Youth Sermon: Unhindered Power

Introduction

Today, we're going to talk about power! But not just any power, we're talking about the power that comes from the Holy Spirit. It's an awesome gift from God that helps us do amazing things in our lives. We're going to look at three ways the Holy Spirit gives us strength: to share, to persevere, and to love.

But first, let's start with an object lesson. I want you to think about your phone. You know how it needs to be charged, right? Well, imagine if you never charged it. It would be pretty useless, wouldn't it? Just like our phones need power to work, we need the Holy Spirit's power in our lives to be effective Christians.

Just like our phones need power to work, we need the Holy Spirit's power in our lives to be effective Christians.

Strength to Share

In Acts 1:8, Jesus tells his followers that they'll receive power from the Holy Spirit to be witnesses for Him all over the world. That means telling others about Jesus, even when it's tough. Just like Peter and John in Acts 4:18-20, who kept sharing the gospel even when they were told to stop. The Holy Spirit gave them the strength to keep going, and it can do the same for us.

Strength to Persevere

Life can be hard sometimes. We all go through tough times, but the Holy Spirit helps us keep going. Remember that verse from 2 Corinthians 12:9? It says, 'God's grace is sufficient; His power is made perfect in our weakness.' So even when we feel weak, the Holy Spirit gives us the strength to keep pushing forward.

Strength to Love

Loving others, especially those who are hard to love, can be really challenging. But with the Holy Spirit's help, we can do it. Just like Martin Luther King Jr. said, 'Only through an inner spiritual transformation do we gain the strength to fight vigorously the evils of the world in a humble and loving spirit.' That transformation comes from the Holy Spirit working in our lives.

Application

So, how can we apply this to our lives? Think about one area where you need the Holy Spirit's strength. Maybe it's sharing your faith with a friend, getting through a tough time, or showing love to someone who's been mean to you. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you in that area, and watch how God's power works through you.

Prayer

'Lord, thank you for the gift of the Holy Spirit. Help us to rely on its power in our lives, giving us the strength to share, persevere, and love. Guide us as we seek to follow you and make a difference in the world. In Jesus' name, Amen.'

Small Group Breakout Questions

1. In what areas of your life do you need the Holy Spirit's strength the most?

2. Share a time when you experienced the Holy Spirit's strength in sharing the gospel, persevering, or loving others.

3. How can you be more intentional about relying on the Holy Spirit's strength in your daily life?

4. What are some practical ways you can demonstrate the strength of the Holy Spirit to others?

5. How can we, as a youth group, support and encourage one another in living unhindered by the power of the Holy Spirit?

Get the Full Youth Group Plan

• Icebreaker: Powerful Name Headbands Game
• Group Activity: Strength in Action
• Youth Challenge: Living Unhindered