In the hustle and bustle of teenage life, it’s easy to get caught up in school, sports, and social activities. But as young believers, it’s crucial to remember the eternal perspective and the profound invitation that God extends to us. The Great Banquet, as described in the Bible, offers a powerful message about embracing God’s invitation to eternal life and sharing the Gospel with others.
As teenagers, you’re at a stage in life where you’re forming your beliefs and values. Understanding the significance of God’s invitation and your role in sharing His message can deepen your faith and purpose. This lesson will explore the parable of the Great Banquet, encouraging you to respond to God’s call and become messengers of His grace to those around you.
Bible Reading 1: The Parable of the Great Banquet (Luke 14:15-24, ESV)
15 When one of those who reclined at table with him heard these things, he said to him, “Blessed is everyone who will eat bread in the kingdom of God!”
16 But he said to him, “A man once gave a great banquet and invited many. 17 And at the time for the banquet he sent his servant to say to those who had been invited, ‘Come, for everything is now ready.’ 18 But they all alike began to make excuses. The first said to him, ‘I have bought a field, and I must go out and see it. Please have me excused.’ 19 And another said, ‘I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I go to examine them. Please have me excused.’ 20 And another said, ‘I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come.’ 21 So the servant came and reported these things to his master. Then the master of the house became angry and said to his servant, ‘Go out quickly to the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in the poor and crippled and blind and lame.’ 22 And the servant said, ‘Sir, what you commanded has been done, and still there is room.’ 23 And the master said to the servant, ‘Go out to the highways and hedges and compel people to come in, that my house may be filled. 24 For I tell you, none of those men who were invited shall taste my banquet.’”
Explanation For Teenagers
- In this parable, Jesus illustrates the kingdom of God as a great banquet.
- The initial guests who were invited represent those who reject God’s invitation for various worldly reasons.
- The master’s decision to invite the poor, crippled, blind, and lame symbolizes God’s inclusive invitation to all, regardless of social status.
- God desires His house to be filled with those who respond to His call.
Youth Group Discussion Questions
- What excuses do people make today for not responding to God’s invitation?
- Why do you think some people prioritize worldly pursuits over God’s invitation to eternal life?
- How does this parable demonstrate God’s grace and inclusivity?
- What does it mean for us to “compel people to come in” today?
- How can we overcome fear or hesitation when sharing the Gospel with others?
Youth Group Game: “The Great Banquet Relay”
Divide into teams. Each team must complete a series of tasks or challenges that involve inviting someone to a special event, symbolizing the message of the parable. The team that successfully invites the most people within a time limit wins.
Bible Reading 2: Sharing the Gospel (Matthew 28:18-20, ESV)
18 And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
Explanation For Teenagers
- This passage is known as the Great Commission, where Jesus commands His disciples to go and make disciples of all nations.
- It emphasizes the importance of sharing the Gospel and teaching others to follow Christ.
- Jesus assures His presence with us as we fulfill this mission.
Youth Group Discussion Questions
- How does the Great Commission relate to the parable of the Great Banquet?
- What does it mean to make disciples of all nations?
- How can we practically share the Gospel and make a difference in our schools, neighborhoods, or communities?
- What challenges do you face when sharing your faith, and how can you overcome them?
- How can we remember that Jesus is with us as we fulfill the Great Commission?
Closing Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, we thank you for the invitation you extend to us, to be part of your eternal banquet. Help us, Lord, to embrace this invitation with open hearts and to respond eagerly. Equip us with courage and wisdom to share the Good News with others, just as you have commanded us in the Great Commission. May we be vessels of your grace and love in this world. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.