Hechos para actuar - Actuar para la gloria de Dios

Introduction to the Series

Overview of the Lesson

• Welcome message to children, introducing the series "Hechos para Actuar" and emphasizing learning about stories from the Book of Acts.

• Encouragement for children to review previous lessons together, with a reminder that resources are available on their website for further study.

Key Lessons Learned

Recap of Previous Teachings

• Discussion on how God uses individuals, illustrated through the story of Paul and Silas in prison sharing God's word with a jailer and his family.

• Emphasis on gratitude as an action; children are encouraged to be thankful to God.

• Importance of reading the Bible as guidance for actions aligned with God's will is highlighted.

Honoring Others

Reasons and Methods

• Questions posed about why we should honor people, including achievements like awards or graduations. Examples include honoring significant figures such as kings or presidents.

• Suggestions on how to show honor: speaking positively about them, giving gifts, or sending thank-you notes for their contributions.

Paul's Teachings in Corinth

Contextual Background

• Introduction to today's lesson based on Acts 18:18–28, focusing on Paul's teachings to Christians in Corinth after spending over a year there before departing.

• Description of Paul's farewell and its emotional impact on believers who valued his teachings about Jesus.

Aquila and Priscilla's Role

Teaching Apollos

• After leaving Paul, Aquila and Priscilla encounter Apollos preaching but realize he only knows John the Baptist's teachings about Jesus; they invite him home for further instruction.

• Apollos becomes excited upon learning more about Jesus' sacrifice and resurrection, leading him to believe in Christ as his Savior and teach others accordingly.

Apollos' Journey to Corinth

Support from Ephesus

• Apollos expresses a desire to help the church in Corinth; believers support this by writing letters recommending him as a trustworthy believer in Christ.

• Upon arrival in Corinth, Apollos stays long-term, significantly aiding local Christians while discussing Old Testament scriptures with Jews there.

Division Among Believers

Issues Arising in Corinth

• A problem arises among Christians regarding leadership preferences—some favoring Apollos over Paul or Peter—which leads to divisions within the community instead of unity in spreading Jesus' message.

• The division escalates so much that groups form around different leaders rather than working together towards common goals related to faith outreach efforts in Corinth.

Paul’s Response Through Letter Writing

Addressing Division

• Hearing about these divisions saddens Paul; he views them as detrimental since he cares deeply for these believers akin to family members.

• Unable to visit personally at that moment, he chooses instead to write a letter addressing their issues directly.

• He emphasizes unity within Christ’s body—the Church—as essential for health and function similar to parts of a human body working together effectively.

Understanding the Body of Christ

The Importance of Unity in Diversity

• Paul emphasizes that while believers can function independently, they are all integral parts of the body of Christ, each with unique spiritual gifts and responsibilities.

• No individual is more important than another; every member has a specific role to fulfill within the community, promoting unity rather than competition.

• Instead of arguing over who is superior among teachers, believers should focus on loving one another to reflect God's love through their actions.

• The Corinthians were not honoring God due to their disputes; they prioritized personal interests over collective glorification of God.

• Honoring God can be achieved through various actions such as reading His word, obeying it, and showing love to others.

Practical Applications of Faith

• Believers are encouraged to approach daily tasks with the mindset that they are doing them for God’s glory, whether it's chores or schoolwork.

• A prayer is offered for guidance in performing all tasks excellently as an act of worship towards God.

• Colossians 3:23 is highlighted as a key verse reminding believers to do everything wholeheartedly for the Lord rather than for human recognition.

Reflecting on Actions

• Every action, big or small, should be done with the intention of honoring God and reflecting His goodness in our lives.

• Simple tasks like cleaning or helping others should prompt self-reflection on whether these actions please God or seek human approval.

Engaging Activities for Understanding

• An interactive exercise illustrates how teamwork is essential by demonstrating difficulty when trying to perform tasks without using all body parts effectively.

Understanding Teamwork Through a Practical Exercise

The Importance of Unity in Functionality

• A practical exercise is introduced where participants attempt tasks with their eyes covered, illustrating the challenges faced without clear vision.

• After removing the blindfold, participants can use their hands freely, demonstrating how teamwork and clarity enhance performance.

• This exercise serves as an analogy for the church, emphasizing that different roles (pastors, teachers, missionaries) contribute to a unified purpose.

• All contributions, regardless of size or visibility, are vital for glorifying God; this reinforces the idea that every action should aim to please Him.

Crafting a Reminder of God's Glory

• Transitioning into a craft activity designed to reinforce lessons about giving glory to God through creativity.

• Participants will create a decorative piece featuring a memory verse; materials include printed sheets from the website and basic crafting tools.

• Instructions detail cutting and assembling parts of the craft while ensuring proper placement of the memory verse at its center.

• Additional steps involve creating a triangular base for stability; flexibility in design allows for personal expression while maintaining core dimensions.

Conclusion and Community Engagement

• The completed crafts serve as visual reminders to honor God; participants are encouraged to display them prominently.