Mission Briefing
Chase Peace – Build Each Other Up!
Paul doesn’t just say “try to be peaceful” – he says PURSUE it. That’s an active word, like chasing something with everything you’ve got. And alongside peace, he adds something just as important: building each other up. These two things go together like a great team! This mission explores Romans 14:19.
What Does Romans 14:19 Mean?
Romans 14 deals with disagreements in the early faith community about things like what food to eat and which days to consider special. Paul’s conclusion is this: instead of fighting about secondary things, pursue peace and mutual upbuilding. “Mutual” means both directions – you build me up, I build you up. We are each responsible for actively helping the people around us become stronger, not weaker.
Hero Challenge
This week, intentionally say one encouraging, truthful, specific thing to three different people. Not just “nice job” – something real, like “I noticed how you helped that kid who was struggling, and it showed real kindness.” Watch what happens when you pursue building others up on purpose!
Did You Know?
In Rome, some believers thought it was wrong to eat meat that might have been offered to idols, while others thought it was totally fine. Rather than telling everyone who was right, Paul refocused the whole conversation on what truly matters: peace and building each other up. This shows great wisdom – knowing which battles to fight and which ones to redirect.
Ages 4-6: Little Hero Question
What is something kind you could say to a family member today to help them feel good?
Ages 7-9: Growing Hero Question
Paul says “pursue” peace – not just hope for it. What is one thing you could actively do to create more peace at home or at school?
Ages 10-13: Champion Question
Paul gives this advice in the middle of a big disagreement. How does focusing on peace and upbuilding change the way a conflict should be handled – and what does it ask you to give up?
Ready for more? Meet more Bible heroes for kids at Faith Force.
♥ Mission Prayer
God, help me be a person who actively chases peace and builds others up every day. Show me who needs encouraging today, and give me the right words to say. Amen.
