Youth Sermon: Anchored by Hope

Introduction

Today, we're gonna talk about anchors: those big, heavy things that keep ships from drifting away. We're gonna see how anchors can teach us something important about our faith and our relationship with Jesus. Our main verse for today is Hebrews 6:19, which says:

"We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure…"

Now, let me show you something. (Bring out a small anchor or a picture of an anchor.) This is an anchor. It's simple, right? But it's also super powerful. It keeps a ship steady and secure, even in the craziest storms. And guess what? Jesus is like our anchor. He keeps us steady and secure, no matter what life throws at us.

Jesus is like our anchor. He keeps us steady and secure, no matter what life throws at us.

God's Promise to Abraham

So, let's dive into the Bible and see what it has to say about this anchor of hope. First, let's look at Hebrews 6:13-17.

[Read passage]

This passage talks about how God made a promise to Abraham and kept it. God is a promise keeper, and that's something we can always count on.

Jesus Walking on Water

Now, let's check out another story from the Bible.

[Read passage]

In Matthew 14:25-31, we read about Jesus walking on water and Peter trying to do the same. Peter was doing great until he took his eyes off Jesus and started to doubt. That's when he began to sink. This story reminds us to stay focused on Jesus, our anchor of hope.

Application

So, what does all this mean for us? Well, life can be pretty crazy, right? We face all kinds of challenges, and sometimes it feels like we're being tossed around by the waves. But when we put our hope in Jesus, we can stay steady and secure, just like a ship with a strong anchor.

Here's a practical idea for you: this week, take some time to think about what or who you've been putting your hope in. Are you relying on Jesus, or are you trying to find security in other things or people? Remember, Jesus is the only anchor that can truly keep us steady and secure.

Closing Prayer

Let's pray together:

"Jesus, thank you for being our anchor of hope. Help us to keep our eyes on you and trust in your promises. When life gets tough, remind us that you are always there, keeping us steady and secure. Amen."

Small Group Breakout Questions

1. What are some trials or storms you have faced in your life? How did your faith in Jesus help you through those times?

2. Can you think of a time when you placed your hope in something or someone other than Jesus? What was the outcome?

3. How can we encourage one another to remain steadfast in our faith and anchored in hope?

4. What are some practical ways we can remind ourselves daily of the hope we have in Jesus?

5. How can we share the hope we have in Jesus with others who may be struggling or facing difficult times?

Get the Full Youth Group Plan

• Icebreaker: Anchor Toss
• Group Activity: Anchor Art
• Youth Challenge: Hold Fast to Hope