Lesson 32: Bringing the Bible to Life!
When we present the Bible to children, it’s essential that we teach in a way that is biblically accurate, developmentally appropriate, and engaging. God’s Word is not boring! God meets us where we are at, whether children or adults, and classroom teachers should do the same.
When thinking about how to bring the Bible to life for students and make the lesson engaging and applicable to their own lives, the Lead Teacher should first begin with an understanding of the culture their students are immersed in. This allows them to weave real-life examples into the lesson. Here are a few ways Lead Teachers can better understand their students:
- Watch television shows or YouTube videos aimed at kids.
- Ask students what music they listen to.
- Ask students what kinds of technology they use and what kinds of apps or websites they often use or visit.
- Talk to parents and ask about their kids – what do they enjoy? What do they struggle with?
- Find out what kinds of after-school activities students in your area enjoy.
- As students are checking in, ask them about their week.
- Connect with an elementary school teacher and find out what school culture and student experiences are like.
Once you understand the likes, dislikes, struggles, fears, and interests of your students, you can better engage them in the classroom with real-life application.
Another way to bring the Bible to life is to prepare engaging props for your Bible lesson. Watch the video below to learn some ideas about picking props that are creative and exciting.
Director Tip! It is very helpful to create a supply of resources for your teachers, providing commonly used props such as blankets, treasure chests, crowns, and Bible-time costumes. The supplies can be stored in a resource closet, shelf, or tub. Choose a few key items and ask for donations. Someone might have what you’re looking for sitting around at home! Then devise a simple organizational system. Remind teachers often that the resources are available, and encourage them to use those resources to have fun bringing the Bible to life for kids!
Want to share this video with your team? Send them this link: https://youtu.be/QxUpXxMOAzo or download and save the video: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XBJQ95iQGXQSGIu2ORWnm18jIQGaqlPN/view?usp=drive_link
Click this link to see examples of prop ideas from churches around the world: Bible Lesson Prop / Creative Idea Photos Google Folder
Direct link to photo folder: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1BPp5RZ6Bv4d8CKM-OPuDpO7VXUhIZRb2?usp=drive_link