Welcome, teenagers, to today’s Sunday school lesson! We are excited to dive into the story of Luke 2:1-20 and explore its significance for your faith journey. This passage is not just a historical account of Jesus’ birth but also a powerful reminder of God’s love and presence in our lives. It is essential for teenagers to understand and embrace this message as they grow in their faith.
Bible Reading: Luke 2:1-7
Let’s start by reading the first part of Luke 2:1-7.
“In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) And everyone went to their own town to register. So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger because there was no guest room available for them.” (Luke 2:1-7, NIV)
Explanation
- The significance of the census during that time and how it impacted the life of Joseph and Mary.
- The fulfillment of the prophecy about Jesus being born in Bethlehem, the town of David.
- The humble circumstances of Jesus’ birth, symbolized by being placed in a manger.
Bible Reading: Luke 2:8-20
Now, let’s read the second part of Luke 2:8-20.
“And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David, a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.’ Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.’ When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, ‘Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.’ So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them.” (Luke 2:8-20, NIV)
Explanation
- The appearance of the angel and the message of good news given to the shepherds.
- The proclamation of Jesus as the Savior, the Messiah, and the Lord.
- The response of the shepherds, their visit to Jesus, and their testimony to others.
Youth Group Game: “The Good News Relay”
Divide the youth into teams and set up a relay race-style game. Provide each team with pieces of paper containing different parts of the Christmas story, including Luke 2:8-20. The teams must race to put the story in the correct order and then share what they have learned from it. This game encourages teamwork and reinforces understanding of the passage.
Youth Group Discussion Questions
- How does the humble birth of Jesus challenge our society’s values of power and prestige?
- In what ways can we relate to the shepherds’ fear and amazement upon encountering the angel?
- Why is it significant that the good news of Jesus’ birth was first announced to shepherds, who were considered outcasts in society?
- How can the shepherds’ response to seeing Jesus inspire us to share the good news in our own lives?
Closing Prayer
Dear God, thank you for the gift of Jesus’ birth and the incredible love and hope He brings into our lives. Help us to embrace the message of Luke 2:1-20 and allow it to transform our hearts. Guide us as we share this good news with others and empower us to live out our faith boldly. In Jesus’ name, Amen.