As teenagers, it is essential to explore and deepen our faith in God. We face numerous challenges and uncertainties in our lives, and it’s crucial to have a strong foundation rooted in His love and guidance. In today’s Sunday school lesson, we will delve into Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24 and Psalm 100 to understand how God’s shepherd love can transform our lives and strengthen our faith.
Bible Reading: Ezekiel 34:11-16
“For thus says the Lord GOD: Behold, I, I myself will search for my sheep and will seek them out. As a shepherd seeks out his flock when he is among his sheep that have been scattered, so will I seek out my sheep, and I will rescue them from all places where they have been scattered on a day of clouds and thick darkness. And I will bring them out from the peoples and gather them from the countries, and will bring them into their own land. And I will feed them on the mountains of Israel, by the ravines, and in all the inhabited places of the country. I will feed them with good pasture, and on the mountain heights of Israel shall be their grazing land. There they shall lie down in good grazing land, and on rich pasture they shall feed on the mountains of Israel. I myself will be the shepherd of my sheep, and I myself will make them lie down, declares the Lord GOD. I will seek the lost, and I will bring back the strayed, and I will bind up the injured, and I will strengthen the weak, and the fat and the strong I will destroy. I will feed them in justice.” (ESV)
Explanation
- God portrays Himself as a shepherd who seeks out His scattered sheep.
- He promises to gather His people from all places and bring them into their own land.
- God pledges to provide nourishment, care, and rest for His people.
- He takes personal responsibility for seeking the lost, tending to the injured, and strengthening the weak.
- The shepherd metaphor reveals God’s love, protection, and guidance for His people.
Bible Reading: Psalm 100
“Make a joyful noise to the LORD, all the earth! Serve the LORD with gladness! Come into his presence with singing! Know that the LORD, he is God! It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name! For the LORD is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations.” (ESV)
Explanation
- The psalmist calls all the earth to make a joyful noise and serve the Lord with gladness.
- We are reminded that God is the creator, and we are His sheep.
- The passage emphasizes entering God’s presence with thanksgiving and praise.
- We are encouraged to recognize God’s goodness, enduring love, and faithfulness to all generations.
Youth Group Game: “Shepherd’s Hunt”
In this game, divide the youth into small groups and give each group a list of items related to shepherding, such as a shepherd’s staff, wool, or a picture of sheep. Set a time limit and challenge the groups to find the items either within the church premises or by taking pictures of them. The first group to collect or locate all the items wins the game. Use this activity to initiate discussions on the biblical concept of God as our shepherd.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- How does understanding God as our shepherd impact how we view our relationship with Him?
- In what ways do we experience God’s provision and care in our lives?
- How does knowing that God seeks the lost, binds up the injured, and strengthens the weak bring hope and comfort?
- How can we actively respond to God’s love and guidance in our daily lives?
- What are some barriers or distractions that can hinder us from fully embracing God’s shepherd love?
Closing Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for being our loving shepherd who guides, protects, and provides for us. Help us to trust in your faithfulness and walk in your ways. May we continually seek your presence and follow your leading. Strengthen our faith and empower us to share your love with others. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.