As teenagers navigating the complexities of adolescence, it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of academics, extracurricular activities, and social pressures. In the midst of these challenges, it’s crucial for young believers to understand their purpose in Christ and the mission He has entrusted to them. Matthew 28:19-20, often referred to as the Great Commission, serves as a blueprint for every Christian’s life, regardless of age. It’s not just a call for pastors or missionaries but a mandate for every disciple of Jesus, including teenagers.
Understanding and embracing the Great Commission is vital for teenagers because:
- It empowers them to live with intentionality and purpose.
- It fosters a deeper relationship with Christ as they actively participate in His mission.
- It challenges them to step out of their comfort zones and share the love of Christ with others.
- It cultivates a sense of belonging to a global community of believers, united in spreading the Gospel.
Today, we’ll dive into Matthew 28:19-20, unpacking its significance for teenagers and exploring how we can practically live out this command in our daily lives.
Bible Reading: Matthew 28:19-20 (NIV)
19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.
Explanation For Teenagers:
- “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations”: Jesus instructs His followers to actively engage in disciple-making, not confining the Gospel to a specific group but spreading it to all people, regardless of nationality, ethnicity, or background.
- “Baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit”: This signifies the initiation into the Christian faith through baptism, a public declaration of one’s commitment to Christ and identification with the triune God.
- “And teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you”: Discipleship involves more than just conversion; it encompasses teaching and mentoring others to live according to the teachings of Jesus, fostering spiritual growth and maturity.
- “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age”: Jesus reassures His disciples of His continual presence and support as they carry out His mission, underscoring the importance of reliance on Him.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- **Why do you think Jesus entrusted His disciples with the task of making disciples of all nations?
- **How does baptism symbolize our commitment to following Jesus?
- **What are some practical ways we can teach others to obey everything Jesus commanded?
- **How does knowing that Jesus is always with us impact our willingness to share the Gospel with others?
Bible Reading: Acts 1:8 (NIV)
8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.
Explanation For Teenagers:
- “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you”: The Holy Spirit empowers believers to be effective witnesses for Christ, providing the courage, wisdom, and strength needed to fulfill the Great Commission.
- “You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth”: This highlights the progressive expansion of the Gospel, starting from Jerusalem and extending to the farthest reaches of the earth, encompassing both local and global mission fields.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- **How have you experienced the power of the Holy Spirit in your own life?
- **What are some obstacles that might prevent us from being effective witnesses for Christ?
- **In what ways can we share the Gospel with those in our local community (Jerusalem)?
- **Why is it important for us to also have a global perspective in fulfilling the Great Commission?
Youth Group Game: “Great Commission Challenge”
Divide the youth group into teams and provide each team with a list of scenarios or challenges related to sharing the Gospel and making disciples. Examples include striking up a conversation about faith with a stranger, inviting a friend to church, or praying for someone in need. Set a time limit and encourage teams to complete as many challenges as possible. Afterward, gather to debrief and share experiences.
Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for entrusting us with the incredible privilege and responsibility of fulfilling the Great Commission. Give us boldness and wisdom as we seek to make disciples of all nations, starting right where we are. May Your Holy Spirit empower and guide us every step of the way, reminding us of Your presence and promise to be with us always. Use us as vessels of Your love and grace to impact the world for Your glory.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.