Mission Briefing
The Kingdom That Really Matters
What do you think of when you imagine a kingdom? Castles, crowns, and feasts maybe? Paul tells us that God’s kingdom is something way more amazing and far less ordinary – it’s a kingdom made of righteousness, peace, and joy! This mission explores Romans 14:17.
What Does Romans 14:17 Mean?
In the early church, people were arguing about which foods were okay to eat – some thought certain foods were spiritually unclean. Paul steps in and says: God’s kingdom isn’t built on those kinds of rules about what you eat or drink. The real stuff of God’s kingdom is living righteously (doing what’s right), having peace with God and others, and experiencing genuine joy through the Holy Spirit. These things are what really matter – not the surface-level stuff people fight about.
Hero Challenge
This week, notice if you get caught up in arguments or complaints about things that don’t really matter – small preferences, petty disagreements, or surface-level stuff. When you feel a disagreement coming on, ask yourself: “Is this a righteousness, peace, and joy issue, or is this just a preference?” Practice choosing peace over winning small arguments.
Did You Know?
The debate about food in Rome was a real source of conflict in the early church. Jewish believers had grown up with strict dietary laws, while non-Jewish believers had no such background. Paul’s answer was brilliant: focus on what unites you in God’s kingdom – righteousness, peace, and joy – rather than letting secondary differences divide you. This verse has become a touchstone for conversations about what’s truly central to life with God versus what’s just personal preference.
Ages 4-6: Little Hero Question
Paul says God’s kingdom is full of peace and joy! What makes you feel peaceful and joyful? Can you thank God for those things?
Ages 7-9: Growing Hero Question
Why do you think people sometimes argue about small things instead of focusing on what really matters? How can you help bring peace instead of arguments in your home or classroom?
Ages 10-13: Champion Question
Paul says the kingdom of God is about righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit. How does focusing on these three things change the way you approach conflicts, friendships, and daily decisions? What would it look like to build your life around these values?
Ready for more? Meet more Bible heroes for kids at Faith Force.
♥ Mission Prayer
Father, help me to focus on what truly matters in Your kingdom — living right, making peace, and finding joy in Your Spirit. Keep me from getting distracted by small disagreements and surface-level things. Fill me with real, lasting joy today. Amen.
