Balloon Object Lesson

We have been talking about how to can become great in God’s Kingdom. Hmmm, let me think: can I become great because of my talents, abilities or skills?

Can I become great in God’s Kingdom because of all the good things I have done?

Oh—is it because I am clever or smart?

Our SuperTruth has the answer to how we can become great. Who can say our SuperTruth? “Because of Jesus, I can be great in God’s Kingdom.”

Yes, that is our answer!  

There is nothing I can do or be on my own that makes me great in God’s Kingdom. Jesus is all we need. In fact, the weaker we are, the stronger we are! Let’s read what God told the Apostle Paul.

Read 2 Corinthians 12:9–10:

Each time He said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me. That’s why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

Blow up the balloon as full as possible without it breaking. Let’s say this is someone who is trusting in their own “greatness”—their own strength. The Apostle Paul wasn’t talking about this kind of strength. He didn’t say I am strong when I feel powerful, did he? No!

Let the air out of the balloon and hold it up. No, he said when I am weak I am strong! This balloon doesn’t look strong does it? No! If this was you, do you think you would want to boast about your strength? No!

However, Paul said he would boast in this weakness—knowing that He couldn’t accomplish greatness in the Kingdom without help!

Blow up the balloon, again. This is when Jesus can now work in our lives! Now the balloon is filled and strong again—not in our natural strength or ability, but in Jesus’ power and strength! In this strength we become great and can do great things in God’s Kingdom!