Last night we really promoted the upcoming series "Gospel Journey - Maui". We really encouraged the students to think about their friends who are not following Jesus, writing them down on their cards that they are to keep with them so they can constantly pray God would do a work in the hearts of their friends.
We took some time walking through John 6:22-69. In this text we see that some stop following Jesus for numerous reasons. A few (the 12 disciples) decide to continue following Jesus, and they have their reasons. Here is a summary of what we found in John 6 -
Why people do not follow Jesus:
- Looking to satisfy their fleshly desires
- Cannot believe Jesus is the God-man
- Perplexed by Jesus call
- They have not been regenerated by the Holy Spirit
Why people do follow Jesus:
- He has the words of life
- They believe and know that He is God
How people follow Jesus:
- Believe in Him
- God draws them
- Holy Spirit gives life
We also spent some time talking about Faith and Regeneration. It is vital that someone has faith - this makes the difference between those who follow Jesus and those who don't. In order to have faith, the Holy Spirit must do a creative work in the heart of an individual. This is why prayer is so very important. We cannot convince someone to follow Jesus. Only the Spirit can quicken and make life where there is no life!
At the end of our time together, each student broke into their growth group and we discussed their friends who need Jesus, taking time to pray for each of them by name.
We are begging God to do a mighty work in the hearts of our students and their friends.
Will you join us in praying?
Here is a link to the powerpoint from the lesson -
