"THE GOSPEL PART II"

Proposition - As we continue in our study of the Gospel we will be focusing on two points: 1) humanities place in God’s creation and 2) who is man.

Interrogative question - What have you done as a result of who you are?

Humanities Place in God’s Creation -

From AI -

Summary: This sermon explores the biblical view of humanity's creation, purpose, and relationship with God. Understanding who we are in God's eyes gives teens a framework for their identity and worth.

Application: This message encourages teens to find their identity not in societal standards but through their relationship with God. It reassures them that they are made in His image, loved and valued uniquely, enabling them to face the struggles of young adulthood with confidence.

Teaching: The sermon teaches that humanity is made in the image of God (Imago Dei), which gives each person inherent dignity and worth. It emphasizes that understanding our identity in Christ is crucial for self-esteem and purpose.

How this passage could point to Christ: Throughout Scripture, Christ exemplifies humanity at its best, showing us what it means to be fully human and perfectly relating to the Father. He restores the broken relationship between God and humanity, offering redemption for our failings.

Big Idea: Finding our true identity in Christ transforms how we view ourselves and our worth, empowering us to navigate our lives with purpose and confidence.

1. Created In His Image

Genesis 1:26–27 NASB95

26 Then God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; and let them rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the sky and over the cattle and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.” 27 God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.

From AI - Perhaps you could begin by exploring God's intention in creating humanity in His own image, focusing on the uniqueness and dignity this imparts to every individual. Highlight how being made in God's likeness transcends societal measures of worth and beauty, offering teens a firm foundation for their identity. This Christocentric understanding remembers that Christ, the perfect image of God, restores our brokenness with His grace and sets the example of redeemed humanity.

2. Crafted With Purpose

Genesis 2:7 NASB95

7 Then the Lord God formed man of dust from the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living being.

From AI - Consider discussing how God breathes life into humanity, signifying personal care and purpose. Emphasize that each person is crafted with intention and for a relationship with God. Encourage teens to seek fulfillment in their divine purpose rather than elsewhere. Connect this to Christ, who invites us into a restored relationship with God, breathing new life into us through the Holy Spirit.

3. Crowned With Glory

Psalm 8:3–5 NASB95

3 When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, The moon and the stars, which You have ordained; 4 What is man that You take thought of him, And the son of man that You care for him? 5 Yet You have made him a little lower than God, And You crown him with glory and majesty!

From AI - You could explore the psalmist's awe in recognizing humanity’s place within creation's vastness and the honor bestowed upon us by God. Despite our smallness in the universe, God values us highly. This point is crucial for countering feelings of insignificance teens may experience. Connect to Christ, who in humility became a man to elevate us, bridging the gap between human frailty and divine glory.

4. Children Of The King

Romans 8:14–17 NASB95

14 For all who are being led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. 15 For you have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear again, but you have received a spirit of adoption as sons by which we cry out, “Abba! Father!” 16 The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are children of God, 17 and if children, heirs also, heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him so that we may also be glorified with Him.

From AI - Maybe delve into how believers are not only God's creation but His children through Christ, which enhances our identity. As adopted heirs, we receive the Spirit, affirming our value and empowering us to live confidently. This passage speaks to the heart of self-worth and acceptance, offering reassurance through Christ’s redemption and love, which surpass any earthly affirmation.

Who Is Man?

From AI -

Summary: This sermon explores the nature of humanity as depicted in Scripture, emphasizing our inherent sinfulness, the universal need for redemption, and the transformative grace of God.

Application: In today's world, many teens struggle with self-identity and worth. By understanding their nature and the grace available through Christ, they can find true value and purpose beyond societal expectations.

Teaching: The sermon teaches that all humans are inherently sinful, fall short of God's glory, and deserve death, yet through God's kindness and mercy, we are offered salvation and renewal in Christ.

How this passage could point to Christ: This passage shows Christ as the solution to humanity's sinful nature. In Him, we receive righteousness and life, bridging the gap between our fallen state and our potential for redemption.

Big Idea: Understanding our depravity leads us to appreciate the depth of God’s grace, showcasing that while we are sinners by nature, we can be renewed through faith in Christ.

1. Inherent Iniquity Exposed

Romans 3:10 NASB95

10 as it is written, “There is none righteous, not even one;

From AI - Perhaps this point could highlight humanity's inherent sinfulness, emphasizing that no one is righteous on their own. By acknowledging our moral shortcomings, we come to grips with the true nature of human depravity. This realization is crucial for understanding the enormity of God's grace, which alone can make us righteous. Encourage listeners to reflect on their need for divine intervention in their lives.

2. Universal Unworthiness Unveiled

Romans 3:23 NASB95

23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,

From AI - You could use this passage to remind the audience that everyone, regardless of status or accomplishments, falls short of the perfection of God. This universality of sin shows that, without exception, we are all in need of redemption. By clarifying that no one can claim moral superiority, highlight the importance of humility and a collective reliance on God's grace.

3. Deserved Death, Divine Gift

Romans 6:23 NASB95

23 For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

From AI - Perhaps this point emphasizes the consequence of sin, which is death, contrasted with the gift of eternal life in Christ Jesus. The stark difference between what we deserve and what is offered to us in Christ underscores both the gravity of sin and the magnificence of divine grace. Encourage teens to appreciate the gift of salvation and to live in light of the eternal hope it provides.

4. Merciful Renewal Manifested

Titus 3:5 NASB95

5 He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we have done in righteousness, but according to His mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit,

From AI - Maybe explain how this passage provides a vivid picture of God's mercy in action. It is not through our deeds, but through His mercy, that we are saved and renewed. Highlight Christ's role in this transformative process and encourage listeners to embrace their renewed identity in Christ, living out this change in their daily lives.

SO WHAT?