Today, we’re diving into a topic that’s close to God’s heart and can deeply impact our lives – National Adoption Month. You might wonder, “Why is adoption important for us as teenagers growing in our faith?” Well, buckle up as we explore how God’s love and our identity as His children connect with the beautiful concept of adoption.
Opening Prayer
Let’s start our time together with a word of prayer. Dear Lord, thank you for bringing us together today. Open our hearts and minds as we explore your Word and discover the significance of adoption in your kingdom. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Bible Reading: Ephesians 1:4-5 (NIV)
4 For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love 5 he predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will.
Explanation For Teenagers
- Chosen Before Creation: Even before the world began, God had a plan for us.
- Adoption to Sonship: God’s desire is to bring us into His family through adoption.
Youth Group Discussion Questions
- How does it make you feel to know that God chose you even before the world was created?
Bible Reading: Romans 8:15-17 (NIV)
15 The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him, we cry, “Abba, Father.” 16 The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. 17 Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.
Explanation For Teenagers
- Adoption Through the Spirit: The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in our adoption.
- Joint Heirs with Christ: We are not just adopted; we are heirs with Christ.
Youth Group Discussion Questions
- How does the Holy Spirit’s involvement in our adoption impact the way we relate to God as our Father?
Youth Group Game: “Adoption Relay”
Divide into teams and race to complete challenges that symbolize the journey of adoption. Discuss afterward how the game reflects the challenges and joys of adoption.
Bible Reading: James 1:27 (NIV)
27 Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.
Explanation For Teenagers
- Pure Religion: Caring for the vulnerable is at the core of pure religion.
Youth Group Discussion Questions
- In what practical ways can we fulfill the call to look after orphans and widows in our community?
Closing Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for the incredible truth of our adoption into your family. Help us live out the calling of pure religion by caring for the vulnerable in our midst. May our hearts be open to your leading as we seek to mirror your love to the world. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Remember, you are chosen, loved, and part of an eternal family. Go out and live the truth of your adoption!