Week 64 - Free Weekend Program for Children.

Week 64 - Free Weekend Program for Children.

Text : Romans 15:8-13

Theme : Glorifying God

Last week, Mr. Heshimu explained to us that God doesn’t build one church exclusively for the weak and another for the strong; everyone is a member of one church, and we have obligations towards each other—to love and care for one another.

However, the strong have more responsibility and are expected to do much more by bearing with the weak, denying themselves, and making sacrifices, as we studied last week. Through the gospel, we see how these truths apply to our walk with Christ, deepening our understanding of God's divine purpose for the church—His bride.

The Apostle Paul reminds us that Christ became a servant to the Jewish people to confirm the promises made by God to the patriarchs—Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Jesus fulfilled the Old Testament prophecies and covenants, demonstrating God's faithfulness in keeping His word by saving those He has predestined.

Christ's example of servanthood calls us, as believers, to humility and submission to God’s will Matthew 20:28 - "Just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." Jesus did not come to be served but to serve. We too, are called to serve others in obedience to God. This service is not merely for our own benefit but is a fulfillment of God’s greater plan, which brings glory to Him and reveals His faithfulness.

The Lord’s mission was not only for the Jews but also for the Gentiles—we, who are non-Jews. Romans 15:9 say “And, moreover, that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy. As it is written: 'Therefore I will praise you among the Gentiles; I will sing the praises of your name. Through Christ sacrifice, salvation and mercy have been extended to all who believe.

We, who were once far from God, now glorify God because of His grace and mercy in saving us and making us one with Him. Ephesians 2:13 - "But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ.

God calls people to Himself through the gospel from every tribe, tongue, and nation, revealing His heart for us whom He has chosen. "Again, it says, 'Rejoice, you Gentiles, with his people.” Through the gospel, all ethnic, cultural, and social barriers are removed and hope is made real to all who believe in Christ. As Christians, we are called to embrace the gospel’s inclusive nature and reflect God's mercy and grace in how we interact with others.

Romans 15:11 - "And again, 'Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles; let all the peoples extol him. Just as Christ opened the door for us—Gentiles to glorify God, we too are called to share the gospel with those who have not yet experienced God’s mercy, helping them come into a relationship with Him. *Matthew 28:19 - "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations." Our joy in seeing others come to Christ and the joy of knowing Him, makes us rejoice as one people, expressing our shared joy in God’s glorious work for us, in us and through us.

We glory in Him who called us out of darkness into His marvelous light. 1 Peter 2:9 "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.”

This is true for both Jews and Gentiles, the weak and strong Christians. We worship God in the beauty of His holiness. He is not only the God of Israel, He has also chosen us, made us heirs, and joint heirs with Him. Through faith, we are the seed of Abraham and heirs according to the promise. Romans 8:17. Faith in Christ makes us one, and His promises are for all who believe. God has made us part of His glorious plan.

Romans 15:12 - "And again, Isaiah says, 'The Root of Jesse will spring up, one who will arise to rule over the nations; in him the Gentiles will hope.” Our hope is secured in Christ, that hope will not disappoint because the Holy Spirit lives to make it real. He fills is with joy and peace as we look to Christ, resulting in an overflow of hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." This joy and peace speaks of the spiritual fruits that come from trusting in Christ. When we place our faith in Christ, the Holy Spirit fills us with hope that transcends our circumstances. Philippians 4:7

Our hope is not based on what we see but on the eternal promises of God, assured by the Spirit, who is our Comforter and Guide. 2 Corinthians 4:18. He fills us with joy and peace as we trust in Him. So, ask and you will receive and your joy will be full.' John 16:24.