Youth Sermon: Light the Way

Introduction

Hey everyone! Today, we're going to talk about something super important, and I've got a cool object lesson to help us understand it better. But first, let me ask you a question: Have you ever been lost? Like, really lost? Maybe you were at the mall, or on a hike, or just wandering around a new city. It's not a great feeling, right? You probably needed some help to find your way again.

Now, imagine you're in a dark room, and you can't see anything. It's pretty hard to find your way around, right? But what if someone gave you a flashlight? Suddenly, everything becomes a lot clearer, and you can find your way. That's what we're going to talk about today – how we can be like a flashlight for others, helping them find their way to Jesus.

That's what we're going to talk about today – how we can be like a flashlight for others, helping them find their way to Jesus.

Main Scripture: Matthew 5:13-20

Our main Scripture for today is Matthew 5:13-20. In this passage, Jesus tells us that we are the salt of the earth and the light of the world. He's saying that we, as His followers, have a special role to play in helping others find their way to Him. We're like that flashlight in the dark room, shining a light so others can see the way.

So, here's our object lesson: I've got a flashlight here, and I want you to think about how it works. When you turn it on, it shines a light that helps you see where you're going. But if the batteries are dead, or if the bulb is broken, it's not going to be much help, right? We need to make sure our spiritual flashlight is working properly so we can help others find their way to Jesus.

Main Points from Scripture

We are the salt of the earth (Matthew 5:13). Salt is super useful – it adds flavor to food, and it can even help preserve things. Jesus is saying that we, as His followers, are valuable and important in this world. We can make a difference in the lives of others by sharing His love and truth.

We are the light of the world (Matthew 5:14). Just like a flashlight helps us see in the dark, we can help others see the truth about Jesus. We do this by living a life that reflects His love and goodness, and by sharing the message of salvation with others.

We need to let our light shine (Matthew 5:15-16). Jesus doesn't want us to hide our faith or keep it to ourselves. Instead, we should let our light shine brightly so others can see the way to Him.

Application

So, what does this all mean for us in our everyday lives? It means that we have a responsibility to be a light for others, helping them find their way to Jesus. We can do this by living a life that reflects His love and goodness, and by sharing the message of salvation with others.

Here's a practical idea for you: This week, think about one person in your life who might be feeling lost or struggling. How can you be a light for them? Maybe you can offer a listening ear, share a Scripture verse, or just be there for them when they need a friend. Remember, you are the salt of the earth and the light of the world – let your light shine!

Closing Prayer

"Jesus, thank You for calling us to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world. Help us to shine Your light brightly so others can find their way to You. Show us how we can be a light for those around us who are feeling lost or struggling. We love You, and we want to serve You by helping others find their way to You. Amen."

Small Group Breakout Questions

1. What does it mean to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world?

2. How can we be a positive influence and guide for others in our daily lives?

3. Can you share a time when someone was a "light" in your life, helping you through a difficult situation or guiding you towards God?

4. How can we maintain our integrity and effectiveness as salt and light in the world?

Get the Full Youth Group Plan

• Icebreaker: Lost and Found
• Group Activity: Salt and Light Scavenger Hunt
• Youth Challenge: Be Salt and Light Challenge