Lesson
Engaging Introduction
Hello, everyone! Today, we’re going to explore an exciting story from the Bible found in 2 Samuel 20. Have you ever played a game of follow the leader or led a group of friends in a game? Leading and following can be fun, but it can also be a bit challenging, right? Imagine being responsible for keeping everyone together and making sure you get to the right place.
Now, picture this: a long time ago in ancient Israel, King David and his people faced a challenge where following the right leader was very important. King David was a great king, and God chose him to lead His people. But in this chapter of the Bible, we find a man named Sheba who wanted to cause trouble for David and lead the people away from him. Sheba didn’t like what David was doing, so he created his own group to rebel against the king. This caused a lot of confusion and worry among the people of Israel. But what can we learn from this?
In our story, we will see what happens when people choose to follow someone other than the leader God has chosen. We’ll also see how God can use others to help bring peace and order back to His people. Remember, while we talk about this story, we’re going to find out why listening to the right voices and choosing the right leader is important, especially when life gets a little chaotic.
Main Teaching Points
1. Understanding Leadership and Rebellion:
In the story of 2 Samuel 20, we meet a man named Sheba. Sheba was from the tribe of Benjamin, and he decided to lead a rebellion against King David. Sheba was kind of like someone who stands up and says, “I don’t want to play by the rules!” He blew a trumpet, which was like ringing a loud bell to gather attention, and he shouted to get others to join him against King David. The Bible tells us that Sheba said, “We have no share in David; we have no inheritance in the son of Jesse.”
It’s important to understand that being a leader, especially like King David, means guiding people in a good direction. But Sheba didn’t want to follow that direction. He was like a troublemaker trying to start his own game instead of joining the team. Rebellion, like Sheba’s, can sometimes seem exciting, but it often leads to problems because it encourages people to go against what is right.
2. God’s Plan Overcomes Rebellion:
Despite Sheba’s plans, God had His own plan for King David and the people of Israel. Even though Sheba wanted to cause trouble, God used other faithful leaders to bring about peace and order. Joab, David’s military commander, was sent out to deal with Sheba and his followers. Joab was loyal to David and understood that following God’s chosen leader was important.
Joab led his men to follow Sheba, and they ended up at a city called Abel of Beth Maacah. When Joab arrived, he laid siege to the city, which means they surrounded it and prepared to capture it. The people inside the city were scared because they didn’t want to be caught in the middle of the rebellion led by Sheba and the army led by Joab. The city was like a place where everyone was playing a game of tag, and nobody felt safe.
3. Wisdom Saves the Day:
Inside the city, a wise woman saw what was happening and decided to take action. She didn’t join Sheba’s rebellion, but instead, she wanted to protect her city from getting destroyed. She called out to Joab and asked to speak with him. It’s like when you see two of your friends about to argue, and you step in to help them talk it out instead.
This wise woman knew that in order to save her city, she had to make a difficult decision. She negotiated with Joab and promised to stop the rebellion by delivering Sheba to him. Imagine if you could solve a big problem just by talking things out! The woman convinced the people of the city to work together and hand Sheba over to Joab. With her help, Joab and his army were able to capture Sheba, and the rebellion ended.
Personal Application for Elementary Students
Now that we’ve gone through the story, let’s think about what it means for us. Sometimes, you might hear different voices telling you to do different things, especially when you’re at school or with friends. Sheba’s story shows us the importance of listening to the right voices and making wise choices about whom we follow.
Just like Joab and the wise woman in the city, there are times when we might be called to step up and do the right thing, even if it’s hard. Think about the leaders in your life, like your parents, teachers, and even older friends who guide you. They want the best for you, just like King David wanted the best for Israel.
Remember how the woman talked to Joab? If you ever find yourself in a situation where people are fighting or there’s a disagreement, you can be like her. Use your words to help others find peace and come to an understanding.
Let’s also consider how important it is to trust in God’s plans. Even when things seem confusing, like during the rebellion led by Sheba, we can remember that God is always at work, helping to bring about good outcomes.
Interactive Discussion Questions
1. Why is it important to choose the right leader to follow?
Explain to the students that choosing the right leader is like picking the right captain for your kickball team. A good leader makes sure everyone plays fairly, has fun, and makes it to the finish line. Ask them if they’ve ever followed a friend who led them somewhere fun or helped them learn something new. Discuss how following the right leader can lead to positive experiences.
2. What can we do when we see people fighting or arguing, just like the situation with Joab and the wise woman?
Encourage the students to share times when they saw arguments and how they were resolved. Brainstorm together how they can help calm things down if they see friends fighting—perhaps suggesting they come together for a talk or asking a teacher for help. Emphasize the role of the wise woman who helped bring peace by using her words.
3. How can we trust God when things don’t seem to make sense, like during the rebellion led by Sheba?
Discuss the importance of having faith. Share stories about trusting God, even when things are confusing, just like trusting that your parents have a good plan on a family trip. Invite the students to think about a time God helped them when they were worried or didn’t understand what was happening.
Transition to closing the lesson: Thank you for thinking deeply about these questions and sharing your thoughts. Remember, even when things seem tough, there’s always a wise way to act, and being in the right hands—like trusting God’s plans—can lead us to the good path. Let’s be great leaders and wise followers in our own lives!
Games
Game 1: Jeopardy Quiz
Objective:
Learn about the characters and events in 2 Samuel 20 through a fun quiz format.
Players:
4-6
Materials Needed:
– Index cards
– Pen/Pencil
– Timer
Setup:
1. Write questions related to 2 Samuel 20 on the index cards. Include categories such as “Characters,” “Events,” and “Places.”
2. Place cards face down in three columns/categories on a table.
Instructions:
1. Divide players into two teams.
2. Teams take turns choosing a category and a card.
3. A player from the other team reads the question allowed.
4. The team has 30 seconds to answer.
5. Correct answer = 1 point. Incorrect = no point.
6. Continue until all cards are used.
7. The team with most points wins.
Reinforcement:
This game encourages students to engage with details from 2 Samuel 20, promoting recall and comprehension skills.
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Game 2: The Messenger Relay
Objective:
Understand the urgency and communication in 2 Samuel 20 through a relay race.
Players:
6-10
Materials Needed:
– Small flags or baton
– Paper with messages (e.g., “King’s orders,” “Joab’s commands”)
Setup:
1. Divide the play area into two ends: “King’s Court” and “Battlefield.”
2. Split players into two teams and line them up at the “King’s Court.”
3. Give each team a set of messages.
Instructions:
1. The first player runs to the “Battlefield” with a message and relays it to a player positioned there and then back to their team.
2. The next player follows.
3. The relay continues until all messages have been delivered.
4. The first team to complete delivering all messages wins.
Reinforcement:
This relay helps students understand the historical context and communication methods in the biblical times, emphasizing swift actions like those in 2 Samuel 20.
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Game 3: Who Said That?
Objective:
Match characters with their quotes from 2 Samuel 20.
Players:
3-4
Materials Needed:
– Quote strips
– Character name cards
Setup:
1. Write quotes from 2 Samuel 20 on strips of paper.
2. Write character names (like David, Joab, Amasa) on separate cards.
Instructions:
1. Mix and place the quote strips and the name cards face down on a table.
2. Players take turns flipping one card and one strip to find matches.
3. If a player matches correctly, they keep the pair.
4. The player with the most correct matches at the end wins.
Reinforcement:
The game fosters memorization and understanding of who said what in the chapter, while also reinforcing listening skills and comprehension.
Takehome
Take-Home Assignment: Exploring 2 Samuel 20
Dear Students,
Today, we will be reflecting on a story from the Bible, 2 Samuel 20. This story is about leadership, unity, and the consequences of rebellion.
Overview:
In this chapter, a man named Sheba, revolts against King David. He tries to convince the people of Israel to follow him instead. David sends his commander, Joab, to stop Sheba and restore peace. Through wise leadership and teamwork, Joab manages to deal with the situation effectively.
Activities and Questions:
1. Read Together:
With your family, read 2 Samuel 20 from a children’s Bible if you have one. Alternatively, read a summary together.
2. Discuss:
– What did Sheba do, and why was it a problem?
– How did King David and Joab handle the situation?
– Why is it important for leaders to listen to advice and work with others?
3. Reflect:
On a piece of paper, draw a picture showing your favorite part of the story. Underneath, write one sentence explaining why you chose this scene.
4. Family Chat:
Talk with your family about a time when you worked together to solve a problem. How did teamwork help? How did you feel when the problem was solved?
5. Character Values:
– Discuss with your family why loyalty and teamwork are important.
– Write down three ways you can show loyalty to your family and friends.
6. Connect:
Think about how this story relates to your life. Is there a situation where you had to be a good team player or a leader in a group? Write a short paragraph about your experience.
7. Creative Writing:
Imagine you are Joab, and write a letter to King David explaining how you solved the problem with Sheba. What decisions did you make? Why were they important?
Have Fun and Learn:
Take turns sharing your thoughts, drawings, and writings with your family. Remember, stories from the Bible teach us important lessons about life and how we should treat others.
Thank you for participating, and enjoy your family discussions!
Sincerely,
[Your Teacher’s Name]
Visuals
Slide 1: Title Slide
– Visual: A simple, colorful title card with the words “2 Samuel 20: A Tale of Rebellion and Loyalty”
– Caption: Introduction to 2 Samuel 20
– Description: Use bright and cheerful colors with illustrations of a scroll or book to signify the Bible.
Slide 2: The Rebellion of Sheba
– Visual: Cartoon illustration of Sheba, depicted as a mischievous character, standing on a rock addressing a group.
– Caption: “Sheba, the troublemaker, calls for rebellion against King David!”
– Description: Show Sheba with exaggerated gestures to convey that he is speaking loudly and fiercely.
Slide 3: Joab and the Troops
– Visual: A simple map showing the path from Jerusalem to Abel (where Joab pursued Sheba), with cartoon icons of soldiers.
– Caption: “Joab leads David’s troops to capture the rebel Sheba.”
– Description: Arrows indicating movement; soldiers with spears and shields; label important locations.
Slide 4: The Wise Woman of Abel
– Visual: Illustration of a wise woman speaking to Joab at the city wall, with puzzled townspeople around.
– Caption: “A wise woman saves the city with her smart words!”
– Description: The woman having a calm and wise appearance, speaking to Joab, who looks determined.
Slide 5: Peace Restored
– Visual: The city of Abel, appearing peaceful and calm, with townspeople smiling and working.
– Caption: “With Sheba gone, peace returns to the kingdom.”
– Description: Drawings of happy kids playing, families together, emphasizing a harmonious community.
Slide 6: Lessons Learned
– Visual: A bulletin board with pinned notes: “Teamwork,” “Wisdom,” “Loyalty,” each with a small icon (e.g., handshake, light bulb, heart).
– Caption: “What can we learn from this story?”
– Description: Notes with simple graphics that symbolize the lessons; use bright colors and playful fonts.
Slide 7: Engaging Activity
– Visual: A simple diagram showing a “story tree” with branches for “Rebellion,” “The Chase,” and “Peace Restored.”
– Caption: “Create your story tree to retell the tale!”
– Description: Encourage students to draw their own trees during the lesson to retell the story, with space to write or draw images.
Memory Verse
Key Verse: 2 Samuel 20:9b (NIV)
“Joab said to Amasa, ‘How are you, my brother?’”
Creative Ways to Memorize:
1. Rhyme:
“Joab said, ‘How are you, Amasa? my brother,’
Keep this verse, and don’t use another!”
2. Song:
Create a simple tune using a melody like “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star” and sing the verse.
3. Motions:
– When saying “Joab said,” point to your mouth.
– For “How are you,” make a questioning face and gesture with your hands.
– When saying “my brother,” give yourself a hug.
4. Challenge:
Write the verse on a chalkboard or whiteboard. Erase one word at a time while trying to say the entire verse, filling in the blank with your memory. Continue until no words are left.
Group Activity
Activity 1: “Acting Out the Story”
Objective: Understand the sequence of events in 2 Samuel 20 through a dramatized reenactment.
Instructions:
1. Read through 2 Samuel 20 as a group or have it narrated.
2. Break the class into small groups of about 4-5 students.
3. Assign roles within each group: Narrator, Sheba, Joab, David, and a Townsperson.
4. Encourage each group to use simple, clear dialogue and actions to perform the key scenes of the chapter.
Roles:
– Narrator: Guides the story and provides context.
– Sheba: Portrays the rebellion leader.
– Joab: Acts as the loyal leader trying to keep order.
– David: Plays the king managing the conflict.
– Townsperson: Represents the common people’s response to events.
Discussion Prompts:
– What motivated each character’s actions?
– How did the people solve the conflict in the city?
– What can we learn from the way Joab and David handled the situation?
Participation:
Every student plays a role and takes part in a short performance to engage fully in the story.
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Activity 2: “Conflict Resolution Circle”
Objective: Explore themes of justice and peacemaking from the story.
Instructions:
1. Have a brief recap of the chapter’s events.
2. Form a circle and have students address conflict resolution.
3. Introduce the concept of the “talking stick.”
Roles:
– Facilitator: The teacher or an appointed student to keep the discussion on track.
– Speaker: Whoever holds the talking stick or another object designated for this purpose, shares their thoughts.
– Listeners: Everyone else, who respectfully listens and waits for their turn to speak.
Discussion Prompts:
– How did David and Joab handle Sheba’s rebellion?
– Can you think of a time when you solved a problem with a friend? How did you feel?
– What are good ways to promote peace in our own lives?
Participation:
Each student gets a chance to hold the talking stick and share ideas, ensuring everyone contributes to the discussion.
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Activity 3: “Create a Conflict Resolution Poster”
Objective: Encourage creative thinking about conflict resolution.
Instructions:
1. Explain that students will design a poster that demonstrates peaceful conflict resolution.
2. Provide materials: paper, markers, crayons, etc.
3. Divide students into groups of 3-4.
Roles:
– Artist: Draws images that reflect resolution themes.
– Writer: Comes up with captions and phrases for the poster.
– Organizer: Ensures everyone’s ideas are included and the poster is well-arranged.
Discussion Prompts:
– What are some peaceful ways to resolve conflicts like the ones seen in the story?
– How can we use words to solve disagreements?
– What images best represent peace and understanding?
Participation:
Every group member contributes to the poster by taking on a specific role and sharing ideas. At the end, groups present their posters and explain their themes.
Download PDF for Group Activity
Journaling
Guided Journaling Prompts for 2 Samuel 20
Reflection:
1. Story Recap
– What happened in the story of 2 Samuel 20? Write down three main events that took place.
2. Characters and Actions
– Who are the main characters in this chapter? What did each character do that was important to the story?
3. Lesson Learned
– What lesson do you think the story is trying to teach us? How did the actions of the characters show this lesson?
Personal Application:
1. Trust and Leadership
– Think about a time when you had to trust someone in charge, like a teacher or coach. How did their leadership help or guide you?
2. Teamwork
– Why is it important to work together as a team? Write about a time you worked with others to achieve a common goal. What did you learn?
3. Handling Conflict
– How do you handle conflicts in your life? Write about a recent disagreement you had and how you resolved it or how you might handle it differently next time.
Prayer:
1. Guidance in Leadership
– Pray for wisdom and guidance in being a good leader and team member. Ask for help in making good decisions that benefit everyone.
2. Peace and Understanding
– Pray for peace in situations of conflict and the ability to understand others’ points of view.
3. Thankfulness
– Write a prayer of thanks for the people who lead and help you each day. Ask God to bless them with wisdom and kindness.
Open-Ended Questions:
1. What was a moment in the story that surprised you, and why?
2. How can you show respect and support for the leaders in your life, like parents or teachers?
3. If you were one of the characters, what would you have done differently? Why?
Quiz
Quiz: 2 Samuel 20
Multiple Choice
1. Who led the rebellion against King David in this chapter?
a) Joab
b) Sheba
c) Nathan
2. What did Sheba use to call people to follow him?
a) A trumpet
b) A flag
c) A horse
3. Who was appointed by David to go and capture Sheba?
a) Abishai
b) Joab
c) Jonathan
True/False
4. Joab remained loyal to David throughout the chapter.
True / False
5. The people of Israel followed Sheba’s rebellion against King David.
True / False
6. A wise woman helped prevent the destruction of a city.
True / False
Short Answer
7. What did the wise woman do to help stop the attack on her city?
8. Who eventually took control over the army after Amasa?
9. Why was the rebellion against King David considered a problem?
Answer Key
Multiple Choice
1. b) Sheba
2. a) A trumpet
3. a) Abishai
True/False
4. False
5. True
6. True
Short Answer
7. The wise woman spoke to Joab and negotiated to save her city by delivering Sheba’s head to him.
8. Joab took control over the army after Amasa.
9. The rebellion was a problem because it threatened the unity and stability of Israel under King David’s rule.
Teacher Tips
Teacher Notes for Teaching 2 Samuel 20 to Elementary Students
Objective:
Help students understand the main events of 2 Samuel 20, focusing on themes like leadership, loyalty, and conflict resolution, suitable for an elementary level.
Pacing Guide:
– Introduction: 5 minutes
– Storytelling and Explanation: 15 minutes
– Discussion and Q&A: 10 minutes
– Activity/Craft: 15 minutes
– Wrap-up and Reflection: 5 minutes
Introduction (5 minutes):
– Start with a brief recap of King David’s story and some context from previous chapters.
– Introduce the main characters: King David, Sheba, Joab, and the wise woman.
– Explain the setting: The kingdom of Israel following Absalom’s rebellion.
Storytelling and Explanation (15 minutes):
– Narrate the story in a simple manner:
– Sheba’s rebellion and his attempt to lead people away from David.
– King David’s response to the rebellion, emphasizing Joab’s role.
– The wise woman’s role in resolving the situation.
– Use simplified language:
– “Rebellion” as “not listening to the king” or “trying to be the boss himself.”
– Explain “loyalty” as sticking with your friends/leader even when it’s hard.
– Visual aids: Use pictures or illustrations to depict key scenes and characters, making it easier for children to grasp.
Discussion and Q&A (10 minutes):
– Ask open-ended questions:
– Why was it important for David to be a fair king?
– How did the wise woman help solve a problem?
– Address difficult concepts:
– Break down why Sheba’s actions were wrong using simple analogies (e.g., trying to rule a group of friends without them wanting it).
– Discuss the idea of solving problems with words, not just actions (the wise woman’s intervention).
Activity/Craft (15 minutes):
– Make a simple paper crown to symbolize leadership, discussing qualities of a good leader.
– Role-play: act out the role of peacemaking like the wise woman, demonstrating how to solve disagreements.
Wrap-up and Reflection (5 minutes):
– Have students share their thoughts on what makes a good leader.
– Reflect on why it’s important to listen and work together to solve problems.
– Encourage students to think of times they’ve helped solve a problem or stuck by a friend.
Managing Student Engagement:
– Keep storytelling lively with voice modulation and expressions.
– Break the lesson into interactive segments to maintain attention.
– Encourage participation by asking kids to predict what happens next.
– Praise contributions to build confidence and encourage involvement.
By following this approach, you will help students understand the main themes and lessons of 2 Samuel 20 while ensuring that the session remains age-appropriate and engaging.
Crafts
Craft: David’s Horn of Unity
Materials List:
– Cardstock paper (thick and colorful)
– Scissors
– Glue sticks
– Markers or crayons
– Stickers or decorative items (optional)
– Ribbon or yarn
– Hole punch
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Introduction to the Story:
Start by briefly explaining 2 Samuel 20 to the students. Highlight the importance of unity and resolving conflict within the community, using King David’s leadership as an example.
2. Create the Horn Shape:
– Take a sheet of cardstock paper and roll it into a cone or horn shape. Make sure the opening is large enough for a child to speak or shout through.
– Secure the edge with glue to maintain the cone shape.
3. Decorate the Horn:
– Allow the children to decorate their horns using markers, crayons, and stickers. Encourage them to draw symbols of peace and unity (like doves or joined hands).
– They can write keywords from the story like “Unity,” “Peace,” and “Leadership.”
4. Attach a Strap:
– Punch two holes on opposite sides near the opening of the horn.
– Thread a piece of ribbon or yarn through the holes and tie knots to create a strap for wearing around the neck.
5. Reflection and Use:
– Have the children sit in a circle and encourage them to take turns using their horns to say positive messages or words of encouragement and unity.
– Discuss the importance of speaking words that build up and unite people, just like David aimed to unify Israel.
Reinforcing the Lesson:
This craft activity reinforces the lesson of unity from 2 Samuel 20 by providing a tangible way for students to express concepts of peace and leadership. The horn serves as a symbol of calling people together, just like Joab used the trumpet to declare victory. By decorating and using the horn, children engage with the story’s themes, promoting understanding and personal application of unity in their own lives.
Music
Songs and Worship Activities for 2 Samuel 20
Song Suggestion: “God is in Control”
Paraphrase:
1. Verse 1:
“When things seem out of hand, we can trust in His plan,
God is in control, He holds it all!”
2. Chorus:
“God knows what we need, God knows our worries,
We trust Him completely, He’s in control!”
Suggested Actions:
– Verse: Have students make a steering wheel motion to show God steering/navigating.
– Chorus: Students can wave their arms side to side to indicate trust and openness.
Connection to Lesson:
In 2 Samuel 20, though there is chaos and rebellion (Sheba’s revolt), God remains sovereign and in control of the situation. Reminding students that, no matter the circumstances, God has a plan and is in charge.
Song Suggestion: “Follow the Leader”
Paraphrase:
1. Verse 1:
“We follow good leaders, who show us God’s love,
Like Joab led his men, following from above.”
2. Chorus:
“We’ll go where He calls, we’ll do what is right,
With faith and hope, and His love shining bright!”
Suggested Actions:
– Verse: Marching in place or around the room to signify following a leader like Joab.
– Chorus: Holding hands above heads in a circle, symbolizing unity under God’s guidance.
Connection to Lesson:
Joab remains loyal to David amidst unrest, showing the importance of following Godly leadership. This helps children understand the value of following leaders who follow God.
Worship Activity: “Rebuild the Kingdom”
Activity Overview:
Since 2 Samuel 20 involves restoring order after Sheba’s rebellion, engage with a building activity.
Materials Needed:
– Building blocks or cardboard boxes.
Instructions:
1. Divide students into small groups.
2. Challenge them to rebuild a structure that has “collapsed” using blocks or boxes.
3. Each group should work together to restore the kingdom, promoting teamwork and unity.
Connection to Lesson:
Just as order needed restoring in Israel, students learn they can be part of restoring peace and structure by working together. This activity symbolizes the rebuilding and keeping of God’s kingdom on earth when led by Godly leadership.
Scripture Background
Background Notes for 2 Samuel 20
Historical Context:
– Time Period: This event takes place during the reign of King David, around 1000 BC.
– Setting: It unfolds in ancient Israel, with locations in Jerusalem as well as the northern regions of the kingdom.
Cultural Context:
– Israel’s United Kingdom: At this time, Israel was a united kingdom under King David following his victory over Saul, the previous king.
– Tribal Loyalties: The twelve tribes of Israel often had tense relations, each having its own leaders and sometimes conflicting interests.
Key Characters:
– David: The king of Israel, known for uniting the tribes and establishing Jerusalem as the capital.
– Sheba: A man from the tribe of Benjamin who incites rebellion against King David, challenging his leadership.
Theological Insights:
– God’s Sovereignty: Despite human plans and conflicts, the Bible teaches that God is ultimately in control. King David’s ability to maintain the kingdom points to God’s protection over him.
– Unity and Division: The story of Sheba’s rebellion highlights the importance of unity among God’s people and the dangers of division.
– Repentance and Forgiveness: David’s rulership is often marked by moments of repentance and seeking God’s guidance, teaching us about forgiveness and the importance of following God.
Summary of the Passage:
In 2 Samuel 20, a man named Sheba leads a revolt against King David. This comes shortly after another rebellion by Absalom, David’s son, indicating ongoing unrest. Joab, David’s military commander, plays a key role in stopping the rebellion by pursuing and dealing with Sheba. The rebellion is quelled when the citizens of a city where Sheba is hiding choose to collaborate with Joab, ending the conflict peacefully.
Lesson for Students:
– Working Together: Just like David’s men had to work with different groups to stop Sheba, we learn the importance of teamwork and unity.
– Leadership: Good leaders rely on God for guidance and aim to bring people together, just like David did.
– Resolving Conflicts: Solving problems sometimes requires negotiation and wisdom, seen in how Sheba’s rebellion was ended.
Download PDF for Scripture Background
