Purpose of this booklet. Small Children s Catechism

Transcription

1 Purpose of this booklet This booklet is designed to help children learn basic tenets of the Christian faith. If a child is able to learn the things contained herein, they will be ready for more challenging study, such as the Puritan s Catechism, the Shorter (Westminster) Catechism, or the Longer (Westminster) Catechism. From there, I suggest you look at the confessions such as The Baptist Confession of Faith (1689), or the Westminster Confession of Faith. Most of the work cited here is from old sources and Puritan works, including The New England Primer. God bless you for deciding to train up your child in the ways they should go Table of Contents SMALL CHILDREN S CATECHISM...2 THE TEN COMMANDMENTS...6 A-B-C S OF SCRIPTURES...8 SCRIPTURE FOR EACH LETTER OF THE ALPHABET...9 MEMORIZE THE BOOKS OF THE BIBLE...10 OLD TESTAMENT BIBLE STORIES...11 NEW TESTAMENT STORIES...13 BIBLE TRIVIA QUESTIONS...17 THE ROMANS ROAD...18 VARIOUS BIBLE MEMORY VERSES...19 THE TWELVE APOSTLES...38 WHAT HAPPENED TO THE APOSTLES?...40 THE NICENE CREED...44 THE APOSTLES' CREED...45 This work is non-copyright! Duplication is encouraged. 1 Small Children s Catechism This catechism, or series of Questions and Answers, is designed to introduce children to the Biblical doctrines of the church. Children should memorize the answers to these questions. In a later booklet, we have a longer, more difficult catechism. 1. Who made you? God 2. What else did God make? God made all things. 3. Why did God make all things? For His own glory 4. Why do things work as they do? God has so decreed it. 5. How do we learn about God? God reveals Himself. 6. Where does God reveal Himself? In His word and in nature 7. What does God reveal in nature? His character, law, and wrath 8. What more is revealed in His Word? God's mercy toward His people 9. Where is God's Word today? The Bible is God's Word. 10. How many Gods are there? There is one true God. 11. How many persons are in the Godhead? Three 12. Who are these persons? Father, Son, and Holy Spirit 2

2 13. Where is God? He is everywhere. 14. How long has God existed? He has always been. 15. How is man unique? He bears God's image. 16. Who was the first man? Adam 17. What was Adam like at creation? He was good. 18. Did Adam remain good? No, he sinned. 19. What is sin? Disobedience to God's law 20. What is the penalty for sin? Death 21. What came of Adam's sin? Death came to all men. 22. Why did Adam's sin affect all men? We all sinned in Adam 23. Must all men die for sin? No, God elected some to life. 24. How may we be saved from sin and death? Only through Jesus Christ 25. Who is Jesus Christ? He is God's Son. 26. Did Jesus ever sin? No, only He is righteous. 27. What did Jesus do for His people? He conquered death. 28. How did He do this? He died, then rose again. 29. What else did Christ conquer? All his enemies 30. Are His enemies powerful? They have come to nothing. 31. What did He give to His people? His own righteousness 32. What did He take from His people? Their sin 33. How is Christ's work brought to His people? By the Holy Spirit 34. What does the Holy Spirit do? He gives faith. 35. What is faith? Resting on Christ for salvation 36. How do we recognize true faith? It yields good works 37. Who are Christ's people? They make up His church 38. What are the traits of His church? The Word, discipline, and sacraments 39. How is the Word a trait of His church? All God's Word is preached. 40. How is discipline a trait of His church? God's people are protected. 3 4

3 41. What are sacraments? Signs and seals of God's covenant 42. What sacraments are there? Baptism and the Lord's Supper The Ten Commandments 1. "You shall have no other gods before Me" (God should be Number One) 43. Who is Head of the Church? Jesus Christ 44. What offices has Christ appointed? Overseers and deacons 45. Is His Church perfect? It is being perfected. 46. When will it be perfect? At the resurrection 47. What happens at the resurrection? Christ judges all men's deeds. 2. "You shall not make yourself any graven image" (Don't bow down to anything but God) 3. "You shall not take the Name of the Lord your God in vain" (Don't use your lips to dishonor God) 48. What of those He deems righteous? They dwell with Him forever. 49. What of those He condemns? They perish forever. 50. How does this judgment affect Christ? It magnifies His glory. 4. "Remember the Sabbath Day to keep it holy" (Don't neglect the things of God) 5. "Honor your Father and your Mother" 6. "You shall not kill" 5 6

4 7. "You shall not commit adultery" (Adultery leaves a heart broken) 8. "You shall not steal" 9. "You shall not lie" (a "lying" nine) 10. "You shall not covet" (want what others have) A-B-C s of Scriptures Hello kids! Who knows their A-B-C's? Great! Today, I want to tell you about some very important A-B-C's! "A" stands for "All". The Bible tells us that ALL have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." That means we do wrong things, and that we can not be perfect like God is perfect. Did you know that to go to heaven we must be perfect? But you know what? That is impossible! "B" stands for "Believe". The Bible tells us to "BELIEVE in the Lord Jesus Christ, and you shall be saved." We need to be saved because the Bible says we will be punished for our sins. The good news is that Jesus took on our punishment! God wants us to believe that Jesus died for you and me, then trust and follow him each day. We do this by reading his Word, the Bible, and praying to him. "C" stands for "Confess". The Bible says, "If you CONFESS with your mouth, 'Jesus is LORD,' and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved." This means that you should agree with God that you are a sinner, that you do wrong things. Then believe and trust in Jesus to save you. Because the Bible says, "Anyone who trusts in him will never be put to shame!" and "Everyone who calls on the name of the LORD will be saved!" So kids, the next time you say your A-B-C's, remember this: ALL have sinned, BELIEVE in Jesus, & CONFESS your sins! (Bible references: Romans 3:23, Acts 16:31, Romans 10:9,11,& 13.) 7 8

5 Scripture for Each Letter of the Alphabet A All have sinned, and come short of the glory of God. (Romans 3:23) B Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved. (Acts 16:31) C Children obey your parents in the Lord; for this is right. (Ephesians 6:1) D Depart from evil, and do good. (Psalm 34:14) E Even a child is known by his doings. (Proverbs 20:12) F Fear not; for I am with thee. (Isaiah 43:5) G God is Love. (I John 4:8) H Honor thy father and thy mother. (Exodus 20:12) I If ye shall ask anything in my name, I will do it. (John 14:4) J Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth and the life, no man cometh unto the father but by me. (John 14:6) K Keep thy tongue from evil. (Psalm 34:13) L Look unto me, and be ye saved. (Isaiah 45:22) M My son, give me thine heart. (Proverbs 23:26) N No man can serve two masters. (Matthew 6:34) O O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good. (Psalm 118:1) P Praise ye the Lord; for it is good to sing praises unto our God. (Psalm 147:1) Q Quit you like men, be strong. (I Corinthians 16:13) R Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. (Exodus 20:8) S Seek ye the Lord while he may be found. (Isaiah 55:6) T Thou God, seest me. (Genesis 16:13) U Unto thee, O God do we give thanks. (Psalm 75:1) V Verily, verily, I say unto you, whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, he will give it to you. (John 16:23) W When I'm afraid, I will trust in thee. (Psalm 56:3) X Exceeding great and precious promises are given unto us. (II Peter 1:4) Y Ye are the light of the world. (Matthew 3:14) Z Zion heard, and was glad. (Psalm 97:8) Memorize the New Testament Books of the Bible Section 1: Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Acts, Romans, 1 Corinthians, 2 Corinthians. Section 2: Galatians, Ephesians, Phillipians, Colossians, 1 Thessalonians, 2 Thessalonians Section 3: 1 Timothy, 2 Timothy, Titus, Philemon, Hebrews, James, Section 4: 1 Peter, 2 Peter, 1 John, 2 John, 3 John, Jude, Revelation Memorize the Old Testament Books of the Bible Section 1: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy Section 2: Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 1 Samuel, 2 Samuel, 1 Kings, 2 Kings, 1 Chronicles, 2 Chronicles Section 3: Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther, Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon Section 4: Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations, Ezekiel, Daniel, Hosea, Joel, Amos Section 5: Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk Section 6: Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, Malachi 9 10

6 Bible Stories Included are numerous Bible stories to discuss. The Scriptural references are included so you can look these up in your Bible. Some stories will have to be simplified for younger children. Old Testament Bible Stories Creation: Creation: Genesis 1 Adam and Eve: Genesis 1:26-2:23 The Fall of Man: The First Sin: Genesis 2-3 Cain and Abel: Genesis 4 Noah: Noah s Ark: Genesis 6-7 A Rainbow Promise: Genesis 8-9 Sinfulness of Men: The Tower of Babel: Genesis 11:1-9 Sodom and Gomorrah: Genesis 13; 18:20-33; 19 Israel s History: Abraham Father of Many Nations: Genesis Isaac: Genesis 18:1-5; 9-14, 19; 21:1-8; Genesis 22:1-18; Genesis 24 Jacob the Father of Israel: Genesis Joseph s Coat: Genesis 37 Joseph in Egypt: Genesis Moses: Baby Moses in the Bullrushes: Exodus 1,2 Moses and the Burning Bush: Exodus 3 The Ten Plagues: Exodus 7-11 Plague 1 - Blood Plague 2 - Frogs Plague 3 - Gnat Plague 4 - Flies Plague 5 - Disease in Livestock Plague 6 - Boils Plague 7 - Hail Plague 8 - Locusts Plague 9 - Darkness Plague 10 - Death of Firstborn Passover and the Exodus from Egypt: Exodus 3:7-10; 12:17-28 Crossing the Red Sea: Exodus 12:31-15 Wandering in the Wilderness: Exodus and onwards Water From a Rock: Exodus 15:22-27; Exodus 17:1-7; Numbers 20:1-13 Manna from Heaven: Exodus 16 The Ten Commandments: Exodus 20:1-17; 32:1-6 The Tabernacle: Exodus 26-40; Leviticus 1-10; Numbers Balaam: Numbers Into the Promised Land: Deuteronomy 2; Joshua 1, 3 Moses Last Days: Deuteronomy Judges: Joshua Leads Israel: Joshua The Battle of Jericho: Joshua 2; 5:13-15, 6:1-27 Gideon: Judges 6-8 Samson: Judges Ruth: Ruth God Gives Hannah a Baby: 1 Samuel 1 Samuel: 1 Samuel; 2 Samuel Kings and Queens: King Saul: 1 Samuel David the Shepherd: 1 Samuel 16:1-13 David and Goliath: 1 Samuel 17:1-51 David and Jonathan: 1 Samuel 20 King David: 2 Samuel King Solomon: 1 Kings 1-11 Hezekiah: 2 Kings 18-20; 2 Chronicles The Boy King - Joash: 2 Kings 11-12, 2 Chronicles 22:10-24:16 The Boy King - Josiah: 2 Kings 22-23, 2 Chronicles Esther The Girl Who Became Queen: Esther Elijah the Prophet: Elijah Fed by Ravens: 1 Kings 17:1-6) Elijah and the widow of Zarephath: 1 Kings 17:7-24 Elijah - Still, small voice: 1 Kings 19 Elijah and the Chariot of Fire: 2 Kings

7 Elisha the Prophet: Elisha and the Widow s Oil: 2 Kings 4:1-7 Elisha and the Shunammite s Son: 2 Kings 4:8-27 Elisha and the Floating Axe: 2 Kings 6:1-7 Elisha and Angels at Dothan / A Servant s Eyes Opened: 2 Kings 6:8-23 Other Prophets: Namaan s Maid: 2 Kings 5:1-14 Nehemiah: Nehemiah Job: Job Isaiah: Isaiah Jeremiah: Jeremiah Ezekiel: Ezekiel Daniel: Daniel and His Three Friends: Daniel 1 Nebuchadnezzar s Dreams: Daniel 2, 4 Daniel and the Lion s Den: Daniel 6 The Fiery Furnace: Daniel 3 The Writing on the Wall: Daniel 5 Jonah and the Whale: Jonah 1-3 Scriptural Lesson: I m So Wonderfully Made: Psalm 139:14 New Testament Stories The Birth & Early Years of Jesus The Genealogy of Christ: Matthew 1 An Angel Visits Mary: Luke 1:26-56 Jesus Birth: Matthew 1:18-25; Luke 2:1-7 The Shepherds Worship Jesus: Luke 2:8-20 Three Wisemen: Matthew 2:1-12 Simeon and Anna Say Thank You: Luke 2:21-39 Escape to Egypt: Matthew 2:13-18 Jesus Grows Up: Matthew 2:13-15, 19-23; Luke 2:39-52 John the Baptist: John the Baptist Herod Wanted to Kill Him: Matthew 14:5 John the Baptist s Parents: Luke 1:13 Zechariah Unable to Speak: Luke 1:20 13 John the Baptist a Prophet: Matthew 14:5 John the Baptist Preaching in the Desert of Judea: Matthew 3:1 John the Baptist in Prison: Matthew 14:3 John the Baptist Sends His Disciples to Ask About Jesus: Matthew 11:2-3 John the Baptist Preparing the Way for Jesus: Matthew 3:1-3 John the Baptist Wore Clothes of Camel s Hair: Matthew 3:4 John the Baptist Ate Locusts and Honey: Matthew 3:4 The Daughter of Herodias Asks for John the Baptist s Head on a Platter: Matthew 3:1-3 The Miracles of Jesus: Jesus Goes to a Wedding: John 2:1-11 Jesus Heals the Blind Man: John 9:6 Jesus Heals the Sick: Mark 5:21-34; Mark 5:21-43; Luke 4:38-44; Luke 5:17-26; John 4:43-54; John 9:1-38 The Leper Who Said Thank You: Luke 17:11-19 Jesus Feeds the Multitude: Matthew 14:13-21 Mary, Martha, and Lazarus: Luke 10:38-42; John 11 Jesus in the Storm: Matthew 8:23-27, Luke 8:22-25 Jesus Walks on Water: Matthew 14:22-33 Jesus Ministry: Jesus Light of the World: John 1:1-18 Jesus Baptism and Ministry: Matthew 3:13-17; Mark 1:9-12; Luke 3:21-22 The Temptation of Jesus: Matthew 4:1-11; Mark 1:12-13; Luke 4:1-13 Fishermen to Fishers of Men: Luke 5:1-11; Matthew 4:17-22 Sermon on the Mount: Matthew 5-7 The Lord s Prayer: Matthew 6:5-14; Luke 11:1-13 Sheep and Goats: Matthew 25:31-46 Jesus Loves the Children: Mark 10:13-16; Matt. 19:13-15; Luke 18:15-17 Zacchaeus Wants to See Jesus: Luke 19: 1-10 Mary Shows Her Love for Jesus: Matthew 26:6-13; Mark 14:3-9 The Woman at the Well: John 4:1-42 The Widow s Mite: Mark 12: ; Luke 21:1-4 14

8 Love Your Enemies: Luke 6:27-36 Jesus Cleanses the Temple: Matthew 21:12-17; Luke 19:43-48; John 2:13-22 Nicodemus: 2 Corinthians 5:17 The Rich Young Ruler: Matthew 19:16-30; Mark 10:17-31; Luke 18:18-29 The Greatest Commandment: Mark 12:28-34; John 13:34-35; John 15:9-17; 1 John 2:7-8 Who is the Greatest?: Matthew 18:1-9; Mark 9:33-36; Mark 10:35-45; Luke 9:46-48 The Pharisee and Tax Collector: Luke 2:21-39 The Parables of Jesus: The Parable of the Lost Sheep: Luke 15:3-7; Matthew 18:12, 13 The Parable of the Sower: Matthew 13:1-23; Luke 8:4-18 The Parable of the Mustard Seed: Matthew 13:31-32; Mark 4:30-32 The Parable of the Ten Bridesmaids: Matthew 25:1-13 The Parable of the House of the Rock: Matthew 7:12-29 The Parable of the Good Samaritan: Luke 10:25-37 The Parable of the Prodigal Son: Luke 15:11-31 Jesus Final Days: Transfiguration: Matthew 17:1-13 The Children Welcome Jesus (Palm Sunday): Matthew 21:1-11; Mark 11; Luke 19:29-44 The Last Supper: Matthew 26:17-35; Mark 14:12-31; Luke 22:7-38; John 13 The Garden of Gethsemane: Mark 14:32-34 Judas Steals Money: John 12:6 Judas Goes the Chief Priests: Matthew 26:14-15; Mark 14:10-11; Jesus Tells Disciples at Last Supper One Will Betray Him: Matthew 26:20-25; Mark 14:17-21; The Betrayal of Jesus: Jesus Indicates Judas: Mark 14:20; John 13:21-27; Jesus Dismisses Judas: John 13:27; John 13:27-30; Judas Leads the Soldiers to Jesus & Arrest: Matthew 26:47-50; Mark 14:43-46; Luke 22:47-48; John 18:1-9; Judas Regrets the Betrayal & Death: Matthew 27:3-10; Acts 1: Jesus Trial: Mark 14:53, Mark 14:60-64 Peter s Denial: Mark 14:66-71 The Crucifixion: Matt 27:31-28:10; Mark 15; Luke 23:13-24:12; John Jesus After the Resurrection: The Resurrection: Matt 28; Mark 16; Luke 24; John 20 The Great Commission: Matthew 10:1-42, 28:16-20; Mark 16:15-18 The Ascension: Acts 1:9-12 The Second Coming: Luke 24:50-53 Heaven: John 14:1-4, Revelation 21, 22 The Christian Church: The Early Church / The Holy Spirit: Acts Apostle Peter: 1 Peter; 2 Peter Apostle Paul: Acts Dorcas: Acts 9:36-43 Timothy: 2 Timothy 1:1-7; 3:10-17 Scripture Lessons: Armor of God: Ephesians 6:10-20 Born Again: 2 Corinthians 5:17 Fruits of the Spirit: Galatians 5:22-23 Faith Heroes: Hebrews 11 16

9 Bible Trivia Questions These are some simple short-answer Bible trivia questions to help children become familiar with some of the characters of the Bible. Who was the first man? Who was the first woman? Who was the first Murderer? Who was the first Martyr? Who was the first Translated? Who was the oldest Man? Who built the Ark? Who was the Patientest Man? Who was the Meekest Man? Who led Israel into Canaan? Who was the strongest Man? Who killed Goliah? Who was the wisest Man? Who was in the Whale's Belly? Who saves lost Men? Who is Jesus Christ? Who was the Mother of Christ? Who betrayed his Master? Who denied his Master? Who was the first Christian Martyr? Who was chief Apostle of the Gentiles? Adam Eve Cain Abel Enoch Methuselah Noah Job Moses Joshua Sampson David Soloman Jonah Jesus Christ The Son of God Mary Judas Peter Stephen Saul The Romans Road Often used to evangelize to others. In and of itself, it is wonderful as long as you discuss the need for repentance in order to accept Jesus Christ as your Savior. You may notice that the idea of repentance is missing from the verses usually given as below Romans 3:10 There is no one righteous, not even one... Romans 3:23...for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God... Romans 5:8 God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 6:23 The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 10:9-10 If you confess with your mouth, Jesus is Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved. Romans 10:13 Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved

10 Various Bible Memory Verses These are some of the more popular Bible verses that are often memorized. There are a total of 52 sections. You may work on these as weekly verses or work through them at your own leisure. Remember to review the previous section each time. Section #1 Genesis 1:1 1 In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Genesis 3:15 15 And I will put enmity Between you and the woman, And between your seed and her seed; He shall bruise you on the head, And you shall bruise him on the heel." Section #2 Proverbs 3:5-6 5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart And do not lean on your own understanding. 6 In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight. Matthew 5:10 10 "Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Section #3 Luke 2:11 11 for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. John 1:1 1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. John 1:14 14 And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth. 19 Section #4 John 1:4-5 4 In Him was life, and the life was the Light of men. 5 The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it. John 1:12 12 But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, {even} to those who believe in His name, Section #5 John 2:19 19 Jesus answered them, "Destroy this temple, and in three 20 days I will raise it up." John 3:3 3 Jesus answered and said to him, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God." John 3:16 16 "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life. Section #6 John 3:17 17 "For God did not send the Son into the world to judge the world, but that the world might be saved through Him. John 4:24 24 "God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth." John 5:39 39 "You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; it is these that testify about Me;

11 Section #7 John 6:47 47 "Truly, truly, I say to you, he who believes has eternal life. John 8: So Jesus was saying to those Jews who had believed Him, "If you continue in My word, {then} you are truly disciples of Mine; 32 and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free." Section #8 John 10:9 9 "I am the door; if anyone enters through Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture. John 10:11 11 "I am the good shepherd; the good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep. John 10:14 14 "I am the good shepherd, and I know My own and My own know Me, Section #9 John 10:17 17 "For this reason the Father loves Me, because I lay down My life so that I may take it again. John 10:30 30 "I and the Father are one." John 11:25 25 Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me will live even if he dies, Section #10 John 14:1 1 "Do not let your heart be troubled; believe in God, believe also in Me. John 14:6 6 Jesus *said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me. John 17:3 3 "This is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent. Section #11 John 20:28 28 Thomas answered and said to Him, "My Lord and my God!" John 20:31 31 but these have been written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name. Acts 16:31 31 They said, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household." Section #12 Acts 17:11 11 Now these were more noble-minded than those in Thessalonica, for they received the word with great eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily {to see} whether these things were so. Romans 1:16 16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek

12 Romans 3:23 23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, Section #13 Romans 3:24 24 being justified as a gift by His grace through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus; Romans 5:1 1 Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, Romans 5:8 8 But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Section #14 Romans 5:19 19 For as through the one man's disobedience the many were made sinners, even so through the obedience of the One the many will be made righteous. Romans 6:6 6 knowing this, that our old self was crucified with {Him,} in order that our body of sin might be done away with, so that we would no longer be slaves to sin; Romans 6:23 23 For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. Section #15 Romans 8:1 1 Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. 23 Romans 8:18 18 For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us. Romans 8:26 26 In the same way the Spirit also helps our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for {us} with groanings too deep for words; Section #16 Romans 10:13 13 for "WHOEVER WILL CALL ON THE NAME OF THE LORD 24 WILL BE SAVED." Romans 10:17 17 So faith {comes} from hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ. Romans 12:1 1 Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, {which is} your spiritual service of worship. Section #17 Romans 12:2 2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect. Romans 14:19 19 So then we pursue the things which make for peace and the building up of one another. 1 Corinthians 1:18 18 For the word of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.

13 Section #18 1 Corinthians 6: Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and that you are not your own? 20 For you have been bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body. 1 Corinthians 7:23 23 You were bought with a price; do not become slaves of men. Section #19 1 Corinthians 10:13 13 No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it. 1 Corinthians 10:23 23 All things are lawful, but not all things are profitable. All things are lawful, but not all things edify. 1 Corinthians 10:31 31 Whether, then, you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. Section #20 1 Corinthians 15:3-4 3 For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4 and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, 2 Corinthians 5:17 17 Therefore if anyone is in Christ, {he is} a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come. 25 Section #21 2 Corinthians 7:10 10 For the sorrow that is according to {the will} {of} God produces a repentance without regret, {leading} to salvation, but the sorrow of the world produces death. 2 Corinthians 13:5 5 Test yourselves {to see} if you are in the faith; examine yourselves! Or do you not recognize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you--unless indeed you fail the test? Galatians 2:16 16 nevertheless knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the Law but through faith in Christ Jesus, even we have believed in Christ Jesus, so that we may be justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the Law; since by the works of the Law no flesh will be justified. Section #22 Galatians 2:20 20 "I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the {life} which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me. Galatians 3:13 13 Christ redeemed us from the curse of the Law, having become a curse for us--for it is written, "CURSED IS EVERYONE WHO HANGS ON A TREE"-- Galatians 3:22 22 But the Scripture has shut up everyone under sin, so that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe. Section #23 Galatians 3:6 6 Even so Abraham BELIEVED GOD, AND IT WAS RECKONED TO HIM AS RIGHTEOUSNESS. 26

14 Galatians 3:24 24 Therefore the Law has become our tutor {to lead us} to Christ, so that we may be justified by faith. Galatians 4:6 6 Because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, crying, "Abba! Father!" Section #24 Galatians 5:16 16 But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh. Galatians 5:17 17 For the flesh sets its desire against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, so that you may not do the things that you please. Galatians 5: But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, selfcontrol; against such things there is no law. Section #25 Galatians 5:24 24 Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Galatians 5:25 25 If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit. Ephesians 1:3 3 Blessed {be} the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly {places} in Christ, Section #26 Ephesians 1:5 5 He predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the kind intention of His will, Ephesians 1:6 6 to the praise of the glory of His grace, which He freely bestowed on us in the Beloved. Ephesians 1:12 12 to the end that we who were the first to hope in Christ would be to the praise of His glory. Section #27 Ephesians 2:8-9 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, {it is} the gift of God; 9 not as a result of works, so that no one may boast. Ephesians 2:10 10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them. Ephesians 3:19 19 and to know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled up to all the fullness of God. Section #28 Ephesians 3:20 20 Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, 27 28

15 Ephesians 5:1-2 1 Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children; 2 and walk in love, just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma. Philippians 1:6 6 {For I am} confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus. Section #29 Philippians 1:29 29 For to you it has been granted for Christ's sake, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake, Philippians 2: For this reason also, God highly exalted Him, and bestowed on Him the name which is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus EVERY KNEE WILL BOW, of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth, Section #30 Philippians 2:13 13 for it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for {His} good pleasure. Philippians 3:8 8 More than that, I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them but rubbish so that I may gain Christ, Philippians 3:10 10 that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death; 10 Section #31 Philippians 4:19 19 And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7 6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Section #32 Philippians 4:11 11 Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. Philippians 4:19 19 And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. Colossians 1:14 14 in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. Section #33 Colossians 1:16 16 For by Him all things were created, {both} in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities--all things have been created through Him and for Him. Colossians 3:1 1 Therefore if you have been raised up with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God

16 Colossians 3:4 4 When Christ, who is our life, is revealed, then you also will be revealed with Him in glory. Section #34 Colossians 3:16 16 Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms {and} hymns {and} spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God. Colossians 3:23 23 Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men, Section #35 1 Thessalonians 4: For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of {the} archangel and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 Then we who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 11 Therefore encourage one another and build up one another, just as you also are doing. Section #36 1 Thessalonians 5:17 17 pray without ceasing; 1 Thessalonians 5:18 18 in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. 2 Timothy 1:7 7 For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline. 31 Section 37 2 Timothy 2:13 13 If we are faithless, He remains faithful, for He cannot 32 deny Himself. 2 Timothy 2:15 15 Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth. Section 38 2 Timothy 3: All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, 17 for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work. Titus 3:5 5 He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we have done in righteousness, but according to His mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit, Section #39 Hebrews 4:16 16 Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 10:27 27 but a terrifying expectation of judgment and THE FURY OF A FIRE WHICH WILL CONSUME THE ADVERSARIES. Hebrews 11:6 6 And without faith it is impossible to please {Him,} for he who comes to God must believe that He is and {that} He is a rewarder of those who seek Him.

17 Section #40 James 1:5 5 But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him. James 1:17 17 Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow. James 1:22 22 But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves. Section #41 James 2:10 10 For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles in one {point,} he has become guilty of all. James 2:23 23 and the Scripture was fulfilled which says, "AND ABRAHAM BELIEVED GOD, AND IT WAS RECKONED TO HIM AS RIGHTEOUSNESS," and he was called the friend of God. 1 Peter 5:7 7 casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you. Section #42 2 Peter 1:3 3 seeing that His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence John 1:3 3 what we have seen and heard we proclaim to you also, so that you too may have fellowship with us; and indeed our fellowship is with the Father, and with His Son Jesus Christ. 1 John 2:3 3 By this we know that we have come to know Him, if we 34 keep His commandments. Section #43 1 John 4:19 19 We love, because He first loved us. 1 John 5:13 13 These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, so that you may know that you have eternal life. Section #44 Psalm 23 (Part 1) Psalm 23:1-2 1 The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. 2 He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, Section #45 Psalm 23 (Part 2) Psalms 23: he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. 4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. Section #46 Psalm 23 (Part 3) Psalm 23: You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. 6 Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.

18 Section #47 Psalm 23 (Review) Review Psalm 23 1 The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. 2 He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, 3 he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. 4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. 5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. 6 Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever. Section #52 The Lord s Prayer (Review) Review the Lord s Prayer 9 " 'Our Father who is in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. 10 'Your kingdom come. Your will be done, On earth as it is in heaven. 11 'Give us this day our daily bread. 12 'And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. 13 'And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.' Section #48 Psalm 117 Psalm Praise the LORD, all nations; Laud Him, all peoples! 2 For His lovingkindness is great toward us, And the truth of the LORD is everlasting. Praise the LORD! Section #49 The Lord s Prayer (Part 1) Matthew 6: " 'Our Father who is in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. 10 'Your kingdom come. Your will be done, On earth as it is in heaven. Section #50 The Lord s Prayer (Part 2) Matthew 6: 'Give us this day our daily bread. 12 'And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. Section #51 The Lord s Prayer (Part 3) Matthew 6:13 13 'And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.' 35 36

19 Various Prayers Included below are some prayers to use as guidelines for small children. As they grow older, these will no longer be necessary, but hopefully they will provide a strong basis for them to continue to grow in prayer. Prayer should be encouraged regularly throughout the day. We have a separate prayer log that is highly recommended to help. A Nightly Prayer This is the nightly prayer that many of us have said before bed. Below is a sample prayer to use at bedtime with our little ones. Now I lay me down to sleep, I pray the Lord my soul to keep, If I should die before I wake, I pray the Lord my soul to take. Amen. The Twelve Apostles The original twelve apostles may be considered, with one exception (i.e. Judas), to be some of the most fortunate people that ever lived. Often referred to simply as "The Twelve," they were chosen by Jesus Christ Himself, and actually lived and worked with Him during His Ministry. The names of The Twelve are listed in 4 places in The Bible (Matthew 10:2-4, Mark 3:16-19, Luke 6:12-19, Acts 1:13) with some minor differences due to the various uses of first, family, or nicknames at different times. Simon. More generally known as Peter. The brother of Andrew. A fisherman from the Sea of Galilee. Considered to be the most impulsive of the group, always ready to speak up, and swing a sword on occasion (e.g. the cutting off of a man's ear at the time of Jesus' arrest). Some traditions hold that he was eventually crucified, upside down, by the Romans. Grace Before and After Meals It is important to thank God for the food we eat and prayer should be said before each meal. Below are some sample prayers for children. BLESS me, O Lord, and let my food strengthen me to serve You, for Jesus Christ's sake. AMEN. I Desire to thank God who gives me food to eat every day of my life. AMEN. What's right and good show me Lord, and lead me by Your grace and word. I shall be a child of God, and love and fear Your hand and Your rod. AMEN. God is great. God is good. Let us thank Him for our food. By His hands we all are fed. Thank you God for our daily bread Andrew. He was active in bringing people to Jesus, including his brother Peter. James. James was the older brother of John. He was the first of The Twelve to be martyred. John. Exiled on Isle of Patmos where he wrote Revelation. Philip. From Bethsaida, as were Andrew and Peter. Eventually martyred, possibly at Hierapolis. Bartholomew. He was one of the disciples to whom Jesus appeared at the Sea of Tiberias after His resurrection. He was also a witness of the Ascension. Thomas. He was also called Didymus which is the Greek version of his name. Not easily convinced, he has the nickname "Doubting Thomas" because he wanted to actually see and touch Jesus after His Resurrection. Certainly a good witness for us today, because he

20 wanted indisputable proof of what he was expected to report about, and he got it. Matthew. Formerly a tax-collector at Capernaum, he became one of the more prominent apostles. James. Known as James the Younger, or James the Less, he wrote the epistle which bears his name. Thaddaeus. Also known as "Judas the brother of James;" while John probably referring to the same person, speaks of "Judas, not Iscariot." Simon the Zealot. The Zealots were a nationalistic sect with very strong political views. There seemed to be a wide variety of personalities among the apostles. Judas Iscariot. The traitor. Betrayed Jesus. Matthias. To bring the number back up to twelve after Judas fell away, Matthias was chosen by the remaining eleven apostles. What Happened To The Apostles? Some have commented how wonderful it must have been to have been chosen as one of the apostles, or to have been John the Baptist, or to have been among the earliest of Christians who actually saw and heard Jesus Christ in person. It certainly would have been a great honor and joy to have been among those pioneers of the true church. However, with the knowledge and understanding came responsibility. They were expected to go out into the world and be active witnesses of what they saw and heard. That was their purpose. In the political and religious climate of that time, the God-defying hatred that got Jesus Christ killed (which really has not changed at all), many of them lost their lives as well. The Bible does not record what happened to all of the apostles, however there are other references to their activities. Some are rather fanciful, while some are more trustworthy. From those sources, a general consensus has been established among historians. From the information that we have, it is very likely that John was the only one of the original Twelve Apostles to escape martyrdom, at least at an early age. After he wrote the book of Revelation, while a prisoner of the Romans, even he too may then have been killed. John The Baptist John The Baptist was beheaded by Herod. (Matthew 14:1-12) Stephen The account of Stephen is very well documented in the Bible (Acts chapters 6 and 7). He is generally regarded as the first Christian martyr

21 It has been estimated that about 2,000 Christians, along with Nicanor, one of the seven deacons (Acts 6:5), also suffered martyrdom during the great persecution that arose after Stephen (Acts 8:1). James, the brother of John James was "put to death with the sword" by King Herod (Acts 12:2) Philip Reportedly suffered martyrdom at Heliopolis, in Phrygia. He was severely flogged, imprisoned, and later crucified. Matthew The former tax collector, he was killed with a halberd (a pike fitted with an ax head) in Nadabah. James Stoned and clubbed to death in Jerusalem. Matthias He was stoned, then beheaded at Jerusalem. Andrew, the brother of Peter He was crucified on an X-shaped cross, two ends of which were in the ground. Hence the origin of the term, "St. Andrew's Cross". Mark Peter Peter was reportedly crucified, upside down, during the reign of Emperor Nero. Paul Beheaded, or torn to pieces by wild animals in the arena, during the time of Nero. Jude The brother of James, often called Thaddeus. He was crucified at Edessa. Bartholomew Tortured and crucified in India. Thomas Thomas was reportedly killed with a spear in India. Luke Luke was the author of the Gospel which is called by his name, and also probably the Book Of Acts. One account states that he died of old age, while another says that he was hanged in an olive tree in Greece. Simon the Zealot He traveled widely, and is believed to have been crucified in what is today Britain. Mark was reportedly torn to pieces by a mob in Alexandria after he told them that their god, a statue carved from stone, was worthless

22 John John took care of Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ (not the mother of God), after the Crucifixion (John 19:26-27). He went on to write the Book of Revelation while a prisoner on Patmos. He may be the only apostle who escaped a violent death. Barnabas Barnabas is believed to have been killed about 10 years after Paul. The Nicene Creed To counter a widening rift within the church, a council convened in Nicaea in A.D In A.D. 381, a second council met in Constantinople and adopted an expanded form of the A.D. 325 creed, known as the Nicene Creed. We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, seen and unseen. We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, eternally begotten of the Father, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one Being with the Father. Through him all things were made. For us and for our salvation he came down from heaven: by the power of the Holy Spirit he became incarnate from the Virgin Mary, and was made man. For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate; he suffered death and was buried. On the third day he rose again in accordance with the Scriptures; he ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead, and his kingdom will have no end. We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son. With the Father and the Son he is worshiped and glorified. He has spoken through the Prophets. We believe in one holy *catholic and apostolic Church. We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. We look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come. Amen. *The word "catholic" refers not to the Roman Catholic Church, but to the universal church of the Lord Jesus Christ

23 The Apostles' Creed It has received this title because of its great antiquity; it dates from very early times in the Church, a half century or so from the last writings of the New Testament, written around A.D I believe in God, the Father Almighty, the Creator of heaven and earth, and in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord: Who was conceived of the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended into hell. The third day He arose again from the dead. He ascended into heaven and sits at the right hand of God the Father Almighty, whence He shall come to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy *catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting. Amen. *The word "catholic" refers not to the Roman Catholic Church, but to the universal church of the Lord Jesus Christ. 45