The Sad story of Korah - Numbers 16

 

Faith Speaks with Self-Control

Sunday School Lesson Guide

Lesson Overview

In Numbers 16, some leaders became jealous of Moses and Aaron. Instead of trusting God’s plan, they complained and challenged the leaders God had chosen. Moses did not fight back with anger. Instead, he prayed and trusted God to reveal the truth.

Moses told the men to bring censers with incense before the Lord, something only priests were allowed to do. This became a test. If Aaron was truly chosen by God, the Lord would accept his offering and reject the others.

God showed the people that pride leads to trouble, but humility and obedience honor Him. This story teaches children that faith speaks with self-control and trusts God instead of complaining or fighting.

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Memory Verse

Explain to children:
It is not enough to just hear Bible stories. God wants us to obey what we learn.

Example questions:

• What does it mean to obey God?

• Can we show faith by our actions?

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Three Key Lessons for Kids

1. Pride Causes Problems

Korah and the other leaders allowed pride to control their hearts. They believed they deserved the same position as Moses and Aaron.

Teach kids:
When we think we are always right or better than others, pride grows in our hearts.

Examples for kids:

• Refusing to listen to parents

• Arguing with teachers

• Thinking rules don't apply to us

Encourage children to pray:
“God, help me choose humility instead of pride.”

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2. Respect the Leaders God Gives Us

God chose Moses and Aaron to lead the people. The rebellion was not just against them—it was against God's plan.

Teach kids that God places leaders in their lives:

• Parents

• Teachers

• Pastors

• Sunday School teachers

Respecting them shows that we trust God.

Activity discussion:
Ask children to name leaders in their lives and how they can show respect.

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3. Faith Uses Self-Control

When Korah complained, Moses did not respond with anger. He prayed and trusted God.

Teach children:
Faith means staying calm and choosing the right response.

Examples:

• When someone is mean to you

• When you don’t get your way

• When you feel angry

Self-control helps us respond in a way that honors God.

Practice phrase with kids:
“Faith speaks with self-control.”

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Arts & Crafts Activity

Craft: “Humble Heart Craft”

Materials Needed

• Paper plates or heart-shaped construction paper

• Markers or crayons

• Glue

• Colored paper

• Scissors

• Stickers (optional)

Instructions

1. Give each child a paper plate or heart-shaped paper.

2. Write the title at the top:
   “A Humble Heart Obeys God.”

3. Ask kids to draw or write ways they can obey God:

   • Listen to parents

   • Be kind to others

   • Tell the truth

4. Decorate the heart with stickers or drawings.

5. Add the memory verse James 1:22 at the bottom.

Teaching Moment

Explain that a humble heart listens to God and obeys His Word.

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Game Ideas

Game 1: Self-Control Freeze Game

Purpose: Teach kids self-control.

Instructions

1. Play music and let children dance or move around.

2. When the teacher says “Self-Control!”, everyone must freeze.

3. Anyone who moves sits down for one round.

4. Continue until one child remains.

Lesson connection:
Self-control means stopping and choosing the right action.

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Game 2: Follow the Leader

Purpose: Teach respect for leadership.

Instructions

1. Choose one child as the leader.

2. The leader performs simple actions:

   • Clap hands

   • Jump

   • Spin

3. Everyone must follow the leader.

After the game ask:
Why is it important to follow the leader?

Explain that God gives leaders to guide us.

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Game 3: Obey the Word Relay

Purpose: Reinforce James 1:22.

Instructions

1. Divide children into two teams.

2. Place cards across the room with instructions like:

   • “Clap three times”

   • “Say a kind word”

   • “Jump twice”

3. Kids must run, read the instruction, and do what it says.

Explain that just like the game, God wants us to do what His Word says.

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Suggested Sunday School Songs

1. Trust and Obey

2. Obedience is the Very Best Way

3. The Wise Man Built His House

These songs reinforce obedience and trusting God.

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Video

Peter and Cornelius - God Shows No Favoritism (Acts 10)

 

 God Shows No Favoritism (Acts 10)

Overview

Acts 10 tells the story of Cornelius, a Roman centurion, and Peter, a Jewish apostle. Through visions and obedience, God revealed that salvation through Jesus is for all people—not just one group.

Memory Verse

Acts 10:34 – “God shows no favoritism.”

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Complete Narrative (Teacher Version)

Cornelius was a Roman officer who feared God, prayed regularly, and helped people in need. One afternoon, while he was praying, an angel appeared and told him that God had heard his prayers. The angel instructed him to send men to Joppa to bring Peter to his home.

At the same time, Peter was praying on a rooftop when he became hungry. As food was being prepared, he saw a vision of a large sheet coming down from heaven filled with different animals. A voice told him to eat, but Peter refused because he had never eaten anything unclean. Then the voice said, “Do not call anything unclean that God has made clean.” Through this vision, God was teaching Peter that he should not consider any group of people unworthy.

When Peter arrived at Cornelius’ house, he realized that God does not show favoritism. He understood that the good news about Jesus was not only for the Jews, but also for Gentiles. As Peter preached about Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection, the Holy Spirit came upon everyone who was listening. This showed clearly that salvation is for all who believe in Jesus.

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3 Lessons to Learn

1. God loves everyone – No race or nation is excluded.

2. Obedience matters – Both Peter and Cornelius obeyed quickly.

3. Share the gospel boldly – The message of Jesus is for all.

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Suggested Arts & Crafts

1. Paper Sheet Vision Craft – Kids draw animals on a paper “sheet” and write: “God loves everyone.”

2. World Heart Poster – Color a globe and write Acts 10:34 in the center.

3. Roman Helmet Craft – Simple paper helmet to represent Cornelius.

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Suggested Games:

1. Go and Tell Relay
   Theme Sharing the Good News

Objective

Teach kids to share the message about Jesus.

How to Play

Divide kids into teams and line them up.
Whisper the message Jesus loves everyone to the first child.
Each child whispers it to the next.
The last child says the message out loud.

Debrief

Explain that Peter shared the good news with Cornelius. We should share Jesus clearly too.

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2. All Are Welcome Circle Game
   Theme God Loves Everyone

Objective

Teach that God shows no favoritism.

How to Play

Kids stand in a circle.
Call out simple statements like Step in if you like rice.
Kids step in if it applies to them.
Say Step in if God loves you. Everyone steps in.

Debrief

Explain that God loves everyone, just like in the story of Peter and Cornelius.

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3. Vision Freeze Game
   Theme Listening to God

Objective

Teach kids to listen quickly.

How to Play

Kids move around the room.
When the teacher says Vision, everyone freezes.
Teacher says a short truth like God loves everyone.
Kids repeat it together.

Debrief

Explain that Peter stopped and listened to God. We should listen and obey quickly too.

The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:30–37)

 

The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:30–37) — Loving Like Jesus in Action

Overview (For Teachers)

This lesson helps kids understand that a “neighbor” isn’t only a friend or someone like us—it’s anyone who needs help. Jesus teaches compassion through the Good Samaritan: love is not just words; love moves.

Memory Verse

Luke 10:37 — “Jesus told him, ‘Go and do likewise.’”

Story Narrative (Teacher-Friendly)

A traveler went down the road from Jerusalem to Jericho and was attacked by robbers. He was badly hurt and left alone. A priest saw him but walked away. A Levite also looked and passed by. Then a Samaritan came—someone others didn’t expect to help. But he felt compassion, cleaned and bandaged the wounds, placed the man on his animal, and brought him to an inn. He paid for the man’s care and promised to return. Jesus ended by teaching: real love helps.

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3 Lessons to Learn

1. Compassion Stops. Love doesn’t rush past someone’s need.

2. A Neighbor Is Anyone in Need. We don’t choose kindness only for “our people.”

3. Mercy Costs Something. Helping may take time, effort, courage, or sharing—but it’s worth it.

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Suggested Arts & Crafts (Related to the Topic)

1. “Bandage Heart” Craft

   • Cut a paper heart. Add small paper “bandages” (strips) across it. Write: “I can help!”

2. Neighbor Helper Badge

   • Make a circle badge: “Helper Like the Good Samaritan” with a heart icon. Pin/tape to shirt.

3. Road to Jericho Diorama (Simple)

• Paper road strip, small rock doodles, and cutout characters. Kids retell the story by moving pieces.

God’s Promise to Abraham (Genesis 15–17)

Overview

Genesis 15–17 highlights God’s covenant promise to Abraham: descendants like the stars, a secure future, and the promised child Isaac. Genesis 16 also shows the struggle of waiting and how God tenderly sees Hagar.

Complete Kid-Friendly Narrative (Teacher Read-Aloud)

Abram loved God, but he had a big worry: “I don’t have a child.” God spoke to him, “Do not be afraid.” Then God brought Abram outside and said, “Look at the sky! Count the stars—if you can!” God promised Abram would have a huge family one day. Abram believed God, and God was pleased.

God also made a covenant—an unbreakable promise. Abram saw a sign like a smoking fire pot and a flaming torch, showing that God Himself would keep His promise.

But waiting was hard. Sarai and Abram tried to solve the problem their own way. Sarai gave her servant Hagar to Abram, and Hagar became pregnant. Hurt and conflict grew, and Hagar ran away. But God saw Hagar in the wilderness and spoke hope to her. Hagar learned that God sees her, and she returned. Her son was named Ishmael.

Years later, God spoke again: “Walk with Me.” God changed Abram’s name to Abraham and Sarai’s name to Sarah. God promised Sarah would have a son named Isaac. God also gave a covenant sign to remind Abraham’s family that they belonged to God.

Memory Verse

Genesis 15:6 (ESV)
“And he believed the LORD, and he counted it to him as righteousness.”

3 Lessons to Learn (Updated)

1. God is good even when things are hard.

2. Be thankful for what God has given you.

3. Thank God every day for His gifts.

Suggested Arts & Crafts

1. Star Promise Jar: Kids draw paper stars and write gratitude words (family, food, church, friends).

2. Thankful Star Crown: Cut a crown with star points; write “God is good” and “Thank You, Lord!”

3. Gift-of-God Cards: Make “thank you” cards to God (prayer cards) with star stickers and a daily gratitude list.

Suggested Games

1. Star Count Scatter: Hide paper stars; kids find them and say one thing they thank God for.

2. Goodness in Hard Times Freeze Game: Call out “hard time” scenarios; kids freeze and say “God is good!” then share a thankful thought.

3. Daily Thanks Toss: Toss a soft ball; whoever catches says one gift from God and passes it on.

4 Sunday School Songs (Topic-Fit)

1. “Father Abraham”

2. “My God Is So Big”

3. “Give Thanks with a Grateful Heart”

Solomon Asks for Wisdom: Choosing What Matters Most

Big idea

God loves when we ask for wisdom so we can do what is right.

Age group

Primary kids (about ages 5–10), adaptable for younger or older groups.

Lesson goal

Kids will understand that wisdom is better than riches, and they can ask God for wisdom in everyday choices.

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Story narrative

Solomon became king after his father, David. Solomon wanted to honor God, but he also knew being king was a big job. One night, God came to Solomon in a dream and said, “Ask me for what you want me to give you.”

Solomon could have asked for money, power, or a long life. Instead, Solomon spoke honestly. He told God he felt young and needed help. Then Solomon asked for an understanding heart—wisdom to lead God’s people and to know the difference between right and wrong.

God was pleased with Solomon’s request. God promised to give Solomon great wisdom. God also promised blessings Solomon did not ask for, because Solomon’s heart wanted what was right. Solomon woke up grateful, and the story teaches us that God listens when we ask for wisdom too.

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Memory verse (ESV)

So I ask you to give me the wisdom to rule and judge them well and to help me know the difference between right and wrong. Without such great wisdom, it would be impossible to rule this great nation." 
1 Kings 3:9

Tip: Have kids repeat it with motions: “give” (open hands), “understanding heart” (hands over heart), “discern” (point to eyes), “good and bad” (thumbs up / thumbs down).

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3 lessons to learn (kid-friendly)

1. Ask God for wisdom, not just stuff. Wisdom helps kids choose truth, kindness, and courage.

2. Tell God the truth about what you need. Solomon admitted he needed help, and God was pleased.

3. Wisdom helps us love people well. Solomon wanted to make fair choices for others, not only for himself.

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Suggested arts and crafts (all topic-related)

1. “Wisdom crown” headband: Paper crown labeled “wisdom,” with small cut-out “jewels” that say: truth, kindness, self-control, courage, respect.

2. “Understanding heart” craft: Large paper heart with the memory verse reference (1 Kings 3:9). Kids write one situation where they need wisdom (friends, school, home).

3. “Choose wisely” traffic light: Red-yellow-green circles on paper. Write: stop and pray, think what is right, go and do it.

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Suggested games (all topic-related)

1. Wisdom or wants? Hold up scenario cards (new toy, being popular, helping a friend, telling the truth). Kids run to the “wisdom” side or “wants” side, then discuss briefly.

2. Good choice relay: Teams race to match problem cards with wise responses (sharing, apologizing, telling the truth, praying).

3. Prayer prompt circle: Pass a soft ball. Whoever holds it answers: “I need God’s wisdom when…” (keep it short and supportive).

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Suggested Sunday school songs (topic-connected)

1. “Seek Ye First” (asking God first).

2. “The Wise Man Built His House Upon the Rock” (wisdom shown in actions).

3. “Be Careful Little Eyes What You See” (wise choices with our words and actions).

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Optional discussion questions

• If God asked you, “What do you want me to give you?” what would you ask for, and why?

• What is one time you needed wisdom at school or at home?

• How can we ask God for wisdom this week?

 

Jonah and the Big Fish (Jonah 1-4)

LESSON OVERVIEW

The story of Jonah teaches children powerful truths about obedience, repentance, prayer, and God’s mercy. Through Jonah’s journey, students learn that God is patient and loving, even when His people struggle to obey. This lesson helps children understand that God cares about everyone and desires hearts that listen, repent, and respond to Him.

Jonah’s story is especially meaningful for children because it shows real emotions such as fear, anger, and joy. It reassures them that God does not give up on us when we make mistakes, and that obedience and prayer lead us back to Him.

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BIBLE PASSAGE

Jonah chapters 1–4

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MEMORY VERSE

“Salvation comes from the Lord.”
Jonah 2:9

Encourage children to repeat the verse with hand motions or rhythm to help with memorization.

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COMPLETE LESSON NARRATIVE

God called Jonah to go to Nineveh and warn the people to turn away from their sinful ways. Instead of obeying, Jonah ran in the opposite direction. He boarded a ship, hoping to escape God’s command. God sent a strong storm, and Jonah realized his disobedience put everyone in danger. When Jonah was thrown into the sea, the storm stopped.

God then sent a big fish to swallow Jonah. Inside the fish, Jonah prayed to God, admitted his wrong choice, and asked for forgiveness. God heard Jonah’s prayer and gave him another chance by bringing him safely to dry land.

Jonah obeyed God and went to Nineveh. The people listened, repented, and turned away from their sins. God showed mercy and forgave them. Jonah struggled to understand God’s compassion, but God taught him an important lesson using a plant and the hot sun. Through this, Jonah learned that God loves all people and wants everyone to turn to Him.

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KEY LESSONS TO LEARN

1. OBEDIENCE MATTERS

God wants us to obey Him, even when it feels difficult or uncomfortable. Jonah learned that running away from God leads to trouble, but obedience leads to peace and restoration.

2. PRAYER BRINGS US BACK TO GOD

Jonah prayed from inside the fish, and God listened. Children learn that prayer is powerful and that God hears us when we honestly talk to Him and say sorry.

3. GOD’S MERCY IS FOR EVERYONE

God forgave the people of Nineveh and showed Jonah that His love is not limited. This helps children learn to show kindness, patience, and forgiveness to others.

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DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

• Why did Jonah run away from God?

• What happened when Jonah prayed inside the fish?

• How did God show mercy to the people of Nineveh?

• How can we obey God in our daily lives?

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SUGGESTED ARTS AND CRAFTS

• Paper Plate Whale: Create a whale with Jonah inside to retell the story.

• Prayer Journal Page: Children decorate a page where they can write or draw prayers.

• Plant and Shade Drawing: Illustrate the plant God used to teach Jonah about mercy.

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SUGGESTED GAMES

• Run or Obey: Children act out choices and decide whether they lead to obedience or disobedience.

• Memory Verse Relay: Teams race to assemble the memory verse in order.

• Fish Toss: Toss soft balls into a box shaped like a whale’s mouth.

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SUGGESTED SUNDAY SCHOOL SONGS

1. Trust and Obey

2. God Is So Good

3. This Little Light of Mine

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TEACHER TIPS

• Keep explanations simple and age-appropriate.

• Emphasize God’s love more than Jonah’s mistake.

• Use repetition to help children remember key lessons.

• Encourage children to share real-life examples of obedience and prayer.

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CLOSING ENCOURAGEMENT

The story of Jonah reminds children that God is loving, patient, and merciful. Even when we fail, God offers forgiveness and a new beginning. By teaching Jonah 1–4, educators help children grow in faith, obedience, and compassion, learning to trust God and reflect His mercy to others.

 

Elijah and the Still Small Voice

Bible passage: 1 Kings 19:9–18

Lesson overview:
This lesson helps children understand that God listens to their feelings, speaks in calm ways, and always has a purpose for them. It is ideal for early elementary to pre-teen students.

Memory verse:

“Be still, and know that I am God.” – Psalm 46:10

The Story

Elijah was a faithful prophet who loved and obeyed God, but after facing many hard challenges, he became very tired and afraid. He ran far away and hid inside a quiet cave, believing that he was all alone. But God met Elijah there, not with loud wind, earthquakes, or fire, but with a gentle and loving whisper. In that quiet moment, God reminded Elijah that he was deeply loved, never truly alone, and still chosen for an important purpose. This story teaches children that when life feels noisy or scary, God often speaks to our hearts when we slow down, become still, and listen carefully.

Lessons to learn:

1. God cares about how we feel and invites us to talk to Him.

2. God often speaks quietly, so we must listen with our hearts.

3. God always has a plan for us, even when we feel weak or afraid.

Suggested arts and crafts:

• Whisper art: children draw a calm scene and write the memory verse

• Cave craft using paper bags or cardboard

• Listening ears craft to remind kids to listen to God

Suggested games:

• Silent listening game where kids identify soft sounds

• Follow the whisper game using gentle voice directions

• Bible verse freeze game with Psalm 46:10

Suggested Sunday School songs:

1. Be Still and Know

2. I Am Listening, Lord

3. Whisper a Prayer