As a youth ministry within a small Bible-believing church, it’s essential to provide teenagers with relevant and engaging lessons that speak to their unique experiences and challenges. The passage in John 12:20-33 presents an opportunity for teenagers to deepen their faith and understanding of Jesus’ teachings. This topic is important for teenagers because it addresses themes of identity, sacrifice, and following Jesus in the midst of worldly pressures, which are all highly relatable to this age group. By exploring this passage, teenagers can gain insights into their own journeys of faith and identity, ultimately growing closer to God and building a strong foundation for their future.
Bible Reading: John 12:20-23 (NIV)
Now there were some Greeks among those who went up to worship at the festival. They came to Philip, who was from Bethsaida in Galilee, with a request. “Sir,” they said, “we would like to see Jesus.” Philip went to tell Andrew; Andrew and Philip in turn told Jesus. Jesus replied, “The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified.”
- Jesus’ response to the Greeks seeking Him signifies the universal nature of His mission.
- The mention of the “hour” points to the approaching crucifixion, highlighting the significance of sacrifice.
Explanation
- The arrival of the Greeks symbolizes the widening reach of Jesus’ message beyond the Jewish community.
- Jesus’ statement about being “glorified” foreshadows His imminent crucifixion and resurrection, illustrating the paradoxical nature of His glory through suffering.
Discussion Questions
- How do you think the arrival of the Greeks reflects the universal impact of Jesus’ message?
- What does Jesus’ statement about being “glorified” mean in the context of His upcoming crucifixion?
- In what ways can we apply the concept of finding glory through sacrificial acts in our own lives?
Bible Reading: John 12:27-30 (NIV)
“Now my soul is troubled, and what shall I say? ‘Father, save me from this hour’? No, it was for this very reason I came to this hour. Father, glorify your name!” Then a voice came from heaven, “I have glorified it, and will glorify it again.” The crowd that was there and heard it said it had thundered; others said an angel had spoken to him. Jesus said, “This voice was for your benefit, not mine.”
- Jesus expresses His inner turmoil and submits to God’s will despite His human emotions.
- The divine affirmation validates Jesus’ mission and purpose.
Explanation
- Jesus’ prayer reveals the internal struggle He faced, demonstrating the depth of His humanity and the weight of His impending sacrifice.
- The response from heaven emphasizes the divine approval of Jesus’ mission and serves as a reassurance of God’s presence.
Discussion Questions
- How does Jesus’ prayer demonstrate the tension between His human emotions and divine purpose?
- What significance do you find in the heavenly response affirming Jesus’ mission?
- How can we apply the idea of submitting to God’s will even in the face of personal struggles in our own lives?
Bible Reading: John 12:31-33 (NIV)
“Now is the time for judgment on this world; now the prince of this world will be driven out. And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.” He said this to show the kind of death he was going to die.
- Jesus speaks of the transformative impact of His crucifixion on the world and the defeat of evil.
- The imagery of being “lifted up” foretells both His crucifixion and the subsequent drawing of all people to Himself.
Explanation
- Jesus’ words highlight the redemptive power of His sacrifice and the ultimate defeat of darkness through His death.
- The notion of drawing all people to Himself underscores the inclusive nature of salvation through His crucifixion.
Discussion Questions
- How does Jesus’ statement about being “lifted up” reflect the paradox of victory through sacrifice?
- In what ways do you think Jesus’ crucifixion has the power to draw all people to Himself?
- How can we actively participate in spreading the transformative impact of Jesus’ sacrifice to others in our communities?
Youth Group Game: “Identity Relay”
In this game, pairs of students work together to complete a relay race. Each pair receives a set of identity-related challenges, such as solving riddles or completing tasks that reinforce positive character traits. The emphasis is on teamwork and embracing one another’s unique strengths.
Closing Prayer
Dear God, thank you for the opportunity to delve into Your Word and uncover the profound significance of Jesus’ sacrifice. As we navigate the complexities of our own lives, may we find strength and inspiration in the example set by Jesus. Help us to embrace the paradox of finding glory through sacrifice and to walk confidently in Your will, even when faced with challenges. Guide us as we strive to reflect the inclusive love and transformative power of Jesus’ sacrifice to those around us. In Your name we pray, Amen.
By exploring John 12:20-33, teenagers can gain valuable insights into the universal impact of Jesus’ message, the intertwining of glory and sacrifice, and the transformative power of His crucifixion. The accompanying game and discussion questions provide an interactive and thought-provoking experience that encourages deeper reflection and application of the lesson’s teachings to their own lives. As a youth ministry, it’s important to continue creating spaces for teenagers to engage with their faith in meaningful and relevant ways, nurturing their spiritual growth and understanding.