Young! Get Involved and Do the Lord's Work Mark 16:15
Today, I want to ignite a fire in your hearts, a holy urgency to understand and embrace your vital role in God's Kingdom. The world often tells young people to wait their turn, to prepare for the future. But the Bible, and especially the words of Jesus, issue a powerful, immediate call: "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature" (Mark 16:15). Young people, it’s time to get involved and do the Lord’s work!
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1. The Call to Do the Work is for Everyone, Including Young People (Mark 16:15)
"Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature."
Notice the universality of this command. Jesus did not limit this magnificent calling to adults, to seasoned leaders, or to those with decades of experience. His commission was given to all His followers, and that absolutely includes you, our young people! You are not merely the future of the church; you are the church right now. You are called, you are sent, and you are empowered to carry the message of the Gospel to every creature.
2. Youth Is the Ideal Time to Serve with Strength and Passion (Ecclesiastes 12:1)
"Remember your Creator in the days of your youth, before the days of trouble come and the years approach when you will say, 'I find no pleasure in them.'"
The season of youth is a precious gift from God, characterized by abundant energy, boundless creativity, and a disposition for passion. Ecclesiastes 12:1 urges you to remember your Creator during this vibrant phase. It is the ideal time to sow seeds in the Kingdom of God, to invest your strength, your fresh perspectives, and your unique gifts in His work before the inevitable slowing down of life. Don't waste this prime season!
3. Don't Wait Until You're 'Too Ready' to Obey the Call (1 Timothy 4:12)
"Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity."
Sometimes, young people hesitate because they feel "too young" or "not ready enough." But God doesn't wait for perfect readiness; He empowers those who are simply available. Paul's instruction to Timothy directly addresses this: don't let anyone despise your youth. Instead, set an example for believers. God doesn't call the equipped; He equips the called. Step out in faith, knowing that even in your perceived inexperience, God will use you mightily.
4. The World Needs to Hear the Gospel You Carry (Romans 10:14)
"How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?"
This verse highlights a profound responsibility. The world around you, your friends, your classmates, your family members – they desperately need to hear the Gospel. And how will they hear, if not through someone who preaches? Every young Christian is a bearer of the most important message in history: the good news of Jesus Christ. You are strategically placed in unique circles where only you can reach certain people. Don't withhold the life-changing message you carry.
5. Doing the Lord’s Work Is a Sign of Love and Gratitude to God (John 14:15)
"If you love me, keep my commands."
Getting involved in the Lord's mission is not a burden; it is a natural response of love and gratitude to God. When we truly comprehend the depth of His love for us, demonstrated on the cross, our hearts are moved to obey His commands, including the Great Commission. Serving Him, sharing His love, and participating in His work becomes a joyful outflow of our devotion and thankfulness.
6. There Are Different Ways to Do the Work: Discover Your Role (1 Corinthians 12:5)
"There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord."
You might think "doing the Lord's work" only means standing on a street corner preaching. While that's one way, God has designed His body with diversities of ministries. Whether it's through evangelism, discipleship, leading worship, serving in media, engaging in social action, using your artistic talents, or simply living a consistent, Christ-like life in your sphere of influence – God has a specific mission for each young person. Discover your unique gifts and passions, and find where you fit in the vast tapestry of God's work.
7. The Reward Is Eternal for Those Who Serve Faithfully (Matthew 25:23)
"His master replied, 'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!'"
Serving the Lord is never in vain. Matthew 25:23 promises an incredible reward for those who serve faithfully: the commendation of "Well done, good and faithful servant!" and an invitation to "enter into the joy of your master." The blessings you receive in this life are great, but the eternal reward for those who give themselves with sincerity and zeal to God's work is beyond measure.
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Conclusion:
Young people, hear the call of your Savior today! Don't be spectators in the Kingdom of God. Your youth is a powerful asset, not a hindrance. The world desperately needs the message you carry. Your involvement is a response of love, and there are countless ways for you to serve. Most importantly, know that your faithful service will be eternally rewarded.
So, rise up! Get involved! Discover your place, offer your gifts, and wholeheartedly do the Lord's work. May your generation be marked by a passionate commitment to the Great Commission, for the glory of God. Amen.