In the journey of faith, it is crucial for teenagers to understand the importance of sharing the Gospel with others. As followers of Christ, we are called to be ambassadors of His love and grace, spreading the Good News to those around us. Romans 10:5-15 provides valuable insights into the significance of proclaiming the Gospel and how it impacts both the one sharing and the one receiving. This lesson aims to equip teenagers with the knowledge and practical tools necessary to confidently share their faith and grow in their relationship with God.
Bible Reading: Romans 10:5-8
Romans 10:5-8 (NIV)
Moses writes this about the righteousness that is by the law: “The person who does these things will live by them.” But the righteousness that is by faith says: “Do not say in your heart, ‘Who will ascend into heaven?'” (that is, to bring Christ down) “or ‘Who will descend into the deep?'” (that is, to bring Christ up from the dead). But what does it say? “The word is near you; it is in your mouth and in your heart,” that is, the message concerning faith that we proclaim.
Explanation
- The Apostle Paul contrasts two types of righteousness: righteousness by the law and righteousness by faith.
- Righteousness by the law refers to obeying a set of rules to attain salvation.
- Righteousness by faith emphasizes that salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ, not by works or personal merit.
- Jesus’ sacrifice removes the need for us to strive for righteousness through our own efforts. Instead, the message of faith in Christ is near and accessible.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- What is the difference between righteousness by the law and righteousness by faith?
- Why is it important for us to understand that salvation comes through faith in Jesus, rather than our own works?
- How does knowing that the message of faith is near and accessible impact the way we share the Gospel?
Bible Reading: Romans 10:9-11
Romans 10:9-11 (NIV)
If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved. As Scripture says, “Anyone who believes in him will never be put to shame.”
Explanation
- Paul explains the process of salvation through a confession of faith in Jesus Christ.
- Confessing with our mouths that Jesus is Lord and believing in our hearts that God raised Him from the dead leads to justification and salvation.
- Believers in Christ will never be put to shame, as they have placed their trust in the one who offers eternal life.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- Why do you think confessing Jesus as Lord is important for salvation?
- How does believing in our hearts that God raised Jesus from the dead bring about justification?
- Discuss the significance of never being put to shame as believers in Christ.
Bible Reading: Romans 10:14-15
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
- Paul emphasizes the crucial role of messengers in bringing the Good News to others.
- People cannot call on Jesus unless they believe in Him, and they cannot believe in Him unless they have heard about Him.
- Sharing the Gospel is essential for people to have the opportunity to respond to God’s grace and receive salvation.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- Why is it important for believers to share the Gospel with others?
- Discuss the impact of hearing the Gospel on someone’s ability to believe in Jesus.
- How does the passage highlight the beauty of those who bring the Good News?
Youth Group Game: “Gospel Treasure Hunt”
- Divide the group into small teams.
- Provide each team with a list of Bible verses related to the Gospel (e.g., John 3:16, Acts 4:12, Romans 1:16).
- The teams must find the verses within a given time frame and discuss their significance.
- The team that finds and explains the most verses accurately wins.
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for the privilege of being called your children and ambassadors of your love. Help us to grow in our understanding of the Gospel and empower usto boldly share it with others. Grant us the courage and wisdom to proclaim your message of salvation. May our lives reflect your love and grace as we seek to make disciples of all nations. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.