Surrender Self

Last night, we completed our Francis Chan series titled “Surrender“.

I highly suggest the series to any youth group!  It was a fantastic model for addressing the current struggles of teens in today’s culture.  Furthermore, I believe it has empowered our students to reach new heights with how their faith is played out in day-to-day life.

For example, as a final test of their surrender, found within the final portion of Surrender SELF; each small group of teens were given one $100 bill to use in something bigger then themselves.  Like the proverbial servants who were given talents to invest in the Kingdom; these teens were practically going to use their $100 to expand their message and their project.  The hope is that they would increase the amount of money given, complete something great for humanity and in turn, further the Gospel!

So, last night, though we misplaced the DVD of the final lesson (long story not worth recording), we implemented this project.  Each of our student small groups were given a single $100 bill and a Youth Worker or two to help assist in the project.  I am pleased to say they have each chosen a project and assigned official committee members to facilitate their projects.  Over the next four weeks, each project will begin to take life, hopefully serving some aspect of their world, and in turn, reach people with the Gospel!

Here’s last night’s simple but soon to be great lesson plan!  One note-worthy statement is regarding the terminology of “Becoming A Trader”.  This concept is introduced at the beginning of Surrender Self and can be better explained in the “Video Spot” below.  The concept is key to establishing and living out this Surrender Self project.

Surrender SELF
“Altar Egos” – Week 2

VIDEO:
Surrender SELF – “Altar Egos” from Surrender Series

SMALL GROUP ASSIGNMENT:
1. Using $100 bill as financial resource, become a “Trader”, surrender yourself and build something bigger than yourself.

2. Form a committee with a President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer.  Add other offices as tasks present themselves.

3. “Trade” in what you have over the next four weeks, invest in the Kingdom and reach out to your world.

PRAYER

QUESTION:
Would you be willing to become a Trader and surrender self?

VIDEO SPOT:
Here’s a short clip describing what becoming a “Trader” actually means.