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    God wanted everyone to know He was holy. Moses told the priests and the people how to worship God through sacrifices and offerings. God then revealed His presence by appearing as fire in the Tabernacle, in the Holy of Holies. Instead of worshipping the Holiness of God, Nadab and Abihu made their own fire. This disrespect was so great that the fire of the Lord consumed them and their fire.

    Bible verses used in this episode:

    Leviticus 10

    Outline:

    Nadab and Abihu disrespect God and die (Leviticus 10:1-3)Nadab and Abuhuā€™s bodies are carried out and buried (Leviticus 10:4-7)New Laws about priests respecting God (Leviticus 10:8-20)

    Tips for teaching children:

    Tell the story using a big candle representing God and matches representing Nadab and Abuhuā€™s fire.
    Refer to missionbibleclass.org for complete instructions.Talk about the holiness of God as it relates to the lives of the children you teach. How does God want us to respect Him at school, on the playground, and at church?Print or write ā€œGod is Holyā€ in the centre of a paper. Guide the children in gluing red, yellow and red tissue paper around the border for decoration. Alternatively, children can draw, colour or paint a border of their choice.

    Tips for teaching adults:

    Read the story in class using three or four readers. To do a dramatic reading, choose one person to read the narratorā€™s part, another Godā€™s voice, another Mosesā€™ and another Aaronā€™s. For greater understanding, I suggest the class watch the Bible Project video on Leviticus (8 min). It sets the story in the context of the book. Following the video, lead the class in a discussion of the video. Some conversation starters might be as follows:How does looking at the whole book of Leviticus help us understand the story of Nadab and Abihu better? What does this story have to teach us today as followers of Jesus about holiness and taking God seriously? What are some specific things we can do this week to live as a people who are set apart for God? In our home? Our work? Our communities? And at church? How can we honour and show our respect for God?

    Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:

    Bible Lesson: Nadab and Abihu



    Scriptures quoted from the International Childrenā€™s BibleĀ®, copyright Ā©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.

    Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.

    Music: Upbeat Positive Culture (Acoustic Corporate Travel Promo Christian Rock), Individual License, Stock Media provided by HumansWin, pond5.com

    For questions or comments email: [email protected]

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    On their journey to the land of promise, God instructed the Israelites to build a tabernacle. This tent structure, its furnishings and even the clothes worn by the priests serving in it were special and beautiful. When asked to give supplies and use their skills to build the tabernacle, the people were so willing and generous that Moses finally had to tell them to stop. When all the work was completed, the presence of God filled the tabernacle and was visible to the people as a cloud by day and a fire by night. When the cloud moved, Israel knew it was time to pack up the Tabernacle along with the rest of their belongings and move to the next stage in their journey.

    Bible verses used in this episode:

    Exodus 35:4 through 40:38

    Outline:

    Moses assembles the supplies and workers to build the tabernacle (Exodus 35:4-36:7)Constructing the individual parts of the tabernacle (Exodus 36:8-39:43)Moses sets everything in place in the tabernacle (Exodus 40:1-33)Godā€™s presence fills the tabernacle (Exodus 40:34-38)

    Tips for teaching children:

    Show illustrations of the tabernacle and the related parts (furnishings, priest clothing, etc.)Discuss generosity and then explore ways the children might donate or participate in a benevolent project. This might include donations to a food bank or clothing for those in need.

    Tips for teaching adults:

    This is a large section of Scripture. As a teacher, I would be prepared to summarise all of it instead of reading the entire text. You may want to print the outline above and give copies to the class members.Show this online Virtual Tour of the Tabernacle. Be sure to click on the ā€˜Aboutā€™ tab at upper right of that website for helpful information about using this free material in public.Discuss Exodus 40:34-35 and what it means in our lives for God to be present among his people. Encourage class discussion by asking questions such as:How is God present among his people today?How is this seen in our lives?

    Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:

    Bible Lesson: The Tabernacle

    Scriptures quoted from the International Childrenā€™s BibleĀ®, copyright Ā©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.

    Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.

    Music: Upbeat Positive Culture (Acoustic Corporate Travel Promo Christian Rock), Individual License, Stock Media provided by HumansWin, pond5.com

    For questions or comments email: [email protected]

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    Moses was on a mountain receiving the Ten Commandments from God. Down below, the people became anxious that Moses had been gone for so long. They begged Aaron to make a god for them to worship. He collected their gold jewellery and made a golden calf. When Moses came down from the mountain, he found the whole camp partying around the idol. Moses threw down the stone tablets and broke them. Moses ordered a serious punishment for this serious rejection of God. It was only after Moses begged God that God forgave His people.

    Bible verses used in this episode:

    Exodus 31:18-34:35

    Outline:

    The Israelites have Aaron build a golden calf (Exodus 32:1-6)Moses begs God to have mercy on the people (Exodus 32:7-14)Moses breaks the tablets and punishes the people (Exodus 32:9-35)Moses continues to intercede for the people (Exodus 32:30-34:28)Moses descends from Mount Sinai with new tablets from God (Exodus 34:29-35)

    Tips for teaching children:

    God is more important than anything or anyone. Talk about how treating something as more important than God is like worshipping an idol. For example, if we choose video games over God, then the video game is like an idol that we choose to worship.Younger children can make tablets out of Play-Doh and ā€œwriteā€ commands on them.One craft you should NOT ask the children to make is a golden calf. God told them not to make an idol, so asking the children to do that very thing in class would not be a good idea.

    Tips for teaching adults:

    This section is probably too long to read aloud in one class session. I suggest you assign readers to read sections as follows:Exodus 32:1-35Exodus 33:18-34:7Exodus 34:29-35There are several good points of discussion in this story. Choose one or more of the following for your class session:Discuss how our culture shapes our views of God and how we relate to him. Discuss Moses and Godā€™s relationship, especially Mosesā€™ willingness to intercede on behalf of Godā€™s sinful people. What does this say about God? About Moses? Compare and contrast Moses and Aaron in this story. When are you like Moses? When are you like Aaron?Challenge the students to do acts of loyalty to God this week (putting God and things of God first). They should be prepared to share their experience the next time you gather.

    Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:

    Bible Lesson: The Golden Calf



    Scriptures quoted from the International Childrenā€™s BibleĀ®, copyright Ā©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.

    Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.

    Music: Upbeat Positive Culture (Acoustic Corporate Travel Promo Christian Rock), Individual License, Stock Media provided by HumansWin, pond5.com

    For questions or comments email: [email protected]

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    The Lord knew that His people would need rules so that they could get along and they would know how to love and obey Him. When the Israelites came to Mount Sinai, Moses went up on the mountain, and the Lord laid out his covenant with his people, which included the Ten Commandments and laws for life and worship. As the people watched Moses ascend the mountain into Godā€™s presence, they heard thunder and trumpet sounds and saw lightning and smoke. The Lord wrote the commands on tablets of stone and gave them to Moses for the people.

    Bible verses used in this episode:

    Exodus 19:1-20:21 and Exodus 24:1-24

    Outline:

    God prepares the people to receive the Law (Exodus 19:1-25)The 10 commandments (Exodus 20:1-21)Formal agreement and stone tablets (Exodus 24:1-18)

    Tips for teaching children:

    Play the memory game: Write the commandments on ten individual index cards and then make a duplicate set. Lay the cards face down on a tabletop and mix them up. Children take turns turning over two cards in hopes of making a matching set.Read John 15:14 together and discuss how obedience relates to love.Make ā€œstone tabletsā€ from salt dough or clay.

    Tips for teaching adults:

    Use either ten pieces of paper or ten index cards and write one commandment on each. Turn the ten papers facedown on a flat surface and then mix them up. Have the students take turns turning a paper over. Once the commandment is revealed, the student should tell the others which commandment it is (first, second, third, etc.). They can refer to the Bible for the answer if needed. Once answered, turn the card back over and mix it in with the others. Students continue to turn cards over and answer until they are familiar with all of the commandments. Finish off by turning all of the cards over and putting the commandments in order.Challenge the class members to find ways to do the commandments during the week. As they go about their lives, they should look for specific ways that obeying God impacts their own life and the lives of others. Ask them to be prepared to share their experiences during your next gathering. For instance, ā€œYou must not have any gods except meā€. How have they practised this? Or ā€œyou must not steal.ā€ How can you practice the positive counterpart to this, ā€œYou must be generous?ā€

    Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:

    Bible Lesson: The Ten Commandments



    Scriptures quoted from the International Childrenā€™s BibleĀ®, copyright Ā©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.

    Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.

    Music: Upbeat Positive Culture (Acoustic Corporate Travel Promo Christian Rock), Individual License, Stock Media provided by HumansWin, pond5.com

    For questions or comments email: [email protected]

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    Within days of leaving bondage in Egypt and heading toward the land God had promised them, the people began to grumble and pine for the comforts of their old life. Despite their complaints, the Lord provided for their needs over and over. He caused bitter water to become sweet and even led them to an oasis to camp during the journey. He fed them by providing meat via large flocks of quail that flew into their camp each evening and a miraculous dew in the mornings, which turned into flakes of sweet bread (manna) for them to eat. A larger portion of these were provided one day each week so that the people could rest and observe the Sabbath the next day.

    Bible verses used in this episode:

    Exodus 15:22-16:36

    Outline:

    God provides the Israelites with water (Exodus 15:22-27)God provides the Israelites with food (Exodus 16:1-36)

    Tips for teaching children:

    Memorise Philippians 4:19Guide children in drawing pictures or listing things that God has provided them with.Pray and thank God for what He has provided us with.

    Tips for teaching adults:

    Using the outline above, assign two readers to read from the Bible.Challenge the students to consider the following: When faced with a crisis, what is our first response? If grumbling or complaining is our default response to a crisis, what practical steps can we take to develop a response of trust and thankfulness?This story introduces the wilderness experience of Israel, where God tests the people. To give more context and understanding to the theme of testing, watch the Bible Project video on Testing. Following the short video, reflect on it (especially focusing on the section related to our story today) and ask the class:What new things have you learned?In what ways might this affect your everyday life or attitudes?

    Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:

    Bible Lesson: God Provides Manna and Quail



    Scriptures quoted from the International Childrenā€™s BibleĀ®, copyright Ā©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.

    Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.

    Music: Upbeat Positive Culture (Acoustic Corporate Travel Promo Christian Rock), Individual License, Stock Media provided by HumansWin, pond5.com

    For questions or comments email: [email protected]

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    Godā€™s people were finally on their way to their own land, Canaan! A pillar of cloud led the way by day, and a pillar of fire guided them at night. As the Israelites arrived at the edge of the Red Sea, Pharaoh and his army caught up with them. Pharaoh had changed his mind yet again! The Lord protected His frightened people. The pillar of the cloud moved between the Israelites and the Egyptian army. Moses then stretched his hand across the sea, and the Lord caused a great wind to part the water and hold it back while the estimated two million Israelites passed through. When the Egyptians followed them, the Lord caused the water to flood and kill all of them.

    Bible verses used in this episode:

    Exodus 13:17-14:31

    Exodus 15:1-21

    Outline:

    God directs the Israelites to the edge of the sea (Exodus 13:17-14:4)Pharaohā€™s army follows, and the Israelites doubt (Exodus 14:5-14)The Israelites cross the parted sea. The Egyptians follow and drown. (Exodus 14:15-31)Celebration and Worship (Exodus 15:1-21)

    Tips for teaching children:

    Look for ā€œexitā€ signs and talk about how ā€œexodusā€ means ā€œexitā€.Write names and words from the story on cards. Children take turns drawing a card and then dancing in a way that makes the others guess what was written on the card (similar to charades)Ask the children to share something this story teaches us about God.Write a song or poem about Godā€™s strength.For a simple craft have the children decorate a cloud and a pillar of fire.

    Tips for teaching adults:

    Choose participants to read the following passages aloud for the class:Exodus 13:17 ā€“ 14:31 Exodus 15:1-18. If time is more restricted, choose either to read either Exodus 13:17-4:31 or Exodus 15:1-18Begin the class by singing one or two songs with the theme of victory, battle, and warfare. For instance, you could sing ā€œThe Battle Belongs to the Lordā€ or ā€œOnward Christian Soldiersā€.Hereā€™s a link to a map that helps one to see possible routes of the Exodus from Egypt. Download Map 8.For something different, use this YouTube link to a modern Hebrew composition of the song in Exodus 15. It is sung in modern Hebrew but has Hebrew and English subtitles and a video background. This event is told as a military victory with God as the victorious warrior-king who defeated the oppressive enemy. Ask the class to discuss how the death/resurrection of Jesus can be described and understood as the victory of God over an oppressive enemy.

    Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:

    Bible Lesson: Crossing the Red Sea



    Scriptures quoted from the International Childrenā€™s BibleĀ®, copyright Ā©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.

    Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.

    Music: Upbeat Positive Culture (Acoustic Corporate Travel Promo Christian Rock), Individual License, Stock Media provided by HumansWin, pond5.com

    For questions or comments email: [email protected]

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    During the final and terrible plague upon Egypt, the firstborn children and even the firstborn of the livestock died as death passed through Egypt. Only those who followed Godā€™s specific instruction to mark their doors were safe. As the angel of death passed over their homes, the Israelites ate the first Passover Meal. This last plague convinced Pharaoh to release the Jews they quickly left Egypt by night. Four hundred and thirty years of bondage were finally over.

    Bible verses used in this episode:

    Exodus chapters 11-12

    Outline:

    Moses and Aaron warn the Pharaoh a final time (Exodus 11:1-10)The first Passover meal (Exodus 12:1-28)Death of the firstborn (Exodus 12:29-30)Godā€™s people leave Egypt (Exodus 12:31-51)

    Tips for teaching children:

    Reenact the Passover meal (complete with food).Consider the seriousness of the story by listing who we know to be the firstborn in their family. This could even include pets. If the Passover was happening now, then we would certainly want to obey Godā€™s instructions.A fun idea is to eat French fried potatoes (or anything else in long strips). After enjoying the snack then show the children how to form a door frame with the fries. To re-enact the Passover instruction, add ketchup (or tomato sauce) to the ā€œtop of the door frame.ā€


    Tips for teaching adults:

    Plan and prepare to celebrate a Passover. This should be done in an intergenerational setting that involves all families in the class (or church) from the children to the grandparents. There are several written Passover cereomonys to choose from. Here are a couple of links on celebrating the Passover as followers of Jesus: https://messiahinthepassover.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Family-Messianic-Haggadah_Digital.pdf and https://www.celebratemessiah.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Celebrate-Messiah_Haggadah_2019_final-1.pdfRead Luke 22:7 ā€“ 30 and discuss how Jesusā€™ celebration of the Passover fulfils the Passover celebration


    Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:

    Bible Lesson: The Death of the First Born

    Scriptures quoted from the International Childrenā€™s BibleĀ®, copyright Ā©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.

    Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.

    Music: Upbeat Positive Culture (Acoustic Corporate Travel Promo Christian Rock), Individual License, Stock Media provided by HumansWin, pond5.com

    For questions or comments email: [email protected]

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    Moses and Aaron told Pharaoh that the Lord wanted His people to stop being slaves and to leave Egypt. Pharaoh became angry and treated the Israelites even more harshly. One after another, the Lord sent ten different plagues upon the Egyptian people. Sometimes, Pharaoh tried to bargain with Moses, but each time Moses caused a plague to stop, Pharaohā€™s heart would harden, and he would say the people could not go.

    Bible verses used in this episode:

    Exodus 4:20-23 and 4:27-10:29

    Outline:

    Godā€™s Plan to Save His People using Moses and Aaron (Exodus 4:20-31)First request to Pharaoh (Exodus 5:1-21)Second time to make the request of Pharaoh (Exodus 5:22-7:13)The Plagues upon Egypt (Exodus 7:14-10:29)

    (The final plague in the next episode)

    Tips for teaching children:

    Use reflection questions so that the children can engage the story:What is something you wonder about this story?Which of the 10 plagues would you have most hated experiencing?How do you think the Egyptian people felt about their Pharaoh?Discuss the fact that God heard the peopleā€™s cries and helped them. Encourage the children to share their struggles, and then everyone pray together.Give each child a chenille wire (pipe cleaner) and show them how to make a staff and then a snake.


    Tips for teaching adults:

    Set up the class to watch two brief videos that will give some background to the story of the Exodus, particularly the story of the 10 plagues. After watching these, discuss the connections you can make between these videos and the story of Pharaoh and the Exodus. Why would Pharaoh continue to harden his heart in the face of these increasingly destructive plagues?
    Here are the links: The goddess Maā€™at (3 min)Gods & Goddesses of Ancient Egypt (4 min)Have the class read the following Scriptures. After reading, discuss ways to keep our hearts from getting stubborn or hard? Finish this discussion with a prayer.Psalm 1Psalm 40:6-8Deuteronomy 10:12-22

    Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:

    Bible Lesson: Let My People Go!



    Scriptures quoted from the International Childrenā€™s BibleĀ®, copyright Ā©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.

    Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.

    Music: Upbeat Positive Culture (Acoustic Corporate Travel Promo Christian Rock), Individual License, Stock Media provided by HumansWin, pond5.com

    For questions or comments email: [email protected]

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    Even though Moses grew into adulthood in the Pharaohā€™s palace, he always knew he was a Hebrew. After killing an Egyptian who was beating a Hebrew slave, Moses fled to Midian for his own safety. During the next forty years, he married and helped care for his father-in-lawā€™s sheep. One day, the Lord spoke to him. The Lordā€™s voice came from a bush that was full of flames but did not burn out. The Lord told Moses that he had been chosen to lead his people out of Egypt, but Moses offered up many excuses. The Lord gave Moses everything he needed to be a leader and even appointed Mosesā€™ brother, Aaron, to help him.

    Bible verses used in this episode:

    Exodus 2:11-4:17

    Outline:

    Moses kills an Egyptian (Exodus 2:11-15)Moses Escapes to Midian (Exodus 2:16-22)God talks to Moses (Exodus 2:23-4:17)

    Tips for teaching children:

    Draw a vertical line down the centre of a piece of paper to create 2 columns. Write the title ā€œGod saidā€ at the top of one column and ā€œMoses saidā€ at the top of the other. Add to each column as you talk about the story. Younger children will need more guidance, but older children can find the answers straight from the Bible. Instead of paper, use a whiteboard or chalkboard if you prefer.Use the fun marble painting method to create a painting of the burning bush.Make a texture map. Draw a map showing Egypt, Midian and Mt. Sinai. Glue on sandpaper for the land and blue cellophane for the water.


    Tips for teaching adults:

    Draw a vertical line down the centre of a piece of paper or whiteboard to create two columns. On the left-hand column, write ā€œMosesā€™ excusesā€ and on the right, write ā€œGodā€™s response.ā€ Locate the five excuses from our text, Exodus 3:7 - 4:17 and discuss what Moses is really saying deep down in these excuses. How is God the answer to each one?Consider your own life. Have you ever offered any of these excuses to God? What would God say to you?Pray for one another that each would be obedient to God and not offer excuses.Measure the distance between Midian and Egypt. Follow the link below to find a number of useful maps. If using the maps in class, be sure to read the copyright information first. https://www.knowingthebible.net/bible-maps

    Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:

    Bible Lesson: The Lord Speaks from a Burning Bush



    Scriptures quoted from the International Childrenā€™s BibleĀ®, copyright Ā©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.

    Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.

    Music: Upbeat Positive Culture (Acoustic Corporate Travel Promo Christian Rock), Individual License, Stock Media provided by HumansWin, pond5.com

    For questions or comments email: [email protected]

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    Almost 400 years had passed since Josephā€™s family, the Israelites, moved to Egypt. They were now slaves, and the current Pharaoh worried they had become so numerous. He ordered the deaths of all baby boys born to them. One mother, Jochebed, placed her infant son, Moses, in a basket and hid him among the reeds along the Nile River. Pharaohā€™s daughter discovered him and raised him as her son.

    Bible verses used in this episode:

    Exodus 1:1-2:10

    Outline:

    The new Pharaoh fears the growing Hebrew population (Exodus 1:1-10)Pharaohā€™s plans for controlling the Hebrews (Exodus 1:11-22)Baby Moses is saved (Exodus 2:1-10)

    Tips for teaching children:

    Talk about families. What would it have been like trying to keep it secret that there was a baby in the house?Make a basket craft

    Tips for teaching adults:

    Choose three or four readers to read the story aloud (using the outline supplied in the show notes). Using a whiteboard or chalkboard, write the following character traits: abuser, courage, defiance, compassion, loyalty, and love. Ask the class to write about these traits in addition to the characters in the story who exhibited or demonstrated these traits. What can you learn from each of these women characters that you need or desire in your life?There are two families in this story: Mosesā€™ and Pharaohā€™s. Using information from the story, describe what home might have been like in Mosesā€™ family and then describe what home might have been like in Pharaohā€™s family. Pray that God will give you wisdom, guidance and a heart to be the godly family he wants you to be.


    Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:

    Bible Lesson: The Birth of Moses

    Scriptures quoted from the International Childrenā€™s BibleĀ®, copyright Ā©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.

    Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.

    Music: Upbeat Positive Culture (Acoustic Corporate Travel Promo Christian Rock), Individual License, Stock Media provided by HumansWin, pond5.com

    For questions or comments email: [email protected]

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    Merry Christmas from David and Mary!

    We will be back producing more episodes in January.

    Scripture reading today: Luke 2:8-20

    If you would like to review past podcast episodes relating to the Christmas stories, follow the links below:

    Prophecies Fulfilled in Jesus The Birth of Jesus Wise Men and a Star


    Music: Angels We Have Heard on High by moodmode. Copyright free, pixabay.com

    Scriptures quoted from the International Childrenā€™s BibleĀ®, copyright Ā©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.

    Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.

    Music: Upbeat Positive Culture (Acoustic Corporate Travel Promo Christian Rock), Individual License, Stock Media provided by HumansWin, pond5.com

    For questions or comments email: [email protected]

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    Egypt and the regions near it experienced a seven-year famine. When Josephā€™s brothers travelled to Egypt to obtain grain, Joseph did not reveal his identity until he saw that they were sorry for what they had done to him in the past. Joseph revealed his identity and forgave them for what they had done. After this, Joseph invited his father, Israel, to move the entire family to Egypt. Pharaoh welcomed Josephā€™s family and gave them the land of Goshen as a place to live.

    Bible verses used in this episode:

    Genesis 41:53-47:12

    Outline:

    The brotherā€™s first trip to Egypt to get grain (Genesis 41:53-42:38)The second trip to Egypt to get grain (Genesis chapters 43-44)Joseph reveals himself (Genesis chapter 45)Jacob and his descendants all move to Egypt (Genesis 46:1-42:12)

    Tips for teaching children:

    Discuss integrity and how it applies in a childā€™s world (school, friends, siblings).Older children can read Romans 12:17-19 and explain what it means.After telling the story, ask the children to choose a scene from the story and draw it.


    Tips for teaching adults:

    Ask the class to read the story during the week leading up to your gathering. Ask them to be prepared to discuss it. When gathered, ask the class for insights they gained in reading. How did the story relate to their own life? Focus the class on Genesis 45:5-8 and ask the class: How could Joseph see Godā€™s hand in all that has happened to him?Why were the brothers only seeing their own guilt and punishment?Follow up with a time of reflection and consideration of our own life experiences.How has God worked to bring good out of bad? Have we suffered through difficulties but later saw how God used that difficulty to go on to bring some blessing to others?

    Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:

    Bible Lesson: Joseph Saves His Family

    Scriptures quoted from the International Childrenā€™s BibleĀ®, copyright Ā©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.

    Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.

    Music: Upbeat Positive Culture (Acoustic Corporate Travel Promo Christian Rock), Individual License, Stock Media provided by HumansWin, pond5.com

    For questions or comments email: [email protected]

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    In Egypt, Joseph became a slave to an official named Potiphar and quickly rose to be the head servant of the household. After Potipharā€™s wife lied about him, Joseph was imprisoned. After interpreting the dreams of fellow prisoners, Joseph was invited to interpret the dreams of Pharoah. Pharaoh was so impressed that he placed Joseph in charge of all of Egypt to prepare for an upcoming famine. At every step, even away from his family, Joseph gave glory to God and acted with integrity.

    Bible verses used in this episode:

    Genesis chapters 39 through 41

    Outline:

    Joseph in Potiphar's house (Genesis 39:1-20)Joseph in prison (Genesis 39:21-40:23)Joseph interprets the kingā€™s dreams (Genesis 41:1-36)Joseph saves Egypt from famine (Genesis 41:37-57)

    Tips for teaching children:

    Define integrity as ā€œdoing right even when no one else can see what you are doing. Integrity is doing what is right because it is right.ā€Play a game, ā€œWhat would you do ifā€¦?ā€ Use this as a way to talk about what integrity means in various situations. For example:What would you do if your friends at a sleepover wanted to watch a movie your parents had said you were not allowed to watch?What would you do if you were in the school library and found $10 on the floor?Help the children learn about Egypt. There are resources online or in the public library.


    Tips for teaching adults:

    For the following activity, you will need to choose volunteers who can read and then volunteers who can draw.Have at least four different readers read the scripture aloud to the class. Use the outline above as a guide for dividing the sections (or use your own outline). As the story is being read aloud, the other volunteers will be drawing what they hear. This can be done on a large whiteboard or paper so that everyone can see their work as they do it.Afterwards, discuss the drawings and how they reflect the reading. The story of Joseph and Potipharā€™s wife is well known. Ask the class to discuss Joseph's integrity. Where did Joseph develop his character of integrity? What can we learn about integrity from Joseph? Why is it right to make the right choice even if we knew we would pay for it later?

    Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:

    Bible Lesson: Joseph in Egypt

    Scriptures quoted from the International Childrenā€™s BibleĀ®, copyright Ā©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.

    Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.

    Music: Upbeat Positive Culture (Acoustic Corporate Travel Promo Christian Rock), Individual License, Stock Media provided by HumansWin, pond5.com

    For questions or comments email: [email protected]

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    Jacob had twelve sons, but his favourite was Joseph. Josephā€™s brothers were jealous, so they conspired together and sold him as a slave to some traders heading for Egypt. They told their father that Joseph was dead.

    Bible verses used in this episode:

    Genesis 37:1-36Genesis 35:23-26

    Outline:

    Extreme family tensions and dreams (Genesis 37:1-11)Brothers take revenge (Genesis 37:12-32)Jacobā€™s grief (Genesis 37:33-35)Joseph ends up in Egypt (Genesis 37:36)

    Tips for teaching children:

    Guide children in writing the names of their siblings on small cards to form prayer reminders. Pray for the siblings in class and then send the cards home so the children will be reminded to continue praying.Draw an outline of a coat and decorate it with paints, stickers or glitter.Learn the names of the 12 sons of Jacob (from Genesis 35:23-26)Sing the ā€œSons of Jacob Songā€ song.

    Tips for teaching adults:

    A long-sleeved coat was a symbol of favouritism and status. Challenge class members to display objects or photos representing status and honour and discuss why these are considered important. There is much negative emotion in this story, leading to tragedy. Most of the students in your class can probably relate to the emotions in the story. Ask the class to think about and discuss the following questions: How is your family like or unlike this family? Have you felt like your sibling was favoured over you? How did this make you feel? How have you dealt with your feelings? Which character do you identify with? Why? Each of us might experience jealousy or resentment at times. How do you deal with jealousy and resentment in your life? How should you deal with these? Encourage the class to speak to one another about how they can deal with jealousy and resentment.Pray that we may learn to love and accept one another.

    Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:

    Bible Lesson: Joseph Sold By His Brothers

    Scriptures quoted from the International Childrenā€™s BibleĀ®, copyright Ā©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.

    Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.

    Music: Upbeat Positive Culture (Acoustic Corporate Travel Promo Christian Rock), Individual License, Stock Media provided by HumansWin, pond5.com

    For questions or comments email: [email protected]

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    Having deceived his brother and father, Jacob escaped to relatives in Haran. During the journey, Jacob dreamed of a stairway between heaven and earth on which angels were ascending and descending to the Lord at the top. God reassured Jacob of his blessing and promise. Undeserving as he was, this promise sustained Jacob over the next twenty years as he worked for his uncle Laban and built a family and wealth. Eventually, Jacob returned to his home and was surprised to find that his brother, Esau, welcomed him with open arms.

    Bible verses used in this episode:

    Genesis 28:10-33:20

    Outline:

    Jacob encounters God at Bethel (Genesis 28:10-22)A growing family and trickery at Haran (Genesis 29-31)Jacob returns to Canaan and makes peace with his brother, Esau (Genesis 32:1-33:11)Jacobā€™s family makes their home in the land of Canaan (Genesis 33:12-20)

    Tips for teaching children:

    Dress up as one of the characters and tell the story from that characterā€™s point of viewDesignate one area as ā€œCanaanā€ and the other as ā€œHaran.ā€ Move between the areas as you tell the story. (Start in Canaan, go to Haran, and come back home to Canaan.)Make a craft involving a ladder. Alternatively, make a ladder of pretzel sticks and little marshmallows.Draw a family tree with Jacob, his wives and children.

    Tips for teaching adults:

    This story is quite long (6 chapters), so it would be helpful to summarise it for your students instead of trying to go into too much detail or read the entire passage of Scripture. Use the outline above to help summarise, and then use the main points of the outline as "talking points." Draw questions from one or two sections of the story. For example, relate questions to Jacobā€™s dream of the ramp to heaven and his wrestling with God.Alternatively, spread the story over four teaching sessions. Refer to the outline above and cover one of the four points per session. To help students relate to the story, you might use one or more of these discussion starters:Which character do you identify with (or have at some point in your life)? Explain.How does Jacobā€™s character change throughout this story? God uses a scoundrel like Jacob to move his plans to bless the nations through him. What does this tell you about God?


    Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:

    Bible Lesson: Jacob Goes to Haran



    Scriptures quoted from the International Childrenā€™s BibleĀ®, copyright Ā©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.

    Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.

    Music: Upbeat Positive Culture (Acoustic Corporate Travel Promo Christian Rock), Individual License, Stock Media provided by HumansWin, pond5.com

    For questions or comments email: [email protected]

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    Esau and Jacob were the twin sons of Isaac and Rebekah. Esau should have inherited the responsibilities and blessings that come with being the oldest son, but he rashly sold his birthright to his younger brother for a pot of stew. Later, in an elaborate act of deception, Rebekah and her favourite son, Jacob, tricked the elderly and blind Isaac. He was fooled into promising Jacob the family blessing. Jacob escaped his angry brother by travelling to his motherā€™s people in the city of Haran.

    Bible verses used in this episode:

    Genesis 25:19-34Genesis 27:1-28 through 28:1-5

    Outline:

    Twin sons are born to Isaac and Rebekah (Genesis 25:19-26)Esau sells his birthright to Jacob (Genesis 25:27-34)Rebekah and Jacob trick Isaac (Genesis 27:1-40)Jacob escapes to Haran to find a wife (Genesis 27:41-28:5)

    Tips for teaching children:

    Before telling the story, place a blindfold on a child volunteer. Hand them various items that they can feel and identify. Afterwards, tell the children that there will be a blind person in todayā€™s story.Use paper, a whiteboard, sand, and a stick to draw the four main characters (Isaac, Rebekah, Jacob, Esau). These can be simple stick figures. Help the children describe each character and what we have learned about them in todayā€™s story. Help the children concoct a stew. You could begin with a simple broth made with an instant soup packet and boiling water. Supply various ingredients and spices so children can add what they wish.

    Tips for teaching adults:

    Since this is a long story, perhaps you can divide the class into two groups and ask them to read the story and discuss aspects of the story. Hand each group a list of questions they are to discuss among themselves. After discussing these questions, gather the groups again to compare their discussion and responses.Here are a few questions to hand to the two groups: In what ways are deception and trickery manifested in the story? What do you see as a primary theme in this story? Why? Describe the characters of this story: Esau, Jacob, Isaac and Rebekah. What are the positive and negative aspects of their characters? What is one lesson to be learned from the story?

    Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:

    Bible Lesson: Jacob, Esau, and the Birthright

    Scriptures quoted from the International Childrenā€™s BibleĀ®, copyright Ā©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.

    Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.

    Music: Upbeat Positive Culture (Acoustic Corporate Travel Promo Christian Rock), Individual License, Stock Media provided by HumansWin, pond5.com

    For questions or comments email: [email protected]

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    Abraham wanted his son to marry a woman who worshipped the ā€œtrue and living God,ā€ so he sent a servant back to the land of his relatives to find a wife for Isaac. Rebekah and her family believed in God. She left her home and her family and travelled back to Canaan to become Isaacā€™s wife. Isaac married her and loved her, and they followed God together.

    Bible verses used in this episode:

    Genesis 24:1-672 Corinthians 6:14

    Outline:

    Abraham sends his servant to find a wife for Isaac (Genesis 24:1-9)The servant encounters Rebekah and her family (Genesis 24:10-61)Isaac and Rebecca marry (Genesis 24:62-67)

    Tips for teaching children:

    Gather wedding pictures to show the children. This is more fun if it is of people they know.Invite a married couple to talk to the children about what it is like to be married to a Christian.Trace the servantā€™s journey on a map.

    Tips for teaching adults:

    You, the teacher, may best summarise this long chapter for the class. Or, if you have more time, divide up the chapter and choose several readers to read it aloud.Have the class name various marriage customs in our world today that they are familiar with, such as ā€œarranged marriagesā€ or ā€œchoosing your own partnerā€. Discuss the pros and cons of each of these customs.Ask the class to consider their own background and marriage. Then, we will open up a discussion about how the way we are brought up affects our marriage (good, bad, or just interesting).

    Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:

    Bible Lesson: A Wife for Isaac

    Scriptures quoted from the International Childrenā€™s BibleĀ®, copyright Ā©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.

    Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.

    Music: Upbeat Positive Culture (Acoustic Corporate Travel Promo Christian Rock), Individual License, Stock Media provided by HumansWin, pond5.com

    For questions or comments email: [email protected]

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    Abrahamā€™s faith was tested when the Lord asked him to sacrifice Isaac on an altar. Abraham had a strong faith in Godā€™s earlier promise that he would have many descendants, so he set out to prepare an altar and kill his only son. Abraham displayed this willingness to obey God unconditionally. At the last moment, an angel stopped Abraham from sacrificing his son.

    Are we willing to give up (sacrifice) anything if it will help us to serve God better?

    Bible verses used in this episode:

    Genesis 22:1-192 Chronicles 3:1Hebrews 11:17-19James 2:20-24

    Outline:

    Abraham prepares to sacrifice his son, Isaac (Genesis 22:1-10)Abraham passes the test (Genesis 22:11-14)The angel restates Godā€™s promise (Genesis 22:15-19)

    Tips for teaching children:

    Ask children to draw four squares on a piece of paper (or fold the paper into squares). In one square, they should write the word ā€œGOD.ā€ In each of the other four squares, they can draw pictures of people or things that are very important to them. Create ā€œ1st Placeā€ ribbons from paper or actual ribbon. Children then talk about the people and things that are important to them and then glue the first-place ribbon on the square containing the word ā€œGod.ā€Zentangle the word ā€œFAITHā€. Instructions here.

    Tips for teaching adults:

    Encourage your group to consider various aspects of the Scripture by presenting the following questions:Why does God test Abraham in this way? What does Abraham's willingness to sacrifice Isaac reveal about his faith and trust in God?How does God's intervention at the last moment change the narrative?What are two big takeaways from this story for you? Help the group contemplate sacrifice by asking them to:Use a piece of paper to write down a significant sacrifice they have made because of their faith and trust in God. Read these out to the class if they are comfortable to do so. Pray that each of us can grow into the faith of Abraham.

    Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:

    Bible Lesson: Abraham Prepares to Sacrifice Isaac

    Scriptures quoted from the International Childrenā€™s BibleĀ®, copyright Ā©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.

    Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.

    Music: Upbeat Positive Culture (Acoustic Corporate Travel Promo Christian Rock), Individual License, Stock Media provided by HumansWin, pond5.com

    For questions or comments email: [email protected]

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    Upon learning that the Lord was about to destroy the wicked cities of Sodom and Gomorrah, Abraham bargains with God to spare the city if he can find just ten righteous people. But only one man, Lot, was found righteous, and the cities were destroyed. As Lot and his family fled the city, Lotā€™s wife turned and looked back at the city despite being warned not to. She turned into a pillar of salt.

    Sin causes pain and sorrow. A definition of ā€œsinā€ for children could be: ā€œWords, thoughts or actions against God or what He wants. These can be words, thoughts or actions we DO. It can also be words, thoughts or actions that we should do but choose NOT TO DO.ā€

    Bible verses used in this episode:

    Genesis 18:16-19:292 Peter 2:6-81 Corinthians 15:33

    Outline:

    Abraham bargains with God (Genesis 16:33)The angels find evil in the city of Sodom (Genesis 19:1-9)Mercy for Lot and his family (Genesis 19:10-22)The destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 19:23-29)

    Tips for teaching children:

    Cut out two large heart shapes. One of white paper and the other black. Leave the white heart whole, but cut the black heart into 5 or 6 pieces like a puzzle. Show the white heart and talk about a pure heart that wants to follow and please God.Next, lay the white heart down and begin covering it with the black ā€œpuzzleā€ pieces. As you place each piece, talk about sin that makes our hearts ā€œdirtyā€. For example, for children, this might involve saying bad words, lying, or hitting someone. Talk about how God can make our hearts clean again when we tell Him we are sorry and ask for forgiveness. Remove the black pieces when you talk about forgiveness.The people in todayā€™s story (in Sodom) were not sorry for their sins. They wanted to have a sinful heart.

    Tips for teaching adults:
    The goal of discussion questions is not to receive one right answer. The teacher uses these questions to generate discussion. This opens up people's minds to see things in the text that would otherwise not be apparent at first glance.

    For instance, ask the participants to read Genesis 19:25. Note that Abraham seemed very bold, and then ask:

    What is Abraham asking God to do?What does he mean by asking, ā€œWonā€™t you do what is right?ā€ Does he think God might not do what is right? How does the text encourage us, the reader, to consider Godā€™s mercy and justice?


    You could also ask the students to consider the sin of Sodom.

    How does the text suggest that Sodomā€™s biggest sin was violence and injustice? How does Sodomā€™s inhospitality contrast with the Lotā€™s hospitality as well as Abrahamā€™s hospitality?

    Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:

    Bible Lesson: Sodom and Gomorrah

    Scriptures quoted from the International Childrenā€™s BibleĀ®, copyright Ā©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.

    Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.

    Music: Upbeat Positive Culture (Acoustic Corporate Travel Promo Christian Rock), Individual License, Stock Media provided by HumansWin, pond5.com

    For questions or comments email: [email protected]

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    God changed Abram and Saraiā€™s names to Abraham and Sarah. When they hosted three visitors, they were told that God would give them a child within the year. The promise was fulfilled when Sarah gave birth to a son, Isaac, one year later. Abraham was 100 years old, and Sarah was 90 when Isaac was born.

    Bible verses used in this episode:

    Genesis 18:1-15; 21:1-7

    Outline:

    Abraham and Sarah offer hospitality to three visitors (Genesis 18:1-8)The Lord promises a son (Genesis 18:9-16)Isaac is born one year later (Genesis 21:1-7)

    Tips for teaching children:

    Use sheets and blankets to construct a tentPrepare food as if for a guestSing God Answers Prayer and talk about how, sometimes, we have to wait for God to answer our prayers.


    Tips for teaching adults:

    Hereā€™s a fun conversation starter at the beginning of class: ā€œWhat makes you laugh?ā€ ā€œWhat do you think is funny?ā€Some questions to get a conversation going: How did Abraham and Sarah show hospitality to these three visitors? How do you show hospitality to visitors to your house?What do you do to make them feel like they are important? Verse 14 is the key text in this story. Ask the class if anyone wants to share difficult things in their life. Pray about the hard things that were shared in the class. When is it hardest for you to trust God?


    Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:

    Bible Lesson: Abramā€™s Three Visitors



    Scriptures quoted from the International Childrenā€™s BibleĀ®, copyright Ā©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.

    Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.

    Music: Upbeat Positive Culture (Acoustic Corporate Travel Promo Christian Rock), Individual License, Stock Media provided by HumansWin, pond5.com

    For questions or comments email: [email protected]