Everyone loves a good story. But a story that means the most to us is the story of our lives: the narrative that helps us to make sense of our life’s journey. As followers of Christ, we think about the way that Jesus has shaped and changed our life story. But we also need to build the habit of sharing our story with others. This lesson will help teenagers understand how to make sharing their personal Jesus-centered story a life habit.

Lesson Objectives

1. WHAT: As followers of Christ, we have an amazing and life-changing story that can help point other people to Jesus.
2. WHY: Teenagers will have opportunities to share their life story, so they need to be ready to share at any time and in any place.
3. HOW: Students will explore their unique Jesus-focused life story and discuss practical ways to share it with others.

Primary Scripture: 1 Peter 3:13-17

Secondary Scriptures: John 9:1-16

1. Think about your story

What was your life like before you committed to following Jesus—or if you grew up in church, what have you noticed that’s different about your life compared to friends who don’t serve or follow Jesus?

When did you decide to follow Christ, and why did you make that choice?

How is your life different because of following Jesus?

Look at verse 15—how has your friendship with Jesus given you hope?

As followers of Jesus, we have the privilege of telling other people about him. That’s why it’s important to develop the habit of sharing our story with others. Most of us are still trying to figure out our story, and that’s okay. But I encourage you: Be courageous and share your story with people in your life.

2. When telling your story, be honest and respectful

Sometimes people at church share stories of what Jesus has done in their lives—generally speaking, what kinds of things do people share?

It’s tempting to “edit out” the difficult or confusing parts of our story—what impact does that have on others when we do that?

Look at verse 16. We often talk in a very relaxed way about the things that matter to us in life—why do you think we sometimes feel so stressed when we talk about Jesus?

Look at the next sentence in that verse—what does having a “clear conscience” mean?

Peter reminds us to keep our conscience clear, and that’s why it’s important to be honest and respectful. You might feel that your story isn’t as exciting as what you’ve heard others share, but trust that Jesus is the one who opens the ears of those who need to hear. Be respectful toward the other person’s perspective. You can be bold for Jesus without being rude!

3.  Remember that it’s all about Jesus

Look at verse 16—what does “living a good life” mean to you?

Tell us about a time you told a friend about your faith in Jesus. Was it easy or difficult for you—and how did that person respond?

Why do some people respond negatively when we share our stories?

Jesus is the one who changes people’s lives. We can’t do it by persuading or convincing people. So why do we feel so tempted to persuade and convince anyway?

As you tell your story, remember how Jesus has changed you and is changing you. You’re still a work in progress—every follower of Jesus is a work in progress. And it isn’t our responsibility to “save” anyone—Jesus does that. We simply need to share our stories and talk about Jesus whenever we can.

BGroup Questions

1. Was that easier or tougher than you thought it would be? Why?
2. When you think about the way your story has been influenced by Jesus, what are the key reasons or experiences that explain why that’s true?

TAKE ACTION: Memorize this Scripture this week! “Instead, you must worship Christ as Lord of your life. And if someone asks about your hope as a believer, always be ready to explain it” (1 Peter 3:15).

**Leaders, leave 3-5 minutes for prayer at the end of your group time.