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David’s older brothers went to fight battles with King Saul while David stayed home and cared for his father’s sheep. When David was sent to take food to his brothers, he was appalled to find that the whole army was afraid of the Philistines. Every day, a huge soldier, Goliath, came forward and mocked the Lord and his army. David trusted in the Lord’s strength and knew that the Lord would help him defeat Goliath. David used his sling and killed Goliath with a stone between his eyes.
Bible verses used in this episode:
1 Samuel 17
Outline:
- David hears Goliath’s bold challenge. (1 Samuel 17:1-30)
- David kills Goliath (1 Samuel 17:31-58)
Tips for teaching children:
- If your space is tall enough, measure the height of Goliath and place a sign or tape on the wall at that height. 9 feet and 4 inches or 284.48 centimetres.
- Supply the children with 5 smooth stones each. Using Sharpie markers or paint, invite the children to write 5 words of their choice that describe their faith commitment. Example: “Mary will trust God always.”
- David had perfect aim. The children can throw tennis balls at a stack of overturned cups to practice their aim.
- Show pictures of a sling.
Tips for teaching adults:
- Begin the class by singing “The Battle Belongs to the Lord.”
- Ask the class to have their Bibles open at 1 Samuel 17 and then discuss the following questions from the text:
- What qualities and characteristics of David does the story bring out?
- How has David’s role as shepherd prepared him for his battle with the giant?
- What does this tell us about our past victories and our present “giants” we may be facing?
- What great acts of faith have you done or that you have seen in others?
- Have each class member to write down two or three times when God has helped them in the past to have a victory over a challenge they were facing. Follow up with asking each class member to pray silently to God thanking them for this victory.
Full teaching instructions, free from Mission Bible Class:
Bible Lesson: David and Goliath
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.
Music: Upbeat Positive Culture (Acoustic Corporate Travel Promo Christian Rock), Individual License, Stock Media provided by HumansWin, pond5.com
For questions or comments email: mary@missionbibleclass.org
