​Read all or parts of Romans 15 from your Bible or watch the Bible story video.

STORY: 

   Churches all over the world are made up of different people with different languages and backgrounds. Yet, every Christian is joined together into God’s family through Jesus. Like many strands make a rope, many believers make up the family of God. But sometimes churches don’t always agree and don’t always work together to be on mission for God. Paul wrote to the church in Rome to remind them how Christians should live because their hearts have been changed by Jesus.
 

   Paul said we should follow the example of Jesus who lived to serve others. Jesus didn’t put Himself first, but loved other people by doing good to them. He fed those who were hungry. He healed those who were sick. And He gave His life so we could be forgiven of our sins. In every way Jesus lived, He glorified God. 

    We bring glory to God by seeking the good of others. We can welcome others who are different from us, be patient and kind, and live at peace with people. Sometimes this can be hard to do. But through Jesus, we can love others just as He loved us. Jesus gives us changed hearts and the strength to do good to others. Just like Paul, we can help others and share the gospel so they can know the love of Jesus too. 

DISCUSSION QUESTION #1:  What are some ways we can seek the good of others?

ANSWER:  Answers will vary. Allow kids to list different ways we can serve others, love others, help others, etc. Remind kids that as we do these things we are showing others the love of Jesus and glorifying God. Remind kids that sharing the good news of Jesus shows we love others.

DISCUSSION QUESTION #2:  Why does loving others glorify God?

ANSWER:   Discuss how we were made to glorify God or show how great God is. Tell kids that we show others how great God is and how valuable He is to us when we obey His Word to love people made in His image. Remind kids that loving others and being selfless shows the love of Jesus in our hearts. Tell kids that putting someone’s needs above our own is what Jesus did for us and points others to Jesus’ love for them.

MORNINGS:

Dear Heavenly Father,

    Thank You that You sent Jesus to save us and change our hearts. We want to glorify You with our lives. Help us bring You glory by seeking the good of those around us. Amen.

EVENINGS: 

Dear Heavenly Father, 

  God, thank You for being the ultimate example of loving others. Help us, by Your Spirit, to love one another and put others first, so we can bring glory to You. Amen.