Passages: Luke 15-18
Big Idea: In Jesus’ kingdom things are often upside down.
Ages: 5-11
Nine lessons on Luke chapters 15 to 18.
Note: These lessons are yet to be upgraded to the new Kidswise format. Each lesson contains two parts: K-2 is for children aged 5-7 and 3-5 is for children ages 8-11.
Luke chapters 15 to 18 are set in the context of Jesus resolutely turning and heading for Jerusalem. The Saviour of the world is on his way to the cross (Luke 9:51).
While Luke chapters 12 to 14 speak of the cost of discipleship, Luke 15 to 18 is full of the unexpected nature of God’s Kingdom. Things aren’t what they appear.
The elder son who worked hard for his Father all his life is rebuked for his failure to welcome back his wayward brother. The rich man in Jesus’ story lands in hell, while the poor man lands in heaven. The Pharisee in Jesus’ story, who lived trying to please God, is left speechless as the Tax Collector leaves justified.
Jesus is not averse to using negative images to make his point. He uses a deceitful manager to teach about using wealth for God’s Kingdom and a bad judge to teach about persisting in prayer.
He warns about the danger of living a divided life - you can’t serve God and money. And for a second time in Luke’s gospel he reminds us where history is heading. The first time Jesus came, he came to save us. The second time he comes as Judge. And this section raises the question… will Jesus find us ready for his return? Will he find us living for and obeying him… Jesus our Saviour King!
The unit comes complete with stories, pictures, suggested songs/memory verses, games, drama activities, crafts, large and small group activities. A resource pack full of crafts and worksheets is also included.