Today, we’re diving into a topic that will expand our understanding of our faith and challenge us to embrace a global mission—the Great Commission. As teenagers, you have a unique opportunity to impact the world for Christ, not just in your local community, but also globally. In this lesson, we will explore the significance of the Great Commission, the call to share the Gospel, and the importance of embracing a global perspective. Let’s dive in and discover how we can be a part of God’s mission to reach the nations!
I. Bible Reading: Matthew 28:19-20 (NIV)
“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, 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:
- Jesus’ final words to His disciples before ascending to heaven emphasized the importance of making disciples of all nations.
- We are called to go, share the Gospel, baptize believers, and teach them to live according to God’s commands.
- Jesus assures us of His presence and empowerment as we fulfill this mission.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- Why do you think it’s important for Christians to embrace a global mission?
- How does the Great Commission impact our personal faith and relationship with God?
II. Bible Reading: Acts 1:8 (NIV)
“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:
- Jesus promises His disciples that they will receive the power of the Holy Spirit to be His witnesses.
- Our mission starts in our local community (Jerusalem), extends to our region (Judea and Samaria), and reaches to the ends of the earth.
- The Holy Spirit empowers us to fulfill this mission.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- What are some practical ways we can be witnesses for Christ in our local community?
- How can we develop a heart for missions and reach the ends of the earth?
III. Bible Reading: Romans 10:14-15 (NIV)
“How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!'”
Explanation For Teenagers:
- Paul highlights the importance of people hearing the Gospel in order to believe in Christ.
- Someone must be sent to preach and share the good news, so others can have the opportunity to believe.
- It is a privilege to be part of the mission to share the Gospel and bring hope to the nations.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- How can we actively participate in sharing the good news with others?
- What are some potential challenges we may face in fulfilling the Great Commission, and how can we overcome them?
Youth Group Game:
“Mission Impossible”
Create a scavenger hunt-style game where teams have to complete various missions that represent different aspects of the Great Commission. For example, they may have to share their testimony with someone, pray for a stranger, or invite someone to a church event. The team that completes the most missions wins.
IV. Bible Reading: Revelation 7:9-10 (NIV)
“After this, I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands. And they cried out in a loud voice: ‘Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!'”
Explanation For Teenagers:
- In John’s vision, he sees a great multitude from every nation and language worshiping God.
- This passage reveals the ultimate fulfillment of the Great Commission, where people from every corner of the world will come to know and worship God.
- Our efforts to fulfill the Great Commission contribute to this glorious picture.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- How does this passage inspire you to embrace a global mission?
- What can we do as a youth group to actively participate in reaching people from every nation and language?
Closing Prayer:
Dear God, thank You for calling us to be a part of Your global mission. Help us to have a heart for the nations and a passion to share the Gospel. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit, empowering us to be witnesses in our communities and beyond. Guide us as we seek to make disciples of all nations, bringing people from every background to know and worship You. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Remember, Youth Group, as we go forth with a global perspective, let’s be intentional about sharing the love of Christ with those around us and reaching people from every nation with the message of hope. Together, we can make a difference in fulfilling the Great Commission!