Passages: Luke 15-19
Big Idea: Jesus invites us to come, follow him and live in his upside-down kingdom.
Ages: 5-7
Six lessons exploring parables in Luke chapters 15-19.
Jesus’ parables are short stories that draw on everyday experiences to give insights into God and his kingdom. His stories are an invitation to come and live in God’s upside-down kingdom.
These six lessons are the second collection in a two-part series on the parables of Luke.
Jesus’ parables often have unexpected twists, catching his original listeners off guard. It was the rich man who was shut out, while the poor man was welcomed in. It was the sinful Tax Collector, not the pious Pharisee, who went home right with God.
In a world that craves power, wealth and position, Jesus describes a kingdom turned on its head. The heart of God for the lost, was something the religious leaders could not comprehend. The rich, who had it all on earth, end their life taking nothing with them. They loved what was temporary and missed out on enjoying what lasts forever. The wayward, younger son was welcomed back, while the eldest son, who’d stayed and worked, was rebuked for failing to celebrate his brother’s return.
Earlier in Luke’s gospel, Jesus describes the kingdom of God like a mustard seed, which begins tiny but grows into a tree large enough for birds to take refuge in. Or, like yeast that makes the dough rise. God’s kingdom grows as people turn to say, ‘Yes’ to his invitation and live under his rule. To those who used what they’ve been given, more will be given, but to those who don’t use what they’ve been given, even what they have will be taken away.
Luke’s parables are an invitation by Jesus to come, follow him and live in his upside-down kingdom.
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.