This lesson teaches children that God welcomes everyone who loves Jesus, even when Christians think differently about small things, so we should be kind instead of judging each other. It works well for ages 5 to 11 and takes about 20 to 30 minutes.
Big Idea
We belong to Jesus, so we should be kind to our friends in the family of God, even when we do things differently.
Memory Verse
Romans 14:19
So then, let us follow after things which make for peace, and things by which we may build one another up.
(WEB)
Hold both hands out in front of you, then slowly bring them together, like two friends meeting in the middle. Say the verse as your hands meet, and do the motion each time you repeat it.
The Story: Romans 14 for Kids
The church in the city of Rome had people who saw things differently. Some friends felt free to eat any kind of food. Other friends felt more careful and only ate vegetables. Some believers thought one day of the week was special, and others thought every day was the same.
The apostle Paul wrote a letter to these friends to help them get along. He told them not to look down on each other or act like they were better. He said, “Let’s not judge one another anymore.” Each person was a servant of the Lord, and each would stand before God on their own.
Paul reminded them that none of us lives for ourselves. When we live, we live for Jesus, and when we die, we belong to Jesus too. Jesus died and rose again so that he could be Lord of everyone.
Paul also said that it is wrong to make a brother or sister stumble. If something you do makes someone else feel bad about their faith, it is better to be kind and careful. He wanted his friends to focus on peace, joy, and helping each other grow.
Paul ended by praising God, who is able to make us strong and who is always wise. He said, “To the only wise God, be glory forever.”
Read It Together
Romans 14:1
Now accept one who is weak in faith, but not for disputes over opinions.
(WEB)
Point out that Paul asks us to welcome people who are still learning and growing in faith. Ask the children what it means to welcome someone at church or school.
Romans 14:13
Therefore let’s not judge one another any more, but judge this rather, that no man put a stumbling block in his brother’s way, or an occasion for falling.
(WEB)
Show the children that the word “stumbling block” means something that trips a person up. Talk about how we can help our friends walk well instead of tripping them.
Romans 14:17
For God’s Kingdom is not eating and drinking, but righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.
(WEB)
Explain that God’s kingdom is about peace and joy, not about food or rules. Ask the children to name something that brings peace and joy to their family.
Talk About It
- What is something your friend likes to do that is different from what you like to do?
- How can we show kindness when someone chooses something different from us?
- Why do you think Paul said we should not judge our brothers and sisters?
- What is one thing you can do this week to help someone feel welcome?
- How does knowing Jesus loves us help us treat others well?
Activity Ideas
Friendship Handprint Drawing
You will need paper, crayons or markers, and a pencil. Have each child trace their hand on the paper, then decorate each finger with a different color or design to show that people are different. Write the words “Welcome” or “Peace” in the middle of the handprint and talk about how all the different colors make one beautiful picture.
Walk the Peace Path
You will need a few pillows, chairs, or cushions. Set them up in a line as “stumbling blocks” and have children walk carefully around them while holding hands or a partner’s arm. Afterward, talk about how it feels to help a friend avoid tripping and how we can make paths of peace for each other.
Kindness Jar at Home
You will need an empty jar, paper scraps, and a pen. Each day, have your child write one kind thing they did for someone who thinks differently or who was welcoming to them, then fold the note and place it in the jar. At the end of the week, read the notes together and thank God for each kind act.
Teacher Notes
For adults, Romans 14 speaks to disagreements about matters that are not core to the faith, such as food, holy days, and personal convictions. Paul calls believers to give each other grace, remember that each person answers to the Lord, and build up the church rather than tear it down. It is a reminder that unity in Christ matters more than winning every argument.
Avoid telling children that every choice is equally right or that they should never have convictions of their own. The lesson is about kindness and respect in the family of God, not about ignoring what Scripture teaches on major issues.
A Prayer to Close
Lord Jesus, thank you for loving us and for welcoming us into your family. Help us to be kind to our friends, even when they do things differently than we do. Teach us to make peace and build each other up, so that everyone can feel loved. Amen.
