In Bible Class I often teach stories involving miracles. One such story is about the elderly couple, Zechariah and Elizabeth, who became parents despite the fact they were years past childbearing age. The point I emphasise in the story is that nothing is impossible with God. You can find details of that story in The Birth of John the Baptist.
Children love to see a “magic trick” but I want them to understand that a miracle of God is so much more than a trick a person does. I searched online for “easy magic tricks for kids” and found a trick I could do for the children. Once I performed the “magic” I showed the children how it worked. I even helped them learn how to do it so they could “wow” their family and friends.
This provided me with an opportunity to talk about miracles of God. Magicians perform tricks. God does miracles. Miracles are impossible for people.
I love bringing activities like these into my Bible class. My hope is that, from now on, when they see a magic trick my students will think about God and His amazing, impossible miracles.
Another story where you might discuss miracles versus tricks is Simon the Sorcerer.
So here is a simple idea, Don’t use magic Tricks to illustrate miracles, use them to illustrate mysteries ans wonders of Gods Love and Truths; eg: salvation; just like the wordless book does, and hundreds of other Object lessons. As a side note: if you are Fearful and and think magic Tricks are really connected to witchcraft Don’t use magic Tricks; but don’t condemn a Clown because he avoids Your negative attitude/spirit. Peace & Prayers, Paul
I love your website. It is awesome for teaching gidelines, etc. But no offense, I echo what Diana Dow states about sending a mixed message. It’s like mixing oil and water. May also make people think it is ok to dabble in tickery. I witnessed to a at McDonald (he was dressed like Ronal McDonald) he was doing tricks. WhenI told my grandson I did not agree with tricks/witchcraft, the Ronald McDonald shunned away from me and I felt a negative spirit. This is a true testimony.
Hi Shirley,
Glad you enjoy the website. You might want to re-read my post and then the comment you mentioned. The point is that a trick is a trick and a miracle is God’s power. Removing the “mystery” by explaining the trick emphasises the difference.
Glad you are wanting to point your grandson toward God. Understanding God’s power gives us confidence and assurance that surpasses any fear Satan tries to throw our way.
Don’t stop studying!
God Bless,
Mary
That is a good way to emphasize the difference in a miracle and a magic trick. I’m afraid that too many of us try to do magic tricks to illustrate miracles. I try to avoid doing that because I think it is sending the wrong message. If I can appear to do it in class, what’s the big deal about God doing it?
You might want to check out a song I wrote about miracles: What Is A Miracle?