Camp Believe It - Week 3
People love camping, and for good reason! You can take in nature, practice special skills, or just take time to relax in a new environment. And when it comes to camping, no one loved it as much as John the Baptist. In this 4-week series, our families will hear about John the Baptist's special role in preparing the way for Jesus and his ministry. John's story will help kids to say their camp motto, "I believe God gives me purpose. I believe God can speak to me. I believe God is powerful. I believe God's words are true."
BIG IDEA: I believe God is powerful.
BIBLE: Jesus In The Wilderness: Matthew 4:1–11; Psalm 36:5–10
MEMORY VERSE
Elementary: "We have come to believe and to know that you are the Holy One of God." John 6:69
Toddler Twist: "We believe and know that you are God!" John 6:69
WATCH:
Preschool- teaching video
Elementary- teaching video
SONG: Same Power and This I Believe
DISCIPLE:
Show an image or a video about poison ivy (like this one).
Being out in the wilderness can be a fun and beautiful experience, but we still need to be careful.
What are some of the dangers we need to be on the lookout for when we're out in the wilderness? (Wild animals, snakes, insects, slippery terrain, and, of course, poison ivy or poison oak).
Poison ivy and poison oak are common dangers that we might find in the wilderness. We need to avoid touching these plants because they can cause a painful rash. One way to help you avoid poison ivy and poison oak is to remember this: "Leaves of three, leave it be." These poisonous plants have pointed leaves in groups of three.
If you see a plant like this, with leaves of three, what should you do? Leave it be. Just don't touch it.
Speaking of "three," that's how many times the devil tried to tempt Jesus to disobey God. But much like we should do with poison ivy plants, Jesus did leave it be. He said no to the devil's tempting — all three times — because he knew God was more powerful. I believe God is powerful, too. What about you?
Pray: God, even though you are so powerful, you let us come to you whenever we want. Thank you for loving us and giving us power when we feel like we have none. Help us resist anything that tries to hurt our relationship with you. We believe you—and your words—are powerful. Amen.