Lesson
Engaging Introduction
Hello there, young adventurers! Today, we’re going on an incredible journey back in time to visit one of the most fascinating kings in the Bible, King Solomon. Have any of you heard of him before? Solomon was famous for his wisdom, wealth, and the beautiful kingdom he ruled. Our story takes us to 1 Kings 10, where we meet a very special visitor, the Queen of Sheba. She traveled a long, long way—imagine traveling for miles and miles through desert sands and over tall mountains—just to see if Solomon was as wise as everyone said.
Imagine you heard about someone so smart and wonderful, you decided to go see for yourself. That’s how curious the Queen of Sheba was. Our story today is like opening a treasure box filled with jewels of wisdom, sharing, and God’s blessings.
But before we dive into our adventures, let’s think about the word “wisdom.” Can anyone tell me what that means? Wisdom is knowing how to make good choices and understanding what’s right. Sometimes it’s like having a superpower! Did you know that God blessed King Solomon with this superpower because Solomon asked God for it when he became king? We’ll see how this wisdom attracted people from faraway places, like the Queen of Sheba, bringing with her precious gifts to see if what she heard was true.
So, let’s put on our explorer hats and step into this fascinating chapter of the Bible where we’ll discover not just about gold and riches, but the true treasure of wisdom that God gives. Are you ready? Let’s begin!
Main Teaching Points
1. The Visit of the Queen of Sheba (1 Kings 10:1-5)
The Queen of Sheba had heard reports about Solomon’s wisdom and wealth. She could hardly believe it! Have you ever heard something amazing and wanted to find out if it was true? That’s exactly what she did. She took a long journey with her entourage carrying camels loaded with spices, gold, and precious stones.
When she arrived, she asked Solomon many difficult questions—almost like a test to see just how wise he was. Solomon answered all her questions with great wisdom. The Bible tells us that nothing was too hard for him to explain. Imagine having answers to all your questions! The Queen was amazed by what she saw and heard in Solomon’s palace—his wisdom, the way he served God, his wonderful palace, and the food on his table. She discovered that everything she had heard was true, and even more!
2. Solomon’s Wealth and Wisdom (1 Kings 10:6-10)
After talking with Solomon, the Queen was so impressed that she said all the stories she heard didn’t even tell half the truth! Solomon’s wisdom and riches were beyond anything she had imagined. And as a way to show her appreciation, the Queen of Sheba gave Solomon 120 talents of gold and a vast quantity of precious spices and stones. That’s a lot of treasure, isn’t it?
But what made Solomon truly remarkable was not just his riches, but his gift from God—the wisdom to lead God’s people. Just like when we share our toys or help a friend, God gives each of us special gifts. For Solomon, it was wisdom, and he used it to lead his people and honor God.
3. The Blessings of Wisdom (1 Kings 10:11-25)
Solomon’s kingdom was filled with treasures and riches, but the true treasure was the wisdom given by God. Have you ever been given something really special, like a favorite toy or game? Now think about something even more special than that: wisdom. Wisdom helps us in everyday life; it helps us make good choices and keeps us from trouble.
Solomon used his wisdom to make Israel a beautiful place where people wanted to visit and learn. It was said that silver was as common as stones in Jerusalem during his reign! That might sound like make-believe or a fairy tale, but it’s how God blessed Solomon.
But wisdom needs to be shared. Solomon showed us it’s not just important to have wisdom, but also to use it to help others and to lead people closer to God.
4. The Praise of God (1 Kings 10:26-29)
The Queen of Sheba praised God for Solomon’s wisdom. She said, “Praise be to the Lord your God, who has delighted in you and placed you on the throne of Israel.” The wisdom of Solomon pointed her eyes and heart to God.
When we use our gifts wisely and compassionately, others see the goodness of God in us. It’s like when you make a lighthouse from your Legos. It stands tall, and the light shines bright—it can be seen from far off. Similarly, when we shine with goodness and kindness, people see God’s love.
God was pleased with Solomon and blessed him, and others praised God because of him. This is a wonderful reminder that our actions can show others how wonderful God is.
Personal Application for Elementary Students
Wow! Wasn’t that an exciting adventure we took with Solomon and the Queen of Sheba? Now, let’s think about how this amazing story about wisdom relates to each of us.
Firstly, each one of you is unique and special and God has given you the potential to be wise, too. Maybe you’re already super at sharing, or really good at helping mom or dad at home—that’s a step towards wisdom. Like Solomon, we can ask God for help in learning how to make better choices. Remember, it’s not just about being smart but making good choices and being kind to others.
Next, let’s try to apply this wisdom in small ways every day. If you’re asked to clean up your room, or share a toy with a sibling, or help a friend with their homework, think about how Solomon used his wisdom to help others and honor God. Can you think of any ways you can be like him?
Also, Solomon’s story reminds us to be curious and eager to learn just like the Queen of Sheba. Ask questions when you don’t understand something, seek answers, read your Bible, and listen to wise teachings from your parents and teachers.
Finally, think about how you can use your gifts to make God happy and also let others see His love. Maybe it’s through art, sports, helping others, or being a kind friend. When people see you shining bright with kindness and wisdom, they will see a glimpse of God’s love.
Let’s all try to be wise this week and see how we can be a blessing to others, just like Solomon was. And don’t forget to pray and ask God for wisdom as Solomon did.
Interactive Discussion Questions with Explanation and Teaching Guidance
Alright, everyone! Now it’s time for a little talk. I have some questions to ask, and I’d love to hear your thoughts.
1. Why did the Queen of Sheba visit Solomon?
Let’s think about this: The Queen of Sheba had heard incredible stories about Solomon’s wisdom and riches. She was curious and wanted to see if it was all true. This teaches us to be explorers in our own way—always interested in learning and understanding more about God and His creations. When people or things are intriguing, we should not hesitate to find out more, just like the Queen of Sheba.
2. What did the Queen think of Solomon after she saw everything?
After meeting Solomon and seeing his wisdom, the Queen was amazed and believed everything—and even more—she had heard about him. Discuss how people might be amazed by our actions when we do what’s right and good. It shows us the importance of leading a life that reflects God’s wisdom.
3. What is a way you can use your own wisdom or talents to help others?
Encourage everyone to think about this: we each have talents or gifts, maybe you’re great at sports, art, or helping others. Can you think of a way to use those gifts wisely to help a friend or cheer someone up? Discuss ideas, like helping with chores without being asked or being kind to a person who’s feeling down.
4. How does our behavior reflect God’s love to others?
When we act wisely and kindly, others may see God’s love through our actions, just like how the Queen of Sheba praised God after meeting Solomon. Discuss simple ways we can show God’s love: being patient, using kind words, or helping others.
Use these questions as the final wrap-up, encouraging each child to take one thing they learned today about wisdom, and think about how they can apply it in the coming week. Remind them that they each have the potential to show God’s love and wisdom through their actions.
Games
Game 1: Queen of Sheba’s Treasure Hunt
Objective: Learn about the wealth and wisdom of King Solomon by discovering treasures during a scavenger hunt.
Number of Players: 4-10
Materials Needed:
– Index cards
– Pictures or miniature items representing gold, spices, and jewels
– Pencils
– Treasure chest or box
Setup:
1. Before the game begins, adults or organizers place pictures and items around the designated room or outdoor space.
2. On each index card, write a clue related to a location in the room or one of the items hidden.
Instructions:
1. Begin by reading 1 Kings 10:1-13, focusing on the exchange between Solomon and the Queen of Sheba.
2. Players are divided into small teams.
3. Each team receives the first clue leading to a hidden treasure item.
4. Teams follow the clues in sequence, locating each treasure, which represents the gifts the Queen of Sheba brought Solomon.
5. Place all found treasure in the treasure chest.
6. The first team to gather all items and deliver them to the leader wins.
Reinforcement:
This activity emphasizes the story of the Queen’s visit to Solomon. By searching for treasures, children learn about the wealth and wisdom exchanged during the Queen’s visit.
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Game 2: Solomon’s Wisdom Challenge
Objective: Understand King Solomon’s knowledge and problem-solving abilities through a quiz game.
Number of Players: 4-8
Materials Needed:
– Quiz questions based on 1 Kings 10 (simple version for kids)
– Scorecards
– A bell or buzzer for answering
Setup:
1. Prepare 10-15 quiz questions based on King Solomon’s wisdom and achievements.
2. Arrange chairs in a circle and place the bell in the center.
Instructions:
1. Read 1 Kings 10:1-13 to set the context.
2. Players sit in a circle.
3. Each player takes turns answering questions.
4. If a player cannot answer, others can ring the bell to respond.
5. Correct answers earn points, and the player with most points after all questions wins.
Reinforcement:
This game focuses on Solomon’s wisdom, encouraging children to think and recall Bible facts. It also develops quick thinking and decision-making skills, reflecting Solomon’s legendary wisdom.
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Game 3: Role Play Skit
Objective: Retell the visit of the Queen of Sheba to Solomon through a short skit, understanding the interaction and cultural exchange.
Number of Players: 6-10
Materials Needed:
– Simple costumes (robes, crowns, headpieces)
– Script based on 1 Kings 10:1-13 (simplified for kids)
– Props (toy gold, containers with spices, plastic jewels)
Setup:
1. Write a simple script capturing the main points of the story.
2. Assign roles: King Solomon, Queen of Sheba, attendants, narrators.
3. Arrange costumes and props.
Instructions:
1. Read 1 Kings 10:1-13, then divide roles among players.
2. Players practice a brief skit using the script.
3. Perform for each other or a different class group.
4. Discuss what each character experienced during the story.
Reinforcement:
By embodying the characters and their interactions, children deepen their understanding of the story’s events and biblical characters. The role play helps solidify their knowledge through active learning.
Takehome
Take-Home Assignment: Exploring ‘1 Kings 10’
Objective:
To understand the story of the Queen of Sheba’s visit to King Solomon and explore the themes of wisdom and sharing.
Assignment Instructions:
Read 1 Kings 10 with an adult, and complete the following activities with your family.
Activity 1: Story Summary
1. Read 1 Kings 10 together.
2. Summarize the story in your own words.
– Who are the main characters?
– What did the Queen of Sheba think about King Solomon’s wisdom?
3. Share your summary with a family member.
Activity 2: Discussion Questions
Discuss the following questions with your family:
1. Why do you think the Queen of Sheba visited King Solomon?
2. How did King Solomon show his wisdom during the Queen’s visit?
3. What can we learn from the way King Solomon shared his knowledge and his wealth?
Activity 3: Role Play
With a family member, act out a short scene between King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba. It can be when she arrives, asks him questions, or shares her gifts. Use your imagination to make it fun!
Activity 4: Drawing Challenge
Draw a picture showing your favorite part of the story. It could be the Queen arriving, the gifts she brought, or King Solomon at his throne. Share your drawing with the family.
Reflection
Write or talk about a time when you learned something new from someone. How did it make you feel? How can you share what you learn with others, like Solomon did?
Bonus Activity (Optional): Family Wisdom
Ask each family member to share one piece of wisdom or advice. Create a “Family Wisdom Poster” with these wise words to hang up at home.
Conclusion:
Reflect on how wisdom and sharing are important in our lives, just like they were in the story of King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba.
Visuals
Visuals and Diagrams for 1 Kings 10
Slide 1: Title Slide
– Title: Exploring 1 Kings 10: The Visit of the Queen of Sheba
– Visual Idea: A simple, colorful illustration of a castle or palace to represent King Solomon’s kingdom.
Slide 2: Introduction to King Solomon
– Visual: Image of King Solomon sitting on a throne, surrounded by symbols of wisdom (like an open book or a scroll).
– Caption: King Solomon was known for his wisdom and wealth.
– Description: Explain that this lesson will focus on an important visitor who came to meet King Solomon.
Slide 3: The Queen of Sheba’s Journey
– Visual: Map highlighting the route from Sheba to Jerusalem.
– Caption: The Queen of Sheba traveled a long way to meet King Solomon.
– Description: Briefly describe who the Queen of Sheba was and why she visited Solomon.
Slide 4: The Meeting
– Visual: Illustration of the Queen of Sheba and King Solomon in conversation.
– Caption: The Queen of Sheba tested Solomon with tough questions.
– Description: Mention that she was impressed with Solomon’s wisdom and the wealth of his kingdom.
Slide 5: Treasures and Gifts
– Visual: Display of the gifts brought by the Queen of Sheba – gold, spices, and precious stones.
– Caption: She brought many valuable gifts to King Solomon.
– Description: These gifts showed the Queen’s respect and admiration for Solomon and his kingdom.
Slide 6: Solomon’s Splendor
– Visual: Image of a grand palace and temple with busy, luxurious activity around.
– Caption: Solomon’s kingdom was filled with riches and wonders.
– Description: Discuss the wealth and grandeur of Solomon’s reign, including his great throne and the splendor of his court.
Slide 7: Sharing Wisdom
– Visual: Symbol of an open book or scroll with glowing light.
– Caption: King Solomon shared his wisdom with the world.
– Description: Highlight how Solomon’s wisdom was renowned beyond his kingdom, attracting visitors from distant lands.
Slide 8: Key Lesson and Conclusion
– Visual: Simple scene with children gathered around a teacher or wise figure.
– Caption: We learn from stories like Solomon’s to value wisdom and kindness.
– Description: Encourage students to think about what they can learn from King Solomon’s story.
Additional Ideas
– Activity Visualization: Include a printable worksheet for a map coloring activity or a word search based on key terms from the story.
– Interactive Slide: A quiz slide with simple questions or matching activity about the story for class participation.
Encourage teachers to invite students to create their drawings of the story or characters, fostering engagement and interpretation.
Memory Verse
Key Bible Verse:
1 Kings 10:4-5 (NIV)
“When the queen of Sheba saw all the wisdom of Solomon and the palace he had built, the food on his table, the seating of his officials, the attending servants in their robes, his cupbearers, and the burnt offerings he made at the temple of the LORD, she was overwhelmed.”
Creative Ways to Memorize:
1. Rhyme Time:
Create a simple rhyme to help remember the verse:
“The queen saw Solomon’s wisdom and his grand display,
With food on the table and servants in array.”
2. Hand Motions:
– “When the queen of Sheba” (make a crown gesture with hands)
– “saw all the wisdom of Solomon” (tap your head)
– “and the palace he had built” (create a roof shape with your hands)
– “the food on his table” (mime eating a meal)
– “the seating of his officials” (pretend to sit down)
– “the attending servants in their robes” (pretend to smooth down robes)
– “and the burnt offerings” (lift your arms like smoke rising)
– “she was overwhelmed” (place both hands on cheeks with a surprised expression)
3. Song
Using a familiar tune like “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star,” create a simple song:
“When the queen of Sheba came,
Saw Solomon’s great wisdom fame,
Food and servants all around,
His great palace did astound.
Offerings made, she was amazed,
In Solomon’s great, wise ways.”
4. Short Challenge:
Have the students create a paper crown. On each point of the crown, they can write one part of the verse. Practice repeating the verse while wearing the crown as the “Queen of Sheba.”
Group Activity
Activity 1: The Queen’s Visit Role Play
Instructions:
– Divide the students into groups of 4-5.
– Assign roles: Solomon, The Queen of Sheba, Narrator, Servant, and Court Member (if needed).
– Have the group read or listen to a simplified version of 1 Kings 10:1-13.
Roles:
– Solomon: Responds to the Queen’s questions and shows her around.
– The Queen of Sheba: Asks questions about Solomon’s wisdom and kingdom.
– Narrator: Guides the storytelling and sets the scene.
– Servant: Assists with props and helps Solomon and the Queen throughout the visit.
– Court Member (optional): Adds commentary on the discussion.
Discussion Prompts:
1. What surprised the Queen of Sheba the most about Solomon’s wisdom?
2. How did Solomon show his hospitality to the Queen?
3. Why do you think the Queen of Sheba came to visit Solomon?
Participation:
– Each student participates by playing an assigned role and contributing to the discussion after the role play.
– After the enactment, switch roles and repeat if time permits.
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Activity 2: Treasure Hunt Exploration
Instructions:
– Organize the students into groups of 4.
– Create a simple treasure map that includes various “stops” in Solomon’s kingdom (e.g., the palace, stables, banquet hall).
Roles:
– Map Reader: Guides the group through the treasure map.
– Historian: Reveals facts about each location based on 1 Kings 10.
– Reporter: Takes notes and prepares a brief summary of what the group discovers.
– Artist: Draws pictures of the treasures and scenes from the map.
Discussion Prompts:
1. What “treasures” did the Queen of Sheba find in Solomon’s kingdom?
2. How did these treasures demonstrate Solomon’s wealth and God’s blessings?
3. What does each treasure tell us about the culture and values of Solomon’s time?
Participation:
– Every student takes turns explaining their “stop” on the map to the group.
– Encourage students to share what their favorite treasure was and why.
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Activity 3: Wisdom vs. Wealth Debate
Instructions:
– Break students into groups of 3-4.
– Each group will discuss and prepare a short debate on the value of wisdom versus wealth.
Roles:
– Moderator: Ensures everyone has a chance to speak and stays on topic.
– Wisdom Advocate: Argues that wisdom is more important than wealth.
– Wealth Advocate: Argues that wealth is more important than wisdom.
– Observer/Fact Checker: Ensures arguments are based on information from 1 Kings 10.
Discussion Prompts:
1. What examples from Solomon’s life show the importance of wisdom?
2. How did Solomon’s wealth impact his kingdom and his relationship with others?
3. Can wisdom or wealth buy happiness? Discuss with examples.
Participation:
– Each student must contribute at least one point for their side of the debate.
– After the debate, hold a group discussion to synthesize the main points and reflect on how both wisdom and wealth were portrayed in 1 Kings 10.
Download PDF for Group Activity
Journaling
Guided Journaling Prompts for ‘1 Kings 10’
Reflection
1. Who is visiting King Solomon in this chapter, and why is she visiting him?
– Reflect on what you found interesting about their meeting.
2. What are some of the gifts that the Queen of Sheba brought for Solomon?
– Think about what these gifts might say about her opinion of Solomon.
3. What was Solomon known for, and how did that make the Queen of Sheba feel after she met him?
– Consider why wisdom is valuable and how it affected the Queen’s impression.
Personal Application
4. Why do you think it is important to be wise and to seek understanding, like King Solomon?
– Write about a time when you needed wisdom in school or with friends.
5. The Queen of Sheba traveled far to learn from Solomon. What is something you would like to learn more about?
– List ways you can seek knowledge or wisdom in your daily life.
6. How can you show appreciation and kindness to someone you admire or learn from, similar to how the Queen showed this to Solomon?
– Think of someone in your life who inspires you, and write about ways you can show gratitude to them.
Prayer
7. Write a prayer asking for wisdom, like Solomon. What would you like help with in making better decisions?
– Share your thoughts with God about where you need wisdom the most.
8. Thank God for the people who share their wisdom with you. Who are they, and how have they helped you?
– Pray for these people and ask for good things in their lives.
Connecting to Daily Life
9. Solomon used his wisdom to lead and help his people. How can you use your strengths to help others around you?
– Consider ways you can be helpful at home, in school, or with friends.
10. Think about a time when your wisdom helped solve a problem. How did it feel, and what did you learn from the experience?
– Reflect on the skills or insights you gained and how you can continue growing in wisdom.
Quiz
Quiz: 1 Kings 10
Multiple Choice Questions:
1. Who was the queen that visited Solomon because she heard of his wisdom?
a) Queen Esther
b) Queen of Sheba
c) Queen Cleopatra
2. What did the Queen of Sheba bring to Solomon as gifts?
a) Apples and oranges
b) Gold, spices, and precious stones
c) Horses and cattle
3. What was Solomon’s reaction when he answered the Queen of Sheba’s questions?
a) He was confused
b) He answered all her questions
c) He refused to answer
True/False Questions:
4. True or False: The Queen of Sheba was disappointed with Solomon’s wisdom and wealth.
5. True or False: Solomon had only a few servants to help him.
Short-Answer Questions:
6. What surprised the Queen of Sheba when she visited Solomon?
7. How did the wealth and wisdom of King Solomon spread to other nations?
Answer Key:
Multiple Choice Answers:
1. b) Queen of Sheba
2. b) Gold, spices, and precious stones
3. b) He answered all her questions
True/False Answers:
4. False
5. False
Short-Answer Answers:
6. The Queen of Sheba was surprised by Solomon’s wisdom, the organization of his household, the food served at his table, and the happy servants who attended him.
7. The wealth and wisdom of King Solomon spread as people from many nations came to hear his wisdom, and he traded extensively with other kings.
Teacher Tips
Teaching 1 Kings 10 to Elementary Students
Overview:
1 Kings 10 describes the visit of the Queen of Sheba to King Solomon. She visits to test Solomon’s wisdom and to see his wealth and accomplishments. This chapter also highlights Solomon’s wealth.
Pacing Suggestions:
– Introduction (5 minutes): Begin with a brief story to set the scene about Solomon as a wise king and introduce the Queen of Sheba.
– Reading and Discussion (15 minutes): Read selected verses, paraphrase others for clarity, and pause frequently for discussion.
– Activities (15 minutes): Engage students with a related activity or craft.
– Wrap-Up (5 minutes): Summarize key points and encourage reflection on the lesson’s themes.
Explain Difficult Concepts:
– Wisdom: Describe wisdom as knowing how to make good choices and understanding things deeply. Compare it to making choices based on facts and kindness.
– Wealth: Explain wealth by comparing Solomon’s riches to owning many toys or having a very big house, but adding that it’s not the most important thing.
– The Queen of Sheba’s Visit: Frame it as a royal visit. The Queen wanted to see if the stories about Solomon’s wisdom and riches were true.
Engagement Tips:
– Storytelling: Use expressive storytelling to bring the narrative to life. Employ props or visual aids, like pictures or a simple crown, to represent royalty.
– Interactive Discussion: Ask open-ended questions such as, “Why do you think the Queen wanted to meet Solomon?” and encourage predictions about her visit.
– Group Activity: Have students draw Solomon’s palace or create “scrolls” with wise sayings. This allows creative thinking about the historical context.
– Role-Playing: Assign roles for a simple enactment of the Queen’s visit, helping students understand the narrative through action.
– Connection to Today: Discuss how wisdom is still important and ask students to share decisions they’ve made wisely.
Managing Student Engagement:
– Varied Activities: Alternate between listening, discussing, and activities to maintain attention.
– Positive Reinforcement: Praise student participation and creativity to encourage engagement.
– Movement: Incorporate small movement activities or stretches between tasks to help manage energy levels.
– Clear Expectations: Set clear guidelines for listening, contributing, and behavior during activities.
By utilizing these strategies, you can make 1 Kings 10 engaging and understandable for elementary students, fostering a deeper connection with the text.
Crafts
Craft Activity: Queen of Sheba’s Visit Diorama
Materials Needed:
– Shoe box (one per student)
– Construction paper (various colors)
– Scissors
– Glue sticks
– Markers or crayons
– Small toy figures (like from a playset, optional)
– Gold glitter or gold foil paper
– Craft jewels or sequins
– Cotton balls
– Tape
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Background Creation:
– Have students turn the shoe box on its side to create a backdrop for their diorama.
– Use blue construction paper to line the back of the shoe box as the “sky.”
2. Creating the Palace:
– Cut out a piece of colored construction paper to create a palace facade within the shoe box.
– Students can use markers to draw bricks or windows on the facade.
– Optionally, add columns using rolled pieces of paper.
3. Decorate with Gold:
– Cut shapes resembling crowns, scepters, or treasures from gold foil paper and paste them around the palace to represent the wealth King Solomon showed the Queen of Sheba.
– Use gold glitter or craft jewels to embellish these items.
4. Queen of Sheba and Solomon Figures:
– If using toy figures, place them inside the diorama to represent the Queen and King Solomon.
– Otherwise, students can draw the characters on construction paper, color them, cut them out, and glue them standing up inside the diorama.
5. Adding Animals and Gifts:
– Draw or cut out shapes of camels and other animals that might have accompanied the Queen.
– Use cotton balls to create clouds in the sky or to represent sheep accompanying the Queen.
6. Finishing Touches:
– Allow students to use sequins to decorate the diorama as additional wealth shown during the visit.
– Encourage creativity by drawing additional elements, such as trees or gardens.
Reinforcement of the Lesson:
This craft helps students visualize the grandeur and importance of the event described in 1 Kings 10, where the Queen of Sheba visits King Solomon. Students learn about King Solomon’s wisdom and the significance of trade and cultural exchanges in biblical times. The act of recreating King Solomon’s palace and the Queen’s visit highlights the idea of hospitality, generosity, and shared knowledge, which were key themes of their encounter.
Music
Song Recommendations:
1. “King Solomon’s Wisdom” Paraphrase Song
Lyrics Paraphrase:
“King Solomon was wise and gracious / His wisdom known throughout the land / The Queen of Sheba traveled to see / The wisdom he had at God’s command.”
Suggested Actions:
– Point to the sky for “wisdom.”
– Pretend to travel for “The Queen of Sheba traveled.”
– Extend arms outward for “throughout the land.”
Connection to Lesson:
This song highlights Solomon’s wisdom as a gift from God, mirroring how the Queen of Sheba sought out and esteemed his insights.
2. “Seek and You Will Find” (Tune of “Row, Row, Row Your Boat”)
Lyrics Paraphrase:
“Seek, seek, seek for wisdom / Like the Queen of Sheba did / Ask God for understanding, see / The answers he’ll provide.”
Suggested Actions:
– Use hand binoculars for “seek.”
– Nod head for “understanding.”
– Open palms upward for “answers he’ll provide.”
Connection to Lesson:
Encourages children to seek wisdom and understanding, much like the Queen of Sheba did from Solomon and underscores the value of divine wisdom.
Worship Activities:
1. Solomon’s Wisdom Skit:
Divide the students into small groups and have them act out a short skit where the Queen of Sheba visits King Solomon, asking questions to see his wisdom. Guide them to touch on themes of gracious hospitality and wise answers to showcase Solomon’s gift.
2. Wisdom Treasure Hunt:
Create a treasure hunt where students must find “wisdom cards” hidden around the room, each containing a different proverb or wise saying from the Bible. Discuss each saying and how it ties into making wise choices.
3. Crown Craft:
Have students make paper crowns, emphasizing Solomon’s kingly role. While crafting, discuss how he didn’t need the crown to be wise; his wisdom was a gift from God. Add slips of paper with wisdom messages to decorate their crowns.
Each of these activities and songs will help students engage with the themes of 1 Kings 10 in a creative and age-appropriate way, emphasizing the importance of seeking wisdom and acknowledging God’s gifts.
Scripture Background
Background Notes for 1 Kings 10
Historical Context:
– 1 Kings is part of the Old Testament and tells the story of Israel’s kings after King David.
– Chapter 10 focuses on King Solomon, the son of David, who was known for his wisdom and wealth.
– During Solomon’s reign, Israel was at its most powerful and experienced a time of peace and prosperity.
Cultural Insights:
– The Queen of Sheba visited Solomon because she heard about his great wisdom and wealth. Sheba is believed to be in modern-day Ethiopia or Yemen.
– In this time, royals and leaders visited each other to learn, exchange gifts, and establish trade relationships.
– Gold, spices, and precious stones were valuable trade items and symbols of wealth.
Theological Insights:
– Solomon’s wisdom was a gift from God, and it was meant to show how he could rule Israel well.
– The story highlights themes of God’s blessings and the rewards of seeking wisdom.
– It also shows the importance of hospitality and sharing God-given talents with others.
For Classroom Use:
– Explain how Solomon’s wisdom came from God and how he used it to help his people.
– Discuss why the Queen of Sheba was curious to meet Solomon and what she learned from him.
– Highlight how sharing and learning from others can make people better leaders and friends.
This background helps students understand the importance of wisdom, sharing, and the impact of God’s blessings in leadership.
Download PDF for Scripture Background
