<BACK

Parables: The Lost Sheep - Part 2

Teacher's Guide - this is just one possible lesson plan.  Visit the Lost Sheep Bible lesson plan Section for further ideas to supplement this. 

Introduction:

This lesson will expand what the children already know about parables.  The lesson is primarily about the Lost Sheep but I've also included the parable of the Lost Coin to show the similarities between the two parables.  The key to this lesson is to have a repentant heart.  I've tried to explain what the words 'sin', 'repent' and 'forgiveness' mean in the children's story because these can be rather difficult terms for children.  If you want to review them before the lesson that might be a good idea too.

The message:  

Preschool thru Grade 1: Jesus is glad when we admit we've done something wrong and ask for forgiveness.
  
Grades 2 and 3: If you have a repentant heart Jesus is ready to forgive you if you ask Him.

I've split this message into two separate ones depending on the age level.  For the younger children, the message is simple: Jesus is glad when we admit that we've done something wrong and ask for forgiveness.  For the older children, we expand on this message and say:  If you have a repentant heart Jesus is ready to forgive if you ask.  It's important that they understand that just because God forgives us so easily we need to truly feel sorry for what we've done.  After all, God knows what's in our heart and if we are truly sorry.

Make sure you repeat the message many times during the lesson.  Send the The Lost Sheep Take Home Sheet  home with the children to encourage parents to reiterate the message during the week.  It includes a poster at the bottom that the children can color and hang on their wall or refrigerator. 

Preview of the lesson:

Some people like to do craft time first and story time second and some like to switch it around.  I like the first option, myself.

Always consider offering the Parable Coloring Pages or the Lamb Coloring Pages for children who aren't interested in participating in the group activity (or if you get done the group activities very quickly and need something to fill in the spare time).  Everyone has a need for "alone time" once in awhile.  Also, sending home the coloring pages with the Take Home sheet provides parents with much needed help in reinforcing the lessons.  You can make a nice little booklet each week with the take home sheet on top -- I promise that most parents will appreciate the effort!