Introduction: Why This Matters for Teens
Teenagers often ask, “Does my faith really matter outside of church?” Romans 13 makes it clear that following Jesus affects everyday life—how we treat authority, how we love people, and how we live when no one is watching. This chapter helps teens understand that faith isn’t just something we believe; it’s something we live out at school, at home, online, and in the community.
What I’ve Learned about Living Faith in Everyday Life
As Christians, our everyday lives should look different from those of the average person. Our lives, even the mundane things in them, can show Christ to others. How we act in hard situations or how we praise God in the highs and lows can all be ways that we glorify Him in our lives. We are called to be holy or set apart from the world, and this involves not just church or praying or reading your bible, it involves every second of our lives. – Micah K
Bible Reading 1: Romans 13:1-4 (God and Authority)
“Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established.”
Explanation for Teenagers:
- God values order: Authority exists to protect and guide society.
- Respect matters: Following Jesus includes honoring leaders and rules.
- God is still in control: Even imperfect systems are under His authority.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- Why is respecting authority difficult for teens?
- How can Christians show respect even when they disagree?
- What authority figures do teens interact with daily?
Bible Reading 2: Romans 13:5-7 (Living Responsibly)
“Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also as a matter of conscience.”
Explanation for Teenagers:
- Faith shapes responsibility: Obedience reflects trust in God.
- Character matters: Christians live with integrity, even when unseen.
- Respect reflects Christ: Our actions point others to Jesus.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- Why does integrity matter when no one is watching?
- How can faith influence everyday decisions?
- What does responsibility look like for a teenager?
Bible Reading 3: Romans 13:8-10 (Love Is the Goal)
“Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law.”
Explanation for Teenagers:
- Love never runs out: Christians are always called to love.
- Love fulfills God’s law: Right living flows from loving others.
- Love is active: It shows up in choices, not just feelings.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- Why is love sometimes harder than following rules?
- How does love guide decisions?
- What does loving others look like at school?
Bible Reading 4: Romans 13:11-12 (Wake Up and Live Ready)
“The hour has already come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed.”
Explanation for Teenagers:
- Faith is active: God calls believers to live with purpose.
- Time matters: Life is short, and choices matter.
- Light replaces darkness: Following Jesus means leaving sin behind.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- What distractions keep teens spiritually “asleep”?
- Why does urgency matter in faith?
- How can teens live intentionally for Christ?
Bible Reading 5: Romans 13:13-14 (Clothed in Christ)
“Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh.”
Explanation for Teenagers:
- Identity shapes behavior: Who you wear reflects who you follow.
- Jesus changes desires: Following Him reshapes priorities.
- Faith is visible: Living for Christ stands out.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- What does it mean to “clothe yourself” with Christ?
- How does identity affect choices?
- What temptations challenge teens the most?
Youth Group Activity: “What Are You Wearing?”
Objective: Help teens think about identity and influence.
Materials: Paper, pens.
Instructions:
- Ask students to list labels they feel pressured to wear.
- Read Romans 13:14 together.
- Have them write “In Christ” at the top of the page.
- Discuss how identity in Jesus shapes life.
Key Takeaways for Teens:
- Faith affects everyday life.
- Love is the core of Christian living.
- God calls believers to live with integrity.
- Identity in Christ shapes choices.
Closing Prayer:
“God, help us live out our faith in real ways. Teach us to love well, respect others, and walk in integrity. Help us clothe ourselves with Jesus every day and shine Your light wherever we go. Amen.”