Following Jesus · Part 10 of 40 · 2 min
Lessons on the Mountain
Crowds followed Jesus, bringing their hopes and questions. He went up a hillside and sat down to teach, and his disciples came close.
Families listened on the grassy hill.
Jesus spoke about the people God calls blessed. They included those who grieved, those who were gentle, and those who worked for peace.
He taught that his followers could be like light, helping others see what is good.
He asked them to love even their enemies and to pray without trying to impress people.
Jesus pointed to birds and flowers. God cared for them, and people mattered to him even more.
He taught people to ask their Father for help, forgive others, and treat people as they would want to be treated.
Hearing good words was only the beginning. Jesus wanted his listeners to put them into practice.
We can begin with small choices: tell the truth, include someone who is alone, or help make peace after an argument.
Following Jesus is not a way to show off. It is learning to love God and let that love shape our words and actions.
Retelling of Matthew 5–7.
Supporting reading: The Desire of Ages, chapter 31. Open the book
Talk about it together
- Peace
- Kindness
- Forgiveness
A verse to remember
“If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.”
Romans 12:18NKJV
- What did Jesus point to as reminders of God’s care?
- How might someone who is alone feel when invited to play?
- How would you like to be treated during a disagreement?
Activity · 2–5 minutes
Try the Other Side
Imagine two children both want to go first in a game. One person plays the first child and another plays the second; each explains why they want to start and how they feel. Then switch roles. Find a solution that considers both children, such as drawing lots to decide who starts and letting the other child start the next round.
Try it today: We can treat others with the kindness we would like to receive.
More stories with these values
Word search
Open the interactive activity or prepare a printable sheet for home, classroom, or family.
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