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After spending six days creating the world, God considered the seventh day a special day to rest. God did not rest because He was tired; He did not become exhausted or run out of energy. God’s work of creation was perfect, and the seventh day was a day to reflect on what He had completed.

God also wants us to rest and consider His work and how He takes care of us.

Bible verses used in this episode:

• Genesis 1:1 and 2:1-3
• Isaiah 40:28-29 God does not become weary or run out of energy.
• Psalm 19:1-4 God rested, knowing the creation itself would point people to Him.
• Exodus 20:8-11 God later commanded His people to remember this seventh day as a day of rest.
• Psalm 23:1-2 As our shepherd, God provides safety, peace and rest.
• Matthew 11:28-29 Jesus invites us to come to Him for rest.
• Psalm 148:7-13 A Psalm of reflection on God’s creation

Outline:

1. God created our world (Genesis 1:1)
2. God rested (Genesis 2:1-3)

Tips for teaching children:

• Spend time relaxing and reflecting on God and what He has done (play calming music, breathe deeply)
• Serve food (like ice cream) and savour each bite. Talk about the flavours and textures and how each bite makes you feel. Use this as a lead-in to taking time to think about things instead of just rushing through.

Tips for teaching adults:

• I would ask these questions in an adult class:
  • What do we learn about God in this text?
  • What do we learn about ourselves?
  • How has your life and work over the past 6 days blessed others?”
  • If resting on day 7 suggests that God is now present and ruling over his creation, then how can your life and work show that you believe God is in control and present in his world?
• Organise a day out on Saturday as a class to have a picnic and enjoy the day together. Spend some time thinking of ways you can re-organise your life so that you can enjoy more moments like these. Conclude your day together by thanking God for his care over his creation and that he has given you the opportunity to bless others through your work and life.

Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:

Bible Lesson: Day 7-God Rested

Scriptures quoted from the International Children’s Bible®, copyright ©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.

Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.

For questions or comments email: mary@missionbibleclass.org