Middle School Week 3 (May 7): Do It
Series Verses:
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” (Romans 12:2)
“Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the LORD, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers.” (Psalms 1:1-3)
“You have been set apart as holy to the Lord your God, and he has chosen you from all the nations of the earth to be his own special treasure.” (Deuteronomy 14:2, NLT)
Discussion Goal: To take action with your faith.
Start Talking (Conversation Starter)
ChatGPT is turning you into an action figure. What two accessories that match your personality or interests are included in your action figure packaging? (Have extra time at the end of group? Use these instructions, and work with your teens to create an action figure of yourself or your campus YTH Director!)
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.
The past two weeks, we’ve been talking about faith: faith changes how we think, faith changes how we see, and this week, we’re discussing how faith changes what we do. What do you think faith has to do with what we do — not just what we believe?
Read James 2:14-17. What do you think James means when he says faith without action is dead?
Can you think of examples when someone’s faith — either your own or someone else’s — led to an action?
Read Hebrews 11:8, James 1:22, and 1 John 3:18. Why is it so important to show our faith by what we do? How does doing good help others see Jesus in us?
Pray: God, faith is more than just believing in You — faith changes how we live and what we do. This week, help us take action with our faith so we can grow closer to You and so others can see and know You. We love You. Amen.
Additional Questions
Read Matthew 5:16. What does it mean to let your light shine in your everyday life? (Encourage teens to reflect on what this looks like at school, on social media, with friends, etc.)
What’s the difference between doing something good to get attention and doing something that points people to God?
What are some things you can do this week to live out your faith?