Middle School Week 4 (October 29): Sent With Purpose
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: You can show Jesus to others by how you live, love, and lead — right now.
Leader Tip
In this final week, students read John 20:19-22 where Jesus sends the disciples. The heart of the conversation is that students aren’t just saved to believe — they’re saved to be sent.
As students wrestle with the passage, guide them toward the discussion goal: You can show Jesus to others by how you live, love, and lead — right now. Emphasize that purpose isn’t just for the future; it starts in their schools, teams, and friendships today.
If discussion drifts, redirect with:
What does it look like to live as someone Jesus has sent?
How could your life point someone to Jesus this week?
Help them see the big picture: their faith isn’t just personal — it’s missional. Empower them to leave group with clarity, purpose, and confidence that they’ve been sent.
Start Talking (Conversation Starter):
You get to represent any sports team, band/singer, clothing brand, etc. so you can tell others about them. Which would you choose and why?
Optional Icebreaker Game: “The Telephone Game” (but with a positive twist)
One student whispers a short positive phrase to the person next to them. (e.g., “you’re awesome,” “those shoes are cool,” “you make me laugh,” etc.) It keeps getting passed around the circle until the last person says it out loud. See if it matches what the first person whispered.
SAY: Just like you passed along encouragement in this game, you can pass along Jesus’ hope to people around you every day by the way you live, love, and lead.
Open God’s Word:
As a group, read John 20. (Consider splitting up passages so everyone has a chance to read.)
Leader Say: “When Jesus appeared to His disciples, He gave them peace and then sent them out. If you follow Jesus, you’ve been saved on purpose and for a purpose — to show others who He is through how you live, love, and lead. Let’s talk about what it means to be sent by Him today.”
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 for saving us not just to believe, but to be sent. Fill us with Your peace and with the power of the Holy Spirit. Show us the places where You’ve called us to bring hope, and give us courage to live with clarity and purpose. Use our lives to help others meet You. Amen.
Additional Questions (use as needed)
Read John 20:19-21. What do you think it means to be “sent” by Jesus?
What’s one way you feel God might be sending you — at school, in your family, on your team, or even online? What first steps do you need to take to respond to what God’s asking you to do?
Jesus didn’t wait for the disciples to be brave and have it all together to give them their purpose. What does this mean for how you serve God right now?
Read Matthew 5:13-16. We’re sent to let the world know about Jesus and to be a light that brings others hope. Where do you see a need for hope around you? How can you help meet that need?