Bethel Church

Bethel Church A church committed to glorifying God by making more and better disciples of Jesus Christ. https://bethelonline.org Mon, 03 Mar 2025 09:00:00 +0000 Mon, 03 Mar 2025 09:00:00 +0000 hourly 1 3600 SnapPages.com What Motivates Us? – Family Worship Guide, 8/31/25 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/08/31/what-motivates-us-family-worship-guide-8-31-25 Sun, 31 Aug 2025 11:00:00 +0000 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/08/31/what-motivates-us-family-worship-guide-8-31-25

Prayer (5 Minutes)

Have each family member complete this sentence in prayer: "Dear God, I love you because..." This helps children express their love for God in their own words.

Song (5 Minutes)

Oh, How I Love Jesus

Catechism (5 minutes)

Have everyone read aloud simultaneously or allow everyone to try to answer before revealing the answer.

Q6: How can we glorify God?
A: By loving him and by obeying his commands and law. (Deuteronomy 11:1)

Questions from: https://newcitycatechism.com/. Go there to start from beginning or to read more.

Scripture (5 Minutes)

John 14:15–24 (NLT)

“If you love me, obey my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, who will never leave you. He is the Holy Spirit, who leads into all truth. The world cannot receive him, because it isn’t looking for him and doesn’t recognize him. But you know him, because he lives with you now and later will be in you. No, I will not abandon you as orphans—I will come to you. Soon the world will no longer see me, but you will see me. Since I live, you also will live. When I am raised to life again, you will know that I am in my Father, and you are in me, and I am in you. Those who accept my commandments and obey them are the ones who love me. And because they love me, my Father will love them. And I will love them and reveal myself to each of them.”
Judas (not Judas Iscariot, but the other disciple with that name) said to him, “Lord, why are you going to reveal yourself only to us and not to the world at large?”
Jesus replied, “All who love me will do what I say. My Father will love them, and we will come and make our home with each of them. Anyone who doesn’t love me will not obey me. And remember, my words are not my own. What I am telling you is from the Father who sent me.

Discussion (5-10 Minutes)

You can lead through a teaching or use the following questions to start a discussion:

What does it mean to love someone? How is loving God similar or different?
Why do you think Jesus connected loving Him with obeying His commands?
What are some ways we can show our love for God in our daily lives?
When is it hard to obey? How can remembering God's love help us obey?
How does obeying God's commands help others see His love?
What commands of Jesus do you find most important to follow?

Closing Prayer (3 Minutes)

"Loving Father, thank you for loving us first and showing us perfect love through Jesus. Help us to show our love for You by joyfully obeying Your commands. Give us strength to follow You even when it's difficult, and let others see Your love through our obedience. In Jesus' name, Amen."

]]> Jesus Heals Blind Bartimaeus – Family Worship Guide, 8/24/25 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/08/24/jesus-heals-blind-bartimaeus-family-worship-guide-8-24-25 Sun, 24 Aug 2025 11:00:00 +0000 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/08/24/jesus-heals-blind-bartimaeus-family-worship-guide-8-24-25

Prayer (5 Minutes)

Have family members take turns completing this sentence in prayer: "Dear Jesus, like Bartimaeus, I need your help with..." This helps children recognize their dependence on Jesus and practice expressing their needs to Him.

Song (5 Minutes)

Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus

Catechism (5 minutes)

Have everyone read aloud simultaneously or allow everyone to try to answer before revealing the answer.

Q5: What else did God create?
A: God created all things and all his creation was very good. (Genesis 1:31)

Questions from: https://newcitycatechism.com/. Go there to start from beginning or to read more.

Scripture (5 Minutes)

Mark 10:46–52 (NLT)

Then they reached Jericho, and as Jesus and his disciples left town, a large crowd followed him. A blind beggar named Bartimaeus (son of Timaeus) was sitting beside the road. When Bartimaeus heard that Jesus of Nazareth was nearby, he began to shout, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!”
“Be quiet!” many of the people yelled at him.
But he only shouted louder, “Son of David, have mercy on me!”
When Jesus heard him, he stopped and said, “Tell him to come here.”
So they called the blind man. “Cheer up,” they said. “Come on, he’s calling you!” Bartimaeus threw aside his coat, jumped up, and came to Jesus.
“What do you want me to do for you?” Jesus asked.
“My Rabbi,” the blind man said, “I want to see!”
And Jesus said to him, “Go, for your faith has healed you.” Instantly the man could see, and he followed Jesus down the road.

Discussion (5-10 Minutes)

You can lead through a teaching or use the following questions to start a discussion:

How did the crowd treat Bartimaeus? Why do you think they acted this way?
What does it tell us about Bartimaeus's faith that he kept calling out even when people told him to be quiet?
When have you needed to be persistent in prayer like Bartimaeus?
How did Bartimaeus respond after Jesus healed him? What does this teach us about gratitude?

Closing Prayer (3 Minutes)

"Dear Lord Jesus, thank you for hearing us when we call out to you, just like you heard Bartimaeus. Help us to have bold faith that isn't discouraged by others, and give us spiritual sight to see you more clearly. Thank you that you still heal and help people today who trust in you. In Jesus's name, Amen."

]]> True Greatness Through Humble Service – Family Worship Guide, 8/17/25 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/08/17/true-greatness-through-humble-service-family-worship-guide-8-17-25 Sun, 17 Aug 2025 11:00:00 +0000 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/08/17/true-greatness-through-humble-service-family-worship-guide-8-17-25

Prayer (5 Minutes)

Have family members take turns completing this sentence: "Dear God, help me to serve others by..." (Examples: helping my sister with homework, being kind to my brother, helping Mom with dishes, etc.)

Song (5 Minutes)

How Deep The Father's Love For Us

Catechism (5 minutes)

Have everyone read aloud simultaneously or allow everyone to try to answer before revealing the answer.

Q4: How and why did God create us?
A: God created us male and female in his own image to glorify him. (Genesis 1:27)

Questions from: https://newcitycatechism.com/. Go there to start from beginning or to read more.

Scripture (5 Minutes)

Mark 10:32–45 (NLT)

They were now on the way up to Jerusalem, and Jesus was walking ahead of them. The disciples were filled with awe, and the people following behind were overwhelmed with fear. Taking the twelve disciples aside, Jesus once more began to describe everything that was about to happen to him. “Listen,” he said, “we’re going up to Jerusalem, where the Son of Man will be betrayed to the leading priests and the teachers of religious law. They will sentence him to die and hand him over to the Romans. They will mock him, spit on him, flog him with a whip, and kill him, but after three days he will rise again.”

Then James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came over and spoke to him. “Teacher,” they said, “we want you to do us a favor.”
“What is your request?” he asked.
They replied, “When you sit on your glorious throne, we want to sit in places of honor next to you, one on your right and the other on your left.”
But Jesus said to them, “You don’t know what you are asking! Are you able to drink from the bitter cup of suffering I am about to drink? Are you able to be baptized with the baptism of suffering I must be baptized with?”
“Oh yes,” they replied, “we are able!”
Then Jesus told them, “You will indeed drink from my bitter cup and be baptized with my baptism of suffering. But I have no right to say who will sit on my right or my left. God has prepared those places for the ones he has chosen.”
When the ten other disciples heard what James and John had asked, they were indignant. So Jesus called them together and said, “You know that the rulers in this world lord it over their people, and officials flaunt their authority over those under them. But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first among you must be the slave of everyone else. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

Discussion (5-10 Minutes)

You can lead through a teaching or use the following questions to start a discussion:

What did James and John ask Jesus for? Was this a humble request?
How did Jesus explain what it means to be truly great in God's kingdom?
Can you think of ways Jesus served others during His life? How did He give the ultimate example of service?
What are some ways we can serve others in our family? In our church? In our community?

Closing Prayer (3 Minutes)

"Loving Father, thank You for sending Jesus to be our perfect example of humble service. Thank You that He came not to be served, but to serve and give His life for us. Help us to follow His example by serving others with joy and humility. Give us hearts that want to put others first, just as Jesus did. In His name we pray, Amen."

]]> True Treasure – Family Worship Guide, 8/10/25 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/08/10/true-treasure-family-worship-guide-8-10-25 Sun, 10 Aug 2025 11:00:00 +0000 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/08/10/true-treasure-family-worship-guide-8-10-25

Prayer (5 Minutes)

Have each family member complete this sentence in prayer: "Dear God, thank you for blessing us with ______. Help us hold our possessions loosely and love You most of all."

Song (5 Minutes)

I Surrender All

Catechism (5 minutes)

Have everyone read aloud simultaneously or allow everyone to try to answer before revealing the answer.

Q3: How many persons are there in God?
A: There are three persons in one God: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. (2 Corinthians 13:14)

Questions from: https://newcitycatechism.com/. Go there to start from beginning or to read more.

Scripture (5 Minutes)

Mark 10:17–31 (NLT)

As Jesus was starting out on his way to Jerusalem, a man came running up to him, knelt down, and asked, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?”
“Why do you call me good?” Jesus asked. “Only God is truly good. But to answer your question, you know the commandments: ‘You must not murder. You must not commit adultery. You must not steal. You must not testify falsely. You must not cheat anyone. Honor your father and mother.’”
“Teacher,” the man replied, “I’ve obeyed all these commandments since I was young.”
Looking at the man, Jesus felt genuine love for him. “There is still one thing you haven’t done,” he told him. “Go and sell all your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”
At this the man’s face fell, and he went away sad, for he had many possessions.
Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, “How hard it is for the rich to enter the Kingdom of God!” This amazed them. But Jesus said again, “Dear children, it is very hard to enter the Kingdom of God. In fact, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the Kingdom of God!”
The disciples were astounded. “Then who in the world can be saved?” they asked.
Jesus looked at them intently and said, “Humanly speaking, it is impossible. But not with God. Everything is possible with God.”
Then Peter began to speak up. “We’ve given up everything to follow you,” he said.
“Yes,” Jesus replied, “and I assure you that everyone who has given up house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or property, for my sake and for the Good News, will receive now in return a hundred times as many houses, brothers, sisters, mothers, children, and property—along with persecution. And in the world to come that person will have eternal life. But many who are the greatest now will be least important then, and those who seem least important now will be the greatest then.”

Discussion (5-10 Minutes)

You can lead through a teaching or use the following questions to start a discussion:

What did the rich man want from Jesus? Why do you think he ran up to Him?
How do you think the rich man felt when Jesus told him to sell everything? Why?
Jesus says it's very hard for rich people to enter God's Kingdom. What makes money so dangerous to our relationship with God?
What things might Jesus ask us to give up to follow Him today?
What does Jesus promise to those who give up things to follow Him? Is it worth it?

Closing Prayer (3 Minutes)

"Loving Father, thank You for showing us that You are better than any earthly treasure. Help us to trust You completely and be willing to give up anything that keeps us from following Jesus. Give us hearts that value Your Kingdom more than our possessions. We know that with You, all things are possible. In Jesus' name, Amen."

]]> Jesus Welcomes the Little Children – Family Worship Guide, 8/3/25 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/08/03/jesus-welcomes-the-little-children-family-worship-guide-8-3-25 Sun, 03 Aug 2025 11:00:00 +0000 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/08/03/jesus-welcomes-the-little-children-family-worship-guide-8-3-25

Prayer (5 Minutes)

Have each family member complete this sentence in prayer: "Dear Jesus, thank you that you love _______ (name a child you know)." Parents can start by naming their own children, and children can name their friends or siblings.

Song (5 Minutes)

The Love of God

Catechism (5 minutes)

Have everyone read aloud simultaneously or allow everyone to try to answer before revealing the answer.

Q2: What is God?
A: God is the creator of everyone and everything. (Psalm 86:8–10, 15)

Questions from: https://newcitycatechism.com/. Go there to start from beginning or to read more.

Scripture (5 Minutes)

Mark 10:13–16 (NLT)

One day some parents brought their children to Jesus so he could touch and bless them. But the disciples scolded the parents for bothering him.
When Jesus saw what was happening, he was angry with his disciples. He said to them, “Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of God belongs to those who are like these children. I tell you the truth, anyone who doesn’t receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it.” Then he took the children in his arms and placed his hands on their heads and blessed them.

Discussion (5-10 Minutes)

You can lead through a teaching or use the following questions to start a discussion:

What were the parents wanting Jesus to do for their children?
How do you think the children felt when the disciples tried to send them away?
Why do you think Jesus became angry with His disciples?
What does it mean to receive the Kingdom of God like a child?
How does Jesus show His love for children in this story?
What can we learn about Jesus's character from this passage?

Closing Prayer (3 Minutes)

"Dear Jesus, thank you for loving children and showing us that you welcome everyone who comes to you with childlike faith. Help us to trust you completely and simply, just as little children trust their parents. Thank you that we can come to you just as we are, knowing that you will always welcome us with open arms. In Jesus's name, Amen."

]]> True Greatness – Family Worship Guide, 7/27/25 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/07/27/true-greatness-family-worship-guide-7-27-25 Sun, 27 Jul 2025 11:00:00 +0000 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/07/27/true-greatness-family-worship-guide-7-27-25

Prayer (5 Minutes)

Have each family member complete this sentence in prayer: "Dear God, help me to be a servant by..." (Examples for younger children: helping my sister, cleaning my room without being asked, sharing my toys)

Song (5 Minutes)

Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone)

Catechism (5 minutes)

Have everyone read aloud simultaneously or allow everyone to try to answer before revealing the answer.

Q1: What is our only hope in life and death?
A: That we are not our own but belong to God. (Romans 14:7–8)

Questions from: https://newcitycatechism.com/. Go there to start from beginning or to read more.

Scripture (5 Minutes)

Mark 9:33–37 (NLT)

After they arrived at Capernaum and settled in a house, Jesus asked his disciples, “What were you discussing out on the road?” But they didn’t answer, because they had been arguing about which of them was the greatest. He sat down, called the twelve disciples over to him, and said, “Whoever wants to be first must take last place and be the servant of everyone else.”
Then he put a little child among them. Taking the child in his arms, he said to them, “Anyone who welcomes a little child like this on my behalf welcomes me, and anyone who welcomes me welcomes not only me but also my Father who sent me.”

Discussion (5-10 Minutes)

You can lead through a teaching or use the following questions to start a discussion:

What were Jesus' disciples arguing about on the road? Why do you think this bothered Jesus?
How does Jesus turn their idea of greatness upside down?
What does it mean to be "last of all and servant of all"?
Why do you think Jesus used a child as an example?
How can we "welcome" others in Jesus' name this week?

Closing Prayer (3 Minutes)

"Loving Father, thank you for teaching us that true greatness comes through serving others. Help us to welcome everyone with the same love that Jesus showed to children. Give us humble hearts that want to put others first, just like Jesus did. In His name we pray, Amen."

]]> Jesus, Our Strong Helper – Family Worship Guide, 7/20/25 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/07/20/jesus-our-strong-helper-family-worship-guide-7-20-25 Sun, 20 Jul 2025 11:00:00 +0000 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/07/20/jesus-our-strong-helper-family-worship-guide-7-20-25

Prayer (5 Minutes)

Have each family member complete this sentence in prayer: "Dear God, help me to trust you more when..." This encourages honest sharing about times when faith feels difficult, just like the father in our story.

Song (5 Minutes)

What a Friend We Have in Jesus

Catechism (5 minutes)

Have everyone read aloud simultaneously or allow everyone to try to answer before revealing the answer.

Q52: What hope does everlasting life hold for us?
A: That we will live with and enjoy God forever in the new heaven and the new earth, where we will be forever freed from all sin in a renewed, restored creation. (Revelation 21:1–4)

Questions from: https://newcitycatechism.com/. Go there to start from beginning or to read more.

Scripture (5 Minutes)

Mark 9:14–29 (NLT)

When they returned to the other disciples, they saw a large crowd surrounding them, and some teachers of religious law were arguing with them. When the crowd saw Jesus, they were overwhelmed with awe, and they ran to greet him.
“What is all this arguing about?” Jesus asked.
One of the men in the crowd spoke up and said, “Teacher, I brought my son so you could heal him. He is possessed by an evil spirit that won’t let him talk. And whenever this spirit seizes him, it throws him violently to the ground. Then he foams at the mouth and grinds his teeth and becomes rigid. So I asked your disciples to cast out the evil spirit, but they couldn’t do it.”
Jesus said to them, “You faithless people! How long must I be with you? How long must I put up with you? Bring the boy to me.”
So they brought the boy. But when the evil spirit saw Jesus, it threw the child into a violent convulsion, and he fell to the ground, writhing and foaming at the mouth.
“How long has this been happening?” Jesus asked the boy’s father.
He replied, “Since he was a little boy. The spirit often throws him into the fire or into water, trying to kill him. Have mercy on us and help us, if you can.”
“What do you mean, ‘If I can’?” Jesus asked. “Anything is possible if a person believes.”
The father instantly cried out, “I do believe, but help me overcome my unbelief!”
When Jesus saw that the crowd of onlookers was growing, he rebuked the evil spirit. “Listen, you spirit that makes this boy unable to hear and speak,” he said. “I command you to come out of this child and never enter him again!”
Then the spirit screamed and threw the boy into another violent convulsion and left him. The boy appeared to be dead. A murmur ran through the crowd as people said, “He’s dead.” But Jesus took him by the hand and helped him to his feet, and he stood up.
Afterward, when Jesus was alone in the house with his disciples, they asked him, “Why couldn’t we cast out that evil spirit?”
Jesus replied, “This kind can be cast out only by prayer.”

Discussion (5-10 Minutes)

You can lead through a teaching or use the following questions to start a discussion:

What problem did the father bring to Jesus?
How do you think the father felt when the disciples couldn't help his son?
Why do you think the father said, "I do believe, but help me overcome my unbelief"?
When have you felt like you needed Jesus' help with something difficult?
Why do you think Jesus said this kind of spirit could only be cast out by prayer?

Closing Prayer (3 Minutes)

"Dear Lord Jesus, thank you for showing us your amazing power and love in helping the boy and his father. We admit that sometimes our faith is weak, just like the father in the story. Please help our faith grow stronger and remind us to always come to you in prayer. In Jesus's name, Amen."

]]> Who Do You Say Jesus Is? – Family Worship Guide, 7/6/25 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/07/06/who-do-you-say-jesus-is-family-worship-guide-7-6-25 Sun, 06 Jul 2025 11:00:00 +0000 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/07/06/who-do-you-say-jesus-is-family-worship-guide-7-6-25

Prayer (5 Minutes)

Have each family member complete this sentence in prayer: "Dear Jesus, You are amazing because..." This allows each person to express their own understanding and appreciation of who Jesus is.

Song (5 Minutes)

Crown Him With Many Crowns

Catechism (5 minutes)

Have everyone read aloud simultaneously or allow everyone to try to answer before revealing the answer.

Q51: Of what advantage to us is Christ’s ascension?
A: Christ is now advocating for us in the presence of his Father and also sends us his Spirit. (Romans 8:34)

Questions from: https://newcitycatechism.com/. Go there to start from beginning or to read more.

Scripture (5 Minutes)

Mark 8:27–30 (NLT)

Jesus and his disciples left Galilee and went up to the villages near Caesarea Philippi. As they were walking along, he asked them, “Who do people say I am?”
“Well,” they replied, “some say John the Baptist, some say Elijah, and others say you are one of the other prophets.”
Then he asked them, “But who do you say I am?”
Peter replied, “You are the Messiah.”
But Jesus warned them not to tell anyone about him.

Discussion (5-10 Minutes)

You can lead through a teaching or use the following questions to start a discussion:

What different answers did people give about who Jesus was? Why do you think they thought these things?
Why do you think Peter's answer was different from what others were saying?
What does it mean that Jesus was the Messiah?
How do you think Peter knew Jesus was the Messiah?
If Jesus asked you today, "Who do you say I am?" what would your answer be and why?

Closing Prayer (3 Minutes)

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for revealing to us that Jesus is the Messiah, our Savior and King. Help us to know Him better each day and to trust Him completely. Give us courage to tell others about who Jesus is when the time is right. In Jesus' name, Amen.

]]> Jesus Addresses Hypocrisy – Family Worship Guide, 6/22/25 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/06/23/jesus-addresses-hypocrisy-family-worship-guide-6-22-25 Mon, 23 Jun 2025 11:00:00 +0000 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/06/23/jesus-addresses-hypocrisy-family-worship-guide-6-22-25

Prayer (5 Minutes)

Have each family member complete this sentence in prayer: "Dear God, help me to worship you with my whole heart by..." (Encourage specific examples like "being kind to my sister" or "telling the truth," etc.)

Song (5 Minutes)

Nothing but the Blood

Catechism (5 minutes)

Have everyone read aloud simultaneously or allow everyone to try to answer before revealing the answer.

Q50: What does Christ’s resurrection mean for us?
A: Christ triumphed over sin and death so that all who trust in him are raised to new life in this world and to everlasting life in the world to come. (1 Thessalonians 4:13–14)

Questions from: https://newcitycatechism.com/. Go there to start from beginning or to read more.

Scripture (5 Minutes)

Mark 7:5–15 (NLT)

So the Pharisees and teachers of religious law asked him, “Why don’t your disciples follow our age-old tradition? They eat without first performing the hand-washing ceremony.”
Jesus replied, “You hypocrites! Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you, for he wrote,
‘These people honor me with their lips,
but their hearts are far from me.
Their worship is a farce,
for they teach man-made ideas as commands from God.’
For you ignore God’s law and substitute your own tradition.”
Then he said, “You skillfully sidestep God’s law in order to hold on to your own tradition. For instance, Moses gave you this law from God: ‘Honor your father and mother,’ and ‘Anyone who speaks disrespectfully of father or mother must be put to death.’ But you say it is all right for people to say to their parents, ‘Sorry, I can’t help you. For I have vowed to give to God what I would have given to you.’ In this way, you let them disregard their needy parents. And so you cancel the word of God in order to hand down your own tradition. And this is only one example among many others.”
Then Jesus called to the crowd to come and hear. “All of you listen,” he said, “and try to understand. It’s not what goes into your body that defiles you; you are defiled by what comes from your heart.”

Discussion (5-10 Minutes)

You can lead through a teaching or use the following questions to start a discussion:

What were the Pharisees upset about? Why were they concerned about washing hands?
How did Jesus respond to their criticism? What was wrong with the Pharisees' focus?
What does it mean to honor God with our lips but have hearts far from Him? Can you think of examples?
How can we make sure we're following God's commands rather than just human traditions?

Closing Prayer (3 Minutes)

Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for teaching us that you care more about our hearts than our outward actions. Help us to worship you sincerely and not just follow rules to look good to others. Give us clean hearts that truly love and honor you. In Jesus' name, Amen.

]]> Jesus Feeds the Five Thousand – Family Worship Guide, 6/15/25 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/06/15/jesus-feeds-the-five-thousand-family-worship-guide-6-15-25 Sun, 15 Jun 2025 11:00:00 +0000 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/06/15/jesus-feeds-the-five-thousand-family-worship-guide-6-15-25

Prayer (5 Minutes)

Have each family member complete this sentence in prayer: "Dear God, thank you for providing our family with _______." After everyone shares, have a parent close by thanking God for His constant care and provision.

Song (5 Minutes)

Great is Thy Faithfulness

Catechism (5 minutes)

Have everyone read aloud simultaneously or allow everyone to try to answer before revealing the answer.

Q49: Where is Christ now?
A: Christ rose bodily from the grave on the third day after his death and is seated at the right hand of the Father. (Ephesians 1:20–21)

Questions from: https://newcitycatechism.com/. Go there to start from beginning or to read more.

Scripture (5 Minutes)

Mark 6:30–44 (NLT)

The apostles returned to Jesus from their ministry tour and told him all they had done and taught. Then Jesus said, “Let’s go off by ourselves to a quiet place and rest awhile.” He said this because there were so many people coming and going that Jesus and his apostles didn’t even have time to eat.
So they left by boat for a quiet place, where they could be alone. But many people recognized them and saw them leaving, and people from many towns ran ahead along the shore and got there ahead of them. Jesus saw the huge crowd as he stepped from the boat, and he had compassion on them because they were like sheep without a shepherd. So he began teaching them many things.
Late in the afternoon his disciples came to him and said, “This is a remote place, and it’s already getting late. Send the crowds away so they can go to the nearby farms and villages and buy something to eat.”
But Jesus said, “You feed them.”
“With what?” they asked. “We’d have to work for months to earn enough money to buy food for all these people!”
“How much bread do you have?” he asked. “Go and find out.”
They came back and reported, “We have five loaves of bread and two fish.”
Then Jesus told the disciples to have the people sit down in groups on the green grass. So they sat down in groups of fifty or a hundred.
Jesus took the five loaves and two fish, looked up toward heaven, and blessed them. Then, breaking the loaves into pieces, he kept giving the bread to the disciples so they could distribute it to the people. He also divided the fish for everyone to share. They all ate as much as they wanted, and afterward, the disciples picked up twelve baskets of leftover bread and fish. A total of 5,000 men and their families were fed.

2 Fish and 5 Loaves

Feeding the Crowds

Discussion (5-10 Minutes)

You can lead through a teaching or use the following questions to start a discussion:

What did Jesus notice about the crowd that made Him feel compassion for them?
How do you think the disciples felt when Jesus told them to feed all those people?
Why do you think Jesus had the disciples collect the leftover food? What does this teach us?
Can you think of a time when God provided for you in an unexpected way?
How can we show compassion to others like Jesus did?

Closing Prayer (3 Minutes)

Loving Father, thank you for being our Good Shepherd who cares about both our physical and spiritual needs. Help us to trust You when we don't see how You will provide, and give us compassionate hearts like Jesus. Help us to share what You've given us with others who are in need. In Jesus' name, Amen.

]]> Jesus Sends His Disciples on Mission – Family Worship Guide, 6/8/25 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/06/08/jesus-sends-his-disciples-on-mission-family-worship-guide-6-8-25 Sun, 08 Jun 2025 11:00:00 +0000 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/06/08/jesus-sends-his-disciples-on-mission-family-worship-guide-6-8-25

Prayer (5 Minutes)

Have each family member complete this sentence in prayer: "Dear God, help me to be brave like the disciples when I need to tell others about You, especially when I'm at _______." (Let children fill in places like school, playground, sports practice, etc.)

Song (5 Minutes)

Go Tell It On The Mountain

Catechism (5 minutes)

Have everyone read aloud simultaneously or allow everyone to try to answer before revealing the answer.

Q48: What is the church?
A: A community elected for eternal life and united by faith, who love, follow, learn from, and worship God together. (1 Peter 3:18)

Questions from: https://newcitycatechism.com/. Go there to start from beginning or to read more.

Scripture (5 Minutes)

Mark 6:7–13 (NLT)

And he called his twelve disciples together and began sending them out two by two, giving them authority to cast out evil spirits. He told them to take nothing for their journey except a walking stick—no food, no traveler’s bag, no money. He allowed them to wear sandals but not to take a change of clothes.
“Wherever you go,” he said, “stay in the same house until you leave town. But if any place refuses to welcome you or listen to you, shake its dust from your feet as you leave to show that you have abandoned those people to their fate.”
So the disciples went out, telling everyone they met to repent of their sins and turn to God. And they cast out many demons and healed many sick people, anointing them with olive oil.

Discussion (5-10 Minutes)

You can lead through a teaching or use the following questions to start a discussion:

What did Jesus give the disciples permission to take with them? What weren't they allowed to take? Why is that important?
Why do you think Jesus sent the disciples out in pairs instead of alone?
What were the three main things the disciples did when they went out? (preached repentance, cast out demons, healed sick people)
What are some ways we can tell others about Jesus today?

Closing Prayer (3 Minutes)

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for giving us the courage to tell others about You, just like You gave the disciples courage. Help us to trust You to provide for our needs, even when we feel scared or unprepared. Help us remember that You are with us wherever we go, just as You were with the disciples. In Jesus' name, Amen.

]]> Jesus Calms the Storm – Family Worship Guide, 6/1/25 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/06/01/jesus-calms-the-storm-family-worship-guide-6-1-25 Sun, 01 Jun 2025 11:00:00 +0000 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/06/01/jesus-calms-the-storm-family-worship-guide-6-1-25

Prayer (5 Minutes)

Have each family member complete this sentence in prayer: "Dear God, when I am afraid, help me remember that You..." (This allows children to express their trust in God's different attributes and care.)

Song (5 Minutes)

Be Still My Soul

Catechism (5 minutes)

Have everyone read aloud simultaneously or allow everyone to try to answer before revealing the answer.

Q47: Does the Lord’s Supper add anything to Christ’s atoning work?
A: No, Christ died once for all. (1 Peter 3:18)

Questions from: https://newcitycatechism.com/. Go there to start from beginning or to read more.

Scripture (5 Minutes)

Mark 4:35–41 (NLT)

As evening came, Jesus said to his disciples, “Let’s cross to the other side of the lake.” So they took Jesus in the boat and started out, leaving the crowds behind (although other boats followed). But soon a fierce storm came up. High waves were breaking into the boat, and it began to fill with water.

Jesus was sleeping at the back of the boat with his head on a cushion. The disciples woke him up, shouting, “Teacher, don’t you care that we’re going to drown?”

When Jesus woke up, he rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Silence! Be still!” Suddenly the wind stopped, and there was a great calm. Then he asked them, “Why are you afraid? Do you still have no faith?”

The disciples were absolutely terrified. “Who is this man?” they asked each other. “Even the wind and waves obey him!”

The Sea of Galilee

Discussion (5-10 Minutes)

You can lead through a teaching or use the following questions to start a discussion:

How could Jesus sleep during such a big storm? What does this tell us about Him?
Why were the disciples afraid? Have you ever been afraid during a storm?
What did Jesus do to stop the storm? What does this show us about His power?
The disciples asked, "Who then is this?" How would you answer their question?
When we face "storms" in our lives (hard times), how can remembering this story help us?

Closing Prayer (3 Minutes)

Dear Lord Jesus, thank You for showing us Your amazing power over creation. When we are afraid, help us remember that You are in control of everything - even the wind and waves. Give us faith to trust You even when life feels stormy. We praise You as our mighty God who cares for us. In Jesus' name, Amen.

]]> Parable of the Four Soils – Family Worship Guide, 5/26/25 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/05/26/parable-of-the-four-soils-family-worship-guide-5-26-25 Mon, 26 May 2025 11:00:00 +0000 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/05/26/parable-of-the-four-soils-family-worship-guide-5-26-25

Prayer (5 Minutes)

Take turns having each family member complete this sentence in prayer: "Dear God, thank you for..."

Song (5 Minutes)

Build My Life

Catechism (5 minutes)

Have everyone read aloud simultaneously or allow everyone to try to answer before revealing the answer.

Q46: What is the Lord’s Supper?
A: Christ commanded all Christians to eat bread and to drink from the cup in thankful remembrance of him. (1 Corinthians 11:23–26)

Questions from: https://newcitycatechism.com/. Go there to start from beginning or to read more.

Scripture (5 Minutes)

Mark 4:1–20 (NLT)

Once again Jesus began teaching by the lakeshore. A very large crowd soon gathered around him, so he got into a boat. Then he sat in the boat while all the people remained on the shore. He taught them by telling many stories in the form of parables, such as this one:
“Listen! A farmer went out to plant some seed. As he scattered it across his field, some of the seed fell on a footpath, and the birds came and ate it. Other seed fell on shallow soil with underlying rock. The seed sprouted quickly because the soil was shallow. But the plant soon wilted under the hot sun, and since it didn’t have deep roots, it died. Other seed fell among thorns that grew up and choked out the tender plants so they produced no grain. Still other seeds fell on fertile soil, and they sprouted, grew, and produced a crop that was thirty, sixty, and even a hundred times as much as had been planted!” Then he said, “Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand.”
Later, when Jesus was alone with the twelve disciples and with the others who were gathered around, they asked him what the parables meant.
He replied, “You are permitted to understand the secret of the Kingdom of God. But I use parables for everything I say to outsiders, so that the Scriptures might be fulfilled:
‘When they see what I do,
they will learn nothing.
When they hear what I say,
they will not understand.
Otherwise, they will turn to me
and be forgiven.’”
Then Jesus said to them, “If you can’t understand the meaning of this parable, how will you understand all the other parables? The farmer plants seed by taking God’s word to others. The seed that fell on the footpath represents those who hear the message, only to have Satan come at once and take it away. The seed on the rocky soil represents those who hear the message and immediately receive it with joy. But since they don’t have deep roots, they don’t last long. They fall away as soon as they have problems or are persecuted for believing God’s word. The seed that fell among the thorns represents others who hear God’s word, but all too quickly the message is crowded out by the worries of this life, the lure of wealth, and the desire for other things, so no fruit is produced. And the seed that fell on good soil represents those who hear and accept God’s word and produce a harvest of thirty, sixty, or even a hundred times as much as had been planted!”

Image depicting the parable

Discussion (5-10 Minutes)

You can lead through a teaching or use the following questions to start a discussion:

Why do you think Jesus taught using stories about everyday things like farming?
What are the four different places where the seeds fell in the story?
What are some "thorns" in our lives that might stop God's Word from growing in our hearts?
What type of soil do you think your heart is like?
What kind of "fruit" might grow in our lives when we really listen to God's Word?

Closing Prayer (3 Minutes)

Loving Father, thank You for planting Your Word in our hearts. Please help us clear away the rocks of doubt, pull out the thorns of distraction, and be good soil that produces fruit for Your kingdom. Make us people who not only hear Your Word but also put it into practice. In Jesus' name, Amen.

]]> God's Living Word – Family Worship Guide, 5/18/25 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/05/18/god-s-living-word-family-worship-guide-5-18-25 Sun, 18 May 2025 05:00:00 +0000 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/05/18/god-s-living-word-family-worship-guide-5-18-25

Prayer (5 Minutes)

Have each family member complete this sentence in prayer: "Dear God, thank you for the Bible because..." (This helps us personalize our appreciation for Scripture)

Song (5 Minutes)

'Tis So Sweet

Catechism (5 minutes)

Have everyone read aloud simultaneously or allow everyone to try to answer before revealing the answer.

Q45: Is baptism with water the washing away of sin itself?
A: No, only the blood of Christ can cleanse us from sin. (Luke 3:16)

Questions from: https://newcitycatechism.com/. Go there to start from beginning or to read more.

Scripture (5 Minutes)

2 Timothy 3:16–17 (NLT)

All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.

Hebrews 4:12 (NLT)

For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.

Discussion (5-10 Minutes)

You can lead through a teaching or use the following questions to start a discussion:

According to these verses, what makes the Bible different from other books?
How has God's Word helped you know what's right or wrong?
When you read the Bible, how does it sometimes feel like it's "reading you"?
Why do you think God chose to use human writers instead of writing the Bible Himself?
Can you share a time when a Bible verse really spoke to your heart?

Closing Prayer (3 Minutes)

Heavenly Father, thank you for giving us your perfect Word through human writers. Help us to trust that every word in the Bible comes from you and is completely true. Give us hunger to read your Word daily and wisdom to obey what it teaches. In Jesus' name, Amen.

]]> Examining Our Own Hearts – Family Worship Guide, 5/11/25 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/05/11/examining-our-own-hearts-family-worship-guide-5-11-25 Sun, 11 May 2025 05:00:00 +0000 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/05/11/examining-our-own-hearts-family-worship-guide-5-11-25

Prayer (5 Minutes)

Pray, asking God to help everyone see where they need to change to become better followers of Jesus.
Pray that God would grant us humility and love toward others.

Song (5 Minutes)

Lord, I Need You

Catechism (5 minutes)

Have everyone read aloud simultaneously or allow everyone to try to answer before revealing the answer.

Q44: What is baptism?
A: Baptism is the washing with water in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. (Matthew 28:19)

Questions from: https://newcitycatechism.com/. Go there to start from beginning or to read more.

Scripture (5 Minutes)

Matthew 7:1–5 (NLT)

“Do not judge others, and you will not be judged. For you will be treated as you treat others. The standard you use in judging is the standard by which you will be judged.
“And why worry about a speck in your friend’s eye when you have a log in your own? How can you think of saying to your friend, ‘Let me help you get rid of that speck in your eye,’ when you can’t see past the log in your own eye? Hypocrite! First get rid of the log in your own eye; then you will see well enough to deal with the speck in your friend’s eye."

Discussion (5-10 Minutes)

You can lead through a teaching or use the following questions to start a discussion:

What does Jesus mean by having a "log" in our eye? Can you think of a time when you focused on someone else's mistake while ignoring your own?
Why do you think it's easier to see others' faults than our own?
How does judging others hurt our witness as Christians to non-believers?
What steps can we take to be more gracious toward others, remembering our own need for grace?

Closing Prayer (3 Minutes)

Loving Father, forgive us for the times we have been quick to judge others while being slow to examine our own hearts. Help us to remember that we all need Your grace daily, and give us humble hearts that reflect Your love to others. Guide us to help others in a way that shows Your mercy rather than our pride. In Jesus' name, Amen.

]]> The Reason Christians Gather – Family Worship Guide, 5/4/25 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/05/04/the-reason-christians-gather-family-worship-guide-5-4-25 Sun, 04 May 2025 05:00:00 +0000 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/05/04/the-reason-christians-gather-family-worship-guide-5-4-25

Prayer (5 Minutes)

Have each family member complete this sentence in prayer: "Dear God, thank you for my church family, especially (name a person) because they help me to..."

Song (5 Minutes)

Doxology

Catechism (5 minutes)

Have everyone read aloud simultaneously or allow everyone to try to answer before revealing the answer.

Q43: What are the sacraments or ordinances?
A: Baptism and the Lord’s Supper. (Romans 6:4, Luke 22:19–20)

Questions from: https://newcitycatechism.com/. Go there to start from beginning or to read more.

Scripture (5 Minutes)

Hebrews 10:24-25 (NLT)

Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.

Different depictions of church gatherings, including a traditional liturgy, an underground church, and an early church.

Discussion (5-10 Minutes)

You can lead through a teaching or use the following questions to start a discussion:

What's your favorite part about going to church?
Why do you think God wants Christians to meet together regularly?
How do other Christians help you follow Jesus better?
What happens when we skip church for a long time?
How can you encourage someone at church this week?
What makes Christian fellowship different from other types of gatherings?

Closing Prayer (3 Minutes)

"Loving Father, thank You for giving us Your church as a family. Help us to be faithful in meeting together and to be encouragers to our brothers and sisters in Christ. Make our church gatherings times that honor You and help us grow stronger in our faith. In Jesus' name, Amen."

]]> God's Good Purpose in Times of Trial – Family Worship Guide, 4/27/25 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/04/27/god-s-good-purpose-in-times-of-trial-family-worship-guide-4-27-25 Sun, 27 Apr 2025 05:00:00 +0000 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/04/27/god-s-good-purpose-in-times-of-trial-family-worship-guide-4-27-25

Prayer (5 Minutes)

Pray through current struggles/trials that you are facing, that others in your life are facing, or that are being faced globally. Ask that God help you and give you more trust in Him.

Song (5 Minutes)

Great Is Thy Faithfulness

Catechism (5 minutes)

Have everyone read aloud simultaneously or allow everyone to try to answer before revealing the answer.

Q42: How is the Word of God to be read and heard?
A: With diligence, preparation, and prayer; so that we may accept it with faith and practice it in our lives. (2 Timothy 3:16–17)

Questions from: https://newcitycatechism.com/. Go there to start from beginning or to read more.

Scripture (5 Minutes)

Romans 8:28 (NLT), James 1:1–2 (NLT), 2 Peter 3:9 (NLT)

Romans 8:28 (NLT)
And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.

James 1:1–2 (NLT)
This letter is from James, a slave of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ. I am writing to the “twelve tribes”—Jewish believers scattered abroad. Greetings! Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy.

2 Peter 3:9 (NLT)
The Lord isn’t really being slow about his promise, as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent.

Discussion (5-10 Minutes)

You can lead through a teaching or use the following questions to start a discussion:

What are some hard things that happen in life that make us wonder about God's goodness?
How does Romans 8:28 help us understand God's control over both good and bad things?
What does it mean to "count it all joy" when we face trials? Does this mean we have to feel happy about hard things?
How is God's patience (2 Peter 3:9) connected to His allowing difficult things to happen?
How can knowing God's promise to work all things for good help us when we're going through something hard?
Can you think of a time when something difficult ended up bringing about something good?

Closing Prayer (3 Minutes)

"Loving Father, thank You that You are completely good and that You are in control of everything that happens. Help us trust You even when we don't understand why hard things happen. Give us faith to believe that You are working all things together for good, just as You promise in Your Word. In Jesus' name, Amen."

]]> Jesus, The Only Way to the Father – Family Worship Guide, 4/20/25 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/04/20/jesus-the-only-way-to-the-father-family-worship-guide-4-20-25 Sun, 20 Apr 2025 05:00:00 +0000 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/04/20/jesus-the-only-way-to-the-father-family-worship-guide-4-20-25

Prayer (5 Minutes)

Have family members take turns completing this sentence in prayer: "Jesus, thank you for being our..." (way/truth/life/savior/etc.). End with a parent thanking God for providing the only way to Him through Jesus Christ.

Song (5 Minutes)

In Christ Alone

Catechism (5 minutes)

Have everyone read aloud simultaneously or allow everyone to try to answer before revealing the answer.

Q41: What is the Lord’s Prayer?
A: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. (Matthew 6:9)

Questions from: https://newcitycatechism.com/. Go there to start from beginning or to read more.

Scripture (5 Minutes)

John 14:6–11 (NLT)

Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me. If you had really known me, you would know who my Father is. From now on, you do know him and have seen him!”

Philip said, “Lord, show us the Father, and we will be satisfied.”

Jesus replied, “Have I been with you all this time, Philip, and yet you still don’t know who I am? Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father! So why are you asking me to show him to you? Don’t you believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? The words I speak are not my own, but my Father who lives in me does his work through me. Just believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me. Or at least believe because of the work you have seen me do.

Discussion (5-10 Minutes)

You can lead through a teaching or use the following questions to start a discussion:

What does Jesus mean when He says He is "the way, the truth, and the life"?
Why do you think Philip wanted to see the Father? What was Jesus' response?
How is Christianity different from other religions in how we come to God?
What makes Jesus unique compared to other religious leaders?
Why is it important that Jesus is the only way to God?

Closing Prayer (3 Minutes)

"Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for sending Jesus as the only way to know You truly. Help us to always remember that Jesus is the truth that sets us free and the life that gives us hope. Give us courage to share this amazing truth with others who are searching for the way to You. In Jesus' name, Amen."

]]> Eyes Opened – Family Worship Guide, 4/13/25 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/04/13/eyes-opened-family-worship-guide-4-13-25 Sun, 13 Apr 2025 05:00:00 +0000 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/04/13/eyes-opened-family-worship-guide-4-13-25

Prayer (5 Minutes)

Pray together, thanking God for always being present, even when we don't see Him.

Song (5 Minutes)

Christ Is Risen

Catechism (5 minutes)

Have everyone read aloud simultaneously or allow everyone to try to answer before revealing the answer.

Q39: What should we pray?
A: The whole Word of God directs us in what we should pray. (Ephesians 3:14–21)

Questions from: https://newcitycatechism.com/. Go there to start from beginning or to read more.

Scripture (5 Minutes)

Luke 24:13–35 (NLT)

That same day two of Jesus’ followers were walking to the village of Emmaus, seven miles from Jerusalem. As they walked along they were talking about everything that had happened. As they talked and discussed these things, Jesus himself suddenly came and began walking with them. But God kept them from recognizing him.

He asked them, “What are you discussing so intently as you walk along?”

They stopped short, sadness written across their faces. Then one of them, Cleopas, replied, “You must be the only person in Jerusalem who hasn’t heard about all the things that have happened there the last few days.”

“What things?” Jesus asked.

“The things that happened to Jesus, the man from Nazareth,” they said. “He was a prophet who did powerful miracles, and he was a mighty teacher in the eyes of God and all the people. But our leading priests and other religious leaders handed him over to be condemned to death, and they crucified him. We had hoped he was the Messiah who had come to rescue Israel. This all happened three days ago.

“Then some women from our group of his followers were at his tomb early this morning, and they came back with an amazing report. They said his body was missing, and they had seen angels who told them Jesus is alive! Some of our men ran out to see, and sure enough, his body was gone, just as the women had said.”

Then Jesus said to them, “You foolish people! You find it so hard to believe all that the prophets wrote in the Scriptures. Wasn’t it clearly predicted that the Messiah would have to suffer all these things before entering his glory?” Then Jesus took them through the writings of Moses and all the prophets, explaining from all the Scriptures the things concerning himself.

By this time they were nearing Emmaus and the end of their journey. Jesus acted as if he were going on, but they begged him, “Stay the night with us, since it is getting late.” So he went home with them. As they sat down to eat, he took the bread and blessed it. Then he broke it and gave it to them. Suddenly, their eyes were opened, and they recognized him. And at that moment he disappeared!

They said to each other, “Didn’t our hearts burn within us as he talked with us on the road and explained the Scriptures to us?” And within the hour they were on their way back to Jerusalem. There they found the eleven disciples and the others who had gathered with them, who said, “The Lord has really risen! He appeared to Peter.”

Then the two from Emmaus told their story of how Jesus had appeared to them as they were walking along the road, and how they had recognized him as he was breaking the bread.

The distance between Jerusalem and Emmaus

Discussion (5-10 Minutes)

You can lead through a teaching or use the following questions to start a discussion:

Why do you think the two disciples were so sad as they walked along the road?
Why do you think Jesus didn't tell them who He was right away?
When did the disciples finally recognize Jesus? What was special about that moment?
How does this story show us the importance of knowing Scripture?

Lent Challenge (5 minutes)

What is Lent?
Lent is a 40-day period before Easter when Christians prepare their hearts for celebrating Jesus' death and resurrection. Just as Jesus spent 40 days in the wilderness, we use these 40 days to draw closer to God through prayer, fasting, and focusing on Jesus.

FAMILY ACTION STEP
Each week, discuss as a family what you could either GIVE UP or TAKE UP during Lent to grow closer to God. Work through the following as a family.

GIVE UP:

What takes up a lot of our time or attention?
What might we pause or set aside to create more space for God?
How could we use that extra time or attention to focus on Jesus?

TAKE UP:

What new habit could help us grow closer to God?
What act of service could we add to our daily routine?
How could we be more intentional about our faith this week?

Closing Prayer (3 Minutes)

"Dear Lord Jesus, thank you for walking alongside us even when we don't recognize you. Help us to see you in your Word, in our worship, and in our daily lives. Open our eyes to understand the Scriptures better and make our hearts burn within us as we learn more about you. In Jesus' name, Amen."

]]> The Triumphal Entry – Family Worship Guide, 4/6/25 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/04/06/the-triumphal-entry-family-worship-guide-4-6-25 Sun, 06 Apr 2025 05:00:00 +0000 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/04/06/the-triumphal-entry-family-worship-guide-4-6-25

Prayer (5 Minutes)

Have each family member complete this sentence in prayer: "Jesus, you are my King because..."

Song (5 Minutes)

Holy Forever

Catechism (5 minutes)

Have everyone read aloud simultaneously or allow everyone to try to answer before revealing the answer.

Q39: With what attitude should we pray?
A: With love, perseverance, and gratefulness. (Psalm 62:8)

Questions from: https://newcitycatechism.com/. Go there to start from beginning or to read more.

Scripture (5 Minutes)

Matthew 21:1–11 (NLT)

As Jesus and the disciples approached Jerusalem, they came to the town of Bethphage on the Mount of Olives. Jesus sent two of them on ahead. “Go into the village over there,” he said. “As soon as you enter it, you will see a donkey tied there, with its colt beside it. Untie them and bring them to me. If anyone asks what you are doing, just say, ‘The Lord needs them,’ and he will immediately let you take them.”
This took place to fulfill the prophecy that said,

“Tell the people of Jerusalem,
‘Look, your King is coming to you.
He is humble, riding on a donkey—
riding on a donkey’s colt.’ ”

The two disciples did as Jesus commanded. They brought the donkey and the colt to him and threw their garments over the colt, and he sat on it.
Most of the crowd spread their garments on the road ahead of him, and others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. Jesus was in the center of the procession, and the people all around him were shouting,

“Praise God for the Son of David!
Blessings on the one who comes in the name of the LORD!
Praise God in highest heaven!”

The entire city of Jerusalem was in an uproar as he entered. “Who is this?” they asked.
And the crowds replied, “It’s Jesus, the prophet from Nazareth in Galilee.”

Depiction of the crowd

Discussion (5-10 Minutes)

You can lead through a teaching or use the following questions to start a discussion:

What did Jesus ask His disciples to go and find? Why do you think He chose to ride a donkey instead of a horse?
What were the people shouting? What does this tell us about who they thought Jesus was?
The prophecy said Jesus would come as a humble king. What does it mean to be humble?
How can we show Jesus that we recognize Him as our King today?

Lent Challenge (5 minutes)

What takes up a lot of our time or attention?
What might we pause or set aside to create more space for God?
How could we use that extra time or attention to focus on Jesus?

TAKE UP:

What new habit could help us grow closer to God?
What act of service could we add to our daily routine?
How could we be more intentional about our faith this week?

Closing Prayer (3 Minutes)

"Dear Lord Jesus, thank you for coming as our humble King. We praise you just as the crowds did in Jerusalem, spreading out our hearts before you. Help us to serve you faithfully and tell others about who you are. Make us humble like you were when you rode that donkey. In your name we pray, Amen."

]]> Jesus Chooses The Apostles – Family Worship Guide, 3/30/35 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/03/30/jesus-chooses-the-apostles-family-worship-guide-3-30-35 Sun, 30 Mar 2025 05:00:00 +0000 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/03/30/jesus-chooses-the-apostles-family-worship-guide-3-30-35

Prayer (5 Minutes)

Have each family member complete this sentence in prayer: "Dear God, thank you for choosing me to be part of your family. I want to serve you by _______." This helps children understand that just as Jesus chose His disciples, He chooses us to serve Him too.

Song (5 Minutes)

The Jesus Way

Catechism (5 minutes)

Have everyone read aloud simultaneously or allow everyone to try to answer before revealing the answer.

Q38: What is prayer?
A: Prayer is pouring out our hearts to God. (Psalm 62:8)

Questions from: https://newcitycatechism.com/. Go there to start from beginning or to read more.

Scripture (5 Minutes)

Mark 3:13–19 (NLT)

Afterward Jesus went up on a mountain and called out the ones he wanted to go with him. And they came to him. Then he appointed twelve of them and called them his apostles. They were to accompany him, and he would send them out to preach, giving them authority to cast out demons. These are the twelve he chose:

Simon (whom he named Peter),
James and John (the sons of Zebedee, but Jesus nicknamed them “Sons of Thunder”),
Andrew,
Philip,
Bartholomew,
Matthew,
Thomas,
James (son of Alphaeus),
Thaddaeus,
Simon (the zealot),
Judas Iscariot (who later betrayed him).

Portrayal of 12 Apostles

Discussion (5-10 Minutes)

You can lead through a teaching or use the following questions to start a discussion:

How do you think the disciples felt when Jesus called them by name?
What does it mean that Jesus "appointed" these men?
Why do you think Jesus chose ordinary people like fishermen to be His disciples?
How can we be like the disciples in following Jesus today?

Lent Challenge (5 minutes)

What takes up a lot of our time or attention?
What might we pause or set aside to create more space for God?
How could we use that extra time or attention to focus on Jesus?

TAKE UP:

What new habit could help us grow closer to God?
What act of service could we add to our daily routine?
How could we be more intentional about our faith this week?

Closing Prayer (3 Minutes)

"Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for choosing ordinary people like us to do Your work. Just as You called the disciples to follow You, help us to hear Your voice and follow You faithfully. Give us courage to serve You wherever You send us, and help us to tell others about Jesus. In Jesus's name, Amen."

]]> Jesus Shows True Sabbath Love – Family Worship Guide, 3/23/35 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/03/23/jesus-shows-true-sabbath-love-family-worship-guide-3-23-35 Sun, 23 Mar 2025 05:00:00 +0000 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/03/23/jesus-shows-true-sabbath-love-family-worship-guide-3-23-35

Prayer (5 Minutes)

Have each family member share one way they can show kindness to someone this week. Then pray together: "Dear God, help us see opportunities to show Your love to others, just like Jesus did. Let each person pray for the kind action they want to do."

Song (5 Minutes)

Amazing Grace

Catechism (5 minutes)

Have everyone read aloud simultaneously or allow everyone to try to answer before revealing the answer.

Q37: What do we believe about the Holy Spirit?
A: The Holy Spirit convicts us of our sin, and he enables us to pray and to understand God’s Word. (Ephesians 6:17–18)

Questions from: https://newcitycatechism.com/. Go there to start from beginning or to read more.

Scripture (5 Minutes)

Mark 3:1–6 (NLT)

Jesus went into the synagogue again and noticed a man with a deformed hand. Since it was the Sabbath, Jesus’ enemies watched him closely. If he healed the man’s hand, they planned to accuse him of working on the Sabbath.
Jesus said to the man with the deformed hand, “Come and stand in front of everyone.” Then he turned to his critics and asked, “Does the law permit good deeds on the Sabbath, or is it a day for doing evil? Is this a day to save life or to destroy it?” But they wouldn’t answer him
He looked around at them angrily and was deeply saddened by their hard hearts. Then he said to the man, “Hold out your hand.” So the man held out his hand, and it was restored! At once the Pharisees went away and met with the supporters of Herod to plot how to kill Jesus.

Religious leaders plotting against Jesus

Discussion (5-10 Minutes)

You can lead through a teaching or use the following questions to start a discussion:

Why were Jesus's enemies watching Him so closely?
How do you think the man felt when Jesus called him to come forward?
Why do you think Jesus asked those questions about doing good on the Sabbath?
The religious leaders plotted to kill Jesus because He healed someone. What does this tell us about their hearts? How can we guard against similar attitudes?

Lent Challenge (5 minutes)

What takes up a lot of our time or attention?
What might we pause or set aside to create more space for God?
How could we use that extra time or attention to focus on Jesus?

TAKE UP:

What new habit could help us grow closer to God?
What act of service could we add to our daily routine?
How could we be more intentional about our faith this week?

Closing Prayer (3 Minutes)

"Loving Father, thank You for showing us through Jesus that Your love is more important than rigid rules. Help us to have soft hearts that care for others and recognize opportunities to do good. Give us courage to do what's right, even when others might not understand. In Jesus's name, Amen."

]]> Jesus Loves Sinners – Family Worship Guide, 3/16/35 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/03/16/jesus-loves-sinners-family-worship-guide-3-16-35 Sun, 16 Mar 2025 05:00:00 +0000 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/03/16/jesus-loves-sinners-family-worship-guide-3-16-35

Prayer (5 Minutes)

Have each family member complete this sentence in prayer: "Dear God, thank you for loving me even when I _______." This helps us understand God's limitless love and our need for Him.

Song (5 Minutes)

Just As I Am

Catechism (5 minutes)

Have everyone read aloud simultaneously or allow everyone to try to answer before revealing the answer.

Q36: What do we believe about the Holy Spirit?
A: That he is God, coeternal with the Father and the Son. (John 14:16–17)

Questions from: https://newcitycatechism.com/. Go there to start from beginning or to read more.

Scripture (5 Minutes)

Mark 2:13–17 (NLT)

Then Jesus went out to the lakeshore again and taught the crowds that were coming to him. As he walked along, he saw Levi son of Alphaeus sitting at his tax collector’s booth. “Follow me and be my disciple,” Jesus said to him. So Levi got up and followed him.
Later, Levi invited Jesus and his disciples to his home as dinner guests, along with many tax collectors and other disreputable sinners. (There were many people of this kind among Jesus’ followers.) But when the teachers of religious law who were Pharisees saw him eating with tax collectors and other sinners, they asked his disciples, “Why does he eat with such scum?”
When Jesus heard this, he told them, “Healthy people don’t need a doctor—sick people do. I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners.”

A tax collector

Discussion (5-10 Minutes)

You can lead through a teaching or use the following questions to start a discussion:

How quickly did Levi respond to Jesus's call? What does this tell us about Levi?
Why do you think the Pharisees were upset about Jesus eating with tax collectors and sinners?
Have you ever felt left out or not good enough? How does this story make you feel?
Who does Jesus say He came to call? What does this mean for us?

Lent Challenge (5 minutes)

What takes up a lot of our time or attention?
What might we pause or set aside to create more space for God?
How could we use that extra time or attention to focus on Jesus?

TAKE UP:

What new habit could help us grow closer to God?
What act of service could we add to our daily routine?
How could we be more intentional about our faith this week?

Closing Prayer (3 Minutes)

"Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Jesus to call sinners like us. Thank You that we don't have to be perfect before coming to You. Help us to show Your love to others who might feel rejected or unwanted, just as Jesus did. Give us humble hearts that recognize our need for You. In Jesus's name, Amen."

]]> Jesus Heals a Paralyzed Man – Family Worship Guide, 3/9/25 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/03/10/jesus-heals-a-paralyzed-man-family-worship-guide-3-9-25 Mon, 10 Mar 2025 05:00:00 +0000 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/03/10/jesus-heals-a-paralyzed-man-family-worship-guide-3-9-25

Prayer (5 Minutes)

Have each family member complete this sentence in prayer: "Dear God, thank you for my friend(s) who help me by..."

Song (5 Minutes)

Because of Jesus

Catechism (5 minutes)

Have everyone read aloud simultaneously or allow everyone to try to answer before revealing the answer.

Q35: Since we are redeemed by grace alone, through faith alone, where does this faith come from?
A: From the Holy Spirit. (Titus 3:4–6)

Questions from: https://newcitycatechism.com/. Go there to start from beginning or to read more.

Scripture (5 Minutes)

Mark 2:1–12 (NLT)

When Jesus returned to Capernaum several days later, the news spread quickly that he was back home. Soon the house where he was staying was so packed with visitors that there was no more room, even outside the door. While he was preaching God’s word to them, four men arrived carrying a paralyzed man on a mat. They couldn’t bring him to Jesus because of the crowd, so they dug a hole through the roof above his head. Then they lowered the man on his mat, right down in front of Jesus. Seeing their faith, Jesus said to the paralyzed man, “My child, your sins are forgiven.”

But some of the teachers of religious law who were sitting there thought to themselves, “What is he saying? This is blasphemy! Only God can forgive sins!”

Jesus knew immediately what they were thinking, so he asked them, “Why do you question this in your hearts? Is it easier to say to the paralyzed man ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or ‘Stand up, pick up your mat, and walk’? So I will prove to you that the Son of Man has the authority on earth to forgive sins.” Then Jesus turned to the paralyzed man and said, “Stand up, pick up your mat, and go home!”

And the man jumped up, grabbed his mat, and walked out through the stunned onlookers. They were all amazed and praised God, exclaiming, “We’ve never seen anything like this before!”

Depiction of Men Carrying Friend to Jesus

Discussion (5-10 Minutes)

You can lead through a teaching or use the following questions to start a discussion:

How do you think the paralyzed man felt being lowered through the roof?
Why do you think Jesus forgave the man's sins before healing him?
What does this story tell us about Jesus's power and authority?
How can we be like the four friends who helped the paralyzed man?

Lent Challenge (5 minutes)

What takes up a lot of our time or attention?
What might we pause or set aside to create more space for God?
How could we use that extra time or attention to focus on Jesus?

TAKE UP:

What new habit could help us grow closer to God?
What act of service could we add to our daily routine?
How could we be more intentional about our faith this week?

Closing Prayer (3 Minutes)

Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for giving us Jesus, who has the power to both heal our bodies and forgive our sins. Help us to be faithful friends who bring others to you, just like the four men in this story. Give us faith to believe that you can do amazing things in our lives. In Jesus's name, Amen.

]]> Jesus Calls His First Disciples – Family Worship Guide, 3/2/25 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/03/03/jesus-calls-his-first-disciples-family-worship-guide-3-2-25 Mon, 03 Mar 2025 09:00:00 +0000 https://bethelonline.org/blog/2025/03/03/jesus-calls-his-first-disciples-family-worship-guide-3-2-25

Prayer (5 Minutes)

Have everyone share one way they want to pray for someone else.

Song (5 Minutes)

I Have Decided to Follow Jesus

Catechism (5 minutes)

Have everyone read aloud simultaneously or allow everyone to try to answer before revealing the answer.

Q34: Since we are redeemed by grace alone, through Christ alone, must we still do good works and obey God’s Word?
A: Yes, so that our lives may show love and gratitude to God; and so that by our godly behavior others may be won to Christ. (1 Peter 2:9–12)

Questions from: https://newcitycatechism.com/. Go there to start from beginning or to read more.

Scripture (5 Minutes)

Mark 1:14–20 (NLT)

Later on, after John was arrested, Jesus went into Galilee, where he preached God’s Good News. “The time promised by God has come at last!” he announced. “The Kingdom of God is near! Repent of your sins and believe the Good News!”

One day as Jesus was walking along the shore of the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew throwing a net into the water, for they fished for a living. Jesus called out to them, “Come, follow me, and I will show you how to fish for people!” And they left their nets at once and followed him.
A little farther up the shore Jesus saw Zebedee’s sons, James and John, in a boat repairing their nets. He called them at once, and they also followed him, leaving their father, Zebedee, in the boat with the hired men.

Fishing Nets

Fishing Boat

Discussion (5-10 Minutes)

You can lead through a teaching or use the following questions to start a discussion:

How quickly did the disciples respond to Jesus's call? What does this tell us about Jesus? What about their faith?
What do you think it means to be "fishers of men"? How can we "fish for people" today?
Why do you think these fishermen were willing to leave everything behind to follow Jesus?
How is Jesus calling us to follow Him today? What might we need to "leave behind"? What makes it hard sometimes to follow Jesus right away like the disciples did?

Lent Challenge (5 minutes)

What takes up a lot of our time or attention?
What might we pause or set aside to create more space for God?
How could we use that extra time or attention to focus on Jesus?

TAKE UP:

What new habit could help us grow closer to God?
What act of service could we add to our daily routine?
How could we be more intentional about our faith this week?

Closing Prayer (3 Minutes)

Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for calling us to follow Jesus, just like You called the disciples. Help us to respond quickly and faithfully when You call us to do something. Give us courage to leave behind anything that keeps us from following You completely. Make us fishers of men who can help others know about Your love. In Jesus's name, Amen.

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