JOURNEY TO SPIRITUAL MATURITY

Thank God for creating each of us with purpose and value. Ask for revelation as we explore our calling.

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: “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”
• Every Believer is a Minister — Ephesians 4:11-12: “So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up.”
• Serving God by Serving People — Matthew 25:40: “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’”
• 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?

Fill in:

One gift or talent I have: _______________________

One thing I love doing: _________________________

One experience that shaped me:_________________

One way I want to help: _________________________

Quiet time: ask God to help reveal where He wants you to serve. Group prayer: affirm one another and invite the Holy Spirit to speak.

Reflect more deeply on your gifts, personality, and passions this week. Journal how these areas might connect with opportunities to serve in the church or community.

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

Thank God for entrusting us with His mission. Ask for boldness and love to share the gospel.

Share a time when you shared exciting news with someone. 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 — “Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore, go and make disciples…’”
• Acts 1:8 — “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses…”
• A command to every believer, not just pastors or missionaries.
• Mark 16:15 — “He said to them, ‘Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.’”
• 1 Peter 3:15 — “Always be prepared to answer everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.”
• 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”?
• Why do you think Jesus gave this as His last instruction?
• What is one way you could share your faith with someone?

Create a simple outreach plan: Whom can I pray for? Who can I invite or encourage? What is one way I can serve this week?

Reflect on your personal mission field (friends, family, work). Pray for opportunities to share your faith boldly and lovingly.

Read Acts 1:1-11. Write a short note or message of encouragement to someone who does not know Jesus yet.

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.”

Ask God to help us lead like Jesus with humility, strength, and love.

Have participants call out words that describe great leaders. Write them down. Then ask: Which of these apply 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. He valued people whom others overlooked. He told us to follow His example.

• 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 the community. Write a plan, and commit to doing it!

Reflect on whom you influence and how you can lead them with humility. Pray for strength to serve and lead like Jesus.

Read John 13 and reflect on Jesus washing the disciples' feet. Journal: What does Jesus’ example teach you about leadership?

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

Invite God to help us lead with honesty, humility, and faithfulness.

Present situations where no one is watching (e.g., keeping extra change, 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?

Read through short scenarios involving integrity choices. In small groups, decide what the leader should do and why. Discuss how their decision impacts others.

Reflect silently on one area of life where greater integrity is needed. Write a short prayer asking God for help in that area.

Read Luke 16:10 and reflect on faithfulness in small things. Ask a trusted friend for accountability in one area where you want to grow.

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

Thank God for placing leaders in His Church to help us grow and serve.

If you could be a leader in one way, such as teaching, guiding, or encouraging, which would you choose and why?

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

• What are the Five Ministries?
• 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. They build people up and prepare them to serve. We may not all have “five ministries,” but we are all called to be equipped by them.

• Have you ever been impacted by one of these roles (e.g., a pastor, teacher, etc.)?
• Why do you think Jesus gave different types of leaders instead of just one?
• Which of the five roles do you relate to most?

Review each of the five roles and give example scenarios. Let participants circle or highlight which one they feel most drawn to or impacted by.

Reflect on your place in the Body of Christ. Pray for spiritual leaders and ask God to grow you through their equipping.

Reread Ephesians 4 and write a paragraph about which ministry role has helped you the most. Pray for your pastor, teacher, or spiritual mentor this week.

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.”

Thank God for the gift of the Holy Spirit. Pray for clarity and courage to use the gifts He gives.

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?

Use a short gift discovery tool or survey. Have participants reflect and write down which gifts they feel most drawn to or have seen in action.

Invite personal reflection: “God, how have You gifted me?” Pray in small groups, asking the Holy Spirit to stir and strengthen each person's gifts.

Review 1 Corinthians 12 again. Journal your top two gifts and one way to begin using them in church or your community.

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

Thank God for the opportunity to serve Him and others through the Church. Invite a spirit of willingness and teamwork.

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.

• Why Serve in the Church?
• 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. From greeting to cleaning, praying to teaching, tech to helping, the job strengthens the Church.

• Why do you think serving is essential to spiritual growth?
• What keeps people from serving in the church?
• What is one way you can start or continue serving?

List common church ministries and needs (e.g., children, music, hospitality, media, cleaning, prayer). Have participants circle or choose which ones they would like to explore or get involved in.

Reflect: How has someone's service impacted you personally? Pray for a willing heart to serve faithfully and with joy.

Ask a church leader where help is needed. Try serving in a small way this week and reflect on how it felt.

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

Thank God for loving us deeply and ask Him to help us reflect His heart toward 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.

• Why Is It Important to Have a Heart for Others?
• 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?

Create a list of 3 simple ways students can show kindness this week (e.g., write a note, help a neighbor, pray for someone). Have each person choose one and make a plan to do it.

Reflect: Who has God placed in your life that needs love or kindness? Pray for a heart like Jesus and boldness to show it.

Read Luke 10:25-37. Complete your compassion challenge and write a brief reflection on how it felt.

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

Thank God for placing us in our neighborhoods and communities. Ask for open eyes to see opportunities to serve.

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: Serve with no strings attached. 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?

Create a group or individual plan to serve in the community this month (Examples: trash pickup, food bank, visit a neighbor, school supplies drive).

Reflect: Where is God sending me this week to shine His light? Pray for boldness, compassion, and creativity in ministry.

Do one act of community kindness this week. Journal what you did and how the person or community responded.

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

Thank God for the call to lead and the grace to follow through. Ask for courage and focus as we count the cost of serving Him.

What is something valuable you have worked hard for or 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; consider the price before starting; it is not about perfection, but about perseverance.
• Examples of Leaders Who Paid the Price: Moses, Paul, Jesus.

• Why do you think Jesus told His followers to count the cost?
• What sacrifices might leaders in the church need to make?
• Are you willing to give up comfort to lead others to Christ?

Have participants list three things leadership may cost, such as time, reputation, and comfort. Then, list three rewards of leading faithfully. Have participants share a commitment or area of sacrifice they feel called to make.

Reflect on your leadership journey or desire. Pray for endurance, humility, and a willingness to lead with a Christ-like character.

Read Matthew 16:24-26. Write a letter to God about your willingness to lead and what you are willing to surrender.

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

Pray for those feeling tired, overlooked, or discouraged. Invite the Holy Spirit to bring strength and renewal.

Invite participants (anonymously, if preferred) to share a time when they felt discouraged but persevered. 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. He renews our strength. He sees every act of love and service.
• How to Overcome Discouragement: Rest in God’s presence. Remember the “why” behind your service. Surround yourself with encouragement. Keep your eyes on the eternal reward.

• What is something that has discouraged you in leadership or service?
• How did you (or could you) deal with it in a godly way?
• What keeps you going when things get hard?

Each person writes a short message of encouragement or Scripture to someone else in the group. Post or exchange the notes as a reminder that you were not alone.

Reflect silently: What is wearing you down right now? Group prayer for renewed strength, joy, and perseverance.

Read Isaiah 40:28-31 and journal how God strengthens you. Encourage someone else who may be feeling discouraged.

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.”

Thank God for the people who discipled us and asked Him to help us pour into others.

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. The Church grows stronger when we lift others. We do not keep what we have learned; we pass it on.
• How to Multiply Disciples: Invest your time in mentoring others. Share the Word, your story, and your life. Encourage them to grow, serve, and do the same for others.

• What is one thing you have learned in your walk with God that you could share with someone else?
• Whom could you begin investing in this week?

Create a simple chart with three circles: Who discipled you? Who are you discipling now (or who could you be discipling)? Whom might they reach next?

Reflect: Who is God calling me to invest in? Pray for wisdom, patience, and courage to disciple others.

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

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

Thank God for teaching us to serve and lead, and ask Him to help us always lead with love.

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. Not proud or rude. Rejoices in truth, not in gossip or comparison. Always protects, trusts, hopes, and perseveres.
• Love Leads by Example: Jesus laid down His life in love. Paul mentored in love. Love covers weakness and fuels strength.

• 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?

Have students write down three ways to lead with love this week in their family, church, or school. Challenge: Choose one and do it before the next session.

Quiet reflection: Have I led with love or with pride? Prayer for a heart of compassion and Christlike leadership.

Read 1 Corinthians 13 each day this week. Choose one verse to memorize and live out daily.

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.”