World Pathfinder Day and Week of Prayer Sermons 2024
World Pathfinder Day and Week of Prayer Sermons 2024
World Pathfinder Day and Week of Prayer Sermons 2024
NZUC ADVENTIST YOUTH MINISTRIES, WORLD PATHFINDER DAY/WEEK OF PRAYER SERMONS 2024 .1
THEMES EMPHASIS
We live in a world where people don’t agree for various reasons. People may not agree due
to differences in culture, race, religion, ethnicity, tribe, physical appearance, social status, and
many more factors that have become barriers between us. It is so sad that barriers can be
seen even among believers from the same family, and institution such as a church. The great
commission of God in the book of Matthew 28:19-20 has this to say “19 Go ye therefore, and
teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:
20
Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you
always, even unto the end of the world. Amen
God has told us to preach the gospel to all nations to observe the command of Jesus. The
phrase “All Nations” does not exclude a particular age, gender, race, culture, or persons of
different physical; conditions, and social; status. We are to tell everyone both male and female
young or old about the love of God. Jesus’ death on the cross was meant to save all people
from all nations. The death of Jesus has broken the barrier of sin and we must not create
barriers amongst ourselves but all of us should be one in Christ.
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DAY ONE: GOD BREAKS BARRIERS
TEXT: Ephesians 2:14
“For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier,
the dividing wall of hostility.”
INTRODUCTION
Imagine you're at school, and there's a group of kids who always sit together at lunch. They
don’t let anyone else join them, making a clear barrier between them and others. This is
similar to what was happening in the early church. When the gospel started spreading, many
non-Jewish (Gentile) people began to believe in Jesus. However, with the already existing
physical barriers or walls in the Jerusalem temple separating Jews, Gentiles, and women,
Jewish believers easily began to create social divisions, separating themselves from Gentile
converts.
DEVELOPMENT
Paul, who wrote Ephesians, was in prison at the time because some Jews falsely accused him
of bringing a Gentile into a part of the temple where Gentiles were not allowed. He wrote
this letter to tell everyone that in Jesus, these barriers are gone.
1. For He Himself is Our Peace:
Think of a time when two groups in your school were in a fight, maybe over something silly.
Jesus is like the peacemaker who steps in and says, "Let's stop fighting and be friends." Jews
and Gentiles were fighting over circumcision – a Jewish religious practice. Jesus came and said,
“This doesn’t matter anymore. What matters is that I bring peace to everyone.” He brought
the Gospel, the good news, to both groups, making them equal.
2. Who Has Made Both One:
Imagine a soccer team where some players are from different neighborhoods and don’t get
along. The coach comes in and says, “You’re all on the same team now, and we need to work
together.” Jesus is like that coach. He made Jews and Gentiles one team, one body, one
church. He united them and taught them to think and work together.
Paul is emphasizing that Jesus' lordship is greater than any differences we might have. Just as
the soccer team needs to play as one, Christians must live in harmony despite differences like
gender, tribe, or culture. If Jesus is our Lord, no difference should divide us. Our faith in Jesus
must be stronger than any division.
ILLUSTRATION:
Think about a wall made of Lego blocks. Each block is a different color, representing different
people – boys, girls, different races, cultures, and interests. Before Jesus, these blocks were
separated into piles by color. Jesus comes in and builds a beautiful house using all the colors
together, showing that all pieces are important and belong together.
PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE:
1. School Friendships:
When you see someone eating lunch alone or being left out, invite them to join you. Just as
Jesus broke down barriers, you can break down social barriers at school.
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2. Youth Group Activities:
During group activities, make an effort to include everyone, especially those who seem
different from you. Remember, Jesus wants us all to be united.
3. Social Media:
Use your social media to spread messages of unity and peace. Avoid posts that might divide
or hurt others.
4. Community Service:
Participate in community service projects that bring together people from different
backgrounds. This helps you practice what Jesus taught about breaking down barriers.
CONCLUSION
We might come from different tribes, races, and cultures, but under Jesus’ lordship, we are
one. John Stott wisely says, “Both the dignity and the equality of human beings are traced in
Scripture to our creation.” To think that one’s own tribe or race is superior denies the fact
that all people are created in the image of God. Let us remember that in Jesus, all barriers are
broken, and we are all equal.
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ILLUSTRATION:
Think about a superhero movie. The hero faces many challenges and enemies, but they always
have someone guiding and supporting them, like a mentor or a team. God is like that ultimate
guide and support. He is always with us, telling us not to be afraid because He will help us
overcome any obstacle.
PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE:
1. Dealing with School Stress:
When you're stressed about schoolwork or exams, remember that God is with you. Pray and
ask for His strength and guidance. He will help you do your best.
2. Facing Social Anxiety:
If you're nervous about making friends or speaking in public, remind yourself that God is by
your side. Practice positive affirmations and trust that He will give you the courage you need.
3. Coping with Fear of the Future:
When you worry about what the future holds, know that God has a plan for you. Jeremiah
29:11 says, "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and
not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Trust in His plan and take things one
step at a time.
4. Battling Negative Thoughts:
When negative thoughts overwhelm you, combat them with God's promises. Memorize
scriptures like Isaiah 41:10 and repeat them to yourself whenever you feel afraid or anxious.
CONCLUSION
Proverbs 3:5-6 says, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own
understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." No
matter what circumstances lead you into fear, anxiety, or depression, trust that God will help
you bear all your trials. He is more than capable of dealing with any situation you face.
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DAY FOUR: BREAKING RELIGIOUS BARRIERS
Text: James 2:1-4
My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism.
Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man
in filthy old clothes also comes in. If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes
and say, 'Here’s a good seat for you,' but say to the poor man, 'You stand there' or 'Sit on the
floor by my feet,' have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil
thoughts?"
Introduction:
Good relationships and communication are essential in our daily lives, but they can become
complicated when we encounter barriers, especially religious ones. Religious barriers are
challenges that arise when people from different faiths or beliefs try to communicate with
each other. These barriers often lead to misunderstandings or conflicts, hindering open
dialogue and mutual understanding.
Development:
James addresses the issue of favoritism and partiality within the Christian community. He
admonishes believers for showing preferential treatment based on external appearances,
highlighting the inconsistency between their faith in Christ and their discriminatory behavior.
Illustration: Imagine a youth group meeting in a church in Kasama. Two new visitors arrive:
one is dressed in a suit, the other in worn-out clothes. The leader warmly greets the one in
the suit, offering him a seat at the front, while the other is told to sit at the back. This act of
favoritism can hurt feelings and create divisions within the community.
James teaches that such behavior is wrong. "Partiality" denotes deference to some persons
over others, literally meaning to "accept a face." Favoritism is giving preference for outward
appearances rather than the intrinsic value of a person. God does not show favoritism; He
treats all people equally, regardless of their wealth, status, or appearance.
Scriptural References:
- Deuteronomy 1:17: "You shall not show partiality in judgment; you shall hear the small as
well as the great; you shall not be afraid in any man’s presence, for the judgment is God’s. The
case that is too hard for you, bring to me, and I will hear it."
- Deuteronomy 10:17: "For the Lord your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great
God, mighty and awesome, who shows no partiality nor takes a bribe."
- 2 Chronicles 19:7: "Now therefore, let the fear of the Lord be upon you; take care and do
it, for there is no iniquity with the Lord our God, no partiality, nor taking of bribes."
Practical Applications
1. Inclusivity in School and Church Activities:
Encourage equal treatment of all peers, regardless of their socioeconomic status, in school
and church activities. This promotes unity and reflects God’s impartial love.
2. Peer Support and Encouragement:
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- Be a friend to everyone, including those who might feel left out or discriminated against.
Your support can make a significant difference in their lives.
3. Awareness Campaigns:
- Organize or participate in campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of treating
everyone equally. This can foster a more inclusive and supportive environment.
4. Volunteering and Outreach:
- Volunteer in communities or organizations that work with underprivileged groups. This
can help break down barriers and build bridges of understanding and love.
Conclusion:
A Christian who shows favoritism violates the nature of God's glory. God does not judge by
appearance or economic status, and neither should we if we believe in Him. In God's economy,
there is no nepotism, tribalism, racism, gender discrimination, or segregation. His judgment
of others is based on their true qualities and their relationship with Him. Let us strive to look
at everyone through the lens of Christ's love, breaking down religious barriers and fostering
an inclusive, loving community.
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Encourage young people to seek first-hand understanding rather than relying on stereotypes
or hearsay. This could be through making friends with people from different backgrounds or
learning about different cultures.
2. Inclusive Activities:
Organize events in schools and churches that celebrate different cultures and promote unity.
This helps to break down barriers and build mutual respect.
3. Dialogue and Understanding:
Create safe spaces for discussions about cultural and racial differences. This can help address
misconceptions and foster a more inclusive environment.
4. Biblical Perspective:
Teach the youth about the inclusive love of Jesus, who drew people from all backgrounds to
Himself. Emphasize that in Christ, there is no Jew or Gentile, as stated in Galatians 3:28.
Conclusion:
Do not judge others based on their cultural or racial background. God can use anyone from
any tribe or race. Despite Nazareth's negative reputation, Jesus, a Nazarene, performed
miracles, taught about the kingdom of heaven, and ultimately died for the salvation of the
world. Thousands followed Him because His origins did not define His character.
In John 12:32, Jesus said, "And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to
myself." This includes people from all tribes and races. If we exclude others based on their
culture or tribe, we are rejecting the love of God that unites all people.
Call to Action:
- Let us strive to see each person through the eyes of Christ, valuing them for who they are
rather than where they come from. Embrace diversity and show the love of God to everyone,
breaking down cultural and racial barriers in our communities.
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DAY SEVEN: BREAKING SPIRITUAL BARRIERS
Text: Ephesians 6:12
"For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers,
against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the
heavenly places."
Introduction: We often spend so much time fighting and degrading each other based on status,
age, experience, gender, tribe, race, and more. In the process, we forget our common enemy,
which is the devil himself. Ephesians 6:12 reveals the nature of our supernatural spiritual
enemy. Identifying our true enemy is crucial. If Christians are not fully aware of this enemy,
they will be vulnerable to spiritual defeat. Many Christians remain unaware of this critical issue
in their lives.
DEVELOPMENT:
1. Not Against Flesh and Blood:
The Bible shows us the reality of our spiritual battles. Our primary struggle is not against
people but against the spiritual realm. We must recognize that our real enemy is the devil and
his forces.
ILLUSTRATION:
Imagine you're playing football, and you're so focused on arguing with your teammates that
you forget about the opposing team trying to score. Similarly, when we fight among ourselves,
we lose sight of the real enemy, Satan, who is trying to defeat us.
2. The Nature of Our Battle:
“Wrestle” implies that this spiritual battle is a hand-to-hand conflict. Our battle with Satan is
very personal. The Greek term for "wrestle" suggests ongoing combat. It was a common
athletic term used for contestants attempting to throw each other to gain supremacy. This
struggle is not with other people but is a wrestling match within our souls against an infernal
foe, the demonic realm. This involves philosophical and ethical issues that affect everyone.
ILLUSTRATION:
Think of a wrestling match where two opponents are closely locked in combat. This is how
personal and intense our spiritual battle is. We are in close-quarters conflict with the demonic
world.
3. The Wiles of the Devil:
Ephesians 6:11 tells us that all of our warfare is combating the wiles of the devil. At the end
of the day, it is irrelevant if the particular opponent we face is a principality, a power, or a
ruler of the darkness of this age. Collectively, they are all part of the spiritual hosts of
wickedness in the heavenly places. They are organized and established into ranks, under the
headship of Satan, who comes against us.
Application:
1. Put on the Armor of God:
Practical Tip: Just as a soldier needs armor to be protected in battle, we need spiritual armor
to stand against the devil's schemes. Ephesians 6:13-17 describes the armor of God: the belt
of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the gospel of peace, the shield of faith, the helmet
of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit. Make it a habit to pray and put on each piece of
armour every day.
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2. Stay Rooted in Christ:
Practical Tip: Read your Bible and pray daily to strengthen your relationship with God. When
you are close to God, you are better equipped to recognize and resist the devil's attacks.
3. Unity in Christ:
Practical Tip: Avoid conflicts based on gender, cultural, tribal, or racial differences. Focus on
the common enemy and unite with fellow believers. Participate in church activities and youth
groups to build strong, supportive relationships with others who are also striving to follow
Christ.
4. Recognize the Enemy:
Practical Tip: Be aware of the devil’s schemes and recognize when you are being tempted or
attacked spiritually. Discuss these challenges with trusted mentors or friends in your church
community for support and guidance.
Conclusion:
The proper response to the reality of spiritual warfare is found in Ephesians 6:13, which says,
"Therefore take up the whole armour of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil
day, and having done all, to stand." To overcome the enemy, we must put on the whole
armour of God. We no longer need to avoid others based on gender, cultural, tribal, or racial
differences. Instead, we must be rooted in Christ and equipped with the full armour of God.
Remember, a good soldier is fully prepared, which is why the Bible instructs us to put on the
whole armour of God, so we can be fully equipped to wrestle against spiritual forces.
NZUC ADVENTIST YOUTH MINISTRIES, WORLD PATHFINDER DAY/WEEK OF PRAYER SERMONS 2024 . 12