December 2: Love and Obey God (Deuteronomy 6:1-9)

To begin the session:

The following statements are different definitions of the same word. Read them slowly, pausing after each one. Allow class members to respond when they think they can identify the word being defined:

• in the game of solitaire, a card of given denomination on which other cards are to be added according to denomination or suit.
• an undergarment designed to alter the wearer’s body shape, to achieve a more fashionable figure.
• an institution created to aid research, education, the arts, etc.
• the natural or prepared ground or base on which some structure rests.
• a cosmetic, as a cream or liquid, used as a base for facial makeup.
• the basis or groundwork of anything.
• the moral underpinnings of a society.
• the lowest division of a building lying partly or wholly below the surface of the ground.

These are all definitions of the word, foundation. When this is guessed, read the remaining clues. Then lead into a study of the Scripture text with these words, “In all cases, laying a foundation is ‘square one,’ the starting point needed when building something of stability. Today we will look at principles recognized as foundational for the people of God.”

To engage the learners in a study of the Scripture text:

Download the “Moses Responds” worksheet  here. Make a copy for each group of three to five class members. Give groups about twenty minutes to read the quotes and cited portions of the lesson text and to formulate a response.