Youth Material

Fall Semester
September Discipleship.... Page 6

October Doubt and Assurance. Page 12

November Acceptance and Tolerance. Page 18

Spring Semester

January Spiritual Disciplines... Page 24

February Purity... Page 30

March Faith.... Page 36

April Sacrifice.... Page 42

May - Gods Will... Page 48

Plan Of Salvation..... Page 52

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6
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1. THE QUESTION: This is
the starting question
used to help teens
better understand the
point and guide the
weekly session.
3. THE POINT: This is
where each session
should end up. This
statement will be used
to get students started
on their Nano-Journal,
helping them answer
the question, What
did you learn.
2. THE SCRIPTURES:
These are the scriptures
we will walk through
during the session.
Often there will be
multiple passages.

4. THE BIBLE STUDY: This
is a session overview. It
will help give you
greater direction for
the lesson.
5. LESSON POINTS
(A,B,C): Lessons will
typically have 3 main
points. Time will not
always permit working
through each point.
8
6. WHITE ARROWS:
These are essentially
teaching points and
most often help explain
the point of the
scripture given in that
lesson point.
7. BLACK ARROWS: These
are questions. Each lesson
point is supplied with 2-5
questions to get student
talking. Some are better
than others and typically all
cant be asked due to
time. So, pre-read all the
questions and pick or
prioritize them.
8. WRAP IT UP: Here you
will have a few more
questions, typically to
challenge student to
continue to think about
the lesson, as they go
through their week. This
section will also often
have a final white arrow
as a statement for the
students to take away.

ON PAGE 52-
It is a foundational
piece of this youth
ministry and church
that students get a
clear picture of the
Gospel, as taught
from scripture. We
cant be more clear
with teens that,
apart from Jesus
there is no hope,
lasting purpose, or
heaven in their
future. Apart from a
relationship with
Jesus everyone will
spend eternity in
hell when their life is
over (John 14:6,
Romans 10:9-10).
But with Jesus as
leader and savior a
student can find
real answers,
understand lifes
meaning/purpose,
and rest in the
security of heaven.
There will be lessons
that naturally lead
to sharing the
information on this
Plan Of Salvation
sheet (Lessons on
page- 6, 14, 21, 26,
33). I would like to
aim for the goal of
sharing this sheet
once a month. This
would be a brief
description of the
K,N,O,W,N, letters,
reading the sample
prayer, and inviting
student to talk more
about it.
Nano-Journal

At some point during the small group time students will be asked
to write a few sentences in their Nano-Journal. They have 3 short
questions to answer:
1. What did you learn?
2. What action should you take?
3. Who do you need to tell?

Question 1 gives the students a chance to reflect on the actual
material or content of the small group meeting. It also addresses
the students who like to think they learn nothing at church.
Question 2 asks students to make the lesson practical and
applicable to their life. Know that they know what they know,
what should they do with it?
Questions 3 challenges the students to keep talking about what
they have learned. Maybe they need to pray about something
(talk to God) or talk with their parents or confess to a friend and
ask for their forgiveness.

Each session a student will get
a new Nano-journal card.
These cards will be kept
together in a sleeve and stored
at the church. Small group
leaders should communicate
that they will read the journals
to care and pray for the
students. As the semester
moves on and relationships are
deepened, students will open
up and be more transparent
with their entries.
What did you learn?
______________________________
______________________________
______________________________

What action should you take?
______________________________
______________________________
______________________________

Who do you need to tell?
______________________________
______________________________
______________________________

Use the back to write more of your thoughts.

(Actual size of journal page)
17
LEADER
EMOTIONS/
SELF-CONTROL
Get a Grip
SPEECH
The Power of Words
DISCIPLESHIP
Follow the Leader
Page4
KNOWN LEADER 17 0 0 4
The Real Deal
Looking for someone to follow?
Look no further.
Above All Else
A true follower is a devoted
follower.
Basic Training
Being a follower is easier if you
do the basics.
Spiritual Coach
Having someone to guide you
is a good idea.
THE QUESTION
Why should I follow Jesus?
THE POINT
True purpose and life are found
only in Christ.
THE QUESTION
What do I have to do to
follow Jesus?
THE POINT
You must put Him first
above everything.
THE QUESTION
How do I grow as a disciple?
THE POINT
Practicing spiritual disciplines
is essential.
THE QUESTION
Why do I need a mentor?
THE POINT
You need someone to keep you
pointed in the right direction.
THE QUESTION
How do I become a disciple of Jesus?
THE POINT
Following Jesus requires surrender.
THE QUESTION
What does it look like to be a disciple?
THE POINT
Following Jesus is your priority.
THE QUESTION
How do I keep following Jesus?
THE POINT
Following Jesus requires a
focused commitment.
THE QUESTION
How can I know if Im off course as
a Christian?
THE POINT
Your attitudes and activities reveal
your commitment to Christ.
Unit 1 TheOverview
Week 1
Bible Study
Midweek Event
Week 2
Bible Study
Midweek Event
Week 3
Bible Study
Midweek Event
Week 4
Bible Study
Midweek Event
Follow the Leader
KNOWLordship

A disciple is generally described as a learner or pupil of someone
or something else. A disciple, in Christian terms, is someone who
follows Jesus Christ and reects Him to others.
This is a four-session KNOW study under the Lordship category.
The Bible studies in this unit will explore questions related to the
topic of discipleship. As students understand who Jesus is and
why He alone is worthy of our attention and devotion, they will be
motivated to follow Him in willing obedience.
Page5
KNOWN LEADER 17 0 0 8 0 0 8
Session
A complete Midweek Event with opening ideas, worship
suggestions, illustrations, and a PowerPoint presentation
can be purchased at www.lifeway.com/known.
THE BIBLE STUDY
The first session Bible study focuses on what it means to
follow Jesus as a disciple. This midweek study describes the
surrender required to follow Christ unconditionally.
DISCUSS THESE POINTS
Use the following main points, Scriptures, teaching/discussion
ideas, and questions to drive home the question and the point
for this session.
A

Hear Jesus call.
Sometimes we think about a call being something that
happens to a minister or preacher.
Jesus has called all of us to some type of service for Him.
Read Mark 1:16-17.
The disciples did not seek out Jesus as would have been
normal for pupils seeking a Rabbi. Rather, Jesus called His
disciples to Himself.
Most translations read, Come, follow me. The literal
translation is more accurately described as, Come after
me. In other words, come after Me as My disciple.
How have you made yourself available to hear Gods call?
Are you willing to answer? What makes you nervous about
what He might expect of you?
What voices or noises are so loud that you likely wont hear
God if and when He calls?
B

Answer now.
Many times we receive phone calls or text messages we
dont want so we dont answer.
Read Mark 1:18.
How did Peter and Andrew respond to Jesus? How could
they have responded? What did Jesus offer them?
When God calls us He expects an answer.
Peter and Andrew left everything they knew to follow.
Do you look at your phone to see who is calling before you
pick it up to answer it? Do you decline the call if you do not
Unconditional Surrender
Mark 1:16-20
THE QUESTION
How do I become a
disciple of Jesus?
THE POINT
Following Jesus
requires surrender.
really want to have the conversation, or do you go ahead
and answer anyway? Explain.
Do you expect God to answer every single time you call on
Him in prayer? Why? How would you feel if He looked at
who is calling and declined?
C

Leave everything behind.
Many people think they are defined by their stuffwhat
they drive, where they live, and where they socialize.
How important do you think these things are to God?
Read Mark 1:19-20.
The phrase going on a little farther links the call of the
second pair of brothers in time and place to the first pair.
The fact that hired men were present implies their fishing
business was prosperous. Leaving this to follow Jesus
meant leaving a nice living.
How difficult can it be to part with your stuff for the sake
of your relationship to God? What does that say about your
priorities? Explain.
Does God have permission to ask you for the things you
hold most dear? Why or why not? What is most difficult for
you to let go of to follow Jesus? Why?
WRAP IT UP
Many believers surrender to Christ conditionally. Why is it
so hard for us to surrender to Him unconditionally?
What does it mean to surrender to Jesus? What does that
have to do with being a disciple?
What is the difference between conditional and
unconditional surrender?
Do you think the way we respond to other forms of
authority are indicative of how we respond to Christs
desire for us to surrender to Him?
1
Midweek Follow the Leader
MIDWEEK TALKSHEET
Page6
Session
THE BIBLE STUDY
The second session Bible study focuses on what we need to do
to put Christ first in our lives. This midweek study will help us
assess the priority of living with a Christ-centered focus.
for this session.
A

Abandon the things of this world.
What does it mean to abandon the things of the world?
This can also mean abandoning our dreams and desires
and replacing them with those of Christ.
Read Luke 9:57-58.
Jesus warned this would-be disciple to count the cost
before committing to follow Him. After all, even Christ
Himself had no place to call home.
What did the man say to Jesus? What did he mean?
To follow Christ is to loosen your grip on the things that
normally provide physical and emotional security.
How easy or difficult would it be to walk away from all the
things you hold dear to follow Christ? Explain.
What would be the most difficult thing for you to give up
to follow Christ? Why?
B

Focus on the kingdom of God.
What does it mean to focus on something?
In a photograph, the image that has the focus is very
sharp and crisp but everything else in the background and
foreground fades away. So should be our focus on Christ.
Read Luke 9:59-60.
If this mans father had already died, the burial ritual
would have already started and he would not have been
talking to Jesus. The mans words were an excuse to delay,
possibly for years, his responsibility to follow Jesus and
spread the news of the kingdom of God.
Count the Cost
Luke 9:57-62
THE QUESTION
What does it look like
to be a disciple?
THE POINT
Following Jesus is
your priority.
What would you say your life is fixed and focused on more
than anything else?
What things fight to take your focus off of Jesus?
What is preventing you from stepping into a more focused
and dedicated relationship with Jesus?
C

Refuse to lock into the past.
Many students believe they are so defined by their past
choices they feel it will take them a long time to outlive
poor decisions.
In what ways can past mistakes get in the way of following
Christ as a disciple?
Read Luke 9:61-62.
Jesus made it clear that He must be the top priority in a
disciples life, even above ones family.
Is saying good-bye a bad thing? What did Jesus mean?
Puts his hand to the plow and looks back means looking
over your shoulder while plowing, making it impossible to
plow a straight furrow. Christians cannot follow Christ by
looking back.
How can the past get in the way of following Christ?
WRAP IT UP
How did Jesus respond to the excuses offered by these
three men? What is Jesus point in each response?
How can our excuses get in the way of making following
Christ a priority in our lives?
Counting the cost of truly following the Savior seems a bit
daunting at first. We tend to think of all the things we cant
live without or how we will survive without things in our
lives that are, truly, little more than luxuries.
Of the three things mentioned in these verses (personal
comfort, obligations, family concerns), which one gets in
the way of you putting Christ first?
2
MIDWEEK TALKSHEET
Page7
Session
THE BIBLE STUDY
The third session Bible study examines important spiritual
disciplines that can aid a disciples spiritual growth. This
midweek study provides ideas to help students live as disciples
of Christ.

for this session.
A

Get rid of hindrances.
Sitting high in the stands at a live sporting event, you can
see the obstacles in a players path better than he or she can.
Other believers can help us avoid spiritual obstacles.
Read Hebrews 12:1a.
Who are these witnesses?
Some of these witnesses of the faith are listed in Hebrews 11.
How does the example of men and women of faith, such as
in Hebrews 11, encourage you in your faith?
What are weights that hinder a runner? What are weights
that hinder a disciple of Christ?
What is your biggest hindrance to complete surrender to
Jesus Christ?
B

Run your race.
A runner trains and prepares in advance of a race.
Read Hebrews 12:1b.
How did Paul say to run the spiritual race?
What does it mean to run with endurance?
Just as Jesus endured a cross and despised shame in order
to attain the joy of rejoining the Father on His throne, so
should Christians run their race with endurance.
For you to complete the race begun for the cause of Christ,
how would you need to prepare given your current spiritual
health? Who could help you prepare?
A runner trains to race. How can we train to run for Christ?
Stay the Course
Hebrews 12:1-3
THE QUESTION
How do I keep
following Jesus?
THE POINT
Following Jesus
requires a focused
commitment.
C

Dont lose focus.
Read Hebrews 12:2.
What are we instructed to do? What does that mean? How
do you do that?
A point of focus helps keep us from being distracted.
Following Jesus as a disciple requires a focus on Him.
What types of things take our eyes off of Jesus? What are
some things you have discovered that help you keep your
focus on Jesus?
Does your relationship with Christ ever seem to just drift
away without you realizing it? Explain.
D

Dont give up.
Why does it seem easier just to walk away after failure
rather than to try and fail again?
God expects us to continue making the effort and honor
the commitment we have made to Him.
Read Hebrews 12:3.
Who is the subject in verse 3? How can the challenge in
this verse help us not grow weary?
As Christians, we will face opposition. We must stand
strong even when faced with opposition.
What kinds of things make us want to give up?
WRAP IT UP
Staying the course with Jesus requires effort and
commitmentand taking time to invest in the relationship.
What might happen if you took the next 30 days and
committed them to investing in your relationship with
Jesus Christ?
Why does following Jesus require focused commitment?
3
MIDWEEK TALKSHEET
Page8
Session
THE BIBLE STUDY
The fourth session Bible study stresses the benefit of having
a spiritual mentor. This midweek study focuses on signs that
might indicate our relationship with Christ is out of balance.

for this session.
A

You have an apathetic attitude.
Apathy: absence of interest in or enthusiasm for things
considered interesting or moving; absence of emotion.
What does it meanand look likefor a Christian to be
apathetic about his or her faith?
Read Hebrews 5:11.
The writer suggested that the believers should have been
further along in their faith. He was unwilling to go too far
in explanation, but rather identified the problems.
How could being apathetic in your faith be dangerous?
If you have sensed yourself having an apathetic attitude,
where or at what does it seem to be focused? Do you have a
desire to change your attitude?
Would you want Christ to haveor to have hadan
apathetic attitude toward you? Explain.
B

You lack spiritual growth.
Think back to the time that you first accepted Christ. Is
there a difference in what you felt spiritually then and what
you feel spiritually now? Explain.
Spiritual growth is something that we have to continue to
work at just like any other area of growth in our lives.
Read Hebrews 5:12.
What do you think are some basic principles that
Christians should understand?
How does a believer learn these basic things?
Warning Signs
Hebrews 5:11-14
THE QUESTION
How can I know if
Im off course as
a Christian?
THE POINT
Your attitudes and
activities reveal your
commitment to Christ.
Babies progress from milk to pureed foods to solid foods.
How do you understand this progress taking place in a
believers spiritual growth?
A person cannot grow and survive on milk alone. In the
same way, believers need spiritual meat to grow.
Would you say that in the past year you have grown
spiritually, moved backward spiritually, or stayed the
same? What has contributed to your growth, lack of it, or
your staying right where you have been?
C

You lose effectiveness.
Gods gift of salvation should move us to worship and a
desire to share His love with others.
Read Hebrews 5:13-14.
What do these verses mean to you?
Righteousness means right living. The Bible contains
guidance for right living, living to please God.
If the Bible contains the message of righteousness, what do
we need to do to learn it?
Christians can become less effective in their faith due to a
lack of time spent reading Gods Word.
Would you consider yourself an encourager for the
kingdom of God or more of a hindrance? Explain.
WRAP IT UP
What does it mean to be off course spiritually? When have
you felt that way? What did you do about it?
What would you do if you saw a danger sign that indicated
your physical life was in immediate, grave danger? Would
you do the same if you discovered that you were in a
dangerous place spiritually? Why or why not?
What can you do this week to become more focused on
living out your relationship with Jesus?
4
MIDWEEK TALKSHEET
Page9
16
LEADER
HEAVEN & HELL
Destinations
DOUBT/ASSURANCE
How Can I Know?
CREATION
Beginnings
Page10
Why Do I Doubt?
Doubts arise often when we
least expect them.
Am I Really Saved?
Your life choices can give some
clue about your Christianity.
Where Is God?
God loves and cares for you
and about what happens to you.
Can I Lose My Salvation?
Salvation is a promise of God
and He keeps His promises.
THE QUESTION
What causes me to doubt?
THE POINT
Doubt can come from without
and within.
THE QUESTION
How can I know Im a Christian?
THE POINT
There will be evidence of
your salvation.
THE QUESTION
Does God care when Im hurting?
THE POINT
God is present in your pain.
THE QUESTION
How can I know I wont lose
my salvation?
THE POINT
Your salvation is based on the
promises of God.
THE QUESTION
How can I overcome my doubt?
THE POINT
Turn toward, not away from God.
THE QUESTION
What should I do if Im angry at God?
THE POINT
Talk to God and dont lose hope.
THE QUESTION
How can I know God is always
with me?
THE POINT
God loves you and promised to never
leave you.
THE QUESTION
If my eternity is secure, why cant
I live how I want?
THE POINT
If youre really saved, you will want to
live for Christ.
Unit 2 TheOverview
Week 1
Bible Study
Midweek Event
Week 2
Bible Study
Midweek Event
Week 3
Bible Study
Midweek Event
Week 4
Bible Study
Midweek Event
How Can I Know?
OWNDiscernment
Doubt. From religious scandals to crooked politics to paid-of referees,
there seem to be a lot of things to doubt these days. For most students,
issues of doubt arise regarding a personal relationship with Christ.
This is a four-session OWN study under the Discernment category.
This unit of study will explore questions students may struggle with
related to owning their faith and living it out each day. Coming to
grips with our doubts and questions, and exploring Scripture for
answers, is a part of the process of spiritual maturity.
Page11
Session
THE BIBLE STUDY
The first session Bible study examines the causes for doubt,
both without and within. This midweek study explains how to
overcome doubt by turning toward God.
for this session.
A

Pray.
How would you define prayer?
When you pray, who does the communicating? Explain.
Prayer is two-way communication between us and God.
How often do you pray? When you pray, what do you talk to
God about? Is there anything off limits?
Read Mark 9:17-27.
The father of a boy possessed with an unclean spirit cried
out to Jesus to help his unbelief. He was honest about his
doubt and recognized Jesus could help him.
God wants us to share everything with Himjoys, doubts,
and struggles. He wants us to be honest with Him.
B

Search the Scripture.
What do the words search engine mean?
A search engine is a service provided on the Internet that
enables users to search for items of interest.
We can search Scripture in order to overcome our doubts
and to discover direction for our lives.
Read Acts 17:10-12.
What did the Bereans do with the things they heard?
What keeps us from doing this?
The Bereans exemplify the ideal stance of disciples: They
were open-minded to biblical instruction and examined
the Scriptures daily to see if the teachings were true.
What are some things you do daily?
Do you read and study Gods Word daily? If not, why not?
Turn to God
Mark 9:17-27; Acts 17:10-12; Psalm 73:21-26
THE QUESTION
How can I overcome
my doubt?
THE POINT
Turn toward, not
away from God.
Set aside a time to read and study Scripture daily. Tools
such as www.mystudybible.com assist in searching Scripture
and addressing questions or doubts.
C

Continue to trust God.
What is the importance of trust in any relationship?
When was a time your trust was broken? How did you feel?
How did it affect the relationship?
Read Psalm 73:21-26.
What is your reaction to the words of the psalmist?
What words or phrases in these verses serve as evidence
that you can trust God?
God is always with us. He is our guide and counsel. He is
our strength. We can trust Him.
Holding someones right hand is used in some contexts to
refer to honor (Isa. 45:1). Here it refers to Gods protection
(Ps. 63:8; Isa. 41:10,13; 42:6; Jer. 31:32).
Can you make the statement in verse 25? If not, what is
keeping you from it? What would it take for you to be able
to truly desire God?
How does knowing that God is sufficient (everything you
need) change your doubts and worries?
WRAP IT UP
Why is it important to turn toward and not away from God,
especially during times of doubt?
Having doubts is normal and does not mean that you are
not saved. When times of doubt come, turn to God through
prayer, searching Scripture, and seeking the counsel of
fellow believers.
Recall doubts students may have identified during the first
session. Provide a time for prayer allowing students to talk
with God about their doubts. Ask God to help your unbelief.
1
Midweek How Can I Know?
MIDWEEK TALKSHEET
Page12
Session
THE BIBLE STUDY
The second session Bible study explores the evidence for
salvation which helps us to know that we are really saved. This
midweek study examines how to deal with anger toward God:
to talk to Him and not lose hope.
for this session.
A

Tell Him how you really feel.
When was the last time you were really angry? Was it
justified? How did you deal with your anger?
When have you been mad at God? How did you handle it?
Does living in a world full of high-tech options make it
easier or more difficult to communicate with God? Why?
Read Psalm 13:1-2.
David realized his need for help and cried out to God,
showing his vulnerability and emotions.
What struggles and deep hurts do students face today?
Which, if any of these, give us the right to be angry at God?
The phrase how long is not uncommon in the lament
psalms; however, it appears more times here (four times)
than in any other single text. The psalmist had endured his
suffering for a long time.
Are you comfortable enough in your relationship with God
that you can be honest and tell Him everything? Why or
why not? What makes God approachable?
God will not destroy us if we share our feelings and
thoughts. He can take anything we share.
B

Ask for His help.
When was a time you needed help with a task? Did you ask
for help? If not, what kept you from asking?
Read Psalm 13:3-4.
David shared his feelings, and he asked God for help. We
can do the same. In fact, God wants us to ask for His help.
Im Mad
Psalm 13:1-6
THE QUESTION
What should I do if Im
angry at God?
THE POINT
Talk to God and dont
lose hope.
What does asking for His help communicate to God?
Brightness in the eyes represents vitality. It is the opposite
of eyes growing dim during times of grief and suffering.
We desire to be independent and do things on our own.
But asking God for help is necessary and encouraged.
How does asking God for help demonstrate trust in Him?
C

Keep your hope in Him.
In what do you find hope? Do any of these things give you
a false sense of hope? Explain.
Read Psalm 13:5-6.
Where did David find hope? Why?
Love in verse 5 is the Hebrew word chesed, which is
rooted in Yahwehs covenant with His people; sometimes
it is even synonymous with the term covenant. The
psalmists trust was not in himself but in the God of the
covenant who promised that He would show faithful love
to those who love and obey Him.
When was the last time you worshipped God because He
has treated you generously?
Finish this statement: God, I praise you for .
WRAP IT UP
Read the book of Jonah and portions of the book of
Job (Chapters 10 and 38) to see these two mens angry
outbursts and Gods response to each.
What from this session did these guys put into practice?
If you are experiencing relationship stress with God or
someone else, share how you feel, ask God for help, and
trust Him to deliver.
When conflicts are resolved and reconciliation takes place,
how do you feel?
If you or someone you know has anger management issues
that go beyond this session, seek counsel and help.
2
MIDWEEK TALKSHEET
Page13
Session
THE BIBLE STUDY
The third session Bible study deals with the topic of Gods care
when we are hurting. This midweek study is a reminder that
God loves us and is always with us.
for this session.
A

God cares deeply for you.
In what ways have your parents (or guardians) cared for
you? How have you thanked them for their care?
God cares for you even more than your parents.
Read Isaiah 40:11.
What image of Gods care does this verse give?
A shepherd protects, gathers, carries, and gently leads
his flock. The comparison of Christ to a shepherd is seen
many times in Scripture (such as John 10:1-18).
What is your reaction to the image of God as a shepherd?
In what ways does God care for you?
What does it mean that God cares deeply for you?
How can this verse help you understand that God is always
with you?
B

God has invested in you.
Other than your parents, who has invested in you? What
difference have others made in your life?
God has invested in you, too. In what ways would you say
God has invested in you?
Read Isaiah 43:1.
Underline the key words that describe Gods investment.
According to this verse, God created you, He formed you,
and He has redeemed you.
What does it mean when God says you are Mine?
What difference does it make that God invests in you?
Always There
Isaiah 40:11; 43:1-2
THE QUESTION
How can I know God is
always with me?
THE POINT
God loves you and
promised to never
leave you.
What does it mean that God redeemed you? How did He
do that for you?
with you?
C

God has promised to never leave you.
When was a time you made and broke a promise? When
did someone break a promise made to you?
While we may experience broken promises from others,
God always keeps His promises. One of those promises is
that He will never leave us.
Read Isaiah 43:2.
What is promised in this verse? Does God promise we will
never experience difficulties? What does this verse mean to
you? What types of overwhelming situations do you face?
The promise that God will be with His people is a covenant
formula that indicates the close relationship between God
and His people.
This verse does not use the word if in place of when.
When denotes that we will experience difficult times.
How can this verse help you face lifes difficulties?
with you?
WRAP IT UP
Which of your family and friends would you describe as
always being there for you? Would anyone use those words
to describe you?
Use a permanent marker to write always on your palm as
a reminder of Gods constant presence with you.
Pray and thank God for His love, His constant presence,
and His care.
3
MIDWEEK TALKSHEET
Page14
Session
THE BIBLE STUDY
The fourth session Bible study explores why we cannot lose
our salvation. This midweek study examines how salvation will
lead us to live differentlyto live for Christ.
for this session.
A

You have a new nature.
A butterfly starts as an egg that turns into a caterpillar that
turns into a pupa or chrysalis that turns into a beautiful
butterfly. What a transformation!
When we accept Jesus as Savior and Lord of our lives, we
become a new, transformed creature.
Read Romans 6:1-4.
What did Paul tell the believers in these verses?
Believers are symbolically buried with Christ through
baptism and raised with Him from the dead in order that
we may walk in a new way of life.
What activities can help you to further develop your new
nature and forget about the old?
What is your baptism story? How has your life changed?
If we have a new nature, then why do we continue to sin?
B

You are to live a godly life.
If someone was observing your life, would they describe
your walk with the Lord as the real deal or just fake?
Read Titus 2:11-13.
What did Paul challenge the believers to do? Why is it
important for believers to live godly lives?
Take a closer look at the words, sensible, righteous, and
godly. How would you define each of these?
Godlessness is behavior not in accordance with Gods ways.
Lusts are not only sexual desires but sinful desires in general.
Living Proof
Romans 6:1-4; Titus 2:11-14
THE QUESTION
If my eternity is
secure, why cant I
live how I want?
THE POINT
If youre really saved,
you will want to live
for Christ.
To live a godly life, we must pattern it after Christ.
How can you learn to live like Christ?
In these verses, circle the characteristics missing in your
Christian walk.
C

You have work to do.
Work is defined as an exertion or effort to accomplish
something; labor; toil. Doing good works is an act of joy.
Read Titus 2:14.
According to this verse, what did Jesus do for us? What
does redeem mean?
What does it mean to be eager to do good works?
The work Christ does in our lives should cause us to be
eager to do good works as acts of obedience.
What are some good things we can do to show the love of
Christ to others?
The gospel is not works based. We do not have a checklist
of certain works we must do in order to be saved or get to
heaven. But, if we are saved, we will want to live for Christ
and share His love with others.
What is the work we are to do according to Matt. 28:19-20?
When have you been involved in making disciples and
multiplying believers?
WRAP IT UP
Trace the outline of both of your feet. On one, answer the
question: What evidence or proof exists that you belong to
Christ and live for Him? On the other, write steps you will
take to have a more consistent walk with Christ.
What keeps you from wanting to live for Christ and do
good works for Him?
Pray in small groups for courage to live for Christ in all
areas of your life.
4
MIDWEEK TALKSHEET
Page15
19
LEADER
ACCEPTANCE/
TOLERANCE
Principles of Acceptance
RESPONSIBILITY
Man Up
FAITH
Not By Sight
Page16
Guard the Door
Were called to guard the truth.
Overcome the Barriers
There are some things we just
have to get past.
Unite the Family
Cant we all just get along? Yes,
we can.
Confront with Truth
Sometimes you have to
speak up.
THE QUESTION
What is the biblical view
of tolerance?
THE POINT
Being tolerant doesnt mean you
accept everything.
THE QUESTION
How did Jesus model acceptance?
THE POINT
Jesus love overcame barriers.
THE QUESTION
Why should I accept other
believers?
THE POINT
All believers are part of
Gods family.
THE QUESTION
When did Jesus show intolerance?
THE POINT
Jesus confronted those who
mishandled truth.
THE QUESTION
Why are Christians viewed
as intolerant?
THE POINT
We dont compromise the truth.
THE QUESTION
How can I be more accepting
of people?
THE POINT
Quit looking so much at yourself.
THE QUESTION
When can tolerance become
dangerous?
THE POINT
Being tolerant shouldnt lead you
away from Gods truth.
THE QUESTION
When is it OK to be intolerant?
THE POINT
You cant be silent in the midst
of wrong.
Unit 3 TheOverview
Week 1
Bible Study
Midweek Event
Week 2
Bible Study
Midweek Event
Week 3
Bible Study
Midweek Event
Week 4
Bible Study
Midweek Event
Principles of
Acceptance
KNOWNRelationships
Tolerance is a common buzzword in our culture, but theres a wide
misconception about its meaning. For Christians, it means showing
love for others while still upholding the truth of Gods Word.
This is a four-session KNOWN study under the Relationships cate-
gory. This unit will guide students into a biblical understanding of
what it means to be tolerant without accepting other beliefs as truth.
It will also address the importance of modeling Jesus acceptance and
love within our community and church.
Page17
Session
THE BIBLE STUDY
The first session Bible study explores the biblical understanding
of tolerance and why it doesnt mean that Christians need
to accept everything. This midweek study will help students
understand why some people view Christians as intolerant.
for this session.
A

Christians dont compromise
the gospel.
What are some common beliefs people have about how a
person gets to heaven? Why do you think people choose to
believe that there are multiple ways to eternal life?
Read John 14:6.
Jesus said He is the way not a way.
Why cant there be more than one path to salvation?
Invite students to identify some of the ways people have
tried to change the truth of the gospel to fit their own
interpretation or desires.
Why is it so important for us not to water down the truth?
B

Christians believe in Gods
inerrant Word.
How do you feel when someone misquotes you or twists
your words to mean something different?
Read Isaiah 40:6-8.
According to this Scripture, what is one thing that will
never change? Why is this so important for us today?
God cares deeply about his Word and preserves it.
How does it make you feel to know that Gods Word is as
true for you today as it was for Isaiah?
What are the consequences of believing the Bible has errors?
The inerrancy of the Bible is a fundamental principle of
Christianity. Gods Word is the foundation for all truth.
No Compromise
Isaiah 40:6-8; John 14:6; Acts 26:24-29; 2 Timothy 2:23-26
THE QUESTION
Why are Christians
viewed as intolerant?
THE POINT
We dont compromise
the truth.
C

Christians stand for truth.
If someone said something untrue about your favorite
team or athlete, would you correct them? Explain.
Read Acts 26:24-29.
Paul proclaimed the truth of the gospel with boldness.
What kind of reaction did Paul get from Festus?
Have you ever been called crazy or intolerant for standing
up for your beliefs? Explain.
Is it possible to stand for the truth without offending
anyone? Why or why not?
We must strive to be as loving as possible while standing
for the truth.
D

Christians sometimes speak harshly.
Are you able to disagree with someone without getting into
an argument? Why or why not?
Read 2 Timothy 2:23-26.
Paul challenged Timothy not to get caught up in arguments.
Why is the method we use to convey Christs message of
truth and love so important?
How can you make sure someone knows that you love
them even when you disagree with them?
WRAP IT UP
Review the four life principles.
What are the consequences of compromising the gospel?
Are there areas of biblical truth you have begun to
compromise or ignore when confronted by friends? Explain.
Have you stood for truth in a harsh way and offended close
friends or family? How can you make that right?
Pray for the opportunity and the boldness to stand for truth
in a loving way this week.
1
Midweek Principles of Acceptance
MIDWEEK TALKSHEET
Page18
Session
THE BIBLE STUDY
The second session Bible study explores how Jesus love can
help us model acceptance and overcome barriers. This midweek
study will help students to be more accepting of others by
taking the focus off themselves.
for this session.
A

Understand where they are.
Do you tend to see the good in others, or are you quick to
notice their faults? Explain.
How can getting to know someone change your opinion of
them? When has this happened to you? Explain.
Read Romans 14:1-4.
According to Paul, what is our responsibility as Christians
toward new believers?
Was Paul saying that by accepting others, we have to always
agree with them? Explain.
Making an effort to understand someone does not mean
you always have to agree with them.
What questions could you ask someone to better
understand where they are and what they believe?
What are some practical ways we can show acceptance to
others without always agreeing with them?
B

Remember its not about you.
The Millenials, the generation of young Americans born
after 1982, have been nicknamed Generation Me.
Why do we have a tendency to focus on ourselves?
When we focus on ourselves we begin to think about how
we are treated rather than how we should treat others.
Read Romans 14:5-9.
What did Paul mean by none of us lives to himself?
As Christians, who do we belong to?
Correct Focus
Romans 14:1-11
THE QUESTION
How can I be more
accepting of people?
THE POINT
Quit looking so much
at yourself.
What difference should this make in the way we treat
others? in the way we worship? in the way we live daily?
If someone were to inventory your possessions or observe
your schedule, what would they say your focus is on? Why?
When your focus is on yourself, who are you trusting
to take care of your life? How does this affect your
relationship with Christ?
C

Realize were equal before the Lord.
What makes some people think theyre better than others?
Have you ever been guilty of this kind of thinking?
How does it feel when someone else thinks theyre better
than you? Explain.
Read Romans 14:10-11.
According to this passage, why is it futile to be critical
of others?
One day, all people will be held accountable for their
beliefs, actions, and attitudes.
What can you do differently to live in a way that shows
others we are all equal before the Lord?
WRAP IT UP
Does your life currently reflect your love for Christ or your
love of self?
Review the three life principles for this session.
If you were to start practicing these principles today, how
would that change your relationship with Christ? with
other people?
Challenge students to think of one person they will reach
out to this week. Remind them to focus on understanding
that person by keeping in mind that we are all equal
before God.
2
MIDWEEK TALKSHEET
Page19
Session
THE BIBLE STUDY
The third session Bible study helps students understand the
importance of accepting other believers. This midweek study
will examine the danger of tolerance when it leads us away from
Gods truth.
for this session.
A

When the gospel gets watered down.
What effect does it have on the flavor and consistency of a
soft drink when it gets watered down?
What does it mean to water down the gospel? What effect
does that have on the gospel and its power?
Read Galatians 1:6-10.
What would motivate someone to water down or alter
the gospel?
The truth of the gospel can be difficult for some people
to accept, especially if it means they need to change their
lifestyle or let go of their pride.
What are the consequences to other people if we alter the
gospel message? What are the consequences to us?
To reject the gospel is the same as rejecting God.
When have you been tempted to water down the gospel?
How can you ensure that the gospel you believe and share
isnt watered down?
B

When you lose sight of the truth.
Have you ever been following someone and lost sight of
them? How did it feel to be lost?
Paul called the Galatians foolish for losing sight of the truth.
What are some ways people lose sight of the truth today?
Has this ever happened to you? Explain.
If someone slowly drifts away from the truth it may not
Dont Drift
Galatians 1:6-10; 3:1-9; 5:7-10
THE QUESTION
When can tolerance
become dangerous?
THE POINT
Being tolerant
shouldnt lead
you away from
Gods truth.
appear to make a big difference initially.
What are the consequences of losing sight of the truth?
What role does personal Bible study and prayer play in
keeping you centered on Christ?
What steps will you take to make sure you dont begin to
drift away from the truth of Christ?
C

When someone is wrongly
influencing you.
Have you ever had someone try to get you to do something
that you knew was wrong? Explain.
God created us to have relationships. However, we cannot
allow friends to draw us away from Him.
How can you tell if someone has influenced you negatively?
According to this passage, what will happen to the person
who hinders someone in their Christian faith?
What are some ways your friends influence you? Is there
someone in your life who is preventing you from running
well? How do you need to respond to this person?
What can we do to encourage one another to run well and
live according to the truth?
WRAP IT UP
Protecting the truth, worshiping God, and sharing the
gospel are important things a Christian must do.
What happens when our desire to show tolerance or to be
accepted becomes more important than the truth?
Are there areas in your life where you have accepted your
friends opinions over Scripture? Explain.
Challenge students to influence others for Christ and
to guard against becoming hypnotized by cultural
standards of tolerance.
3
MIDWEEK TALKSHEET
Page20
Session
THE BIBLE STUDY
The fourth session Bible study emphasizes the importance
of confronting those who mishandle the truth. This midweek
study will encourage students to speak up when they encounter
something they know is wrong.
for this session.
A

When you are asked to compromise
your beliefs.
Is compromise always the best approach to settling a
disagreement? Why or why not?
Read Daniel 3:13-18.
What were Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego being
forced to do? Why?
Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refused to compromise
their beliefs even though they knew their lives were at stake.
What did they value mosttheir lives or their relationship
with God? Can the same be said of you? Explain.
When have you been pressured to compromise your
beliefs? What was at stake? How did you respond?
Invite students to identify ways we can respond when
pressured to compromise our beliefs at school or other areas.
B

When you are told to stop sharing
the gospel.
When have you wanted to share something important but
no one wanted to listen? How did that make you feel?
Read Acts 4:18-20.
Peter and John were told to stop sharing the gospel.
What was their response? Were they doing anything wrong?
In what ways are students today told they cant share the
gospel? How should we respond?
What are the consequences of never sharing the gospel?
Christians are responsible for sharing the gospel; those
who refuse to listen will be held accountable to God.
Speak Up
Daniel 3:13-18; Acts 4:18-20; 15:6-11; 1 Corinthians 5:1-8
THE QUESTION
When is it OK to
be intolerant?
THE POINT
You cant be silent in
the midst of wrong.
C

When you encounter injustice.
What are some examples of injustice in our world today?
What excuses do people often give for ignoring injustice?
Read Acts 15:6-11.
Some members of the church were pressuring the Gentile
believers to conform to their religious traditions and laws.
Do you think it was fair for the Jewish Christians to expect
others to conform to their ways of worship? Why or why not?
Peter reminded the elders of the church that all are saved
by grace through faith in Christ, not by works.
When have you felt the need to speak up for someone who
was not being treated fairly? How can speaking up for
injustice be a testimony to your faith in Christ?
D

When you confront sin.
Do you find it difficult to confront someone you know who
is doing something wrong? Why or why not?
Read 1 Corinthians 5:1-8.
The Corinthian church had begun to tolerate and overlook
the immoral lifestyle of one of its members.
What was the churchs response to the man who was living in
sin? What were the consequences of not confronting his sin?
Who do you need to speak to about their sin? How can you
speak up and still let your friend know that you care?
WRAP IT UP
In what ways have you become tolerant of sin, injustice, and
resistance to the gospel? What will you do to change that?
Give each student a ruler to carry in their backpack as a
reminder to take a stand when they encounter anything
that deviates from the straight and true path of Scripture.
4
MIDWEEK TALKSHEET
Page21
20
LEADER
RIGHT LIVING
Living the Commands
TRUST
Sweet Surrender
SPIRITUAL
DISCIPLINES
Spiritual Tune-up
Page22
Stay in Shape
All relationships take efort.
Hunger Games
Its taking your focus of one
thing and putting it on Christ.
Shhhh...
Find time to get away from
the noise.
Surrender
Learn to let go.
THE QUESTION
Why are spiritual disciplines
so important?
THE POINT
Spiritual disciplines are essential
to spiritual growth.
THE QUESTION
What does the Bible say
about fasting?
THE POINT
Fasting helps your spiritual
concentration.
THE QUESTION
Why do I need time to be quiet?
THE POINT
You need to refresh and reflect.
THE QUESTION
What does it mean to live
sacrificially?
THE POINT
Stop holding so tightly to the
things of this world.
THE QUESTION
Why should I memorize and meditate
on Scripture?
THE POINT
Gods Word will guide your life.
THE QUESTION
How can I pray effectively?
THE POINT
Respectfully present your request
and reason.
THE QUESTION
Why should I study my Bible?
THE POINT
The Bible reveals how to live
for Christ.
THE QUESTION
Why should I be involved in personal
and corporate worship?
THE POINT
God is worthy to be praised.
Unit 1 The Overview
Week 1
Bible Study
Midweek Event
Week 2
Bible Study
Midweek Event
Week 3
Bible Study
Midweek Event
Week 4
Bible Study
Midweek Event
Spiritual Tune-up
KNOWDisciplines
It takes a lot of discipline for even the most gifted athletes to compete
at a high level in their sport. Followers of Christ are no diferent. If
we want to grow in our relationship with Him, we need to practice
spiritual discipline.
This is a four-session KNOW study under the Disciplines category.
This unit will guide students into a deeper understanding of why
spiritual disciplines, such as fasting, quiet time, and living sacri-
cially, are essential to a growing relationship with Christ.
Page23
Session
THE BIBLE STUDY
The first session Bible study examines how practicing spiritual
disciplines is essential to a growing relationship with God. This
midweek study will reveal how Gods Word will guide our lives
when we memorize and meditate on Scripture.
for this session.
A

You are commanded to.
When was the last time one of your parents or teachers said,
Dont forget to...? What did they not want you to forget?
Read Deuteronomy 11:18.
What are these words the writer is refering to? What are
we supposed to do with them?
The Book of Deuteronomy makes it clear that we are to
study Gods Word and pass His instruction along.
How can memorizing Gods Word help you share it with
others?
How would you define the word command?
Memorizing Gods Word is not an optionit is a command.
Have you begun to study and memorize Gods Word? If so,
how? If not, why not?
B
Scripture helps you obey.
Do you ever have trouble following rules? Explain.
God has given us His Word to help us obey Him in our
speech, thoughts, and actions.
How can following Gods instructions keep you from
giving in to temptation or making costly mistakes?
Invite students to share Scripture that helps them when
they are struggling to make the right decision, or share a
few favorite passages of your own (i.e. Prov. 3:5-6; Isa. 30:21).
Total Recall
Dueteronomy 11:18; Joshua 1:8; Psalm 37:30-31; 119:105
THE QUESTION
Why should I
memorize and
meditate on
Scripture?
THE POINT
Gods Word will guide
your life.

C

Scripture guides you.
When a storm knocks out the power to your house at night,
whats the first thing you look for? (i.e. flashlight, candle)
Why?
Read Psalm 119:105.
God has given us His Word to guide us.
What does it mean to be in spiritual darkness?
As we begin to study and memorize Scripture, we begin to
see and understand God clearly as He directs our paths.
When is it most difficult for you to stay on the path God
has laid out for you? Explain.
When we are living in the darkness of sin, it is hard for us
to see God.
D

Scripture helps you succeed.
Read Joshua 1:8.
Briefly share the background of this passage. Joshua
had been given the mantle of leadership to follow in the
footsteps of Moses.
What is Gods promise in this passage? What command
accompanies this promise?
As long as Joshua followed Gods instruction, he would
succeed.
What challenges are you facing right now?
In what ways will you rely on Gods Word to get you through?
WRAP IT UP
Are you living in obedience to Gods Word? If not, why not?
If so, how?
Are you currently memorizing and meditating on
Scripture? If so, share your plan and experience. If not,
why not?
1
Midweek Spiritual Tune up
MIDWEEK TALKSHEET
Page24
Session
THE BIBLE STUDY
The second session Bible study explores what the Bible
says about fasting when it comes to improving our spiritual
concentration. This midweek study will help students
understand how respectfully presenting their requests and
reasons to God can help them pray effectively.
for this session.
A

Recognize God.
How do you usually approach someone with a request
thats very important to you? Explain.
Read 2 Kings 19:14-15.
Briefly describe the background to this passage.
How did Hezekiah make his request known to God?
Hezekiah acknowledged the one true God and Creator of
the universe.
In what ways was Hezekiahs approach evidence of his
faith that God would answer his prayer?
By acknowledging God for Who He is, we show faith in
His ability and willingness to act on our behalf.
How do you recognize God in your prayer time? Do you
see Him as the King and Creator or as just a giver of things
you want or need? Explain.
B
Tell God your request.
When you are worried about something, what do you do?
Call a friend? Stew? Pray? Explain.
Read 2 Kings 19:16-19.
What did Hezekiah want God to hear and see?
Hezekiah laid the letter from the king of Assyria before the
Lord and asked God to respond to the threats being made.
How did Hezekiah know God would listen?
Real Prayer
2 Kings 19:14-19
THE QUESTION
How can I pray
effectively?
THE POINT
Respectfully present
your request and
reason.
By faith, he knew that God is always listening and cares for
His creation.
What is a concern you need to lay before the Lord today?
Have you prayed about it? Why or why not?
C

Give God a reason to answer.
Do you trust God to answer your prayers? Why or why not?
Read 2 Kings 19:19.
What reason did Hezekiah give for God to answer his
request?
Hezekiah wanted God to be glorified so that all the nations
would know He is the one true God. Hezekiahs reason
focused on God, not on himself.
How can taking your worries to God help others recognize
your faith in Him?
How is God glorified when He answers your prayers?
WRAP IT UP
Who is God to you? (Savior, Rock, Creator, King, etc.)
How can focusing on Who you are praying to put your
problems in perspective and give you faith that He will
answer?
What requests do you need to take to God?
How might He be glorified by answering your requests?
Review the three life principles and encourage students to
keep these in mind during their personal prayer time.
Close by inviting students to share ways they can be
praying for one another this week.
2
Midweek Spiritual Tune-up
MIDWEEK TALKSHEET
Page25
Session
THE BIBLE STUDY
The third session Bible study explores reasons we need to
set aside time to refresh and reflect on God. This midweek
study will examine how studying the Bible will help us better
understand how to live for Christ.
for this session.
A

The Bible points you to Christ.
Who are some people in your life who have acted as guides,
pointing you in the right direction? (teacher, coach, parent,
grandparent, etc.)
What had Timothy known from childhood?
Paul reminded Timothy of what he had been taught about
Scripture. (Most likely by his grandmother and mother.
HCSB Study Bible)
What were Pauls instructions to Timothy regarding what
he had already learned?
Why is it important to continue to study the Bible?
The Bible points us to Christ.
What role did the Bible have in leading you to faith in
Christ? Explain.
What role has it had in helping you live for Christ since
then?
B

The Bible is the authority for your life.
How do you decide whether to believe something you
heard? Does it make a difference if you know the person
you heard it from? Explain.
Read 2 Timothy 3:16.
What is the significance of the word All in this verse?
All Scripture comes from God Himself. Inspired can
Your Nose in the Book
2 Timothy 3:14-17
THE QUESTION
Why should I study
my Bible?
THE POINT
The Bible reveals how
to live for Christ.
literally be translated breathed out by God.
How does knowing that Gods Word comes directly from
Him impact your desire to learn from it? Explain.
Do you trust Gods Word to guide you? If so, how? If not,
why not?
C

The Bible equips you to be complete
in Christ.
When was the last time you left something you needed at
home? How did it feel when you realized you had left that
particular item at home?
God didnt leave anything out when it comes to Scripture.
The Bible contains everything you need to live for Christ.
What does it mean to be complete, equipped for every
good work?
God has given you His Word to help you live for Him in
every area of life.
In what areas of your life do you struggle to live for Christ?
Explain.
WRAP IT UP
Do you continue to study Scripture? Why or why not?
What do you need to do differently starting today to make
sure you set aside time to study Gods Word?
Provide each student with a small journal and a plan for
reading their Bible. Encourage students to journal their
prayers and thoughts as they continue to learn from Gods
Word.
3
MIDWEEK TALKSHEET
Page26
Session
THE BIBLE STUDY
The fourth session Bible study examines what it really means to
live sacrificially and why its important for Christians not to hold
too tightly to the things of this world. This midweek study will
help students understand why God is worthy of both personal
and corporate worship.
for this session.
A

You need to declare Gods greatness.
Invite students to think of someone they have a high
regard for.
What words would you use to describe this person? What
makes them worthy of your praises?
Read Psalm 145:1-6.
Why did God deserve Davids praise?
Why does God deserve your praise?
Invite students to share words they would use to describe
what God has done in their lives. Be prepared to share an
example from your own life as well.
Why is it important that we praise God every day and from
one generation to the next?
How do you praise God both personally and with others?
Is this something you do every day? Why or why not?
B

You need to declare Gods goodness.
Invite students to name some characteristics that makes
someone a good person.
If someone is especially kind or good to you, how does that
impact the way you speak about that person to others?
Read Psalm 145:7-9.
According to verse 8, what are some of the good
characteristics of God?
Lift Your Praise
Psalm 145:1-13
THE QUESTION
Why should I be
involved in personal
and corporate
worship?
THE POINT
God is worthy to
be praised.
The Hebrew term for faithful love in verse 8 is chesed,
which refers to Gods covenant love and indicates mercy
and faithfulness in keeping His promises.
What was the ultimate display of Gods goodness to all
people?
In what ways has God been good to you? How will you
declare His goodness to others?
C

You need to declare Gods
faithfulness.
When someone keeps a promise they made to you, how
does that make you feel about that person?
Would you describe that person to others as a faithful and
trustworthy person? Explain.
God is faithful in His words and actions.
Using examples from both the Old and New Testaments,
invite students to share ways God has been faithful to His
people.
How has God been faithful to you personally?
How will you praise God for His faithfulness to you both
on your own and in church?
WRAP IT UP
Review the three life principles. Challenge students to
journal specific ways they can declare Gods greatness,
goodness, and faithfulness to others this week.
Remind students that God is worthy of our praise, not just
through our words, but also through our actions.
What are some ways you can praise God through your
words and actions this week? at home? at school? in
church?
4
MIDWEEK TALKSHEET
Page27
14
LEADER
PURITY
Purity Matters
DECONCTRUCTING
MEDIA
Media Mania
STEWARDSHIP
Resource Management
Page28
Pure Living
Purity is a witness to others.
Pure Loving
Sexual purity honors God.
Pure Speaking
Pure speech reects the love of
Christ to others.
Pure Thinking
Pure thoughts will strengthen
your Christian walk.
THE QUESTION
Why should I be concerned about
living pure?
THE POINT
You are called to live a holy life.
THE QUESTION
Why should I keep my body
sexually pure?
THE POINT
Honor God with your body.
THE QUESTION
Why is it important to keep my
speech pure?
THE POINT
Your words have influence.
THE QUESTION
How do I keep my thoughts pure?
THE POINT
Guard your mind.
THE QUESTION
How can I live a pure life?
THE POINT
Choose to live a life that honors God.
THE QUESTION
How can I stay sexually pure?
THE POINT
Guard your purity.
THE QUESTION
How can I keep my speech pure?
THE POINT
Be intentional about what you say.
THE QUESTION
How do I deal with a pornography
problem?
THE POINT
Admit the problem and seek help.
Unit 3 TheOverview
Week 1
Bible Study
Midweek Event
Week 2
Bible Study
Midweek Event
Week 3
Bible Study
Midweek Event
Week 4
Bible Study
Midweek Event
Purity Matters
KNOWNRelationships
True Love Waits
challenges students to commit to sexual purity

because that is the biblical standard. Yet, purity is more than just not
having sex until you are marriedpurity is a lifestyle choice.
This is a four-session KNOWN study under the Relationships
category. Students will be challenged to live our their faith in God and
their biblical convictions by demonstrating purity not only sexually,
but also in their speech and thoughts. A lifestyle of purity can be a
powerful witness to those who dont know Christ.
Page29
Session
THE BIBLE STUDY
The first session Bible study outlines the call of living a holy
life of purity and the witness that is to others. This midweek
session provides guidelines for living a pure life.
for this session.
A

Dont live like the world.
Read Ephesians 4:17-19.
Paul stated that, as Christians, we are to stop living in the
ways of the world. The ways of the world are futile (having
no useful result) and outside how God would have us live.
How does this passage characterize the way of the world?
Why doesnt the world understand the life God calls His
children to live?
What are examples of this darkened understanding in
media and culture today?
What did Paul identify as the reason behind the Gentiles
ignorance and lives of promiscuity?
B

Live in your new life.
Paul described the process of discipleship. We come to
know Christ then we learn how to live for Him.
Discipleship involves sanctification, the process of being
made holy and pure in Gods righteousness.
How did you hear about Jesus? How are you being taught
about Him? What are you being taught by Him?
What does it mean to you to take off the old self? How do
you do that?
What does it mean to put on the new self? Where does
that come from? How does the new life in Christ differ in
practice from the old life lived in worldly ways?
Pure and Simple
Ephesians 4:17-31
THE QUESTION
How can I live a
pure life?
THE POINT
Choose to live a life
that honors God.
C

Live to honor God.
What does it mean to honor God? How do you do that?
The prophet Isaiah said that people honored God with their
mouths but that their hearts were far from Him (Isaiah 29:13).
Jesus taught that from the overflow of the heart, the mouth
speaks (Luke 6:45). Our speech flows from our heart.
In what ways did Paul address what we say and how we say
it in these verses? Of the things Paul listed, which do you
find easier to do? Which are harder? Why?
What do you learn about anger in verses 26-27? How can
the way we deal with anger honor God?
How can our words be either a reflection of Christ in our
lives or a misrepresentation of Him?
What do the things in these verses have to do with living a
life that honors God?
WRAP IT UP
According to verse 23, the renewal of our minds is a
necessary part of putting on a new self. Continually
growing in Christ and learning more about the Messiah is
a necessary part of that renewal.
How are you learning, hearing, and being taught about
Jesus? What tools are you using that are helping you grow
in your faithsomething that others would find helpful?
If growing in Christ is the recipe for purity, how can you be
more intentional about growing in Christ?
What makes it hard for students to choose to live a life that
honors God?
Offer a time of commitment for students to pray and commit
themselves to living a life of purity that honors God.
1
Midweek Purity Matters
MIDWEEK TALKSHEET
Page30
Session
THE BIBLE STUDY
The second session Bible study challenges students to follow
the biblical guideline to live a life of purity apart from sexual
immorality. This midweek study provides practical guidelines
to help students guard their sexual purity.
for this session.
A

Understand the situation.
What makes it difficult to remain sexually pure? How long
has maintaining sexual purity been a problem for teens?
Read Genesis 39:6b-7.
Potiphars wifes advances didnt happen in an instant or
overnight. They were a while in the making. One can suspect
that there might have been clues about her that would have
led Joseph to believe she was this kind of woman.
How might Joseph have avoided this altercation with
Potiphars wife before it occurred?
Dont be caught off-guard. Be aware of possible situations
and make the choice to avoid dangerous scenarios.
What types of situations should we avoid or be aware of
when it comes to sexual temptation?
B

Stay committed to purity.
Read Genesis 39:8-10.
Reread verse 10. This temptation wasnt a one-time deal.
Joseph had many opportunities to take advantage of the
situation. He had plenty of time to devise a secret plan for
the sin to go undiscovered. But he chose to stay pure.
What reason(s) did Joseph give for refusing her advances?
What other reasons could he have given for desiring to
remain pure?
What are some ways we can commit to purity? What can
help us be successful in that commitment?
Dont Give In
Genesis 39:6b-12
THE QUESTION
How can I stay
sexually pure?
THE POINT
Guard your purity.
C

Run from temptation.
What made this situation incredibly difficult for Joseph?
Genesis 39:11-12.
Potiphars wife wouldnt take no for an answer. Joseph
finally got to the point where denying the temptation was
no longer enough. He had to literally run from it.
What is your reaction to Josephs response?
Temptation can come when we are idle and put ourselves
in harmful or unprotected situations. It can also come
when we are in the middle of doing the right thing.
Discuss a time when you had to refuse temptation. Discuss
a time when you had to run from it.
Where can you run when you face sexual temptation?
WRAP IT UP
You cant run from temptation if you dont know what
it looks like. Identifying possible situations where
temptations can be present is an important step in
knowing when to run.
What are potentially harmful situations you should avoid,
especially related to sexual temptation?
You know that its important to turn to God for guidance,
protection, and deliverance from temptation. But how do
you turn to God in those moments?
What steps can you take now to deal with sexual
temptation when faced with it later?
Whom can you turn to for accountability and support when
you are dealing with temptation?
Discuss The Point for this session and help students begin
to identify a plan for guarding their purity.
2
MIDWEEK TALKSHEET
Page31
Session
THE BIBLE STUDY
The third session Bible study examines the influence and the
power that our words haveboth positively and negatively.
This midweek study provides biblical guidelines for students to
keep their speech pure.
for this session.
A

Choose to encourage rather than
cut down.
Finish this line: If you dont have anything nice to say,
dont . The truth is that if we dont have
anything nice to say, then something is wrong.
Would you rather be encouraged or cut down? Why?
Would others rather hear encouraging words from you or
words that put them down? Why?
Read Ephesians 4:29.
What is foul language or unwholesome talk? Why did
Paul address that in this verse?
It isnt enough to refrain from saying harmful things. As
believers were instructed to speak encouraging words.
How would you grade yourself in putting into practice
verse 29?
What kinds of words are helpful to build someone up?
What kinds of words give grace to those who hear?
B

Choose discretion.
Thinking back over this past week, how many times were
you exposed to curse words, sexual joking, crude jokes, or
gossip? How did it make you feel?
How would you define coarse and foolish talking and
crude joking?
Why do so many students speak this way?
Watch Your Mouth
Ephesians 4:29; 5:3-4; Psalm 19:14
THE QUESTION
How can I keep my
speech pure?
THE POINT
Be intentional about
what you say.
Even speaking about sexual immorality or impurity is
inappropriate for a Christ-follower. The type of speech Paul
identifies here is not to be part of a believers new life.
What does Paul suggest we incorporate into our speech
rather than coarse talking?
How does being thankful help us eliminate bad speech
from our lives? How can an attitude of thankfulness help
us build others up (4:29)?
C

Pray about your speech.
Have you ever prayed about your speech? Why or why not?
Why should we pray about our speech?
Read Psalm 19:14.
Psalm 19 is a song of David. David declared his desire that
his words be pleasing to God.
How would you summarize Davids intent in this verse?
How could this type of attitude change your speech?
Words of praise from our mouths and thoughts of worship
in our hearts are pleasing to God.
With what types of speech do you struggle? How can God
help you make better choices in your speech?
WRAP IT UP
Impure speech is a sin that literally cuts both ways. It hurts
the speaker and the hearer.
In what ways have you been hurt by others words? In what
ways have your words hurt others?
Turn Psalm 19:14 into a prayer you pray each day this week.
How can you make a commitment to make better choices
with what you say and how you say it?
What does The Point of this session mean to you? How can
you be intentional in your speech this week?
3
MIDWEEK TALKSHEET
Page32
Session
THE BIBLE STUDY
The fourth session Bible study provides some practical ideas
to help students guard their minds and keep their thoughts
pure. This midweek study provides guidance in dealing with
the problem of pornography.
for this session.
A

Recognize you have a problem.
Read Proverbs 5:22.
What does this verse have to do with pornography?
The first step in solving any problem is admitting that
there is a problem. Denial is a trick of the enemy.
When it comes to pornography and lust, do you think it is
easy or difficult to admit the problem? Why?
How can we become enslaved to our sin?
B

Realize it is sin.
We assume that sexual immorality always involves two
people. Pornography may be a private sin, but is still a sin
of sexual immorality we must avoid.
Read 1 Thessalonians 4:3.
What is Gods will for you in this verse? How does that
relate to pornography?
There is no place for pornography in the life of a Christian.
Why are we so inclined to justify our sin rather than
believe and confess that we are sinners?
C

Confess it to God.
Read 1 John 1:9.
What should we do with sin related to pornography?
Confession provides forgiveness. Confession of sin does
not buy us forgiveness; Christs death paid for our sin.
Freedom from Filth
Prov. 5:22; 1 Thess. 4:3; 1 John 1:9; 2 Tim. 2:22; James 5:16
THE QUESTION
How do I deal with
a pornography
problem?
THE POINT
Admit the problem
and seek help.
Confession admits to God that we understand our sin and
our need for forgiveness.
How important is confession to your regular practice of
faith? How do you feel after you confess sin to God?
D

Stay away from it.
Read 2 Timothy 2:22.
What does this verse teach you to do?
Timothy wrote that we should flee from our sin and
instead pursue attributes of Christ.
What attributes should we pursue instead of our own
passions? How can these take the place of our addictions?
What have you found to be helpful in fleeing from sin?
E

Talk with someone who can help.
Read James 5:16.
What are we instructed to do in this verse? Why?
As a part of his instruction for early believers on prayer,
James included a thought about confession.
Accountability is a part of healing and overcoming sin.
Why do you think its important to have other believers to
confide in and confess our sins to?
How could being accountable with struggles related to
pornography help you?
WRAP IT UP
Struggling with pornography becomes an addiction and
results in being a slave to that sin.
How can you break free from a sin that entraps you like
pornography? How can you help someone else break free?
Would you like to talk to someone who can personally help
you deal with this struggle? (Provide an opportunity for
students to discuss this issue with trusted adults.)
4
MIDWEEK TALKSHEET
Page33
19
LEADER
ACCEPTANCE/
TOLERANCE
Principles of Acceptance
RESPONSIBILITY
Man Up
FAITH
Not By Sight
Page34
Why Faith?
Faith is essential to
knowing Christ.
Trustworthy
God will always be there
for you.
Shaken
Faith doesnt always come easy.
Faith and Works
Our actions reect our faith.
THE QUESTION
Why is faith so important?
THE POINT
You cant know Christ
without faith.
THE QUESTION
Why should I put my faith in God?
THE POINT
God will never let you down.
THE QUESTION
Why do I struggle to have faith?
THE POINT
The circumstances of life can shake
your faith.
THE QUESTION
Whats the relationship between
faith and works?
THE POINT
Your faith in Christ is evidenced by
your works.
THE QUESTION
If I trust my life to God, what may
be required?
THE POINT
The life of faith means letting go and
holding on.
THE QUESTION
How does God strengthen my faith?
THE POINT
God teaches you to rely on Him.
THE QUESTION
What can happen if my faith wavers?
THE POINT
You can mess things up when you
follow your own plan.
THE QUESTION
Why would God test my faith?
THE POINT
Tested faith leads to spiritual
maturity.
Unit 1 TheOverview
Week 1
Bible Study
Midweek Event
Week 2
Bible Study
Midweek Event
Week 3
Bible Study
Midweek Event
Week 4
Bible Study
Midweek Event
Not By Sight
KNOWDisciplines
Faith: Its essential in the life of a believer. It means putting complete
trust in God and His promise of salvation through Christ. Even when
our faith is tested, we can trust that He is sovereign and in control.
This is a four-session KNOW study under the Disciplines category.
In these sessions of study, students will be challenged to deepen
their relationship with God as they discover the importance of faith
in the life of a believer.
Page35
Session
THE BIBLE STUDY
The first session Bible study explores the reasons faith is
essential to a relationship with God. This midweek study will
challenge students to trust God as they strive to live a life of
obedience to Him.
for this session.
A

God calls you to leave
whats comfortable.
Read Genesis 12:1.
If you were Abram, how would you have responded to
hearing Gods voice? What was God asking of him?
Abram was to go! It was that simple.
Knowing it was a command from the Lord, what would
be easier: to leave your family and your home or to not
do anything? Why?
How hard would it be for you to pick up everything and go?
Besides following Him, what else have we been asked to do?
We are commanded by the Lord to go and to tell. (See Matt.
28:16-20.)
How willing are you to take that next step?
B

God calls you to trust His promises.
How many times does the Lord say I will in these verses?
That is a promise. The Lord made a commitment to
Abram: When you go... I will.
What promises has God made to you that make you want
to follow Him?
Obedience to God often means leaving one thing in order
to receive something else even better. (HCSB Study Bible)
How will your life be different if you completely trust God?
Do you trust Gods promises enough to be obedient to
Him? If so, how do you show evidence of that trust?
The Faith Journey
Genesis 12:1-8
THE QUESTION
If I trust my life
to God, what may
be required?
THE POINT
The life of faith
means letting go
and holding on.
C

God calls you to obey.
Abram did as he was told. He picked up his family and
belongings to obey the Lord.
What did Abram discover when he arrived at the land
of Canaan?
In obedience, Abram went to the land of Canaan where his
faith was indeed tested.
How would you have reacted if you had been obedient
to the point of leaving everything behind, only to find
someone else living in the land you were promised?
What was Abrams response?
Wherever Abram went, he built an altar to God.
How important is your relationship with God in times of
difficulty? Why?
How do you respond when your faith is tested?
Knowing that we are to follow the Lords calling is one
thing, to obey is very different.
WRAP IT UP
How would you describe Abrams character in this
passage? What was the evidence of his faith?
Abrams experiences with God highlight the importance of
a walk of faith with God through Christ.
What does it mean to you to have faith in Christ?
How willing are you to follow Him? Has there been a time
when you didnt follow His leading? Explain.
When you accept Christ, thats the start of your faith story.
Abram did as he was instructed; encourage students
to do the same with their lives by taking a step of faith
and moving from being a creation of God to becoming
His child.
1
Midweek Not By Sight
MIDWEEK TALKSHEET
Page36
Session
THE BIBLE STUDY
The second session Bible study examines the reasons students
should put their faith in God. He is trustworthy, sovereign,
and involved in their lives. This midweek study will challenge
students to rely on God as the source for their strength.
for this session.
A

God reminds us of who He is.
Read Genesis 15:1.
God reminded Abram that He is faithful and trustworthy.
Why is it that we can speak of God and worship Him at
church, yet He still has to remind us who He is?
When you read Gods Word, how are you reminded of
the faithful and trustworthy character of God? Is there a
specific verse or passage that comes to mind?
Invite students to share a personal testimony about Gods
faithfulness to either themselves or their family.
How did that experience strengthen your faith? a family
members faith?
B

God reminds us of His promises.
Up to this point in Abrams faith journey, he had been
obedient and followed the commands of the Lord.
Why do you think Abram questioned God this time?
When the Lord makes your path clear, do you question
Him? Do you find yourself saying, Really? Are You sure
You want me to do that?
Genesis 15:6 records Abrams response to Gods promise,
as well as Gods response to Abram. Abram believed God.
God counted Abrams belief in His word as righteousness.
What are some promises God has given you in His Word?
Here For You
Genesis 15:1-21
THE QUESTION
How does God
strengthen my faith?
THE POINT
God teaches you to
rely on Him.
Which ones are you leaning heavily on right now?
What does the statement, God is not just a promise
maker, He is a promise keeper mean to you?
When our faith is weakening, we can look to Gods Word
and see the promises He has given us.
C

God reveals His plan.
God revealed part of His plan to Abram.
How often do we not fully understand what God is doing?
When has this happened in your life?
As we walk by faith, God will reveal His plan. He may not
reveal all of it, or as much as we want, but He doesnt leave
us to stumble in the dark.
What were Gods instructions to Abram as he waited for
the Lord to reveal His plan?
What instructions does He give to us as we wait to hear
from Him? How does prayer and reading Gods Word
strengthen our faith?
God revealed His plan to rescue His people from Egypt,
but Gods ultimate plan of deliverance was found in Christ.
WRAP IT UP
Is it difficult for you to fully rely on God and His promises?
Why or why not?
Is your faith being strengthened or not? Explain.
God kept His promise to Abram. He will do the same
for you.
Review the KNOWN plan of salvation on the inside-back
cover of this leader guide and invite students who have not
placed their faith in Christ to do so.
2
MIDWEEK TALKSHEET
Page37
Session
THE BIBLE STUDY
The third session Bible study examines why students
sometimes struggle to have faith. This midweek study will help
students keep their focus on Gods plan instead of their own
when life gets messy.
for this session.
A

You can lose sight of Gods plan.
Have you ever become so tired of waiting in line that you
just walked away? What did you miss out on because of
your impatience?
Sarai and Abrams desire for a child was causing them to
lose focus on Gods plan.
When have you grown impatient waiting on the Lord?
Remember, Sarai and Abram had seen the promises of the
Lord fulfilled, but they still grew impatient.
If we claim that the Lord is God Almighty and that all of
His creation is filled with His glory, then why do we still
tend to be impatient while we wait to hear from Him?
In what ways could showing more patience toward God
affect your relationship with Him? How can you try to
become more patient?
B

You can take matters into your
own hands.
Sarai thought God was moving too slow on His promise to
Abram, so they took matters into their own hands.
When have you tried to take matters into your own hands?
Does that always work out? Explain.
At this point the story began to change from Sarai and
Abram serving God to serving themselves.
Do you tend to serve yourself rather than God? In what ways?
Making a Mess
Genesis 16:1-16
THE QUESTION
What can happen if
my faith wavers?
THE POINT
You can mess things
up when you follow
your own plan.
C

You cause grief for yourself
and others.
Recall a time when you acted in disobedience toward
someone.
How did your disobedience cause grief for yourself and/
or others?
How did Sarai and Abrams disobedience cause grief for
themselves and others?
Like Sarai, we often think that by stepping in and taking
control of a situation, were helping.
When have you started out trying to take control of the
situation, only to end up hurting someone? When have you
been hurt in this type of situation?
WRAP IT UP
What may have seemed like a good plan in the beginning
ended up spinning out of control and hurting everyone.
How could Sarai and Abram have avoided this?
All that was needed was for Abram to trust God, obey, and
to remain faithful to His plan.
Under what circumstances do we tend to make plans on
our own that not only derail us from God, but hurt others
as well?
How often do you think through all the consequences of
your actions? How could talking to God about it first help?
Despite Sarai and Abrams selfish actions, Gods greater
plan prevailed.
How can you learn to completely trust Gods plan for your
life? Where do you turn to seek His plan?
Is it really possible to know Gods plan and stay focused on
it forever? How can we help one another stay true to His
plan and not our own in the future?
3
MIDWEEK TALKSHEET
Page38
Session
THE BIBLE STUDY
The fourth session Bible study examines the relationship
between faith and works. This midweek study will help
students understand how their faith can grow stronger when it
is put to the test.
for this session.
A

To check your focus.
What are some of the common reasons we are tested? (to
see what weve learned, to get accepted to college, etc.)
In the Old Testament a burnt offering was a normal thing.
People would take an animallamb, ram, sheep, etc.
and sacrifice it in request of forgiveness for their sin. To be
cleansed, some blood would need to be shed. That was a
way they worshipped God.
What was God asking of Abraham in these verses? How
was this a test of Abrahams faith?
Isaac was the son Abraham had waited for all of his life
his only son, whom he loved.
Why would God test Abraham in this way?
Since you accepted Christ, at what points in your life have
you felt like God was testing your faith? How?
B

To teach you more about Himself.
What might a teacher conclude after a student passes or
fails a test? What might a student learn about himself/
herself?
What did God reveal to Abraham about Himself as a result
of this test?
Through faith, Abraham learned that God would provide.
Put to the Test
Genesis 22:1-18
THE QUESTION
Why would God test
my faith?
THE POINT
Tested faith leads to
spiritual maturity.
When youve exhibited faith in God, have you learned the
same thing? Explain.
What have you learned about yourself and your faith when
youve been tested?
Do you find yourself learning things that you needed
to know but would not have discovered any other way?
Explain.
C

To reveal His greater purpose.
Because of his willingness to obey, God promised to bless
Abraham and his descendents for generations.
What other time in Scripture do we read about a Father
willing to offer up His Son as sacrifice?
Christ was and is the ultimate sacrifice.
How have you and I been blessed because of Christs
sacrifice?
You and I have our life, salvation, and hope of eternity
because of what God has done for us in Christ. One way
this world will come to know salvation will be by way of our
faithfulness to share this great truth.
WRAP IT UP
So how do we grow in our faith?
Read aloud James 1:2-4.
God expects us to be faithful to rely on Him, to follow His
plan, and to live in the assurance of His greater purpose.
Whats keeping you from trusting God to show His
faithfulness to you?
Review the KNOWN plan of salvation on the inside-back
cover of this leader guide and invite students who have not
placed their faith in Christ to do so.
4
MIDWEEK TALKSHEET
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challenges students to commit to sexual purity

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