Youth Sermon: We are Transformed

Introduction

Today, we're gonna talk about how following Jesus can totally change our lives. It's not just about getting into heaven, but it's also about how we live right now. God wants us to be transformed every day, so we can help others know Jesus too. So, let's dive in and see what the Bible says about this.

God wants us to be transformed every day, so we can help others know Jesus too.

Become a Living Sacrifice

Our passage today is Romans 12:1-2. It says, 'Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.'

This might sound a bit weird, but it's actually about giving up our own way of doing things and following Jesus instead. It's like when you get married, you don't just live for yourself anymore, but for your spouse too. In the same way, we need to live for Jesus and serve others.

Be In The World But Not Of It

Jesus wants us to be a part of this world, but not to be like everyone else. We need to stand out and show others what it means to follow Jesus. It's like being a visitor in a foreign country – we're here for a while, but our real home is in heaven.

Your Thoughts Matter

Our thoughts are super important because they affect how we act and what we say. So, we need to focus on good things and remember that we're saved by Jesus. Check out Philippians 4:8 and Ephesians 6:17a for some more advice on this.

This week, try to be more aware of your thoughts. When you catch yourself thinking something negative or unhelpful, replace it with a positive thought or a Bible verse. See how this changes your actions and words.

Conclusion

Let's pray together: 'God, thank you for loving us and wanting to transform our lives. Help us to be living sacrifices, to be in the world but not of it, and to focus on good thoughts. We want to live for you and help others know you too. Amen.'

Small Group Breakout Questions

1. How have you experienced transformation in your life through Christ?

2. What does it mean to be a living sacrifice, and how can we apply this concept to our daily lives?

3. How can we balance being in the world but not of the world?

4. Why are our thoughts so important, and how can we work on renewing our minds?

5. What are some practical ways we can focus on having an eternal perspective in our daily lives?

Get the Full Youth Group Plan

• Icebreaker: Thoughts in a Hat
• Group Activity: Scripture Scavenger Hunt
• Youth Challenge: Thoughts Matter Challenge