WELCOME
“And may the Lord cause you to increase and overflow with love for one another and for everyone, just as we do for you.” —1 Thessalonians 3:12
As you start showing your faith and sharing the Gospel, you should develop a desire to serve others. This is an important way to show the love of God to all people.
WARM-UP
Stretch It Out
Let’s get some volunteers to lead the rest of the group in two or three stretching routines they go through before training, practice or competition. Make sure to include at least one of the more difficult stretching methods.
Q: What part of stretching do you enjoy?
Q: What part of stretching do you not enjoy?
Now, let’s talk about stretching as a metaphor for doing what God has called you to do—showing boldness in your faith, sharing the Gospel with others, and serving those in need.
Q: How does the idea of responding to God’s call stretch you mentally, physically, emotionally, spiritually?
Q: In what ways do you find serving others challenging?
Q: Are there some people or groups that you find more challenging to serve than others? Explain.
WORKOUT
COMFORT ZONE
In Acts 10, Peter was invited to share the Gospel with Cornelius, a Gentile (non-Jew).
Peter, who emerged as one of the Church’s leaders, had followed Jesus for over three years. He saw how Jesus served others no matter where they were in life.
During their time, the people of Israel were not to mingle with certain people groups. For example, they were not allowed to have dealings with gentiles. But then, Peter received a vision from God that showed Peter that God does not play favorites. He wants everyone to hear about Christ.
“Peter began to speak: ‘Now I truly understand that God doesn’t show favoritism, but in every nation the person who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him. He sent the message to the Israelites, proclaiming the good news of peace through Jesus Christ—he is Lord of all.’” —Acts 10:35–36
Because of Peter’s obedience and willingness to serve outside his comfort zone, the Church expanded into the Gentile world. Salvation in Christ is available to EVERYONE because of this moment.
GO SERVE
When you serve others, you show God’s love for them and open the door to sharing the Gospel with those around you, like teammates, friends, classmates and even family members.
Some of the greatest opportunities to serve are with people who are outside your comfort zone. Stretching beyond convenient serving looks different for each individual person. It could be with a person who doesn’t like sports, a neighbor rarely leaves their house, or a classmate who struggles with something.
Q: Why can it be difficult to serve people outside your traditional spaces?
Q: What attitudes need to change for you to be more available to serve as the Holy Spirit leads?
WRAP-UP
Our purpose in Christ includes sharing God’s love with all whom He brings to our life.
“Just as each one has received a gift, use it to serve others, as good stewards of the varied grace of God.” —1 Peter 4:10
When you use your gifts to serve, you will find a joy and peace you didn’t know was possible.
“Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you believe so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” —Romans 15:13
Take some time to ask the Holy Spirit for a list of people to serve, and how to serve them each.
Pray and break the huddle