High School Week 1 (November 19): At the Table
Series Overview – At the Table
Jesus met people where they were — in everyday spaces like meals — and through compassion and presence, He invited them into new life.
Series Verses:
“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes.” Romans 1:16
“When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today.” So he came down at once and welcomed him gladly. All the people saw this and began to mutter, “He has gone to be the guest of a sinner.” Luke 19:5-7
Discussion Goal:
Influence happens when you listen well, care deeply, and create space where others feel welcomed and valued.
Start Talking (Conversation Starter):
If you could have dinner with any three people (famous, fictional, or from history), who would you invite to your table?
Think It Through (and Talk It Out)
Leader Tip: Choose questions that resonate with your group’s age, experiences, and current understanding. There’s no pressure to cover all the questions — pick the ones that fit your group the best.
Read Luke 19:1-10. Jesus didn’t just notice Zacchaeus — He stopped, called him by name, and made space for him at the table. What stands out to you about how Jesus treated him?
Now think about your own “table” — your daily spaces and relationships. How can you show that same kind of attention and care to the people already there?
Zacchaeus’ reputation wasn’t great, but Jesus still chose to share a meal with him. How does it challenge you to think about spending time with people who aren’t like you or who others might avoid? What about people already in your spaces who you didn’t choose but you might try to avoid? (e.g., deskmate, family member, teammate, etc.)
Influence happens when we listen well, care deeply, and create space where others feel welcomed and valued. Who in your world might be waiting for someone to notice them? What’s one way you could show them they matter this week by listening, caring, or creating space for them?
Pray: Jesus, thank You for meeting us right where we are — in the middle of our everyday lives. Help us notice the people You’ve placed around us and care for them the way You do. Teach us to listen well, care deeply, and lead with authenticity by creating space for others. May our actions make space for others to feel seen, valued, and welcomed by You. Amen.
Additional Questions (use as needed)
Read Romans 1:16. Sharing our faith is an important way for us to connect with people. What are some “tables” you sit at? (e.g., lunch table with friends, desks with classmates, benches with teammates, breakfast table with family, holiday dinner table with extended family and friends, etc.)
Share some things that might hold you back from showing your faith openly in those spaces. What could courage in sharing your faith look like at those tables?
Think about a time when someone really listened to you. What did that do for your confidence or faith? How could you offer that same kind of attention to someone else this week?
Influence today often looks like getting attention online or having followers. How is Jesus’ kind of influence different?
What about His influence challenges the way you see being popular or having the kind of influence others are chasing after?