A cool science experiment with hydrogel beads on the division between Paul and Peter in Galatians 2: 11 - 19
In Galatians 2: 11 -19 we read about an argument between Paul and Peter. Normally when Peter was in Antioch he used to eat together with the non-Jewish Christian. But when some important Jewish Christians arrive from Jerusalem he stops eating with them. He’s afraid of their reaction. It’s interesting to see that Peter seems to fall into the same mistake he made when he disowned Jesus. Out of fear for other people he suddenly behaves as if he doesn’t know those Gentile / non-Jewish Christians. Paul thinks he is a hypocrite and tells Peter off.
In this object lesson we’re going to use hydrogel beads and a hot frying pan to demonstrate this story and to think with the children about the following questions:
- What is being hypocritical?
- Do you think Peter is being hypocritical by not eating with the non-Jewish Christians?
- Do you know another Bible story where Peter is afraid and acts if he doesn’t know someone?
- Why would Peter do this?
- Have you ever been hypocritical?
- Have you ever been afraid of a group that made you behave differently?
- Do you think Paul was right or wrong to tell Peter off?
- How do think Peter responded when Paul told him off?
- How do you respond when someone tells you off?
This object lesson will really help you address this fascinating Bible story within your Sunday school lesson or kids ministry..
Themes:
Paul and Peter, Paul confronts Peter, do Gentile Christians belong to the church, being a hypocrite, Peter is afraid, Peter disowns, telling someone off,
Download:
You can download a complete worksheet which will help you to do the object lesson and teach on Paul and Peter.