Growing up Boys outline

Growing Up Boys: Building a Mature Faith

Bible Passage: 1 Corinthians 15:33–34, Psalm 90:17, 2 Timothy 2:6

Summary: This sermon focuses on the essential elements of maturity in faith for boys transitioning into manhood, emphasizing the impact of their environment, the importance of God’s favor, and the value of hard work in spiritual growth.

Application: This sermon encourages both boys and adults to understand the profound effects of their choices and associations on spiritual development. It provides practical guidance on how to nurture a faith that resists negative influences while embracing diligence and purpose in life.

Teaching: The teaching revolves around the necessity of careful selection of friendships, the impact of seeking God's favor, and the commitment to hard work as foundational aspects of growing into a mature Christian as boys become men.

How this passage could point to Christ: Christ is the ultimate model of maturity and responsibility, demonstrating how to navigate life's transitions while remaining faithful to God. Throughout Scripture, His life exemplifies what it means to develop wisdom, strength, and character, providing a perfect example for boys to follow.

Big Idea: Maturing in faith requires conscious choices about relationships, a desire for God’s guidance, and a commitment to diligent work, reflecting the journey of growing up into a Christlike manhood.

Recommended Study: As you prepare this sermon, consider exploring the socio-cultural contexts of 1 Corinthians 15:33–34, especially regarding the influence of bad company. In Psalm 90:17, delve into the meaning of God's favor and how it relates to our work and purpose. Finally, study the metaphor of a hard-working farmer in 2 Timothy 2:6, analyzing how it applies to spiritual growth and resilience. Utilizing your Logos library can enhance your understanding of these passages through commentaries and word studies.

1. Choose Companions Carefully

1 Corinthians 15:33–34

You could highlight how the Apostle Paul warns about the corrupting influence of bad company and urges believers to awaken to righteousness. Encourage the audience to evaluate their own relationships and consider whether those influences lead them closer to, or further from, a Christlike maturity. Reflect on how choosing positive friendships is a conscious step towards spiritual growth and echo the example Christ set in His relationships.

In what ways can we actively choose friendships that encourage our spiritual growth?

How does the concept of 'bad company' relate to our faith journey according to the sermon?

2. Cultivate God's Favor

Psalm 90:17

Maybe you could explore the notion of God's favor as a divine approval that enables success in our endeavors. Encourage your listeners to seek God's blessing on their daily tasks and aspirations, understanding that true success lies in aligning their actions with God's will. Emphasize that as Jesus lived out His mission, He consistently relied on the Father's favor, which offers a model for us to follow in our pursuit of purposeful work.

How can the message in Psalm 90:17 guide us in seeking God's favor in our daily lives

3. Commit to Continual Cultivation

2 Timothy 2:6

Perhaps you could delve into the metaphor of the hardworking farmer from Paul's letter to Timothy, which illustrates the importance of persistence and labor in faith. Challenge the congregation to emulate the diligence of Christ, who fulfilled His ministry with resilience and perseverance. This reflection can inspire a stronger dedication to spiritual disciplines and the pursuit of maturity, mirroring the focus and hard work that Jesus embodied.