Introduction: Why This Matters
We all want to do something great—but what happens when we try to build our own name instead of following God’s plan? The Tower of Babel is a story about human pride, disobedience, and how God steps in to remind us who’s really in control.
This lesson teaches us the importance of humility and unity under God’s direction.
1. Bible Reading: Genesis 11:1–4
“Now the whole world had one language and a common speech… Then they said, ‘Come, let us build ourselves a city, with a tower that reaches to the heavens, so that we may make a name for ourselves.'”
Explanation For Teenagers
The people weren’t building for God—they were building for themselves.
Pride drove them to try to reach heaven on their own terms.
We can still fall into the same trap today—trying to make our own name great instead of living to honor God.
Youth Group Discussion Questions
- Why do you think the people wanted to build such a tall tower?
- What are some ways pride shows up in our lives?
- What does it mean to build your life around God’s purpose instead of your own?
2. Bible Reading: Genesis 11:5–9
“But the Lord came down to see the city and the tower… The Lord said, ‘If as one people speaking the same language they have begun to do this, then nothing they plan will be impossible for them.’ So the Lord scattered them from there over all the earth… That is why it was called Babel.”
Explanation For Teenagers
God didn’t destroy the people—He scattered them to protect them from their own arrogance.
He created diversity and slowed their plans because they were heading in the wrong direction.
Sometimes God steps in and redirects us for our own good—even if it feels confusing.
Youth Group Discussion Questions
- What stands out to you about God’s response to the tower?
- Can you think of a time when God changed your plans?
- How can we use our gifts to build up God’s kingdom instead of our own?
Youth Group Game: “Language Barrier”
What You’ll Need:
- Common phrases written in made-up “languages”
- Teams to decode and guess the phrases
How to Play:
- Give each team a card with a phrase written in a jumbled language (e.g. backwards, with symbols, etc.).
- They must decode it and figure out what it says in English.
- Relate this back to how confusing things became at Babel—and how communication matters in unity.
Debrief
- Was it frustrating not understanding the language?
- What does this game teach us about pride and unity?
- How can we build “towers” that honor God instead of ourselves?
Closing Prayer
God, thank You for showing us that our strength is not in building our own name but in following You. Teach us to live with humility and to use our gifts for Your glory. Help us seek unity in Your purpose. In Jesus’ name, Amen.