Overview:

This lesson centers on Solomon's prayer dedicating the Temple and the concept of living out one's faith beyond worship spaces. The icebreaker encourages students to find commonalities with peers, fostering connections and community spirit. The discussion focuses on Solomon's prayer in 1 Kings 8:22-30, exploring where God dwells according to the biblical text and why it's significant to recognize God's presence beyond church walls. Students reflect on how Solomon's prayer inspires them to live out their faith daily, discussing practical ways to acknowledge and celebrate God in their neighborhoods. The activity, a “Scripture Photo Scavenger Hunt,” prompts students to find visual representations of selected Bible verses, encouraging them to apply scripture to their everyday lives and share their insights with the group.

Icebreaker:

Students form pairs. Each pair has two minutes to discover three things they have in common (e.g., hobbies, favorite foods, places they have visited). After two minutes, pairs share their findings with the larger group. Then, students switch partners and repeat the process with new people.

Read 1 Kings 8:(1,6,10-11), 22-30, 41-43.

Discuss:

What was Solomon praying about in 1 Kings 8:22-30?
Where does the Bible say God dwells, according to Solomon’s prayer?
Why is it important to remember that God dwells among us and not just in places of worship?
If God dwells among us, what is still important or special about times of worship together?
How does Solomon’s prayer help us understand the concept of being "sent out to live" our faith?
How can you apply the idea of being "sent out to live" in your daily activities at school or with friends?
What are some ways you can recognize and celebrate God’s presence in your neighborhood this week?

Activity: Scripture Photo Scavenger Hunt

Before you begin, print a selection of verses from the last several weeks. Introduce the activity by explaining that students will participate in a “Scripture Photo Scavenger Hunt.” Each group will receive printed Bible verses.

Assign each group a different set of Bible verses and prompts. Students have ten minutes to read the verses together and then take photos that illustrate something about the verses.

Gather students together after the scavenger hunt. Each group shares its findings and explains how the items or actions relate to the Bible verses and prompts. Facilitate a brief discussion on how these verses can be applied to their daily lives.

Conclude in a way appropriate for your group.