Mission Briefing
A Brand New Kind of Love
Jesus called it a NEW commandment – but people already knew they were supposed to love each other. So what made this one so new and so different? The secret is in those five words: “just as I have loved you.” This mission explores John 13:34.
What Does John 13:34 Mean?
Before Jesus gave this command, people knew to love their neighbors. But Jesus raised the bar completely. He said to love others the way He loves – which means sacrificially, patiently, humbly, and without giving up. That is a much higher standard than just being nice when it is easy! This kind of love is selfless and keeps going even when the other person does not deserve it.
Hero Challenge
Think of someone in your life who is hard to love right now – maybe they have been unkind, left you out, or is just really annoying. Choose one specific way to show them Jesus-style love this week: a kind word, a genuine compliment, or helping them with something. Do it even if they never say thank you.
Did You Know?
Jesus gave this command on the very night He was betrayed – the night before He went to the cross. Even while one of His closest friends was about to hand Him over to His enemies, Jesus used His last few hours to teach about love. He was not just teaching it – He was about to live it out completely.
Ages 4-6: Little Hero Question
Jesus says to love each other the same way He loves us. What is one kind thing Jesus has done for you that you could do for someone else today?
Ages 7-9: Growing Hero Question
Why do you think Jesus used “just as I have loved you” as the standard instead of just saying “be nice to each other”?
Ages 10-13: Champion Question
Jesus-style love does not wait for people to be lovable first. Who in your life is the hardest to love right now, and what would it look like to love them the way Jesus loves you?
Ready for more? Meet more Bible heroes for kids at Faith Force.
♥ Mission Prayer
Jesus, thank You for showing me what real love looks like. Help me to love the people around me the same way You love me — patiently, selflessly, and without giving up. When it gets hard, remind me of how much You love me first. Amen.
