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In addition to these public lessons and ideas for teaching the stories of Jesus' Empty Tomb and Resurrection, several of our Writing Team's lesson sets cover Holy Week stories. Here's the Team's link to the John 20 story of Mary Magdalene, Peter, and John ~ Meeting Jesus at the Empty Tomb.

Post-Resurrection Stories of Jesus:
Road to Emmaus, Jesus eats breakfast,
Feed My Sheep, Great Commission, Ascension

(Illustration from Vallotton  Collection at Rotation.org)

Easter - Empty Tomb & Resurrection

Summary: This lesson set includes the following workshops:

  • Art: make a fabric banner to illustrate “Hymn of Promise.”
  • Games: review the events of story through sequencing story cards and play some memory verse review games.
  • Computers: explore the story through software: Life of Christ, Play and Learn Bible, and  Actual Reality.
  • Cooking: make Resurrection Rolls (not posted use Cathy's Cooking lesson here)
  • Drama: focus on the good news of the resurrection and participate in a drama that retells key events.
  • Movie: view the video “He is Risen (Nest).”
  • Music and Movement: perform a stick dance to “Arise My Love.”

Scripture References:

Matthew, 28:1-10, Mark 16:1-8, Luke 24:1-12, John 20:1-10, “Jesus Rises from the Dead,” Little Kids’ Adventure Bible, pages 356-357.

Memory Verse:

“He is not here.  He has risen!”  Luke 24:6

Theme:

Jesus died on the cross and was raised from the dead. We celebrate the resurrection of Jesus at Easter.

Objectives and Life Application:

  • Children will retell the story in their own words.
  • Children will locate the story in the Bible.
  • Children will begin to explore the meaning behind Easter and Jesus' death and resurrection.
  • Children will explore some of the common symbols of the resurrection - butterfly, bulb, seed, empty cross.
  • Children will identify some of the key locations in the story:  Golgotha, Garden of Gethsemane, Jerusalem.
  • Children will recognize that the resurrection means Jesus is alive today and gives us new life.
  • Children will memorize Luke 24:6.

Rotation Music:

  1. “Books of the Old Testament,” Books of the Bible, Custom CD, Troy and Genie Nilsson.“Books of the New Testament,” Books of the Bible, Custom CD, Troy and Genie Nilsson.
  2. "Books of the New Testament," Books of the Bible, Custom CD, Troy and Genie Nilsson.“Books of the New Testament,” Books of the Bible, Custom CD, Troy and Genie Nilsson.
  3. “Hymn of Promise,” New Invitation Songs, Music and More, Spring 1999, Cokesbury, 1998.
  4. “Christ the Lord is Risen Today,” The Ultimate Praise Songbook for Kids, Pilot Point Music, 1995.
  5. You are my King - Amazing Love," Phillips, Craig and Dean, Greatest Hits, Sparrow Records, 2007.
  6. "This is Love," Terry Butler, Change My Heart O God, Vineyard Music, 1999.
  7. "Above All," Michael W. Smith, Worship, 2001.
  8. "He is Risen," Campfire Songs VBS, Concordia Publishing, 2008.
  9. "HA-lelujah," Hear our Prayer O Lord, New Invitation, 1998.
  10. “Arise My Love,” Newsong, Best of Newsong, 1999 Benson Records, Inc. Provident Music Distribution.
  11. "My Redeemer Lives," Alan Root, Lift Him Up!, 2000.

Background Information

The resurrection is central to our Christian faith. Through Jesus' resurrection, God made clear his intention for the world --- Jesus is indeed the Christ, the Savior of humankind. Paul declares that Christianity rises or falls with the resurrection. In dying Jesus brings us forgiveness and reconciliation. In rising, Jesus gives us new life.  

Holy Week:

Jesus’ last week, the week we call Holy Week in the church, was an eventful one. He entered Jerusalem in triumph on Palm Sunday, taught in the Temple, ate the Last Supper with his disciples, prayed in the garden, was betrayed by Judas, was arrested, tried, convicted, and sentenced to death by crucifixion. On Good Friday, Jesus hung on the cross at Golgotha and died. His disciples all fled, leaving primarily women to witness his death.  Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus (our previous month's rotation was about Nicodemus -- be sure to make this connection with the children)  took Jesus’ body and placed it in a new tomb, hewn out of the rocky hillside. They brought spices to prepare his body for burial. They quickly did what they could before the Sabbath began at sunset.  

Jesus lay in the tomb Friday night and all day Saturday. (note that Jesus was not actually in the tomb for three days. It was common for Jewish people to account for time in this way – Friday was the first day, Saturday was the second and Sunday was the third.)  Early Sunday morning the women (Mary Magdalene and the “other” Mary) came to finish the burial ritual for his body. All four gospels record the fact that women were the first to find the empty tomb. It is interesting that Jesus would choose to appear first to women. At the time, women were not allowed to be legal witnesses. The fact that women were the first to witness Jesus’ resurrection speaks to their importance to Jesus and his ministry. It also lends credibility to the resurrection account. If the disciples had fabricated the story, would they have chosen women to be the first witnesses?

What is the resurrection of the body?

The concept of resurrection of the body is not clearly seen in the Bible until the Old Testament book of Daniel and was developed more fully during the inter-testamental period. Some of the apocryphal books (the non-canonical books or books generally believed to be useful, but non-inspired) describe a general waking of the dead for judgment.  Jewish religious leaders held differing views about the resurrection of the body. The Sadducees denied the resurrection while the Pharisees (Paul was a Pharisee) believed in it. Most Jews believed that the body and soul were one and they would die and be resurrected together. Paul’s writing, especially in I Corinthians, helped formulate the resurrection faith of the early church.

Greek philosophers emphasized the value of the spiritual over the physical. Their influence helped fuel the first heresy called Gnosticism. Gnostics believed that physical, material things were evil and spiritual things were good. Gnostics promoted the idea that Jesus did not have a true physical body, it just seemed to be physical. To Gnostics, Jesus was really just a spiritual being.

Was Jesus’ resurrected body a real, physical body or a spiritual body? The resurrected Jesus did have a different body. The disciples did not always immediately recognize him. His wounds were healed (although he still bore the scars of the sacrifice he made for us all). He walked through doors; he appeared and disappeared at will. But he was not simply a spirit or a ghost. The disciples touched him. Thomas felt his hands and side. Jesus ate. Jesus encouraged the disciples to recognize his new spirit/physical body state. We cannot understand the mystery of the resurrected body, but we can be sure that Jesus indeed had one. And because Jesus is raised, we will be too!  

Over the years many skeptics have attempted to "explain away" the resurrection. Matthew describes how the chief priests bribed the soldiers to say the disciples had stolen the body.  Other theories state that the women went to the wrong tomb. Another suggests that Jesus was not really dead, but had simply fainted and revived later. Do these theories make sense? Discovery Interactive Life of Christ software lists ten reasons to believe Christ rose from the dead:

1. Jesus was publicly sentenced to death and was executed publicly.

Because of the approaching Sabbath, the soldiers broke the legs of the two criminals next to Jesus. But when the soldiers came to Jesus they found he was already dead. Surely these men knew death when they saw it! But just to be sure, they pierced Jesus’ side with a spear.  This was no small fainting spell!

2.The tomb was secured by Roman guards.

Because of Jesus’ notoriety, the religious officials feared that the disciples might come up with a resurrection hoax.  Roman soldiers guarded the tomb and the official seal of Rome was placed across the stone.  (this is the meaning of the “sealing” of the tomb) The penalty for breaking the Roman seal or falling asleep on the job was death!

3.Despite the guards, the tomb was empty.  

The huge stone was moved away. Stones covering tombs were rolled downhill in a groove in front of the opening to the tomb. Opening the tomb was no easy feat, requiring the heavy stone to be pushed uphill. Yet the stone was rolled away and the tomb was empty except for Jesus’ grave wrappings. The guards themselves were missing!  They had gone to tell the Jewish religious leaders about the supernatural being who rolled the stone away. They were subsequently bribed to say that the disciples stole Jesus’ body while they slept. (remember the penalty for falling asleep at their post was death!) The religious leaders promised to intercede on their behalf if the soldiers were punished.

4.Many people claimed to see Jesus.

In the forty days between his resurrection and ascension, Jesus was seen by hundreds of witnesses. He was seen by the women, Peter and John, James in Jerusalem, the two on the Emmaus road, the apostles without Thomas, the apostles with Thomas, 500 in Galilee, Stephen and Paul.

5.The disciples were dramatically transformed.

Perhaps the most compelling evidence for the resurrection is the change in the disciples.  When Jesus was arrested, his disciples fled. After his death, the disciples cowered in hiding, confused, lost and frightened. After seeing the resurrected Jesus, they were completely transformed! They were now courageous and bold. Peter, who betrayed Jesus three times the night of his arrest, boldly preached on the day of Pentecost when 3000 believed! The disciples came out of hiding and followed Jesus’ directive to take the good news to all the world.

6.Witnesses of the risen Jesus were willing to die for their faith. Another compelling argument for the truth of the resurrection is the fact that many of the disciples faced martyrdom. Countless others died refusing to deny their faith in the risen Christ. People are willing to die for what they believe is the truth, but who will die for what they know is a lie. If the disciples faked Jesus’ resurrection, would they be willing to die for a lie?

7.Jewish believers changed their day of worship from Saturday to Sunday.

Believers began to celebrate Jesus’ resurrection by worshiping on the day that Jesus was raised from the dead. This reflected the profound change in their lives. We continue to celebrate this each Sunday today.  Sundays are called “mini-Easters.” (this is why Sundays are excluded during the season of Lent.)

8.Jesus’ death and resurrection were predicted.

The disciples were caught off guard by Jesus’ death. Jesus had clearly tried to explain to them what would happen, but their pre-conceived political notions of the Messiah and the Kingdom of God were too entrenched. They couldn’t comprehend Jesus’ words about going to Jerusalem to die and be resurrected. They didn’t put together Isaiah’s prophecy about the “suffering servant” until after the fact. As is so often the case, our hindsight is 20-20. The disciples got it, it just took awhile! When we are in the midst of something it is often difficult to see the big picture. Jesus’ death and resurrection illuminated God’s plan for the world. Looking at the Old Testament scriptures now, we see what has been there all along, only now our eyes have been opened.

9.What an amazing climax to Jesus’ miraculous life!

As God so often does, he takes the unlikely and the absurd and turns it around. Jesus hung on the cross while the crowds mocked him. His amazing three-year career of miracles seemed to be over in humiliation and degradation. But it was not the end!  God has the last word!

10.Those who trust Jesus resonate with this experience.

When we become followers of Jesus, our lives are changed, our old selves “die” and we are made new in Christ. This spiritual power dramatically transforms us, just as it did the disciples.  We are new creations. Those who experience new life in Christ understand the concept of resurrection. For we are resurrected with Christ. (I Corinthians 15:12-22)  

The resurrection of Jesus is one of the best-attested events in history. Hundreds of witnesses saw the risen Jesus. The fearful and cowering disciples were transformed into courageous and bold apostles who took the good news throughout the known world.  The evidence for the resurrection makes more sense than the theories of stolen bodies, misplaced tombs or a Jesus who merely fainted. But understanding the mystery of the resurrection is not something that can be accomplished through evidence and intellect alone. Indeed, our intellect tells us miracles are impossible!  As we explore the mystery and joy of the resurrection during this rotation, help children think about the evidence for the resurrection. Help them realize that ultimately, they must accept it individually, as an act of faith. Help them to recognize that the disciples also doubted, but Jesus helped them understand and accept what had happened. Jesus pointed to himself, to the scriptures and to his teachings to help them understand.  Thomas doubted until he had seen and touched for himself. Help the children understand Jesus’ words, “Because you have seen me, you have believed. Blessed are those who have not seen me but still have believed.” (John 29:29) We may not be able to “see” Jesus physically in front of us as his disciples did, but what are other ways we can “see” Jesus?  What are other ways we can be a witness to his presence in the world and our lives? How have we seen and felt Jesus before? How do we know Jesus is alive?

Additional Easter Story Notes:

Meaning of the Cross

Easter is the holiest day of the year for Christians. Without Easter, we would have no need to celebrate Christmas. But it’s not as easy to teach the Easter story as it is the Christmas story.  The death of Jesus is not easy. Children may have many questions or they may accept this story without questioning at all. Many of their questions are the same ones with which we all struggle. Be sensitive to the mood of your class, but be prepared to discuss some of these questions with the children each week.

Why did Jesus have to die?  

This is really the essence of our Christian faith. Jesus was obedient to God.  He perfectly fulfilled the will of God, the Father. Jesus died as a perfect sacrifice for sin so that we could be made right with God.

Why didn’t Jesus save himself?   

Young children may wonder why Jesus didn’t leave when he had the chance. He had the power to do so; he had escaped difficult times in the past.  He had used his power to heal and perform many miracles. Jesus accepted this “cup of suffering and death” as part of God’s plan.  He was obedient, even though it was the hardest thing he had ever done. Children must make choices every day. Families are faced with many demands on their time. Standing up for what is right can be extremely difficult and can require life-style sacrifices.  Our children must see that Jesus is our example. When faced with his anguishing choice, Jesus turned to God in prayer.  He was obedient to God. Our children can turn to God with their troubles as well.  God did not remove the cup from Jesus and God does not always keep bad things from happening to us.  But God is always with us, no matter what.  His presence comforts and strengthens us just as it did Jesus. Jesus was obedient even to death, because of his great love for us. How many of us would be willing to give up our lives for another? All theories of atonement recognize that through Christ’s death, we are made right with God. Jesus died for US so that we might be in relationship with God for eternity! The cross reveals to us the extent of God’s tremendous love for us and his relentless pursuit of relationship with us. The cross reveals to us the new possibilities that exist for us in spiritual rebirth and new relationship with God and with our neighbors.   

Why do we call it Good Friday, since that is the day Jesus died?

By calling it Good Friday, we remember that the death of Jesus is not the end of the story. We know that the resurrection is coming. We look forward to the empty tomb of Sunday morning and the rejoicing that will occur! We recognize that God’s love for us is truly good – so good that we cannot possibly describe it or thank him enough for it!

Discussion Questions:

The book, Journey to the Cross by Helen Haidle has excellent pictures and discussion topics written on a child’s level. Consider purchasing this book to use as a resource for the different workshop leaders.  

Review the events of Holy Week (palm Sunday, teaching, last supper, arrest, trial, crucifixion, resurrection!)

  • How did the disciples react to Jesus’ arrest and death?  (they ran away and hid)
  • Why were they afraid?  (the leaders might come after them, too)
  • How did they change?  (they became full of joy, courage and very bold, they spread the gospel all over, willing to die for their faith)
  • What do you think of the various theories that deny Jesus’ resurrection?
  • What do you think is the most convincing proof that Jesus did indeed rise from the dead?
  • What safeguards were taken to keep Jesus’ body guarded in the tomb?  (soldiers posted outside, tomb had official Roman seal)
  • Who first found the empty tomb?  (the women)
  • Why were they going to the tomb?  (to anoint Jesus’ body with spices for burial)
  • What did the angel tell the women?  (Jesus is risen)
  • What did the Jewish leaders do when they heard about the empty tomb?  (bribed the guards to say that the disciples had stolen the body)
  • What did the disciples think when they first heard?  (they didn’t believe, needed to see for themselves)
  • Thomas is sometimes called “Doubting Thomas.” Why?  (because he wanted to see for himself and didn’t believe what the other disciples told him)
  • What helped Thomas believe?  (he saw and touched Jesus, Jesus encouraged him)
  • Have you ever doubted the things you hear about at church?
  • What can help us believe?
  • How can we help others believe something that seems impossible?
  • The disciples were completely transformed. Has Jesus changed your life? In what ways?

Sources

  • Langford, Thomas and Black II, C. Clifton. Jesus Christ: Holy Week and Crucifixion; Graded Press, 1985.
  • Haidle, Helen. Journey to the Cross. Zonderkidz, 2001.
  • Kalas, J. Ellsworth. Christian Believer: Knowing God with Heart and Mind Study Manual, Abingdon Press, 1999
  • FaithQuest: The Trial and Crucifixion of Jesus, Kirk of Kildaire Presbyterian Church, Cary, NC, 2002.
  • Richards, Lawrence O. Bible Teacher’s Commentary. Cook Communications, 2002.
  • Bible Zone #3 and #4: The Resurrection. Abingdon Press, 1998, 1999.
  • Wingeier, Douglas E. Jesus Christ: Resurrection. Graded Press, 1985.
  • Invitation Bible Studies, Abingdon Press, Spring 1989, 1991, 1994.
  • Life Of Christ. Sky Media, Discovery House Publishers, 1997.  
Last edited by Luanne Payne
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Empty Tomb

Video Workshop


Summary of Lesson Activities:

He Is Risen - Nest Entertainment.

Scripture References: 

Matthew, 28:1-10, Mark 16:1-8, Luke 24:1-12, John 20:1-10, “Jesus Rises from the Dead,” Little Kids’ Adventure Bible, pages 356-357. 

Theme: 
Jesus died on the cross and was raised from the dead.  We celebrate the resurrection of Jesus at Easter.  

Memory Verse:
“He is not here. He has risen!”  Luke 24:6  


Important Note for Video Workshop Leaders:
Children love this workshop!  Often the video is a direct correlation with the Bible story and creates a concrete, visual image in the children’s minds.  They refer to this image over and over throughout the rotation as they visit other workshops.  Some videos may take some liberties with the story-you may need to point out these discrepancies.  As much as possible sit down with the children and watch the video together.  Feel free to pause the video to discuss something that you especially want them to note.  Please ensure that the children treat the room with respect-no standing, jumping or otherwise abusing the seats.

Important Teacher Notes:

Each workshop includes the Bible story. One of our primary goals is to improve the children’s Bible literacy! If children did not bring their Bibles from home, use the classroom Bibles.Shepherds should help the children locate the stories. Use Background Information to help you introduce the story.  

Remember that as the rotation progresses; the children will become more familiar with the story. When this happens, allow the children to tell you what they know. The children should still locate the story in their Bibles every week. Use the bold headings in their Bibles to guide your discussion.You may want to review some of the Bible notes as well.Be sure to fill in any missing information and add additional details using the Background Information to help you. One of the greatest advantages of this model is that children who come regularly learn the story in great depth. 

Each lesson contains more Background Information and discussion questions than can be used in one session. Remember, children are studying this story for four weeks! Be sure to follow the time guidelines and leave ample time for the activity.  


Preparation and Materials:

  • Read the Background information, Teaching Tips and Lesson.
  • Preview the video prior to class time.
  • Prepare popcorn before children arrive in class.
  • He is Risen DVD (Nest Family Entertainment)
  • Popcorn


Lesson Plan


Opening:

Have the children sit in the theatre seats. Welcome the children and introduce yourself and the shepherd. Please wear a nametag and make sure the children are wearing their name tags. 

Opening Prayer
Please begin each session with prayer.  Dear Jesus, Thank you for our many blessings, for this day, for family and friends and for this time together.  Please open our hearts and minds to believe and accept your amazing gift of love. Amen 

Dig:

Video: He Is Risen (The Animated Stories from the New Testament, Nest Entertainment)
Video running time 25 minutes 

Introduce the Video
Jesus was an innocent man. He was betrayed, sentenced, and crucified. Is this the end of the story of Jesus? What happened when the women go to the tomb to finish his burial ritual?  Let’s watch and see the greatest miracle of them all -- the resurrection of Jesus. 

Directions:

  1. Have children pick up their popcorn bags and season to their preference -- once the movie starts they will not be allowed to get out of their seats!
  2. Have them sit in the theater seats.
  3. Pass out a cup of water.
  4. Be sure to tell the children that once the movie begins they are to remain in their seats with their attention focused on the movie! Additional water, popcorn, etc. should not be given during the movie!
  5. Watch the video!
  6. Once the movie is finished, have the children throw away their trash and move to the table for Bible discussion. 

Key points in the video:

  • Opens with Crucifixion scene, earthquake, soldier, temple curtain tears
  • Soldier confession
  • Joseph of Arimathea requests his body
  • Joseph and Nicodemus at the tomb with spices (PAUSE here to make sure the children recognize that this is Nicodemus, who visited Jesus at night and whom we studied in March!)
  • Caiphas and Pilate - posting guards at the tomb
  • The tomb is sealed
  • The light! Jesus is risen!
  • Peter and John run to tomb
  • Jesus appears to Mary
  • Jesus appears to the disciples
  • Soldiers visit Caiaphas and are bribed
  • Jesus appears to Thomas
  • Jesus on the beach
  • Peter swims to Jesus
  • Breakfast on the beach
  • Peter is restored
  • Great Commission - Jesus ascends to heaven  

Bible Study:  Grades 1-3

Jesus’ friends were very sad when he was crucified on the cross. But, they were also scared that the very same thing might happen to them. Many of them ran away. They were confused and did not know what to do. But on Sunday morning the most wonderful, amazing miracle happened -- Jesus rose from the dead! 

Help the children locate the story “Jesus Rises from the Dead” on pages 356-357 in the Little Kids’ Adventure Bible. Children with Bible bookmarks can use their purple ribbon bookmark to find the New Testament, then move forward to the correct page. Point out the titles and headings in their Bibles, but do not read all of the text.   

Read and discuss the following Bible notes:

Little Kids’ Adventure Bible:   

Life in Bible Times:  The Cross (page 353)

Life in Bible Times:  Burial (page 355)   

Life in Bible Times:  Jesus’ Tomb (page 356) 

Have the children with their own Bibles highlight the title of the story with the highlighters provided. Please do not mark in the classroom Bibles. 

Bible Study:  Grades 4-6

  • The week of Easter is called Holy Week. It is the most important week in the Christian year. 
  • What are some of the events of Holy Week?  
  •  Palm Sunday – Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem - Sunday
  •  Cleansing the Temple – Jesus drove the moneychangers away
  • Teaching in the Temple – Jesus spent several days teaching
  • Last Supper – Jesus celebrated the Passover meal with his disciples - Thursday
  • Praying in the Garden – Jesus prayed to God and accepted God’s will for his  death
  • Jesus’ betrayal and arrest – Judas betrays Jesus with a kiss, soldiers arrest him
  • Jesus is sent to Caiaphas and Pilate for trial – sentenced to death
  • Jesus dies on the cross - Good Friday
  • Jesus rises from the dead! - Sunday Morning

Where in the Bible would we find this story about Jesus?  (New Testament – gospels).

The Easter story is so important it is found in all four gospels! Have them locate the Easter story in all four gospels, highlighting the title of the passage: 

  • Matthew, 28:1-10
  • Mark 16:1-8
  • Luke 24:1-12
  • John 20:1-10

Read and discuss the following:

NIV Adventure Bible:

Did you Know?  Did Jesus ever say he was God?  (page 1159)

Life in Bible Times:  Jesus’ Tomb (page 1091)

Life in Bible Times:  The Cross (page 1160)

Life in Bible Times:  Burial (page 1193) -- see also John 19:39-40

Words to Treasure:  Jesus is not here!  He has risen!  Luke 24:6 (page 1161) 

Memory Verse
Each rotation we encourage the children to memorize the Rotation Memory Verse. Review it with the children at this time.  

“He is not here.  He has risen!”  Luke 24:6 

Discussion
Use the book, Journey to the Cross, by Helen Haidle to discuss the Bible story with the children. Focus on pages 167-214 (Jesus in the tomb and the resurrection). If time allows, children may be interested in reading more from this book. 

Reflection/Journal Time
The last 10 minutes should be reserved for Journal Reflection Time. This is an opportunity for processing and reflection about what children have learned. Ask the shepherds to pass out the journals, pencils, and the journals question sticker for the day. Workshop leaders and shepherds should sit down with the children in small groups to facilitate discussion and writing in Journals.  

Play the Rotation Music CD, track #6 "This is Love." Have children listen to the song as they journal. 

Journal Questions:

Grades 1-3: Listen to the music and draw a picture of the Easter story.

Grades 4-6: Listen to the song, "This is Love."  Draw or write about what you hear in this song. What does it mean to bow down to Jesus? 

Reflection:

Gather the children together. Review with them one word or concept that they learned in today’s lesson.  (strength, courage, love, resurrection, Easter) Encourage the children to attend again next Sunday for another workshop. Ask them to invite a friend, especially one who does not belong to a church. Remind children to bring their Bibles. Ask for prayer requests and pray together. 

Clean-Up
Have the children throw away their popcorn bags and cups if they have not done so already.  Clean out popcorn machine and sweep up any stray kernels. Put away Bibles, paper, pencils, videos, etc. Bag up trash and place outside the classroom door. 


A lesson by Jaymie Derden from: State Street UMC

A representative of Rotation.org reformatted this post to improve readability

Last edited by Luanne Payne

Empty Tomb

Art Workshop


Summary of Lesson Activities:

Making a Hymn of Promise Banner.

Scripture References: 

Matthew, 28:1-10, Mark 16:1-8, Luke 24:1-12, John 20:1-10, “Jesus Rises from the Dead,” Little Kids’ Adventure Bible, pages 356-357. 

Memory Verse: 
“He is not here.  He has risen!”  Luke 24:6  

Theme: 
Jesus died on the cross and was raised from the dead.  We celebrate the resurrection of Jesus at Easter.  

Important note for Art workshop leaders: 
In the Art workshop, the Bible story is reinforced through creative and hands-on art activities. The children may make something that they can take home to help remind them of the monthly theme or they may work together as a team to make something for the church to display.


Preparation and Room Set-Up:

  • Review background information, teaching tips and lesson materials.
  • Gather necessary supplies
  • Cover the tables with the old tablecloths 
  • Review the Music CD. Plan to play the music as the children arrive, work on their art projects and during journal time. 


Materials List:
see below.



Lesson Plan


Opening:

Welcome all children and introduce yourself. Make sure each child is wearing a name tag.  Have children introduce themselves and please include the shepherd. Tell the children they will be learning about Easter this month. 

Opening Prayer
Please open in prayer every week.

Dear Lord, As we prepare for Easter, the death and resurrection of Your only Son, we see new life all around us, from the budding trees to the new flowers springing up. As we study the Bible, help us to understand the life You have planned for each one of us. Amen.  

Important Teacher Notes:

Each workshop includes the Bible story. One of our primary goals is to improve the children’s Bible literacy! If children did not bring their Bibles from home, use the classroom Bibles.Shepherds should help the children locate the stories. Use the Background Information to help you introduce the story.  

Remember that as the rotation progresses; the children will become more familiar with the story.  When this happens, allow the children to tell you what they know. The children should still locate the story in their Bibles every week. Use the bold headings in their Bibles to guide your discussion.You may want to review some of the Bible notes as well. Be sure to fill in any missing information and add additional details using the Background Information to help you. One of the greatest advantages of this model is that children who come regularly learn the story in great depth. 

Each lesson contains more Background Information and discussion questions than can be used in one session. Remember, children are studying this story for four weeks! Be sure to follow the time guidelines and leave ample time for the activity.

Dig:


Introduce the Story
On Palm Sunday, Jesus rode into Jerusalem on the back of the donkey. People waved palm branches and proclaimed Him to be their king.  He went straight to the temple and began teaching. On Thursday, Jesus celebrated the Passover meal with His disciples that became The Last Supper. Later, He prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane and was betrayed by Judas.  Jesus was arrested, tried, convicted and sentenced to death by crucifixion.  On Good Friday, Jesus was nailed to a cross and died. He was placed in a new tomb on a rocky hillside and lay in that tomb until Sunday. Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea had prepared the body as much as possible before the sun set on Friday, and the Sabbath began. A huge boulder was rolled into place at the entrance, and two guards were placed outside to ensure that nobody could enter without their permission and help. Early on Sunday morning, Mary Magdalene and the “Other Mary” came to finish preparing Jesus’ body for burial. 

Bible Study - Grades 1-3
Where would we find the Easter story in the Bible?  (New Testament) Help the children locate the story “Jesus Rises from the Dead” in the Little Kids’ Adventure Bible, pages 356-357.  Read as the children follow along.   

Can anyone tell me what resurrection means? (being made alive again after dying) 

All of Jesus’ followers were very sad because Jesus had been killed. But when they discovered that Jesus was alive – and had been raised from the dead, their sadness turned to joy and excitement! We are excited at Easter even today because we know it’s true that Jesus is alive!  

Discussion Questions:

  • How did the disciples react to Jesus’ arrest and death?  (They ran away and hid)
  • Why were they afraid?  (The leaders might come after them, too)
  • What safeguards were taken to keep Jesus’ body guarded in the tomb?  (Soldiers posted outside, tomb had official Roman seal)
  • Who first found the empty tomb?  (The women)
  • Why were they going to the tomb?  (To anoint Jesus’ body with spices for burial)
  • What did the angel tell the women?  (Jesus is risen)
  • What did the Jewish leaders do when they heard about the empty tomb?  (Bribed the guards to say that the disciples had stolen the body)
  • What did the disciples think when they first heard?  (They didn’t believe, needed to see for themselves)
  • Have you ever doubted the things you hear about at church?
  • What can help us believe?
  • How can we help others believe something that seems impossible?
  • The disciples were completely transformed.  Has Jesus changed your life?  In what way?
     

Bible Study - Grades 4-6
Where do we find the Easter story in the Bible?  (New Testament gospels).  Each gospel tells the story of Jesus’ last week.  To the gospel writers Jesus’ death and resurrection were the most important things to tell about Jesus and they devoted the majority of their writing to telling this part of the story.   

Help the children locate Luke 24:1-12 in their Bibles. Children with Bible ribbon bookmarks can use their purple gospel ribbons to locate the gospels and move forward from there. Read Luke 24:1-12 as the children follow along in their Bibles.   

“Can anyone tell me what resurrection means? (After a person dies, he/she rises from the dead) 

All of Jesus’ followers were very sad because Jesus had been killed. Many miracles occurred during this time, however, and they realized that everything Jesus had said would happen did happen and they had a tremendous faith that transformed their lives.   

People, who did not believe that Jesus was their true king, tried to make excuses for the empty tomb. Regardless, there was a lot of evidence that convinced even some non-believers that, in fact, the resurrection occurred as predicted. If time allows, discuss some of the evidences below. This discussion might be most effective as children are working on their drawings.   

Memory Verse
Review with the children at this time.   

“He is not here.  He is risen!”  Luke 24:6 

Hymn of Promise Banner
Each child will decorate a fabric square to illustrate the symbols in the song "Hymn of Promise." These decorated squares will be placed on a fabric backing to create a banner.  

Supplies Needed: 

  • Muslin or other plain fabric, cut in 8”x 8” squares with pinking shears 
  • Paper backed Iron-on adhesive such as Stitch Witchery or Wonder Under 
  • Fine-tipped sharpie marker
  • An assortment of fabric paint pens
  • White copy paper - cut to 8 X 8 inches (several sheets per child)
  • Pencils
  • Watercolor colored pencils (available from art supply or hobby/craft stores)
  • Water
  • Watercolor brushes
  • Paper towels
  • Recording of Hymn of Promise on cassette or CD.
  • Printout of lyrics to the song.
  • List of the "Hymn of Promise" symbols from the song. Suggestions: 

tulip, daffodil or other flowering bulb
butterfly
cross section of apple showing seeds
apple tree
tree without leaves (? Snow on branches) - winter
spring flowers or trees with blossoms, leaves, etc.
night sky (moon and stars) 
sunrise or sunshine
musical notes or musical score
Cross
Heart
Alpha Omega symbol (end and beginning)  

Advanced Preparations:

  1. Pre-wash the muslin and iron smooth.
  2. Iron the adhesive to the back side of the muslin.
  3. Cut muslin into 8" X 8" squares using pinking shears. 
  4. Print out the list of Hymn of Promise symbols, cut apart into slips and place in a basket.  (Suggestion:  Separate the simpler symbols for the 1-3 grade group and the more difficult symbols for the older group).
  5. Gather pictures of the symbols to help children with their drawings.  (do an internet search of the various pictures for suggestions or use clip art)
  6. Cover the art tables with plastic tablecloths to protect the table surfaces.

 

Introduce the activity:

Forty days passed between the resurrection and Jesus’ ascension into heaven. There were many witnesses who saw Jesus during that time. Jesus said that anyone who believed would be blessed. The resurrection and ascension occurred almost 2000 years ago. God has left us many signs to remind us of the new life we experience when we believe in God and in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. What are some signs of new life that you see around you?   

A woman named Natalie Sleeth wrote a song entitled “Hymn of Promise” to describe the many wonderful new beginnings God has provided. These examples help us understand the new life God gives us when we believe in Jesus!  

Directions:

  1. Play the song "Hymn of Promise" several times and ask the children to listen carefully to the words. Children may want to close their eyes while they listen. 
  2. Have each child take a symbol slip from the basket.
  3. Give each child a piece of paper and a pencil.
  4. Have them sketch out an illustration of their song symbol on the paper. Encourage them to make their drawing large -- to fill most of the space on their paper. Once they are satisfied with the drawing, give them a fabric square. (If desired, show the children the pictures/clip art you have collected to help them as they plan their drawing.)
  5. It may be helpful to tape the square to the table top using masking or painter's tape.  The adhesive backing should provide enough body/stiffening to make drawing easy.
  6. Have children use paint markers to draw and color their symbol onto the fabric square.
  7. If you have more than 12 children, include words from the song such as Hope, Future, Life, Eternity, Victory. Or have children think of additional symbols/pictures that the song evokes.  
  8. Have the children use a fine-tipped sharpie marker to write their initials in the bottom corner of the square.
  9. Once children have completed their fabric square, set aside to dry.
  10. If time allows, encourage them to use watercolor pencils to color in their earlier sketches. Color the drawing with the colored pencils. Then use a watercolor brush and water to brush over the pencil. The pencil will turn into water colors!)

This is a great project for a volunteer seamstress to complete. 

The water color paintings will be compiled into a book illustrating the hymn. -- directions for finishing both are below.  

Completing the Banner

Supplies:

  1. Fabric in a pastel or spring color, print or solid.
  2. Contrasting or matching thread
  3. Lightweight batting or heavy interfacing
  4. Sewing machine
  5. Iron/ironing board
  6. Pins
  7. Wash-away marker/pencil
  8. Fabric Markers
  9. Decorative curtain rod or dowel for hanging banner

Directions:

  1. Determine the amount of fabric needed by laying out the completed fabric squares in a pleasing pattern (see attached suggested layout).  Leave enough room at the top of the wall hanging for the title plus several inches for a border at the top and bottom and in between the squares. Twelve squares can be made into a hanging with four rows of three squares each.  Add the title "Hymn of Promise" at the top of the wall hanging.  Add "Made by G.R.E.A.T. Adventure children"  and the date to the wall hanging at the top or bottom.  If desired, include the lyrics to the song -- written using a fine-tipped marker onto additional fabric squares -- either in three individual squares, one per verse, or in one large rectangular fabric piece placed in the center of the wall hanging.
  2. Cut lightweight batting or interfacing the same size as the "quilted" top. 
  3. Cut the backing fabric four inches longer (at the top), 2 inches longer at the bottom, and 2 inches wider at each side.  This will allow for edging and a top casing.

 

Affixing the squares:

  1. When satisfied with the layout, remove the paper backing from the fabric squares.  
  2. Use a press cloth and iron according to package directions, securing the fabric squares to the background fabric.
  3. Repeat until all squares, title and lyrics are affixed to the background.

 

Finishing the banner:

  1. Layer the backing fabric (with wrong side facing up), the batting and the quilt top (with fabric squares) in that order on a large table.
  2. Smooth top and secure with pins.  Trim batting so it is even with the quilt top.
  3. Optional:  
  4. Machine quilt around the fabric squares or in the center of the borders between fabric squares.
  5. Fold and press 1-inch along all four sides of backing fabric.  
  6. Then fold side and bottom edges over to quilt top, covering raw edges and secure with pins, creating a binding.  Miter corners.
  7. Starting at the top of one side, stitch down one side, across bottom and up the other side. 
  8. Fold top down and pin leaving a casing of about 2.5 inches.  Stitch casing.
  9. Hang on a curtain rod to display.

 

Finishing the book:

  1. Collect the drawings.  
  2. Using a fine sharpie marker, write the lyrics to the song underneath the appropriate drawing.  
  3. Create a cover out of cardstock. Add Easter clip art and the title: Hymn of Promise Illustrated by G.R.E.A.T. Adventure children, date.
  4. Stack the front cover, illustrated pages (in order) and back cover. To secure, staple or use a hole punch to make two holes and tie with decorative ribbon. Or use a book binding machine to bind the book. 


Reflection:

The last 10 minutes should be reserved for Journal Reflection Time. This is an opportunity for processing and reflection about what children have learned. Ask the shepherds to pass out the journals, pencils, and the journals question sticker for the day.  

Journal Questions:

Grades 1-3:  What is your favorite symbol of new life and resurrection?

Grades 4-6:  What symbol of new life or resurrection is most meaningful to you?  Why? 

Closing prayer
Gather the children together in a circle. Review with them one word or concept that they learned during today’s session. (resurrection, miracle, Easter, Holy Week, promise, hope are some suggestions) Encourage them to come back next week and to bring a friend, especially a friend who does not have a church home. Remind them to bring their Bibles.Ask for prayer requests and close with prayer.  

Clean-up
Encourage the children to help you clean up. Return all art supplies to the storage cabinets.  Wipe down counters and tables.  


A lesson by Jaymie Derden from: State Street UMC

A representative of Rotation.org reformatted this post to improve readability.




Last edited by Neil MacQueen

Empty Tomb

Drama Workshop

Summary of Lesson Activities:

Uses an Easter Good News script.

Scripture References: 

Matthew, 28:1-10, Mark 16:1-8, Luke 24:1-12, John 20:1-10, “Jesus Rises from the Dead,” Little Kids’ Adventure Bible, pages 356-357.

Memory Verse: 
“He is not here.  He has risen!”  Luke 24:6  

Theme: 
Jesus died on the cross and was raised from the dead.  We celebrate the resurrection of Jesus at Easter. 


Preparation and Room Set Up: 

  • Review the Background Information, Behavioral Covenant, and Lesson plan.
  • Gather all necessary supplies for activities.
  • Preview the Rotation Music CD. Play the music as children arrive and during journaling.
      

Supplies:

  • Variety of props that relate to the story:  palm branches and crown (Palm Sunday), gold coins (money changers in Temple), cup (Last Supper), picture of praying hands (Jesus praying in the garden), sword (soldiers), piece of leather tied to a stick for a whip (Jesus’ trial), crown of thorns, cross, stone.
  • Basket to hold the props.

General Tips for Drama Facilitators

  • You may wish to organize costumes or puppets ahead of time to cut down on a flurry of activity and possible hurt feelings.  Have props ready ahead of time.  This is especially important for the younger children.  The older children often are very creative with props and costumes.
  • You will want to limit the amount of time the children are allowed to dress-up.  (They can easily spend the entire class time selecting costumes!)
  • Be sure that all children are involved in some way. Some children are intimidated by the prospect of being on a stage.  Offer them alternative roles as well as the children who do not have main parts.  They can always be “sound effects” or “crowds” or stagehands to help change scenery, or video camera operators (for the older children). Remember as well that children can draw the backdrop for the drama on the blackboard or videotape the plays (older children).
  • To eliminate competition, you may wish to place the names of characters in a hat and have children choose their parts.  
  • Be sure to explain the activity to the children and ask for questions.
  • Even though videotaping the activities may seem unnecessary, videotaping seems to encourage better behavior from the children. 
  • Have fun and make this fun for the children! 
  • The purpose of the drama workshop is not to have a polished performance.  Through the activity, children will explore the story in depth.  Feel free to pause and discuss details as they arise, add more information (using the Background information and resources) and answer questions along the way.  


Lesson Plan

Opening:

Welcome the children and introduce yourself. Make sure everyone is wearing a name tag.  Please include the shepherd in introductions.  

Opening Prayer
Please begin your class with prayer each week. Pray your own or use the prayer printed below.  

Dear God, Thank you for this day and for everyone who is here today. Be with us now as we learn about the amazing Easter miracle.  AMEN.  

Important Teacher Notes:

Each workshop includes the Bible story. One of our primary goals is to improve the children’s Bible literacy! If children did not bring their Bibles from home, use the classroom Bibles. Shepherds should help the children locate the stories. Use the Background Information to help you introduce the story.  

Remember that as the rotation progresses; the children will become more familiar with the story. When this happens, allow the children to tell you what they know. The children should still locate the story in their Bibles every week.Use the bold headings in their Bibles to guide your discussion.You may want to review some of the Bible notes as well.  Be sure to fill in any missing information and add additional details using the Background Information to help you. One of the greatest advantages of this model is that children who come regularly learn the story in great depth. 

Each lesson contains more Background Information and discussion questions than can be used in one session. Remember, children are studying this story for four weeks! Be sure to follow the time guidelines and leave ample time for the activity.  

Special Teacher Note

For today's Bible Study portion of the lesson the children will locate the story in the Bible, then participate in an interactive re-telling of the story, rather than reading the text from their Bibles. Gather the following props to review the story with them.

Dig:

Directions:

For 1-3 Graders: Help the children locate the story “Jesus Rises from the Dead” on pages 356-357 in the Little Kids’ Adventure Bible. Note the heading and title. 

For 4-6 Graders: Have children turn to Luke 24 in their Bibles. Note the headings in this chapter. 

Introduce the story
The story of Easter is the most important celebration in the church. Many things happened during the last week of Jesus’ life on earth. We call this week Holy Week. It is the most important week for the church. We still celebrate Holy Week in the church today to remember everything that happened to Jesus during that week.  

Hold up the appropriate prop as the story is reviewed. Encourage the children to participate by telling what they remember about the Easter story.  

1. Palm Sunday (palm branches and crown)  
Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey. The people cheered and waved palm branches, shouting Hosanna!  Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord!  The people hoped that Jesus would be the King they had been waiting for.  

2. In the Temple (gold coins)  
Jesus went to the Temple to teach.  He also made the money changers leave because they were cheating and stealing.  They had turned God’s house into a den of robbers instead of a house of prayer. 

3. The Last Supper (cup)  
It was time to celebrate the Passover, the Jewish celebration that remembered how God saved the Israelites from Pharaoh in Egypt. The Passover meal was special. Jesus wanted to eat this meal with his disciples.  It was their last supper together. After they ate the meal, Jesus did something new. He took the bread and broke it into pieces for each of them. He told the disciples to eat the bread and think of him. The bread would remind them of Jesus.  Then he took the cup of wine and gave it to them to drink. The wine would remind them that Jesus was willing to die for his friends. Jesus said to do all of this in remembrance of him 

4. Praying in the garden (praying hands)  
After the meal, Jesus went to the garden to pray. He knew he would soon die.  He was very sad. He worried about his friends.  He wished it didn’t have to be this way.  He prayed and prayed. Jesus said that he would follow God’s will. Meanwhile, Jesus' friends all fell asleep.  They couldn’t stay awake to be with Jesus during this sad time. 

5. Jesus is arrested (sword)  
Then the soldiers came to arrest Jesus. One of Jesus’ disciples, Judas had betrayed him. The soldiers took Jesus away. 

6. Jesus is beaten and tried (crown of thorns and whip)  
The soldiers and the chief priests were mean to Jesus. They put a crown of thorns on his head and beat him with a whip.  

7. Jesus dies on the cross (cross) 
Jesus was put on a cross to die. After Jesus died, one of the religious leaders who believed in Jesus took his body down and put it into a cave for a tomb. They rolled a giant stone over the opening and sealed it closed. Roman guards stood outside the tomb to make sure no one came to steal Jesus’ body. 

8. Jesus is alive! (stone and now an empty basket!)  
Jesus died on Friday. On Saturday, he lay in the tomb. Early Sunday morning some of Jesus’ women friends came to put spices on his body and wrap it up. But when they got there, what did they find?  (the stone was rolled away and the tomb was empty!) Jesus was not there! He was risen! Jesus is alive! 

Memory Verse
Review it with the children at this time.  

“He is not here. He is risen!”  Luke 24:6 

Easter Good News!  

Characters:

  1. Narrator – teacher or shepherd should read the script for grades 1-3
  2. Jesus
  3. Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus
  4. Two Women (Mary and Mary Magdalene)
  5. Disciples
  6. Soldiers
  7. Angel

Supplies and props:

  1. Costumes or simple head drapes
  2. Variety of biblical props:  soldier helmets, swords, basket, white fabric strips. 
  3. Cardboard “tomb” and stone (made in previous rotation) 
  4. Artificial trees and plants 
  5. Cord and tape to “seal” the tomb

Advanced Preparations:

  1. Gather the props needed.
  2. Review the script.
  3. Set out costumes.
  4. Make copies of the script for 4-6 grade narrator (or have teacher read the script).

Directions:

  1. Explain that the Easter story is full of very sad feelings and very glad feelings, sort of like a roller coaster of emotions. How can we show our feelings to others?  (voice, body language) With this drama, most of the talking will be done by the narrator (teacher, shepherd or older child). Have children practice showing some of these feelings using just their body language: sad, afraid, lonely, surprised, joyful.
  2. Assign parts.
  3. Have the children help set up the scene – place the cardboard “tomb” in front of the puppet stage. Put the trees on either side. Set the stone aside.
  4. Help children get into costumes and distribute props.  
  5. Read through the script, pausing where indicated, for the children to perform the actions.  Encourage them to add dialogue. 
  6. Be sure to have the shepherd take lots of pictures!

Modifications for 1-3:

Provide “action” suggestions for the children if needed to help them act out the narrated story. 

Modifications for 4-6:

Add more details to the script using the Background information or the book Journey to the Cross. Allow an older child to be the narrator.

Reflection:

The last 10 minutes should be reserved for Journal Reflection Time.  This is an opportunity for processing and reflection about what children have learned.  Ask the shepherds to pass out the journals, pencils, and the journals question sticker for the day.  

Play the Rotation Music CD, track #10, "Arise my Love." Have children listen to the song as they journal. 

Journal Questions:

Grades 1-3:  Draw your favorite part of the story.

Grades 4-6:  What part did you play in the drama?  What do you think that person was feeling when Jesus rose from the dead? 

Closing prayer
Gather the children together in a circle. Review with them one word or concept that they learned during today’s session. (resurrection, miracle, Easter, Holy Week,  are some suggestions) Encourage them to come back next week and to bring a friend, especially a friend who does not have a church home. Remind them to bring their Bibles. Ask for prayer requests and close with prayer.   

Clean-up
Encourage the children to help you clean up. Please return all props, costumes and other materials to the proper place in the closet or prop storage area. Turn out lights and air conditioner before leaving the classroom.


Script:  Easter Good News! 

What a week of ups and downs! It started out to be a great week. Jesus and his disciples were coming to Jerusalem for the most important Jewish feast – the Passover. Jesus rode into Jerusalem riding on a donkey. The crowds cheered and waved palm branches at him. They called him their king. The disciples were on top of the world!  Perhaps now Jesus would become the kind of King all the Jewish people longed for, the promised Messiah who would get rid of the Romans.  But quickly things started to go sour. The chief priests and religious leaders were afraid of Jesus.  They didn’t like his teachings. They wanted to get rid of him.  On Thursday, Jesus ate the Passover meal with his disciples; this was their last supper together. Then he went to the garden to pray.  He knew it wouldn’t be long before he would be taken away. In the middle of the night, the guards came, led by Judas the betraying disciple.They arrested Jesus. They beat him with a whip and put a crown of thorns on his head.  They put a robe on him and made fun of him, calling him “King of the Jews.” Then on Friday, they nailed him to a cross and he died.   

(Jesus stands on stage in front of the cross drawn on the blackboard with arms outstretched. Hang head down to show death.) 

It was a terrible time! The earth shook and the sky was dark. Jesus was dead. His friends and family couldn’t believe it. How could this happen? What about all their hopes and dreams?  They didn’t understand. They cried and cried.   

(friends and women kneel at foot of Jesus and cry) 

One of the religious leaders named Joseph of Arimathea believed in Jesus. He asked for permission to take Jesus’ body down and give him a proper burial. But it was nearly time for the Sabbath to begin. No work could be done on the Sabbath, so he and Nicodemus (remember Nicodemus? He came to visit Jesus at night with questions…. Now we see that he did become Jesus' friend) quickly put Jesus in a new tomb carved into a cave.Their hearts were breaking as they gently placed Jesus in the tomb. 

(Two men “carry” Jesus and lay him in the puppet stage tomb, act sad, hurry away) 

Meanwhile, the chief priests were nervous. They had heard rumors that Jesus might rise from the dead. They were afraid the disciples would come and steal Jesus’ body and then say he was alive. They didn’t want Jesus’ followers to get all stirred up again.  So they went to the Roman governor Pilate and convinced him to put Roman guards at the tomb. No one would be able to get past the guards!

 (Roman guards stand outside the tomb) 

The guards also put the seal of the Roman governor on the tomb. A long cord was placed in front of the stone. The seal of the Roman governor was stamped into some clay or wax. The penalty for breaking the seal was DEATH! 

(Soldiers put a cord across the tomb) 

The next day was the Sabbath. Jesus lay in the tomb on this day. Early on the next day, two women came to the tomb with baskets of spices and ointments and linen strips. They needed to prepare Jesus’ body for burial. They were still very sad… 

(Women carrying baskets walk sadly to tomb) 

They wondered what they would do when they got to the tomb. They knew the giant stone was too heavy for them to roll away by themselves. What would they do? Perhaps the soldiers would help them.   

Suddenly, as they came near the tomb, the earth began to shake! An angel of the Lord came down from heaven and rolled back the stone and then sat on it! The guards were so scared that they stood there like dead men, frozen in place!   

(Jesus leaves the tomb, leaving just a piece of fabric, Angel rolls stone away, Guards act scared) 

The angel said, “Don’t be afraid. Jesus is not here.  He has risen! Come and look inside and see where he was lying.” 

(Women act surprised!  Look inside tomb) 

Sure enough! Jesus was not there. All that was left was the linen cloth that had been placed over Jesus. They picked it up in amazement! How could this be? They couldn’t believe their eyes! 

(women pick up cloth) 

The angel spoke to the women again. “Jesus has a message for you. He is going to Galilee.  You will find him there. Go tell his disciples what you have seen. Go tell them everything that has happened!” 

(angel talks to women) 

The women turned to leave the garden. They couldn’t wait to go and tell the others that Jesus was alive!  Then suddenly, they saw a man standing in the garden.  The man spoke to them, “Greetings!” he said. It was Jesus! They fell at his feet and worshiped him.    

(Jesus appears, women kneel at Jesus’ feet) 

“Don’t be afraid,” Jesus said.  “Go and tell my disciples what you have seen. Tell them to come to Galilee. They will see me there.” 

(Women run off, acting very happy) 

The women did as Jesus asked. They told the disciples what they had seen. The disciples were amazed! How could this be? Then they remembered that Jesus had said that he would be raised on the third day. It was true! And the amazing news spread everywhere! Jesus was alive! And he is alive and with us today, too! That is the amazing and wonderful good news of Easter! 

(disciples act surprised, confused, then happy) 

The End (well, really the beginning!!!)

 Have entire cast come to the stage. Review the Memory Verse Take a picture of the entire group!


A lesson by Jaymie Derden from: State Street UMC

A representative of Rotation.org reformatted this post to improve readability.

Last edited by Luanne Payne

Empty Tomb

Bible Skills and Games 

Summary of Lesson Activities:

Children will review the Easter story while coloring story cards and then play 4 games.

Scripture References: 

Matthew, 28:1-15, Mark 16:1-8, Luke 24:1-12, John 20:1-10, “Jesus Rises from the Dead,” Little Kids’ Adventure Bible, pages 356-357. 

Memory Verse:

“Jesus is not here.  He has risen!”  Luke 24:6  

Theme: 
Jesus died on the cross and was raised from the dead. The resurrection of Jesus is central to the Christian faith. 

Important Note for Games Workshop Leaders:
The purpose of the games workshop is two-fold:  to develop Bible skills and to reinforce that knowledge by having fun with games. The games are not frills and fluff! Playing games helps to cement the knowledge and reinforce the skills you introduce during the Bible lesson. Children learn best when actively involve, so please do not skimp on the games portion of the lesson! Follow the time guidelines to help you stay on track. Remember –  in the Rotation model, children study ONE lesson or story for 4 weeks, so it is not necessary to cover every detail in each session. 


Preparation and Room Set-Up:

  • Review background information, teaching tips and lesson materials.
  • Gather necessary supplies.
  • Prepare the coloring story cards – copy onto cardstock and cut apart. Make two sets.
  • Review the Music CD. Plan to play the music as the children arrive, play games and during journal time.
  • Before children arrive, copy the clip art pages onto card stock. Make two sets.
  • Cut the pages in half to make two sets of story cards.

Supplies List:

  • White or light colored Cardstock – 10 sheets
  • Crayons, colored pencils or markers
  • Copies of Easter story clip art (do an internet search for coloring sheets or use Christian clip art) of the following events:  
    • Palm Sunday 
    • Jesus’ Teaching in the Temple 
    • Jesus Cleanses the Temple (grades 2-3) 
    • Last Supper 
    • Jesus praying 
    • Jesus betrayed and arrested (grades 2-3)
    • Jesus dies on the cross
    • Jesus buried, tomb sealed 
    • Tomb empty
    • Jesus rises from the dead


Lesson Plan

Opening:

Welcome the children and introduce yourself. Make sure everyone is wearing a name tag.  Please include the shepherd in introductions.   

Prayer

Please begin your class with prayer each week. Dear God, Thank you for this day and for all who are here today. Be with us now as we learn more about your great love for us. Give us open hearts and open minds as we learn and play together. In Jesus’ name, AMEN. 

Important Teacher Notes:

Each workshop includes the Bible story. One of our primary goals is to improve the children’s Bible literacy! If children did not bring their Bibles from home, use the classroom Bibles. Shepherds should help the children locate the stories. Use the Background Information to help you introduce the story.  

Remember that as the rotation progresses; the children will become more familiar with the story.  When this happens, allow the children to tell you what they know. The children should still locate the story in their Bibles every week.Use the bold headings in their Bibles to guide your discussion.You may want to review some of the Bible notes as well. Be sure to fill in any missing information and add additional details using the Background Information to help you. One of the greatest advantages of this model is that children who come regularly learn the story in great depth. 

Each lesson contains more Background Information and discussion questions than can be used in one session. Remember, children are studying this story for four weeks! Be sure to follow the time guidelines and leave ample time for the activity. 

Dig:

Directions:
Pass out the picture story cards to the children. Have them quietly color the pictures as you review the story. Point out the appropriate card for each event as it is discussed.  

Option:

Copy the clip art pages onto plain paper and cut apart. Have children create a title page.  Staple the pictures together in order to make an Easter Story booklet. Encourage children to take these home and color them and share the story with their families and friends. 

Introduce the Story

Easter is the most important celebration in the church, even more important than Christmas.  At Easter we remember how very much Jesus loved us!  Where in the Bible would we find stories of Jesus?  (New Testament) 

The last week of Jesus’ life was very busy. Lots of things happened. Let’s try to remember about this special week in Jesus’ life – called Holy Week. Review briefly the events listed on the cards. Add additional cards as noted for older grades. 

When Jesus died on the cross his friends were very sad. They were also scared that the soldiers might come to get them, too.  Most of Jesus’ friends ran away. They didn’t know what to do.  And then the most amazing miracle of all happened on Sunday morning. Let’s read what our Bibles say about this…. 

Bible Study - Grades K-3

Help the children locate the story “Jesus Rises from the Dead” on pages 356-357 in the Little Kids’ Adventure Bible.  Note the red title and the small letters below explaining that this story is found in the gospel of John.  (For grades 2-3 explain that this story is found in all four gospels!) Read or paraphrase the story as the children follow along in their Bibles.   

Read and discuss the following Bible notes:   

Little Kids’ Adventure Bible

People in Bible Times:  Mary Magdalene, page 357

Life in Bible Times: Jesus’ Tomb, page 356 

Discussion:

  • Why did the women go to the tomb on Sunday morning?  (to put spices on Jesus’ body)
  • What did they find?  (the stone was rolled away, Jesus was gone)
  • What happened to Jesus?  (he was raised from the dead)
  • What do you think the disciples and the women thought?   

Bible Study: Grades 4-5

The week of Easter in the church is called Holy Week. This is the most important week in the Christian year. It was a very busy week for Jesus! Let’s review some of the things that happened during this week:

  • Palm Sunday – Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem
  • Cleansing the Temple – Jesus drove the moneychangers away
  • Teaching in the Temple – Jesus spent several days teaching
  • Last Supper – Jesus celebrated the Passover meal with his disciples
  • Praying in the Garden – Jesus prayed to God and accepted God’s will for his death
  • Jesus’ betrayal and arrest – Judas betrays Jesus with a kiss, soldiers arrest him
  • Jesus is sent to Caiaphas and Pilate for trial – sentenced to death
  • Jesus dies on the cross  

With the death of Jesus, the disciples were at a loss. What should they do now? Where should they go? All their dreams and hopes for the future were gone…. They must have been devastated! But we know that the story doesn’t end with Jesus dead in the tomb. We know that the greatest miracle is about to happen on Sunday morning. Let’s read about what happens…. 

Where would we find a story about Jesus in the Bible?  (New Testament) The first four books of the New Testament tell about Jesus’ life. What are they called?  (gospels) Gospel means good news. These books tell about the good news of Jesus’ birth, life, death and resurrection.  The story of Jesus’ resurrection is found in all four gospels. We will look at the story in two gospels, Matthew and Luke.   

Divide the children into two groups. Assign each group a gospel:

Matthew

27: 50-54 (Jesus dies, Temple curtain rips, soldier recognizes Jesus as Christ)

27:57-61 (Joseph of Arimathea takes Jesus’ body)

27:62-66 (Guards are placed at the tomb)

28:1-10 (Jesus rises from the dead, talks to women)

28:11-15 (chief priests bribe the guards)

Luke

23:44-46 (Jesus dies on the cross)

23:50-56 (Joseph takes Jesus’ body for burial)

24:1-12 (Jesus rises from the dead)

Use the cards made in the earlier classes to provide visual reminders for the children as they review the events of Holy Week.  

Read and discuss the following Bible notes:

Life in Bible Times:  Jesus’ Tomb, page 1162

People in Bible Times:  Joseph of Arimathea page 1189

Life in Bible Times:  The Cross, page 1232

Life in Bible Times:  Burial, page 1265 

Discuss:

Refer to the background information and the book Journey to the Cross to discuss some of the following with the children:

  • What did it mean that the Temple curtain was torn?  
  • What safeguards were taken to keep Jesus’ body guarded in the tomb?  (soldiers posted outside, tomb had official Roman seal)
  • Who first found the empty tomb?  (the women)
  • Why were they going to the tomb?  (to anoint Jesus’ body with spices for burial)
  • What did the angel tell the women?  (Jesus is risen)
  • What did the Jewish leaders do when they heard about the empty tomb?  (bribed the guards to say that the disciples had stolen the body)
  • What did the disciples think when they first heard?  (they didn’t believe, needed to see for themselves)
  • Have you ever doubted the things you hear about at church?
  • What can help us believe?
  • How can we help others believe something that seems impossible?
  • The disciples were completely transformed. Has Jesus changed your life? In what way?

Memory Verse

Locate the verse and review it with the children at this time.  

“Jesus is not here. He has risen!”  Luke 24:6 

Easter Story Sequencing Game (K-3)

Supplies:

  1. Prepared story cards created during Bible Study by children
  2. 2 baskets 

Preparation:

  1. Children will prepare the cards for the game: have them color the pictures on the cards as the Bible story is being told. 
  2. Make two sets of cards.
  3. Shuffle each set to mix them up.

Directions:

  1. Divide children into two teams.
  2. Place shuffled story cards in a basket or pile at one end of the room.
  3. Have children line up at opposite side of room.
  4. Have each team race to put the cards in order.
  5. After the cards are in order, review with the children the events on the cards.

Verse Pop-Up (K-1)

Supplies:

  1. Butterfly shape outlined on copy paper – 8 sheets
  2. Tape

Preparations (Before class):

  1. Copy the butterfly outline onto a piece of paper.
  2. Write the memory verse inside the butterfly shape, one word per page.  Don’t forget the scripture reference.
  3. Tape the papers in order in a straight line on the wall (at eye level).  Leave about 6 inches between each paper.

Directions:

  1. Divide children and have them stand next to each piece of paper taped to the wall –they should be as evenly spaced as possible. If there are less than eight children, combine some of the verse sheets together.
  2. Review the memory verse together.
  3. Have children squat down.  
  4. Point to the first word of the verse. Children at this part of the verse should “pop up” and say the word. Next group of children “pop up” and say the next word of the verse. Repeat until the entire verse has been recited.  
  5. Have children move one space down the line to the next verse sheet. (Child at the end will move to the first verse sheet) Repeat the popping up and reciting of the verse again. Continue until everyone has had a chance to recite the verse at each verse sheet.

Butterfly Verse Relay (2-5) 

Children will review the memory verse by playing a relay game. (Adapted from an idea from Bible Zone, Abingdon Press, 1999) 

Supplies:

  1. Outline of butterfly shape 
  2. Markers

Preparation (Before Class):

  1. Divide a piece of copy paper or cardstock into fourths. 
  2. Draw an outline of a butterfly shape in each division of the paper (4 butterflies per page).
  3. Write the memory verse inside the butterfly shape, one word per butterfly.  This will require eight butterfly cards.  Make two sets (total of 16 cards).
  4. Cut the paper or cards apart and organize into two sets.
  5. Shuffle each set so that the cards are out of order.
  6. Place each set of shuffled cards in a basket at one end of the room.

To Play:

  1. Review the memory verse several times.  Be sure to include the scripture reference.
  2. Divide the class into two teams.
  3. Place the baskets of verses at one end of the room and line the children up at the opposite end of the room.  
  4. First child on each team must hop to the basket and pick up one card and bring it back to the team.  Next player then hops to the basket.  Repeat until all cards have been retrieved from the basket.
  5. Team must then put the verse in order.  
  6. First team finished is the winner.
  7. End with everyone reciting the verse together.

Option:  For a more challenging game, have children play using straws. Give each child a straw. They must pick up the verse card by sucking on the straw and carry it back to their team before dropping it.

Easter Faith Flip Spin (Grades 4-5)

Supplies:

  1. Faith Flip Game Board (directions below)
  2. Game Wheel Spinner 
  3. List of words relating to story (Easter, Palm Sunday, Holy Week, butterfly, Empty tomb, Resurrection, Passover, Last Supper, Angel, Guards, Crucifixion, Disciples, Women, Burial, etc.)
  4. 4 X 6 inch index cards
  5. Crayons or water-based markers 
  6. White board and markers for keeping score

Preparation:

  1. Prepare a game board using a thin plywood board painted in a bright color with nails on which you can hang letter cards to spell out the Easter words. Hammer nails in the board equally spaced apart.  For 4X6 inch cards, space the nails 4.5 inches apart.  Add a second or third row of nails also – just be sure to allow for the length of the index card plus an additional inch. A game board with 3 rows of 12 nails, using 4 X 6 inch cards will be 28 inches by 60 inches (allowing for a title to be painted on the top of the board). Decrease size accordingly if using 3 X 5 inch cards. 
  2. Option: Instead of preparing a game board, use a sentence chart available at teacher supply stores.
  3. Prepare game cards by writing one letter per card for each word.  Punch a hole in the top middle of the card.  Be sure the hole is centered or the cards will not hang straight.  Be sure the marker does not bleed through to the opposite side of the card.  (water-based markers or crayons work better than permanent markers).
  4. Group each set of word cards together. 

To Play:

  1. Divide the children into two teams.
  2. Hang the cards for the first word onto the nails of the Faith Flip board, so that the blank side is showing.
  3. Team with the most yellow on goes first.
  4. Have first player on team one spin the game wheel.  (points are indicated on the game wheel as well as Lose a Turn, Extra Spin, God’s Grace and Bankrupt).  Player then chooses a letter. If the letter chosen is in the word, flip over the card or cards to reveal the letter or letters.Team is awarded the number of points as determined by the spinner. For example: If the word is Resurrection and the player chooses the letter “R” and  spins for 10 points, the team is awarded 30 points – (10 points X 3 “R’s” = 30 points) 
  5. Next player on Team 1 spins the wheel and chooses a letter.  
  6. If the letter chosen is not in the word, play passes to Team 2. 
  7. Continue until all the letters are revealed or until a team correctly guesses the word. 
  8. “Bankrupt” spin means all points are lost and play passes to other team.
  9. “God’s Grace” spin means any lost points are restored!
  10. Repeat play with a different word.
  11. As words are revealed, be sure to discuss the meaning and relevance of the word to the Easter story.  Play continues until all spaces in all categories have been answered. 
  12. Ask the shepherd to keep score.
  13. Teams may use their Bibles for help.
  14. Team with the most points is the winner!

Reflection/Journal Time:

The last 10 minutes should be reserved for Journal and Reflection time.This is an opportunity for processing and reflection about what the children have learned.Ask the shepherds to pass out the journals and pencils/pens and the journal sticker for the day.  

Journal Questions:

Have children create Easter Story booklets instead of journals.   

Clean-up:

Encourage the children to help clean up.  Put away all game supplies.   

Closing prayer

Gather the children together. Review with them one word or concept that they learned during today’s session. (love, resurrection, empty tomb, are some suggestions) Encourage them to come back next week and to bring a friend, especially a friend who does not have a church home. Remind them to bring their Bibles. Ask for prayer requests and close with prayer.


A lesson by Jaymie Derden from: State Street UMC

A representative of Rotation.org reformatted this post to improve readability.

Last edited by Luanne Payne

Empty Tomb

Computer Workshop


Summary of Lesson Activities:

uses these programs:

  • Play and Learn Bible (K-1)
    now out of print (only works on Windows Me/XP/Vista, and Windows 7- 32 bit.) Left here as many Sunday Schools have this in their resources.

  • Life of Christ (2-3)

  • Actual Reality (4-5)

    Actual Reality software CD is no longer in print. UPDATE: You can now download an "ISO" copy that will run fine in Windows 10 or 11 from https://archive.org/details/ACTREAL.  Select the ISO image version. It's about 650 megabytes so will take a bit to download. After downloading, double click to open, select "details" and "run away" to unzip it. Then click the actreal.exe file to run it!  Tip: Use Window's Display Scale control to set screen to 150% to make it fill the screen. Learn more here and also get a copy of the old Outline to Actual Reality.

  • Kid Pix 4 (or 3-D) (all grades)
    Kid Pix is an art, illustrating, and storytelling software that was once described as "the first program every Bible computer lab should have on every computer" because of its versatility and wide age range. Learn more about this program and where to purchase here.


Scripture References:

Matthew, 28:1-15, Mark 16:1-8, Luke 24:1-12, John 20:1-10, “Jesus Rises from the Dead,” Little Kids’ Adventure Bible, pages 356-357.

Memory Verse: “Jesus is not here.  He has risen!”  Luke 24:6

Theme: Jesus died on the cross and was raised from the dead. The resurrection of Jesus is central to the Christian faith.


Software Needed (see notes above under Summary):

  • Play and Learn Bible (K-1)
  • Life of Christ (2-3)
  • Actual Reality (4-5)
  • Kid Pix (all grades)

Advanced Preparation and Room Set Up:

  • Read the Background Information, teaching tips and lesson plan.
  • Preview the software.
  • Turn on computers, insert CDs and open programs before children arrive (insert Kid Pix on five computers.  Insert either Play and Learn Bible, Life of Christ or Actual Reality CDs depending on the age group).
  • Copy Helpful Hints Kid Pix handout for each computer station.

Notes for Computer Workshop Leaders:

This workshop can always use extra hands, especially for the younger children. Ask the shepherds to sit with the children at a computer station and help with navigation, reading text and discussion. As much as possible, try to sit with your students as you go through the software together. The lesson is not what’s on the computer. It’s what you and the students do with what’s on the computer. Guide your students through the content, share yourself and facilitate their sharing with each other. Model your enthusiasm for the Word of God. Please make sure that children take turns at the mouse and keyboard. If necessary, use the timer in the room to help the children switch roles.



Lesson Plan

Opening:

Gather the children together in the chairs with their Bibles. Welcome the children and introduce yourself. Make sure you are wearing your name tag and that the children have picked up their nametags. Always begin each class with introductions. Remember that workshop leaders rotate often, and the children may not know you.   

Opening Prayer

Please open class with prayer each week. Loving and powerful God, We praise you and we thank you for all you do for us. Be with us today as we learn more about you. In Jesus’ name, AMEN.

Important Teacher Notes:

Each workshop includes the Bible story.One of our primary goals is to improve the children’s Bible literacy! If children do not bring their Bibles from home, use the classroom Bibles. Shepherds should help the children locate the stories. Use the background information to help you introduce the story.

Remember, that as the rotation progresses, the children will become more familiar with the story. When this happens, allow the children to tell you what they know. The children should still locate the story in their Bibles every week. Use the bold headings in their Bibles to guide your discussion. You may want to review some of the Bible notes as well. Be sure to fill in any missing information and add additional details using the Background Information to help you. One of the greatest advantages of this model is that children who come regularly learn the story in great depth.

Each lesson contains more Background Information and discussion questions than can be used in one session. Remember, children are studying this story for four weeks! Be sure to follow the time guidelines and leave ample time for the activities.

Dig:

Introduce the Story & Bible Study

This is the special time of the church when we prepare to celebrate Easter. (Indicate the correct time depending on the week you are teaching -- Lent, Palm Sunday and the beginning of Holy Week or Easter Sunday) This is the most important time of the year for Christians.  During this time we remember all that happened to Jesus and all that he has done for us.

What do you remember about the Easter story? (List on the white board the children’s responses. Try to list them in order as much as possible. Include:

*Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey amid great celebration – Palm Sunday

Jesus cleansed the Temple.

Jesus taught the people.

*Jesus celebrated the Passover with his disciples – Last Supper

*Jesus prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane.

*Jesus was betrayed by Judas.

*Jesus was arrested.

Jesus was tried, beaten and treated terribly.

*Jesus was nailed to a cross and died.

*Jesus was buried in a tomb.

*Include these for grades K-1, if children seem to know the story well, include the others for grades 2-5.

Bible Study: Grades K-3

Where in the Bible do we find stories about Jesus?  (New Testament)

So, the story of Jesus dying on the cross and rising again is found in the New Testament.  Let’s find it in our Bibles now.

Help the children locate the story“Jesus Rises from the Dead,” Little Kids’ Adventure Bible, pages 356-357.

(For grades 2-3 explain that this story is found in all four gospels!  What does gospel mean?  Good news)

Read or paraphrase the story as the children follow along in their Bibles.   

Read and discuss the following Bible notes:   

Little Kids’ Adventure Bible

Life in Bible Times: Jesus’ Tomb page 356

Have the children with their own Bibles highlight the title of the story with the highlighters provided.  Please do not mark in the classroom Bibles.

Discussion:

  • Who first found the empty tomb?  (the women)
  • Why were they going to the tomb?  (to anoint Jesus’ body with spices for burial)
  • What did the angel tell the women?  (Jesus is risen)
  • What do we call this special day when Jesus rose?  (Easter Sunday)

Bible Study: Grades 4-5

Where in the Bible would we find this story about Jesus?  (New Testament)  The first four books of the New Testament tell about Jesus’ life.  What are they called?  (gospels) Gospel means good news.  These books tell about the good news of Jesus’ birth, life, death and resurrection.  The resurrection of Jesus is found in all four gospels.

Have the children locate Matthew 28:1-15. Read as the children follow along in their Bibles.

Read and discuss the following Bible notes:

Did you Know?  Did Jesus ever say he was God?  (page 1231)

Life in Bible Times:  Jesus’ Tomb (page 1162)

Words to Treasure:  Jesus is not here!  He has risen!  Luke 24:6 (Memory Verse)

Discuss:

  • What safeguards were taken to keep Jesus’ body guarded in the tomb?  (soldiers posted outside, tomb had official Roman seal)
  • Who first found the empty tomb?  (the women)
  • Why were they going to the tomb?  (to anoint Jesus’ body with spices for burial)
  • What did the angel tell the women?  (Jesus is risen)
  • What did the Jewish leaders do when they heard about the empty tomb?  (bribed the guards to say that the disciples had stolen the body)

Memory Verse: Locate the verse and review it with the children at this time.

“Jesus is not here. He has risen!”  Luke 24:6


Computer Exploration – Grades K-1

Software: Play and Learn Bible

Advanced Preparation:

  1. Before children arrive, insert the CD into one of the computers and open the program – choose a computer with plenty of space around it. The children will be watching one computer screen for this part of the lesson.  
  2. Navigate steps 1-5 below to the appropriate lesson – Play and Learn Bible – Jesus Dies on the Cross.

Navigation: Play and Learn Bible

  1. Insert CD into drive.
  2. Click on icon on desktop to open program.
  3. Click Bible Stories.
  4. Click Jesus is Our Friend.
  5. Click Jesus Dies on the Cross.
  6. Click YES (Do you want the story read to you?)
  7. Click green arrow at lower right of screen to advance the slides.
  8. Click back to main menu.
  9. Click Exit.

Directions:

  1. Gather the children around the computer station with Play and Learn Bible open.
  2. Click YES (see #6 above in Navigation) to begin the narration of Jesus Dies on the Cross.
  3. Advance the slides by clicking the green arrow.
  4. After the story narration is completed, discuss the question: Will you ask him?
  5. Click the back arrow.
  6. Click Some Women Visit Jesus’ Tomb.
  7. Listen to the story narration.
  8. Discuss the question: Are you excited to tell your friends about Jesus? Who have you told?  When?  How can you share this good news with others?

Computer Exploration – Grades 2-3

Software:     Life of Christ  

Advanced Preparation:

  1. Before children arrive, insert the CD into one of the computers and open the program – choose a computer with plenty of space around it. The children will be watching one computer screen for this part of the lesson.  
  2. Navigate to the appropriate lesson – Life of Christ – The Burial and Resurrection.

Navigation Life of Christ:

  1. Insert CD into drive.
  2. Click on icon on desktop to open program.
  3. Click New Exploration.
  4. Type in initials.
  5. Click on crate on table by window to open up lesson index.
  6. Click 34-40 – Jesus is Alive Forever and Ever.
  7. Click Lesson 34 – The Burial and Resurrection.
  8. Click YES to take quiz.
  9. Click on correct answers.
  10. Click arrow on bottom of screen to advance to next question.
  11. Click return to Lesson Index.
  12. Click on left hand side of screen to see toolbar. Click office.
  13. Roll mouse over left hand side of screen near bottom. EXIT will pop up. Click exit to exit the program.

Directions:

  1. Gather the children around the computer station you have prepared before.
  2. Listen to the narration (see #7 above in Navigation) - #34  The Burial and Resurrection.
  3. Discuss question:  If an angel appeared to you would you react more like the women or the guards? Why? Why did the guards run away?  What was the penalty for guards who deserted their post?  (death!)  What do you think they were thinking? Feeling?  What do you think the women thought and felt?  
  4. Take the quiz together.
  5. Exit the program.




Computer Exploration – Grades 4-5

Software: Actual Reality

Advanced Preparation:

  1. Before children arrive, insert the CD into one of the computers and open the program – choose a computer with plenty of space around it. The children will be watching one computer screen for this part of the lesson.  
  2. Perform navigation steps 1- 6 and stop at the appropriate lesson – Resurrection Theories.
  3. Review the evidence for the resurrection in the Background Information and the Journey to the Cross resource book and be prepared to discuss it with this group.

Navigation Actual Reality:

  1. Insert CD into drive.
  2. Double click on desktop icon.
  3. Let the opening run.
  4. Click on STUFF TO KNOW.
  5. Click on the CITY (this is the Parking Meter).
  6. Click on LE BIJOU Theatre – Raised from the Dead.
  7. Listen to Rebecca St. James.
  8. Watch the video clips of the different theories (click on each one to watch)

Stolen Body  

Miraculous Recovery Theory

Mistaken Grave Theory

He Is Risen

Discuss:

  • Have you ever heard any of these theories or others about what really happened to Jesus?
  • What do you think of the various theories that deny Jesus’ resurrection?
  • What do you think is the most convincing proof that Jesus did indeed rise from the dead?
  • What safeguards were taken to keep Jesus’ body guarded in the tomb?  (soldiers posted outside, tomb had “official Roman seal.
  • Describe the meaning of the resurrection in two sentences….
  • Why is it so important to Christians to believe that Jesus truly rose from the dead?
  • Have you ever doubted the things you hear about at church?
  • What can help us believe?
  • How can we help others believe something that seems impossible?
  • The disciples were completely transformed.  Has Jesus changed your life?  In what way?
Optional Activity:
Some of the 4-5 graders may prefer to explore the Actual Reality CD instead of creating the memory verse sticker. An additional Actual Reality worksheet PDF file can be found attached at the end of this lesson.   Print and make a copy for each student - pencils required.




Illustrated Memory Verses – All Grades

Software:  Kid Pix

Children will use Kid Pix to illustrate the rotation memory verse.  If desired, use sticker paper to create “bumper stickers” or other labels.    

Supplies:

  • Kid Pix CD
  • Sticker paper (full size sheets or large CD labels)

Preparation:

  1. Copy Kid Pix Helpful Hints Handout for each computer station.
  2. Open Kid Pix and navigate to the drawing screen.  

Tips:

If using labels, consider using the drawing tools to divide the screen into sections. Children can then draw within the section and print out their creations. If children are unfamiliar with the software, demonstrate some of the basic navigation tips for them on one computer before sending them to their separate stations. Suggestions:  basic drawing with pencil, crayon or paint, how to erase (caution them about the OOPS button and the large eraser), how to color in their drawings, how to use stamps, etc. Refer them to the Helpful Hints sheet for further help.

Directions:  

  1. Review the memory verse with the children.  Give each computer station a copy of the memory verse.
  2. Divide the children into pairs and sent to computer stations.
  3. Have the children use Kid Pix to write the memory verse and illustrate it.  
  4. Children may use stamps, stickers or may draw their own illustrations.
  5. Make sure they share!  Divide the screen into at least two sections. Each child can illustrate on one half of the screen. Discourage frequent erasures.  
  6. Once they are finished, print out the illustrations onto the sticker paper.
  7. Cut apart and distribute to the children.
  8. Print out an extra copy of each station’s creation on regular paper for our scrapbook!

Reflection:

The last 10 minutes should be reserved for Journal and Reflection time. This is an opportunity for processing and reflection about what the children have learned.  Ask the shepherds to pass out the journals and pencils/pens and the journal sticker for the day.  

Instead of Journal questions, have children share their creations. What does it mean to us that Jesus is risen?

Clean-up

Encourage the children to help clean up. Return markers, glue sticks scissors and art supplies to the Art Room. Remove CDs from computers, turn off computers, monitors and speakers.  

Closing prayer

Gather the children together. Review with them one word or concept that they learned during today’s session. (resurrection, alive, miracle, new life, etc. are some suggestions) Encourage them to come back next week and to bring a friend, especially a friend who does not have a church home. Remind them to bring their Bibles. Ask for prayer requests and close with prayer.


A lesson by Jaymie Derden from State Street UMC

A representative of Rotation.org reformatted this post to improve readability

Attachments

Last edited by Luanne Payne

Empty Tomb

Music and Movement Workshop

Scripture References:

Matthew, 28:1-15, Mark 16:1-8, Luke 24:1-12, John 20:1-10, “Jesus Rises from the Dead,” Little Kids’ Adventure Bible, pages 356-357.

Memory Verse“Jesus is not here.  He has risen!”  Luke 24:6

Theme
Jesus died on the cross and was raised from the dead. The resurrection of Jesus is central to the Christian faith.


Preparation and Room Set Up:

  • Review the Background Information, Behavioral Covenant, Teaching Tips and Lesson plan.
  • Gather all necessary supplies for activities.
  • Preview the Rotation Music CD.  Play the music as children arrive and during journaling.
  • Music:  “Arise My Love,”Newsong, 1999 Benson Records, Inc. Provident Music Distribution.


Lesson Plan

Opening:

Welcome the children and introduce yourself. Make sure everyone is wearing a name tag.  Please include the shepherd in introductions. 

Prayer

Please begin your class with prayer each week. Amazing God, Thank you for this day and for everyone who is here today. Be with us now as we learn about the amazing Easter miracle.  AMEN.

Important Teacher Notes:

Each workshop includes the Bible story. One of our primary goals is to improve the children’s Bible literacy! If children did not bring their Bibles from home, use the classroom Bibles. Shepherds should help the children locate the stories. Use the Background Information to help you introduce the story.

Remember that as the rotation progresses; the children will become more familiar with the story. When this happens, allow the children to tell you what they know. The children should still locate the story in their Bibles every week.Use the bold headings in their Bibles to guide your discussion. You may want to review some of the Bible notes as well. Be sure to fill in any missing information and add additional details using the Background Information to help you. One of the greatest advantages of this model is that children who come regularly learn the story in great depth.

Each lesson contains more Background Information and discussion questions than can be used in one session. Remember, children are studying this story for four weeks! Be sure to follow the time guidelines and leave ample time for the activity.

Dig:

Introduce the story

The story of Easter is the most important celebration in the church. Many things happened during the last week of Jesus’ life on earth.  We call this week Holy Week. It is the most important week for the church. We still celebrate Holy Week today to remember everything that happened to Jesus during that week. What do you remember about the events of Holy Week?  

As the children recall the events of Holy Week, write each event on a piece of paper and tape to the blackboard. Add details from the Background information and resource book Journey to the Cross as children discuss the events and in later weeks of the rotation.

Be sure the following events are covered:

  1. Palm Sunday
  2. Cleansing the Temple
  3. Teaching in the Temple
  4. The Last Supper
  5. Praying in the Garden of Gethsemane – disciples all asleep
  6. Jesus is arrested – Judas’ betrayal, Peter’s denial
  7. Jesus’  trial
  8. Jesus’ crucifixion
  9. Jesus’ death on the cross
  10. Jesus is alive!!!

Once the major events have been recorded on paper, have the children sequence them in the order in which they occurred.  

Bible Study: Grades K-3

Where in the Bible would we find a story about Jesus?  (New Testament) 

Help the children locate the story “Jesus Rises from the Dead” on pages 356-357 in the Little Kids’ Adventure Bible. (For grades 2-3 explain that this story is found in all four gospels) 

Read and discuss the following Bible notes:   

Little Kids’ Adventure Bible

Life in Bible Times: Jesus’ Tomb, page 356

Bible Study: Grades 4-5

Use the activity described above to review the story with the 4-5 graders. Add additional details from the Background Information and the book Journey to the Cross.

Have the children locate Luke 24:1-12 in their Bibles. Read and discuss the following Bible notes:

Life in Bible Times:  The Cross, page 1232

Memory Verse

Locate the verse and review it with the children at this time. Children may also learn to “sign” this verse. 

“Jesus is not here.  He has risen!”  Luke 24:6

Discussion:  

  • What part of the Easter story is most familiar to you?  Least familiar?
  • This rotation we will focus most on Jesus’ resurrection.  What does the word resurrection mean?  (raised from the dead, come alive again)
  • What safeguards were taken to keep Jesus’ body guarded in the tomb?  (soldiers posted outside, tomb had “official Roman seal.
  • Who first found the empty tomb?  (the women)
  • Why were they going to the tomb?  (to anoint Jesus’ body with spices for burial)
  • What did the Jewish leaders do when they heard about the empty tomb?  (bribed the guards to say that the disciples had stolen the body)
  • Have you ever doubted the things you hear about at church?
  • What can help us believe?
  • How can we help others believe something that seems impossible?
  • The disciples were completely transformed.  Has Jesus changed your life?  In what way?

Resurrection Stick Dance!  

Supplies and props:

  1. .5 inch dowels (24-36 inches long), 2 dowels per child
  2. CD player
  3. Transparency of lyrics
  4. Overhead projector

Advanced Preparations:

  1. Gather supplies.
  2. Review the song and possible motions.

Directions:

  1. Explain that the Easter story is full of very sad feelings and very glad feelings, sort of like a roller coaster of emotions. In stick dance we use dowels to create dramatic movements that reflect the feelings expressed in the song.  
  2. Display the transparency with the lyrics and play the song “Arise My Love” as the children listen.
  3. How does the song make you feel?  What parts of the story does the song tell about?
  4. What motions can we use with our sticks to represent the story and the feelings? Some possibilities: kneeling in sadness; standing; shuffling feet of guards standing tall and marching; turning heads away - God "turning his back" on sin; standing up dramatically at the "arise my love" verse; arms crossed at wrists to resemble shackles; head down for suffering; dowels crossed and crouched down for death; dowels circle above heads when the stone is rolled away; love - arms crossed over chest; dowels in "V" shape for Victory.
  5. Play the song again and demonstrate some of the suggested moves. Add others as children think of possibilities.
  6. Pass out the dowels (two per child). Have the group form a large circle facing inward.  Be sure there is enough space in between children so no poking occurs!  
  7. Assign one child to be Jesus at the head of the circle.Jesus' motions may be different than the others -- Jesus hanging on the cross, Jesus dying, Jesus lying in the tomb.
  8. Practice some of the moves.  
  9. Play the song and have the children perform the moves. Repeat with different moves.
  10. Be sure to have the shepherd take lots of pictures!

Modifications for K-1:

Use fewer movements. Have all children perform the same movements. 

Modifications for 4-5:

Add more detailed movements. Sequence the movements so that some children do one move while others do another.  

Reflection:

The last 10 minutes should be reserved for Journal and Reflection time.This is an opportunity for processing and reflection about what the children have learned. Ask the shepherds to pass out the journals and pencils/pens and the journal sticker for the day.  

Journal Questions:

Grades K-1:  Draw yourself moving to the music in the song.

Grades 2-5:  Draw how the music made you feel today.

Closing prayer: Gather the children together in a circle. Review with them one word or concept that they learned during today’s session. (resurrection, miracle, Easter, Holy Week,  are some suggestions) Encourage them to come back next week and to bring a friend, especially a friend who does not have a church home. Remind them to bring their Bibles. Ask for prayer requests and close with prayer.  

Clean-up: Encourage the children to help you clean up. Return dowels to the storage cabinet.


A lesson written by Jayme Derden from: State Street UMC

A representative of Rotation.org reformatted this post to improve readability.

Last edited by Luanne Payne

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