Front Cover

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JESUS OUR FRIEND

BOOK 3

Books of the New Testament

Matthew Mark Luke John Acts Romans I Corinthians II Corinthians Galatians Ephesians Philippians Colossians I Thessalonians II Thessalonians

I Timothy II Timothy Titus Philemon Hebrews James I Peter II Peter I John II John III John Jude Revelation

JESUS, OUR FRIEND

LESSON 1

The Birth of Jesus

(Luke 2:1–20; Matthew 2:1–12)

Memory Verse: Luke 2:11
“For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord.”

Let us think about the birth of our friend, Jesus.

Joseph and his wife, Mary, lived in a town called Nazareth in Galilee. The king told everybody in his kingdom they had to pay taxes. To pay taxes means to give money so the government can give services to its people. Joseph and Mary could not

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pay taxes in Nazareth. They had to go to the city of their father's birth, so they had to travel to Bethlehem, a journey of about seventy to eighty miles. Today, that doesn't seem like far, however, since they had to walk or ride donkeys, it was a long, dusty trip.

When they reached Bethlehem a lot of other people were there to pay their taxes, too, so Joseph and Mary could not find a room in an inn or hotel.

In those days, nearly 2000 years ago, there was an open courtyard next to the inn or hotel. Here, cattle could stay at night. Poor travelers and their animals might spend the night. This may be where Joseph and Mary stayed.

While they were there, Mary gave birth to her first son. She wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger. A manger is a place where animals drink or eat. In those days, the mangers were cut out of rock. We can, in our imagination, see baby Jesus lying in a stone manger filled with hay.

In the same country, some shepherds were tending their sheep. They stayed with them all the time, even at night. An angel of the Lord came to them. The glory of the Lord shone around about them. They were afraid. The angel said, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy. This is for all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord."

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The angel told the shepherds they would find this baby in a manger in Bethlehem. Suddenly, there were many angels with the first one. The praised God by saying, “Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace, good will to men.” This baby will bring peace and good things to all people. Isn't that a good friend?

When the angels left, the shepherds hurried to find Joseph, Mary, and baby Jesus. They were so happy to see Jesus that they told everyone they saw about him as they returned to their sheep. Those shepherds were so thrilled about this wonderful thing that had been shown them.

Also, some wise men from the east came to Jerusalem, which is about ten miles north of Bethlehem. They asked where Jesus was, for they had seen His star in the east. They wanted to worship him.

Some men, who knew the Old Testament said he was to be born in Bethlehem. This troubled King Herod for he was afraid the baby would get his throne when he grew up. He told the wise men to go find the baby. Then, he wanted them to come back to Jerusalem and tell him where he was. He said he wanted to worship Him, too, but King Herod did not tell the truth.

Then, the star guided the wise men to baby Jesus. It came and stayed right over where He was lying. The wise men fell down on their knees and worshiped Jesus. They gave Him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

God told them to go home another way, so they did not go back to King Herod, for he was a mean king.

God told Joseph and Mary to name the baby, Jesus, for he would save his people for their sins; their bad ways.

Now, who will tell us about Joseph and Mary going to Bethlehem and about Jesus' birth?

Who will tell us about the angels appearing to the shepherds?

Who will tell us about the wise men?

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The teacher will help and guide you as you retell this exciting story.

Questions:

• Where did Joseph and Mary live?
• Why did they go to Bethlehem?
• Who told them to go?
• How far was it to Bethlehem?
• Why could they not find room in a hotel?
• Where did they spend the night?
• What happened while they were there?
• What did Mary wrap the baby in?
• Where did she lay him?
• What is a manger?
• Out of what was the manger made?
• To whom did an angel appear?
• Why were the sheperds afraid?
• What was the good news of joy that the angel brought?
• What was the baby Jesus bringing to the world?
• What did the shepherds do as they returned to their sheep after seeing Jesus?
• Who came from the east to see Jesus?
• What guided them to him?
• What did the wise men do when they found Jesus?
• What did they give baby Jesus?
• Why did God tell the wise men not to go back to Jerusalem where King Herod lived?
• Why did Joseph and Mary give the name Jesus to their baby?

Underline the correct words:

• Joseph and Mary lived in (Nazareth, Bethlehem).
• They had to go to Bethlehem to (see friends, pay taxes).
• They had to travel (eighty, ten) miles.
• They (could, could not) find room in the hotel.
• So they stayed in the (courtyard, barn).
• When the baby was born, his mother wrapped him in (rags, swaddling clothes).
• Baby Jesus was laid in a (manger, cradle).
• Animals (sleep in, drink and eat from) a manger.
• The manager was probably cut out of (stone, wood).

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True or False: Circle T if the sentence is true; circle F if the sentence is false or not true. Be ready to tell why the sentence is false.

T	F	1. An angel appeared to shepherds.
T	F	2. The glory of the Lord shown round about them.
T	F	3. The angel told them they should be afraid.
T	F	4. The angel was bringing the good news of great joy.
T	F	5. This good news was for only a few people.
T	F	6. Many angels appeared to the shepherds.
T	F	7. Baby Jesus was bringing peace and good to all people.

Match the phrases to make true statements by writing the correct letter in the blank.

Copy these sentences.

Jesus loves you!

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JESUS, OUR FRIEND

LESSON 2

The Childhood of Jesus

Matthew 2:13-23; Luke 2:22-52

Memory Verse: Luke 2:52
“And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.”

When baby Jesus was a little over a month old, Joseph and Mary took him to the temple to present him to God. The temple was the place the people went to worship God. In the temple, a very good man named Simeon came. He took the baby in his arms. He praised God for the salvation Jesus was bringing.

Then an old lady named Anna saw baby Jesus. She gave thanks to God for Jesus' birth. So we see that Jesus was a very unusual baby.

Then an angle of God appeared to Joseph in a dream. He told Joseph to take Mary and the young child to Egypt. Egypt was about two hundred miles southwest of Jerusalem. God knew that King Herod would try to find Jesus and kill him, so Joseph, Mary, and Jesus left at night for Egypt.

When King Herod died sometime later, an angel appeared to Joseph again. He told him it was now safe to return to Judea. Jesus may have been about six–years–old then. Joseph took his family to Nazareth in Galilee. He and Mary had lived there before Jesus was born.

Joseph was a carpenter; one who builds houses. He taught Jesus to be a carpenter, too. Can't you see Jesus as a boy working with Joseph in his carpenter's shop?

Every year Jesus' parents went to Jerusalem to observe the feast of the Passover. This was a religious feast God had told His people to observe each year. When Jesus was twelve–years–old, something unusual happened.

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Jesus and his parents had stayed in Jerusalem as long as was needed to keep the feast. Then Joseph and Mary started toward their home in Nazareth, but Jesus stayed in Jerusalem. His parents supposed that he was with the group of people with whom they were traveling. After they had traveled one whole day, they looked for Jesus. They asked their relatives and friends if they had seen the boy, but no one had seen him.

So, Josephe and Mary returned to Jerusalem to look for Jesus. You can be sure they were very anxious to find Him. They must have looked all over the city of Jerusalem. They were so concerned about Him. After looking for Him for three days, they found Him in the temple. He was sitting among the teachers. He was listening to them and asking them questions. All who heard him were very surprised at His knowledge. They were amazed at His answers, too.

His mother asked why He had worried them so much by staying in the temple. He reminded her that He must be about His Father's business. By this, He meant God's business. Mary did not understand.

Jesus went on home to Nazareth with them. He obeyed His parents, doing what they wanted Him to do.

Like all boys, Jesus grew in size. He was a healthy boy. Also, He grew wiser and wiser all the time. In every city, during this

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time, people met in synagogues to worship God. In the synagogues were schools where all the boys were taught reading, writing, and God's word.

Jesus grew in such a way that people liked Him. He had good manners. He loved people and wanted to be with them. He got along really well with others.

Also, as he grew, God approved of what He was doing; of how He was talking and behaving.

Who will tell us about baby Jesus in the temple?
Who will tell us about going to Egypt?
who will tell us about Jesus being in the temple?

Questions:

• How old was Jesus when He was first taken to the temple?
• Why did they take Him there?
• What did Simeon do in the temple?
• Why did he praise God?
• Why did Anna praise God?
• What did the angel tell Joseph to do?
• Why did God want them to go to Egypt?
• When did they return to Judea?
• What did Jesus learn from Joseph?
• How often did the people observe the Feast of the Passover?
• Where did they go to observe this feast?
• How old was Jesus when He went to Jerusalem at this time?
• When Joseph and Mary started back home, where was Jesus?
• His parents thought Jesus was with whom?
• How many days did they look for Him?
• Where did they find Him?
• What was He doing there?
• Why was everyone so surprised?
• What did his mother ask Him?
• What was Jesus' answer?
• Who was Jesus real Father?
• Then where did Jesus go??

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• How did He feel about His parents?
• Name four ways Jesus grew.

You will note that Jesus grew physically, mentally, spiritually, and socially.

Underline the correct words.

• When Jesus was (a little over eight days old, eight years old), He was taken to the temple.
• They took him there to (show him to relatives, present him to God).
• Simeon took baby Jesus (in his arms, into the temple).
• Anna gave thanks to God for (her long life, baby Jesus).
• God's angel appeared to Joseph in a (dream, story).
• Joseph was told to take Mary and Jesus to (Galilee, Egypt).

True or False: Be ready to tell why the sentences are false.

T	F	1. King Herod wanted to worship Jesus.
T	F	2. Joseph, Mary, and Jesus left Egypt to go back home when King Herod died.
T	F	3. They went to Bethlehem to live.
T	F	4. Jesus learned to be a carpenter.
T	F	5. People went to Jerusalem every month to keep a feast.
T	F	6. Jesus was ten years old when he went to the temple.

Match the phrases to make a true statement.

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What should you do?

1.  You are busy studying your Bible Lesson. Your mother says, “I am sorry to disturb your study, but you are needed to take this medicine to Grandmother's house.” What should you do?

2.  You are playing your favorite game with your friends. Your father calls to tell you that he needs you to help him with something he is fixing in the house. You are having such a good time. What should you do?

3.  You have just come home from school. You are very hungry. You have made a delicious sandwich. You've taken one bite. How good it tastes! Your mother calls you to help with some yard work that will take about an hour. What should you do?

Copy these sentences.

Jesus loves you!
He wants you to obey your parents!

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JESUS, OUR FRIEND

LESSON 3

Jesus Made a Sick Boy Well

John 4:46-54

Memory Verse: Proverbs 17:17a
“A friend loves at all times.”

What is a friend?

A friend loves.
A friend is kind.
A friend is helpful.
A friend is forgiving.
A friend is dependable.
A friend is patient.
A friend is truthful.
A friend is always there when you need him.

Jesus grew up to be a very kind man. He loved all people. He wanted to help them. He wanted them to be healthy and happy. Because He was God's Son, he could do miracles. A miracle is a happening that is done only by the power of God.

As Jesus went about doing good, he came to Cana in Galilee. A certain royal official lived nearby. His son was very, very sick. He was so sick he was about to die.

When this official heard that Jesus was in town, he found Jesus. He asked Jesus to come and make his son well. He said, “Sir, please come before my son dies.”

Jesus said to him, “Go your way. Your son lives.” The man believed Jesus was telling him the truth. He went on his way

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home. As he was going home, his servants met him. They told him, “Your son is living. He is well!”

The man asked at what time he began to get better. They answered, “Yesterday at one o'clock the fever left him.” And the father knew that it was the very same hour that Jesus had said, “Your son lives.”

Of course this man was very happy. He rejoiced with his family and servants. They were happy because his son was well and because all of them believed in Jesus.

Who would like to tell about the sick boy whom Jesus made well?

Questions:

• What could Jesus do that other men could not do?
• What is a miracle?
• Where was Jesus when He did this miracle?
• Who found Jesus in Cana?
• What did he want Jesus to do?
• How sick was his son?
• What did Jesus tell the man?
• Did the man believe that Jesus told him the truth?
• As the man was going home, who met him?
• What good news did they bring?
• When did the fever leave the sick son?

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• What time did Jesus tell the man that his son was well?
• Why were the man and his family happy?

Underline the correct words.

• Jesus loves (everybody, only a few people).
• He wanted people to be (sad, happy).
• Jesus came to (Bethlehem, Cana).
• The boy was about to (die, run away).
• Jesus told the man to go home. His son was (well, back home).

True or False: Be ready to tell why the sentences are false.

T	F	1. The man believed Jesus.
T	F	2. Some strangers met the man on the way home.
T	F	3. The servants told him his son was well.
T	F	4. The fever left the boy at two–o'clock the day before.
T	F	5. The fever left the boy at exactly the time that Jesus said.
T	F	6. The man and his family believed Jesus.

Match the phrases to make true statements.

(Matthew 19:13-15; Mark 19:13-16)

Some people brought their little children to Jesus. They wanted Him to put His hands on them, to bless them, and to pray for them. Jesus disciples told these people they should not bother Jesus. Evidently, the disciples thought He had more important things to do.

But Jesus was very displeased with His disciples. He said, “Bring the little children to me.” He loved the little ones. He blessed them and prayed for them. We can be sure the children loved Jesus, too. He was a kind, patient friend.

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Copy these sentences.

Yes, Jesus loves you!
He wants you to be a friend to others!
How can you be a friend to others?

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JESUS, OUR FRIEND

LESSON 4

Jesus Makes a Sick Young Servant Well

Matthew 8:5–13; Luke 7:1–10

Memory Verse: Proverbs 18:24a
“A man that has friends must be friendly.”

(The Greek language in which the New Testament was written shows that the servant was a child.)

Jesus went to a town called Capernaum. An officer in the army had a very young servant who was near death. He loved this little child very much. He did not want the child to die and he was sad. The officer sent messengers to Jesus to ask him to come and make his little servant well.

Jesus, who was always wanting to help others, went with them toward the officer's house. When he was not far from the house, the officer sent friends to Jesus. He told his friends to say, “Lord, do not bother to come to my house. I am not good enough for you to come to me or into my house. But just speak and my little servant will be well.”

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Jesus was surprised at such great faith as the officer had. He had said he believed that Jesus could make his servant well by just saying that he was well. He did not think Jesus had to tough his servant.

Jesus told the friends of the officer to go on back to the officer's house. He said, “As you have believed, so will you servant be well.”

His young servant was made well that same hour. When the friends reached the officer's house, they saw the child well and alive. All at that house were happy and rejoicing.

Who will tell us the story of the young servant?

Questions:

• What town was Jesus in?
• Who was sick?
• How sick was he?
• Whose servant was he?
• How did the officer feel about his little servant?
• What did the officer's messengers ask Jesus to do?
• Who met Jesus as he went toward the officer's house?
• What did the officer tell his friends to tell Jesus?
• Why didn't he want Jesus to come into his house?
• What did ne want Jesus to do to make his little servant well?
• What did Jesus think about the officer's faith?
• What did Jesus tell the friends?
• What happened to the child servant?
• When was he made well?

Underline the correct words.

• Jesus was in the town of (Capernaum, Cana).
• An army officer had a (son, child servant) who was very sick.
• He was about to (die, get well).
• The officer sent (messengers, letters) to Jesus.
• They asked Jesus to come to his house to make his servant (behave, well).

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True or False: Be ready to tell why the sentences are false.

T	F	1. When Jesus was near the house, the officer sent friends to Jesus.
T	F	2. They asked him to hurry to the house.
T	F	3. The officer said he was too good for Jesus to come into his house.
T	F	4. The officer wanted Jesus to just speak that his servant might be well.
T	F	5. He believed Jesus could make his little servant well without being there.

Match the phrases to make true statements.

The army officer was humble. He thought he was not good enough for Jesus to come into his House.

What should you do?

1.  It is the day report cards are given you to take to your parents. You slowly take a peek at yours. You have made one B. The rest are A's. You are quite proud to hand yours to your parents. Your younger brother, who tries so hard, had made only C's. He is sad because he has not done as well as you. How should you feel? What should you do?

2.  During the ball game you put out three players and you hit a home run and a double. But Tommy seemed to be all thumbs that day. He made three errors, dropping the ball over and over. When he was at bat, he did not get a single hit. He feels terrible. You and Tommy always walk home together. How should you feel? What should you do?

2.  You and your sister like to cook. Mother said you could bake cookies on Monday. Your sister could bake on Tuesday.

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Your cookies were perfect. Everyone in your family said they were delicious. But your sisters cookies were hard and not very good–tasting. She was so disappointed. How should you feel? What should you do?

Copy these sentences.

Jesus loves you!
He wants you to be kind!

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JESUS, OUR FRIEND

LESSON 5

Jesus Made a Dead Girl to Live Again

Matthew 9:18–19, 23–26; Mark 5:21–24. 35–43; Luke 8:41–42, 49–56

Memory Verse: John 15:14
“You are my friends if you do whatever I command you.”

Jesus crossed the Sea of Galilee by ship. A man of authority came to Jesus. His name was Jairus (Ja – i – rus). He was the ruler of the synagogue which was their place of worship. He told Jesus his daughter was dying. She was twelve years old. He fell down at Jesus' feet. He asked Jesus to come to his house. He said, “If you put your hands on her, she will live."

Jesus went with Jairus toward his house. On his way Jesus was delayed by a woman who wanted to be made well. Just as Jesus made her well, a person from the ruler's house came to meet them. He said, “Your daughter is dead, so don't bother Jesus any more.”

However, Jesus said to Jairus, “Do not be afraid. Only believe, and your daughter shall live.”

When they came to the house, the people were crying because the girl had died. Jesus told them, “Do not cry. She is not dead. She is sleeping.” The people laughed at Jesus, for they knew she was dead. Of course, Jesus knew she was dead, but He knew what He was going to do. He thought of death as being only asleep from which a person would awake.

When Jesus went into the room where the dead girl lay, he only let a few people go in with him; her father, mother, and Peter, James, and John. They were three of Jesus' twelve apostles. Jesus took the girl by the hand and said, “Maid, arise.” At once

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she came to life. She got up and walked. Jesus told them to give her something to eat.

Her parents were so very surprised, but very happy to have their twelve–year–old daughter with them again.

Who will tell us the story of the twelve–year–old girl whom Jeus made to live again.

Question:

• What had Jesus just crossed by ship?
• Who came to Jesus?
• What did he want?
• Where did he ask Jesus to go?
• How old was his daughter?
• What delayed Jesus as he went to the ruler's house?
• Who came to meet them?
• What did he say?
• What did Jesus say to Jairus?
• What were the people doing when they reached Jairus' house?
• Why did they laugh at Jesus?
• What did Jesus mean when he said the girl is only sleeping?
• Who went with Jesus into the girl's room?
• Where did Jesus touch the girl?
• What did he say to her?
• How long did it take Jesus to make her well?

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• What did the girl do?
• What did Jesus tell them to giver her?
• How did the girl's parents feel?
• How do you think the girl felt about Jesus?
• Was Jesus their friend?

Underline the correct words.

• Jesus had just crossed the (Sea of Galilee, Jordan River).
• A man named (John, Jairus) came to Jesus.
• He had a daughter who was (crying, dying).
• She was (twelve, ten) years old.
• Jairus (fell down, stumbled) at Jesus feet.
• He wanted Jesus to come to his (synagogue, home).
• He wanted Jesus to put his (head, hands) on her to make her well.

True or False: Be ready to tell whey the sentences are false.

T	F	1. On the way to the ruler's house, Jesus was delayed by a sick woman.
T	F	2. Jesus made the sick woman well.
T	F	3. One person from the ruler's house came to meet them.
T	F	4. Jairus was told his daughter was already well.
T	F	5. Jesus told Jairus his daughter would live.
T	F	6. People at his house were crying.
T	F	7. They laughed at Jesus when he said the girl was sleeping.

Match the phrases to make true statements.

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What should you do?

1.  It is time to go to the picnic. You and your family are looking forward to enjoying it very much. Your little sister has just cut her foot. It must be doctored before she can go. What should you do?

2,  Your friend that you always depend on did not invite you to his (her) party. Your feelings were hurt. When you give a party for your friends, what should you do?

3.  Your brother said some ugly things about you. Of course, they were not true. After thinking about what he said, he came to you and said he was sorry. He asked you to forgive him. What should you do?

Jesus does love you!
He wants you to help others.

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JESUS, OUR FRIEND

LESSON 6

Zacchaeus Sees Jesus

Luke 19:1–10

Memory Verse: John 14:15
“If you love me, keep my commandments.”

Jesus entered the town of Jericho. A man named Zacchaeus (Zac–ke’–us) lived there. He was the chief tax collector at the important road center of Jericho. He was a rich man. He may have gotten much of his money dishonestly. He may have collected more money than the government told him to collect. Then, he kept that extra money for himself. This, of course, was not honest, and Jesus did not approve of this.

The people who lived in these places at this time looked upon tax collectors as sinners, as very bad men. They hated tax collectors because they collected taxes for a government they did not like, and, too, they took so much money from the people. The people would have nothing to do with tax collectors. They never went to their homes or invited them to come to their houses.

Zacchaeus heard that Jesus was passing through Jericho. He had heard about the miracles and about what a good, great man He was. He wanted to see Jesus very much. Zacchaeus was a little, short man. There were so many people following Jesus. There were people all around him. Since Zacchaeus was not very tall, he could not see above all these people. And he wanted to see Jesus so very, very much.

Do you know what he did? He ran on ahead of the crowd and climbed up a sycamore tree. He thought to himself, "Now I can see this great man as he passes by."

When Jesus came to the tree, he looked up and saw Zacchaeus. Zacchaeus wanted to see Jesus. Now Jesus saw him! Jesus called him by name. He said, "Zacchaeus, hurry and come down from that tree. Today I am going home with you." Can't you just almost hear Zacchaeus' heart beating so fast? Jesus

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knew his name! He is going home with him! He was so thrilled. He came down from that tree quickly. He received Jesus joyfully into his house.

The people with Jesus were horrified. They began to murmur, “Jesus has gone to be a guest of a sinner.” They thought that was terrible! However, that did not bother Jesus at all. He loved Zacchaeus just as much as he did those who were complaining. He went to Zacchaeus’ house.

Zacchaeus said to Jesus, “I will give half my goods to the poor people. If I have taken anything from anybody dishonestly, I will give him four times as much.” Being with Jesus and seeing what a good man he was caused Zacchaeus to do right.

Jesus said, “This day salvation has come to this house. I have come to look for and save the lost.”

Because Jesus was Zacchaeus' friend, Zacchaeus became a good man.

Who will tell us the story of Zacchaeus?

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Questions:

• Into what town did Jesus enter?
• Who lived there?
• How did he make a living?
• How may he have gotten so much money to make him rich?
• Why did the people hate tax collectors?
• What did they call tax collectors?
• Why did Zacchaeus want to see Jesus?
• Why could he not see Jesus as he passed by?
• Why do you think so many people were following Jesus?
• How did Zacchaeus manage to see Jesus?
• What did Jesus do when he reached the Sycamore tree?
• How did Jesus know Zacchaeus’ name?
• What did Jesus tell him to do?
• Where did Jesus say he was going?
• How did Zacchaeus feel about Jesus going home with him?
• What did the people think about Jesus going to Zacchaeus” house?
• What did Zacchaeus tell Jesus he was going to do?
• Whom has Jesus come to look for and to save?
• Because Jesus was Zacchaeus’ friend, what did Zacchaeus become?

Underline the correct words.

• Jesus went into the town of (Jericho, Cana).
• (James, Zacchaeus) lived there.
• He was the chief (tax collector, farmer).
• He was a (poor, rich) man.
• He may have gotten much of his money (honestly, dishonestly).
• The people (loved, hated) tax collectors.
• They would have (little, nothing) to do with them.

True or False: Be ready to tell why the sentences are false.

T	F	1. Zacchaeus was a little, short man.
T	F	2. He did not care about seeing Jesus.
T	F	3. He could not see Jesus for all the people who were taller than he.

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T	F	4. He ran ahead and climbed up a palm tree.
T	F	5. Jesus looked up into the tree and saw Zacchaeus.

Match the phrases to make true statements.

What should you do?

1.  Tommy is a poor boy. His father is out of work. Tommy's clothes are ragged and patched. Because of this, the other children do not like him. They will not play with him. What should you do?

2.  Jane is not a pretty girl. She dresses strangely. The other children treat her terribly. They call her ugly names. What should you do?

3.  John is not a healthy boy. He cannot run very fast. Others do not want to play with him. What should you do?

4.  Mary is overweight. That is the only reason the other children do not like her. Some make fun of her. Others do the same because they are afraid their friends won't like them if they treat Mary right. What should you do?

Copy these sentences.

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Jesus Loves you!
He wants you to love others!

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JESUS, OUR FRIEND

LESSON 7

The Good Samaritan

Luke 10:25–37

Memory Verse: John 14:23a
“If anyone loves me, he will keep my word.”

As Jesus went about doing good, he taught God's word to the people. Sometimes he told stories to teach them important lessons.

Some people tried to get Jesus to say or do the wrong thing, but they could not do that.

However, a certain lawyer tried just that. He asked Jesus, “What must I do to have eternal life?” This is a good question, but the lawyer did not really want to know. Jesus knew this because he knows our thoughts.

Jesus asked him what did God's word tell him. The lawyer answered, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind. And to love your neighbor as yourself.”

Jesus told him he answered correctly. He told him to do these things and that would please God.

But the lawyer asked, “Who is my neighbor?”

Then Jesus told him a story to teach him who his neighbor is.

A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho. Thieves attacked him. They stripped him of his clothes. They beat him and left him half dead.

Soon a priest happened to come by. He looked at the half dead man. Perhaps he thought, “Another one is hurt. It is always happening here.” He did nothing for the injured man. He just went on his way.

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Then a Levite, another religious leader, came that way. When he saw the wounded man, he only looked at him. Perhaps he thought, "That's too bad. These thieves and robbers are awful." Anyway he went on his way.

Then a Samaritan (a person whom these people hated) came along. When he saw the man lying there, he felt sorry for him. He went to him and poured oil and wine (medicine of that day) into his wounds. He bandaged his wounds. Then he put the injured man on his own donkey and took him to an inn or hotel. You understand the Samaritan walked beside his donkey as it carried the half dead man. At the hotel he took care of the man.

The next day he had to leave on his journey. Since the man was not well yet, he gave two silver coins to the innkeeper. He asked the innkeeper to take care of the wounded man. He said, “When I return, I will give you more money to repay you for what you have to spend on him until he is well.”

When Jesus finished telling this story, he asked the lawyer, “Which of these three (priest, Levite, Samaritan) was a neighbor to the man who fell among thieves?”

The lawyer answered, “The one who showed mercy to him.”

Jesus said, “You go and help others like the Samaritan did.” The Samaritan was a good friend to the wounded man. He loved his neighbor.

Now who will tell us the story of the half dead man and the good Samaritan?

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Questions:

• What did Jesus use to teach the people important lessons?
• Why did the lawyer ask Jesus these questions?
• What was his second question?
• In the story Jesus told, to what town was the man going from Jerusalem?
• Who bothered him?
• What did they do to him?
• In what condition did they leave him?
• Who happened to come along?
• What did he do when he saw the wounded man?
• Who was the second one to come along?
• What did he do?
• Who was the third person to come along?
• How did he feel when he saw the injured man?
• What did he do for him?
• Where did he take him?
• How did he take him?
• What did he do the rest of the day at the inn?
• When the Samaritan had to leave the next day, what did he give the innkeeper?
• Why did he give him money?
• Which of the three who came along was a good neighbor to the half dead man?
• What did Jesus tell the lawyer and us to do?

Underline the correct words.

• Jesus taught (God's word, laws of men) to the people.
• Sometimes he (told stories, read letters) to teach important lessons.
• The lawyer said, “Who is my (relative, neighbor)?
• In the story, a man was going from Jerusalem to (Bethlehem, Jericho).
• (Thieves, Friends) attacked him.
• They stole his (food, clothes).
• They (beat, pushed) him.
• They left him (slightly wounded, half dead).

True or False: Be ready to tell why the sentences are false.

T

F

1. A priest happened to come that way.

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T	F	2. He helped the wounded man.
T	F	3. A Levite came that way, too.
T	F	4. He doctored the wounded man.
T	F	5. The third person to come along was a Samaritan.
T	F	6. He thought the man got what he deserved.
T	F	7. He poured oil and wine in the man's wounds.
T	F	8. He bandaged his wounds.

Match the phrases to make true statements.

What should you do?

1.  Mia cannot walk because of an accident she was in. She is not able to go to school, but she wants to learn. Her teacher has some books and papers for her, but she cannot take them to her because of her sick mother at home. What should you do?

2.  You and some friends are playing on a field. Rio falls and cries in pain. He cannot get up. What should you do?

3.  Mary's family is very poor. Her father can barely provide enough food for his family, and he really tries. She does not have clothes so she can go to school. Your family has some extra clothes. What should you do.

4.  Jane's father does not have work. He has tried and tried to find work. But, so far, he has found nothing to do. The family does not have enough food to eat. Their supply of food is getting less every day. Your father has a good job. What should you do.

Can you tell us other ways you can help people who are in need?

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Copy these sentences.

Jesus loves you!
He wants you to be kind to everyone!

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JESUS, OUR FRIEND

LESSON 8

The Good Shepherd

John 10:1–18; Luke 15:4–7

Memory Verse: John 10:11
“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives his life for the sheep.”

Jesus compared himself to a shepherd.

Many people among whom Jesus lived nearly 2000 years ago owned sheep. The ones who took care of the sheep were called shepherds. At night, the sheep were kept in a sheepfold. A stone wall was built around the sheepfold to keep the sheep in and its enemies out.

Each morning the shepherd led the sheep out of the sheepfold. He went before them, guiding them and calling them. The sheep followed him. He knew where the pastures or fields were green. He took them there to eat. When they were thirsty, he took them to still watering places to drink.

At all times the shepherd watched his flock of sheep, keeping them from wandering away. If a sheep went away from the flock, the shepherd looked for it until he found it. He was always so happy to find a lost sheep. With a rod he kept animals away that would harm them, or robbers who would steal them.

The shepherd used his long staff with crook on on end to keep his sheep in the right path. He used it to help them over rough, dangerous places.

In the evening he brought his sheep back to the sheepfold for the night. Only one sheep could enter at a time. In that way, the shepherd could count his sheep to be sure that were all there. He did not want to lose a single one of them! Also, as each sheep entered, he looked for any cuts and bruises. If he found any, he doctored them with oil to help them get well. The shepherd kept a big jug of water. As each sheep came in, he

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gave it a cup of water. The tired sheep drank the water and felt better.

When all were in the sheepfold, the shepherd watched the entrance during the night.

A good shepherd loves his sheep. He is very careful of any of their needs. He is kind to them. He even carries the little lambs in his arms over dangerous places. He gently leads the young ones where they should go. If any bones are broken, he binds them so they will get well. He doctors the sick ones. He will not let anything keep him from caring for his sheep. He will even die protecting his sheep from animals and robbers.

Jesus said, “I am the good shepherd. I know my sheep and they know me.” People who obey Jesus become his followers. They are his sheep. Jesus knows his sheep by name and they follow him.

Of course, Jesus does not keep his sheep (followers) in a real sheepfold. He does not feed them green grass. But, just as a shepherd loves and cares for his sheep, so Jesus loves and takes care of his sheep. He is kind and gentle with them. He looks after them. If they stray away, he looks for them. He goes in front of them and shows them the way to live. When they become hurt or sick, he cares. He gives them the things they need.

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So Jesus, being our good shepherd, is our kind, loving, faithful friend. No one cares like Jesus cares. He said, “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives his life for the sheep."

Questions:

• What does a shepherd do?
• What is a sheepfold?
• What keeps the sheep in the sheepfold?
• What does the shepherd do each morning?
• Where is the shepherd as he and the sheep leave the sheepfold?
• Where does he take his sheep?
• Where do they drink water?
• Why does the shepherd watch his flock of sheep at all times?
• What might harm them?
• If a sheep wandered away, what did the shepherd do?
• For what did he use his staff?
• Where did he take them in the evening?
• How many sheep could enter the sheepfold at one time?
• As the sheep went under the rod at the entrance, what did the shepherd do to know all his sheep were there?
• If a sheep had cuts or bruises, what did he do?
• What did he give each from a cup?
• Where did the shepherd sleep at night?
• Who is our good shepherd?
• Who are Jesus’ sheep?

Underline the correct words.

• At night the sheep were kept in a (sheepfold, barn).
• A (board fence, stone wall) was built around the sheepfold.
• (In the morning, At night) the shepherd led the sheep out.
• He went (after, before) the sheep as they left.
• He took them to (green, dead) pastures to eat.
• He watched his sheep (sometimes, at all times).
• He used a (long staff, cup) to guide his sheep over dangerous places.

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True or False: Be ready to tell why the sentences are false.

T	F	1. The shepherd took his sheep to rivers or creeks to drink water.
T	F	2. He brought the sheep back to the barnyard in the evening.
T	F	3. Only two sheep could enter at a time under the rod at the entrance of the sheepfold.
T	F	4. The shepherd counted his sheep to be sure all had come home.
T	F	5. He put oil on them if they had cuts.
T	F	6. As they entered the sheepfold, he gave each a cup of water to drink.
T	F	7. At night the shepherd slept in his house.

Match the phrases to make true statements.

A good shepherd does his work well.

1.  Your mother wants you to get the weeds out of her garden. You begin doing that. A friend comes along and wants you to play with her (him). You tell your friend you can't until you have finished your job. Your friend wants you to hurry and suggests you pull only the biggest weeds. What should you do?

2.  Your teacher has given you an assignment to write a story at home. You begin working on your assignment, then you remember about a program you like to listen to on the radio. So you finish

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your story in a hurry. When you read it, you know you have a lot of words spelled wrong and your writing is terrible. What should you do?

Copy these sentences.

Jesus loves you!

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JESUS, OUR FRIEND

LESSON 9

Jesus Gave His life For His Sheep

Matthew 27; 28; Acts 1:1–11

Memory Verse: John 15:13
“Greater love has no one that this, than to lay down one's life for his friends.”

Jesus loves everyone. He does not like their bad deeds, but he loves each person. He wanted to be everyone's friend, but everyone did not love Jesus, because they were bad men. What they were doing was evil. To be their friend, Jesus had to tell them what they were doing wrong. They hated him for that. They were determined to keep doing wrong.

They thought Jesus wanted to set up His kingdom on earth and be king, but he did not. They did not understand, so they wanted him out of the way.

They arrested Him and took Him to Pilate, the governor. He asked them what Jesus had done that He should be arrested. They did not know of anything He had done wrong. They only cried, “He needs to die!” They wanted Him crucified.

Pilate tried three times to allow Jesus to go free. However, the people were so loud, saying, “Crucify Him! Crucify Him,” so Pilate finally turned Jesus over to them to be killed.

The soldiers took Jesus and put a purple robe on Him. A crown of thorns was put on His head. They put a stick in His hand. They bowed before Him, making fun of Him. They hit Him on the head with the stick. They slapped Him. They spit on Him.

But Jesus did not hit them or say anything to them. He still loved them.

Then, he was taken to a place called Calvary. There His hands and feet were nailed to a cross. While hanging on the cross,

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Jesus prayed, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” After suffering on the cross for six hours, Jesus died.

Then two of His friends gently took His body and buried it.

This makes us sad that people would treat our friend, Jesus, this way. The saddest thing is that people can be so mean. But Jesus did not want us to be sad. You remember He was able to make people live again after they had died.

So Jesus could not stay in His grave. On the third day of His death, God raised Jesus from the dead. He lived again! His followers were very surprised when He appeared to them. It was very difficult for them to realize they were really seeing Jesus, but He talked to them and at with them. For forty days He walked among his followers (His sheep).

Then He took them to a town outside Jerusalem. Jesus blessed His followers and then He was taken up into heaven. A cloud received Him out of their sight. Jesus went back to Heaven to live with God, His Father. There, He was made King of kings. He is king of His kingdom. He lives forevermore to care for His sheep. He sees and knows us. He knows what we are doing and what is happening to us. He still loves us and He is still our great, forgiving friend!

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Questions:

• Why did some people hate Jesus?
• Why did they want Him killed?
• After they arrested Jesus, to whom did they take Him?
• Did Pilate think Jesus should be put to death?
• Had Jesus done anything wrong?
• What was put on Jesus' head?
• With what did they hit Him?
• What else did they do to Jesus?
• Where did they take Him to crucify Him?
• How did Jesus stay on the cross?
• What was His prayer to God?
• How long did He live on the cross?
• Who buried Jesus?
• Does Jesus want us to be sad?
• What happened to Jesus on the third day of His death?
• What did His followers think?
• How many days did Jesus live on earth after He arose from the dead?
• What did He do during these forty days?
• Then where did Jesus take His followers?
• After He blessed them, where did Jesus go?
• What received Jesus out of His follower's sight?
• Where is Jesus now?
• What did Jesus become?
• Is He still our wonderful friend?

Underline the correct words.

• (Everyone, Some men) hated Jesus.
• They were (bad, good) men.
• Jesus had told what they were doing was (wrong, right).
• When they arrested Him, they took Him to (Pilate, Herod), the governor.
• Pilate believed Jesus to be (guilty, not guilty) of doing anything wrong.
• These people wanted Jesus to be (crucified, set free).
• They put a (purple, black) robe on Him.
• The put a crown of (gold, thorns) on His head.

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True or False: Be ready to tell why the sentences are false.

T	F	1. They spit on Jesus.
T	F	2. They never made fun of Jesus.
T	F	3. When Jesus was treated badly, He never tried to hurt them.
T	F	4. Jesus was crucified on a cross at Calvary.
T	F	5. His hands, but not His feet, were nailed to the cross.
T	F	6. Jesus asked God to forgive His murderers.
T	F	7. Jesus lived on the cross for five hours.
T	F	8. Jesus arose from the dead on the third day.

Match the phrases to make true statements.