Starting Biblical Literacy Early
At Immanuel Lutheran Parochial School in Oceanside, California, Suzanne Falk has used the Biblical Tell-Tale Time-Line with third graders.
Yes, third grade is a pretty young age to grasp the big storyline that runs all the way from Genesis to Revelation, but these kids can do it! Mrs. Falk starts by asking the seven- to nine-year-olds two questions:
- Would you like to know more about the Bible than your parents?
- Would you like to know the story of this entire book– the Bible?
The students nod their heads, smile, and say “YES!” to both questions.
The study begins with everyone learning the meaning of the Crossways International symbol for God. Activities include coloring the symbol for God with crayons, fill-in-the-blank questions, and matching CI symbols with their meanings. The classes meet for 30 to 45 minutes per session, twice a week, and the time simply flies. The students learn all the elements of the large time-line posted on the wall, as they travel through biblical history from creation to revelation and discover where Jesus entered the picture.
The youngsters soon become very proficient at being able to relate the biblical time-line narrative to parents, the school principal, and friends and family. In fact, given the chance to come up to the front of the classroom and “tell the story,” the students eagerly wave their hands in the air, hoping to get called upon to demonstrate.
Here are some of Mrs. Falk’s personal thoughts about the positive value of sharing the Biblical Tell-Tale Time-Line with little ones:
- “What joy for me to see kids who have such a strong desire to learn the Word, learn about the Word becoming Flesh, and to know the Divine Story! What joy to see the smiles as they learn about Jesus and His plan for their lives.”
- “How amazing to see these youngsters learn this timeline! Need I say more? It is amazing to watch them grapple with what they are learning, to watch as the light bulbs go on, and to witness the pride they have when they learn and can re-tell the time-line narrative.”
- “This age group is a fun age in and of itself. However, it is fun to challenge them and see them rise to this great challenge. It is fun for me to go through this learning journey with the kids.”
- “It is an incredible experience to attempt to teach something that so far I’ve only seen adults learn, and to witness these children gain spiritual growth and knowledge through the Holy Spirit.”
