Lesson
Engaging Introduction
Good morning, everyone! Today, we will hear an exciting story from the Bible about a prince, a king, and some very important choices. Have you ever had to make a choice between doing what’s right and what’s wrong? Sometimes it can be hard to know what to do, but today’s story will help show us why it’s important to choose wisely. Our story is found in the Old Testament, in the book called 2 Samuel, chapter 15. It’s all about King David and his son, Absalom.
Absalom was a prince of Israel, and David was the king chosen by God. We might expect that being a prince would make Absalom happy, but he actually wanted something more. He wanted to be the king, even while his father David was still reigning. Can you imagine wanting something so much that you would do anything to get it, even if it meant hurting someone in your family?
As we dive into today’s lesson, think about what it means to be fair and to do the right thing, even if it’s not easy. We’re going to explore the choices Absalom made and think about what we might do in a similar situation. Plus, we’ll learn about the importance of trusting God and being patient. So, get ready for a story full of action, characters with dreams, and important lessons about life!
Main Teaching Points
1. Absalom’s Plan (Understanding What Happened):
Our story starts with Absalom, King David’s son. Absalom was handsome and popular with the people of Israel. But Absalom wasn’t happy just being a prince; he wanted to be king instead of his father. So, he came up with a plan. He decided to win the hearts of the people by being friendly and acting as a judge in Israel, telling people that if he were king, he would make sure everyone was treated fairly. Absalom would stand by the city gate, stopping people who came to see King David, and say, “If only I were made judge in the land, then everyone who has a complaint or case could come to me, and I would see that they receive justice.”
Absalom’s actions teach us a lesson about being patient and respecting the roles God gives each one of us. He tried to take something that didn’t belong to him by manipulating people’s perceptions, showing us the importance of honesty and integrity.
2. King David’s Response (Learning from the King):
When David heard about Absalom’s actions and that he intended to take over as king, David didn’t start a fight or argue with his son. Instead, he made a wise and peaceful decision to leave Jerusalem, the city where he ruled. This might seem like a strange choice, but David trusted God to take care of the situation. He knew that God was his true protector and that he didn’t have to rely only on his strength.
David’s response shows us what it means to trust God completely. Even when circumstances seem confusing or unfair, we can follow David’s example by being peaceful, believing that God has a bigger plan for our lives.
3. The Consequences of Choices (Illustrating Right and Wrong):
Absalom’s plan to become king carried consequences. By choosing to mislead the people and go against his father, Absalom faced a future filled with trouble. David, on the other hand, through his trust and patience, showed wisdom. God knows what is in our hearts and values truth and patience over trickery and impatience.
Let’s remember this whenever we face choices ourselves. Maybe you’ve thought about cutting in line at school or taking something without asking because it seems easier or faster, but this story reminds us that those choices often lead to bigger problems later. Making good and right choices is always better in the long run.
Personal Application for Elementary Students
Now that we’ve heard about Absalom and David, let’s talk about what this story means for you. We all have choices to make every day—some big, some small. Perhaps it’s how we share with our siblings or how we talk to our friends at school. What we learn from Absalom is that trying to get what we want by being sneaky or unfair isn’t a good path. It can break trust and relationships.
Think about your own life. Has there ever been a time when you wanted something so badly that you thought about not being completely honest? Maybe you wanted to win a game, so you thought about bending the rules. Remember, being honest and fair shows others that they can trust you. Trust is something very valuable, and it’s important to protect it.
Learning from David, we also see how trusting in God, and being patient is so important. Sometimes, when things aren’t going our way, we might feel sad or frustrated. But, like King David, if we trust that God has a great plan for us, and we remain patient, we can see that good things come to those who wait and who do what’s right.
Let’s aim to be like David and listen to God first, trusting that His way is always the best way. When you face a tough choice, remember to pause, pray, and think about what would be the right thing to do. Trust in God’s plan at all times!
Interactive Discussion Questions
Now let’s discuss a few questions together. I’m excited to hear your thoughts!
1. Why do you think Absalom acted the way he did?
Think about being Absalom. He had everything a prince could want, but he still wanted to be king. Ask the students why they think someone in his position might act this way. Guide them to understand that sometimes people want more than what they have, and it can cause them to make wrong choices. Encourage them to think about being content with what they have and being thankful.
2. How did King David show trust in God?
Ask students to recall what David did when he found out about Absalom’s plan. Guide them through the scene, emphasizing David’s choice to leave Jerusalem rather than fight, highlighting his belief that God would take care of him. Talk about how we can show trust in God facing uncertain situations, encouraging students to share personal examples.
3. What can we learn from Absalom and David about making choices?
Sum up what the story reveals about choices. Ask students what they would do if they were in Absalom’s or David’s shoes. Lead them to conclude that honesty and trust in God lead to a better path. Discuss how, in their lives, they can make choices that honor God and show love and respect for others.
This discussion is a great way for us to connect the Bible’s teachings with our everyday lives. Remember that you are capable of making great and kind choices, and God’s way is always with love and truth. Thank you so much for listening and sharing today!
Games
Game 1: “Absalom’s Escape”
Objective:
Lead your team through obstacles to escape, just like Absalom fled Jerusalem.
Players:
3-6 players
Materials Needed:
– Printable obstacle course diagrams
– Construction paper
– Tape
– Stopwatch or timer
Setup:
1. Create a simple obstacle course in a safe area using construction paper strips as obstacles (lines on the floor).
2. Tape diagrams on the floor to indicate where players should step.
Instructions:
1. Players line up at the starting point.
2. One player serves as the timekeeper.
3. Players take turns navigating the course, stepping only on designated spots.
4. Time each player as they race through the course.
5. The player who completes the course in the shortest time wins.
Reinforcement:
This game encourages strategizing and nimbleness, similar to Absalom’s swift movements while escaping. Discuss how he could plan his next move and the importance of making wise decisions under pressure.
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Game 2: “King David’s Court”
Objective:
Reconstruct the story sequence from 2 Samuel 15 involving King David and Absalom’s conspiracy.
Players:
4-8 players
Materials Needed:
– Index cards
– Pens
– Pre-written snippets summarizing events from 2 Samuel 15
Setup:
1. Divide players into two teams.
2. Write key story events on separate index cards and shuffle them per team.
3. Place the card stacks in front of each team.
Instructions:
1. Teams race to arrange the index cards in correct story order.
2. Each correct sequence earns one point.
3. First team to successfully sequence the story wins additional points.
Reinforcement:
This activity helps players understand the narrative and implications of Absalom’s actions, King David’s leadership, and the unfolding events that led to Absalom’s escape.
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Game 3: “Messenger’s Relay”
Objective:
Deliver messages accurately, as David’s men did during Absalom’s conspiracy.
Players:
6-10 players
Materials Needed:
– Slips of paper (messages)
– Small bags or envelopes
Setup:
1. Write short messages related to 2 Samuel 15 on paper slips.
2. Divide players into two even teams.
3. Create a relay path using cones or markers.
Instructions:
1. Players form a line for each team.
2. The first player of each team receives an envelope with a message.
3. At the signal, the player races down the path, hands off the envelope to the next team member.
4. The last player receives the message and reads it aloud.
5. Ensure messages are conveyed correctly; team with the most accurate deliveries wins.
Reinforcement:
This game emphasizes the importance of communication and the role of messengers in 2 Samuel 15. Discuss how accurate message delivery affected the outcome of David’s strategy during Absalom’s conspiracy.
Takehome
Take-Home Assignment: Reflecting on 2 Samuel 15
Objective:
Help students understand the key themes and lessons from 2 Samuel 15, with activities and questions that can be done together with family.
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Introduction to 2 Samuel 15:
This chapter talks about Absalom, one of King David’s sons, and how he tries to take the kingdom away from his father. Absalom’s actions show us important lessons about honesty, loyalty, and the consequences of seeking power for the wrong reasons.
Activities and Questions:
1. Read and Reflect:
– Read 2 Samuel 15 with a family member. Discuss what happens in the story and why Absalom decided to go against his father, King David.
2. Story Retelling:
– Pretend to be a news reporter summarizing the events of 2 Samuel 15. Share your news report with your family. This helps understand the main events and characters.
3. Character Analysis:
– Choose a character from the chapter (Absalom, King David, or another) and describe them using three adjectives. Explain your choice with examples from the chapter.
4. Theme Discussion:
– Talk with your family about the theme of loyalty. Why is loyalty important? How did Absalom’s actions affect his relationship with family and friends?
5. Role Play:
– With family members, role-play a scene where Absalom is speaking with the people of Israel, as described in the chapter. Discuss how his words might affect others’ thoughts and actions.
6. Art Activity:
– Draw a picture of the scene that stood out the most to you in this chapter. Share why you chose that scene with your family.
7. Family Discussion:
– Discuss the consequences Absalom faced for his actions. Consider what could have happened if he chose differently. What lessons can we learn about making choices?
8. Personal Reflection:
– Write a short paragraph about a time when you had to choose between right and wrong. What did you choose, and what did you learn from the experience?
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Conclusion:
2 Samuel 15 teaches us about the importance of making wise choices and the value of being honest and loyal. Share your thoughts and activities with your family to better understand these lessons.
Reminder:
Complete this assignment by reflecting on the lessons and connecting them to your own experiences. Enjoy learning and discussing together!
Visuals
Slide 1: Title Slide
Title: Understanding 2 Samuel 15
Visual Suggestion: A decorative title card with an illustration of a crown, a harp, and a scroll to symbolize kingship, music, and biblical stories.
Slide 2: Map Illustration
Title: Absalom’s Scheme
Visual Suggestion: A simple map showing key locations: Hebron and Jerusalem.
Caption: Map showing Absalom’s journey from Hebron to Jerusalem.
Description: Highlight Hebron as where Absalom starts his conspiracy and Jerusalem as the kingdom’s capital.
Slide 3: Character Introduction
Title: Key Figures
Visual Suggestion: Character illustrations of Absalom, King David, and Ahithophel.
Caption: Meet Absalom – King David’s ambitious son, David – the reigning king, and Ahithophel – David’s counselor.
Description: Use friendly and colorful cartoon drawings to introduce elementary students to the main characters.
Slide 4: Absalom at the City Gates
Title: Absalom’s Deception
Visual Suggestion: Absalom at the city gate shaking hands with people.
Caption: Absalom gained favor by speaking kindly to everyone who came to the city gate.
Description: Show Absalom in a welcoming pose, interacting with townspeople.
Slide 5: Secret Oath in Hebron
Title: The Secret Plan
Visual Suggestion: Absalom surrounded by his supporters in Hebron.
Caption: Absalom’s followers gather in Hebron as he plans to overthrow King David.
Description: Show a small group huddled together in a secretive manner.
Slide 6: David’s Departure
Title: David Leaves Jerusalem
Visual Suggestion: King David leaving Jerusalem with loyal followers.
Caption: King David leaves Jerusalem to escape Absalom’s rebellion.
Description: Illustrate David on a hilly road, looking back at Jerusalem, with a few people following him.
Slide 7: Ahithophel’s Betrayal
Title: The Wise Counselor
Visual Suggestion: Ahithophel giving advice, looking conflicted.
Caption: Ahithophel betrays David and supports Absalom.
Description: Show Ahithophel pondering, with a split thought cloud showing both David and Absalom.
Slide 8: Wrap-Up & Lessons
Title: Lessons from 2 Samuel 15
Visual Suggestion: Balanced scales depicting justice and loyalty.
Caption: What can we learn about loyalty and leadership from this story?
Description: Use symbols like a balanced scale and heart to represent justice and loyalty.
Slide 9: Discussion Questions
Visual Suggestion: A simple speech bubble or question mark icon.
Caption: What would you do if you were in King David’s shoes? How would you feel if a friend betrayed you?
Description: Encourage students to engage in a discussion about the concepts of loyalty and forgiveness.
Memory Verse
Key Verse: 2 Samuel 15:13 (NIV)
“A messenger came and told David, ‘The hearts of the people of Israel are with Absalom.’”
Creative Ways to Memorize:
1. Rhyme:
Create a simple rhyme to help remember the verse:
“A messenger came to report,
To David, an important sort,
The hearts of Israel have gone,
With Absalom, they’ve moved on.”
2. Song:
Set the verse to the tune of “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star” to make it easy and catchy for children to remember.
3. Motions:
Assign hand motions for key words:
– “Messenger”: Make talking hand puppet motion.
– “Came”: Pretend to walk in place.
– “Told David”: Point as if telling someone something.
– “Hearts”: Hand over heart.
– “People of Israel”: Spread arms wide to indicate many people.
– “With Absalom”: Point forward.
4. Short Challenge:
Break the verse down into segments and repeat each one three times. For example:
– “A messenger came and told David” (Three times)
– “The hearts of the people of Israel” (Three times)
– “Are with Absalom” (Three times)
Celebrate the completion with a fun activity like a short dance.
Group Activity
Activity 1: Role Play – Absalom’s Conspiracy
Instructions:
Divide students into small groups of 4-5. Assign each group the task of preparing a short role play based on 2 Samuel 15, focusing on Absalom’s actions and how he gains support.
Roles:
– Absalom
– A citizen of Israel
– David
– A soldier
– Narrator (optional)
Discussion Prompts:
– Why do you think Absalom wanted to be king?
– How did Absalom gain the people’s trust and support?
– How might David have felt when he heard about Absalom’s conspiracy?
Participation:
Each student will take on a role and contribute to the group’s performance by acting out their part. After the performance, students will discuss the prompts and share their thoughts.
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Activity 2: Creative Art – Absalom’s Journey
Instructions:
In pairs or small groups, have students create a visual representation, like a comic strip or storyboard, of key events from 2 Samuel 15.
Steps:
– Choose 4-5 key scenes from the chapter (e.g., Absalom standing at the gate, David leaving Jerusalem).
– Draw or craft these scenes using provided art supplies.
– Each group can add speech or thought bubbles to express what the characters might be thinking or saying.
Discussion Prompts:
– What do these scenes tell us about Absalom’s character and intentions?
– How do you think the people of Jerusalem felt during these events?
Participation:
Each student will contribute by drawing a scene or writing dialogue/dialogue bubbles. Groups present their visual story to the class and explain their choices.
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Activity 3: Group Discussion – Choices and Consequences
Instructions:
Form small discussion circles of 3-4 students and assign a group leader to guide the conversation using the discussion prompts.
Discussion Prompts:
– What choice did Absalom make, and what were the consequences?
– How did Absalom’s actions affect his family and his kingdom?
– Can you think of a time when someone made a choice that affected others? How did that turn out?
Participation:
Each student will share their thoughts on one of the prompts, ensuring everyone has a chance to speak. The group leader will ensure the discussion stays on track and summarize the group’s thoughts to share with the class.
Download PDF for Group Activity
Journaling
Guided Journaling Prompts: 2 Samuel 15
Understanding the Story
1. Who is Absalom and what is he doing in this chapter?
– Describe Absalom’s actions. What does he want to achieve?
2. How does King David react to Absalom’s actions?
– What choices does David make, and how does he feel about them?
Reflection
3. Think about a time when you wanted something very much.
– What did you do to achieve it? Were your actions fair and honest like God teaches us to be?
4. Why is it important to listen to people who care about you, like King David listened to his friends?
– Can you remember a time when someone gave you good advice? How did it help?
Personal Application
5. What qualities do you think are important in a good leader?
– How can you show these qualities at school or at home?
6. Absalom tried to become king in the wrong way. What is one good thing you can do this week to practice honesty and fairness?
– Write down your goal and one step you will take to achieve it.
Prayer
7. Write a prayer asking God to help you make good choices and to guide you in being fair and honest.
– Think about what you learned from Absalom and David’s story and include it in your prayer.
Open-Ended Questions
8. How would you feel if you were in David’s position?
– Imagine how it would be to have someone close to you trying to take your place. What would you do?
9. Imagine you could talk to Absalom. What advice would you give him about doing the right thing?
– Write down what you would say to help him see a better path.
Use your journal to reflect on these prompts and remember that God is always there to help us make good choices.
Quiz
2 Samuel 15 Quiz
Multiple Choice
1. Who is the son of King David that tries to take over the kingdom in 2 Samuel 15?
a) Solomon
b) Absalom
c) Jonathan
2. What did Absalom do to gain the people’s favor?
a) Built a new palace
b) Gave gifts to everyone
c) Promised to listen to their complaints and give them justice
3. Where did Absalom go to start his rebellion against his father, King David?
a) Hebron
b) Jerusalem
c) Bethlehem
True/False
4. Absalom successfully won the hearts of the people of Israel. (True/False)
5. King David stayed in Jerusalem when he heard about Absalom’s plan. (True/False)
Short Answer
6. Who remained loyal to King David and fled with him during Absalom’s rebellion?
7. What role did Ahithophel play in Absalom’s plan to take over the kingdom?
Answer Key
Multiple Choice
1. b) Absalom
2. c) Promised to listen to their complaints and give them justice
3. a) Hebron
True/False
4. True
5. False
Short Answer
6. Some of King David’s loyal followers and servants, including Ittai the Gittite, remained loyal and fled with him.
7. Ahithophel was Absalom’s advisor who supported his plan to take over the kingdom.
Teacher Tips
Teacher Notes for Teaching ‘2 Samuel 15’ to Elementary Students
Overview:
‘2 Samuel 15’ covers the story of Absalom’s conspiracy against his father, King David. This chapter can be simplified to focus on themes like loyalty, rebellion, and forgiveness.
Pacing Suggestion:
– Introduction (5 min): Begin with a brief review of key characters: King David and Absalom.
– Reading (10 min): Read selected, simplified portions of 2 Samuel 15. Focus on the main events: Absalom’s conspiracy and David’s reaction.
– Discussion (10 min): Discuss the main themes and their application to students’ lives.
– Activity (10 min): Engage students in a related activity to reinforce the day’s lesson.
– Closure (5 min): Recap and encourage questions.
Explaining Difficult Concepts:
– Conspiracy: Describe it as a secret plan by a person to do something wrong, like Absalom wanting to take over David’s kingdom.
– Rebellion: Explain it as going against a loved one’s rules or authority, similar to when someone doesn’t listen to a teacher or parent.
– Loyalty: Discuss loyalty as being faithful and supportive to someone, like a good friend who stands by you.
Managing Student Engagement:
– Interactive Storytelling: Use engaging voice tones and pauses to make the story interesting. Encourage students to predict what might happen next.
– Relate to Personal Experience: Ask students about a time they disagreed with someone at home or school and what they did.
– Role Play: Have students act out parts of the story to help them understand the characters’ emotions and actions.
Activity Suggestions:
– Drawing/Coloring: Provide coloring pages illustrating the story’s key scenes.
– Simple Drama: Organize a short skit where students can play roles like David, Absalom, and loyal followers.
– Discussion Circle: Encourage students to express how they would feel if they were in Absalom’s or David’s position.
Additional Tips:
– Be sensitive to different family dynamics that could resemble parts of the story.
– Encourage respectful listening and sharing in discussions.
– Continually connect themes to positive, real-world behaviors that support class harmony.
By focusing on these themes and engaging students through storytelling, role-playing, and discussion, you can effectively teach ‘2 Samuel 15’ in a way that resonates with their understanding and experiences.
Crafts
Craft: King David’s Journey Diorama
Materials List:
– Shoe box or small cardboard box
– Construction paper (green, blue, brown)
– Scissors
– Glue stick
– Markers or crayons
– Popsicle sticks
– Small stones or pebbles
– Twigs or small sticks
– Cotton balls
– Tape
– Printable character cutouts (David, Absalom, followers, etc.)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Box:
– Use the shoe box or cardboard box as the base for your diorama. Make sure to remove one of the longer sides of the box to create an open view.
2. Create the Background:
– Use blue construction paper to line the inside of the box (sky) and glue it on.
– Cut green construction paper for the bottom (ground) and glue it onto the base.
3. Add River and Path:
– Cut a strip of blue construction paper for the river and glue it winding across the ground.
– Use brown construction paper to create a path leading through the diorama.
4. Make the Characters:
– Print out simple character drawings representing King David, Absalom, and a few followers. You can draw your own if preferred.
– Color the characters, cut them out, and tape each to a popsicle stick to stand them up.
5. Decorate the Scene:
– Place small stones or pebbles along the path to resemble rough terrain.
– Add twigs to simulate trees along the river and path.
– Tear and fluff cotton balls to create clouds, and stick them to the sky area with glue.
6. Set the Scene:
– Place David on the path, moving towards the river, representing his flight from Absalom.
– Position followers behind David to show his support.
– Place Absalom’s cutout on the opposite side, symbolizing his conflicting course.
Reinforcement of Lesson:
This craft helps elementary students visualize and engage with the story of 2 Samuel 15, where David flees Jerusalem due to Absalom’s conspiracy. The diorama brings to life the journey and the emotions involved, such as loyalty, betrayal, and trust in God. By assembling the scene, students can discuss the challenges David faced and ponder on themes of leadership, family conflict, and seeking refuge in faith, reinforcing the story’s moral and spiritual lessons.
Music
Song Recommendation: “God is our King”
Paraphrased Lyrics:
1. “God is our King, He’s always in control,
Through highs and lows, He leads our soul.
When life gets tough, trust in His way,
God is with us every day.”
2. “David was a king with a loving heart,
Followed God’s plan, set apart.
Sometimes we might feel afraid,
But trust in Him, you’ll never sway.”
Suggested Actions:
– Verse 1:
– “King” – pretend to place a crown on your head.
– “Control” – mimic steering a wheel.
– “Leads” – do marching steps.
– “Trust” – place hands over heart and nod.
– Verse 2:
– “Heart” – draw a heart shape in the air.
– “Set apart” – stand tall with hands reaching up.
– “Afraid” – show a scared expression.
– “Trust” – return to placing hands over heart and nodding confidently.
Connection to the Lesson:
This song highlights God’s sovereignty and the theme of trust, reflecting David’s experiences in 2 Samuel 15. It helps children understand that even when faced with challenges, God remains in control, just as He was during the upheaval in David’s life. This reinforces the message that God’s plan is always the best path.
Worship Activity: “Trust Walk”
Activity Outline:
– Pair students. One is blindfolded, and the other is the guide.
– Set up an obstacle course in the classroom using chairs, cones, or other safe obstacles.
– The guide helps the blindfolded student navigate the course by giving verbal directions only.
Connection to the Lesson:
This activity mirrors the trust and guidance theme from 2 Samuel 15. Just as David had to trust in God during uncertain times, the blindfolded student must rely on their guide. Discuss with the students how it felt to trust someone else and how we can place our trust in God similarly.
Scripture Background
Background Notes for 2 Samuel 15
Historical Context:
– Time Period: The events in 2 Samuel are set during the reign of King David, around 1000 BC. This period is part of the united kingdom of Israel under Saul, David, and Solomon.
– Location: The story takes place in ancient Israel, primarily in Jerusalem and its surroundings.
Cultural Insights:
– Monarchy and Kingship: During this time, Israel was a monarchy. The king was not only a political leader but also played a significant role in the spiritual life of the nation.
– Family Dynamics: Families were usually large and complex, often involving multiple children from different marriages. Conflicts within royal families could lead to serious consequences, as seen with David’s sons.
– Travel and Communication: News and messages were usually delivered in person, often by foot or horse. This influenced how quickly people could act on new information.
Theological Insights:
– God’s Sovereignty: The story shows the unfolding plan of God even in the midst of rebellion and conflict. David’s kingship was ordained by God, and His purposes would ultimately prevail despite human actions.
– Human Choices and Consequences: This chapter highlights the impact of human emotions like jealousy and ambition. Absalom’s desire for power leads to significant conflict within Israel.
– Repentance and Forgiveness: David’s response to the events shows themes of humility and trust in God, reminding us of the importance of seeking God’s guidance through difficult times.
Key Themes for Teaching:
– Leadership and Authority: Discuss with students the importance of trusting and respecting leaders appointed by God, and the responsibilities leaders have to care for their people.
– Family and Relationships: Use the story to explore themes of loyalty, betrayal, and forgiveness within families, encouraging students to think about how they can resolve conflicts positively.
– Faith in God: Highlight David’s trust in God during hard times. Encourage students to think about how they can rely on God when facing challenges in their lives.
These insights provide a foundation for talking about the complex relationships and events in 2 Samuel 15, making the story accessible and relatable to young learners.
Download PDF for Scripture Background
