The Big Idea – Seeing Beneath the Surface

Surface area measures the total area of all sides of a 3D shape. In housing, surface area can represent the living space in apartments. Families in lower-income areas often have less living space than families in higher-income areas. God cares that every family has dignity in where they live.

Apartment A: 20 ft × 30 ft × 10 ft (height)

• Walls: 2(20 × 10) + 2(30 × 10) = 400 + 600 = 1,000 sq. ft
• Ceiling & Floor: 2(20 × 30) = 1,200 sq. ft
• Total Surface Area = 2,200 sq. ft

Apartment B: 15 ft × 20 ft × 10 ft

• Walls: 2(15 × 10) + 2(20 × 10) = 300 + 400 = 700 sq. ft
• Ceiling & Floor: 2(15 × 20) = 600 sq. ft
• Total Surface Area = 1,300 sq. ft

Apartment A has nearly 70% more living space than Apartment B.

Scripture Connections

• Isaiah 32:18 (KJV): “And my people shall dwell in a peaceable habitation, and in sure dwellings, and in quiet resting places.”
• Proverbs 14:31 (KJV): “He that oppresseth the poor reproacheth his Maker: but he that honoureth him hath mercy on the poor.”

Which word(s) stand out to you.

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