Today, we’re delving into a thrilling part of the book of Acts, where God expands the mission to unexpected places. As teenagers, you’re at a point in life where your horizons are expanding, and you’re figuring out your purpose and passions. This story from Acts 16:9-15 shows us how God guides, surprises, and opens doors when we step out in faith. It’s a journey that resonates with the adventure of being a teenager and growing in your faith.
Bible Reading: Acts 16:9-15 (NIV)
- During the night, Paul had a vision of a man of Macedonia standing and begging him, “Come over to Macedonia and help us.”
- After Paul had seen the vision, we got ready at once to leave for Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them.
- From Troas, we put out to sea and sailed straight for Samothrace, and the next day we went on to Neapolis.
- From there, we traveled to Philippi, a Roman colony and the leading city of that district of Macedonia. And we stayed there several days.
- On the Sabbath, we went outside the city gate to the river, where we expected to find a place of prayer. We sat down and began to speak to the women who had gathered there.
- One of those listening was a woman from the city of Thyatira named Lydia, a dealer in purple cloth. She was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to respond to Paul’s message.
- When she and the members of her household were baptized, she invited us to her home. “If you consider me a believer in the Lord,” she said, “come and stay at my house.” And she persuaded us.
Explanation For Teenagers
- Divine Direction: Paul receives a vision calling him to Macedonia, illustrating how God guides us in unexpected ways.
- Obedient Response: Paul and his companions immediately set out, emphasizing the importance of being responsive to God’s leading.
- Meeting Lydia: In Philippi, they meet Lydia, a worshiper of God. God opens her heart, leading to her conversion and the start of a new Christian community.
Youth Group Game: “Faithful Navigation”
Create a scavenger hunt or obstacle course representing different challenges and decisions in life. Teams must navigate and make choices based on biblical principles. This game encourages teens to apply faith in practical situations and trust God’s guidance.
Youth Group Discussion Questions
- Navigating Life’s Journey: How do you feel about the idea of God guiding your life’s journey, similar to how Paul received a vision?
- Being Responsive: Are there times in your life when you’ve felt a nudge from God to take a specific action? How did you respond?
- Unexpected Opportunities: Just like Lydia, unexpected opportunities can arise. How can we stay open to God’s leading in the midst of the unexpected?
- Building Community: Lydia’s household becomes a Christian community. How can our faith impact the communities we’re a part of, whether at school, home, or with friends?
Bible Reading: Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV)
- Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;
- in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.
Explanation For Teenagers
- Complete Trust: Proverbs encourages us to trust God with our whole hearts, acknowledging His wisdom over our own.
- Avoiding Self-Reliance: The verse warns against leaning on our understanding alone, emphasizing the importance of relying on God’s guidance.
- Submission to God: Submitting all aspects of our lives to God leads to a straightened path directed by Him.
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for leading us on this incredible journey through Your Word. As we navigate the twists and turns of life, help us to trust in Your guidance, respond obediently, and be open to unexpected opportunities. Just as you led Paul to Macedonia and Lydia’s heart, guide us on the paths you have prepared for us. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.