Introduction: Why This Matters
Have you ever felt lost, forgotten, or like no one really sees you? Maybe you’ve made mistakes and wondered if God still cares about you. The Parable of the Lost Sheep is Jesus’ way of showing us how much God loves us and how far He is willing to go to bring us back to Him.
Today, we’ll explore this parable and learn how God’s love never gives up on us, no matter where we are.
1. Bible Reading: Luke 15:3-7
“Then Jesus told them this parable: ‘Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Doesn’t he leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, “Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.” I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.’”
Explanation For Teenagers
Jesus used this story to show how deeply God loves every single one of us. Even when we wander away, He doesn’t forget about us.
The shepherd leaving the ninety-nine shows how important even one lost person is to God.
God actively pursues us because He wants us to be close to Him, no matter our past mistakes.
Youth Group Discussion Questions
- Have you ever felt like the lost sheep in this story? What was that like?
- What does this parable teach us about God’s love?
- How can we help others who might feel lost or disconnected from God?
2. Bible Reading: Psalm 23:1-4
“The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”
Explanation For Teenagers
God isn’t just any shepherd—He is the Good Shepherd who provides, guides, and protects us.
Even in difficult times (the “darkest valley”), we don’t have to be afraid because God is with us.
Like the shepherd in Jesus’ parable, God cares for us, leads us, and brings us back when we go astray.
Youth Group Discussion Questions
- What does it mean to you that God is your shepherd?
- How have you seen God guide or protect you in your life?
- How can knowing God is always with you help when you feel lost?
Youth Group Game: “Sheep Search”
What You’ll Need:
- A stuffed animal or small object (representing the lost sheep)
- A large room or outdoor area
How to Play:
- One leader hides the stuffed animal somewhere in the play area.
- The rest of the group must search for the “lost sheep.”
- Once found, celebrate as a group, just like the shepherd in the parable.
- Discuss how God pursues us and celebrates when we come back to Him.
Debrief
- How did it feel searching for the lost sheep?
- What does this game teach us about God’s love?
- How can we show God’s love to people who feel lost?
Closing Prayer
Lord, thank You for never giving up on us, even when we wander away. Help us to see how much You love us and to trust You as our Good Shepherd. Teach us to share Your love with others who feel lost. Thank You for always calling us back to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.