Follow Jesus: Our Perfect Role Model

Do you have a role model? (Pause.) You might wonder what a role model even is. It’s someone you respect, admire, and want to be like in some way. It might be a famous person, such as a great athlete or a movie star. It might be someone you know personally, like your favorite teacher. It could even be your mom, dad, brother, or sister. Whether we realize it or not, we all have role models.

Let’s do this: I’ll show a few pictures of people you’ll probably recognize, and you can say whether each person would be a good role model or not. (Show the pictures, and invite kids to talk about them.) It’s important that we choose our role models carefully, isn't it? If we choose a role model just because the person is rich and famous, we’ll likely be disappointed.

If you’re looking for a role model, here’s a good place to start. (Hold up your Bible.) In the book of Ephesians, Paul said to the people in the church at Ephesus, "Imitate God in everything you do, because you are His dear children. Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us and offered Himself as a sacrifice for us."

What are a few things about Jesus that make Him the perfect role model to follow? (Pause.)

Jesus is kind, loving, forgiving, patient, obedient, respectful, and truthful--just to name a few.

We could go on and on. Couldn't we? Jesus is our perfect role model because He is God's perfect Son who brings salvation to all who follow Him.

God, thank You for sending Your Son to save us and to be the perfect role model for us to follow. Though others may fail, Jesus never fails. We want to live a life that is pleasing to You. In Jesus’ name, amen.