As teenagers, it is natural to question our identity and search for meaning in the world around us. We often find ourselves seeking acceptance, significance, and purpose. In this Sunday school lesson, we will dive into one of the most powerful passages from the book of Galatians, specifically Galatians 4:4-7. This passage beautifully reminds us of our true identity as children of God and how it impacts our faith journey.
Bible Reading 1: Galatians 4:4-5 (NIV)
“But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship.”
Explanation:
- The “set time” refers to the perfect timing of God’s plan for salvation.
- Jesus, the Son of God, was born of a woman and lived under the law to fulfill the requirements of the law on our behalf.
- Through Jesus’ sacrifice, we are redeemed from the bondage of sin and given the opportunity to become sons and daughters of God.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- How does understanding that Jesus came at the perfect time impact your view of God’s sovereignty in your life?
- Why do you think it was necessary for Jesus to be born under the law?
- What does it mean to you personally to be adopted as a child of God?
- How does the concept of adoption change your perception of your worth and identity?
Bible Reading 2: Galatians 4:6-7 (NIV)
“Because you are his sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, ‘Abba, Father.’ So you are no longer a slave, but God’s child; and since you are his child, God has made you also an heir.”
Explanation:
- Through our faith in Jesus Christ, we receive the Holy Spirit, who helps us recognize God as our loving Father.
- The term “Abba” is an Aramaic word that means “Father” and expresses intimacy and trust.
- As God’s children, we are set free from the bondage of sin and become heirs to all the blessings and promises of God.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- How does having the Holy Spirit dwelling within you impact your relationship with God?
- What significance do you find in being able to call God “Abba, Father”?
- In what ways does being God’s child shape your perspective on your purpose and future?
- How can understanding your identity as an heir of God’s blessings impact your daily life?
Youth Group Game: “Identity Scavenger Hunt”
Divide the youth group into teams and provide each team with a list of characteristics or attributes that describe their identity in Christ. The teams must search for items or complete tasks that represent each characteristic. For example, if one characteristic is “forgiven,” the team could find a rock and write the word “forgiven” on it. The team that completes the most tasks within a given time frame wins.
Closing Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for your perfect timing in sending Jesus to redeem us and adopt us as your children. Help us to embrace our true identity in Christ and live according to the freedom and purpose you have given us. Empower us through your Holy Spirit, so that we may confidently call you our Abba, Father. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Note: This lesson was inspired by Louie Giglio’s passion for connecting young people with their identity in Christ and Lecrae’s ability to communicate biblical truths in a contemporary and engaging manner.