A key aspect of intergenerational worship in Leviticus is the teaching and passing down of God's laws and commandments from one generation to the next. Even from a young age, obedience is expected.

In Leviticus chapter 10, we see the tragic story of Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, who offered unauthorized fire before the Lord and were consumed by fire as a result. They chose to do things their own way instead of following God's instructions. The result was deadly and is a powerful reminder of the importance of following God's instructions. Yes, there are consequences for disobedience!

This account underscores the urgency of teaching younger generations to obey God. The priests and the entire community of Israel were given detailed instructions on how to approach God with reverence and holiness.

In intergenerational worship, the older generation plays a vital role in mentoring and guiding the younger generation on their faith journey. Leviticus chapter 23 outlines the various feasts and festivals the Israelites were commanded to observe. These celebrations were not just rituals but served as opportunities for parents and elders to teach their children the significance of God's provisions and faithfulness throughout the generations. They also teach the blessings for obedience and consequences for disobedience outlined in Leviticus 26. Teaching and modeling that God is holy ensured that the next generation would understand and reverence the faith heritage passed down to them.

Application: We glean valuable insights into the importance of intergenerational worship, which models the transmission of knowing God from one generation to another. Children were included in Israel's worship practices. Likewise, through intentional teaching, modeling, and shared experiences, we lay a strong foundation for faith that will endure through the generations, fostering a culture of worship and reverence for God that transcends age barriers.

• Children were not excluded or sent away during worship.
• Children were expected to participate with adults, learning from their parents and elders about the ways of the Lord.
• Everyone was responsible for obeying God's commands.
• Parents were responsible for knowing and obeying God's laws and commands, which they taught to their children.
• The community reinforced obedience to God and reverence for His Word.

Conclusion: As we reflect on the teachings in Leviticus, we are reminded of our responsibility to nurture the faith of those who follow. We must be intentional about the spiritual growth of the younger members of our homes, churches, and communities.

Lesson Summary

In the Book of Leviticus, the community of Israel is given detailed instructions on approaching God with reverence and holiness, emphasizing intergenerational worship:

• Children were encouraged to be an integral part of worship, learning from parents and elders.
• Intergenerational worship in Leviticus emphasizes the teaching and transmission of God's laws and commandments.
• Chapter 10 illustrates the consequences of disobedience through the story of Nadab and Abihu.
• Older generations play a vital role in guiding the younger generation on their faith journey.
• Chapter 23 outlines feasts and festivals as occasions for teaching children about God's provisions and faithfulness.
• Chapter 26 details the blessings of obedience and the consequences of disobedience.

Lessons from Leviticus provide insights into intergenerational worship and passing down knowledge of God:

• Reflecting on Leviticus' teachings reminds us of the importance of nurturing the faith of future generations.
• We are responsible for investing in the spiritual growth of younger community members.
• Through intentional teaching and shared experiences, we can build a lasting foundation of faith.

Lesson Plan

(Download the HBLT Handout)

Objective: By the end of a lesson overviewing the intergenerational practices and responsibilities of communal worship in Leviticus chapters 10, 23, and 26, we will agree that worship extends beyond church walls by affirming holiness as a way of life.

HOOK: Ask, "How do you define worship in one or two words?" Record the answers. Let's evaluate worship from a biblical perspective.

BOOK: God has gone to great lengths to establish a relationship with His people. In the Book of Leviticus, the Lord outlines rules and regulations for worship as He welcomes the entire community to enjoy the feasts and festivals together. There are rules for priests and the people. The book concludes with promises for obedience and warnings for disobedience.

LOOK: God requires a lifestyle that demonstrates we are His people. To measure the weight of our relationship, we evaluate how we treat others in our home, community, and church. Holiness is not a set of superficial rules—like wearing lipstick or hats and the other traditional dos and don'ts—or how we dress on Sunday. Holiness is obeying and respecting God in everything we do!

TOOK: How has holiness been defined in our church? Does it meet God's standard? How are we teaching and modeling holiness to the next generation beyond the walls of our church?

SONG/VIDEO: "Search Me, O God" by Imagining Worship With Kids. Sung by Lake Avenue Church Newsong Choir, TEXT: Oladipo Adedeji, from Psalm 139:23,24, MUSIC: Oladipo Adedeji, Arranged by Edwin M. Willmington, ©2024 Oladipo Adedeji— https://youtu.be/U1kclIcIb3I?si=MxM7s2tfLm3bRupy

COOK: Does the book of Numbers speak to us about intergenerational worship? We'll find out in our next lesson!

Teacher Nugget: The Lord wants to reassure you that your labor is not in vain in the Lord. You may wonder whether or not lives are changing. The answer is "Yes!" one lesson at a time!

Children's Sermon: It's Better to Obey

Invite children aged 5 to 11 to the front of the church and ask them to sit in a semicircle. The pastor-teacher, with an open Bible and a puppet, sits at the opening of the semicircle and introduces the puppet, naming it to the children. After the puppet welcomes the children, they introduce themselves by saying their names. Next, ask the lesson questions; there are no wrong answers. Conclude this 10-minute children's sermon by giving children a craft project. They may return to their seats or go to a separate area where teens and adults assist in completing the project. Children present or display their crafts at the end of the service.

OBJECTIVE: By the end of a 7- to 10-minute lesson on obeying God's laws in the Book of Leviticus, children will restate that when they do something wrong, they should admit it and tell their parents/guardians, "I'm sorry."

MATERIALS: Place a chair in a nearby area, but keep it out of the children's reach. Turn it as if it's for a time-out.

HOOK: Ask, What does this chair remind you of? Let children guess; wait for the correct answer. Ask, What is a time-out? Why are children given a time-out?

BOOK: The Bible tells us about Aaron's sons, who disobeyed the Lord. They knew what was right to do, but they refused to obey God. The consequence of their action was punishment. God reminded everyone, young and old, that He wants us to study and follow the Bible. His rules keep us safe!

LOOK: God has given us parents to encourage us to grow and learn to obey Him. How do they help us?

TOOK: Sometimes, we say or do the wrong thing, and our parents or guardians ask us to sit in a time-out. We should use this time to think about what happened so we don't make the same mistake again. First, we should admit or say that yes, we did something wrong. What should we say when we are sorry? We should apologize and say, "I'm sorry." (Pastor-teacher, thank God for helping all of us to obey God's word and do the right thing. Thank the Lord that the children have hearts that are willing to obey.)

SONG/VIDEO: "Search Me, O God" by Imagining Worship With Kids. Sung by Lake Avenue Church Newsong Choir, TEXT: Oladipo Adedeji, from Psalm 139:23,24, MUSIC: Oladipo Adedeji, Arranged by Edwin M. Willmington, ©2024 Oladipo Adedeji— https://youtu.be/U1kclIcIb3I?si=MxM7s2tfLm3bRupy

COOK: Next week, we're going to have a party! Wear your favorite clothes!