Lesson
Engaging Introduction
Good morning, boys and girls! Today, we’re going to hear a very exciting story from the Old Testament, about a time when God sent a special message to His people through a man known as a prophet. Have you ever played a game of “Telephone,” where you pass a message from one person to another? Sometimes, the message gets mixed up when it moves from person to person. In today’s lesson, we’ll learn about a prophet—a messenger chosen by God to deliver His words exactly as they were told.
Our story comes from 1 Kings 13. We’ll learn about a king named Jeroboam, a prophet who courageously delivered God’s message, and a lesson about obedience and listening carefully. As we dive into this story, think about how important it is to listen and follow instructions. We’ll explore what happens when we do, and even what happens when we don’t!
Picture this: a bustling town, with a beautiful but newly constructed altar where King Jeroboam is about to make an offering. Sounds interesting, right? Through this lesson, we will discover how God shows His power and why listening to Him is so important.
We’ll also talk about how God’s messages might come to us today and how we can respond to them. So, get ready to use your imagination, listen carefully, and learn an important lesson that can help us understand how God wants us to live our lives!
Main Teaching Points
1. God Sends a Message (241 words)
Let’s start our story with King Jeroboam, who was ruling over the people of Israel. He decided to create his own altars and worship areas, which was not what God wanted. God had specific places where He wanted His people to worship Him, and Jeroboam disobeyed that command. So, God sent a prophet, a very important messenger, to deliver a message.
Can you imagine being the prophet and having to tell someone like a king that they were wrong? It takes a lot of courage! But this prophet went straight to King Jeroboam as he stood by the altar. God asked him to proclaim that the altar would be destroyed because God was not pleased. This was a bold message, demonstrating that God’s instructions were not being followed.
This part of our story shows us that sometimes God needs to communicate to set us back on the right path. Just like when your parents might tell you not to touch something because it’s hot or to share your toys because it’s kind, God’s message through the prophet was to correct something that was wrong. It was all about helping the king and the people pay attention to the right way of worshiping God.
2. Signs and Wonders (234 words)
God didn’t just send a message through words; He also showed His power with some amazing signs! As the prophet spoke, the altar split in two, and the ashes on it were poured out. This was a powerful sign that what the prophet was saying was true. The king saw this miracle happen with his very own eyes.
Not only that, but when King Jeroboam was angry and pointed his hand to seize the prophet, his hand dried up and became stiff! Could you imagine not being able to move your hand? The king couldn’t use it until he asked the prophet to pray to God for healing, showing everyone the power and mercy of God.
This teaches us that God is very serious about His instructions and that He has the power to do incredible things when needed. Imagine your parent showing you a toy that you were warned could break if not handled carefully—it serves as a reminder to be gentle, right? In the same way, God provided a reminder through these miraculous signs about the seriousness of obeying Him.
3. Obedience and Deception (233 words)
Even after the prophet delivered the message, the story continued with another important lesson. The prophet was told by God not to eat or drink anything on his way home. He needed to follow these instructions exactly. But as he traveled back, an old prophet tricked him.
This old prophet told the man that an angel had visited him, saying it was okay to eat and drink. Even though it wasn’t true, the prophet believed him and disobeyed God’s command. Unfortunately, this led to a very sad ending when the prophet’s life was taken as a result of his disobedience.
Like when your teacher gives instructions on how to complete a craft project—if someone else tells you to do it differently, you might end up making a mistake. The story is a reminder of how important it is to trust and follow God’s instructions directly, and not be tricked into doing otherwise.
4. Lessons from the Prophet’s Journey (227 words)
The story of the prophet teaches us something vital about listening to and trusting God. God’s instructions are truthful and are for our well-being. The consequences faced by the prophet remind us that it’s important to stay true to what we know is right, even if someone else tries to trick us.
By following God’s instructions, the prophet was initially protected, just like when you listen to instructions at home or in school and stay safe. His unfortunate mistake later on, however, was a lesson for everyone on what could happen when we aren’t careful about following God.
Ultimately, God’s desire is for us to understand His love and His wishes for goodness in our lives. This story teaches us about the importance of fidelity to God’s commands and remaining steadfast and courageous, even if the world around us tries to pull us in different directions.
Just like every hero of faith in the Bible, we have moments where we must choose to follow God, always remembering that, while it might sometimes be challenging, it is always the right path to take. We have guidance from God, through His word, and it helps us make wise decisions every day.
Personal Application for Elementary Students
Now that we’ve learned about the prophet and King Jeroboam, let’s think about how this story applies to you. Even as kids, you might face situations where you have to decide whether to obey or not. It might be as simple as listening to your teacher at school, following the rules at home, or sharing with your friends, but these are your opportunities to show obedience.
Imagine you’re drawing a picture, and a friend tells you to color outside the lines even though your teacher said to color inside them. What do you do? Remember the prophet had to think about what God told him. If you’re in that situation, you can remember how important it was for the prophet to follow God’s instructions exactly as they were given.
It’s also important to remember that sometimes we can learn from doing the wrong thing, just like the prophet learned. Mistakes happen, and what’s great about God is that He’s always willing to forgive and help us to learn from our mistakes. So, if you make a mistake, don’t be discouraged. Ask for forgiveness and try to make a better choice next time.
Finally, just as the prophet received a specific task from God, God has given you special things to do, too—being kind, helping others, and listening to your parents and teachers. These are the kinds of things that show your love for God. So, each day, try to follow what you know is right, be brave like the prophet, and shine brightly with your actions!
Interactive Discussion Questions
Let’s wrap up our lesson with some questions to think about and discuss. It’s a fun way to see what we’ve learned today!
1. Why do you think the prophet was brave to bring God’s message to King Jeroboam?
Think about how you would feel if you had to tell someone important that they were wrong. This helps us understand the courage it took for the prophet. Discussing this can help kids understand that sometimes doing the right thing takes bravery and we can find that courage with God’s help.
2. What lesson did we learn from the miracle that happened when the altar broke apart?
This question invites kids to talk about God’s power. It can lead to a discussion on how visible signs can be reminders for us today to follow God. For instance, seeing your teacher smile might be a sign you did something good. It reinforces that our actions matter.
3. How do we know if what someone is telling us to do is the right thing? What can we do if we’re unsure?
Encourage kids to think about ways to find out what’s right, like asking parents or reading the Bible. Talking about this helps children learn to make good choices and seek the right sources for guidance. They can understand that God’s word, like the Bible, is always a good place to start.
4. Why is it important to ask God for forgiveness if we make a mistake?
Use this question to discuss how everyone makes mistakes and how asking for forgiveness is a part of learning and growing. It helps kids understand that God’s love is unconditional, and He always wants to help us thrive and make better choices afterward.
Games
Game 1: Prophet’s Path Puzzle
Objective:
Help students understand the consequences of disobedience and the importance of following God’s instructions.
Number of Players:
4-6
Materials Needed:
– A set of 8-10 large puzzle pieces (each piece with a part of the story from 1 Kings 13)
– Large flat surface or table
– Timer
Setup:
Scatter puzzle pieces face-down on a table or flat surface.
Instructions:
1. Divide the players into two teams.
2. Start a timer for 10 minutes.
3. Each team takes turns flipping one puzzle piece at a time and reads the part of the story aloud.
4. Teams work together to piece the story in the correct order, highlighting important events, such as the message of the young prophet, his disobedience, and its consequences.
5. The team that completes the puzzle first and in the correct order wins.
Reinforcement: This game emphasizes the importance of following God’s commands and how each part of His message fits into a larger story.
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Game 2: Act It Out
Objective:
Enable students to actively engage with the story and understand its key lessons through role-play.
Number of Players:
4-8
Materials Needed:
– Simple props like a piece of fabric (prophet’s cloak), a staff, and a lion plush
Setup:
Assign roles to players: young prophet, old prophet, king, lion, bystanders.
Instructions:
1. Narrate the story of 1 Kings 13 briefly.
2. Assign each student a role, ensuring all students understand their part in the story.
3. Begin with the young prophet delivering God’s message to the king.
4. Have students act out each key event, including the temptation by the old prophet and the encounter with the lion.
5. Encourage creative dialogue and interaction as they bring the story to life within the 15-minute timeline.
6. Conclude with a group discussion on what the young prophet learned from his experience.
Reinforcement: Role-playing helps students internalize the story’s lessons on obedience and the consequences of straying from God’s path.
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Game 3: Memory Match
Objective:
Teach students the specific events and characters in 1 Kings 13 by engaging their memory and recall skills.
Number of Players:
2-6
Materials Needed:
– Twenty index cards, each with a key event or character (10 pairs: e.g., “young prophet”, “old prophet”, “lion”, “altar”, “message to the king”)
Setup:
Shuffle the index cards and lay them face down in a grid pattern.
Instructions:
1. Players take turns flipping over two cards, trying to find matching pairs (e.g., “young prophet” with “young prophet”).
2. When a match is made, the player keeps the cards and gets another turn.
3. Discuss briefly about each matched concept or character and its role in the story.
4. Continue until all pairs are matched or time runs out.
5. The player with the most pairs wins.
Reinforcement: This game aids in memorization and recall of significant plot points and characters, reinforcing their understanding of the story and its moral lessons.
Takehome
Take-Home Assignment: Understanding 1 Kings 13
Objective:
Students will explore the story of 1 Kings 13, where a prophet is sent by God with a message, and learn the importance of obedience and discernment.
Assignment:
1. Read the Story:
Gather your family and read the story from 1 Kings 13. If you have a children’s Bible, it may offer a simpler version of the story.
2. Key Points to Remember:
– A man of God is sent to King Jeroboam with a message from God.
– The man of God must not eat or drink in the land or return by the same path.
– An old prophet deceives him, leading to disobedience.
3. Discussion Questions:
Discuss these questions with your family:
– Why was it important for the man of God to follow God’s instructions?
– What consequences did he face for not obeying?
– Why do you think the old prophet lied to him?
– How can we make sure we are following what is right and true?
4. Activity: Illustrated Storyboard:
Create a four-panel storyboard of the story. Draw scenes that depict:
– The man of God delivering the message.
– His refusal of the king’s offer.
– The old prophet deceiving him.
– The consequence of his disobedience.
Share your storyboard with your family and explain each illustration.
5. Family Reflection:
With your family, talk about a time when making the right choice was difficult. What helped you decide? How do you listen for what’s right?
6. Creative Writing:
Imagine you are the man of God and write a short diary entry about your journey and your feelings after meeting Jeroboam and the old prophet.
7. Prayer Time:
End your session by praying together, asking for courage to obey what is right and wisdom to discern truth from deceit.
Materials Needed:
– Bible or children’s Bible
– Paper and coloring materials (crayons, colored pencils, markers)
– Pencil or pen for writing
Parents/Guardians:
Your support enriches this learning experience—it helps bring their learning to life when you engage with them. Please guide your child through this assignment, encouraging creativity and discussion.
Visuals
Presentation Slide 1: Title Slide
– Title: “The Story of 1 Kings 13: The Disobedient Prophet”
– Visual: Colorful background with illustrated Bible and question mark symbols.
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Presentation Slide 2: Main Characters
– Visual: Cartoon-style portraits of the Main Characters
– Caption: “Meet our Characters!”
– Illustrations of:
– The Young Prophet: A humble and curious young man.
– The Old Prophet: A wise-looking elder with a gentle face.
– Jeroboam: A stern-looking king with a crown and royal robe.
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Presentation Slide 3: The Message from God
– Diagram: A simple map with arrows showing the journey of the young prophet.
– Caption: “The Young Prophet on a Mission”
– Description: Display a path from Judah to Bethel where the young prophet is sent to deliver God’s message.
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Presentation Slide 4: The Disobedience
– Visual: Split the slide into two panels.
– Panel 1: Young Prophet delivering a message to King Jeroboam with an altar split in the background.
– Caption: “The Brave Message”
– Panel 2: Young Prophet eating under a tree with the Old Prophet.
– Caption: “The Disobedience”
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Presentation Slide 5: The Lion Incident
– Visual: Cartoon illustration of a road with the young prophet’s donkey and lion standing beside the body of the young prophet, showing the unexpected nature of the scene.
– Caption: “A Remarkable Scene”
– Description: Emphasize that the lion did not harm the donkey or wander further.
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Presentation Slide 6: The Lesson Learned
– Visual: A simple graphic with hands holding a scroll.
– Caption: “Lessons from the Story”
– Description: Highlighting key points:
– Listen carefully to God.
– Importance of obedience.
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Presentation Slide 7: Discussion and Activities
– Visual: A chalkboard with discussion questions written on it.
– Caption: “Let’s Talk About It!”
– Description: Include questions like:
– Why is it important to listen to instructions?
– What should you do if someone tells you something different from what you think is right?
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Presentation Slide 8: Closing Slide
– Visual: Path to a shining bright light.
– Caption: “Following the Right Path”
– Description: Conclude with encouragement to always seek the right path and the truth.
Memory Verse
A suitable verse for elementary students from 1 Kings 13 is:
1 Kings 13:21 (NIV): “He cried out to the man of God who had come from Judah, ‘This is what the Lord says: You have defied the word of the Lord and have not kept the command the Lord your God gave you.’”
Creative Ways to Memorize the Verse:
1. Song Tune: Set the verse to the tune of “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star.” This familiar melody can help students remember the words.
2. Rhymes:
– Create a simple rhyme pattern: “Hear the word, loud and clear, follow God’s command, don’t veer.”
– Chant the verse in a rhythmic pattern, clapping hands at the end of each phrase.
3. Hand Motions:
– Point up when saying “the Lord.”
– Pretend to hold a book when mentioning “the word.”
– Wag a finger for “defied” and “not kept.”
4. Short Challenges:
– “Verse Charades”: Act out the verse while others guess which parts of the verse are being depicted.
– “Memory Relay”: Divide the verse into parts and have each student memorize one part. Then, in a group, they recite the whole verse in turns.
5. Visual Aids:
– Create a poster with imagery from the verse. Use visual symbols like an open Bible for “word” and a path for “command.”
By using these methods, students can engage with the verse in enjoyable and memorable ways.
Group Activity
Activity 1: Story Sequencing
Objective: Understand the sequence of events in 1 Kings 13.
Group Size: 4-5 students
Instructions:
1. Materials Needed: Index cards with key events from 1 Kings 13 written on them (one event per card).
2. Roles:
– Reader: Reads each card aloud.
– Arranger: Places cards in the correct sequence.
– Checker: Verifies the order of events.
– Helper(s): Assist in arranging and discussion.
3. Spread the cards out in random order.
4. The group works together to place the cards in the correct story sequence.
5. Once arranged, the checker reads through the sequence to ensure accuracy.
Discussion Prompts:
– How did the prophet from Judah and the old prophet act in the story?
– Why do you think the sequence of events was important?
– What can we learn from the story about listening and obeying?
Participation: Each student takes turns being the reader, ensuring everyone takes an active role in the discussion stages.
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Activity 2: Role-Play and Reflection
Objective: Explore characters’ motivations and decisions in the story.
Group Size: 4-5 students
Instructions:
1. Roles:
– Prophet from Judah
– King Jeroboam
– Old Prophet
– Narrator
– Observer (notes any interesting decisions made)
2. Perform a short role-play from the key scenes in the story.
3. After acting, have each character describe why they made their decisions during the role-play.
Discussion Prompts:
– As a character, why did you make certain choices?
– What might have happened if different choices were made?
– How did each person’s actions affect the others?
Participation: Rotate roles so all students have the opportunity to speak and reflect from different perspectives.
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Activity 3: Group Discussion and Creative Illustration
Objective: Encourage students to express their understanding through art and conversation.
Group Size: 4-5 students
Instructions:
1. Materials Needed: Paper, crayons, markers.
2. Roles:
– Discussion Leader: Guides the discussion.
– Illustrator(s): Draw scenes from the story.
– Timekeeper: Ensures the group stays on task.
– Presenter: Shares the group’s illustration and insights with the class.
3. Discuss the key themes of the story: obedience, consequences, and truth.
4. Illustrators draw scenes or aspects of these themes.
Discussion Prompts:
– What part of the story resonated with you the most and why?
– How would you illustrate the main message?
– What lessons are learned about listening and making choices?
Participation: Each student contributes to the discussion and either helps in drawing or explaining the illustrations.
Download PDF for Group Activity
Journaling
Guided Journaling Prompts for 1 Kings 13
Reflection:
1. The Story of the Man of God and the King:
– Can you describe what happened when the man of God spoke to King Jeroboam? Why was King Jeroboam angry?
– How did God show His power when King Jeroboam wanted to harm the man of God?
2. Listening to God’s Instructions:
– Why do you think it was important for the man of God to follow God’s instructions exactly as they were given?
Personal Application:
3. Trusting God:
– Have you ever faced a situation where you had to choose between doing what you know is right and what others wanted you to do? What happened?
– What can you do to make sure you follow God’s directions, even if others try to convince you otherwise?
4. Learning From Mistakes:
– Everyone makes mistakes. Think about a time you made a mistake because you didn’t listen carefully. What did you learn from this experience?
– How can you be more careful in listening to and understanding instructions in the future?
Connecting to Daily Life:
5. Importance of Listening:
– When is it most difficult for you to listen to directions? How can you improve?
– How does listening to God lead to better choices in your life?
Prayer:
6. Talk with God:
– Write a short prayer asking God to help you listen to Him better and follow His guidance every day.
– Thank God for being patient and loving, even when you make mistakes. Ask for help to grow and learn from them.
Take your time to think deeply about each question. Remember, your journal is just for you and God, so be honest and open in your reflections.
Quiz
Quiz: 1 Kings 13
Multiple Choice Questions
1. Who did the man of God come to from Judah?
a) King David
b) King Solomon
c) King Jeroboam
2. What happened to the altar when the man of God spoke to it?
a) It caught fire
b) It split apart
c) It disappeared
3. What was the king’s first reaction to the man of God’s message?
a) He was happy
b) He was angry
c) He ignored it
True/False Questions
4. The man of God accepted the king’s invitation to eat and drink with him.
(True/False)
5. The old prophet lied to the man of God to bring him back to his house.
(True/False)
Short Answer Questions
6. What sign did the man of God say would prove that his message was true?
7. Describe what happened to King Jeroboam’s hand when he tried to capture the man of God.
Answer Key
1. c) King Jeroboam
2. b) It split apart
3. b) He was angry
4. False
5. True
6. The sign was that the altar would split apart and the ashes on it would be poured out.
7. King Jeroboam’s hand shriveled up when he tried to seize the man of God, but it was healed after the man of God prayed to God.
Teacher Tips
Teacher Notes for 1 Kings 13
Lesson Objective:
– To familiarize students with the story of 1 Kings 13.
– To help students understand the themes of obedience, prophecy, and consequences.
Pacing Suggestions:
– Introduction (5 minutes): Brief recap of the background from 1 Kings 12.
– Reading (10 minutes): Read aloud the chapter in a simplified Bible version suitable for children.
– Discussion (15 minutes): Break down the story into key events and characters.
– Activity (10 minutes): Engage students in a creative activity related to the lesson.
– Review (5 minutes): Summarize the key lessons and answer any questions.
Explaining Difficult Concepts:
1. Prophecy and Prophets:
– Simplify the concept by explaining that prophets are like messengers who deliver God’s words.
– Reinforce this by comparing the prophet’s role to a mail carrier delivering an important letter.
2. Altar and Sacrifice:
– Simplify ‘altar’ by explaining it as a special table where offerings were made to God.
– Clarify ‘sacrifice’ as something people gave to show their love for God.
3. Disobedience and Consequences:
– Use examples relatable to children, like following rules at school and the consequences of not doing so.
Engagement Tips:
– Interactive Storytelling:
– Use hand puppets or simple props to dramatize key scenes from the story.
– Encourage students to act out parts of the story to make the lesson more engaging.
– Visual Aids:
– Create a storyboard together on the whiteboard highlighting key events and characters.
– Use simple drawings or printable images to aid visual understanding.
– Q&A Sessions:
– Encourage questions by providing small tokens or rewards for participation.
– Ask open-ended questions to stimulate critical thinking and discussion.
Activity Suggestions:
1. Role Play:
– Divide students into groups and assign each a part of the story to act out. Encourage creativity with simple costumes or props.
2. Creative Drawing:
– Let students draw their favorite scene from the story and explain why they chose it.
3. Craft:
– Make a simple craft related to the story, like constructing a small altar using cardboard and paper.
Classroom Management:
– Set clear expectations for listening during the story and participation in activities.
– Use positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior during discussions and activities.
– Implement a simple signal, like a clapping pattern, to regain attention if students become too energetic.
By maintaining a dynamic and inclusive environment, students can better appreciate and understand the lessons from 1 Kings 13.
Crafts
Craft Activity: The Prophetic Scrolls
Materials List:
– Brown craft paper or paper bags
– Wooden dowels or craft sticks
– Twine or string
– Scissors
– Markers or crayons
– Stickers or decorative elements
– Glue or tape
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Paper:
– Cut the brown craft paper or paper bag into a rectangle (about 8×10 inches).
– Slightly crumple the paper to give it an aged look, then carefully flatten it out.
2. Create Scroll Handles:
– Take two wooden dowels or craft sticks and position them on the horizontal sides of the paper.
– Use glue or tape to secure the edges of the paper around each stick, creating the scroll effect.
3. Decorate the Scroll:
– With markers or crayons, each student can write a short, positive message or a biblical verse related to obedience or listening to God, inspired by the story of 1 Kings 13.
– Encourage students to add drawings or stickers around the text to personalize their scrolls.
4. Rolling the Scroll:
– Roll each side of the scroll towards the center.
– Tie the scroll with a piece of twine or string to hold it together.
5. Final Touches:
– Allow students to add any additional decorations they like, such as feathers or more stickers, to make their scroll unique.
Reinforcement of the Lesson:
This hands-on activity aids students in understanding and remembering the story from 1 Kings 13, which emphasizes the importance of heeding God’s guidance and being cautious about false messages. The act of creating a scroll mirrors the way messages and stories were passed down in biblical times, emphasizing the value and importance of divine communication. Crafting a personal message on the scroll enables a direct connection to the idea of conveying wisdom and teachings, reinforcing the moral to follow God’s word and be wary of contradictory advice.
Music
Song Suggestions and Worship Activities for ‘1 Kings 13’
1. Song: “Listen to God’s Voice”
Lyrics Paraphrase:
– Verse 1: “God speaks through His words and in our hearts; let’s stay true, never part.”
– Chorus: “Listen, listen, hear Him say, ‘Follow My words, walk My way.’”
Suggested Actions:
– Have kids cup their hands around their ears for “Listen.”
– Walk in place for “walk My way.”
– Place hands over heart when singing “in our hearts.”
Connection to Lesson:
The song emphasizes the importance of listening to God’s instructions, as seen in 1 Kings 13 where the prophet must heed God’s message despite other voices.
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2. Worship Activity: Story Dramatization
Instructions:
– Assign roles: the Prophet, the Old Prophet, and the King.
– Act out the scenes where God gives instructions, the disobedience, and the consequences.
Actions:
– Use hand motions when the prophet receives God’s message.
– Have dramatic reactions to represent the tension when the old prophet misleads the man of God.
Connection to Lesson:
The dramatization helps children understand the significance of obedience and the consequences of turning away from God’s word, as shown in 1 Kings 13.
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3. Song: “God’s Instructions Are Gold”
Lyrics Paraphrase:
– Verse: “Instructions bright, shining like gold, listening makes us strong and bold.”
– Chorus: “God’s word’s our guide, never to hide, through trials and the tide.”
Suggested Actions:
– Pretend to hold a book, representing the Bible for “Instructions.”
– Raise arms high and stand tall for “strong and bold.”
– Wave hands for “through trials and the tide.”
Connection to Lesson:
The song reinforces the message that following God’s instructions leads to strength and clarity, echoing the themes in 1 Kings 13.
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4. Worship Activity: “Follow the Leader” Game
Instructions:
– Play a traditional “Follow the Leader” game but interchange leaders frequently.
– Discuss after each round what happens when they followed correctly versus when they didn’t.
Connection to Lesson:
This activity illustrates the importance of following the right leader, as the story of 1 Kings 13 warns against following those who stray from God’s commands.
Scripture Background
1 Kings 13 Background Notes
Historical Context:
– The events in 1 Kings 13 occur during the divided kingdom period of Israel’s history. After King Solomon’s reign, the kingdom was split into two: Israel in the north and Judah in the south.
– King Jeroboam was the ruler of the northern kingdom of Israel. To prevent the people of Israel from going to Jerusalem in Judah to worship, he set up alternative places of worship with golden calves in Bethel and Dan.
Cultural Insights:
– Worship practices at this time often involved physical locations and objects. Golden calves were seen as idols, which were against the laws God had given to the Israelites.
– Prophets were important figures who communicated God’s messages to the people. Their role was to guide people back to God’s ways and correct them when they strayed.
Theological Insights:
– The chapter illustrates themes of obedience to God and the consequences of straying from His commands.
– It shows God’s desire for true worship and highlights the risks of following false practices.
– Miracles, such as the altar splitting and the withering hand of King Jeroboam, underscore God’s power and serve to reaffirm His authority.
Summary:
1 Kings 13 tells of a prophet from Judah sent by God to warn King Jeroboam about his wrong practices. The story includes miraculous signs to show God’s power and issues a reminder about the importance of listening and obeying God’s instructions.
Download PDF for Scripture Background
