To begin the session:
On the board, write this question and these three possible answers:
What is the origin of the phrase “scot free?” a) the release of a certain runaway slave; b) an old Scandinavian word for taxes c) the reputation of Scotsmen for being frugal.
After class members have arrived, have them consider the question. Then read the answers, one at a time, asking class members to vote for their preferred answer by a show of hands. The correct answer is b. Skat is a Scandinavian word for tax that became the old English word scot, a tax levied as early as the 10th century to help the poor. Those with means who could avoid paying such a tax, went “scot free.” We use the term today to describe anyone who has avoided the consequences of his actions. Discuss this idea further by describing people that they know who have avoided the consequences of their actions.
Lead into Bible study by saying, ““We are concerned when people who treat others unfairly do not seem to get what they deserve. Jesus taught that, in the end, such injustices will be corrected. In God’s just kingdom, no one escapes scot free.”
To engage the learners in a study of the Scripture text:
Download the “Poetry Repair” activity here. Prepare and conduct the activity as the directions on it describe.