Middle School Week 3 (October 22): This is My Story
Series Verses:
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16
“Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” John 20:21
Discussion Goal: Your story matters. You can tell others how Jesus is changing you.
Leader Tip
This week focuses on the man born blind in John 9:1-25. The man didn’t have a polished explanation — just his testimony: “I was blind, but now I see.” As students read, help them see that Jesus can use their stories, even if they feel incomplete or imperfect.
Bring the discussion back to the goal: Your story matters. You can tell others how Jesus is changing you. Invite students to practice sharing small parts of their own stories in a safe space.
If you sense hesitation, ask:
What’s one thing you’ve seen Jesus do in your life recently?
Why might your story be just what someone else needs to hear?
Encourage vulnerability and celebrate authenticity. Remind them: Jesus doesn’t need a perfect story, just a willing heart.
Start Talking (Conversation Starter):
Someone wants to tell your story through a movie. Who would play you? Why?
Optional Icebreaker Game: “Story Chain”
One student starts telling a (funny, fictional) story with just one sentence. Each student adds one sentence to build the story. Whoever goes last finishes the story. You can play multiple rounds.
SAY: We just created a story together, and it mattered what each person added. In real life, your personal story of how Jesus is changing you matters — and it’s worth sharing.
Open God’s Word:
As a group, read John 9. (Consider splitting up passages so everyone has a chance to read.)
⬆️ Leader Tip: If you're short on time or your group struggles with long passages, only read verses 1-25.
Leader Say: “The man who was blind didn’t have all the answers, but he had a story: “I was blind, but now I see.” Jesus uses our stories too. You don’t have to be perfect or know everything — your story of how Jesus is changing you can point others to Him. Let’s talk about what that looks like.”
Think It Through (and Talk It Out)
What are some things you noticed in this scripture? What stood out to you the most?
How did you feel challenged or encouraged? Why?
How can you apply what you read? What will you do differently moving forward?
Pray: Jesus, thank You that our stories matter to You. Help us to see that our testimony doesn’t have to be perfect to be powerful — it just has to point to You. Give us boldness to share what You’ve done in our lives and to trust that You’ll use it to reach others. Amen.
Additional Questions (use as needed)
What’s the difference between trying to “convince” someone about Jesus versus simply sharing your own experience with Him?
Take another look at John 9:1-12. The blind man wasn’t a pastor and didn’t have a theology degree — he just shared what he’d experienced. What is one thing you’ve experienced with Jesus that you can share with others?
What keeps teens from sharing their story about Jesus? Share some of the challenges or tensions you (or others) have faced.
Read John 9:24-25. The man said, “I was blind, but now I see.” How could you sum up in one or two sentences what Jesus has done in your life so far? What’s one step you can take to be bold in sharing that story with someone?