Scripture Reading: Luke 4:16-19
Memory Verse: “For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost.” Luke 19:10
Introduction:
If we examine our highly sophisticated world full of technology and much success, we can find that behind it all lies a people who are still dead—spiritually. There are many people who are needing God in their lives. Many have no one to look up to. Can we help them? Yes, we have been commissioned by our Lord to help all those in need. How? We can give hope to those by sharing our testimony with them. Another way is by encouragement. We live in a world that is so negative and discouraging. Before many hear doctrinal issues, we should first share our joy that we have in serving a loving God who really cares about us and wants to help us through our trials and translate us into His wonderful plan of salvation. The ultimate goal is eternal life in the Kingdom of God. So many are committing suicide and hurting their lives because they feel their life has no meaning. We must encourage and strengthen all to know that God has a purpose—a plan for their life.
Ask God about the specific mission He is waiting to share with you. We must remember since our world is so discouraging, people want something different when they come to church. Always remember in order to have a strong church, there must be encouragement. And what is our message to you who are needing strength and those laden with burdens? Well, I’d like to introduce you to a very special friend of mine who really cares and would like to help. His name is Jesus…He never fails!
Lesson Questions:
- What did Jesus ask of Peter? Luke 22:32; John 21:15-17.
- What hope and encouragement did the disciples bring to many who were lost? Matthew 10:6-8; Luke 24:47.
- What was the end result of their preaching? Luke 10:17-20; Acts 5:12-16.
- How did Paul encourage Timothy? 2 Timothy 1:1-6.
- How did King David encourage Solomon? 1 Kings 2:1-4.
- How did Moses strengthen and encourage Joshua? Deuteronomy 3:28.
- In what ways can we encourage others?
Note: Children need a considerable amount of positive encouragement and attention. If we do not give them what they need, the ways of the world will encourage them for us in the wrong ways. Many need help due to all the pressures that are placed upon them to fit in with the rest of the world. - How has God been there to strengthen you in times of need? (Share brief testimonies of God’s help in your own life).
- In what ways can we give encouragement and strengthen members of our own church? Galatians 6:10; Ephesians 2:19.
- Who can we look to that will never fail us? Isaiah 41:10; 55:3-4; Romans 8:31.