Lesson
Engaging Introduction
Welcome, everyone! Today we are going to explore a story from the Bible about a very important king named Solomon. Have you heard of King Solomon before? He was known for being very wise. People came from far and wide to hear his wisdom. Isn’t it amazing to think someone could be so wise that people travel just to listen to them?
Now, Solomon was the king of Israel, and God gave him wisdom because Solomon asked for it when he could have asked for anything else. But do you know that even wise people can make mistakes? Sometimes when we get older or become very successful, it’s easy to forget the important lessons we learned. That’s what happened to Solomon. Even he made mistakes!
Imagine if you built a magnificent sandcastle at the beach, but then you forgot to watch the tide. No matter how amazing your castle was, if you weren’t careful, the tide could wash it away, right? Similarly, Solomon didn’t remain careful to follow God’s instructions. Today, as we dive into 1 Kings 11, we’ll find out what went wrong and what lessons we can learn from Solomon’s mistakes.
Let’s get ready to learn how we can stay on the right path by holding onto the wisdom we gain and the teachings God gives us.
Main Teaching Points
1. Solomon’s Heart Turned Away
Solomon started as a good king who loved God. The Bible tells us in 1 Kings 11 that Solomon had many wives who came from nations that did not worship God. In those times, marrying someone from a different nation was a way kings would make alliances. But God had told the Israelites not to marry from those nations because He knew they might lead the Israelites away from Him.
Think of it like when you’re on a hike. If you keep looking at the beautiful scenery but don’t watch the path, you might wander off the trail. Solomon, too, began to look away from God’s path. His many wives worshiped other gods, and eventually, Solomon started worshipping them too. God is supposed to be first in our lives, like how the engine is the most important part of a train. If the engine doesn’t work, the train won’t take you to where you need to go.
2. Consequences of Disobedience
Because Solomon’s heart turned away from God, consequences followed. God warned Solomon that his kingdom would be divided. Can you think of when you’ve gotten in trouble at home or school for not listening? Like forgetting to do your homework can mean no recess, not listening to God has consequences, too.
God told Solomon that because of his disobedience, the kingdom would be taken away from his family. But, out of respect for Solomon’s father, King David, God said it wouldn’t happen in Solomon’s lifetime but after his son’s. This was a very serious consequence! It’s like if you broke a toy, and though you were upset, it became clear that your careless actions had lasting effects.
3. Importance of Obedience to God
Now, why do we listen to the rules? It’s often to keep us safe and help us make good choices. God gave Solomon wisdom, and He also gave him commandments to guide him. God knew that by worshipping false gods, Solomon was stepping away from His protection. Imagine playing a game where you don’t follow the rules. It can become confusing and unfair quickly, right? Similarly, God’s commandments are there to help us live lives that are joyful and pleasing to Him.
Listening to God is like listening to a loving parent who knows what’s best for us. God wanted Solomon to stay close to Him, just like a cozy blanket on a cold day keeps you warm.
4. God’s Promise Kept
Despite Solomon’s mistakes, God still kept His promise. He had promised that David’s family line would continue to rule. God chose Solomon’s servant, Jeroboam, to rule over ten tribes, but for David’s sake, He left one tribe for Solomon’s son. God’s promise is like a rainbow that appears after a storm, showing us His faithfulness. Even when we make mistakes, God loves us and keeps His promises.
Personal Application for Elementary Students
So, what can we learn from Solomon’s story? First, it teaches us the importance of keeping our hearts focused on God. Just like we need to wear our glasses if we want to see clearly, we need God’s word to guide us and help us make the right decisions.
Solomon’s story also reminds us that the choices we make can deeply affect not just ourselves but also others. Forgiving our friends when we’re upset means we can play happily together again. When we choose to follow God’s ways, it blesses those around us and brings us closer to Him.
Additionally, it’s crucial to be mindful of the influences around us. Have you ever copied something a friend did, only to realize later it wasn’t a good idea? Like playing a game that’s too rough or leaving your toys all over? Solomon’s story shows us that who we spend time with can affect our actions. Let’s choose friends who help us follow God’s path.
Lastly, it’s about trusting in God’s faithfulness. We can trust that God’s promises are unbreakable, much like knowing the sun will rise each day. Even if we make a mistake (because we all do!), God is still there, encouraging us to follow Him and make better choices next time. Keeping God first, just as Solomon should have done, makes our lives much more joyful and meaningful.
Interactive Discussion Questions
To better understand today’s lesson, let’s discuss some questions together:
1. Why is it important to put God first in our lives, just like what God wanted from Solomon?
– Encourage children to think about the importance of priorities. They might say putting God first is like putting on your seatbelt first in a car for safety. Explain that when God is first, everything else in our lives will be in order, just like when foods are in the right places in a picnic basket, nothing spills.
2. Do you think God’s love for Solomon changed even when he made mistakes?
– Guide the discussion to remind children that God’s love is constant. Share examples like how parents still love them even when they make mistakes. Emphasize that God always wants to bring us back to Him, like holding a hand in the dark, no matter how many times we stumble.
3. How can we remember to follow God’s rules even when it seems hard?
– Accept some suggestions and reinforce practical tools like reading Bible stories, praying, or asking a trusted adult for guidance. Mention how it’s like studying for a test: the more you prepare, the more confident you feel. With God’s guidance, we can face any situation.
4. What are some ways we can influence our friends positively to stay on the right path?
– Prompt students to think of good habits like kindness, sharing, and honesty. Encourage ideas of how they can lead by example, like inviting a friend to church or showing kindness on the playground. It’s like being a light when it gets dark: our actions can brighten someone else’s path, too.
Great job, everyone! By listening and sharing, you’ve learned a lot about why it’s important to follow God with a heart that is true and loving. Remember, even wise people like Solomon can lose their way, but God’s love and forgiveness can always bring us back.
Games
Game 1: King Solomon’s Choices
Objective:
Help students understand the consequences of King Solomon’s choices and how they led to changes in his kingdom.
Number of Players:
4-8
Materials Needed:
– A deck of “decision” cards (index cards with choices King Solomon made and possible outcomes)
– Category cards (1 set: “Wise Choice,” “Not Wise Choice”)
– Timer
Setup:
1. Shuffle the decision cards and place them face down on a stack in the center.
2. Place the category cards (“Wise Choice,” “Not Wise Choice”) as headers on a table or floor where everyone can see.
Instructions:
1. Each player takes turns drawing a decision card from the deck.
2. Players read the decision aloud and then decide whether it goes under “Wise Choice” or “Not Wise Choice.”
3. After making a selection, flip the card to reveal an explanation, which includes the consequence of Solomon’s decision.
4. Discuss why it was a wise or unwise choice for 1-2 minutes.
5. Continue until everyone has had a turn.
6. Time permitting, discuss how wise choices they make could impact their lives positively.
How it Reinforces the Lesson:
By examining Solomon’s choices, students understand how important it is to seek wisdom and make good decisions, emphasizing the story’s moral lessons.
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Game 2: Solomon’s Temple Puzzle
Objective:
Learn about the building of Solomon’s Temple and the associated labor force.
Number of Players:
2-5
Materials Needed:
– Puzzle pieces (constructed to form an outline of Solomon’s Temple)
– Image or drawing of Solomon’s Temple for reference
Setup:
– Arrange all puzzle pieces in a bag or pile next to the temple reference image.
Instructions:
1. Players work together to assemble the puzzle of Solomon’s Temple.
2. Assembling the puzzle requires teamwork, just as the construction of the temple required thousands of workers.
3. Use the temple reference image to guide assembly.
4. Once completed, discuss King Solomon’s achievements and the importance of the temple.
How it Reinforces the Lesson:
This game illustrates collaboration and unity, reflecting the significant efforts required to construct the temple, emphasizing the teamwork aspect of Solomon’s reign.
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Game 3: Proverbs and Proverbs Hopscotch
Objective:
Help students memorize and understand Solomon’s wisdom as reflected in Proverbs.
Number of Players:
3-10
Materials Needed:
– Chalk or tape (for hopscotch layout)
– Cards with simple Proverbs written on them
Setup:
1. Create a hopscotch course with chalk or tape.
2. Keep the Proverb cards in a box or bag at the start of the hopscotch layout.
Instructions:
1. Players take turns picking a Proverb card before hopping.
2. Read the Proverb aloud and explain its meaning in simple terms.
3. The player then hops through the course, reciting or recalling the Proverb.
4. When the player reaches the end, they pass the card to the next player in line.
5. Encourage students to remember different Proverbs they learned.
6. The game continues until everyone has had multiple turns.
How it Reinforces the Lesson:
Proverbs represents Solomon’s wisdom. By learning and sharing these Proverbs, students understand the wisdom Solomon was known for and how it can apply to their lives.
Takehome
Take-Home Assignment: Reflecting on 1 Kings 11
Dear Students and Families,
Today, we explored the story of King Solomon from 1 Kings 11. Solomon was known for his wisdom, but in this chapter, we learned about some of his choices that displeased God. Let’s reflect on what we learned and engage in some fun activities to better understand the story.
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Reading Recap:
1 Kings 11 tells us about Solomon’s later years. Although Solomon was a wise king, he made choices that led him away from God. He married many foreign wives who worshipped other gods. Solomon, influenced by them, turned his heart away from God by allowing the worship of other gods in Israel. As a result, God became angry with Solomon and decided that the kingdom would be taken away from his family, except for one tribe.
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Reflection Questions:
1. Why was God upset with Solomon?
– Discuss this question with your family. Remember, God wanted Solomon to follow Him alone.
2. What can we learn from Solomon’s choices?
– Think about the importance of staying true to good and right choices, even when it is difficult.
3. How can we ensure we make wise choices?
– Consider the role of family and guidance in helping us choose the right path.
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Family Activities:
1. Role Play:
– With your family, act out a scene where Solomon is making decisions. One person can be Solomon, and others can be his advisors, representing his wives or God. Discuss how different voices influence decisions.
2. Wise Choices Collage:
– Create a collage using magazines, drawings, or printed images that represent wise choices. Discuss why each choice is good and how it reflects God’s teachings.
3. Family Discussion:
– At the dinner table, share a time when you each had to make an important choice. Talk about what helped you make a good decision.
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Creative Activity:
Wise Path Maze:
– Draw a maze on paper. On the route to the end, write down “wise choices” and “unwise choices.” Navigate the maze by choosing the path that follows wise choices.
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Memory Verse:
Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
Practice this verse together, maybe even write it on a family board or create a colorful poster to remember it throughout the week.
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Thank you for taking time with your family to reflect on this important lesson. Remember, making wise choices helps us stay true to what is good!
Have a wonderful and reflective time!
Visuals
Slide 1: Title Slide
– Visual: An image of the Book of 1 Kings cover or an ancient scroll.
– Caption: “Exploring 1 Kings 11: The Choices of King Solomon”
Slide 2: King Solomon’s Prosperity
– Visual: Illustration of King Solomon in his royal attire, sitting on a throne surrounded by treasures.
– Caption: “King Solomon: Wise and Wealthy”
– Description: Explain Solomon’s initial wisdom and prosperity as a blessing from God.
Slide 3: Solomon’s Wives
– Visual: A map showing the regions connected to Solomon through marriage (e.g., Egypt, Moab, Ammon).
– Caption: “Solomon’s Many Marriages”
– Description: Discuss how Solomon married many foreign women, which was not in line with God’s instructions.
Slide 4: The Influence of Foreign Gods
– Visual: Drawing of various idols representing foreign gods like Chemosh and Molech.
– Caption: “Turned Away by Idols”
– Description: Describe how these marriages led Solomon to worship other gods.
Slide 5: God’s Warning
– Visual: An illustration of an angel or prophet appearing to Solomon, looking concerned.
– Caption: “A Warning from God”
– Description: Explain God’s warning to Solomon about the consequences of his actions.
Slide 6: The Kingdom’s Future
– Visual: A torn map of Israel symbolizing division, with labels of the Northern and Southern Kingdoms.
– Caption: “A Divided Kingdom”
– Description: Discuss the prophecy of the kingdom being divided due to Solomon’s disobedience.
Slide 7: Reflection Activity
– Visual: A thought bubble or question mark over a child pondering.
– Caption: “Reflect and Think”
– Description: Prompt students to think about the importance of making good choices and remaining faithful.
Slide 8: Conclusion and Moral
– Visual: A path splitting into two, with signs saying “Wise Choices” and “Poor Choices”.
– Caption: “The Path We Choose”
– Description: Conclude with a discussion on how Solomon’s story teaches us about the consequences of our choices.
Slide 9: Group Activity
– Visual: Paper and crayons/colored pencils.
– Caption: “Design Your Own Wise King/Queen”
– Description: Encourage students to draw and describe qualities of a wise and obedient leader.
Memory Verse
Key Bible Verse:
1 Kings 11:4 (NIV)
“As Solomon grew old, his wives turned his heart after other gods, and his heart was not fully devoted to the Lord his God, as the heart of David his father had been.”
Creative Ways to Memorize:
1. Song:
– Create a simple melody or use a well-known children’s tune (like “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star”) to set the verse to music, making it easier to remember through rhythm and repetition.
2. Rhyme:
– Make a rhyme with the key parts of the verse:
“Solomon was wise and bold, But as he grew and got old, His heart turned to other gods, unlike his dad’s control.”
3. Motions:
– Assign actions for key parts of the verse:
– “Grew old” – pretend to hold a walking stick.
– “Heart” – place hands over the heart.
– “Turned” – turn around in a circle.
– “Not fully devoted” – wag finger in a ‘no’ motion.
– “Lord his God” – point upwards.
4. Short Challenges:
– Flash Memory: Write each word of the verse on individual cards. Have the students arrange them in the correct order after a brief look.
– Verse Relay: Divide into teams, have each team member run to a board and write one word of the verse until it’s complete.
These activities can make memorizing the verse interactive and enjoyable for elementary students.
Group Activity
Activity 1: Story Sequencing
Instructions:
1. Divide the students into groups of four.
2. Distribute a set of shuffled story cards containing key events from 1 Kings 11.
3. Each card should include a sentence or two describing the event and an illustration.
Roles:
– Reader: Reads the sentences aloud to the group.
– Arranger: Physically arranges the cards in the order they believe the story unfolds.
– Illustrator: Describes the illustration on each card to help with sequencing.
– Summary Maker: Writes a brief summary (one sentence) for the sequence once it is finalized.
Discussion Prompts:
– Why do you think Solomon made the choices he did? What could have influenced his decisions?
– How do you think Solomon felt during these events?
Participation:
Every student should contribute by taking turns discussing their role’s part in the activity. Encourage teamwork to ensure everyone agrees on the final sequence before presenting it to the class.
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Activity 2: Character Interview
Instructions:
1. In groups of five, students will role-play an interview with King Solomon and other key figures from 1 Kings 11.
2. Assign characters: Solomon, a prophet, one of Solomon’s wives, a court adviser, and a child from the kingdom.
Roles:
– Interviewer: Asks questions to all characters about the story’s events and their feelings.
– Solomon: Answers questions from the perspective of King Solomon.
– Prophet: Discusses the prophecies and their significance.
– Wife: Shares perspectives on being part of Solomon’s household.
– Adviser/Child: Offers insights into life in the kingdom during Solomon’s reign.
Discussion Prompts:
– As Solomon, what was your greatest challenge during this time?
– Prophet, how did you feel delivering messages from God to Solomon?
– What do you think could have changed the outcome of the story?
Participation:
Each student must answer at least one question as their character, promoting engagement and understanding by stepping into others’ shoes.
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Activity 3: Building Choices
Instructions:
1. Form groups of four, providing each with building blocks or LEGOs.
2. Students will construct a model representing Solomon’s kingdom and discuss the choices he made.
Roles:
– Builder: Constructs the physical representation based on group discussion.
– Historian: Provides explanations for what each part of the model represents.
– Critic: Discusses how different choices could have changed the model.
– Messenger: Shares the final model and explanation with the class.
Discussion Prompts:
– What parts of the kingdom flourished due to Solomon’s wisdom, and what suffered due to his poor choices?
– How can making different choices change the outcome for a leader?
Participation:
Each student must contribute by offering ideas during construction, sharing thoughts during the discussion, or presenting the model, ensuring equal participation from all members.
Download PDF for Group Activity
Journaling
Guided Journaling Prompts for 1 Kings 11
Reflect on the Story:
1. In 1 Kings 11, King Solomon makes choices that do not make God happy. Can you remember what Solomon did that was wrong? Write down what you think about his actions.
2. How do you think Solomon felt when he was no longer following God closely? Draw a picture or write about what emotions he might have experienced.
Connect to Your Life:
1. Think about a time when you had to make a difficult decision. What helped you make the right choice? Write or draw about that experience.
2. Solomon was influenced by the people around him. Who are some people that help you make good choices? Write their names and how they help you.
3. Why do you think it is important to listen to God and make choices that please Him? Write down your thoughts.
Applying the Lesson:
1. Imagine you could talk to Solomon. What advice would you give him about making better choices? Write or draw your response.
2. What is one promise you can make to God today? Write a short prayer asking for His help in keeping this promise.
Prayer Journal:
1. Write a prayer asking God to help you make good choices every day.
2. Thank God for the people in your life who help you follow Him and make wise decisions. Write down your prayer of thanks.
3. Ask God for forgiveness for times you may not have made the best choices. Write a prayer about what you can do differently next time.
Final Thought:
– How will you try to follow God better this week? Write or draw one thing you plan to do.
Quiz
1 Kings 11 Quiz for Elementary Students
Multiple-Choice Questions:
1. Who was the king mentioned in 1 Kings 11?
a) David
b) Solomon
c) Saul
d) Joshua
2. What did Solomon have many of, which led him away from God?
a) Castles
b) Wives
c) Horses
d) Gardens
3. What did God say would happen to Solomon’s kingdom because of his actions?
a) It would grow bigger
b) It would rain every day
c) It would be taken away
d) It would disappear
True/False Questions:
4. Solomon followed other gods and did evil in the eyes of the Lord.
True / False
5. God said He would take the entire kingdom away from Solomon during his lifetime.
True / False
Short-Answer Questions:
6. Why did God become angry with Solomon?
7. What did God promise to do for the sake of David?
Answer Key for Teachers:
Multiple-Choice Answers:
1. b) Solomon
2. b) Wives
3. c) It would be taken away
True/False Answers:
4. True
5. False (The kingdom would be taken away after Solomon’s lifetime, but not completely; one tribe would remain for David’s sake.)
Short-Answer Answers:
6. God became angry with Solomon because he turned away from God and worshipped other gods, influenced by his many wives.
7. For the sake of David, God promised not to take the entire kingdom away during Solomon’s lifetime and allowed one tribe to remain for Solomon’s son.
Teacher Tips
Teacher Notes and Tips for ‘1 Kings 11’:
Lesson Objective:
– Understand the story of King Solomon’s downfall due to disobedience and the consequences that follow.
Materials Needed:
– Children’s Bible or age-appropriate storybook
– Visual aids (e.g., images of King Solomon, a map of ancient Israel)
– Craft materials for a crown activity
– Chart paper and markers
Pacing Suggestions:
1. Introduction (5 minutes):
– Begin with a recap of who King Solomon was—a wise king who built the temple in Jerusalem.
– Briefly introduce the topic of obedience and making good choices.
2. Read and Explain (10-15 minutes):
– Read 1 Kings 11 in a simplified version or a children’s Bible.
– Use visual aids to show Solomon’s kingdom and the Temple.
– Pause frequently to explain the text:
– Solomon’s many foreign wives: Explain that Solomon disobeyed God’s command not to marry women from other nations who followed different gods.
– Idol worship: Describe what idols are, using examples of items that could be considered idols today and how they distract from what’s important.
– Consequences: Simplify how God was unhappy with Solomon and decided to divide the kingdom as a consequence of his actions.
3. Discussion (10 minutes):
– Ask questions to ensure understanding, such as “Why did Solomon’s choices upset God?” and “What happened because he disobeyed?”
4. Activity (10 minutes):
– Craft a crown: Each student makes their paper crown using colorful paper and decorations, representing Solomon’s kingship.
– On each crown, students write one way they can make wise choices and obey what’s right.
5. Conclusion (5 minutes):
– Reiterate the importance of making good choices and being obedient.
– Encourage students to share one good choice they plan to make this week at home or school.
Explaining Difficult Concepts:
– Idolatry: Use simple language to explain that an idol is something we might put before our relationship with God. Discuss modern examples like spending too much time on games or TV.
– Disobedience: Make it relatable by discussing rules at home and school. Present how certain rules keep everyone safe and happy.
– Consequences: Use analogies familiar to children, like consequences for not following rules in the classroom.
Managing Student Engagement:
– Interactive Storytelling: Use different voices for characters, involve students by asking them what Solomon might have been thinking or feeling.
– Visuals and Hands-On Activities: Keep students engaged with visuals and crafts that relate to the lesson.
– Movement: Introduce a short “king’s parade” where students can march around with their crowns, reinforcing the notion of leadership and responsibility.
Behavior Management:
– Establish clear rules for listening during the story.
– Use positive reinforcement by acknowledging good participation and thoughtful answers.
– Be ready to redirect off-topic conversations back to the main lesson theme.
Crafts
Craft: Solomon’s Divided Kingdom Crown
Materials List:
– Gold construction paper or cardstock
– Scissors
– Stapler or glue
– Markers or crayons
– Stickers or decorative jewels (optional)
– String or yarn
– Hole punch
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Create the Crown Base:
– Cut a strip of gold construction paper or cardstock that is long enough to fit around a child’s head when connected. It should be about 3 inches wide.
2. Design the Crown:
– Invite students to draw and color on the crown base with markers or crayons. They can make designs or patterns that they think represent wisdom or royalty.
3. Decorate the Crown:
– Provide stickers or decorative jewels for students to add some embellishments to their crowns, making them look regal.
4. Construct the Crown:
– Once decorated, help the students wrap the crown around their heads to get the right fit. Staple or glue the ends together to form a circular crown.
5. Divide the Kingdom (Optional):
– Discuss how Solomon’s kingdom was divided due to his disobedience. Have students gently cut the crown into two connected sections almost through, to signify the divided kingdom.
6. Secure with Yarn:
– Use a hole punch to create a hole on each side of the crown where the cut ends. Thread a piece of string or yarn through the holes and tie them, allowing more security.
7. Wear or Display:
– Students can wear their crowns or display them as a reminder of the lesson.
Reinforcement of the Lesson:
This craft activity helps reinforce the lesson from 1 Kings 11 about King Solomon’s disobedience leading to the division of the kingdom. As students create and then gently divide the crown, they can visualize and understand the concept of a united kingdom becoming separate parts due to actions not aligned with wisdom. Discussing Solomon’s choices and their consequences while doing this craft helps students grasp the importance of obedience, wisdom, and the impact of their decisions, making the biblical story more tangible and understandable.
Music
Songs
1. “Trust and Obey”
– Lyrics/Paraphrase:
– “When we walk with the Lord, in the light of His Word, What a glory He sheds on our way!”
– Paraphrased for kids: “Listen to God, follow His plans, and your heart will be happy.”
– Actions:
– Walking in place for “walk with the Lord.”
– Hand over heart for “glory” and “happy.”
– Connection to Lesson:
– This song teaches the importance of obedience to God’s word, reflecting the consequences King Solomon faced when he did not obey God completely.
2. “The Wise Man Built His House Upon the Rock”
– Lyrics/Paraphrase:
– “The wise man built his house upon the rock (x3) And the rains came tumbling down.”
– Paraphrased for kids: “A strong foundation is built on trusting God.”
– Actions:
– Hand-building gesture for “built his house.”
– Finger raindrops for “rains came tumbling down.”
– Connection to Lesson:
– Illustrates the need for wisdom in decision-making, a trait Solomon had but ultimately neglected, leading to his downfall.
Worship Activities
1. Building a “Wise Choices” Tower
– Activity:
– Use building blocks to construct a tower.
– Each block represents a wise choice related to following God’s guidance (e.g., kindness, honesty).
– Connection:
– Relates to Solomon’s choices and how making unwise decisions can lead to negative outcomes. Discuss how staying true to God’s teachings builds a strong life.
2. Heart Craft
– Activity:
– Craft paper hearts with phrases like “Love God First.”
– Decorate with stickers and markers.
– Connection:
– Solomon’s heart turned away from God due to his choices. This activity reminds students to keep God foremost in their hearts.
These songs and activities help children understand the key lesson from 1 Kings 11 about obedience to God and the importance of wise choices, using interactive and memorable methods.
Scripture Background
Background Notes for 1 Kings 11
Historical Context
– King Solomon: This chapter takes place during the reign of King Solomon, who was the son of King David. Solomon is known for building the Temple in Jerusalem and for his wisdom.
– Israel’s Division: After Solomon’s reign, the kingdom of Israel eventually splits into two parts: the northern kingdom of Israel and the southern kingdom of Judah.
Cultural Insights
– Marriage Alliances: In ancient times, kings often married daughters of other kings to form alliances and keep peace between nations. Solomon married many foreign princesses.
– Idolatry: Worshiping idols or gods other than the one true God, Yahweh, was common among neighboring nations. Solomon’s foreign wives influenced him to worship these gods.
Theological Themes
– Faithfulness to God: God wants people to worship Him only. Solomon turning to other gods showed disobedience to God’s command (Deuteronomy 5:7-9).
– Consequences of Actions: Solomon’s actions had consequences for himself and the entire kingdom. His turning away from God led to future problems for Israel, including its division.
– God’s Promise: Despite Solomon’s disobedience, God remained faithful to His promises, especially His covenant with David, Solomon’s father. The kingdom would not be taken from Solomon during his lifetime because of this promise.
Teaching Points
– Wisdom and Folly: Discuss the importance of making wise choices and staying true to one’s beliefs, like living faithfully according to God’s commandments.
– Influence and Choices: Talk about how the friends and people around us can influence our actions and the importance of choosing good influences.
– Consequences: Use Solomon’s story to highlight that our decisions can affect others and have lasting impacts.
These insights can help teachers present the story of 1 Kings 11 in an understandable and relatable way for elementary students.
Download PDF for Scripture Background
