The child will be able to describe how God stepped in so that the gospel could be shared.
Bible Story Reference: Acts 13:1-12
Memory Verse:
Philippians 3:14 (NIV)
I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
Introduction
Bible Story
There was a church of Christians in a city called Antioch. While the people were there worshipping and praying, the Holy Spirit spoke to them.
“Send Barnabas and Saul to do the work I have chosen for them,” the Holy Spirit told them.
Everyone prayed some more. Then, they sent the two men out to do what God had called them to do.
Barnabas and Saul left and began to preach God’s message to others. One day, a city governor who was very smart wanted to hear God’s message. So, he sent for the two men to come to him. But another man named Bar-Jesus did not want the governor to have faith in God. He practiced witchcraft, and he was against Barnabas and Saul coming to speak to the governor.
Saul (who was also known as Paul) became filled with the Holy Spirit. (During this time, it was common for people to have two names. After becoming a Christian, Saul usually went by his other name, ”Paul.”)
“You are evil!” Paul said. “You are an enemy of everything that is true and right. God will punish you by making you completely blind for a while.” At that moment, the evil man’s eyes were covered with dark mist. He stumbled around trying to get someone to take his hand and lead him. But when the governor saw what had happened, he was amazed and put his faith in God.
Review
God did not let Bar-Jesus prevent the governor from hearing the good news about Jesus. He wants everyone to hear the good news, and his power can overcome any obstacle. God’s power amazed the governor and caused him to believe in God. God is all-powerful. And once again, God proved there is no other god or person like him. He is the one true God!
Paul and Barnabas could have been afraid. They could have left when Bar-Jesus tried to stop them from going to the governor. But instead, they trusted in God. God gave them the confidence, words, and the power they needed to tell the governor about Jesus.
We can ask God to give us wisdom and confidence to share the good news about Jesus, too.
Prayer
Dear God,
Help me to share Jesus with others, so that they may come to know you, too. Amen.
Crafts
Elymas / Bar-Jesus Goes Blind
What You Need
Steps