God s Unfolding Story

Transcription

1 Bible Story: Joshua Explored the Promised Land (Numbers 13:1-33; 14:6-9) Bible Phrase: Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding (Proverbs 3:5). Bible Truth: I can trust God to help me do what is hard. Old Testament Unit 7: Joshua Lesson 1: Joshua Explored the Promised Land God s Unfolding Story 1. God created everything. 2. People disobeyed God. 3. God chose a special people. 4. God sent Jesus to help us. 5. Jesus began the Church. 6. Jesus is preparing heaven for us. Suggested Schedule: Arrival Centers 25 minutes Clean-up Time 5 minutes Bible Story Time 15 minutes Craft Time 10 minutes Snack Time 10 minutes Game Time/Dismissal Hour A Unfolding God s Story for Teachers Several years ago, my husband and I went on a mission trip to Haiti where our church supports an orphan village. Each plane we boarded was smaller than the last, and my faith seemed to follow a similar pattern! This was the first time I had flown internationally, and I was totally out of my comfort zone. By the time we landed, I was a total wreck! The language, armed soldiers, poverty, smell, devastation, and sense of darkness were overwhelming. I yearned to catch the next plane back home! I felt trapped, and every aspect of the week ahead seemed daunting. I didn t think I could survive seven days! I faced a crisis of belief. Please read Numbers 13:1-33; 14:6-9, where the Israelites faced a mighty test of faith. God had promised to give them Canaan, but it would not come on a silver platter. God wanted to show them His power, His presence, and His provision as they claimed the land. They would have to fight but would not be alone. God s command to scout out the land would give the spies the opportunity to literally touch, taste, smell, and see firsthand why it was called the promised land, a land flowing with milk and honey (Num. 13:27). In their journey they saw the beauty and the beasts. The fruits were amazing, but the men were like giants. They believed the land would devour them. Everyone in the group except for Caleb and Joshua lost his focus. God knew that they would see the giants and the large cities. But He wanted them to believe He was bigger than what their eyes could see. God wanted them to believe they served a God who could and would conquer. Yet sadly, that day the majority ruled, and the people did not go into the promised land. Many Israelites died, and the rest wandered in the wilderness for forty years. But Caleb and Joshua were rewarded for their faith. At the end of the forty years, Joshua led the tribes into the promised land. Caleb became a conquering warrior. Months before our Haiti trip, God had burdened me to go and teach our precious orphans about Him. With His words, go and teach on my heart, I made the necessary preparations. These involved a passport, shots, pills, packing, and praying! His words drove my preparation. Yet when I began to face the giants after the trip began, I lost focus of why I was there and of the One who had sent me. God led me to Haiti for more than the children; He wanted to show me He was big enough! Every moment I prayed, because I couldn t make it without Him. The experience with the children was beautiful, but the lessons of God s faithfulness, protection, and grace were equally wonderful. I left Haiti with a sense of calmness and peace, knowing my God was able. Joshua said, The LORD is with us. Don t be afraid of them! (Num. 14:9). Fears will come, our faith will be tested, but our God is bigger than the giants. They are as grasshoppers to Him. Lesson Plan Arrival Greet children at eye level and express how happy you are to see them. Be sure each child has a name tag and the security measures of your church are followed. Label all coats and personal belongings. Strongly encourage children who have brought items from home, such as toys and books, to place them on a shelf while they are working with other materials. Assure children their items will be safe and they can take them home at the end of the session. Help each child make a choice where he or she would like to begin his or her Center Time. God s Unfolding Story for Older Preschoolers, Copyright SundaySchoolZone.com OT07 Lesson 1 Hour A Page 1

2 Puzzle Center: Work Puzzles Offer a variety of non-fantasy wooden or cardboard puzzles for children to work. What to Do: Invite preschoolers to work puzzles. Encourage children to finish puzzles before leaving the center. Give guidance rather than working the puzzle for the child. Link to the Bible Story: As children work, look for opportunities in conversation to say the Bible phrase or to briefly tell the Bible story. Home Living Center: Role Play Small rocking chair, sink and stove unit and small table and chairs; plastic dishes, child pots and pans; pretend food items; doll, doll bed, and doll accessories Optional: Bring some grapes from home. Also bring figs and pomegranates for the children to taste. What to Do: Be sure to post an allergy alert sign for parents if serving the fruit. Home living items naturally encourage children to act out roles and activities they observe at home. Encourage children to use the food items to prepare a pretend meal. Link to the Bible Story: Use both real and pretend foods to explain that in today s Bible story, Moses chose 12 men to spy out the land God would give them. Express that the men found the land to be full of grapes, figs, and pomegranates and the spies brought some back for the people to see and enjoy. Center Time Art Center: Stamping a Fruit Picture White construction paper Sponges in the shapes of fruits (or use real apples), washable tempera paint, paper plates What to Do: Print the Bible Phrase, Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding Proverbs 3:5, on each paper. Cut sponges into fruit shapes or cut the apples in half. Invite preschoolers to press the sponges or apples into the paint and then on their papers to make fruit prints. Link to the Bible Story: As preschoolers work, talk about the Bible story for today. Express that Moses sent out 12 spies to look over the land God would give them. The spies found the land to be full of beautiful fruits, and they brought some back for the people to see and enjoy. Bible Learning Center: Comparing Size Copies of Activity Page: Comparing, Which One is Bigger? (Reproducible) Washable markers or crayons What to Do: Preschoolers should be instructed to look at the pictures in each row and circle the biggest. Link to the Bible Story: Express to children these are pictures from today s Bible story. Comment that Moses sent 12 men to spy out the land that God would give His people. Explain that the spies found all kinds of fruits, trees, rivers, and large cities with thick walls all around. Also, the people they saw seemed to be as tall as giants. Block Center: Build with Blocks Wooden blocks What to Do: Provide a small carpet if possible. Blocks are best located in a corner of the room away from the traffic flow. Link to the Bible Story: As children play in the Block Center, listen for opportunities to share part of the Bible story, say the Bible Phrase, or refer to the Bible truth of today s lesson. Play a counting game with the blocks. Encourage children to try to stack 12 blocks without letting them fall. Comment that Moses chose 12 people to spy out the land that God wanted to give the Israelites. Invite children to build a wall with the blocks. Talk about the thick walls built around the cities in the land that God wanted to give His people. Express that the tall, thick walls made the Israelites afraid to go into the land. God s Unfolding Story for Older Preschoolers, Copyright SundaySchoolZone.com OT07 Lesson 1 Hour A Page 2

3 Clean-up Time Encourage preschoolers to help at clean-up time. Assign specific tasks for preschoolers to do such as placing all the crayons in the basket, throwing away the trash, gathering all the glue sticks, etc. Guide children to the Bible Story Time area. Bible Story Time Bible Teaching Picture Joshua Explored the Promised Land (Reproducible) God s Unfolding Story Cube (Reproducible/Cardstock) Introduction Show the God s Unfolding Story Cube. Express to the boys and girls that even though we find many stories in the Bible, the Bible really tells one big story, and all the little stories are a part of the big one we can call God s Unfolding Story. Tell children that each picture represents a part of God s Unfolding Story. Turn the cube and talk about each part of the story. (Refer to page 1.) Express that every story from the Bible is from one of these main parts in God s Unfolding Story. Today s story is from the third part; God chose a special people. Express the following in your own words. Have you ever been afraid to do something because it seemed too hard? Perhaps you would like to ride your bike without the training wheels but are afraid you will fall, or you want to sled down a snowy hill but are afraid the sled will tip over. Having help from a parent, friend, or family member makes us less afraid. Our Bible story is about a young man named Joshua. Joshua believed God would help him do something many others were afraid to do. Bible Story Joshua Explored the Promised Land (Numbers 13:1-33; 14:6-9) After the Israelites left Egypt, they traveled to the land where God had promised they would live. Other people already lived in the land, people who did not like the Israelites. What would they do? They would have to go to battle to claim the land. Moses told the people not to be afraid, because God would be with them. God told Moses to choose 12 strong men to spy out the land. This meant the men would go quietly into the land, watch the people, and see what the land was like. They would come back and tell what they had learned. A young man named Joshua was one of the 12 spies. Moses asked Joshua and the other men to find out everything they could about the people, the land, and its cities. Their job was going to be very important. Quietly the men entered the land. Wow! There was so much to see! Joshua and the other spies saw huge clumps of grapes, bright red pomegranates, and juicy figs. They gathered some of the fruit to take to the other Israelites. The land was indeed beautiful. It would be a wonderful place to live. But the spies also saw the cities and the people. The men seemed to be as tall as giants and very strong. They felt like grasshoppers next to the people. Also, the cities had thick high walls surrounding them. So Joshua and the other spies came back to the camp. The spies told Moses and the people what they had seen. They showed them the fruits from the land. Ten of them were afraid and did not want to go into the land that God had promised to give them. Joshua wasn t afraid, because he knew God would take care of them. He told the people, Don t be afraid, God will lead us through the land. The people decided not to go into the land, and God was not pleased with their choice. Joshua wasn t either. He trusted God, and later God used Joshua to help the Israelites take the land that He had promised to give them. Talk Time 1. Show the teaching picture for today s Bible story. Here are some questions you might use as you review. What were some of the good things Joshua and the other spies saw in the land? What made most of the spies afraid? Which spy thought they should go and take the land? Whom did Joshua remind the people would help them take the land? Did the Israelites choice please God? 2. Read the Bible phrase on the teaching picture. Say the phrase together, Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding (Proverbs 3:5). Express to children that Joshua might have been afraid when he saw the large cities and the men who looked like giants, but he knew God would give them courage to fight and claim their land. 3. Close the Bible Story Time by inviting the children to join you in prayer. Ask God to help each one trust Him and rely on Him for help to do what is right, even when it is hard. God s Unfolding Story for Older Preschoolers, Copyright SundaySchoolZone.com OT07 Lesson 1 Hour A Page 3

4 Craft Time: Spy Glass Bible Phrase Copies of Spyglass Bible Phrase (Reproducible, 1 copy for every 3 children) Crayons or markers Glue Colored construction paper or empty paper towel tubes (1 per child) Stickers non fantasy What to Do: Cut out each spyglass. If empty paper towel tubes are not available, make cylinders from the construction paper. Children should color their spy glasses and decorate them with stickers. Glue or tape each spyglass to the paper towel tube or cylinder. Link to the Bible Story: Review the Bible Phrase with the children. Remind children that Joshua believed God would help the people to claim the land God wanted give them, even though they might be afraid. Talk about things we might not want to do because they seem too frightening or too hard, such as: going to school or to a new school for the first time; riding a bike without training wheels; moving to a new city; flying on an airplane; going to bed without a nightlight; getting shots at the doctor s office; etc. Express to children that they can pray and ask God for courage to do the right thing, even if it is hard. Snack Time Be sure to wash hands or use hand sanitizer. Say a thank-you prayer to God for the snack. When snack time has ended, encourage preschoolers to help with cleaning up. Game Time / Dismissal I Spy Teaching Picture, Joshua Explored the Promised Land (Reproducible) What to Do: First, play the game, I Spy using the teaching picture. Choose something in the picture to describe. Begin the game by saying, I spy something that is. Describe the object by its color, shape, or purpose. Have children guess what you are describing. Next, broaden the game to the classroom. Give children the opportunity to describe an object. Remind children that in today s Bible story, Moses sent out 12 spies to look over the land and the people. Comment that even though the men were giants and the walls of the cities were thick and high, Joshua knew God would help them take the land, even though they might be afraid. Dismiss children as parents arrive. Be sure to follow the security procedures of your church. God s Unfolding Story for Older Preschoolers, Copyright SundaySchoolZone.com OT07 Lesson 1 Hour A Page 4

5 Resources and Supplies Old Testament Unit 7: Joshua Lesson 1: Joshua Explored the Promised Land Hour A Standard Art Supplies (Supplies that are generally in the room) Washable markers Crayons Child scissors Playdough and accessories Drawing paper Easel (optional) Glue/glue sticks Tempera paint, 4 colors Tape/masking tape Pencils/colored pencils Hole punch Teacher scissors Stapler/staples Permanent markers Watercolors Paintbrushes Yarn Standard Equipment (Equipment that is generally in the room) Bible Small beanbag for Bible Story Time Assorted wooden/cardboard puzzles Set of wooden blocks Small cars and trucks Doll bed Baby doll (soft plastic) Stove/sink unit Play dishes/pots and pans Small table and chairs Small carpet for block area Play food items Storage shelf for blocks Tables and chairs for art, puzzles, and Bible Learning Center CD player/children s Worship CDs Reproducibles (Included with the lesson plan downloads) Activity Page: Comparing, Which One is Bigger? (1 copy per child) Spyglass Bible Phrase (1 copy for every 2 children, cardstock recommended) Teaching Picture: Joshua Explored the Promised Land (1 copy per class) God s Unfolding Story Cube (Cardstock 1 copy per class) Parent Page (1 copy per child) Coloring Page, Joshua Explored the Promised Land Additional Art Materials White construction paper Fruit-shaped sponges or real apples Paper plates for paint Additional Craft Materials Non-fantasy stickers Colored construction paper or empty paper towel tubes Additional Home Living Materials Optional: Fruit tray of figs, grapes, and pomegranates God s Unfolding Story for Older Preschoolers, Copyright SundaySchoolZone.com OT07 Lesson 1 Hour A

6 Bible Story: Joshua Explored the Promised Land (Numbers 13:1-33; 14:6-9) Bible Phrase: Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding (Proverbs 3:5). Bible Truth: I can trust God to help me do what is hard. Old Testament Unit 7: Joshua Lesson 1: Joshua Explored the Promised Land God s Unfolding Story 1. God created everything. 2. People disobeyed God. 3. God chose a special people. 4. God sent Jesus to help us. 5. Jesus began the Church. 6. Jesus is preparing heaven for us. Suggested Schedule: Arrival Centers 25 minutes Clean-up Time 5 minutes Bible Story Time 15 minutes Craft Time 10 minutes Snack Time 10 minutes Game Time/Dismissal Hour B Unfolding God s Story for Teachers Several years ago, my husband and I went on a mission trip to Haiti where our church supports an orphan village. Each plane we boarded was smaller than the last, and my faith seemed to follow a similar pattern! This was the first time I had flown internationally, and I was totally out of my comfort zone. By the time we landed, I was a total wreck! The language, armed soldiers, poverty, smell, devastation, and sense of darkness were overwhelming. I yearned to catch the next plane back home! I felt trapped, and every aspect of the week ahead seemed daunting. I didn t think I could survive seven days! I faced a crisis of belief. Please read Numbers 13:1-33; 14:6-9, where the Israelites faced a mighty test of faith. God had promised to give them Canaan, but it would not come on a silver platter. God wanted to show them His power, His presence, and His provision as they claimed the land. They would have to fight but would not be alone. God s command to scout out the land would give the spies the opportunity to literally touch, taste, smell, and see firsthand why it was called the promised land, a land flowing with milk and honey (Num. 13:27). In their journey they saw the beauty and the beasts. The fruits were amazing, but the men were like giants. They believed the land would devour them. Everyone in the group except for Caleb and Joshua lost his focus. God knew that they would see the giants and the large cities. But He wanted them to believe He was bigger than what their eyes could see. God wanted them to believe they served a God who could and would conquer. Yet sadly, that day the majority ruled, and the people did not go into the promised land. Many Israelites died, and the rest wandered in the wilderness for forty years. But Caleb and Joshua were rewarded for their faith. At the end of the forty years, Joshua led the tribes into the promised land. Caleb became a conquering warrior. Months before our Haiti trip, God had burdened me to go and teach our precious orphans about Him. With His words, go and teach on my heart, I made the necessary preparations. These involved a passport, shots, pills, packing, and praying! His words drove my preparation. Yet when I began to face the giants after the trip began, I lost focus of why I was there and of the One who had sent me. God led me to Haiti for more than the children; He wanted to show me He was big enough! Every moment I prayed, because I couldn t make it without Him. The experience with the children was beautiful, but the lessons of God s faithfulness, protection, and grace were equally wonderful. I left Haiti with a sense of calmness and peace, knowing my God was able. Joshua said, The LORD is with us. Don t be afraid of them! (Num. 14:9). Fears will come, our faith will be tested, but our God is bigger than the giants. They are as grasshoppers to Him. Lesson Plan Arrival Greet children at eye level and express how happy you are to see them. Be sure each child has a name tag and the security measures of your church are followed. Label all coats and personal belongings. Strongly encourage children who have brought items from home, such as toys and books, to place them on a shelf while they are working with other materials. Assure children their items will be safe and they can take them home at the end of the session. Help each child make a choice where he or she would like to begin his or her Center Time. God s Unfolding Story for Older Preschoolers, Copyright SundaySchoolZone.com OT07 Lesson 1 Hour B Page 1

7 Puzzle Center: Work Puzzles Offer a variety of non-fantasy wooden or cardboard puzzles for children to work. What to Do: Invite preschoolers to work puzzles. Encourage children to finish puzzles before leaving the center. Give guidance rather than working the puzzle for the child. Link to the Bible Story: As children work, look for opportunities in conversation to say the Bible phrase or to briefly tell the Bible story. Home Living Center: Role Play Small rocking chair, sink and stove unit and small table and chairs; plastic dishes, child pots and pans; pretend food items; doll, doll bed, and doll accessories Optional: Bring some grapes from home. Also bring figs and pomegranates for the children to taste. What to Do: Be sure to post an allergy alert sign for parents if serving the fruit. Home living items naturally encourage children to act out roles and activities they observe at home. Encourage children to use the food items to prepare a pretend meal. Link to the Bible Story: Use both real and pretend foods to explain that in today s Bible story, Moses chose 12 men to spy out the land God would give them. Express that the men found the land to be full of grapes, figs, and pomegranates. The spies brought some back for the people to enjoy. Center Time Art Center: Favorite Fruit Mural Long white sheet of paper Crayons, washable markers or water color paints What to Do: Print the words, Favorite Fruits across the top of the paper. Use a marker to draw circles or boxes along the paper. Be sure they are large enough so that each child can draw or paint his or her favorite fruit. Print each child s name in his or her section of the mural. At the end of Center Time, display the mural for all the children to see. Tally up the numbers of each of the fruits and discover the class favorite. Link to the Bible Story: As preschoolers work, talk about today s Bible story. Express that Moses sent out 12 spies to look over the land God would give them. The spies found the land to be full of beautiful fruits, and they brought some back to the camp for the people to see and enjoy. Bible Learning Center: Counting Activity Copies of Activity Page: Counting, How Many? (Reproducible) Washable markers or crayons What to Do: Preschoolers should look at the pictures at the bottom of the page and try to find out how many of those objects are in the larger picture. Preschoolers can circle the correct numeral. Most preschoolers can count but they may need help recognizing the numerals. Link to the Bible Story: Express to children this is a picture from today s Bible story. Comment that Moses sent 12 men to spy out the land that God would give His people. Explain that the spies saw a good land, a land with all kinds of fruits but the cities had thick walls around them, and the people they saw seemed tall as giants. Block Center: Build with Blocks Wooden blocks What to Do: Provide a small carpet if possible. Blocks are best located in a corner of the room away from the traffic flow. Link to the Bible Story: As children play in the Block Center, listen for opportunities to share part of the Bible story, say the Bible Phrase, or refer to the Bible truth of today s lesson. Play a counting game with the blocks. Encourage children to try to stack 12 blocks without letting them fall. Comment that Moses chose 12 people to spy out the land that God wanted to give the Israelites. Invite children to build a wall with the blocks and talk about the thick walls built around the cities in the land that God wanted to give His people. Express that the tall, thick walls made the Israelites afraid to go into the land. God s Unfolding Story for Older Preschoolers, Copyright SundaySchoolZone.com OT07 Lesson 1 Hour B Page 2

8 Clean-up Time Encourage preschoolers to help at clean-up time. Assign specific tasks for preschoolers to do such as placing all the crayons in the basket, throwing away the trash, gathering all the glue sticks, etc. Guide children to the Bible Story Time area. Bible Story Time Bible Teaching Picture Joshua Explored the Promised Land (Reproducible) God s Unfolding Story Cube (Reproducible/Cardstock) Introduction Show the God s Unfolding Story Cube. Express to the boys and girls that even though we find many stories in the Bible, the Bible really tells one big story, and all the little stories are a part of the big one we can call God s Unfolding Story. Tell children that each picture represents a part of God s Unfolding Story. Turn the cube and talk about each part of the story. (Refer to page 1.) Express that every story from the Bible is from one of these main parts in God s Unfolding Story. Today s story is from the third part; God chose a special people. Express the following in your own words. Have you ever been afraid to do something because it seemed too hard? Perhaps you would like to ride your bike without the training wheels but are afraid you will fall, or you want to sled down a snowy hill but are afraid the sled will tip over. Having help from a parent, friend, or family member makes us less afraid. Our Bible story is about a young man named Joshua. Joshua believed God would help him do something many others were afraid to do. Bible Story Joshua Explored the Promised Land (Numbers 13:1-33; 14:6-9) After the Israelites left Egypt, they traveled to the land where God had promised they would live. Other people already lived in the land, people who did not like the Israelites. What would they do? They would have to go to battle to claim the land. Moses told the people not to be afraid, because God would be with them. God told Moses to choose 12 strong men to spy out the land. This meant the men would go quietly into the land, watch the people, and see what the land was like. They would come back and tell what they had learned. A young man named Joshua was one of the 12 spies. Moses asked Joshua and the other men to find out everything they could about the people, the land, and its cities. Their job was going to be very important. Quietly the men entered the land. Wow! There was so much to see! Joshua and the other spies saw huge clumps of grapes, bright red pomegranates, and juicy figs. They gathered some of the fruit to take to the other Israelites. The land was indeed beautiful. It would be a wonderful place to live. But the spies also saw the cities and the people. The men seemed to be as tall as giants and very strong. They felt like grasshoppers next to the people. Also, the cities had thick high walls surrounding them. So Joshua and the other spies came back to the camp. The spies told Moses and the people what they had seen. They showed them the fruits from the land. Ten of them were afraid and did not want to go into the land that God had promised to give them. Joshua wasn t afraid, because he knew God would take care of them. He told the people, Don t be afraid, God will lead us through the land. The people decided not to go into the land, and God was not pleased with their choice. Joshua wasn t either. He trusted God, and later God used Joshua to help the Israelites take the land that He had promised to give them. Talk Time 1. Show the teaching picture for today s Bible story. Here are some questions you might use as you review. What were some of the good things Joshua and the other spies saw in the land? What made most of the spies afraid? Which spy thought they should go and take the land? Whom did Joshua remind the people would help them take the land? Did the Israelites choice please God? 2. Read the Bible phrase on the teaching picture. Say the phrase together, Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding (Proverbs 3:5). Express to children that Joshua might have been afraid when he saw the large cities and the men who looked like giants, but he knew God would give them courage to fight and claim their land. 3. Close the Bible Story Time by inviting the children to join you in prayer. Ask God to help each one trust Him and rely on Him for help to do what is right, even when it is hard. God s Unfolding Story for Older Preschoolers, Copyright SundaySchoolZone.com OT07 Lesson 1 Hour B Page 3

9 Craft Time: Spy Glasses Copies of Spy Glasses (Reproducible, 1 copy for every 2 children, cardstock recommended) Small stickers such as happy faces, stars, colorful dots, fruits Chenille sticks (two per child) Crayons What to Do: Cut out the glasses and punch holes where indicated. Children can color their glasses and decorate them with stickers. Use chenille sticks to make earpieces for the glasses. Link to the Bible Story: Review the Bible Phrase with the children. Remind children that Joshua believed God would help the people to claim the land God wanted give them, even though they might be afraid. Talk about things we might not want to do because they seem too frightening or too hard, such as: going to school or to a new school for the first time; riding a bike without training wheels; moving to a new city; flying on an airplane; going to bed without a nightlight; getting shots at the doctor s office; etc. Express to children that they can pray and ask God for courage to do the right thing, even if it is hard. Snack Time Be sure to wash hands or use hand sanitizer. Say a thank-you prayer to God for the snack. When snack time has ended, encourage preschoolers to help with cleaning up. Game Time / Dismissal I Spy Teaching Picture, Joshua Explored the Promised Land (Reproducible) What to Do: First, play the game, I Spy using the teaching picture. Choose something in the picture to describe. Begin the game by saying, I spy something that is. Describe the object by its color, shape, or purpose. Have children guess what you are describing. Next, broaden the game to the classroom. Give children the opportunity to describe an object. Remind children that in today s Bible story, Moses sent out 12 spies to look over the land and the people. Comment that even though the men were giants and the walls of the cities were thick and high, Joshua knew God would help them take the land, even though they might be afraid. Dismiss children as parents arrive. Be sure to follow the security procedures of your church. God s Unfolding Story for Older Preschoolers, Copyright SundaySchoolZone.com OT07 Lesson 1 Hour B Page 4

10 Resources and Supplies Old Testament Unit 7: Joshua Lesson 1: Joshua Explored the Promised Land Hour B Standard Art Supplies (Supplies that are generally in the room) Washable markers Crayons Child scissors Playdough and accessories Drawing paper Easel (optional) Glue/glue sticks Tempera paint, 4 colors Tape/masking tape Pencils/colored pencils Hole punch Teacher scissors Stapler/staples Permanent markers Watercolors Paintbrushes Yarn Standard Equipment (Equipment that is generally in the room) Bible Small beanbag for Bible Story Time Assorted wooden/cardboard puzzles Set of wooden blocks Small cars and trucks Doll bed Baby doll (soft plastic) Stove/sink unit Play dishes/pots and pans Small table and chairs Small carpet for block area Play food items Storage shelf for blocks Tables and chairs for art, puzzles, and Bible Learning Center CD player/children s Worship CDs Reproducibles (Included with the lesson plan downloads) Activity Page: Counting, How Many? (1 copy per child) Spy Glasses (1 copy for every 2 children, cardstock recommended) Teaching Picture: Joshua Explored the Promised Land (1 copy per class) God s Unfolding Story Cube (Cardstock 1 copy per class) Parent Page (1 copy per child) Coloring Page, Joshua Explored the Promised Land Additional Art Materials Long sheet of white paper Additional Home Living Materials Optional: Fruit tray of figs, grapes and pomegranates Additional Craft Materials Small stickers such as: happy faces, stars, colorful dots, fruits Chenille sticks 2 per child God s Unfolding Story for Older Preschoolers, Copyright SundaySchoolZone.com OT07 Lesson 1 Hour B

11 Bible Story: Joshua The New Leader (Joshua 1:1-18) Bible Phrase: Be strong and of good courage, do not be afraid, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go (Joshua 1:9). Bible Truth: I can trust God to help me be strong and courageous. Old Testament Unit 7: Joshua Lesson 2: Joshua The New Leader God s Unfolding Story 1. God created everything. 2. People disobeyed God. 3. God chose a special people. 4. God sent Jesus to help us. 5. Jesus began the Church. 6. Jesus is preparing heaven for us. Suggested Schedule: Arrival Centers 25 minutes Clean-up Time 5 minutes Bible Story Time 15 minutes Craft Time 10 minutes Snack Time 10 minutes Game Time/Dismissal Hour A Unfolding God s Story for Teachers Please read Joshua 1:1-18. Other than God, Joshua is the main character and hero of the book that bears his name. Many scholars believe Joshua himself penned much of this book, or that a scribe recorded the words as Joshua dictated. Whoever wrote down the words, God is the actual author, for He inspired the writer to write. We first saw Joshua in Exodus 17:9 when Moses chose him to lead a battle against the Amalekites after the Amalekites had attacked Israel. Later Moses chose Joshua, along with 11 others, to spy out the promised land. Joshua became Moses aide. God used the time the Israelites wandered in the wilderness to prepare Joshua for his next assignment. A good leader is a good follower, and Joshua learned many lessons on leadership from his mentor. Originally named Hoshea, meaning salvation, Joshua was renamed by Moses (see Num. 13:16). His new name meant the Lord is salvation The name change was prophetic. God would use Joshua to lead the people to take the promised land, but God Himself would be their deliverer and their salvation. God chose Joshua to lead. He was commissioned before God and the nation, but he still had to take the position. Leading a group of rebellious and stubborn people to take possession of the land was a tough job, and Joshua probably was around 80 when he took charge. He could have been discouraged and afraid. Four times in the first chapter God told him, Be strong and courageous. God knew the cost and He wanted Joshua to be encouraged. Be strong and courageous, the Lord said in verse 6, for you will distribute the land. There would be battles hard ones but victory was sure. In verse 7, God said, Above all, be strong and courageous to carefully observe the whole instruction My servant Moses commanded you. Joshua would be tempted to go astray, but success would come only through obedience. God would be the source of the people s strength, and His word would guide them. Finally, in verse 9 the Lord declared, Haven t I commanded you: be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go. The secret of Joshua s success would be that God was with him. So, in spite of the river ahead and every giant beyond the waters, Moses former apprentice took the assignment and prepared the people to press on. He knew he could trust God. We all face rivers and giants in our circumstances, relationships, fears, habits, failures, and sins. Allow God s words to Joshua to go from your head to your heart. Claim His presence. Take your next steps in faith, believing that nothing or no one can stand against you as you claim your promised land. Lesson Plan Arrival Greet children at eye level and express how happy you are to see them. Be sure each child has a name tag and the security measures of your church are followed. Label all coats and personal belongings. Strongly encourage children who have brought items from home, such as toys and books, to place them on a shelf while they are working with other materials. Assure children their items will be safe and they can take them home at the end of the session. Help each child make a choice where he or she would like to begin his or her Center Time. God s Unfolding Story for Older Preschoolers, Copyright SundaySchoolZone.com OT07 Lesson 2 Hour A Page 1

12 Puzzle Center: Work Puzzles Offer a variety of non-fantasy wooden or cardboard puzzles for children to work. What to Do: Invite preschoolers to work puzzles. Encourage children to finish puzzles before leaving the center. Give guidance rather than working the puzzle for the child. Link to the Bible Story: As children work, look for opportunities in conversation to say the Bible phrase or to briefly tell the Bible story. Home Living Center: Role Play Small rocking chair, sink and stove unit and small table and chairs; plastic dishes, child pots and pans; pretend food items; doll, doll bed, and doll accessories What to Do: Home living items naturally encourage children to act out roles and activities they observe at home. Link to the Bible Story: As preschoolers pretend and act out roles they observe at home and in other places, look for opportunities to share the Bible Phrase, Bible truth, or a portion of the Bible story. Center Time Art Center: Marble or Golf Ball Paint White construction paper Plastic dishpans or several empty shoeboxes Marbles or four golf balls Washable tempera paint What to Do: Cut paper to fit the bottom of the containers. Print today s Bible Phrase on each paper. Invite preschoolers to choose several colors of paint. Squeeze quarter-size dollops of paint in the center of each paper. Toss in the marbles or golf balls. Tell children to gently move their containers side to side and up and down so the balls roll over the paint and make a design. Link to the Bible Story: As preschoolers work, talk about the Bible story for today. Express that God was ready for the Israelites to move into the land He had promised to give them. God chose Joshua to lead them into the land. God told Joshua Be strong and of good courage, do not be afraid, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go Joshua 1:9. Bible Learning Center: Matching Activity Copies of Activity Page: Matching, Match the Shape Patterns (Reproducible) Washable markers or crayons What to Do: Preschoolers look at the shape patterns on the left and draw a line to the matching shape pattern on the right. Link to the Bible Story: As children make matches, say the Bible Phrase. Express that God chose Joshua to be the new leader after Moses died, and God wanted Joshua to be strong and courageous. Block Center: Build with Blocks Wooden blocks What to Do: Provide a small carpet if possible. Blocks are best located in a corner of the room away from the traffic flow. Link to the Bible Story: As preschoolers build with blocks, use teachable moments to share the Bible Phrase, Bible truth, or a portion of the Bible story. God s Unfolding Story for Older Preschoolers, Copyright SundaySchoolZone.com OT07 Lesson 2 Hour A Page 2

13 Clean-up Time Encourage preschoolers to help at clean-up time. Assign specific tasks for preschoolers to do such as placing all the crayons in the basket, throwing away the trash, gathering all the glue sticks, etc. Guide children to the Bible Story Time area. Bible Story Time Bible Teaching Picture Joshua The New Leader (Reproducible) God s Unfolding Story Cube (Reproducible/Cardstock) Introduction Show the God s Unfolding Story Cube. Express to the boys and girls that even though we find many stories in the Bible, the Bible really tells one big story, and all the little stories are a part of the big one we can call God s Unfolding Story. Tell children that each picture represents a part of God s Unfolding Story. Turn the cube and talk about each part of the story. (Refer to page 1.) Express that every story from the Bible is from one of these main parts in God s Unfolding Story. Today s story is from the third part, God chose a special people. Express the following in your own words. Last week we learned about the Israelites spying out the land that God said He would give them. Most of the men said they were afraid to try to take the land because of the size of the people and the strength of their cities. Only Caleb and Joshua believed that God would help them. The people chose not to go into the land. God was very sad that His people did not trust Him to help them take the land. Because they disobeyed, the Israelites wandered in the desert for 40 years. That is a very long time! Moses was their leader during that time, but as the years passed he grew older. One day Moses died and went to heaven to be with God. The people were sad that their leader was gone, but God had chosen a new leader. Listen to find out whom God had picked. Bible Story Joshua The New Leader (Joshua 1:1-18) After Moses died, God knew that the Israelites needed a new leader. God wanted to lead His people into the new land He had promised. Joshua had been Moses helper. He also had believed God would help the Israelites take the land He d promised to give them. Moses had taught him many things about leading people. Even before Moses died, God chose Joshua to be the new leader. God knew he would make a great leader. God told Joshua, Take the people across the Jordan River into the land that I want to give them. I will be with you just as I was with Moses. God reminded him to obey the laws He had given through Moses. Obeying the laws would help all the people not just Joshua enjoy a good life in the new land. God also said, Be strong and of good courage, do not be afraid, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go (v. 9). Joshua was glad to be the new leader. He reminded the people of God s promise to be with them. Joshua told the people to pack up their belongings because God would lead them into the new land. The people were happy that Joshua was their new leader. They told him they would follow him just as they had followed Moses. They also echoed God s words when they shouted to Joshua, Be strong and of good courage (v. 18). Talk Time 1. Show the teaching picture for today s Bible story. Review by using these or similar questions. Why do you think God chose Joshua to be the new leader? Who would always be with Joshua as he led the people? What did God ask Joshua to remember and to remind the people? Do you think Joshua made a good leader? 2. Read the Bible phrase on the teaching picture. Say the phrase together, Be strong and of good courage, do not be afraid, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go (Joshua 1:9). Express to children that Joshua knew God would help him be strong and courageous even when he and the people encountered things that could make them afraid. 3. Close the Bible Story Time by inviting children to join you in prayer. Ask God to help each person trust Him to be strong and courageous, even when he or she is tempted to be afraid. God s Unfolding Story for Older Preschoolers, Copyright SundaySchoolZone.com OT07 Lesson 2 Hour A Page 3

14 Craft Time: Be Strong Necklace Copies of Be Strong Necklace (Reproducible, 1 copy for every 4 Crayons or markers Plastic beads Yarn, hole punch children, cardstock recommended) What to Do: Cut out each necklace piece and punch a hole where indicated. String necklace piece on an 18 length of yarn. Invite preschoolers to string beads on either side of the necklace piece. When stringing is complete, knot the ends of each necklace. Suggest to preschoolers to color their necklace pieces and write their names on the lines provided. Link to the Bible Story: Review the Bible Phrase with the children. Ask the child to say today s Bible Phrase, Be strong and of good courage Joshua 1:9. Talk about times when strength and courage are needed. Here are some possibilities: sleeping in one s own bed at night; recovering from an illness; going to the dentist; getting shots; moving to a new city; going to a new school. Express that each necklace can be a reminder to be strong and courageous. Snack Time Be sure to wash hands or use hand sanitizer. Say a thank-you prayer to God for the snack. When snack time has ended, encourage preschoolers to help with cleaning up. Game Time / Dismissal Follow the Leader What to Do: Express to children you will play a game called Follow the Leader. Demonstrate the following motions for children to imitate: Do jumping jacks Fly like an airplane Touch elbows, knees, Hop and toes Lean to the left, lean to Clap hands the right Skip March around the room Touch each foot with the opposite hand Sit down with hands in your lap If time permits choose a child to be a leader. Comment to children that to play the game, it was important to follow the teacher s instructions. Explain that in today s Bible story the people agreed to follow Joshua just as they had followed Moses. Say the Bible Phrase together, Be strong and of good courage, do not be afraid, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go Joshua 1:9. Dismiss children as parents arrive. Be sure to follow the security procedures of your church. God s Unfolding Story for Older Preschoolers, Copyright SundaySchoolZone.com OT07 Lesson 2 Hour A Page 4

15 Resources and Supplies Old Testament Unit 7: Joshua Lesson 2: Joshua The New Leader Hour A Standard Art Supplies (Supplies that are generally in the room) Washable markers Crayons Child scissors Playdough and accessories Drawing paper Easel (optional) Glue/glue sticks Tempera paint, 4 colors Tape/masking tape Pencils/colored pencils Hole punch Teacher scissors Stapler/staples Permanent markers Watercolors Paintbrushes Yarn Standard Equipment (Equipment that is generally in the room) Bible Small beanbag for Bible Story Time Assorted wooden/cardboard puzzles Set of wooden blocks Small cars and trucks Doll bed Baby doll (soft plastic) Stove/sink unit Play dishes/pots and pans Small table and chairs Small carpet for block area Play food items Storage shelf for blocks Tables and chairs for art, puzzles, and Bible Learning Center CD player/children s Worship CDs Reproducibles (Included with the lesson plan downloads) Activity Page: Matching, Match the Shape Patterns (1 copy per child) Be Strong Necklace (1 copy for every 4 children, cardstock recommended) Teaching Picture: Joshua The New Leader (1 copy per class) God s Unfolding Story Cube (Cardstock 1 copy per class) Parent Page (1 copy per child) Coloring Page, Joshua The New Leader Additional Art Materials White construction paper Marbles or Golf balls (2-4 each) Plastic tub or shoebox Additional Craft Materials Plastic beads for stringing on a necklace God s Unfolding Story for Older Preschoolers, Copyright SundaySchoolZone.com OT07 Lesson 2 Hour A

16 Bible Story: Joshua The New Leader (Joshua 1:1-18) Bible Phrase: Be strong and of good courage, do not be afraid, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go (Joshua 1:9). Bible Truth: I can trust God to help me be strong and courageous. Old Testament Unit 7: Joshua Lesson 2: Joshua The New Leader God s Unfolding Story 1. God created everything. 2. People disobeyed God. 3. God chose a special people. 4. God sent Jesus to help us. 5. Jesus began the Church. 6. Jesus is preparing heaven for us. Suggested Schedule: Arrival Centers 25 minutes Clean-up Time 5 minutes Bible Story Time 15 minutes Craft Time 10 minutes Snack Time 10 minutes Game Time/Dismissal Hour B Unfolding God s Story for Teachers Please read Joshua 1:1-18. Other than God, Joshua is the main character and hero of the book that bears his name. Many scholars believe Joshua himself penned much of this book, or that a scribe recorded the words as Joshua dictated. Whoever wrote down the words, God is the actual author, for He inspired the writer to write. We first saw Joshua in Exodus 17:9 when Moses chose him to lead a battle against the Amalekites after the Amalekites had attacked Israel. Later Moses chose Joshua, along with 11 others, to spy out the promised land. Joshua became Moses aide. God used the time the Israelites wandered in the wilderness to prepare Joshua for his next assignment. A good leader is a good follower, and Joshua learned many lessons on leadership from his mentor. Originally named Hoshea, meaning salvation, Joshua was renamed by Moses (see Num. 13:16). His new name meant the Lord is salvation The name change was prophetic. God would use Joshua to lead the people to take the promised land, but God Himself would be their deliverer and their salvation. God chose Joshua to lead. He was commissioned before God and the nation, but he still had to take the position. Leading a group of rebellious and stubborn people to take possession of the land was a tough job, and Joshua probably was around 80 when he took charge. He could have been discouraged and afraid. Four times in the first chapter God told him, Be strong and courageous. God knew the cost and He wanted Joshua to be encouraged. Be strong and courageous, the Lord said in verse 6, for you will distribute the land. There would be battles hard ones but victory was sure. In verse 7, God said, Above all, be strong and courageous to carefully observe the whole instruction My servant Moses commanded you. Joshua would be tempted to go astray, but success would come only through obedience. God would be the source of the people s strength, and His word would guide them. Finally, in verse 9 the Lord declared, Haven t I commanded you: be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go. The secret of Joshua s success would be that God was with him. So, in spite of the river ahead and every giant beyond the waters, Moses former apprentice took the assignment and prepared the people to press on. He knew he could trust God. We all face rivers and giants in our circumstances, relationships, fears, habits, failures, and sins. Allow God s words to Joshua to go from your head to your heart. Claim His presence. Take your next steps in faith, believing that nothing or no one can stand against you as you claim your promised land. Lesson Plan Arrival Greet children at eye level and express how happy you are to see them. Be sure each child has a name tag and the security measures of your church are followed. Label all coats and personal belongings. Strongly encourage children who have brought items from home, such as toys and books, to place them on a shelf while they are working with other materials. Assure children their items will be safe and they can take them home at the end of the session. Help each child make a choice where he or she would like to begin his or her Center Time. God s Unfolding Story for Older Preschoolers, Copyright SundaySchoolZone.com OT07 Lesson 2 Hour B Page 1

17 Puzzle Center: Work Puzzles Offer a variety of non-fantasy wooden or cardboard puzzles for children to work. What to Do: Invite preschoolers to work puzzles. Encourage children to finish puzzles before leaving the center. Give guidance rather than working the puzzle for the child. Link to the Bible Story: As children work, look for opportunities in conversation to say the Bible phrase or to briefly tell the Bible story. Home Living Center: Role Play Small rocking chair, sink and stove unit and small table and chairs; plastic dishes, child pots and pans; pretend food items; doll, doll bed, and doll accessories What to Do: Home living items naturally encourage children to act out roles and activities they observe at home. Link to the Bible Story: As preschoolers pretend and play out roles they observe at home and in other places, look for opportunities to share the Bible Phrase, Bible truth, or a portion of the Bible story. Center Time Art Center: Tape Pictures White construction paper Masking tape or Painter s tape Washable markers and crayons What to Do: Print today s Bible Phrase on each paper. Invite preschoolers to make shapes and designs with different sized strips of tape. Next, ask preschoolers to color inside the designs they have made. An example of a picture might help preschoolers get an idea of the finished product. Link to the Bible Story: As preschoolers work, talk about the Bible story for today. Express that God was ready for the Israelites to move into the land He had promised to give them. God had chosen Joshua to be their new leader to lead them into the land. God told Joshua Be strong and of good courage, do not be afraid, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go Joshua 1:9. Bible Learning Center: What s Missing? Copies of Activity Page: What s Missing? (Reproducible) Washable markers or crayons What to Do: Invite preschoolers to look at the Bible story picture and observe that many parts of it are missing. Ask preschoolers to decide what they think might fill each spot and to draw a line from the empty spot to the picture at the bottom that would complete the space. Link to the Bible Story: Tell children the picture is from today s Bible story. Explain that God chose Joshua to be the new leader after Moses died, and God wanted Joshua to be strong and courageous. Comment that the people all joined in to say they would follow Joshua just as they had followed Moses. Block Center: Build with Blocks Wooden blocks What to Do: Provide a small carpet if possible. Blocks are best located in a corner of the room away from the traffic flow. Link to the Bible Story: As preschoolers build with blocks, use teachable moments to share the Bible Phrase, Bible truth or a portion of the Bible story. God s Unfolding Story for Older Preschoolers, Copyright SundaySchoolZone.com OT07 Lesson 2 Hour B Page 2

18 Clean-up Time Encourage preschoolers to help at clean-up time. Assign specific tasks for preschoolers to do such as placing all the crayons in the basket, throwing away the trash, gathering all the glue sticks, etc. Guide children to the Bible Story Time area. Bible Story Time Bible Teaching Picture Joshua The New Leader (Reproducible) God s Unfolding Story Cube (Reproducible/Cardstock) Introduction Show the God s Unfolding Story Cube. Express to the boys and girls that even though we find many stories in the Bible, the Bible really tells one big story, and all the little stories are a part of the big one we can call God s Unfolding Story. Tell children that each picture represents a part of God s Unfolding Story. Turn the cube and talk about each part of the story. (Refer to page 1.) Express that every story from the Bible is from one of these main parts in God s Unfolding Story. Today s story is from the third part, God chose a special people. Express the following in your own words. Last week we learned about the Israelites spying out the land that God said He would give them. Most of the men said they were afraid to try to take the land because of the size of the people and the strength of their cities. Only Caleb and Joshua believed that God would help them. The people chose not to go into the land. God was very sad that His people did not trust Him to help them take the land. Because they disobeyed, the Israelites wandered in the desert for 40 years. That is a very long time! Moses was their leader during that time, but as the years passed he grew older. One day Moses died and went to heaven to be with God. The people were sad that their leader was gone, but God had chosen a new leader. Listen to find out whom God had picked. Bible Story Joshua The New Leader (Joshua 1:1-18) After Moses died, God knew that the Israelites needed a new leader. God wanted to lead His people into the new land He had promised. Joshua had been Moses helper. He also had believed God would help the Israelites take the land He d promised to give them. Moses had taught him many things about leading people. Even before Moses died, God chose Joshua to be the new leader. God knew he would make a great leader. God told Joshua, Take the people across the Jordan River into the land that I want to give them. I will be with you just as I was with Moses. God reminded him to obey the laws He had given through Moses. Obeying the laws would help all the people not just Joshua enjoy a good life in the new land. God also said, Be strong and of good courage, do not be afraid, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go (v. 9). Joshua was glad to be the new leader. He reminded the people of God s promise to be with them. Joshua told the people to pack up their belongings because God would lead them into the new land. The people were happy that Joshua was their new leader. They told him they would follow him just as they had followed Moses. They also echoed God s words when they shouted to Joshua, Be strong and of good courage (v. 18). Talk Time 1. Show the teaching picture for today s Bible story. Review by using these or similar questions. Why do you think God chose Joshua to be the new leader? Who would always be with Joshua as he led the people? What did God ask Joshua to remember and to remind the people? Do you think Joshua made a good leader? 2. Read the Bible phrase on the teaching picture. Say the phrase together, Be strong and of good courage, do not be afraid, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go (Joshua 1:9). Express to children that Joshua knew God would help him be strong and courageous even when he and the people encountered things that could make them afraid. 3. Close the Bible Story Time by inviting children to join you in prayer. Ask God to help each person trust Him to be strong and courageous, even when he or she is tempted to be afraid. God s Unfolding Story for Older Preschoolers, Copyright SundaySchoolZone.com OT07 Lesson 2 Hour B Page 3

19 Craft Time: Courage Shield Copies of Courage Shield (Reproducible, 1 copy for child, cardstock recommended) Crayons or markers Tape Foam stick-on shapes What to Do: Cut out each shield and handle. Invite children to color the shields and decorate them with the stick-on shapes. Bend each handle strip into a circle and staple together. Tape a handle on the back of each shield. Link to the Bible Story: When shields are complete, ask each child to place his or her hand inside the circle on the back to hold the shield. Review the Bible Phrase with the children, Be strong and of good courage, do not be afraid, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go Joshua 1:9. Ask: What are some times we need to be strong and show courage? Here are some possibilities: sleeping in one s own bed at night; recovering from an illness; going to the dentist; getting shots; moving to a new city; going to a new school. Express that the shields can remind the children to be strong and of good courage because God will always be with them. Snack Time Be sure to wash hands or use hand sanitizer. Say a thank-you prayer to God for the snack. When snack time has ended, encourage preschoolers to help with cleaning up. Game Time / Dismissal Follow the Leader What to Do: Express to children you will play a game called Follow the Leader. Demonstrate the following motions for children to imitate: Do jumping jacks Fly like an airplane Touch elbows, knees, Hop and toes Lean to the left, lean to Clap hands the right Skip March around the room Touch each foot with the opposite hand Sit down with hands in your lap If time permits choose a child to be a leader. Comment to children that to play the game, it was important to follow the teacher s instructions. Explain that in today s Bible story the people agreed to follow Joshua just as they had followed Moses. Say the Bible Phrase together, Be strong and of good courage, do not be afraid, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go Joshua 1:9. Dismiss children as parents arrive. Be sure to follow the security procedures of your church. God s Unfolding Story for Older Preschoolers, Copyright SundaySchoolZone.com OT07 Lesson 2 Hour B Page 4

20 Resources and Supplies Old Testament Unit 7: Joshua Lesson 2: Joshua The New Leader Hour B Standard Art Supplies (Supplies that are generally in the room) Washable markers Crayons Child scissors Playdough and accessories Drawing paper Easel (optional) Glue/glue sticks Tempera paint, 4 colors Tape/masking tape Pencils/colored pencils Hole punch Teacher scissors Stapler/staples Permanent markers Watercolors Paintbrushes Yarn Standard Equipment (Equipment that is generally in the room) Bible Small beanbag for Bible Story Time Assorted wooden/cardboard puzzles Set of wooden blocks Small cars and trucks Doll bed Baby doll (soft plastic) Stove/sink unit Play dishes/pots and pans Small table and chairs Small carpet for block area Play food items Storage shelf for blocks Tables and chairs for art, puzzles, and Bible Learning Center CD player/children s Worship CDs Reproducibles (Included with the lesson plan downloads) Activity Page: What s Missing? (1 copy per child) Courage Shield (1 copy for every child, cardstock recommended) Teaching Picture: Joshua The New Leader (1 copy per class) God s Unfolding Story Cube (Cardstock 1 copy per class) Parent Page (1 copy per child) Coloring Page, Joshua The New Leader Additional Art Materials White construction paper Masking tape or Painter s tape Additional Craft Materials Stick-on foam shapes God s Unfolding Story for Older Preschoolers, Copyright SundaySchoolZone.com OT07 Lesson 2 Hour B

21 Bible Story: God Stopped the River (Joshua 3 4) Bible Phrase: The hand of the Lord is mighty (Joshua 4:24). Bible Truth: God is mighty and powerful. Old Testament Unit 7: Joshua Lesson 3: Joshua God Stopped the River God s Unfolding Story 1. God created everything. 2. People disobeyed God. 3. God chose a special people. 4. God sent Jesus to help us. 5. Jesus began the Church. Suggested Schedule: Arrival Centers 25 minutes Clean-up Time 5 minutes Bible Story Time 15 minutes Craft Time 10 minutes Snack Time 10 minutes Game Time/Dismissal Hour A 6. Jesus is preparing heaven for us. Unfolding God s Story for Teachers Please read the account of today s story in Joshua 3 4. Last week we learned from chapter 1 that Joshua had been commissioned to lead the Israelites into the land that God had promised His people many years earlier. Chapter 2 indicates that just as Moses sent out spies, so did Joshua; he sent two spies to check out the land and the city of Jericho. Rahab, a Jericho resident, became a vital part of God s Unfolding Story as she helped the two men. They returned with the news that all were in a state of panic because they had heard of the power of Israel s God. God was setting the stage for Israel s conquest of Jericho. This information surely strengthened Joshua s resolve. He moved forward in God s power to take the land. Priests carrying the ark of the covenant led the way. The ark would remind the people of God s presence. The Israelites were to follow the ark but were to keep a safe and holy distance so they could see clearly the route they were to take. Having never been that way before, they would need God to show them. A huge obstacle loomed ahead of Israel a wide, fast moving river. Yet we have no record of doubt on Joshua s part. God would do what God does provide a way. He told the people to consecrate themselves, for the next day God was going to show up! To consecrate means to set apart, make holy, purify, and sanctify. God wanted their hearts to be pure and holy. The Lord told the people they would know He was with them when He wiped out all the nations that stood in their way. The Jordan River was just another opportunity for Him to demonstrate His power. God told Joshua to tell the people that this is how it would happen: when the soles of the feet of the priests touched the edge of the river, the flow of water would be stopped. That s exactly what occurred. Everyone walked across without getting a single toe wet! God always keeps his word. He wanted His people to experience and rely on His faithfulness. He told Joshua to send back 12 men and to have each one to choose a stone from the riverbed and remove it from the river. As God had commanded, the men stacked the stones in a pile. The stones would remind the people that Israel had crossed over Jordan on dry land. They also would testify to the whole world of God s strong rescuing hand and that Israel served a God to be revered. The messages are profound in this passage. Among them are these. Consecrate your heart; move only when and where God moves; stay attentive so you know clearly which direction to go. The days ahead hold places and circumstances we have never before known or seen. We need God s direction. We tend to forget His faithfulness; we must remember it and rely on His promises to walk in the truth. Lesson Plan Arrival Greet children at eye level and express how happy you are to see them. Be sure each child has a name tag and the security measures of your church are followed. Label all coats and personal belongings. Strongly encourage children who have brought items from home, such as toys and books, to place them on a shelf while they are working with other materials. Assure children their items will be safe and they can take them home at the end of the session. Help each child make a choice where he or she would like to begin his or her Center Time. God s Unfolding Story for Older Preschoolers, Copyright SundaySchoolZone.com OT07 Lesson 3 Hour A Page 1

22 Puzzle Center: Work Puzzles Offer a variety of non-fantasy wooden or cardboard puzzles for children to work. What to Do: Invite preschoolers to work puzzles. Encourage children to finish puzzles before leaving the center. Give guidance rather than working a puzzle for a boy or girl. Link to the Bible Story: As children work, look for opportunities in conversation to say the Bible phrase or to briefly tell the Bible story. Home Living Center: Role Play Small rocking chair, sink and stove unit and small table and chairs; plastic dishes, child pots and pans; pretend food items; doll, doll bed, and doll accessories What to Do: Home living items naturally encourage children to act out roles and activities they observe at home. Link to the Bible Story: As preschoolers pretend and act out roles they observe at home and in other places, look for opportunities to share the Bible Phrase, Bible truth, or a portion of the Bible story. Center Time Art Center: Footprint Mural Long sheet of paper Washable markers or crayons What to Do: Print today s Bible Phrase, The hand of the Lord is mighty (Joshua 4:24), at the top of the paper. Place the paper on the floor with the markers and crayons. Trace around each preschooler s feet and invite him/her to color the prints. Put each child s name under his/her prints. A fun option is to paint children s feet and help them make footprints on the paper. Be sure to provide wipes to clean up painted feet. Link to the Bible Story: As preschoolers work, read the Bible Phrase. Express to them that the Israelites were going into the land God had promised, but there was a very deep river between them and the new land. God showed His power and might when He pushed held back the flow of water so the Israelites could walk across to the other side. Block Center: Build with Blocks Wooden blocks 12 paper bags Tissue paper, old newspaper, or magazines to stuff bags What to Do: Provide a small carpet if possible. Blocks are best located in a corner of the room away from the traffic flow. Make rocks from paper bags by stuffing them with paper. Tape or staple the ends closed. Number each bag. Invite children to stack the paper rocks one at a time in numerical order. Hide them around the room for children to find and return to the Block area. Link to the Bible Story: As preschoolers build with blocks, use teachable moments to share the Bible Phrase, Bible truth, or a portion of the Bible story. Bible Learning Center: Connect the Footprints Copies of Activity Page: Connect the Footprints (Reproducible) Washable markers or crayons What to Do: Preschoolers should use markers or crayons to connect the footprints in numerical order to get to the other side of the river. Link to the Bible Story: As children follow the path of footprints, read the Bible Phrase. Express that in order for the Israelites to go into the land God had promised them, they had to cross a river, and there was no bridge. God held back the river upstream so they could cross over on dry land. God s Unfolding Story for Older Preschoolers, Copyright SundaySchoolZone.com OT07 Lesson 3 Hour A Page 2

23 Clean-up Time Encourage preschoolers to help at clean-up time. Assign specific tasks for preschoolers to do such as placing all the crayons in the basket, throwing away the trash, gathering all the glue sticks, etc. Guide children to the Bible Story Time area. Bible Story Time Bible Teaching Picture God Stopped the River (Reproducible) God s Unfolding Story Cube (Reproducible/Cardstock) 1 rock or wooden block for each child Introduction Show the God s Unfolding Story Cube. Express to the boys and girls that even though we find many stories in the Bible, the Bible really tells one big story, and all the little stories are a part of the big one we can call God s Unfolding Story. Tell children that each picture represents a chapter in God s Unfolding Story. Turn the cube and talk about each chapter. (Refer to page 1.) Express that every story from the Bible is from one of these main parts. Today s story is from the third chapter, God chose a special people. Express the following in your own words. In our story today, God told Joshua to lead the Israelites into the land He had promised to give them. There was a huge problem though; there was a fast-moving river between them and the land. There was no bridge. How would they get across? Listen to hear how God provided a way. Bible Story God Stopped the River (Joshua 3 4) God was ready for Joshua and the Israelites to go to the new land He had promised to give them, but something was in the way a big, wide river. The water was flowing fast, and it was too deep to walk through. Also, there was no bridge. As God s people camped beside the river, they were not sure how they would get to the other side. God helped Joshua know what to do. Joshua told the people to get everything packed because the next day they would go into their new land. Joshua said, Tomorrow, God is going to do something wonderful! The people packed their food, clothes, and tents. They gathered their animals. They waited for God to show them what to do. Joshua told the priests to go first. Priests were men who taught the people about God. With the priests going first, the people would be reminded that God was with them. As soon as the priests put their toes in the river, all the water piled up on one side in a tall, giant heap! It was amazing! The priests stood in the middle of riverbed on dry ground. All of God s people walked to the other side, and not one person got his or her toes wet! When all the people had passed, Joshua asked each of 12 men to go back and choose a big stone from the riverbed to bring back. The men went and got 12 large rocks. After all the people and the priests had crossed safely to the other side, SWISH! All the water returned and flowed as before. Joshua and the men placed the rocks in a pile at the camp where the people spent the night. The rocks would remind the people of the wonderful and amazing way God had helped them and protected them. Joshua told the people, God did this so others would know that the hand of the Lord is mighty. Talk Time 1. Show the teaching picture for today s Bible story. Review by using these or similar questions. Why couldn t the Israelites go into the land? What happened when the priests put their toes into the water? What did Joshua have the people make to remember what God had done? 2. Read the Bible phrase on the teaching picture. Say the phrase together, The hand of the Lord is mighty (Joshua 4:24). Express to children that God still shows His power to people today. Talk about things that remind us of God s power, provision, protection and love. Some of these are: His creation, night, day, seasons, our homes, families, food, clothes, healing when someone is sick, keeping us safe in a storm or accident, friends, and meeting our needs. 3. Close the Bible Story Time by inviting children to join you in prayer. Give each child a stone or small wooden block. Ask each boy or girl to name a way that God shows His power and to place his/her rock or block in the center of the circle. As the rocks accumulate, tell the children that the pile is a reminder God s love and power, just as the pile of rocks gathered by the Israelites was a reminder to them. Pray, thanking God that He is mighty and powerful. God s Unfolding Story for Older Preschoolers, Copyright SundaySchoolZone.com OT07 Lesson 3 Hour A Page 3

24 Craft Time: Bible Phrase Pennant Copies of Bible Phrase Pennant (Reproducible, 1 copy for every 2 children, cardstock recommended) Crayons or markers Straws or dowels, hole punch Foam stick-on handprint shapes or handprint stickers What to Do: Cut out each pennant. Punch holes where indicated. Invite each child to trace the Bible Phrase and then to color and decorate his or her pennant. Show children how to insert a straw or dowel through the holes for a handle for their pennants. Link to the Bible Story: Review the Bible Phrase with the children. Ask the child to say today s Bible Phrase, The hand of the Lord is mighty (Joshua 4:24). Review the story and ask how God showed that His hand was mighty. Invite children to share the Bible Phrase with a friend or family member. Snack Time Be sure to wash hands or use hand sanitizer. Say a thank-you prayer to God for the snack. When snack time has ended, encourage preschoolers to help with cleaning up. Game Time / Dismissal Carry the Rock Small to medium sized rocks, 1 per child (These can be the same rocks used in Bible Story Time) Plastic spoons (2) Masking tape What to Do: Place the rocks in two equal piles at one end of the Game Time area. Using the masking tape, make an X at two spots on the opposite side of the rock piles. Help the children form two equal lines behind the rock piles. Express to them they will play a game called Carry the Rock. Give the first child in each line a plastic spoon and ask him/her to go and get a rock from the pile. The child should select a rock, place it in the spoon, and carry it to the spot marked with the X. He then should place the rock on the marked spot and return the spoon to the next child. The object is to see which team can be first to get all their rocks to the other side. If time permits, play the game again. Comment to children that each one of them may want to find a rock when God does something special in his or her life, as a reminder of what God did. Explain that many people do this. A person might place his or her rocks in a jar or box as reminders of God s help and encouragement. Dismiss children as parents arrive. Be sure to follow the security procedures of your church. God s Unfolding Story for Older Preschoolers, Copyright SundaySchoolZone.com OT07 Lesson 3 Hour A Page 4

25 Resources and Supplies Old Testament Unit 7: Joshua Lesson 3: Joshua God Stopped the River Hour A Standard Art Supplies (Supplies that are generally in the room) Washable markers Crayons Child scissors Playdough and accessories Drawing paper Easel (optional) Glue/glue sticks Tempera paint, 4 colors Tape/masking tape Pencils/colored pencils Hole punch Teacher scissors Stapler/staples Permanent markers Watercolors Paintbrushes Yarn Standard Equipment (Equipment that is generally in the room) Bible Small beanbag for Bible Story Time Assorted wooden/cardboard puzzles Set of wooden blocks Small cars and trucks Doll bed Baby doll (soft plastic) Stove/sink unit Play dishes/pots and pans Small table and chairs Small carpet for block area Play food items Storage shelf for blocks Tables and chairs for art, puzzles, and Bible Learning Center CD player/children s Worship CDs Reproducibles (Included with the lesson plan downloads) Activity Page: Connect the Footprints (1 copy per child) Bible Phrase Pennants (1 copy for every 2 children, cardstock recommended) Teaching Picture: God Stopped the River (1 copy per class) God s Unfolding Story Cube (Cardstock 1 copy per class) Parent Page (1 copy per child) Coloring Page, God Stopped the River Additional Block Materials Paper bags (lunch size, 12) Tissue paper, old newspaper, or magazines for stuffing bags Additional Craft Materials Plastic straws or 1/8 dowels (1 per child) Foam stick-on handprint shapes or handprint stickers Additional Game Time Materials Small or medium sized rocks (1 per child) (These also will be used in Talk Time following the Bible Story) Additional Art Materials Long sheet of paper for a mural God s Unfolding Story for Older Preschoolers, Copyright SundaySchoolZone.com OT07 Lesson 3 Hour A

26 Bible Story: God Stopped the River (Joshua 3 4) Bible Phrase: The hand of the Lord is mighty (Joshua 4:24). Bible Truth: God is mighty and powerful. Old Testament Unit 7: Joshua Lesson 3: Joshua God Stopped the River God s Unfolding Story 1. God created everything. 2. People disobeyed God. 3. God chose a special people. 4. God sent Jesus to help us. 5. Jesus began the Church. 6. Jesus is preparing heaven for us. Suggested Schedule: Arrival Centers 25 minutes Clean-up Time 5 minutes Bible Story Time 15 minutes Craft Time 10 minutes Snack Time 10 minutes Game Time/Dismissal Hour B Unfolding God s Story for Teachers Please read the account of today s story in Joshua 3 4. Last week we learned from chapter 1 that Joshua had been commissioned to lead the Israelites into the land that God had promised His people many years earlier. Chapter 2 indicates that just as Moses sent out spies, so did Joshua; he sent two spies to check out the land and the city of Jericho. Rahab, a Jericho resident, became a vital part of God s Unfolding Story as she helped the two men. They returned with the news that all were in a state of panic because they had heard of the power of Israel s God. God was setting the stage for Israel s conquest of Jericho. This information surely strengthened Joshua s resolve. He moved forward in God s power to take the land. Priests carrying the ark of the covenant led the way. The ark would remind the people of God s presence. The Israelites were to follow the ark but were to keep a safe and holy distance so they could see clearly the route they were to take. Having never been that way before, they would need God to show them. A huge obstacle loomed ahead of Israel a wide, fast moving river. Yet we have no record of doubt on Joshua s part. God would do what God does provide a way. He told the people to consecrate themselves, for the next day God was going to show up! To consecrate means to set apart, make holy, purify, and sanctify. God wanted their hearts to be pure and holy. The Lord told the people they would know He was with them when He wiped out all the nations that stood in their way. The Jordan River was just another opportunity for Him to demonstrate His power. God told Joshua to tell the people that this is how it would happen: when the soles of the feet of the priests touched the edge of the river, the flow of water would be stopped. That s exactly what occurred. Everyone walked across without getting a single toe wet! God always keeps his word. He wanted His people to experience and rely on His faithfulness. He told Joshua to send back 12 men and to have each one to choose a stone from the riverbed and remove it from the river. As God had commanded, the men stacked the stones in a pile. The stones would remind the people that Israel had crossed over Jordan on dry land. They also would testify to the whole world of God s strong rescuing hand and that Israel served a God to be revered. The messages are profound in this passage. Among them are these. Consecrate your heart; move only when and where God moves; stay attentive so you know clearly which direction to go. The days ahead hold places and circumstances we have never before known or seen. We need God s direction. We tend to forget His faithfulness; we must remember it and rely on His promises to walk in the truth. Lesson Plan Arrival Greet children at eye level and express how happy you are to see them. Be sure each child has a name tag and the security measures of your church are followed. Label all coats and personal belongings. Strongly encourage children who have brought items from home, such as toys and books, to place them on a shelf while they are working with other materials. Assure children their items will be safe and they can take them home at the end of the session. Help each child make a choice where he or she would like to begin his or her Center Time. God s Unfolding Story for Older Preschoolers, Copyright SundaySchoolZone.com OT07 Lesson 3 Hour B Page 1

27 Puzzle Center: Work Puzzles Offer a variety of non-fantasy wooden or cardboard puzzles for children to work. What to Do: Invite preschoolers to work puzzles. Encourage children to finish puzzles before leaving the center. Give guidance rather than working a puzzle for a boy or girl. Link to the Bible Story: As children work, look for opportunities in conversation to say the Bible phrase or to briefly tell the Bible story. Home Living Center: Role Play Small rocking chair, sink and stove unit and small table and chairs; plastic dishes, child pots and pans; pretend food items; doll, doll bed, and doll accessories What to Do: Home living items naturally encourage children to act out roles and activities they observe at home. Link to the Bible Story: As preschoolers pretend and act out roles they observe at home and in other places, look for opportunities to share the Bible Phrase, Bible truth, or a portion of the Bible story. Center Time Block Center: Build with Blocks Wooden blocks 12 paper bags Newspaper, tissue, or magazines to stuff bags What to Do: Provide a small carpet if possible. Blocks are best located in a corner of the room away from the traffic flow. Make rocks from paper bags by stuffing them with paper. Tape or staple the ends closed. Number each bag. Invite children to stack the paper rocks one at a time in numerical order. Hide them around the room for children to find and return to the Block area. Link to the Bible Story: As preschoolers build with blocks, use teachable moments to share the Bible Phrase, Bible truth, or a portion of the Bible story. Bible Learning Center: Hidden Objects Copies of Activity Page: Object Search, Find the 12 Stones (Reproducible) Washable markers or crayons What to Do: Encourage preschoolers to use a markers or crayons to color the 12 stones in the Bible story picture. Link to the Bible Story: As children search the picture for the stones, read the Bible Phrase and comment that God held the river back so the Israelites could walk across on dry land to get to the land that God had promised them. Their leader, Joshua, asked some men to go back to the riverbed and choose 12 stones. They piled the stones at their camp where they were spending the night to remind them of the powerful hand of God to hold back the water. Art Center: Water Colors Coloring Page: God Stopped the River Watercolors, brushes, containers for water What to Do: Invite children to paint their Bible Story picture with the watercolors. Link to the Bible Story: As preschoolers work, read the Bible Phrase. Express to preschoolers that the Israelites were going into the land God had promised to give them, but there was a very deep river between them and the new land. God showed His power and might when He held back the river so the Israelites could walk across to the other side. God s Unfolding Story for Older Preschoolers, Copyright SundaySchoolZone.com OT07 Lesson 3 Hour B Page 2

28 Clean-up Time Encourage preschoolers to help at clean-up time. Assign specific tasks for preschoolers to do such as placing all the crayons in the basket, throwing away the trash, gathering all the glue sticks, etc. Guide children to the Bible Story Time area. Bible Story Time Bible Teaching Picture God Stopped the River (Reproducible) God s Unfolding Story Cube (Reproducible/Cardstock) 1 rock or wooden block for each child Introduction Show the God s Unfolding Story Cube. Express to the boys and girls that even though we find many stories in the Bible, the Bible really tells one big story, and all the little stories are a part of the big one we can call God s Unfolding Story. Tell children that each picture represents a chapter in God s Unfolding Story. Turn the cube and talk about each chapter. (Refer to page 1.) Express that every story from the Bible is from one of these main parts. Today s story is from the third chapter, God chose a special people. Express the following in your own words. In our story today, God told Joshua to lead the Israelites into the land He had promised to give them. There was a huge problem though; there was a fast-moving river between them and the land. There was no bridge. How would they get across? Listen to hear how God provided a way. Bible Story God Stopped the River (Joshua 3 4) God was ready for Joshua and the Israelites to go to the new land He had promised to give them, but something was in the way a big, wide river. The water was flowing fast, and it was too deep to walk through. Also, there was no bridge. As God s people camped beside the river, they were not sure how they would get to the other side. God helped Joshua know what to do. Joshua told the people to get everything packed because the next day they would go into their new land. Joshua said, Tomorrow, God is going to do something wonderful! The people packed their food, clothes, and tents. They gathered their animals. They waited for God to show them what to do. Joshua told the priests to go first. Priests were men who taught the people about God. With the priests going first, the people would be reminded that God was with them. As soon as the priests put their toes in the river, all the water piled up on one side in a tall, giant heap! It was amazing! The priests stood in the middle of riverbed on dry ground. All of God s people walked to the other side, and not one person got his or her toes wet! When all the people had passed, Joshua asked each of 12 men to go back and choose a big stone from the riverbed to bring back. The men went and got 12 large rocks. After all the people and the priests had crossed safely to the other side, SWISH! All the water returned and flowed as before. Joshua and the men placed the rocks in a pile at the camp where the people spent the night. The rocks would remind the people of the wonderful and amazing way God had helped them and protected them. Joshua told the people, God did this so others would know that the hand of the Lord is mighty. Talk Time 1. Show the teaching picture for today s Bible story. Review by using these or similar questions. Why couldn t the Israelites go into the land? What happened when the priests put their toes into the water? What did Joshua have the people make to remember what God had done? 2. Read the Bible phrase on the teaching picture. Say the phrase together, The hand of the Lord is mighty (Joshua 4:24). Express to children that God still shows His power to people today. Talk about things that remind us of God s power, provision, protection and love. Some of these are: His creation, night, day, seasons, our homes, families, food, clothes, healing when someone is sick, keeping us safe in a storm or accident, friends, and meeting our needs. 3. Close the Bible Story Time by inviting children to join you in prayer. Give each child a stone or small wooden block. Ask each boy or girl to name a way that God shows His power and to place his/her rock or block in the center of the circle. As the rocks accumulate, tell the children that the pile is a reminder God s love and power, just as the pile of rocks gathered by the Israelites was a reminder to them. Pray, thanking God that He is mighty and powerful. God s Unfolding Story for Older Preschoolers, Copyright SundaySchoolZone.com OT07 Lesson 3 Hour B Page 3

29 Craft Time: Bible Phrase Necklace Copies of Bible Phrase Necklace (Reproducible, 1 copy for every 2 children, cardstock recommended) Crayons, washable markers or as an option, ink pad (Hand wipes for clean-up) Yarn, hole punch Plastic beads for stinging a necklace What to Do: Cut out each necklace piece. Punch holes where indicated. Cut yarn long enough for a necklace of about 18. Invite each child to trace and color his or her handprint or make a handprint using an inkpad. Provide hand wipes for easy clean-up. Next, invite preschoolers to string the handprint along with some beads on the yarn to make a necklace. Secure each necklace by knotting the ends together. Link to the Bible Story: Review the Bible Phrase with the children. Ask them to say today s Bible Phrase, The hand of the Lord is mighty (Joshua 4:24). Review the story and ask how God showed His hand to be mighty. Encourage children to wear their necklaces to remind them of God s power. Snack Time Be sure to wash hands or use hand sanitizer. Say a thank-you prayer to God for the snack. When snack time has ended, encourage preschoolers to help with cleaning up. Game Time / Dismissal Carry the Rock Small to medium sized rocks, 1 per child (These can be the same rocks used in Bible Story Time) Plastic spoons (2) Masking tape What to Do: Place the rocks in two equal piles at one end of the Game Time area. Using the masking tape, make an X at two spots on the opposite side of the rock piles. Help the children form two equal lines behind the rock piles. Express to them they will play a game called Carry the Rock. Give the first child in each line a plastic spoon and ask him/her to go and get a rock from the pile. The child should select a rock, place it in the spoon, and carry it to the spot marked with the X. He then should place the rock on the marked spot and return the spoon to the next child. The object is to see which team can be first to get all their rocks to the other side. If time permits, play the game again. Comment to children that each one of them may want to find a rock when God does something special in his or her life, as a reminder of what God did. Explain that many people do this. A person might place his or her rocks in a jar or box as reminders of God s help and encouragement. Dismiss children as parents arrive. Be sure to follow the security procedures of your church. God s Unfolding Story for Older Preschoolers, Copyright SundaySchoolZone.com OT07 Lesson 3 Hour B Page 4

30 Resources and Supplies Old Testament Unit 7: Joshua Lesson 3: Joshua God Stopped the River Hour B Standard Art Supplies (Supplies that are generally in the room) Washable markers Crayons Child scissors Playdough and accessories Drawing paper Easel (optional) Glue/glue sticks Tempera paint, 4 colors Tape/masking tape Pencils/colored pencils Hole punch Teacher scissors Stapler/staples Permanent markers Watercolors Paintbrushes Yarn Standard Equipment (Equipment that is generally in the room) Bible Small beanbag for Bible Story Time Assorted wooden/cardboard puzzles Set of wooden blocks Small cars and trucks Doll bed Baby doll (soft plastic) Stove/sink unit Play dishes/pots and pans Small table and chairs Small carpet for block area Play food items Storage shelf for blocks Tables and chairs for art, puzzles, and Bible Learning Center CD player/children s Worship CDs Reproducibles (Included with the lesson plan downloads) Activity Page: Object Search, Find the 12 Stones (1 copy per child) Bible Phrase Necklace (1 copy for every 2 children, cardstock recommended) Teaching Picture: God Stopped the River (1 copy per class) God s Unfolding Story Cube (Cardstock 1 copy per class) Parent Page (1 copy per child) Coloring Page, God Stopped the River Additional Block Materials Paper bags (lunch size, 12) Newspaper, tissue, or magazines to stuff bags Additional Craft Materials Plastic beads for stringing a necklace Option: Large inkpad Additional Game Time Materials Small or medium sized rocks (1 per child) (These also will be used in Talk Time following the Bible Story) God s Unfolding Story for Older Preschoolers, Copyright SundaySchoolZone.com OT07 Lesson 3 Hour B

31 Bible Story: The Fall of Jericho (Joshua 6) Bible Phrase: Great is our Lord and mighty in power (Psalm 147:5). Bible Truth: God is mighty and powerful. Old Testament Unit 7: Joshua Lesson 4: The Fall of Jericho God s Unfolding Story 1. God created everything. 2. People disobeyed God. 3. God chose a special people. 4. God sent Jesus to help us. 5. Jesus began the Church. 6. Jesus is preparing heaven for us. Suggested Schedule: Arrival Centers 25 minutes Clean-up Time 5 minutes Bible Story Time 15 minutes Craft Time 10 minutes Snack Time 10 minutes Game Time/Dismissal Hour A Unfolding God s Story for Teachers Please read Joshua 6. Jericho was a tropical paradise sitting 800 feet below sea level. It wasn t a big city, but it was a stronghold. The city walls were possibly twenty feet thick and twenty-five feet high. Standing on top of the walls, guards could see for miles. This city represented the first step in Israel s conquest of the promised land. Taking Jericho and the neighboring city of Ai would give the Israelites a strategic advantage. Controlling the central ridge, Israel would be able to attack both the north and south. Taking Jericho first was a good battle plan, but the fall of Jericho was more a lesson of faith than battle strategy. This battle was not about weapons, but surrender unconditional surrender to God s plan, way, and timing. In Joshua 6:2 God said, I have delivered Jericho into your hands, along with its king and its fighting men (NIV*). The verb in this verse indicates God already had taken the city for His children. They needed to believe Him and be ready to receive it when the time was right. Whether or not Israel s army knew the whole plan is not evident. God had revealed the plan to Joshua, but Scripture reads as though it may have unfolded to the troops on a daily basis. Each morning they woke up ready to go and do what God commanded them. The walk around the city probably only took about twenty minutes. It was a simple walk, but a huge walk of faith. God instructed them to just walk, not shoot arrows or hurl spears. The only ones doing anything more were the priests, who blew their trumpets. These were not ordinary trumpets. They were jubilee trumpets, used during Israel s feasts to proclaim God s presence. God certainly was present! We do not know if the repeated trips around the city caused the Canaanites to cower in fear or led them to think their enemy was weak. Yet for the Israelites, each time they circled, their faith increased. So did the depth of their surrender to Yahweh. On the seventh day they marched around the city seven times, and at Joshua s command, they shouted. The walls tumbled down and the Israelites easily took the city. Except for Rahab and her family, all the inhabitants of Jericho were destroyed. The chapter ends with a short but important note, And the Lord was with Joshua, and his fame spread throughout the land (Josh. 6:27). Joshua became famous because He followed God s plan and strategy, not his own. This story has deep application for us. God has already accomplished much for us salvation, victory over sin and death, victory over evil, and so much more. These treasures are ours for the taking if we walk in faith, totally surrendering ourselves to God, His plan, His way, and His timing. Move out! *Scripture taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. Copyright 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Publishing House. All rights reserved. Lesson Plan Arrival Greet children at eye level and express how happy you are to see them. Be sure each child has a name tag and the security measures of your church are followed. Label all coats and personal belongings. Strongly encourage children who have brought items from home, such as toys and books, to place them on a shelf while they are working with other materials. Assure children their items will be safe and they can take them home at the end of the session. Help each child make a choice where he or she would like to begin his or her Center Time. God s Unfolding Story for Older Preschoolers, Copyright SundaySchoolZone.com OT07 Lesson 4 Hour A Page 1

32 Puzzle Center: Work Puzzles Offer a variety of non-fantasy wooden or cardboard puzzles for children to work. What to Do: Invite preschoolers to work puzzles. Encourage each child to finish a puzzle before leaving the center. Give guidance rather than working the puzzle for a boy or girl. Link to the Bible Story: As children work, look for opportunities in conversation to say the Bible Phrase or to briefly tell the Bible story. Home Living Center: Role Play Small rocking chair, sink and stove unit and small table and chairs; plastic dishes, child pots and pans; pretend food items; doll, doll bed, and doll accessories What to Do: Home living items naturally encourage children to act out roles and activities they observe at home. Link to the Bible Story: As preschoolers pretend and act out roles they observe at home and in other places, look for opportunities to share the Bible Phrase, Bible truth, or a portion of the Bible story. Center Time Art Center: Circle Painting White construction paper Paper cups Several colors of washable tempera paint, paper plates for paint What to Do: Print today s Bible Phrase Great is our Lord and mighty in power (Psalm 147:5), at the bottom of each paper. Pour paint onto paper plates. Demonstrate to children how to dip the wide end of the paper up into the paint and press it onto the paper. Link to the Bible Story: As preschoolers work, read the Bible Phrase. Express to preschoolers when God told the Israelites to take the land He had promised to give them, that meant they would need to take over the cities where their enemies lived. One city they needed to capture was Jericho. God commanded the Israelites to walk around the city one time each day for six days; then, on the seventh day, they were to walk around it seven times. When the Israelites obeyed God, the walls of the city of Jericho tumbled down. The circles on your paper can remind us that the Israelites marched around the city. They remind us of God s power as well. Bible Learning Center: Picture Search Copies of Activity Page: Picture Search, The Fall of Jericho (Reproducible) Washable markers or crayons What to Do: Preschoolers should search the larger Bible story picture to find the smaller pictures at the bottom of the page. Link to the Bible Story: As children search for objects, use the picture to talk about the Bible story. Tell the children that after the Israelites marched around the city as God commanded, the walls of the city tumbled down. Block Center: Build with Blocks Wooden blocks What to Do: Provide a small carpet if possible. Blocks are best located in a corner of the room away from the traffic flow. Encourage preschoolers to build a city with a wall around it. Link to the Bible Story: As preschoolers build the city and walls, explain that in today s Bible story the Israelites needed to capture the city of Jericho, but the walls around it were too thick to get inside. God gave Joshua a plan to help them take the city. Tell preschoolers that they will hear in Bible Story Time how God made the city walls fall down. Preschoolers can gently knock down the walls of the city they built with blocks. God s Unfolding Story for Older Preschoolers, Copyright SundaySchoolZone.com OT07 Lesson 4 Hour A Page 2

33 Clean-up Time Encourage preschoolers to help at clean-up time. Assign specific tasks for preschoolers to do such as placing all the crayons in the basket, throwing away the trash, gathering all the glue sticks, etc. Guide children to the Bible Story Time area. Bible Story Time Bible Teaching Picture The Fall of Jericho (Reproducible) God s Unfolding Story Cube (Reproducible/Cardstock) Introduction Show the God s Unfolding Story Cube. Express to the boys and girls that even though we find many stories in the Bible, the Bible really tells one big story, and all the little stories are a part of the big one we can call God s Unfolding Story. Tell children that each picture represents a chapter in God s Unfolding Story. Turn the cube and talk about each chapter of the story. (Refer to page 1.) Express that every story from the Bible is from one of these main parts in God s Unfolding Story. Today s story is from the third chapter, God chose a special people. Express the following in your own words. Boys and girls, what do you think it would take to knock down a very thick wall that surrounded a city? (Accept all answers.) When God wants to knock down walls, He can do it any way He chooses. He does not need our ideas or even our strength. God is mighty and powerful on His own. In our Bible story today, God used the Israelites to knock down some very thick walls in a most unusual way. Listen to hear what God did. Bible Story The Fall of Jericho (Joshua 6) Joshua and the people of Israel were living in the land that God had promised. Other people also lived in the land, and many of them were not friendly to the Israelites. Some lived in a city called Jericho. Jericho was surrounded by thick walls. No one was going in or out of the city. The Israelites didn t know how to get through the thick walls to take the city. God told Joshua He would help the people capture Jericho. He gave Joshua instructions: For six days, march around the city one time each day. The priests should carry their trumpets as you march. On the seventh day, march around the city seven times. After marching, have the priests blow their trumpets with one long blow. Then everyone should shout, for the Lord has given you the city! After you do this, Jericho s walls will fall down. Surely Joshua thought this was a strange but amazing way for walls to come down! Joshua gave the people instructions. Early the next morning the people quietly marched around the city. No one said a word as they marched; but the priests blew their trumpets. The second day the people marched around the city again. Each day they marched, until the seventh day. On day seven, they got up early and began marching. They marched once, but they did not stop. They marched two, three, four, five, six, seven times around the city walls! Then the priests blew their trumpets one last time, for a long time! Joshua called for the people to shout, and shout they did as loud as they could! Suddenly the walls of the city came crashing down, and God s people were able to capture the city. What an amazing thing God had done! God was with Joshua and His people. Talk Time 1. Show the teaching picture for today s Bible story. Review by using these or similar questions. What did God ask the Israelites to do around the walls of Jericho? Did the people obey God? Who made the walls tumble down? 2. Read the Bible Phrase on the teaching picture. Say the phrase together, Great is our Lord and mighty in power (Psalm 147:5). Express to children that God really did not need the Israelites to walk around the city for the walls to come down. God was and is powerful enough to knock the walls down Himself. Still, God wanted the Israelites to obey Him and trust Him, and that is exactly what they did. God was with Joshua and the Israelites. God helped them capture the city. 3. Close the Bible Story Time by inviting children to join you in prayer. Thank God that He is with people who love Him today, and that He is mighty and powerful. God s Unfolding Story for Older Preschoolers, Copyright SundaySchoolZone.com OT07 Lesson 4 Hour A Page 3

34 Craft Time: Bible Phrase Visor Copies of Bible Phrase Visor (Reproducible, 1 copy for every child, cardstock recommended) Crayons or washable markers Hole punch, yarn Foam stick-on shapes or non-fantasy stickers What to Do: Cut out each visor. Punch holes where indicated. Invite children to color and decorate their visors with the stickers. Insert yarn through the holes of each visor, and then tie to fit each child s head. Link to the Bible Story: Review the Bible Phrase with the children. Ask the child to say today s Bible Phrase, Great is our Lord and mighty in power (Psalm 147:5). Review the story and talk about what God asked His people to do and how God showed His power. Snack Time Be sure to wash hands or use hand sanitizer. Say a thank-you prayer to God for the snack. When snack time has ended, encourage preschoolers to help with cleaning up. Game Time / Dismissal Seven Times Around Masking tape or wooden blocks What to Do: Tape the outline of a large square in the Game Time area or use wooden blocks to mark the square. Begin the game by talking about the Bible story. Remind children that God commanded Joshua and the Israelites to march around the city walls one time each day for six days. Then on the seventh day they were to march around the walls seven times. Ask children what happened on the seventh day after the Israelites had marched. Explain to children they will march around the square seven times. Count out loud each time the group goes around. After the seventh time around you will say, Shout! and they will shout out the Bible Phrase, Great is our Lord and mighty in power (Psalm 147:5). (If your any of your children made the Bible Phrase Horns, encourage them to put them to their mouths when they say the Bible Phrase.) After saying the Bible Phrase, all the children should drop to the floor. If wooden blocks have been used, the children can knock them down. Comment to children the Israelites obeyed God and marched around the city, but God caused the walls to fall down. God was with Joshua and the people. The Israelites and other nations of people saw the power of God when the walls of the city tumbled down. Dismiss children as parents arrive. Be sure to follow the security procedures of your church. God s Unfolding Story for Older Preschoolers, Copyright SundaySchoolZone.com OT07 Lesson 4 Hour A Page 4

35 Resources and Supplies Old Testament Unit 7: Joshua Lesson 4: The Fall of Jericho Hour A Standard Art Supplies (Supplies that are generally in the room) Washable markers Crayons Child scissors Playdough and accessories Drawing paper Easel (optional) Glue/glue sticks Tempera paint, 4 colors Tape/masking tape Pencils/colored pencils Hole punch Teacher scissors Stapler/staples Permanent markers Watercolors Paintbrushes Yarn Standard Equipment (Equipment that is generally in the room) Bible Small beanbag for Bible Story Time Assorted wooden/cardboard puzzles Set of wooden blocks Small cars and trucks Doll bed Baby doll (soft plastic) Stove/sink unit Play dishes/pots and pans Small table and chairs Small carpet for block area Play food items Storage shelf for blocks Tables and chairs for art, puzzles, and Bible Learning Center CD player/children s Worship CDs Reproducibles (Included with the lesson plan downloads) Activity Page: Picture Search, The Fall of Jericho (1 copy per child) Bible Phrase Visor (1 copy for every child, cardstock recommended) Teaching Picture: The Fall of Jericho (1 copy per class) God s Unfolding Story Cube (Cardstock 1 copy per class) Parent Page (1 copy per child) Coloring Page, The Fall of Jericho Additional Art Materials White construction paper (1 per child) Paper cups Additional Craft Materials Foam stick-on shapes or non-fantasy stickers God s Unfolding Story for Older Preschoolers, Copyright SundaySchoolZone.com OT07 Lesson 4 Hour A

36 Bible Story: The Fall of Jericho (Joshua 6) Bible Phrase: Great is our Lord and mighty in power (Psalm 147:5). Bible Truth: God is mighty and powerful. Old Testament Unit 7: Joshua Lesson 4: The Fall of Jericho God s Unfolding Story 1. God created everything. 2. People disobeyed God. 3. God chose a special people. 4. God sent Jesus to help us. 5. Jesus began the Church. 6. Jesus is preparing heaven for us. Suggested Schedule: Arrival Centers 25 minutes Clean-up Time 5 minutes Bible Story Time 15 minutes Craft Time 10 minutes Snack Time 10 minutes Game Time/Dismissal Hour B Unfolding God s Story for Teachers Please read Joshua 6. Jericho was a tropical paradise sitting 800 feet below sea level. It wasn t a big city, but it was a stronghold. The city walls were possibly twenty feet thick and twenty-five feet high. Standing on top of the walls, guards could see for miles. This city represented the first step in Israel s conquest of the promised land. Taking Jericho and the neighboring city of Ai would give the Israelites a strategic advantage. Controlling the central ridge, Israel would be able to attack both the north and south. Taking Jericho first was a good battle plan, but the fall of Jericho was more a lesson of faith than battle strategy. This battle was not about weapons, but surrender unconditional surrender to God s plan, way, and timing. In Joshua 6:2 God said, I have delivered Jericho into your hands, along with its king and its fighting men (NIV*). The verb in this verse indicates God already had taken the city for His children. They needed to believe Him and be ready to receive it when the time was right. Whether or not Israel s army knew the whole plan is not evident. God had revealed the plan to Joshua, but Scripture reads as though it may have unfolded to the troops on a daily basis. Each morning they woke up ready to go and do what God commanded them. The walk around the city probably only took about twenty minutes. It was a simple walk, but a huge walk of faith. God instructed them to just walk, not shoot arrows or hurl spears. The only ones doing anything more were the priests, who blew their trumpets. These were not ordinary trumpets. They were jubilee trumpets, used during Israel s feasts to proclaim God s presence. God certainly was present! We do not know if the repeated trips around the city caused the Canaanites to cower in fear or led them to think their enemy was weak. Yet for the Israelites, each time they circled, their faith increased. So did the depth of their surrender to Yahweh. On the seventh day they marched around the city seven times, and at Joshua s command, they shouted. The walls tumbled down and the Israelites easily took the city. Except for Rahab and her family, all the inhabitants of Jericho were destroyed. The chapter ends with a short but important note, And the Lord was with Joshua, and his fame spread throughout the land (Josh. 6:27). Joshua became famous because He followed God s plan and strategy, not his own. This story has deep application for us. God has already accomplished much for us salvation, victory over sin and death, victory over evil, and so much more. These treasures are ours for the taking if we walk in faith, totally surrendering ourselves to God, His plan, His way, and His timing. Move out! *Scripture taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. Copyright 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Publishing House. All rights reserved. Lesson Plan Arrival Greet children at eye level and express how happy you are to see them. Be sure each child has a name tag and the security measures of your church are followed. Label all coats and personal belongings. Strongly encourage children who have brought items from home, such as toys and books, to place them on a shelf while they are working with other materials. Assure children their items will be safe and they can take them home at the end of the session. Help each child make a choice where he or she would like to begin his or her Center Time. God s Unfolding Story for Older Preschoolers, Copyright SundaySchoolZone.com OT07 Lesson 4 Hour B Page 1

37 Puzzle Center: Work Puzzles Offer a variety of non-fantasy wooden or cardboard puzzles for children to work. What to Do: Invite preschoolers to work puzzles. Encourage each child to finish a puzzle before leaving the center. Give guidance rather than working the puzzle for a boy or girl. Link to the Bible Story: As children work, look for opportunities in conversation to say the Bible Phrase or to briefly tell the Bible story. Home Living Center: Role Play Small rocking chair, sink and stove unit and small table and chairs; plastic dishes, child pots and pans; pretend food items; doll, doll bed, and doll accessories What to Do: Home living items naturally encourage children to act out roles and activities they observe at home. Link to the Bible Story: As preschoolers pretend and act out roles they observe at home and in other places, look for opportunities to share the Bible Phrase, Bible truth, or a portion of the Bible story. God s Unfolding Story for Older Preschoolers, Copyright SundaySchoolZone.com Center Time Art Center: Tracing Blocks White construction paper Crayons and washable markers, pencils A variety of shaped wooden blocks from the Block Center What to Do: Print today s Bible Phrase, Great is our Lord and mighty in power (Psalm 147:5), at the bottom of each paper. Place blocks and other art materials on the table. Invite preschoolers to choose a block. Demonstrate how to trace around the block. Encourage preschoolers to trace several blocks on their papers and to color their traced blocks. Link to the Bible Story: As preschoolers work, read the Bible Phrase. Express to preschoolers that when God told the Israelites to take the land He had promised to give them, that meant they would need to take over the cities where their enemies lived. One city they needed to capture was called Jericho. God commanded the Israelites to walk around the city one time each day for six days, and on the seventh day to walk around it seven times. When the Israelites obeyed God, the walls of Jericho tumbled down. Say, The blocks on your papers remind us of God s mighty power that caused the walls to fall down. Bible Learning Center: Dot Paint Copies of Activity Page: Circle the Walls of Jericho (Reproducible, 1 copy per child) Commercial Dot Painters What to Do: Preschoolers should be encouraged to use dot painters to circle the walls of Jericho in the Bible story picture. Link to the Bible Story: As children use the paints, talk about the Bible story. Tell the boys and girls that after the Israelites marched around the city as God commanded, the walls of the city tumbled down. Block Center: Build with Blocks Wooden blocks What to Do: Provide a small carpet if possible. Blocks are best located in a corner of the room away from the traffic flow. Encourage preschoolers to build a city with a wall encircling it. Link to the Bible Story: As preschoolers build the city and walls, explain that in today s Bible story the Israelites needed to capture the city of Jericho, but the walls around it were too thick to get inside. God gave Joshua a plan to help them take the city. Tell preschoolers that they will hear in Bible Story Time how God made the city walls fall down. Preschoolers can gently knock down the walls of the city they built with blocks. OT07 Lesson 4 Hour B Page 2

38 Clean-up Time Encourage preschoolers to help at clean-up time. Assign specific tasks for preschoolers to do such as placing all the crayons in the basket, throwing away the trash, gathering all the glue sticks, etc. Guide children to the Bible Story Time area. Bible Story Time Bible Teaching Picture The Fall of Jericho (Reproducible) God s Unfolding Story Cube (Reproducible/Cardstock) Introduction Show the God s Unfolding Story Cube. Express to the boys and girls that even though we find many stories in the Bible, the Bible really tells one big story, and all the little stories are a part of the big one we can call God s Unfolding Story. Tell children that each picture represents a chapter in God s Unfolding Story. Turn the cube and talk about each chapter of the story. (Refer to page 1.) Express that every story from the Bible is from one of these main parts in God s Unfolding Story. Today s story is from the third chapter, God chose a special people. Express the following in your own words. Boys and girls, what do you think it would take to knock down a very thick wall that surrounded a city? (Accept all answers.) When God wants to knock down walls, He can do it any way He chooses. He does not need our ideas or even our strength. God is mighty and powerful on His own. In our Bible story today, God used the Israelites to knock down some very thick walls in a most unusual way. Listen to hear what God did. Bible Story The Fall of Jericho (Joshua 6) Joshua and the people of Israel were living in the land that God had promised. Other people also lived in the land, and many of them were not friendly to the Israelites. Some lived in a city called Jericho. Jericho was surrounded by thick walls. No one was going in or out of the city. The Israelites didn t know how to get through the thick walls to take the city. God told Joshua He would help the people capture Jericho. He gave Joshua instructions: For six days, march around the city one time each day. The priests should carry their trumpets as you march. On the seventh day, march around the city seven times. After marching, have the priests blow their trumpets with one long blow. Then everyone should shout, for the Lord has given you the city! After you do this, Jericho s walls will fall down. Surely Joshua thought this was a strange but amazing way for walls to come down! Joshua gave the people instructions. Early the next morning the people quietly marched around the city. No one said a word as they marched; but the priests blew their trumpets. The second day the people marched around the city again. Each day they marched, until the seventh day. On day seven, they got up early and began marching. They marched once, but they did not stop. They marched two, three, four, five, six, seven times around the city walls! Then the priests blew their trumpets one last time, for a long time! Joshua called for the people to shout, and shout they did as loud as they could! Suddenly the walls of the city came crashing down, and God s people were able to capture the city. What an amazing thing God had done! God was with Joshua and His people. Talk Time 1. Show the teaching picture for today s Bible story. Review by using these or similar questions. What did God ask the Israelites to do around the walls of Jericho? Did the people obey God? Who made the walls tumble down? 2. Read the Bible Phrase on the teaching picture. Say the phrase together, Great is our Lord and mighty in power (Psalm 147:5). Express to children that God really did not need the Israelites to walk around the city for the walls to come down. God was and is powerful enough to knock the walls down Himself. Still, God wanted the Israelites to obey Him and trust Him, and that is exactly what they did. God was with Joshua and the Israelites. God helped them capture the city. 3. Close the Bible Story Time by inviting children to join you in prayer. Thank God that He is with people who love Him today, and that He is mighty and powerful. God s Unfolding Story for Older Preschoolers, Copyright SundaySchoolZone.com OT07 Lesson 4 Hour B Page 3

39 Craft Time: Bible Phrase Horn Copies of Bible Phrase Horn (Reproducible, 1 copy for every child, cardstock recommended) Crayons or washable markers Tape Foam stick-on shapes or non-fantasy stickers What to Do: Cut out each horn. Invite children to color and decorate their horns with the stickers. Assist with bending the horn into a cone shape and taping it to make it secure. Link to the Bible Story: Review the Bible Phrase with the children. Ask them to say today s Bible Phrase, Great is our Lord and mighty in power (Psalm 147:5). Review the story and talk about what God asked His people to do and how God showed His power. Children can use their horns during the Game Time activity. Snack Time Be sure to wash hands or use hand sanitizer. Say a thank-you prayer to God for the snack. When snack time has ended, encourage preschoolers to help with cleaning up. Game Time / Dismissal Seven Times Around Masking tape or wooden blocks What to Do: Tape the outline of a large square in the Game Time area or use wooden blocks to mark the square. Begin the game by talking about the Bible story. Remind children that God commanded Joshua and the Israelites to march around the city walls one time each day for six days. Then on the seventh day they were to march around the walls seven times. Ask children what happened on the seventh day after the Israelites had marched. Explain to children they will march around the square seven times. Count out loud each time the group goes around. After the seventh time around you will say, Shout! and they will shout out the Bible Phrase, Great is our Lord and mighty in power (Psalm 147:5). (If your any of your children made the Bible Phrase Horns, encourage them to put them to their mouths when they say the Bible Phrase.) After saying the Bible Phrase, all the children should drop to the floor. If wooden blocks have been used, the children can knock them down. Comment to children the Israelites obeyed God and marched around the city, but God caused the walls to fall down. God was with Joshua and the people. The Israelites and other nations of people saw the power of God when the walls of the city tumbled down. Dismiss children as parents arrive. Be sure to follow the security procedures of your church. God s Unfolding Story for Older Preschoolers, Copyright SundaySchoolZone.com OT07 Lesson 4 Hour B Page 4

40 Resources and Supplies Old Testament Unit 7: Joshua Lesson 4: The Fall of Jericho Hour B Standard Art Supplies (Supplies that are generally in the room) Washable markers Crayons Child scissors Playdough and accessories Drawing paper Easel (optional) Glue/glue sticks Tempera paint, 4 colors Tape/masking tape Pencils/colored pencils Hole punch Teacher scissors Stapler/staples Permanent markers Watercolors Paintbrushes Yarn Standard Equipment (Equipment that is generally in the room) Bible Small beanbag for Bible Story Time Assorted wooden/cardboard puzzles Set of wooden blocks Small cars and trucks Doll bed Baby doll (soft plastic) Stove/sink unit Play dishes/pots and pans Small table and chairs Small carpet for block area Play food items Storage shelf for blocks Tables and chairs for art, puzzles, and Bible Learning Center CD player/children s Worship CDs Reproducibles (Included with the lesson plan downloads) Activity Page: Circle the Walls of Jericho (1 copy per child) Bible Phrase Horn (1 copy for every child, cardstock recommended) Teaching Picture: The Fall of Jericho (1 copy per class) God s Unfolding Story Cube (Cardstock 1 copy per class) Parent Page (1 copy per child) Coloring Page, The Fall of Jericho (1 copy per child) Additional Art Materials White construction paper (1 per child) Additional Bible Learning Materials Commercial Dot Painters Additional Craft Materials Foam stick-on shapes or non-fantasy stickers God s Unfolding Story for Older Preschoolers, Copyright SundaySchoolZone.com OT07 Lesson 4 Hour B

41 Unit Overview Kingdom Perspective Joshua In Hebrews 11:30, the writer of Hebrews spoke of Joshua s faith without mentioning his name: By faith the walls of Jericho fell down after being encircled by the Israelites for seven days. Of course, this faith wasn t just Joshua s, but the Israelites as well. In addition to what it says about faith, this verse testifies to Joshua s effectiveness as a leader. Actually, Moses successor led effectively on many levels. He offered a consistent example of trusting God, and he acted on that trust. He also faithfully challenged and warned God s people regarding obedience to the Lord in the new land. This unit explores Joshua s faith in God and his leadership of God s people, and it affirms the positive difference these influences made in God s unfolding story. One of the dynamics in the establishment of God s eternal kingdom is the defeat of all its opponents. God s kingdom isn t an earthly kingdom, yet the conquest of the promised land by the Israelites under Joshua s leadership reminds us that God either is or will be victorious over every opposing force, whether individual or corporate, regardless of its strength. This has clear and significant implications for believers in all the spiritual battles that rage today. Lesson 1: Joshua Explored the Promised Land (Numbers 13:1-33; 14:6-9) Bible Truth: I can trust God to help me do what is hard. Lesson 2: Joshua The New Leader (Joshua 1:1-18) Bible Truth: I can trust God to help me be strong and courageous. Lesson 3: God Stopped the River (Joshua 3 4) Bible Truth: God is mighty and powerful. Lesson 4: The Fall of Jericho (Joshua 6) Bible Truth: God is great and mighty. Making the Most of the Joshua Unit from God s Unfolding Story for Older Preschoolers The lesson plans and related resources for the above lessons can be purchased and downloaded from ChurchCurriculum.com. In addition, there are a number of other helpful articles and resources on SundaySchoolZone.com that can help you be an effective teacher and make the most of this unit. Below is a list of helpful articles you can link to or download in Getting Started with God s Unfolding Story. God s Unfolding Story for Older Preschoolers, Copyright SundaySchoolZone.com The Session Schedule God s Unfolding Story Cube Lesson Components Who Developed this Stuff? Parents Connect Scripture References and Bible Phrases Why Are We Using Yahweh to Refer to God? Materials and Supplies What We Believe God s Unfolding Story for Older Preschoolers Study Plan Preschoolers are Incredible People! Where Is this Going? OT07 Unit Overview