Sunday School Lesson Plan: Abraham and Sarah
The story of Abraham and Sarah is one of the most significant narratives in the Bible, highlighting God’s faithfulness and the unfolding of His divine plans.
This Sunday school lesson is designed to engage both younger and older children, helping them understand the depth of God’s promises and His impeccable timing.
Through this lesson, children will learn about the importance of faith, patience, and the fulfillment of God’s promises, even when it seems impossible.
Lesson Objectives
By the end of this lesson, students will:
– Understand the key events in the story of Abraham and Sarah.
– Recognize the significance of God’s promise to Abraham and Sarah.
– Learn about the birth of Isaac and why he was named Isaac.
– Reflect on the importance of faith and trust in God’s timing.
– Memorize a Bible verse related to the lesson.
Welcome Activity
Promises and Patience
Begin the lesson with a welcome activity that introduces the concept of promises. Ask the children to think about a time when someone made a promise to them and how they felt while waiting for that promise to be fulfilled.
For younger children, prek – 1st grade you can use simple examples like waiting for a promised treat, while for older children, you might discuss more complex promises, such as plans with friends or family.
Encourage the children to share their experiences and feelings. This activity will help them relate to the long wait that Abraham and Sarah experienced as they awaited God’s promise.
For younger children printable coloring pages can be used to assist in learning this important bible story. One of my favorites I have done with my children when they were very young 3 -5 years we would make a little theater in our lounge room and act it out.
Their favorite story was Adam and Eve because they thought their Dad was hilarious when he was slithering on his belly as the snake.
The Story of Abraham and Sarah
God’s Promise to Abraham
Abraham, originally named Abram, was chosen by God to be the father of a great nation. In Genesis 12:1-3, God called Abraham to leave his homeland and go to a new land that He would show him.
This was the beginning of a series of promises that God made to Abraham, including the promise that he would become the father of many nations, despite the fact that he and his wife, Sarah, were already advanced in years.
“I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing.” – Genesis 12:2 (NIV)
For years, Abraham and Sarah waited for this promise to be fulfilled. As time passed, Sarah began to doubt that she could bear a child, given her old age.
However, God’s plans were set in motion, and His timing was perfect, even if it seemed like a long time to Abraham and Sarah. Abrahams faith never faltered he clung to the good news of the lord.
The Visit of the Angel of the Lord
One day, three visitors came to Abraham and Sarah’s tent. Abraham, recognizing that these were not ordinary visitors, welcomed them with hospitality. The angel of the Lord, one of the visitors, reiterated God’s promise that Sarah would have a son. This was the moment that tested Sarah’s faith.
“Then one of them said, ‘I will surely return to you about this time next year, and Sarah your wife will have a son.’ Now Sarah was listening at the entrance to the tent, which was behind him.” – Genesis 18:10 (NIV).
Sarah’s Laughter
Upon hearing the promise of a son, Sarah thy wife laughed to herself. She found it hard to believe that she could have a child in her old age. Her laughter was not of joy, but of disbelief and skepticism. She questioned, “After I am worn out and my lord is old, will I now have this pleasure?” (Genesis 18:12).
This reaction led to a pivotal moment where the angel of the Lord addressed Sarah’s doubt:
“Is anything too hard for the Lord? I will return to you at the appointed time next year, and Sarah will have a son.” – Genesis 18:14 (NIV).
Sarah’s laugh became a significant part of this story, reminding us that God’s promises often defy human expectations. The name Isaac, which means “he laughs,” would later serve as a reminder of this moment and the joy that followed.
The Birth of Isaac
As God had promised, Sarah conceived and gave birth to a son. They named their son Isaac, in fulfillment of God’s word. This event was not just the birth of a child, but the beginning of the fulfillment of God’s promise to Abraham that he would be the father of a great nation and showed him that good things are come to pass.
“Now the Lord was gracious to Sarah as he had said, and the Lord did for Sarah what he had promised. Sarah became pregnant and bore a son to Abraham in his old age, at the very time God had promised him. Abraham gave the name Isaac to the son Sarah bore him.” – Genesis 21:1-3 (NIV).
This story is a powerful testament to God’s faithfulness and the truth that His promises always come to pass, no matter how long the wait or how impossible the situation may seem.
God Tests Abraham
The story of Abraham being tested by God to sacrifice his son Isaac is one of the most profound narratives in the Bible, illustrating deep faith and obedience. Found in Genesis 22, this account is often included in various Bible stories for its powerful lesson on trust in the word of the Lord.
Abraham was commanded to take Isaac, his promised son, to the land of Moriah and offer him as a burnt offering. Despite the unimaginable nature of this request, Abraham’s unwavering faith in God led him to prepare for the sacrifice without hesitation.
This story is often paired with other Bible stories like the Good Samaritan, as both emphasize obedience, faith, and love.
Just as the Good Samaritan demonstrated love and compassion by helping a stranger, Abraham showed his love for God through his willingness to follow the word of the Lord, even when it required a great personal sacrifice.
These narratives serve as perfect fits for teaching children and adults alike about the importance of faith and obedience in their spiritual journey.
When exploring this story in a Bible reading or study session, it’s essential to ask following questions:
- How did Abraham feel when God asked him to sacrifice Isaac?
- What does this story teach us about trusting God?
Such questions can be included in a storybook or lesson plan to help guide deeper understanding. Following activities like role-playing the story or drawing scenes from it can further reinforce the lesson, making it an engaging and meaningful part of any Bible study or Sunday school curriculum.
By integrating these elements, the story of Abraham and Isaac becomes not only a pivotal moment in biblical history but also a timeless example of the importance of trusting and obeying God’s commands.
Lessons from Abraham and Sarah’s Story
God’s Faithfulness
The story of Abraham and Sarah is a profound example of God’s faithfulness. Despite their doubts and the long wait, God fulfilled His promise to them. This lesson teaches children that God’s promises are reliable and that He will always be faithful, even when we have to wait a long time.
Trust in God’s Timing
Abraham and Sarah had to wait many years before God’s promise was fulfilled. This teaches us the importance of trusting in God’s timing, which is always perfect. Even when it seems like God’s plans are delayed, we can trust that He knows what is best for us.
The Significance of Isaac’s Name
The name Isaac, meaning “he laughs,” serves as a reminder of Sarah’s initial doubt and the joy that followed the fulfillment of God’s promise. It’s a beautiful illustration of how God can turn our doubts into joy and fulfillment when we trust in Him.
Whole Group Lesson Activities
Following Hand Motions
For younger children, incorporate hand motions to help them remember key parts of the story. For example:
Abraham’s journey: Pretend to walk in place.
Sarah’s laughter: Hold your hand to your mouth and pretend to laugh.
The birth of Isaac: Cradle your arms as if holding a baby.
These motions will help the children stay engaged and retain the lesson.
Bible Verse Memorization
Encourage the children to memorize Genesis 18:14: “Is anything too hard for the Lord? I will return to you at the appointed time next year, and Sarah will have a son.” This verse encapsulates the theme of God’s power and the certainty of His promises.
Small Group Discussions
Divide the class into small groups and provide them with questions to discuss. This allows for deeper reflection and helps the children apply the lesson to their own lives. Possible questions include:
Why do you think Sarah laughed when she heard God’s promise?
How do you feel when you have to wait a long time for something you want?
What does Isaac’s name remind us about God’s promises?
Independent Work and Activities
Younger Children
Coloring Activity: Provide a coloring page depicting Abraham, Sarah, and baby Isaac. Encourage the children to color the scene while reflecting on the story. You can ask them to imagine what it was like for Abraham and Sarah to finally have a baby after waiting so long.
Simple Puzzle: Create a puzzle with the phrase “God’s Promise” and the names “Abraham, Sarah, and Isaac.” As the children piece it together, they can think about how God’s promises fit together in their own lives.
Older Children
Word Search: Create a word search using key terms from the lesson, such as “Abraham,” “Sarah,” “Isaac,” “promise,” “faithfulness,” and “God’s timing.” This activity reinforces the lesson’s vocabulary and concepts.
Journal Prompt: Ask the older children to write a short journal entry about a time when they had to wait for something important. How did they feel during the wait, and how did it feel when the wait was finally over? Encourage them to relate their experience to the story of Abraham and Sarah.
Bible Class Extension: Abraham’s Family Bible Lessons Bundle
For teachers looking to expand on this lesson, consider using an “Abraham’s Family Bible Lessons Bundle.” This bundle could include lessons on Abraham’s journey, the promise of a great nation, and the story of Isaac and Ishmael. Each lesson can build on the previous one, providing a comprehensive understanding of Abraham’s life and God’s plans for his family.
Application and Reflection
To close the lesson, gather the children together and ask them to reflect on what they’ve learned. Remind them that God’s promises are always true, even if they take a long time to come to fruition. Encourage them to trust in God’s timing and to have faith in His plans for their lives.
Conclusion and Prayer
End the lesson with a prayer, thanking God for His faithfulness and for the example of Abraham and Sarah. Pray that the children will grow in their trust in God and that they will always remember that nothing is too hard for the Lord.
Additional Welcome Activities
For future lessons or as part of a continued series on Abraham, consider the following welcome activities:
Activity 1: “God’s Wonderful Promise”
Have the children draw a picture of something they are hoping for or a promise someone made to them. This activity can be tied to the story of Abraham and Sarah.
I hope these Sunday school ideas help you with your lesson plan.
Do you have a lesson plan you like to use? Drop it in the comments below.
Vanessa Rooney – LDS Mum