This game reinforces a child's knowledge of the ten commandments, the set of laws described in the Bible as being handed down by God to Moses. Start by playing music, on an instrument, recording, or radio. Have a group of children stand in a circle and, going in one direction, take turns handing each other a small object. Occasionally, stop the music. The child holding the object when the music stops must verbally quote one of the commandments. If he cannot do so, he is to sit out until the next game ensues. The last child standing has won the game, at which point the rest of the kids circle again to start over. While the game is still going, children who are on the sidelines can overlook a review sheet of the commandments. In doing so, their attention will continually be drawn to those that they did not recall before, thereby facilitating the learning process.
This game is based on the Biblical story of The Good Samaritan. In this story, a Jewish traveler was robbed and left injured at the roadside. After being bypassed by both a priest and Levite, one in service to the clergy, the man was finally helped by a citizen of Samaria. This assistance was given freely, even though Jews and Samaritans had been cultural enemies for years. The Jewish man was taken to an inn, where the Samaritan cared for him and eventually paid the bill for his stay. Assign one child to reenact the role of each character in the story, including the robbers and innkeeper. Afterward, facilitate a group discussion concerning whatever insights the children may have gained from the experience.
This game teaches children to consider how Jesus would respond in various situations. Begin by telling a story. In it, include a character who manipulates others, one who cheats for personal gain, and another who prejudges those with whom he meets. Take turns asking the children how they think Jesus would have responded differently in each circumstance. Ask for examples of how what they've learned can be taken into everyday life.
This is an exercise that teaches children not to judge based on outside appearances alone. Place a well-liked snack into an old, unattractive container, through which the children cannot see. In another container, put in a more bland and less-appealing item. Have all of the children vote on which one they would like to have. Once the snack is revealed, open the other one to show the kids that what lies on the inside can be much different than one would guess. Discuss how this example applies to real life.