Youth Sermon: Reach Out Your Hand

Introduction

Today, we're going to be chatting about taking action. You know George Washington, right? During the American Revolution, he didn't just sit back and give orders. He got his hands dirty, helping soldiers fix a barrier. That's what leaders do. They step up and help.

That's what leaders do. They step up and help.

The Tools We Need

Let's check out Luke 10:11-32. A lawyer asks Jesus how to get eternal life. Jesus throws it back at him, telling him to follow the law. The lawyer knows the law, but Jesus tells him to actually do it.

Imagine trying to build a house with just a hammer. Not gonna work, right? We need the right tools to get the job done. Galatians 5:22-23 gives us a list of tools the Holy Spirit gives us: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These are the tools we need to reflect Jesus and build bridges.

John 4:35 says the fields are ripe for harvest. We've got tools, now we need to get to work.

Taking Action

Let's read Luke 10:30-37. The Samaritan, even though he's supposed to be enemies with the Jews, helps a Jewish man. He doesn't just talk about it, he does it. He gives his time and resources.

How do we start building start building? Start with your friends, your family. Bridge gaps through prayer and action. It might be tough, and you might have to give up some stuff, but we've got to be willing to go the extra mile for others.

Conclusion

So, let's recap. As a blueprint you need forgiveness. For tools you need building bridges. We've got the tools we need from the Spirit.

Think about love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Pray for guidance and a heart for others.

Be like George Washington or the Good Samaritan. Take action. Reach out. Build bridges this week.

Let's pray together. Thank you God for the tools you’ve given us. Help us use them for your glory, to bring reconciliation to the world.

Small Group Breakout Questions

1. Which of the fruits of the Spirit do you find easiest to use in building bridges? Which is the hardest?

2. Share a time when someone unexpected reached out to you. How did it make you feel?

3. How can you use the fruits of the Spirit to build bridges in your school or community?

4. What are some barriers that make it difficult to reach out to others? How can you overcome them?

Get the Full Youth Group Plan

• Icebreaker: Toolbox Relay
• Group Activity: Bridge Building Challenge
• Youth Challenge: Reach Out Your Hand