LOVE- Champions by the Fruit of the SpiritSample

Love vs. Selfishness

Bible story: Jesus dies on the cross (Matthew 27:27-56)

Theme Verse: 1 John 3:16 (Matthew 27:27-56)

Welcome to CHAMPIONS, a program where we will learn about the "Fruit of the Spirit" and how to fight sin. In order to become "champions" we need to actually put the fruit of the spirit into action in our everyday lives. The problem is that we all can easily memorize the "Fruit of the Spirit," but they are much harder to live. Why is that? This is because our own sinful flesh is constantly fighting against us. This month we will be working on showing the fruit of "LOVE" in our lives. One of the worst dangers that comes against love is "SELFISHNESS." This is where we put our own desires ahead of the desires of others. For example, your brother wants to play on a tree near your home, but you want to go down the street to play with some friends. Which will you choose? If you go down the street to play with friends, would you invite your brother? God has given us the ultimate example of NOT being selfish when he sent His son Jesus Christ to earth to die on the cross. He did this to pay for our sins and save us from hell. Now, you and I can accept this gift , and know that we will go to heaven. Do you think it was easy for Jesus to let people spit in His face and laugh at Him? No! It would have been very difficult for Jesus to let the Pharisees hang him on a cross. If I LOVE others, I will put them first like Jesus's example. He put our interest ahead of His own. However, if I am selfish, I will do what is best for me. What will you choose?

Questions:

1. How can I become a more spiritual person?

2. How can such a big God be a best friend to me?

3. Do I really have to put others first?

Life Application:

Play a game that your friends suggest, play at the time they want (if you have permission) and play it for as long as they want. Do not mention to them what you desire to play. This time, your desires do not matter, because you are showing real LOVE with no thought for yourself.