Youth Sermon: Army of Sacrificial Servants

Introduction

Hey guys! Today we're wrapping up our deep dive into the book of Ephesians. This book is all about how God's love is so huge, so real, and so powerful that it can totally change our lives. It's not just some idea, but a real force that can heal us and set us free. God's love is all about giving, and He invites us to join Him on this journey of love. This is how we find real freedom and healing.

God's love is all about giving, and He invites us to join Him on this journey of love.

Ephesians 6:10-20

So, Paul is using this cool military language to talk about how we should stand up against evil. It's like we're soldiers, ready to fight and hold our ground. But our fight isn't like other armies. We're not about violence or destruction. We're an army of people who serve others, just like Jesus did. Our weapons? Love and God's word. We've got everything we need to live and thrive, even when life gets tough. We're a team, guided by God's word and powered by His love.

Now, imagine you're playing a video game. You've got your armor, your weapons, and you're ready to face the enemy. But this enemy, the devil, he's got tricks. He wants to steal your joy, your identity, and your purpose. He lies and tries to deceive you. He wants to take you out. But we're not going to let that happen, right?

To fight back, we need to put on the full armor of God. That means being real, being honest. Living with integrity and doing what's right. Being ready to share the good news of peace with others. Trusting God, which will protect us from doubt and fear. Remembering our salvation and the hope we have in Jesus. And using God's word, which is like the Spirit talking to us personally.

And we've got to pray. Praying in the Spirit is like being open to what God wants to say to us. We should pray about everything and in all kinds of ways. Prayer is our hotline to God, where we get His love and truth. It's through prayer that we can hear God's voice and get guidance and encouragement.

Conclusion

So, let's bring this home. In your life, you're going to face challenges. You're going to have times when you feel like the enemy is attacking you. But remember, you've got the armor of God. You've got truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, and God's word. And you've got prayer. So, stand strong in the Lord and rely on His power.

Let's pray: "God, thank you for loving us and being with us. Help us to be like an army of people who serve others, just like Jesus did. Help us to grow and become more like Jesus. And if anyone here hasn't experienced your love, help them to feel it today. In Jesus' name, Amen."

Small Group Breakout Questions

1. How can we serve others like Jesus did? 2. What are some of the devil's tricks and how can we protect ourselves? 3. How can we apply the armor of God in our daily lives? 4. How does prayer help us in our spiritual battles?

Get the Full Youth Group Plan

• Icebreaker: Armor of God Relay Race
• Group Activity: Creating Your Spiritual Armor
• Youth Challenge: Living the Armor Challenge