I am considering approaching my church about a ministry through teaching magic. I would do this for all ages... kids (maybe middle school and up) aspiring "magic uncles and grandpa's" (aunts and grandma's too). But before I do so, I want to build a syllabus. I'm pretty clear on the magic content... basic cards, coins, TT, etc. and a few "impromptu" effects. I'm not looking to teach "Gospel Magic," so I'm not looking for effects specifically designed to convey a Christian message. Where I would appreciate some input is on few topics

- Gospel themes and/or stories to accompany basic effects....vanishes, appearances, transposition, transformations. I would like to occasionally show both a secular and Christian presentation for a "standard" effect i.e coins across, oil & water

- Gospel passages that would "fit" as a theme or to "set the stage" for each lesson (i.e. extending joy) I'm pretty sure I'd lose everyone if every effect had spiritual patter, so, while the magic teaching may be 100% secular, I'd like to introduce each session with a short scripture.... but it would be great if I could relate it to something like learning, entertaining, magic, etc.

This is just an idea for now, so any feedback is appreciated

Interesting idea. I'm quite curious to see what responses you get Scott.

The point I came back to magic after about 22 years off was when preaching on Luke 15 I remembered once doing a coin vanish. So there are coins, vanished and found coins in the Bible. That would be a good starting point I think. Isaiah 1:19 or 1John 1,9 are great to start teaching a silk color change.

Thanks.

That sparked a few ideas...

Color change, vanish - Washing away sin
Production - God's provision (i.e. manna, multiplying bread and fish)
Prediction - God has a plan, God knew you before you were born

Again, Im not looking for patter... the idea would be more toward performing the effect with a secular presentation, then use it as a segue into a discussion of a Christian construct... then teaching it

What biblical constructs, teachings, etc are analogous to: relocations, transpositions, predictions, and other magic plots

Magic is a great item to use to break down barriers.