Leader Guide
Video Leader Guide
Select a video to have playing as children enter the Large Group room. Videos are under Resources on the top menu bar.
Have Small Group leaders greet the children as they enter the Large Group room and engage them in a game or conversation until time for Large Group to begin.
Welcome (1 minute)
Hello, everyone! Today we will watch a new Superbook video, “The Prodigal Son.” It is a parable, or short story, that Jesus told to help people understand something very important about God. It’s time to begin our Superbook video and see why Chris’ friend seems to be in trouble! But first, let’s meet a shepherd boy back in Bible times to see if he can keep track of his sheep.
Play Video 2: Chris and Joy’s Dilemma (5 minutes)
Chris and Joy's Dilemma
Chris, Joy and Gizmo don’t know how to help a friend who is running away because he thinks his dad will never forgive him.
SuperTruth and Discussion (2 minutes)
The SuperTruth for today is: “Our heavenly Father is always ready to forgive.” Let’s have the boys shout it on the count of three; are you ready? 1, 2, 3! “Our heavenly Father is always ready to forgive.”
Very good; now let’s hear the girls: 1, 2, 3! “Our heavenly Father is always ready to forgive.”
God is ready to forgive, no matter what we have done. That gives me a lot of hope; how about you?
Chris’ friend Aaron is in trouble. Joy believes he should return home, but Chris isn’t so sure. What do you think he should do?
Let’s watch the rest of the video and see what happens!
Play Video 3: Bible Story and Resolution (17 minutes)
Bible Story and Resolution
Superbook takes Chris, Joy and Gizmo to ancient Galilee. Jesus tells the story of the Prodigal Son—a young man who leaves home for what he thinks is the adventure of a lifetime, only to discover that what he wants most in the world is his father’s love. The children learn about God’s unfailing love and the power of forgiveness.
Play Video 10A: SuperVerse Graphic 1
Graphic loops 2.5 minutes without audio; turn off or freeze video after children repeat verse.
SuperVerse Graphic 1
SuperVerse Discussion (1 minute)
Let’s say our SuperVerse together. Psalm 86:5:
O Lord, You are so good, so ready to forgive, so full of unfailing love for all who ask for Your help.
The father in Jesus’ parable was waiting and watching for his long-lost son to return—not to punish him, but to forgive, accept, and welcome him home. Who does this remind you of? God, our heavenly Father.
Yes, God is waiting for us to call upon Him. His love will always be there for us, no matter what happens.
Children will have more time to learn the SuperVerse in Small Group.
Prayer and Send-Off (1 minute)
Let’s pray. Dear heavenly Father, thank You for this wonderful story that shows us Your love and forgiveness. Help us never to forget that we can always run to You, no matter what we have done! In Jesus’ name, Amen.
It is time for our Small Groups, where you will travel on a journey and return home to a celebration! Let’s go!
Teachers take children to Small Group classes for Grades 1–3 and 4-6. If the combined group is small, all children may stay together for Small Group time.