Lesson: Romans 13:5 (Ages 6-8)

📖 Romans 13:5 – Ages 6-8

Explanation

In this verse from the Bible, it talks about why we should listen to our leaders and follow the rules. It says we should do this not just because we might get in trouble if we don't, but also because it's the right thing to do.

Think of it like this: Imagine playing a game with your friends, and there are rules to follow to make sure everyone has fun and stays safe. You should follow those rules, not just because you might get a time-out if you don't, but because it's important to be fair and kind to everyone playing.

In the same way, God wants us to respect our leaders and obey the rules they make, not just because we might get in trouble if we don't, but because it shows that we care about doing what is good and right in God's eyes. It's about listening to our hearts and doing what we know is the best thing to do.

Kid's Story

Once upon a time in the land of Buttercup Valley, there lived a little squirrel named Sammy. Sammy loved to play and explore, but he often found himself disobeying the rules of the forest.

One day, Sammy ventured into the forbidden area where the big oak tree stood. Suddenly, a wise old owl named Ollie appeared and warned Sammy about the dangers of that place. Sammy didn't want to listen and continued to play there.

Soon after, a storm began to brew, and a branch from the big oak tree fell right where Sammy had been playing. Terrified, Sammy realized he could have been hurt badly. Ollie explained that following rules wasn't just about avoiding punishment but also about keeping a clear conscience and staying safe.

From then on, Sammy learned to submit to the rules of the forest, not out of fear but out of love and wisdom.

Prayer Prompt

Dear God, thank you for always guiding us with your love and wisdom. Help us to remember to obey not just because we might get in trouble, but because it is the right thing to do. Amen.

Discussion Questions

1. Why do you think it’s important to obey rules and authority figures, even when we might not want to?
2. How do you feel when you know you have done something wrong? Why do you think our conscience helps us know what is right and wrong?
3. Can you think of a time when you did something because you knew it was the right thing to do, even if it was hard? How did it make you feel afterward?
4. What do you think Paul means when he says we should submit not only because we might get in trouble, but also for the sake of our conscience?
5. How can we show respect and obedience to others in our lives, like our parents, teachers, and leaders, even when it’s difficult?

Life Application

This verse from Romans 13:5 teaches us that we should obey rules and authority figures not just because we might get in trouble if we don't, but also because it is the right thing to do. Children can apply this message by following the rules set by their parents, teachers, and other adults, even when no one is watching. They can choose to do what is right because they know it is pleasing to God and it helps them grow into responsible and respectful individuals. This can look like listening to parents without arguing, following school rules even when no one is looking, and treating friends with kindness and respect. By obeying and showing respect in all areas of life, children can honor God and develop good character.

Craft or Activity

Let's make a "Conscience Crown" craft to help children understand and remember the message of Romans 13:5. Provide children with paper crowns and art supplies like markers, stickers, and glitter. Have them decorate their crowns with words or symbols that represent doing what is right because of their conscience. Encourage them to wear their crowns as a visual reminder to submit not just because of punishment but also for the sake of their conscience. This hands-on activity can help reinforce the importance of listening to their inner voice and doing what is right in God's eyes.

Memory Verse or Rhyme

When rules are made, we must obey,
Not just to avoid punishment and dismay,
But also for a peaceful heart each day,
In all we do, God's way we'll stay!

Songs or Videos

One great Christian song for kids that relates to the message of Romans 13:5 is "Do Everything" by Steven Curtis Chapman. This song encourages children to do everything for the glory of God, emphasizing the importance of obedience and submission.

Another wonderful song is "Trust and Obey" by Don Moen. This classic hymn reminds children of the joy and peace that come from trusting and obeying God, which aligns with the message of submitting for the sake of conscience as mentioned in Romans 13:5.

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