Introduction: Why This Matters for Teens
Teenagers often hear two opposite messages: “Do whatever you want,” or “Try harder to be better.” Romans 6 cuts through both lies. Paul explains that following Jesus means a new identity—no longer controlled by sin, but alive in Christ. This lesson helps teens understand freedom, self-control, and how grace empowers change rather than excuses sin.
What I’ve Learned About a New Identity in Christ
As Christians, we are made a new creation and are transformed and constantly being sanctified by the Holy Spirit. As we are sanctified by Him, we should see it in our lives. We should act in a different way than we did when we were in our old lives, and we should strive to live as Jesus did now since He has bought us with a price and washed us white of our sins. We still all sin, but we should sin less and strive to live in a way pleasing to God. – Micah K
Bible Reading 1: Romans 6:1-4 (Grace Is Not a Free Pass)
“What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? By no means! We are those who have died to sin; how can we live in it any longer?”
Explanation for Teenagers:
- Grace changes us: God’s forgiveness isn’t permission to keep sinning.
- New life begins: Baptism symbolizes dying to the old life and rising with Christ.
- Freedom replaces guilt: Grace gives power to change, not a reason to stay stuck.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- Why do people misunderstand grace?
- How does grace empower change instead of laziness?
- What does it mean to leave an old life behind?
Bible Reading 2: Romans 6:5-11 (A New Identity)
“For if we have been united with Him in a death like His, we will certainly also be united with Him in a resurrection like His… count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus.”
Explanation for Teenagers:
- Your identity has changed: You are no longer defined by sin.
- Sin lost its power: Jesus broke sin’s control through the cross.
- Think differently: Faith starts with believing what God says is true.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- Why is identity so important in resisting temptation?
- What lies does sin try to tell you?
- How can believing God’s truth change your actions?
Bible Reading 3: Romans 6:12-14 (Who Are You Obeying?)
“Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body… For sin shall no longer be your master, because you are not under the law, but under grace.”
Explanation for Teenagers:
- We choose our leader: Sin or Jesus—someone is always in charge.
- Grace empowers obedience: God gives strength to say no to temptation.
- Freedom is a daily decision: We choose who we listen to.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- What areas of life tempt teens the most?
- How does grace help you say no to sin?
- Why is obedience connected to freedom?
Bible Reading 4: Romans 6:15-19 (Slaves to Sin or Slaves to Righteousness)
“Don’t you know that when you offer yourselves to someone as obedient slaves, you are slaves of the one you obey—whether you are slaves to sin, which leads to death, or to obedience, which leads to righteousness?”
Explanation for Teenagers:
- Everyone serves something: Freedom doesn’t mean independence—it means choosing the right master.
- Sin promises freedom but delivers chains: Obedience to God brings real life.
- Choices shape habits: What we practice becomes what we follow.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- Why does sin often look attractive at first?
- How do habits shape your spiritual life?
- What does healthy obedience look like?
Bible Reading 5: Romans 6:20-23 (Two Outcomes)
“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Explanation for Teenagers:
- Sin always costs something: It leads to brokenness and separation.
- Grace is a gift: Eternal life can’t be earned—it’s received.
- Jesus offers true life: Freedom, purpose, and hope come through Him.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- Why do people ignore sin’s consequences?
- How does grace motivate better choices?
- What does true freedom in Christ look like?
Youth Group Activity: “Who’s in Charge?”
Objective: Help teens identify influences that shape their choices.
Materials: Paper, pens.
Instructions:
- Have teens list influences in their life (friends, media, habits).
- Ask which ones pull them closer to God and which pull them away.
- Discuss how choosing obedience leads to freedom.
- Pray together for strength to choose Christ daily.
Key Takeaways for Teens:
- Grace gives power to change, not permission to sin.
- Your identity is found in Christ, not in past mistakes.
- Freedom comes through obedience to God.
- Jesus offers life that sin never can.
Closing Prayer:
“Lord, thank You for giving us new life in Christ. Help us live in freedom, believe who You say we are, and choose obedience every day. Give us strength to say no to sin and yes to You. Amen.”