We marvel at stories with two characters who are total opposites of each other. This is why so many stories feature some form of a noble hero and an immoral villain. The contrast of character and conduct is what drives the tension of the story.
In Genesis 14, we find two completely opposite kings: the king of Sodom and the king of Salem. One sought to get; the other sought to give. One sought to curse; the other sought to bless. One sought to take life; the other sought to give life.
These two rulers illustrate the spirit of the world and the Spirit of God, two forces actively at work in our world and in our lives.
This is why Paul reminded us in Ephesians 6 to put on the full armor of God. “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this darkness, against evil, spiritual forces in the heavens. For this reason take up the full armor of God, so that you may be able to resist in the evil day, and having prepared everything, to take your stand” (Eph. 6:12-13).
We live in the middle of a real fight between two opposing forces seeking to own our hearts. One, the evil spirit in our present world, like the king of Sodom seeks to take from us and generate chaos and confusion. The other, the Spirit of the living God, like the King of Salem seeks to give life and bring peace and joy.
In our present world, we must recognize that this battle goes on inside of every believer. And we must put on the full armor of God daily that we might withstand the attack of the evil one and faithfully commit to full submission to the Spirit of God. It’s not enough that we deny the evil one; we must say “yes” to God.
This battle is real and raging. And the people of God must fight with great resolve to ensure our allegiance remains to the only good King, the Lord.
Check out The Gospel Project At Home for resources designed to help you lead a family worship experience as well as suggestions for morning and evening prayer times and family activities. Your child can also access free Gospel Project learning games and activities in the LifeWay Kids app reader available in the iTunes or Google Play stores.
FAMILY TALKING POINTS
CHRIST CONNECTION
This is the big idea of how this week’s Bible story points to Jesus.
- Babies & Toddlers: Jesus came to bless us.
- Younger Preschool: Jesus is a priest and king like Melchizedek was, but Jesus is better! Jesus came to bless us. He died on the cross and rose again to give us life with God forever.
- Older Preschool: Melchizedek means “king of righteousness.” Jesus is a priest and king like Melchizedek was, but Jesus is better! Jesus came to bless us. He died on the cross and rose again so everyone who trusts in Him can have life with God forever.
- Kids: Melchizedek means “king of righteousness.” Melchizedek reminds us of Jesus, an even greater priest and king who lives forever. Jesus died on the cross and rose again to bless all who trust in Him by providing forgiveness and eternal life.
BIG PICTURE QUESTION & ANSWER
This is an important biblical truth that your child will encounter each week of this unit.
- Younger Preschool: Who makes everything happen? God makes everything happen.
- Preschool: Who is in control of everything? God is in control of everything.
- Kids: Who is in control of everything? God is in control of everything in heaven and on earth. Nothing is outside of God’s good plan.
KEY PASSAGE
This is a Bible verse that relates to what your child will encounter each week of this unit.
- Babies & Toddlers: The Lord is great. — Psalm 135:5
- Younger Preschool: The Lord is great. — Psalm 135:5
- Older Preschool: The LORD does whatever he pleases in heaven and on earth, in the seas and all the depths. — Psalm 135:6
- Kids: I know that the LORD is great; our Lord is greater than all gods. The LORD does whatever he pleases in heaven and on earth, in the seas and all the depths. — Psalm 135:5-6
** Next week: God Provided Isaac (Genesis 21–22)
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES FOR THIS WEEK:
Melchizedek is an interesting character in the Bible - only mentioned twice in the Old Testament, we don't know much about him except that he is a king who is also a "priest of God Most High" (Gen 14:18). Despite, his brief appearance, he points us clearly to Jesus, who is both priest and King.
To learn more about Melchizedek, check out the Bible Project's series on The Royal Priest.