Bible Study

What does the word consequence mean? 

A consequence is the result, effect or outcome of a choice or action. There can be both positive and negative consequences.

For instance, what might be the consequence if you don’t study for a test? Failing the test. 

Is that a positive or negative consequence? Negative.

What might be the consequence of helping your parents without being asked? Pleasing your parents.

Is that a positive or negative consequence? Positive.

Let me give you one more positive consequence. James 4:8a says,

Come close to God, and God will come close to you.

When we choose to seek God and be in His presence, He comes close to us—in fact, He lives inside us!

Have children look up Romans 6:20-23. Divide up the verses for volunteers to read aloud.

²⁰When you were slaves to sin, you were free from the obligation to do right.²¹And what was the result? You are now ashamed of the things you used to do, things that end in eternal doom.²²But now you are free from the power of sin and have become slaves of God. Now you do those things that lead to holiness and result in eternal life.²³For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.

LEAD A DISCUSSION ON THE PASSAGE

What is the result or consequence of serving sin? Shame, regret, separation from God for eternity, spiritual death.

What is the result or consequence of serving God and living a holy life? Set free from sin’s hold, eternal life.

What do you think is meant by “wages of sin is death”? Payment or reward for sin is separation from God eternally, spiritual death.

Let’s take a look at the Ten Commandments and share some things that we think might happen if we obey—or disobey—each one.

Have the children use the Ten Commandments Poster or their Minibooks to read and discuss each commandment, one at a time.

After the discussion, suggest that the children read Deuteronomy 28—in class if you have time, or at home—to see the consequences of obedience and disobedience that God gave to the Israelites.