A child may be led to see "the whole armor of God" in a picture of an old knight with his "helmet," "shield," "breastplate," and "sword." A plaster cast of a faithful dog, loving doves, little Samuel in prayer, or David with his shepherd's staff, have all been frequently used to teach divine lessons. A specimen of good fruit will teach us to bring forth good fruit—to be fruit-bearers; and the showing of a watch may be made the means of much valuable instruction to children.

But we must sum up some of the leading things which may be used in Sunday-school object-teaching, viz.:

  1. Natural objects.
  2. Texts, cards, etc.
  3. Maps, charts, etc.
  4. Pictures and drawings.
  5. Word-painting, or pictorial teaching by aid of the imagination.
  6. Parables, parallels, etc.
  7. Portable slates and paper.
  8. The blackboard, which furnishes ample facilities for object-teaching.

Object Lessons in Brief Notes.
Examples.

The following is an outline lesson on a picture-print of

David and Goliath. 1 Sam. xvii.

Ps. xviii. 32: Success is from the Lord.

First. Remarks and questions on the print. Ask the children to point out the two principal figures—to tell you what difference they observe in them; one is an immense man—a giant; the other a young lad. The difference in their dress—one is clad in armor, with helmet, shield, and spear; the other has a light dress, with a crook, a sling, and a bag. Let them describe the manner and action of each. The giant looks fierce and angry, raising his spear and clenching his enormous fist. The lad appears calm and gentle; casting his look upwards, he points to heaven. For what purpose do they seem to be met? How can the youth escape so great and powerful an enemy? Where can he look for help? Ask the children what they would do under the circumstances.

Secondly. The narrative. Give the children an account from the Bible of Goliath's size and his armor, and let them see how complete the latter was. Read to them how he defied the armies of the living God, and challenged any to combat with him. Who is able to stand against so mighty an enemy? All the Israelite soldiers are afraid. At last a slender youth comes forward and offers himself. How is he prepared for the contest? What makes him so bold? Read verses 32-37. He trusts in the Lord. It is His cause in which he fights. This is David. See how he prepares himself (verse 40). His spirit is shown in verses 45, 46. Success was with David (see 48-50). Contrast the appearance of the two, their different preparation and their spirit.