Introduction: Why This Matters
Have you ever been hurt by someone and struggled to forgive? Holding onto anger and resentment can weigh us down, but forgiveness brings healing and peace. Joseph’s story teaches us that even when people hurt us, God can use every situation for good.
Today, we’ll explore how Joseph forgave his brothers and what it means for us to forgive others.
1. Bible Reading: Genesis 45:4-7
“Then Joseph said to his brothers, ‘Come close to me.’ When they had done so, he said, ‘I am your brother Joseph, the one you sold into Egypt! And now, do not be distressed and do not be angry with yourselves for selling me here, because it was to save lives that God sent me ahead of you. For two years now there has been famine in the land, and for the next five years there will be no plowing and reaping. But God sent me ahead of you to preserve for you a remnant on earth and to save your lives by a great deliverance.’”
Explanation For Teenagers
Joseph had every reason to be angry with his brothers, yet he chose forgiveness over revenge.
He saw the bigger picture—God had a plan even in the pain.
Forgiveness doesn’t mean what they did was okay, but it frees us from bitterness and allows God to bring healing.
Youth Group Discussion Questions
- Why do you think it was hard for Joseph to forgive his brothers?
- Have you ever struggled to forgive someone? What happened?
- How does trusting God help us forgive others?
2. Bible Reading: Colossians 3:13
“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”
Explanation For Teenagers
God calls us to forgive others just as He forgave us.
Forgiveness is not about the other person deserving it—it’s about reflecting God’s grace.
When we forgive, we let go of the burden of anger and allow God to work in our hearts.
Youth Group Discussion Questions
- What does it mean to forgive as the Lord forgave us?
- How can forgiveness bring peace to your life?
- What’s one step you can take toward forgiving someone today?
Youth Group Game: “Forgiveness Chain”
What You’ll Need:
- Paper strips and markers
- Tape or glue
How to Play:
- Each student writes down a time they forgave someone or want to forgive someone on a paper strip.
- Loop the strips together to create a “forgiveness chain.”
- Discuss how choosing forgiveness strengthens relationships and brings freedom.
Debrief
- How did it feel to write about forgiveness?
- What does this activity teach us about the power of letting go?
- How can we remind ourselves to practice forgiveness daily?
Closing Prayer
Lord, thank You for showing us the power of forgiveness through Joseph’s story. Help us to let go of bitterness and trust Your plan, even when we’ve been hurt. Teach us to forgive as You have forgiven us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.