How To… - Week 1
The internet helps us learn how to do so many things! From new skate tricks and viral recipes to helpful hacks, there’s a “how-to” for almost everything. But is there a tutorial video for how to follow God? This four-week series is kind of like that — thanks to some tutorials from Jesus! Each week, we’ll focus on one of Jesus’ teachings from the Sermon on the Mount as we learn "how to" make a difference, love our enemies, share with others, and pray.
BIG IDEA: Jesus taught us how to make a difference
READ: Salt and Light: Matthew 5:13-16; Isaiah 58:1-12
MEMORY VERSE
Elementary:
"I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.” John 13:15 (NIV)
Toddler Twist: "I can follow Jesus." John 13:15
WATCH:
Preschool- teaching video
Elementary- teaching video
SONG: He is the Light and I have Decided
COLORING: Salt and Light
DISCIPLE:
Read Matthew 5:13-16 together.
Have you ever wondered how salt works and how it makes a difference in how food tastes? Here’s a quick rundown of how to use salt:
Use it to up the natural saltiness of a food.
Add a sprinkle to bitter things to tone down the bitterness.
Add a pinch to sweet things to balance out sweet flavors.
So, what do salt and people have in common? Well, they both have the power to make a difference! That’s kind of weird, but if you think about it, it’s kind of cool! Just like how salt can affect other tastes, people can affect other people. Through Jesus, we have the power to influence the people around us with God’s love. After all, Jesus taught us how to make a difference!
Discuss:
What did Jesus mean when he said that we are the "salt of the earth" and the "light of the world"?
What happens if salt loses its flavor or a light is hidden?
What is the purpose of letting our light shine?
What are some ways, mentioned in Isaiah 58:9-10, that we can let our light shine?
What kind of difference do you think Jesus wants you to make?
Is there anything in your life that's causing your "salt" to lose flavor or your "light" to shine less brightly? How can you change that?
Who is someone that's made a difference in your life? How?