A conceptual exploration of Scripture for third graders, building biblical literacy through the core spine narratives at increasing depth while introducing Old Testament prophets, wisdom literature, and deeper theological concepts. Students will learn to navigate the Bible independently, memorize extended passages, and connect biblical principles to daily life.
Understand the literary structure of Genesis 1-3 and distinguish God's original 'very good' creation from our fallen world
Grasp covenant theology through Abraham's three promises and recognize Jesus as the fulfillment
Explore Passover as foreshadowing Christ and understand the symbolic meaning of the tabernacle
Study the Davidic covenant and identify messianic psalms that point to Jesus
Examine the virgin birth significance and Jesus' incarnation as fully God and fully man
Understand substitutionary atonement and recognize Jesus as our substitute who took our punishment
Navigate the Bible independently by book, chapter, and verse while identifying different genres
Memorize extended Scripture passages and connect verses thematically across the Bible
Survey the divided kingdom period and introduction to major prophets
Explore Psalms by type (praise, lament, wisdom, messianic) and Proverbs' practical wisdom
Understand Jesus' Sermon on the Mount teachings as kingdom living instructions
Recognize the Holy Spirit's role as Helper and empowerer of believers
Click any week to see daily lesson details.
âFor thus saith the LORD that created the heavens; God himself that formed the earth and made it; he hath established it, he created it not in vain, he formed it to be inhabited: I am the LORD; and there is none else.â
â Isaiah 45:18Exploring the literary structure of Genesis 1 and Genesis 2, understanding why Moses wrote two complementary accounts of creation with different perspectives and purposes.
Genesis 1:1-2:3comparison chartInvestigating what 'very good' meant in Genesis 1:31âa world without death, disease, thorns, pain, or broken relationships. Understanding God's original design.
Genesis 1:26-31discussion and drawingDiscovering Genesis 2's detailed view of Eden as God's dwelling place with humanity, exploring the garden as a temple where God walked with Adam and Eve.
Genesis 2:4-17hands-on mappingUnderstanding the fall in Genesis 3 and how sin entered God's perfect world, introducing the problem of evil and why the world we see now is broken.
Genesis 3:1-24narrative storytellingComparing God's 'very good' creation with the world we experience today, identifying what changed because of sin and what we can look forward to in the new creation.
Genesis 1-3; Revelation 21:1-5comparison activityâWherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned.â
â Romans 5:12Exploring how Adam's one choice affected all of creationâdeath, pain, broken relationships, and separation from God entered the world through one act of disobedience.
Romans 5:12-19domino demonstrationExamining Adam and Eve's response to sinâshame, fear, hiding, and blame-shifting. Understanding how sin damages our relationship with God and others.
Genesis 3:7-13role play and discussionUnderstanding the consequences God pronounced on the serpent, Eve, Adam, and creation itself, while discovering the first gospel promise hidden in Genesis 3:15.
Genesis 3:14-19text analysisInvestigating how creation itself was cursed because of human sinâthorns, difficult work, pain in childbirthâand why the world groans for redemption.
Genesis 3:16-19; Romans 8:19-22nature observationConnecting the fall to our own lives, understanding that we inherit a sin nature and live in a broken world, but God has a rescue plan.
Psalm 51:5; Ephesians 2:1-5personal reflectionâAnd I will establish my covenant between me and thee and thy seed after thee in their generations for an everlasting covenant, to be a God unto thee, and to thy seed after thee.â
â Genesis 17:7Introducing covenant theologyâunderstanding what a covenant is, how it differs from a contract, and why God chose to bind Himself to promises with Abraham.
Genesis 12:1-3concept introductionExploring the three parts of the Abrahamic covenant: land, descendants (seed), and blessing to all nations. Understanding how these promises unfold through Scripture.
Genesis 12:1-3; 15:1-21; 17:1-8chart creationExamining God's promise that Abraham's descendants would be as numerous as the stars and sand, and how this promise seemed impossible but God fulfilled it.
Genesis 15:1-6; 22:15-18counting activityDiscovering that Abraham's covenant promised blessing to ALL nationsâincluding us! Tracing how Jesus fulfills this promise as Abraham's ultimate descendant.
Genesis 22:18; Galatians 3:8, 16connection mappingUnderstanding that God's covenant with Abraham is everlasting and unbreakable, showing God's faithfulness across generations and pointing to Jesus.
Genesis 17:7-8; Galatians 3:29timeline creationâAnd the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, preached before the gospel unto Abraham, saying, In thee shall all nations be blessed.â
â Galatians 3:8Exploring Isaac's miraculous birth to elderly parents, understanding how God's promises seemed impossible but He always keeps His word.
Genesis 21:1-7narrative studyExamining Abraham's test of faith when God asked him to sacrifice Isaac, understanding this as the ultimate test of trust and obedience.
Genesis 22:1-14storytelling with propsDiscovering the typology between Isaac and Jesusâboth were promised sons, both carried wood up a mountain, both were offered as sacrifices, showing God's rescue plan.
Genesis 22:1-14; John 3:16comparison chartUnderstanding the meaning of 'Jehovah Jireh' (The Lord Will Provide) and how God provided a ram in Isaac's place, pointing to Jesus as our substitute.
Genesis 22:8-14word studyContrasting Isaac who was spared with Jesus who was notâGod provided a substitute for Isaac, but Jesus became the substitute for us.
Genesis 22:12-13; Romans 8:32theological reflectionâAnd I will establish my covenant between me and thee and thy seed after thee in their generations for an everlasting covenant, to be a God unto thee, and to thy seed after thee.â
â Genesis 17:7Exploring the mysterious covenant ceremony in Genesis 15 where God alone passed through the animal pieces, showing He took full responsibility for keeping the covenant.
Genesis 15:7-21ceremony explanationUnderstanding circumcision as the physical sign of God's covenant with Abraham and his descendants, marking them as God's special people (age-appropriate explanation).
Genesis 17:9-14concept discussionExamining how God changed Abram to Abraham ('father of many') and Sarai to Sarah ('princess'), showing that covenant relationship changes identity.
Genesis 17:1-8, 15-16name meaning studyUnderstanding that covenant signs show we belong to God's family. Connecting Old Testament circumcision to New Testament baptism as signs of covenant membership.
Genesis 17:7; Colossians 2:11-12comparison activityDiscovering that all who trust in Jesus are counted as Abraham's children and heirs of the covenant promises through faith.
Galatians 3:26-29family tree creationâPurge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us.â
â 1 Corinthians 5:7Examining the first Passover in EgyptâGod's final plague, the death angel, and how the blood of a lamb saved the firstborn in every marked house.
Exodus 12:1-13narrative studyStudying God's specific requirements for the Passover lambâunblemished, male, one year oldâand understanding why these details mattered.
Exodus 12:3-6detail examinationUnderstanding the significance of applying blood to the doorframeâit was the blood that saved, not just having a lamb. Exploring themes of substitution and protection.
Exodus 12:7, 12-13, 22-23hands-on demonstrationDiscovering the amazing parallels between the Passover lamb and Jesusâperfect, sacrificed, blood applied for salvation, timing of crucifixion during Passover.
Exodus 12:1-13; John 1:29; 1 Peter 1:18-19typology studyUnderstanding that just as Israelites were saved by applying the lamb's blood, we are saved by trusting in Jesus' blood shed for us on the cross.
Exodus 12:13; Hebrews 9:22; 1 John 1:7application discussionâThou shalt have no other gods before me.â
â Exodus 20:3Introducing the structure of Old Testament law: moral law (timeless commands), civil law (for Israel as a nation), and ceremonial law (worship and sacrifice).
Exodus 20-23 overviewcategorization activityExploring the Ten Commandments as God's moral law that reflects His character and applies to all people in all times, showing us how to love God and others.
Exodus 20:1-17commandments studyUnderstanding civil laws that governed Israel as a theocratic nationâlaws about property, justice, and social relationships that showed God's wisdom.
Exodus 21:1-11; 22:1-15case study examplesExamining ceremonial laws about sacrifices, festivals, and priests that taught Israel how to approach holy God and pointed forward to Jesus.
Leviticus 1:1-9; 23:1-8worship system overviewUnderstanding which laws still apply to Christians today (moral law), which were fulfilled in Christ (ceremonial), and which were specific to Israel (civil).
Matthew 5:17-20; Hebrews 10:1-10application sortingâAnd almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission.â
â Hebrews 9:22Introducing the tabernacle as God's dwelling place among His peopleâa tent that traveled with Israel, showing God's desire to be near His people.
Exodus 25:1-9overview and modelExploring the bronze altar (sacrifice) and bronze basin (washing) in the outer court, understanding these as the first steps in approaching holy God.
Exodus 27:1-8; 30:17-21diagram studyExamining the table of showbread, golden lampstand, and altar of incense in the Holy Place, understanding their symbolic meanings.
Exodus 25:23-40; 30:1-10symbolism explorationDiscovering the Holy of Holies with the Ark of the Covenant and mercy seat, where God's presence dwelt and only the high priest entered once a year.
Exodus 25:10-22; Leviticus 16:1-34sacred space studyUnderstanding how every part of the tabernacle pointed to JesusâHe is our sacrifice, our light, our bread, our high priest, and God dwelling with us.
John 1:14; Hebrews 9:1-14connection mappingâAnd thine house and thy kingdom shall be established for ever before thee: thy throne shall be established for ever.â
â 2 Samuel 7:16Reviewing David's character and relationship with God, understanding why God chose David and called him 'a man after my own heart.'
1 Samuel 13:14; Acts 13:22character studyExploring David's desire to build a permanent house (temple) for God, and God's surprising response that He would build David a house (dynasty) instead.
2 Samuel 7:1-17narrative studyExamining God's covenant promises to David: an eternal kingdom, an eternal throne, and an eternal descendant who would reign forever.
2 Samuel 7:12-16covenant analysisUnderstanding that while David couldn't build the temple himself, he gathered materials and made plans, showing his heart for worship and God's house.
1 Chronicles 22:1-19; 28:1-21preparation studyDiscovering how David's covenant points to Jesus, the ultimate 'Son of David' whose kingdom truly will last forever and ever.
2 Samuel 7:16; Luke 1:30-33prophetic connectionâThe LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou at my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool.â
â Psalm 110:1Exploring David's role as worship leader and psalmist, understanding that he wrote about half of the 150 psalms in the Bible.
Psalm 23; 2 Samuel 6:12-15poetry introductionStudying psalms where David praised God for His character, creation, and mighty deeds, learning to worship God for who He is.
Psalm 8; 19; 103praise psalm studyExamining lament psalms where David brought his fears, sorrows, and questions honestly to God, learning we can bring all emotions to Him.
Psalm 13; 22:1-21; 42lament explorationIntroducing messianic psalmsâsongs David wrote that prophesied about Jesus hundreds of years before He was born.
Psalm 22; 110:1-4prophecy identificationLearning from David's example to worship God with our whole hearts, bringing praise and honest prayers to Him in all circumstances.
Psalm 34; 63; 145personal worship timeâThe LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou at my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool.â
â Psalm 110:1Understanding messianic psalms as songs that prophesy about the coming Messiah (Jesus), written centuries before His birth.
Psalm 2; Acts 4:25-28concept introductionExamining Psalm 22's detailed predictions about Jesus' crucifixionâpierced hands and feet, mocking, casting lots for clothingâwritten 1000 years before crucifixion was invented.
Psalm 22; Matthew 27:35-46prophecy fulfillment studyExploring Psalm 110's prophecy of the Messiah as both eternal king and priest in the order of Melchizedek, fulfilled in Jesus.
Psalm 110; Hebrews 7:11-28dual role analysisDiscovering additional messianic psalms that predict Jesus' betrayal, resurrection, and eternal reign.
Psalm 16:8-11; 41:9; 118:22-23treasure huntUnderstanding that Jesus quoted psalms about Himself, showing He knew He was fulfilling these ancient prophecies.
Psalm 110:1; Matthew 22:41-46Jesus' use of PsalmsâWhereupon the king took counsel, and made two calves of gold, and said unto them, It is too much for you to go up to Jerusalem: behold thy gods, O Israel, which brought thee up out of the land of Egypt.â
â 1 Kings 12:28Understanding how Solomon's disobedienceâmarrying foreign wives who turned his heart to other godsâled to the kingdom's division after his death.
1 Kings 11:1-13cause and effect studyExamining the split of Israel into two kingdoms: Israel (north, 10 tribes) and Judah (south, 2 tribes), understanding the political and spiritual reasons.
1 Kings 12:1-24map creationStudying Jeroboam's sinful decision to set up golden calf worship in Israel to prevent people from going to Jerusalem, leading the northern kingdom into idolatry.
1 Kings 12:25-33decision analysisSurveying the succession of mostly wicked kings in Israel and the mix of good and bad kings in Judah, understanding the pattern of sin and occasional reform.
1 Kings 14-16 overviewchart creationUnderstanding the spiritual lesson: when leaders and nations turn from God, it leads to disaster. Seeing God's patience and repeated warnings through prophets.
2 Chronicles 7:14; 36:15-16principle applicationâAlso I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me.â
â Isaiah 6:8Defining what a prophet isâsomeone called by God to speak God's words to His people, often warning of judgment or promising future hope.
Deuteronomy 18:18-22; Jeremiah 1:4-10concept definitionUnderstanding the organization of prophetic booksâ'major' prophets wrote longer books, 'minor' wrote shorter, but all spoke God's important messages.
Overview of Isaiah through MalachiBible navigationExploring the two-fold message of prophets: warning about sin and judgment, and promising hope and future restoration through the Messiah.
Jeremiah 25:1-11; 31:31-34message analysisUnderstanding that prophets often faced rejection, persecution, and danger because people didn't want to hear God's messages about their sin.
Jeremiah 38:1-13; Hebrews 11:32-38courage discussionDiscovering that many prophetic messages ultimately pointed forward to Jesusâthe ultimate Prophet, Priest, and King who would save His people.
Deuteronomy 18:15; Acts 3:22-26messianic connectionsâBut he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.â
â Isaiah 53:5Examining Isaiah's call to be a prophet when he saw the Lord high and lifted up, surrounded by seraphim, and realized his own sinfulness.
Isaiah 6:1-8vision studyExploring Isaiah's prophecy about Immanuel ('God with us') born of a virgin, fulfilled in Jesus' miraculous birth 700 years later.
Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:18-23prophecy fulfillmentStudying Isaiah's prophecy of the child who would be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 9:6-7name meaning studyIntroducing Isaiah 53's detailed prophecy of the Messiah's suffering, rejection, death, and resurrectionâthe clearest Old Testament picture of Jesus' sacrifice.
Isaiah 53:1-12prophecy overviewUnderstanding Isaiah 53's message of substitutionary atonementâthe servant was wounded for OUR sins, punished for OUR peace, bringing US healing.
Isaiah 53:4-6; 1 Peter 2:24-25substitution explanationâBefore I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations.â
â Jeremiah 1:5Examining God's call of Jeremiah before he was born, understanding that God has plans for each of us even before we're born.
Jeremiah 1:4-10calling studyUnderstanding Jeremiah's difficult jobâwarning Judah about coming judgment for 40 years while facing rejection, mockery, and persecution.
Jeremiah 20:7-18; 38:1-6empathy discussionExploring Jeremiah's object lesson at the potter's houseâGod has the right to shape nations and people, and He can remake what is broken.
Jeremiah 18:1-12object lessonDiscovering Jeremiah's prophecy of a new covenant when God would write His law on people's hearts, fulfilled in Jesus and the Holy Spirit.
Jeremiah 31:31-34; Hebrews 8:8-12covenant comparisonUnderstanding that even while prophesying judgment, Jeremiah offered hopeâGod would restore His people and send the Messiah.
Jeremiah 29:11-14; 33:14-16hope identificationâIf my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.â
â 2 Chronicles 7:14Understanding how the northern kingdom of Israel fell to Assyria in 722 BC because of persistent idolatry and rejection of God's warnings.
2 Kings 17:1-23historical studyExamining the fall of Jerusalem and Judah to Babylon in 586 BCâthe temple burned, walls broken down, people taken captive.
2 Kings 25:1-21; Jeremiah 52:1-30narrative studyExploring the emotional and spiritual impact of exile through Psalm 137âgrief, longing for home, struggling to worship in a foreign land.
Psalm 137:1-6poetry analysisUnderstanding that exile was God's discipline for persistent sin, idolatry, and ignoring prophets' warningsâshowing sin has real consequences.
2 Chronicles 36:15-21; Jeremiah 25:8-11cause analysisDiscovering that even in exile, God was with His people (Daniel, Ezekiel), had a plan for their return, and was working out His greater rescue plan.
Ezekiel 11:16; Jeremiah 29:10-14hope findingâThen he said unto them, Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared: for this day is holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the LORD is your strength.â
â Nehemiah 8:10Examining how God moved the heart of Persian King Cyrus to decree that Jews could return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple.
Ezra 1:1-11; Isaiah 44:28-45:1decree studyFollowing the returned exiles as they rebuilt the temple under Zerubbabel's leadership, facing opposition but persevering with God's help.
Ezra 3:1-13; 6:13-22construction narrativeStudying how Ezra the priest returned to Jerusalem with more exiles and taught the people God's law, leading to spiritual renewal.
Ezra 7:1-10; Nehemiah 8:1-12teaching emphasisExamining Nehemiah's leadership in rebuilding Jerusalem's walls in just 52 days despite opposition, showing the power of focused obedience.
Nehemiah 1:1-2:20; 6:15-16leadership studyUnderstanding the mixed emotions at the temple dedicationâold people wept remembering Solomon's temple, young people shouted for joy at God's faithfulness.
Ezra 3:10-13emotional reflectionâBlessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.â
â Psalm 1:1-2Introducing the five main types of psalms: praise, lament, thanksgiving, wisdom, and messianic, understanding the Bible includes songs for every situation.
Psalms overviewcategorizationExploring psalms that praise God for who He isâHis power, love, faithfulness, and majestyâlearning to worship God's character.
Psalm 8; 100; 145praise studyUnderstanding that lament psalms bring pain, fear, and questions to God honestly, showing we can tell God how we really feel.
Psalm 13; 42; 88lament explorationStudying psalms that teach wisdomâcontrasting the righteous and wicked, teaching us to meditate on God's word and walk in His ways.
Psalm 1; 37; 73wisdom principlesApplying what we've learned by writing personal psalmsâpraising God, bringing honest feelings, or seeking wisdom from His word.
Various psalms as modelscreative writingâThe fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.â
â Proverbs 1:7Defining biblical wisdom as skillful livingâknowing and applying God's truth to make good choices in everyday life.
Proverbs 1:1-7; James 1:5concept definitionUnderstanding that wisdom begins with fearing (respecting and honoring) the Lordârecognizing who God is and living accordingly.
Proverbs 1:7; 9:10; Psalm 111:10foundation studyExploring Proverbs' personification of wisdom as calling out in the streets, inviting everyone to learn and follow her ways.
Proverbs 1:20-33; 8:1-36literary analysisStudying practical proverbs about friendship, speech, work, money, and familyâapplying God's wisdom to real situations third graders face.
Proverbs 12:26; 15:1; 17:17; 22:1application scenariosContrasting the outcomes of wisdom and foolishness throughout Proverbs, understanding that our choices lead us down different paths.
Proverbs 3:5-6; 14:12; 16:25comparison activityâTherefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.â
â Isaiah 7:14Understanding that Jesus' virgin birth was necessary for Him to be both fully God and fully human without inheriting Adam's sin nature.
Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:18-25theological explanationExamining Luke's account of the nativity from Mary's viewpointâthe angel's announcement, her faith, the shepherds' visit.
Luke 1:26-38; 2:1-20perspective studyExploring Matthew's account from Joseph's viewpointâhis dilemma, the angel's message, the wise men, and the flight to Egypt.
Matthew 1:18-2:23perspective studyComparing Jesus' genealogies in Matthew (Joseph's legal line through kings) and Luke (Mary's line through Nathan), understanding their different purposes.
Matthew 1:1-17; Luke 3:23-38genealogy comparisonUnderstanding the profound meaning of Jesus' name 'Immanuel'âGod didn't just send help, He came Himself to be with us.
Matthew 1:23; John 1:14name significanceâWho, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men.â
â Philippians 2:6-7Exploring John's profound statement that the eternal Word (Jesus) who was with God and was God became flesh and lived among us.
John 1:1-14theological studyUnderstanding the kenosis (emptying) described in Philippians 2âJesus gave up the privileges of heaven to become a servant and die for us.
Philippians 2:5-11sacrifice analysisExamining evidence that Jesus was fully humanâHe got tired, hungry, thirsty, felt emotions, experienced temptation, and died.
John 4:6; 11:35; Matthew 4:2; Hebrews 4:15humanity evidenceExamining evidence that Jesus was fully GodâHe forgave sins, performed miracles, claimed equality with God, and rose from the dead.
Mark 2:5-12; John 10:30; 20:28divinity evidenceUnderstanding why Jesus had to be both fully God and fully human to save usâhuman to represent us, God to save us perfectly.
1 Timothy 2:5; Hebrews 2:14-18necessity explanationâFor as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.â
â Romans 5:19Reviewing how Adam, as humanity's representative, failed the test in the garden, bringing sin and death to all his descendants.
Genesis 3:1-19; Romans 5:12review and connectionExamining how Jesus, as the second Adam, faced temptation in the wilderness and throughout His life but never sinned.
Matthew 4:1-11; Hebrews 4:15temptation comparisonContrasting the Garden of Eden (where Adam disobeyed) with the Garden of Gethsemane (where Jesus obeyed), showing Jesus reversed Adam's failure.
Genesis 3:1-6; Luke 22:39-46parallel studyUnderstanding Paul's teaching that Adam's disobedience brought death to all, but Jesus' obedience brings life to all who believe.
Romans 5:12-21Romans studyUnderstanding that everyone is either 'in Adam' (under sin and death) or 'in Christ' (under grace and life) through faith.
1 Corinthians 15:21-22, 45-49position explanationâBut he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.â
â Isaiah 53:5Introducing the concept of substitutionary atonementâJesus took our place, receiving the punishment we deserved for our sin.
Isaiah 53:4-6; 2 Corinthians 5:21concept introductionReviewing how Old Testament animal sacrifices were substitutes for sin, but they pointed forward to Jesus' perfect, final sacrifice.
Leviticus 16:1-34; Hebrews 10:1-10sacrifice system reviewStudying Isaiah 53 in detailâevery line shows Jesus taking our punishment: wounded for OUR sins, crushed for OUR iniquities.
Isaiah 53:1-12verse-by-verse studyUnderstanding 2 Corinthians 5:21âJesus took our sin, we receive His righteousness. He became what we are so we could become what He is.
2 Corinthians 5:21exchange explanationUnderstanding that Jesus' death was necessary to satisfy God's justice while expressing His loveâHe paid the penalty we owed.
Romans 3:23-26necessity studyâFor I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures.â
â 1 Corinthians 15:3-4Examining the Gospel accounts of the empty tomb on Easter morningâthe stone rolled away, the grave clothes left behind, the angel's announcement.
Matthew 28:1-10; John 20:1-10narrative studySurveying Jesus' resurrection appearancesâto Mary, disciples, Thomas, 500+ people at onceâshowing He really rose bodily from the dead.
1 Corinthians 15:3-8; John 20:11-29appearance catalogUnderstanding that the disciples' change from fearful hiding to bold preaching is powerful evidenceâsomething dramatic happened to them.
John 20:19; Acts 2:14-41; 4:13-20before and afterExploring Paul's teaching that if Christ didn't rise, our faith is uselessâthe resurrection proves Jesus is who He said and defeated death.
1 Corinthians 15:12-20importance studyUnderstanding that Jesus' resurrection guarantees oursâHe is the 'firstfruits,' meaning all who trust Him will also rise with new bodies.
1 Corinthians 15:20-23, 42-49hope connectionâBlessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.â
â Matthew 5:3Introducing the Sermon on the Mount as Jesus' teaching about what life in God's kingdom looks likeâvalues that turn the world's values upside down.
Matthew 5:1-2context settingExploring the Beatitudes (blessed attitudes)âJesus teaches that true blessing comes from humility, mercy, purity, peacemaking, not worldly success.
Matthew 5:3-12Beatitudes studyUnderstanding Jesus' call for His followers to be salt (preserving, flavoring) and light (showing the way) in the world.
Matthew 5:13-16metaphor explorationExamining how Jesus taught that God cares about our hearts, not just outward obedienceâanger is like murder, lust is like adultery.
Matthew 5:21-30heart vs. actionExploring Jesus' radical command to love enemies and pray for persecutors, showing God's children are to be different from the world.
Matthew 5:43-48challenge discussionâAfter this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.â
â Matthew 6:9-10Understanding Jesus' warning against praying to be seen by others or using empty repetitionsâprayer is genuine conversation with God.
Matthew 6:5-8contrast studyExploring the first line of the Lord's Prayerâaddressing God as 'our Father' shows relationship, 'in heaven' shows His authority and holiness.
Matthew 6:9opening analysisUnderstanding the first three petitions focus on GodâHis name, His kingdom, His willâteaching us to prioritize God's glory in prayer.
Matthew 6:9-10priority studyExamining the next petitions about our needsâdaily bread (provision), forgiveness (relationships), deliverance from evil (protection).
Matthew 6:11-13petition breakdownUsing the Lord's Prayer as a model for our own prayers, understanding it's a pattern to follow, not just words to repeat.
Matthew 6:9-13prayer practiceâBut seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.â
â Matthew 6:33Understanding Jesus' teaching that where we store our treasure shows where our heart isâearthly treasures fade, heavenly treasures last.
Matthew 6:19-21treasure evaluationExamining Jesus' warning that we can't serve both God and moneyâwe'll love one and hate the other.
Matthew 6:24choice discussionExploring Jesus' illustration from natureâGod feeds the birds who don't plant or harvest, showing He'll provide for His children too.
Matthew 6:25-27nature observationExamining Jesus' second nature illustrationâGod clothes the grass beautifully, so He'll surely clothe His children.
Matthew 6:28-30beauty appreciationUnderstanding Jesus' solution to worryâmake God's kingdom your priority, and He'll take care of your needs.
Matthew 6:31-34priority settingâTherefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.â
â Matthew 7:12Understanding Jesus' teaching about judgmentâwe shouldn't condemn others while ignoring our own faults (the speck and the log illustration).
Matthew 7:1-5self-examinationExploring Jesus' encouragement to pray persistentlyâGod is a good Father who loves to give good gifts to His children who ask.
Matthew 7:7-11prayer encouragementExamining the Golden Ruleâtreat others the way you want to be treatedâas a summary of how to love others according to God's law.
Matthew 7:12application scenariosStudying Jesus' parable of the wise builder (obeys Jesus' words) and foolish builder (hears but doesn't obey) and the different outcomes.
Matthew 7:24-27parable studyApplying the Sermon on the Mountâunderstanding that hearing Jesus' words isn't enough; we must obey them to build a life that lasts.
Matthew 7:24-29personal applicationâBut the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.â
â John 14:26Examining Jesus' promise to send the Holy Spirit as Comforter, Helper, and Teacher who would be with disciples forever.
John 14:15-26promise studyUnderstanding that the Holy Spirit is not just a force but the third person of the TrinityâHe teaches, convicts, guides, and can be grieved.
John 16:7-15; Ephesians 4:30personhood evidenceStudying the Day of Pentecost when the Holy Spirit came with wind and fire, empowering the disciples to boldly preach the gospel.
Acts 2:1-41narrative studyExploring the Holy Spirit's work in believersâHe convicts of sin, teaches truth, gives spiritual gifts, produces fruit, and empowers witness.
John 16:8-11; 1 Corinthians 12:4-11; Galatians 5:22-23ministry surveyUnderstanding what it means to be 'filled with' and 'walk by' the Spiritâyielding to His leading rather than following our own desires.
Galatians 5:16-25; Ephesians 5:18practical applicationâBut the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.â
â Galatians 5:22-23Understanding that Paul lists 'fruit' (singular) not 'fruits'âall nine qualities grow together as the Spirit works in us, like a cluster of grapes.
Galatians 5:22-23grammar observationExploring the first three fruitâlove (putting others first), joy (deep gladness in God), peace (calm confidence in God's control).
Galatians 5:22; 1 Corinthians 13:4-7; Philippians 4:4-7definition studyExamining the middle three fruitâpatience (longsuffering with others), kindness (gentle actions), goodness (moral excellence).
Galatians 5:22; Colossians 3:12-14definition studyStudying the final three fruitâfaithfulness (reliability), gentleness (meekness/humility), self-control (Spirit-control over desires).
Galatians 5:23; 2 Peter 1:5-8definition studyUnderstanding that fruit grows gradually as we stay connected to Jesus and yield to the Spiritâwe can't produce it ourselves.
John 15:1-8; Galatians 5:16-25growth principlesâBut ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.â
â Acts 1:8Studying Jesus' ascension and His final command to be His witnesses, starting in Jerusalem and spreading to the ends of the earth.
Acts 1:1-11commission studyExamining Peter's transformation from denier to bold preacher at Pentecost, when 3,000 people believed and were baptized.
Acts 2:14-41sermon analysisExploring how the first Christians livedâdevoted to teaching, fellowship, breaking bread, prayer, and sharing with those in need.
Acts 2:42-47; 4:32-37community studyUnderstanding how persecution after Stephen's death scattered believers, but they preached wherever they went, spreading the gospel further.
Acts 8:1-8; 11:19-21cause and effectStudying Peter's vision and visit to Cornelius, showing God's plan to include non-Jews in His churchâsalvation is for all people.
Acts 10:1-48barrier breakingâBut none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.â
â Acts 20:24Reviewing Paul's dramatic conversion on the Damascus road, showing how Jesus transforms even His enemies into powerful witnesses.
Acts 9:1-22transformation studyFollowing Paul's first missionary journey with Barnabas, planting churches in Cyprus and southern Galatia despite opposition.
Acts 13:1-14:28journey mappingTracing Paul's second journey when he brought the gospel to EuropeâPhilippi, Thessalonica, Athens, Corinth.
Acts 15:36-18:22journey mappingExploring Paul's third journey with extended ministry in Ephesus and emotional farewell to the Ephesian elders.
Acts 18:23-21:17journey mappingUnderstanding that Paul wrote letters (epistles) to churches he planted, teaching doctrine and addressing problemsâthese became Scripture.
Overview of Romans, Corinthians, Galatians, etc.epistle introductionâAll scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.â
â 2 Timothy 3:16-17Understanding inspirationâGod breathed out His words through human authors, so the Bible is both fully God's word and fully human writing.
2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:20-21doctrine studyExploring how the Bible was written on scrolls, copied by hand for centuries, and eventually printedâyet God preserved His word.
Psalm 119:89; Isaiah 40:8history overviewUnderstanding the Old Testament was written in Hebrew (mostly) over 1,000 years by many authors, all pointing to the coming Messiah.
Luke 24:44-47OT overviewExploring how the New Testament was written in Greek in the first century by apostles and their associates, recording Jesus' life and the early church.
John 20:30-31; 21:24-25NT overviewUnderstanding how the Bible has been translated into thousands of languages so everyone can read God's word in their own tongue.
Acts 2:4-11; Revelation 7:9translation appreciationâAnd beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.â
â Luke 24:27Understanding the Bible's overarching story: God created everything good, sin broke it, Jesus redeems us, and God will restore all things.
Genesis 1-3; Revelation 21-22big picture overviewReviewing how God's covenants (with Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, David) progressively reveal His rescue plan, all fulfilled in Jesus.
Review of covenant passagescovenant reviewDiscovering how Jesus explained that all Scripture points to Himâthe Law, Prophets, and Psalms all testify about Him.
Luke 24:25-27, 44-47Christocentric readingTracing major promises through Scripture: seed of the woman, Abraham's blessing, David's throneâall fulfilled in Jesus.
Genesis 3:15; 22:18; 2 Samuel 7:16; Galatians 3:16promise trackingUnderstanding that we live between Jesus' first coming (redemption accomplished) and second coming (restoration completed)âwe're part of God's story.
Acts 1:8; Matthew 28:18-20personal connectionâHe hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?â
â Micah 6:8Understanding Jesus' summary of all the commandmentsâlove God with all your heart and love your neighbor as yourself.
Matthew 22:34-40command summaryExploring Micah's summary of what God requiresâact justly (treat others fairly), love mercy (show compassion), walk humbly (depend on God).
Micah 6:6-8application studyUnderstanding our calling to be witnessesâsharing with others what Jesus has done for us and inviting them to trust Him too.
Matthew 28:18-20; 1 Peter 3:15witness preparationLearning from Jesus' example of servant leadershipâusing our gifts and abilities to help others and show God's love.
Mark 10:42-45; Galatians 5:13service planningUnderstanding spiritual growth practicesâreading the Bible, praying, worshiping with other believers, obeying God's word.
2 Peter 3:18; Hebrews 10:24-25discipline planningâHe which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.â
â Revelation 22:20Examining Jesus' promise that He will come back personally, visibly, and gloriously to gather His people and judge the world.
John 14:1-3; Acts 1:9-11; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18promise studyExploring Revelation's vision of the new creationâno more death, pain, tears, or sin; God dwelling with His people forever.
Revelation 21:1-8future hopeStudying John's description of the holy cityâbeautiful beyond imagination, where we'll worship God and reign with Christ forever.
Revelation 21:9-27; 22:1-5vision explorationUnderstanding how the promise of Jesus' return gives us hope nowâmotivating us to live faithfully and share the gospel urgently.
Titus 2:11-14; 2 Peter 3:8-14application discussionReviewing the year's journey through Scripture, celebrating what we've learned about God's character and His rescue plan through Jesus.
Psalm 145; Revelation 22:16-21year review and celebrationStart with Day 1 and work through at your own pace. Each lesson builds on the last!