Kindness-Galatians 5:22-23

Intro

Have you ever thought about the kind of person you want to be remembered as? It’s not about the wealth you accumulate or the titles you hold, but the way you treat others.

Our legacy is shaped not by our achievements, but by our actions — specifically, the kindness we show.

When people think of you, will they remember how you loved others? Will they remember your kindness?

As we close this series on kindness, we’re not just talking about a trait to practice — we’re talking about a way of life that reflects who we are in Christ.

Bottom Line: Kindness is the lasting mark of those who belong to Jesus.

Tension

In a world that celebrates self-promotion and personal gain, kindness can seem weak, naive, or wasted. Have you ever asked yourself: "Does my small act of kindness even matter?" "Is it even noticed?" According to Jesus, the answer is a resounding yes. Kindness is not wasted — it is eternal.

Truth

A) Kindness Comes from God’s Character Greek word: χρηστότης (chrestotēs) = goodness, uprightness, benevolence.

Titus 3:4–5 — “When the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, He saved us...”

Kindness begins with God Himself. It is not transactional; it is transformational. God showed us kindness when we didn’t deserve it.

Big Idea: Kindness is a reflection of God’s heart in us, and it flows from our understanding of His goodness.

Application: If you struggle with kindness, reflect again on the kindness God has poured into your life.

B) Kindness Was Jesus’ Lifestyle Matthew 9:36 “36 When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.” Mark 10:13–16 “13 And they were bringing children to him that he might touch them, and the disciples rebuked them. 14 But when Jesus saw it, he was indignant and said to them, “Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God. 15 Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.” 16 And he took them in his arms and blessed them, laying his hands on them.” Luke 7:11–17 — Jesus raised the widow’s son out of compassion.

Jesus didn’t just occasionally show kindness; He lived it. His eyes were always open for hurting people, and His hands were always ready to heal.

Big Idea: If you follow Jesus, kindness isn’t optional — it’s the way of life.

Application: Live with your eyes up, scanning for opportunities to show Christlike kindness every day.

C) Kindness Is a Command, Not Just a Trait Micah 6:8 — "He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God."

Jesus doesn’t just encourage kindness — He commands it. It’s not a suggestion, but an integral part of how we reflect God's nature and fulfill His call on our lives.

Big Idea: Kindness is not optional in the Christian life; it is a fundamental requirement of our walk with God.

Application: Consider how you can actively choose kindness in your daily life, not as a mere act, but as a reflection of God’s calling on your life.

D) Kindness Is How We Treat Jesus in "the Least of These" Matthew 25:31–40 — Jesus speaks of the final judgment and says: “As you did it to one of the least of these My brothers, you did it to Me.”

Jesus identifies Himself with the hungry, the thirsty, the stranger, the sick, and the prisoner. Kindness to them is kindness to Him. Neglect of them is neglect of Him.

Illustration: (Briefly refer to the story of Taz — James Osgood — the man who was shown kindness by Joyce while in prison. Through years of letters, Bible studies, and encouragement, Taz came to know Christ before he died. When Joyce showed kindness to Taz, she was showing it to Jesus.)

Big Idea: Kindness to the least is kindness to the King.

Application: Open your heart to the “least of these” around you — remembering that every act of kindness done for them is an act of worship to Christ Himself.

Closing

(Recap + Call to Action) Kindness isn't a side note of the Christian life. It’s not a hobby; it’s our heritage. It’s the lasting legacy we leave for a world desperate for hope.

Jesus said, "By this everyone will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another." (John 13:35)

Bottom Line (repeated): Kindness is the lasting mark of those who belong to Jesus.

Invitation / Call to Action: Have you truly experienced the kindness of God through Jesus Christ?

If not, today is the day to surrender your life to the One who gave His life for you.

If you have, then go and live it out — love the overlooked, serve the broken, forgive the undeserving. Because when you love them, you are loving Christ.

Final Challenge: Leave a legacy of kindness that echoes into eternity.