Dr. Pat's Orthodox Super Sunday School Curriculum

SERMON ON THE MOUNT

Objectives:

1. Children should know that the Sermon on the Mount is full of teachings of Jesus.
2. Children should be able to list several important teachings of Jesus: the light of the world, the salt of the earth, the sparrows and lilies, the house on the rock, etc.

Possible Lesson Plan:

1. Open with prayer.

2. Read the Beginner’s Bible, pages 318-321, the Children’s Bible Reader, pages 193-197, or the Golden Children’s Bible, pages 376-383. There is also an Arch book in the cabinet about the Beatitudes. All classes are working on the Beatitudes; this class will also focus on the story of the birds, the grass, and the lilies.

3. True/False Questions:

True                                                     False

            Jesus cares about the birds.                             Jesus hates birds.

            God cares for the grass and flowers.              Jesus hates grass and lilies.

            God cares for us.                                             We have to take care of ourselves.

4. Discuss Nature: Who created plants and animals? Does God love His creation? What do plants need to grow and not die? Brainstorm some ideas – water, light, soil, etc. What do birds need to grow and not die? Brainstorm again – food (what type?), water, nests, etc. How does God provide these? What does the grass have to do? The lilies? The sparrows? What do people need to grow and not die? (food, drink, clothing) How does God provide these things? Will He? Why? Do we need to worry?

5. Begin to memorize the Beatitudes. Say or sing it together to begin the memory work to be continued at home. Can each child say it? Go over line by line, reading it to the children:

What is “poor in spirit”? What is the kingdom of heaven like?

When do we mourn? What does God do when we are sad?

Who is meek, or gentle? Does it look like they would inherit the earth?

Do we hunger and thirst after righteousness, really? Are we truly satisfied?

What is mercy? Are we merciful? When? Do we need mercy?

What does “pure in heart” mean?

Who is a peacemaker? What makes them a peacemaker?

What does “persecuted” mean? Have you ever been persecuted for being a Christian?

Has anyone ever told a lie about you? Does it hurt? Did you rejoice?

6. Make a bird feeder. Take 2 jar lids and a cake donut. Punch a hole through the jar lids. Add the donut. Use a bent nail to hold it all together and tie a string to hang it in your backyard. Replace the donut as needed. Are you helping God to care for the birds?

7. Close with prayer. Use the Lord’s Prayer, also from the Sermon on the Mount.