Characteristics of a Christian

I brought some pictures with me that I would like to show you. As I hold up the picture tell me what is unique about that animal (Hold up one picture at a time. For each picture allow the children to give some responses of what is characteristic of that animal. For example a picture of a bird should respond “fly”, a cheetah should respond “fast runner” etc.). You did a great job with all these responses. These are all characteristics of these animals.

This morning I want to ask you about Christians, “What are the characteristics of a Christian?” (Allow for responses). Jesus answered this question for the disciples in John 13:34-35 (read the passage). Jesus tells us that His followers should be known for their love for one another. People should be able to look at you and me and know that we are Christians because of the love that we show for each other. What are some ways we can show love for each other? (Allow for responses).

Jesus calls us to love all people. He wants us to love not only our friends but also people we don’t know and even people who do not like us. What are some ways we can show love for people we don’t know and even people who don’t like us? (Allow for responses and provide some of your own like caring for the poor or praying for those who are mean to you etc.). Those are all excellent responses.

Let’s pray that God will help us to love all people today.