Today’s lesson is all about Jesus’ miracles and their significance in our lives as teenagers. Jesus performed numerous miracles during His earthly ministry, displaying divine power and compassionate love. Understanding these miracles can deepen our faith, inspire us to trust in God’s power, and motivate us to show compassion to others. Let’s dive into this exciting topic and discover the impact Jesus’ miracles can have on our lives.
Opening Activity:
“Miracle Match-Up”
Divide the youth into pairs or small groups. Provide each group with a set of index cards. On one set of cards, write down different miracles Jesus performed (e.g., healing the blind, feeding the five thousand). On the other set of cards, write down the corresponding Bible verses. The goal is for the groups to match each miracle card with its corresponding Bible verse card. The first group to successfully match all the cards wins the game. After the game, discuss briefly why these miracles are important and how they relate to our faith.
II. Bible Reading: John 9:1-12 (The Healing of the Blind Man)
Explanation:
- In this passage, Jesus encounters a man who was born blind.
- Instead of providing a straightforward healing, Jesus chooses to perform a miracle by making mud with His saliva and applying it to the man’s eyes.
- Jesus instructs the man to wash in the pool of Siloam, and upon doing so, the man receives his sight.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- Why do you think Jesus chose to perform this miracle in such a unique way?
- How do you think the blind man’s life changed after receiving his sight?
- In what ways can this miracle teach us about Jesus’ power and compassion?
III. Bible Reading: Mark 6:30-44 (Feeding the Five Thousand)
Explanation:
- In this passage, Jesus feeds a large crowd of people with only five loaves of bread and two fish.
- Jesus takes the available food, blesses it, and miraculously multiplies it to feed thousands of people.
- After everyone had eaten, the disciples collected twelve basketfuls of leftover food.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- Why do you think Jesus chose to perform this miracle of feeding the five thousand?
- How do you think the disciples felt when they witnessed this miracle?
- What does this miracle reveal about Jesus’ power and His concern for meeting people’s physical needs?
IV. Bible Reading: Matthew 14:22-33 (Walking on Water)
Explanation:
- In this passage, Jesus walks on water to meet His disciples, who were in a boat during a storm.
- Peter, one of the disciples, steps out of the boat to walk toward Jesus but begins to sink when he loses focus and becomes afraid.
- Jesus reaches out and rescues Peter, demonstrating His power over nature and His willingness to save those who trust in Him.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- Why do you think Jesus chose to walk on water to meet His disciples during the storm?
- How did Peter’s faith impact his ability to walk on water?
- What does this miracle teach us about Jesus’ power and His invitation to trust Him in challenging situations?
Closing Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for the miracles Jesus performed during His ministry. Help us to understand the significance of these miracles and how they reveal Your divine power and compassion. Strengthen our faith and empower us to trust in You, just as the people did when they witnessed these miracles. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Conclusion:
As we conclude our lesson, remember that Jesus’ miracles are not simply historical events but powerful demonstrations of God’s love and care for us. Let these miracles inspire you to trust in God’s power, show compassion to others, and step out in faith even when faced with challenges. May you continue to grow in your faith, drawing closer to God and being a light to those around you.