Today, we’re diving into an exciting and important topic: The Great Commission. As teenagers, you’re at a pivotal stage in your life, figuring out your purpose and how you fit into God’s plans. The Great Commission gives us a clear call from Jesus to make a difference in the world by sharing His message and love with others.
Understanding and embracing the Great Commission is not just about evangelism; it’s about living out our faith actively and intentionally. It challenges us to think about how we can be a part of God’s mission to reach the world and to inspire others to follow Him. Let’s explore what this calling means for us and how we can respond to it in our everyday lives.
Bible Passage: Matthew 28:18-20
Bible Reading
Let’s read Matthew 28:18-20 (NIV):
“Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.’”
Explanation For Teenagers
- All Authority: Jesus has complete authority over everything, which means His command carries weight and importance.
- Go and Make Disciples: This means actively sharing the message of Jesus and helping others learn to follow Him. It’s not just about inviting people to church; it’s about forming meaningful relationships and guiding others in their faith journey.
- Baptizing and Teaching: Baptism is an outward sign of an inward change and commitment to Jesus. Teaching involves helping others understand and live out Jesus’ commands.
- I Am with You Always: Jesus promises His presence and support as you carry out this mission. You’re not alone in this; He’s with you every step of the way.
Youth Group Discussion Questions
- What does it mean to you personally to be called to make disciples? How does it impact your view of sharing your faith?
- What are some practical ways you can share your faith and make disciples in your school, community, or social circles?
- How does knowing that Jesus is with you always encourage you in fulfilling the Great Commission?
Bible Passage: Acts 1:8
Bible Reading
Let’s also look at Acts 1:8 (NIV):
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
Explanation For Teenagers
- Receive Power: The Holy Spirit empowers us to be effective witnesses for Jesus. It’s not about our own strength but the power of God working through us.
- Witnesses: Being a witness means sharing what you’ve experienced with Jesus and how He has impacted your life.
- Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and the Ends of the Earth: This represents different spheres of influence, starting with your immediate surroundings and extending outwards to the entire world.
Youth Group Discussion Questions
- What does it mean to receive power from the Holy Spirit for witnessing? How can this power help you in sharing your faith?
- How can you be a witness for Jesus in your “Jerusalem” (immediate environment) and expand your influence to “Judea,” “Samaria,” and beyond?
- What are some ways you can rely on the Holy Spirit’s power in your daily life to be a better witness for Jesus?
Youth Group Game: Mission Possible
Objective
This game will help you understand and engage with the concept of the Great Commission in a fun and interactive way.
How to Play
- Preparation: Create a series of “mission” tasks related to sharing your faith and making disciples. These can include activities like writing a letter of encouragement to a friend, creating a social media post about your faith, or performing an act of kindness.
- Activity: Divide into teams. Each team will receive a list of mission tasks to complete. The tasks can be completed over a set period of time (e.g., 15 minutes) or as a series of challenges.
- Finish: After completing the tasks, gather together to discuss how each activity relates to the Great Commission and how it can be applied in real life.
Closing Prayer
Let’s close our time together with a prayer.
Heavenly Father, thank You for giving us the Great Commission and for calling us to share Your message with the world. Empower us with Your Holy Spirit to be effective witnesses and to live out our faith boldly. Help us to reach out to those around us, make disciples, and trust in Your presence as we carry out this mission. Guide us and use us for Your glory. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Thanks for being here today! Remember, the Great Commission is not just a call for a few but a mission for all of us. Let’s embrace it and see how we can make a difference in the world around us. See you next week!