Teaching Old Testament stories to children

Ask yourself what the point is for the lesson and the suggested activities you are teaching. For instance, an activity for the David and Goliath story suggests having children throw wads of paper at a picture of Goliath. What will children learn from this activity?Consider Jesus and his teachings when preparing your lesson. For instance, in teaching the story of David and Goliath you might want to tell the children that people in the past often settled their differences by fighting but Jesus told us to love our enemies.See what the focus of the lesson is and whether you agree with it. Be honest about how you view the Bible story. Adapt the lesson so that it works for you and your students.View the list »
Think about the stories you teach and how you teach them. Consider whether a particular Bible story or activity is appropriate for the age group you teach. 

General Religion newsletter

There is no getting around that much of the Old Testament is violent and even portrays God as approving of this violence. Sometimes Sunday school teachers wish they didn't have to teach the Old Testament and there are curricular that reflect this, such as ones based on the weekly lectionary readings, which focus mainly on the New Testament. There are arguments to be made on both sides of the issue, but you may not have any choice in this area. Here are some things to consider when teaching Old Testament stories to children.

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  • Think about the stories you teach and how you teach them. Consider whether a particular Bible story or activity is appropriate for the age group you teach. 
  • See what the focus of the lesson is and whether you agree with it. Be honest about how you view the Bible story. Adapt the lesson so that it works for you and your students.
  • Consider Jesus and his teachings when preparing your lesson. For instance, in teaching the story of David and Goliath you might want to tell the children that people in the past often settled their differences by fighting but Jesus told us to love our enemies.
  • Ask yourself what the point is for the lesson and the suggested activities you are teaching. For instance, an activity for the David and Goliath story suggests having children throw wads of paper at a picture of Goliath. What will children learn from this activity?
  • Another problem that teachers face has to do with taking some of the Old Testament stories literally, such as the creation of the world in seven days. In most instances I would let the children know that people have different opinions; again, I would be honest and let the children know my opinion while teaching them to respect differing opinions.
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, General Religion Examiner

Debbie Kolacki is a certified Christian Educator and a Local Lay Speaker in the United Methodist Church. She works as a consultant and purchaser at the Parish Resource Center in Rocky Point, NY, a non-denominational, education-based organization providing knowledgeable consultants, educational...

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