This Sunday school lesson teaches that we are children of God and that He is pleased when we give to Him in the right way.
TOPICS
Cain and Abel, Child of God, Fairness, Giving, Pleasing God
AS KIDS ARRIVE (15 minutes)
As the children arrive, have lots of oranges placed on the table, making sure some look perfect, and others look slightly blemished or irregular but still good to eat. Have the children examine the oranges and separate them into two piles, one being the best looking ones and the other those that do not look as good. As the children finish this project, ask them the following questions:
1. If you were to give one of these piles of oranges to God, which one would you give?
2. Do you think God would be just as happy if you gave Him the pile of not so good oranges? Why?
WORSHIP TIME (5 minutes)
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BIBLE VERSE (7 minutes)
"Offer sacrifices in the right spirit, and trust in the LORD." Psalm 4:5 NLT
Explain to the children that when we give our best to God we will live a happier life. Recite the verse several times.
BIBLE STORY (15 minutes)
After the introduction, read the story right from the Bible. If possble, use a Children's Bible so it will be easier for the kids to understand.
Introduction:
Today, our story from the Bible is about two brothers, Cain and Abel. God loved them both, but he was not pleased with Cain because of what he did. What did Cain do that was so bad? Let's read and find out.
Read Genesis 4:2b-7
Discussion Questions:
1. Abel was a shepherd, because he kept the flocks, do you remember what Cain did? (He worked the soil.)
2. Both boys brought some gifts to God. Who brought fat portions from the firstborn of his flock? (Abel.)
3. Was God pleased with both gifts? (No.)
4. We read that Abel brought good portions to God. What kind of portions do you think Cain brought to God? (Perhaps good, perhaps not so good. However Cain did not give his very best because of his attitude.)
5. How did Cain feel when he saw that God favored his brother's gift more? (He became angry.)
6. Why is it important to give to God in the right way? (Allow for answers.)
7. What are some ways to show that you are giving your best to God? (Allow for answers.)
FUN TIME (10 minutes)
Give God Your Best (Coloring Activity) Click here
ALTERNATE FUN TIME (10 minutes)
Giving My Best (Activity) Click here
PRAYER/SNACK (10 minutes)
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Start by praising God and acknowledging that all things belong to Him. Then, take the oranges from the not so good pile, wash if needed, offer help peeling, and give them to the children to eat. Explain to the children that they will not eat the good oranges, instead they will give them to someone else to enjoy, perhaps other teachers or parents as they come to pick up the kids.
CLOSING ACTIVITY (5-10 minutes)
Does it Please the Lord? (Game) Click here
NEXT WEEK
Come back next week to learn more about our awesome God.
TAKE HOME PAGE
Give one copy to each child at the end of the class to take home [PDF]. Click here