As is well known, there are various types of texts within the Bible. This article will focus specifically on the importance of choosing the right text and what to keep in mind when doing so. Not every text is equally suitable for devotions with younger or older children.
The Story
The story text tells us a story and is certainly best suited for devotions with children.
Prophetic Texts
Prophetic texts are challenging. They are suitable for children in situations where a prophecy was given and later fulfilled. However, younger children in particular may not be able to follow such developments, so these texts are better suited for the older children in the group.
Parables
Parables are also rather difficult to convey. The problem often lies in the fact that these images also encompass everyday situations that children may not necessarily be familiar with. Many of these images are also directed at adults, and a child may not yet have much connection to the image. Furthermore, these images are often ambiguous (for example, the lion is a symbol of Jesus—the Lion of the tribe of Judah—and at the same time, the lion is also a symbol of Satan—the enemy roams about like a roaring lion, always looking for someone to devour).
Textbook Passages
Educational texts can also be rather difficult to convey, and it is essential to link these texts to a story that fits the specific educational text; otherwise, the lesson will seem very abstract.
Photo: Markus Sigrist, March 15, 2025
