Scripture: Leviticus 1-27
Learning Objectives:
- Students will learn God gave the Israelites many laws.
- Students will learn the Law God gave Moses contain laws not just for religion, but laws that would be the rules for their society as well.
- Students will learn it was impossible for the people to keep all of these laws, so God already had a plan for Jesus to come to earth and die for our sins.
- Students will learn vocabulary associated with law making.
Guiding Question: What are words associated with creating laws?
Materials: Paper, pencils, props as needed
Procedure: Review the purpose of Leviticus 1-27. Emphasize God’s commands for the scapegoat and sacrifices in chapter 16. Explain that Leviticus lists many detailed laws for the Israelites to follow. Many laws were focused on sacrifice. This was because sacrificing an animal was how the people showed they were sorry for their sins and the people were willing to rely on God. There are laws in our country that are meant to keep us safe and there are also rules in the Bible meant to keep us safe and lead the best Christian life possible. God expects us to obey these laws so that we can follow the right path and make a great impact for His kingdom. God knows that we are not perfect and will make mistakes which is why He sent Jesus to die for our sins to be forgiven.
Introduce the activity. Explain that there are certain words used when dealing with laws and used in the process of making laws. Have the students hold a fake legislative session. Have them practice words while creating and passing laws.
Additional Questions: How can students show the difference between rules and laws?
Supplemental Activity: Talk with students about the difference between rules and laws. Give students cards with rules and laws on them and have them sort based on the language used on each card and what they know about rules and laws.