Bible Story Math — Solving Word Problems

Memory Verse "For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding." — Proverbs 2:6 (NIV)

Learning Objective

Students will solve addition and subtraction word problems using stories from the Bible.

Lesson Content

We can use math to solve problems in Bible stories! A word problem tells a story and asks us to find an answer using addition or subtraction.

Here is an example: Jesus had 12 disciples. If 2 went to buy food, how many stayed with Jesus? 12 - 2 = 10. Ten disciples stayed!

Another one: David collected 5 smooth stones for his sling. If he found 3 more stones, how many would he have? 5 + 3 = 8 stones. Look for clue words: 'more' and 'in all' mean add, 'left' and 'fewer' mean subtract.

Hands-On Activity

Solve these word problems: 1) Noah saw 6 birds and 8 fish. How many animals in all? 2) There were 15 loaves of bread. The disciples gave away 7. How many were left? 3) Write your own Bible math word problem for a friend to solve.

Discussion Questions

How do you know whether to add or subtract in a word problem?
Can you make up a word problem about Moses?
How does math help us understand Bible stories better?

← Previous Lesson Back to Course Take the Quiz →

Standard Bearer Academy

Lesson 6