Early Elementary Your student learned about Paul and Barnabas’ last stops on their journey. He or she learned how Paul healed a lame man and afterward stopped the people who began to worship him instead of God. He or she also learned an angry mob stoned Paul and left him for dead, but God continued to use them so others could hear the gospel. Upper Elementary Your student learned unbelievers persecuted Paul and Barnabas. Some of the people of Iconium wanted to stone them. They became aware of the plan and escaped to Lystra. While in Lystra, Paul healed a lame man. The people then began to worship Paul and Barnabas instead of God. They explained God was the only one to be worshiped. HOME CONNECTION Listen to God: Read Acts 14:1-7 These verses remind us that sharing the gospel will often be met with persecution and rejection. Paul and Barnabas encountered strong opposition in Iconium, but they boldly continued to share the gospel message before moving on to the next town. Lead your family in a discussion about sharing the gospel today. How are things different? How are they the same? What can we learn from the example of Paul and Barnabas? Talk to God Believers have experienced opposition and persecution throughout history. We owe it to those who preceded us, as well as to future generations, to understand persecution and to be prepared for it. It may not be prevalent in your neighborhood, but be sure to provide age-appropriate examples of persecution that happens across the world. Lead in a time of prayer for those who are experiencing persecution, as well as for strength for your family as you endeavor to share the truth of the gospel with those you meet. Walk With God Option 1: Throughout history, many Christians have faced persecution for what they believe. We’ve learned of Paul’s experiences with verbal and physical persecution, but what we may not realize is that persecution still occurs today. Persecution is a reality in the life of a Christian, but God’s Word makes it possible to persevere. Read Romans 8:16- 18 together and share instances where you have experienced persecution for your beliefs. Discuss how difficult it can be to stand up for your belief in Christ. Pray that God would give courage in times of persecution, and pray for Christians in countries where they cannot openly profess their faith in Christ. Option 2: Play a game of Two Truths and a Lie. Each family member shares three statements when it is his or her turn. Two of the three should be truthful, and the third one should be a false statement intended to trick another family member. After sharing the statements, he or she selects someone to choose the false statement. Allow each family member to have a turn. Then use the activity as a discussion starter. Satan is no novice in using deception and trickery to get Christians off course. He will stop at nothing to tempt us to get our eyes off the Lord and neglect doing what God wants us to do. God wants us to share the gospel with others even when it’s hard. Challenge family members to ignore the lies and tricks that come from Satan and diligently work to share the good news of Jesus. Pray together for God’s direction for this week. Week 3 June 17, 2012 D6 Family Theme: Persecution The Point: Spreading the gospel is spiritual warfare.