Who is the greatest?
Many Thanks to Kirsty for putting this together. A printer friendly version is available at https://www.derryandraphoe.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/19th-September-Who-is-the-greatest.pdf
Read: Mark 9:30 – 37
Jesus had spent more time teaching his disciples again. As they were travelling from one place to another the disciples started arguing over who was more important – which one was the greatest disciple. Jesus must have heard the discussion, but the disciples refused to admit what they had been talking about – Jesus sat them all down and explained that whoever wanted to be the greatest had to put others before themselves – they need to care for other people and help others – they had to serve other people. Then Jesus did something completely unexpected, he brought a child into the middle of them and said whoever welcomed the child would welcome him, and if anyone welcomed him, they would welcome the child. Jesus wanted the disciples to think of others before they think of themselves – that would make them the greatest.
Watch:
What were the disciples arguing about? Do you think they were right in what they said? What did Jesus tell them when he heard their discussion? What would you have done if you were the child Jesus brought into the centre? Why did Jesus use a child? Who is the greatest?
Do: Colouring Page – https://sermons4kids.com/jesus-and-children-colorpg.htm?fromSermonId=163
Activity booklet – https://sermons4kids.com/who_is_greatest_bulletin?fromSermonId=163
Word Shape – https://sermons4kids.com/who_is_greatest_wordshape.htm?fromSermonId=163
Can you think of other examples in the Bible of how people put others first?
Luke 10:25 – 47 John 13:1- 16
What happens when we ignore God wanting us to put others first? Read Jonah 4 Design a poster or bookmark to remind you to serve others.
Pray: God you are the greatest!
Father in heaven watch over our loved ones.
Keep them by your side.
May they be safe and peaceful, in you may they abide.
Give wisdom to the doctors and nurses too we pray,
renew their strength and bless them for the work they do each day. Send healing and restoration and let them feel your love.
May your Holy Spirit give them rest as gentle as a dove. Amen (taken from Praying Together)
Share – Help someone out this week – help set the table, or make sure you lift your washing, make your bed without complaining… be sure to put others first.