Hey everyone! Today, we’re diving into a pivotal moment in the book of Joshua, chapter 24. Joshua challenges the Israelites to choose whom they will serve—whether the gods of their ancestors or the Lord. This commitment to choose God is just as relevant today as it was then. As teenagers, you face countless choices about who you will follow and what you will believe. This lesson helps ground your faith and encourages you to make conscious decisions to serve God wholeheartedly.
Main Teaching
Bible Reading: Joshua 24:1-2a
“Then Joshua assembled all the tribes of Israel at Shechem. He summoned the elders, leaders, judges and officials of Israel, and they presented themselves before God. Joshua said to all the people, ‘This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says:…'”
- Explanation:
- Joshua gathers the people to renew their covenant with God.
- Emphasizes the importance of community in making faith decisions.
- Reminds us that God has been with us throughout our history.
- Discussion Questions:
- Why do you think Joshua chose to gather everyone at Shechem?
- How can we support one another in our faith journeys?
Bible Reading: Joshua 24:14-15
“Now fear the LORD and serve him with all faithfulness. Throw away the gods your ancestors worshiped beyond the Euphrates River and in Egypt, and serve the LORD. But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve…”
- Explanation:
- Joshua challenges the Israelites to serve God with sincerity and truth.
- Highlights the need to let go of past idols and distractions.
- Encourages making a clear choice to follow God.
- Discussion Questions:
- What are some “idols” or distractions in our lives today?
- How can we make a conscious decision to serve God?
Bible Reading: Joshua 24:16-18
“Then the people answered, ‘Far be it from us to forsake the LORD to serve other gods! It was the LORD our God himself who brought us and our parents up out of Egypt, from that land of slavery, and performed those great signs before our eyes…'”
- Explanation:
- The Israelites affirm their commitment to serve God alone.
- They recognize the mighty acts God has done for them.
- This response is a declaration of faith and gratitude.
- Discussion Questions:
- How has God shown His faithfulness to you and your family?
- Why is it important to remember and share these stories of faith?
Youth Group Game: “Choices Maze”
Objective: Illustrate the impact of choices on our faith journey.
Instructions:
- Set up a simple maze using chairs or cones.
- Assign a leader to call out directions, representing God’s guidance.
- Blindfold one participant at a time to navigate the maze.
- The rest of the group should give misleading directions, symbolizing distractions.
Debrief: Discuss how following God’s voice amidst distractions helps us stay on the right path.
Closing Prayer
“Dear God, thank You for being our guide and strength. Help us to choose You every day and serve You with all our hearts. May we let go of the distractions that pull us away and remember Your faithfulness and love. Strengthen our community as we support each other in our journeys of faith. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”
Let’s continue to make choices that honor God and inspire those around us!