Prepare and reflect
Use the Jump menu on the right to find Bible notes and other resources.
Prepare your children's session
Prepare your under 5s session
Prepare your young people's session
Prepare your children's session
Read Bible notes on Exodus 14:19-31
This passage about the Israelites being led by God, through water, to the Promised Land recalls the resurrection and links to the story of salvation. It is part of the wider narrative of the Israelites travelling from an oppressive regime in Egypt under Pharaoh, through slavery and exile to freedom and restoration. Approach the passage cautiously with younger/sensitive children, and emphasise that it is Pharaoh’s cruelty and stubbornness that causes the defeat of the Egyptian army. You could use the Under 5s version instead, if you need to.
The theme of journeying is a powerful one, particularly during September as we journey into a new academic year. On the journey, the presence of God is visible and powerful, leading the group. Does that make a difference to our experience of walking with God?
The Israelites become God’s people on the journey, rather than when they reach the Promised Land. Focus on the idea of transformation as we walk with God, and the power of relying on God as we journey together as a community.
Don't forget:
Activity and colouring sheets
Thrive: A resource to encourage family faith at home.
Plus: Songs, Prayers, Images
and links to templates and other online resources.
Prepare your under 5s session
Read: Prepare and reflect - see above and use the Colouring sheet
Play ideas
Water play tray with scoops, jugs and small world people.
Prepare your young people's session
Read Bible notes on Exodus 14:19-31
The story of God parting the Red Sea and leading his people to freedom from the Egyptian army is one of the most visually striking stories in the Bible. It is a powerful demonstration of God’s rescuing power.
Can you think of difficult time when you sensed God’s presence leading you through it?
In this story, Pharaoh represents ruthlessness and cruelty, while God’s actions come from a place of love and freedom. Pharaoh leads his army to death. God leads his people to freedom. This emphasis could clarify how what happened to the Egyptian army was less a punishment from God and more a consequence of Pharaoh’s selfishness. While the parting of the Red Sea can feel more suited to a fantasy movie than our everyday lives, the forces of selfishness, arrogance and cruelty on display are sadly very much still relatable in our modern-day lives.
Don't forget:
Check-in: a weekly biblical reflection on youth and contemporary culture.
Thrive: A resource to encourage family faith at home.
Plus: Images and links to templates, music tracks and other online resources.