As teenagers navigating through a world full of distractions and uncertainties, it’s crucial to anchor our faith in the Word of God. Today, we delve into Acts 8:26-40, a passage that not only reveals God’s intricate plans but also demonstrates His relentless pursuit of each one of us. This lesson aims to inspire and challenge you to see how God’s divine appointments are at work in your life, even when things may seem unclear.
Opening Scripture Reading: Acts 8:26-31 (NIV)
26 Now an angel of the Lord said to Philip, “Go south to the road—the desert road—that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza.” 27 So he started out, and on his way he met an Ethiopian eunuch, an important official in charge of all the treasury of the Kandake (which means “queen of the Ethiopians”). This man had gone to Jerusalem to worship, 28 and on his way home was sitting in his chariot reading the Book of Isaiah the prophet. 29 The Spirit told Philip, “Go to that chariot and stay near it.”
30 Then Philip ran up to the chariot and heard the man reading Isaiah the prophet. “Do you understand what you are reading?” Philip asked. 31 “How can I,” he said, “unless someone explains it to me?” So he invited Philip to come up and sit with him.
- Explanation:
- Philip obediently follows the angel’s instructions, leading him to the Ethiopian eunuch.
- The Ethiopian was seeking to understand the Scriptures but needed guidance.
- God orchestrated the meeting between Philip and the eunuch to reveal His truth and salvation.
Discussion Questions for Teenagers:
- How do you think Philip felt when the angel directed him to the chariot?
- In what ways do you see God orchestrating divine encounters in your life or the lives of those around you?
- Why do you think the Ethiopian eunuch was open to receiving help in understanding the Scriptures?
- How can we actively seek opportunities to share the Gospel with those who are seeking like the eunuch?
Bible Reading: Acts 8:32-35 (NIV)
32 This is the passage of Scripture the eunuch was reading: “He was led like a sheep to the slaughter, and as a lamb before its shearer is silent, so he did not open his mouth. 33 In his humiliation he was deprived of justice. Who can speak of his descendants? For his life was taken from the earth.”
34 The eunuch asked Philip, “Tell me, please, who is the prophet talking about, himself or someone else?” 35 Then Philip began with that very passage of Scripture and told him the good news about Jesus.
- Explanation:
- The eunuch reads from Isaiah 53, a prophecy about Jesus’ suffering and sacrifice.
- Philip uses this passage to share the Gospel with him, starting from where the eunuch was reading.
- The eunuch responds with openness and curiosity, leading to his baptism.
Discussion Questions for Teenagers:
- Why was the passage from Isaiah 53 significant in leading the eunuch to understand Jesus?
- How can we effectively connect with people by starting from where they are in their spiritual journey?
- What can we learn from Philip’s approach in sharing the Gospel with the eunuch?
- Have you ever experienced a conversation where a specific Bible verse or story made a significant impact? Share your experience.
Youth Group Game: Divine Encounter Scavenger Hunt
Instructions:
- Divide into teams.
- Each team receives clues leading them to different locations within the church.
- At each location, they discover a Bible verse related to divine encounters.
- The first team to collect all verses and piece them together wins.
Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank you for revealing your truths to us through your Word. Help us, like Philip, to be obedient to your leading and to share the Good News with those around us. May we recognize the divine encounters you orchestrate in our lives and respond with open hearts. Guide us in our journey of faith and use us as vessels of your love and grace. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.
Let this lesson resonate in your hearts as you go forth, knowing that God’s divine appointments await you each day. Trust in His plan for your life and be ready to share the hope you have in Christ with those around you. Stay rooted in His Word and watch as He unfolds His purpose in unexpected and extraordinary ways.