Note to the Teacher

The key idea in this scripture for this lesson is “I will raise it up.” The icebreaker invites youth to recline and dine as an ancient practice during Passover. The discussion encourages students to think about distractions in worship. The activity allows youth to dig deeper into the idea of cleansing the temple for worship. Times are based on a fifty-five-minute lesson period but may be adjusted.

Recline and Dine (25 minutes)

During a traditional Passover meal, the act of “reclining” is an ancient practice that reminds our Jewish brothers and sisters that they are free. A slave or servant would be required to stand. Using pillows, blankets, and chairs, create a “Passover fort” with your group. Once the fort is built, dine together on pizza, and allow yourselves a chance to eat, laugh, and relax. For this meal, encourage students to leave their phones outside the fort.

Read Scripture (5 minutes)

Our scripture reading today suggests how we should “cleanse the temple.”

Read John 2:13-22.

Discussion (10 minutes)

Jesus takes strong action to cleanse the temple of distractions. What distractions keep you from worshiping God with all of your heart, soul, and mind?
What are some differences between Jesus’ authority and the authority of a religious institution (a church)?
Can you think of a time when Jesus’ authority and a religious institution’s authority were confused? What were the results?
Are Jesus’ authority and guidance ever different from the authority and guidance of religious institutions? Why do you think that happens?
Have you had moments where you started to ask questions or believe in Jesus’ authority?

Activity and Discussion (15 minutes)

Grab an object and describe how it might be used for something other than its intended purpose. A fancy cup could be used to plant a seed; an oversized vase could be used as a drinking glass; a dress used as a cleaning rag, and so on.

Points for discussion:

Have you ever had something you cared about get ruined? Do you think this is how Jesus felt about what was happening in the temple?
When we talk about worship, we are not simply talking about respect for a building but also our bodies and lives as instruments of worship.

TOTAL TIME: 55 minutes.

NEEDED RESOURCES:

Objects to build a fort: pillows, blankets, chairs (a tent or multiple tents may be used with pillows/blankets inside).
Please see the activity and discussion section for supplies: an object that has one use but will be used for another.