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Video, A-V Lessons, Ideas, Activities, and Resources for teaching about the Trial and Crucifixion.

Post your Sunday School video, A-V lessons, ideas, activities, and resources for the Trial and Crucifixion.

Topics including: Cross, Jesus, Caiaphas, Pilate, Scourging, Nails, Centurion, Golgotha, Place of the Skull, Calvary, and related. Matthew 26, Mark 14, Luke 22; John 18, etc.

Related Forums:  Jesus from Palm Sunday to Easter, More Trial and Crucifixion teaching ideas

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Trial and Crucifixion
Video Workshop
State Street UMC G.R.E.A.T. Adventure

Summary of Lesson Activities:
Children will view a video showing the events leading up to the Easter Story. Uses the video-The Story Behind The Cross, A production of Tommy Nelson, A division of Thomas Nelson, Inc. Running Time – 25 minutes. 

Note: This video may be out of print. Check Amazon and Tommy Nelson.  The video is a kid-friendly narrated compilation of scenes from The Visual Bible's "Matthew."

A copy of it has been posted on YouTube for preview purposes. In a pinch it could be viewed by kids. Alternatively, you could show the trial and crucifixion scenes from Matthew (Visual Bible) or Son of God (2014).  Preview first to make sure the depiction of the story's violence in these scenes is appropriate for your audience.

Scripture Reference:

Matthew 26:47-60


Leader Preparation:

  • Review the Bible Background
  • Preview the video.
  • Have the DVD ready to go.
  • Pop the popcorn

Materials List:

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.

Time Guidelines:

  • Welcome/Introduction 10 minutes
  • Bible Study 15 minutes
  • Video 25 minutes
  • Journal/Closing 10 minutes


Lesson Plan


Opening:

Tell the children that today we will be learning about Jesus’ trial and crucifixion using our Bibles and by watching a video. We will learn that he loved us so much that he was willing to sacrifice himself on the cross as a symbolic "payment" for our sins, and to let us know that God was not against us, but for us!

Bible Study ~ Matthew 26:47-60

This lesson uses the Kids’ Adventure Bible pages 348-355.
**If you don't use this particular version of the Bible, adapt the following for the one you do! The following notes include what's in the Adventure Bible's "kids Bible study" features so you can share them right from this lesson plan if you don't have the Adventure Bible. Please note that page numbers may change depending on which edition of the Adventure Bible you have.

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.

Today’s story is too long to read from the children’s Bibles, plus they will see it in the video. Instead have them locate the beginning of the story and note the titles (in bold red and blue print for grades 1-2, in bold print for grades 3-6).

Paraphrase the story or use the paraphrased passage below. Be sure to pause and discuss the Bible notes as you come to them and take time to answer any questions the children may have.

All Grades:
Ask: Where would we find a story about Jesus and his friends? (gospels in the New Testament)
Today’s story is actually found in all four gospels. What are the four gospels? (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John) What does gospel mean? (good news – because it tells the good news of Jesus coming to earth to save us)

Say: Today’s story is pretty long, so we won’t read the whole thing from our Bibles. Instead I am going to tell you the story and you will find certain parts of it in your Bibles. First let’s remember what Jesus was doing…

Introduce the Story

Note: Cover as many of the following as you have time. The video will present the story and you can follow-up and fill in with comments afterward.

Jesus had eaten his Last Supper with his disciples. They were celebrating the Passover, the biggest Jewish festival of the year. After the meal, Jesus wanted to pray. He knew it was his last night to be on earth and he needed to spend time with God. He asked the disciples to pray with him. What happened? (they fell asleep). After many hours of prayer, a crowd of soldiers came looking for Jesus. They were carrying clubs, swords and weapons. One of Jesus’ disciples was leading them to Jesus. Do you remember who the disciple was who betrayed Jesus? (Judas – with a kiss) So the soldiers came and arrested Jesus and they took him to the house of the high priest, named Caiaphas. He was president of the Sanhedrin, the ruling court for the Jews.

Have children open their Bibles to “Jesus is Taken to the Sanhedrin” (Grades 1-2: page 348, Grades 3-6: Matthew 26:57)

Locate and read the Did You Know Bible note: "What was the Sanhedrin" (Grades 1-2: page 348 and Grades 3-6: page 1159)

The Sanhedrin was a very powerful Jewish court. They didn’t like Jesus and what he had been teaching. They had been looking for a way to get rid of Jesus since Lazarus was raised from the dead. They were more interested in following the rules that they made up, rather than really doing what God wanted. The Sanhedrin was very powerful, but the Romans were really in charge. As long as the Sanhedrin kept things peaceful and quiet, the Romans let them do their own thing. Caiaphas was the high priest and the president of the Sanhedrin. He was afraid that Jesus was getting people too riled up – all this talk about new Kings and all. Maybe the people would even riot. If that happened, the Romans would take over and take away the Sanhedrin’s power. Caiaphas thought it would be better for Jesus to die, since he was just one man. Then everything would get back to normal.

Grades 3-6 only: People in Bible Times: "Caiaphas" (page 1263)

Now the Sanhedrin was known throughout the world for their just laws. But this night, they broke many of their own laws! (Refer to the Background Information for the list of broken laws.)
Caiaphas asked Jesus a lot of questions. Lots of people told lies about Jesus and what he had been doing. But Jesus didn’t answer any of Caiaphas’ questions. Finally, Caiaphas asked Jesus, “Are you the Christ? Are you the Son of God?” Jesus said, “I am. And you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of God.” This made Caiaphas so angry that he tore his clothes. “This is blasphemy! This man is claiming to be God, himself. He must die!”

Locate and read the People in Bible Times note: "Jesus" (Grades 1-2: page 289, Grades 3-6: page 1176). Jesus called himself the Son of God and the Son of Man. This means that Jesus is both God and human.

The Sanhedrin was furious! They spit on Jesus and beat him. They immediately decided Jesus was guilty and pronounced that he must die. But, remember, the Sanhedrin was very powerful, but they didn’t have the power to put anyone to death, only the Roman governor could do that.

"Peter Says He Does Not Know Jesus" (Grades 1-2: page 349, Grades 3-6: page 1159)
Meanwhile Peter, Jesus’ disciple, had followed along. A servant saw Peter and recognized him as one of Jesus’ followers. “You were with Jesus of Galilee,” she said. Now Peter was really afraid. He said that he didn’t know what she was talking about. Two more times someone recognized Peter. Each time he denied it. The third time, as Peter denied Jesus, he heard a rooster crow. Peter remembered what Jesus had said. “Before the rooster crows, you will say three times that you don’t know me.” Peter felt terrible and cried and cried.

"Jesus Goes Before Pilate" (Grades 1-2: page 350, Grades 3-6: page 1160)
Early the next morning, the priests took Jesus to Pilate, the Roman governor. The Sanhedrin could arrest people and punish them, but only the Roman governor could sentence someone to be killed. They wanted Pilate to kill Jesus.

Read the People in Bible Times Note: "Pontius Pilate" (Grades 1-2: page 351, Grades 3-6: page 1160)
Pilate asked Jesus lots of questions too. He really believed Jesus was innocent. Also, his wife had warned him. She had a dream about Jesus and told Pilate not to have anything to do with Jesus. Pilate tried to get the Sanhedrin to deal with Jesus themselves. But the Sanhedrin wanted Jesus killed and, remember, they could not do that. They kept after Pilate. Pilate offered to let Jesus go free, since the Romans always let a Jewish prisoner go free during Passover. But the priests and crowd asked Pilate to release a criminal named Barabbas instead. They wanted Jesus to die. The crowd screamed, “Crucify him! Crucify him!” Finally Pilate gave in. He ordered Jesus whipped and crucified.

Read the Life in Bible Times notes: "Flogging and The Cross" (Grades 1-2: pages 352-353, Grades 3-6: pages 1188 and 1232).

Grades 3-6 can also read People in Bible Times: "Simon" (page 1188) For older children you might want to explain that Jesus was carrying the horizontal part of his cross, unlike many of the pictures we see of him carrying the entire cross – see Background Information.

"Jesus is Nailed to a Cross" (Grades 1-2: page 352, Grades 3-6: page 1161)
They took Jesus away to the place called Golgotha. It means “the skull.” They nailed his wrists and feet to the cross and left him there to die. The soldiers stood guard and made fun of Jesus. They put a sign above his head that read, “This is the King of the Jews.” Two criminals were crucified on both sides of Jesus. One of them asked Jesus to remember him in heaven. Jesus promised that the man would be in heaven with Jesus that very day.

"Jesus Dies" (Grades 1-2: page 354, Grades 3-6: page 1161) (there is good background information in Journey to the Cross about this section - you might want to have it out for the children to see)
At noon the sky turned dark and stayed that way until 3:00. At 3:00 Jesus cried out to God, took his last breath and died. Immediately the earth shook and the curtain in the Temple tore from top to bottom. Rocks split apart. Tombs broke open. Dead people were raised to life and appeared to many people. The Roman commander saw what had happened. “Surely this man was the Son of God,” they said.

"Jesus is Buried" (Grades 1-2: page 354, Grades 3-6: page 1161)
Joseph of Arimathea, a friend of Jesus, asked for Jesus’ body. He put it in a new tomb, which was actually a cave. He prepared Jesus’ body with many spices and wrapped him in strips of linen.

Grades 3-6: People in Bible Times: "Joseph of Arimathea" (page 1189)

Read the Life in Bible Times note: "Burial" (Grades 1-2: page 355, Grades 3-6: page 1265). (This should be review for our children as we have discussed Jewish burial customs in great length during our last several rotations.)

Read the Life in Bible Times note: "Jesus’ Tomb" (Grades 1-2: page 356, Grades 3-6: page 1162).

"The Guards at the Tomb" (Grades 3-6: page 1161)
Some of the Sanhedrin were worried. They remembered that Jesus had said he would rise from the dead. They were afraid the disciples would come and steal Jesus’ body and tell everyone that Jesus’ had really been raised. That would be even worse than all the other things Jesus had done already. So they went to Pilate and asked him to place soldiers at the tomb to guard it. Pilate agreed. The Roman guards went and made the tomb secure. They put a cord across the opening and put wax or clay with the seal of the Roman governor’s signet ring on to it. If anyone moved the cord, it would break the seal. The penalty for breaking or even scratching a Roman seal was instant death! (see Journey to the Cross, page 166 for a picture)

So… there we have it. Jesus is dead and buried. The guards are at his tomb. Jesus’ disciples, friends and family probably thought it was all over. All their hopes and dreams were vanished. How do you think they were feeling? We know what will happen in three days, but they didn’t… If you had been there, how would you have felt if you had watched Jesus die and seen him buried?

But now for the GOOD NEWS!!! We know that this is not the end of the story… because three days later, what happened? We know that Jesus rose from the dead and is alive today! And that is what we celebrate at Easter!

Memory Verse: Each rotation we ask the children to memorize one scripture verse. Note that this rotation we have a song for our Memory verse. Use the version from the song. (For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whoever believes in him will never die but have eternal life.) You might want to play the song John 3:16 as the children locate the verse in their Bible. Have them sing along to review the verse.

View the Video: The Story Behind The Cross

Begin the video and distribute the popcorn once children are seated.

After the video is finished use the background information and some of the following questions for classroom discussion:

  • Where did this story take place? (Jerusalem)
  • Why did Jesus get so angry when he entered the temple? (The temple was being used as a marketplace and not as a house of prayer).
  • What was the woman doing when she put expensive perfume on Jesus? (preparing him for his burial)
  • Why did the Jewish religious leaders arrest Jesus? (They were afraid he would ruin the freedom they had to practice their religion and they might lose the positions they held. They felt he was teaching against What did Judas receive for handing over Jesus? (30 silver coins)
  • Did Pilate want Jesus crucified? (No, he did not want this to happen but the priests kept after Pilate, until he finally gave in.)
  • Where was Jesus crucified? (Golgotha, the Place of the Skull)
  • What unusual things happened when Jesus died? (The Temple Curtain was torn in two from top to bottom. This could have only been torn by God. A Roman commander came to believe in Christ. He witnessed all that had happened and realized that this man was the Son of God, earthquakes, tombs opened, dead people were raised)


Reflection:

The last few minutes should be reserved for Journal Reflection time or another suitable reflection activity, such as, painting your favorite scene from the story.

If journaling: Ask the shepherds to pass out the journals and pencils 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 Faith Journals. Memory verse stickers are also included for each session. Children may also copy the memory verse and illustrate.

Journal Questions:
Grades 1-2: The people who watched Jesus die were very sad. Show how they felt on Easter morning when Jesus was risen!
Grades 3-4: The people who watched Jesus die were afraid, sad, and confused. How did their feelings change when they knew that Jesus was risen?
Grades 5-6: What does Jesus’ death and resurrection mean to you? Grades 1-2: Draw a picture that tells a part of the Easter story.

Close with prayer.

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

This lesson has been updated by a member of the Rotation.org Editing Team.


Last edited by Neil MacQueen

Video: The Miracle MakerThe Miracle Maker

We have used the crucifixion scene from the video "The Miracle Maker" It is a very realistic claymation type of animated video. The crucifixion scene is very powerful - in fact, if you have not seen this movie about the ministry and life of Christ I highly recommend it. I have used it to teach the Road to Emmaus, Holy Week and the Crucifixion.

The studio has posted it on YouTube. Unfortunately, it has some ads with it.

Attachments

Images (1)
  • The Miracle Maker
Last edited by Neil MacQueen

Trial and Crucifixion

Video Workshop

Faith Quest for Grades 1 & 2

Summary of Lesson Activities:

Uses the video- The Easter Story (from the Hanna Barbera series)

Yes, it's the old "Hanna Barbera" video series, but when we updated this lesson we watched the video and it is still pretty good!  See it on YouTube here:



Scripture Reference:

Mark 11-16

Concepts:

  • Even though he was accused of doing wrong Jesus was innocent.
  • Jesus is obedient to God.


Lesson Objectives:

  • Children will view the video “The Easter Story.”
  • The children will learn the events of Holy Week according to the Gospel of Mark.
  • The children will be able to put the events in order.

Leader Preparation:

  • Review the scripture.
  • Review the video on YouTube at https://youtu.be/D5d8khlAbbg?si=I7QYx7Oewdfxr2b5
  • Gather the Materials
  • Copy the statements (without Bible references or numbers) onto poster board and then cut into individual statement cards on 3 colors to give clues as to beginning (blue), middle (green) and ending statements (red). The first color identifies events leading up to the last supper and Gethsemane (1-8). The next color is Judas’ betrayal, Jesus’ capture, trial and crucifixion (9-13). The third color represents events after Jesus’ death to ascension (14-17)
  • Have the video ready to go.
  • Pop the Popcorn

Materials List:

  • Wooden cross necklaces – www.orientaltrading.com $1.95/dozen
  • Posterboard/paper of individual statements (Without numbers and scripture references- see end of lesson.)
  • Popcorn
  • The Easter Story (from the Hanna Barbera series)

Note for workshop leader: The trial and crucifixion movie for grades 3-5 is based on the Gospel according to Luke. It presents the story in images that are too graphic for younger children. We are showing the younger children a video that is based on the Gospel according to Mark



Lesson Plan


Opening:

Greet the children and introduce yourself. Wear your nametag.

Explain the purpose of this workshop. This unit is a study of the Trail and Crucifixion. The other workshops will focus on Jesus’ trial and what it means to us. We will look at the main events that took place during Holy Week when Jesus was put on trial and crucified.

Dig:

Bible Story:
1. Set up the story for the children. In the interest of time, start the video a few minutes into the story. You should already have it cued to the segment as Mark begins to tell the story and the two disciples are sent to fetch a donkey. Explain that the story is about three kids who are sent back in time and they talk to Mark, one of the gospel writers. Mark is telling the story about the last week of Jesus’ life.

You may wish to define the words: blasphemy (making fun of God), “betray” (to help the enemy), “fall away” (run away from Jesus).

2. Start the video. It’s about 24 minutes long if cued as suggested.

3. Distribute the popcorn with help from the Shepherds or volunteer children. (Popcorn should already be made)

Application:
1. Story sequencing. Clear space in the middle of the room. The story sequence statements (see below) should be printed on large cards/paper (without numbers or Bible references) and handed out randomly to the children. Ask the children to put the statements in order according to the story. The 3 colors represent the beginning, middle and end of the story.

2. You can lead the discussion by asking what happened first in the video? Who has a statement they think was one of the first events of Holy Week? Continue until you have put all in order. Arrange the cards on the floor in proper sequence. When you are done, ask the children to read it.
If you wish, remove some of the statements to further simplify the activity. When you are finished sequencing, read the story from the cards.

Reflection:

  1. Say the memory verse together: “God loved the people of this world so much that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who has faith in him will have eternal life and never really die.” (John 3:16, CEV)
  2. Show the children one of the wooden cross necklaces. Explain that the cross is a symbol of the Christian church. It is not just a reminder of the cruel way that Jesus died, but something much better. Jesus died and paid the price for all our sins. That means that when we do something bad, we can ask for forgiveness and know that God loves us and forgives us. Nothing can separate us from God’s love. Point out to the children that the cross is empty; Jesus is not on it. After he was crucified, Jesus arose from the dead. The empty cross is a sign that Jesus has been raised from death into everlasting life and that we, as followers of Jesus, share in his new life. Jesus lives forever in us and in the church.
  3. Give each child a wooden cross necklace. Put on the necklace and repeat the memory verse thinking about God’s love for us. Ask the shepherds to pass out the journal sheets and pencils/markers. Suggestion: Draw a cross as a reminder of this lesson.


Prayer: Thank you God for sending your son to us. Even though Jesus was innocent of crimes, he died on the cross so that our souls can live forever. Thank you for your amazing love.


References:
Hanna Barbera – The Easter Story – The Greatest Adventure Stories From the Bible, distributed by Sparrow Communications Group.


Statements:

  1. Two disciples go to look for a donkey. (Mark 11: 1-6)
  2. Jesus rides into Jerusalem as crowds shout “Hosanna”. (Mark 11: 7-10)
  3. Jesus goes to the temple and chases out the money changers and turns over tables. (Mark 11:15-17)
  4. The chief priests and temple leaders make a plan to get rid of Jesus. (Mark 14:1-2)
  5. Jesus sends two disciples to find a man carrying a pitcher of water. (Mark 14:12-16)
  6. Jesus and the disciples eat the Passover meal in an upstairs room. (Mark 14: 16-18)
  7. Jesus has the first communion service with bread and wine (Mark 14:22-25)
  8. Jesus tells the disciples that they will tell people they don’t know Jesus. The disciples say they would never deny Jesus (Mark 14:27-31)
  9. Jesus prays in the Garden of Gethsemane (Mark 14:32-34)
  10. Judas kisses Jesus to show the crowd whom to arrest. (Mark 14:43-46)
  11. Jesus is put on trial and sentenced to death. (Mark 14:53, Mark 14:60-64)
  12. Peter says he doesn’t know Jesus. The rooster crows. (Mark 14:66-71)
  13. Pilate lets the crowd decide whom to free from prison: Jesus or Barabbus. (Mark 15:6-15)
  14. Jesus is crucified on a cross (Mark 15:22-25)
  15. Jesus’ body is laid in a tomb (Mark 15:46)
  16. Three days after Jesus dies, the women find an empty tomb and an angel tells them that Jesus is risen. (Mark 16:5-8)
  17. Jesus appears to many people, including the disciples, after his death. He tells them to go and preach the good news to everyone in the world. (Mark 16:14-15)

A lesson written by Kirk from: Kildaire Presbyterian
Cary, NC

This lesson is copyrighted by the Kirk of Kildaire Presbyterian, Cary, North Carolina.
It may be used for non profit purposes only

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

Last edited by Neil MacQueen

Trial and Crucifixion

Video Lesson for Grades 3, 4 & 5


Summary of Lesson Activities:

Uses the video: "JESUS" from Inspirational Films Inc.

Scripture Reference:

Luke 23

Concepts:

  • Even though he was accused of doing wrong, Jesus was innocent.
  • Jesus is obedient to God.


Lesson Objectives:

  • The children will learn the events of Holy Week according to the Gospel of Luke.
  • The children will look for evidence of Jesus’ innocence.

Leader Preparation:

  • Review the scripture.
  • Review the video.
  • Gather the materials.
  • Prepare copies of the Brief Statement of Faith. Note: this is a subset specific to Jesus. Read the entire Brief Statement of Faith (approved by the General Assembly in 1991) concerning our triune God in the Book of Confessions.
  • Have the video ready to go at the correct scene (see lesson).
  • Pop the popcorn.


Materials List
:

  • Wooden cross necklaces – www.orientaltrading.com $1.95/dozen
  • The Brief Statement of Faith for each child (see end of lesson).
  • Glue sticks
  • Jesus DVD (Search for on YouTube to preview this video. This video, In honor of its 35th anniversary, was re-mastered in high-definition with a complete new musical score. For more info check out The JESUS Film. )


Lesson Plan

Opening:
Greet the children and introduce yourself. Wear your nametag.

Explain the purpose of this workshop. This unit is a study of the Trail and Crucifixion. We will look at the main events that took place during Holy Week when Jesus was put on trial and crucified. We will look for evidence that Jesus was innocent of the crimes for which he was accused.

Dig:

Bible Story:
Say:  Today when someone is accused of breaking the law he or she is charged with a crime or crimes.
Ask:  What crimes was Jesus accused of committing? Gather ideas from the children. (If this is early in the rotation, they may not know. If later in the rotation, write down their ideas on the whiteboard.)

Do:  Ask for a volunteer to read from Luke 23:1-2.

  • Getting people to riot
  • Telling people to stop paying taxes
  • Claiming to be the Messiah or King.


Ask: Was Jesus guilty of these crimes?

Say:  Today you are going to pretend that you are lawyers for Jesus. Watch the movie and look for evidence that might be used to show that Jesus was not guilty of these crimes. Also, look for actions that were used to make Jesus look guilty. A good lawyer needs to know what the prosecuting lawyers might use against our client Jesus.

Do: Distribute the popcorn with help from the Shepherds or volunteer children.

Start the video. It’s about 30 minutes long if cued to the beginning of the scene where Jesus enters Jerusalem on a donkey. Give the children a warning: the scene in which Jesus is crucified is very graphic and sad. If you need to, please close your eyes or look away.

Stop/pause the movie briefly at the scene when Jesus is brought before Pilate. Remind the children of the crimes for which Jesus was being accused.

Stop the movie at the end of the scene when Jesus is laid to rest in the tomb.

Application:
1. Briefly recap the sequence of events leading to Jesus’ arrest.

2. Discuss. What events occurred that might give the prosecutors a reason to think Jesus was guilty of the crimes? List them on the board. (See chart below.)

3. What events occurred that a lawyer might have used to defend Jesus against each accusation? List them on the board. (See chart below.)

4. Note that Jesus did not defend himself. Why? Jesus was obedient to God. He knew that he had to die on the cross in order to save our sins. Jesus paid the price for our sins – every one of us -- so that we are forgiven. Now nothing can separate us from God.

Write these headings across the top on the whiteboard:

Crime       Yes, he is guilty      No, he is not



Below each heading, gather the evidence to support guilt or not for each crime.

Crime: Getting people to riot
Yes - Overthrowing the tables in the temple

  • Large crowds were following Jesus into Jerusalem and wherever he went (Luke 19:37-40).
    No - The temple is a place for worship, not for making money. Jesus was right to be angry about this.
  • The crowds following Jesus were peaceful.
  • Jesus healed the ear of a slave who came to arrest him and demanded, “No more of this” (Luke 22:47-53).


Crime: Telling people to stop paying taxes
No - Jesus could not be tricked into telling people not to pay taxes. Jesus said to pay to the emperor what belonged to the emperor and pay to God, what was God’s (Luke 20:20-26).

Crime: Claiming to be the Messiah or King.
Yes - The people praised Jesus and called him king when he entered the city (Luke 19:38).
No - When Pilate asked Jesus if he was king of the Jews, Jesus did not say yes. He said “You say so” (Luke 23:3).

  • Jesus told his disciples not to tell others about who he really is (Luke 9:18-21). (This is not shown in the video but may be worth mentioning.)


Reflection:

  1. Say the memory verse together.
  2. Show the children one of the wooden cross necklaces. Explain that the cross is a symbol of the Christian church. It is not just a reminder of the cruel way that Jesus died, but something much better. Jesus died and paid the price for all our sins. That means that when we do something bad, we can ask for forgiveness and know that God loves us and forgives us. Nothing can separate us from God’s love. Point out to the children that the cross is empty; Jesus is not on it. After he was crucified, Jesus arose from the dead. The empty cross is a sign that Jesus has been raised from death into everlasting life and that we, as followers of Jesus, share in his new life. Jesus lives forever in us and in the church.
  3. Give each child a wooden cross necklace and the passage about Jesus from “A Brief Statement of Faith.” Put on the necklace and together recite the words that describe what we in the Presbyterian Church believe about Jesus. Ask the shepherds to pass out the journal sheets. Paste the passage from the Brief Statement of Faith onto the journal page. Draw a cross if you wish.


Prayer: Thank you God for sending your son to us. Even though Jesus was innocent of crimes, he died on the cross so that our souls can live forever. Thank you for your amazing love. Amen.


References:

  • Inspirational Films Inc. - Jesus. Distributed by: JVPOA, 3508 Cheshire Drive, Birmingham, AL 35242-3100. (A Genesis Project Production) www.visionvideo.com
  • Book of Confessions, Study Edition. Part 1 of the Constitution of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). Geneva Press: Louisville, Kentucky.

From A Brief Statement of Faith
We trust in Jesus Christ,
fully human, fully God.
Jesus proclaimed the reign of God:
preaching good news to the poor
and release to the captives,
teaching by word and deed
and blessing the children,
healing the sick
and binding up the brokenhearted,
eating with outcasts,
forgiving sinners,
and calling all to repent and believe the gospel.
Unjustly condemned for blasphemy and sedition,
Jesus was crucified,
suffering the depths of human pain
and giving his life for the sins of the world.
God raised this Jesus from the dead,
vindicating his sinless life,
breaking the power of sin and evil,
delivering us from death to life eternal.




A lesson written by Kirk of Kildaire Presbyterian Church
Cary, NC

This lesson is copyrighted by the Kirk of Kildaire Presbyterian, Cary, North Carolina

Last edited by Luanne Payne

For older children and youth

...consider using the short film titled, "Palm Sunday from http://palmsundayfilm.com/ 

It won the Telly Award for the "Best  Short Religious Film" of 2012. It features two boys goofing off during Holy Week services, only to find themselves suddenly transported to Golgotha.

It's an interesting discussion starter. 5 minutes long. One boy seems to be "going along" and seems to "get it" more than the other.

Note: the film isn't really about Palm Sunday as it is titled, but rather, it's more about Good Friday.

Here's a YouTube version of it posted by the producer:

The power of the cross...

Mercy Me's "Flawless" music video -lyrics and images- are great for starting a discussion about "what the cross does for us."  The words and images are particularly geared for those who don't feel worthy, those who feel "flawed" by sin or by a condition.

My approach to teaching with the video would also include having my kids "recreate" the video and record it ...recreating the visual "mud" to clean transformation, holding signs, etc. like the people seen in the video.

I'd have my kids come up with their own ideas of what people think of as their "flaws" that make them feel "less than" worthy.  (For example, a kid with a sign who feels guilty about not coming to church).

The image of the band in white clothes "stained" by mud, then paint, and increasingly "cleaner" as the music progresses is interesting and might be fun to recreated as well.

Perhaps the only theological quibble I have is with some minor "phrasing" in lyrics which suggest that grace is conditional on our acceptance (works). In fact, being the good Reformed character that I am, me and John Calvin teach that justification (acceptance by God) is unconditional and already given by the offering on the cross. It is Sanctification (the process by which we acknowledge and participate in God's Kingdom) that requires our acceptance and forward movement! Failure at sanctification then or now, however, is a forgone conclusion (though still we are called to keep trying). Only Jesus succeeded!

LYRIC EXCERPTS:
Take a breath smile and say
Right here right now I’m ok
Because the cross was enough
And like a hero who takes the stage when
We’re on the edge of our seats saying it’s too late
Well let me introduce you to grace, grace
God’s grace
No matter the bumps
No matter the bruises
No matter the scars
Still the truth is
The cross has made
The cross has made you flawless
No matter the hurt
Or how deep the wound is
No matter the pain
Still the truth is
The cross has made
The cross has made you flawless
Last edited by Neil MacQueen

Son of God (2014) has an extensive (and intense) trial and cross scene, and a well-donesonofgodthumb resurrection scene.

Of course, the depiction of the Trial and Crucifixion presents a challenge to teachers of younger children, and those older children who may struggle with seeing Jesus beaten and killed. 

Looking over the various videos, you can go from "sad but sanitized" to full-on bloody torture (which is to say, "true").  The level of graphic violence in Son of God falls somewhere between movingly appropriate and graphic enough. 

You can purchase the Son of God DVD or find it on-demand online. Below is a very modest quality preview of the movie found on YouTube that's for previewing, not for showing.

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Last edited by Neil MacQueen

"Matthew" (Visual Bible) has a word-for-word narrated and dramatized retelling of the story of the Cross (according to Matthew).  It is generally less bloody and less graphic than other movie depictions.   

"Matthew" movie is the same one used in the lesson above that recommends using "The Story Behind the Cross." The difference is that in that movie, they inter-splice scenes of a teacher talking to students about the cross.

Link to a preview of Matthew on YouTube.




Worthy is the Lamb from Nest Family/Nest Entertainment presents an animated version of the Crucifixion suitable for younger children. It limits the graphic depiction of the story without skipping its drama.

Here's a low-resolution preview of part of the DVD on YouTube.
Here's a higher-res version of just the crucifixion scene on YouTube.

Nest-Cross-Scene

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Last edited by Luanne Payne

This 4-minute video from Crossroads Kids' Club is not as much about the crucifixion itself as it is about the idea of sacrificial lamb that begins in the Old Testament and culminates at the Cross. 

God's Story: Preparing for Jesus from Crossroads Kids' Club on Vimeo.

 

"Throughout the Bible, God prepared us for his son, Jesus, the one who rescued us from all the wrong things in the world. We see examples of this in the story of Isaac (Genesis 22:1-19), the Passover (Exodus 12:1-30), the prophecy of Isaiah (Isaiah 53), and the Last Supper (Luke 22)."

It's Friday, but Sunday's Coming

A dramatic visualization from Igniter Media set to the famous words of "Sunday's Comin'" by Pastor S.M. Lockridge. 

Link to the text: https://www.thegospelcoalition...aybut-sundays-comin/   Printing it would be helpful for discussion. 

A short video for kids about the Trial of Jesus

This three minute video from Pursue God would be a good discussion starter or introduction to a lesson on the Trial of Jesus.  It's angle is "5 things you need to know about Jesus before he went to the cross." Top 5 List: the Trial of Jesus

The Five Points:

  • Jesus was on trial even though he didn't do anything wrong
  • Peter stayed outside even though he was Jesus' best friend
  • The Jews lied about Jesus even though that was against the law
  • Jesus didn't save himself even though he was strong enough to do it
  • Sometimes life isn't fair but God is still always in charge

There is a K-1 lesson plan pdf at the video link above that includes a coloring sheet if your kids like to color while discussing things.

A Holy Week Video Workshop Lesson Sketch
for Younger Children

Video: “Rez, the Rock that Rolled” (available for free on YouTube)

Scripture Reference:

Matthew 21:1-11
Mark 11:1-10
Luke 19:28-44
John 12:12-19


Leader Preparation:

  • Review the lesson plan, background materials, and Bible passage(s) for the workshop.
  • Preview the video and make sure you know how to use the equipment to access the video and show it on a large screen.
  • On the morning of the workshop, set up the popcorn machine and fill two pitchers with drinking water.
  • Gather the Materials

Materials List:

  • Video: “Rez, the Rock that Rolled” (God Rocks Bibletoons) for younger children.
  • Popcorn maker and popcorn
  • Paper bowls/cups for serving popcorn
  • Napkins
  • Pitcher(s) of drinking water and cups

Opening:

Welcome the children and introduce yourself. Make sure you are wearing your name tag and that the children are wearing theirs. Take a few minutes for the children to introduce themselves if appropriate.

Discuss and Show:

  • Introduce the lesson: this month we are learning about Holy Week and Easter. Ask: Who can tell me why we celebrate Easter every year? Talk a little about what the children know about Easter.
  • Introduce the video “Rez, the Rock that Rolled.” Explain that the movie is about the last week of Jesus’ life on earth – his arrival in Jerusalem for Passover, his arrest, his death on the cross, and his resurrection (when he came back to life). The movie tells the story of Jesus last days through the eyes of Gracie, a little bird, and Tombstone, the large rock that guarded Jesus’ tomb.
  • Pass out popcorn and napkins and play the movie.

When the movie is over, talk with the kids a little about the story:

  • What was Tombstone the rock guarding? (a tomb)
  • What is a tomb? (a small cave or carved hole in rock where people in Bible times were placed after they died)
  • What animal did Jesus ride into Jerusalem? (a donkey)
  • What did the people do when Jesus rode into Jerusalem? (cheered, shouted “Hosanna!”, waved palm branches)
  • What happened when Jesus was praying in the garden at night? (soldiers came and arrested him)
  • What happened when Jesus was hung on the cross? (the earth shook and the sky went black; a great storm came)
  • What did one of the soldiers say when he saw Jesus on the cross? (“Surely he was the son of God.)
  • Where did they put Jesus’ body after he died? (in the tomb, with a large stone rolled in front to keep the tomb closed)
  • What happened on the third day after Jesus died? (he came back to life; he walked out of the tomb)


This lesson sketch was originally posted by member Bravo5.

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