“What if Jesus meant every word He said?”
That simple question has the power to turn our faith upside down — or maybe right-side up.
In this week’s message, we explored what it means to take Jesus seriously. Not just to believe about Him, but to live like Him — to love as He loved, to forgive as He forgave, and to serve with the same compassion and courage that marked His life.
It’s tempting to keep faith safe and tidy, to let religion stay in the realm of ideas and traditions. But Jesus never invited people to a comfortable religion. He invited them into a way of life — one shaped by love that risks, forgives, and includes.
When we take Jesus seriously, we stop settling for a faith that talks about love and start living a love that transforms. That’s exactly what a growing-young church looks like: one where faith is visible, love is tangible, and all generations are learning from one another.
Where Can We Take Jesus Seriously This Week?
Here are a few ways to live this out — wherever you are and whatever stage of life you’re in:
At Home:
- Practice the small, ordinary acts of love.
- Say “I’m sorry” when you need to.
- Offer forgiveness even when it’s not earned.
- Let grace have the final word in your relationships.
Young people learn the shape of faith by what they see at home — not just what they hear. Let your home be a place where love wins over pride.
In the Church:
- Listen to someone from a different generation.
- Ask a young person what gives them hope — and really listen.
- Invite someone to serve alongside you in a ministry or project.
- Share a story of when faith felt real to you — not perfect, but real.
When generations connect, the church grows younger together.
In the Community:
- Take a small, intentional step toward compassion — volunteer, write a note, show up for someone who’s struggling.
- Speak up for justice where there is silence.
- Notice the people Jesus would have noticed — and love them like He would.
Every time love becomes visible in the world, the Kingdom of God breaks through a little more.
Questions for Reflection
- What part of Jesus’ teaching feels hardest for you to take seriously right now? Why?
- Where do you see love, forgiveness, or compassion making a difference in your life or community?
- How can you help someone younger (or older!) see what faith looks like when it’s lived out?
- What would it look like if our whole church lived as if Jesus meant every word He said?
Next Steps for Growing Young
- Pray this week: “God, help me take Jesus seriously — in my thoughts, my relationships, and my daily choices.”
- Connect intentionally: Reach out to one person outside your usual circle — a student, a neighbor, or a church member you don’t know well.
- Serve with love: Join a mission, ministry, or outreach where compassion meets real needs.
- Reflect together: Talk with your family or small group about what it means to take Jesus seriously.
The world doesn’t need more people who can quote Jesus.
It needs people who embody His love.
Let’s be that kind of church — one that grows young by taking Jesus seriously and letting His love shape everything we do.
