Today we’re diving into an important and sometimes challenging topic: authority. Our focus will be on Romans 13:1, a verse that speaks directly to how we, as followers of Jesus, should view and respond to authority. This is super relevant for you guys as teenagers because you’re navigating school, family, and society—all areas where authority plays a big role. Understanding this can really help you grow in your faith and navigate life’s challenges with a Christ-centered perspective.
Bible Reading: Romans 13:1
“Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.”
Explanation For Teenagers
- God’s Sovereignty: God is in control of all things, including who is in authority. This can be a comfort, knowing that nothing happens outside of His plan.
- Respect and Obedience: As Christians, we’re called to respect and obey those in authority as long as it doesn’t go against God’s commands.
- Purpose of Authority: Authorities are placed to maintain order and justice, which is part of God’s design for society.
Youth Group Discussion Questions
- What are some examples of authority figures in your life?
- How does knowing that God establishes authority change your view of these figures?
- When is it challenging to respect authority, and how can we handle those situations?
Bible Reading: 1 Peter 2:13-14
“Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human authority: whether to the emperor, as the supreme authority, or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right.”
Explanation For Teenagers
- Submission for God’s Sake: Our submission to authority is ultimately an act of worship and obedience to God.
- Roles of Authority: Authorities have a God-given role to maintain justice and order, which helps society function.
Youth Group Discussion Questions
- How can submitting to authority be an act of worship?
- What are some positive outcomes when we follow this teaching?
- Can you think of a time when you saw justice or order maintained by an authority figure?
Bible Reading: Acts 5:29
“Peter and the other apostles replied: ‘We must obey God rather than human beings!'”
Explanation For Teenagers
- Obedience to God First: While we are to respect and obey authorities, our ultimate allegiance is to God. If an authority asks us to do something against God’s commands, we must follow God.
- Courage and Faith: Standing up for God’s commands requires courage and faith, especially when it goes against human authorities.
Youth Group Discussion Questions
- What are some scenarios where obeying God might conflict with obeying human authorities?
- How can we prepare ourselves to make the right choice in these situations?
- Why do you think it’s important to put God’s commands above all else?
Youth Group Game: “Authority Figures Charades”
Instructions
- Write down different authority figures on slips of paper (e.g., teacher, police officer, parent, coach, president).
- Divide the group into two teams.
- One person from each team picks a slip of paper and acts out the authority figure without speaking, while their team guesses.
- The team that guesses the most correctly wins.
Purpose
This game helps everyone think about different authority figures in a fun and engaging way. It also sets the stage for further discussions about respect and obedience.
Closing Prayer
“Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for teaching us about the importance of authority and how we should respond to it. Help us to respect and obey the authorities in our lives as an act of worship to You. Give us the courage to stand up for Your commands when they conflict with human rules. Guide us with Your wisdom and strengthen our faith as we navigate these challenges. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.”
Feel free to share your thoughts or any questions you have during this week! Remember, understanding and respecting authority is a journey, and we’re all in this together.