"Tongues of Flame" – a 1 Corinthians 14 Craft

Materials:

• Red, yellow, and orange tissue paper
• Scissors
• Glue
• Black construction paper
• Pencil
• String or yarn

Instructions:

1. Cut the tissue paper into small strips, about 1 inch wide and 6 inches long.
2. Take three strips, one of each color, and stack them on top of each other.
3. Fold the stacked strips in half lengthwise.
4. Cut slits along the folded edge, stopping about 1/2 inch from the other edge.
5. Unfold the tissue paper and roll it tightly from one end to the other, gathering the slits together and creating a flame-like shape.
6. Apply a small amount of glue to the end of the tissue paper and press it onto the black construction paper.
7. Repeat steps 2-6 to make several flames.
8. Use a pencil to draw tongues of fire on the black construction paper around the flames.
9. Cut out the flames and tongues of fire.
10. Use glue to attach the flames to a string or piece of yarn.

Bible Verse:

"For anyone who speaks in a tongue does not speak to people but to God. Indeed, no one understands them; they utter mysteries by the Spirit. But the one who prophesies speaks to people for their strengthening, encouraging and comfort." – 1 Corinthians 14:2-3 (NIV)

Explanation:

In 1 Corinthians 14, Paul discusses the use of speaking in tongues in the church. He explains that while speaking in tongues can be beneficial for personal prayer and worship, it is not useful for the edification of the whole church unless there is an interpretation given. Paul encourages the use of prophecy, which can strengthen, encourage, and comfort the church. This craft represents the "tongues of flame" that were seen on the day of Pentecost when the Holy Spirit came upon the disciples and gave them the ability to speak in other languages.