Explore the 2 Samuel 17 curriculum designed for kids, focusing on wise decisions and trusting God's plan.
Lesson
Engaging Introduction
Hello kids! Today, we’re going to explore an exciting adventure from a book in the Bible called “2 Samuel.” This story is all about wise decisions and trusting in God’s plan. Before we dive into it, let’s picture something together. Imagine you’re on a soccer team, and it’s the championship game. The coach calls a timeout and gives two different plans to win. Which plan do you choose? Do you follow the plan from the coach who’s been with you all season or the new one from an unknown coach? That’s pretty challenging, right?
Now, this is sort of like what happened in our story today. There was a king named David, and at this time, something tricky was happening. His own son, Absalom, wanted to take over as king. Absalom had to decide whose advice he would follow to be successful. This story shows us that making choices can be hard, especially when different people say different things.
As we learn about Absalom and the advisors who try to help him, we will understand why it’s important to listen to God and the people we trust. We’ll also learn how God works through our choices, even when things seem confusing.
Now that we’ve set the stage, let’s jump into the story and see what happens with Absalom and his advisors. Remember, keep thinking about what it means to make wise choices every day, just like in our soccer game example!
Main Teaching Points
1. The Conflict Between Absalom and David
First, let’s meet our characters. King David loves God and tries to do what is right. But his son, Absalom, is upset with him and wants to become king. Absalom is popular with many people and has gained a lot of supporters. Imagine if someone in your family wanted to take your place as the captain of your team. That could create some big problems, right? In this storyline, Absalom is planning his strategy to take over his father’s kingdom.
2. The Role of Hushai and Ahithophel
Now, to make his strategy work, Absalom needs advice. Imagine you have two friends who are both offering help. One is very smart and has given good advice before. His name is Ahithophel. But there’s another friend who knows you really well – that’s Hushai. He’s loyal to David but pretends to support Absalom to help David.
Ahithophel gives a plan that sounds like a good idea because it’s direct and could quickly defeat David. Absalom listens but doesn’t decide right away. Then there’s Hushai, who gives a different idea, suggesting that Absalom gather more Israelite forces to make his position stronger. Even though Ahithophel’s advice is usually good, God has a bigger plan and works through Hushai.
3. God’s Sovereignty in Decision Making
Despite the tension between the two plans, God’s hand is at work. Even when people make plans, God’s plans are greater and always have a purpose. In this story, God knows what is best for David and allows Hushai’s advice to sound better to Absalom. It’s like deciding whether to use the new sneakers or the trusty old pair for the big game. God wanted to protect David, so He orchestrated events for Hushai’s advice to be chosen.
4. Ahithophel’s Reaction and Its Lessons
Sadly, when Ahithophel realizes his advice isn’t taken, he feels so rejected that he makes a very sad decision to end his life. This teaches us that even adults can sometimes feel hurt or rejected when things don’t go their way. It reminds us to have faith and find hope in God’s plan, especially when we feel down. It’s okay to feel frustrated, but sharing with others and trusting God can help us through tough times.
5. The Outcome and God’s Faithfulness
Through these decisions, God protects David. It reminds us that God watches over His children, even when they are in danger. Like a shepherd guards the sheep, God was looking out for David, even when it seemed everything was against him. Absalom chose the wrong plan, but God was still working things out for good. Just like in our soccer game, sometimes following the right plan means listening to those who truly care for us.
Personal Application for Elementary Students
Now, let’s bring this story back into our own lives. Just like Absalom had to make a choice about whose advice to follow, we also face choices every day. Whether it’s deciding who to play with at recess or picking what homework to start first, making choices can be hard.
When we make choices, it’s always wise to listen to those we trust, like our parents, teachers, or friends who make good decisions. They may not always tell us what we want to hear, but they care about us and want the best for us. It’s like choosing your trusty old sneakers for stability versus the new ones that might not be comfortable yet.
Let’s also remember that God is always there to help us, no matter what decisions we face. Just as He was with David, guiding him through danger, God promises to be with us and guide us when we ask for His help. This is why prayer is such a powerful thing! When you talk to God, you’re asking the best advisor for guidance.
Lastly, when things don’t go our way or when people don’t listen to us, remember not to get too down. Sometimes it means God has a better plan for us. He loves us and knows what’s best, even when we don’t understand. So next time you face a big decision, stop and think — what would God want me to do?
Interactive Discussion Questions with Explanation and Teaching Guidance
Now I’d love to hear your thoughts! Let’s talk about some questions that will help us learn even more from this story.
1. Why do you think Absalom chose Hushai’s advice over Ahithophel’s?
Understanding why Absalom made his choice can help us think about who we listen to. Discuss how Hushai was more persuasive because God made his plan seem appealing. Encourage kids to express why certain friends or family give good advice and see if they can connect that to making wise choices themselves.
2. Have you ever had to choose between two different pieces of advice? How did you decide what to do?
Let them share personal experiences. Having kids talk about their own decisions helps make the story real. Encourage them to consider if they looked for trusted guidance or prayed about it. Draw parallels between their experience and how praying for guidance can help in making tough decisions.
3. What would you do if a friend didn’t take your advice or listen to you?
It’s important to react positively, even when we’re not chosen. Discuss how Ahithophel made the wrong choice by giving up. Instead, talk about other positive ways to handle rejection. Let them share ideas on how to deal with such situations, perhaps by understanding that each one of us is valuable whether our advice is taken or not.
Saying goodbye to misunderstandings doesn’t mean we can’t try again. Our discussions remind us to trust in the process of doing our best and leaving the rest to God. Our story of Absalom, David, and guidance from trusted friends helps us grow and seek to do better each day. Remember, God is always rooting for you, just like He was with David.
Games
Game 1: Escape Plan Relay
– Number of Players: 10-20
– Materials Needed: Printed copies of 2 Samuel 17, timer or stopwatch, cones or markers
– Setup:
1. Divide the players into two teams.
2. Set up a relay race track using cones, with one end being “Jerusalem” and the other “Mahanaim.”
3. Place printed copies of 2 Samuel 17 at the starting line.
– Instructions:
1. Each team lines up behind their starting line.
2. When the game starts, the first player of each team reads the first few verses of 2 Samuel 17.
3. After reading aloud, they must run to “Mahanaim,” pass the baton, and return.
4. The next player in line continues reading the next segment of the passage.
5. The game continues until the entire chapter is read.
6. The first team to finish reading and relaying wins.
– Reinforcement: This game helps students remember the story of Ahithophel’s advice and Absalom’s pursuit of David through active involvement, recalling sequence and strategizing.
Game 2: Hidden Messengers
– Number of Players: 5-10
– Materials Needed: Simple costumes for messengers, cards with secret messages (verses), a designated “secret location” area
– Setup:
1. Select one player to be “David” and one to be “Absalom.”
2. Other players are “messengers.”
3. Create a designated area as the “safe location” where messages should be delivered.
– Instructions:
1. Messengers have to deliver messages (cards with verses) from one side of the room to the safe location without being caught by “Absalom.”
2. “Absalom” tries to tag the messengers before they reach the safe location.
3. If tagged, the messenger returns to the start line and tries again.
4. The game concludes when all messages have been safely delivered.
– Reinforcement: By depicting the risks Jonathan and Ahimaaz faced delivering messages to David, students learn the importance of loyalty, bravery, and strategy in the biblical narrative.
Game 3: Advice or Not?
– Number of Players: 5-10
– Materials Needed: Flashcards with suggestions (both good and bad advice based on the chapter), a board with Yes/No columns
– Setup:
1. Prepare flashcards with different scenarios from the passage, including Ahithophel’s and Hushai’s advice.
2. Place the board with Yes/No columns at a suitable location.
– Instructions:
1. One at a time, players pick a card and read it aloud.
2. After reading, they place it under the Yes or No column, deciding if it was good or bad advice according to the story.
3. Discuss the implications of each piece of advice with the group.
– Reinforcement: This activity encourages critical thinking and helps children understand the impact of wise versus foolish advice, as highlighted in the story.
Each game promotes engagement with the story of 2 Samuel 17, encouraging cooperative learning and critical thinking, tailored to suit elementary students’ educational needs.
Takehome
Take-Home Assignment: ‘2 Samuel 17’ Reflection
Dear Parents and Students,
Today, in our Bible study class, we discussed 2 Samuel 17. This chapter tells the story of Ahithophel’s and Hushai’s advice to Absalom during his rebellion against King David. Here are some activities and questions to help reinforce the lesson at home. Please take about 15 minutes to complete this reflection together.
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1. Story Summary
Read this short summary of 2 Samuel 17:
Ahithophel advised Absalom to attack King David immediately. However, Hushai gave a different plan, suggesting they gather a large army first. Absalom chose to follow Hushai’s advice. God made this happen to protect David from immediate danger.
2. Discussion Questions
– Who are the two advisors mentioned in the story?
– Why did Absalom decide to follow Hushai’s advice instead of Ahithophel’s?
– How did God’s plan play a role in guiding Absalom’s decision?
3. Family Activities
A. Role Play
Act out a short scene with your family where Ahithophel and Hushai present their plans to Absalom. Everyone can take turns being the different characters. Discuss how each person felt about the advice given.
B. Drawing Time
Draw a picture of how you imagine the scene where Absalom is listening to his advisors. Think about the expressions on their faces and what the atmosphere might have been like.
4. Personal Reflection
Write a few sentences about a time when you had to make a decision and sought advice from others. How did you choose whose advice to follow, and how did it turn out?
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Thank you for taking the time to engage with this reflection. By looking at the chapter together, you can better understand the importance of making wise decisions and trusting in God’s plan.
Best,
[Your Teacher’s Name]
Visuals
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Visual 1: Illustrated Map of Ancient Israel
Caption: “Ancient Israel: Journey from Jerusalem to Mahanaim”
Description: Create an illustrated map showing Jerusalem and Mahanaim with simple landmarks and pathways. Use bright colors and icons to represent cities, rivers, and mountains to engage young learners. Highlight the route taken by David and his followers, emphasizing their journey.
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Visual 2: Character Portraits
Caption: “Key Characters in 2 Samuel 17”
Description: Draw or use cartoon-style portraits of the main characters such as David, Ahithophel, Hushai, and Absalom. Include simple labels with each character’s name and role (e.g., Hushai – David’s friend and spy). This helps students remember who’s who in the story.
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Visual 3: The Counsel of Ahithophel vs. Hushai
Caption: “Advice to Absalom: Ahithophel vs. Hushai”
Description: Create a split image with Ahithophel on one side explaining his strategy to attack David, and Hushai on the other side persuading Absalom to delay. Use speech bubbles for simplified quotes from their advice. Clearly show the conflict and differing opinions.
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Visual 4: Escape from Jerusalem
Caption: “David’s Escape”
Description: Illustration of David and his followers quietly leaving Jerusalem. Show them crossing a river or hiding in the wilderness, using soft colors to depict nighttime and stealth. This image underscores the urgency and secrecy of their escape.
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Visual 5: Code and Communication
Caption: “Secret Messages and Spies”
Description: Draw a basic diagram of how messages were passed from Hushai to David through hidden loops of communication. Use arrows to show the flow of messages and small icons for messengers. This visual explains the network of support for David.
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Visual 6: The Role of Providence
Caption: “Divine Intervention”
Description: Create a symbol of a protective hand or a subtle halo over David, symbolizing divine providence. Use this to discuss how unseen guidance helped David. This illustration highlights the theme of divine help in the story.
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Visual 7: Reflection & Discussion Slide
Caption: “What Would You Do?”
Description: Design a slide with questions prompting students to think about decisions and loyalties. Use symbols like a thinking emoji or question marks. Encourage them to discuss what they’d do if they had to choose like the characters did.
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Memory Verse
Key Bible Verse:
2 Samuel 17:14 (NIV) – “For the Lord had determined to frustrate the good advice of Ahithophel in order to bring disaster on Absalom.”
Creative Ways to Memorize:
1. Song:
– Create a simple melody or use the tune of a nursery rhyme like “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star” to sing the verse. Singing helps in memorization and adds fun.
2. Rhyme:
– “The Lord had a plan, you see,
To change Ahithophel’s decree,
For Absalom’s rise was not to be,
God’s wisdom brings victory.”
3. Motions:
– As you say the verse, incorporate motions such as:
– “For the Lord” (point upwards)
– “had determined” (nod head with determination)
– “to frustrate” (shake head ‘no’)
– “the good advice” (tap temple with fingers)
– “of Ahithophel” (gesture as if reading a scroll)
– “in order to bring disaster” (wave arms as if something is falling)
– “on Absalom” (cross arms in an ‘X’)
4. Short Challenges:
– Memory Relay: Write each word of the verse on separate cards. Spread them out and have students quickly arrange them in order as a team.
– Verse Hunt: Hide cards with snippets of the verse around the room. Have students find them and piece them together like a puzzle.
These activities make learning the verse engaging and suitable for elementary students, encouraging them to understand and retain the message.
Group Activity
Activity 1: Role-Play the Advice
Objective: Understand the different pieces of advice given to Absalom.
Instructions:
1. Divide students into groups of three.
2. Assign roles: Absalom, Ahithophel, and Hushai.
3. Provide the group with a summary of the advice given by Ahithophel and Hushai to Absalom.
Roles:
– Absalom: Listen to both pieces of advice and decide which plan to follow.
– Ahithophel: Present your advice and explain why it’s the best choice.
– Hushai: Present your advice and explain why it’s the best choice.
Discussion Prompts:
– What makes each person’s advice persuasive or not?
– What could be the consequences of each decision?
Participation:
Each student takes on a role, presents their part, and contributes to the discussion on the different consequences.
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Activity 2: Map the Journey
Objective: Trace David’s journey and understand the significance of his movements.
Instructions:
1. Provide each group with a map of Israel showing key locations from 2 Samuel 17.
2. Have students mark the journey of David as described in the chapter.
3. Encourage them to illustrate important events along the way.
Roles:
– Map Illustrator: Draw and label the key places on the map.
– Journey Narrator: Describe the journey and events at each location.
– Event Illustrator: Draw scenes of important events on the map.
Discussion Prompts:
– Why was it crucial for David to keep moving?
– How do the locations impact David’s strategy?
Participation:
Each student contributes by working on the map, explaining events, and ensuring the map is accurate and clear.
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Activity 3: Decision Debate
Objective: Discuss the impact of decisions made by characters in 2 Samuel 17.
Instructions:
1. Form debate teams within the group, each taking a different viewpoint on Absalom’s decision.
2. Allow time to prepare arguments.
Roles:
– Debater 1: Argue why Absalom should follow Ahithophel’s advice.
– Debater 2: Argue why Absalom should follow Hushai’s advice.
– Moderator: Keep time and ensure each side gets an equal voice.
Discussion Prompts:
– What are the merits of each piece of advice?
– How might history have changed with a different decision?
Participation:
Each student takes on a role in the debate, ensuring active listening and engaging in respectful argument.
Download PDF for Group Activity
Journaling
Guided Journaling Prompts for 2 Samuel 17
Reflection:
1. Understanding the Story
– Who were the main characters in this part of the story? Write a line about what each character did.
– What was Ahithophel’s plan against David, and how did Hushai respond?
2. Feelings and Reactions
– How do you think David felt when he heard about the plans against him? Have you ever felt like someone was planning against you?
Personal Application:
1. Trust and Wisdom
– Hushai’s advice to Absalom was different from Ahithophel’s. Why is it important to seek God’s wisdom when making decisions?
– Can you remember a time when you had to trust someone’s advice? What did you learn from that experience?
2. Dealing with Challenges
– David was facing a big problem. What do you do when you have a problem you can’t solve by yourself?
– Write about a time when you needed someone’s help. How did their support make a difference?
Daily Life Connection:
1. Friends and Counsel
– Hushai was a friend of David and gave important advice. Why is it important to have friends who guide us in the right direction?
– How can you be a good friend like Hushai was for David?
2. Making Decisions
– Think of a decision you need to make this week. How will you ask God to help you make the best choice?
Prayer:
1. Asking for Guidance
– Write a prayer asking God to give you wisdom and guidance in your choices this week.
2. Thankfulness for Support
– Thank God for the people in your life who support and guide you. Who specifically are you thankful for today?
Remember, God is always there to guide you just like He helped David through his friends.
Quiz
Quiz on 2 Samuel 17
Multiple Choice
1. Who did Absalom ask for advice on how to capture David?
a) Samuel
b) Ahithophel
c) Saul
d) Nathan
2. Who was the second advisor that Absalom consulted with?
a) Hushai
b) Jonathan
c) Joab
d) Abner
3. Where did David and his people cross to escape Absalom’s plan?
a) Jordan River
b) Red Sea
c) Nile River
d) Euphrates River
True/False
4. True or False: Ahithophel wanted to attack David during the day when David’s men were alert and ready.
5. True or False: Hushai advised Absalom to wait and gather more troops before attacking David.
Short Answer
6. Why did Hushai advise Absalom against Ahithophel’s plan?
7. What did Ahithophel do when he realized his advice was not followed?
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Answer Key
Multiple Choice
1. b) Ahithophel
2. a) Hushai
3. a) Jordan River
True/False
4. False
5. True
Short Answer
6. Hushai advised Absalom against Ahithophel’s plan because he wanted to give David more time to escape and prepare. Hushai was secretly on David’s side and wanted to help him.
7. Ahithophel, seeing that his advice was not taken, went home, put his affairs in order, and then took his own life.
Teacher Tips
Teacher Notes for Teaching 2 Samuel 17 to Elementary Students
Overview:
2 Samuel 17 recounts the story of the rebellion against King David led by Absalom and the contrasting advice given by Ahithophel and Hushai. This chapter deals with themes of loyalty, wisdom, and God’s protection.
Pacing Suggestions:
– Introduction (5 minutes): Begin with a brief recap of the story of King David and who Absalom is in relation to him.
– Reading (10 minutes): Use a simplified children’s Bible or a paraphrased version to read through the chapter.
– Discussion (10-15 minutes): Engage students in discussing key themes and events.
– Activities (15 minutes): Include a hands-on or visual activity to reinforce the lesson.
– Conclusion (5 minutes): Recap and encourage students to reflect on what they learned.
Explaining Difficult Concepts:
1. Loyalty and Betrayal:
– Concept: Loyalty means being faithful to someone.
– Explanation: Use examples like a friend standing by another friend even when times are tough.
2. Advice and Wisdom:
– Concept: People often give advice, but choosing the right advice requires wisdom.
– Explanation: Use the metaphor of a map and compass – advice helps us find the right direction.
3. God’s Providence:
– Concept: God watches over and plans for our well-being.
– Explanation: Relate it to the way a parent watches over their children to keep them safe.
Managing Student Engagement:
– Interactive Storytelling: Encourage students to participate in the story by asking them to voice different characters or predict what might happen next.
– Visual Aids: Use picture books, drawings, or simple props to illustrate the key events. Creating a timeline on the board can help keep track of events as they unfold in the story.
– Creative Activities: Have students draw scenes from the chapter or create puppets to reenact parts of the story. This helps in reinforcing the story through art and theater.
– Discussion Questions:
– Why do you think Absalom chose to listen to Hushai instead of Ahithophel?
– What does this story teach us about making choices?
– How do we see God’s protection over David in this story?
– Reflection Time: Allocate time for students to share their thoughts or write down what they learned.
By keeping the session dynamic and incorporating different teaching methods, you can maintain student interest and deepen their understanding of the chapter.
Crafts
Craft Activity: “David’s Safe Escape” Diorama
Materials List:
– Shoebox or small cardboard box
– Construction paper (green, blue, brown)
– Scissors
– Glue stick
– Crayons or markers
– Small twigs or sticks
– String or yarn
– Optional: small toy figures
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Scene:
– Turn the shoebox on its side to create a diorama space. The bottom of the shoebox will be the background.
– Cover the inside back of the shoebox with blue construction paper to represent the sky, using glue to secure it.
2. Create the Ground:
– Cut a piece of green construction paper to fit the bottom inside of the box for the grass or the ground.
– Glue the green paper to the base of the shoebox.
– Optionally, add smaller brown pieces of construction paper to represent rocks or pathways.
3. Design the Setting:
– Using brown construction paper, cut out a hill or terrain features to mimic a wilderness setting. Glue these pieces to the sides of the box.
– Arrange and glue small twigs inside the shoebox to represent trees or bushes.
4. Add Details:
– Tie small lengths of string or yarn to represent ropes and hang them from the twigs or the top edge of the box.
– Optional: Use small toy figures to represent David and his followers.
5. Decorate:
– Use crayons or markers to add additional details, like clouds in the sky or streams on the ground.
– Let students personalize their diorama with any additional elements they find fitting for the scene.
Reinforcement of the Lesson:
This craft helps children visualize David’s escape from Absalom’s pursuit, as described in 2 Samuel 17. By creating a physical representation of the wilderness setting, students better understand the challenges David faced and the environment of his escape. The hands-on activity reinforces the narrative and helps embed the story’s themes, such as God’s protection and guidance, in the students’ memory through creative expression and interactive learning. By constructing the scene, students engage with the story’s details, fostering a deeper connection and comprehension.
Music
Song Recommendation:
Song Title: “God is Our Protector”
Song Paraphrase/Theme:
This song is inspired by the themes of God’s protection and wise counsel from 2 Samuel 17. It emphasizes trusting in God’s plans and finding comfort in His ability to guide us through difficult times.
Sample Lyrics:
(Verse)
When trouble comes, we should not fear,
God is with us, always near.
He gives wisdom, and He guides,
In His shelter, we can hide.
(Chorus)
God is our protector, strong and true,
He watches over me and you.
In His wisdom, He’s the light,
Guiding us through day and night.
Suggested Actions:
– During “God is with us, always near,” encourage children to give themselves a hug, symbolizing God’s presence.
– For “In His shelter, we can hide,” have the children crouch down and cover their heads, mimicking being under God’s protection.
– On “He watches over me and you,” point at their eyes and then out to the group, symbolizing God’s watchful care over everyone.
How the Song Connects to the Lesson:
In 2 Samuel 17, David is placed in a perilous situation, yet through wise counsel and God’s protection, he finds a way to safety. This song serves as a reminder that just as God provided guidance and protection to David through strategic friends, He offers the same to us in our daily lives. The melody and activities help reinforce the idea that God’s wisdom and protection are always available, just as they were for David.
Scripture Background
Background Notes for 2 Samuel 17
Historical Context:
– Time Period: This chapter takes place during the reign of King David, around 1000 BCE.
– Key Characters:
– David: The King of Israel, known for his leadership and his heart for God.
– Absalom: David’s son, who is leading a rebellion against his father.
– Ahithophel: David’s former advisor, now helping Absalom.
– Hushai: A friend and loyal advisor to David, serving as a spy.
– Setting: The events occur in ancient Israel as Absalom attempts to seize the throne from his father David.
Cultural Insights:
– Advisors and Counselors: In ancient Israel, kings often relied on trusted advisors for counsel. The advice from these counselors could greatly influence the direction of the kingdom.
– Betrayal and Loyalty: Betrayal was a significant concern for leaders like David, as family and friends could turn into adversaries, as seen with Absalom and Ahithophel.
Theological Insights:
– God’s Sovereignty: Despite the chaos and conflict, the story reflects the belief that God is ultimately in control. David’s trust in God is a central theme.
– Importance of Prayer and Wisdom: David’s decision to send Hushai to counter Ahithophel’s advice shows the value of wisdom and strategic thinking in difficult times.
– Forgiveness and Reconciliation: The narrative highlights themes of conflict within families and the potential for reconciliation, aligning with biblical themes of forgiveness.
Summary for Teaching:
– This passage teaches us about the importance of wise counsel and trusting in God, even when situations seem challenging. It shows how loyalty can help overcome betrayal and how God’s plan prevails in the end. Make sure to emphasize the values of wisdom, loyalty, and faith in God’s plan when discussing this story with students.
Use engaging activities like role-play or drawing to help students understand the roles of each character and the significance of their decisions.
Download PDF for Scripture Background
