Wow! - Week 4
Whether it’s a rocket car powered by soda and mints or a tornado in a water bottle, there’s so much in our world that can fill us with awe. The world of STEM is full of things that look like little miracles, but they’re nothing compared to the miracles God can perform. In this four-week series, our families will take a look at some of the miracles that Jesus performed during his ministry. Through stories showing the power of Jesus, they’ll no doubt go, Wow! Jesus has the power to heal, to calm our fears, to provide, and to save.
BIG IDEA: Wow! Jesus has the power to save.
BIBLE: Matthew 14:22–36; Mark 8:31–38
MEMORY VERSE
Elementary: "In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all." 1 Chronicles 29:12b (NIV)
Toddler Twist: "God is strong and powerful!" 1 Chronicles 29:12
WATCH:
Preschool- teaching video
Elementary- teaching video
SONG: Medley of... My God is so Big , The is the Day and Higher Higher
DISCIPLE:
Read Matthew 14:22-36.
Next, open up Microsoft Word or Google Docs on your computer. Share your screen with your family. Start typing something and "accidentally" close it. In Word, you should be shown a "save" screen and in Docs, your progress will be auto-saved, so you can open it right back up.
Saving can mean many things, especially in the world of technology. When you're working on an assignment on a computer or trying to beat a level in a video game, you want to save your progress so that your hard work doesn't get erased!
Nowadays, most programs have the option to auto-save or prompt you to save your progress if you accidentally close your screen. All of your work gets stored in the device's memory or the cloud. Wow!
If Jesus wanted to, he could auto-save all of us, too. Whether it's a sticky situation we have gotten ourselves into or the state of our relationship with God, Jesus could easily swoop in and save us all. But he doesn't do that because Jesus gives us the freedom to choose to be saved.
Just like how Peter called out to Jesus to be saved when he was sinking in the water, we can call out to Jesus, too. And the minute we do, Jesus will be right there to save us from whatever mess we're in. Wow! Jesus has the power to save!
Pray: Wow God, you are powerful! Whenever I feel like I'm sinking because I am hurt, scared, or disappointed, you have the power to save me from my pain, fear, and sadness. Thank you also for loving us so much that you showed us the greatest saving power there is through your son Jesus. Amen.
DISCUSS:
How did the disciples respond when they first saw Jesus walking on water? They were afraid! They thought he was a ghost.
What did Peter ask Jesus to do in order for him to step out of the boat? Peter asked Jesus to tell him to come out onto the water, too.
Why did Peter begin to sink? He began to doubt and became afraid.
Read Mark 8:35. What do you think Jesus means when he says that we will save our life when we lose it? When we live our lives for God rather than for ourselves, we can count on Jesus to save us.
What are some things that may cause you to be afraid or to doubt?
Why do we need Jesus to save us?
Whom can you tell about the power of Jesus to save us?