The Birth of John the Baptist

A priest and his wife were well beyond the years when it was possible to give birth to a child. The angel, Gabriel, gave Zechariah the incredible news that his wife, Elizabeth, would give birth to a son who would become a great preacher. They were to name the baby John. Elizabeth received a visit from her young cousin, Mary, and these two praised God in their shared joy.  Soon after Mary left, Elizabeth gave birth to John.

Nothing is impossible for God!

Bible verses used in this episode:

Luke 1:5-80

Outline:
1. News of an "impossible" pregnancy (verses 5-25)
2. Mary visits Elizabeth (verses 26-56)
3. John is born (verses 57-80)

 Tips for Teaching:

• Children: Talk of pregnancies and babies within a young family and their relatives are often familiar to very young children.  Guide small children in playing with baby dolls and expressing love and care.
• Adults: Compare and contrast the responses of Zechariah, Elizabeth, and Mary upon hearing the news of these seemingly impossible pregnancies.  Discuss how we respond when God surprises us.

 Full teaching instructions available free from Mission Bible Class:
 Bible lesson: The Birth of John the Baptist

Scriptures quoted from the International Children’s Bible®, copyright ©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.

Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.

For questions or comments email: mary@missionbibleclass.org