Lectionary Year A, Unit 12

This unit covers the Sixteenth through the Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost in Lectionary Year A. During this unit students will understand the importance of producing fruit, the great feast, the blessing we can be to others, and the importance of God s laws.

Lesson 1: You are the Vine, God is the Gardner--God compares His kingdom on earth to a vineyard. Sometimes He compares us to a vine, and other times to the tenants placed in charge of the vineyard. In this lesson students will learn that in both comparisons, there is a responsibility to produce fruit for God (Isaiah 5:1-7: Psalm 80:7-15; Philippians 3:4b-14; Matthew 21:33-46).

Lesson 2: Dinner Party--Get Dressed--The kingdom of God is like a wedding feast. The Bible explains that those who are saved are destined for a great banquet. In this lesson students will learn that resurrection day will be like a great feast--God will celebrate with those saved, providing for their every need. Many are invited--but some make excuses while others are not ready (Exodus 32:1-14; Psalm 106:1-6, 19-23 or Isaiah 25:1-9; Psalm 23; Philippians 4:1-9; Matthew 22:1-14).

Lesson 3: Be a Blessing--In this lesson students will learn that God honors us so that He will be honored and that others may know about Him. God calls us; He asks us to be imitators of Christ and of those who follow Christ--and in this way His message goes out to the world. The honor and blessing He gives to us is so that others will come to know Him (Isaiah 45:1-7; Psalm 96:1-9; 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10; Matthew 22:15-22).

Lesson 4: Good Rules? God Rules--In this lesson students will understand that God's law was not meant for our harm or to needlessly restrict our lives. Just as there are rules and procedures for handling electrical power (Don't put your finger in the power plug!), there are rules for living in the presence of a powerful God. His law gives us life and keeps us safe. (Levi. 19:1-2)