As teenagers, you are at a crucial stage in your faith journey. This is a time when you start to ask questions about your purpose, identity, and the impact you can make on the world around you. It’s important to understand that your faith is not just a personal matter but also something that should be shared with others. In 1 Corinthians 9:16-23, the Apostle Paul provides us with valuable insights into what it means to live as witnesses for Christ.
Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 9:16-19 (NIV)
16 Yet when I preach the gospel, I cannot boast, for I am compelled to preach. Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel! 17 If I preach voluntarily, I have a reward; if not voluntarily, I am simply discharging the trust committed to me. 18 What then is my reward? Just this: that in preaching the gospel I may offer it free of charge, and so not make full use of my rights as a preacher of the gospel.
19 Though I am free and belong to no one, I have made myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible.
Explanation:
- Paul emphasizes his deep sense of responsibility to share the good news of Jesus Christ.
- He recognizes that preaching the gospel is not about personal gain or recognition.
- Instead, Paul considers it a privilege and a calling to proclaim the message of salvation to others.
- He willingly sacrifices his rights and freedoms to serve others and win them for Christ.
Discussion Questions:
- How do you personally feel about sharing your faith with others? Are there any challenges or fears you face?
- Why do you think Paul describes himself as a slave to everyone? What does this tell us about his attitude towards evangelism?
- In what ways can we apply Paul’s example to our own lives? How can we become more intentional in sharing the gospel with those around us?
Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 9:20-23 (NIV)
20 To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win the Jews. To those under the law I became like one under the law (though I myself am not under the law), so as to win those under the law. 21 To those not having the law I became like one not having the law (though I am not free from God’s law but am under Christ’s law), so as to win those not having the law. 22 To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some. 23 I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings.
Explanation:
- Paul explains his approach to reaching different groups of people with the gospel.
- He adapts his behavior and practices without compromising his faith to effectively communicate with diverse audiences.
- Paul’s ultimate goal is to bring people to Christ and share in the blessings of the gospel.
Discussion Questions:
- Why do you think it’s important to understand and engage with different cultures and contexts when sharing the gospel?
- How can we practically adapt our approach to reach people who have different backgrounds, beliefs, or struggles?
- What are some potential challenges or misunderstandings we may encounter when trying to relate to different groups of people? How can we overcome them?
Youth Group Game: “Walk in Their Shoes”
In this game, form pairs and give each pair a scenario representing a specific group of people (e.g., a homeless person, a new student at school, a person from a different culture). Each pair must brainstorm and act out how they would approach and connect with someone in that scenario, considering Paul’s example in 1 Corinthians 9:20-23.
Closing Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for calling us to be witnesses for Christ. Help us to have a deep sense of responsibility and passion for sharing the gospel with others. Guide us in adapting our approach to connect with different people and cultures, always keeping the goal of bringing them closer to You. May we be bold and courageous in our faith, knowing that You are with us every step of the way. In Jesus’ name, Amen.