Youth Sermon: Changing the World, One Meal at a Time

The Son of Man came...

Hey guys, let's play a quick game. I'm going to start a sentence, and I want you to finish it. Ready? "The Son of Man came..." What's your answer? You might say, "to serve, not to be served," or "to seek and save the lost." But did you know there's another way the Bible finishes that sentence? "The Son of Man came eating and drinking..." (Luke 7:34). Yeah, you heard it right. Jesus was all about food and hanging out.

"The Son of Man came eating and drinking..." (Luke 7:34)

Pizza Parties Can Be Surprising

Remember when Jesus turned water into wine at a wedding? He used jars that were meant to keep Jews and Gentiles separate and filled them with wine, a symbol of hospitality and inclusion. He was all about breaking down barriers and surprising people. So, what if your next pizza party was a surprise? What if you invited that new kid in school or that neighbor you barely talk to? You could be the one to break down barriers and surprise people, just like Jesus did.

Pizza Parties Build Community

Pizza parties aren't just about the pizza; they're about hanging out, talking, and getting to know each other. Jesus knew this. He ate with tax collectors and sinners, people who were considered outcasts. And guess what? It led to them changing their lives. So, let's be radical socializers. Let's invite people who might not usually get an invite. Let's build a community that looks a lot like the one Jesus built.

Pizza Parties Show God's Character

When we share pizza, we're doing something that reflects God's character. Just like the Father, Son, and Spirit gather in perfect fellowship, we can mirror that when we gather around a pizza box. Remember when Jesus shared bread and wine with His disciples? That was a meal, a time of fellowship. And it's become a central part of our worship as Christians.

The Challenge

So, here's the challenge: This week, I want you to throw a pizza party. Invite three people who you wouldn't usually hang out with. It doesn't have to be fancy; just grab a pizza and hang out. Show them what God's love looks like through your hospitality.

Prayer

Let's pray together. God, give us the courage to reach out, to invite, and to love like You do. Help us to use our pizza parties to show Your love and build Your kingdom. Amen.

Small Group Breakout Questions

1. How can sharing a meal with someone help you connect on a deeper level?

2. How can we use our tables to surprise people and challenge societal norms?

3. How does sharing a meal reflect the character of God?

4. Who are some people you could invite to share a meal with you this week?

Get the Full Youth Group Plan

• Icebreaker: Surprise Meal
• Group Activity: Community Meal Prep
• Youth Challenge: Three Table Invitations