Introduce the doctrine: Invite the children to open their scriptures and read Doctrine and Covenants 58:42–43. Ask them to identify what happens when we repent of our sins. (If possible, invite the children to mark these verses in their scriptures.) Briefly tell the children about Enos (see Enos 1:1–4), and have a child read Enos 1:5–8. Testify that the Atonement of Christ makes it possible for us to be forgiven of our sins.
Encourage understanding: Explain that people who have repented and have been forgiven of their sins have a desire to serve God. Divide the children into three groups, and give each group one of the following pictures and scripture references: Alma baptizing in the Waters of Mormon (Mosiah 17:2–4; 18:1–17); Jonah (Jonah 1–3); the Anti-Nephi-Lehies burying their swords (Alma 23:4–18; 24:6–19). Explain that these stories tell about people who repented of their sins and served the Lord. Ask each group to review the scriptures and prepare and present a role play showing how these people repented and then served the Lord (by teaching the gospel, serving a mission, and refusing to fight).
I really love this visual that my husband did for a FHE just a couple weeks ago on repentance and I'd like to share with you!
It's time to raid your kitchen!
First you'll need 4 separate bowls (nothing fancy). I would also like recommend a cookie sheet to minimize the accidental mess that may happen.
In 2 of these bowls you will need "sticky items". My husband used food colored yogurt and caramel syrup.
In 1 bowl put crushed cereal or crackers. My husband used rice.
In the last bowl put in plain water.
Begin the lesson with a story about a sin. Here's what my husband did:
Sammy and his mom were at the store and he saw a candy that was one of his favorites. He asked his mom if he could have it, she said "not this time, Sammy". Sammy wanted it so bad so he grabbed it and put it into his pocket when his mom wasn't looking. (Dip your hand into one of your sticky items) On the way home, Sammy was sitting in his seat and couldn't wait to eat his candy. As soon as he gets home he runs to his room and starts eating the candy. His mom knocks on his door and comes in to ask for his help unloading the car. Mom sees the candy on Sammy's bed and asks where he got it from. Sammy says that he got it from school. (Dip your hand in the other sticky item)
*You can mention how after you've put your hand into your 2nd item that the first sticky is still there and now in the second one.
After mom left Sammy grinned to himself "I got away with it!" The next time Sammy and his mom went to the store he stole two candy bars. (Dip hand into the dry item)
* How would you feel after not making these choices like Sammy? How can Sammy become clean again after making these mistakes?
It is through the Atonement of Jesus Christ and the repentance process that Sammy and us are able to be forgiven of our mistakes. (Wash off hand in the water)
Sticky Ideas:
-chocolate syrup
-mayo
-ketchup
- bbq sauce
Dry Ideas:
- crackers
- crushed cereal
- bread crumbs
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Here's the Jumbo Cut-outs for the 3 scripture stories in the encourage portion of the outline: Alma & the Waters, Jonah, and the Anti-Nephi-Lehies and I've made them into a bundle for a great price!
Glue/tape the pieces on sticks for a fun way to retell the story. When you divide the Primary give an envelope with the scripture references and the story pieces. When the kids present the stories let them use the pieces to share the stories with the rest of the Primary.
