We’re diving into a topic that is not only crucial for your growth in faith but also relevant to your everyday lives—humility and servanthood. In a world that often encourages self-promotion and seeking personal gain, Jesus teaches us a different way. He calls us to emulate His example of humility and servanthood. As teenagers, you have unique opportunities to impact your communities and the world around you, and embracing humility and servanthood will enable you to shine the light of Christ brightly. So let’s explore what the Bible says about this important topic!
I. Bible Reading: Philippians 2:1-8 (NIV) Read the passage aloud or ask a volunteer to read it.
Explanation For Teenagers:
In his letter to the Philippians, the apostle Paul encourages believers to embody humility and servanthood by following the example of Jesus. Let’s break down this powerful passage:
- “In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus”: Paul emphasizes the importance of our attitudes and actions toward others, calling us to adopt the same mindset as Jesus.
- “Who, being in very nature God”: Jesus, although fully God, chose to humble Himself and take on human form, setting aside His divine privileges.
- “He made himself nothing”: Jesus willingly emptied Himself of His glory and willingly became a servant.
- “Taking the very nature of a servant”: Jesus embraced the role of a humble servant, exemplifying a life of selflessness and love.
- “He humbled himself”: Jesus humbled Himself to the point of death, even death on a cross, displaying the ultimate act of servanthood and sacrifice.
- “Therefore God exalted him”: As a result of Jesus’ humility and obedience, God exalted Him and bestowed upon Him the highest honor.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- Why is it challenging for us to embrace humility in our relationships with others?
- How does Jesus’ example of humility and servanthood inspire you?
- In what ways can you apply the mindset of Christ Jesus in your interactions with family, friends, and classmates?
- Share an experience where you witnessed someone’s humble act of service. How did it impact you?
II. Bible Reading: Mark 10:35-45 (NIV) Read the passage aloud or ask a volunteer to read it.
Explanation For Teenagers:
In this passage from the Gospel of Mark, Jesus teaches His disciples about the true nature of servanthood and the importance of humility. Let’s examine this powerful account:
- “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant”: Jesus challenges the disciples’ understanding of greatness, emphasizing that true greatness lies in serving others.
- “Even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve”: Jesus reveals His purpose—to serve humanity and sacrificially give His life.
- “To give his life as a ransom for many”: Jesus highlights the ultimate act of service—laying down His life to save us from sin and death.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- How does Jesus’ definition of greatness differ from society’s definition?
- Why does Jesus’ sacrificial service on the cross impact your understanding of humility and servanthood? 3. In what ways can you serve others sacrificially, following Jesus’ example?
- How can you demonstrate humility in your relationships with your peers, family, and others?
- Youth Group Game: “Servant Relay” Divide the students into teams and set up a relay race with various stations that represent acts of service. Each team must complete the tasks at each station, such as washing dishes, folding laundry, or writing encouraging notes, before passing the baton to the next teammate. The team that completes the relay with the most grace, humility, and teamwork wins the game.
- III. Bible Reading: John 13:1-17 (NIV) Read the passage aloud or ask a volunteer to read it.
- Explanation: In this powerful account, we witness Jesus’ humble act of washing His disciples’ feet. Let’s explore the significance of this event:
- “He loved them to the end”: Jesus demonstrated His deep love for His disciples by serving them selflessly.
- “He got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing”: Jesus, the Teacher and Lord, humbled Himself, taking on the role of a servant.
- “He poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet”: Jesus performed a menial task reserved for servants, showing the true essence of servanthood.
- “I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you”: Jesus not only performed the act but also urged His disciples to follow His example of humble service.
- Discussion Questions:
- Why do you think Peter initially refused to let Jesus wash his feet?
- What does Jesus’ act of washing the disciples’ feet reveal about His character?
- In what ways can you humbly serve others in your daily life, just as Jesus served His disciples?
- Share a time when you experienced the impact of someone’s humble act of service. How did it affect you?
Closing Prayer:
“Gracious Father, we thank You for the example of humility and servanthood that Jesus set for us. Help us, as teenagers, to embody His mindset and follow His footsteps. Teach us to serve others selflessly and to humbly consider others above ourselves. May our actions reflect Your love and draw others closer to You. In Jesus’ name, we pray, amen.”
Remember, incredible teens, that through humility and servanthood, you have the power to make a difference in the lives of those around you. Embrace the example of Jesus, and let His love shine through you as you serve others with grace and humility.