When teaching children the Bible, we may often use a word that is unfamiliar to them. Words that are used mainly in a Bible, or in a Christian context, may not be understood by younger children or by those who do not come from a Christian background.

While we should not avoid using Bible-specific words, we should ensure that children understand what we are saying. One way to do this is to use the word together with a short explanation. This can be done quite easily without interrupting the flow of one's talk. Here are some examples:

• A leper—a man with a terrible skin disease—cried out...
• They crucified Jesus—nailed Him to a wooden cross…

• … Scripture, which is God’s Word, the Bible.
• … Pentecost, which is a Jewish feast to celebrate the beginning of harvest.

• … a veil or curtain.
• … a seer or prophet…

• … repent, which means being sorry for one’s sin.
• … Salvation, which means being saved from sin and eternal punishment.

A list of unfamiliar Bible words

While it is always best to come up with your own explanation of a difficult word, this list of Bible word explanations can help you get started. To download the list, click on the red title below.