Tag Archives: Come Follow Me

Feb 28 2022

Genesis 28–33

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Genesis CHAPTER 28 Isaac forbids Jacob to marry a Canaanite—He blesses Jacob and his seed with the blessings of Abraham—Esau marries a daughter of Ishmael—Jacob sees in vision a ladder reaching up into heaven—The Lord promises him seed as the dust of the earth in number—The Lord also promises Jacob that in him and in his seed all the families of the earth will be blessed—Jacob covenants to pay tithes.

Jacob left his home to escape his angry brother Esau. Jacob’s father blessed him to find and marry a woman who loved the Lord and kept His commandments.

“Lesson 34: Genesis 28–30,” Old Testament Seminary Student Material According to Genesis 28:1–2, Isaac instructed his son Jacob to marry one of the daughters of Laban and not a Canaanite woman. The Canaanites worshipped idols and engaged in other practices that were offensive to God. A daughter of Canaan would not be worthy to join Jacob in entering into a marriage covenant with the Lord. If Jacob were to marry a daughter of Canaan, he would be marrying out of the covenant.

When we are married in the temple, we make covenants with the Lord. Marriage in the temple is covenant marriage. If we keep our covenants, we qualify for all the blessings that were promised to Abraham.

JACOB’S LADDER VISION

Covenants Help Me Return to Heavenly Father.

Genesis 28:10–22

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 &

As Jacob was traveling to Rebecca’s brother to find a wife, one night he had a dream. Jacob saw a ladder leading up to heaven. The steps on the ladder can represent covenants we make with God, because these covenants help prepare us to return to His presence.

  • As you read Genesis 28:10–22 together, you could use a ladder or a staircase (or a picture like the one at the end of this outline) to talk about how our covenants are like a ladder. Maybe your children could pretend to climb a ladder, and with each step, talk about times when we promise to obey God, such as when we are baptized, take the sacrament, or go to the temple. How do our covenants bring us closer to God?
Illustration by Shawna Tenney For the Strength of Youth

Teaching Children the Gospel “Ordinance (and Covenants) Progression Lesson” We must receive the saving ordinances of the gospel and keep the associated covenants in order to return to the presence of the Lord.

    • Explain that the ladder represented a way for Jacob to return to God. What has God given to help us return to Him? (see this week’s activity page). Remind the children of their baptismal covenant. How does living this covenant bring us closer to God?

    When Jacob woke up he said, Surely the Lord is in this place.

    Institute Old Testament Student Manual Genesis-2 Samuel “Genesis 24–36” “Because he had met the Lord and entered into covenants with him there, Jacob considered the site so sacred that he named the place Bethel, a contraction of Beth-Elohim, which means literally ‘the House of the Lord.’ He said of it: ‘… this is none other but the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven.’ (Gen. 28:17.)

    What places serve as Houses of God on the earth today? Temples are to us what Bethel was to Jacob. Even more, they are also the gates to heaven for all of our unendowed kindred dead.

    Rexburg Idaho Temple—“Holiness to the Lord: The House of the Lord”
    • Show a picture of a temple, and write on the board key phrases from Genesis 28:15–17, such as: “I am with thee,” “The Lord is in this place,” “The house of God,” or “The gate of heaven.” Invite the children to find these phrases. Tell the children about how the temple and temple covenants help you feel close to the Lord.

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 Cut out the windows with the ordinances that are done inside the temple, and match them with the pictures in the windows of the temple.

    “Genesis 28: Jacob’s Sacred Experience,” Old Testament Seminary Student Study Guide

    1. Draw Your Ladder to Heaven
      1. Draw a ladder in your notebook. Label the rungs or steps with ordinances you must receive and covenants you must make with God in order to obtain eternal life.
      2. Show your drawing to your parents or Church leaders to see if you have left anything out.
      3. Write about what you are doing in your life right now to obtain these covenants or what you are doing to be worthy of the blessings of the covenants you have already entered into.

    Friend February 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities: Climb the Ladder”

    Story: Jacob had a dream about a ladder leading up to heaven. The steps on the ladder represent the steps we take to get closer to God. (See Genesis 28:10–16.)

    Song: “Stand for the Right” (Children’s Songbook, 159)

    Activity: Make a pretend ladder on the ground with chalk or sticks. Take turns saying one thing that we promise Heavenly Father when we get baptized. Each time, move one step forward on the ladder. (See Doctrine and Covenants 20:77and Mosiah 18:8–10.)

    Latter Day Kids “Line Upon Line” Lesson ideas to go with the below video

    “Lesson 34: Genesis 28–30,” Old Testament Seminary Student Material We read in Genesis 28:16–19, 22 that Jacob described the place where he had his dream. The phrases “he was afraid” and “how dreadful is this place” in verse 17 refer to his feelings of reverence and awe. These phrases indicate that Jacob understood the seriousness of entering the presence of God.

    JACOB SERVES SEVEN YEARS FOR RACHEL

    Genesis CHAPTER 29 Jacob meets Rachel at the well—He serves Laban seven years for her—Laban gives to Jacob first Leah then Rachel in marriage—Jacob serves another seven years—Leah bears Reuben, Simeon, Levi, and Judah.

    Genesis CHAPTER 30 Jacob marries Bilhah, and she bears Dan and Naphtali—He marries Zilpah, and she bears Gad and Asher—Leah bears Issachar and Zebulun and a daughter, Dinah—Then Rachel conceives and bears Joseph—Jacob works for Laban for wages of cattle and sheep.

    I Should Always Keep My Promises. I Believe in Being Honest.

    Genesis 29:16–30

    Old Testament Stories “Jacob and His Family” Images

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 28-33” Jacob agreed to work for Laban for seven years so that he could marry Laban’s daughter Rachel. Jacob kept this agreement, but Laban did not. Consider using this story to teach the children about the importance of keeping our promises. How can you use this story to help the children understand the importance of being honest even when others are dishonest?

    • On the board write What happens when we are dishonest? and What happens when we are honest? Invite the children to find answers by reading “Honesty and Integrity” (in For the Strength of Youth [2011], 19).

    Friend September 2019 “Making Things Right” After shopping, a boy’s mother notices that the cashier didn’t charge them for all their items. She decides to go back and fix it. The boy wonders why they have to go back since it wasn’t their mistake. His mom explains that being honest matters to Heavenly Father and it might matter to someone else. When they get back to the store they find out that the cashier would have had to pay for the mistake.

    Friend September 2018 “Map Champ” During a map game at school, Linda doesn’t hear the teacher because the kids are being too loud. Her teacher trusts her because she doesn’t lie, and the teacher gives her another chance.

    Friend September 2018
    Friend September 2018

    “Lesson 14: Jacob and His Family,” Primary 6: Old Testament 

    Write each of the children’s names on separate slips of paper and place them in a container. Read one of the following situations; then draw a name from the container and ask that child to tell what should be done. Afterward, let that child draw out the next name. If the class is small, replace the names in the container after each use so a child may answer more than one question. You might want to add other examples.

    • You are given too much change at the store.
    • You forgot to do a school assignment. You are tempted to tell the teacher you were ill.
    • You are playing with a friend’s toy when it breaks.
    • You want some money to buy a treat and your mother’s purse is on the table.
    • You used one of your father’s belongings without permission and lost it.
    • Your friend left a toy at your house by mistake. It is something you would really like to have.
    • You are setting out a game to play while your friend goes to get a drink of water. You realize that while she is out of the room you could arrange the game so you would win.
    • You accidentally knock over a breakable object belonging to someone else. Your friend tells you that if it is an accident, you don’t need to admit you did it.

    JACOB AND ESAU RECONCILE

    Genesis CHAPTER 31 The Lord commands Jacob to return to Canaan, and Jacob departs secretly—Laban pursues him; they resolve their differences and make a covenant of peace—Laban blesses his descendants, and he and Jacob part company.

    Genesis CHAPTER 32 Jacob sees angels—He asks God to preserve him from Esau, for whom he prepares presents—He wrestles all night with a messenger of God—Jacob’s name is changed to Israel—He sees God face to face.

    Genesis CHAPTER 33 Jacob and Esau meet and are reconciled—Esau receives Jacob’s presents—Jacob settles in Canaan, where he builds an altar.

    Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ Can Help Me Love My Family.

    Genesis 32:6–11; 33:1–4

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 28-33”

    • Ask the children what they remember about the relationship between Jacob and Esau (see Genesis 27:41 Explain that after being away for about 20 years, Jacob was going to meet Esau again. Read together Genesis 32:6–11. How did Jacob feel? What did he do to get help? Read together Genesis 33:1–4 to discover how the Lord answered Jacob’s prayer.

    Old Testament Stories “Jacob and His Family” images

    Genesis 32:24–32.

    You might have family members who like to wrestle. Why is “wrestling” a good way to describe seeking blessings from the Lord? What do Enos 1:1–5; Alma 8:9–10 suggest about what it means to “wrestle … before God”? Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 28–33”

      Friend September 2021 “Saying the Nice Things” Jonathon wasn’t looking forward to the weekend because lately there had been more bickering and teasing in the family. He prayed for help figuring out a way to make things better. Then he had an idea for home evening. When he conducted, he started a new thing where whoever conducts says a nice thing about each family member. Everyone felt warm and happy after Jonathon said nice things about them.

      Friend May 2019 “What’s on Your Mind” Ideas on how to get along with siblings.

      See additional teaching ideas at Family: Resolving Discord

      Additional Resources

      See Old Testament Stories & Lesson Ideas & Old Testament: Activities & Games for additional lesson resources.

      Come Follow Me Kid Lesson ideas

      The Red Crystal Lesson ideas

      Come Follow Me with Living Scriptures “The House of Israel” Lesson ideas

      Feb 18 2022

      Doctrine and Covenants 19

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      Table of Contents

      Doctrine and Covenants Section 19 Revelation given through Joseph Smith, at Manchester, New York, likely in the summer of 1829. In his history, the Prophet introduces it as “a commandment of God and not of man, to Martin Harris, given by him who is Eternal.”

      Desiring to support the Prophet Joseph Smith and the publication of the Book of Mormon, Martin Harris promised to help pay for the printing. When he later realized that this may require him to sell his farm, he asked Joseph for a revelation of guidance from the Lord. In Doctrine and Covenants 19, the Savior recounted how He chose to submit to Heavenly Father’s will and gained the power to overcome all things. The Lord counseled Martin to repent and make the sacrifice required to pay the debt he owed to the printer. Martin was promised peace if he would repent and submit to what the Lord had asked him to do.(Doctrine and Covenants Seminary Teacher Manual)

      Jesus Christ suffered for me.

      Doctrine and Covenants 19:16–19

      Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025 “D&C 19”

      The Red Crystal

      Separate into 2 groups, if you have a small class work together. Have them draw and write the things that Christ suffered on this puzzle piece (Mosiah 3:7) and the next puzzle piece (Alma 7:11–12). Then complete the floor puzzle, while they tell you about their drawings.

      • How can we show our gratitude for what He did for us?
      • Help the children look in Hymns or the Children’s Songbook for songs that help them express their feelings about Jesus Christ (see the topic indexes in these books). Invite the children to sing the songs they chose and bear their testimonies.

      Suggested song: “I Stand All Amazed,” Hymns, no. 193.

      Jesus Christ obeyed Heavenly Father, even when it was hard.

      Doctrine and Covenants 19:18–19, 23–24

      Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025 “D&C 19” and Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 18–19:

      Show a picture of Jesus Christ suffering in Gethsemane (see this week’s outline in Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families). Ask the children to tell you what they know about what is happening in this picture. Summarize in your own words what the Savior said in Doctrine and Covenants 19:18–19 about His suffering. Emphasize that suffering for our sins was the hardest thing anyone has ever done, but because Jesus loved His Father and us, He obeyed God’s will. What difficult things does God ask us to do? How can we find courage to obey Him?

      What does it mean that Jesus Christ submitted His will to the Father?

      How do you think what Jesus Christ taught about Himself could have helped Martin in his situation? How could it help us?

      Forgive, serve others

      “Learn of me, and listen to my words.”

      Doctrine and Covenants 19:23

      Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025 “D&C 19”

      • You might help your children think of simple actions that go along with phrases in Doctrine and Covenants 19:23. Read the verse several times while they do the actions. What are some ways we can learn of Christ and listen to His words?

      23 Learn of me, and listen to my words; walk in the meekness of my Spirit, and you shall have peace in me. Read the verse several times while the children do the actions. Help them think of ways we can learn of Christ and listen to His words.

      Printing the Book of Mormon

      Doctrine and Covenants Stories

      The Book of Mormon translation was now finished. Joseph gave the gold plates back to the angel Moroni. Now it was time to print copies of the book so everyone could read it and learn more about Jesus Christ. (Saints, 1:75–76)

      It cost a lot of money to print the Book of Mormon. Martin Harris gave up part of his farm to pay for it. He did this because he knew the Book of Mormon is true. Every copy of the book has the testimony of Martin and the other witnesses for all to read. The witnesses never denied their testimony. (Saints, 1:76–78)

      God’s blessings are greater than the treasures of the earth.

      Doctrine and Covenants 19:26, 34–35, 38

      Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025 “D&C 19”

      • You and your children could take turns holding a copy of the Book of Mormon and sharing what you love about it. Briefly talk about Martin Harris’s sacrifice so the Book of Mormon could be printed (see Doctrine and Covenants Stories, 33). What did the Lord say to Martin in Doctrine and Covenants 19:38 that might have helped him be faithful and obedient? Help your children think of something they can sacrifice to obey God or help in His work.

      For the Strength of Youth April 2023 “Follow Jesus Christ and Do What Matters Most”

      Friend January 2017 “The Next Level” Max takes a week off from playing games and he learns new things, spends time with his family, serves, and feels the Spirit.

      Primary 5: Doctrine and Covenants and Church History “Lesson 10: The Book of Mormon Is Published” 

      When the translation of the gold plates was almost finished, Joseph Smith began looking for someone to publish the translation as a book. He talked to a printer in Palmyra, Egbert B. Grandin, and asked him to give an estimate of the cost of printing the book. Grandin did not want to print the “golden Bible,” as he called it, because he knew that people were against the book, and he was afraid he would not be paid. Joseph went to Rochester, New York, to see if he could find someone else to do it. One printer refused to print the book because he did not believe Joseph’s account of where he got it; another agreed to print it, but his price was very high. Finally Joseph returned to Palmyra and convinced Grandin to print the book. Grandin agreed only after Martin Harris pledged his farm to guarantee the printing costs.

      People in Palmyra who opposed the Book of Mormon held a meeting and resolved not to buy the book when it was published. Grandin again became worried that he would not be paid. Martin Harris was afraid he would lose his farm, and he wondered what he should do. Joseph Smith inquired of the Lord, and the Lord told Martin not to “covet” his own property but to “impart it freely” to cover the costs of printing the Book of Mormon (see D&C 19:26). Martin Harris eventually sold 151 acres of his farm to pay Grandin for publishing the Book of Mormon.

      Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 18–19: “The Worth of Souls Is Great”

      Martin and Lucy Harris had one of the finest farms in Palmyra, New York. It had taken them years to acquire, had enabled them to raise a family, and had given them good standing in the community. But in 1829 it became clear that the Book of Mormon could be published only if Martin mortgaged his farm to pay the printer. Martin had a testimony of the Book of Mormon, but Lucy did not. If Martin went forward with the mortgage and the Book of Mormon did not sell well, he would lose his farm and jeopardize his marriage. At some time or another, we all face questions similar to those that Martin may have been facing: What is the gospel of Jesus Christ worth to me? What am I willing to sacrifice to help build God’s kingdom? It may help us to remember that no one has ever paid a higher price to bless God’s children than Jesus Christ, “the greatest of all” (Doctrine and Covenants 19:18).

      Martin made the decision to mortgage his farm. His sacrifice paid for the printing of the first 5,000 copies of the Book of Mormon. And now, more than 190 million copies later, millions of souls around the world have been blessed.

      For more information about the publication of the Book of Mormon, see Saints, 1:76–84.

      Doctrine and Covenants Stories “Witnesses See the Gold Plates”

      Additional Resources

      Printing the Book of Mormon Additional teaching resources for children

      For more information about the publication of the Book of Mormon, see Saints, 1:76–84.

      Church History Topics “Printing and Publishing the Book of Mormon”

      Click to see more

      Come Follow Me Kid

      The Red Crystal

      Feb 13 2022

      Genesis 18–23

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      Table of Contents

      ABRAHAM & SARAH HAVE A SON, ISAAC

      Genesis CHAPTER 18 Abraham entertains three holy men—They promise that Sarah will have a son—Abraham will command his children to be just—The Lord appears to him—They discuss the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah.

      Genesis CHAPTER 21 Sarah bears Isaac—He is circumcised—Hagar and her son are cast out of Abraham’s household—The Lord saves Hagar and Ishmael—Abraham and Abimelech deal honorably with each other.

      I can trust God to keep His promises.

      Genesis 17:15–21; 18:14; 21:1–7

      Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 18–23”

      Even though God had promised that Sarah and Abraham were going to have a son, as they got older it seemed impossible—Abraham was 100 years old, and Sarah was 90 (see Genesis 17:17).

      Write on the chalkboard: Is anything too hard for the Lord? Invite the children to discuss this question. Or write each word from the first sentence of Genesis 18:14 on a separate piece of paper, and give one to each child. Then ask the class to put the words in the correct order.

      Liahona February 2022

      You and your children could then read Genesis 17:15–21; 21:1–7 to find an example of something the Lord did that seemed impossible. Share with your children your faith that the Lord will fulfill His promises, even if they seem impossible or take a long time.

      Abraham and Sarah had a baby boy, just as the Lord promised. They named him Isaac. Genesis 17:9; 21:1–3

      • To learn about Abraham and Sarah’s trust in God’s promises, you and your children could talk about a time when they had to wait for something they really wanted. You could then look at the picture of Sarah and Isaac and talk about the promise God made to her and Abraham. Help your children think of things that God has promised us if we are faithful. Encourage them to be patient and trust that God will keep His promises.

      The below handout is from Rachel’s Booknook

      • With the children, sing a song that testifies of God’s promises, such as “Keep the Commandments” (Children’s Songbook, 146–47). Help the children identify things that God has promised us if we are faithful.
      This video is going too fast during the second verse and you will need to use the pictures below during that part.

      Additional Teaching Ideas:

      “Lesson 11: Abraham and Isaac,” Primary 6: Old Testament (Pages 35-38) Show the pictures The Crossing of the Red Sea, Daniel in the Lions’ Den, and Three Men in the Fiery Furnace. Briefly explain that the Lord parted the waters of the Red Sea to let Moses and the Israelites escape from the Egyptian army, he protected Daniel from a den of lions, and he kept three young men from being burned when they were cast into a fiery furnace. (Note: Do not teach these stories in detail. Tell the children that they will learn more about these stories later in the year.) Point out that these people trusted in the Lord and had faith that his will would be done. Their faith was rewarded with miracles.

      Friend February 2022 “Abraham and Sarah”

      LOT AND SODOM AND GOMORRAH

      Genesis CHAPTER 19 Lot entertains holy men—The men of Sodom seek to abuse Lot’s guests and are smitten with blindness—Lot is sent out of Sodom—The Lord rains brimstone and fire upon Sodom and Gomorrah—Lot’s daughters preserve his seed in the land.

      I Can Flee Wickedness.

      Genesis 19:15–26

      Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

      • Ask your children about situations in which someone might invite them to do something they know isn’t right. How would we “flee” these situations?

      Come Follow Me Kid

      Friend November 2017 “Peer Pressure Problems” Ideas on how to deal with peer pressure to avoid making wrong choices

      • Summarize Genesis 19:15–26 by explaining that Lot’s family lived in a very wicked city and angels warned them to leave. As you and your children read together verses 15–17, 26, ask them what it might mean for us today to “escape” evil and “look not behind” (verse 17).

      Media Library “Fleeing Sodom and Gomorrah”
        • Display a picture of the Savior, and ask the children to take a step toward it as they share one thing they can do to flee wickedness and come closer to Christ.

        Additional Resources

        “Lesson 28: Genesis 18,” Old Testament Seminary Student Material (2018)

        According to Joseph Smith Translation, Genesis 18:3 (in Genesis 18:3, footnote a), the three messengers who visited Abraham were referred to as “My brethren” instead of “My Lord,” indicating that the Lord was not one of the three men. Joseph Smith Translation, Genesis 18:23 (in Genesis 18:22, footnote a) clarifies that these three messengers were “holy men … sent forth after the order of God.” In the King James Version of the Bible, the word angels, which was used in reference to these men (see Genesis 19:1), was translated from the Hebrew word malakhim, which can also mean “messengers.”

        Although we do not know the identity of the three messengers, Abraham treated them as if they were presiding authorities of the Lord’s kingdom then on the earth, and their messages were directly from the Lord (see Bruce R. McConkie, Doctrinal New Testament Commentary[1973], 3:235; Sidney B. Sperry, “Abraham’s Three Visitors,” Improvement Era, Aug. 1931, 583, 585).

        ABRAHAM AND ISAAC, SACRIFICE

        Genesis CHAPTER 22 Abraham is commanded to sacrifice Isaac, his son—Both father and son yield to the will of God—Abraham’s seed will be as the stars and the sand in number—In his seed, all nations will be blessed—Rebekah is born to Bethuel.

        Old Testament Stories “Abraham and Isaac” Illustrations

        Abraham Obeyed the Lord.

        Genesis 22:1–14

        Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

        • Using pictures of Abraham and Isaac and of the Crucifixion (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 9, 57) can help your children compare the story in Genesis 22 with the Savior’s sacrifice. How does the story of Abraham and Isaac remind us of the sacrifice Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ made for us.
        Media Library “Abraham Taking Isaac to Be Sacrificed”

        Scripture Helps Old Testament

        IsaacJesus Christ
        Isaac was Abraham and Sarah’s only son (see Genesis 22:2).Jesus was the Only Begotten Son of the Father (see John 3:16).
        Isaac was to be offered on a mountain in the land of Moriah, which tradition holds was the temple mount in Jerusalem (see Genesis 22:2; 2 Chronicles 3:1).Jesus was crucified on a hill outside of Jerusalem (see Mark 15:22).
        Isaac was to be a burnt offering (see Genesis 22:2).All sacrifices are to be done in similitude of Jesus Christ (see Moses 5:5–7).
        Isaac carried the wood for the sacrifice (see Genesis 22:6).Jesus carried His cross (see John 19:17).
        Abraham said God would provide a lamb (see Genesis 22:8).Jesus was the Lamb offered up for us (see 1 Peter 1:19).
        Isaac was bound and laid upon the altar (see Genesis 22:9).Jesus was nailed to the cross (see Luke 23:33).
        Isaac submitted to the will of his father (see Genesis 22:9).Jesus submitted to the will of His Father (see Luke 22:42).
        Abraham did not withhold his son (see Genesis 22:11).God so loved the world that He gave His Only Begotten Son (see John 3:16).

        Can you think of a simple game to play with your children that requires them to follow directions? Maybe the directions could lead to a hidden picture of the Savior. The game could prompt a conversation about things Heavenly Father has commanded us to do so we can live with Him and Jesus Christ again. Consider singing a song such as “Keep the Commandments” (Children’s Songbook, 146–47). This week’s activity page could help as well.

        The Red Crystal

        Additional Resources

        • Show the video “For God So Loved the World” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org), or sing together a song about the Savior’s sacrifice, such as “He Sent His Son” (Children’s Songbook,34–35). Invite the children to talk about how Jesus’s sacrifice shows Heavenly Father’s love for us.

        What have we been asked to sacrifice as a family? How have these sacrifices brought us closer to God?

        Additional Resources

        Additional Chapters

        Genesis CHAPTER 20 Abimelech desires Sarah, who is preserved by the Lord—Abraham prays for Abimelech, and the Lord blesses him and his household.

        Genesis CHAPTER 23 Sarah dies and is buried in the cave of Machpelah, which Abraham buys from Ephron the Hittite.

        See Old Testament Stories & Lesson Ideas & Old Testament: Activities & Games for additional lesson resources.

        Feb 7 2022

        Genesis 12–17; Abraham 1–2

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        Table of Contents

        Abraham

        Abraham CHAPTER 1 Abraham seeks the blessings of the patriarchal order—He is persecuted by false priests in Chaldea—Jehovah saves him—The origins and government of Egypt are reviewed.

        Abraham CHAPTER 2 Abraham leaves Ur to go to Canaan—Jehovah appears to him at Haran—All gospel blessings are promised to his seed and through his seed to all—He goes to Canaan and on to Egypt.

        Genesis CHAPTER 12 Abram will become a great nation—He and his seed will bless all the families of the earth—He travels from Haran to the land of Canaan—Because of famine, he goes down into Egypt—Abram and Sarai are tested in Pharaoh’s court.

        Old Testament Scripture Stories “Abraham and Sarah” Illustrations and video

        Jesus Christ will lead me by the hand.

        Abraham 1:18; 2:8

        Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 12–17; Abraham 1–2”

        • As you and your children read Abraham 1:18 and 2:8, you could invite them to listen for a part of the body that is mentioned in both verses. Maybe you could play a game in which a child closes their eyes and you lead the child somewhere by the hand. How would it feel to have Jesus Christ lead us by the hand or to have His hand protecting us?

        Gospel Media “He Will Lead Thee”

        Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 12–17; Abraham 1–2” Abraham wanted to be righteous even though members of his family were wicked. The Lord said to him, “I will lead thee by my hand” (Abraham 1:18). Just as God promised to help Abraham, He can lead the children you teach when they desire to choose the right. Testify that Jesus leads us by guiding us through His Spirit.

        Friend January 2021 “The Party Problem” Luz felt uneasy about going to a graduation party. It didn’t sound like the kind of party where she’d be able to feel the Holy Ghost. She thought about it, made her choice not to go, and then asked Heavenly Father if that was the right choice. Afterwards she felt a wave of warmth and light and knew she had made the right choice. 

        The Lord Delivers Abraham from Wicked Priests

        Heavenly Father Hears and Answers My Prayers.

        Abraham 1:12–17; Genesis 16:7–11

        God hears me.

        Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 12–17; Abraham 1–2”

        • When Abraham’s life was in danger, he called on God. When Hagar was alone in the wilderness, she learned that God heard her. Consider sharing these two stories with your children: “Abraham and Sarah” and “Hagar” in Old Testament Stories, 28–31, 32–33. What do we learn about God from these stories? Then you could share with each other experiences when you felt that God heard you. A song like “A Child’s Prayer” (Children’s Songbook, 12–13) could reinforce this principle.
        • Display the picture An Angel Saves Abraham (ChurchofJesusChrist.org), and invite the children to share what they know about the story it depicts, found in Abraham 1:12, 15–17. Ask the children to read these verses and share things they learn about prayer.

        President Joseph Fielding Smith, commenting on the human sacrifices that took place during the time of Abraham, wrote: “Abraham was of the [tenth] generation from Noah. Several hundred years had passed since the flood, and people had multiplied and spread over the face of the earth. The civilizations of Egypt, Chaldea, Assyria and the petty nations of Canaan, had been established. In the midst of this scattering the true worship of the Father was nearly lost. Sacrifice instituted in the days of Adam and continued in the practice and teaching of Noah, in the similitude of the great sacrifice of the Son of Man, had become perverted. Instead of offering clean animals, such as the lamb and bullock, the apostate nations had dwindled in unbelief to the extent that human sacrifice was offered to their idol gods” (The Way to Perfection, 85).

        Hagar

        Old Testament Scripture Stories “Hagar”

        Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 12–17; Abraham 1–2” Reading about Hagar could be an opportunity to discuss how the Lord helps us when we feel wronged. You might point out that “Ishmael” means “God hears.” When have we felt that the Lord heard and helped us when we felt wronged? (see Genesis 16:11).

        • Invite the children to share experiences when Heavenly Father answered their prayers, and share one of your own experiences.

        Friend October 2018 “Canyon Prayer” Carsen and some family members get lost in a canyon while hiking. Carsen knew that Heavenly Father knew the way out so he suggested they pray. He then receives a prompting on which way to go, and they are able to quickly find their way out.

        See also Teaching Children the Gospel “Prayer”

        Abraham Gives Lot His Choice of Land

        I Can Be a Peacemaker.

        Genesis 13:5–12

        Genesis CHAPTER 13 Abram returns from Egypt—He and Lot part—The Lord will make Abram’s seed as the dust of the earth in number—Abram settles in Hebron.

        Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 12–17; Abraham 1–2” When Abraham’s herdsmen and Lot’s herdsmen disagreed over their grazing land, Abraham proposed a solution that brought peace.

        • Your children might enjoy acting out the story from Genesis 13:5–12, pretending to be Abraham, Lot, and the herdsmen. How can we follow Abraham’s example of being a peacemaker with our family or friends? Try role-playing their answers.

        Latter Day Kids “Abraham and Lot” Lesson ideas to go with the above video

        • Read Matthew 5:9, and explain that Jesus wants us to be peacemakers. Help the children think of what they can do to be peacemakers at home or with friends. Invite them to draw a picture of themselves being a peacemaker. Ask the children to share how they feel when they are peacemakers like Jesus Christ.

        “Cease From Anger” (February 2010 Friend)
        Take this quiz to see how forgiving you are. When we are loving and forgiving, we can be peacemakers.

        For the Strength of Youth January 2023 “Being a Peacemaker: Your New SUPERPOWER”

        Older Kids:

        Come Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 12–17; Abraham 1–2” We all face situations that tempt us to become frustrated and contentious. Consider how the story of Abraham and Lot could help the children be peacemakers in such situations.

        • Write Main Characters, Setting, Problem, and Solution on the board. Invite the children to read Genesis 13:5–12 and identify the parts of the story listed on the board. Help the children think of situations when they could be peacemakers, such as when someone argues or tries to fight. Then invite them to role-play how they could be peacemakers in those situations.
        • Help the children find the topics “Peace” and “Peacemaker” in the Guide to the Scriptures (scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Invite each child to select a scripture about peace and share what he or she learns with the class. Help them think of some examples of the Savior being a peacemaker, such as in Luke 22:50–51. How can we follow His example?
        • “Matt and Mandy” (October 1994 Friend)
          Mandy learns to be a peacemaker by watching her mother’s example.

        Bright Idea Poster: “Blessed are the peacemakers”(October 2010 Friend)

        Friend June 2018 “Coloring Page”

        Lesson 10: Abraham and Lot,” Primary 6: Old Testament Pages 39–42 To strengthen each child’s desire to show love to others.

        Additional teaching ideas: Teaching Children the Gospel: Peacemaker and Resources for Teaching Children “Peacemaker”

        Abraham Pays His Tithes

        Genesis CHAPTER 14 Lot is captured in the battles of the kings—He is rescued by Abram—Melchizedek administers bread and wine and blesses Abram—Abram pays tithes—He declines to accept the spoils of conquest.

        What do we learn about Melchizedek from Joseph Smith Translation, Genesis 14:25–40? (in the Bible appendix; see also Alma 13:13–19). How can we “[establish] righteousness” as Melchizedek did? (verse 36). What else about Melchizedek’s ministry inspires us? Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 12–17; Abraham 1–2”

        Friend April 1994 “Melchizedek” Story of Melchizedek

        Media Library “Melchizedek Blesses Abram”

        Liahona February 2022 “Teaching about God’s Promises” Tithing Brings Gratitude

        In Genesis 14:20, we read that Abraham paid tithing. Elder David A. Bednar has taught that spiritual blessings “are poured out through the windows of heaven and into our lives as we honor the law of tithing” (“The Windows of Heaven,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2013, 18).

        1. As a family, discuss the blessings you’ve seen from obeying the law of tithing.
        2. Have one person write the blessings down.
        3. Together, go through the list again and discuss some of the ways these blessings make your life better.

        Elder Bednar also taught that “a subtle but significant blessing we receive [as we honor the law of tithing] is the spiritual gift of gratitude that enables our appreciation for what we have. … A grateful person is rich in contentment” (“The Windows of Heaven,” 18). How has your family seen gratitude as a blessing of paying tithing?

        The Lord Makes Covenants with Abraham

        Genesis CHAPTER 15 Abram desires offspring—The Lord promises him seed in number as the stars—Abram believes the promise—His seed will be strangers in Egypt—Then, after four generations, they will inherit Canaan.

        Genesis CHAPTER 16 Sarai gives Hagar to Abram as his wife—Hagar flees from Sarai—An angel commands Hagar to return and submit herself to Sarai—Hagar bears Ishmael.

        Genesis CHAPTER 17 Abram is commanded to be perfect—He will be a father of many nations—His name is changed to Abraham—The Lord covenants to be a God unto Abraham and his seed forever—Also, the Lord gives Abraham the land of Canaan for an everlasting possession—Circumcision becomes a token of the everlasting covenant between God and Abraham—Sarai’s name is changed to Sarah—She will bear Isaac, with whom the Lord will establish His covenant—Abraham and the men of his house are circumcised.

        Old Testament Stories for Young Readers “Abraham and Sarah”

        God wants me to make Covenants with Him.

        Genesis 13:16; Genesis 15:1–6; 17:1–8; Abraham 2:9–11

        Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 12–17; Abraham 1–2”

        • Consider showing your children a container of sand, the stars in the night sky, or the picture at the end of this outline. This could help them understand God’s promises in Genesis 13:16; 15:1–6. Talk about how you’ve learned to trust God’s promises, even when they seemed impossible.
        Clipart Library
        • To teach your children about covenants, ask them to tell you about a time when they made a promise or someone made a promise to them.

        Friend April 2021 “Trouble at the Creek” Brian doesn’t keep his promise to his mom to stay away from the creek after the storm. He crosses it on a fallen log and gets his foot stuck. 

        Sometimes keeping our promises helps keep us physically safe, such as in the the story above. Keeping the covenants we make with Heavenly Father can also help keep us safe, spiritually and physically, and help us to become more like our Heavenly Father

        • Share some examples of your own—including covenants you’ve made with God at baptism or in the temple. How have your covenants affected your relationship with God?

        Friend February 2019 “The Baptism Covenant” Cut out and mix up these cards. Then take turns matching cards that go together. With each match, talk about that part of the baptism covenant.

        • Help the children understand that Abraham and Sarah promised to obey God. Choose a few phrases from Genesis 15:1–6; 17:1–8; Abraham 2:9–11 to share some of the blessings God promised to them. These might include “Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield,” “Thou shalt be a father of many nations,” or “All the families of the earth [shall] be blessed.”

        Friend February 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities” Story: God told the prophet Abraham, “Fear not … I am thy shield” (Genesis 15:1). He told Abraham that He would help and protect him.

        Song: “I Want to Live the Gospel” (Children’s Songbook, 148)

        Activity: Draw or make a shield. Write on your shield ways you can obey God.

        Liahona February 2022 “The Abrahamic Covenant” God promised Abraham that “as many as receive this Gospel shall be … thy seed” (Abraham 2:10). Our covenants at baptism and in the temple allow us access to the blessings of the Abrahamic covenant and make us part of the covenant people of God, as long as we are faithful (see Ezekiel 11:20).

        • To help your children prepare to make a covenant with God when they are baptized, you could use some of the activity ideas suggested in appendix A or appendix B.

        I Can Keep the Covenants I Make with Heavenly Father.

        Come Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 12–17; Abraham 1–2”

        Come Follow Me Kid Keeping Promises – Talk about the importance of keeping promises and why it’s important to do what we say we will do.

        • Assign simple tasks, such as: go wash your hands, go find something red, do 5 jumping jacks, etc.
        • With each task, promise to give them some kind of small reward in return (M&M, Skittle, a sticker, high five, etc.).
        • Ask: How would it feel if you didn’t get what you were promised after doing that task?
        • Explain that when we keep our promises, it helps form a relationship of trust with that person.
        • Can we ALWAYS trust God to do what He says He will? Remind them that God always keeps His promises to us

        “Abraham and Sarah Made Covenants” (March 2018 Liahona and Friend)
        Some information and a hero card about Abraham and Sarah. 

            Come Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 12–17; Abraham 1–2”

            For Additional Teaching Ideas see Teaching Children the Gospel “Covenants” and Resources for Teaching Children “Covenants”

            Additional Resources

            Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 Explains more about the Abrahamic Covenant

            Institute: Old Testament Student Manual Genesis-2 Samuel Abraham could validly state that Sarah was his sister. In the Bible the Hebrew words brother and sister are often used for other blood relatives. (See Genesis 14:14, in which Lot, Abraham’s nephew, is called “his brother.”) Because Abraham and Haran, Sarah’s father, were brothers, Sarah was Abraham’s niece and thus could be called sister. The accompanying pedigree chart shows this relationship.

            The Red Crystal Lesson ideas

            Come Follow Me with Living Scriptures “Genesis 12–17; Abraham 1–2: I Will Lead Thee” Lesson Ideas

            Feb 5 2022

            Conversion

            Posted on by

            Table of Contents

            Born Again

            John 3:1–8

            Jesus Teaches of Being Born Again Video

            Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “John 2–4” When we are baptized, which Jesus called being “born of water,” we receive a remission of our sins and can “enter into the kingdom of God” (John 3:5). How can you help the children you teach understand what being born again means?

            • Make word strips showing the Savior’s words in John 3:3, and let the children put them in the correct order. How is being baptized and confirmed like being born again?

            What does it mean to be born again?

            Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles taught: “We begin the process of being born again through exercising faith in Christ, repenting of our sins, and being baptized by immersion for the remission of sins by one having priesthood authority. …

            President Ezra Taft Benson taught: “In addition to the physical ordinance of baptism and the laying on of hands, one must be spiritually born again to gain exaltation and eternal life” (“Born of God,” Ensign, July 1989, 2–4). Therefore, being born again requires more than simply being baptized and confirmed. In order to be born again one needs to live in such a manner that the Holy Ghost changes the heart.

            Elder David A. Bednar taught: “Conversion … is mighty, not minor—a spiritual rebirth and fundamental change of what we feel and desire, what we think and do, and what we are. As we choose to follow the Master, we choose to be changed—to be spiritually reborn” (“Ye Must Be Born Again,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2007, 20).in order to realize the intended blessings of this born-again status, we must still keep our covenants and endure to the end” (“Have You Been Saved?,” Ensign, May 1998, 56).

            Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023 “John 2-4” Talk with your family about the miracle of pregnancy and birth—the process of creating a living, intelligent being. Jesus taught that we must be reborn before entering the kingdom of God. Why is rebirth a good metaphor for the change required of us before we can enter the kingdom of God? How can we experience the process of spiritual rebirth? (It takes time for an living intelligent being to grow in the womb and be born. Being born again is also a process and doesn’t happen instantly. )

            “Total immersion in and saturation with the Savior’s gospel are essential steps in the process of being born again” (“Ye Must Be Born Again,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2007, 21).

            • Display a picture of a newborn baby and of someone getting baptized and confirmed (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 104–5). How are we like a newborn baby after we are baptized and confirmed? (see John 3:3–5).
            Gospel Media “Newborn Sleeping”
            • Invite the children to share memories of their baptisms. Read Mosiah 18:8–10 and Doctrine and Covenants 20:37 to review the baptismal covenant. Teach the children that taking the sacrament thoughtfully every week is a way to continue the process of being born again.

            John 3:7–8. Why did Jesus compare being “born again” to the wind?

            New Testament Seminary Teacher Manual “John In response to Nicodemus’s confusion about being born again, the Savior compared being born of the Spirit to the wind. (The Greek word for spirit is pneuma, which may also be translated as breath or wind.) Just as the wind is difficult to see, so it is difficult to see the process of being born again. We can see the effects of the wind but struggle to know when it starts and when it ends as well as where it comes from. A similar conclusion can be drawn about the process of being born again. It is difficult to see exactly when it starts or when it ends, but its effects are very visible as actions and desires change.

            Friend February 2021 “Feeling Christ’s Love” When Elder Takashi Wada Of the Seventy was young he read the Bible in school and wanted to know more about Jesus. Then he met the missionaries and they gave him a Book of Mormon and her learned more about Jesus. He wanted to be baptized and follow Jesus.

            Friend May 1988
            Friend May 1988

            Ensign May 2021 “Teaching in the Savior’s Way”

            Several years ago, my son Jack and I had the opportunity to play the Old Course at St. Andrews in Scotland, where the game of golf began. It was simply amazing! Upon my return I tried to convey to others the magnitude of the experience. But I couldn’t. Photos, videos, and my best descriptions were totally inadequate. I finally realized the only way for someone to know the grandeur of St. Andrews is to experience it—to see the vast fairways, breathe the air, feel the wind in their face, and hit a few errant shots into the cavernous bunkers and burly gorse bushes, which we did with great efficiency.

            So it is with the word of God. We can teach it, we can preach it, we can explain it. We can talk about it, we can describe it, we can even testify of it. But until a person feels the sacred word of God distill upon his or her soul like the dews from heaven through the power of the Spirit,8 it will be like looking at a postcard or someone else’s vacation photos. You have to go there yourself. Conversion is a personal journey—a journey of gathering.

            Doctrine and Covenants 63:9–10

            Ezra Booth was converted to the Church after seeing Joseph Smith heal Elsa Johnson’s arm (which she hadn’t been able to use for two years). But Ezra later lost his faith, and he became critical of the Prophet. Doctrine and Covenants 63 contains warnings against trying to build our faith on signs, such as miraculous healings, rather than on spiritual confirmation of truth. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 63”)

            Invite the children to draw a house sitting on top of a rectangle and another house sitting on the point of a triangle. Tell the children that the houses represent our faith and testimonies. Ask them to read Doctrine and Covenants 63:9–10 and Helaman 5:12. Then have them write in the rectangle what we should build our faith on and in the triangle what we should not build our faith on. Point out that the rectangle provides a solid place to build but the triangle is not safe and secure. Why is it important to build our faith on Jesus Christ rather than on other things? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 63”)

            Explain that a miracle is something God does to show His power and bless our lives (see Bible Dictionary, “Miracles”)You might also consider why some people receive signs “for the good of men unto [God’s] glory” (verse 12) and others receive them “unto … condemnation” (verse 11). Maybe your family members could talk about miracles that have strengthened their faith, including experiences from your family or your family history. How did they exercise the faith needed to receive these miracles? What does Doctrine and Covenants 63:7–12 teach about the relationship between faith and miracles? (Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 60–62”)

            Watch beginning of this video about Ezra Booth

            A Mighty Change of Heart

            Mosiah 5:1–7

            The people felt different and new inside because they had faith in Jesus. Now they wanted to do good things all the time. They made a promise to follow God’s commandments for the rest of their lives. Because they believed in Jesus and made this promise, they were called Jesus’s people. Mosiah 5:2–9, 15; 6:1–2

            Come Follow Me Kid “Mosiah 4-6” A Mighty Change – What does the word “change” mean? Share examples of things that change (caterpillars change to butterflies, dough changes to cookies when you bake it, etc.). Can WE change? Mosiah 5:2 says that the Spirit of the Lord caused a “mighty change” in the hearts of people.

            Ensign April 2020 “Family Study Fun” Heart Scrambler

            After King Benjamin taught his people about the Atonement of Jesus Christ, they experienced “a mighty change” in their hearts, so that they had “no more disposition to do evil, but to do good continually” (Mosiah 5:2).

            1. Cut out six paper hearts and write the letters C-H-A-N-G-E, one letter on each heart. Turn the hearts upside down on the table and scramble them.
            2. Choose a family member to flip the papers over and unscramble the word. Discuss how King Benjamin’s people experienced a change in their hearts.
            3. Each family member now chooses a letter from the table and thinks of a word or phrase that suggests a mighty change of heart. (Example: C = charity, or choose the right; H = happiness; and so on.)

            Discussion: What caused the people to experience “a mighty change” in their hearts? What blessings can we receive when we turn our hearts to God?

            For the Strength of Youth “A Mighty Change of Heart”

            Jan 31 2022

            Genesis 6–11; Moses 8

            Featured

            Table of Contents

            Noah

            Genesis CHAPTER 6 The sons of God marry the daughters of men—Men turn to wickedness, the earth is filled with violence, and all flesh is corrupted—The Flood is promised—God establishes His covenant with Noah, who builds an ark to save his family and various living things.

            Genesis CHAPTER 7 Noah’s family and various beasts and fowl enter the ark—The Flood comes, and water covers the whole earth—All other life that breathes is destroyed.

            Genesis CHAPTER 8 The Flood ceases—Noah sends forth a dove, which returns with an olive leaf—He releases all living things from the ark—He offers sacrifices—Seedtime, harvest, and seasons are ensured.

            Moses CHAPTER 8 Methuselah prophesies—Noah and his sons preach the gospel—Great wickedness prevails—The call to repentance is unheeded—God decrees the destruction of all flesh by the Flood.

            Old Testament Stories “Noah and His Family” Images and video

            There is Spiritual Safety in Following the Lord’s Prophet.

            Following the Lord’s prophet will bless me and my family.

            Genesis 6:14–22; 7–8; Moses 8:16–24

            Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 6–11; Moses 8”

            • Most children love the story of Noah and the ark. Consider giving your children opportunities to share what they know about it. To help them, you could use the pictures in this outline, “Noah and His Family” in Old Testament Stories (22–25), and the third verse of “Follow the Prophet” (Children’s Songbook, 110–11). Your children might enjoy acting out parts of the story—for example, by pretending to use a tool to build the ark or walking like animals entering the ark.

            You could use the below pictures or help the children choose verses from Genesis 6:14–22; 7–8 that they could depict in a drawing, and have them take turns using their drawings to teach them the story of Noah. Ask the children to share what they learn from the story.

            Friend March 2018 “Noah”

            These cutouts are from old Primary manuals.

            • Help the children understand that Noah was a prophet and that his family was saved from the Flood because they followed him. Ask the children if they know who our prophet is today. Show a picture of him, and help the children repeat his name.

            • As you talk about Noah together, help your children see how blessed we are to have a prophet of God today. Help your children search Moses 8:16, 19–20, 23–24to find things Noah taught that the Lord’s prophets still teach today. How are we blessed when we obey these teachings?

            The Red Crystal

            Here is an ark puzzle they can write the things that prophets teach today on the back before they put it together.

            • How are these teachings like the ark that Noah built?

            Come Follow Me Kid Lesson ideas

            Have each person draw themselves obeying something specific that the prophet has taught us to do.
            Place their pictures in the ark below while reminding them that it will bring safety and peace to their lives.

            The Red Crystal

            Additional Noah’s Ark Resources

            Latter Day Kids “Noah’s Ark” Lesson ideas to go with below video

            See also Old Testament Stories & Lesson Ideas and Old Testament: Activities & Games

            For Additional Teaching Ideas see Teaching Children the Gospel “Prophets” and Resources for Teaching Children “Prophets”

            We Need to Remember Our Covenants.

            Genesis CHAPTER 9 Noah and his sons are commanded to multiply and fill the earth—They are given dominion over all forms of life—The death penalty is decreed for murder—God will not again destroy the earth by a flood—Canaan is cursed; Shem and Japheth are blessed.

            Genesis 9:15–17

            God will keep His promises to me.

            Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

            • Your children might enjoy drawing or coloring a rainbow while you talk about what it represents (see Joseph Smith Translation, Genesis 9:21–25 [in the Bible appendix]). What did God want Noah and his family to think of whenever they saw a rainbow?

            Clipart Library

            • You could also show your children something you have that reminds you of something important in your life, such as a wedding ring, a picture, or a journal. Let your children share their own examples. This could lead to a conversation about things that help us remember our covenants, such as the sacrament, which helps us remember our baptismal covenant to follow Jesus Christ (see Doctrine and Covenants 20:75–79).

            Friend February 2025 “Covenants with God” Decorate this shield to remind you of the covenants you have made or will make! As we keep our covenants, Heavenly Father protects us, and we can stay close to Him.

            For the Strength of Youth February 2026 “A Necklace with a Promise” After a temple open house Megan’ grandfather gave her a necklace with a chandelier crystal to remind her of the temple. He asked her to promise she would go to the temple someday. Every time she wore her crystal necklace she would think of the temple and how she wanted to go inside. (The article suggests making their own reminder and gives some ideas.)

            Illustration by David Comerón

            Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 6–11; Moses 8”

            It is important for children to know that God keeps His promises, especially as they prepare to make covenants with Him when they are baptized.

            • Talk with the children about some of God’s promises—for example, that we can return to Heavenly Father if we follow Jesus Christ or that God will send the Holy Ghost to comfort us. Bear your testimony that God always keeps His promises.

            Friend March 2023 “Baptismal Covenants”

            Friend March 2018

            • Use pictures to tell the children about covenants we make with God, such as pictures of a child being baptized, the sacrament, and a temple (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 104, 108, 120).

            For Additional Teaching Ideas see Teaching Children the Gospel “Covenants” and Resources for Teaching Children “Covenants”

            Genesis CHAPTER 10 The descendants of Noah are Japheth, whose descendants are Gentiles; Ham, whose descendants include the Canaanites; and Shem, of whom came Peleg (in whose days the earth was divided).

            Tower of Babel

            Genesis CHAPTER 11 All men speak the same language—They build the Tower of Babel—The Lord confounds their language and scatters them over all the earth—The generations of Shem include Abram, whose wife is Sarai—Abram leaves Ur and settles in Haran.

            Following Jesus Christ is the only way to heaven.

            Genesis 11:1–9

            Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 6–11; Moses 8”

            Tell the story of the Tower of Babel in your own words, or read the story found in “The Tower of Babel” (in Old Testament Stories). Encourage the children to help you by sharing what they know about the story.

            Old Testament Stories “The Tower of Babel” Illustrations and video

            • Let the children build a tower out of blocks or other objects. Then show the children a picture of the Savior, and ask them which is the way to return to Heavenly Father—building a tower or following Jesus Christ? Help the children understand that following the Savior is the only way back to our Heavenly Father. Invite the children to tell about things they can do to follow the Savior.

            Friend August 2023 “I Can Follow Jesus Christ”

            Friend December 2016

            • In addition to reading the story of the tower of Babel in Genesis 11:1–9, you and your children could read Helaman 6:28. According to this verse, why did the people of Babel build the tower? Why was building this tower the wrong way to reach heaven? Invite the children to search 2 Nephi 31:20–21 and Helaman 3:28 to find the right way to reach heaven. What advice would we give to the people of Babel?
            • While people today might not try to build towers in order to reach heaven, many try to find peace and happiness by following paths other than the one Jesus Christ has established. How might you use the story of the Tower of Babel to teach this principle?

            See also Resources for Teaching Children “Plan of Salvation”

            See also Old Testament Stories & Lesson Ideas and Old Testament: Activities & Games

            Additional Resources

            Come Follow Me Kid Lesson ideas

            The Red Crystal “Come Follow Me- for Primary. Jan. 31–Feb. 6, Genesis 6–11; Moses 8” Free LDS primary lesson helps

            Come Follow Me with Living Scriptures “Follow the Prophet” Lesson ides

            Jan 24 2022

            Moses 7

            Featured

            Table of Contents

            Moses 7 Enoch continued preaching repentance. The Lord protected His people from their enemies. Enoch established the city of Zion on the principles of righteousness. He saw a vision of the earth’s history from his own day to the Millennium. He saw the influence of the adversary and watched God weep for the suffering of His children. Enoch also foresaw the coming of the Savior, the eventual Restoration of the gospel, the gathering of Israel, and the return of the city of Zion upon the earth. Enoch and his city were translated. (Scripture Helps: Old Testament “Moses 7”)

            Friend February 2026 “Weekly Scripture Fun”

            Activity: The Lord helped Enoch teach the gospel. Teach the gospel like Enoch by sharing your testimony! Say a prayer to receive help from Heavenly Father. Write or draw something you believe. Then share your testimony with someone you love.

            God wants us to be “of one heart and one mind.”

            Moses 7:18–21, 62–63, 68–69

            Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

            • To help your children learn about Enoch and Zion, you could use “Enoch the Prophet” in Old Testament Stories (19–21) or the second verse of “Follow the Prophet” (Children’s Songbook, 110–11). Then you could ask your children to help you retell the story in their own words. The pictures of Enoch in this outline might help.

            Old Testament Stories “Enoch the Prophet” Images, story, and video

            • Here’s one way to help your children understand what it means to be of “one heart and one mind” (Moses 7:18): Make a paper heart and cut it into pieces, enough for each child to have one. Let them write their name on their piece and work together to put the heart together. As they do, you might talk about things you love about each child.

            The Red Crystal

            • Help your children count how many times the word “Zion” appears in Moses 7:18–21, 62–63, 68–69. Each time they find the word, help them discover what the verse says about Zion (see also Guide to the Scriptures, “Zion,” Gospel Library). How can we be more like the people described in these verses?

            Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Moses 7”

            • Ask the children to look for words that describe Enoch’s people, also known as Zion, as they read Moses 7:18. Write these words as headings at the top of the board, and invite the children to write, under each heading, things they can do to be more like Enoch’s people. After they share, ask the children how they can make their homes more like Zion. They might find some ideas in 4 Nephi 1:15–18.

            The Red Crystal

            Moses 7:18

            Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Moses 7”

            • Help the children think of actions related to the phrase “one heart and one mind” (Moses 7:18). Explain that this phrase means that the people of Enoch loved and were kind to each other. Invite them to use this week’s activity page to draw a way they can show love.

            Friend January 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities” Building Love

            Story: Enoch and his people built a city called Zion. The people in Zion were righteous and “were of one heart and one mind” (Moses 7:18). That means they loved and cared for each other. They didn’t fight or hurt each other.

            Song: “Love at Home” (Hymns, no. 294)

            Activity: Read Moses 7:19–21. Then build a city with blocks, stones, or sticks. As you build, talk about how you can make your family more like Zion. You can send pictures of your finished city to the Friend!

            Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Moses 7”

            • Sing a song about loving one another, such as “Love at Home” (Hymns, no. 294). Bring pictures that illustrate key phrases in the song to help the children learn the words. Ask the children to share ways they can show love to each other in Primary and in their homes. Then let them act out their ideas.

            Primary 5: Doctrine and Covenants and Church History “Lesson 16: The Saints Gather to Kirtland, Ohio,” 

            Read Doctrine and Covenants 38:24-25  What does it mean to esteem someone as yourself? We need to value others as much as we value ourselves. Have the children tell what different parts of the body does. Explain that each part of the body is important and needed. Just like our body parts are united, we need to be united as people [and help, support, and take care of each other.]

            The Redwood trees are joined together as one.

            “The giant redwood trees that grow in northern California [USA] … have a very shallow root system. But when they are surrounded by other redwood trees, the strongest, fiercest wind cannot blow them over. The roots of the giant redwood trees intertwine and strengthen each other. When a storm comes, they actually hold each other up” (Conference Report, Oct. 1994, p. 103; or Ensign, Nov. 1994, p. 78).

            Sing “We Are Different” (Children’s Songbook,140–41, 263).

            1. I know you, and you know me. We are as diff’rent as the sun and the sea I know you, and you know me, And that’s the way it’s supposed to be.

            2. I help you, and you help me. We learn from problems, and we’re starting to see. I help you, and you help me, And that’s the way it’s supposed to be.

            3. I love you, and you love me We reach together for the best we can be I love you, and you love me, And that’s the way it’s supposed to be.

            Heavenly Father wants me to choose to follow Him.

            Moses 7:28–33

            Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

            • To introduce Moses 7:32–33 to your children, you might talk to them about a choice they had to make recently. Then you could read the verses together to find out what Heavenly Father wants us to choose. What choices can we make to show that we choose Him? Perhaps your children could take turns acting out one of these choices while the others guess what the action represents.

            The Red Crystal

            Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Moses 7”

            • Help the children think of things that make Heavenly Father happy. Read Moses 7:28 with the children, and explain that Heavenly Father was sad because the people were very wicked (see verses 32–33).
            • Invite the children to play a game in which they act out things they can do that make Heavenly Father happy. Ask the other children to guess what they are doing. Share with each of the children something you have seen them do that makes Heavenly Father happy.

            Jesus Christ Will Come Again in the Last Days.

            Moses 7:59–67

            Jesus will come back to earth.

            Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Moses 7”

            • In Moses 7:59, Enoch asks the Lord a question. Invite your children to find it, and then ask them to find the answer in verse 60. You might also talk with them about a time when they were expecting someone special to visit or return home. Ask them how they felt and what they did to prepare for the visit? What are some ways we can prepare for Jesus to come again?

            Friend November 2021 “Jesus Will Come Again” 

            • Consider showing pictures of times when the Savior appeared to people (such as Gospel Art Book, nos. 60, 82, 83, and 84). What are the people doing in the pictures? How might the people have felt when they met Jesus?

            The Red Crystal

            • You could also sing a song about the Savior’s Second Coming, such as “When He Comes Again” (Children’s Songbook, 82–83), and ask the children what they think it will be like when Jesus comes again. Let the children share how they feel about seeing Jesus when He comes again.

            Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Moses 7”

            As your family reads Moses 7:59–67, try marking or noting things the Lord tells Enoch about the last days—for example, that God will “gather out [His] elect” (verse 62) and that there will be “great tribulations among the wicked” (verse 66). How can we have faith and hope despite the wickedness in the last days? As part of this discussion, consider reading these words from Elder Ronald A. Rasband: “Take heart, brothers and sisters. Yes, we live in perilous times, but as we stay on the covenant path, we need not fear. I bless you that as you do so, you will not be troubled by the times in which we live or the troubles that come your way. I bless you to choose to stand in holy places and be not moved. I bless you to believe in the promises of Jesus Christ, that He lives and that He is watching over us, caring for us and standing by us” (“Be Not Troubled,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2018, 21).

            For additional Second Coming Resources see here.

            Additional Resources

            Old Testament Stories and Lesson Ideas

            Pearl of Great Price Lesson, Stories, & Activities

            Old Testament: Activities and Games

            Primary 6 Manual: Old Testament “Enoch and a Zion People” (Page 27)

            Liahona January 2022 “Old Testament Art: Enoch and the City of Zion” Illustration by Justin Kunz

              Come Follow Me Kid Lesson ideas

              The Red Crystal

              Come Follow Me with Living Scriptures “Building Zion” Lesson ideas

              Scripture Explorers “The City of Zion”

              Latter Day Kids “Building Zion” Lesson ideas to go with the below video

              Jan 17 2022

               Genesis 5; Moses 6

              Featured

              Table of Contents

              Genesis Chapter 5 The generations of Adam are Adam, Seth, Enos, Cainan, Mahalaleel, Jared, Enoch (who walked with God), Methuselah, Lamech, and Noah (who begat Shem, Ham, and Japheth).

              Moses Chapter 6 Adam’s seed keep a book of remembrance—His righteous posterity preach repentance—God reveals Himself to Enoch—Enoch preaches the gospel—The plan of salvation was revealed to Adam—He received baptism and the priesthood.

              Old Testament Stories “Adam and Eve’s Family” Images and Video

              Book of Remembrance

              Genesis 5; Moses 6:5–25, 46.

              Old Testament Stories: Adam and Eve’s Family

              Adam and Eve’s family kept a book of remembrance. They wrote their family history in the book. They wrote about how the Lord helped them.

              Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 5; Moses 6” Reading about the “book of remembrance” that Adam and Eve’s family kept may inspire your family to make your own book of remembrance. Discuss as a family what you would like to include. Maybe you have photos, stories, or documents from your family history. You might choose to include things that are happening in your family now. What will future generations find valuable? You could also discuss how the phrases “by the spirit of inspiration” (Moses 6:5) and “the pattern given by the finger of God” (Moses 6:46) could guide your efforts. Consider saving information from your book of remembrance on FamilySearch.org.

              Scripture Stories Coloring Book: Pearl of Great Price “Adam’s Book of Remembrance”

              Friend January 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities: Family Testimony Book”

              Story: Adam and Eve’s family made a “book of remembrance” (Moses 6:5). They wrote about Jesus Christ and Heavenly Father’s plan. This book was the beginning of the scriptures.

              Song: “Love Is Spoken Here” (Children’s Songbook, 190–91)

              Activity: You can make a book of remembrance too! Ask everyone in your family to write down their testimony of Jesus Christ. Then attach the pages together to make a book.

              Come Follow Me Kid

              God Can Help Me Do Hard Things.

              Moses 6:26–34

              Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 5; Moses 6”

              • Ask the children to share a time when they were asked to do something that was hard or scary for them. Share the story of, or read together, Enoch’s call to be a prophet, found in Moses 6:27, 31–34 (see also “Enoch the Prophet” in Old Testament Stories).

              • When Enoch was called to preach the gospel, he worried that he would fail. But God helped him do great things. Why did Enoch feel that he couldn’t preach the gospel? (see Moses 6:31). How did God help Enoch? (see Moses 6:32–34; 7:13).

              Liahona January 2022 “Who Was Enoch”

              Enoch was not the only prophet who felt inadequate when the Lord called him. Read about Moses’s and Jeremiah’s reactions in Exodus 4:10–12 and Jeremiah 1:4–9.

              • Your children might enjoy sharing or acting out other examples of when God helped people do difficult things—for example, Noah building the ark, David fighting Goliath, Ammon defending the king’s flocks, or Samuel the Lamanite preaching. (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 7, 19, 78, 81). You could also share an experience of your own and let your children talk about how God helps them do hard things.
              • Invite the children to name some difficult things that children their age sometimes do (such as completing an assignment for school, being kind to someone who is unkind, or telling the truth when they have made a mistake). Help the children find phrases in Moses 6:32–34 that can help them. Ask the children to share a time when God helped them do something difficult. Share your own experiences too.

              Friend August 2020 “Maddy’s Courage” Maddy didn’t want to start school because she was afraid. Her mom reminded her of sometimes we have to do brave and hard things, such as Daniel facing the lions, or Nephi crossing the ocean, or Esther talking to the king. And just like Heavenly Father helped all of those people, He would help her too.

              New Era December 2020 “Not Ice-olated” Object lesson that demonstrates that with the Lord’s help, we can lift even the heaviest, slipperiest burdens.

              The Gospel Teaches Me How to Return to Heavenly Father.

              Moses 6:50–62

              Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 5; Moses 6”

                Faith in Christ, repentance, baptism, and receiving the Holy Ghost prepare me to return to God.

                Adam and Enoch taught their people the first principles and ordinances of the gospel: faith, repentance, baptism, and receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost (see also Articles of Faith 1:4).

                Moses 6:50–62

                Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

                • God taught Adam what we need to do to return to Him—have faith in Jesus Christ, repent, be baptized, and receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. Help your children find these principles in Moses 6:52, 57. Then you could help them write a short talk about one of the principles. Each talk could include a scripture from Moses 6, an experience, and a testimony. Let them share their talks with each other.

                Come Follow Me Kid

                • You could also display pictures that represent the first principles of the gospel (see the fourth article of faith). Place them in a line leading to a picture of Jesus Christ. As you read Moses 6:52, your children could stand next to the correct picture when they hear the words the picture represents.

                Friend April 2011 link includes discussion info.

                Friend April 2011
                • Your children might enjoy singing songs that teach the principles in Moses 6:52, such as “Faith,” “When I Am Baptized,” and “The Holy Ghost” (Children’s Songbook, 96–97, 103, 105). Help them find these principles in Moses 6:52.

                Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 5; Moses 6”

                • What does it mean to be “born again into the kingdom of heaven”? (Moses 6:59) (To have the Spirit of the Lord cause a mighty change in a person’s heart so that he has no more desire to do evil, but rather desires to seek the things of God. (Guide to the Scriptures, “Born Again, Born of God” scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org) For additional information click on link.)
                • What can we do to continue to be born again throughout our lives?

                Coloring Pages

                Scripture Stories Coloring Book: Pearl of Great Price “4th Article of Faith”

                Friend March 2000
                Friend March 2000 Link includes some sharing time and music time ideas.

                Heavenly Father Wants Parents to Teach Their Children.

                Moses 6:57–58

                Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 5; Moses 6”

                From the time of Adam and Eve, parents have been commanded to teach their children the gospel. How can you encourage the children to listen to and follow the righteous teachings of their parents?

                • To encourage your children to support their parents in their role as gospel teachers, consider asking a child to read Moses 6:58 and identify the commandment God gave to parents. Then you could show a picture of Adam and Eve teaching their children (like the one at the end of this outline) and let your children talk about what they see in the picture. Your children could draw pictures of their families reading the scriptures together, praying together, or playing together. Ask the children what they can do to support their parents when they teach them the gospel.

                  Friend March 2019 “A Lesson From My Parents” Color the pictures and circle the things a parent or other family member has taught you. What else can you think of?

                  Coloring Page: “Adam and Eve Teach Their Children” (Feb. 2010 Friend)

                  Latter Day Kids “Teach These Things” Lesson ideas to go with the below video.

                  Additional Resources

                  All things bear record of Christ

                  Moses 6:63.

                  What are some of the things that “bear record of [Christ]”? (see also 2 Nephi 11:4). Consider inviting family members to share something that they see “in the heavens above” or “on the earth” that helps them learn about Jesus Christ. For example, how do trees, rocks, or the sun remind us of the Savior? What do the titles “living water” and “bread of life” teach us about Him? (John 4:10–14; 6:35). (Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 5; Moses 6” )

                  How did Adam become a “son of God”?

                  Moses 6:64–68

                  Enoch taught that after Adam was baptized, “the Spirit of God descended upon him, and thus he was born of the Spirit, and became quickened in the inner man.” After this sacred experience, Adam heard a voice from heaven saying, “Behold, thou art one in me, a son of God; and thus may all become my sons.”

                  The title “son of God” now had two different meanings for Adam. Not only was he a literal spirit son of God created in His image, but Adam was also a son of God because he had been born again through Jesus Christ. Those who experience spiritual rebirth and receive the ordinances of the Savior’s gospel are also sometimes referred to as “children of Christ.” (Scripture Helps: Old Testament “Genesis 5, Moses 6: How does the Fall affect us?”)

                  All people must repent and be baptized.

                  Scripture Helps: Old Testament “Genesis 5, Moses 6: How does the Fall affect us?”

                  Enoch taught that Adam asked God why all people must repent and be baptized. In response, God taught Adam important truths that clarified how the Fall would impact the posterity of Adam and Eve.

                  First, God made it clear not only that Adam and Eve were forgiven for their transgression in the Garden of Eden, but also that the consequences of their sins would not be passed down to their children. The Prophet Joseph Smith reiterated this truth when he taught, “We believe that men will be punished for their own sins, and not for Adam’s transgression.”

                  God also taught Adam that his posterity would be “conceived in sin” (or “born into a world of sin”). As mortal people living in a fallen world, we commit sin, which makes us unclean and separates us from God. While this experience gives us opportunity to “prize the good” after we “taste the bitter,” we also must be cleansed from our sins through Jesus Christ, for “no unclean thing can dwell” in God’s presence.

                  God commanded Adam to teach his children to repent, be baptized, and receive the Holy Ghost so they could be sanctified from their sins through Jesus Christ. God declared, “This is the plan of salvation unto all men, through the blood of mine Only Begotten.”

                  Primary 6 Manual: Old Testament “Adam and Eve Lived the Gospel of Jesus Christ” (Page 23) Lesson ideas

                  Primary 6 Manual: Old Testament “Enoch and a Zion People” (Page 27)

                  Come Follow Me Kid Lesson ideas

                  The Red Crystal

                  Jan 9 2022

                  Genesis 3–4; Moses 4–5

                  Featured

                  Table of Contents

                  The Fall of Adam and Eve was Part of God’s Plan.

                  Old Testament Stories “Adam and Eve” Images and video

                  Friend February 2018 “Adam and Eve”

                  Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 3–4; Moses 4–5”

                  The Garden of Eden was beautiful. But Adam and Eve needed something more than beautiful surroundings. They needed—and we all need—an opportunity to grow. Leaving the Garden of Eden was the necessary first step toward returning to God and eventually becoming like Him.

                  Old Testament Seminary Student Material

                  Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 3–4; Moses 4–5” If Adam and Eve had stayed in the Garden of Eden, they would not have had children and would not have progressed to become like Heavenly Father. We are grateful for their choice to partake of the fruit because this choice made possible our mortal life and our opportunity for eternal life.

                  Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

                  • To help your children better understand the Fall of Adam and Eve, you could copy the pictures from “Adam and Eve” (in Old Testament Stories, 13–16) and cut them out. Then you could work together to put the pictures in order as you discuss the experiences of Adam and Eve. As you do, talk about why it was important, in Heavenly Father’s plan, for Adam and Eve to leave the Garden of Eden.

                  Friend January 2026 “Adam and Eve”

                  • Invite the children to work together to tell the story of the Fall of Adam and Eve in their own words. Share verses from Genesis 3 to help them.

                  Jesus Christ Saves Us from the Fall.

                  Genesis 3; Moses 4; Moses 5:4–15

                  Moses 5:4–15

                  Media Library: Similitude By Walter Rane

                  Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 3–4; Moses 4–5”

                  • Write two titles on the board: Because of Fall of Adam and Eve,(I…) and Because of Jesus Christ, (I…) Help the children identify the consequences of the Fall as you read together Moses 4:23-25; 6:48; Romans 5:12; 2 Nephi 2:22–23. Let them write what they learn under the first title. Then help them identify how Jesus Christ overcame sin and death as you read together Moses 5:8–11, 14–15; 6:59; Alma 11:42. Let them write what they learn under the second title. Why are we thankful for Jesus Christ? Your children can feel gratitude for the Atonement of Jesus Christ as they understand how He overcomes the effects of the Fall.

                  Lesson 4: The Fall of Adam and Eve,” Primary 6: Old Testament   Page 13

                  Ideas for under the title “Because of Fall of Adam and Eve” could include the following:

                    • We could choose to be born on the earth.
                    • We know good from evil.
                    • We became separated from Heavenly Father.
                    • We will someday die.

                  Ideas for under the title “Because of Jesus Christ” could include the following:

                    • We will live again after we die
                    • We can return to Heavenly Father if we will repent.
                    • We have a perfect example to follow.
                  • Show a video about the Savior’s Atonement, such as “Because of Him” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Invite the children to share how they feel about Jesus Christ.

                  Friend January 2026 “The Plan of Happiness and You!”

                  I Can Choose the Right

                  Moses 4:1–4

                  Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

                  • Consider a simple object lesson to introduce the principle of agency: invite your children to color this week’s activity page, but give them only one color to use. Why would it be better to have choices? You could then read together Moses 4:1–4 and talk about why God wants us to be able to choose between right and wrong. How do Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ help us make good choices?

                  Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “2 Nephi 1-5” Make a booklet about the ways we are like Adam and Eve, such as we have agency

                  Friend January 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities: Good Choices Toss” Activity: Sit in a circle and toss a ball around. When you catch the ball, tell about a good choice you made this week.

                  • Help your children think of and draw pictures of good choices they can make to follow Jesus Christ. Or you could sing together a song about making good choices, such as “Choose the Right Way” (Children’s Songbook, 160–61). You might tell each other about a time when you made a good choice and talk about how you felt afterward.

                  I Can Pray to Heavenly Father.

                  Moses 5:4, 8

                  Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

                  • When Adam and Eve had to leave the Garden of Eden, they couldn’t be with Heavenly Father anymore. Read Moses 5:4, 8 with your children, and help them find what Adam and Eve did to feel near to Him and hear Him.
                  Friend February 2017
                  • Explain that we pray to Heavenly Father in the name of His Son, Jesus Christ (see Moses 5:8). What are some things we can say to Heavenly Father in our prayers?

                  Friend January 2025 “Teach Me About Prayer”

                  Friend April 2024 “The Miracle of Prayer” 

                  Friend January 2021 “Talking to My Heavenly Father” Action Rhyme

                  • Sing with the children a song about prayer, such as “A Child’s Prayer” (Children’s Songbook, 12–13).

                  Additional Resources

                  Lesson 4: The Fall of Adam and Eve,” Primary 6: Old Testament  Place the picture of Adam and Eve next to the one of God the Father and Jesus Christ. Explain that when Adam and Eve lived in the Garden of Eden, they could walk and talk with Heavenly Father and Jesus. To help the children understand why the result of Adam and Eve’s choice is known as the Fall, take the picture of Adam and Eve and move it down below the picture of God the Father and Jesus Christ as you tell of Adam and Eve eating the forbidden fruit. Adam and Eve “fell” or were removed from the presence of God. Explain that because Adam and Eve could no longer freely associate with Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ, this is referred to as the Fall. Adam and Eve’s separation from Heavenly Father and Jesus began mortal life on earth.

                  Lesson 5: Adam and Eve and Their Family Offered Sacrifices,” Primary 6: Old Testament , Page 18–22 To help the children want to always remember Jesus Christ.

                  Lesson 6: Adam and Eve Lived the Gospel of Jesus Christ,” Primary 6: Old Testament, Pages 23–26 To help the children understand that the gospel of Jesus Christ is eternal and is based on truths that will help us gain exaltation.

                  Lesson 4: The Fall of Adam and Eve,” Primary 6: Old Testament   Ask the children to think of opposites—such as happy and sad, hot and cold, hard and soft, smooth and rough, heavy and light, high and low, or fast and slow—to illustrate the importance of opposition (see 2 Nephi 2:11, 15). Let the children describe their experiences with opposites. To help them get started, you might use the following examples: After someone has been sick, they can better appreciate feeling well. Or without darkness, you cannot recognize light, which is why you cannot see the stars during the day. To illustrate this second example, you might bring a flashlight and show how its light is barely noticeable in a well-lit room, but the light is much brighter when you darken the room.

                  Come Follow Me Kid Lesson ideas

                  The Red Crystal

                  Article of Faith 2

                  Memorizing Tip: Adam and Eve were the first two people to live on the earth, and Article of Faith 2 is about Adam.

                  To transgress means to break a law or commandment. In the Garden of Eden, God told Adam and Eve not to eat the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil, but they ate it anyway. We are each responsible for our own decisions. We can’t be punished for someone else’s sins.  (Friend Jan 2015)

                  Friend Feb 2011

                  Friend Feb 2011

                  See also Teaching Children the Gospel “2nd Article of Faith”

                  Adam and Eve’s Family

                  Old Testament Stories “Adam and Eve’s Family” Images and Video

                  Friend February 2018 ”Adam and Eve Taught their Family” Link also includes info about Adam and Eve and how we can be like them.

                  Coloring Page: “Adam and Eve Teach Their Children” (Feb. 2010 Friend)

                  Gospel Media “Adam and Eve Teaching Their Children”

                  Cain and Able Gospel Media

                  Agency

                  • In the preexistence Satan had a plan to destroy the freedoms and agency of the people who came to earth. What did Satan hope to gain from implementing his plan? (Glory and power for himself)

                  (Possible activity to demonstrate life without agency) • What would life be like without agency? To help the children imagine what it might be like to live under Lucifer’s plan, tell them that for the next few minutes they must do exactly what you say and nothing else (make sure they know they cannot talk). Have them stand and remain standing perfectly still for a few seconds. Then tell each child where to sit. (Do not sit friends near each other.) Tell the children they must sit erect, feet flat to the floor, looking straight ahead, not moving or speaking. Have them hold the position until you tell them otherwise. After about thirty seconds, let them stand again and sit where they want. (Walk in His Ways pg 62)

                  Latter Day Kids “Free to Choose” Lesson ideas

                  Come Follow Me With Living Scriptures” Free to Choose” Lesson ideas

                  Jan 5 2022

                  Genesis 1–2; Moses 2–3; Abraham 4–5

                  Featured

                  Table of Contents

                  Jesus Christ Created the Earth Under the Direction of Heavenly Father.

                  Genesis 1:1–25; Moses 2:1–25; Abraham 4:1–25

                  Friend November 1996 “For Little Friends: Window Picture” (Print the picture of the earth and the picture of Jesus back to back.) Show the picture of the earth and ask who created it. Have the children hold it up to a light or window to check their answer or find the answer. Explain that the earth was created by Jesus under the direction of Heavenly Father. Question: Why did Heavenly Father want the earth created? (See Abraham 3:24-26 – For us to gain a body and be tried and tested to see if we would learn to exercise control over our bodies and keep the commandments.)

                  1of3
                  2of3
                  3of3

                  Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 1–2; Moses 2–3; Abraham 4–5”

                  • Help the children think of times when they made something by following another person’s directions. For example, maybe they have made a recipe with a parent or sibling guiding them. Write Who created the earth? on the board, and invite the children to find the answer in Moses 2:1. Testify that Jesus Christ created the earth under the direction of Heavenly Father.
                  Friend January 2026

                  The Pearl of Great Price Student Manual

                  • The Prophet Joseph Smith taught that to “create … does not mean to create out of nothing; it means to organize, the same as a man would organize materials and build a ship.”1 The Hebrew word for “create” means to shape, fashion, organize, and form (see Genesis 1:1; Abraham 3:24).
                  • “The Earth, After It Was Formed, Was Empty and Desolate”The Prophet Joseph Smith indicated that the translation “without form, and void” (see Genesis 1:2 and Moses 2:2) should read “empty and desolate” (see Abraham 4:2;

                  Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

                  • Your children might also look at pictures of things Jesus created (see “The Creation of the Earth” in Old Testament Stories, 8–12). Then you and your children could talk about how you feel about Jesus Christ after reading about the Creation.

                  Old Testament Stories “The Creation of the Earth” Images and Video

                  Creation Lesson for Little Ones – Teaching the creation story using flannel figures.

                  President Russell M. Nelson explained that “the physical Creation itself was staged through ordered periods of time,” not calendar days. Elder Bruce R. McConkie (1915–85) of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles taught that a day in the Creation accounts “is a specified time period; it is an age, an eon, a division of eternity; it is the time between two identifiable events. And each day, of whatever length, has the duration needed for its purposes. …

                  • How will you make learning about the Creation fun for your children? You could take them on a search outside for the kinds of things that were made during each period of Creation.

                  Or:

                  1. Each person [could] take a turn acting out a day or part of the Creation. The rest of the family members guess the day or the part of Creation that was chosen. (Liahona January 2022 “God’s Plan Is for You: Come, Follow Me Family Fun” )
                  2. Assign each child verses in Moses 2 related to one of the days of creation, and ask him or her to draw a picture of the things Heavenly Father and Jesus created on that day. Ask the children to hold their pictures and stand in the order of the days of Creation, and then invite each child to teach the rest of the children what happened on the day they were assigned. What do we learn about Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ from the story of the Creation? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 1–2; Moses 2–3; Abraham 4–5” )
                  3. You [could ]show pictures of things created in each period and invite family members to put the pictures in order after reading one of the accounts of the Creation together. What do these creations teach us about Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ? (Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 1–2; Moses 2–3; Abraham 4–5”)

                   Friend March 2002 “For Little Friends”  Place the correct picture and label on the chart according to which “day” it took place in the creation (one square will get two pictures). Check your answers in Genesis 1:1-27, and move pieces to their correct position as needed (Visuals: Black and white game board. Note: Color cardstock can be used for the game boards.)

                  • Consider singing a song together about our beautiful world, such as “My Heavenly Father Loves Me” (Children’s Songbook, 228–29). Maybe your children could add to the song other things God has created that help them feel His love.

                  Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 1–2; Moses 2–3; Abraham 4–5”

                  • Share your testimony that Jesus Christ made these things because He and Heavenly Father love us.

                  For additional teaching resources see Creation

                  Gratitude for the Earth

                  One way to approach the Creation story is to invite your family to find how many times in Genesis 1 or Moses 2 God calls the things that he made “good.” What does this suggest about how we should treat God’s creations—including ourselves? What do we learn from the way these events are worded in Abraham 4?

                  Friend January 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities” Thankful Memory Game

                  Activity: Now play a game! The first person says, “I am thankful for …” and then says something Heavenly Father and Jesus created. The next person repeats it and then adds something new. Keep going around in a circle as long as you can.

                  Liahona January 2022 “God’s Plan Is for You: Come, Follow Me Family Fun”

                  Stewards over the Earth: Moses 2:28 explains that humankind was given dominion over all living things. President Russell M. Nelson said, “We should care for the earth, be wise stewards over it, and preserve it for future generations” (“The Creation,” Liahona, July 2000, 104).

                  Discussion: In what ways do Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ take care of us? How can we follow Their examples as we take care of the living things around us? In what ways can our actions show our gratitude for God’s creations? (Submitted by Mitzi Schoneman)

                  Friend February 2018 “Caring for the Earth”

                  See more ideas at Taking Care of the Earth

                  Additional Creation Resources

                  Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 1–2; Moses 2–3; Abraham 4–5” While there’s a lot we don’t know about exactly how the world was created, ponder what you learn about the Creation from what God has revealed in Genesis 1:1–25; Moses 2:1–25; and Abraham 4:1–25. What do you notice in these accounts that is similar? What do you notice that is different?

                  Come Follow Me with Living Scriptures “The Creation” Lesson ideas

                  Latter Day Kids “The Creation” Lesson ideas

                  I Was Created in God’s Image.

                  Genesis 1:26–27; Moses 2:26–27; Abraham 4:26–27

                  Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

                  • Your children can develop a sense of reverence and respect for their own and others’ bodies as they learn that we were all created in God’s image. To help them understand what this means, you could let your children look at their image in a mirror or picture while you read Moses 2:26–27 to them.
                  • You could also show them how baby animals are often in the “likeness” of their parents (see the picture in this outline, for example). This could lead to a conversation about why it’s important to you to know that you are created in your Heavenly Father’s image.
                  Image by kamchatka on Freepik
                  Image by freepik
                  Image by freepik

                  • You and your children might enjoy drawing a human body and cutting the drawings into puzzles. As your children put their puzzles together, they could talk about ways they can show Heavenly Father that they are thankful for their bodies. (or invite the children to choose a part of the body and write next to it why they are thankful for it.) Express your gratitude for your body, and testify that we were created in God’s image.

                  The Red Crystal

                  Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 1–2; Moses 2–3; braham 4–5”

                  • Help the children repeat “I, God, created man in mine own image” several times (Moses 2:27).

                  Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 129-132”

                  • [Using the picture below, invite the children] to point to His eyes, mouth, and other parts of His body. Then invite them to stand and point to those same parts of their own bodies. Read from Doctrine and Covenants 130:22: “The Father has a body of flesh and bones … ; the Son also.” Testify that our bodies are like Heavenly Father’s and Jesus’s bodies.
                  Friend August 2016
                  Friend August 2016

                  Friend November 2020 “Like Him”

                  LessonPix “Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes” Song idea. Print the pictures, cut them apart into cards, and then use them to sing the song. To make the song more interesting, have the children mix up the pictures on the top two rows and/or the bottom two rows and then have them do the actions and sing the words in their mixed up order.

                  Head Shoulders Knees & Toes

                  Visual support to sing Head Shoulders Knees & Toes.

                  Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 1–2; Moses 2–3; Abraham 4–5” The world will give children many false messages about their bodies. The doctrine in Moses 2:26–27 is powerful motivation to respect and care for our bodies.

                  • Read together Moses 2:26–27. What do these verses teach us about our bodies? Show the video “God’s Greatest Creation” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org), or play the game “Your Body Is a Temple” (Friend, Aug. 2019, 24–25). You could also read together related quotations from President Russell M. Nelson’s message “Your Body: A Magnificent Gift to Cherish” (New Era, Aug. 2019, 2–7) that will help the children feel gratitude to Heavenly Father for their bodies.

                  Friend August 2019 “Your Body is a Temple” Activity comparing how the body is like a temple.

                  For the Strength of Youth “Your Body: A Priceless Gift”

                  Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 1–2; Moses 2–3; Abraham 4–5” Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ are Creators. They can transform us into the beautiful creations we were meant to be. That’s part of what it means to be created in God’s image, after His likeness (see Genesis 1:26). We have the potential to become like Him: exalted, glorified, celestial beings.

                  For additional teaching ideas see Teaching Children the Gospel “Body” and Resources for Teaching Children “Body”

                  The Sabbath Day is Holy.

                  Genesis 2:2–3; Moses 3:2–3; Abraham 5:2–3

                  Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

                  • As you read Moses 3:2–3, ask your children to listen for what God did on the seventh day.
                  • Help your children find or draw pictures of things they can do on Sunday to make it a holy day and different from other days. Share with each other why it is important to you to keep the Sabbath day holy.

                  Or,

                  • Give the children a few minutes to write a list of as many things as they can think of that they can do to make the Sabbath a holy day. Invite the children to share their lists, and encourage them to add to their lists as others share suggestions they didn’t think of. Suggest that the children take the lists home with them and refer to them when they need ideas of good things to do on the Sabbath.
                  • Or do the below sorting activity:

                  Teaching Children the Gospel “Sabbath Day: Lesson Item 4” Sort the activity ideas onto days of the week or Sunday

                  • Children may have to explain to their friends why they treat Sunday different from other days.  Help your children role-play explaining to a friend why they choose to do things on Sunday that honor Heavenly Father and Jesus. Suggest that they use Genesis 2:2–3 in their explanations. How does keeping the Sabbath day holy show our love and respect for Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ?

                  Friend October 2015  “The Sabbath is a Delight”

                  Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 1–2; Moses 2–3; Abraham 4–5” Children who develop a habit of keeping the Sabbath day holy when they are young are more likely to keep this commandment when life becomes busier and more demanding.

                  • A few days before class, invite one of the children and his or her parents to come prepared to share things they do in their family to keep the Sabbath day holy. Invite the other children to share what their families do.

                  For additional teaching ideas see Teaching Children the Gospel “Sabbath Day” and Resources for Teaching Children “Sabbath Day”

                  Additional Resources

                  Scripture Helps Old Testament

                  Come Follow Me Kid Lesson ideas

                  The Red Crystal Lesson ideas