Now it is evident that no one is justified before God by the law,
for "the righteous shall live by faith."
Galatians 3: 11
Last week's BIG ideas were salvation by grace alone and the gospel for all people. This week we try to understand justification by faith not works.
The Galatians were in danger of placing the work of salvation on themselves - by works of the law - but Paul reminds them that justification comes by believing in the completed work of Jesus. It is only by God's generosity, grace and mercy that we are saved. This isn't easy for us to understand or accept and it is often our tendency to fall back on "works" to earn grace and salvation.
At ResKids, we'll be looking at the story of Nicodemus (John 3: 1 - 16) who also struggled with understanding how to be a child of God.
ResKids lesson for January 24:
January BIG Idea:
Bible Memory Verse:
For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. Ephesians 2: 8-9, ESV
*For help with memorizing this Bible verse, check out this fun song.
Bible Passages:
Galatians 3: 1 - 14
John 3: 1-16
Discussion Questions:
For younger kids:
1. What happened in today's story? Who went to visit Jesus?
2. Why was Nicodemus confused about what Jesus was telling him?
3. Babies get life from their parents. Who gives people life forever with God?
For older kids:
1. Why was it hard for Nicodemus to understand Jesus?
2. What does Nicodemus' story teach you about our life with God?
3. Babies get life from their parents. Who gives people life forever with God? How?