Today, we’re diving into a super exciting topic: spiritual gifts. I know what you might be thinking—what does that even mean, and why should I care? Well, 1 Corinthians 12:4-11 talks about how God has given each of us unique gifts to serve and build up the church. This is so important for us as teenagers because it’s all about discovering who God made us to be and how we can make a difference in the world. So let’s get started and explore what these gifts are and how we can use them!
Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 12:4-6
“There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work.”
Explanation For Teenagers
- Diverse Gifts: God has given each of us different abilities and talents.
- Same Source: These gifts come from the Holy Spirit, emphasizing unity.
- Purpose: All gifts are meant to serve and glorify God.
Youth Group Discussion Questions
- What talents or skills do you think you have been given by God?
- How can you use your unique gifts to serve others?
- Why do you think it’s important that we all have different gifts?
Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 12:7-11
“Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. To one there is given through the Spirit a message of wisdom, to another a message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues. All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he distributes them to each one, just as he determines.”
Explanation For Teenagers
- For the Common Good: Our gifts are meant to benefit everyone, not just ourselves.
- Variety of Gifts: Wisdom, knowledge, faith, healing, miracles, prophecy, discernment, speaking in tongues, and interpretation of tongues.
- Divine Distribution: The Holy Spirit decides who gets which gifts, highlighting that it’s God’s plan.
Youth Group Discussion Questions
- Which of these gifts have you seen in action, either in yourself or others?
- How can recognizing our gifts help us in our daily lives?
- What does it mean to you that the Holy Spirit distributes these gifts as He wills?
Youth Group Game: Gift Hunt
Instructions
- Preparation: Write down different spiritual gifts on slips of paper and hide them around the room.
- Game: Split into teams and have each team search for as many “gifts” as they can find.
- Discussion: Once all the gifts are found, discuss as a group how each gift can be used in practical ways.
Purpose
This game will help you to see the diversity of gifts and think about how they can be discovered and used in real life.
Closing Prayer
“Dear God, thank You for the unique gifts You have given each of us. Help us to discover and use these gifts to serve others and glorify You. Give us wisdom to understand how we can make a difference in our community and the courage to step out in faith. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
By understanding and embracing our spiritual gifts, we can grow closer to God and make a big impact in the world around us. Remember, every gift is important, and together, we can do amazing things!