Introduction: Why This Matters for Teens
Every teenager has a story, and God wants to use that story to impact others. In Acts 26, Paul stands before powerful leaders and boldly shares his testimony—who he was, how Jesus changed him, and what God called him to do. Teens today also face moments when they can speak up about their faith. This chapter teaches students how to share their story confidently, clearly, and courageously.
Bible Reading 1: Acts 26:1-11 (Paul Begins His Defense)
“Then Agrippa said to Paul, ‘You have permission to speak for yourself.’ So Paul motioned with his hand and began his defense: ‘King Agrippa, I consider myself fortunate to stand before you today… The Jewish people all know the way I lived from my youth… I too was convinced that I ought to do all that was possible to oppose the name of Jesus of Nazareth. And that is just what I did… I was so obsessed with persecuting them that I even hunted them down in foreign cities.’”
Explanation for Teenagers:
- Your past is part of your testimony: Paul didn’t hide who he used to be—God redeemed it.
- God uses your whole story: Even the messy parts show how powerful Jesus’ transformation is.
- Honesty builds connection: Paul’s transparency helped his audience understand him.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- Why is it important to be honest about your past?
- How can God use even your struggles to encourage others?
- Why do you think sharing your story helps people understand your faith?
Bible Reading 2: Acts 26:12-18 (Paul’s Encounter with Jesus)
“On one of these journeys I saw a light from heaven, brighter than the sun… I heard a voice saying to me, ‘Saul, Saul, why do you persecute Me? It is hard for you to kick against the goads.’ Then I asked, ‘Who are you, Lord?’ ‘I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,’ the Lord replied. ‘Now get up and stand on your feet. I have appeared to you to appoint you as a servant and as a witness… I am sending you to them to open their eyes and turn them from darkness to light…’”
Explanation for Teenagers:
- Meeting Jesus changes everything: Paul’s entire direction and purpose shifted in one moment.
- Everyone’s encounter looks different: Some stories are dramatic, some quiet—but all are real.
- God calls you to shine His light: Jesus sends His followers to help others see truth and hope.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- How did Jesus change Paul’s life in this moment?
- What does it mean for Jesus to “open our eyes” spiritually?
- How has Jesus changed your life, even in small ways?
Bible Reading 3: Acts 26:19-23 (Paul Obeys God’s Call)
“So then, King Agrippa, I was not disobedient to the vision from heaven. First to those in Damascus, then to those in Jerusalem and in all Judea, and then to the Gentiles, I preached that they should repent and turn to God… That is why some Jews seized me in the temple courts and tried to kill me. But God has helped me to this very day…”
Explanation for Teenagers:
- Obedience matters: Paul followed God’s call even when it was difficult.
- God gives strength: Paul openly admitted that God helped him through every challenge.
- Your mission starts now: Teens don’t have to wait to make a difference for Jesus—God uses willing hearts.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- Why is obedience to God important, even when it’s hard?
- How has God helped you in a challenging time?
- What is one way you can share Jesus with others this week?
Bible Reading 4: Acts 26:24-32 (Agrippa Responds)
“At this point Festus interrupted Paul’s defense. ‘You are out of your mind, Paul!’ he shouted. ‘Your great learning is driving you insane.’ ‘I am not insane,’ Paul replied. ‘What I am saying is true and reasonable.’ Then Agrippa said to Paul, ‘Do you think that in such a short time you can persuade me to be a Christian?’ … The king rose, and left the room… They said, ‘This man could have been set free if he had not appealed to Caesar.’”
Explanation for Teenagers:
- Not everyone will accept the gospel: Even when Paul shared boldly, some people rejected the truth.
- Stay confident in truth: Paul wasn’t shaken when Festus mocked him—he knew the gospel is real.
- Faithfulness is success: Your job is to share; God handles the results.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- Why do some people reject the gospel even when it’s clearly explained?
- How can you stay confident when someone mocks your faith?
- What does it mean that sharing your story is your job, not saving people?
Youth Group Activity: “Your 3-Minute Testimony”
Objective: Help teens practice sharing their personal testimony like Paul—with clarity and confidence.
Materials: Paper, pens, timers.
Instructions:
- Have each teen divide a paper into three sections: “My life before Jesus,” “How I met Jesus,” and “My life after Jesus.”
- Give them time to write 2–3 sentences for each section.
- Pair teens up to practice sharing their 3-minute testimony.
- Encourage them to keep it simple, real, and honest—just like Paul.
- End with a reminder that God uses every story, no matter how big or small.
Key Takeaways for Teens:
- Your story is powerful because Jesus is in it.
- God can use your past, present, and future for His glory.
- You can share your faith with confidence—God gives you the words.
- Faithfulness matters more than people’s responses.
Closing Prayer:
“Lord, thank You for the example of Paul and the courage he showed in sharing his story. Help us be bold in telling others what You’ve done in our lives. Give us confidence, clarity, and love as we speak about Jesus. Use our stories to bring hope and truth to those around us. In Jesus’ name, amen.”