Grade 7 CRE THE BIBLE β FUNCTIONS OF THE BIBLE Notes
THE BIBLE
Subtopic: FUNCTIONS OF THE BIBLE
These notes explain why the Bible is important for Christians in Kenya. They are written for learners aged about 12 years (Class 6β8). The Bible helps people know God, learn how to live, and find hope.
1. Reveals who God is πβοΈ
The Bible tells us about God's nature β loving, holy and just. Through stories (like Moses and Jesus) we learn God's character and promises.
Example: In church we read Bible passages to learn about Godβs love for Kenya and the whole world.
2. Guide for living π¦π§
The Bible gives rules and wise advice on how to behave, treat others and make good choices.
Example: The Ten Commandments and Jesus' teaching to love your neighbour help children behave well at school and at home.
3. Brings comfort and hope β€οΈποΈ
When people are sad, sick or afraid, Bible verses give comfort and remind them God cares.
Example: Families in Kenya read Psalm 23 at funerals and during hard times to feel peace.
4. Teaches right from wrong π‘οΈβοΈ
The Bible corrects people and helps them change wrong behaviour. It shows the results of good and bad choices.
Example: Parents and Sunday school teachers use Bible stories to teach honesty and respect.
5. Shows the way to salvation βοΈπ
The Bible explains how people can be saved by faith in Jesus Christ. It tells the story of Jesus' life, death and resurrection.
Example: In Kenyan churches, pastors preach the Gospel from the Bible to invite people to follow Jesus.
6. Reminds history and promises π§Ύπ
The Bible records events, people and God's promises. It helps Christians remember Godβs work in the past.
Example: Stories of Abraham, David and Esther show how God cared for his people long ago.
7. Gives rules for worship and prayer ππ£
The Bible contains prayers, hymns and instructions for worship. It shapes how Christians pray and praise God.
Example: Kenyan church liturgies and Sunday school songs often use words from the Psalms.
8. Warns and corrects prophetsβ teachings ππ
The Bible warns against false teaching and tells Christians how to recognise truth.
Example: Church leaders use Bible teachings to explain which messages are true according to Scripture.
Short memory verse
2 Timothy 3:16 (easy): "All Scripture is useful for teaching, for correcting, and for training in right living." (NIV)
Quick class activity (5 minutes)
- Pair up and name three ways your family uses the Bible at home or church.
- Pick one Bible story you know. Say how it teaches a good lesson (honesty, love, courage).
Mini quiz (write answers)
- Give two functions of the Bible. (2 marks)
- Why do Christians in Kenya read the Psalms during sad times? (1 mark)
- Which Bible part tells about Jesus' life? (1 mark)
Answers (for the teacher):
1. Examples: to teach about God, to guide our behaviour, to comfort, to correct, to show salvation, to record history.
2. Because the Psalms give comfort, hope and words of prayer when people are sad.
3. The New Testament (especially the Gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke, John).
2. Because the Psalms give comfort, hope and words of prayer when people are sad.
3. The New Testament (especially the Gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke, John).
Key words
- Scripture β another name for the Bible.
- Gospel β the good news about Jesus.
- Psalm β a song or prayer in the Bible.
- Commandment β a rule from God.
Use these notes during lessons, family devotions or when preparing for CRE class. Remember to treat the Bible with respect and read it often.
Short prayer: "Thank you, Lord, for your Word. Help us to read and live by the Bible. Amen." π