Introduction: Why This Matters for Teens
Teenagers often feel pressure to prove themselves—through grades, sports, popularity, or even faith. Romans 4 reminds us that God has never worked on a “performance-based” system. Paul points to Abraham to show that faith, not perfection, is what God honors. This lesson helps teens learn how to trust God fully, even when His promises feel slow or impossible.
What I’ve Learned about Faith that Trusts God
I have seen many times where it seems like everything is lost and that you cannot do anything about it, and God still comes through. Faith is such an important part of our lives as Christians, as we cannot see Christ, but we believe with faith (not blind faith, but still faith) that He will keep His promises, and He really does love us. – Micah K
Bible Reading 1: Romans 4:1-5 (Faith, Not Works)
“What then shall we say that Abraham, our forefather according to the flesh, discovered in this matter? If, in fact, Abraham was justified by works, he had something to boast about—but not before God. What does Scripture say? ‘Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.’”
Explanation for Teenagers:
- Faith beats performance: Abraham wasn’t counted righteous because of what he did, but because he trusted God.
- No boasting allowed: Salvation leaves no room for pride.
- Belief changes identity: God credits righteousness to those who trust Him.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- Why do people want to earn God’s approval?
- How does faith remove pressure to be “perfect”?
- What’s the difference between trusting God and trying to impress Him?
Bible Reading 2: Romans 4:6-8 (Grace Brings Forgiveness)
“David says the same thing when he speaks of the blessedness of the one to whom God credits righteousness apart from works: ‘Blessed are those whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered.’”
Explanation for Teenagers:
- Grace brings freedom: Forgiveness lifts the weight of guilt and shame.
- God covers sin: He doesn’t just ignore it—He forgives it completely.
- Joy flows from grace: Living forgiven changes how we see ourselves.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- Why is forgiveness so hard to accept?
- How does shame affect your relationship with God?
- What changes when you truly believe you’re forgiven?
Bible Reading 3: Romans 4:9-12 (Faith Is for Everyone)
“We say that faith was credited to Abraham as righteousness. Under what circumstances was it credited? Was it after he was circumcised, or before? It was not after, but before!”
Explanation for Teenagers:
- Faith comes first: Abraham believed before any religious action.
- Grace includes everyone: God’s promises aren’t limited by background or culture.
- Faith unites believers: Trust in God brings people together.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- Why is it important that faith comes before religious actions?
- How does this show that anyone can come to God?
- What barriers do people sometimes think disqualify them from faith?
Bible Reading 4: Romans 4:13-17 (Trusting God’s Promise)
“It was not through the law that Abraham and his offspring received the promise… He is our father in the sight of God, in whom he believed—the God who gives life to the dead and calls into being things that were not.”
Explanation for Teenagers:
- God specializes in the impossible: He brings life where there seems to be none.
- Promises require patience: Abraham waited years for God’s promise.
- Faith trusts God’s power: Even when circumstances say otherwise.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- Why is waiting hard when trusting God?
- What promises from God feel difficult to believe right now?
- How does knowing God’s power build faith?
Bible Reading 5: Romans 4:18-25 (Fully Convinced)
“Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed… He did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, being fully persuaded that God had power to do what He had promised.”
Explanation for Teenagers:
- Faith grows through trust: Abraham chose belief over doubt.
- Doubt doesn’t disqualify faith: Trusting God strengthens belief over time.
- Jesus is the fulfillment: The same faith that saved Abraham saves us.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- What does it mean to be “fully convinced”?
- How can faith grow even when doubts exist?
- Why is Jesus the center of God’s promises?
Youth Group Activity: “Trust Fall Faith”
Objective: Help teens experience trust and reliance on God.
Materials: Open space.
Instructions:
- Have teens pair up.
- One teen gently falls backward while the other catches them.
- Discuss how trusting God is similar—but even more reliable.
- Read Proverbs 3:5-6 together.
Key Takeaways for Teens:
- Faith, not performance, pleases God.
- Grace removes shame and guilt.
- God’s promises require patience and trust.
- Faith grows as we rely on God’s power.
Closing Prayer:
“Lord, thank You for showing us that faith is about trust, not perfection. Help us believe Your promises, wait patiently, and rely on Your power even when things feel impossible. Strengthen our faith as we walk with You. Amen.”