Aim

To explore Christian belief in a forgiving God.

Lesson

Review what was taught in the previous week about Jesus and the forgiveness of sins. Jesus' granting of forgiveness to the paralysed man greatly annoyed the Jewish teachers of His day, as did the company he kept. Jesus told a story to show his critics that God wants to forgive everyone who repents.

Share with the children the parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32).

Activity

Following discussion, groups of children could:

• write character descriptions of the father and the two sons.
• act out the parable.
• read the story of Nicky Cruz.
• write / talk about disputes with their parents.