Tag Archives: Old Testament

Jul 18 2022

Ezra 1; 3–7; Nehemiah 2; 4–6; 8

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KING CYRUS LETS THE JEWS TO GO BACK TO JERUSALEM TO BUILD THE TEMPLE

Ezra CHAPTER 1 King Cyrus of Persia lets the Jews go back to Jerusalem to build the temple—Cyrus returns the vessels of the house of the Lord taken by Nebuchadnezzar.

Lesson 107: Ezra,” Old Testament Seminary Student Material (2018) We read in Ezra 1–2 that 70 years after the Jews were carried away captive to Babylon, Cyrus, the king of Persia, conquered the Babylonians and became the Jews’ new ruler. Cyrus was inspired by the Lord to let a group of Jews return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple. To help them in their efforts, Cyrus gave them “silver,” “gold,” and other “precious things” as well as the “vessels” that King Nebuchadnezzar had taken from the temple years earlier (see Ezra 1:6–7). About 50,000 people, led by Zerubbabel and Jeshua, returned to Jerusalem to work on the temple.

THE FOUNDATIONS OF THE TEMPLE ARE LAID

Ezra CHAPTER 3 The altar is rebuilt—Regular sacrifices are reinstituted—The foundations of the temple are laid amid great rejoicing.

The house of the Lord is a place of joy.

Ezra 3:8–13; 6:16–22

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Ezra 1; 3–7; Nehemiah 2; 4–6; 8”

  • To teach your children about the joy the Jews felt when their temple was rebuilt, you could show them a picture like the one below. Talk about why these people might be happy to be at the house of the Lord. You could also tell your children why the temple is a place of joy for you. How has the temple helped you feel closer to Heavenly Father and the Savior?
  • As you read Ezra 3:10–13 with your children, help them find words that show how the Jews felt when the temple was being rebuilt. When you get to the end of verse 13, maybe you could shout for joy together. Help your children think of reasons to be joyful that the Lord has given us temples. How can we show that joy?

The Red Crystal Pass out the puzzle pieces and have the children write on the back some things that bring them joy from the temple, like eternal families or peace. Then put the puzzle together and shout for joy.

Here are some of the key blessings associated with LDS temples:

Protection and Power: The covenants and ordinances performed in the temple are believed to provide spiritual protection and power from God, including the power to resist temptation and overcome worldly challenges.

Participation in Ordinances: Temples are the only places where certain sacred ordinances — such as the Endowment, sealing of couples in marriage for eternity, and baptism for the dead — can be performed. These ordinances are considered essential for individual progression and salvation.

Eternal Families: The temple is where families can be sealed together, meaning they can be together forever, not just “until death do us part.” This sealing extends to children as well, who are considered to be sealed to their parents for eternity.

Learning and Instruction: In the temple, individuals receive instruction and make covenants related to the Plan of Salvation and their relationship with God. These teachings provide guidance for personal development and spiritual growth.

Personal Revelation: Many members of the LDS Church report that the peaceful, sacred atmosphere of the temple is conducive to receiving personal revelation and divine guidance.

Service to Others: In the temple, members perform vicarious ordinances on behalf of those who have died, providing them with the opportunity to accept these ordinances in the afterlife. This service to others is considered a significant blessing and a manifestation of love and selflessness.

Peace and Comfort: Many Latter-day Saints find that attending the temple provides a sense of peace and comfort, offering a spiritual refuge from the world. It can be a place to seek comfort, find answers to prayers, and feel closer to God.

Communion with the Divine: Temples are considered “Houses of the Lord,” and as such, are places where individuals can feel a special closeness to God and Jesus Christ.

  • Consider singing a song about the temple with your children, such as the second verse of “Welcome Home” (Hymns for Home and Church, Gospel Library). After each line, you could pause to ask a child to share something he or she loves about the temple. You might also look at pictures of temples while you sing.

The temple can bring me joy.

How did the Jews celebrate when the foundation of the temple was laid? Select all that apply:

  1. They sang.
  2. They shouted with joy.
  3. They danced.
  4. They praised and thanked the Lord.

Friend October 2021 “A Temple Birthday” Lydia wants to visit the temple for her birthday because it is a happy place where we can feel close to Jesus.

Friend July 2022 “Temple Tour”

  • Sing with the children a song about the temple, such as “I Love to See the Temple” (Children’s Songbook, 95). After each line, pause to ask a child to share something he or she loves about the temple.

For additional teaching ideas see Temples.

ZERUBBABEL BUILDS THE TEMPLE DESPITE OPPOSITION

Ezra CHAPTER 4 The Samaritans offer help, then hinder the work—The building of the temple and of the walls of Jerusalem ceases.

Ezra CHAPTER 5 Haggai and Zechariah prophesy—Zerubbabel renews the building of the temple—The Samaritans challenge the Jews’ right to continue their building work.

I can help the work of God advance despite opposition.

When the 50,000 Jews returned to Jerusalem, they encountered a group of people living nearby called Samaritans. The Samaritans were the “people who lived in Samaria after the northern kingdom of Israel was captured by the Assyrians. The Samaritans were partly Israelite and partly Gentile. Their religion was a mixture of Jewish and pagan beliefs and practices” (Guide to the Scriptures, “Samaritans,” scriptures.churchofjesuschrist.org/study). Lesson 107: Ezra,” Old Testament Seminary Student Material (2018)

According to verses 1–2, what did the Samaritans want to do?

  1. Stop the Jews from building the temple
  2. Build a different kind of temple
  3. Help the Jews build the temple

2. What did Zerubbabel and the other Jewish leaders tell the Samaritans?

  1. The Jews would build the temple themselves.
  2. The Jews would be happy to have the Samaritans’ help.
  3. The Samaritans must wait until the next year to help them.

3. How did the Samaritans respond when Zerubbabel and the other Jewish leaders rejected their offer?

  1. They went away and left the Jews alone.
  2. They discouraged the Jews from building the temple and created opposition.
  3. They gave the Jews supplies for the building of the temple.

As a result of the Samaritans’ opposition, the temple’s construction stopped for several years (see Ezra 4:1–24; Haggai 1:2–6).

Our spiritual progress may halt if we don’t choose the right or if we listen to the opposition and give in.

Friend February 2020 “Matt & Mandy” When some kids find a wallet, Matt and his friend stand for the right by telling a boy, who wants to keep the money, that they need to return the wallet to its owner.

Friend September 2017 “Matt and Mandy” Matt tells some boys he doesn’t want to hear a bad joke even though they call him chicken.

Lesson 107: Ezra,” Old Testament Seminary Student Material (2018) We read in Ezra 5:1–2 that some of the Jews began to rebuild the temple again. When local Persian-appointed governors learned that the Jews had resumed building the temple, they questioned the Jews’ authority to do so and looked for ways to stop the construction.

Read Ezra 5:5, looking for why the local governors could not stop the Jews from rebuilding the temple.

What principle can we identify from the Jews’ experience of rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem?

One principle we can identify from Ezra 5:5 is that God watches over and helps us as we seek to obey Him.

Friend July 2022 “Stand for What You Believe”David stood for what he believed. He wasn’t alone. God’s power was with him. He beat Goliath. God will help us even when we face Goliath-sized challenges.

THE DEDICATION OF THE TEMPLE

Ezra CHAPTER 6 Darius renews the decree of Cyrus to build the temple—It is finished and dedicated, and sacrifices and feasts commence again.

With the encouragement of the prophets Haggai and Zechariah, the Jews finished building the temple (see Ezra 6:14).

The temple gives me reason to rejoice.

Lesson 107: Ezra,” Old Testament Seminary Student Material (2018) Read Ezra 6:16, 22, looking for how the Lord blessed the people during the dedication of the temple.

What principle might we identify from these verses about the blessings of building temples and participating in temple work?

One principle we can identify from Ezra 6:16, 22 is that as we participate in temple work, we will be blessed with joy.

How have you or someone you know experienced joy through participating in temple work, including family history work?

Friend March 2021 “Forever” A family adopts a little girl and then are sealed together at the temple.

Friend November 2021 “Family History Blessings” Antonella got a Family Search account when she was baptized. She’s learned more about her family and loves her family even more now. She also wants to help others unite their families for eternity.

  • Share with the children your feelings about the temple. How has the temple helped you feel closer to Heavenly Father and the Savior? Why do we celebrate when a temple is dedicated? Give the children time to write down how they feel about the temple, and encourage them to share what they wrote with their families.

Friend December 2017 “The House of the Lord” Idea: Place each item on a folder layout or board as you discuss temple open houses and dedications.

For modern examples of rejoicing at the building of temples, see the videos “Practice, Celebration, Dedication: Temple Blessings in El Salvador” and “The Laie Hawaii Temple Youth Cultural Celebration” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org).

Friend July 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities” Temple Craft

Story: The temple in Jerusalem was destroyed. Years later, the people rebuilt it. They were so happy! They “praised the Lord” and “shouted aloud for joy” (Ezra 3:11, 12).

Song: “I Love to See the Temple” (Children’s Songbook, 95)

Activity: Fold a piece of paper in half. Draw or glue a picture of the temple on the front. Then open the fold and draw or glue a picture of yourself inside. Write the words, “I’ll go inside someday.” Talk about how going to the temple can make us happy.

(see temples.ChurchofJesusChrist.org)

For additional teaching ideas see Temples.

NEHEMIAH REBUILDS THE JERUSALEM WALL

Nehemiah CHAPTER 2 Artaxerxes sends Nehemiah to Jerusalem—Sanballat and others oppose Nehemiah in rebuilding the walls and gates of Jerusalem.

Nehemiah CHAPTER 4 The Jews’ enemies seek to prevent them from rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem—Nehemiah arms the laborers and keeps the work progressing.

Nehemiah CHAPTER 5 Many Jews are in bondage to their fellow Jews—At Nehemiah’s direction they are freed, their lands are restored, and the taking of usury is discontinued.

Nehemiah CHAPTER 6 Sanballat engages in intrigue against Nehemiah and the building of the wall—The Jews finish the construction of the wall.

Remember that previously (approximately 90 years earlier), the Persian king Cyrus had allowed many Jews to return to Jerusalem to rebuild the temple and establish a community there. The city, which at that time was without walls, was unsafe to live in. The people were in “great affliction” (verse 3), and the temple was in danger of being destroyed again.

The Lord will help me do His “great work.”

Nehemiah 2:17–20; 6:1–9

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

  • As you read Nehemiah 2:20, you and your children could “arise” and pretend to help build the walls of Jerusalem. Or your children might enjoy building a wall with blocks or other objects. As they do, you could help them think of important things Heavenly Father wants us to do. (Or, let the children use the blocks to help you build a wall (or draw a wall on the board). Help the children think of some important things Heavenly Father might ask them to do, like learning how to read the scriptures. With each idea they share, invite them to add a block to the wall.
  • As you read Nehemiah 6:9, invite your children to raise their hands when they hear you say “strengthen my hands.” Tell the children about a time when you felt God strengthen your hands to do His work.

Friend November 2019 “The Primary Talk” Dennis was afraid to give a talk in Primary. He prayed, prepared, and practiced but he was still nervous, so he asked his father to give him a blessing. After the blessing he was able to give the talk with only a few stutters, and he knew Heavenly Father helped him.

How can we follow Nehemiah’s example in verse 9 when it’s difficult to do what God has asked us to do?

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Ezra 1; 3–7; Nehemiah 2; 4–6; 8” When Nehemiah was repairing the walls surrounding Jerusalem, his enemies tried to get him to stop, but he remained faithful to his task. What are some important things the Lord wants the children to do, and how can you inspire them to be faithful to that work?

But as the walls of the city began to rise, opposition intensified. Nehemiah’s enemies threatened, conspired, and ridiculed. Their threats were very real, and they grew so intimidating that Nehemiah confessed, “They all made us afraid.” In spite of the danger and the ever-present threat of invasion, the work progressed. It was a time of stress, for every builder “had his sword girded by his side, and so builded.”

As the work continued, Nehemiah’s enemies became more desperate. Four times they entreated him to leave the safety of the city and meet with them under the pretense of resolving the conflict, but Nehemiah knew that their intent was to do him harm. Each time they approached him, he responded with the same answer: “I am doing a great work, so that I cannot come down.”

The Lord is seeking men like Nehemiah—He seeks to enlist unfaltering souls who diligently go about the work of building the kingdom of God—those who, when faced with opposition and temptation, say in their hearts, “I am doing a great work and cannot come down.”

Describe how you can apply the phrase “I am doing a great work and cannot come down” (see Nehemiah 6:3) when you face opposition in doing God’s will. 

The Lord will strengthen me to do “a great work.”

Nehemiah 2; 4; 6

  • Review with the children the story about Nehemiah repairing the walls surrounding Jerusalem, including the opposition he faced. Read together Nehemiah 2:19, and ask the children to share situations in which someone might laugh at us for doing the right thing. According to Nehemiah 2:20, how did Nehemiah respond? How can we respond when people make fun of us or criticize us for doing the right thing?

Friend November 2018 “Finders Keepers?” Mike finds some money on the school grounds and takes it to the office even though his friends think they should keep it and spend it.

EZRA READS THE SCRIPTURES TO THE PEOPLE

Ezra CHAPTER 7 Ezra goes up to Jerusalem—Artaxerxes provides for beautifying the temple and sustains the Jews in their worship.

Nehemiah CHAPTER 8 Ezra reads and interprets the law of Moses to the people—They keep the Feast of Tabernacles.

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Ezra 1; 3–7; Nehemiah 2; 4–6; 8” Even after the temple was rebuilt, the people of Jerusalem struggled spiritually, in part because, for generations, they had limited access to “the book of the law of Moses” (Nehemiah 8:1). Ezra the scribe received permission from the king of Persia to go to Jerusalem, where he “brought the law before the congregation” (Nehemiah 8:2).

Nehemiah 8:1–12

The scriptures are a blessing.

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

  • Read aloud some phrases from Nehemiah 8:2–3, 5–6, 8–9, 12 that describe what the people did when they heard Ezra read the scriptures. As you read, your children could act out these phrases. Then you could share with each other how you feel when you read or hear the scriptures.

  • As you read together Nehemiah 8:8, you could ask your children what helps them understand the scriptures. Show them how to use scripture study aids like the Guide to the Scriptures and Topics and Questions (Gospel Library). Invite your children to share something they have learned about the Savior from the scriptures.
  • Invite the children to color this week’s activity page. As they do, share with the children how reading the scriptures has brought you closer to the Savior.

Friend October 2022 “Scripture Hero Cards”

“Lesson 37: Josiah and Ezra Read the Scriptures to the People,” Primary 6: Old Testament 

Attention Activity

Ask the children if they remember what the first lessons of this course were about. If they remember the general topics, ask for more specific details. Explain that it is hard for us to remember information that we learned a long time ago. Show the children a journal, scrapbook, photo album, baby book, or similar book, and relate the following true experience or a personal experience you have had keeping records. (Read the story found at the link under attention activity. See the lesson for additional activities related to reading the scriptures.)

Explain that it is easy to forget things that we aren’t constantly reminded of. Important information should be studied and reviewed continually so that we do not forget it. Show the children your scriptures, and tell them these books contain Heavenly Father’s words to us. Diligent daily study of the scriptures will help us remember and keep his commandments. Tell the children that in this lesson they will learn about the people of Judah at two different historical times: during the reign of King Josiah (about 640 B.C.) and the time of Nehemiah and Ezra (about 450 B.C.) (B.C. means before the birth of Christ). Both groups of people had lost the book of the law—the scriptures the Lord gave to them through Moses—so they forgot the commandments and did not obey them.

See Scriptures for additional ideas

Additional Resources

Scripture Helps: Old Testament

Old Testament Student Manual Kings-Malachi “The Exiles Return”

Come Follow Me Kid Lesson ideas

Latter Day Kids “Nehemiah Rebuilds the Walls of Jerusalem” Lesson ideas

The Red Crystal “Come Follow Me- For Primary, Free LDS primary lesson helps, July 18-24” The Red Crystal has some great lesson ideas such as the activity page below. Check them out at the link.

The Red Crystal

Jul 6 2022

2 Kings 2–7

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ELIJAH IS TRANSLATED. THE MANTEL OF ELIJAH FALLS ON ELISHA

2 Kings CHAPTER 2 Elisha and the prophets know that Elijah is to be translated—Elijah divides the waters of the Jordan and is taken up into heaven in a whirlwind—The mantle of Elijah falls on Elisha, who also divides the waters of the Jordan—Elisha heals the waters of Jericho—Youths are torn by bears for mocking Elisha.

2 Kings CHAPTER 3 Jehoram of Israel and Jehoshaphat of Judah join forces against Moab—Elisha promises them water for their animals and victory in the war—The Moabites are defeated.

ELISHA PERFORMS MANY MIRACLES

2 Kings CHAPTER 4 Elisha multiplies the widow’s oil—He promises a son to a Shunammite woman—The child dies and is raised to life by Elisha—He makes the poisonous food harmless—Bread and grain are multiplied for the people to eat.

God can work miracles in my life.

2 Kings 4

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “2 Kings 2-7”

  • Ask the children to talk about what a miracle is. If they need help, they could review “Miracle” in Guide to the Scriptures (scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org).

  • After helping your children understand what a miracle is, invite the children to write on the board, or on a piece of paper, as many miracles as they can remember from the scriptures. Pictures in the Gospel Art Book or Come, Follow Me can help. Give them time to review 2 Kings 4–5 and add to their list (see 2 Kings 4:1–7, 14–17, 32–35, 38–41, 42–44). What do these miracles teach about Heavenly Father?

Old Testament Stories “Elisha the Prophet”

You and your children could talk about how God has shown His love through miracles.

Talk about how you have seen God’s power in your life. You might include daily miracles such as feelings of peace, the gift of daily life, or help with daily tasks. Invite the children to talk about miracles in their lives, both large and small.

See also New Era March 2019 “Finding Miracles in Everyday Life”

You could also sing together a song such as “God’s Gracious Love” (Hymns for Home and Church, Gospel Library).

NAAMAN COMES TO ELISHA TO BE HEALED OF LEPROSY

2 Kings CHAPTER 5 Naaman, the Syrian, comes to Elisha to be healed of leprosy—He rejects the prophet’s instruction at first but relents and dips himself in the Jordan seven times; he is healed—Elisha refuses to accept a reward—Gehazi accepts a gift from Naaman and is cursed with leprosy.

I can choose to do what God commands through His prophet.

2 Kings 5:1–15

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “2 Kings 2-7”

Old Testament Stories “Elisha Heals Naaman”

Why didn’t Naaman want to wash in the Jordan River, even though Elisha said that this would heal his disease? How was Naaman blessed when he followed Elisha’s instructions? You might share with each other experiences when you obeyed the Lord, even when you weren’t sure you wanted to.

  • Read 2 Kings 5:13 to the children, and explain that Naaman’s servants helped him decide to obey the prophet Elisha. Help the children think of ways they could help their friends or family members listen to and obey the prophet.

Media Library “Naaman and Elisha”

  • Invite the children to complete the activity page and share with a family member or friend something they learned from the story of Naaman in 2 Kings 5:1–15.

“Lesson 35: Naaman Is Healed,” Primary 6: Old Testament To strengthen each child’s desire to obey righteous leaders.

ELISHA’S SERVANT IS AFRAID AND IS ALLOWED TO SEE THE LORD’S ARMY

2 Kings CHAPTER 6 Elisha causes an ax to float—He reveals to the king how to conduct a war with Syria—Horses and chariots of fire protect Elisha—The Syrians are smitten with blindness—Benhadad besieges Samaria, and foodstuff sells for a great price.

I am not alone.

2 Kings 6:8–17

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “2 Kings 2-7”

The children you teach may sometimes feel like the servant of Elisha—unsure of how to meet the challenges before them. You can use the account in 2 Kings 6:8–17 to teach them to “fear not” because the Lord has not left them alone.

  • You and your children could imagine you are surrounded by an army with swords, horses, and chariots. How would you feel? What would you do? Your children could then close their eyes while you read 2 Kings 6:16–17 to them. (See also “Elisha and the Lord’s Army,” in Old Testament Stories, 138–39, or the picture at the end of this outline.) When you get to the words “open his eyes” (verse 17), ask the children to open their eyes. Talk about what the servant saw. Share with your children ways you have felt that the Lord was with you during your challenges, even when it seemed like you were alone.
  • Sing together a song about God’s care for us, such as the first verse of “Dearest Children, God Is Near You” (Hymns, no. 96). Replace words in the song with names of the children to emphasize that God is watching over them.

Liahona July 2022 “You Are Never Alone”

Family members might enjoy drawing a picture of the experience of Elisha and his servant described in these verses. How can these verses help us when we feel alone or overwhelmed?

Additional Resources

Come Follow Me Kid Lesson ideas

The Red Crystal Lesson ideas

Jun 29 2022

1 Kings 12-13; 17–22

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After the death of Solomon, his son Rehoboam became king and increased the people’s burdens. The people revolted and were divided into the Northern Kingdom of Israel and the Southern Kingdom of Judah. Jeroboam, king of the Northern Kingdom, introduced idolatry and other wicked practices among his people. Later, Elijah was a prophet during the reign of Ahab in the Northern Kingdom.The Lord sent a drought according to Elijah’s word.

“Lesson 32: Rehoboam” Primary 6: Old Testament  To encourage each child to be a positive influence on others and to withstand negative peer pressure.

ELIJAH IS FED BY RAVENS AND A WIDOW

1 Kings Chapter 17 Elijah seals the heavens and is fed by the ravens—At his command the barrel of flour and the jar of oil of the widow of Zarephath never become empty—He raises her son from death.

The Lord blesses me as I have faith in Him.

1 Kings 17

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

  • Display pictures or objects that go with the stories in 1 Kings 17, such as birds, bread, or a boy. Tell these stories to the children (“Elijah the Prophet” in Old Testament Stories can help), and invite them to find the picture or object that goes with each story (Elijah was fed by ravens during a famine, a widow and her son had their food multiplied, and Elijah raised the widow’s son from the dead.) Emphasize that Elijah and the widow had faith in Jesus Christ and received great blessings.

Old Testament Stories for Young Readers “Elijah and the Widow” Video

Friend September 2018 “Elijah and the Widow”

Friend Sept 2014

  • Help the children think of ways they can show that they have faith in Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ, which means that they believe in Them and trust Them. Sing with them a song about faith, such as “I Know My Father Lives” (Children’s Songbook, 5).

1 Kings 17:8–16

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “1 Kings 17–19” The widow of Zarephath trusted the Lord and His prophet, even though she was asked to make a great sacrifice. This story could help the children when the Lord asks them to make sacrifices.

  • Read to the children 1 Kings 17:8–16. Invite them to act out the story as you read it a second time. Pause at various points and ask them how they would feel if they were Elijah or the widow. Invite them to share what they learn from this story.
  • Invite a child to draw on the board a picture of what the Lord asked the widow to give Elijah (see 1 Kings 17:12–13). Invite another child to draw what the widow received in return (see 1 Kings 17:15–16). What are some things the Lord asks us to sacrifice? Ask the children to share how they have been blessed for making sacrifices.

Old Testament Coloring Book “Elijah and the Widow”

“Lesson 33: Elijah Uses the Priesthood,” Primary 6: Old Testament To help the children have a greater understanding of how the priesthood blesses their lives.

ELIJAH AND THE PRIESTS OF BAAL

1 Kings CHAPTER 18 Elijah is sent to meet Ahab—Obadiah saves a hundred prophets and meets Elijah—Elijah challenges the prophets of Baal to call down fire from heaven—They fail—He calls down fire, slays the prophets of Baal, and opens the heavens for rain.

I can choose to follow Jesus Christ.

1 Kings 18:17–39

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

  • As you read 1 Kings 18:17–39 together, your children could pick a verse and draw a picture of what it describes. They could use their pictures to tell the story in their own words. (See also “Elijah and the Priests of Baal,” in Old Testament Stories, 125–28.)

Help your children think of situations when they might need to decide whether or not to follow Jesus Christ. Maybe they could draw pictures of themselves making the right choice. Share with each other why you choose to follow Jesus.

What does it mean to follow Jesus Christ? Help the children think of specific things they will do to follow Jesus Christ, and invite them to draw pictures of themselves doing those things.

Friend March 2018 “Family Night Fun” Each person makes a pair of sandals and then writes on their shoes one way they want to follow Jesus.

I can choose to follow Jesus Christ. (Older Children)

  • Ask the children to talk about times when they had to decide between two different things. What helped them decide? Help them think of situations when they might need to decide whether or not to follow Jesus Christ. What truths from the story in 1 Kings 18:17–39 could help them decide?

For the Strength of Youth July 2022 “The Choice” Ben forgot to write a book report that was due the next day. He has to make a choice whether he will follow God or cheat and copy a book report from the internet.

“Lesson 34: Elijah and the False Prophets of Baal,” Primary 6: Old Testament To encourage the children to worship Heavenly Father diligently..

THE LORD SPEAKS TO ELIJAH, NOT IN THE WIND, EARTHQUAKE, OR FIRE

1 Kings CHAPTER 19 Jezebel seeks the life of Elijah—An angel sends him to Horeb—The Lord speaks to Elijah, not in the wind nor the earthquake nor the fire, but in a still, small voice—Elisha joins Elijah.

The Lord speaks to me through the still, small voice of the Holy Ghost.

1 Kings 19:9–12

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

  • As you summarize 1 Kings 19:9–12, invite your children to do actions to represent the strong wind, the earthquake, and the fire. Then invite them to sit still as you say together, in a quiet voice, “after the fire a still small voice” (verse 12). (See also “The Lord Speaks to Elijah,” in Old Testament Stories, 129–31.) Tell your children about times when you have experienced the still, small voice of the Holy Ghost.

Old Testament Stories “The Lord Speaks to Elijah”

Friend July 2022 “Elijah and the Still, Small Voice”

Latter Day Kids “Elijah and the Still Small Voice” Lesson ideas

  • Quietly sing a song about the Spirit, such as “The Still Small Voice” (Children’s Songbook, 106–7) or “Elijah and the Still, Small Voice” (Hymns for Home and Church, Gospel Library). What can distract us from recognizing the Spirit? What can help us hear Him?

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “1 Kings 17–19” With some guidance, young children can recognize the influence of the Holy Ghost in their lives. Ponder how you can help them.

Friend August 2016 “The Little Bottle of Silence” Gage’s grandfather gives him a empty bottle of “silence” at his baptism to remind Gage that quietness helps you hear the Holy Ghost. He feels the Holy Ghost comforting him during a sad time when he seeks quiet time.

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Friend September 2015 “Sister Pettigrew’s Lesson”  Elder Ronald A. Rasband tells how he learned to listen to the still, small voice

Friend September 2015
  • Help the children recognize when they may have felt the Holy Ghost’s influence. For example, play or sing a reverent song about Jesus, and ask them how they feel when they think about Him. Ask them how they feel during other reverent activities, such as praying with their families or partaking of the sacrament. Explain that these feelings come from the Holy Ghost. Tell the children how the power of the Holy Ghost has blessed your life.

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “1 Kings 17–19” The world is full of distracting noises that make it difficult to hear the still, small voice of the Spirit. How will you help the children hear it?

  • Ask the children to listen closely as you read 1 Kings 19:11–12 to them very quietly. Invite them to search 1 Kings 19 to find the verses you read and learn what Elijah was doing. Talk about what they had to do to hear what you were saying, and help them compare this to what we have to do to hear the “still small voice” of the Spirit. Let the children take turns quietly reading other verses from 1 Kings 19 while other children find those verses in the scriptures.
  • . Ask the children to talk about times when they have felt the Holy Ghost guiding them or testifying to them. What were they doing? What can distract us from recognizing the Spirit? Read together Moroni 4:3, and encourage the children to choose one thing they will do so they can “always have his Spirit to be with them.”

“Lesson 33: Elijah Uses the Priesthood,” Primary 6: Old Testament To help the children have a greater understanding of how the priesthood blesses their lives.

Friend July 2026 “Weekly Scripture Fun” The Holy Ghost speaks in a still, small voice. Have one person read the verses above in a quiet voice. While they read, everyone else makes storm noises as loud as they can! Can you hear what the scriptures are saying? Then have everyone be quiet and listen to the scriptures again. What do you learn about the Holy Ghost and how He speaks to us?

Additional Resources

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

The Red Crystal

Jun 20 2022

 2 Samuel 11–12; 1 Kings 3; 6-9; 11

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DAVID AND BATHSHEBA

2 Samuel CHAPTER 11 David lies with Bathsheba, and she conceives—He then arranges for the death in battle of her husband, Uriah.

2 Samuel CHAPTER 12 Nathan tells David the parable of the ewe lamb—The Lord gave many wives to David, who is now cursed for taking Bathsheba—David fasts and prays for his son, but the Lord takes him—Solomon is born—David conquers the royal city of the Ammonites.

The Lord can help me when I am tempted.

2 Samuel 11

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

“King David” in Old Testament Stories, 117–20, can help you tell your children the story in 2 Samuel 11. You might ask your children to identify the wrong choices David made and suggest good choices he could have made instead. What are some things we can do when we are being tempted that can help us make the right choice?

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022

The children you teach make small but important decisions every day. How can you help them understand the importance of choosing what’s right even when it’s hard?

  • To share an example of someone who, unlike David, resisted temptation, ask the children if they remember the story of Joseph and Potiphar’s wife (see Genesis 39:7–12). You might review this story with the children and help them compare it with the story of David. What can we learn from the stories of David and of Joseph about how to resist temptation? (Watch below video until .38)

Lesson 15: Joseph Was Sold into Egypt,” Primary 6: Old Testament Tell the class that the nail, pin, or paper clip represents us. Place it between the two magnets on a flat surface so it can be attracted by one or the other. Show that the further away from “Satan” we are, the less power he has to tempt us. As you move the metal object toward the magnet representing God, explain that the closer we live to the Lord, the more we are influenced by his goodness. When we seek after good, we are less influenced by that which is evil. (What can we do to draw close to God? How can the Holy Ghost help us?)

  1. Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ know that it is harder to avoid temptation when we allow ourselves to get close to it. Discuss with the children how they could distance themselves from temptation in the following situations:
    1. You could make a list on the chalkboard of temptations, Discuss strategies for resisting evil, such as removing ourselves from the situation and replacing the temptation with something wholesome. Erase each harmful influence from the chalkboard as it is discussed.

Friend June 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities” The Lamb Story

Story: The prophet Nathan told a story about two men. The first man had lots of lambs. The second man had only one lamb. The man with many lambs stole the other man’s lamb. That made the man with only one lamb very sad. It also made Heavenly Father sad. (See 2 Samuel 12:1–4.)

Song: “I’m Trying to Be like Jesus” (Children’s Songbook, 78–79)

Activity: Act out the story of the two men and the lambs. You could use toys or other objects for the lambs. Then act it out again, but this time change the ending! What can the first man do to be kind instead of selfish?

Lesson 30: King David and Bathsheba,” Primary 6: Old Testament (1996), 131–34
To help the children keep their thoughts and actions pure.

Reading about David’s tragic sins might be a good opportunity to discuss the dangers of pornography. The video “What Should I Do When I See Pornography?” (Gospel Library) has helpful guidance. Help your children make a plan about what they will do when they encounter pornography.

Video tells story of David. President Oaks compares David’s story to looking at pornography.

Discuss some ways the children can interrupt impure thoughts that may come to them (turn away, leave the situation, replace the bad thoughts with good thoughts and actions, say a prayer, think of an uplifting song or verse of scripture, recite the thirteenth article of faith, and so forth). Challenge the class members to be prepared in advance with a specific replacement for an undesirable thought. Allow them a minute to choose something uplifting they can think of instead.

For additional teaching ideas see Teaching Children the Gospel “Temptation”

THE WISDOM OF KING SOLOMON

1 Kings CHAPTER 3 Solomon loves the Lord and keeps His commandments—The Lord appears to Solomon and promises him a wise and an understanding heart—He judges between two harlots and determines who is the mother of a child.

I can walk in the ways of God.

“Lesson 31: The Wisdom of King Solomon,” Primary 6: Old Testament  Lesson includes great questions and lesson and story ideas

Attention Activity

Ask the children to name things they would ask for if they knew they could ask Heavenly Father for anything and he would give it to them. Write the children’s ideas on the chalkboard.

Show the children some waterproof items that could represent worldly goods, such as a piece of jewelry, a coin, a pretty rock, and so on. Put the items in a large pitcher or container as you talk about them and discuss how some people spend most of their efforts accumulating material goods. Then add some water to the container to represent good deeds or spiritual gifts as you discuss the kind deeds we can do and the spiritual gifts we can develop, such as helping a family member or friend, gaining a testimony, being honest, or having an understanding heart. Pour the contents of the container through a strainer into another container. Explain that the first container represents someone’s life, the strainer represents death, and the second container represents life after death. Discuss how we cannot take material goods with us when we die, but we do take with us the spiritual gifts we have developed and the good deeds we have done.

Ask the children which of the items on the chalkboard represent things that could last forever and if they would like to change anything they named before. Tell the children that they are going to learn about someone who was able to ask God for one thing, and he chose an eternal, spiritual gift instead of a temporary, earthly one.

Write knowledge, wisdom, and an understanding heart on the chalkboard. Discuss the meaning of each one. Explain that knowledge is learning gained through study or experience; wisdom is using what we have learned in the best way to make right choices; and an understanding heart enables us to know how others feel.

Have the children find the book of Proverbs in their Bibles. Explain that most of these proverbs (wise sayings) were written by Solomon, and because of his great wisdom, these sayings can help us today. (See the lesson link for a list of some of the wise sayings found in Proverbs.)

Two Women, One Baby

“Lesson 96: 1 Kings 1–10,” Old Testament Seminary Student Material We read in 1 Kings 3:16–23 that two women petitioned King Solomon to judge a difficult situation. The two women lived in one house and had borne children at about the same time. One night, one of the women woke up to find that her baby had died. Rather than mourn the loss of her baby, she switched her dead baby with the other woman’s baby. The next morning, when the second woman awoke to nurse her child, she found the other woman’s dead baby in her arms instead of her son. When the women came before Solomon, the first woman fervently denied the other woman’s accusation that she had switched the babies.

Read 1 Kings 3:24–27 to find out how Solomon identified the child’s rightful mother.

We read in 1 Kings 3:28 that all of Israel heard of this experience and recognized that God had blessed Solomon with wisdom. According to 1 Kings 4, knowledge of Solomon’s wisdom spread to other nations.

Friend July 2026 “Weekly Scripture Fun: Walk in His Ways

Song: “I Will Walk with Jesus” (Hymns—For Home and Church, no. 1004)

Scripture: 1 Kings 8:57–58

Activity: When we follow Jesus Christ, we walk in His ways. Make a path outside using chalk, leaves, or rocks. If you can’t make a path outside, make one inside using towels and blankets! Now follow the path together. Talk about things you can do to walk in His way, like keeping the commandments.

THE TEMPLE OF SOLOMON

I Kings Chapter 6 Solomon builds the temple—The Lord promises to dwell among the Israelites if they are obedient—The ornaments of the temple are described.

1 Kings Chapter 7 Solomon builds himself a house—Hiram of Tyre makes the two pillars, the molten sea, the ten bases, the ten lavers, and all the vessels for the temple—The molten sea (baptismal font) rests on the backs of twelve oxen.

1 Kings CHAPTER 8 The ark, containing the two tablets of stone, is placed in the holy of holies—The glory of the Lord fills the temple—Solomon offers the dedicatory prayer—He asks for temporal and spiritual blessings upon repentant and prayerful Israel—The people sacrifice and worship for fourteen days.

I Kings Chapter 9 The Lord again appears to Solomon—The Lord promises great blessings if the Israelites are obedient and great cursings if they forsake Him—Solomon reigns in splendor, levies tribute upon the non-Israelites, and builds a navy of ships.

Making covenants in the Lord’s house—and keeping them—helps me walk in His ways.

Explain to the children that David, Solomon’s father, had wanted to build a temple but was denied the privilege. The Lord instead chose Solomon to direct the seven years of construction. When the elaborate temple (much of it was overlaid with gold) was finished, the priests carried the ark of the covenant, which contained the two tablets of stone the Lord gave Moses, “to the most holy place” of the building (1 Kings 8:6). Then the glory of the Lord filled the temple (see 1 Kings 8:10–11), and Solomon offered the dedicatory prayer (see 1 Kings 8:22–53.)

For the Israelites, building and dedicating the temple was an opportunity to turn their hearts to the Lord and recommit to “walk in all his ways” (1 Kings 8:58). How can you help the children you teach “walk in all his ways”?

1 Kings 8:22–61

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

  • As you and your children learn about the dedication of the temple in 1 Kings 8, you could look at the pictures of temples in this week’s outline. Let your children talk about details they see in the pictures. You might emphasize verses 57–58. What does it mean to “walk in all [the Lord’s] ways”? (1 Kings 8:58). Maybe your children could take a step for each answer they give.
  • Tell your children how keeping the covenants you make in the temple helps you walk in the Lord’s ways. You might tell them what these covenants are (see General Handbook, 27.2, Gospel Library).
  • Help the children understand that we walk in the Lord’s ways when we follow Jesus and try to become like Him. Ask the children what they do to walk in the Savior’s ways. You could sing a song about following Jesus, such as “I’m Trying to Be like Jesus” (Children’s Songbook, 78–79).

For additional lesson ideas see Temple

Old Testament Coloring Book “The Temple of Solomon”

SOLOMON TURNS FROM GOD

1 Kings CHAPTER 11 Solomon marries non-Israelite women, and his wives turn his heart to the worship of false gods—The Lord stirs up adversaries against him, including Jeroboam, the son of Nebat—Ahijah promises Jeroboam that he will be the king of the ten tribes—Solomon dies and Rehoboam reigns in his stead.

I can put the Lord first in my life.

1 Kings 11:1–11

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

  • Reading about how Solomon’s wives influenced him could lead to a conversation about examples of “other gods”—or things that people worship or love instead of the Lord. How do we show that we love Him more than anything else in our lives?

The Red Crystal

See also Priorities

Additional Resources

The Red Crystal

Latter Day Kids “Walk in His Ways” Lesson ideas

May 30 2022

Judges 2–4; 6–8; 13–16

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Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Judges 2–4; 6–8; 13–16” We all know what it’s like to make a mistake, feel bad about it, and then repent and resolve to change our ways. But in some cases we forget our earlier resolve, and, when we face temptation, we may find ourselves making the mistake again. This tragic pattern is typical of the Israelites’ experiences described in the book of Judges. Influenced by the beliefs and worship practices of the Canaanites—whom they were supposed to drive out of the land—the Israelites broke their covenants with the Lord and turned away from worshipping Him. As a result, they lost His protection and fell into captivity. And yet each time this happened, the Lord gave them the chance to repent and raised up a deliverer, a military leader called a “judge.” Not all of the judges in the book of Judges were righteous, but some of them exercised great faith in delivering the children of Israel and restoring them to their covenant relationship with the Lord. These stories remind us that no matter what has led us away from Jesus Christ, He is the Redeemer of Israel and is always willing to deliver us and welcome us back to Him.

THE ISRAELITES FORGET THE LORD

Judges CHAPTER 2 An angel rebukes Israel for not serving the Lord—As a pattern of future events, a new generation arises that forsakes the Lord and serves Baal and Ashtaroth—The Lord is angry with the children of Israel and ceases to preserve them—He raises up judges to guide and lead them—The Canaanites are left in the land to test Israel.

Judges CHAPTER 3 The children of Israel intermarry with the Canaanites, worship false gods, and are cursed—Othniel judges the Israelites—They serve Moab and are delivered by Ehud, who slays Eglon.

Always Remember Him

Judges 2:10.

After Joshua died, the next generation of Israelites “knew not the Lord.” Talk with your family about how they know the Lord and “the works which he [has] done” for them. How will you ensure that this knowledge will be preserved for future generations? (Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Judges 2–4; 6–8; 13–16”)

How do we come to know the Lord? Through scripture study, prayer, sacrament, living the commandments. etc.

Friend June 2019 “The Sacrament Reminds Us of Jesus Christ” Ways to prepare for the sacrament before hand, what to do during the sacrament, and remembering Jesus and following him after the sacrament.

New Era March 2008 “How Can I Come to Know Christ?”

Friend November 2017 “Family Night Fun” Ways you can look for blessings every day.

Jesus Christ is my Deliverer.

Judges 3:9

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Judges 2–4; 6–8; 13–16” When the Israelites prayed to the Lord, He raised up a deliverer for them. Help the children see that Jesus Christ is the Deliverer whom God has raised up for us.

Judges 3:7–9, 12–15

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

Junior Primary

  1. Explain to the children that when the Israelites stopped keeping God’s commandments, they lost His protection and were defeated by their enemies. Read from Judges 3:9 the phrase “the children of Israel cried unto the Lord.” What did the Israelites do when they needed help? Share an experience when you prayed for help and God answered your prayer.
  2. Read from Judges 3:9 the phrase “the Lord raised up a deliverer,” and invite the children to repeat it with you a few times. Explain that a deliverer is someone who saves us.

Senior Primary

Write the following on the board: “did evil,” “cried unto the Lord,” and “raised up a deliverer.” Invite some of the children to find these phrases in Judges 3:7–9, and invite others to find them in Judges 3:12–15. Explain to the children that over and over in the book of Judges, the Israelites “did evil.” Then, when their enemies attacked, they “cried unto the Lord,” and the Lord “raised up a deliverer” to help them. What do we learn about the Lord from this cycle?

What might lead us to forget the Lord? How can He deliver us? How can we be more consistently faithful to Him.

Both:

  • To emphasize that Jesus Christ is our Deliverer, you could gather several pictures of people, including a picture of Jesus, and place them face down. Let your children take turns flipping over the pictures. When they find the picture of Jesus, sing a song about Him, such as “He Sent His Son” (Children’s Songbook, 34–35). R. Testify that Jesus Christ is the Deliverer whom God has raised up to save us from sin, trials, sorrow, and death. Tell your children about how He has delivered you.

DEBORAH THE PROPHETESS

Judges CHAPTER 4 Deborah, a prophetess, judges Israel—She and Barak deliver Israel from the Canaanites—Jael, a woman, slays Sisera, the Canaanite.

I can inspire others to have faith in the Lord.

Judges 4:1–15

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

Although many of the Israelites fell away from the Lord, some remained true to Him and were able to help many others return to righteousness. How can you encourage the children to stay true to the Lord no matter what others are doing?

  • You can use “Deborah the Prophetess” in Old Testament Stories, 92–95, to tell your children the story in Judges 4. Share with each other what you admire about Deborah. How did her faith in the Lord bless the people around her? What can we do to help others have more faith in Jesus Christ?

Old Testament Scripture Stories “Deborah the Prophetess”

Read together Judges 4:14, and ask the children to find something Deborah said that showed that her faith in the Lord was strong. Then ask them to read Doctrine and Covenants 84:88 to find a principle that is also in Judges 4:14. Encourage them to share what the Lord’s promise “I will go before your face” means to them.

Friend June 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities” Deborah and the Palm Tree

Story: Deborah was a righteous leader. She sat under a palm tree and listened to her people (see Judges 4:4–5). She helped them repent and follow God.

Activity: Psalm 92:12 says, “The righteous shall flourish like the palm tree.” Make the palm tree on page 36. Talk about ways you can follow God.

Friend June 2022 “Deborah under the Palm Tree” Color the pieces and cut them out along the blue lines. (Do not cut along the top of Deborah’s head—leave her attached to the base.) Fold the tab and then bend the tree base to glue the tab to the other side. Glue or tape the leaves to the top.

  • Sing a song about obeying the commandments, such as “Choose the Right” (Hymns, no. 239) or “Choose the Right Way” (Children’s Songbook, 160–61). How can we stand for righteousness and obey the commandments even when others around us do not?

Friend July 2022 “Scripture Hero Cards”

THE ARMY OF GIDEON

Judges CHAPTER 6 Israel is in bondage to the Midianites—An angel appears to Gideon and calls him to deliver Israel—He overthrows the altar of Baal, the Spirit of the Lord rests upon him, and the Lord gives him a sign to show he is called to deliver Israel.

Judges CHAPTER 7 Gideon’s army is reduced to 300—They frighten the Midianite armies with trumpets and lights—The Midianites fight among themselves, flee, and are defeated by Israel.

Judges CHAPTER 8 Gideon pursues and destroys the Midianites—He frees the children of Israel but refuses their invitation to reign as king over them—Gideon dies, and Israel returns to idolatry.

The Lord can use small things to do great work.

Judges 6:11–16; 7:1–21

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

  • Use Judges 7:4–7, this week’s activity page, or “The Army of Gideon” in Old Testament Stories, 96–99, to teach your children about how the Lord made Israel’s army smaller.

  • Ask the children to imagine that they needed to gather an army together to go to battle. How many people would they want in their army? Using Judges 7:4–7, invite the children to act out how the Lord helped Gideon choose the army that would deliver Israel from the Midianites. Why did the Lord want Gideon’s army to be so small? (see Judges 7:2).

Old Testament Stories “The Army of Gideon”

  • Use this week’s activity page to teach the children about how the Lord made Israel’s army smaller so the Israelites would know that His power had saved them from their enemies. Share examples of small things that do a great work, such as bees gathering nectar to make honey. Bear your testimony that God can help us do a great work, even when we feel small.
  • Invite the children to draw pictures of a sword, shield, trumpet, lamp, and pitcher. Ask the children which of these objects they would take with them into a battle. Then they could read Judges 7:16 to learn what the Lord told Gideon’s army to use. Why would it have taken courage and faith to do this? Read together Judges 7:19–21 to learn how the army used the trumpets and pitchers to defeat the Midianites. What do we learn about the Lord from this story?
Media Library “Gideon’s Army”
  • Read Judges 6:15 to the children, and ask them why Gideon didn’t feel he could do what the Lord wanted. Read verse 16, and ask them who the Lord said would help Gideon. Tell the children about a time when the Lord asked you to do something difficult to serve Him and you felt He was with you.
  • Gideon considered himself poor and insignificant, but God saw him as a “mighty man of valour” (Judges 6:12). Help the children see that even if they feel small, God can work through them to do important things (see Alma 37:6–7).

Friend February 2015 “Juliana Gives a Talk” Juliana is scared to give a talk, but Heavenly Father helps her.

See also “The Lord will help me accomplish his will”

  • Display pictures of children or youth doing great things in the service of God (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 19, 23, 90, 102),
Media Library, Old Testament Gospel Art Book

Friend July 2022 “Scripture Hero Cards”

“Lesson 24: Gideon,” Primary 6: Old Testament 

SAMSON

Judges CHAPTER 13 Israel is in Philistine bondage for forty years—An angel comes to Manoah’s wife and promises a son who will begin to deliver Israel—The angel comes again; he ascends in a flame from the altar—Samson is born, and the Spirit of the Lord moves upon him.

Judges CHAPTER 14 Samson slays a young lion with his bare hands—He marries a Philistine wife, propounds a riddle, is deceived by his wife, and slays thirty Philistines.

Judges CHAPTER 15 Samson burns the grain of the Philistines—They burn his wife and father-in-law—Samson slays a thousand Philistines at Lehi with the jawbone of an ass.

Judges CHAPTER 16 Samson carries away the doors of the gate of Gaza—He loves Delilah, who delivers him to the Philistines—He destroys a building, killing himself and 3,000 others.

Keeping covenants gives me strength.

Judges 13–16

“Lesson 25: Samson,” Primary 6: Old Testament Samson’s mission would require physical strength. The Lord made a covenant with Samson that as long as he obeyed the Lord, he would be physically strong. Samson’s long hair (see Judges 13:5) was a sign of this covenant. When Samson kept his covenants he was blessed with the ability to help his people, but when he broke his covenants he lost both his spiritual and physical strength.

  • Ask for a volunteer to demonstrate how to flex his or her arm muscles. Let the whole class try it to see if they can feel their own muscles. How do muscles help us? Discuss what happens when we exercise our muscles and what happens when we do not use them. Help the children realize that exercise helps us develop strong muscles.
  • Explain that our spirits also need to grow stronger. How can we become stronger spiritually? (By keeping our baptismal covenants, obeying our parents, praying, attending church, reading the scriptures, and so on.)

What happens when people become spiritually weak? (They give in to temptations, they sin, they lose the guidance of the Holy Ghost, and they lose the ability to fulfill their callings and bless others.)

  • Why is it important to become spiritually strong? (So we can avoid temptation, be guided in our decisions by the Holy Ghost, and know good from evil.)

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022

  • Samson’s covenants with the Lord gave him physical strength, just as our covenants give us spiritual strength. Your children might enjoy doing some physical exercises and discussing how those exercises can help make our bodies strong. What can we do to help us become spiritually stronger? For some ideas, the class could read Mosiah 18:8–10; Doctrine and Covenants 20:77, 79. How does keeping our covenants make our spirits strong? .

Samson lost both his physical strength and his spiritual strength because he violated his covenants with God,

Media Library “Samson Pulls Down the Pillars”

See also Spiritual Strength: Lesson Ideas

Additional Resources

Come Follow Me Kid Lesson ideas

The Red Crystal

Latter Day Kids “Jesus Delivers Us” Lesson ideas

Come Follow Me With Living Scriptures “True Strength” Lesson ideas

May 18 2022

Deuteronomy 6–8; 15; 18; 29–30; 34

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Moses’ Farewell

DEUTERONOMY CHAPTER 6

Moses proclaims, The Lord our God is one Lord, and, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God—The children of Israel are commanded to teach their children—Moses exhorts them to keep the commandments, testimonies, and statutes of the Lord that they may prosper.

Moses had spent his life preparing the children of Israel to enter that promised land, and the book of Deuteronomy records his final instructions, reminders, exhortations, and pleadings with the Israelites.(Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022)

I can love God with all my heart.

Deuteronomy 6:5

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Deuteronomy 6–8; 15; 18; 29–30; 34”

To help your children understand Deuteronomy 6:5, you could draw a heart, an outline of a body, and a strong arm. Your children could point to the pictures as you read the words “heart,” “soul,” and “might” in the verse. How do we show the Lord that we love Him with all our heart, soul, and might?

Friend May 2026 “Weekly Scripture Fun”

Friend May 2026 “I Can Love God with All My Heart”

    Ensign September “What Does it Mean to Love God with All Your Heart?” As we love someone else with all our hearts, we make them a priority in our lives. We give them our time, energy, talent, and resources.

    Jesus Christ taught: “If ye love me, keep my commandments.” (John 14:15)

    I can keep the word of God in my heart.

    Deuteronomy 6:6–15

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Deuteronomy 6–8; 15; 18; 29–30; 34”

    • Read with your children the Lord’s counsel to the Israelites to put scripture passages where they would see them every day (see Deuteronomy 6:6–9). This might inspire you and your children to think of ways to make sure you don’t “forget the Lord” (verse 12) and to remember what He has done for you.
    • On the board, write words and phrases from Deuteronomy 6:6–9 that indicate when and how the Israelites were to remember the word of God (such as sittest, walkest, liest down, hand, and house). Invite the children to find these words in the verses. What do these words teach about how to make the scriptures part of our everyday lives? Ask the children what they can do to remember the word of God in their daily life.

    Friend July 2020 “Eva’s Scripture Pictures” Eva loves to draw pictures of scripture stories and she puts them on the fridge to help her and her family to remember them.

    • Give each child a piece of paper, and invite them to write down a phrase from Deuteronomy 6 that is meaningful to them. Ask them to share why they chose their phrase. Suggest that they decorate their paper and display it in their home to remember it. Encourage the children to write down and display other phrases they find in the scriptures.

    Friend November 2019 “For Older Kids” Jordan’s Primary teacher told the class that she posts scripture verses on her door so she can always see them and read them every day. Jordan started doing that too, and soon her door was covered in scriptures.

    • You might point out that Deuteronomy 6:13, 16 and 8:3 helped the Savior during an important moment in His life. To see how, read together Matthew 4:1–10. Then you could share with each other some scripture passages that have helped you in times of need.

    DEUTERONOMY CHAPTERS 7-8

    Chosen to be a special people

    Deuteronomy CHAPTER 7 Israel is to destroy the seven nations of Canaan—Marriages with them are forbidden lest apostasy result—Israel has a mission as a holy and chosen people—The Lord shows mercy unto those who love Him and keep His commandments—He promises to remove sickness from the children of Israel if they obey.

    Deuteronomy CHAPTER 8 The Lord tested the children of Israel in the wilderness for forty years—Eating manna taught them that man lives by the word of God—Their clothing did not wear out—The Lord chastened them—If they serve other gods, they will perish.

    DEUTERONOMY CHAPTER 15

    Deuteronomy CHAPTER 15 Every seven years, all debts are to be released—The people are admonished to care for the poor—Hebrew servants are to be released and given gifts during the seventh year—The firstling males of herds and flocks are the Lord’s.

    I can joyfully serve those in need.

    Deuteronomy 15:7–11

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Deuteronomy 6–8; 15; 18; 29–30; 34”

    The teachings in Deuteronomy 15:7–11 can help the children you teach understand that helping others involves more than just actions. It should be done with a willing heart.

    • Write who, why, and how on the board. Invite the children to read Deuteronomy 15:7–11 to find out who we should help, why we should help them, and how our hearts should feel about helping. Let them write on the board what they find. Sing a song that reinforces the message in these verses, such as “Have I Done Any Good?” (Hymns, no. 223).

    Friend January 2021 “You Can Help Like Jesus” When Jesus was on the earth, he helped all he saw. Today many people in the world need our help. Each of us can do something to help, even children. About years ago, children helped build the Primary Children’s hospital by collecting pennies. (See more at link)

    Friend November 2019 “Helping Our Brothers and Sisters”

    President Nelson told about some ways people need help in the world today, such as 1 out of 9 people don’t have enough food and many don’t have clean water to drink. The article discusses how the church helps and how we can help people in need. (The article includes photos of the ways people need help, a quote handout idea, and a coloring page.)

    food bank
    Refugees
    • Ask the children to think of someone they could help—especially in their own family. Provide time for them to write down what they will do this week to help that person. If possible, make plans to reach out as a class to someone in need.

    Friend January 2018

    Friend May 2020 “Doing What Jesus Would Do” Care Package Ideas

    See additional ideas at Service

    DEUTERONOMY CHAPTER 18

    Deuteronomy CHAPTER 18 How priests are supported—Divination, spiritualism, and the like are abominations—A Prophet (Christ) will arise like unto Moses.

    Prophets teach us about Jesus Christ.

    Deuteronomy 18:15–18

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

    Moses prophesied that Jesus Christ would come and that we should listen to the words Jesus would teach.

    • As you read Deuteronomy 18:18 together, help your children understand that the Prophet like Moses in this verse is Jesus Christ.

    Institute Old Testament Student Manual Genesis-2 Samuel “Deuteronomy 17–33”

    At least four other scriptures refer to the prophet like unto Moses (see Acts 3:22–23; 1 Nephi 22:21; 3 Nephi 20:23; JS—H 1:40). In each instance these scriptures make it clear that the prophet like unto Moses was the Savior, Jesus Christ. When Jesus visited the Nephites, as recorded in the Book of Mormon, He identified Himself in this way:

    “Behold, I am he of whom Moses spake, saying: A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you. And it shall come to pass that every soul who will not hear that prophet shall be cut off from among the people.” (3 Nephi 20:23.)

    • Maybe you could look at pictures of things Moses did and things Jesus Christ did, and let your children match them (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 15, 16, 38, 39).

    The Red Crystal

    • Show the children a picture of our prophet today, and share something he has taught about the Savior.

    Coming Closer to Christ: President Oaks emphasized increasing humility, studying the scriptures, and serving others as key ways to strengthen personal faith and hear the Savior’s voice.

    The Saving Atonement: He teaches that Jesus has done everything essential for our mortal journey out of love, offering forgiveness and overcoming the challenges of mortality.

    Following His Teachings: He has urged members to embrace the Savior’s command to love one’s enemies, particularly in times of conflict, and to become peacemakers.

    Friend May 2003 Prophets taught about Jesus Christ

    DEUTERONOMY CHAPTERS 29-30

    Deuteronomy CHAPTER 29 The children of Israel make a covenant with the Lord under which they will be blessed if they are obedient, and cursed if they are disobedient—If they are disobedient, their land will be as brimstone and salt.

    Deuteronomy CHAPTER 30 The scattered Israelites will be gathered from all nations when they remember the covenant—Moses places life or death, blessing or cursing, before the people.

    Because of my covenants, I am part of God’s people.

    Deuteronomy 29:12–13; 30:8–10

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

    Talking about Deuteronomy 29:12–13 provides an opportunity for you and your children to talk about covenants Ask the children what a covenant is (if they need help, suggest that they find a definition in “Covenant” in the Guide to the Scriptures [scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org]).

    Draw a two-column chart on the board with these headings: Israelites’ promises and God’s promises. Invite the children to search Deuteronomy 30:8–10 and fill in the chart. (If necessary, help the children understand the meanings of phrases in verse 9.) Testify of blessings that have come to you from keeping your covenants.

    What promises have we made with God? (see Doctrine and Covenants 20:37, 77).
    Invite the children to list on the board the promises we make at baptism and the promises Heavenly Father makes to us. How do these promises connect us with Him? (By keeping our covenants, we can receive heavenly help and strength.)

    Friend March 2023 “Baptismal Covenants”

    Consider singing together a song about covenants, such as “Standing on the Promises” (Gospel Library).

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

    DEUTERONOMY CHAPTER 34

    Deuteronomy Chapter 34 Moses sees the promised land and is taken by the Lord—Joshua leads Israel—Moses was Israel’s greatest prophet.

    What happened to Moses?

    Deuteronomy 34:5–8

    Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 Even though Deuteronomy 34:5–8 says that Moses died, latter-day understanding clarifies that he was translated, or changed so that he would not suffer pain or death until being resurrected (see Alma 45:18–19; Bible Dictionary, “Moses”; Guide to the Scriptures, “Translated Beings,” scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org). It was necessary for Moses to be translated because he needed to have a physical body in order to give priesthood keys to Peter, James, and John on the Mount of Transfiguration (see Matthew 17:1–13).

    Additional Resources

    Gathering Israel

    Friend May 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities” Gathering Israel Puzzle

    Story: God loves all His children. He wants them to be gathered together in His Church. Part of gathering Israel is bringing God’s children back to Him (see Deuteronomy 30:3).

    Song: “Israel, Israel, God Is Calling” (Hymns, no. 7)

    Activity: Cut out the puzzle pieces on page 27. Then have someone hide the pieces around the room. Have everyone else search for the pieces. Once all the pieces are gathered, put the puzzle together. Why does God want all of His children to return to Him?

    Come Follow Me with Living Scriptures “Inspiring Words” Lesson ideas

    Latter Day Kids “Love God with All Thine Heart” Lesson ideas

    May 9 2022

    Numbers 11–14; 20–24; 27

    Featured

    Quail is Provided when Israelites Lust for Meat

    Numbers CHAPTER 11 Fire from the Lord consumes the rebels in Israel—Israel murmurs and lusts for meat instead of manna—Moses complains that he cannot bear the burden alone—He is commanded to choose seventy elders to assist him—The Lord promises meat until it becomes loathsome to the Israelites—The seventy elders are chosen, they prophesy, the Lord comes down, and Eldad and Medad prophesy in the camp—Israel is provided with quail—The people lust, a great plague follows, and many die.

    I can be thankful for what God has given me.

    Numbers 11:4–10

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Numbers 11–14; 20–24” Even though the Lord had done wonderful things for the children of Israel, they often focused instead on what they didn’t have. Help the children learn to be thankful for what God has given them.

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

    • Ask your children if they remember some of the miracles the Lord performed to help the Israelites (see “The Plagues of Egypt” and “The Passover” in Old Testament Stories, 67–74). Then you could summarize for them Numbers 11:4–10, emphasizing that the Israelites had forgotten their blessings and were complaining. What blessings do we sometimes forget?

    Friend May 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities” Gratitude Game

    Story: Sometimes the Israelites forgot how the Lord had helped them. God wants us to remember to be grateful. It makes us happier too!

    Song: “My Heavenly Father Loves Me” (Children’s Songbook, 228–29)

    Activity: Play a gratitude game! Mark some sticks with one of three colors. Then take turns choosing a stick. For one color, name a person you are thankful for. For another color, say a place you are thankful for. For the third color, say a thing you are thankful for.

    Friend May 2026 “Weekly Scripture Fun”

    • Sing together a song about gratitude, such as “Count Your Blessings” (Hymns, no. 241). Invite each child to draw pictures of blessings the Lord has given them or their families. Encourage them to think about or look at their picture whenever they are tempted to complain about something they don’t have.
    This video is not produced by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints or any of its members, but it has visuals and words to help you sing the song.

    For additional teaching ideas see Gratitude

    Miriam and Aaron Speak Against Moses

    Numbers CHAPTER 12 Aaron and Miriam complain against Moses, the most meek of all men—The Lord promises to speak to Moses mouth to mouth and to reveal to him the similitude of the Lord—Miriam becomes leprous for a week.

    The Lord wants me to follow His prophet.

    Numbers 12

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

    • To introduce Numbers 12, you could tell your children that the Lord was unhappy with Aaron and Miriam, Moses’s brother and sister. Invite them to read Numbers 12:1–8 to find out why.
    This video is not produced by the church or any of its members, but it carefully follows the scripture account.
    • Consider using the Gospel Art Book to help your children find examples of people in the scriptures who respected the Lord’s prophet and were blessed. How are we blessed when we follow the Lord’s prophet?

    For additional teaching ideas see Prophets: Lesson Ideas

    Israelite Spies Fear the Strength of Canaan

    Numbers CHAPTER 13 Moses sends twelve spies to search the land of Canaan—Ten of them bring an evil report, telling only of the strength of the inhabitants.

    Numbers CHAPTER 14 Israel murmurs and speaks of returning to Egypt—Joshua and Caleb give a good report of Canaan—Moses mediates between Israel and the Lord—The adults of Israel will not enter the promised land—The Lord slays the false spies by a plague—Some rebels try to go alone and are slain by the Amalekites and Canaanites.

    Faith can help me not be afraid.

    Numbers 13:17–33; 14:6–9

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Numbers 11–14; 20–24” When Moses sent 12 men to find out about the promised land, 10 of them came back afraid because of the mighty people who lived there. Two of them, Caleb and Joshua, were not afraid, because they had faith in the Lord.

    • Use pictures or drawings of grapes, honey, giants, and grasshoppers to briefly tell the children about the 12 men Moses sent to explore the promised land (see Numbers 13:17–33). Explain that they found a lot of fruit and other foods (invite the children to pretend to eat the food), but they also were afraid because the people there were large and strong (invite the children to pretend to be afraid). Show a picture of Jesus, and point out that two Israelites, Caleb and Joshua, were not afraid because they had faith in Jesus Christ.
    • Read Numbers 14:9 to the children, and talk about a time when you were afraid but your faith in Jesus Christ helped you have courage. Help the children think of any similar experiences they’ve had.

    Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Numbers 11–14; 20–24”

    • Two (or more) members of your family could pretend to “spy out” (Numbers 13:17) another part of your home as if it were the promised land. Then they could each give a report based on Numbers 13:27–33 or Numbers 14:6–9. What do we learn about faith from the two different reports in these verses? How can we be more like Caleb and Joshua?

    For additional teaching ideas see Faith: Lesson Ideas

    Moses and the Brass Serpent

    Numbers CHAPTER 20 Miriam dies—Moses smites a rock at Meribah and brings forth water—The king of Edom refuses to let Israel pass peacefully through his land—Aaron dies, and Eleazar becomes the high priest.

    Numbers CHAPTER 21 The children of Israel destroy those Canaanites who fight against them—The Israelites are plagued with fiery serpents—Moses lifts up a serpent of brass to save those who look thereon—Israel defeats the Amorites, destroys the people of Bashan, and occupies their lands.

    I can look to Jesus Christ.

    Numbers 21:6–9

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Numbers 11–14; 20–24”

    Old Testament Stories “Moses and the Brass Serpent” Images and video

    Just as the children of Israel were healed by looking at the serpent of brass, the children in your class receive salvation by looking to the Savior.

    • How is the brass serpent like Jesus Christ? (see John 3:14–15). Your children might enjoy making a serpent out of paper and write on it some simple things they can do to “look upon the Son of God with faith” (Helaman 8:15).

    The brass serpent represented Christ taking upon Himself the “sins” or, in this case, the venomous consequences of rebellion, allowing for healing.The healing was not in the object itself, but in the deliberate action of looking, which was a required show of faith in God’s plan

    Latter Day Kids “Look to Christ and Live” Lesson ideas

    • Using this week’s activity page, tell the children what happened when “fiery serpents” came into the Israelites’ camp (see Numbers 21:6–9). Help them see how the brass serpent is like Jesus Christ (see John 3:14–15). Then let the children take turns using the picture to tell the story to each other.
    • Ask the children to close their eyes while you place a picture of the Savior somewhere in the room. Then invite the children to open their eyes, find the picture, and look at it. Let them take turns being the one to place the picture. Each time the children find the picture, help them think of something they can do to look to the Savior.

    Jesus Christ has the power to heal me spiritually.

    Numbers 21:4–9

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Numbers 11–14; 20–24” Many Israelites died because they did not have faith that the Lord would heal them if they looked at the brass serpent (see Alma 33:18–20).

    Media Library
    • Invite the children to draw pictures of what they read in Numbers 21:4–9. Let them use their pictures to tell the story. Ask each child to choose one of the following scriptures and share what it adds to our understanding of the story: John 3:14–15; 1 Nephi 17:41; Alma 33:18–20; Helaman 8:13–15; Doctrine and Covenants 6:36.
    • Write on the board a question like What can we do to “look upon the Son of God with faith”? (Helaman 8:15). Give each of the children a piece of paper, and invite them to write as many answers to the question as they can think of. Collect the papers, read a few answers aloud, and invite the children to talk about how doing these things can help us when we need the Savior’s healing power.

    Ask how each item helps grow or show faith in Jesus Christ as the family walks the path.

    Children’s Songbook
    Friend October 2016
    Friend October 2016
    Friend November 2018
    Friend November 2018
    Friend July 2015
    Friend July 2015

    Balak Asks Balaam to Curse the Israelites

    Numbers CHAPTER 22 Balak offers money, cattle, and great honors to Balaam to curse Israel—The Lord forbids Balaam to do so—An angel opposes Balaam on the way.

    Numbers CHAPTER 23 The Lord commands Balaam to bless Israel—He does so, saying, Who can count the dust of Jacob? and, What hath God wrought!

    Numbers CHAPTER 24 Balaam sees in vision and prophesies of the destiny of Israel—He prophesies of the Messiah: There will come a Star out of Jacob, and a Sceptre will rise out of Israel.

    I can follow God’s will, even if others try to persuade me not to.

    Come Follow Me With Living Scriptures “Look and Live” Lesson ideas

    Numbers 22–24

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Numbers 11–14; 20–24” Balak tried to persuade Balaam to curse the Israelites, but Balaam knew that this was against God’s will. Balaam’s example could help the children when they face pressure to disobey God.

    • Summarize Numbers 22:1–18 for the children, emphasizing how Balaam refused to curse God’s people, even though Balak, the king of Moab, offered him honor and riches. Ask the children to search the following verses for phrases that they feel show Balaam’s determination to follow God: Numbers 22:18; 23:26; 24:13. Invite the children to pick one phrase they like and write it on a card to help them remember to obey the Lord.
    • Talk with the children about situations when friends or others might try to persuade them to do something wrong, as Balak did to Balaam. How did Balaam’s commitment to the Lord help him resist pressure from Balak? Invite the children to practice responding to these situations using words like Balaam’s.
    • “Treehouse” (August 2003 Friend)
      Jordan refuses when his friends try to get him to use a bad word as the password for their club.
    • “The Strength to Choose” (April 2010 Friend) Chris’s friend tries to get him to smoke a cigarette.
    • “Tag, You’re It” (August 2015 Friend and Liahona) Lauren decides to not follow Tami’s plan to be mean to Ally.
    • “Garbage Can Graffiti” (September 2010 Friend) Joe makes a bad decision after he listens to his friend instead of the Holy Ghost.

    Joshua is Set Apart to Lead Isreal

    Numbers Chapter 27 The law of inheritances to sons, daughters, and kinsmen is explained—Moses will see but not enter the promised land—Joshua is called and set apart to lead Israel.

    Old Testament Student Manual Genesis-2 Samuel “Numbers 13–36: Wilderness Wanderings, Part 2”

    “‘According to the order of God,’ ordination to offices in the priesthood is performed by the laying on of hands. (Alma 6:1; Acts 6:5–6; 1 Tim. 5:22.) Setting apart to positions of presidency, administration, or special responsibility comes in the same way. (Fifth Article of Faith; Num. 27:18–23; Deut. 34:9.)” (McConkie, Mormon Doctrine, p. 438.)

    Additional Resources

    Primary Old Testament Lesson 22: Israel and the Brass Serpent

    Institute: Old Testament Student Manual Genesis-2 Samuel “Numbers 1–12” According to Josephus, when Moses was a general of the Egyptian army in the attack against the Ethiopians, he married an Ethiopian woman as a political alliance to end the war (see Josephus, Antiquities of the Jews, bk. 2, chap. 10, par. 1).

    The ostensible reason for Miriam’s and Aaron’s complaining was that the Ethiopians were non-Israelite descendants of Cush. The real reason for the complaint, however, seems to have been jealousy motivated by Moses’ position as spiritual leader and prophet of Israel. Miriam was the instigator of the attack on Moses’ right to preside and was punished with leprosy. Even if Moses’ wish had been granted and every soul in Israel had received the gift of prophecy (see Numbers 11:29), Moses would still have been the one chosen by the Lord to preside. (See additional information at link and #17-24 Why Did Miriam and Aaron Oppose Moses?)

    Old Testament Student Manual Genesis-2 Samuel “Numbers 13–36: Wilderness Wanderings, Part 2”

    Come Follow Me Kid Lesson ideas Snake Bite Game: Each person find a small object to use as their game piece. Roll a die to determine how many spaces to move forward. If someone lands on a “SNAKE BITE!” space, they will automatically be out of the game unless they state something they can do to look to the Savior in their lives. Print up the picture on page 5 below and tape it up on the wall. Have each person write down the ways they’ll look to the Savior on this page.

    The Red Crystal Lesson ideas

    Apr 18 2022

    Exodus 19–20; 24; 31–34

    Featured

    The Ten Commandments

    Exodus CHAPTER 19 The Lord covenants to make Israel a peculiar treasure, a kingdom of priests, and a holy nation—The people sanctify themselves—The Lord appears on Sinai amid fire, smoke, and earthquakes.

    Exodus CHAPTER 20 The Lord reveals the Ten Commandments—Israel is to bear witness that the Lord has spoken from heaven—The children of Israel are forbidden to make gods of silver or gold—They are to make altars of unhewn stones and sacrifice to the Lord thereon.

    God gives me commandments because He wants me to be happy.

    Exodus 20:3–17

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 18–20”

    • How can you make learning about the Ten Commandments fun for your children? As you read Exodus 20:3–17 together, let your children help you find or draw a picture to represent each of the Ten Commandments. Then your children could take turns choosing a picture and talking about how they can live that commandment. Share with each other how living that commandment brings you happiness.

    Old Testament Coloring Book “The Ten Commandments”

    Lesson 21: The Ten Commandments,” Primary 6: Old Testament (1996), 90–94 Explain that rules are necessary aspects of our lives. Ask the children to name some rules we should follow to be safe, to have good health, to have good relationships with others, or to have eternal life. Point out that rules bring order into our lives and are necessary for us to know how to live happily. Tell the children that in this lesson they will learn about Moses and the children of Israel receiving the Ten Commandments, which are laws given by God to help us know what to do and how to live so we can be happy..

    Notice that all of the Ten Commandments fit under the two great commandments that Jesus Christ gave in Matthew 22:37–40: to love God and to love our neighbors. Write Love God and Love Neighbors on the chalkboard. Let the children take turns reading each commandment from Exodus 20:3–17 or from the chart. Have them write on the chalkboard a few key words from each commandment under the appropriate heading. Discuss specific ways to live these commandments, and challenge the children to choose one specific way to show love for God and to show love for their neighbors this week.

    Liahona April 2022 “Jesus Christ Is Our Savior” Applying the Ten Commandments to Our Lives

    Read the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:3–17). God gave these laws to the Israelites to help them grow spiritually and live better lives. The commandments are also found in the Book of Mormon (see Mosiah 13:11–24) and in the Doctrine and Covenants (see 42:18–29; 59). How can the commandments help us today?

    You could also sing a song like “Keep the Commandments” (Children’s Songbook, 146–47). Help your children find words in the song that teach them why God wants us to keep His commandments.

    • Sing with the children a song about how Heavenly Father blesses us when we obey the commandments, such as “Keep the Commandments” (Children’s Songbook, 146–47). Invite the children to listen to the words to find out what blessings we can receive when we obey.

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 18–20” The children will be more likely to keep the commandments if they see them as expressions of God’s love and as opportunities to express their love for Him.

    • Tell the story about Chloe from Sister Carole M. Stephens’s message “If Ye Love Me, Keep My Commandments” (Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2015, 118–20). How does the story help us understand why the Lord gives us commandments? How does being obedient show our love for God?
    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 18–20”

    See also Commandments

    Thou Shalt Have No Other Gods Before Me

    It Is Important to Put the Lord First in My Life.

    Exodus 20:1–7

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 18–20” The first two of the Ten Commandments the Lord gave the children of Israel were “Thou shalt have no other gods before me,” and “Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth.” (Ex. 20:3–4.)

    • Read together Exodus 20:1–7, and explain that anything we put before God in our lives can be like the “others gods” and “graven image[s]” mentioned in verses 3–4. Ask the children why Heavenly Father wants us to put Him first. (One possible answer might be: Because he loves us and wants us to be happy. He knows we will be happiest if we live the kind of life he wants us to live and return and live with him again.)

    Ask the children if they can name some things that we might be tempted to put before God in our lives. (Answers may even be good things such as recreational activities. If something is taking a lot of our focus and time and is getting in the way of putting the Lord first, it might be considered idolatry. (The worship of idols is an excessive attachment or devotion to anything.)

    • Ask the children how we can show Heavenly Father that He is more important than anything else in our lives.

    For the Strength of Youth April 2022 “The Best Day”

    • Think of a task that has an important first step, such as washing our hands before we eat or putting on socks before putting on shoes. What could happen if we didn’t do the important things first? How is this like putting Heavenly Father first in our lives? Share your testimony of how putting God first has blessed you, and invite the children to share their testimonies, too.
    • New Era July 2020 “Making Good Use of Your Time” Object Lesson: Pour all the sand into the jar first, then add the larger rocks on top. When you add the sand first, there isn’t enough space for all the larger rocks—just like how when we prioritize other activities over the things Heavenly Father has commanded us to do, we may run out of time for the things that are most important.
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    • Sing a song about Heavenly Father, such as “My Heavenly Father Loves Me” (Children’s Songbook, 228–29). What do we learn from the song about why it is important to put Heavenly Father first in our lives?

    The Lord wants me to honor my parents.

    Exodus 20:12

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

    • Help your children learn the phrase “Honour thy father and thy mother” (Exodus 20:12). You may want to explain that to “honor” someone can mean to show respect for them or to bring them happiness. What did Jesus do to honor His mortal mother and His Heavenly Father? (see Luke 2:48–51; John 19:26–27). Perhaps your children could take turns acting out things they can do to honor their parents, while the other children guess what they are doing.


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

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    Friend November 2021 “Jesus Honored His Parents” As He grew up, Jesus obeyed His earthly parents. He loved and cared for them. Even when He was dying on the cross, He asked one of His disciples to take care of His mother. He also honored His Heavenly Father by keeping the commandments.

    New Era March 2017 “20 Wats to Honor Mom and Dad”

    • Invite the children to make a thank-you card for their parents. They could write or draw inside the card something they will do to honor their parents.

    Friend September 2020 “Loving Our Families” Cut out the strips of paper and put them in a bowl. After you do one of the activities, add a link to your chain of hearts.

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    Honoring the Sabbath is a Sign of My Love for the Lord.

    Exodus CHAPTER 3 Artisans are inspired in building and furnishing the tabernacle—Israel is commanded to keep the Lord’s Sabbaths—The death penalty is decreed for Sabbath desecration—Moses receives the stone tablets.

    Exodus 31:13, 16–17

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

    • Your children might enjoy looking at examples of signs—such as road signs or signs on a building. What are the purposes of signs? Your children could then find the word “sign” in Exodus 31:13, 16–17. What did the Lord say is a sign between us and Him? Share with each other some of the ways you and your family try to show your love for the Lord on the Sabbath.

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 24; 31–34” The Lord told Moses that when the children of Israel kept the Sabbath day holy, they showed Him that they wanted to be His people.

    • Draw a heart on the board, and ask the children what this symbol can mean. Help them think of other things that can be a sign for love, like a hug or an act of service. Read to them Exodus 31:13. Help them understand that when we keep the Sabbath day holy, it is a sign to the Lord that we love Him.

    Latter Day Kids “The Sabbath Day” Lesson ideas

    • Tell the children about some of the ways you try to show your love for the Lord on the Sabbath. Let them share how they and their families do this. Invite them to use this week’s activity page to share more ideas.
    • Invite the children to take turns explaining why they choose to honor the Sabbath. Videos like “The Sabbath Is for You” or “Upon My Holy Day—Honoring the Sabbath” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org) can help.

    The Sabbath is For You

    Teaching Children the Gospel “Calendar and Chart Activity” Lists of things to do on Sunday with sticker activity

    For additional teaching resources see Sabbath Day and Resources for Teaching Children “Sabbath Day”

    The Golden Calf

    Exodus CHAPTER 32 Aaron makes a golden calf, which Israel worships—Moses serves as a mediator between God and rebellious Israel—Moses breaks the tablets of stone—The Levites slay about 3,000 rebels—Moses pleads and intercedes for the people.

    I will not “turn aside” from God’s ways.

    Exodus 32:1–8, 19–24; 34:6–7

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

    • Consider using “Moses on Mount Sinai” (in Old Testament Stories, 77–82) to help your children learn the story in Exodus 32:1–8, 19–24. Why was it wrong for the Israelites to worship a statue instead of God?

    • It might be fun to create a path on the floor (or find one near your home) to illustrate these words from Exodus 32:8: “They have turned aside quickly out of the way.” While walking on the path, your children could talk about temptations we face to turn away from God. What helps us remain on God’s path—and return to it if we have strayed? (see Exodus 34:6–7).

    Friend Special Issue: Baptism and Confirmation “Walking along the Covenant Path”

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 24; 31–34”

    • Younger Children: Show a picture of Jesus Christ, along with pictures of other things that children might spend time on, such as toys, games, and so on. Ask the children to find the picture that shows what should be most important to us. Share with the children how you are blessed for putting the Lord first in your life—even before other things that are good.
    • Older Children: Help the children think of examples of things people may be tempted to worship instead of the Lord—things that draw our attention away from Him. Then ask them to share examples of things that help them focus on the Savior and worship Him.

    Read together Helaman 7:20–21, and ask the children what they think it means to forget God. Explain that the word forget can also mean “to neglect” or “ignore.” Display a picture of the Savior, and invite the children to draw things they might spend too much time doing that could cause them to forget the Lord. Put their drawings in front of the picture of Jesus. Ask the children to think of things they can do each day to remember Heavenly Father and Jesus. As they share their thoughts, take away the drawings one by one until the picture of the Savior is revealed. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Helaman 7–12: “Remember the Lord”)

    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.

    One message from the account in Exodus 32 is the importance of keeping the first two of the Ten Commandments—do not worship anyone or anything other than the Lord.

    Come Follow Me with Living Scriptures “Worship the Lord” Lesson ideas

    I Can Stand for Righteousness.

    Exodus 32:1–5, 21–24

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 24; 31–34” When the Israelites told Aaron to make a golden idol, he agreed to do it, even though this was wrong (see Deuteronomy 9:20). Consider how you can encourage the children to stand for righteousness, even when others pressure them not to.

    • Invite the children to read Exodus 32:1–5, 21–24, individually or in pairs, and share what they think Aaron should have done when the Israelites asked him to make a golden calf. How might Aaron have helped the people?
    • Help the children think of situations they might face when other people ask them to do something they know is wrong. Ask the children to share ideas with each other about what to do in those situations.

    Friend April 2019 “What’s on Your Mind” Fill in the the speaking bubbles with what you could say when someone tries to get you to do something that is not right. Try explaining why it’s important to you. Even if others don’t understand your reasons, ask them to be respectful.

    Friend November 2017 “Peer Pressure Problems” Ideas on how to deal with peer pressure to avoid making wrong choices.
    For additional teaching ideas also see Stand for the Right.

    The Lord Talked to Moses Face to Face.

    Exodus CHAPTER 33 The Lord promises to be with Israel and drive out the people of the land—The tabernacle of the congregation is moved away from the camp—The Lord speaks to Moses face to face in the tabernacle—Later, Moses sees the glory of God but not His face.

    Exodus 33:11

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 24; 31–34”

    • Tell the children how you feel when you talk with a good friend, and ask them how they feel. Read to them the first sentence of Exodus 33:11. Ask the children how they think the prophet Moses might have felt. Tell the children about times when you have felt close to the Lord, even if you didn’t see Him with your eyes.

    Ensign July 2010 “Jesus Christ, Our Perfect Friend”

    • Sing together a song that expresses how Heavenly Father or Jesus feels about us, such as “Jesus Is Our Loving Friend” (Children’s Songbook, 58). Show pictures of the Savior showing love to others (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 36, 41–43, 46–47). Encourage the children to share how they feel about Heavenly Father and Jesus.

    Exodus CHAPTER 34 Moses hews new tables of stone—He goes up into Mount Sinai for forty days—The Lord proclaims His name and attributes and reveals His law—He makes another covenant with Israel—The skin of Moses’ face shines, and he wears a veil.

    Friend April 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities” Tablets from a Mountain

    Story: God gave commandments to Moses on stone tablets. The Israelites promised to obey them (see Exodus 24:7).

    Song: “Keep the Commandments” (Children’s Songbook, 146–47)

    Activity: You can promise to obey too. Make pretend tablets out of paper. Then draw or write on them ways that you keep the commandments.

    Additional Resources

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

    Scripture Helps: Old Testament

    Old Testament Student Manual Genesis-2 Samuel

    Come Follow Me Kid “All that the Lord Has Spoken We Will Do”

    Come Follow Me Kid “My Presence Shall Go Before Thee”

    The Red Crystal

    Apr 12 2022

    Easter: Old Testament

    Posted on by

    The Old Testament Testifies of the Savior’s Atoning Sacrifice.

    • Prepare strips of paper. On half of them, write Old Testament scripture references of prophecies about Jesus Christ. On the other half, write corresponding New Testament scripture references about how these prophecies were fulfilled. (This week’s outline in Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families lists some examples.) Invite the children to read the verses and match the prophecies with their fulfillment.
    • Activity Idea: Print, and cut out the below scripture strips and pictures. Tape the pictures to a display board. Each child can take a strip with the Old Testament and the matching New Testament scripture. Explain that Old Testament prophets made these prophecies long before Jesus was born, and the New Testament scriptures are what happened when he was alive on the earth. Have them read their scriptures to themselves. Going in order, have them take turns telling in their own words what is said in both their scriptures, and then matching and taping the scriptures next to the picture it goes with.
    Images are from Clipart Library, Super Coloring, Pinterest, & Friend magazine

    Jesus Suffered and Died for Me

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

    • Older Children: Divide the children into three groups, and give each group one of the following scripture passages: Isaiah 53:4–12; Alma 7:11–13; and Doctrine and Covenants 19:16–19. Invite the children to look for words and phrases that describe the things Jesus Christ suffered for us. Ask them to write their answers on the board and share how they feel about the Savior after reading these scriptures.
    • How are we blessed because of Jesus’s sacrifice for us? Help your children look for words and phrases that answer this question in Isaiah 53:4–12; Alma 7:11–13; and Doctrine and Covenants 19:16–19. Share with each other how you feel about the Savior after reading these scriptures.

    For the Strength of Youth “The Suffering Savior”

    • Read Isaiah 53:6 to the children, and show them a picture or drawing of a sheep. Let one of the children put the picture in a far corner of the room. Explain that when we make wrong choices, we are wandering away from Heavenly Father like a sheep going astray. Then invite the child to bring the sheep back, and bear your testimony that because Jesus Christ suffered and died for us, He can bring us back to Heavenly Father. (You might show a picture of Jesus as a shepherd, such as picture 64 in the Gospel Art Book.)

    Friend January 1999 “The Good Shepherd” Jesus Christ is the Good Shepherd. He suffered and died for us so that we could return to Heavenly Father. We are His sheep if we will listen to His voice and follow Him. We do this by keeping the commandments, studying the scriptures, and obeying the prophets and the promptings of the Holy Ghost. We may not actually see the Savior in this life. But if we have faith in Him and follow His voice, He will protect us and lead us in the correct paths.

    Friend April 1999
    • Help the children memorize the third article of faith. What does this scripture teach us about Jesus Christ’s Atonement and Heavenly Father’s plan for His children?

    Friend February 2015

    Friend March 2011

    Friend March 2011
    • Sing with the children a song about Jesus Christ, such as “I Feel My Savior’s Love” (Children’s Songbook, 74–75). Help them notice any feelings of peace and love they have as they sing. Also point out words in the song that describe the Savior’s love. How can we share His love with others?

    Jesus Died and Was Resurrected for Me.

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Easter” How can you help the children learn that because of Jesus Christ’s Resurrection, we and our loved ones will be resurrected someday?

    • Tell the children about Jesus’s death and Resurrection (see Mark 15–16). Use the pictures in this week’s outline, pictures 57–60 in the Gospel Art Book, or “Chapter 54: Jesus Is Risen” in New Testament Stories (pages 139–44) to help the children visualize the story.

    New Testament Stories “Jesus is Risen” Images and video

    • Help the children understand that resurrection means that after we die we will live again forever with a perfect physical body and will never die again. Share your testimony of the Resurrection, and let the children work on this week’s activity page. Invite the children to use it to share with their families the story of Jesus’s Resurrection.
    • Read Alma 40:23 to the children. Show them your hand inside a glove. Tell them that your hand is like a spirit and the glove is like a physical body. Take the glove off to show that when we die, our spirit will leave our body. Put the glove back on to represent the Resurrection.

    Teaching Children the Gospel: Easter Object Lesson

    Resurrection Puppets
    Friend September 2006
    1. Sing a song about Jesus Christ’s Resurrection, such as “Did Jesus Really Live Again?” or “Jesus Has Risen” (Children’s Songbook, 64, 70). Bear your testimony that because of Jesus Christ we will live again and have perfect bodies after we die.
    1. 1. Did Jesus really live again? Yes, when the third day came,He wakened and he left the tomb;He called Mary’s name.
    2. 2. Did Jesus come to those he loved?Yes, people touched his feet,And of the fish and honeycombHe did truly eat.
    3. 3. And there were nail-prints in his handsAnd a spear wound in his side.Did Jesus really live againAfter he had died?Oh yes! And so shall I!

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Easter” The reality of Jesus Christ’s Resurrection can bring us great hope and joy—especially when we experience the death of a loved one. How can you help the children find comfort in the Resurrection?

    • Read Moses 1:39 with the children. Ask them if they know the difference between “immortality” and “eternal life.” Invite them to look for answers in the first paragraph of “Eternal Life” (Gospel Topics, topics.ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Who will receive immortality? What is required to receive eternal life? Bear your testimony that both of these precious gifts are possible because of the Atonement of Jesus Christ.
    • Sing together an Easter song or hymn, such as “He Sent His Son” (Children’s Songbook, 34–35) or “He Is Risen!” (Hymns, no. 199). Invite the children to share how they feel when they sing these songs. What do these songs teach us about Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ? Invite the children to write their testimonies of the Savior to share at home with their families.

    Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Easter” .

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

    Consider how you will help your children find joy in Christ this Easter. For example, you could sing together a favorite Easter hymn, such as “Christ the Lord Is Risen Today” (Hymns
    , no. 200) or “Gethsemane” (Gospel Library). To find other songs about the Resurrection, you could look in the topical index of Hymns and Children’s Songbook. You and your children could share with each other why you like these songs and how you feel when you sing them. What do these songs teach us about Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ?

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

    • Gospel Library has a collection of Easter videos that your children might enjoy. Maybe you could let them pick one to watch. Ask them what they learn about Jesus Christ from the video. You might also ask them to summarize the message of the video in one sentence.

    Prophets testify of Jesus Christ and His Atonement.

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

    • As you and your children watch general conference together this Easter weekend, help them notice when the Savior’s special witnesses bear testimony of the Resurrection. Perhaps you could make a game of it—invite them to stand every time they hear words like Easter or Atonement or Resurrection. Share with each other why you’re grateful for the living prophets’ testimonies of the Savior.

    Additional Resources

    For additional teaching ideas see “Teaching Children the Gospel: Jesus Christ: Death & Resurrection (Easter)” and Resources for Teaching Children “Easter”

    For a summary of what happened during the last week of the Savior’s life, see “Holy Week” and ComeuntoChrist.org/easter-week. For scriptures about the events of the Savior’s final week, see “The Last Week: Atonement and Resurrection” in Harmony of the Gospels (in the Bible appendix).

    Come Follow Me With Living Scriptures “Remember Him” Lesson ideas

    The Red Crystal

    Primary 6 Manual Old Testament “The Gift of the Atonement” Page 217

    For the Strength of Youth March 2026 “Finding the Savior’s Atonement in the Old Testament”

    Some people might think that the Old Testament, which was written before the Savior was born and doesn’t mention Jesus Christ by name, doesn’t have much to say about Easter. But as the Book of Mormon clarifies, people in ancient times knew and had faith in the Savior, too (see Jacob 4:4).

    The Israelites were taught that the purpose of the law of Moses was to point them toward Christ. For example, when they were healed from venomous snake bites by looking at the brass serpent the Lord had instructed Moses to make, Moses taught them that this was symbolic of the Savior, who would come and save them from their sins (see Numbers 21:7–9; Alma 33:18–20).

    Unfortunately, a lot of that clarity is missing from the Bible as we have it today, due to changes—both intentional and accidental—over the centuries (see 1 Nephi 13:23–27).

    But if you look, you can still find many references to the Savior and His Atonement in the Old Testament. Let’s talk about a few!

    Palm Sunday, Gethsemane, and the Trial

    “Thy King cometh unto thee: he is just, and having salvation; lowly, and riding upon an ass, and upon a colt the foal of an ass” (Zechariah 9:9).

    This was fulfilled on what is now known as Palm Sunday, seven days before Easter, when Jesus triumphantly entered Jerusalem (see Matthew 21:15).

    “Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted” (Isaiah 53:4).

    In Gethsemane, the Savior suffered for all of the sins—and felt the sorrows, pains, sicknesses, and afflictions—of every person who had ever lived or ever would live on earth. Because of this, He knows how to comfort us in our trials (see Alma 7:11–13; see also Matthew 8:17).

    “He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth” (Isaiah 53:7).

    Jesus remained silent when the high priest questioned Him (see Mark 14:60–61).

    • The Sadducees were elitist, controlled the temple, and denied the resurrection. The Pharisees were scholars of the law, focused on everyday holiness, and believed in the resurrection.
    • Motivations: The Sadducees, controlling the Temple and holding political power, saw Jesus as a threat, while the Pharisees opposed Jesus over religious practices and interpretations of the Law.
    • The Trial: While both were present, some scholars believe the Sadducean elite, led by the high priest, were the primary instigators of the verdict
    Crucifixion

    The Crucifixion

    “The assembly of the wicked have inclosed me: they pierced my hands and my feet” (Psalm 22:16).

    “They part my garments among them, and cast lots upon my vesture” (Psalm 22:18).

    “They gave me also gall for my meat; and in my thirst they gave me vinegar to drink” (Psalm 69:21).

    Crucifixion was a common method of execution at the time, but the Roman soldiers were particularly cruel in their mockery and torment of the Savior (see John 19:1–3; Matthew 27:34–35, 48).

    Jesus Christ at the tomb with Mary

    The Resurrection

    “He will swallow up death in victory; and the Lord God will wipe away tears from off all faces; and the rebuke of his people shall he take away from off all the earth: for the Lord hath spoken it” (Isaiah 25:8).

    “For I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth: And though after my skin worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God” (Job 19:25–26).

    The Lord Jesus Christ was resurrected. He is alive now! Countless scriptures and testimonies confirm this. What’s more, our Heavenly Father knew from the beginning that we would need a Savior, and He has been preparing His children to receive the Savior since Old Testament times.

    Apr 4 2022

    Exodus 14–18

    Featured

    Crossing the Red Sea

    Genesis CHAPTER 14 Israel goes out of Egypt—Israel passes through the Red Sea on dry ground—The Lord overthrows the Egyptians in the midst of the sea.

    The Lord can do a “great work” in my life.

    Exodus 14:5–22

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 14–17”

    • Think of ways to share the story of the Israelites crossing the Red Sea in an interesting and memorable way. For example, you or another ward member could dress up like Moses to tell the story from Exodus 14:5, 9–10, 13–16, 19–22. The children could pretend that the chairs or blankets are the Red Sea, and they could follow the person portraying Moses as he makes a path between them. Or the children could pretend to be the water and move to separate sides of the room as Moses divides them. Emphasize that the Lord gave Moses the power to part the sea so the Israelites could be delivered from captivity.

    The Red Crystal This site has a fun reenactment skit. (or you could use the skit below)

    Friend April 2022 “Moses Parts the Red Sea” Script to act out Moses parting the Red Sea.

    • Invite the children to color the activity page as you review with them the story from Exodus 14:5–22. Then they could work together to tell the story using the activity page.

    When the Lord parted the Red Sea, Moses and the Israelites saw how powerful He is. (see also “The Passover” in Old Testament Stories, 70–74). Then you could share with each other how you have seen God’s power in your lives.

    Old Testament Scripture Stories “The Passover”

    Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 14–17”

    As you read Exodus 14:1–10, imagine how the Israelites might have felt as they saw Pharaoh’s army closing in. Perhaps you feel that you need a miracle to survive a difficult challenge you are facing.

    Your family members might enjoy trying to “divide” the water in a bowl or a bathtub, as Moses divided the Red Sea. Help them understand that the Red Sea could not be divided without the power of God. How have we seen God’s power in our lives and the lives of our ancestors?

    Friend June 2025 “Presentation Panic” Allyson hated talking in front of people, but she had to do a history presentation. She had practiced it several times, but when she got up to give it her mind went blank from fear. She said a prayer in her mind for help. As soon as she finished, her panic faded away and she was able to give her presentation.

    Friend October 2023 “Timeon’s Priesthood Blessing” Timeon fell and hurt his arm when playing monkeys with his friends at an empty tree hut. He was in a lot of pain, but there were no doctors close enough to visit in the dark. The elders gave him a priesthood blessing. Soon Timeon’s arm didn’t hurt so much. He felt calm and peaceful. He was even able to fall asleep. They were able to go see a doctor in the morning. Timeon was grateful for priesthood power.

    Friend February 2023 “Lost and Found Friends”. School was about to start and Leah was worried about not having a friend. She kept praying for help. Then on the first day of school she found that her best friend was in her class. Heavenly Father had helped her.

    I Can Learn to Always Follow the Spirit.

    Exodus 14:5–22

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 14–17”

    What does Doctrine and Covenants 8:2–3 add to our understanding of the story in Exodus 14? Moses knew by revelation how to lead the Israelites across the Red Sea.

    Media Library

    • Consider telling your children about an experience when the Holy Ghost told you something in your mind or heart, and invite them to talk about their experiences. You could also sing a song about the Holy Ghost, such as “Let the Holy Spirit Guide” (Hymns, no. 143).

    Friend March 2020 “Check the Kittens” After everyone has gone to bed, a girl kept having the thought to go and check on their kittens. She acted on the prompting and found that a warming light had fallen over onto the kittens cardboard box and would have caught on fire. The Holy Ghost helped keep their family and kittens safe.

    • Remind the children of the story of Nephi following the Spirit when he went to get the brass plates (see 1 Nephi 4:1–6). Help the children see that Moses also had to follow the Spirit when he led his people across the Red Sea.

    The Lord Provides Manna, Quail, and Water

    Exodus CHAPTER 15 The children of Israel sing the song of Moses—They extol the Lord as a man of war and rejoice in their deliverance from Egypt—The waters of Marah are healed—The Lord promises to free Israel from the diseases of Egypt.

    Exodus CHAPTER 16 Israel murmurs for want of bread and lusts for the fleshpots of Egypt—The Lord rains bread from heaven and sends quail for meat—Israel is given manna each day, except the Sabbath, for forty years.

    The Lord can make bitter things sweet.

    Exodus 15:22–25

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

    • Maybe you and your children could drink something sweet and something bitter while studying Exodus 15:22–25 together. How has the Savior made “bitter” experiences in our lives “sweet”?

    Why is adversity for our good? Adversity can help us become more like Jesus Christ; It can help us to develop empathy, patience, kindness, humility, faith and trust in God, reliance on God, etc. Ask the children if they would like to share how an adversity they suffered was for their gain.

    Jesus is my Living Water, my Bread of Life, and my Rock.

    Exodus 15:23–25; 16:14–15; 17:1–6

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

    The Red Crystal Matching activity: One page has scriptures from Exodus, the other page has scriptures that tie it to Jesus. When a match is made, read both scriptures and ask the children how the object taught them about Jesus.

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 14–17” Divide the class into pairs or small groups, and assign each group to read one of the following passages: Exodus 15:23–25; 16:14–15; 17:1–6. Ask the children in each group to draw pictures representing what they read in these verses, and then ask other class members to guess what they have drawn. Help the children identify what these stories teach about Jesus Christ. What trials do people have today? How do Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ help us with our trials?

    Old Testament Stories “The Israelites in the Wilderness” Video and Illustrations

    Friend April 2022 “Moses and the Manna”

    As you review these stories, ask the children why bread and water were so important to the children of Israel. What would have happened if they hadn’t had these things?

    The accounts of the Lord providing food and water for the Israelites in the wilderness teach us that He can provide for our needs. If we turn to Jesus Christ, He can help us during difficult times in our lives, just as He helped the children of Israel.

    Media Library “The Gathering of the Manna”

    Additional Resources:

    Israelites Prevail in Battle as Moses Hands are Held Up

    Exodus CHAPTER 17 Israel murmurs for want of water—Moses smites a rock in Horeb, and water gushes forth—Aaron and Hur uphold Moses’ hands so that Joshua prevails against Amalek.

    I can help “bear the burden” of doing the Lord’s work.

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 14–17” The children of Israel were victorious in the battle against Amalek only when Moses had his hands raised in the air. What can we learn about sustaining our leaders from this story?

    Exodus 17:8–16; 18:13–26

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

    • As you read Exodus 17:8–16, you could invite a child to hold their hands high in the air. When the child gets tired, other children could help, the way Aaron and Hur helped Moses. What does this story teach about how we can help God’s kingdom be successful? You could also read Exodus 18:13–26 and talk about the heavy responsibilities of people who serve in your ward. What can we do today to help our Church leaders, just as Aaron and Hur helped the prophet Moses?
    Media Library “One Before God”

    Sustaining leaders involves more than just a raised hand—it means that we stand behind them, pray for them, accept assignments and callings from them, hearken to their counsel, and refrain from criticizing them. (Come Follow Me for Aaronic Priesthood “What does it mean to sustain my Church leaders?”)

    Friend October 2004 “I Can Sustain the Prophet” Cut out the strip of pictures on this page and cut them apart. Read each sentence, find the picture/word for the missing word, and glue it in place.

    Friend November 2019 “Dear Student Dictionary” After President Nelson’s special youth devotional, Matthew looked for ways to be a youth-battalion member. He was kind to others and stood up for kids being teased. After President Nelson’s conference talk about calling the church by its correct name, he wrote a letter to a student dictionary that used the name “Mormons”  and explained what the correct name of the church was.

    Jethro Counsels Moses to Delegate

    Exodus CHAPTER 18 Jethro comes to Moses bringing Moses’ wife and sons and offers sacrifices to the Lord—Moses sits in the judgment seat and hears all cases—Jethro counsels Moses to teach the law, to appoint lesser judges, and to delegate power to them.

    I Can Help “Bear the Burden” of Doing the Lord’s Work.

    Exodus 18:13–26

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 18–20” Moses learned that trying to lead the children of Israel all by himself was “not good” (Exodus 18:17). Loving and serving one another can help ease the burdens of our leaders.

    • Invite the children to draw many circles on the board to represent members of the ward. Draw a circle labeled bishop. Why would it be a problem if the bishop were the only one helping everyone else? Read together Exodus 18:13–26 to find out what advice Jethro gave when Moses was trying to do everything himself. Ask the children to label other circles to represent other ward leaders and members who help the bishop serve others. How do these other leaders and members make the bishop’s burden lighter? How can we do the same for our ward leaders? for our parents at home?

    Friend December 2019 “Notes for Sister Puckett” Tyler was excited to become a deacon so he could serve and minister like his parents do. (His father takes notes in sacrament for Sister Puckett who is sick, and his mom made taco soup for her.)

    • Help the children make a list of leaders in your ward. As a class, select one and discuss what this person does to accomplish the Lord’s work and what the children can do to help. (Suggestions: Primary leaders, Primary teachers, chorister, librarians)

    Friend December 2018 Match each sentence with a picture. In the blank spot, draw yourself helping at church.

    • I can put away a hymnbook.
    • I can pick up trash I see.
    • I can help hold up a picture.
    • I can sit so reverently!

    Giving Talks, Singing, Playing Instruments

    Friend June 2018 “A Baptism Song” Elizabeth and her sister sang at a baptism which helped those attending to feel the Spirit.

    • “Prayer Power” (March 2019 Liahona and Friend)
      Lucy and her family pray for their church leaders.

    Friend April 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities: Bear One Another’s Burdens“

    Activity: Have one person stand and hold their arms out. Put a book in each of their hands. Add more books until they are too heavy to hold up. Then have two people hold the person’s arms up. Is it easier to carry a burden when you have help? How can you help others? How can you ask for help?

    Friend May 2020 “I Will Be Valiant” Song and Sing-along Video.

    The Lord needs valiant servants,

    To do His work in the latter day,

    Who follow the teachings of Jesus

    And serve His people in a loving way.

    I will be His servant

    And keep my cov’nants valiantly.

    I’ll stand for truth. I’ll stand for right.

    The Lord can depend on me.

    Additional Resources

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

    Scripture Helps: Old Testament “Exodus 14-18”

    Old Testament Student Manual Genesis-2 Samuel

    Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 14–17”

    Come Follow Me Kid