goliath.
6. Why did David have courage to face Goliath? Who helped him have victory?
7. What are some problems, big or small, that you, your family and friends have facedor are facing now?
8. Who can you pray to and ask for help to face these problems? Who are some peoplewho can help you overcome these problems?
9. David was a friend to Jonathan. How can you be a friend to others? What are somethings you can do to gain more friends? What hinders friendship?
2. What is there in the story that you do not understand?
3. Who are the main people in the story?
4. What problems did the people face?
5. How did the people face their problems?
6. How have you faced similar problems?
7. Is there someone in the story who is similar to you or who is different from you?
8. What does the story tell about God?
Page 2
1. Who became king after David? When God asked Solomon what he wanted, whatwas his request?
2. What was God’s reaction to Solomon’s request? What did he receive? What iswisdom? How can you gain wisdom?
3. How can a person be a good leader? How can you help your leaders?
4. The people of Israel were worshiping God at the Tabernacle. Describe the Tabernacle.
5. King David and his son Solomon wanted to build a temple for God. What was thedifference between the Tabernacle and the Temple?
6. Who did God allow to build the Temple?--- Where was the Temple built?--- How long did it take to build the Temple?--- What was placed in the Temple?--- When it was finished, what happened when King Solomon prayed with the people,
dedicating the Temple to the Lord?
7. Where do you go to worship God? What are some things you can do as you worshipGod in His sanctuary, the church? How can you show reverence and respect for thehouse of God, your church?
8. Who are some people that you can invite to go to church and worship with you?
2. What is there in the story that you do not understand?
3. Who are the main people in the story?
4. What problems did the people face?
5. How did the people face their problems?
6. How have you faced similar problems?
7. Is there someone in the story who is similar to you or who is different from you?
8. What does the story tell about God?
1. How did Solomon treat the people when he was king?
2. Is it right to be harsh to other people? How should we treat one another? Why?
3. Were the people happy about their treatment? What did the people ask the new king,Rehoboam, to do?
4. Rehoboam asked for advice. What did the elders advise Rehoboam to do? What didRehoboam’s young friends advise him to do?
5. Who are some people who can give you good advice? Are there some people who willadvise you to do something wrong? Who? How can you tell when you are gettinggood or bad advice?
6. Which advice did Rehoboam take? Do you think he made a good decision? Why?
7. Do you think that Rehoboam listened to what the people wanted and needed, or do youthink he did what was best for just himself? Why?
8. Why should you listen to someone who disagrees with you?
9. How did the people of Israel react to Rehoboam’s decision? What happened?
10. Is it alright to disagree with someone? If someone disagrees with you, how should youreact? How can you avoid fighting? Are there times that you should ever fight?
11. If you have offended someone by the manner in which you disagreed, what should youdo?
During a long period of time, there was a drought in Israel. God did not allow anyrain in Israel and all its land was dry. Why? The king of Israel, King Ahab, did many thingsagainst God.
During this time, Elijah, the prophet of God, was living. God provided water and foodfor Elijah. How? God told Elijah to go to a small stream where he could drink water. Ravensbrought food to him every morning and evening. Finally the stream dried up and God toldhim to leave.
Then God told Elijah to go to meet a widow. She was very poor. Elijah asked her tobake bread for him, herself and her son. She only had a little flour and a little oil left in herjar. Yet, she willingly made bread for him. He then told her that during this time when therewas no rain, she would never be without flour or oil. A miracle happened! God never let theflour and oil run out so that the widow, her son and Elijah would have food when it was notraining.
One day, the widow’s son was very sick and stopped breathing. Elijah healed him.Much time passed - one, two, three years passed without rain.The king and people in Israel worshiped an idol of Baal. Elijah had a contest to show
that God was all powerful. Two altars were made with a sacrifice, a young bull, on top ofeach one. The prophets of Baal prayed and shouted all day, from morning until evening.They called on Baal to burn their sacrifice. Nothing happened.
Then Elijah fixed his altar. He put twelve stones and dug a ditch around his altar. Heput a young bull on top of the wood. Then he had one, two, three, four, five, six, seven,eight, nine, ten, eleven, twelve - yes, twelve large jars of water poured onto the sacrifice andwood. Everything was very wet! Then he prayed to God. Immediately God burned thesacrifice and the wood, and dried the water. Why? This showed that God is all powerful!
The people shouted: “O Heavenly God. You are the Eternal God!”The people saw that God was all powerful! The Israelites destroyed the altar to Baal
and returned to worshiping only God. Afterwards, God sent rain.
2. What is there in the story that you do not understand?
3. Who are the main people in the story?
4. What problems did the people face?
5. How did the people face their problems?
6. How have you faced similar problems?
7. Is there someone in the story who is similar to you or who is different from you?
8. What does the story tell about God?
Page 2
1. What is a drought? Why did God not send rain to King Ahab and the people of Israel?
2. How did God provide water and food for Elijah?
3. How does God protect our lives?
4. How did the widow help Elijah? What happened to the flour and oil?
5. What happened when the widow’s son was sick?
6. Who are some people who help us around our home, neighborhood and church? How?
7. How can we help people in need, such as people who go through an illness, a drought,a fire, a tornado or a hurricane?
8. Tell about the contest that Elijah had with the prophets of Baal.--- Why did Elijah do this?
9. What did the prophets of Baal do in the contest? What happened?--- What did Elijah do at the contest? What happened?--- Who was the most powerful?--- What did the people do after the contest?
10. Elijah was defending God. Are there times when you can stand up for God? When?How?
Elisha was a friend and helper to the prophet Elijah, who was getting old. One day,they were walking and talking together. Suddenly a chariot of fire, pulled by horses of fire,came like a whirlwind and took Elijah upward to heaven. His helper, Elisha, saw everythingthat God had done. Then Elisha picked up Elijah’s coat, that was left behind, and wenthome. God’s power and presence were now with Elisha.
In the land of Aram, Naaman was a commander of an army. He was respected.Naaman suffered from a terrible sickness called leprosy. In his house, an Israelite girl washis wife’s servant. One day the girl spoke to Naaman’s wife and said, “I wish my masterwould go and speak to the prophet who lives in Samaria, because he could healhim.”
Hearing the words, Naaman traveled to the prophet Elisha’s home. At the door,Elisha sent his messenger to speak to Naaman. He told him to go to the Jordan River andsubmerge himself seven times under the water and then he would be healed. He did notwant to do this, but finally he went. When he arrived at the river, he submerged himselfunder the water one, two, three, four, five, six - yes, six times, but nothing happened. ThenNaaman submerged himself under the water the seventh time. A miracle happened! Hewas healed! His skin and body were healthy! He no longer had leprosy! Naaman wasvery happy! Naaman returned to Elisha’s home, thanking him for his help. Then Naamanreturned to his home. Naaman was very happy and thankful to God, promising to serveonly the powerful God of Israel.
2. What is there in the story that you do not understand?
3. Who are the main people in the story?
4. What problems did the people face?
5. How did the people face their problems?
6. How have you faced similar problems?
7. Is there someone in the story who is similar to you or who is different from you?
8. What does the story tell about God?
1. Elijah and Elisha were prophets. What is a prophet?
2. Was Elisha a friend and helper to elderly Elijah? How can you help the elderly? Helpother people?
3. How did the elderly prophet Elijah disappear? What happened to Elisha?
4. Who was Naaman? What sickness did he have? Who told Naaman about the prophetElisha? What are some ways that you can share about God’s love to others?
5. Did Naaman go to Elisha? What was Naaman told to do?--- Did Naaman want to go and obey Elisha’s command?--- Did Naaman finally obey Elisha? What happened?--- What happened after the seventh time?--- Who healed him?
6. When you do not feel like obeying the Word of God, His Bible, should you still obey?Why?
7. Who did Naaman thank when his health was restored?
8. Who are some people who help you? How? How can you express your gratitude tothese people?
9. Has God helped you meet a special need in your life? How? What are some waysthat you can express your gratitude to God for His help?
One day, God spoke to Jonah. He told him to go and preach to the people in the cityof Nineveh. Jonah did not want to go, because they were his enemies. He tried to runaway from God. He went in the opposite direction, going to Joppa. There he entered aship going out to the sea towards Spain.
Could Jonah flee from God? No! God sent a terrible storm. The ship was about tobreak apart. Everyone on the ship was very afraid. Where was Jonah? He was sleepingbelow the deck of the ship!
The captain went and woke Jonah up. He asked him, “How can you be sleepingduring this terrible storm?”
Jonah told those on the ship that he was the reason God sent this terrible storm.Then Jonah told the sailors to throw him overboard and the storm would stop. Finally, thesailors tossed Jonah into the stormy waters. Everything became very calm.
What happened to Jonah? God had prepared a large fish who came and swal-lowed Jonah. He stayed in the fish one, two, three days and one, two, three nights. Jonahprayed and asked God for help. He said that he was now willing to obey God. Then Godordered the fish and it spit Jonah up onto a beach.
Once again, God told Jonah to go to Nineveh and preach to the people. This timeJonah obeyed God. He went to Nineveh, where he preached God’s message. Whatmessage? The people of Nineveh must stop doing their evil, bad ways and follow God. Ifthey did not do this, God would destroy the city. All the people listened and believed. Theyasked God to forgive them. God saw that they repented, turning away from their badways, and began to follow Him. God saved the people. The city was not destroyed.
2. What is there in the story that you do not understand?
3. Who are the main people in the story?
4. What problems did the people face?
5. How did the people face their problems?
6. How have you faced similar problems?
7. Is there someone in the story who is similar to you or who is different from you?
8. What does the story tell about God?
Page 2
1. What did Jonah do when God told him to go to Nineveh? Why?
2. Was Jonah able to run away from God? What happened?
3. Can anyone run away from God? What are some ways that God uses to bringpeople back to serving Him?
4. Where was Jonah during the storm?--- Who woke him up?--- Why did the sailors throw Jonah overboard?--- What happened when Jonah was in the stormy sea?--- What do you think it was like to be inside a large fish?--- How do you think Jonah felt?--- What did Jonah do when he was inside the fish?
5. How do you feel when you are doing something that God does not want you to do?
6. Did God listen to Jonah’s prayer when he was inside the fish? What did God do?What did the fish do?
7. When someone is not obeying what God wants him to do, what should he do in orderto return to serve God?
8. What happened when Jonah obeyed God and preached in Nineveh?
9. Should you share God’s love to people you do not like? Why?
10. What are some ways that you can share God’s love to family, friends and thosearound you? Q
The Israelites were living in two different places called kingdoms. Israel was inthe north and Judah was in the south.
ISRAEL, THE NORTHERN KINGDOM
The people in Israel disobeyed God. The first king in the northern kingdom ofIsrael was Jeroboam, who built two golden calves for the people to worship in Bethel andDan. All the following kings of this kingdom continued to lead the people in idolatry andimmoral practices.
God sent prophets like Elijah and Elisha to draw His people back to only serveHim. Did they turn back to serve only God? No! Finally God’s judgment came. God letthe king of Assyria conquer Samaria. The people were captured and taken far away toother countries. The Assyrian king brought people from other countries to live in Samaria.As years passed, these people married Jews, and this is the beginning of the peoplecalled the “Samaritans.”
JUDAH, THE SOUTHERN KINGDOM
Meanwhile the southern kingdom of Judah had some good kings that obeyed God,such as King Hezekiah. Yet most of Judah’s kings disobeyed God by making idols.
Josiah became king of Judah when he was only eight years old. King Josiahalways pleased God. He ordered men to reconstruct the Temple in Jerusalem. The workersfound the book of the Laws of Moses hidden in the Temple. They gave it to the king, whounited all the leaders and the whole book was read. Everyone decided to obey all thelaws and commandments of God. All the idols were destroyed. God was pleased. KingJosiah served thirty years as king and served God with all his heart.
After King Josiah died, three more kings ruled Judah. Then sadly, the people inJudah rejected God. They did not want to only worship and serve God. They worshipedidols. Finally God’s judgment came. God let King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon conquerJerusalem, the capital city of Judah. The people of Judah were taken away as prisonersto Babylon, a long distance away.
There was hope. The prophet Jeremiah said that some of the people would oneday return to Jerusalem and serve God.
2. What is there in the story that you do not understand?
3. Who are the main people in the story?
4. What problems did the people face?
5. How did the people face their problems?
6. How have you faced similar problems?
7. Is there someone in the story who is similar to you or who is different from you?
8. What does the story tell about God?
Page 2
1. The Israelites were divided into two kingdoms. What were they? Where were theylocated?
2. Why did God permit the Assyrians to conquer the people of Israel, the northernkingdom? Where were they taken?
3. In the southern kingdom of Israel, the book of the Law of Moses was found when theywere reconstructing the Temple. What did King Josiah and the people do afterthey read Moses’ book?
4. Why should we read God’s Word, the Bible? What are some special Bible storiesand verses you like?
5. Why did God permit King Nebuchadnezzar from Babylon to conquer the people ofJudah? Where were they taken?
6. Why did God give us laws to follow? What happens when someone disobeys God?
7. What words of hope did the prophet Jeremiah say?
8. What is sin?--- What sin did the people in our story do against God?--- What judgment did God send for their sins?--- What are some sins done today?--- Does God continue to send His judgment, His punishment, for sins committed?--- How can we receive forgiveness of our sins? (Read 1 John 1:9.)--- Even if God forgives us, are there some consequences we may face? Name some
consequences to stealing, cheating, etc. Is there hope? (Yes, God will be with usas we face the consequences, giving us strength, guidance and His grace.) Q
2. What is there in the story that you do not understand?
3. Who are the main people in the story?
4. What problems did the people face?
5. How did the people face their problems?
6. How have you faced similar problems?
7. Is there someone in the story who is similar to you or who is different from you?
8. What does the story tell about God?
1. What were Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego doing in the palace?--- Did they still worship God even though they were away from their home?--- What did they eat and drink at the king’s table? Why?
2. Do you need to worship God when you are away from home? Why?--- Why do you need to eat healthy food and drinks?--- What are some other things that you can do to have a healthy body?
3. Why were Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego thrown into the fiery furnace?--- How did God protect their lives? What happened?
4. Do you think it took a lot of courage not to worship the golden idol when everyone elsewas doing it? Why?
5. How can you resist and not do wrong things that others around you are doing?--- Why should you resist?--- Is it hard to go to church when you have family or friends that stay home?--- Why should you go to church to worship God?
6. Why was Daniel thrown in the lions’ den? How did God protect his life? What happened?
7. Why is it important to pray to God? What are some things you can pray to God abouteach day?
8. Is it hard to pray when other people are around you? What can you do when you feeltimid or feel embarrassed about praying?
9. Are you ever afraid? How can you ask God for help? What are some ways that Godhelps when you are afraid? Who are some people who can help you when you areafraid?
About seventy years passed since the Jews from Judah were taken prisoners to Babylon.When King Cyrus of Persia conquered Babylon, he felt compassion and let the Jews return toJerusalem.
FIRST RETURN: TEMPLE REBUILT
The first group of 42,360 Jews returned to the city of Jerusalem. They saw that the wallsaround the city were fallen and the Temple was burned. The first thing they did was to build analtar and gave thanks to God for their safe return. Then they worked together and rebuilt theTemple.
SECOND RETURN: EZRA
Around eighty years passed since the first group returned to Jerusalem.Ezra was captive in Babylon. He was trained as a scribe, a skilled Jewish student and
teacher of the Law (the first five books of the Old Testament). Ezra was given permission tolead a second group of Jewish people from Babylon back to the city of Jerusalem. After theyarrived, Ezra and the people in the city prayed, asking God to forgive them of their sins. God
heard their prayers and forgave them. Also, the people promised to be faithful in serving God.
THIRD RETURN: NEHEMIAH
Fourteen years passed. The Jew Nehemiah was the cupbearer to King Artaxerxes inBabylon. One day Nehemiah was very sad when he served the king. The king asked,“Nehemiah, why are you so sad?”
Nehemiah told the king about the many difficulties in Jerusalem, the fallen wall aroundthe city and the burned gates. Then he asked the king for permission to rebuild the city walls.The king agreed.
So Nehemiah led the third group back to Jerusalem. When they arrived, they saw thatthe people in the city had very little money, food, water and clothing. They began rebuilding thewalls. Even though enemies fought against them, the people helped one another as theyworked. God helped them. Finally the reconstruction of the walls of the city was finished!
The Jews in Jerusalem joined Ezra as he read the Word of God. All the Jews dedicatedthemselves to faithfully obey, serve and worship God.
2. What is there in the story that you do not understand?
3. Who are the main people in the story?
4. What problems did the people face?
5. How did the people face their problems?
6. How have you faced similar problems?
7. Is there someone in the story who is similar to you or who is different from you?
8. What does the story tell about God?
1. FIRST RETURN: How many years passed since the people from Judah were takenprisoners to Babylon and the first group returned to Jerusalem?--- What did they find when they returned to Babylon?--- Why did they first construct an altar to God?--- What did they reconstruct?
2. SECOND RETURN: How many years passed since the first group’s arrival?--- Who led the second group’s return to Jerusalem?--- What did Ezra and the people pray?--- Who did the Jews ask for forgiveness of their sins?
3. What is sin? Do people still sin today? What are some of the sins we do today? Howcan we receive forgiveness for the sins we have done? (Read 1 John 1:9.) What does itmean to confess our sins?
4. THIRD RETURN: How did Nehemiah serve King Artaxerxes in Babylon?--- Why was Nehemiah sad?--- When they returned to Jeruslem, what did the people rebuild?
5. What are some things we can do to help our neighborhood? Our community? Ourchurch? Why is it important to help one another?
6. What did Ezra read to the people in Jerusalem?
7. Is it important for you to personally read the Bible? Why?
8. Who were the two main leaders who led the Jewish people in this story? How did theyserve God? How can you and I serve God with our lives?
The priest Zechariah and his wife Elizabeth were upright before God. They obeyedGod’s commandments. They were an elderly couple, and they did not have any children.
One day Zechariah was in Jerusalem. It was his turn to go into the Temple and burnincense. The people stayed outside praying.
As Zechariah was burning incense, he saw the angel Gabriel on the right side of theincense altar. Zechariah was afraid.
The angel said, “Do not be afraid. God will answer your prayer. Your wife willhave a son, and you are to name him John. He will be a great man who will help bringthe people back to serve God.”
Zechariah doubted and asked for a sign that this would happen. Because he doubted,the angel told Zechariah that he would not be able to speak until after John was born.When Zechariah came out of the Temple, he could not speak. He used hand gestures tospeak to the people.
Zechariah returned to his home, and God fulfilled His promise. Elizabeth gave birthto a son. The people wanted to name her son Zechariah, after his father. Elizabeth said,“No! He will be named John.”
Zechariah wrote on a writing tablet, “His name will be John.” Suddenly Zechariahwas able to speak and he praised God.
Everyone was amazed!The child John grew. He became a great servant of God. He preached, calling the
people to turn back to serving God and be baptized. He baptized so many people that hebecame known as John the Baptist.
Mary was a young Jewish girl that lived in the town of Nazareth. She was engagedto Joseph, who was a carpenter. One day the angel Gabriel spoke to Mary. The angel said,“Mary, you will give birth to a son. Give Him the name Jesus, who is the Son of God.”
Mary conceived the child by the Holy Spirit. Mary visited Elizabeth who was expectingbaby John the Baptist. About three months later, Mary returned to her home.
Then the angel appeared to Joseph, telling him to marry Mary. Joseph obeyed.The king demanded the Jewish people to go to their home town and register. Joseph
took Mary with him and went to Bethlehem. When they finally arrived, the city was full ofpeople. Where would they sleep? There was no room at the inn. Finally, Joseph found ahumble place, a stable. During the night, baby Jesus was born. Mary placed baby Jesus ina manger.
That same night some shepherds were watching their sheep in a nearby field.Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared. He said, “Today in the city of David, a Saviorwas born.” Then a multitude of angels appeared, saying, “Glory to God in heaven.” Theshepherds quickly went and found baby Jesus lying in a manger. They worshiped Jesus,the Savior.
Some wise men from the east saw a special star in the sky. They followed the star,looking for the new born king of the Jews. When they finally arrived in Bethlehem, they sawthe shiny star above a house. Entering, they saw the child Jesus with His mother Mary.They bowed down and worshiped Jesus, giving Him precious gifts of gold, incense, andmyrrh. Then the wise men returned to their home.
Being warned by an angel, Joseph took Mary and baby Jesus to Egypt. Later when itwas safe, they returned and lived in the town of Nazareth.
Jesus grew in strength and wisdom. God blessed Jesus.
Mary and Joseph went every year to Jerusalem to attend the Feast of Passover. Thisreligious ceremony was observed once a year. When Jesus was twelve years old, He wasold enough and went with His mother Mary and Joseph to observe the ceremony. Whenthe Feast of the Passover was over, Mary and Joseph began their journey back to theirhome in Nazareth. After traveling for a day, they looked for Jesus. Where was Jesus?They could not find Him!
Mary and Joseph returned to Jerusalem. They looked everywhere for Jesus. Afterone, two, three, yes, after three days they finally found Jesus in the Temple. Jesus waslistening and asking the teachers questions. Everyone admired Jesus’ understanding andHis answers to questions.
Mary asked, “My Son, your father and I have been worried and anxious. Wehave been looking for You. Why did You act this way?”
Jesus replied, “Why were you looking for Me? I have been here in My Father’shouse.”
Jesus obeyed His parents and returned to His home in Nazareth with them.Jesus grew in wisdom, physically and in favor with man and God.
Baptism: Mathew 3:13-17; Mark 1:9-11Temptation: Matthew 4:1-11; Luke 4:1-13
JESUS IS BAPTIZED
When Jesus was thirty years old, He went to the Jordan River for John the Baptist tobaptize Him. John the Baptist baptized Jesus. As Jesus came out of the water, the Spirit ofGod came down in the form of a dove. God spoke from heaven saying, “You are My dearSon in whom I am well pleased.”
JESUS IS TEMPTED
Then Jesus left and went to the desert. He stayed there fasting and praying for fortydays and nights. He was very hungry. Satan came and tempted Jesus three times.
(Temptation is a desire to do something that God says is wrong.)
1st Satan said to Jesus, “If You are the Son of God, turn these rocks into bread.”Jesus replied, “The Holy Scripture says people do not live only by bread, but on
God’s Word.”
2nd Satan took Jesus to the highest part of the Temple and said, “If You are the Son ofGod, jump off the top of the Temple. The Word of God says that God will protectyou.”
Jesus replied, “The Holy Scripture says not to test God.”
3rd Satan took Jesus to a very high mountain and showed Him all nations of the world. ThenSatan said, “If You bow down and worship me, I will give all of this to You.”Jesus replied, “Leave, Satan! The Holy Scripture says to worship and serve only
2. What is there in the story that you do not understand?
3. Who are the main people in the story?
4. What problems did the people face?
5. How did the people face their problems?
6. How have you faced similar problems?
7. Is there someone in the story who is similar to you or who is different from you?
8. What does the story tell about God?
1. Who baptized Jesus? What happened when Jesus was baptized?
2. What does baptism mean?
3. Who can be baptized?
4. Jesus fasted forty days and nights. What does it mean to fast?--- After Jesus did not eat for forty days and nights, Satan tempted Jesus.--- What does it mean to be tempted?--- Tell how Satan tempted Jesus three times.
5. What are some temptations that you face?
6. What did Jesus do when He was tempted?
7. What did Jesus quote? What is the Holy Scripture?
8. What are some ways to help you resist temptations?
Jesus began His first year of ministry when He was around thirty years old.
ANDREW AND PHILIP FOLLOW JESUS
One day Jesus passed by John the Baptist at the Jordan River. Two men, Andrew andPhilip, were with John the Baptist. When they saw Jesus, they followed Him. Then Andrew wentand brought his brother Simon Peter to see Jesus. The next day, Philip went to Nathanael andtook him to see Jesus. (Later Jesus called these four men to be His disciples.)
FIRST MIRACLE: JESUS TURNS WATER INTO WINE
On a certain occasion Jesus went to a town called Cana in Galilee to go to a wedding withHis mother, Mary, and His disciples. When the wine was gone, Mary asked Jesus for help. Hetold the servants to get one, two, three, four, five, six, yes, six large stone jars. Each jar wouldhold twenty to thirty gallons of water. Jesus told the servants, “Fill the jars with water. Thenpour some in a cup and give it to the master of the wedding feast.” The servants obeyed.A miracle happened! The water was turned into wine! It even tasted better than the other wineserved earlier. Jesus performed His first miracle!
JESUS DRIVES OUT MONEY EXCHANGERS IN THE TEMPLE
Then Jesus went to Jerusalem to observe the Feast of the Passover. Jesus entered thecourtyard of the Temple. This courtyard was the only place where people who were not Jewscould come to pray and worship God. What did Jesus see in the courtyard of the Temple? Hesaw men selling sheep, cattle and doves. Jesus also saw men at tables exchanging money.Many people came from different places and could not use their own money to buy animals forthe priest to sacrifice. They had to exchange their money for temple money with the men at thetables. Where in the courtyard could the people pray and worship God?
So Jesus took some cords and made a whip. Jesus drove out the animals from thecourtyard. He also turned over the tables of the money exchangers. Then Jesus said, “Leave.This place is My heavenly Father’s house. It is not a market place!”
SCRIPTURE:
MEMORY VERSE:
BIBLE STORY:
Bible Story 31:JESUS BEGINS FIRST YEAR OF MINISTRY
Andrew and Philip: John 1:35-51First Miracle: John 2:1-11Money Exchangers: John 2:13-16
Mark 11:17A
PART 1: PERSONAL QUESTIONS
1. What did you learn from the story?
2. How can you apply this story to your life?
Page 1
JESUS DRIVES OUT MONEY EXCHANGERS IN THE TEMPLE
ANDREW AND PHILIP FOLLOW JESUS;JESUS TURNS WATER INTO WINE;
One night a man named Nicodemus went to talk with Jesus. Nicodemus asked Jesusmany questions, and Jesus answered his questions. Jesus said that God so loved the worldthat He gave His only Son, and whoever believes in Him would have eternal life.
JESUS TALKS WITH SAMARITAN WOMAN AT THE WELL
One day Jesus went walking through an area called Samaria. In the area lived Samaritans.The Jews did not like Samaritans. In fact, Jews would avoid being close to a Samaritan.
Jesus sat down by Jacob’s well while His disciples went to get some food in a nearbytown. While sitting at the well, a Samaritan woman came to get some water. Jesus spoke to her,asking her for a drink of water. As Jesus spoke to her, He told her that He was the promisedMessiah they were expecting. She believed Him. So she went and brought her friends fromtown to meet Jesus. After hearing Jesus, many Samaritans believed that Jesus is the Savior ofthe world.
JESUS HEALS THE SON OF AN OFFICIAL
On a certain occasion, Jesus went to Cana in Galilee. In a nearby town called Capernaum,an official had a son who was very sick and close to death. When the official heard that Jesuswas in Cana, he went to Jesus and asked Him to heal his son.
Jesus said, “Return home. Your son is going to live.”The official believed Jesus. On the way home, one of his servants arrived. He told the
official that his son was healed. The high fever was gone.Jesus had healed his son!
SCRIPTURE:
MEMORY VERSE:
BIBLE STORY:
Bible Story 32: JESUS CONTINUES FIRST YEAR
Nicodemus: John 3:1-17Samaritan Woman: John 4:1-42Heals Official’s Son: John 4:46-54
2. What is there in the story that you do not understand?
3. Who are the main people in the story?
4. What problems did the people face?
5. How did the people face their problems?
6. How have you faced similar problems?
7. Is there someone in the story who is similar to you or who is different from you?
8. What does the story tell about God?
1. Who came to talk and ask Jesus questions at night?
2. Jesus told Nicodemus: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begottenSon, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life”(John 3:16 KJ). What does that mean?
3. Who did Jesus talk to when he sat by a well? Why was it unusual for Jesus to speakto the Samaritan woman?
4. Should we speak and be kind to all people? Why?
5. After the Samaritan woman believed in Jesus, what did she do?
6. What are some ways that we can tell our family and friends about Jesus?
7. Why did the official go to see Jesus? What happened?
8. Who can we pray to when we face problems? Will God hear our prayers?
9. Who can help you when you are sick? How can you help sick people?
Herod put John the Baptist in prison. Around this time, Jesus began His second year ofministry.
JESUS CALLS FISHERMEN TO FOLLOW HIM
One day Jesus was walking along the shore on the Sea of Galilee. People were aroundHim when Jesus saw two boats. He entered one boat and asked Simon Peter to take Him a littleways off shore. Sitting in the boat, Jesus taught the people. Then Jesus told Simon Peter totake the boat out into deeper waters and throw out the nets to catch fish. Simon Peter obeyed.When Simon Peter and Andrew threw out their nets, they caught many fish. So they calledJames and John to come and help, putting the fish in the boats. The boats were almost sinking,because they caught so many fish. They were amazed!
Jesus looked at the two fishermen brothers, Simon Peter and Andrew, and said, “Come.Follow me. I will make you fishers of men” (Mt 4:19). They left their nets and followed Jesus.
Then Jesus saw two fishermen brothers, James and John. Jesus asked them to followHim, and they obeyed. James and John went with Jesus, leaving their father and hired help inthe boat.
JESUS CALLS MATTHEW TO FOLLOW HIM
Later Jesus returned to the shore on the Sea of Galilee and taught the crowds. As Jesuswas walking on the shore, He saw a man called Matthew, who was also known as Levi. He wasat a table, collecting taxes. Jesus called him to follow Him. Matthew got up, left everything andfollowed Jesus. Matthew gave a dinner, inviting his friends to come to meet Jesus.
This was the beginning of Jesus’ second year of ministry.
SCRIPTURE:
MEMORY VERSE:
BIBLE STORY:
Bible Story 33: JESUS BEGINS SECOND YEAR
Fishermen: Matthew 4:12, 18-22; Luke 5:1-11Matthew: Luke 5:27-32
Jesus went one evening on a mountainside and spent all night praying to God. The nextmorning, Jesus chose twelve apostles (disciples). They were: Simon Peter, Andrew, James,
One day Jesus took His disciples to the side of a mountain to teach them. A crowd followedand listened to Jesus teach. (Today it is known as the Sermon on the Mount.)Jesus said:
“Blessed are those who mourn, because God will comfort them.Blessed are those who are thirsty to know more about God, because they will be filled.Blessed are the merciful, because God will show them mercy.Blessed are those who are peacemakers, because God will call them His sons.Be like light in the world, shining for God.
Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”
THE LORD’S PRAYER
Then Jesus taught a model prayer, the Lord’s Prayer. Jesus said to pray to your heavenlyFather, asking God to do His will on earth as it is done in heaven. Pray, asking God to forgive you asyou forgive those who do you wrong.
Jesus said not to worry. Pray, asking and seeking God’s guidance and help.The crowds were amazed at Jesus’ teaching.
SCRIPTURE:
MEMORY VERSE:
BIBLE STORY:
Bible Story 35: JESUS CALLS HIS TWELVE DISCIPLES,SERMON ON THE MOUNT, AND
Twelve Disciples: Mark 3:13-19; Luke 6:12-16Sermon on the Mount: Matthew 5:1-10, 14-16, 43-44Lord’s Prayer: Matthew 6:9-13, 34; 7:7-8
The disciples and the crowd followed Jesus to Nain, a hillside town. At the town gate,Jesus saw a funeral procession coming out. The only son of a widow had died. Jesus saw themother crying. Jesus said, “Don’t cry.” Then Jesus touched the coffin and said, “Get up,young man.” The young man got up, and Jesus took him to his mother. Everyone was amazedand praised God.
JOHN THE BAPTIST ASKS QUESTIONS
During this time, John the Baptist was in prison. He sent two of his disciples to speak withJesus, asking, “Jesus, are You the promised Messiah, or should we wait for someoneelse?” So John’s disciples went to Jesus and asked Him that question. Jesus said that Hewas the promised Messiah. He was healing the sick, the blind and the crippled. Also, He wassharing the good news to the poor.
A WOMAN WASHES JESUS’ FEET
One day a Pharisee named Simon invited Jesus to his house for dinner. During the dinner,a woman who had done bad things came with a very valuable alabaster jar full of expensiveperfume. She washed the feet of Jesus with her tears and dried His feet with her hair. Then shepoured the expensive perfume on His feet. Jesus turned to the woman and said, “Because ofyour faith, your sins are forgiven. Leave now in peace.”
Jesus taught the people and healed their sicknesses. In this way, Jesus continued Hissecond year of ministry.
SCRIPTURE:
MEMORY VERSE:
BIBLE STORY:
Bible Story 37: JESUS HEALS AND TEACHES
Widow’s Son: Luke 7:11-17John the Baptist’s Questions: Matthew 11:2-11Washes Jesus’ Feet: Luke 7:36-50
John 14:27
PART 1: PERSONAL QUESTIONS
1. What did you learn from the story?
2. How can you apply this story to your life?
Page 1
JESUS RAISES WIDOW’S SON;JOHN THE BAPTIST ASKS QUESTIONS;
Jesus taught His disciples by telling parables. What is a parable? It is a story that teachesa truth from God.
Jesus sat in a boat on a lake. He told a parable to His disciples and the crowd on shore.One day a farmer was sowing seeds.
Some seeds fell on a pathway. The birds ate the seeds.
Some seeds fell on rocky ground. These seeds sprouted. The seeds quickly dried up,because of the hot sun.
Other seeds fell on thorny ground. The thorns spread and did not give any space for theseeds to grow.
Other seeds fell on good ground. The seeds grew and multiplied.
Later, the disciples asked Jesus what the story meant. Jesus explained the parable.The seeds are the Word of God in the lives of different people.The seeds that fell on a pathway are like the person who hears the Word of God, but
the Word is taken away from him.The seeds that fell on rocky ground are like the person who hears the Word of God, and
he thinks about it. When trouble or persecution comes to him for his belief, he doesnot let the Word of God grow within him.
The seeds that fell on thorny ground are like the person who hears the Word of God, buthe worries and is led away with his desire for wealth. He does not let the Word of Godgrow within him.
The seeds that fell on good ground are like the person who hears the Word of God andunderstands the Word of God. He lets the Word of God grow within him. Then the
When Jesus heard that John the Baptist was killed by Herod, He wanted to go to a quietplace. So Jesus and His disciples got into a boat. They began to cross to the other side of the lake.
The people saw them leave. They ran on foot and got there before Jesus and His disciples.Jesus felt compassion for the people. Jesus taught them and healed their sick.
It was a secluded place. That evening His disciples told Jesus to send the people away.Why? The people were hungry. The people could go home and get themselves some food.
Jesus said, “No. Do not send them away. Give them something to eat.”Philip replied, “We do not have money to buy bread for everyone.” There were 5,000 men
present, plus all the women and all the children.Jesus asked, “What food do we have?”Andrew replied, “A boy is here and he brought his lunch. He has two fish and five small
loaves of bread.”Jesus told His disciples to have the people divide into groups. Then they were to have the
people sit down on the grass. Jesus took the five loaves of bread and two fish and prayed. Jesusthanked God for the food. Next Jesus tore apart the loaves and the fish. He gave them to Hisdisciples. They gave the pieces of bread and fish to everyone.
Everyone ate and was satisfied. Then Jesus told His disciples, “Gather up the food that isleft over. Do not waste anything.”
They gathered twelve baskets of pieces of bread and fish that were left over.What a miracle!
Jesus fed over 5,000 people. It was getting late. So Jesus told His disciples to get into theboat. They were to cross to the other side of the lake. Also Jesus told the people to go home. Why?Jesus wanted to be alone. So Jesus went up the side of a mountain. He prayed by Himself.
It was evening when the disciples were going to the other side of the lake. A strong stormcame up. The winds were strong. The waves hit against the sides of the boat.
Jesus finished praying. He walked to the shore and continued walking. He walked on thestormy water! He wanted to get to the other side of the lake. Jesus was going to pass by Hisdisciples. But His disciples saw Him walking on the water toward them. They were afraid! Theyscreamed, “It’s a ghost!”
Jesus said, “Calm down! Do not be afraid! It is I!”Peter said, “Lord, tell me to come to You, if it is You.”Jesus replied, “Come!”Peter got out of the boat. He began walking on the water toward Jesus. Then Peter looked
away from Jesus. He looked at the strong winds. He was afraid! He began to sink! Peter cried out,“Save me, Lord!”
Quickly Jesus took Peter’s hand. He held onto him. Jesus said, “Why did you doubt?”Then Jesus and Peter climbed into the boat. The wind died down. It was calm.Those on the boat worshiped Jesus. They said, “Jesus, You are the Son of God!”They arrived safely on shore on the other side of the lake.
One day Jesus went up the side of a mountain near the Sea of Galilee. Jesus healedpeople. The blind could see. The mute could speak. The lame and crippled could walk. Thepeople were with Jesus for three days. They were very hungry.
Jesus asked His disciples, “What food do we have?”They said, “We have seven loaves of bread and a few small fish.”Jesus gave thanks to God for the food. Then Jesus broke the loaves of bread and fish.
He gave them to His disciples. The disciples gave the food to all the people. Everyone ate.Seven baskets of food were left over!
JESUS HEALS THE BLIND MAN
Then Jesus went to a village called Bethsaida. Some people brought a blind man toJesus. They begged Him to heal the man. Jesus held his hand and took him outside the village.Jesus spit on the blind man’s eyes. Jesus asked him, “Do you see anything?”
The man said, “I see people. The people look like trees that are walking around.”Again Jesus put His hands on the man’s eyes. The man opened his eyes, and he could
see everything clearly!Then Jesus told the man to go home.
SCRIPTURE:
MEMORY VERSE:
BIBLE STORY:
Bible Story 42: JESUS HELPS PEOPLE
Matthew 5:16
Feeding 4,000: Matthew 15:29-39; Mark 8:1-10Healing Blind Man: Mark 8:22-26
One day Jesus was alone with His disciples. Jesus asked them, “Who do people sayI am?”
His disciples said, “Well, some people say You are the Son of God. Some peoplesay You are John the Baptist. Some other people say You are Elijah or Jeremiah oranother prophet.”
Jesus asked, “Now tell Me. Who do you say that I am?”Peter said, “Jesus, You are the Christ. You are the Son of the living God.”Jesus was pleased. He said that God had shown this to him.
JESUS’ TRANSFIGURATION
On another day Jesus went up the side of a mountain. Jesus took His disciples Peter,James and John with Him. Jesus was transfigured. How? His clothes became white as light.His face was shining like the sun. Moses and Elijah were standing next to Jesus and talking toHim.
Peter wanted to put up three shelters: one for Jesus, one for Moses and one for Elijah. Acloud covered them as Peter spoke. A voice from the cloud said, “This is my Son. I love Him.I am well pleased with Him. Listen to His words!”
The three disciples were afraid. They fell to the ground. Jesus touched them and said,“Do not be afraid. Get up on your feet.”
The disciples looked. Moses and Elijah were gone. Only Jesus was standing before Histhree disciples.
SCRIPTURE:
MEMORY VERSE:
BIBLE STORY:
Bible Story 43: JESUS, THE SON OF GOD
Matthew 16:16
Jesus, Son of God: Matthew 16:13-16; Mark 8:27-29Transfiguration: Matthew 17:1-8; Mark 9:2-9
PETER CALLS JESUS, THE SON OF GOD;JESUS’ TRANSFIGURATION
John the Baptist died. Some people began to doubt who Jesus was. The Pharisees andthe Sadducees were religious leaders. They were jealous of Jesus. So they wanted to get rid ofJesus. Yet, many people believed in Jesus. They admired Jesus and the miracles He did.
JESUS: THE LIVING WATER
Jesus went alone to the Feast of the Tabernacles. It was observed in the Temple inJerusalem. What was the Feast of the Tabernacles? This was a Jewish feast held once a year.The feast was to help the people remember when the Israelite people were slaves in Egypt.God set them free. For forty years the Israelite people walked through the desert. During thattime, they lived in tents. God led them into the Promised Land. At the feast, the peopleremembered God’s protection upon the Israelites.
One part of the feast was when water from a golden jar was poured upon the altar. Why?They were to remember the water God provided when the Israelites went through the desert.When the Israelites were in the desert, the people were very thirsty. God told Moses to strike hisstaff on the rock. Moses obeyed. Water came out of the rock! The people drank the water, andthey were no longer thirsty.
On the last day of the feast, Jesus said loudly, “If anyone is thirsty, come drink fromMe.”
JESUS: THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD
Another part of the Feast of the Tabernacles was when the candles on four golden lampswere lighted in the Temple. Why? This helped the people remember the column of fire Godsent. While in the desert, the column of fire warmed, guided and lighted the way for the Israelites.Later Jesus said, “I am the light of the world. The one who follows Me will have light in hislife and never walk in darkness.”
SCRIPTURE:
MEMORY VERSE:
BIBLE STORY:
Bible Story 44: JESUS: THE LIVING WATER AND
John 8:12
Living Water: John 7:10-17, 25-26, 37-38Light of the World: John 8:12
On a Sabbath day, Jesus was passing by when He saw a blind man. The man was blind frombirth. Jesus spit on the ground. He made mud from the dirt and His saliva. Then Jesus put the mud onthe blind man’s eyes. Jesus said, “Go to the Pool of Siloam and wash your eyes.”
The blind man obeyed. He went to the pool and washed his eyes. He could see! He told otherswhat happened. He said, “I can see, because of Jesus!”
The Pharisees were religious leaders and did not allow any kind of work on the Sabbath. ThePharisees told everyone that Jesus did not heal the man. It was the Sabbath. They threw the man out.
Later Jesus went to the man and spoke to him. The man told Jesus, “I believe You are theSon of God.”
JESUS, THE GOOD SHEPHERD
Jesus told the people about sheep:“Sheep are kept in a pen, a small enclosed area. There is only one door to the pen.The shepherd is the only one who enters the door to the pen. The shepherd opensthe door and calls each sheep by its name. When each sheep hears his shepherd’svoice, he will follow him.”
Then Jesus said, “I am the door. My sheep must pass through Me.”Jesus continued:
“The good shepherd protects his sheep. The shepherd will even give his life for thesheep. When a wolf attacks the sheep, the good shepherd does not run off. Thegood shepherd stays to protect his sheep.”
Then Jesus said, “I am the Good Shepherd. Just as I know My sheep, My sheep know
Me. In fact, I am ready to die for My sheep.”
SCRIPTURE:
MEMORY VERSE:
BIBLE STORY:
Bible Story 45: JESUS HEALS A BLIND MAN;
John 10:14
Blind Man: John 9:1-15, 24-25, 34-38Good Shepherd: John 10:1-15
One day a professor of the Law asked Jesus what he must do to have life eternal.Jesus asked, “What does the Word of God say?”The man said, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, strength and
intelligence. Also, love your neighbor as you love yourself.”Then the man asked, “Who is my neighbor?”Jesus replied by telling a parable, a story about a good Samaritan man.
A Jewish man was traveling from the city of Jerusalem to Jericho. Onthe road, some thieves robbed and beat him. Then they fled. The travelerwas very hurt.
Time passed and a priest came by, saw the man, but kept going.Time passed and a Levite (religious leader) came by, saw the man, but
kept going.Time passed and a Samaritan man came and saw the injured traveler.
(A Jewish man did not like Samaritans.) The Samaritan man felt sorry for theinjured Jewish man. So he bandaged his wounds, placed him on his don-key, and took him to a lodging place. Before leaving, he gave the ownersome money to take care of the Jewish man.
Jesus asked, “Who helped the injured man?”The professor of the Law said, “The one who helped him.”Jesus said, “Do as the good Samaritan did.”
2. What is there in the story that you do not understand?
3. Who are the main people in the story?
4. What problems did the people face?
5. How did the people face their problems?
6. How have you faced similar problems?
7. Is there someone in the story who is similar to you or who is different from you?
8. What does the story tell about God?
1. What is eternal life? How can you have eternal life in heaven? (Read John 3:16.)
2. Jesus asked, “What does the Word of God say?” What is the “Word of God”?
3. How are we to love God?
4. How are we to love others?
5. What happened to the Jewish man going to Jericho?
6. Who did not help the injured Jewish man?
7. Who helped the injured Jewish man? Was that unusual? Why?(Note: In those days, the Jewish people did not like Samaritans.They tried to avoid even touching a Samaritan.)
8. What does the story of a Samaritan man helping a Jewish man teach you?
9. Who are some people you do not like?
10. What are some ways you can help people that you do not like?
One day Jesus told a parable, a story, about a lost son.A father had two sons. One day the younger son came to his father and asked for his
share of his inheritance. The man divided his inheritance between his two sons.Soon the younger son left home and took everything that he had. He went to a
country very far away and he wasted all his money. There was a very bad famine and theyoung man did not have any money to buy food. He only could find a job in a fieldfeeding pods to pigs. He was so hungry that he even wanted to eat the pigs’ food!
Then the young man remembered his father’s home. All the servants there had plentyof food to eat. So he decided to go back home. He planned to tell his father that he hadsinned against him and God. He would ask permission to stay home, working as aservant. So he started back home.
From a distance, his father saw his younger son returning home. He ran to his son,hugged him and kissed him.
The son told his father that he had sinned against him and God. He no longer wasworthy to be called his son.
The father called his servants to bring his son the best clothes, a ring for his fingerand sandals for his feet. He told them to kill and prepare the fatted calf and prepare abanquet. Why? Because his son, who was lost, returned home safely.
When the older son came home, he heard that a banquet was prepared for his youngerbrother. The older son would not join the banquet. The father went and spoke to hisolder son. He told him that all he had was his, but to come in and join the celebration.Why? Because his younger brother was lost and has come back home safely.
Some very good friends of Jesus were Mary, her sister Martha and their brother Lazarus.They lived in Bethany, a town about two miles from Jerusalem.
One day Jesus visited their home.
Mary sat at the feet of Jesus, listening to His teachings.
What was Martha doing? She was very busy doing all the work in the house. She waspreparing for Jesus’ visit. Martha became upset, because her sister Mary did not help her.So Martha went to Jesus and asked, “Are You not concerned that my sister has left all thework with me? Tell my sister to come and help me!”
Jesus replied, “Oh Martha, Martha. You are very worried about many things, allthe work and preparations in the house. Look. Mary has chosen the best thing to do.She has chosen to be sitting at My feet and listening to My teachings.”
Jesus explained to Martha that He would not always be with them.
2. What is there in the story that you do not understand?
3. Who are the main people in the story?
4. What problems did the people face?
5. How did the people face their problems?
6. How have you faced similar problems?
7. Is there someone in the story who is similar to you or who is different from you?
8. What does the story tell about God?
1. Who did Jesus visit?
2. Is it important to develop friendships? Why?--- What kind of friendships should you make?--- What are some ways that can help you develop friendships?
3. What did Martha do when Jesus visited her home?--- What did Mary do?
4. What did Martha ask Jesus to do about her sister?
5. What did Jesus say to Martha?
6. What are some ways you can make time to be with Jesus?
7. Who are some people you can talk to when you become upset about something?
8. Will God listen to you when you are upset?--- Take time now to pray to God about your concerns or about things that are
Jesus was a good friend to Lazarus, who lived in Bethany.One day Lazarus became very sick.Mary and Martha sent word to Jesus that their brother Lazarus was very sick. When
Jesus heard this, He delayed two days before going to them. Meanwhile Lazarus died.When Jesus finally arrived in Bethany, someone told Martha. So she left her home and
went to Jesus, but Mary stayed at home. Martha told Jesus that if He were present whenLazarus was sick, he would not have died.
Jesus said, “I am the Resurrection and the Life. Whoever believes in Me will live inheaven, even though he dies on earth. Do you believe, Martha?”
Martha said that she believed He was the Christ, the Son of God.Then Mary and the others came to Jesus and they were crying. Jesus wept.Four days had passed since Lazarus was buried in a tomb. Jesus arrived at the tomb.
He said, “Take away the rock that is at the opening of the tomb.”Jesus prayed. Then Jesus said, “Come out, Lazarus!”What happened? Lazarus came out of the tomb! Jesus resurrected Lazarus! This is to
say that Lazarus was alive once again. The people removed the grave clothes, strips of cloththat were wrapped around Lazarus, who was alive.
Then everyone returned home. Because of this miracle, many people believed and puttheir faith in Jesus.
(However, the Jewish leaders were upset that so many people were believing in Jesusand they began to make plans to kill Jesus.)
One day Jesus was traveling from Galilee, going through Samaria and going to Jerusalem.From a distance away, ten men were sick with leprosy. They yelled to Jesus, asking Him
to help them.Jesus told the ten lepers to go to their priests.So the ten lepers left, obeying Jesus. On the way, they were all healed. Jesus healed
them!One of the lepers that was healed was a Samaritan. He returned to Jesus to thank Him
for healing him from leprosy.Jesus asked, “Where are the other nine men who were also healed? Do they not
want to thank Me?”Jesus told the Samaritan man that he was healed because of his faith.
JESUS BLESSES THE CHILDREN
On a certain day Jesus was teaching the people about the Kingdom of God.Some children were brought to Jesus.The disciples would not let the children get close to Jesus and bother Him.Jesus saw what was happening. He was angry with His disciples for not letting the
children come to Him.Jesus said, “Let the children come to Me. Do not stop them, because the Kingdom
of God is like these children.”So Jesus called the children to come close to Him. Then Jesus hugged the children and
blessed the children.
SCRIPTURE:
MEMORY VERSE:
BIBLE STORY:
Bible Story 50: JESUS HEALS TEN MEN OF LEPROSY
Mark 10:16, 2 Thessalonians 4:18 or Ephesians 5:20
2. What is there in the story that you do not understand?
3. Who are the main people in the story?
4. What problems did the people face?
5. How did the people face their problems?
6. How have you faced similar problems?
7. Is there someone in the story who is similar to you or who is different from you?
8. What does the story tell about God?
1. What is leprosy? How many men asked Jesus to heal them from leprosy?
2. What did Jesus tell the men with leprosy to do? What happened?
3. What did the Samaritan man healed of leprosy do? Why? What did Jesus say?
4. Why is it important to thank God for things that He does for you? Name some thingsyou are thankful for that God has done for you.
5. Who are some people that have helped you? Name some ways that you can expressgratitude to these people. Take time to express your gratitude to them.
6. What did the disciples do when children were brought to see Jesus?
7. What did Jesus say about the children?
8. How do we know that Jesus loves children?
9. What are some ways you can help children know that Jesus loves them?
One day Jesus, His disciples and a group of people were coming to a town called Jericho.Bartimaeus was a blind man, begging by the side of the road. The blind man heard that Jesus was
passing by him So the blind man yelled, “Jesus, have mercy and compassion for me!”The people told him to be quiet. What did the man do? He called out even louder.Jesus called the blind man to come to Him. Then Jesus asked him what he wanted. The blind
man said that he wanted Jesus to heal him.Jesus replied that his faith has healed him. Right then the man could see! He was healed!
JESUS TALKS WITH ZACCHAEUS
On another day, Jesus was passing through the town of Jericho. A wealthy chief tax collectornamed Zacchaeus was there. (Tax collectors were Jews who got money from their own Jewish people to give
to the ruling Roman government. Often tax collectors collected more money than required, keeping the extra
money for themselves. The Jews did not like tax collectors.)
Zacchaeus wanted to see Jesus, but he could not. Zacchaeus was a short man and many peoplewere around Jesus. So Zacchaeus ran on ahead and climbed a sycamore fig tree. He thought this wayhe could see Jesus when He came by this pathway.
When Jesus reached the sycamore fig tree, He looked up and said: “Zacchaeus, you come downright now! I want to go to your house.”
Zacchaeus climbed down and gladly welcomed Jesus.In his home, Zacchaeus said to Jesus: “Lord, to the poor I’ll give half of all that I have. Also, I’ll
pay back four times the amount to anyone that I have ever cheated.”Jesus replied, “Salvation has come to this house.”
SCRIPTURE:
MEMORY VERSE:
BIBLE STORY:
Bible Story 51: JESUS HEALS A BLIND MAN
AND JESUS TALKS WITH ZACCHAEUS
Hebrews 11:1, Acts 4:10,12, 1 Timothy 2:3-4 or Romans 10:9
2. What is there in the story that you do not understand?
3. Who are the main people in the story?
4. What problems did the people face?
5. How did the people face their problems?
6. How have you faced similar problems?
7. Is there someone in the story who is similar to you or who is different from you?
8. What does the story tell about God?
1. What did the blind man Bartimaeus do?
2. What did the people tell the blind man to do? What did Jesus do to the blind man?
3. What is faith? Why can you have faith and trust in Jesus to help you?
4. Who are some needy people that you can help? How?
5. Who were the tax collectors? Did the Jews like tax collectors? Why not?
6. Who was the tax collector in the story? Who did he want to see? What happened?
7. What did Jesus do when He came to the sycamore fig tree? What did Zacchaeus do?
8. Should we help people that we do not like? Why?
9. What are some kinds of things that you can do for people that you do not like?
10. What does it mean when Jesus said, “Salvation has come to your house”?(Zacchaeus called Jesus “Lord.” Read Acts 4:10,12, 1 Timothy 2:3-4, Romans 10:9 and John 3:16.)
Jesus is at the end of His third year of ministry. The following stories tell about Jesus’ last week, called
the Passion Week.
SUNDAY: JESUS’ TRIUMPHAL ENTRY
On Sunday, it was nearing the time of the Feast of the Passover, a Jewish religious ceremony observedonce a year in Jerusalem. When Jesus came to the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two of His disciples to go tothe nearby village. They were to get a colt that was tied. This colt was never ridden before by anyone. Thedisciples obeyed and brought the colt to Jesus.
Garments were put on the colt. Then Jesus sat on the colt. A large group of people were all aroundJesus. As Jesus rode the colt, some people put their garments on the ground. Others put palm tree brancheson the pathway. The people shouted, “Hosanna! Blessed is the King that comes in the name of the Lord.Glory in the highest!”
As Jesus saw the city of Jerusalem, He wept over the city.Some people asked, “Who is this man?”The people answered, “It is Jesus, from Nazareth of Galilee.”It was late when Jesus entered Jerusalem. So Jesus left and spent the night in Bethany, about two
miles from Jerusalem.
MONDAY: JESUS CLEANSES THE TEMPLE
On Monday morning, Jesus returned and went to the Temple in Jerusalem.Jesus saw people exchanging money and selling animals for sacrifices in the place where the
Gentiles (non Jews) were to go and worship God.Jesus turned over the tables where money was exchanged to buy the animals for the sacrifices.
Jesus drove out the animals. Then Jesus said, “It is written, ‘My house will be called a house of prayer
for all people of all nations.’ ”
TUESDAY: JESUS ANSWERS ABOUT PAYING TAXES
The Pharisees, religious leaders, wanted to trick Jesus. They asked Jesus, “Is it right to pay taxes
to Caesar, our ruler, or not?”Jesus replied, “Show me the coin that is used for paying tax.”They gave Him a coin, a denarius.Jesus asked, “Whose picture is engraved on the coin?”They replied, “Caesar’s.”Jesus said, “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s. Also give to God what is God’s.”They were surprised at what Jesus said. Then they left.
SCRIPTURE:
MEMORY VERSE:
BIBLE STORY:
Bible Story 52: JESUS’ TRIUMPHAL ENTRY,
Matthew 19:46
Triumphal Entry: Mark 11:1-11; Luke 19:28-44Cleansing Temple: Mark 11:15-28; Luke 19:45-48Paying Taxes: Matthew 22:15-22
On Tuesday afternoon of the Passover Week, Jesus left the Temple. He went to the Mount ofOlives. He told a parable about talents. (In Jesus’ day, one talent was about a thousand dollars today.)
A man was going on a journey. Before leaving, he called his three servants to take care of hisbelongings while he was gone. He gave five talents to his first servant. He gave two talents to hissecond servant. He gave one talent to his third servant. He gave each one according to his abilityof taking care of his belongings. Then he left on his journey.
The first servant left right away and worked, investing his five talents. He gained five moretalents.
Also, the second servant left right away and worked, investing his two talents. He gained twomore talents.
What about the third servant? He was afraid that he would lose the one talent. So he dug a holeand buried the talent in the ground.
After a long time the master came back from his journey. He called his three servants to him,wanting to know what happened to their talents.
The first servant said: “Master, you gave me five talents. I have gained five more. Look,here are ten talents!” The master was very pleased. He told him that he was a good and faithfulservant with a few things. Now he would be in charge of many things.
The second servant came and said: “Master, you gave me two talents. I have gained twomore. Look, here are four talents.” The master was also very pleased with this servant. He saidthat he was a good and faithful servant with a few things. Now he would be in charge of manythings.
The third servant dug up his hidden talent and brought it to his master. He said: “Master, I knewyou were a hard master. I was afraid something would happen to the talent. So I hid it. Look,here is the one talent!”
The master was angry and replied, “You knew that I wanted you to invest this money wisely.At least you could have deposited this money in the bank. Then you could bring me the talentand the interest on it.”
The master took his talent and gave it to the first servant. This last servant received nothing.
On Tuesday evening of Passover Week, Jesus was in the home of Simon the Leper inBethany.
Jesus was eating and reclining at the table. A woman came to Jesus with an expensivejar of perfume. She broke the jar of perfume and poured it on Jesus’ head.
Judas Iscariot was a disciple of Jesus. He saw the woman pour the expensive perfumeon Jesus’ head. Judas said, “This is a waste! The perfume could be sold for lots of money.It is worth more than a year’s salary! This money could have been given to the poor!”
Jesus spoke strongly to Judas. Jesus said, “Leave the woman alone! You will alwayshave the poor with you. This woman poured the perfume on My body to prepare Me forburial.”
TUESDAY EVENING: JUDAS BETRAYS JESUS
Judas Iscariot left when Jesus told him to leave the woman alone.Judas went secretly to the high priests. Judas asked them, “How much money will you
give me if I hand Jesus over to you?”The high priests replied, “We will give you thirty silver coins.”So Judas returned to Jesus. From then on, Judas secretly looked for the best moment to
hand Jesus over to the high priests.
WEDNESDAY: JESUS RESTS
Jesus rested in Bethany on Wednesday.
SCRIPTURE:
MEMORY VERSE:
BIBLE STORY:
Bible Story 54: JESUS IS ANOINTED
Ephesians 5:20
Anointed: Matthew 26:6-13; Mark 14:3-9Betrayed: Mark 14:10
On Thursday evening, Jesus and His disciples met in an upper room in Jerusalem toobserve and eat the Passover meal, which the Jews observed once a year.
THURSDAY EVENING: JESUS WASHES THE DISCIPLES’ FEET
During the meal, Jesus got up and took off His outer garment. Then He put a towelaround His waist. He got a basin of water and began to wash the feet of each of His disciples.Afterwards He dried their feet.
Peter did not want Jesus to wash his feet. Jesus said, “You will not have any part withMe, Peter, if you do not let Me wash your feet.”
Peter replied, “Then, Jesus, wash my feet, my hands and my head.”Jesus told His disciples that He washed their feet as an example. They were to wash one
another’s feet, meaning they were to have a spirit of serving one another.
THURSDAY EVENING: THE LORD’S SUPPER
Jesus took the bread and prayed, giving thanks. He broke the bread and passed it to Hisdisciples. As they eat the bread, they were to remember Jesus’ body that was given for allpeople when He died on the cross.
Next Jesus took the cup of wine and prayed, giving thanks. He passed the cup to Hisdisciples. As they drank from the cup, they were to remember the blood that Jesus shed for allpeople when He died on the cross.
This was a new ordinance for His believers to observe.Then they sang a hymn and left, going to Gethsemane on the Mount of Olives.Meanwhile, Judas left earlier to tell the high priests where they would find Jesus. The
high priests gave Judas thirty pieces of silver for betraying Jesus.
SCRIPTURE:
MEMORY VERSE:
BIBLE STORY:
Bible Story 55: JESUS WASHES THE DISCIPLES’ FEET
Ephesians 4:1-2
Disciples’ Feet: John 13:1-17Lord’s Supper: Matthew 26:17-19,26-30; Mark 14:12-16, 22-26
THURSDAY (AROUND MIDNIGHT): JESUS PRAYS AT GETHSEMANE
After the Lord’s Supper, Jesus took His disciples to Gethsemane, a garden on the Mount ofOlives. Jesus told eight of His disciples to sit at the entrance to the garden. Then Jesus took Peter,James and John inside the garden with Him. Then He asked the three disciples to pray, but they wereso tired that they went to sleep.
Alone, Jesus went a little distance and knelt down with His face to the ground. With sorrow Heprayed three times, “My Father, take this cup from Me, but do Your will and not Mine.” His sorrow
was so great that His sweat was like drops of blood falling down His face.
FRIDAY (BEFORE DAWN): JESUS IS ARRESTED
After the third prayer, the disciple Judas Iscariot arrived with guards from the Temple and someJewish religious leaders. Judas greeted Jesus with a kiss, showing the soldiers which person was theman they were searching for to arrest. So the soldiers arrested Jesus. To protect Jesus, Peter took hissword and cut off one of the ears of a priest’s servant. Jesus told Peter to put his sword away, becauseHe was going to fulfill God’s will. Then Jesus healed the servant. When Jesus was tied and taken
away, the disciples fled. Peter followed Jesus from a distance.
FRIDAY: JESUS IS JUDGED
Jesus was taken to the high priest, religious leaders and teachers to be judged. In the courtyardoutside, Peter denied knowing Jesus three times. Then Peter left and wept bitterly.
The religious leaders wanted Jesus to be condemned to death. So early in the morning, theytook Jesus to Pilate, the governor. Pilate asked, “Jesus, are you the King of the Jews?”
Jesus replied, “Yes.”During His judgment, Jesus was mocked, beaten and spit upon by the soldiers.Pilate told the crowd that he did not find Jesus worthy of death. The chief priests and crowd
shouted, “Crucify Him! Crucify Him!”So Pilate condemned Jesus to be crucified, to die on a cross. The soldiers led Jesus away to
Golgotha to be crucified.
SCRIPTURE:
MEMORY VERSE:
BIBLE STORY:
Bible Story 56: JESUS PRAYS AT GETHSEMANE;
Luke 22:42
Gethsemane: Matthew 26:36-46; Mark 14:32-42; Luke 22:39-46Betrayal: Matthew 26:47-56; Mark 14:43-50; John 18:10-11Trial: Matthew 26:57-75, 27:1-31; Mark 14:53-72, 15:1-20
2. What is there in the story that you do not understand?
3. Who are the main people in the story?
4. What problems did the people face?
5. How did the people face their problems?
6. How have you faced similar problems?
7. Is there someone in the story who is similar to you or who is different from you?
8. What does the story tell about God?
1. After the Lord’s Supper, Jesus and His disciples went to Gethsemane.--- What happened to the eight disciples?--- What happened to Peter, James and John?--- What happened when Jesus prayed alone?
2. What is prayer? What are some of your needs and concerns? Pray about them.
3. After Jesus finished praying, who arrived?--- What did Judas do?--- What did Peter do?--- What did Jesus do?--- What did the soldiers do?--- What did the disciples do?
4. When Jesus was tried before the high priests and religious leaders, what did Peter dooutside in the courtyard?
5. What did Pilate ask Jesus when He was brought before him? What did Jesus reply?
6. Who do you say Jesus is?
7. Did Pilate think Jesus was worthy of death? What was Pilate’s judgment to Jesus? Why?
8. Have you ever suffered for something you did not do? What happened?
Soldiers had Jesus carry His own cross along the pathway to Golgotha to be crucified. Along theway, soldiers forced Simon from Cyrene to help Jesus carry His cross. At Golgotha, they offered Jesuswine mixed with myrrth, but He refused it.
Around nine in the morning, Jesus was placed on a wooden cross and nails were hammered intoHis hands and feet. A sign was put above His head that read, “King of the Jews.” The cross was liftedup and placed in the ground. At Jesus’ feet, soldiers divided His belongings.
Jesus saw the people mocking Him. Jesus said, “Father forgive them, because they do notknow what they are doing.”
Jesus hung between two criminals. One criminal mocked Jesus. The other criminal said that theydeserved their punishment, but not Jesus Then he asked Jesus to remember him when He went to Hiskingdom. Jesus said, “Today you will be with Me in paradise.”
Close to the cross were Mary, the mother of Jesus, and His disciple John. Looking at His mother,Jesus said, “There is your son.” Then looking at His beloved disciple John, Jesus said, “There is yourmother.” From then on, John took care of Jesus’ mother.
From around noon to three in the afternoon, it was all dark. During that time, Jesus said, “My God!My God! Why have You forsaken Me?”
Around three in the afternoon, Jesus knew that all was completed. Jesus said, “I am thirsty.” Asponge was soaked in a jar of wine vinegar. It was put on a long pole that was lifted up to Jesus’ lips.
Jesus said, “It is finished.”Then Jesus said, “Father, into Your hands I commit My spirit.”After Jesus said this, He died.Then the curtain in the Temple was torn from top to bottom.To make sure the ones who were crucified were dead, the soldiers broke their legs. Yet, when the
soldier came to Jesus, he pierced His side with his sword. Blood and water flowed, showing that Jesuswas dead.
FRIDAY AFTERNOON: JESUS IS BURIED
Joseph, who was from Arimathea, and Nicodemus came and took the body of Jesus. They poureda mixture of myrrh and aloes on His body. They wrapped His body in strips of linen cloth. Then they placedJesus’ body in a new tomb carved in a rock. A stone was placed at its entrance. Some women watchedfrom a distance.
Chief priests had soldiers guard the tomb, because they did not want Jesus’ body taken away.Then sabbath began and everyone rested. (Sabbath began around six on Friday evening.)
SCRIPTURE:
MEMORY VERSE:
BIBLE STORY:
Bible Story 57: JESUS IS CRUCIFIED AND BURIED
1 John 4:10, 1 Peter 2:24 or Acts 2:23
Crucifixion: Matthew 27:32-51; Mark 15:21-39; Luke 23:26-49; John 19:17-37Burial: Matthew 27:57-66; Mark 15:42-47; Luke 23:50-56; John 19:38-42
2. What is there in the story that you do not understand?
3. Who are the main people in the story?
4. What problems did the people face?
5. How did the people face their problems?
6. How have you faced similar problems?
7. Is there someone in the story who is similar to you or who is different from you?
8. What does the story tell about God?
1. Who helped Jesus carry the cross to Golgotha?
2. What are some ways that we can help Jesus today?
3. When Jesus was on the cross,--- What did the soldiers do at the feet of Jesus?--- What did Jesus ask God, His Father, to do to those who put Him on the cross?--- What happened between Jesus and the two criminals that hung beside Him?--- What did Jesus ask His beloved disciple John to do?--- What happened at the Temple when Jesus died?
4. What did the soldier do to make sure that Jesus was dead? What happened?
5. Who buried Jesus?--- How did they take care of the body of Jesus?--- Where did they bury Jesus?--- What was put in front of the entrance of the tomb where Jesus was buried?--- Who guarded the entrance to the tomb? Why?
6. Why did Jesus die on the cross?
7. Did Jesus die on the cross for you and for me? Why? (Read John 3:16.)
8. What does Jesus dying on the cross mean to you?
On early Sunday morning, there was a violent earthquake. An angel of the Lord rolled back the stoneat the entrance to Jesus’ tomb. Some women arrived with spices to properly care for the body of Jesus. Theysaw that the tomb was empty. The angel told them, “Jesus has risen! Tell His disciples that Jesus hasrisen! Jesus is alive!”
The women ran and told the disciples what happened. Peter and John ran to the tomb. They saw theburial cloth folded inside the tomb. They wondered, “Where was Jesus?”
Meanwhile, the soldiers who were guarding the tomb were terrified. They ran and told the chiefpriests about everything. The chief priests gave money to the soldiers. Why? So they would tell everyonethat Jesus’ disciples stole His body.
JESUS APPEARS TO MARY MAGDALENE
Mary Magdalene was crying by the tomb. She could not understand why the tomb was empty. Wherewas Jesus? Two angels at the tomb asked, “Why are you crying?” She replied, “Someone has taken myLord Jesus away.”
Then Mary saw a man, who she thought was a gardener. She said, “Tell me where Jesus’ body wastaken.”
He was not the gardener. He was Jesus! He replied, “Mary.”Mary looked up and cried out, “Teacher!” She saw that it was Jesus!Jesus said, “Mary, go tell My disciples that I have risen! I am alive!”Mary went and told the disciples what happened.
JESUS APPEARS TO TWO MEN GOING TO EMMAUS
On Sunday afternoon, Cleopas and another follower of Jesus were going to a village called Emmaus.It was about seven miles from Jerusalem. Jesus appeared to them as they were walking, but they did notrecognize Him.
Jesus asked, “What are you talking about to each other?”Cleopas replied, “We were talking about what happened to Jesus. He was powerful in word and
deed. He was crucified. We were hoping that He was the one who was going to set Israel free. Nowit is the third day since He died. Some women said the tomb was empty. No one knows where He is.”
Jesus explained how it was necessary for Christ to suffer these things and only then enter His glory.They arrived at the village. The men invited Him to stay with them. At the table, Jesus took the bread,
gave thanks and broke it, giving it to them. The two men realized that it was Jesus! Then Jesus disappeared.The men quickly returned to Jerusalem. They told the disciples, “It is true! Jesus has risen! Jesus wasalive!”
SCRIPTURE:
MEMORY VERSE:
BIBLE STORY:
Bible Story 58: JESUS IS RESURRECTED
Acts 2:24, 1 Corinthians 6:14, John 3:16 or Romans 10:9
Resurrection: Matthew 28:1-15; Luke 24:1-12; John 20:1-9Mary: John 20:10-18Road to Emmaus: Luke 24:13-35
PART 1: PERSONAL QUESTIONS
1. What did you learn from the story?
2. How can you apply this story to your life?
Page 1
JESUS APPEARS TO MARY MAGDALENE;JESUS APPEARS TO TWO MEN GOING TO EMMAUS
On Sunday evening, Jesus’ disciples were in a locked room in a house. The men who saw Jesuson the road to Emmaus were telling the disciples about what happened.
Suddenly Jesus appeared. Jesus said, “Peace be with you.”The disciples were afraid. They thought that Jesus was a ghost!Jesus said, “Why are you afraid? Why do you doubt? Look at My hands and My feet. It is
really Me! Touch Me and see! I have flesh and bones, but a ghost does not.”Jesus showed them His hands and feet. They still could not believe that it was Jesus.So Jesus asked, “Do you have anything for Me to eat?”They gave Jesus a piece of broiled fish. Jesus ate it while they watched. They finally believed that
Jesus was alive! They rejoiced!Jesus said, “Peace be with you! Just as the Father sent Me, so I send you.” Jesus spoke
some more words and then He disappeared.The disciple Thomas was not with the other disciples. He did not believe that Jesus appeared to
the disciples. Thomas said that he would not believe that Jesus had risen, unless he touched where thenails were and touched where the sword pierced His side.
JESUS’ 2ND APPEARANCE TO HIS DISCIPLES
A week later on a Sunday evening, the disciples were in the locked room again at the house.Thistime Thomas was with them.
Suddenly Jesus appeared. Jesus said, “Peace be with you!”Then Jesus looked at Thomas and said, “Thomas, put your finger where the nail prints are on
My hands. Thomas, touch My side where the sword pieced My side. Stop doubting. Believe!”Thomas replied, “My Lord! My God!”Then Jesus said, “You believe, because you have seen Me. Oh, how blessed are those who
believe that I have risen without even seeing Me with their own eyes!”
SCRIPTURE:
MEMORY VERSE:
BIBLE STORY:
Bible Story 59: JESUS APPEARS TO HIS DISCIPLES
John 20:29 or John 20:31
1st Appearance to Disciples: Luke 24:36-49; John 20:19-232nd Appearance to Disciples: John 20:24-31
One day Simon Peter and six other disciples decided to go fishing. They fished all night, but theydid not catch any fish.
Early the next morning, Jesus was on the shore. He called out, “Have you caught any fish?”They answered, “No.”Jesus told them to throw their net on the right side of the boat and they would catch some fish.
They did. They caught so many fish that it was hard to bring in all the fish. They caught 153 fish!John said, “It is the Lord!” Peter jumped into the water and went toward Jesus.Jesus prepared breakfast, cooking some fish on a fire of burning coals. Jesus took the bread and
fish, and He gave the food to His disciples to eat.Then Jesus spoke to Simon Peter. Jesus asked, “Peter, do you love Me more than these?”Peter replied, “Yes, my Lord, you know that I love You.”Jesus said, “Peter, feed My lambs.”A second time Jesus asked, “Do you really love Me, Simon Peter?”Peter replied, “Lord, yes! Why you know that I love You.”Jesus said, “Peter, take care of My sheep.”A third time Jesus asked, “Simon Peter, do you love Me?”Peter was hurt, because Jesus asked the same question three times. Peter replied, “You know
all things, Lord. Therefore, You know that I love You.”Jesus said, “Peter feed My sheep. Follow Me!” (Jesus forgave Peter for denying Him earlier.)
JESUS ASCENDS TO HEAVEN
After Jesus arose from the grave, He appeared to many different people for more than forty days.Jesus did many marvelous signs. Why? So we may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God.(Read John 20:30.)
One day as Jesus was telling His disciples to be His witnesses to all the people of the world, Hebegan to rise. Jesus was moving upward! The disciples watched until a cloud hid Jesus from their sight.
Two angels stood by them and said, “One day Jesus will come back in the same way you haveseen Him go into heaven.”
Jesus promises us that He will return! (Read Revelation 22:7, 12, 20.)
SCRIPTURE:
MEMORY VERSE:
BIBLE STORY:
Bible Story 60: JESUS FORGIVES PETER AND
1 John 1:9, Acts 1:8 or Revelation 22:12
Peter: John 21:1-19Ascension: Luke 24:50-53; Acts 1:3-11
2. What is there in the story that you do not understand?
3. Who are the main people in the story?
4. What problems did the people face? What happened?
5. What does the story tell about God?
Page 2
1. Who went fishing? Did they catch any fish during the night?
2. What did Jesus tell the disciples to do? What happened?
3. What breakfast did Jesus prepare for His disciples?
4. What question did Jesus ask Peter after eating breakfast?--- What did Peter say?--- Why did Jesus ask this same question three times?
5. Jesus appeared to many people for forty days after He arose. Then Jesus told Hisdisciples to be His witnesses to all the world. What does it mean to “be His witnessesto all the world”?
6. How can we be a witness for Jesus?
7. Jesus began to rise. What happened? Where did Jesus go?
8. What promise did the angels give the disciples about Jesus returning?
9. What is eternal life? How can we have eternal life with Jesus? (Read John 3:16.)
Do you believe Jesus is the son of God who died on the cross and arose again?Do you want to be saved and have eternal life with Jesus? If yes, pray and tell God.Pray a prayer, such as:
Dear God,I believe that Jesus is the Son of God who died on the cross for my sins.Forgive me of my sins. I accept Jesus as my Lord and Savior. Amen.”
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