Children's Challenge: Week 38
21–27 September 2015
Paul writes two letters to the church in Thessalonica. The first was written after Paul sent Timothy to Thessalonica to see how the young church was going. Timothy came back with such a good report that Paul’s letter was full of thankfulness and encouragement for the Thessalonians.
Paul’s second letter to the Thessalonians comes with instructions to stand firm in their faith. He asks that they pray that the important message about Jesus will be heard and understood by others.
Some of the Christians in Thessalonica misunderstood and believed that Jesus was going to be coming back really soon and so had stopped working. Paul wrote a letter to set them straight. He encouraged them to continue working hard so that they would benefit those in their community, and not to waste their time sitting around and being lazy, leaving things to everyone else to do.
For a team to work well, everyone has to contribute. Would it be fair if one or two members of a team did all the work, while others did none? There are important things that each of us need to do every week, such as spend time with family, housework, going to school and even some playtime. But sometimes we spend our time doing things that aren’t helpful or important. Think about your week and discuss in your family or small group:
- Some of the important things that need to happen each week in your family.
- How do you help get these important things done? Are you playing your part?
- What would happen if everyone stopped doing their part?
This week, pay attention to all the different ways members of your family play their part. You might like to think of a way to encourage them (you could give them a sticker, or write a thank-you note, or let them know what a great job you think they are doing).