Teaching

In the video, how did the Samaritans treat Jesus and His followers while they were traveling to Jerusalem? The Samaritans refused to let them enter their village.

Did the Samaritans like the Jewish people? No.

Did the Jewish people like the Samaritans? No.

They were bitter enemies! The Jews considered the Samaritans to be foreigners and troublemakers. They thought they were superior to the Samaritans. Neither group believed the other should be treated as their equals!

The Jewish expert in the law asked Jesus who his neighbor was. He probably thought Jesus would say that his neighbors were only people who were like him. Is that what Jesus said? No.

Jesus answered his question by telling a parable. What is a parable?

A parable is a story that uses familiar things or situations to help people understand a spiritual truth.

Let’s say that while we are all sitting here today, a famous movie star walks into our classroom—someone you love watching on TV. She’s very pretty and you’d love to get her autograph and have your picture taken with her. She’s looking around the room for a place to sit down. What would you do?

Okay, now someone else just came into our room. It’s a boy about your age—someone you know from school who is always getting into trouble. He isn’t wearing very nice clothes, and he hasn’t had a bath in a while. He’s looking around the room for somewhere to sit. What would you do?

Why would you be tempted to treat these people differently? Children discuss.

Does God think that a famous movie actress is more important than a troubled schoolboy? No.

Let’s read what the Bible says about this same kind of situation in James 2:1–4:

¹ My dear brothers and sisters, how can you claim to have faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ if you favor some people over others? ² For example, suppose someone comes into your meeting dressed in fancy clothes and expensive jewelry, and another comes in who is poor and dressed in dirty clothes. ³ If you give special attention and a good seat to the rich person, but you say to the poor one, “You can stand over there, or else sit on the floorˮ–well, ⁴ doesnʼt this discrimination show that your judgments are guided by evil motives?

Here’s what Jesus says about how we should treat people who the world thinks are unimportant. Read Luke 14:12b–14:

“When you put on a luncheon or a banquet,” He said, “donʼt invite your friends, brothers, relatives, and rich neighbors. For they will invite you back, and that will be your only reward. Instead, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, and the blind. Then at the resurrection of the righteous, God will reward you for inviting those who could not repay you.”

God loves all of us, no matter who we are, no matter what possessions we own, and no matter what good or bad things we have done. That’s why today’s SuperVerse, Job 34:19,says:

“And God created us all; He has no favorites, whether rich or poor.”

God wants us to treat others the same way—with love. Let’s say our SuperTruth together: “I will treat others equally.”

Discipleship Challenge/Practical Application

Give each child a Golden Rule Pattern, pencil, and children’s scissors. Have them carefully cut the cards and rulers out and then put their names on the back of each piece. Assist any children with special needs.

Let’s read the scripture written on your rulers. Matthew 7:12a:

“Treat others as you want them to treat you.”

Do you know what this verse is called?

It’s called the Golden Rule. That is why your craft is called a Golden Ruler! Who do you think said those words? Jesus

In the parable, which person is an example of the Golden Rule? The Samaritan!

Use your ruler as a bookmark in your Bible, or to underline verses if allowed. Let it be a reminder to treat others the way you want to be treated.

Now look at your Golden Rule Card. For each of our three lessons, there are two situations for you to discuss with your family or friends at home. Read one and ask, “How would you like to be treated in that situation?” Then discuss how you would treat the other person and why. Also, pray that God will help you treat others with love and respect. Ask Him to show you if you “play favorites” in any situations. You will have an opportunity to share your answers for the first two situations on the Golden Rule Card the next time we meet.