Grade 4 CRE Bible Stories: Zacchaeus The Tax Collector – Samson Kills A Lion Notes
CRE Notes (Age 9) — Bible Stories
Topic: Zacchaeus the Tax Collector
Subtopic: Samson Kills a Lion
Note: Zacchaeus and Samson are different people from the Bible. These notes focus on the short story "Samson kills a lion" as a subtopic under our wider Bible-stories unit that includes Zacchaeus. Use this lesson to learn about God's help and what it means to obey God.
The Story (Simple)
Samson was a man chosen by God. He had great strength. One day Samson was going to Timnah. A young lion jumped out at him. Samson felt God's power come on him. He fought the lion and killed it with his bare hands.
Bible reference: Judges 14:5–6
Key Points (Short)
- God gave Samson strength to do big things.
- The Spirit of the Lord came upon Samson and helped him.
- Samson showed courage when he faced danger.
- Samson had special vows (he was a Nazirite) — being chosen brings responsibility.
Lessons for You (Age 9, Kenya)
- When you are afraid, you can pray and ask God for courage — He helps us.
- Being chosen by God means we must do what is right, like obeying parents and teachers.
- Strong people must use their strength for good — help others and protect them.
- We should remember that God gives gifts, and we must be careful not to misuse them.
Memory Verse (Easy)
"The Spirit of the LORD came powerfully upon him." — Judges 14:6 (easy wording)
Questions to Talk About (Class / Home)
- How do you think Samson felt when the lion jumped out at him?
- Have you ever been brave because you trusted God? Tell a short story.
- Why should people who are strong help others?
- What can we learn from Samson about using our gifts well?
Activities (Fun & Easy)
- Draw the story: Draw Samson and the lion. Colour the lion like the ones in storybooks or like the lions in Kenyan national parks.
- Role play: Let one child be Samson and another the lion (gentle and pretend). Practice saying the memory verse after the play.
- Craft — Lion Mane: Cut strips of yellow and orange paper and glue around a paper plate to make a mane. Wear it and say, "God helps the brave!"
- True / False quiz: a) Samson used a sword to kill the lion. (F) b) The Spirit of the Lord helped Samson. (T)
Short Prayer
Dear God, thank you for being with us. Help us to be brave and to use our strength to do what is right. Teach us to trust you every day. Amen.
Teacher / Parent Notes
- Keep language simple and short sentences for age 9.
- Use local examples: being brave when there is danger, helping a classmate who falls, or standing up for what is right.
- Remind learners that Samson later made mistakes. Use the story to talk about obeying God as well as trusting Him.