Introduction: Why the Second Coming Matters for Teenagers
Today, we’re diving deep into an exhilarating topic that impacts every aspect of our faith journey: The Second Coming of Christ. Some of you might wonder, “Why is this important for us, teenagers?” Well, let me tell you why!
- It’s a Relevant Reality: As young believers, you’re navigating a world full of uncertainties and challenges. Understanding the Second Coming gives you hope, purpose, and reassurance that God is in control.
- Empowerment to Make a Difference: Knowing that Jesus will return motivates us to live purposefully and make a positive impact in our world. We’ll explore how to be Kingdom bringers in our communities.
- Strengthening Your Faith: The Second Coming reminds us that our faith isn’t in vain. It encourages us to deepen our relationship with Christ and share His love with others.
- Real-Life Application: While we don’t know the exact time of His return, we’re called to live in readiness. We’ll explore practical ways to prepare for Jesus’ return and grow in our faith.
Are you ready to embark on this thrilling journey of discovery? Let’s dive into the Word and see what it has to say about the Second Coming!
Bible Reading 1: Matthew 24:36-44 (NIV)
_”But about that day or hour, no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. For in the days before the flood, people were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the day Noah entered the ark; and they knew nothing about what would happen until the flood came and took them all away. That is how it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. Two men will be in the field; one will be taken and the other left. Two women will be grinding with a hand mill; one will be taken and the other left.
Therefore, keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come. But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what time of night the thief was coming, he would have kept watch and would not have let his house be broken into. So, you also must be ready because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.”_
Explanation For Teenagers: Living in Readiness
- The Unknown Hour: Jesus emphasizes that the exact time of His return remains a mystery, even to Him during His earthly life. It’s a reminder that we should focus on being ready at all times rather than trying to predict the date.
- Days of Noah: Drawing a parallel to the days of Noah, Jesus warns against being complacent or indulgent in worldly affairs, missing the signs of His imminent return.
- Watchfulness: We are called to be watchful and vigilant, just like a homeowner guarding their house against a thief. It means living in anticipation of His return and living a life pleasing to Him.
- Readiness Matters: Jesus’ return will be sudden and unexpected for many, catching them unprepared. Being ready means being in a right relationship with God through Christ.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- How do you feel knowing that Jesus could return at any moment?
- What are some challenges in staying watchful and prepared in a world filled with distractions?
- How can we encourage each other as a youth group to stay ready for Christ’s return?
Bible Reading 2: 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 (NIV)
_”Now, brothers and sisters, about times and dates we do not need to write to you, for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. While people are saying, ‘Peace and safety,’ destruction will come on them suddenly, as labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape.
But you, brothers and sisters, are not in darkness, so that this day should surprise you like a thief. You are all children of the light and children of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness. So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be awake and sober. For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk, get drunk at night. But since we belong to the day, let us be sober, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet. For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him. Therefore, encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”_
Explanation For Teenagers: Living as Children of the Light
- Children of the Light: Paul reminds the Thessalonians (and us) that we belong to the day, to the light of Christ. As such, we should live differently from the world around us, exemplifying faith, love, and hope.
- Awake and Sober: Being awake and sober means being spiritually alert and clear-minded. We avoid being spiritually numb or dull, engaging in things that compromise our faith.
- Encourage and Build Up: As children of the light, we are called to uplift one another, spurring each other on in our faith journey.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- What does it mean to be “children of the light” in practical terms?
- How can we maintain spiritual alertness in our daily lives despite the distractions and pressures?
- Why is encouraging one another so important in our faith walk, especially as teenagers?
Youth Group Game: “Ready or Not!”
Let’s have some fun while reinforcing the lesson’s message! In this game, we’ll play a Christian version of “Hide and Seek.” Designate one person as the seeker (representing Jesus), and the rest of the group will hide. As the seeker counts to ten, the hiders find creative ways to represent being ready for Christ’s return. For example, they can form prayer circles, read their Bibles, or do acts of kindness. The seeker will then “find” each hider and guess what they’re portraying. It’s a fun way to reinforce the importance of readiness and watchfulness!
Closing Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for this incredible time of learning and growing in Your Word. We’re excited about the promise of Jesus’ return, and we desire to live as children of the light, being watchful and prepared at all times. Help us encourage one another, build each other up, and impact our world for Your Kingdom. May Your Spirit guide us every step of the way. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Conclusion
Remember, dear youth, that the Second Coming of Christ isn’t a distant event—it’s a reality that should shape our lives today. As teenagers, you have the unique opportunity to bring hope, love, and purpose to your communities while eagerly awaiting His return. Keep the fire of faith burning bright, and live as lights in a dark world, shining the love of Jesus to everyone you meet. Stay ready, stay watchful, and stay excited for what God has in store!