Unit 19 • Session 4 Jesus Was Dedicated

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Use Week of:

• Countdown

• Introduce the session (2 min.)

• Big picture question (1 min.)

• Giant timeline (1 min.)

• Tell the Bible story (10 min.)

• Christ connection

• Group demonstration (5 min.)

• Review (4 min.)

• Key passage (5 min.)

• Group game (5–10 min.)

• Sing and give offering (3–12 min.)

• Missions moment (6 min.)

• Announcements (2 min.)

• Prayer (2 min.)

• Additional idea

Jesus Was Dedicated

Unit 19 • Session 4

BIBLE PASSAGE: BIBLE PASSAGE: Luke 2

STORY POINT:Simeon and Anna worshiped Jesus Simeon and Anna worshiped Jesus

as the Messiah.

KEY PASSAGE: John 1:1-2

BIG PICTURE QUESTION:Is Jesus God or a human? As the Son of God, Jesus is both fully God and

fully human.

42 Kids Worship GuideUnit 19 • Session 4

© 2019 LifeWay

4

LEADER Bible StudyGod had chosen Mary and Joseph to be Jesus’ earthly parents. Mary and God had chosen Mary and Joseph to be Jesus’ earthly parents. Mary and God had chosen Mary and Joseph to be Jesus’ earthly parents. Mary and God had chosen Mary and Joseph to be Jesus’ earthly parents. Mary and God had chosen Mary and Joseph to be Jesus’ earthly parents. Mary and Joseph named their baby Jesus, obeying God in faith that salvation had Joseph named their baby Jesus, obeying God in faith that salvation had Joseph named their baby Jesus, obeying God in faith that salvation had Joseph named their baby Jesus, obeying God in faith that salvation had Joseph named their baby Jesus, obeying God in faith that salvation had indeed come into the world. (See Matt. 1:21.) When the time came for indeed come into the world. (See Matt. 1:21.) When the time came for indeed come into the world. (See Matt. 1:21.) When the time came for indeed come into the world. (See Matt. 1:21.) When the time came for indeed come into the world. (See Matt. 1:21.) When the time came for Jesus to be dedicated and Mary to be purified, Mary and Joseph took Jesus to be dedicated and Mary to be purified, Mary and Joseph took Jesus to be dedicated and Mary to be purified, Mary and Joseph took Jesus to be dedicated and Mary to be purified, Mary and Joseph took Jesus to be dedicated and Mary to be purified, Mary and Joseph took Jesus to the temple in Jerusalem.Jesus to the temple in Jerusalem.Jesus to the temple in Jerusalem.

According to the law given to Moses, after a woman gave birth, she was According to the law given to Moses, after a woman gave birth, she was According to the law given to Moses, after a woman gave birth, she was According to the law given to Moses, after a woman gave birth, she was According to the law given to Moses, after a woman gave birth, she was “unclean” and would observe a period of purification. Then she would “unclean” and would observe a period of purification. Then she would “unclean” and would observe a period of purification. Then she would “unclean” and would observe a period of purification. Then she would “unclean” and would observe a period of purification. Then she would bring an offering to the priest. (See Lev. 12:1-6.) Jesus was about five bring an offering to the priest. (See Lev. 12:1-6.) Jesus was about five bring an offering to the priest. (See Lev. 12:1-6.) Jesus was about five bring an offering to the priest. (See Lev. 12:1-6.) Jesus was about five weeks old when Mary and Joseph dedicated Him to the Lord and offered weeks old when Mary and Joseph dedicated Him to the Lord and offered weeks old when Mary and Joseph dedicated Him to the Lord and offered weeks old when Mary and Joseph dedicated Him to the Lord and offered weeks old when Mary and Joseph dedicated Him to the Lord and offered the required sacrifice.the required sacrifice.the required sacrifice.

Simeon was also at the temple that day, not by mere coincidence but by Simeon was also at the temple that day, not by mere coincidence but by Simeon was also at the temple that day, not by mere coincidence but by Simeon was also at the temple that day, not by mere coincidence but by Simeon was also at the temple that day, not by mere coincidence but by the Holy Spirit’s leading. (Luke 2:27) Simeon spent His life serving the the Holy Spirit’s leading. (Luke 2:27) Simeon spent His life serving the the Holy Spirit’s leading. (Luke 2:27) Simeon spent His life serving the the Holy Spirit’s leading. (Luke 2:27) Simeon spent His life serving the the Holy Spirit’s leading. (Luke 2:27) Simeon spent His life serving the Lord and looked forward to the day when God would keep His promise Lord and looked forward to the day when God would keep His promise Lord and looked forward to the day when God would keep His promise Lord and looked forward to the day when God would keep His promise Lord and looked forward to the day when God would keep His promise to comfort Israel. (See Isa. 57:18.) God promised that Simeon would live to comfort Israel. (See Isa. 57:18.) God promised that Simeon would live to comfort Israel. (See Isa. 57:18.) God promised that Simeon would live to comfort Israel. (See Isa. 57:18.) God promised that Simeon would live to comfort Israel. (See Isa. 57:18.) God promised that Simeon would live long enough to see the Messiah. That day had finally come. Imagine his long enough to see the Messiah. That day had finally come. Imagine his long enough to see the Messiah. That day had finally come. Imagine his long enough to see the Messiah. That day had finally come. Imagine his long enough to see the Messiah. That day had finally come. Imagine his joy. At last, the Savior was here!joy. At last, the Savior was here!joy. At last, the Savior was here!

Simeon saw the baby Jesus, took Him in his arms, and praised God. Simeon saw the baby Jesus, took Him in his arms, and praised God. Simeon saw the baby Jesus, took Him in his arms, and praised God. Simeon saw the baby Jesus, took Him in his arms, and praised God. Simeon expressed prophetic praise, trusting by faith that God would Simeon expressed prophetic praise, trusting by faith that God would Simeon expressed prophetic praise, trusting by faith that God would Simeon expressed prophetic praise, trusting by faith that God would keep His promise through this child: “My eyes have seen your salvation” keep His promise through this child: “My eyes have seen your salvation” keep His promise through this child: “My eyes have seen your salvation” keep His promise through this child: “My eyes have seen your salvation” keep His promise through this child: “My eyes have seen your salvation” (Luke 2:30). Through Jesus, everyone would be able to see God’s plan. (Luke 2:30). Through Jesus, everyone would be able to see God’s plan. (Luke 2:30). Through Jesus, everyone would be able to see God’s plan. (Luke 2:30). Through Jesus, everyone would be able to see God’s plan. (Luke 2:30). Through Jesus, everyone would be able to see God’s plan. Jesus would be a light for all the nations. He would bring honor to Israel.Jesus would be a light for all the nations. He would bring honor to Israel.Jesus would be a light for all the nations. He would bring honor to Israel.Jesus would be a light for all the nations. He would bring honor to Israel.Jesus would be a light for all the nations. He would bring honor to Israel.

Anna, a prophetess, also praised too. At well over a hundred years old, Anna, a prophetess, also praised too. At well over a hundred years old, Anna, a prophetess, also praised too. At well over a hundred years old, Anna, a prophetess, also praised too. At well over a hundred years old, Anna, a prophetess, also praised too. At well over a hundred years old, Anna began to speak about Jesus to everyone who was looking forward Anna began to speak about Jesus to everyone who was looking forward Anna began to speak about Jesus to everyone who was looking forward Anna began to speak about Jesus to everyone who was looking forward Anna began to speak about Jesus to everyone who was looking forward to God’s bringing salvation to His people.to God’s bringing salvation to His people.to God’s bringing salvation to His people.

Today, we can have faith in Jesus and His finished work on the cross for Today, we can have faith in Jesus and His finished work on the cross for Today, we can have faith in Jesus and His finished work on the cross for Today, we can have faith in Jesus and His finished work on the cross for Today, we can have faith in Jesus and His finished work on the cross for our salvation. When God opens our eyes to the good news of the gospel, our salvation. When God opens our eyes to the good news of the gospel, our salvation. When God opens our eyes to the good news of the gospel, our salvation. When God opens our eyes to the good news of the gospel, our salvation. When God opens our eyes to the good news of the gospel, we can live and die in peace, for our eyes have seen His salvation. We can we can live and die in peace, for our eyes have seen His salvation. We can we can live and die in peace, for our eyes have seen His salvation. We can we can live and die in peace, for our eyes have seen His salvation. We can we can live and die in peace, for our eyes have seen His salvation. We can joyfully share this good news with others.joyfully share this good news with others.joyfully share this good news with others.

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© 2019 LifeWay

Jesus Was DedicatedLuke 2

Mary and Joseph’s baby—God’s own Son—was a few days old when Mary and Joseph named Him Jesus, just like the angel had told them to do. One day, when Jesus was a few weeks old, Mary and Joseph took

Jesus to the temple in Jerusalem.Jesus to the temple in Jerusalem.Mary and Joseph wanted to obey God and

His law. The law that God gave Moses His law. The law that God gave Moses His law. The law that God gave Moses His law. The law that God gave Moses said, “When a woman’s first son is said, “When a woman’s first son is

born, his parents must dedicate born, his parents must dedicate him to the Lord.” The law also him to the Lord.” The law also

said that the child’s parents said that the child’s parents should give a sacrifice. should give a sacrifice. At the temple, Mary and Joseph temple, Mary and Joseph presented Jesus to the Lord presented Jesus to the Lord and offered two birds as a and offered two birds as a sacrifice.sacrifice.

Another man was at the temple. His name was Simeon. Simeon loved God,

and he trusted in God’s promise to send a Messiah to save people

from sin. God’s Spirit was with Simeon, and God had told Simeon

that he would not die until he saw the One who would rescue people from their

sin.That day, God’s Spirit had led Simeon to the

temple. Simeon saw Jesus and picked Him up in his arms. God’s Spirit showed Simeon that Jesus was the promised Messiah. Simeon was so happy. He praised God and said, “Lord, you can let me die now. You

The BIBLE Story


© 2019 LifeWay

Bible Storytelling Bible Storytelling Bible Storytelling Tips

• Act it out: Act it out: Act it out: Choose four volunteers to four volunteers to four volunteers to silently act out the silently act out the silently act out the story as you tell it. story as you tell it. story as you tell it. Provide a baby doll as Provide a baby doll as Provide a baby doll as the baby Jesus.the baby Jesus.the baby Jesus.

• Use hand Use hand gestures: gestures: Capture kids’ attention by kids’ attention by kids’ attention by moving your hands moving your hands moving your hands as you tell the story. as you tell the story. as you tell the story. Raise them as Simeon Raise them as Simeon Raise them as Simeon speaks or hold speaks or hold speaks or hold them to your head them to your head them to your head like Jesus’ amazed like Jesus’ amazed like Jesus’ amazed parents.parents.

kept Your promise, and I have seen the One who will save kept Your promise, and I have seen the One who will save kept Your promise, and I have seen the One who will save people from sin.” people from sin.” people from sin.” Simeon said that Jesus would save God’s people, the Israelites, and Jesus would also save people people, the Israelites, and Jesus would also save people people, the Israelites, and Jesus would also save people from other nations.from other nations.from other nations.

Mary and Joseph were amazed at what Simeon said. Mary and Joseph were amazed at what Simeon said. Mary and Joseph were amazed at what Simeon said. Simeon blessed Mary and Joseph. He told Mary that being Simeon blessed Mary and Joseph. He told Mary that being Simeon blessed Mary and Joseph. He told Mary that being Jesus’ mother would be a very good thing, but it would Jesus’ mother would be a very good thing, but it would Jesus’ mother would be a very good thing, but it would also be very hard. Some people would love Jesus, but others also be very hard. Some people would love Jesus, but others also be very hard. Some people would love Jesus, but others would hate Him. Things were going to happen that would would hate Him. Things were going to happen that would would hate Him. Things were going to happen that would make Mary very sad.make Mary very sad.make Mary very sad.

A woman named Anna was at the temple too.A woman named Anna was at the temple too.A woman named Anna was at the temple too. Anna’s husband had died, and Anna was very old. She stayed at husband had died, and Anna was very old. She stayed at husband had died, and Anna was very old. She stayed at the temple and worshiped God all the time. the temple and worshiped God all the time. the temple and worshiped God all the time. Anna came up to Simeon, Jesus, Mary, and Joseph and she began to up to Simeon, Jesus, Mary, and Joseph and she began to up to Simeon, Jesus, Mary, and Joseph and she began to thank God. Anna talked about Jesus to people who were thank God. Anna talked about Jesus to people who were thank God. Anna talked about Jesus to people who were waiting for God to keep His promise to send a Savior. waiting for God to keep His promise to send a Savior. waiting for God to keep His promise to send a Savior. She told them the good news: the Savior was here!She told them the good news: the Savior was here!She told them the good news: the Savior was here!

Mary and Joseph finished dedicating Jesus and Mary and Joseph finished dedicating Jesus and Mary and Joseph finished dedicating Jesus and making sacrifices to God.making sacrifices to God.making sacrifices to God. They obeyed God’s law. Then they went back home to Nazareth. they went back home to Nazareth. they went back home to Nazareth. Jesus grew up and was strong and healthy. He was wise, and God was happy strong and healthy. He was wise, and God was happy strong and healthy. He was wise, and God was happy with Him.with Him.with Him.

Christ Connection: Throughout the Old Testament, God Christ Connection: Throughout the Old Testament, God Christ Connection: Throughout the Old Testament, God promised the arrival of a king who would redeem people. When promised the arrival of a king who would redeem people. When promised the arrival of a king who would redeem people. When Jesus arrived, Simeon and Anna knew He was the promised Jesus arrived, Simeon and Anna knew He was the promised Jesus arrived, Simeon and Anna knew He was the promised Messiah. Today, we have faith that Jesus is God’s Son. We can Messiah. Today, we have faith that Jesus is God’s Son. We can Messiah. Today, we have faith that Jesus is God’s Son. We can trust Jesus for our salvation, and like Simeon and Anna, we trust Jesus for our salvation, and like Simeon and Anna, we trust Jesus for our salvation, and like Simeon and Anna, we should share the good news.should share the good news.should share the good news.

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TEACH the Story

SESSION TITLE: Jesus Was DedicatedBIBLE PASSAGE: Luke 2STORY POINT:STORY POINT: Simeon and Anna worshiped Jesus as the Messiah.Simeon and Anna worshiped Jesus as the Messiah.KEY PASSAGE: John 1:1-2BIG PICTURE QUESTION: Is Jesus God or a human? As the Son of God, Jesus

is both fully God and fully human.

CountdownCountdownShow the countdown video as your kids arrive, and set it to end as worship time begins.

Introduce the session (2 min.)

[Becca walks on stage and sees Oliver sitting slumped over at the table staring at his watch.]BECCA • Hey, Oliver. Is your watch broken or something?

Why are you staring at it like that? OLIVER • No, I keep looking at the time because I’m

waiting for my Grandma to get here. She’s flying in today for our big family reunion, and I can’t wait to see her. It’s been a long time since her last visit, and I’ve missed her a lot. Her flight doesn’t get here for another two hours, and it feels like it’s taking an eternity.

BECCA • I’m so glad you get to spend time with your Grandma this weekend! I know what you mean about it being hard to wait for something.

OLIVER • No kidding. I’ve tried everything I can think of to pass the time. I’ve stared at all the clocks in my house, watched some paint dry, I’ve even offered to do my mom’s taxes!

BECCA • But those are all super boring things! Of course

• countdown video

• leader attire• wristwatch


© 2019 LifeWay

the time won’t seem to go any faster while watching the time won’t seem to go any faster while watching paint dry! If anything, watching paint dry makes paint dry! If anything, watching paint dry makes time feel like it’s slowing down. time feel like it’s slowing down.

OLIVER OLIVER OLIVER • Hmm. You have a good point. What can I do instead to take my mind off how much longer I have instead to take my mind off how much longer I have to wait? to wait?

BECCA BECCA • I have a great idea. Let’s hear another Bible story. It’s a story about when Jesus was dedicated at the It’s a story about when Jesus was dedicated at the temple as a baby. Two people there had waited years temple as a baby. Two people there had waited years to see God’s promised Messiah. to see God’s promised Messiah.

OLIVER OLIVER OLIVER • So they’d been waiting for Jesus even longer than I’ve been waiting for my Grandma? Let’s hear it! I’ve been waiting for my Grandma? Let’s hear it!

Big picture question Big picture question Big picture question (1 min.)

OLIVER OLIVER OLIVER • The big picture question we have been answering these last few weeks is, these last few weeks is, Is Jesus God or a human?Does anyone remember the answer? Does anyone remember the answer?

BECCA BECCA • That’s right! As the Son of God, Jesus is both fully God and fully human.God and fully human. This is good news for us! Jesus is fully human, which means He has a human Jesus is fully human, which means He has a human body; He has felt human emotions and temptation. body; He has felt human emotions and temptation. But Jesus has no sin. That is what makes Him the But Jesus has no sin. That is what makes Him the perfect sacrifice for sin.perfect sacrifice for sin.

Giant timeline Giant timeline Giant timeline (1 min.)

OLIVER OLIVER OLIVER • We have heard several stories that led up to Jesus coming into the world as the Messiah. We Jesus coming into the world as the Messiah. We learned that learned that Jesus’ family line proves that He is the Messiah.Messiah. Many of the people we read about in the Old Testament were part of Jesus’ family tree. Old Testament were part of Jesus’ family tree.

BECCA BECCA • Then we learned that John was born to prepare the way for Jesus.the way for Jesus. John helped people see their

• Big Picture Question Big Picture Question Big Picture Question Poster

• Giant TimelineGiant TimelineGiant Timeline

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sin and their need for a Savior. Next we learned sin and their need for a Savior. Next we learned that Jesus was born to be God’s promised Savior.Jesus was born to be God’s promised Savior.Jesus was born to be God’s promised Savior.Sin entered the world when Adam and Eve first Sin entered the world when Adam and Eve first disobeyed God in the garden of Eden. Thankfully, disobeyed God in the garden of Eden. Thankfully, disobeyed God in the garden of Eden. Thankfully, God already had a rescue mission planned to bring God already had a rescue mission planned to bring God already had a rescue mission planned to bring His children back to Himself. Jesus is the fulfillment His children back to Himself. Jesus is the fulfillment His children back to Himself. Jesus is the fulfillment of that plan!

Tell the Bible story (10 min.)

Open your Bible to Luke 2. Use the Bible storytelling tips . Use the Bible storytelling tips . Use the Bible storytelling tips provided with the Bible story script to help you tell the provided with the Bible story script to help you tell the provided with the Bible story script to help you tell the story, or watch the Bible story video “Jesus Was Dedicated.”story, or watch the Bible story video “Jesus Was Dedicated.”story, or watch the Bible story video “Jesus Was Dedicated.”BECCA • Why is it so hard to wait patiently? OLIVER • I’m having a hard time waiting patiently to see my • I’m having a hard time waiting patiently to see my • I’m having a hard time waiting patiently to see my

grandma! I’m so excited to see her I wish time would grandma! I’m so excited to see her I wish time would grandma! I’m so excited to see her I wish time would just hurry up!

BECCA • In our story, Simeon was waiting to see the • In our story, Simeon was waiting to see the Messiah. The Holy Spirit had promised that Simeon Messiah. The Holy Spirit had promised that Simeon Messiah. The Holy Spirit had promised that Simeon would see God’s promised Savior before he died. would see God’s promised Savior before he died. would see God’s promised Savior before he died. It was really special that the Holy Spirit guided It was really special that the Holy Spirit guided Simeon. In the time before Jesus’ death on the cross Simeon. In the time before Jesus’ death on the cross Simeon. In the time before Jesus’ death on the cross people had to offer sacrifices at the temple. And even people had to offer sacrifices at the temple. And even people had to offer sacrifices at the temple. And even then they didn’t have direct access to God. All that then they didn’t have direct access to God. All that then they didn’t have direct access to God. All that changed with Jesus’ crucifixion. Now, all believers changed with Jesus’ crucifixion. Now, all believers changed with Jesus’ crucifixion. Now, all believers have the Holy Spirit living inside them!

OLIVER • It’s really cool that God directed Simeon to go to • It’s really cool that God directed Simeon to go to • It’s really cool that God directed Simeon to go to the temple where Jesus was being dedicated. It’s like the temple where Jesus was being dedicated. It’s like the temple where Jesus was being dedicated. It’s like God was speaking to him in a special way.

BECCA • God speaks to us through His Word, the Bible. He • God speaks to us through His Word, the Bible. He • God speaks to us through His Word, the Bible. He also gives us the Holy Spirit and other believers to also gives us the Holy Spirit and other believers to also gives us the Holy Spirit and other believers to help us understand His Word and obey it!

OLIVER • Simeon trusted God’s promise to him, and he • Simeon trusted God’s promise to him, and he • Simeon trusted God’s promise to him, and he

• Bibles, 1 per kidBibles, 1 per kidBibles, 1 per kid• “Jesus Was “Jesus Was “Jesus Was

Dedicated” video Dedicated” video Dedicated” video (optional)(optional)

• Bible Story Picture Bible Story Picture Bible Story Picture Poster

• Story Point PosterStory Point PosterStory Point Poster


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had the special opportunity to see Jesus as a baby. had the special opportunity to see Jesus as a baby. Simeon and Anna worshiped Jesus as the Messiah.Simeon and Anna worshiped Jesus as the Messiah.They knew that Jesus was the Savior that God had They knew that Jesus was the Savior that God had promised, and they worshiped Him. promised, and they worshiped Him.

BECCA BECCA • When we learn about Jesus we can praise God too! We can thank God for allowing us to know and too! We can thank God for allowing us to know and follow Jesus.follow Jesus.

Christ ConnectionChrist ConnectionChrist ConnectionOLIVER OLIVER OLIVER • Simeon prophesied that Jesus was the Savior for

the whole world, not just the Jews. He said that the whole world, not just the Jews. He said that God’s salvation was a light to the Gentiles, or non-God’s salvation was a light to the Gentiles, or non-Jews, and to God’s people Israel. Jews, and to God’s people Israel.

BECCA BECCA • [Read Psalm 119:174.] Simeon longed to see Read Psalm 119:174.] Simeon longed to see Read Psalm 119:174the promised Messiah, Jesus. Today we have the the promised Messiah, Jesus. Today we have the opportunity to experience God’s salvation when we opportunity to experience God’s salvation when we trust in Jesus. Throughout the Old Testament, God trust in Jesus. Throughout the Old Testament, God promised the arrival of a king who would redeem promised the arrival of a king who would redeem people. When Jesus arrived, Simeon and Anna people. When Jesus arrived, Simeon and Anna knew He was the promised Messiah. Today, we have knew He was the promised Messiah. Today, we have faith that Jesus is God’s Son. We can trust Jesus for faith that Jesus is God’s Son. We can trust Jesus for salvation, and like Simeon and Anna, we can share salvation, and like Simeon and Anna, we can share the good news.the good news.

Group demonstration Group demonstration Group demonstration (5 min.)

Display a large glass container filled with clear soda. Invite Display a large glass container filled with clear soda. Invite Display a large glass container filled with clear soda. Invite a volunteer up and give him a small handful of raisins to a volunteer up and give him a small handful of raisins to a volunteer up and give him a small handful of raisins to drop into the soda. Ask the class to observe what happens drop into the soda. Ask the class to observe what happens drop into the soda. Ask the class to observe what happens to the raisins. At first they will all sink to the bottom. After to the raisins. At first they will all sink to the bottom. After to the raisins. At first they will all sink to the bottom. After a few moments, the raisins will move up and down in the a few moments, the raisins will move up and down in the a few moments, the raisins will move up and down in the container. Bubbles get trapped in the wrinkles causing the container. Bubbles get trapped in the wrinkles causing the container. Bubbles get trapped in the wrinkles causing the raisins to float to the surface where the bubbles can escape.raisins to float to the surface where the bubbles can escape.raisins to float to the surface where the bubbles can escape.

Tip: Consider using Tip: Consider using Tip: Consider using your Bible and your Bible and your Bible and the gospel poster the gospel poster the gospel poster provided to explain provided to explain provided to explain to kids how to to kids how to to kids how to become a Christian. become a Christian. become a Christian. Anytime you invite Anytime you invite Anytime you invite kids to respond in a kids to respond in a kids to respond in a large group setting, large group setting, large group setting, make sure you have make sure you have make sure you have counselors available counselors available counselors available to speak with kids to speak with kids to speak with kids individually to individually to individually to answer questions.answer questions.answer questions.

• Allergy AlertAllergy AlertAllergy Alert• large glass containerlarge glass containerlarge glass container• clear sodaclear soda• raisins

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OLIVER • At first I thought this was going to be really lame. • At first I thought this was going to be really lame. • At first I thought this was going to be really lame. Raisins in the bottom of a container of soda? Boring! Raisins in the bottom of a container of soda? Boring! Raisins in the bottom of a container of soda? Boring! After awhile, it was really cool to see them bounce up After awhile, it was really cool to see them bounce up After awhile, it was really cool to see them bounce up and down like that! Dancing raisins! Who knew that and down like that! Dancing raisins! Who knew that and down like that! Dancing raisins! Who knew that was even possible?

BECCA • Sometimes you have to wait patiently before you • Sometimes you have to wait patiently before you • Sometimes you have to wait patiently before you get to see something spectacular. Simeon waited get to see something spectacular. Simeon waited get to see something spectacular. Simeon waited patiently to see something even more incredible. God patiently to see something even more incredible. God patiently to see something even more incredible. God allowed Simeon to see Jesus, the Messiah, before he allowed Simeon to see Jesus, the Messiah, before he allowed Simeon to see Jesus, the Messiah, before he died! Now that’s something worth waiting for. Both died! Now that’s something worth waiting for. Both died! Now that’s something worth waiting for. Both Simeon and Anna worshiped Jesus as the MessiahSimeon and Anna worshiped Jesus as the MessiahSimeon and Anna worshiped Jesus as the Messiahwhen they saw Him.

OLIVER • So I guess sometimes it really does pay to wait for • So I guess sometimes it really does pay to wait for • So I guess sometimes it really does pay to wait for something. Simeon didn’t know exactly when the something. Simeon didn’t know exactly when the something. Simeon didn’t know exactly when the Messiah would show up. He just knew that God had Messiah would show up. He just knew that God had Messiah would show up. He just knew that God had made a promise, and God always keeps His promises! made a promise, and God always keeps His promises! made a promise, and God always keeps His promises!

BECCA • Simeon showed great faith by trusting God’s • Simeon showed great faith by trusting God’s promise. In the end He praised God for sending the promise. In the end He praised God for sending the promise. In the end He praised God for sending the Savior to rescue His people from their sin.

Review (4 min.)

BECCA • Let’s review some of the details we have learned in • Let’s review some of the details we have learned in • Let’s review some of the details we have learned in our story to see how much we can remember. our story to see how much we can remember.

Invite the kids to answer the following questions:1. Where did Mary and Joseph take Jesus? (the temple the temple the temple

in Jerusalem, Luke 2:22)in Jerusalem, Luke 2:22)in Jerusalem, Luke 2:222. What did they offer as a sacrifice? (two birds, two birds,

Luke 2:24)Luke 2:24)Luke 2:243. What did God promise Simeon? (He would see the He would see the He would see the

Messiah before he died, Luke 2:26)Messiah before he died, Luke 2:26)Messiah before he died, Luke 2:264. What did Simeon prophesy about Jesus? (He would He would He would

save the Jews and Gentiles from sin, Luke 2:32save the Jews and Gentiles from sin, Luke 2:32)save the Jews and Gentiles from sin, Luke 2:32)save the Jews and Gentiles from sin, Luke 2:32


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5. Is Jesus God or a human? (As the Son of God, Jesus is both fully God and fully human.)

6. What does this story teach me about God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, or the gospel?

7. What does this story teach me about myself?8. Are there any commands in this story to obey?

How are they for God’s glory and my good?9. Are there any promises in this story to remember?

How do they help me trust and love God?10. 10. How does this story help me live on mission better?

Key passage Key passage Key passage (5 min.)

Read John 1:1-2 and encourage the kids to read along in Read John 1:1-2 and encourage the kids to read along in Read John 1:1-2 and encourage the kids to read along in their Bibles. Display the key passage poster for kids to read. their Bibles. Display the key passage poster for kids to read. their Bibles. Display the key passage poster for kids to read. You may also sing the key passage song.You may also sing the key passage song.You may also sing the key passage song.BECCA BECCA • These two verses in John teach us that Jesus has

always existed along with God the Father and the always existed along with God the Father and the Holy Spirit. Holy Spirit.

OLIVER OLIVER OLIVER • I know that Jesus has always been fully God, but has Jesus always been human? has Jesus always been human?

BECCA BECCA • Before Jesus was born in Bethlehem He was spirit. That means Jesus didn’t have a physical body spirit. That means Jesus didn’t have a physical body that you could touch. The big word for when Jesus that you could touch. The big word for when Jesus became a human is became a human is incarnation.

OLIVER OLIVER OLIVER • When Jesus became human, He didn’t give up His divine nature. divine nature.

BECCA BECCA • That’s right. It’s the answer to our big picture question. question. As the Son of God, Jesus is both fully God and fully human.God and fully human. Jesus didn’t have to choose between being fully God and fully human. He is between being fully God and fully human. He is both at the same time! both at the same time!

• Key Passage PosterKey Passage PosterKey Passage Poster• “The Word Was God “The Word Was God “The Word Was God

(John 1:1-2)” song(John 1:1-2)” song(John 1:1-2)” song

51Into the World

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Group game (5–10 min.)

UNLOCK IT

Before the session, place a sticker on the backs of three Before the session, place a sticker on the backs of three Before the session, place a sticker on the backs of three combination locks. Write each lock’s combination on a slip combination locks. Write each lock’s combination on a slip combination locks. Write each lock’s combination on a slip of paper marked with a matching sticker. Hide the locks of paper marked with a matching sticker. Hide the locks of paper marked with a matching sticker. Hide the locks in the room. Keep the written-out combinations with you. in the room. Keep the written-out combinations with you. in the room. Keep the written-out combinations with you. Form three teams and assign each team a lock. Tell each Form three teams and assign each team a lock. Tell each Form three teams and assign each team a lock. Tell each team their combination numbers in a scrambled order. The team their combination numbers in a scrambled order. The team their combination numbers in a scrambled order. The teams must choose one of two strategies they’ll use to win:teams must choose one of two strategies they’ll use to win:teams must choose one of two strategies they’ll use to win:

• When you say go, the team will race to fi nd its lock. When you say go, the team will race to fi nd its lock. When you say go, the team will race to fi nd its lock. Once they fi nd the lock, they have to decipher the Once they fi nd the lock, they have to decipher the Once they fi nd the lock, they have to decipher the correct combination using the scrambled numbers.correct combination using the scrambled numbers.correct combination using the scrambled numbers.

• When you say go, the team will delay their search When you say go, the team will delay their search When you say go, the team will delay their search for 30 seconds, but you’ll give them the correct for 30 seconds, but you’ll give them the correct combination to their lock.

Teams will race each other to find their locks and determine Teams will race each other to find their locks and determine Teams will race each other to find their locks and determine the correct combination. The first team to return with an the correct combination. The first team to return with an the correct combination. The first team to return with an open lock wins.OLIVER • Which strategy worked better? If you play this • Which strategy worked better? If you play this • Which strategy worked better? If you play this

game again, would you choose the same strategy? game again, would you choose the same strategy? game again, would you choose the same strategy? BECCA • How is this game like waiting patiently and • How is this game like waiting patiently and

listening for God’s instructions? Is it ever hard to listening for God’s instructions? Is it ever hard to listening for God’s instructions? Is it ever hard to wait for God?

OLIVER • Sometimes we get impatient with God and want • Sometimes we get impatient with God and want • Sometimes we get impatient with God and want to do things our own way. But God has perfect to do things our own way. But God has perfect timing for everything. Simeon was aware of the Holy timing for everything. Simeon was aware of the Holy timing for everything. Simeon was aware of the Holy Spirit’s leading in his life, and as a result, he went to Spirit’s leading in his life, and as a result, he went to Spirit’s leading in his life, and as a result, he went to the temple and met Jesus, just as God had promised. the temple and met Jesus, just as God had promised. the temple and met Jesus, just as God had promised.

Sing and give offering (3–12 min.)

BECCA • God is good to those who put their hope in Him! God is good to those who put their hope in Him! God is good to those who put their hope in Him! Let’s sing and worship God together now.

• combination locks, 3combination locks, 3combination locks, 3• stickers, 3 matching stickers, 3 matching stickers, 3 matching

pairs (6 total)pairs (6 total)pairs (6 total)• paper slipspaper slips• pen• timer

• “Jesus Messiah” song “Jesus Messiah” song “Jesus Messiah” song and other songs of and other songs of and other songs of your choiceyour choiceyour choice


© 2019 LifeWay

Sing “Jesus Messiah,” choose from the songs provided this Sing “Jesus Messiah,” choose from the songs provided this Sing “Jesus Messiah,” choose from the songs provided this quarter, or sing other songs as time allows.quarter, or sing other songs as time allows.quarter, or sing other songs as time allows.

Missions moment (6 min.)

Play the “Relentless Love (Part 2)” missions video.OLIVER OLIVER OLIVER • We have been learning about missionaries in

Brazil. In a previous video, we met missionaries Brazil. In a previous video, we met missionaries Brandi and Amanda. They want people in Brazil Brandi and Amanda. They want people in Brazil to know Jesus personally and to worship Him, like to know Jesus personally and to worship Him, like Simeon and Anna worshiped Jesus as the MessiahSimeon and Anna worshiped Jesus as the Messiah. Brandi and Amanda led another woman named Brandi and Amanda led another woman named Amanda to Jesus, and now God can use her to share Amanda to Jesus, and now God can use her to share the good news with even more people!the good news with even more people!

Pray for Amanda, other new believers in Brazil, and the Pray for Amanda, other new believers in Brazil, and the Pray for Amanda, other new believers in Brazil, and the missionaries your church supports.missionaries your church supports.missionaries your church supports.

Announcements Announcements Announcements (2 min.)

OLIVER OLIVER OLIVER • Hearing our Bible story today has helped the time go by faster while I wait for my Grandma to get here. go by faster while I wait for my Grandma to get here. Now it’s just about time to go pick her up from the Now it’s just about time to go pick her up from the airport. airport.

BECCA BECCA • Before Oliver leaves, we have a few announcements for all of you. announcements for all of you.

Make any announcements from your kids’ ministry.Make any announcements from your kids’ ministry.Make any announcements from your kids’ ministry.

Prayer Prayer Prayer (2 min.)

BECCA BECCA • Let’s pray. God, thank You for giving us Your Word. We

praise You for Your faithfulness in keeping Your praise You for Your faithfulness in keeping Your promises. We thank You for giving us Your Holy promises. We thank You for giving us Your Holy Spirit to guide us. Help us listen for Your leading in Spirit to guide us. Help us listen for Your leading in our lives. Amen. our lives. Amen.

• “Relentless Love “Relentless Love “Relentless Love (Part 2)” missions (Part 2)” missions (Part 2)” missions video

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Additional ideaWADDLING CATS

BECCA • I have a fun game we can play that reminds us • I have a fun game we can play that reminds us • I have a fun game we can play that reminds us how important it is to listen for God’s leading in our how important it is to listen for God’s leading in our how important it is to listen for God’s leading in our lives.

Instruct the kids to stand in a circle. You will play a similar Instruct the kids to stand in a circle. You will play a similar Instruct the kids to stand in a circle. You will play a similar game to “Simon Says” with a catch. The kids will only do game to “Simon Says” with a catch. The kids will only do game to “Simon Says” with a catch. The kids will only do the movement with you if what you say makes sense. For the movement with you if what you say makes sense. For the movement with you if what you say makes sense. For example, if you say “Snakes slither,” then the kid will mimic example, if you say “Snakes slither,” then the kid will mimic example, if you say “Snakes slither,” then the kid will mimic you as you move your arms back and forth like a slithering you as you move your arms back and forth like a slithering you as you move your arms back and forth like a slithering snake. If you say “Cats waddle,” the kids should remain still. snake. If you say “Cats waddle,” the kids should remain still. snake. If you say “Cats waddle,” the kids should remain still. OLIVER • What a silly game! Did you have any strategies • What a silly game! Did you have any strategies • What a silly game! Did you have any strategies

you used for making sure you only did the movements that made sense?

BECCA • Simeon and Anna worshiped Jesus as the Simeon and Anna worshiped Jesus as the Messiah. Simeon could tell the Holy Spirit was Simeon could tell the Holy Spirit was guiding him to the temple that day in our story. But guiding him to the temple that day in our story. But guiding him to the temple that day in our story. But our feelings are not the Holy Spirit. We must spend our feelings are not the Holy Spirit. We must spend our feelings are not the Holy Spirit. We must spend time studying God’s Word and praying to Him so time studying God’s Word and praying to Him so time studying God’s Word and praying to Him so we can tell the difference between the Holy Spirit’s we can tell the difference between the Holy Spirit’s we can tell the difference between the Holy Spirit’s guidance and our own thoughts and feelings. We can guidance and our own thoughts and feelings. We can guidance and our own thoughts and feelings. We can lead ourselves away from God, but the Holy Spirit lead ourselves away from God, but the Holy Spirit lead ourselves away from God, but the Holy Spirit will always lead us to Jesus.


© 2019 LifeWay

The Gospel: God’s Plan for MeAsk kids if they have ever heard the word Ask kids if they have ever heard the word Ask kids if they have ever heard the word gospel. Clarify that the word . Clarify that the word gospel. Clarify that the word gospel gospelgospelmeans “good news.” It is the message about Christ, the kingdom of God, means “good news.” It is the message about Christ, the kingdom of God, means “good news.” It is the message about Christ, the kingdom of God, means “good news.” It is the message about Christ, the kingdom of God, means “good news.” It is the message about Christ, the kingdom of God, and salvation. Use the following guide to share the gospel with kids.and salvation. Use the following guide to share the gospel with kids.and salvation. Use the following guide to share the gospel with kids.

God rules.God rules. Explain to kids that the Bible tells us God created everything, and He is in charge of everything. Invite a volunteer to read everything, and He is in charge of everything. Invite a volunteer to read everything, and He is in charge of everything. Invite a volunteer to read Genesis 1:1 from the Bible. Read Revelation 4:11 or Colossians 1:16-17 aloud Genesis 1:1 from the Bible. Read Revelation 4:11 or Colossians 1:16-17 aloud Genesis 1:1 from the Bible. Read Revelation 4:11 or Colossians 1:16-17 aloud Genesis 1:1 from the Bible. Read Revelation 4:11 or Colossians 1:16-17 aloud Genesis 1:1 from the Bible. Read Revelation 4:11 or Colossians 1:16-17 aloud and explain what these verses mean.and explain what these verses mean.and explain what these verses mean.

We sinned.We sinned.We sinned. Tell kids that since the time of Adam and Eve, everyone has Tell kids that since the time of Adam and Eve, everyone has Tell kids that since the time of Adam and Eve, everyone has chosen to disobey God. (Romans 3:23) The Bible calls this sin. Because God is chosen to disobey God. (Romans 3:23) The Bible calls this sin. Because God is chosen to disobey God. (Romans 3:23) The Bible calls this sin. Because God is chosen to disobey God. (Romans 3:23) The Bible calls this sin. Because God is chosen to disobey God. (Romans 3:23) The Bible calls this sin. Because God is holy, God cannot be around sin. Sin separates us from God and deserves God’s holy, God cannot be around sin. Sin separates us from God and deserves God’s holy, God cannot be around sin. Sin separates us from God and deserves God’s holy, God cannot be around sin. Sin separates us from God and deserves God’s holy, God cannot be around sin. Sin separates us from God and deserves God’s punishment of death. (Romans 6:23)punishment of death. (Romans 6:23)punishment of death. (Romans 6:23)

God provided.God provided. Choose a child to read John 3:16 aloud. Say that God Choose a child to read John 3:16 aloud. Say that God Choose a child to read John 3:16 aloud. Say that God sent His Son, Jesus, the perfect solution to our sin problem, to rescue us from sent His Son, Jesus, the perfect solution to our sin problem, to rescue us from sent His Son, Jesus, the perfect solution to our sin problem, to rescue us from sent His Son, Jesus, the perfect solution to our sin problem, to rescue us from sent His Son, Jesus, the perfect solution to our sin problem, to rescue us from the punishment we deserve. It’s something we, as sinners, could never earn on the punishment we deserve. It’s something we, as sinners, could never earn on the punishment we deserve. It’s something we, as sinners, could never earn on the punishment we deserve. It’s something we, as sinners, could never earn on the punishment we deserve. It’s something we, as sinners, could never earn on our own. Jesus alone saves us. Read and explain Ephesians 2:8-9.our own. Jesus alone saves us. Read and explain Ephesians 2:8-9.our own. Jesus alone saves us. Read and explain Ephesians 2:8-9.

Jesus gives. Jesus gives. Jesus gives. Share with kids that Jesus lived a perfect life, died on the Share with kids that Jesus lived a perfect life, died on the Share with kids that Jesus lived a perfect life, died on the cross for our sins, and rose again. Because Jesus gave up His life for us, we can cross for our sins, and rose again. Because Jesus gave up His life for us, we can cross for our sins, and rose again. Because Jesus gave up His life for us, we can cross for our sins, and rose again. Because Jesus gave up His life for us, we can cross for our sins, and rose again. Because Jesus gave up His life for us, we can be welcomed into God’s family for eternity. This is the best gift ever! Read be welcomed into God’s family for eternity. This is the best gift ever! Read be welcomed into God’s family for eternity. This is the best gift ever! Read be welcomed into God’s family for eternity. This is the best gift ever! Read Romans 5:8; 2 Corinthians 5:21; or 1 Peter 3:18.Romans 5:8; 2 Corinthians 5:21; or 1 Peter 3:18.Romans 5:8; 2 Corinthians 5:21; or 1 Peter 3:18.

We respond. We respond. We respond. Tell kids that they can respond to Jesus. Read Romans 10:9-10,13. Review these aspects of our response: Believe in your heart Romans 10:9-10,13. Review these aspects of our response: Believe in your heart Romans 10:9-10,13. Review these aspects of our response: Believe in your heart Romans 10:9-10,13. Review these aspects of our response: Believe in your heart Romans 10:9-10,13. Review these aspects of our response: Believe in your heart that Jesus alone saves you through what He’s already done on the cross. Repent, that Jesus alone saves you through what He’s already done on the cross. Repent, that Jesus alone saves you through what He’s already done on the cross. Repent, that Jesus alone saves you through what He’s already done on the cross. Repent, that Jesus alone saves you through what He’s already done on the cross. Repent, turning from self and sin to Jesus. Tell God and others that your faith is in Jesus.turning from self and sin to Jesus. Tell God and others that your faith is in Jesus.turning from self and sin to Jesus. Tell God and others that your faith is in Jesus.turning from self and sin to Jesus. Tell God and others that your faith is in Jesus.turning from self and sin to Jesus. Tell God and others that your faith is in Jesus.

Offer to talk with any child who is interested in responding to Jesus. Offer to talk with any child who is interested in responding to Jesus. Offer to talk with any child who is interested in responding to Jesus. Provide Provide I’m a Christian Now!I’m a Christian Now! for new Christians to take home and complete for new Christians to take home and complete for new Christians to take home and complete I’m a Christian Now! for new Christians to take home and complete I’m a Christian Now!with their families.with their families.with their families.

55Into the World

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Unit 19 • Session 4 Jesus Was Dedicated

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