LOOK AT THAT PEN on your desk in a "new light." Take that vase off the shelf in the pantry. Focus on the light bulb you are putting into the socket. What do you see? With a little creative ingenuity, they could be visual aids for use in teaching your Sunday school class next week!

Object lessons are a scriptural means of teaching the truths of God. Scriptural object lessons were based on objects easily obtained and understood, and simple lessons are still the most effective. The more familiar the object, the better. The reason? Every time your students see or use that object, the Holy Spirit has the opportunity of bringing to their remembrance the Biblical truth you taught, using it as an example.

Be sure that the object you have chosen reflects or points to the main objective of the lesson. In selecting an object, first read the lesson and focus on the objective to be taught. Consider the age group you are teaching. Can you pinpoint an object that will appeal to their interests?

Objects can be great attention-grabbers—the springboard to a perfect opener for your class session. But don't use them in this manner every Sunday! On some occasions they might prove to be an excellent wrap-up, or a device to "turn a corner" in your class discussion. Pray for God's guidance as to where they might be used most effectively.

In presenting the objects, occasionally employ a little drama. You might have it hidden, and produce it at the effective moment. If it is small, have one student put it into his pocket before class and produce it at a given signal from you. When the presentation is made, make sure everyone can see it, and maybe even pass it around while you discuss the characteristics which make it an example.

Using objects to illustrate a Christian concept can be an effective teaching tool. But remember, you are teaching a concept! Don't allow yourself to spend an undue amount of time talking about the object itself-only enough to bring out the characteristics which make it illustrative of your point. Be sure your class understands the concept you are teaching. lf they leave remembering only the object and not the concept, you have not accomplished your purpose.