Ark of Covenant/Tabernacle
Computer Workshop 

Summary of Lesson Activities:
Children will review the story of the building of the Ark of the Covenant and the Tabernacle using Bible software "Ilumina" & "Play & Learn".

Note:  Out of Print Software (which many Rotation churches have).

• "Ilumina" software is no longer in print, another option is "The Glo Bible" which also has interactive Tabernacle content.
• "Play & Learn" is no longer in print.

Scripture References:
Exodus 25-40

Memory Verse:
”We will do everything the LORD has told us to do. We will obey him.” Exodus 24:7

Rotation Objectives: see first post above.

Preparation and Room Set Up:

• Review the Background Information, Behavioral Covenant, Teaching Tips and Lesson plan.
• Preview the software prior to teaching. Feel free to borrow a CD and take home or make arrangements to come to the computer lab before teaching.
• Turn on computers, insert CDs and open programs at each computer station before class.
• Make copies of the Navigation tips and Handouts for each computer station – this is important – Experience has shown us that this greatly enhances the lesson and makes it much easier for teachers, students and shepherds!

Materials List:

• ILumina Bible Software
• Play and Learn Bible (for grades 1-2)
• Copies of instructions
• Copies of lesson pictures

Time Guidelines:

• Introductions/Opening Prayer: 5minutes
• Bible Study - Introduction: 15 minutes
• Computer Exploration: 30 minutes
• Reflection/Closing Prayer: 10 minutes

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. You might also want to pair older students with younger ones. 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.

Presentation 

Opening-Welcome and Introductions:
Gather the children together at the large center table with their Bibles. Welcome the children and introduce yourself. Always begin each class with introductions. Remember that workshop leaders rotate often and the children may not know you. Please include the shepherds in your introductions to help them learn the children’s names. Make sure you are wearing your name tag and that the children have picked up their name tags.

Opening Prayer:
Please begin class with prayer. You may pray spontaneously, or use the prayer below: 

“Dear Loving and Powerful God, Thank you for this day and for all the people who are here today. We thank you especially for the story of Moses and how you showed him your great power and faithfulness. Help us to remember that you are always with us, in good times and bad. Thank you for loving us. In Jesus’ name, AMEN. 

Dig-Main Content and Reflection:

Introduce the Story:
Briefly review the story of Moses up to this point.The children should be able to help you. 

• Moses was called by God to save the Hebrews from slavery in Egypt.
• Many great miracles happened including ten plagues and the parting of the Red Sea.
• While in the desert God did more miracles – he provided manna for them to eat and fresh water to drink.
• The Hebrews wandered in the desert for three months before arriving at Mt. Sinai – at the very same mountain where Moses saw God in a burning bush!
• God gave Moses the Ten Commandments when he went up the mountain.
• God also gave Moses many other instructions.
• Let’s see what else God told Moses to do…
• Where would we find a story about Moses’ life? (Old Testament, book of Exodus).

For Grades 1-2:
Help the children locate the story “The Holy Tent” on pages 65-66 in The Little Kids' Adventure Bible. 

Explain that God is giving instructions for Moses on how to build a holy tent or tabernacle. This will be the place where the Israelites can worship God. 

What is a place where we come to worship God? (church) 

The tabernacle was like a church for the Israelites. But because they were traveling, it had to be movable. The way it is built, they can take it apart to move it. That way they take their church with them. 

Do not read all the text. We want the children to understand just how amazingly specific these instructions were. 

Read and discuss the Bible note: Life in Bible Times: The Ark of the Covenant page 66 

Next turn to page 69, “Moses Sets up the Holy Tent.” Read as the children follow along. 

Stop when you come to “Moses did everything just as the Lord had commanded him.” 

Read and discuss the Bible note:  "Life in Bible Times: The Holy Tent", page 71 

For Grades 3-6:
Help the children locate Exodus 25. 

Do not read all the text, but using the headings, help the children see the specific instructions God gave for the tabernacle and all its furnishings. 

The Bible first describes God giving the instructions to Moses and then Moses and the Israelites following these instructions to build the items God indicated. (there is no need to look at both sets of scriptures)

Point out that many of the items had rings on the side through which poles were inserted.

ASK: Why do you think it was done this way? (because the entire tabernacle and its contents were to be portable – the poles were how they moved the items) 

The tabernacle was the Israelite’s church – but it could be taken apart and moved with them wherever they went. 

The Holy Tent – Exodus 26 
This describes the dimensions of the inner tent and the coverings and curtains separating the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place. It also tells about the four coverings over the top of the tabernacle. 

Read and discuss the following Bible note: "Life in Bible Times: The Holy Tent (Tabernacle)", page 112 in the The Adventure Bible for Young Readers.

Ark of the covenant – Exodus 35:1-7 (also Exodus 25:10-22)
God gives Moses instructions about building the Ark of the Covenant. Explain that ark means box or chest. The Hebrew word was different than the word for Noah’s ark. 

Read and discuss the Bible note: "Life in Bible Times: Ark of the Covenant", page 94 

The Table for the Holy Bread – Exodus 37:10-16 (Exodus 25:24) 
This was also called the Table of the Presence or the Table of Showbread. It held 12 loaves of bread, one for each tribe of Israel. 

The Gold Lampstand – Exodus 37:17-24 (Exodus 25:31)
The lampstand was the only source of light inside the tabernacle. 

The Altar for burning incense – Exodus 37:25-29 (Exodus 30:1-10) 
This altar was inside the Holy Place just before the curtain to enter the Most Holy Place. As the incense burned its smoke was believed to carry the people’s prayers up to God. 

The Altar for Burnt Offerings – Exodus 38:1-7 (Exodus 27:1-8)

This was the altar where the priests sacrificed animals. 

The Large Bowl for Washing – Exodus 38:8 (Exodus 30:17-21)
Only the priests could enter the Holy Place. Before entering they washed their hands and feet in the laver or bronze bowl. This showed respect for the holiness of God. 

The Courtyard – Exodus 38:9-20 (Exodus 27:9-19)
The courtyard surrounded the holy tent. 

The Clothes for the Priests – Exodus 39:1-31
The priests were given special clothes to indicate their special job. (this includes the apron, chest piece, robe, etc.)

Read the following Bible notes:
* People in Bible Times: Israel’s High Priest, page 98
* Did you Know? What did it mean to set something apart? Page 99

Read Exodus 40:34-38, “The Glory of the Lord.” 

Discuss:
God gave the Israelites the tabernacle so that they would have a place to meet with Him and know that He was with them always. 

Because the tabernacle and the Ark of the Covenant were portable, they could take it with them wherever they went. 

God’s presence dwelled in the Most Holy Place, above the mercy seat of the Ark of the Covenant. The Israelites could actually see God’s presence in the cloud. 

I wonder what it must have been like to see God like that….

Memory Verse: Each rotation we encourage the children to memorize one scripture verse. Review the verse with the children at this time.

Discuss:
Even though the Israelites promised to obey God, they did not. They continued to grumble, whine and complain just as they had been doing since leaving Egypt. They didn't trust that God would be with them even though they could see his presence in the tabernacle. 

Because they continued to disobey and didn't trust, the Israelites spent the next 40 years wandering in the desert!

Computer Exploration: Ilumina Bible

Special Navigational Tips:
The Ilumina Bible software is multi-media software with amazing videos and 360º bubbles of the tabernacle and its furnishings. It will be helpful to pair older children with younger ones and use your shepherds to help the children follow the navigation handout.

Modifications for Younger Children:
The CD was designed to be explored with a teacher or shepherd right next to the children; this is especially important for grades 1-2. For 1-2 grades, assign each shepherd to a computer station and plan to help at one yourself. Younger children will need help with reading some of the text and navigating the photo bubbles. This age group will have a modified use of the software and will be allowed to play some review games about Moses using the Play and Learn Bible software. Use the Grade 1-2 Handout as a guide.

Directions:

• Divide the children into pairs at the computers.
• Place the correct age-level navigation tips and handout at each computer station.

Navigation – Grades 3-6

1. Click on the Ilumina icon on the desktop to open the program.
2. Click on Media Center.
3. Click Animations.
4. Click Offerings for the Tabernacle.
5. Listen to the narration.
   
   o What did God want the Israelites to build? (a holy place where he could dwell and meet with them)
6. Click Plans for the Ark.
   
   o What was placed inside the Ark? (the stone tablets – also a pot of manna and Aaron’s rod)
   
   o Where did God meet the people? (above the cherubim’s wings at the atonement cover or mercy seat)
7. Click Media Center on top menu bar.
8. Click Visual Tour.
9. Click Tabernacle.
10. Click Outer Court – Look at the small picture on the lower left to see where you are in the tabernacle. 
    
    o Read the text below the picture. 
    
    o Hold the left mouse button down and move the mouse around to see a 360º tour of the area. The text below describes what you are seeing.
    
    o Click on the tiny question mark in the bar below the picture to view the hot spots.
    
    o Click on the hotspots to find the answer to these questions:
    
      - What were the outer curtains made of? (fine linen)
    
      - How was the altar of burnt offerings different than typical altars in the ancient world?
         (it was made of wood covered in bronze, rather than stone)
    
      - What mountain is in the background? (Mt. Sinai)
    
      - What are the priests doing near the bowl? (washing before entering the Holy Place)
    
      - What covered the top of the Holy Place?
          (four layers of fabric – goatskin, ram skin, goat hair and linen)
11. Click on the entrance to Holy Place.
    
      - Who can enter here? (only the priests)
12. Click to enter. 
    
    o Listen to the priest singing.
    
      - What language is he using? (Hebrew) 
    
    o Move around to see what is inside the Holy Place.
13. Click on the tall table.
    
      - What did the table hold? (12 loaves of bread)
    
      - Why 12? (one for each tribe of Israel)
    
      - What did the priests burn in the lampstand? (oil)
    
      - What other altar was inside the Holy Place? (the altar of incense)
14. Click on the curtain to enter the Holy of Holies or Most Holy Place.
    
    o Listen to the priest. 
    
    o Read the text below the picture.
    
      - Who was the only person allowed to enter here? (the high priest)
15. Click the bottom part of the ark. Move around to see it from all angles.
    
      - What is inside? (the stone commandment tablets)
16. Click back arrow.
17. Click on the top of the Ark. Listen to God speak.
    
      - Why did God ask them to build the Ark and the Tabernacle? (to show the world he is the only God)

If you have time…

• Click Encyclopedia on top menu bar.
• Click Aaron’s rod.
   
  o Read the text to find the answer. 
  
    - What happened to Aaron’s rod?
  (it blossomed with almonds to show God had given him the authority to be the priest)
• Click Ark of the Covenant. 
  
  o Another word for “ark” is __________. (chest)
  oThe lid of the Ark is called the ___________ (mercy seat or atonement cover) 
  o Inside the Ark were:

- 10 commandment tablets
- a jar of manna
- Aaron’s rod that budded

• Click Tabernacle. 
  
  o Read the text to answer the question.
  
  - The tabernacle is like a ______________ (church). It was a place to meet __________. (God) 
  
  - The tabernacle was portable so it could be moved with the Israelites. The Israelites traveled in the wilderness for ___________ (40) years.

Navigation – Grades 1-2:
This is an abbreviated exploration. If children appear interested, or if there is time at the end of the class, allow them to explore additional areas as listed.

1. Click on the Ilumina icon on the desktop.
2. Click Media Center.
3. Click Animations.
4. Click Offerings for the Tabernacle. 
   o Listen to the narration.
5. Click Plans for the Ark. 
   o  Listen to the narration.
6. Click Plans for the Tabernacle – Curtain 
   o  Listen.
7. Click Plans for the Tabernacle – The Veil 
   o  Listen.
8. Click Plans for the Courtyard. 
   o  Listen.

Additional items to explore if desired and time allows:

• Clothing for the Priests
• Design of the Ephod
• Design of the chest piece
• Incense Altar
• Altar of Burnt offering
• Washbasin
• Anointing Oil

1. Click Media Center at top bar.
2. Click Virtual Tours.
3. Click Tabernacle.
4. Click Holy of Holies. 
   o Listen to the priest.
5. Click the small question mark on the bar just below the picture to show the Hot Spots.
6. Click on the lower Hot Spot of the Ark.
7. Click on the Ark. Click and hold the mouse to move the Ark around and look inside. 
   o What is inside the Ark of the Covenant? (the two tablets of the Ten Commandments)
8. Click the back arrow.
9. Click the top of the Ark Hot Spot. 
   o Listen to God speak.
10. Click small back arrow just below the picture.
11. Click on the Curtain Hot Spot to enter the Holy Place. 
    o Move around using the mouse and click on the items inside:
      - The Table of Showbread
      - The Oil
      - The Golden Lampstand
      - The curtains – check out the ones overhead
      - The altar of incense
      - The priests
12. Move outside to the courtyard and check out those items:
      - The Altar of burnt offering
      - The laver or washbasin
13. To exit: Click on the X in the right hand corner.
14. Click Exit now to exit the program.

Play and Learn Bible Software – Grades 1-2

Children may choose to play a puzzle game to review the life of Moses or color a computer picture.

Directions:

1. Insert CD.
2. Click on icon on desktop to open program.
3. Click Games Room
4. Click Puzzle Place.
5. There are five puzzles that depict a part of the life of Moses. Choose one of these to put together.
6. First row – last two puzzles
7. Second row – First three puzzles
8. Click Games Room.
9. Click Coloring Book. 
   
   o Choose a picture to color. Be careful. The eraser will erase the entire picture. If you don’t like a color, just pick another color and color over the first one.
10. To exit: Click QUIT
11. Click YES

Concluding Discussion: 

When all the groups are finished, bring the children back to the center table for discussion.

Grades 3-6

Have the children show their completed worksheets. Discuss the answers together. 

• What was their favorite thing they saw today?
• Were they surprised by anything they saw or learned?
• What would it have been like to have a portable church?
• Some people today worship in schools or other buildings. How is that like what the Israelites did?

Journal Reflection Time: 

The last 10 minutes should be reserved for Journal 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 question sticker for the day. Workshop leaders and shepherds should sit down with children in small groups to facilitate discussion and writing in Journals. Memory verse stickers are also included for each lesson. Children may copy the memory verse and illustrate it as an alternative to journal questions.

Journal Questions:
Grades 1-2: Draw a picture of something in the Tabernacle.
Grades 3-6: The people could see and feel God’s presence in the Tabernacle. When have you felt God’s presence in a special way?

Closing: 

Prayer:

Gather the children together in a circle. Review with them one word or concept that they learned during today’s session. (Worship, obedience, faith are some suggestions) Encourage children to come back next week for another workshop, and to invite their friends, especially their friends who do not belong to a church. Remind them to bring their Bibles. Ask for prayer requests and pray together. You may ask one of the children to say the closing prayer, or you may pray something like this, Dear Lord, Thank you for the gift of your Bible which tells us of how you are always with us. Just as you were with the Israelites in the cloud in the Tabernacle, we know you are with us always. Help us to be faithful, to listen to you and to worship you in all we do. AMEN. 

Grades 1-2 Handout
Follow the instructions. Answer the questions on this sheet (Your shepherd can help you with writing and typing). Be sure to take turns with the mouse!

1. Click Offerings for the Tabernacle. 
   
   o Listen to the narration.
2. Click Plans for the Ark. 
   
   o Listen to the narration.
3. Click Plans for the Tabernacle – Curtain 
   
   o Listen.
4. Click Plans for the Tabernacle – The Veil
   
   o Listen.
5. Click Plans for the Courtyard.
   
   o Listen.
6. Others to Check out if you have time:
   
   o Clothing for the Priests
   
   o Design of the ephod
   
   o Design of the chest piece
   
   o Incense Altar
   
   o Altar of Burnt offering
   
   o Washbasin
   
   o Anointing Oil
7. Click Media Center at top bar.
8. Click Virtual Tours.
9. Click Tabernacle.
10. Click Holy of Holies.
    
    o Listen to the priest.
11. Click the small question mark on the bar just below the picture to show the Hot Spots.
12. Click on the lower Hot Spot of the Ark.
13. Click on the Ark. Click and hold the mouse to move the Ark around and look inside.
    
    o What is inside the Ark of the Covenant?  ___________________
14. Click the back arrow.
15. Click the top of the Ark Hot Spot.
    
    o Listen to God speak.
16. Click small back arrow just below the picture.
17. Click on the Curtain Hot Spot to enter the Holy Place.
    
    Move around using the mouse and click on the items inside:
    
    o The Table of Showbread
    
    o The Oil
    
    o The Golden Lampstand
    
    o The curtains – check out the ones overhead
    
    o The altar of incense
    
    o The priests
18. Move outside to the courtyard and check out those items:
    
    o The Altar of burnt offering
    
    o The laver or washbasin
19. To exit: Click on the X in the right hand corner.
20. Click Exit now to exit the program.

Play and Learn Bible Software – Grades 1-2

You may choose to put together some puzzles that tell about Moses’ life or color a picture on the computer.

1. Insert CD.
2. Click on icon on desktop to open program.
3. Click Games Room
4. Click Puzzle Place.
5. There are five puzzles that depict a part of the life of Moses. Choose one of these to put together.
6. First row – last two puzzles
7. Second row – First three puzzles
8. Click Games Room.
9. Click Coloring Book. 
   
   o Choose a picture to color. Be careful. The eraser will erase the entire picture. If you don’t like a color, just pick another color and color over the first one.
10. To exit: Click QUIT
11. Click YES

Grades 3-6 Handout

Follow the guide below. Answer the questions on this sheet. Be sure to take turns with the mouse.

1. Click on the Ilumina icon on the desktop to open the program.
2. Click on Media Center.
3. Click Animations.
4. Click Offerings for the Tabernacle.
5. Listen to the narration.
   
   o What did God want the Israelites to build? _______________________
6. Click Plans for the Ark.
   
   o What was placed inside the Ark?_______________________
   
   o Where did God meet the people? _______________________
7. Click Media Center on top menu bar.
8. Click Visual Tour.
9. Click Tabernacle.
10. Click Outer Court – Look at the small picture on the lower left to see where you are in the tabernacle. 
    
    o Read the text below the picture. 
    
    o Hold the left mouse button down and move the mouse around to see a 360º tour of the area. The text below describes what you are seeing.
    
    o Click on the tiny question mark in the bar below the picture to view the hot spots.
    
    o Click on the hotspots to find the answer to these questions:
    
      - What were the outer curtains made of?_______________________
    
      - How was the altar of burnt offerings different than typical altars in the ancient world?
    
         _____________________________________________________________________
     
      - What mountain is in the background?_______________________
    
      - What are the priests doing near the bowl?_______________________
    
      - What covered the top of the Holy Place? _______________________
11. Click on the entrance to Holy Place.
    
      - Who can enter here? _______________________
12. Click to enter. 
    
    o Listen to the priest singing.
    
      - What language is he using?_______________________
    
    o Move around to see what is inside the Holy Place.
13. Click on the tall table.
    
      - What did the table hold?_______________________
    
      - Why 12?_______________________
    
      - What did the priests burn in the lampstand?_______________________
    
      - What other altar was inside the Holy Place? _______________________
14. Click on the curtain to enter the Holy of Holies or Most Holy Place.
    
    o Listen to the priest. 
    
    o Read the text below the picture.
    
      - Who was the only person allowed to enter here? _______________________
15. Click the bottom part of the ark. Move around to see it from all angles.
    
      - What is inside? _______________________
16. Click back arrow.
17. Click on the top of the Ark. Listen to God speak.
    
      - Why did God ask them to build the Ark and the Tabernacle? 
    
       ______________________________________________

If you have time…

• Click Encyclopedia on top menu bar.
• Click Aaron’s rod.
   
  o Read the text to find the answer. 
  
    - What happened to Aaron’s rod? _________________________________
• Click Ark of the Covenant. 
  
  -  Another word for “ark” is __________.
  
  - The lid of the Ark is called the ___________
  
  -  Inside the Ark were:

1.______________________________________

2._____________________________________

3. ____________________________________

• Click Tabernacle. 
  
  o Read the text to answer the question.
  
  - The tabernacle is like a ______________ . It was a place to meet __________.  
  
  - The tabernacle was portable so it could be moved with the Israelites. The Israelites traveled in the wilderness for ___________ years.

A lesson written by Jaymie Derden from: State Street UMC
Bristol, VA

This lesson created and copyrighted by State Street UMC, Bristol, VA, 2004. Permission granted for non-commercial, local church use, provided credit is give to the source. 

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

Ark of Covenant/Tabernacle

Computer Review Class

Uses Fall of Jericho, a quiz Software

  Fall of Jericho is now free to the supporting members of Rotation.org!

Learn more

This session was used at the end of the four month study as a review of the Moses story. There are enough questions to make two games:

• Moses #1 (Baby to Mt. Sinai)
• Moses #2 (Ten Commandments & Tabernacle)

Please note:  three questions you will need to adjust answers to #15, #60, and #70 (I've indicated the answer in red below) as these will pertain to YOUR pastor/bishop/Sunday school teacher.

  A representative of Rotation.org reformatted this post to improve readability and has taken Jaymie's questions below to create two quiz sets that can be used with "The Fall of Jericho" and attached them at end of this lesson.

Questions

1. We can read about Moses’ life in the book of:
Genesis
Matthew
Gospels
Exodus

2. The book of Exodus is found in:
The New Testament
The Old Testament
The Hymnal
The Psalms

3. The word “Exodus” means
Coming into a new place
Going out or exit
A special name God gave the Israelites
The road Moses took to leave Egypt.

4. Moses was born in this land:
Israel
Persia
Virginia
Egypt

5. Moses was a
Hebrew or Israelite
Egyptian
Pharaoh
Follower of Jesus

6. How did the Hebrews come to live in Egypt?
There was a famine and Egypt had food
Their ancestor Joseph helped the Pharaoh of Egypt
Joseph’s family moved to Egypt to be with him
All of the Above

7. Pharaoh tried to get rid of the Hebrews by:
Making them slaves
Killing all the male babies
Throwing the male babies into the Nile River
All of the above.

8. Moses was saved by his mother and sister by
Running away with him to Midian
Hiding him until he was a grown up
Putting him in a basket in the Nile River
Pretending to be Egyptian

9. Who found Moses in the Nile river?
Pharaoh
Aaron
Miriam
Pharaoh’s daughter

10. Who took care of Moses for Pharaoh’s daughter?
Moses’ sister, Miriam
Aaron, his brother
Pharaoh’s daughter
Moses’ mother, Jochebed

11. When Moses grew up he left Egypt because
He always wanted to travel
He was curious about life in other countries
He killed an Egyptian
His parents moved away

12. Moses ran away to the desert in
Persia
Iran
Iraq
Midian

14. What amazing sight did Moses see in the desert in Midian?
A sheep stuck in a burning bush
A whole forest on fire
A burning bush
The Red Sea parting

15. Who spoke to Moses from the burning bush?
Pharaoh
Abraham
God
Pastor Fred

16. God told Moses his names was
Jesus of Nazareth
Immanuel
Bright Morning Star
I AM

17. I AM means that God:
a. Has always been God
b. Will always be God
c. Is God right now!
d. All of the above

18. God told Moses to return to Egypt. Why?
Because he was being lazy in the desert
Because God hated Pharaoh
God wanted the Hebrew slaves to be free
He wanted to feed him manna

19. Moses was excited about doing what God asked. True or False?

20. Who went with Moses to speak to Pharaoh?
The High Priests
His mother, Jochebed
His brother, Aaron
His sister, Miriam

21. What signs did God give Moses to use?
The Ten Commandments and the Ark of the Covenant
His staff turned into a snake
His hand turned white like snow
B and C

22. What happened when Moses and Aaron went to Pharaoh?
He let the slaves go right away.
He said he was sorry for being so mean
He didn’t listen – his heart was hard
He decided to worship the one, true God.

23. What did God do when Pharaoh wouldn’t let the slaves go free?
Nothing – God changed his mind
Sent plagues on Egypt
Told Moses to kill Pharaoh
Gave Pharaoh a Passover lamb in place of the Hebrews

24. How many plagues did God send?
Two
One, but it was a HUGE one
Ten
Twelve

25. The worst plague was
The frogs
The boils
The darkness
The death of the firstborn males

26. How were the Hebrews protected from the death of the firstborn males?
They wore special clothes
They lived in special houses.
They put lamb’s blood on their doorframes.
They sang a special song to keep them safe.

27. The Hebrews called this special night
Pentecost
The Last Supper
Purim
Passover

28. We remember the Passover when we have
Birthday parties
Communion in church
Pizza
Lamb chops

29. Who followed the Hebrews when they escaped from Egypt?
A pillar of fire and smoke
The Egyptian soldiers
The plague of frogs
The Passover lamb

30. How did God save the Hebrews?
Parted the Red Sea
Gave the Hebrews wings to fly above the water
Sent an ark to them
Sent an earthquake that swallowed the Egyptians

31. When the Hebrews got hungry and thirsty what did God do?
Sent a supply ship
A grocery store appeared in the desert
Gave them milk and honey
Gave them manna and quail and water from a rock.

32. Manna means
Bread from heaven
What is it?
Food in the desert
A and B

33. How long did God provide manna for the Hebrews?
For ten years
Until they got tired of it
For forty years
For forty days

34. After three months the Hebrews stopped here….
At the red Sea
In the Promised Land
In Midian
At Mount Sinai

35. What covered the mountain when Moses talked with God?
Thunder, lightning, fire and smoke
Lightning
Smoke
All of the above

36. What did God give to Moses at Mount Sinai?
More manna and quail
A golden calf
Some new clothes
The ten commandments

37. Following the Ten Commandments
Helps us understand God better
Helps us live a good life
Is a way to show God we love Him
All of the above

38. Obeying the Ten Commandments means that we are made right with God.
Yes.
No! Only Jesus can make us right with God
Maybe – it depends on how many we break

39. While Moses was on the mountain what were the people doing?
Sleeping
They left and went back to Egypt
They worshiped a golden calf
They were waiting patiently for Moses

40. What commandment did the people break by worshiping the golden calf?
All of them!
Commandments 1-2 Have no other gods before me and do not worship idols.
None of them
Commandment 6 – they killed the calf to worship it

41. Anything that we put first in our life before God can become an idol. True or False?
True
False

42. Covet means:
A blanket
To long for something that belongs to someone else
A Passover lamb
A tabernacle

43. A way to honor your father or mother is
To obey them
To be respectful
To help them around the house.
All of the above

44. Which of these are examples of stealing?
Taking someone’s bike
Cheating on a test
Downloading music from the internet without paying
All of the above

45. It’s OK to lie as long as it’s a little lie. True or False?
True
False

46. We can keep the Sabbath holy by
Coming to church
Worshiping
Coming to Sunday school
All of the above

47. What did the Israelites promise to do in Exodus 24:7?
Be followers of Jesus
Be fishers of men
Obey God. Do everything God says
Not make idols.

48. While Moses was on Mt. Sinai God told him to build
A palace
A temple
A big boat called an ark
A holy tent or tabernacle

49. The tabernacle showed the Israelites
God was living with them
God wanted them to go back to Egypt
How to be more like the Egyptians
Where to keep their golden calf

50. Where did the people get the materials to make the tabernacle?
They stole it
The Egyptians gave them gold, silver and treasures when they left Egypt
Moses used his staff to turn sand into gold
The Passover lamb brought it to them

51. Some of the furnishings of the Tabernacle were
Altar, Ark of the Covenant, Table of Showbread
Bed and dresser
Closet and bathroom
Kitchen for baking showbread

52. The Ark of the Covenant was
A huge boat used to sail the Nile River
Another name for the boat Noah built
A large gold chest
A special type of bread

53. The roof of the tabernacle was made of
Gold
Silver
Wood
Four layers of fabric and animal skins

54. What was inside the Ark of the Covenant?
Manna
Aaron’s rod
Ten Commandment tablets
All of the above

55. The top of the Ark of the Covenant was called
The golden cover
The lid
God’s place
The Mercy Seat

56. On top of the Mercy Seat were two
Golden Calves
Passover lambs
Crows
Cherubim

57. Where did God’s presence stay?
Above the Mercy Seat of the Ark
Outside the tabernacle
In the altar
In the Table of Showbread

58. What were the two parts of the Tabernacle?
The Holy Place and the Most Holy Place
The inside and the outside
The clean and the unclean
The Temple Mount and the steps

59. Who was allowed into the Holy Place?
All of the Israelites
The people who followed the Ten Commandments
The priests
The Pharaoh

60. Who was allowed into the Most Holy Place?
The Angel of the Lord
The High Priest
Father Abraham
Pastor Fred and Pastor Sharon

61. What was on the Table of Showbread in the Holy Place?
Twelve candles
God’s holy word
12 loaves of bread
the Passover lamb

62. Why were there 12 loaves of bread?
Because there was only room for 12
To feed the priests
For the 12 tribes of Israel
Because 12 was Moses’ favorite number

63. The only light in the Holy Place came from
The window in the roof
The door
The see-through curtain
The golden lampstand

64. Where was the altar of burnt offering?
In the Most Holy Place
In the Holy Place
In the Courtyard
It was left behind in Egypt

65. Why did the Israelites sacrifice animals?
They didn’t like them
They were mean
It was a way to be forgiven for sins
There were too many animals in their camp and they had to get rid of some

66. Jesus is sometimes called the Lamb of God. This means
Jesus wore woolen clothes
Jesus loved to eat lamb.
Jesus died as a sacrifice for our sins.
Jesus was gentle like a lamb

67. Because Jesus died for our sins
We don’t have to sacrifice animals anymore
We can be made right with God
We can talk with God whenever we want
All of the above

68. What separated the Most Holy place from the Holy Place?
A brick wall
A golden screen
The altar
A thick curtain

69. When Jesus died, what happened to the curtain in the Temple?
It fell down
The high priest burned it
God made it disappear
It ripped from the top to the bottom

70. Only the High Priest could enter the Most Holy Place. Who is our High Priest?
Moses
Pastor Fred
Jesus
Bishop Chamberlin

A question set written by member Jaymie Derden from: State Street UMC 
Bristol, VA

Ark of the Covenant

Video/Model Workshop

Summary of Lesson Activities:

The children will watch a video describing the Tabernacle. They will build a model of the tabernacle.

Scripture References:
Exodus 25-40

Memory Verse:
”We will do everything the LORD has told us to do.We will obey him.” Exodus 24:7

Leader Preparation and Room Set Up:

• Read the Background Information and lesson plan.
• Preview the video (The Tabernacle, Vision Video, http://www.visionvideo.com)
• Purchase a Tabernacle Model kit (the one we used was about $47 made by Vision Video, no longer on their website, but you can find it still online, do a search)
• Read the instructions to the Tabernacle kit and plan where you want to start on the model. Determine how much you want each class to complete.
• Prepare the popcorn before the children arrive and have it bagged and ready to distribute so your attention can be given to the children.

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.

Supplies List:

• The Tabernacle Video
• Tabernacle kit.
• Popcorn

Time Guidelines:
Welcome/Introduction: 5 minutes
Discussion of the Tabernacle: 10 minutes
Video: 25 minutes
Building the Tabernacle: 20 minutes

Presentation

Opening-Welcome and Introductions:
As the children arrive, direct them to the theater seats. Please make sure smaller children are seated up front so they can see. Introduce yourself and have the children introduce themselves. Remember, teachers change often and the children may not know you.

Opening Prayer:
Please open each session with prayer. You may pray your own prayer or use the one below:
Dear God, Thank you for having us gather together and giving us a place to worship you. Please remind us daily that we can continue to praise you and worship you no matter where we are. Sunday is not our only day of worship and we need to follow your rules daily. Guide us in doing so. Amen

Dig-Main Content and Reflection:

Introduce the Story (Exodus 25-27):
We've been traveling with Moses and the Israelites now for several months. They traveled for forty years! We've talked about Moses’ early life, how he heard God calling him from a burning bush, how he confronted Pharaoh and the ten terrible plagues on Egypt. We learned about the trip through the Red Sea, the miracles of manna and quail and water in the desert and the Ten Commandments. Moses spent a lot of time on Mt. Sinai talking with God. God gave the Ten Commandments to Moses when he was on Mt. Sinai. The Ten Commandments are guides that help us know how to live our lives. God also gave Moses a guide for worship. Let’s learn more about that now…

Grades 1-2:
Help the children locate the story “The Holy Tent” page 65-66 in The Little Kids' Adventure Bible. Read a few sentences so that the children see the amazing details outlined in Scripture. (It is not necessary to read the entire text as it will be covered in discussion and in the video).
Have the children locate and read the following Bible notes:

• Life in Bible Times: The Ark of the Covenant, page 66 (note: help children understand that ark means box – children are more familiar with the ark boat that Noah built)
• Life in Bible Times: The Holy Tent, page 71. Explain to the children that another word for this is tabernacle.

Grades 3-6:
Help the children locate Exodus 26:1, The Holy Tent, in The Adventure Bible for Young Readers. Read a few verses as the children follow along or ask a volunteer to read. (It is not necessary to read the entire text, as the video and discussion will cover this. Simply help the children see how specific and detailed the instructions are in Scripture!).
Read and discuss the following Bible notes:

• Life in Bible Times: The Ark of the Covenant, page 94
• Did you Know: What did it mean to set something apart? Page 99
• Did you Know: What was the holy tent? Page 107
• Life in Bible Times: The Holy Tent, page 112

Discussion:
Prior to the movie, discuss some of the concepts below. You may also periodically stop the video for discussion. Watch your time! Remember, the last 20 minutes of the session is needed to work on the model of the Tabernacle.
Key Points:

• The Tabernacle was a place for God to dwell among His people and where His people could talk with Him. The Tabernacle was a visual reminder to Israel that they served the true and living God.
• The Tabernacle could be taken down and moved at will. The Lord provided the pattern of the Tabernacle, the people provided the materials bringing offerings with willing hearts (gold, silver, brass, jewels, fine linens and dye from Egypt).
• The Tabernacle was the center and focal point of Israel’s community. The 12 tribes lived in tents around the four sides of the tabernacle.
• The brazen altar in the outer court is where animal sacrifices were offered. It was impossible for the Israelites to come to God’s presence without sacrificing at the brazen altar. Today, it is impossible for people to come into the presence of God except through Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross.
• The bronze laver was in the outer court between the brazen altar and the Tabernacle. This allowed the priests to wash prior to entering the Tabernacle. This symbolizes how Jesus cleanses us from our sin and prepares (or sanctifies) us for His service.
• A few steps past the laver is the Tabernacle. The priest would draw back the curtain and enter the Holy Place to have fellowship with God. The Tabernacle was divided into two sections – the Holy Place and the Holy of Holies. The boards were covered in gold and secured in silver bases. This structure had four coverings - 1) an inner lining of embroidered, fine woven linen. 2) a woven goat hair covering over the linen. 3) Ram skin covering dyed red over the goat hair. 4) waterproof porpoise skin covering placed on top.
• The Holy Place was entered through a hanging called the “door” and the Holy of Holies was entered through a veil.
• There were three pieces of furniture in the holy place that symbolize our fellowship with Christ.
  • The table of showbread stood on the right side of the Holy Place. The 12 loaves of bread on the table were a meal offering, representing the 12 tribes of Israel. The showbread represents Christ, who came down from heaven and reminds us that Jesus often called himself the Bread of Life. All who partake of Him have eternal life.
  • On the left side of the holy place stood the seven-branched golden lampstand. This symbolizes Christ as the light of the world.
  • The altar of incense stood in the Holy Place right in front of the veiled Holy of Holies. Burning coals from the brazen altar were placed on the altar of incense, over which sweet incense was poured daily. The smoke from the incense curled upward, carrying the prayers of God’s people toward heaven. This represents Christ as our High Priest who intercedes for us before the Fathers throne.
• The heavy veil that hung between the Holy Place and the Holy of Holies separated a holy God from a sinful people. Christ represents this veil, separating people from God. At his death on the cross, this is the veil that ripped from top to bottom thus opening the way to God through His shed blood.
• Inside the Holy of Holies sat the Ark of the Covenant, a rectangular box covered with gold inside and out. On top were two cherubim, facing each other but looking down toward the mercy seat, their wings stretched out over it.

(From: The Tabernacle: Shadows of the Messiah by David M. Levy)

Grades 1-6 – Video:
The Tabernacle (Vision Video), running time: 25 minutes
Start the Video: Children should already be seated with popcorn. After the video, please throw away all trash and bring the children to the table to begin work on the model.

Constructing the Model of the Tabernacle

Supplies:
Model of the Tabernacle
Hand wipes

Directions:
1. Explain to the children that the model we create will be shown to the congregation.
2. Have children clean their hands using the wipes.
3. After the video is finished, return to the table and begin construction of the tabernacle model.
4. While working on the model, you may also discuss the following:

• Why was the ark built?
• What was placed inside the ark? (The stone tablets, a golden pot filled with manna and Aaron’s rod – which budded to show that God chose him to be the first high priest).
• Why these items? ( to remind the Israelites of God’s faithfulness).
• The Most Holy Place is where the Ark of the Covenant resided. Who was permitted to enter here? (only the High Priest and only on the Day of Atonement, once each year when blood was sprinkled over the cover of the Ark to ask God for forgiveness of the people’s sins).
• How are we forgiven for our sins? (we must believe in Jesus – that he came to die as a sacrifice for our sins, then we ask God to forgive us for the wrong things we do – Jesus’ death means that we don’t have to sacrifice animals and put their blood on the altar anymore. Jesus took care of that for all who believe in him! Jesus is called our High Priest! He provided the sacrifice for us. And when Jesus died the curtain to the Holy of Holies was ripped from top to bottom. We aren’t kept separate from God anymore, because of what Jesus did!)

Grades 5-6:
Install posts and fence. Fix the posts with rope. (Model instruction pages 4-5)

Grades 3-4:
Decorate the Holy Place and Holy things. Install the posts and the fence of the Holy Place. (Model instruction pages 6-7)

Grades 1-2:
Roof the Holy Place. Decorate the courtyard. (Model instruction pages 8-9)


Memory Verse:
Each rotation we encourage the children to memorize one scripture verse. Have the children repeat the memory verse several times while working on the model Tabernacle.

“We will do everything the LORD has told us to do. We will obey him.” Exodus 24:7

Reflection and Journal Time:
This lesson is long and time is needed for building of the Tabernacle. If any extra time permits, it 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 Faith Journals. Memory verse stickers are also included for each session. Children may also copy the memory verse and illustrate it.

Journal Questions:
Grades 1-2: Draw a picture of the Tabernacle in your journal.
Grades 3-6: God gave the Israelites the Tabernacle as a way to worship Him and be in his presence no matter where they went. What helps you worship God?

Closing:

Prayer:
Gather the children together. Review with them one word or concept that they learned in today’s session. (Trust, faith and obedience are some suggestions). Encourage the children to come back next week for another workshop, and to invite a friend, especially friends who do not belong to a church. Remind them to bring their Bibles. Ask for prayer requests and pray together.

Resources:

• The Tabernacle: Shadows of the Messiah by David M. Levy
• Seeing Christ in the Tabernacle by Ervin N. Hershberger, Choice Books of Northern VA, 1995

A lesson written by Jaymie Derden from State Street UMC 
Bristol, VA

This lesson created and copyrighted by State Street UMC, Bristol, VA, 2004. Permission granted for non-commercial, local church use, provided credit is give to the source

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

Ark of the Covenant
Art/Construction Workshop 

Summary of Lesson Activities:

The children will build the Ark of the Covenant and make Aaron’s staff and the breastplate of the High Priest.  (To see photo see this post further down here.)

Scripture References:
Exodus 25-40 

Memory Verse:
”We will do everything the LORD has told us to do.We will obey him.” Exodus 24:7

Important note for Art workshop leaders:
The Art Workshop reinforces the Bible lesson through creativity and a hands-on approach to learning. 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.

Leader Preparation and Room Set-Up:

• Review background information, teaching tips and lesson materials.
• Gather necessary supplies- The Ark of the Covenant Kit, a shepherd’s staff and supplies to decorate the staff and breastplate of the High Priest.
• Write the memory verse on the board in the room
• Review the Music CD. Plan to play the music as the children arrive, work on their art projects and during journal time.
  
  

Supplies List:

• See below
  
  

Time guidelines:
Welcome and introductions: 5 minutes
Bible Study: 15 minutes
Building the Ark, making the Breastplate and Aaron’s Rod: 30 minutes
Journals/closing: 10 minutes

Presentation 

Opening- Welcome and Introduction:
Welcome all children and introduce yourself. Make sure each child is wearing a nametag. Give the children a simple one or two sentence synopsis of what you will be doing during the workshop.

Opening Prayer:
Dear Lord, Thank you for bringing us all here safely today. Thank you for you guidance and understanding. May we follow your instructions today as the Israelites did so many years ago while we build an Ark for such treasured symbols. Amen. 

Dig-Main Content and Reflection:

Introduce the Story (Exodus 25-27):
Allow the children to briefly review Moses’ life up to this point. Begin by asking them where we find the story of Moses in the Bible. (Old Testament, Exodus) Review the slavery in Egypt, Moses fleeing to Midian where he spent forty years, the ten plagues, parting of the Red Sea, wandering in the desert, Mt Sinai and the Ten Commandments. Remind them of the fact that life was not always easy for God’s people, but God always provided food for both their bodies and their spirits. He only asked that they would trust in him and have faith.
After they had wandered for sometime, God gave his people something to follow that would enable them to have a good relationship with Him and with each other.
What was it that God gave Moses to share with the Israelites? (The Ten Commandments)
Why were the Ten Commandments so important? (They were specific guidelines for the Israelites to follow. God knew that if they truly loved and trusted him, they would follow the commandments. If they followed the Commandments, his people would live happy, fruitful lives. If they did not, they would never be happy)
In addition to giving instructions on how to live their lives, God also gave them instructions on the way he wanted the Israelites to worship and remember who God was.

Grades 1-2:
Help the children locate the Life in Bible Times: The Ark of the Covenant note on page 66 in The Little Kids' Adventure Bible. Read and discuss it together. Explain how God had instructed Aaron and his descendants to be the Priests in charge of worship and how his flowering rod was such an important symbol. (Numbers 17: 1-10).
Next read the Life in Bible Times: The Holy Tent note on page 71. The Holy Tent or Tabernacle was a portable church that the Israelites would use to worship as they traveled in the wilderness. The Ark of the Covenant was kept there.

• What is an Ark? (box or chest – make sure children understand that this is different than Noah’s ark) The top was called the Mercy Seat because it was considered to be God’s Earthly throne and it symbolized the great mercy that He showed His people. The cherubim sat on top because they were customary on thrones of kings here on earth.
• What were the three things God instructed them to place in the Ark? (The Ten Commandments, because they would help them build a relationship with God and live happily together and remind them of their covenant, Manna to remind them of the fact that God will always provide and that they need to trust God, and Aaron’s Rod to remind them of God’s faithfulness)
• Where was the Ark to be placed? (in the Most Holy Place inside the Holy Tent)
• Why do you think the entire Ark would be covered in gold? (Because it is pure and to show how special the Ark is)

Grades 3-6:
Help the children locate Exodus 25-27. Read Exodus 25:10-22, and paraphrase the rest. Also read Exodus 28:15-28 describing the Priest’s breastplate. Explain how God had instructed Aaron and his descendants to be the Priests in charge of worship and how his flowering rod was such an important symbol. (Numbers 17: 1-10) Read and discuss the following Bible notes:

• Life in Bible Times: The Ark of the Covenant page 94
• Life in Bible Times: The Holy Tent page 112
• What is an Ark? (box or chest – make sure the children do not confuse this with Noah’s ark!) The top was called the Mercy Seat because it was considered to be God’s Earthly throne and it symbolized the great mercy that He showed His people. The cherubim sat on top because they were customary on thrones of kings here on earth.
• What were the three things God instructed them to place in the Ark? (The Ten Commandments, because they would help them build a relationship with God and live happily together and remind them of their covenant, Manna to remind them of the fact that God will always provide and that they need to trust God, and Aaron’s Rod to remind them of God’s faithfulness)
• Where was the Ark to be placed? (in the Most Holy Place inside the Holy Tent)
• Why do you think the entire Ark would be covered in gold? (Because it is pure and to show how special the Ark is)

Memory verse:
Each rotation we encourage the children to memorize one scripture verse. Review it with them at this time.
“We will do everything the LORD has told us to do. We will obey him.” Exodus 24:7

Making the Ark of the Covenant:
Children will work together as a group to make a model of the Ark of the Covenant.

Supplies Needed:

Ark:

• 4 wood panels 27” wide x 45” long (3 for the Ark and 1 for the Mercy Seat)
• 2 wood panels 27” wide x 27” long
• 1” molding to decorate the 4 sides of the Ark. It should be cut in (4) 33” lengths and (12) 15” lengths and mitered at the ends to form 2 rectangles for the wide sides measuring 33” wide x 15” high and 2-15” squares for both ends.
• 4-2”x 4”’s measuring 26.5” in length to be used as vertical supports inside each of the four corners of the Ark. The 4” side should be flush with the wide panels.
• .5”x1” wooden strips measuring (4) 25” lengths and (4) 20” lengths. Two of each length should be used as corner supports between the sides and bottom of the Ark and two of each length should be used on the bottom of the Mercy Seat so it will fit down securely over the Ark.
• Wood screws to assemble the Ark
• Wood glue to glue the molding in place
• Paint primer/Gold paint
• Paint brushes
• Screwdrivers
• 2-6 ft. Wooden closet rods (1.5” diameter)
• 4 rounded wooden finials to screw into the ends of the rods
• 4 metal conduits for the rods to slide through
• Sandpaper

Mercy Seat:

• 2 large dolls (128-24 inches tall) to be used for the Cherubim
• fabric for dresses to cover the cherubim
• “Stiffy” fabric stiffener to make the dresses stiff
• Wings - (made of muslin with felt feathers glued on)
• 4” Crown molding cut into (2) 22”lengths and (2) 17” lengths and then cut one side to look like “flames”. The smooth side will be glued to the top of the Mercy Seat.
• 4 Corner molding pieces to fit 5” molding for the corner top of the Mercy Seat

Advanced Preparation:
Set out supplies
Cover tables with old tablecloths to protect the surfaces of the tables or plastic on the floors.
All holes should be drilled for the screws prior to class and the sides should be marked where the moldings would be glued.
Make the wing muslin sleeves by sewing 2 wing-shaped pieces of cloth together leaving an opening for the arms to slip through. Children can cover the muslin with white felt "feathers."
Make the muslin "dresses" for the cherubim - using a simple doll sleeveless dress pattern. Be sure feet are covered when dolls are kneeling.
Cut all wood pieces and pre-drill holes.

Directions:

• Building the Ark:

1. Have the children work in groups of 2-3.
2. Place each of the sides of the Ark on the floor or table.
3. Have the children sand each of the wooden pieces.
4. Give them the wooden supports and the molding for each side
5. Screw in the wooden supports, but don’t put the pieces together.
6. Glue the moldings in place
7. Paint the sides with paint primer
8. Screw the finials into the rod ends
9. Paint the rods with paint primer
10. Paint the conduits with paint primer
11. Assemble the Ark if the primer is dry enough
12. Children who finish early may work on journals.

• Making the Priest’s Breastpiece

Supplies:

• A piece of blue fabric that has been doubled over and sewn together. It should measure 9” x 9”.
• “Gemstones” which represent the twelve tribes of Israel- Ruby(red), Topaz(golden), Beryl (light Green), Turquoise (blue/green), Sapphire (blue), Emerald(dark green), Jacinth (Reddish orange), Agate (golden cream), Amethyst (Purple), Chrysolite (olive green), Onyx (black), and Jasper (Red/yellow/brown mix).
• Fabric glue
• Gold glitter glue
• 8 gold rings (4 for the Breastpiece and 4 for the ephod)
• Gold rope to attach the two upper corners to the shoulders of the ephod
• Blue rope to attach the two bottom corners to the ephod just below the arms
• Needles
• Thread

Making the Breastpiece:

1. Have the children place the stones on the breastpiece according to the order listed above. They should be placed three across and four down and should begin right to left.
2. Have the children glue the stones in place.
3. Pipe gold glitter glue around each stone
4. When the glue is dry (in a subsequent class) have the children sew the gold rings on the four corners of the Breastpiece.

Making Aaron’s Rod

Supplies:

• A plastic shepherd’s hook (A Christmas candy cane decoration works well)
• Brown duct tape
• Small flowers with wire on the end found in the floral dept. at a craft store
• Almonds
• Hot glue gun

Directions:
1. Have the children wrap the tape around the staff, starting at an angle. As they get about halfway up, have them start wrapping a few of the wire ends of the flowers onto the staff.
2. Hot glue the almonds to a few of the flowers.

Reflection and Journal Time:
The last ten minutes should be reserved for journal time. This is an opportunity for processing and reflection about what the children have learned. Ask the shepherds to pass out the journals and pens/pencils. Place the journal question sticker for the day in each journal. Note that journal questions are color coded for each age group: Grades 1-2 purple, Grades 3-4 red and Grades 5-6 Blue. Please be sure to use the correct journal question! Workshop leaders and shepherds should sit down with the children in small groups to facilitate discussion and writing in faith Journals. Memory verse stickers are also included for each lesson. Children may copy the memory verse and illustrate it as an alternative to journal questions.

Journal Questions:
Grades 1-2: Draw a picture of the ark of the Covenant.
Grades 3-6: The Ark of the covenant was the most important Tabernacle furnishing to the Israelites. What items in our sanctuary are special to you?

Closing: 

Prayer: Gather all the children together in a circle. Review with them one word or concept that they learned during today’s session. Suggestions include: worship, faithfulness, mercy, holiness, etc. Encourage them to come back next week for another workshop, and to invite their friends. Remind them to bring their Bibles. Ask for prayer requests.
Dear Lord, Thank you for the time we’ve spent together today. Help us to remember how important it is to trust in your power and to have faith that you are always with us. Just as you guided the Israelites, may we always look for your guidance in our lives. Amen.

A lesson written by Jaymie Derden from: State Street UMC 
Bristol, VA 

This lesson created and copyrighted by State Street UMC, Bristol, VA, 2004. Permission granted for non-commercial, local church use, provided credit is give to the source. 

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

Ark of Covenant/Tabernacle
Cooking Workshop 

Summary of Lesson Activities:
The focus of this workshop will be on the building of the tabernacle for worship. The children will make showbread to place in the tabernacle. 

Scripture References:
Exodus 25-40 

Memory Verse:
”We will do everything the LORD has told us to do. We will obey him.” Exodus 24:7

Leader Preparation and Room Set Up:

• Review the Background Information, Behavioral Covenant, Teaching Tips and Lesson plan.
• Review the music CD. Plan to play the music as the children arrive and during journal time.
• Gather all necessary supplies for activities.

Supplies List:

• 3/4 cup scalded milk
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 1/4 cup flour
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1 tsp. salt
• Sauce pan
• Hand mixer
• Measuring cups
• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Spatula
• Wire cooling rack

Important Note for Cooking Workshop Leaders:
Children LOVE to cook and create various concoctions in this workshop. But occasionally the cooking activity does not have as obvious or concrete a connection with the lesson as do some of the other activities. Help the children make that connection by intentionally discussing the way the activity relates to the lesson of the day. Discuss during preparation, eating and clean-up times.

ALLERGY NOTE: Several of our children are severely allergic to peanuts and other nuts. Check ingredient labels to make sure nuts and nut oils are not included in any cooking activities.

Time Guidelines:
Welcome and Introductions: 10 minutes
Bible Study: 10 minutes
Make Showbread: 30 minutes
Reflection/Closing: 10 minutes

Presentation 

Opening-Welcome/Introduction:
Welcome the children and introduce yourself. Make sure everyone is wearing a nametag. Give the children a simple one or two-sentence synopsis of what you will be doing during the workshop. Today we will learn about God’s instructions to Moses about building the Ark of the Covenant and the Holy Tent or tabernacle.

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

Awesome God,
We thank you for this day and this time we share with You and our
friends. Help us to learn how we can keep you at the center of our lives
and guide us through each day. We praise you and worship you.
In Jesus Christ’s name we pray, Amen. 

Dig-Main Content and Reflection:
Introduce the Story:
(Hold your Bible open in your lap as you tell this story) Note: This story is too long to be read in its entirety. Instead, paraphrase the story. Use the script below to help you cover the main points of the story. Use the Background information for more discussion.

Say: We’ve been traveling with Moses and the Israelites now for several months. They traveled for forty years! We’ve talked about Moses’ early life, how he heard God calling him from a burning bush, how he confronted Pharaoh and the ten terrible plagues on Egypt. We learned about the trip through the Red Sea, the miracles of manna and quail and water in the desert and the Ten Commandments. Moses spent a lot of time on Mt. Sinai talking with God. God gave Moses the Ten Commandments when he was on Mt. Sinai. The Ten Commandments are guides that help us know how to live our lives. God also gave Moses a guide for worship. Let’s learn more about that now…

Moses lived many years before Jesus was born. Where would we find stories about the life of Moses? (Old Testament). Do you remember which book tells about this? (Exodus)

Grades 1-2:
Help the children locate the Life in Bible Times note “The Holy Tent” on page 71 in The Adventure Bible for Young Readers. Read and discuss it together. Ask:

• What was the Holy Tent? (a place to worship God)
• Where do we worship God? (church)
• So, the Holy Tent was like a church for the Israelites. How was it different than our church? (it could be moved when the Israelites moved)
• What was another word for the Holy Tent? (Tabernacle)
• What were the two parts of the Tabernacle? (the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place – also the outer court)
• Next help the children locate the story, “The Holy Tent” on page 65. Do not read all the text, but read a little bit about some of the furnishings of the tabernacle. Use the list below:
• • Curtains – Curtains were made to separate the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place inside the tabernacle and as a covering for the roof. What did they look like? (linen with blue, purple and bright red or scarlet) yarn and embroidered with cherubim (winged angelic creatures)
  • Covering – the roof of the tabernacle was covered with four layers – the embroidered linen curtain, goat hair, ram skin and porpoise skin (or goat skin).
  • Frames – The tent was held up by wooden posts that were covered with gold.

Read and discuss the Life in Bible Times note: The Ark of the Covenant on page 66. Explain to the children that ark means chest or box. It is not the same word in Hebrew as Noah’s ark.

• Where was the Ark of the Covenant placed? (in the Most Holy Place – or Holy of Holies)
• What was inside the Ark? (the stone tablets with the ten commandments, a jar of manna, and Aaron’s rod)

Turn to page 69, “Moses sets up the Holy Tent.” Continue to review the furnishings of the tabernacle.

• Table of Holy Bread or Table of Showbread (sometimes also referred to as Table of the Presence) – this was a gold table with twelve loaves of unleavened bread. There was one loaf for each of the twelve tribes of Israel (children may remember about the twelve tribes from our last two years of VBS)
• Golden Lampstand – A seven branched lamp that burned with oil, not candles.
• Altar of Incense – A gold altar just in front of the curtain to go into the Most Holy Place. Incense was burned to smell good and to carry the people’s prayers up to God with its smoke.

What was inside the Most Holy Place? (the Ark of the Covenant)
Now let’s move outside the tent to the courtyard.

• Altar for Burnt Offering – This was a large wooden altar, covered with bronze. This is where the priests brought the animals that were sacrificed.
• The laver or washbasin – Just outside the entrance to the Holy Place was a washbasin. The priests washed their hands and feet before they went inside. Why do you think washing was so important? (they were entering a holy place, wanted to be as clean as possible before going into God’s house)

Explain to the children that only the priests could enter the Holy Place. The other people had to stay in the outer court. Only the high priest (Aaron) could enter the Most Holy Place.
What would it be like if we could not enter the sanctuary of our church, if we had to stay outside the doors?

Read “The Glory of the Lord” on page 71-72. Explain that the people could actually see and feel God’s presence in the Holy Tent.
Ask: I wonder what it would be like to be able to see God….
Ask: I wonder if you have ever felt God….

Memory Verse: Each rotation we encourage the children to memorize one scripture verse. Review it with them at this time.
“We will do everything the LORD has told us to do. We will obey him.” Exodus 24:7 

Conclude:
Even though the Israelites SAID they would obey God and even though they witnessed amazing miracles (do they remember some? Ten plagues, the Red Sea crossing, manna, quail, water in the desert) and even though they could see God in the Tabernacle, the Israelites still forgot how God always took care of them. They whined and worried and wished they were back in Egypt. Because they had so little faith, God made their journey longer. They wandered in the wilderness for forty years before God finally led them into the Promised Land.

Grades 3-6:
Help the children locate Exodus 25:8-9. Read as the children follow along or ask a volunteer to read. Ask:

• What does God want Moses to build? (a holy tent)
• Why does God want a holy tent to be built? (so that he can live among the Israelites, so they will know God is with them)
• What is another word for this? (tabernacle)
• Who gave the instructions for the building and its furnishings? (God)

Use the headings in the children’s Bibles to guide the discussion. Do not read all of the text, but point out the items and discuss each briefly.

• Inside the Holy Tent
• Ark of the Covenant – Exodus 25:10

Explain that ark here means box or chest. It is a different Hebrew word than Noah’s ark. The Ark was the only thing inside the Most Holy Place.
Read and discuss the Life in Bible Times note: The Ark of the Covenant on page 94

• The Table for the Holy Bread – Exodus 25:23

This was also called the Table of the Presence or the Table of Showbread. There were twelve loaves – one for each of the twelve tribes of Israel. Do the children remember the tribes from our VBS?

• The Gold Lampstand – Exodus 25:31

The lampstand was made of pure gold. It had six branches plus a middle post for seven lights in all. It burned oil and provided the only light inside the Tabernacle.

• The Altar for Burning Incense – Exodus 30:1

This was inside the Holy Place, just before the entrance to the Most Holy Place. Read the Did You Know? What is incense? note on page 100. Explain that in Bible times people believed the fragrant smell from burning incense was pleasing to God and that the smoke carried their prayers up to heaven.

• The Holy Tent – Exodus 26

The Holy Tent or tabernacle was framed with boards that were encased in gold. Read the Bible notes:
Did You Know? What was the holy tent? page 107
Life in Bible Times: The Holy Tent, page 112
Curtains were used to separate the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place and at the entrance to the Holy Place. They were made of fine linen and blue, scarlet (bright red) and purple yarns. They were finely embroidered with cherubim (winged angelic creatures).

• Outside the Holy Tent: The Courtyard – Exodus 27:9

The courtyard surrounded the Holy Tent. It was made of wooden posts with linen curtains stretched between.

• The altar for Burnt Offerings – Exodus 27:1

The altar was made of wood covered in bronze. This was different from most altars of the time that were made of stone. This is where the priests sacrificed the animals.

• The Large Bowl for Washing (Laver) – Exodus 30:17

Just before the entrance to the Holy Place was the washing bowl. The priests washed their hands and feet before entering.
Why do you think this washing was so important? (they were going into a holy and righteous place where God dwelled)
What were the two parts of the Holy Tent? (the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place)

Explain that the only people who were allowed inside the Holy Place were the priests. Ordinary people had to remain in the courtyard. The only person allowed inside the Most Holy Place was the High Priest. This was Aaron. Read the Bible notes:
People in Bible Times: Israel’s High Priest, page 98

Did You Know? What did it mean to set something apart, page 99
How is this different from our church today? (we can enter the sanctuary)
I wonder how you would feel if you had to stay outside the doors of our church….

Conclude:
Turn to Exodus 40:34-38 and read as the children follow along, or have a volunteer read. The people could actually see and feel the presence of God. God did this to guide them and to help them have faith.
The people promised to obey God and to trust him. They said, We will do everything the LORD has told us to do. We will obey him.” Exodus 24:7. This is our memory verse. But soon the Israelites began to forget about God’s mighty acts. They seemed to forget how he delivered them from Pharaoh with the ten plagues, how he parted the Red Sea so they could cross and how he gave them manna and quail and water in the desert. Even with God’s presence in the tabernacle where they could see it, they did not have faith or trust God. And because of this, God made them stay in the wilderness for forty years. 

Tabernacle Showbread:
(Adapted from best-bread-recipes . com - site no longer available)

Directions:

1. Have children wash their hands and put on aprons.
2. Divide the tasks so everyone has a chance to participate.
3. With the hand mixer beat egg, milk, honey and the butter together.
4. Add the flour gradually to the mixture.
5. Knead until smooth.
6. Divide the mixture into twelve pieces.
7. Roll the mixture to 1/4-inch thickness and shape into a round.
8. Prick each round with a fork.
9. Bake on baking sheet @ 375 degrees for 15-20 minutes.

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. Workshop leaders and shepherds should sit down with children in small groups to facilitate discussion and writing in Faith Journals. Memory verse stickers are also included for each lesson. Children may also copy the memory verse and illustrate. Play the Rotation Music CD as children work in their journals.

Journal Questions:
Grades 1-2: Draw a picture of the Table of Showbread in the Tabernacle. When do we eat bread in worship?
Grades 3-6: How do we use bread in worship? In what ways does that help you remember Jesus?

Extra Activity: If you have extra time before parents arrive, review the memory verse with the
children in the following way: Stand in a circle – arms length apart. Repeat the verse several times
together (don’t forget the scripture reference. Then go around the circle one at a time and have each child say one word of the verse. Did everyone remember all of it? Repeat having children squat down and jump up when they recite their part. Repeat several times adding different actions as you say the verse. (turning around, jumping up and down, whispering, shouting, etc.)

Closing: 

Prayer:
Gather the children together in a circle holding hands. Review with them one word or concept that they learned during today’s session. (Remember, God’s mighty acts, Passover lamb, saving, faith, trust) 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. Close with a circle prayer. Tell the children that you will start the prayer and pass it on to the next child, if anyone does not want to say a prayer, let them squeeze the hand of the next child to pass it on. When it comes back to you finish the prayer.

A lesson written by member Jaymie Derden
State Street UMC G.R.E.A.T. Adventure 

This lesson created and copyrighted by State Street UMC, Bristol, VA, 2004. Permission granted for non-commercial, local church use, provided credit is give to the source. 

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

Ark of Covenant/Tabernacle
Mural and Review Activity 

Summary of Lesson Activity:

These activities were used to review the story toward the end of our four month study of Moses.  The students will create a individual pictures to create a wall mural then play a Moses Pictionary Game.

Scripture References:
Exodus 25-40 

Memory Verse:
”We will do everything the LORD has told us to do. We will obey him.” Exodus 24:7

Leader Preparation:

• Read the scripture ahead of time. 
• Go over the game.
• Gather the materials.

Supplies List:

Mural

• 9X12 inch white paper
• crayons, coloured pencils, markers and/or paint
• mural titles pre-printed on a sheet of paper and then cut-apart
• glue or glue sticks

Game

• White Board or chalkboard.
• Dry Erase Markers/chalk
• Events from the life of Moses written onto slips of paper
• Paper sack

Presentation 

Opening-Welcome and Lesson Introduction:
Greet the children and introduce yourself.

Open with prayer. 

Dig-Main Content and Reflection:
Briefly review the story of Moses – no more than 10 minutes! Ask where in the Bible we find stories about the life of Moses. (Old Testament, book of Exodus)
You may want to refer to the Bible notes if you have children who do not know the story. Most children know this story backwards and forwards! Cover the following major points about the life of Moses:

• Born in slavery in Egypt, saved by placing in a basket in Nile River
• Raised in Pharaoh’s court
• Killed an Egyptian slave master
• Ran away to Midian for 40 years
• God spoke to Moses through a burning bush
• Sent back to Pharaoh with brother Aaron
• Ten plagues when Pharaoh refused to let the people go (review the list on the wall)
• Passover – lamb’s blood on the door to protect those inside
• Escape from Egypt
• Parting of the Red Sea
• Water from rock, manna and quail in the desert – Israelites complain
• Ten Commandments at Mt. Sinai
• Golden calf worship
• Ark of the Covenant built
• Tabernacle built
  
  

Illustrate a mural
Explain that today we will be making an illustrated mural to teach the congregation about Moses exciting life. Cut apart the titles below and give one to each child. Have them illustrate that part of the story on a 9X12 inch piece of white paper. Children may use crayons, colored pencils, markers or paint to illustrate the story. The pictures will be on display on Feb. 29 for the congregation to learn about Moses. So, please use the entire page of paper and make your drawing large so they can see it easily!

Pass out the art supplies and paper. Some children may want to work together. If you have more children, they can choose to illustrate one section twice – or a different aspect of it (for example Moses and the burning bush and arguing with God or God telling Moses that Aaron can go with him) They may also illustrate the individual plagues.

Make sure the children put their names on their pictures. Label the pictures with the appropriate titles.

Extra Activities: If you have extra time or for those who finish quickly….

• Have children write about something they learned about Moses or their favorite part of Moses’ story in their journals.
• Children may also play some of the review games – Plague Concentration or Tabernacle Concentration from our earlier rotations.
• Review the Ten Commandments. Think of activities to illustrate keeping the commandments or disobeying them. Write these situations down on slips of paper. Put them in a basket. Have children draw one out. They must name the commandment that is being followed or broken.

Mural Illustrations:

• Moses was placed in a basket in the Nile River
• Moses killed an Egyptian slave master.
• Moses ran away to Midian and worked as a shepherd.
• God spoke to Moses through a burning bush.
• Moses and Aaron were sent to Pharaoh to set the Hebrews free.
• Pharaoh didn’t listen.
• Ten plagues came to Egypt.
• The Hebrews celebrated the first Passover.
• The Hebrews escaped Egypt.
• God parted the Red Sea so the Hebrews could cross on dry land.
• God sent manna, quail and water from a rock.
• Moses went up Mt. Sinai and received the Ten Commandments.
• The people disobeyed God by worshiping a golden calf.
• God gave Moses a guide for building the Ark of the Covenant.
• God provided the Israelites Tabernacle for worship in the desert.
  
  

Moses Pictionary Game

Supplies:

• White Board or chalkboard.
• Dry Erase Markers/chalk
• Events from the life of Moses written onto slips of paper
• Paper sack

To Play:
Option One – team play for large groups

1. Divide into two teams.
2. Have a volunteer from each team come forward and draw out a slip of paper from the sack and show it to his/her team.
3. First artist comes forward and begins to illustrate something from the scene described.
4. After 30 seconds or so, call for a switch and have another team member come and add to the drawing.
5. Continue until all players have contributed to the drawings.
6. Then have both artists and teams sit down.
7. Teams should try to guess the other team’s story depicted in the drawings.
8. Take pictures!

Option Two –

1. If you have a small group you can play without teams.
2. Simply have a volunteer come forward to draw out a slip of paper from the sack.
3. Have the volunteer spend no more than 1-2 minutes illustrating the story.
4. The group must try to guess the picture.
5. Repeat with different volunteers and different story slips until everyone has had a chance to participate.

Possible story scenes for Pictionary:

• Moses and the Egyptians in slavery
• Moses in a basket
• Pharaoh’s daughter finds Moses
• Moses kills an Egyptian
• Moses runs away to Midian
• Moses as a shepherd in Midian
• God speaks to Moses through the burning bush
• Moses and Aaron go to Pharaoh
• The plagues: Bloody Nile River, frogs, gnats, flies, boils, dead livestock, hail, locusts, 3 days of darkness, death of firstborn sons.
• Moses leads the people out of Egypt
• God parts the Red Sea
• God sends manna in the desert
• God gives the Israelites quail
• God gives the Israelites water from a rock.
• The Israelites whine and complain.
• The Israelites arrive at Mount Sinai.
• God gives Moses the Ten Commandments
• The people worship a golden calf.
• Moses breaks the Commandment tablets.
• The people give their gold and silver to make the tabernacle.
• The Ark of the Covenant is built.
• The Tabernacle is built
  
  

Closing: 

Have the children assist with the cleanup and end with a prayer.

A lesson written by member Jaymie Derden
State Street UMC G.R.E.A.T. Adventure 

This lesson created and copyrighted by State Street UMC, Bristol, VA, 2004. Permission granted for non-commercial, local church use, provided credit is give to the source. 

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