Introduction: Why This Is Important
Hey everyone! Today, we’re diving into a super important topic: growing in our faith. We’re focusing on 2 Peter 3:18, which encourages us to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. As teenagers, you’re facing a lot of changes and challenges. Understanding how to grow in your faith will help you navigate life with purpose, strength, and joy.
Bible Reading: 2 Peter 3:18
“But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.”
Explanation For Teenagers
- Grow in Grace: Grace is God’s unearned favor. Growing in grace means becoming more aware of God’s love and kindness in our lives and extending that grace to others.
- Grow in Knowledge: This isn’t just about head knowledge. It’s about a deeper, personal understanding of who Jesus is and what He means in our lives.
- For God’s Glory: Our growth in faith isn’t just for us; it’s to glorify God in everything we do.
Youth Group Discussion Questions
- What does “grace” mean to you? How have you experienced God’s grace in your life?
- How can we grow in our knowledge of Jesus in practical ways?
- Why is it important to grow in both grace and knowledge?
Bible Reading: Ephesians 4:15
“Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ.”
Explanation For Teenagers
- Speaking the Truth in Love: Honest communication is key in our relationships, but it should always be done with love.
- Mature Body of Christ: As we grow, we become more like Jesus, contributing to the health and growth of the entire church.
Youth Group Discussion Questions
- How can you practice speaking the truth in love with your friends and family?
- What does it mean to you to become mature in Christ?
- How can our personal growth impact our church community?
Youth Group Game: “Grace Tag”
How to Play
- Setup: Designate a playing area and choose one person to be “It.”
- Objective: The person who is “It” tries to tag others. When tagged, instead of being out, the tagged person says something they’re thankful for that shows God’s grace and then becomes “It.”
- Goal: Encourage everyone to think about and share examples of God’s grace while having fun.
Debrief
After the game, gather everyone and discuss:
- How did it feel to think of examples of God’s grace on the spot?
- What new examples of God’s grace did you hear from others that you hadn’t thought of before?
Bible Reading: Colossians 1:9-10
“For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives, so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God.”
Explanation For Teenagers
- Filled with Knowledge of His Will: Knowing God’s will helps us make wise decisions and live lives that honor Him.
- Bearing Fruit: Our growth should produce visible results in our actions and character.
Youth Group Discussion Questions
- How can we seek to understand God’s will for our lives?
- What kind of “fruit” should we expect to see as we grow in our faith?
- How can you apply this passage to your daily life as a student?
Closing Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for your amazing grace and for the knowledge of Jesus Christ. Help us to grow in our faith, understanding, and love for you. May our lives reflect your glory in everything we do. Guide us in truth and wisdom, and help us to support and encourage one another as we grow together. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Remember, growing in faith is a lifelong journey. Keep seeking, keep learning, and keep sharing God’s love with those around you. You’ve got this!