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Introduction
With all of the attacks on Christianity in the world such as the push of occult indoctrination through the media, false religions, atheistic evolution, etc., it is of utmost importance that we teach our children about both the power and the presence of God in their lives. With sorcery and witchcraft being promoted to children and young people in the movies and on television, it is important that they know that there is greater power with the true God, as noted in places like 1 John 4:4, than that which the world has to offer. We do not want to be like those that God gave Paul the revelation to write about in 2 Timothy 3:5, "Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof." Nor do we want to raise up our children to be like this by teaching them a form of godliness and then loose them to the crooked and perverse kingdom of our enemy the devil.
The information contained in this book, such as examples of the power of God in operation, can be taught to children through skits, puppet shows, slide presentations or whatever creative means you can imagine by which to reach children. Your child and youth groups probably already have methods of teaching children in place that can be used. In the case of skits it may be further educational to have children themselves participate as characters to deepen the impact of the information presented.
This book is by no means exhaustive in the subject matter presented here. The purpose of this book is to present an overview of material that can be taught, worked further, or incorporated into other teaching activities.
The Importance of Teaching Children the Power of God
I Timothy
The word men here is the Greek word anthrōpous and is in the plural form. It can also be translated mankind or humankind. "All men" here refers to all of mankind. This not only refers to men and women but also includes children and young people.
God's will is for all men, everyone, to be saved. However, as we read further we see there is more to His will. God not only wants everyone to be saved, but He also wants them to come unto a knowledge of the truth. In Hosea 4:6 we see the importance of having a knowledge of the truth.
Hosea 4:6 My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me: seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I will also forget thy children. (KJV)
In this verse we read that God's people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. We also learn why they did not have this knowledge. They rejected it! This truth applied to Israel then, and it applies to the Church today.
I Timothy 4:1 Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;
I Timothy 4:2 Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron; (KJV)
Depart here can also be translated "stand away from" or "defect from". Why will some stand away from or defect from the faith? Because they will give heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils.
Seducing spirits can be quite subtle in their attack. They will build their case against God and His word over time and through multiple means. Using skill and manipulation they will attempt to contaminate people's minds with their lies in order to draw people away from God and His Word.
The influences of our culture today provide an adequate means by which these seducing spirits can attack our children's minds. These influences include certain ideologies and ways of thinking that are taught in some of the educational institutions. Certain sexual matters such as "safe sex" or "health education" can be used to indoctrinate a young mind into sexual perversions. These sexual perversions can be designed to promote amoral sexual attitudes.
There are other areas in education from which a young mind can also be seduced. Some examples include the teaching of the theory of Macro-Evolution which can be used as a direct means to get young people to question the validity of God's Word. The promotion of witchcraft and New-Age philosophies and teachings by both education and peers may interest a young mind seeking meaning or some form of spiritual power in their life. The promotion and teaching of other religions, but not Christianity, can also be used to nominalize Christianity and draw young people away from Christ.
In addition, these anti-Godly philosophies and indoctrination are further reinforced in the media at large. There are a number of books, television shows and movies that promote witchcraft or New-Age religion. Some shows, commercials, and movies contain sexual content designed to sexually stimulate or arouse the viewer. Evolution is also promoted in many media outlets. Much of today's music that young people listen to not only contain sexual innuendoes but also foul language. The loud changing sounds in the movies and music can also excite the adrenal gland causing another form of stimulation This stimulation can result with these anti-God ideas being associated with pleasure in the young person's mind. Much of this is aimed directly at children and young people.
James 1:14 But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed.
James 1:15 Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death. (NKJV)
These seducing spirits know what lies to tell, know what kind of sounds and visual imagery to use, and what kind of thinking patterns to promote in order to entice someone. They will use a person's own fleshly desires to draw them away. It is like a fishhook baited with a worm. The fish desires the worm and bites down on the hook. Then the fish is drawn away out of the water.
In contrast, we read in Colossians that we ( the Church, including our children and young people) are to walk in the Lord, and be "rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith".
Colossians 2:6 As you have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him,
Colossians 2:7 rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding in it with thanksgiving. (NKJV)
We are to be rooted in Christ. Roots do two things for a tree. They are the means by which the tree receives nourishment and they hold the tree in place. Christ is to be our source of spiritual nourishment. When we are rooted in him we have the spiritual strength to keep us in place against the onslaughts of the world.
We are to be built up in Christ. Literally, we are to stay or remain in the relation of being built up, being built upon, and being edified in Christ. We are also to be established in the faith. Established here literally means to remain fixed in position, remain steadfast, remain secure, and remain immovable.
Colossians 2:8 Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ. (NKJV)
The word translated "basic principles" here also implies something that is rudimentary or elemental in instruction. It also implies something orderly in fashion. It is like the training of soldiers to march together in an orderly fashion and according to the same principles.
Here we see in Colossians how the believer in Christ is to walk. We are to walk in the Lord, "rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith", so that we are not deceived by these seducing spirits and the elements of our culture. This is why it is of utmost importance for young people in our culture to come unto a knowledge of the truth, to know who they are in Christ, and to understand that power they have within them given to them by God.
When a young person has and recognizes the indwelling of God's gift of holy spirit in their lives; when they are empowered by that gift, having the Power of God in operation in their lives; then they will be better equipped to stand on the firm foundation of God's Word in this crooked and perverse culture.
The word "confess" here is the Greek word homologeo, which literally means "same word". It is something said in agreement with, or acknowledged. This is something that is meant when it is said, such as a covenant agreement.
Children do not need to know all these details about the word "confess". However, they should know that when they say Jesus is their Lord they are to mean what they say.
They should also know what a lord is. Simply put, a lord is someone who is in charge. The person who has the power and authority like a ruler or a king. This is the one who is sovereign over them who they willingly submit to, follow, and obey.
Remember, keep it simple. Have them confess, say, that Jesus is their Lord, meaning it when they say it, and believing that God has raised him from the dead. You could also have them say this confession in prayer to God.
The next thing you may want to do is to tell them about spirit that they received from God when they were saved. That is, when they made Jesus their Lord they received spirit from God that is now a part of them. At this point you do not need to go into lengthy details about it. What they need to know is that it is there, they have it, and it is part of them.
How to Lead Children Into Speaking in Tongues This is generally for children from eight years of age and up. However, there have been many kids under eight who have manifested tongues. Often those under eight who speak in tongues have been exposed to others, especially other children, who speak in tongues. Not all children will need to know the same things about speaking in tongues in order to do it. The information provided should be catered to the individual child s understanding and age group. What one child needs to hear to understand may in fact not be appropriate for the next child. To much information all at once may confuse or discourage one child from speaking in tongues while another child may not be ready to speak in tongues until he has been taught plenty of information about it. In the latter case a child who has not learned enough may even feel he s being pushed and shy away if one tries to get him to manifest tongues before he is ready. Keep in mind that there is no magical formula for leading a child or group of children into tongues and that the following information is for general use. The following are things children may need to know in order to speak in tongues. It is not exhaustive and you may encounter situations where a child needs to learn something different than what is presented here. You may even have information of your own that you can include in your own work with children. Children will often need a general concept of other languages foreign to their own. Basically they will need to understand that different languages exist that they do not know. This will be beneficial to their understanding of their own ability to speak in a language they do not understand, and that it is not just some gibberish-but rather God inspired utterance. Some children who are bilingual may get confused and speak the other language they know. Watch for faking. They may also speak in their other language because they think it is easier, they want to fit in or any number of other reasons. They need to understand that any foreign words or languages that they know will not be speaking in tongues when they speak them with their understanding. Some people believe that speaking in tongues happens automatically and some believe that it is up to the person speaking to take the action to speak in tongues. Others, like myself, believe that both are possible. For it to occur automatically you obviously need not lead an individual into tongues in order for them to manifest. However, in order for a person to take action they will need to know what action to take. It is the action approach that I follow for the remainder of this section. Speaking in tongues works like the operation of speech. It is up to them to take the action to speak. It is up to God to inspire them as to what they say. They speak and God gives them the utterance. They move their throats, mouths, etc. and as they take the action and move forward God will move with them. Acts 2:4 And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. (KJV) Acts 2:1-11 and/or Acts chapter 10 could be taught as a skit. You may want to mention to children that fire will not come flying out of the sky at them as they speak in tongues. A child may say, or be thinking, "I don t know what to say." This is understandable especially if they have not been previously exposed to the concept of speaking in tongues. The child will need to understand that they are not supposed to know what to say. They do not know what they are going to say nor will they understand it. God will inspire them as they act. God will not fail them. They do not make up or think up what they are going to say. If they say, "Jesus is my Lord," they had to think about what they said. When they speak in tongues God will inspire their words and give them the sounds to speak. They will not understand the language they are speaking nor will they know what they are saying. They will have to fully put their trust in God. They will have to trust that God will move with them as they take the action and begin speaking. They will have to trust God to inspire them and give them the sounds as they speak.
Proverbs 3:6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. (KJV)
Try to eliminate distractions. Sometimes it is better to lead a child into tongues one on one or in smaller groups of two or three. (If another child is in the group that has already spoke in tongues this may be helpful as that child may encourage the others to want to manifest.) If there are a bunch of people watching, he may feel uncomfortable. If there is a lot of background noise and activity that may draw his attention, he may not want to focus on your instruction. You want the child to focus on God s presence and power in their life and the action they are taking to manifest that power.
Finally, have them act. Having them say a short prayer thanking God for His power, the gift of Holy Spirit, or their ability to speak in tongues may be helpful. Other things that may be helpful are having them shut their eyes or take a deep breath right before they begin speaking. Then, have them take the action to speak.
As they take the action to speak, you may need to continue to coach and encourage them. They may need to be reminded that it is not up to them as to what they say but that God will give them the sounds as they act to speak. They may need to remember to put their trust in God to give them those sounds. Whatever you do, if a child is having trouble or draws back, don t beat them over the head with this. For each child or group of children, you should trust God to give you the wisdom to act correctly for their benefit.
The following are some key reasons for speaking in tongues. They can be incorporated in the teaching of children to help build their desire to speak in tongues.
Perfect worship of God.
Perfect Prayer.
Ephesians 6:18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; (KJV)
Builds Them Up Spiritually.
Jude 1:20 But you, beloved, building yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit, (NKJV)
Proof that God is present with and in them.
I John 4:13 By this we know that we abide in Him, and He in us, because He has given us of His Spirit. (NKJV)
Proof that God raised Jesus from the dead and that Jesus is our Lord!
Acts 2:29 "Men and brethren, let me speak freely to you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his tomb is with us to this day.
Acts 2:30 "Therefore, being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him that of the fruit of his body, according to the flesh, He would raise up the Christ to sit on his throne,
Acts 2:31 "he, foreseeing this, spoke concerning the resurrection of the Christ, that His soul was not left in Hades, nor did His flesh see corruption.
Acts 2:32 "This Jesus God has raised up, of which we are all witnesses.
Acts 2:33 "Therefore being exalted to the right hand of God, and having received from the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit, He poured out this which you now see and hear. (NKJV)
We could not have received the "promise of the Holy Spirit" or manifested the power of God, including speaking in tongues, if verses 32 and 33 were not true. The power of God the Apostles and early church manifested is what gave power to their witness concerning Christ and his resurrection. This is the same power of God that we have and manifest in our lives today. As we manifest this power it is a witness both to us and to those around us that what the Bible teaches about Christ and his resurrection is the truth.
I also want to note here the King James Version of verses 13 and 14.
Note that "do testify" is in the present tense and that anyone who believes in the Son of God has this witness in them.
Proof they are saved and have eternal life.
This picks right up from where we ended in I John in the previous section.For a group audience of children you can do things such as skits, plays, puppet shows, etc. to teach about speaking in tongues or some of the benefits for it. For example, one character could introduce a second character to speaking in tongues and lead him into it. Then the youth leader can pick up to lead individuals or groups into tongues. A character may also teach a second character about one or more of the benefits of tongues, etc.
The Hebrew word translated "of good courage" here means alert, courageous, mentally alert in courage, established, and fortified. Teaching a child to practice the presence of God in their lives can help establish their minds in their walk with God. It can also help them be more alert and courageous in their walk with God.
Each point commanded in this verse can also be taught as a result of the child keeping a knowledge of God s presence in their lives. That is, they can be strong, of good courage, not afraid, or dismayed. Why? Because the Lord their God is with them wherever they go.
Another key section of scripture concerning this subject is I John 3:23,24 as well as I John 4:9-15. Because we looked at most of these verses here from I John in the previous part of this book, they offer a good springboard to transition into teaching the presence of God.
The following verses can also be used to teach the presence of Christ in them.
I John 1:3 that which we have seen and heard we declare to you, that you also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ. (NKJV)
John 17:20-23 can also be taught to teach them that they have God in Christ in them.
After a skit, play, or teaching on this subject, perhaps have the children memorize one or two of these verses. Joshua 1:9 and John 14:23 are good ones for this. For youth groups scripture memorization can even be made into a contest. Children knowing the verse at the next meeting receive a reward or prize of some type. This can even include tokens accumulating toward the prize.
Galatians 5:14 For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this: "You shall love your neighbor as yourself."
Galatians 5:15 But if you bite and devour one another, beware lest you be consumed by one another! (NKJV)
When we by love serve one another and love our neighbor as ourselves it becomes quite difficult to bite and devour one another. When a body of believers bite and devour one another it causes division among them and they are consumed one of another. When such divisions occur the impact of the power of God in their lives can be diminished and lost.
Galatians
Galatians 5:17 For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary to one another, so that you do not do the things that you wish.
Galatians 5:18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law.
Galatians 5:19 Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness,
Galatians 5:20 idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies,
Galatians 5:21 envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.
Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
Galatians 5:23 gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. (NKJV)
Walking by the flesh produces the works of the flesh. Walking by the Spirit produces the fruit of the Spirit, the first of which listed is love.
Galatians 5:24 And those who are Christ's have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.
Galatians 5:25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
Galatians 5:26 Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another. (NKJV)
When someone is conceited, provokes others, and envies others they are not walking with the love of God. These things arise out of a selfish self-centered heart and that is the opposite of the love of God. When someone is selfish and self-centered they are walking by the flesh which produces the works of the flesh. In contrast, when someone is walking by the Spirit they will manifest the love of God in their life. In I Corinthians we see the attributes of that manifested love of God.
I Corinthians 13:4 Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,
I Corinthians 13:5 Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;
I Corinthians 13:6 Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth;
I Corinthians 13:7 Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.
I Corinthians 13:8 Charity never faileth: (KJV)
A good way to present the above listed attributes of walking in love here in I Corinthians 13 is to choose one or two of them to teach about. While teaching them an example of the chosen characteristic of love can be given showing the correct way to walk in love as opposed to the incorrect way. A story may also be told to make the point or expound on the given example.
A skit involving children from a youth group is another way that one of these characteristics of love may be taught. A student can play a character who is envious of someone else or who is easily provoked and as a result suffers harsh consequences. Then the skit can be reenacted with the character instead walking in love in the same situation with the result being a positive outcome. This could be followed with a short teaching on the exhibited characteristic of love.
It is important not to overload the student with to much of this information all in one sitting. When teaching children about the love of God it is important to keep it simple and age appropriate.
II Timothy 1:7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. (KJV)
Teaching Scripture Memorization Children may need to be taught scripture memorization techniques. Such techniques can include repetition, association, and visualization. Remember, do not beat the children you are working with over the head with the information presented here. The purpose of teaching this is to build up the children in their abilities to remember scripture, not to discourage them or tear them down. As well, what works for one child may not be the same for the next child, and care should be taken to know how the child functions as an individual with these techniques. This information is primarily for group and home use. It may not be suitable for the child you witness to or evangelize on the street and who you may hardly, if ever, see again. It will take time to build these techniques in the children. Not all at once in one sitting, but a little each week. It should be structured and planned with specific goals in mind as to the implementation of the techniques, and their use together. For repetition have them learn to repeat parts of the verse adding to that part as they learn the verse. For example, they could begin with, "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage." As they begin to get that part memorized, they can add, "do not be afraid, nor be dismayed," and so on until they know the whole verse. This can be accomplished verbally and in association with visualization. For association you can have them associate the information with things they already know. This can include a memory peg to help them get started with the verse or to remember key points in the verse. For older children, you may be able to teach them to use multiple memory pegs or strings of pegs where one ties to the next. I will advise against using memory pegs as a sole means of memorization. In fact, of the items listed here, I believe this one should be the least emphasized as far as learning information is concerned. It should be used to assist the other techniques. Association may also include other information pertaining to the verse. This will be items such as the context of the verse. It may also include events occurring in the verse and context, someone speaking in the verse, who they are speaking to, where it happens, etc. For example, in John 14:23 Jesus was speaking. This works well with visualization, but less emphasis may need to be put on this type of association for the purpose of remembering the verse, especially with preteen children. Another very important part of association is with the verse itself. They should learn to associate one part of the verse with the next and see how each part relates to the others. This will not only help them remember the entire verse but will also help them to have a greater understanding of it. This goes well with both visualization and repetition. With visualization they may need to know how to read at some level. One part of visualization will be to remember things such as what the words look like on the page or memory card. As well, they may be taught to visually remember what the order of the words look like. This goes well with repetition. Another side of visualization is to have them visualize key factors of the verse. This will be information such as who is speaking in the verse, who they are speaking to, what they are saying, where it happens, etc. This goes well with association. For teaching a technique like visualization, you can use a game. Perhaps use a word, group of letters, or an object that you show them for a few moments. Have them remember what it looks like in those few moments and then draw or write it. This will help build their visual memory. As well, you can use similar techniques to build their verbal repetitious memory as that given for visual memory. Have them practice repeating a phrase; then stop for a moment. Then, have them practice recalling it from memory. You may even, then, have them write it down. This is good to teach them to memorize a part of a verse; then add an additional part of a verse as was first discussed with repetition. It can also boost their confidence at learning information in general. Association games can also be used to boost memory skills. Such games can include coming up with pegs to remember information. Children can share their ideas with the group and see what ideas they like. For the other types of association they may require more direct teaching. "This goes with that." However, other types of association games can still be used to introduce the ideas; then the ideas translated to the memory of scripture. Finally, children should be taught to use these techniques together. They can visualize the words they have seen as they practice the repetition. When they do this they can use a peg to aid them in getting started or to remember a key point. They can also associate one idea with the next as they visualize the words and ideas while repeating them.
With believing, mountains can be moved in life. However, doubt and unbelief can hamper a person from operating the power of God in their life. Children should be taught not to allow themselves to be trapped with fear, doubt, and unbelief. Rather their trust and believing is to be in God.
A good record to teach believing from is found in Mark 5:21-42. It should be pointed out to the children the believing that the individuals had to receive God s deliverance and healing. In vs. 28, and vs. 34 we see the woman believes to be healed. In vs. 36 Jesus commanded them to believe.
We build our trust in God by putting His Word in our minds. Children can also grow in their trust in God by putting His Word in their minds.
In the context of these verses from Hebrews, in Hebrews chapter 11, is a powerful listing of men and women of God who did not draw back but fully put their trust and faith in God. As a result, they received God s help, deliverance, and promises. These are great examples to teach young people in order to help build their faith.
The Other Manifestations
In I Corinthians 12: 7-10, we see listed what the Bible calls "the manifestation of the Spirit". Some people refer to them as gifts of the Spirit. As these nine operations of the Spirit are utilized in a believer s life, they are a manifestation of the presence of the gift of holy spirit, the new birth, in the believer. As we now begin to look at teaching children about the other eight of these nine operations of the spirit, I want to give the following definitions for Word of Knowledge, Word of Wisdom, Discerning of Spirits, and Faith. Word of Knowledge Word of Wisdom
Discerning of Spirits Sometimes the manifestations of Discerning of Spirits and Word of Wisdom will work together. In this instance, God will show you whether you are to cast out the spirits or what action, if any, you are to take. Sometimes God will just want you to know about the presence of spirits so that you know what is going on in or behind a situation. The Manifestation of Faith There are plenty of examples in scripture of these operations that can be used for the purpose of teaching children. The following are some examples. In Acts 16: 6-10, they received revelation as to where not to go in verses 6-8. Then, in verse 9 Paul receives revelation in a vision that was both visual and audible. In verse 10, they took immediate action on that revelation. In verses 11-15 of Acts 16, we see the first result of their obedience to God. Lydia is saved with her household. Then, in Acts 16: 16-24, Paul casts a spirit of divination out of a girl and they get thrown into prison. As a result, the Philippian jailer and his household believe, Acts 16: 25-34. In Acts 16:18, we see another great truth in the Word of God. When Paul cast the spirit out of the girl he did it in the name of Jesus Christ. This is a good place to teach or reaffirm that it is in the name of Jesus Christ that we have power. Another place to look is Acts 9: 10-19. Here Ananias, a certain disciple, receives revelation to minister to Paul. It does not say he was an apostle or prophet but a certain disciple. This is a good place to show children that all believers can have the power of God in operation in their lives. Many of the Bible records that children are taught show examples of God s people receiving revelation. They also show those people trusting God, acting on the revelation and receiving the results. In some instances, those records show people disobeying God and receiving the consequences. The records of Balaam and Jonah are good examples of the latter. These various incidents that are taught in the Bible also show examples of the many ways in which revelation is received. It is good to take note of the places in these records where revelation is received. Then those instances can be pointed out to the children along with the actions and results that follow. Gifts of Healings In Acts 3:1-8, we see the record of the man born lame who was healed by Peter and John. Records such as this one in the book of Acts are good for short simple skits that children can participate in. They can be used along with personal testimony examples of God healing people to help build a child s faith in God s power to bring healing to pass. In the above record, Peter took the lame man by the hand. In Acts 9:32-35, we see an example where Peter only commands a sick person to be healed. It does not say he layed hands on him or took him by the hand. When the healing occurs through prayer, it is suggested that children are taught not to beg God, "please, please do this," but rather go to him thankfully. They should be taught to thank God for the victory. Going to God with believing trust in Him and His power in operation in their lives. Psalms 95:2 Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving; Let us shout joyfully to Him with psalms. (NKJV) Ephesians 5:20 giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, (NKJV) In Eph.1:15-20, Paul did not pray to God by begging God. When Paul asked for those things he did it by thanking God for them. He went thankfully to Him for those things he wanted to see in those believer s lives and thanked God to bring those things to pass. Some other verses on thankfulness are Psalm 100:4; Phil. 4:6-7; Col. 3:17; 1 Thess. 5:16-22; and 1 Tim. 2:1. Working of Miracles Two good examples of this are found in the book of Acts. The first is in Acts 9:36-42, where Peter raises Tabitha from the dead. I have heard of several modern instances where someone was raised from the dead by God s power. I even knew someone who some years before my meeting him had been killed in an accident and laid dead several hours in the morgue. Some believing relatives of his went in to his body, prayed for him, and in the name of Jesus Christ raised him from the dead. I believe that both Gifts of Healings and Working of Miracles are involved in such incidents. The other record is found in Acts 19:11-12. Here it reads that, "God worked unusual miracles by the hands of Paul." NKJV In the ministry of our Lord Jesus Christ, we have yet another excellent source of examples for these six manifestations in operation. These examples in the Gospels include Jesus turning water into wine found in John 2:1-11. There is also Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead in John 11, casting out spirits, healing all kinds of diseases and infirmities, prophesying of future events, etc., etc. These can be used as very good teaching points, not only because they are examples of how our Lord walked but also because of the words he spoke in John 14:12. John 14:12 "Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do, because I go to My Father. (NKJV) This verse should be on the list of verses that children are taught to memorize. In I Corinthians 14:3-4, the Bible reads that prophecy is for edification, exhortation, and comfort. In contrast, verses 4 and 5 tell us that tongues edify the person speaking in tongues unless he interprets that the church may receive edification. Tongues edify the person speaking, tongues with interpretation edifies the church, and prophecy edifies, exhorts, and comforts the church. I Corinthians 14:3 But he who prophesies speaks edification and exhortation and comfort to men.
I Corinthians 14:4 He who speaks in a tongue edifies himself, but he who prophesies edifies the church.
I Corinthians 14:5 I wish you all spoke with tongues, but even more that you prophesied; for he who prophesies is greater than he who speaks with tongues, unless indeed he interprets, that the church may receive edification. (NKJV)
Our Stand In teaching children to stand for God, they need to also be taught to stand against the methods and devises of the devil. Some key verses on this are found in Ephesians 6:10-18. For, as verse 12 tells us, it is not against flesh and blood that we wrestle.
For this reason, children also need to be taught to obey God. This obedience starts with obeying His written Word to us. They should also be taught to walk by the Spirit rather than the flesh, as Galatians 5:16-17 tells us.
Another thing they should be taught to recognize is what I John 4:4 tells us.
I John 4:4 You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world. (NKJV) This can be a key verse when dealing with subjects such as sorcery and witchcraft. Children should know that the power of God in Christ in them is greater than the power of the enemy s kingdom. As Jesus gave his disciples power to tread on the serpents and scorpions in Luke 10:18-20, so we even have greater power in us today. For as the Lord said in John 14:12, "Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do, because I go to My Father." NKJV. However, our rejoicing is not in the power we have in us but rather in our salvation and relationship with God, as we are told in Luke 10:20. It is in this that the children you teach should also rejoice. The Importance of Prayer When working with young people or anyone you minister to it is important to keep your eyes open spiritually and keep those individuals in prayer. God may even direct you by revelation to pray for people and situations. Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; - Ephesians 6:18 (KJV) "In the Spirit" is the key here. We are to walk in the Spirit when we pray. If God tells you to pray for someone, or places someone on your heart, you are to pray for that person. Sometimes there will even be specific things to pray about concerning them. These may include their protection, healing, health, forgiveness for them, or other things. If after praying you still feel a need to pray for them you can look to God and prayerfully thank Him for the answer or you may want to speak in tongues while thanking God for them and their life. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. - Philippians 4:6,7 (NKJV) It is important not to be anxious or have anxiety when God places these things on your heart or in any situation for which you are praying. Rather than be anxious go to God with a thankful and trusting heart. Let God's peace rule your heart. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful. - Colossians 3:15 (NKJV) (See also Appendix I: Teachings from Ephesians, Part 3, "Overcoming In Christ," for more on Ephesians 6:18) Appendix I Teachings from Ephesians Part 1
Spiritual Strength
Ephesians
The word "strong" here means to be empowered. It means to have muscles and strength with the ability and authority to use them. We have this kind of spiritual strength from God.
The word "power" here means impacted power. It is from the Greek word kratei from which we get the English word crater. Manifesting God's Power has an impact.
The word "might" here means strength or ability. It is the ability or strength brought into action. You use it.
Some ways to communicate these ideas to children are to use props. A picture of a strong muscle man is a good way to communicate what it means to have great strength. Then they can be shown that they are to have that kind of strength spiritually. Another good prop is to use an object and make an impact into it. An empty aluminum foil pie tin, sheet of paper, ball of clay or other such item may be used where a punch into it leaves a noticeable impression. When teaching a group of children a volunteer from the group can be selected to actually make the impact into the object. How you have them make the impact will be determined by the selected object, strength needed for the impact, and safety of the child. (You would not, for example, have them punch their fist into a lump of clay sitting on a hard table. Instead, pushing their hand or fist into it would have the same effect on the clay but would not injure their hand.) The use of such props will help to stimulate these ideas in the child's mind.
Some ways for children to be strong
- Learn God's Word and hold it in their mind. They think about it.
- Live God's Word in their actions and obey revelation that God gives them.
- Always remember God's presence in their life.
- Speak in tongues much each day.
When they speak in tongues they are bringing His strength into action and it makes an impact!
I Corinthians 14:4 He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church. (KJV)
Edify here means built up and made stronger. It is like a fortress that is built up and made stronger so that it is prepared to withstand any attack.
Jude 20 But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, (KJV)
When a child speaks in tongues they are bringing His strength into action and making themselves spiritually stronger. They can be taught that they have the ability and authority to use their physical muscles. As they do they make them stronger. Likewise, as they exercise their spiritual "muscles" they make themselves spiritually stronger.
Appendix I
Teachings from Ephesians
Part 2
On the following two pages is a teaching that I gave to a group that was a mixture of children, teenagers, and adults. The text contained on these two pages is very close to a handout that I passed out to the group for the teaching. Following this teaching is a third page that contains questions. I passed out the question sheet after the teaching and called on volunteers to answer the questions.
Resisting the Attack
Ephesians 6:10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.
Ephesians 6:11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. (KJV)
"Put on," is action we take.
"Wiles", are his plans and methods of doing things. This includes his way of thinking that is in the world.
Ephesians 6:12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. (KJV)
We do not war against flesh and blood. It is the devil and his fallen angels who plan and carry out the attacks against us to keep us from doing God's Word. Those attacks are designed to pull us away from God and His Word.
Luke 4:1 Then Jesus, being filled with the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness,
Luke 4:2 being tempted for forty days by the devil. And in those days He ate nothing, and afterward, when they had ended, He was hungry.
Luke 4:3 And the devil said to Him, "If You are the Son of God, command this stone to become bread."
Luke 4:4 But Jesus answered him, saying, "It is written, 'Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God.' " (NKJV)
The devil tried to get him to focus his mind on desires and needs in the world rather than on God's Word.
Luke 4:5 Then the devil, taking Him up on a high mountain, showed Him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time.
Luke 4:6 And the devil said to Him, "All this authority I will give You, and their glory; for this has been delivered to me, and I give it to whomever I wish.
Luke 4:7 "Therefore, if You will worship before me, all will be Yours."
Luke 4:8 And Jesus answered and said to him, "Get behind Me, Satan! For it is written, 'You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only you shall serve.' " (NKJV)
Here the devil tried to get him to stop worshipping God and instead worship the devil. The devil tried to get him to glorify the things of the world and to exalt himself rather than give glory to God.
The spiritual position that Jesus has now is far greater than what the devil offered him. (See Ephesians 1:19-23 and Colossians 1:6-11.)
God seated him at His right hand far above all rule, authority, and every name that can be named. God exalted Jesus and gave him a name above all other names.
Luke 4:9 Then he brought Him to Jerusalem, set Him on the pinnacle of the temple, and said to Him, "If You are the Son of God, throw Yourself down from here.
Luke 4:10 "For it is written: 'He shall give His angels charge over you, To keep you,'
Luke 4:11 "and, 'In their hands they shall bear you up, Lest you dash your foot against a stone.' "
Luke 4:12 And Jesus answered and said to him, "It has been said, 'You shall not tempt the Lord your God.' " (NKJV)
The devil tried to get him to tempt God. For us today it would be like saying, "Oh that little sin will not hurt anything this time," or other tricks to get us to disobey God and His Word.
Luke 4:13 Now when the devil had ended every temptation, he departed from Him until an opportune time. (NKJV)
"Until an opportune time." Just because you win one victory does not mean you can stop fighting. The devil will try to come back again with another attack when he thinks the time is right.
We need to guard our thinking with God's Word!
James 4:7 Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.
James 4:8 Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. (NKJV)
We are to do this all the time.
Questions
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