They can keep their gospel-centered, Jesus-focused, great-commissionfulfilling agenda. The Orange Strategy is NOT Scripture based. But it seems that any requests to change lessons is met with you just dont like orange. Not to be snarky, but it seems while they are there, they drink the Orange koolaid. Here are the top 5 ways your church should use an Apple TV to present kids ministry curriculum. My goal was simply to point out that there are also other influencers on a childs faith (beyond the church and parents), and if were coming up with a comprehensive plan to minister to families, we need to consider those influencers both from a standpoint of faith development and the great commission. I usually redefine the virtues using the definitions from ATI (http://ati.iblp.org/ati/family/curriculum/characterqualities.pdf?show=true) and try to add things about depending on the Holy Spirit. The journaling time at the end of the . My point was never about curriculum or which publisher is better or worse than the other. With Christmas just around the corner, its time to get excited. Grow focuses on building a strategy for the church, with emphasis on planning tools, techniques, and events, while Orange's priority is detailed differentiation on the curriculum given between aged . Enter email address to receive updates when new articles are added. Preschool - The Gospel Project If leaders go by the book and present word for word, without their own personality, ad lib, and more importantly finding ways to tie it back to scripture in a more principled way, the program is effectively a Virtues lesson on how to live with other humans. They know that keeping parents involved in their childs educational journey is essential; this curriculum takes it beyond the classroom. Here is where we need to be even more discerning about what we bring into the minds of our children. We do need to be teaching our kids virtuous behavior, but if they dont know the God of the bible well enough to fall in love with Him because every lesson is really focused on them and their behavior, we are doing our kids a disservice. But I dont want that! I'm not at Orange either, but I am encouraged about what I am hearing about some of the sessions this year being very gospel focused. I think virtues have gotten a very bad rap. Combining developmental biblical learning with intentional love and safety will help your preschooler embrace the fact thatGod made and loves them. We are currently in our 8thish year with Orange and have noticed the lack of Biblical knowledge and connection in our kids, teens, and now young adults that have gone through the program. Isnt Orange just about virtues? My basic response to most people is that if you make 252Basics just about virtues thats your fault more than its their fault. Also offering discounted access to a media package, this option is great for simplicity. We regularly receive emails and chat with people at conferences who tell us about how much theyre learning just through what theyre teaching each week, with people regularly telling us that over and over again, theyd never studied the passage at all (Obadiah, anyone? The Accountability rests with the Leader to deliver. FYI, the exact quote is "The works are the fruit, not the root, of faith." The Gospel Project for Kids Christmas Edition is a five-session, gospel-centered Christmas Bible study resource that will help you share the Christmas story with your preschoolers and kids. The Gospel Project is a LifeWay Sunday school curriculum delivered in a chronological, easy-to-digest format, guiding kids through the journey of the Bible in a way that makes sense. I briefly listed out some concerns I have, but tied back the responsibility to ME the one in front of the kids, and customizing it, personalizing it, making it my own, and of particular importance ensuring a Primary Focus on Scripture, every single time. Coming in at $597 a year, this option is great for those who are working within a budget. In all likelihood, you know how the phrase ends: If you want it done right, DO IT YOURSELF! These prices vary based on which specific curriculum you want, as there are numerous different options: Concrete and Cranes, ZIP for Kids, Destination Dig, Gods Brave Girl, and so much more. When we see that we can be brave, and honest, and have conviction not because it makes look more like Christ but because Christ lived a life of honest conviction and bravely laid down his life we too can do those things because of what Christ has already done for us. "Works are the fruit of our faith not the root.". Orange Curriculum vs. in case you're interested. I should have made that more clear. In my ministry to children of divorce, I see the spiritual impact of children not having those faith role models to rely on. Whether youre discipling the youngest or eldest members of your church, The Gospel Project offers everything you need to share the good news from the whole Bible with easy-to-use, cost-effective print and digital options! One commenter pointed out (albeit a little defensively) that Orange is a Strategy not a Theory. My first thought when I saw that? Your information will *never* be shared or sold to a 3rd party. The curriculum provided by ReThink is creative and is centered around a monthly "life app" (boy do I miss them being called virtues). 6. Gospel Project: Which is Better? Why volunteers dont attend your meetings. Does it actually teach the Bible as authoritative, sufficient, inerrant truth?, and (2.) Updated for 2023. Read now! Resources - The Gospel Project I actually prefer writing my own curriculum, but I would never argue with you that you should do that either depending on your own circumstances and your church. Lewis. Adding a leader guide pack costs $7.99 and additional kids activity packs are around $3-5. Besides, who doesnt trust Ed Stetzer? We are new to 252 (only about 4 months now), but I sometimes feel like it's very self-focused and virtue centered. digital options. I honestly, have never been so excited about a Sunday school curriculum. While it doesnt offer the ease and simplicity of simply purchasing a bundle with everything you need, you can decide if certain elements are suited to your kids.. So, there you have it. jR=eiIDv7a=}Iak38d~ The Gospel Project is a terrific option if you're searching for a single curriculum that will offer high-quality resources for every member of your church. Look no further than our carefully selected top 5 list for 2023! 3. ), let alone realized how it could point us to Jesus. some of fellow pastors have been concerned for a long time about Oranges virtue based teaching although behind the curriculum is a scripture basis from Genesis to Revelation. Plus, it offers a full 52 weeks of learning, for preschool and elementary students combined. Its not something that can be narrowly defined to a group of churches based on their convictions about how to do church, or one specific theological camp. The Gospel Project for Kids: Christmas Edition - Lifeway When the light of the church (yellow) combines with the heart of the home (red) you get a stronger, more vibrant impact in the life of a kid . Inside the boxes contained a treasure that I have been awaiting for months now. The Orange curriculum has got you covered. When selecting your childrens church curriculum, its important to think about your specific goals, the age of the children you teach, and what works best for you. Explore our resource library to find helpful articles, devotionals, podcasts, training, and more to help you grow in your faith and prepare to lead a session of The Gospel Project. This is a huge struggle for me. On an even broader note, when it comes to talking about family ministry in general, they are often relegated to the back burner if they are even addressed at all. What can I say? We will examine the similarities and differences in detail, including materials provided, cost, lesson structures, and more.. How can church leaders make a decision when they are swamped with choices? LOL. It is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit that strives to strengthen young peoples connection with God through two primary influences: the church and the home. Currently, I am serving as the Global Pastor to Families. Thats good. While your decision will depend largely on the size and scope of your church, our favorite choice is Think Orange Curriculum, First Look, and 252 Kids. Hows it working for you? The Gospel Project Curriculum LifeWay Yes No Preschool - 6th grade Whole of scripture chronologically in a 3-year curriculum plan Devotions mostly online and in digital format for printing or electronic sending Three or more weekly activity All these things are greathowever there is one HUGE, glaring weakness that I cannot overlook. Lifeway is a Sunday school curriculum for kids that places emphasis on tackling real-life issues alongside practicing faith and worship. This was an article about implementation. Whether you are wanting to shift toward online-only classes, focus on in-person gospel, or streamline your Sunday school operations with smart software, you can find the right childrens church curriculum here for you and the kids in your ministry.. Great post. I welcome it because the post was primarily intended to get a conversation started, and I think at least to some extent its done that. On the surface, Orange sounds like a home run. PDF C S MINISTRY CURRICULUM COMPARISON C - pcacdm.org I am little behind on posting photos. 7 Things You Should Know About The Gospel Project For the leaders who know what they need click to see the curriculum by age level. From various sources I have been informed that this Gospel Project thing was asubtleway to indoctrinate our churches in the ways of Calvin. A few days ago the UPS guy lugged in two hefty boxes. Through focusing on bible study, the story of redemption, and spiritual conversations, your kids will dig deep into scripture, and their understanding will transform forever. I have found that the Orange team is very open to ideas and input. Start saving your Kids Ministry time and money. This is a bit of a mantra for me, and frankly, something that I struggle with daily both in leadership and in my Christian walk. A few days ago the UPS guy lugged in two hefty boxes. I like numbers, but the point of the whole exercise wasnt to diminish the impact parents have on the spiritual development of their kids. Why I'm Sending Back The Gospel Project SBC Voices Thanks to Steve Kozar for gathering these articles from different Christians from various theological and denominational backgrounds, all having deep concerns about the un-Biblical, confusing and sometimes dangerous teachings coming from Andy Stanley: Andy Stanley, Orange Curriculum, Orange Strategy concerns, Rick Joiner, 2022 created and owned by Spreeman Communications. Enter the promo code apple at checkout for the $160 gift. Thats why weve created this handy guide, to make your choice that little bit easier!. However, the more I hear from them and about them, and really hear their hearts, the more it becomes obvious to me that they are doing what they do for Jesus. Im an accountant. I don't have it in front of me, so I will paraphase, "Works are the fruit of our faith not the root." You do sell those, right? In talking to our kids pastor and story teller we always tweak the application so that the virtue is shown to our kids through Christ rather than a way to Christ. I suppose, in hindsight I should have called the article The Flaw in Implementation of Orange Strategy. I dont think that would have sparked the same kind of discussion, so I guess Im guilty of sensationalist titling. For almost a year, a KidMin friend raved about this curriculum. Ive taught Orange for several years, took 2 years off (4th child born), and today is my first day back. Celebrating the birth of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ is important for everyone, kids and adults alike. This is a much deeper question that takes much more time than we have hear but I think that the people at Orange have been unfairly branded as moralists the problem is more systemic in kids ministry. But I knew that the Calvinistic Illuminati, of which Im merely a doting admirer, would be able to do it. Hall, Andy Stanley-We Cant Arrive at the Empty Tomb Without the Bible by Josh Buice, Andy Stanley, do you really want Christians to keep Christ out of business? I think, like many things, the problems lie in the extremes. I posted just a few minutes ago (pending approval). As a Calvinist who desires everyone to unthinkingly bow their knee to the 16th century Reformer I was excited. They offer a wide range of tools to assist church workers, from senior pastors to volunteers, to help make God's message more meaningful to more children. Your submission has been received! 4. As always, thanks for the thought provoking article. Copyright secured by Digiprove 2022 Kathie R. Phillips. Ive got another movement that I want to see happen and it wont happen by quoting Arminians and not even dealing with supralapsarianism. Look into Playlister and compare us against ProPresenter. Amazon.com: Customer reviews: Think Orange: Imagine the Impact When http://www.gty.org/resources/articles/A100, http://ati.iblp.org/ati/family/curriculum/characterqualities.pdf?show=true, 5 Things I Learned From Blogging For 16 Years. Are We Are ALWAYS Going to Be a White Convention? Resources for a Midweek Discipleship Experience, An Orange specialist to offer dedicated support. preschool. So, cancel that. Rather we must teach kids that Christ died for us and that he calls us to obey Him as an expression of love. 7 Things You Should Know About The Gospel Project, New and Notable Christian Books for Children, COVID-19 and the Future of the Christian Conference, 8 Sins You Commit Whenever You Look at Porn. The journaling time at the end of the morning allows for quiet reflection each week. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Youre sounding a little less Calvinistic than I had hoped. I hope youll come back and read all about that! 2. The starting price for groups of 15 or less is: Starter $525, Basic $663, and Premium $684., As it comes without access to large group events and devotional cards, the basic package is not for everyone. The Gospel Project is a LifeWay Sunday school curriculum that takes children on a meaningful tour of the Bible in a chronological, simple-to-understand manner. The Gospel Project invites you and your church to join in this study of the New Testament and see how in Jesus, hope gets personal. The Southern Territory now has 18 corps, two from each of the nine divisions, in training. Without your own personal delivery, stories, and constantly tying it back to the larger story of Christ with a strong focus on scripture. Our church used Orange curriculum for about 6 years before we decided to make a change. Where Did All This Expository Preaching Come From. So I will be sending back my Gospel Project to the folks at Lifeway. Your costs will vary hugely depending on the level of access you require and how many students you have in attendance. Website Twitter. Form was not submitted. You know getting their foot in the door and then theyre going to slam this Reformed theology home. What do Sunday School teachers whove reviewed this curriculum have to say? But Im starting to feel a little cheated. Think Orange curriculum is divided into four sections: First Look (preschool), 252 Kids (elementary school), XP3 Middle School (middle school), and XP3 High School (high school). Think Orange provides group events and dynamic lessons, designed by experts for each age group. It is always seeking to remain relevant by providing cutting edge music and resources. <>/ExtGState<>/XObject<>/ProcSet[/PDF/Text/ImageB/ImageC/ImageI] >>/MediaBox[ 0 0 1224 792] /Contents 4 0 R/Group<>/Tabs/S/StructParents 0>> I'm using it this weekend in a lesson about the Parable of the Sower. How to Create Your Church's Childcare Program - Acts 29 He was right. The Lawrenceville Corps was the first to deploy Orange, in October 2015. Elementary Curriculum: Why We Chose LifeWay's "Gospel Project" PDF 2019 Curriculum Comparison Chart 2 0 obj Making College Decisions? There comes a time when churches must look critically at how they run their ministries. We used The Gospel project for a while, but werent completely satisfied with that either, and are now writing our own curriculum. Best line by far: "When kids are young, you just need to put stuff in them so that when you shake them, they just throw up Bible.". You see, the Orange Strategy program was developed at North Point Community Church, the mega church in Atlanta founded by Andy Stanley and Reggie Joiner, founder of the Re Think Group which is the architect of Joiners Orange Conference and Orange Tour. Let the kids of your ministry have a blast while celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ by including fun and games in your classes. The Gospel Project curriculum is organized into three-year cycles, with new volumes released every three months. %PDF-1.5 I continued flipping through the pages. The lessons are emailed directly from LifeWay to the leaders - one less thing for me to do. Those are all well and good but they are not going to help me covertly make everyone a Calvinist. Exhortation to fulfill the Great Commission. Keep reading for a comprehensive guide to helping your church select the right package. So how do you teach virtues in a non-moralisticway? We forgive because He first forgave us. Grow prioritizes the smaller church, and is built to be accessible to every church, no matter the size. Playlister | 8020 Zionsville Rd. Sign up for Playlister and we'll send a free Apple TV when you enter the promo code: apple at checkout. Id be happy to talk with you if youre interested in learning more or have any questions. It even includes access to Playlisters presentation software, so you can effortlessly import and share the videos at just the touch of a button. Just as the Congregation looks to the Pastor when he preaches on Sunday. We we looking for a curriculum that: Because The Gospel Project takes children through the Bible in 3 years and met our criteria, this is what we use. In lieu of a comments section, I accept and encourage letters to the editor. offered more media elements (such as video). If you dont need the organizational aspects, volunteer guides, and email templates, you can save some money by opting for the basic package. Thanks, Wayne. From Genesis to Revelation, this program will guide your pupils in developing a meaningful connection with God. The Best CCLI Songs for Worship in 2022 - Webflow For the leaders who know what they need click to see the curriculum by age level. Brought to life through exciting methods, this program spends equal time in the Old and NewTestaments and includes family resources for great dinner-time discussions at home. With diverse methods of learning in a dynamic environment, learning about God can be fun and engaging from a young age. The large, color timeline poster have added a nice decorative element in our exit ramp. Thanks for your post. All the other curriculums we looked at need as much or more work than we put into 252 most often it was much more work. I also agree that the people at Orange have been branded as moralists. Pruning projects that no longer serve your people is a must, or you risk wasting valuable resources and limiting your church's growth. Parents are right to be concerned about these Big Box curricula from Big Box megachurches. high speed chase sumter sc 2021 marine city high school staff. Heres one from Creative Kid Min: Something that has bothered my whole team is the lack of bible use. Check Out California Baptist University! The same goes for your curriculum does it still educate your youth while supporting their relationship with God? Great comment Wayne. P.S. Choosing the best childrens ministry curriculum can be tough, as there are a wide variety of options out there. Absolutely. Give me the Calvin bobble-heads. Then Monday I was listening to a podcast where the pastor was talking about the number of times the work God or Jesus appears in the Bible preceded by Lord the point being that we can't have God or Jesus without making them Lord of our life as well. I think many are unwilling to invest the time to take any curriculum and adapt them (and they all need adaptation) and prefer something they can just photocopy and hand out to their volunteers.. To me the bigger issue than virtues vs. no virtues is whether a curriculum is man focused or Christ focused. Strategy vs theorymeh. I probably should have bolded the last paragraph. Cost: $510 annually for the preschool starter, plus $412 for the add-on media package. Seeds of faith are planted and nurtured here but its also where we desire for children to have a greater understanding of the Bible and grow in their relationship with Jesus. They definitely didnt understand the greater story of redemption woven throughout the bible, and they were not getting the major connections Jesus had to the Old Testament. All Resources Additional Resources (38) Articles (187) Devotionals (84) eBooks (5) Leader Training (495) Podcast (281) Videos (145) Orange is a great option (I've used it), as if The Gospel Project (used that too), as is Group (been there) as is David C. Cook (like it a lot). At our church we have used 252basis for around 6 years. Parents are important. Through a variety of activities, such as music, dance, artistic endeavors, and more, the Gospel Project shows kids of all ages His kindness. The Difficult Task of Selecting Curriculum for Children's Ministry I like the fact that so many other people are teaching the same lesson . It is so popular that churches of all denominations are labeling themselves Orange Churches. It is well funded, well made, organized and nice to look at. Here is a transcript of a conversation with J.D. This preschool program run by Think Orange focuses on laying a foundation of faith in your little one's mind. You do, however, have the option to purchase resources separately if you don't want to commit to a whole curriculum plan. At some point, I think I may have been guilty of this myself (at least in my own thoughts). It finally arrived. Mike is currently pursuing an M.Div at SBTSand by "currently pursuing" he means hoping Jesus returns before he has to take that final Hebrew class. One of my concerns about the Orange movement (as adopted, not as presented i think) has been the almost evangelistic approach people take towards the method. Curriculum & Strategy for Kids & Youth Ministry | Think Orange I don't hate Orange. Yet Sunday school "is one of our core programs of discipleship" - hence, the importance of the new curriculum. Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email. I spent too much time in the article on the idea of 40 vs. 3,000 hours which wasnt the main point. During your worship service or events, people are distracted in finding a parking spot, getting to where theyre going, or perhaps thinking about everything going on in their life. ProPresenter alternatives - Why Playlister? I have found that the Orange team is very open to ideas and input. Each age group gets a unique curriculum made with the help of child development experts and experienced church leaders. Scripture needs to be the focus, despite Orange, or any other curriculum format, creativity, gimmicks, scripts, abstract ideas, etc. OT: Children's Ministry Curriculum What does your church use?