Youth Sermon: Over Our Past

Out with the old, in with the new (2 Corinthians 5:17)

When we trust in Jesus, He makes us new creations. Our past mistakes and sins are wiped away, and we get a fresh start. It's like that stained shirt becoming white and clean again.

God's love is like a powerful stain remover that can make that shirt white and clean again. That's what Jesus does for us when we trust in Him.

God's love for us and through us (2 Corinthians 5:18-20)

Not only does God's love change us, but it also works through us to help others. We become ambassadors for Christ, sharing His love and forgiveness with the people around us.

Our wrongness is replaced by God's righteousness (2 Corinthians 5:21)

Jesus took on our sins and mistakes when He died on the cross. In exchange, we receive God's righteousness, which means we're approved in His eyes.

The story of the prodigal son

He made a lot of mistakes and messed up big time, but when he came back to his father, he was welcomed with open arms. That's how God welcomes us when we turn to Him, no matter what we've done in the past.

Conclusion

So, what does this mean for us? It means that we don't have to be defined by our past mistakes. We can trust in Jesus and let His love reign in our lives, making us new creations. And as we experience God's love and forgiveness, we can share that love with others, helping them find the same freedom and new life that we've found.

Small Group Breakout Questions

1. How has experiencing God's forgiveness impacted your life?

2. What are some ways you can share the message of forgiveness and reconciliation with others?

3. How can you encourage one another to live as new creations in Christ?

4. What are some practical ways to let go of past mistakes and sins and embrace the new life God has given us?

5. How can we support each other in our journey of living as ambassadors of God's love and forgiveness?

Get the Full Youth Group Plan

• Icebreaker: Confession and Forgiveness Relay
• Group Activity: Creating a Chain of Forgiveness
• Youth Challenge: Forgiveness Ambassadors Challenge