Youth Sermon: There's Always Room at the Table

Introduction

Ever wondered what God is like? It's a big question, right? But it's important because we tend to act like the God we believe in. The simple answer is, God is just like Jesus. Any other picture of God is off the mark. The Bible shows us how people's understanding of God changed over time, and it all comes together in Jesus, who said, "If you've seen me, you've seen the Father." Let's check out two stories that show this.

God is just like Jesus. Any other picture of God is off the mark.

Object Lesson

Imagine you're at a party, and there's this huge table filled with all your favorite foods. But there's a catch - you can't reach the food because your arms are stuck straight out in front of you. You can't bend your elbows. Frustrating, right? But then you realize, if you feed the person across from you and they feed you, everyone gets to eat. That's what God's table is like. We're all invited, and we all have a part to play.

Abraham's Unexpected Guests

In Genesis 18, Abraham gets a surprise visit from three guests who turn out to be God in human form. This story shows that God showed up to Abraham and Sarah to make a promise. Some people think this is an early picture of the Trinity - God as three persons in a constant flow of love.

The Emmaus Road Trip

In Luke 24, two of Jesus' followers meet him on the road to Emmaus, but they don't realize it's him. It's not until they sit down to eat that they recognize him. This story shows that we often see Jesus when we're serving others. Jesus came to serve and show us what God is really like.

Life Application

Both these stories remind us that God's table is always open. It doesn't matter who you are or what you've done. Jesus welcomes everyone. Whether your faith is rock solid or shaky, whether you've been away for a while or you're a regular church-goer, God is waiting to meet you and welcome you into the circle of love that is his eternal being. So, how can you show that kind of love and welcome to others this week?

Closing Prayer

God, you're the eternal mystery that makes everything possible, that surrounds us, and gives us life. Help us to really understand who you are. And help us to show your love to others in our lives. Amen.

Small Group Breakout Questions

1. How do you feel when you are welcomed?

2. How can you show others the welcoming nature of God?

3. What does it mean to you that there's always room at the table with God?

4. How can you invite others into your life this week?

Get the Full Youth Group Plan

• Icebreaker: Three Visitors and a Meal
• Group Activity: Painting the Scene
• Youth Challenge: Invitation Challenge