https://content.lessons.church/files/bundles/NJIGl-Z5v80/Slides and Printable's.zip?dt=1647639339153

Slides and Printable's

https://content.lessons.church/files/bundles/W-bzmJfHjFJ/Series Slides and Printable's.zip?dt=1672281339379

Series Slides and Printable's

https://content.lessons.church/files/bundles/y8Uw29Sj7-F/Program Videos.zip?dt=1649024533151

Program Videos

7 Min Countdown

03 sec Countdown

2 Min Countdown

Herman and Rusty Part 3

Big Story Video

H&R Big Do Slide

6 Min Countdown

8 Min Countdown

Herman and Rusty Part 2

H&R BIG REVIEW Bumper

 Herman and Rusty Part 1 

H&R 5 Min Countdown with Rules

Things go awry when Rusty, Ethel, and Slater choose the wrong leader to follow.  (Note: This lesson presents God’s gift of salvation. Every church presents the Gospel with slight variations and nuances. Read through the steps before teaching. Present the Gospel in a way that is consistent with the scripture and God’s leading.)

Yes To Jesus Week 1

I Can Say Yes To Jesus!

Join Herman, Rusty, and their friends on an adventure of science and faith. Their hijinks will leave your kids (and volunteers) laughing as they deepen their understanding of God’s Word. Included are lessons for both large groups and small groups. Each week you will receive videos, graphics, coloring sheets, and more. The elementary lessons will correspond with the junior curriculum so that everyone in your children’s ministry will be on the same page.

Ark Kids Elementary

H&R Big Do Slide 553

https://content.lessons.church/files/program/BVLAFRqSzX0/0JC9D3t5reI/hr-big-do-slide.mp4?dt=1641302813167

1080p

https://content.lessons.church/files/lesson/PB5-PfxtjOk/1mcs-isk-Z9/yes-elem-big-story-slide-1.jpg?dt=1647639268321

yes-elem-big-story-slide-1.jpg

https://content.lessons.church/files/lesson/PB5-PfxtjOk/1mcs-isk-Z9/yes-elem-big-story-slide-2.jpeg?dt=1647639268084

yes-elem-big-story-slide-2.jpeg

https://content.lessons.church/files/lesson/PB5-PfxtjOk/1mcs-isk-Z9/yes-elem-big-story-slide-3.jpeg?dt=1647639268578

yes-elem-big-story-slide-3.jpeg

https://content.lessons.church/files/lesson/PB5-PfxtjOk/1mcs-isk-Z9/yes-elem-big-story-slide-4.jpeg?dt=1647639269081

yes-elem-big-story-slide-4.jpeg

https://content.lessons.church/files/lesson/PB5-PfxtjOk/1mcs-isk-Z9/yes-elem-big-story-slide-5.jpeg?dt=1647639268792

yes-elem-big-story-slide-5.jpeg

Big Story Slides

https://content.lessons.church/files/lesson/PB5-PfxtjOk/1mcs-isk-Z9/big story.zip?dt=1647639269307

https://content.lessons.church/files/study/Tkt4LQsGdq7/2B-o4aSS6Rm/yes-prayer-slide-1.jpg?dt=1647631434003

yes-prayer-slide-1.jpg

https://content.lessons.church/files/study/Tkt4LQsGdq7/2B-o4aSS6Rm/yes-prayer-slide-2.jpg?dt=1647631434006

yes-prayer-slide-2.jpg

Yes Prayer Slide

https://content.lessons.church/files/study/Tkt4LQsGdq7/2B-o4aSS6Rm/yes prayer.zip?dt=1647631386243

Small Group Slide

https://content.lessons.church/files/study/Tkt4LQsGdq7/7xbtszFFnfl/yes-elem-small-group-slide.jpg?dt=1647631269334

Yes Title Slide

https://content.lessons.church/files/study/Tkt4LQsGdq7/br3fsrE5LfW/yes-title-slide.jpg?dt=1647631468633

Lesson Plan

https://content.lessons.church/files/study/Tkt4LQsGdq7/dGQL0XhCgI2/ytj-elem-small-group.docx?dt=1647632004110

docx

https://content.lessons.church/files/study/Tkt4LQsGdq7/dGQL0XhCgI2/ytj-elem-large-group.docx?dt=1647631983293

Big Point Slide

https://content.lessons.church/files/lesson/PB5-PfxtjOk/gIvJweQUxcb/yes-elem-big-point-slide.jpg?dt=1647638845495

https://content.lessons.church/files/program/BVLAFRqSzX0/HGvYX2RsrS8/gl-elem-l1-yes-slide-1.jpg?dt=1644686983086

gl-elem-l1-yes-slide-1.jpg

https://content.lessons.church/files/program/BVLAFRqSzX0/HGvYX2RsrS8/gl-elem-l1-yes-slide-2.jpg?dt=1644686983365

gl-elem-l1-yes-slide-2.jpg

Yes Slides

https://content.lessons.church/files/program/BVLAFRqSzX0/HGvYX2RsrS8/yes slide.zip?dt=1644686983653

Big Verse Slide

https://content.lessons.church/files/study/Tkt4LQsGdq7/iFLZBvdFQA7/yes-elem-big-verse-slide.jpg?dt=1647631200883

https://content.lessons.church/files/lesson/PB5-PfxtjOk/WiKW58M3Rb9/yes-elem-big-review-0.jpg?dt=1647638855868

yes-elem-big-review-0.jpg

https://content.lessons.church/files/lesson/PB5-PfxtjOk/WiKW58M3Rb9/yes-elem-big-review-1.jpg?dt=1647638856027

yes-elem-big-review-1.jpg

https://content.lessons.church/files/lesson/PB5-PfxtjOk/WiKW58M3Rb9/yes-elem-big-review-1a.jpg?dt=1647638858355

yes-elem-big-review-1a.jpg

https://content.lessons.church/files/lesson/PB5-PfxtjOk/WiKW58M3Rb9/yes-elem-big-review-2.jpg?dt=1647638854516

yes-elem-big-review-2.jpg

https://content.lessons.church/files/lesson/PB5-PfxtjOk/WiKW58M3Rb9/yes-elem-big-review-2a.jpg?dt=1647638855706

yes-elem-big-review-2a.jpg

https://content.lessons.church/files/lesson/PB5-PfxtjOk/WiKW58M3Rb9/yes-elem-big-review-3.jpg?dt=1647638857575

yes-elem-big-review-3.jpg

https://content.lessons.church/files/lesson/PB5-PfxtjOk/WiKW58M3Rb9/yes-elem-big-review-3a.jpg?dt=1647638857152

yes-elem-big-review-3a.jpg

https://content.lessons.church/files/lesson/PB5-PfxtjOk/WiKW58M3Rb9/yes-elem-big-review-4.jpg?dt=1647638856955

yes-elem-big-review-4.jpg

https://content.lessons.church/files/lesson/PB5-PfxtjOk/WiKW58M3Rb9/yes-elem-big-review-4a.jpg?dt=1647638855086

yes-elem-big-review-4a.jpg

https://content.lessons.church/files/lesson/PB5-PfxtjOk/WiKW58M3Rb9/yes-elem-big-review-5.jpg?dt=1647638857395

yes-elem-big-review-5.jpg

https://content.lessons.church/files/lesson/PB5-PfxtjOk/WiKW58M3Rb9/yes-elem-big-review-5a.jpg?dt=1647638857980

yes-elem-big-review-5a.jpg

https://content.lessons.church/files/lesson/PB5-PfxtjOk/WiKW58M3Rb9/yes-elem-big-review-6.jpg?dt=1647638853916

yes-elem-big-review-6.jpg

https://content.lessons.church/files/lesson/PB5-PfxtjOk/WiKW58M3Rb9/yes-elem-big-review-6a.jpg?dt=1647638858157

yes-elem-big-review-6a.jpg

https://content.lessons.church/files/lesson/PB5-PfxtjOk/WiKW58M3Rb9/yes-elem-big-review-7.jpg?dt=1647638856764

yes-elem-big-review-7.jpg

https://content.lessons.church/files/lesson/PB5-PfxtjOk/WiKW58M3Rb9/yes-elem-big-review-7a.jpg?dt=1647638858544

yes-elem-big-review-7a.jpg

https://content.lessons.church/files/lesson/PB5-PfxtjOk/WiKW58M3Rb9/yes-elem-big-review-8.jpg?dt=1647638854698

yes-elem-big-review-8.jpg

https://content.lessons.church/files/lesson/PB5-PfxtjOk/WiKW58M3Rb9/yes-elem-big-review-8a.jpg?dt=1647638855313

yes-elem-big-review-8a.jpg

https://content.lessons.church/files/lesson/PB5-PfxtjOk/WiKW58M3Rb9/yes-elem-big-review-9.jpg?dt=1647638854320

yes-elem-big-review-9.jpg

https://content.lessons.church/files/lesson/PB5-PfxtjOk/WiKW58M3Rb9/yes-elem-big-review-9a.jpg?dt=1647638856492

yes-elem-big-review-9a.jpg

https://content.lessons.church/files/lesson/PB5-PfxtjOk/WiKW58M3Rb9/yes-elem-big-review-10.jpg?dt=1647638854883

yes-elem-big-review-10.jpg

https://content.lessons.church/files/lesson/PB5-PfxtjOk/WiKW58M3Rb9/yes-elem-big-review-10a.jpg?dt=1647638857773

yes-elem-big-review-10a.jpg

Big Review Slides

https://content.lessons.church/files/lesson/PB5-PfxtjOk/WiKW58M3Rb9/big review.zip?dt=1647638856300

Deciding to follow Jesus is the single most important choice in a person’s life. It will determine the course of their future, both now and into eternity. That’s why it’s so essential to take this moment seriously. This special “Yes to Jesus” service is an opportunity to help the kids in your ministry understand why they should follow Jesus and encourage them to make that choice. It’s a time to focus and reflect on Jesus. This service is also a great occasion to invite parents to join you for service. They can sit with their kids, participate in the service, and even pray with their kids to receive Christ. It’s an opportunity to create a powerful moment in the lives of your families.  (Note: This lesson presents God’s gift of salvation. Every church presents the Gospel with slight variations and nuances. Read through the steps before teaching. Present the Gospel in a way that is consistent with the scripture and God’s leading.)

Yes To Jesus

The "Yes to Jesus" service aims to guide children in understanding the significance of choosing to follow Jesus, offering them and their parents a moment to reflect, participate, and potentially experience a transformative spiritual event in the context o

Large Group Full Program

Countdown / Rules

This lesson suggests the following music:
"Nobody But Me" by Human Beinz
"Jaws Theme"


Leader

Welcome

**Host**
Welcome to the Lab! I hope you are ready for a special day we call…

**Co-Host**
No for kids. We are celebrating the word “No.”

**Host**
No?

**Co-Host**
Exactly. Do you want to hear today’s theme song?

**Host**
No.

**Co-Host**
Perfect! You’re already getting the hang of it. Listen.



(Play “Nobody But Me” 0:03-0:19) The **Co-Host** dances. He/She holds up a giant “No” on a posterboard. If you don’t play the song, then the **Co-Host** could just sing the “No, no, no, no” part and dance with the sign.



**Co-Host**
Did you love it?

**Host**
No.

**Co-Host**
Wow, that means a lot.

**Host**
Your theme song is the exact opposite of what today is about. We’re learning how to say, “Yes.” To start the day off, we have a little game where you answer some questions, but you can’t use the words “Yes” or “No.” Our two contestants can come on up. Let’s see who can go the farthest. 


Ask the kids a series of questions. They cannot answer using the words “yes” or “no.” To make it harder, don’t allow them to repeat an answer. Some suggested questions are included, but feel free to make your own and add more.

Suggested Questions:
Do you like school?
Are you good at math?
Is pizza your favorite lunch?
Do you still pick your nose?
Do you like to wear shorts?
Is homework fun?
Do you have a pet?
Is a dog better than a cat?
Do you play a sport?
Did you eat breakfast?
Will you go to the store today?



**Co-Host**
Are you sure it’s not a “No” kind of day?

**Host**
It’s totally and completely a “Yes” day. Stand up and tell someone the last thing your parents said “Yes” to doing. Let’s get ready to check in at the lab.



Hosts

Worship

Engage 1

**Host**
Do you guys think it’s a wise choice for Rusty and the crew to follow Hans von Striker? I agree. Choosing to follow the right leader is an important decision.

**Co-Host**
Absolutely. That’s why I’m totally on board with the “Yes” movement. See my new shirt?

**Co-Host** reveals he/she is wearing a Yes shirt.

**Host**
Yes?

**Co-Host**
Yes! I even came up with a chant for the service. Yes! Yes! Yes!

**Co-Host** does a “Yes” chant..

**Co-Host**
Wait, who are we saying, “Yes” to? I once said, “Yes” to babysitting an ill-tempered monkey. That, my friend, is a mistake I will not repeat.

**Host**
We want to say, “Yes” to the perfect leader.

**Co-Host**
Who?

**Host**
We’re going to find the answer in our Big Point. We need a lab assistant to help us with it.



**Host** and **Co-Host** choose a kid to volunteer.






**Co-Host**
We need your help to count down from three, and then read the Big Point. 




**Co-Host**
Let’s all say it together, **I Can Say Yes To Jesus!**

**Host**
The “who” is Jesus.

**Co-Host**
“Yes,” to doing what?

**Host**
I think the best way to discover that is through a game. It’s a kids’ classic called “Follow the Leader.” We have four teams led by four leaders. Each team has a different shape/color to follow. Every member of the team must touch each shape/color in their path in order to get from the start line to the finish line.

**Co-Host**
I have an idea. As you walk, we’ll shout out different movements the leader must do. As good followers, you must follow the leader. The first team to get to the finish line wins.


Play the game. Set up a path of colored circles or shapes for each team to follow. The leader should be an adult or teen volunteer. They must lead their group along the path. As they do, shout out different movements like tip toe, crawl, baby step, hop, etc. You can substitute other items for the shapes as long as each team has a path to follow.


**Host**
Great job to our winners. When we say, “Yes” to Jesus, we say, “Yes” to following Him. We want to make Him the leader of our life. That means obeying Jesus and following His example.

**Co-Host**
That makes perfect sense. I just hope that Rusty, Ethel, and Slater don’t follow Hans Von Striker.



Engage 2

**Host**
Following the wrong leader has created a disaster in the lab.

**Co-Host**
Literally. I didn’t know Rusty could topple a couch like that.

**Host**
Life is better when you follow our Big Point,




**Host**
**I Can Say Yes To Jesus!**


**Co-Host**
How does following Jesus change your life so much?

**Host**
That’s a big question and an important question. When we have big, important questions the best place to look for answers is in the Bible. Let’s choose an assistant to help us reveal the Big Verse.



**Host** and **Co-Host** choose a kid to volunteer.









**Co-Host**
I need you to help as we count down from three, and then you’ll read the verse. 








**Co-Host**
The old is gone. I have an idea to help us understand that. I need our lab assistant to put on this costume.

(You can use a simple caterpillar mask or a full costume. If you don’t have those, then simply explain what the volunteer is pretending to be.)

**Host**
Can you guys tell what it is? Yep, a caterpillar. Does a caterpillar stay a caterpillar?

**Co-Host**
Nope, it dies. You should “die” a really dramatic, Oscar-worthy death.

(**Co-Host** “dies” on stage.)

**Host**
A caterpillar doesn’t die. It changes. We call it a metamorphosis.

**Co-Host**
Right, it changes. What does the caterpillar create when it’s ready for the metamorphosis? 

**Host**
Correct, a cocoon. We need our caterpillar to sit in the cocoon. Don’t worry, we will not zip you up in it, like a real bug.

(Any large bag could work for this, just be sure to have the kid sit in it, but don’t zip it up.)

**Co-Host**
The caterpillar spends time in there changing. When it’s transformed, what does it come out as?

(**Co-Host** puts the butterfly wings around the kid. If you don’t have butterfly costume wings, then you can just have the volunteer move his/her arms like wings.)

**Host**
A butterfly. It’s like a new creation.

**Co-Host**
That’s what happens to us. Jesus transforms us on the inside. He takes away the bad stuff and replaces it with a brand-new heart.

**Host**
That’s the invisible part of us that connects to God. It’s what helps us live a new life so that one day we can live forever with Jesus.

**Co-Host**
With news that good, we should definitely stand up and worship Jesus.




Big Story

If you have never said, “Yes, I want Jesus to forgive me, be my best friend, and I will follow Him for the rest of my life,” then today is your day! I’d like everyone to close your eyes and bow your heads, so no one is distracted. If you have already said, “Yes” to Jesus, give me a thumbs up. That’s awesome. You can put your hands down. If you’ve never said, “Yes” to Jesus before, and you want to say, “Yes” to Him right now and ask Him to forgive you, raise your hand. We’re going to pray all together. Those of you who are already friends and followers of Jesus can join in, too. Repeat after me, and let’s pray... 



Dear God,
I know everyone needs a Savior, 
and I know I can’t save myself. 
Jesus, I believe You are the Son of God.
I believe You died on the cross for my sins 
and God raised You from the dead.


Right now, 
I say you are my Lord, 
my Savior, 
and the One who forgives me.
Thank you, Jesus, 
that You are my best friend, 
because I’ve said, “Yes” to You. Amen.


If you prayed that prayer for the very first time today, then I want you to share that good news with someone. 



Engage 3

**Host**
I’m glad that Rusty, Ethel, and Slater stopped following Hans von Striker and chose the right leader.

**Co-Host**
We discovered that if you say, “Yes” to following Jesus, you become a new creation, and that the transformation happens on the inside when you follow the Big Point and say, “Yes” to Jesus. How do you let someone know what happened on the inside?

**Host**
Jesus gave us a great way to do it. It’s called baptism. I’m going to choose a lab assistant to help us show you what it looks like.



Bring up an assistant. For this object lesson, if possible, use one of the actual baptismal tanks that your church uses for baptism. This will help the kids get comfortable with getting baptized. If it’s not possible to bring one into the room, then consider using an inflatable pool or something that can represent a baptismal.


**Host**
Step into this tank. Normally it would be filled with water.



**Co-Host**
Wait a second. Safety first. I’ll be the lifeguard. (**Co-Host** sits on the stool and wears the floatie)

**Host**
We don’t need a lifeguard. The water only comes up to here. 

**Co-Host**
(Blows the whistle) Stay away from the deep end!

**Host**
There’s no deep end. You don’t even have to wear a bathing suit, just regular clothes. A pastor will have you sit down and then he or she will say “Because you’ve said, ‘Yes’ to Jesus, I baptize you in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.” Then he or she will dunk you under the water.

**Co-Host**
Everyone, practice holding your breath for as long as you can. 

(**Co-Host** pretends to pass out.)

**Host**
You can let it out. It won’t be that long. It’s down and right back up. The going down is a symbol of how Jesus died for us, and the coming up is a symbol of how He came back to life. 

**Co-Host**
It shows everyone that our old self is gone, and the new person is here. It’s like announcing to the world, “I’m a Jesus follower!” Just make sure to keep an eye out for baptism sharks. 

**Host**
Baptism is an easy, but important way to celebrate that you have followed our Big Point, 



**Host**
**I Can Say Yes To Jesus!** There are no sharks at baptism.



(Play Jaws Theme) Volunteer enters wearing a shark costume and chases the **Co-Host** offstage. You could also have a volunteer run on with just a shark mask or just have the **Co-Host** run off when the music plays.




**Host**
Trust me, there are no sharks in the tank. 

**Co-Host** If you say so. We better remind everyone about the Big Do **Discuss with your family when each person decided to make Jesus their leader and celebrate it**


**Host**I'm so excited about that Big Do! Let’s gather with our small groups and discuss what we learned today.


Small Group

Gather the kids into small groups and discuss the following. 


What convinced Rusty that he didn’t have to say, “No?” How does that help us decide to say, “Yes” to Jesus?

Why did we need Jesus’ help? What did Jesus do to save us?

What happens to us when we become a follower of Jesus? Where does that change take place? How do we let others know what Jesus did for us?

What did Herman tell us to do with our families in the Big Do? **Discuss with your family when each person decided to make Jesus their leader and celebrate it**


Small Group Leader

Big Review

Choose two kids from the audience to come on stage and answer the question. 

1. Today’s Big Point is:
a. I Can Say No To Jesus!
b. **I Can Say Yes To Jesus!**

2. Jesus died on the cross for whom?
	a. Some people
	b. **Everyone**

3. Saying, “Yes” to Jesus means we become His _____.
	a. Leader
	b. **Follower**

4. What is a next step to let others know you follow Jesus?
	a. **Be Baptized**
	b. Wear a Christian T-Shirt

5. Why did Rusty want to say, “No” to his new job?
	a. **He had heard bad rumors about his boss**
	b. He decided to be a clown in the circus 

6. In the future where will Jesus’ followers get to live?
	a. By themselves
	b. **With Jesus**

7. True/False: You can get baptized after you say, “Yes” to Jesus.
	a. **True**
	b. False

8. What is something great about being a friend and follower of Jesus?

9. 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIrV), “When anyone lives in Christ, the _____ creation has come.” 
        a. Old
        b. **New**

10. What did Herman challenge us to do in this week’s Big Do? **Discuss with your family when each person decided to make Jesus their leader and celebrate it**

Midweek / Classroom

**Question of the Day** What is something you always say yes too?

Engage 2 game prep: Small group leaders will need the clues, hints, and scripture for their group game, as well as bread, cotton ball, and a light bulb. Also see Engage 2 printout cards.


**Leader**
Hey, everyone. Welcome to Church! I can’t think of any place I would rather be than here with you learning about how much God loves us! In fact, tonight is one of my favorite nights. It’s our “Yes” to Jesus service! If you have said “Yes” to Jesus, then you have so many reasons to worship Him! We can thank Him for letting us be His friends and followers! So, turn to your neighbor, give him or her a high five, and then stand up and worship God!


Lab Wars


**Leader**
You guys did a great job worshipping God! It’s time to break up into your small groups. Go ahead and turn to your Small Group Leader now. (Play 2 minute timer while kids split up)


**Leader**
Who is ready for Lab Wars!? Lab Wars is when your team will have a chance to win 5,000 points! For this week’s war, we are going to play a giant game of Simon Says. Everyone, stand up. Small Group Leaders, you’re my referees. Whichever team has the most kids standing at the end wins!
 
(Play Game Music. Below are some suggestions of what to say as Simon!) 

Simon Says clap your hands.

Simon Says write in the air.

Simon Says dance.

Simon says jump twice.

Simon says kick in the air.

Simon says play the drums in the air.

Simon says meow like a cat.

Simon says stand on your toes.

Simon says lift your right leg.

Simon says bark like a dog.

Simon says take a leap forward.

Simon says move like a robot.

Simon says shake one hand with another.

Simon says look up.

Simon says look right.

Simon says walk left.

Simon says bend down on your knees.

Simon says close one eye and touch your toes.

Simon says clap your hands like the wings of the birds.

Simon says swim.

Simon says pick a leaf.

Simon says act like you’re eating.

Simon says move to the left while swinging your right arm.

Simon says sound like a cow.

Simon says hiss.

Simon says dance with silly moves.

**Leader**
Great job to our winners! (Award points) Simon Says is all about following exactly what your leader says! It makes me wonder, do you think it’s important who you follow? I think Herman may have something to say about this. Let’s tune in to find out!





**Leader**
It looks like Rusty’s GPS led Herman to the wrong place. Have you ever followed someone who didn’t know what they were doing or where they were going? I’m sure that didn’t end well. Herman is right, it matters who you say, “Yes” to and who you choose to follow. Take a look at our Big Point, 


**Leader**
**I Can Say Yes To Jesus!** Jesus is the perfect person to follow. He will never lead us in the wrong direction. This makes me think of a fun game that will help illustrate this. Each of you will get a maze from your Small Group Leader. Your goal is to help Ethel get to her cat. But be careful, there is only one right path that will get you to your goal! 




**Small Group Leader**

Pass out an activity sheet to each child and have them complete the maze! They have 7 minutes on the clock.




**Leader**
Raise your hand if you found the path that took you to the finish. Great job! Just like there was a right path to follow, Jesus is the right person to follow. He is such a good leader. Following Him brings so much joy and blessing to our lives. Our Big Point is true, 

**Leader**
**I Can Say Yes To Jesus!**  Let’s check out this classic episode of the Herman and Rusty Show to see why it’s a wise choice to say, “Yes” to Jesus.



**Leader**
I’m glad Rusty learned to say, “Yes” instead of “No.” Herman was right. It’s easier to say, “Yes” to Jesus when we know who He is and what He’s done. When we remember these things, it’s easy to follow our Big Point, 


**Leader**
**I Can Say Yes To Jesus!** Jesus is the perfect leader, and when we choose to say, “Yes” to Him, our lives will never be the same. He fills us with peace, joy, love, purpose, and so much more! But don’t just take my word for it. We are going to do an activity in our small groups that will show us that Jesus really is the best One to follow. Your Small Group Leader will read a clue. Your job is to figure out what object they are describing. The clues will lead you to a verse in the Bible that will describe who Jesus is and why we want to follow Him. Let’s do this now! 


Place the 3 objects in front of you. For the older groups, have the objects hidden in a paper bag so they cannot see what they are. Start by reading Clue #1. When they figure out the answer, read the verse and questions that follow Clue #1. After that, move on to Clue #2 and so on. 

Clue #1 – “I can be toasted, buttered, burnt, grilled, or baked. I need a partner if it’s a sandwich you want to make.” Answer: Bread

“Then Jesus said, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to Me will never go hungry. And whoever believes in Me will never be thirsty.” John 6:35

Jesus isn’t saying our stomachs will never growl. He is saying that He will satisfy all of our needs.

What is something you need that you could ask Jesus for? Strength, peace, help with school, joy, good friends, money for food

Clue #2 – What goes naked to keep us warm? Answer: A sheep
HINT (If needed): I’m not a cotton ball, but my skin sure looks like one.

“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep.” John 10:11 
 
Who is the good shepherd? Jesus Who are the sheep? We are
What does this verse tell us about Jesus when it says, He “gives His life for the sheep”? That He takes care of us, He is our protector, He loves us

Clue #3 – Where I am, darkness cannot be. Answer: Light

“Jesus spoke to the people again. He said, “I am the light of the world. Anyone who follows me will never walk in darkness.” John 8:12

Why is light so helpful? It helps us see, it keeps us safe, allows us to know what is around us
How does it make you feel knowing that Jesus is the light of the world?



**Leader**
I want to hear what you guys talked about. Someone raise your hand and tell me, what is your favorite thing about Jesus? (Interview a few kids in the crowd) It sounds like Herman was right. The Bible does explain why Jesus is the perfect person to say, “Yes” to and why we want to follow our Big Point.

**Leader**
**I Can Say Yes To Jesus!** The Bible tells us that many blessings come from saying, “Yes” to Jesus. Let’s listen to our Big Story from the Bible. I think it will help us understand this even more. 


Big Story Slides - yes-elem-big-story-slide-1.jpg

**Leader**
If you have never said, “Yes, I want Jesus to forgive me, be my best friend, and I will follow Him for the rest of my life,” then today is your day! I’d like everyone to close your eyes and bow your head, so no one is distracted. If you have already said, “Yes” to Jesus, I want you to give me a thumbs up. That’s awesome. You can put your hands down. If you’ve never said, “Yes” to Jesus before, and you want to say, “Yes” to Him right now and ask Him to forgive you, raise your hand. We’re going to pray all together. Those of you who are already friends and followers of Jesus can join in, too. Repeat after me, and let’s pray... 

Yes Prayer Slide - yes-prayer-slide-1.jpg


**Leader**
Dear God,
I know everyone needs a Savior, 
and I know I can’t save myself. 
Jesus, I believe You are the Son of God.
I believe You died on the cross for my sins 
and God raised You from the dead.


Yes Prayer Slide - yes-prayer-slide-2.jpg

If you prayed that prayer for the very first time today, make sure you tell your Small Group Leader. Right now, you are going to turn to your Small Group Leader and talk more about the decision you just made! 



**Small Group Leader**
The goal in this segment is to create a place where kids can openly share and to bring accountability to becoming more like Jesus. Do this by truly listening, responding with love, and showing them what it looks like to be a friend and follower of Jesus.

Who said “Yes” to Jesus today for the very first time? Celebrate with them! Have everyone give them a high-five, etc.

What does it mean to say “Yes” to Jesus? We are saying “Yes” to making Him the Leader of our life. We are saying, “Yes” to being His friend. We are saying “Yes” to what He wants us to do.

How does this affect our lives? At school? At home? 

What happens now?  

"I want you guys to know that this is the best decision you could ever make! Let’s pray and thank God for being the leader of our life!" Give a sticker to the kids who said, “Yes” to Jesus for the first time and write down their names. 



**Leader**
Following Jesus is so amazing. Now you have a friend who is always with you and will never leave you! He will be there to comfort you when you are sad, and to help you in any situation! Saying, “Yes” to Jesus is the best decision you will every make! Let’s check back in with Herman.


Closing

**Leader**
I  see a lot of kids who said, “Yes” to Jesus for the very first time, but you all look the exact same! Why is that? Take a look at our Big Verse, 

**Leader**
2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIrV), “When anyone lives in Christ, the new creation has come. The old is gone! The new is here!” When we say, “Yes” to Jesus, we are changed on the inside. We think differently, act differently, and even talk differently. So if we don’t change on the outside, how do we let everyone know that we are a friend and follower of Jesus? We do that through Baptism. During baptism, you get into a tank of water. There is a pastor there to walk you through it. The pastor will say, “Have you said, ‘Yes’ to Jesus?” Then he dips you under the water and brings you right back up. The going down is a symbol of how Jesus died for us, and the coming up is a symbol of how He came back to life. It’s all so you can let everyone know that you made the best decision ever! Let’s say our Big Point one more time, 

**Leader**
**I Can Say Yes To Jesus!** Turn to your small group to finish up tonight’s lesson! 




**Small Group Leader**

 - Remind the kids about the Big Do for this week.

 - Have a post-game huddle with your group. Pray for them, do a little cheer, whatever you decide is a good way to end your group. 



1. Today’s Big Point is:
a. I Can Say No To Jesus!
b. **I Can Say Yes To Jesus!**

2. Jesus died on the cross for whom?
	a. Some people
	b. **Everyone**

3. Saying, “Yes” to Jesus means we become His _____.
	a. Leader
	b. **Follower**

4. What is a next step to let others know you follow Jesus?
	a. **Be Baptized**
	b. Wear a Christian T-Shirt

5. Why did Rusty want to say, “No” to his new job?
	a. **He had heard bad rumors about his boss**
	b. He decided to be a clown in the circus 

6. In the future where will Jesus’ followers get to live?
	a. By themselves
	b. **With Jesus**

7. True/False: You can get baptized after you say, “Yes” to Jesus.
	a. **True**
	b. False

8. What is something great about being a friend and follower of Jesus?

9. 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIrV), “When anyone lives in Christ, the _____ creation has come.” 
        a. Old
        b. New

10. What did Herman challenge us to do in this week’s Big Do?

Large Group Abbreviated

This lesson presents God’s gift of salvation. Every church presents the Gospel with slight variations and nuances. Read through the steps before teaching. Present the Gospel in a way that is consistent with the scripture and God’s leading. Slides of the Yes prayer are available in downloads.


**Co-Host**
Did you love it?

**Host**
No.

**Co-Host**
Wow, that means a lot.

**Host**
Your theme song is the exact opposite of what today is about. We’re learning how to say, “Yes.” 

**Host**
Do you guys think it’s a wise choice for Rusty and the crew to follow Hans von Striker? I agree. Choosing to follow the right leader is an important decision.

**Co-Host**
Absolutely. That’s why I’m totally on board with the “Yes” movement. See my new shirt?

(**Co-Host** reveals he/she is wearing a Yes shirt.)

**Host**
Yes?

**Co-Host**
Yes! I even came up with a chant for the service. Yes! Yes! Yes!

(**Co-Host** does a “Yes” chant..)

**Co-Host**
Wait, who are we saying, “Yes” to? I once said, “Yes” to babysitting an ill-tempered monkey. That, my friend, is a mistake I will not repeat.

**Host**
We want to say, “Yes” to the perfect leader.

**Co-Host**
Who?

**Host**
We’re going to find the answer in our Big Point. We need a lab assistant to help us with it.



**Co-Host**
Let’s all say it together, **I Can Say Yes To Jesus!**

**Host**
The “who” is Jesus.

**Co-Host**
“Yes,” to doing what?



**Host**
When we say, “Yes” to Jesus, we say, “Yes” to following Him. We want to make Him the leader of our life. That means obeying Jesus and following His example.

**Co-Host**
That makes perfect sense. I just hope that Rusty, Ethel, and Slater don’t follow Hans Von Striker.



**Co-Host**
The old is gone. How does that work?


**Host**
Well, it's kind of like a caterpillar. A caterpillar doesn’t die. It changes. We call it a metamorphosis.

**Co-Host**
Right, it changes. What does the caterpillar create when it’s ready for the metamorphosis? 

**Host**
Correct, a cocoon. 

**Co-Host**
The caterpillar spends time in there changing. When it’s transformed, what does it come out as?

**Host**
A butterfly. It’s like a new creation.

**Co-Host**
That’s what happens to us. Jesus transforms us on the inside. He takes away the bad stuff and replaces it with a brand-new heart.

**Host**
That’s the invisible part of us that connects to God. It’s what helps us live a new life so that one day we can live forever with Jesus.

**Co-Host**
Wow! That is really good news!!




If you prayed that prayer for the very first time today, then I want you to share that good news with someone. We want to celebrate with you and help you as you do life with Jesus as your best friend.




**Host**
Trust me, there are no sharks in the tank. 

**Co-Host** If you say so. We better remind everyone about the Big Do 
**Discuss with your family when each person decided to make Jesus their leader and celebrate it**


**Host**I'm so excited about that Big Do! Let’s gather with our small groups and discuss what we learned today.


I Can Say Yes To Jesus!

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Large Group Full Program Instructions

Large Group Full Program Instructions