Series: Vital Connections Pt2
Title: Everyone Needs Followers
Text: Ecclesiastes 4:9-12; Matthew 10:13-14; selected Proverbs
Date: November 17, 2024

“Current U.S. trends tell us that an estimated 1 million teenagers walk away from the Christian faith each year. It doesn’t have to be this way. We are at a tipping point, and now is the time for the Body of Christ to act. We need to do this together.” TenX10

Mark 10:13-14 (NIV): People were bringing little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them, but the disciples rebuked them. 14 When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.

Exodus 1:6-8 (NIV): Now Joseph and all his brothers and all that generation died, 7 but the Israelites were exceedingly fruitful; they multiplied greatly, increased in numbers and became so numerous that the land was filled with them. 8 Then a new king, to whom Joseph meant nothing, came to power in Egypt.

Proverbs 1:1-4 (NLT): These are the proverbs of Solomon, David’s son, king of Israel. 2 Their purpose is to teach people wisdom and discipline, to help them understand the insights of the wise. 3Their purpose is to teach people to live disciplined and successful lives, to help them do what is right, just, and fair. 4 These proverbs will give insight to the simple, knowledge and discernment to the young.

1. They need ___________________________ worth following.

Proverbs 22:1 (MSG): A sterling reputation is better than striking it rich; a gracious spirit is better than money in the bank.

Proverbs 15:9 (NIV): The LORD detests the way of the wicked, but he loves those who pursue righteousness.

Proverbs 28:12 (NIV): When the righteous triumph, there is great elation; but when the wicked rise to power, people go into hiding.

2. They need a _______________________ worth pursuing.

Proverbs 4:10-15 (NLT); My child, listen to me and do as I say, and you will have a long, good life. 11 I will teach you wisdom’s ways and lead you in straight paths.12 When you walk, you won’t be held back; when you run, you won’t stumble.13 Take hold of my instructions; don’t let them go. Guard them, for they are the key to life. 14 Don’t do as the wicked do, and don’t follow the path of evildoers. 15 Don’t even think about it; don’t go that way. Turn away and keep moving.

3. They need a safe _______________________ to discover and serve.

“California Ranks in the Bottom Third of States in Child Well-Being as Youth Depression and Anxiety Jump By 70%.” Children Now

POST: Making disciples of Jesus in neighborhoods & nations leads with compassion & connection.

Proverbs 4:1-4 (NIV) Listen, my sons, to a father’s instruction; pay attention and gain understanding. 2 I give you sound learning, so do not forsake my teaching. 3 For I too was a son to my father, still tender, and cherished by my mother. 4 Then he taught me, and he said to me, “Take hold of my words with all your heart; keep my commands, and you will live. 5 Get wisdom, get understanding; do not forget my words or turn away from them.