Mission Briefing
Old Stories, New Hope
Have you ever read an old story and felt like it was written just for you? That is exactly what the Bible is! Every story in Scripture – no matter how ancient – was written to give YOU hope today. This mission explores Romans 15:4.
What Does Romans 15:4 Mean?
Paul wrote this to remind his friends that the Old Testament was not just history class – it was a gift for everyone who would ever live. The stories of Noah, David, Esther, and Daniel were preserved so that we could learn from them, keep going when things get hard, and find hope when life feels impossible. God planned ahead so that His Word would always be exactly what we need.
Hero Challenge
Pick a Bible hero from the Old Testament – someone like Joseph, Ruth, or Elijah – and read their story this week. Then write one sentence about how their story gives you hope for something you are going through right now. You might be amazed at how a very old story speaks to a very real moment in your life.
Did You Know?
When Paul wrote the book of Romans, the only “Scriptures” he was referring to were the Old Testament writings – the New Testament had not been collected yet! The early followers of Jesus found incredible encouragement in stories that were already hundreds of years old. Those same stories still work today.
Ages 4-6: Little Hero Question
Can you name one Bible hero from a long time ago? What is something brave they did?
Ages 7-9: Growing Hero Question
Why do you think old Bible stories can still give us hope today, even though the world has changed so much?
Ages 10-13: Champion Question
Romans 15:4 connects “endurance” and “encouragement” to hope. Why do you think it takes both of those things – not just one – to build real, lasting hope?
♥ Mission Prayer
Father, thank You for keeping every Bible story so that I could read it today. When I feel like giving up, remind me of the heroes who kept going because of their faith in You. Fill me with hope that lasts. Amen.
