Hey, awesome teenagers of faith! Today, we’re diving deep into the Parable of the Good Samaritan. This isn’t just another Sunday school lesson; it’s about living out our faith in the real world. As high school and middle school students, you’re at an age where you’re discovering your purpose and values. What better time to explore how we can love and serve others unconditionally, just like Jesus taught through this parable?
In a world that often values individualism and self-centeredness, this lesson will empower you to be different. It will show you how to be a world-changer, one act of kindness at a time. So, let’s jump into the incredible story of the Good Samaritan and learn how it can transform our lives.
The Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37)
Bible Reading:
“On one occasion an expert in the law stood up to test Jesus. ‘Teacher,’ he asked, ‘what must I do to inherit eternal life?’ ‘What is written in the Law?’ he replied. ‘How do you read it?’ He answered, ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’; and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ ‘You have answered correctly,’ Jesus replied. ‘Do this and you will live.’ But he wanted to justify himself, so he asked Jesus, ‘And who is my neighbor?’ In reply, Jesus said: ‘A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho when he was attacked by robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead. A priest happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side. So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn and took care of him. The next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper. ‘Look after him,’ he said, ‘and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.’ Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?’ The expert in the law replied, ‘The one who had mercy on him.’ Jesus told him, ‘Go and do likewise.'” (Luke 10:25-37, NIV)
Explanation For Teenagers:
- The Parable starts with a question about eternal life, emphasizing the importance of love for God and others.
- It tells the story of a man attacked by robbers and left for dead.
- The priest and Levite pass by without helping, but a Samaritan, often despised by the Jews, shows compassion.
- The Samaritan cares for the wounded man, ensuring he receives help.
Youth Group Discussion Questions
- What do you think the expert in the law wanted to achieve by asking Jesus about inheriting eternal life?
- Why do you think the priest and Levite ignored the wounded man?
- What made the Samaritan different from the priest and Levite?
- How does this parable challenge our understanding of who our neighbor is?
- What practical ways can we show unconditional love and serve others in our daily lives?
Youth Group Game: “The Neighbor Challenge”
- Divide into small teams.
- Each team receives a list of random acts of kindness.
- Teams must complete as many acts as possible within a time limit.
- Acts could include helping a neighbor, writing an encouraging note, or donating to a local charity.
- Reflect on how it felt to be a “neighbor” and serve others.
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank you for teaching us through the Parable of the Good Samaritan. Help us to understand that our neighbor isn’t just the person next door but anyone in need. Fill our hearts with compassion and a burning desire to serve others unconditionally. May our actions shine your light into the world, transforming lives one act of kindness at a time. In Jesus’ name, we pray.
Amen.
Go out and be good neighbors, just like the Samaritan!