JOURNEY TO SPIRITUAL MATURITY

Share something you enjoy doing that makes you feel fulfilled. Connect the idea of joy and gifting to ministry.

Ephesians 2:10; Additional Scriptures: 1 Corinthians 12:4-7, Romans 12:4-8, Psalm 139:14.

• Serving with Your Gifts — 1 Peter 4:10
• Every Believer is a Minister — Ephesians 4:11-12
• Serving God by Serving People — Matthew 25:40
• How Are We Shaped for Ministry? S.H.A.P.E. Model:
• S. Spiritual Gifts (1 Corinthians 12:7).
• H. Heart/Passion (Colossians 3:23).
• A. Abilities (natural talents) (Exodus 31:3–5).
• P. Personality (Psalm 139:13–14).
• E. Experiences (both good and bad) (Romans 8:28).
• God Has a Plan: He designed your life with purpose in mind (Psalm 139:16). No one else can fulfill your specific calling in the body of Christ.

• Have you ever considered yourself to be in ministry? Why or why not?
• Which part of the S.H.A.P.E. model resonates most with you?
• What is one way you have seen God use your talents or passions to bless others?

• One gift or talent I have:
• One thing I love doing:
• One experience that shaped me:
• One way I want to help:

Pray: “God, thank You for making me with a purpose. Show me how I can serve You and help others.”

Ask a parent, mentor, or friend what they think your gifts are. Think about ways to serve in your church or school. Memorize Ephesians 2:10.

Ephesians 2:10 (NIV) “For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works.”

Share a time you told someone exciting news. How did it feel? How did they respond?

Matthew 28:19-20; Additional Scriptures: Acts 1:8, Romans 10:14-15, Mark 16:15.

• Jesus' final instructions before ascending to heaven — Matthew 28:18-20; Acts 1:8.
• A command to every believer, not just pastors or missionaries — Mark 16:15; 1 Peter 3:15.
• How can you live this out in the Great Commission:
• Go — Be intentional about reaching others. Romans 10:14-15; Luke 19:10.
• Make Disciples — Help people grow in their faith. 2 Timothy 2:2; Colossians 1:28.
• Baptism — Celebrate new life in Christ publicly. Romans 6:4; Acts 2:38.
• Teach to Obey — Guide others to live by God’s truth. John 14:23; James 1:22.
• The Power Behind the Mission:
• The Authority of Jesus — Matthew 28:18.
• The Presence of Jesus — Matthew 28:20b.
• The Power of the Holy Spirit — Acts 1:8.
• The Confidence of God’s Promise — Philippians 4:13.

• What do you think it means to “make disciples”?
• Whom do you know that might need to hear about Jesus?
• How can you be a good example this week?

• Someone I can pray for:
• One way I can share Jesus this week:
• Someone I can invite:

Pray: “Jesus, thank You for trusting me to share Your love. Help me be brave, kind, and full of truth this week.”

Read Acts 1:1-11. Pray for one friend or neighbor who needs Jesus. Memorize Matthew 28:19-20.

Matthew 28:19-20 (NIV) “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations... and surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

Call out words that describe great leaders. Write them down. Which of these applies to Jesus?

Mark 10:42-45; Additional Scriptures: John 13:12-17, Philippians 2:5-8, Matthew 23:11.

• Authentic leadership is not about being the boss but lifting others.
• Jesus, the most outstanding leader, humbled Himself to serve others by washing His disciples' feet. John 13:12-15.
• Key Characteristics of Servant Leaders:
• Humility (Philippians 2:3-4).
• Compassion (Matthew 9:36).
• Integrity (Titus 2:7).
• Willingness to serve before being seen (Mark 10:43-45).
• Jesus Leadership:
• He led by teaching, healing, and sacrificing. (Matthew 5:1-2, Mark 1:22, Matthew 4:23, Luke 6:19, John 10:11, Philippians 2:8).
• He valued people whom others overlooked. (Luke 19:10, Luke 5:30-32, John 4:9-10, Luke 7:37-39, 47).
• He told us to follow His example. (Mark 10:44-45, John 13:14-15, Philippians 2:5-7).

• How is servant leadership different from the world's idea of leadership?
• Have you ever been impacted by someone who served with humility?
• What is one area in your life where you could lead by serving?

Students choose one way they can lead by serving this week in church, at home, in school, or in the community. Write a plan and commit to following through on it.

Pray: “Jesus, thank You for being a servant and a leader. Help me lead with love as you do.”

Read John 13 and think about Jesus washing feet. Do something this week that helps someone else. Memorize Mark 10:45.

Mark 10:45 (NIV) “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve...”

Present situations where no one is watching, such as keeping extra change or skipping a task. Would you still do the right thing?

Proverbs 11:3; Additional Scriptures: Psalm 15:1-2, Titus 2:7, Luke 16:10.

• Integrity is living with honesty, consistency, and faithfulness to God, both in public and in private.
• 1. Living the same way in private as in public. Proverbs 11:3, Psalm 15:1-2, Matthew 23:25-28.
• 2. Being trustworthy, truthful, and consistent. Ephesians 4:25, Colossians 3:9-10, Matthew 5:37.
• 3. Doing what is right, even when it is difficult. James 4:17, Daniel 6:10, Acts 5:29.
• 4. Admitting mistakes and acting with humility. Proverbs 28:13, 1 John 1:9, Psalm 51:6.
• 5. Keeping your promises and being faithful in small things. Luke 16:10, Ecclesiastes 5:4-5, Psalm 101:2.
• 6. Reflecting the character of Christ. 1 Peter 2:12, Romans 12:17, Philippians 2:15.
• Why Integrity Matters in Leadership:
• 1. It builds credibility and respect. Proverbs 10:9, Titus 2:7-8, 1 Timothy 3:2-7.
• 2. It reflects holiness and truth. 1 Peter 1:15-16, Ephesians 4:24-25, John 8:31-32.
• 3. It creates a safe and honest culture where others can grow. Ephesians 4:15, Philippians 2:3-4, Romans 12:9-10.
• 4. It protects the testimony of the ministry. 2 Corinthians 8:20-21, Matthew 5:14-16, 1 Peter 2:12.
• 5. It is evidence of the Holy Spirit working in the leader. Galatians 5:22-23, Psalm 15:1-2, Micah 6:8.
• Biblical Examples: Joseph's integrity in Egypt; Daniel's faithfulness in the face of pressure; Jesus as the flawless example of integrity.

• What does “integrity” mean to you in real life?
• Can you think of a leader you admire because of their honesty?
• What is one area where God calls you to lead with greater integrity?

Pick a situation from the case study list and write or draw what you would do with integrity.

Pray: “God, help me be honest and strong in every decision. I want to lead with integrity like Jesus.”

Practice doing one small thing this week with complete honesty, such as admitting a mistake. Discuss with a parent or mentor how they developed their sense of integrity. Memorize Proverbs 11:3.

Proverbs 11:3 (NIV) “The integrity of the upright guides them.”

If you could choose to be a leader in one way, teaching, guiding, encouraging, etc., which would you pick and why?

Ephesians 4:11-13; Additional Scriptures: 1 Corinthians 12:27-28, Romans 12:6-8.

• Jesus assigned these five roles to help the Church grow, guide, and mature. Ephesians 4:11-12.
• Apostle — Sent one, a visionary, a builder of churches and movements. Acts 13:2, 2 Corinthians 12:12.
• Prophet — Speaks God’s truth, encourages, and warns. 1 Corinthians 14:3, Amos 3:7.
• Evangelist — Passionate about sharing the gospel. 2 Timothy 4:5, Acts 8:5-6.
• Pastor (Shepherd) — Cares for, nurtures, and protects the flock. John 10:11, 1 Peter 5:2-3.
• Teacher — Explains and applies God’s Word with clarity. 2 Timothy 2:2, James 3:1.
• Why It Matters:
• These gifts help unify the Church. Ephesians 4:13.
• They build people up and prepare them to serve. Ephesians 4:12.
• We may not all have “five ministries,” but we are all called to be equipped by them. 1 Corinthians 12:4-7.

• Have you ever been impacted by one of these roles, such as a pastor or teacher?
• Why do you think Jesus gave different types of leaders instead of just one?
• Which of the five roles do you relate to most?

Match each role with a description and think about which one you would like to learn from more.

Pray: “God, thank You for giving us leaders. Help me learn and grow through them, and show me how to serve others, too.”

Read Ephesians 4:11-13. Write down one thing your pastor or teacher has taught you. Memorize Ephesians 4:11-12.

Ephesians 4:11-12 (NIV) “So Christ himself gave... to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up.”

Ask each participant to share one unique thing about themselves and how it might be used to bless others.

1 Corinthians 12:4-11; Additional Scriptures: Romans 12:6-8, 1 Peter 4:10-11.

• Special abilities given by the Holy Spirit to every believer. 1 Corinthians 12:4-7.
• Meant to serve others and build up the Church. Ephesians 4:12.
• Given for the common good and to glorify God. 1 Peter 4:10-11.
• List of Gifts:
• Wisdom, Knowledge, Faith, Healing, Miraculous powers, Prophecy, Discernment, Tongues, Interpretation of tongues.
• Other Gifts (From Romans 12 and 1 Peter 4): Serving, teaching, encouragement, giving, leadership, and mercy.
• Key Principles:
• Every believer has at least one gift.
• No gift is greater than another.
• We are called to use our gifts in love and humility.

• What is the difference between a spiritual gift and a natural talent?
• Why do you think God gives different gifts to different people?
• Have you ever experienced or noticed a spiritual gift at work?

Circle or color the gifts that you feel a connection to. Write one way to try using it this week.

Pray: “Holy Spirit, show me what gifts You have given me. Help me use them to help others and love like You.”

Read 1 Corinthians 12 again. Ask a parent or leader what gift they see in you. Memorize 1 Corinthians 12:7.

1 Corinthians 12:7 (NIV) “Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.”

Share a way you have helped at church, home, or school. How did it feel to serve?

1 Peter 4:10-11; Additional Scriptures: 1 Corinthians 12:12-27, Romans 12:4-8, Galatians 5:13.

• God created us to serve, not just to sit. Ephesians 2:10.
• The church functions best when every part is working together. 1 Corinthians 12:12-27.
• Serving shows love and builds maturity. Galatians 5:13.
• How Can I Serve?
• Use your spiritual gifts.
• Look for needs and fill them.
• Be faithful, humble, and joyful in your service to others.
• Every Role Matters:
• Whether seen or unseen, all service is valuable (1 Corinthians 12).
• From greeting to cleaning, praying to teaching, tech to helping, the job strengthens the Church.

• What is one thing you are good at that could help at church?
• How does it feel when someone helps you?
• What would you like to try doing at church?

Write or draw one thing you can do at church this week to serve.

Pray: “Jesus, thank You for serving others. Help me be a cheerful helper in your church.”

Ask someone at church how you can help. Try it this week and write about how it went. Memorize 1 Peter 4:10.

1 Peter 4:10 (NIV) “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others...”

Share a story of someone who showed you kindness or care. What impact did it have on you?

Philippians 2:3-5; Additional Scriptures: Luke 10:25-37, Romans 12:10, 1 John 4:11.

• Jesus showed deep compassion to people whom others ignored (Matthew 9:36).
• Loving others is one of the greatest commands (Matthew 22:39).
• A heart for others reflects a heart like Jesus’. (Philippians 2:5-7).
• What Does It Look Like?
• Humility is putting others before yourself.
• Kindness is demonstrated through words and actions that show love.
• Empathy, listening, and caring about someone else's experience.
• Sacrifice: giving your time, attention, or resources to meet a need.
• Biblical Example: The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) loved beyond what was expected.

• Why is it sometimes hard to think about others before ourselves?
• Whom do you know who has a big heart for people? What do they do differently?
• How can we grow more loving in small, everyday ways?

Choose one way you will show love to someone this week. Write or draw your plan.

Pray: “Jesus, help me love people as You do. Give me a heart that sees others and cares for them.”

Read the story of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37). Do an act of kindness this week. Memorize Philippians 2:3.

Philippians 2:3 (NIV) “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility, value others above yourselves.”

What is one good deed someone has done for you outside of church that made a difference in your day?

Matthew 5:14-16; Additional Scriptures: Acts 2:46-47, James 1:27, Galatians 6:10.

• Taking Jesus' love and truth outside the church building.
• Serving with purpose in schools, neighborhoods, workplaces, and public spaces.
• Biblical Vision:
• The early church served together and were liked by all the people (Acts 2:47).
• Real faith is seen through action (James 1:27).
• We are not just members of a church, but representatives of Jesus to the world. (2 Corinthians 5:20).
• How to Shine in the Community:
• Offer kindness, time, prayer, and presence.
• Invite people into your life, not just your church.

• What are some needs you see in your community?
• How can you and your group meet one of those needs?
• What stops people from serving outside the church?

Draw or write one thing you will do this week to serve someone in your community.

Pray: “Jesus, help me be a light this week. Show me where I can help someone and share your love.”

Do an act of kindness this week. Tell someone what you did and how it went. Memorize Matthew 5:16.

Matthew 5:16 (NIV) “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

What is something valuable you have worked hard for and paid a high price for? Why was it worth it?

Luke 14:27-30; Additional Scriptures: Matthew 16:24-26, 2 Timothy 2:3, Romans 12:1.

• Following Jesus and leading others means self-denial and sacrifice. (Luke 9:23).
• Not all will understand, follow, or applaud. (John 15:18–20).
• God calls us to obedience, even when it is hard. (Philippians 2:8, 1 Samuel 15:22).
• Jesus’ Call to Count the Cost:
• Carry your cross: die to comfort, popularity, and selfish ambition. (Luke 9:23, Galatians 2:20).
• Consider the price before starting, like building a tower or going to war. (Luke 14:27–30).
• It is not about perfection, but about perseverance. (Hebrews 12:1–2, James 1:12).
• Examples of Leaders Who Paid the Price:
• Moses faced rejection and long seasons in the wilderness. (Exodus 2:14–15, Numbers 14:22–23).
• Paul endured persecution, beatings, and prison. (2 Corinthians 11:23–27, Acts 16:23–25).
• Jesus bore the ultimate cost: the cross. (Philippians 2:8, Matthew 27:35).

• What might you need to give up to follow Jesus more closely?
• How can leaders show others that Jesus is worth everything?
• What makes leadership hard, and what makes it rewarding?

Write or draw what you are willing to give up to lead others to Jesus.

Pray: “Jesus, I want to follow You no matter the cost. Help me lead with strength and love.”

Read Matthew 16:24-26. Write a short prayer telling Jesus you are willing to follow and lead. Memorize Luke 14:27.

Luke 14:27 (NIV) “Whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.”

Invite participants, anonymously if preferred, to share a time when they felt discouraged but kept going. What helped?

Galatians 6:9; Additional Scriptures: 2 Corinthians 4:7-9, Isaiah 40:28-31, Psalm 42:11.

• Slow results or lack of appreciation.
• Spiritual battles or opposition.
• Exhaustion and unmet expectations.
• What Does God Say About It?
• Do not give up, there is a harvest coming (Galatians 6:9).
• He renews our strength (Isaiah 40:31).
• He sees every act of love and service (Hebrews 6:10).
• How to Overcome Discouragement:
• Rest in God’s presence. (Matthew 11:28–29).
• Remember the why behind your service. (Colossians 3:23–24).
• Surround yourself with encouragement. (Hebrews 10:24–25).
• Keep your eyes on the eternal reward. (2 Corinthians 4:17–18).

Write a short note or draw something to encourage someone in your group.

Pray: “God, sometimes I feel tired or discouraged. Please help me keep going and not give up.”

Read Isaiah 40:28-31. Do one kind thing this week to encourage a friend. Memorize Galatians 6:9.

Galatians 6:9 (NIV) “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

Share a story of someone who helped you grow spiritually. What did they do that made a difference?

2 Timothy 2:2; Additional Scriptures: Matthew 28:19-20, Acts 11:25-26, 1 Thessalonians 2:8.

• Helping others follow Jesus so they can help others do the same. (2 Timothy 2:2).
• It is a chain of spiritual investment: Paul → Timothy → others. (Philippians 4:9).
• Why It Matters:
• Jesus commanded us to make disciples, not just converts. (Matthew 28:19).
• The Church grows stronger when we lift others. (Ephesians 4:16).
• We do not keep what we have learned; we pass it on. (Matthew 10:8).
• How to Multiply Disciples:
• Invest your time in mentoring others. (Proverbs 27:17).
• Share the Word, your story, and your life. (1 Thessalonians 2:8).
• Encourage them to grow, serve, and do the same for others. (Hebrews 10:24–25).

• Who discipled you?
• Whom are you discipling now or who could you?
• Whom might they reach next?

Pray: “Jesus, help me share what You have taught me with someone else. Help me be a disciple who makes disciples.”

Do something kind to encourage someone in their walk with God. Pray about whom you can disciple. Memorize 2 Timothy 2:2.

2 Timothy 2:2 (NIV) “Entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.”

Share examples of leaders, famous or personal, who led with love. What did they do that showed it?

1 Corinthians 13:1-7; Additional Scriptures: John 13:34-35, Colossians 3:14, 1 John 4:7.

• Gifts, skills, and knowledge are meaningless without love. (1 Corinthians 13:2).
• Love is the defining mark of a Christ-follower. (John 13:35).
• Love transforms correction, encouragement, and service. (1 Corinthians 16:14).
• What Does Love Look Like in Leadership?
• Patient and kind. (1 Corinthians 13:4).
• Not proud or rude. (1 Corinthians 13:5).
• Rejoices in truth, not in gossip or comparison. (1 Corinthians 13:6).
• Always protects, trusts, hopes, and perseveres. (1 Corinthians 13:7).
• Love Leads by Example:
• Jesus laid down His life in love. (John 15:13).
• Paul mentored in love. (1 Thessalonians 2:8).
• Love covers weakness and fuels strength. (1 Peter 4:8).

• Why is love more powerful than talent or position?
• What is a time when someone led you with love? How did it affect you?
• Where is God calling you to lead more lovingly?

• Write or draw three ways you will show love this week to people you lead, serve, or live with:
• 1.
• 2.
• 3.

Pray: “Jesus, thank You for loving me. Help me lead with love just like You.”

Reread 1 Corinthians 13 this week. Choose one way to lead with love. Memorize 1 Corinthians 13:1.

1 Corinthians 13:1 (NIV) “If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal.”