OBJECTIVES To explore some Scriptures that make clear what a person does to ask Jesus to live in them. To explore some Scriptures that help a child know some of God's characteristics. To begin to memorize 1 John 5:11 and 12. To become aware of the meaning of the term "eternal life." To establish a pattern for daily Bible reading and memorization. PREPARATION/MATERIALS NEEDED 1. Provide a copy of the Discipleship Activity Pages, "Jesus and Me." 2. Complete the Discipleship Activity Page, "Jesus and Me," so you will be familiar with all concepts presented. 3. Provide a Bible for each child. (Encourage children to bring their own Bibles when possible.) 4. Print on the chalk board the five truths in "Review/ Focus." REVIEW/FOCUS (5-10 Minutes) [Guided Conversation] Printed on the whiteboard (chalk/poster) are the five truths we are learning about God and Jesus. Who would like to read the first one? 1. God loves people and sent His Son Jesus to teach people the best way to live now and forever. Compassion is another name for God. Who would like to read the second one? 2. Jesus loves and cares for people and wants us to love and care for people too. Who would like to read the third? 3. We can learn what is right and wrong because the Bible is true. Who would like to read the fourth? 4. Jesus is able to forgive people because He died to take the punishment for all the wrong things people think and say and do. ____________, please read the fifth idea. 5. When you ask Jesus to live in you, your understanding and attitudes change in ways that allow you to love God, yourself and others.

When people are sure of God's love, they have hope, a sense of belonging, a sense of competence and a sense of worth. When people are assured of an unchanging source of love and forgiveness, they are less likely to attack others who are different. They are more willing to live in harmony with others, more likely to be fair in their dealings with one another, and less likely to be critical.

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