Engaging Sunday School Activities on the Story of Lazarus

Teaching the story of Lazarus in Sunday school offers a unique opportunity to engage children with an important biblical narrative. This story, filled with dramatic moments and profound lessons, can captivate young minds while imparting key spiritual truths.

Effective engagement requires more than just reading from scripture.

The Story of Lazarus

The narrative of Lazarus, found in the Gospel of John, is one of the most compelling stories in the New Testament. It begins with Jesus receiving word that his dear friend Lazarus is gravely ill. Despite the urgency, Jesus chooses to stay where he is for two more days, a decision that perplexes his disciples. This delay sets the stage for a miraculous event that would not only demonstrate Jesus’ power but also deepen the faith of those who witnessed it.

When Jesus finally arrives in Bethany, Lazarus has already been in the tomb for four days. The scene is one of mourning and despair, with Lazarus’ sisters, Mary and Martha, expressing their grief and confusion. They both tell Jesus that if he had been there, their brother would not have died. This moment highlights the human emotions of sorrow and doubt, making the story relatable to many.

Jesus’ response to the sisters is both compassionate and profound. He assures them that Lazarus will rise again, leading to a theological discussion about the resurrection. Jesus then makes a bold declaration, stating, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies.” This statement is a cornerstone of Christian belief, emphasizing the promise of eternal life through faith in Jesus.

The climax of the story occurs when Jesus approaches the tomb. He instructs the stone to be rolled away, despite concerns about the odor from the decaying body. With a powerful voice, Jesus calls out, “Lazarus, come forth!” To the astonishment of the onlookers, Lazarus emerges from the tomb, still wrapped in burial cloths. This miraculous event not only restores Lazarus to life but also serves as a testament to Jesus’ divine authority.

Key Themes and Lessons

The story of Lazarus brims with themes that resonate deeply with both children and adults. One prominent theme is the power of faith. When Jesus declares that belief in him leads to eternal life, it sends a powerful message about the importance of trust and faith in divine promises. This theme can be explored through various activities that encourage children to consider what faith means to them in their daily lives.

Another significant lesson is the concept of hope amidst despair. The mourning of Mary and Martha can be contrasted with the eventual joy and amazement at Lazarus’ resurrection. This transformation from sorrow to joy can help children understand that difficult times can lead to profound and positive changes. Storytelling and role-playing activities can make this lesson tangible, allowing children to express their own feelings of hope and resilience.

The story also highlights the importance of compassion and empathy. Jesus’ interactions with Mary and Martha underscore the value of understanding and sharing in the emotions of others. This can be a starting point for discussions on how children can show empathy in their own relationships, reinforcing moral and ethical lessons that are fundamental to Christian teachings.

In addition, the story illustrates the theme of divine timing. Jesus’ decision to delay his visit seems perplexing but ultimately serves a greater purpose. This can teach children about patience and the idea that not all prayers are answered immediately, but that there is often a greater plan at work. Craft projects, such as creating timelines or storyboards, can help illustrate this concept in a visual and engaging way.

Storytelling and Role-Playing

Storytelling and role-playing can transform the lesson of Lazarus into a dynamic and memorable experience for children. By stepping into the shoes of the characters, students can gain a deeper understanding of the narrative and its underlying messages. One approach is to create a dramatic retelling of the story, assigning roles to different children. This not only makes the lesson interactive but also allows each child to engage with the material in a personal way.

Props and costumes can add an extra layer of excitement and immersion. Simple items like scarves, tunics, and makeshift tombstones can help set the scene. For instance, a large cardboard box painted to resemble a tomb can serve as a focal point for the resurrection scene. These tangible elements make the story come alive, helping children visualize and internalize the events more effectively.

Incorporating modern elements can also make the story relatable. For example, children can imagine how the characters might use contemporary tools to communicate, such as sending messages on a smartphone. This can lead to discussions about how timeless the story’s themes are, despite the changing times. It allows children to see the relevance of ancient narratives in their current lives.

To deepen the engagement, consider integrating multimedia elements. Short video clips, sound effects, or even background music can enhance the storytelling experience. A gentle, somber tune during scenes of mourning can shift to a triumphant melody during the resurrection. This auditory stimulation can heighten the emotional impact and make the lesson more memorable.

Craft Projects

Engaging children in craft projects related to the story of Lazarus can be a highly effective way to reinforce the lessons and themes of the narrative. One creative idea is to have children make “Resurrection Gardens.” Using small pots, soil, and a few plants, children can create a miniature garden that includes a tomb. A small stone can serve as the tomb entrance, and children can use popsicle sticks to make crosses. This hands-on activity not only fosters creativity but also serves as a visual reminder of the story’s message of new life.

Another imaginative project is making “Prayer Journals.” Provide each child with a blank notebook and a variety of art supplies like stickers, markers, and glitter. Encourage them to decorate the covers of their journals in a way that reflects their understanding of the story. Inside, they can write or draw their prayers, thoughts, and reflections. This activity helps children internalize the themes of faith and hope while giving them a personal space to express their spiritual journey.

Creating “Story Wheels” can also be an engaging way to help children remember the sequence of events. Using paper plates, markers, and brads, children can illustrate key scenes from the story on segments of the plate. When assembled, the wheel can be rotated to reveal different parts of the story, making it a fun and interactive way to review the narrative.

Memory Verses

Incorporating memory verses into Sunday school lessons about Lazarus can help children internalize key biblical concepts and enhance their spiritual growth. Selecting a few impactful verses from the story allows children to focus on the essence of the narrative. For instance, John 11:25-26, where Jesus says, “I am the resurrection and the life,” is a powerful choice. This verse encapsulates the central theme of eternal life, making it a meaningful addition to the lesson.

To make memorization engaging, consider using various methods such as song, movement, or visual aids. Creating a melody for the verse can make it easier and more enjoyable for children to remember. Alternatively, actions or sign language can be incorporated to associate physical movement with the words, aiding retention. Visual aids like flashcards or illustrated posters can also serve as helpful reminders, reinforcing the verse throughout the lesson and beyond.

Discussion Questions

Engaging children in thoughtful discussions about the story of Lazarus encourages them to think critically and apply biblical lessons to their own lives. Open-ended questions can stimulate deeper reflection and conversation. For example, asking, “How do you think Mary and Martha felt when Jesus finally arrived?” encourages children to empathize with the characters and consider their emotions. This type of question helps them connect personally with the narrative.

Another effective discussion question might be, “What does the story of Lazarus teach us about patience and trusting in God’s timing?” This invites children to explore the broader themes of the story and apply them to their experiences. Encouraging children to share personal stories related to these themes can foster a sense of community and mutual understanding within the group. These discussions can be facilitated in small groups or as a whole class, allowing for diverse perspectives and richer dialogue.

Visual Aids and Illustrations

Visual aids and illustrations can significantly enhance the storytelling experience and aid in comprehension. Utilizing a variety of visual tools ensures that the story is accessible and engaging for all learners. Picture books that depict the story of Lazarus can provide a clear and colorful narrative for younger children. These books often simplify complex concepts, making them easier to understand and remember.

For older children, consider using more detailed illustrations or even multimedia presentations. Slide shows with images of biblical times, maps of Bethany, and artistic representations of key scenes can provide context and depth to the story. Interactive whiteboards can be used to display these visuals, allowing for real-time annotations and discussions. Additionally, creating a mural or a large storyboard as a class project can be an interactive way to visualize the story, with each child contributing their artistic interpretation of different scenes.