As teenagers, it can be challenging to navigate faith and find our place in the world. We often question our purpose and seek to understand our identity. In John 1:43-51, we encounter a powerful story that shows how Jesus calls his disciples and invites them to follow him. This passage speaks directly to us as teenagers, encouraging us to embrace our unique journey of faith and respond to Jesus’ call. It reminds us that Jesus sees us for who we truly are and desires to use us to impact the world around us. Let’s dive into this engaging and relevant passage as we explore what it means to grow in faith.
Bible Reading: John 1:43-51
John 1:43-51 (NIV)
43 The next day Jesus decided to leave for Galilee. Finding Philip, he said to him, “Follow me.”
44 Philip, like Andrew and Peter, was from the town of Bethsaida.
45 Philip found Nathanael and told him, “We have found the one Moses wrote about in the Law, and about whom the prophets also wrote—Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.”
46 “Nazareth! Can anything good come from there?” Nathanael asked. “Come and see,” said Philip.
47 When Jesus saw Nathanael approaching, he said of him, “Here truly is an Israelite in whom there is no deceit.”
48 “How do you know me?” Nathanael asked. Jesus answered, “I saw you while you were still under the fig tree before Philip called you.”
49 Then Nathanael declared, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the king of Israel.”
50 Jesus said, “You believe because I told you I saw you under the fig tree. You will see greater things than that.”
51 He then added, “Very truly I tell you, you will see ‘heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending on’ the Son of Man.”
Explanation
- Jesus calls Philip to follow him, demonstrating his invitation to all people.
- Philip invites Nathanael to meet Jesus, despite Nathanael’s initial skepticism.
- Jesus sees Nathanael’s character and reveals his supernatural knowledge, leading Nathanael to proclaim Jesus as the Son of God.
- Jesus assures Nathanael that he will witness even greater things in the future.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- How do you think Philip felt when Jesus called him to follow him? Can you relate to his experience?
- Describe a time when you invited someone to encounter Jesus. What was their response?
- Nathanael initially doubted Jesus because of his hometown. Have you ever judged someone based on their background or appearance? How can we overcome such prejudices?
- Jesus saw Nathanael even before they met. How does it make you feel to know that Jesus knows you intimately and sees you for who you truly are?
- Jesus promises Nathanael that he will witness even greater things. What do you think those greater things could be? How does this promise give you hope for your own journey of faith?
Youth Group Game: “Follow the Leader”
In this game, participants will form a line and follow the leader’s actions. The leader will perform various movements, such as clapping hands or jumping, and the rest of the group must imitate the leader’s actions. Rotate the leader after each round, giving everyone a chance to lead. This game serves as a reminder that we are called to follow Jesus as our ultimate leader.
Closing Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for calling us into a personal relationship with you. Help us to grow in our faith and respond to your invitation to follow you. Open our eyes to see the greater things you have in store for us. Give us the courage to invite others to encounter Jesus and overcome any doubts or prejudices we may have. May we always remember that you see us for who we truly are and desire to use us to impact the world around us. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.