Mission Briefing
Pass the Forgiveness Forward!
Has someone ever hurt your feelings or done something unfair to you? It’s really hard to forgive when that happens. But the Apostle Paul had a secret weapon for those moments – and it starts with remembering how much WE have been forgiven! This mission explores Colossians 3:13.
What Does Colossians 3:13 Mean?
Paul was writing to a group of believers in a city called Colossae. He knew that people living together – even people who love God – will sometimes annoy, disappoint, or hurt each other. His advice? Bear with each other (which means be patient even when it’s hard) and forgive, just like God has forgiven us. When we remember the massive amount God has forgiven us, forgiving others gets a lot easier to understand.
Hero Challenge
Think of one person who has done something that bothered you recently. This week, make a decision to forgive them – not because they deserve it, but because God forgave you first. You don’t have to say anything out loud; start with a quiet decision in your heart and see what changes!
Did You Know?
The letter to the Colossians was written by Paul while he was in prison! Even from a jail cell, Paul was thinking about how to help other believers love each other better. The city of Colossae was a real place in modern-day Turkey, and the church there was dealing with all kinds of arguments and confusing teachings – they really needed this reminder.
Ages 4-6: Little Hero Question
When a friend says sorry, do you forgive them? God always forgives us – can you try to forgive like God does?
Ages 7-9: Growing Hero Question
Why does Paul say we should forgive “as the Lord has forgiven you”? How does thinking about God’s forgiveness help you forgive others?
Ages 10-13: Champion Question
Forgiving someone doesn’t always mean what they did was okay. So what does real forgiveness look like in a difficult friendship or relationship, and why is it still important?
♥ Mission Prayer
Father God, thank You for forgiving me completely. Help me to pass that forgiveness on to others, even when it's hard. Give me a heart that is soft and quick to let go of hurt.
