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Family Discipleship: Wisdom for God’s People

Dear Parents,

Our KidLife Preschool and Elementary Class are currently studying through the entire Bible while focusing on the Gospel. As they learn the incredible stories of Scripture, they’ll be taught how Christ is connected to all of it.

We have a deep desire to come along side you, the parent, and help you disciple your children. We want to help you teach them about God’s Word. Every week, we will send home information about the lesson your child learned. We also plan to include the lesson in our church program and post a weekly summary here, on the Grace Life Blog.

Take the time each day to go over what they learn, memorize the Scripture verse with them, and continue to show them Jesus. The greatest responsibility we have as parents is to disciple are kids and to show them how to follow Jesus. For more information on the importance of Family Discipleship, here’s a quick Facebook Live video or you can listen to this sermon on Family Discipleship from Pastor Matt.

Want the weekly KidLife lesson recap and other blog post delivered right to your inbox? Be sure to signup to receive post from the Grace Life Blog.

Here is this week’s summary:

Wisdom for God’s People

Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Songs of Solomon

Story Point: Wisdom is fearing the Lord and obeying His Word.

Big Picture Question: What does God know? God knows everything about the past, present, and future.

Christ Connection: Wisdom in the Bible shows us how to be like Jesus—in how we live, how we speak, and how we think. But wisdom cannot save us. Only Jesus, who perfectly followed God’s wise plan, can rescue us from sin.

Key Passage: Psalm 145:13

Dear Parents,

Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Songs are three books spanning more than 50 chapters of the Bible. This week’s study follows the story of Solomon, the primary writer of these books. While three books of the Bible are certainly a lot to cover in one session, this brief overview will reveal the wisdom of God for His people as He works out His wise plan for our salvation.

True wisdom comes from God. (See Prov. 2:6.) God made Solomon the wisest man who had ever lived, and people came from all over to listen to his wisdom. (See 1 Kings 4:29-34; 10:1-9.) He wrote most of the Book of Proverbs, which offers practical advice for living wisely. Solomon ruled Israel with great wisdom, but he still turned away from God and pursued His own desires.

Israel needed someone greater than Solomon. God’s plan included that: “Something greater than Solomon is here!” (Matt. 12:42; Luke 11:31). Jesus not only taught God’s wisdom, He displayed it perfectly.

The Book of Ecclesiastes teaches us to think carefully about how we should live our lives. Solomon was searching for something to give meaning to his life. In the end Solomon discovered that following God was—and is—the only way to find real happiness.

Finally, King Solomon wrote Song of Songs, which reveals God’s wisdom for relationships—specifically, between a husband and a wife. In the New Testament, the book of Ephesians says that Jesus loves the church as a husband loves his wife. (Eph. 5:22-28)

These books are the inspired words of God. The wisdom offered is not merely suggestions for living; it is part of God’s plan for our sanctification. Wisdom in the Bible shows us how to be like Jesus—in how we live, how we speak, and how we think. But wisdom cannot save us. Only Jesus, who perfectly followed God’s wise plan, can rescue us from sin.

Check this session’s Activity Page and Big Picture Card as well as the Gospel Project for Kids Family App for ways to interact with the Bible content this week.

 

FAMILY STARTING POINTS

  • Babies and Toddlers
    • God knows everything.
    • God made Solomon very wise.
    • Solomon wrote that wisdom comes from loving God.
    • Jesus always did what was wise and good.
  • Preschool
    • What does God know? God knows everything.
    • Wisdom is loving God and obeying His Word.
  • Kids
    • What does God know? God knows everything about the past, present, and future.
    • Wisdom is fearing the Lord and obeying His Word.

 

UNIT KEY PASSAGE

James 1:5

NEXT WEEK

“Solomon Built the Temple” (1 Kings 6–8)

Family Discipleship: Solomon asks for Wisdom

Dear Parents,

Our KidLife Preschool and Elementary Class are currently studying through the entire Bible while focusing on the Gospel. As they learn the incredible stories of Scripture, they’ll be taught how Christ is connected to all of it.

We have a deep desire to come along side you, the parent, and help you disciple your children. We want to help you teach them about God’s Word. Every week, we will send home information about the lesson your child learned. We also plan to include the lesson in our church program and post a weekly summary here, on the Grace Life Blog.

Take the time each day to go over what they learn, memorize the Scripture verse with them, and continue to show them Jesus. The greatest responsibility we have as parents is to disciple are kids and to show them how to follow Jesus. For more information on the importance of Family Discipleship, here’s a quick Facebook Live video or you can listen to this sermon on Family Discipleship from Pastor Matt.

Want the weekly KidLife lesson recap and other blog post delivered right to your inbox? Be sure to signup to receive post from the Grace Life Blog.

Here is this week’s summary:

Solomon Asked for Wisdom

1 Kings 2-3

Story Point: God gave Solomon wisdom to lead His people.

Big Picture Question: What does God know? God knows everything about the past, present, and future.

Christ Connection: Solomon was a wise king who wanted to do God’s plan. Solomon wasn’t perfect, but God had a plan to give His people a greater and wiser king—His Son, Jesus. Jesus completely trusted God. Jesus surrendered His own life to die on the cross for our sin.

Key Passage: Psalm 145:13

Dear Parents,

The downfall of David’s kingdom was propelled by David’s sin with Bathsheba. Amid the pain of losing their firstborn son, God showed David and Bathsheba that He still loved them. Bathsheba gave birth to Solomon. God chose Solomon to be Israel’s next king. (See 2 Sam. 12:24-25; 1 Chron. 22:9-13.)

David spoke to his son from his deathbed, giving specific instructions: “Keep your obligation to the LORD your God to walk in his ways” (1 Kings 2:3a). After 40 years of reigning over Israel, David died and Solomon became Israel’s king.

Early in Solomon’s reign, God appeared to him in a dream. “What should I give you?” God asked. Solomon’s response set him apart from many other kings. His God-honoring qualities were apparent. First, Solomon humbly acknowledged his lack of experience in leading God’s people. Then he said, “Give your servant a receptive heart to judge your people and to discern between good and evil. For who is able to judge this great people of yours?” (1 Kings 3:9).

If you were a king or queen and God offered to give you anything you asked for, what request would you make? Ask the kids you teach what they would ask for if they could receive anything their hearts desired. One might assume that a king would ask for power or for victory over his enemies. Perhaps he would ask for riches or to live a long life. Solomon asked for none of these. Instead, he asked God to make him wise. God was pleased with Solomon’s request, and He agreed to give Solomon a wise and understanding heart.

Solomon’s heart was surrendered to God. Solomon was a wise king who wanted to do God’s plan. Solomon wasn’t perfect, but God had a plan to give His people a greater and wiser king—His Son, Jesus. Jesus completely trusted God. Jesus surrendered His own life to die on the cross for our sin.

Check this session’s Activity Page and Big Picture Card as well as the Gospel Project for Kids Family App for ways to interact with the Bible content this week.

FAMILY STARTING POINTS

  • Babies and Toddlers
    • God knows everything.
    • King Solomon asked God to make him wise.
    • God gave Solomon wisdom to lead God’s people.
    • Wisdom is loving God and obeying His words..
  • Preschool
    • What does God know? God knows everything.
    • God gave Solomon wisdom.
  • Kids
    • What does God know? God knows everything about the past, present, and future.
    • God gave Solomon wisdom to lead His people.

UNIT KEY PASSAGE

James 1:5

NEXT WEEK

“Wisdom for God’s People” (Proverbs; Ecclesiastes; Song of Songs)

 

Family Discipleship: David’s Psalm

Dear Parents,

Our KidLife Preschool and Elementary Class are currently studying through the entire Bible while focusing on the Gospel. As they learn the incredible stories of Scripture, they’ll be taught how Christ is connected to all of it.

We have a deep desire to come along side you, the parent, and help you disciple your children. We want to help you teach them about God’s Word. Every week, we will send home information about the lesson your child learned. We also plan to include the lesson in our church program and post a weekly summary here, on the Grace Life Blog.

Take the time each day to go over what they learn, memorize the Scripture verse with them, and continue to show them Jesus. The greatest responsibility we have as parents is to disciple are kids and to show them how to follow Jesus. For more information on the importance of Family Discipleship, here’s a quick Facebook Live video or you can listen to this sermon on Family Discipleship from Pastor Matt.

Want the weekly KidLife lesson recap and other blog post delivered right to your inbox? Be sure to signup to receive post from the Grace Life Blog.

Here is this week’s summary:

David’s Psalm

Psalm 23

Story Point: David wrote a psalm to praise God.

Big Picture Question: How is Jesus the perfect King? Jesus perfectly rules over the universe as the King of kings.

Christ Connection: David compared God’s love, protection, and guidance for His people to that provided by a shepherd for his sheep. Jesus is the Good Shepherd. He laid down His life to save people from sin. Because of Jesus, we have hope that one day we will live with God forever.

Key Passage: Psalm 145:13

Dear Parents,

The Book of Psalms contains 150 psalms—poems, songs, and prayers—from a time in Israel’s history spanning from Moses (about the 1400s BC) to Israel’s exile to Babylon (about the 500s BC). Nearly half of the psalms are attributed to King David.

David wrote Psalm 23, one of the most well-known psalms in the Bible. David’s background as a shepherd equipped him to use the imagery of a sheep and shepherd to describe the Lord’s guidance and care for His people. When Saul went to Jesse to anoint one of his sons, David was with the sheep. (1 Sam. 16:19) David’s experience protecting his father’s sheep gave him confidence in the Lord’s ability to deliver. (1 Sam. 17:37)

A shepherd leads his sheep to pastures where they can find food. He watches over his sheep to protect them from danger. He cares for them, lifting a fallen sheep from a pit and ensuring not one is lost.

This was David’s experience of the Lord. He provided for David’s needs. He led him to places of peace and rest. He guided him on the right paths. The Lord was with David, and He is with us.

Jesus had compassion on the crowds who were “like sheep without a shepherd” (Matt. 9:36). Jesus said, “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep” (John 10:11). Jesus laid down His life to save people from sin. He assured His disciples that when He returns, He will gather His sheep from among the nations and welcome them into His kingdom. (Matt. 26:32-34)

David compared God’s love, protection, and guidance for His people to that provided by a shepherd for his sheep. Jesus is the Good Shepherd. He laid down His life to save people from sin. Because of Jesus, we have hope that one day we will live with God forever.

Check this session’s Activity Page and Big Picture Card as well as the Gospel Project for Kids Family App for ways to interact with the Bible content this week.

FAMILY STARTING POINTS

  • Babies and Toddlers
    • Jesus is our King.
    • David wrote a song about God’s kindness.
    • David said God is like a shepherd.
    • God shows His goodness and faithful love to us.
  • Preschool
    • How is Jesus the perfect King? Jesus perfectly rules over everything.
    • David wrote a song to praise God.
  • Kids
    • How is Jesus the perfect King? Jesus perfectly rules over the universe as the King of kings.
    • David wrote a psalm to praise God.

 

UNIT KEY PASSAGE

Psalm 145:13

NEXT WEEK

“Solomon Asked for Wisdom” (1 Kings 2–3)

 

Family Discipleship: David Sinned and was Restored

Dear Parents,

Our KidLife Preschool and Elementary Class are currently studying through the entire Bible while focusing on the Gospel. As they learn the incredible stories of Scripture, they’ll be taught how Christ is connected to all of it.

We have a deep desire to come along side you, the parent, and help you disciple your children. We want to help you teach them about God’s Word. Every week, we will send home information about the lesson your child learned. We also plan to include the lesson in our church program and post a weekly summary here, on the Grace Life Blog.

Take the time each day to go over what they learn, memorize the Scripture verse with them, and continue to show them Jesus. The greatest responsibility we have as parents is to disciple are kids and to show them how to follow Jesus. For more information on the importance of Family Discipleship, here’s a quick Facebook Live video or you can listen to this sermon on Family Discipleship from Pastor Matt.

Want the weekly KidLife lesson recap and other blog post delivered right to your inbox? Be sure to signup to receive post from the Grace Life Blog.

Here is this week’s summary:

David Sinned and was Restored

2 Samuel 10-11, Psalm 51

Story Point: David repented and God forgave him.

Big Picture Question: How is Jesus the perfect King? Jesus perfectly rules over the universe as the King of kings.

Christ Connection: When David sinned against God, God forgave him, but sin always comes with a price. God spared David’s life, but David’s son died. When we sin, we deserve death. But we can receive God’s forgiveness because God sent His Son, Jesus, to pay the price for our sin.

Key Passage: Psalm 145:13

Dear Parents,

The Ammonites were no strangers to the Israelites. They often fought over the region of Gilead, which stretched east of the Jordan River. David had tried showing kindness to the Ammonites, but they humiliated the Israelite ambassadors. (See 2 Sam. 10:1-5.) Thus began a war between the Israelites and Ammonites. This context sets the scene for the story of David’s sin and restoration.

David had experienced a season of blessing from God and success on the battlefield. The tribes of Israel united under David. But the upward trajectory of David’s life did not continue much longer.

One evening, David looked from his rooftop and saw Bathsheba bathing. He found out that she was the wife of Uriah, one of David’s elite soldiers. Her married status alone made her off-limits to David, but he nevertheless called for her and slept with her. David probably assumed his sin would go unnoticed, until Bathsheba told him she was pregnant. With Uriah gone to war, it was obvious the baby was not her husband’s.

David called Uriah home from the battle and encouraged him to be with his wife. But Uriah refused. Uriah didn’t think it was fair for him to be with his wife while other men were at war.

So David instructed his army commander to position Uriah in the most violent part of the battle so he would be killed. This time, David’s plan worked. Uriah was killed, and David took Bathsheba as his wife.

God knew David’s sin and sent Nathan the prophet to confront David. David’s confession is recorded in Psalm 51. God wanted David’s heart to change so he would not want to sin again.

Like David, we need more than a changed lifestyle to be made right with God; we need new hearts. Jesus died to satisfy God’s wrath against sin so that we could be made alive in Him.

When David sinned against God, God forgave him, but sin always comes with a price. God spared David’s life, but David’s son died. When we sin, we deserve death. But we can receive God’s forgiveness because God sent His Son, Jesus, to pay the price for our sin.

FAMILY STARTING POINTS

  • Babies and Toddlers
    • Jesus is our King.
    • David made a wrong choice.
    • David asked God to forgive him, and God forgave David.
    • Jesus came to forgive us from our wrong choices.
  • Preschool
    • How is Jesus the perfect King? Jesus perfectly rules over everything.
    • God forgave David.
  • Kids
    • How is Jesus the perfect King? Jesus perfectly rules over the universe as the King of kings.
    • David repented and God forgave him.

 

UNIT KEY PASSAGE

Psalm 145:13

NEXT WEEK

“David’s Psalm” (Psalm 23)

Family Discipleship: David’s Kindness

Dear Parents,

Our KidLife Preschool and Elementary Class are currently studying through the entire Bible while focusing on the Gospel. As they learn the incredible stories of Scripture, they’ll be taught how Christ is connected to all of it.

We have a deep desire to come along side you, the parent, and help you disciple your children. We want to help you teach them about God’s Word. Every week, we will send home information about the lesson your child learned. We also plan to include the lesson in our church program and post a weekly summary here, on the Grace Life Blog.

Take the time each day to go over what they learn, memorize the Scripture verse with them, and continue to show them Jesus. The greatest responsibility we have as parents is to disciple are kids and to show them how to follow Jesus. For more information on the importance of Family Discipleship, here’s a quick Facebook Live video or you can listen to this sermon on Family Discipleship from Pastor Matt.

Want the weekly KidLife lesson recap and other blog post delivered right to your inbox? Be sure to signup to receive post from the Grace Life Blog.

Here is this week’s summary:

David’s Kindness

2 Samuel 9

Story Point: David showed kindness to Jonathan’s son.

Big Picture Question: How is Jesus the perfect King? Jesus perfectly rules over the universe as the King of kings.

Christ Connection: King David showed surprising kindness to Mephibosheth even though he didn’t have to. In a greater way, God shows surprising kindness to us. Because of Jesus, He invites us into His family and gives us life with Him forever.

Key Passage: Psalm 145:13

Dear Parents,

Though King Saul was an adversary to David, Saul’s son Jonathan loved him as much as he loved himself. (See 1 Sam. 18:1.) Before David fled from King Saul and journeyed toward Moab, Jonathan appealed to his friend David, “If I continue to live, show me kindness from the Lord, but if I die, don’t ever withdraw your kindness from my household” (1 Sam. 20:14-15a).

Following the deaths of King Saul and his son Jonathan, David was made king over Israel. The Lord was with David, and he experienced numerous military victories. David remembered the promise he made to his best friend Jonathan and was determined to keep it.

David asked a servant of Saul’s family if anyone remained from Saul’s family. The servant mentioned Jonathan’s son. Jonathan’s son Mephibosheth (meh FIB oh sheth) had been injured when he was five years old, so his feet were crippled. (2 Sam. 4:4) David brought Mephibosheth to his house. Mephibosheth fell facedown before David. As a descendant of Saul, he was right to fear the king. But David said, “Don’t be afraid.”

David showed kindness to Mephibosheth, promising to restore to him all of Saul’s fields. He appointed servants to work the fields. The fields would provide an income for Mephibosheth. David also announced that Mephibosheth would eat meals at David’s table, just like one of the king’s sons. So Mephibosheth lived in Jerusalem and always ate at the king’s table.

King David showed surprising kindness to Mephibosheth even though he didn’t have to. In a greater way, God shows surprising kindness to us. Because of Jesus, He invites us into His family and gives us life with Him forever.

Check this session’s Activity Page and Big Picture Card as well as the Gospel Project for Kids Family App for ways to interact with the Bible content this week.

FAMILY STARTING POINTS

  • Babies and Toddlers
    • Jesus is our King.
    • David remembered his promise to Jonathan.
    • David showed kindness to Mephibosheth.
    • One day, Jesus will eat with us at His table.
  • Preschool
    • How is Jesus the perfect King? Jesus perfectly rules over everything.
    • David showed kindness to Jonathan’s son.
  • Kids
    • How is Jesus the perfect King? Jesus perfectly rules over the universe as the King of kings.
    • David showed kindness to Jonathan’s son.

 

UNIT KEY PASSAGE

Psalm 145:13

NEXT WEEK

“David Sinned and Was Restored” (2 Samuel 11–12; Psalm 51)

Family Discipleship: God’s Covenant with David

Dear Parents,

Our KidLife Preschool and Elementary Class are currently studying through the entire Bible while focusing on the Gospel. As they learn the incredible stories of Scripture, they’ll be taught how Christ is connected to all of it.

We have a deep desire to come along side you, the parent, and help you disciple your children. We want to help you teach them about God’s Word. Every week, we will send home information about the lesson your child learned. We also plan to include the lesson in our church program and post a weekly summary here, on the Grace Life Blog.

Take the time each day to go over what they learn, memorize the Scripture verse with them, and continue to show them Jesus. The greatest responsibility we have as parents is to disciple are kids and to show them how to follow Jesus. For more information on the importance of Family Discipleship, here’s a quick Facebook Live video or you can listen to this sermon on Family Discipleship from Pastor Matt.

Want the weekly KidLife lesson recap and other blog post delivered right to your inbox? Be sure to signup to receive post from the Grace Life Blog.

Here is this week’s summary:

David Showed Mercy

2 Samuel 6-7

Story Point: God promised that the Messiah would come from David’s family.

Big Picture Question: How is Jesus the perfect King? Jesus perfectly rules over the universe as the King of kings.

Christ Connection: God promised David that every future king of Israel would come from David’s family, and David’s kingdom would last forever. God kept His promise by sending His Son, Jesus, as one of David’s descendants. Jesus is our King who will never die; He will rule over God’s people forever.

Key Passage: Psalm 145:13

Dear Parents,

The path to Israel’s throne was not easy for David. Saul had tried multiple times to kill him, and David had to flee for his life, leaving behind his good friend Jonathan. But God had appointed David to be king, and God was faithful. Leading up to 2 Samuel 7, Jonathan was killed in battle against the Philistines. Saul fell on his own sword, and David became the king of Israel.

David moved the ark of God to Jerusalem—a cause for joyous celebration—and settled into his palace there. God blessed David and gave him peace from his enemies. But when David looked around, something didn’t seem right. He was living in a majestic palace while the ark of God was in a tent! David determined to build God a temple. That night, God gave the prophet, Nathan, a message for David. “Have I ever asked you to build Me a house?” God said. No, for four hundred years—since God brought the Israelites out of Egypt—He had dwelled in a tent.

David had been a shepherd, but God made him a king! God promised to give the Israelites a place to stay so they wouldn’t need to move around anymore. God promised to give His people rest from their enemies so they could stop fighting. Though God denied David’s desire to build God a house, God promised to make a house for David: a dynasty of his descendants and an everlasting kingdom.

God promised David that every future king of Israel would come from David’s family, and David’s kingdom would last forever. God kept His promise by sending His Son, Jesus, as one of David’s descendants. Jesus is our King who will never die; He will rule over God’s people forever.

FAMILY STARTING POINTS

  • Babies and Toddlers
    • Jesus is our King.
    • God made a special promise to David.
    • God promised to make David’s family kings.
    • God sent Jesus through David’s family.
  • Preschool
    • How is Jesus the perfect King? Jesus perfectly rules over everything.
    • God promised that every king of Israel would come from David’s family.
  • Kids
    • How is Jesus the perfect King? Jesus perfectly rules over the universe as the King of kings.
    • God promised that the Messiah would come from David’s family.

UNIT KEY PASSAGE

Psalm 145:13

NEXT WEEK

“David’s Kindness” (2 Samuel 9)

Family Discipleship: David Showed Mercy

Dear Parents,

Our KidLife Preschool and Elementary Class are currently studying through the entire Bible while focusing on the Gospel. As they learn the incredible stories of Scripture, they’ll be taught how Christ is connected to all of it.

We have a deep desire to come along side you, the parent, and help you disciple your children. We want to help you teach them about God’s Word. Every week, we will send home information about the lesson your child learned. We also plan to include the lesson in our church program and post a weekly summary here, on the Grace Life Blog.

Take the time each day to go over what they learn, memorize the Scripture verse with them, and continue to show them Jesus. The greatest responsibility we have as parents is to disciple are kids and to show them how to follow Jesus. For more information on the importance of Family Discipleship, here’s a quick Facebook Live video or you can listen to this sermon on Family Discipleship from Pastor Matt.

Want the weekly KidLife lesson recap and other blog post delivered right to your inbox? Be sure to signup to receive post from the Grace Life Blog.

Here is this week’s summary:

David Showed Mercy

1 Samuel 24

Story Point: David showed mercy even though Saul hated him.

Big Picture Question: How is Jesus the perfect King? Jesus perfectly rules over the universe as the King of kings.

Christ Connection: David showed mercy to Saul, his enemy, because David trusted God’s plan. Jesus also trusted His Father’s plan. He died on the cross so His enemies could experience God’s mercy and live forever as part of God’s family.

Key Passage: Psalm 145:13

Dear Parents,

David’s relationship with King Saul was complicated. Early on, David served the king by playing the lyre for him whenever he felt unwell. After David killed Goliath, he became good friends with Saul’s son Jonathan. But David’s success made Saul jealous. Saul could see that David was rising in popularity. He won victory after victory. Saul made several attempts on David’s life, and David fled to the land of Moab.

David wasn’t alone. His family and other men—anyone who was “desperate, in debt, or discontented” (1 Sam. 22:2)—joined David, and he became their leader. About 400 men were with David. Once in Moab, the prophet Gad instructed David to return to the land of Judah. When Saul found out David’s location, he pursued David, intending to kill him. Yet God protected David from Saul.

Saul was in pursuit of David when he stopped to relieve himself. Imagine David’s surprise when Saul entered the very cave in which David and his men were hiding. This was David’s chance! Saul was outnumbered and could easily be defeated. David got up and secretly cut off the corner of Saul’s robe, but he did not allow his men to hurt Saul.

When Saul left the cave, David followed after him. He acknowledged Saul’s authority—”My lord the king!” (1 Sam. 24:8)—and showed Saul the corner of his robe, proof of David’s passed-up opportunity. Saul wept upon realizing David’s mercy toward him. God had put Saul in David’s hand, and David let him go unharmed. Saul realized God had clearly chosen David to be Israel’s king.

David showed mercy to Saul, his enemy, because David trusted God’s plan. Jesus also trusted His Father’s plan. He died on the cross so His enemies could experience God’s mercy and live forever as part of God’s family.

Check this session’s Activity Page and Big Picture Card as well as the Gospel Project for Kids Family App for ways to interact with the Bible content this week.

FAMILY STARTING POINTS

  • Babies and Toddlers
    • Jesus is our King.
    • King Saul wanted to hurt David.
    • David showed mercy to King Saul.
    • Jesus shows us mercy when we do not deserve it.
  • Preschool
    • How is Jesus the perfect King? Jesus perfectly rules over everything.
    • David showed mercy to Saul.
  • Kids
    • How is Jesus the perfect King? Jesus perfectly rules over the universe as the King of kings.
    • David showed mercy even though Saul hated him.

UNIT KEY PASSAGE

Psalm 145:13

NEXT WEEK

“God’s Covenant with David” (2 Samuel 6–7)

Family Discipleship: David was Anointed

Dear Parents,

Our KidLife Preschool and Elementary Class are currently studying through the entire Bible while focusing on the Gospel. As they learn the incredible stories of Scripture, they’ll be taught how Christ is connected to all of it.

We have a deep desire to come along side you, the parent, and help you disciple your children. We want to help you teach them about God’s Word. Every week, we will send home information about the lesson your child learned. We also plan to include the lesson in our church program and post a weekly summary here, on the Grace Life Blog.

Take the time each day to go over what they learn, memorize the Scripture verse with them, and continue to show them Jesus. The greatest responsibility we have as parents is to disciple are kids and to show them how to follow Jesus. For more information on the importance of Family Discipleship, here’s a quick Facebook Live video or you can listen to this sermon on Family Discipleship from Pastor Matt.

Want the weekly KidLife lesson recap and other blog post delivered right to your inbox? Be sure to signup to receive post from the Grace Life Blog.

Here is this week’s summary:

David was Anointed

1 Samuel 16-17

Story Point: God chose David to be king instead of Saul.

Big Picture Question: How is Jesus the perfect King? Jesus perfectly rules over the universe as the King of kings.

Christ Connection: David did not look like a king or a mighty warrior, but God chose him to be king over Israel and gave him victory over Goliath. The Israelites were too weak and afraid to face Goliath; they needed David to fight on their behalf. In a similar way, though Jesus did not look like a warrior or king, we need Him to fight for us. Jesus gives us victory over sin and death.

Key Passage: Psalm 145:13

Dear Parents,

Samuel had anointed Saul as king over Israel, but it wasn’t long before Saul’s disobedience led God to reject him as king. God sent Samuel to Bethlehem to meet Jesse—a man in the family line of Judah. God had chosen one of Jesse’s sons to be Israel’s king.

When Samuel saw Jesse’s oldest son, Eliab, he thought, “This must be the one God has chosen!” Eliab was likely tall and good-looking. Why wouldn’t God choose someone like that? But God doesn’t make decisions like people do. Read what God said to Samuel in 1 Samuel 16:7.

Jesse’s sons took turns passing before Samuel, one by one. Samuel was probably eager to hear which son God had chosen to be Israel’s next king! Abinadab? No, not him. Shammah? No. “The Lord hasn’t chosen this one either.”

It seemed Samuel was out of options, but Jesse had one more son; his youngest, David, was out tending the sheep. David came in and God said, “This is the one.” Samuel anointed David, and the Spirit of the Lord was with David.

David did not become king right away. Saul was still on the throne, and David was still young. One day, David found himself at the battle where the Philistines had gathered to fight the Israelites. The story of David and Goliath is one of the most well-known accounts in the Old Testament. When the Israelites cowered in fear, David—with God’s power—stepped up and defeated the enemy with just a sling and a stone.

David did not look like a king or a mighty warrior, but God chose him to be king over Israel and gave him victory over Goliath. The Israelites were too weak and afraid to face Goliath; they needed David to fight on their behalf. In a similar way, though Jesus did not look like a warrior or king, we need Him to fight for us. Jesus gives us victory over sin and death.

FAMILY STARTING POINTS

  • Babies and Toddlers
    • Jesus is our King.
    • God chose David to be king after Saul.
    • God gave David power to fight Goliath.
    • Jesus has power to fight sin and death.
  • Preschool
    • How is Jesus the perfect King? Jesus perfectly rules over everything.
    • God chose David to be king.
  • Kids
    • How is Jesus the perfect King? Jesus perfectly rules over the universe as the King of kings.
    • God chose David to be king instead of Saul.

UNIT KEY PASSAGE

Psalm 145:13

NEXT WEEK

“David Showed Mercy” (1 Samuel 24)

Family Discipleship: Israel’s First King

Dear Parents,

Our KidLife Preschool and Elementary Class are currently studying through the entire Bible while focusing on the Gospel. As they learn the incredible stories of Scripture, they’ll be taught how Christ is connected to all of it.

We have a deep desire to come along side you, the parent, and help you disciple your children. We want to help you teach them about God’s Word. Every week, we will send home information about the lesson your child learned. We also plan to include the lesson in our church program and post a weekly summary here, on the Grace Life Blog.

Take the time each day to go over what they learn, memorize the Scripture verse with them, and continue to show them Jesus. The greatest responsibility we have as parents is to disciple are kids and to show them how to follow Jesus. For more information on the importance of Family Discipleship, here’s a quick Facebook Live video or you can listen to this sermon on Family Discipleship from Pastor Matt.

Want the weekly KidLife lesson recap and other blog post delivered right to your inbox? Be sure to signup to receive post from the Grace Life Blog.

Here is this week’s summary:

Israel’s First King

1 Samuel 8-15

Story Point: God’s people wanted a king like the nations around them.

Big Picture Question: Is anything or anyone greater than God? No, God is greater than everything and everyone.

Christ Connection: God intended for a heavenly king to rule over Israel, but the Israelites did not trust God’s plan and wanted a king like the nations around them. God gave them a king, but Saul did not obey God. God had a plan to send His Son, Jesus. King Jesus trusted and obeyed God perfectly and died so sinners could be forgiven and accepted.

Key Passage: Jeremiah 10:6

Dear Parents,

This week’s Bible story picks up more than 20 years after the Philistines returned the ark of God to the Israelites. During that time, Israel began to seek God again, and Samuel led them to remove their foreign gods and worship God only.

Samuel had judged Israel throughout his lifetime, but he was getting old. So Samuel made his sons, Joel and Abijah, judges over Israel. But like many sons before them, Joel and Abijah did not follow the example of their father. They disobeyed God and caused problems for Israel. The elders of Israel spoke to Samuel about his sons and demanded a king. All the other nations around them had kings, they pointed out. Samuel knew their desire to imitate the nations around them was sinful, and he prayed to God.

“Give them what they want,” God said. “They have not rejected you; they have rejected Me as their King.” Samuel explained to the Israelites what rights a king would have over them; he warned them that when they regretted asking for a king—and they would regret it—God would not help them.

The people insisted on having a king, so God chose a man named Saul to be the king. By all appearances, Saul was a good king. He was handsome, taller than most people, and God had blessed him. But Saul failed to obey God. First, Saul sinned by burning offerings in Samuel’s absence. Later, when the Israelites defeated the Amalekites, Saul did not follow God’s instructions for destroying everything. The Lord regretted making Saul king.

Help your kids understand that Saul was not the king the people needed. God intended for a heavenly king to rule over Israel, but the Israelites did not trust God’s plan and wanted a king like the nations around them. God gave them a king, but Saul did not obey God. God had a plan to send His Son, Jesus. King Jesus trusted and obeyed God perfectly and died so sinners could be forgiven and accepted.

FAMILY STARTING POINTS

  • Babies and Toddlers
    • God is greater than anything.
    • God’s people wanted a king to lead them.
    • Saul was the first king of Israel.
    • God sent Jesus to be our Savior and King.
  • Preschool
    • Is anything greater than God? No, God is greater than everything.
    • God’s people wanted a king.
  • Kids
    • Is anything or anyone greater than God? No, God is greater than everything and everyone.
    • God’s people wanted a king like the nations around them.

 

UNIT KEY PASSAGE

Jeremiah 10:6

NEXT WEEK

“David Was Anointed” (1 Samuel 16–17)

Family Discipleship: The Ark was Captured

Dear Parents,

Our KidLife Preschool and Elementary Class are currently studying through the entire Bible while focusing on the Gospel. As they learn the incredible stories of Scripture, they’ll be taught how Christ is connected to all of it.

We have a deep desire to come along side you, the parent, and help you disciple your children. We want to help you teach them about God’s Word. Every week, we will send home information about the lesson your child learned. We also plan to include the lesson in our church program and post a weekly summary here, on the Grace Life Blog.

Take the time each day to go over what they learn, memorize the Scripture verse with them, and continue to show them Jesus. The greatest responsibility we have as parents is to disciple are kids and to show them how to follow Jesus. For more information on the importance of Family Discipleship, here’s a quick Facebook Live video or you can listen to this sermon on Family Discipleship from Pastor Matt.

Want the weekly KidLife lesson recap and other blog post delivered right to your inbox? Be sure to signup to receive post from the Grace Life Blog.

Here is this week’s summary:

The Ark was Captured

1 Samuel 4-6

Story Point: God showed the Philistines that He is the one true God.

Big Picture Question: Is anything or anyone greater than God? No, God is greater than everything and everyone.

Christ Connection: The ark of God reminded the Israelites that God was with them. Years later, God gave His people something greater than a sign that He was with them; God gave them His Son Jesus—God in the flesh. One of Jesus’ names is Immanuel, which means “God with us.”

Key Passage: Jeremiah 10:6

Dear Parents,

The ark of God (also called “the ark of the covenant”) was an important symbol in the lives of God’s people. Not only was the ark the original container for the Ten Commandments, it symbolized God’s presence with His people.

In Exodus 25, God gave Moses instructions for creating the ark. It was made of acacia wood and overlaid with pure gold. God forbade anyone from touching the ark, so it was carried by two poles. God would speak to Moses from between two golden cherubim on top of the ark, which was called the mercy seat. (See Num. 7:89.)

During the time of the judges, the Philistines were a near-constant threat to Israel. Under Samuel’s leadership, the Israelites went out to fight the Philistines. But Israel was defeated because of their sin.

The elders of Israel realized that God had allowed their defeat. He hadn’t fought for them against the Philistines. So they did what seemed logical to them; they took the ark—the symbol of God’s presence—and carried it to the battlefield. But the ark was not a good luck charm. Not only was Israel defeated, the Philistines captured the ark and killed Eli’s sons. When Eli heard the news, he fell over and died.

Having won the victory, the Philistines concluded that their god, Dagon, was better than the God of Israel. They moved the ark to Dagon’s temple, where God showed His power over Dagon. (See 1 Sam. 5:1-5.) As the ark moved between Philistine cities, God afflicted the people and made them sick. The message was clear: No one is like the LORD. God is greater than everything and everyone.

The Philistines returned the ark, which was a great encouragement to God’s people. The ark of God reminded the Israelites that God was with them. Years later, God gave His people something greater than a sign that He was with them; God gave them His Son Jesus—God in the flesh. One of Jesus’ names is Immanuel, which means “God with us.”

FAMILY STARTING POINTS

  • Babies and Toddlers
    • God is greater than anything.
    • The Israelites took the ark of God to battle.
    • The Philistines took away the ark of God.
    • God is more powerful than anything or anyone.
  • Preschool
    • Is anything greater than God? No, God is greater than everything.
    • God showed the Philistines that He is the one true God.
  • Kids
    • Is anything or anyone greater than God? No, God is greater than everything and everyone.
    • God showed the Philistines that He is the one true God.

UNIT KEY PASSAGE

Jeremiah 10:6

NEXT WEEK

“Israel’s First King” (1 Samuel 8–15)