Bible Readings & Explanations
John 20:24-29
“Now Thomas (also known as Didymus), one of the Twelve, was not with the disciples when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him, ‘We have seen the Lord!’ But he said to them, ‘Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.’…Then he said to Thomas, ‘Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.'”
Explanation for Teenagers:
Even the disciple Thomas struggled with doubt after Jesus’ resurrection. But Jesus did not condemn him for it – instead, He gently encouraged Thomas to believe. This shows that it’s normal to have questions and doubts, and that God is patient with us as we work through them.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- Have you ever felt like Thomas, struggling to believe even though others are certain?
- What helps you when you’re dealing with doubts about your faith?
- How can we support each other when we go through seasons of doubt?
Psalm 77:1-3, 11-12
“I cried out to God for help…When I was in distress, I sought the Lord; at night I stretched out untiring hands, and I would not be comforted…I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago.”
Explanation for Teenagers:
Even great biblical figures like the psalmist experienced seasons of doubt and distress. But the psalmist models how to work through those feelings – by crying out to God, remembering His past faithfulness, and choosing to focus on Him.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- When have you felt distressed or doubting like the psalmist?
- What helps you remember God’s past faithfulness during hard times?
- How can you apply the psalmist’s approach to your own struggles with doubt?
Youth Group Activity: “Doubt Jar”
Instructions
- Give each teen a small jar or container.
- Have them write down any doubts, questions, or areas of uncertainty they are currently wrestling with on slips of paper.
- Encourage them to place the papers in their “Doubt Jar” as a symbolic act of bringing those struggles to God.
- Close with a time of prayer, asking God to meet each person in the midst of their doubts.
Debrief Questions:
- What was it like to write down and acknowledge your doubts?
- How can this jar serve as a reminder to keep bringing your questions to God?
- What are some healthy ways you can continue working through your doubts?
Closing Prayer
“Lord, we know that doubt and uncertainty are a normal part of our faith journey. Help us to be honest about our questions, and to bring them to You instead of trying to figure them out on our own. Give us the courage to keep seeking You, even when our belief is shaken. We trust that You will meet us in the midst of our doubts and strengthen our faith. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
This lesson helps teens understand that doubt is common, and encourages them to bring their questions to God rather than trying to suppress or ignore them.