Children's Message: Serve Others, Serve Christ

This message is taken from the parable of the sheep and the goats, found in Matthew 25. The emphasis is on looking for ways that we can help others around us, and in so doing, honor God. Through discussion and images, communicate the critical importance of this idea with young believers.
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Main Objective: This message reminds us that God uses people to do His work. We are charged with passing Christ’s love and service on to others, just as the Great Commission invites us to be part of God’s plan. The story that occurs in Matthew 25 reminds us that Jesus endured hunger and shame while He was on Earth. We obviously do not live in first century Middle East, and cannot change the life of Jesus as a human. However, when we take care of others, we do it as though we do it for Christ, because it is for Him! This message invites kids to love and serve the Lord by what they do for other people.
Law/Gospel Theme: This passage can potentially seem a little nerve-wracking, as it entails the judgment of the Second Coming and seems to convey a sense of works-based righteousness. However, the emphasis is not on what we do, but on who we do things for. We serve others not out of obligation, but out of love for God. We have a blessed opportunity to communicate the love of Jesus because when we care for one another, we recognize all people are made in God’s image. We hope for the return of Christ because we know He has done more for us than we can ever do for others.
Optional Materials: Pictures of people in need (refugees, homeless, imprisoned, sick, etc.); optional items with which to serve or engage others (sporting equipment, supplies, clothing).
Bible Passage: Matthew 25:31-46