Hey there, awesome teenagers! Welcome to another exciting Sunday school session at our small but mighty Bible-believing church. Today, we’re diving into a topic that is incredibly relevant for all of you: Relationships. More specifically, we’re going to talk about setting healthy boundaries and making sure your relationships are Christ-focused.
You might be wondering why this is important for teenagers like you. Well, think about it. You’re at a stage in life where you’re forming friendships and navigating the complex world of relationships. This is a critical time to lay a strong foundation in your faith. By learning how to build relationships with Christ at the center, you can avoid many pitfalls and experience the beauty of God’s design for relationships.
So, let’s dive in and discover how we can build Christ-centered relationships with healthy boundaries!
Bible Reading: Proverbs 4:23 (NIV)
“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”
Explanation For Teenagers
- Our hearts are the core of who we are, and everything we do stems from our hearts.
- It’s essential to protect our hearts because our emotions, thoughts, and actions originate there.
- Setting boundaries helps us protect our hearts from negative influences.
Youth Group Discussion Questions
- Why do you think it’s important to guard your heart?
- Can you share a personal experience where you wish you had set boundaries to protect your heart better?
Bible Reading: 2 Corinthians 6:14 (NIV)
“Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?”
Explanation For Teenagers
- This verse emphasizes the importance of being in relationships with people who share your faith.
- While it doesn’t mean we can’t be friends with non-believers, it reminds us to prioritize Christ-centered relationships.
Youth Group Discussion Questions
- How can you balance having non-believer friends with maintaining your Christ-centered focus?
- Have you ever felt challenged in your faith because of your relationships? How did you handle it?
Youth Group Game: “Boundaries Relay”
Objective: To help teens understand the concept of setting and respecting personal boundaries.
Instructions:
- Divide the group into pairs.
- Give each pair a ball or another small object.
- One person in each pair will be the “boundary setter,” and the other will be the “boundary respecter.”
- Set a boundary line in the room with tape or cones.
- The boundary setter stands behind the line, and the respecter stands on the other side.
- The respecter tries to communicate with the setter (e.g., asking for the ball), but they can’t cross the boundary.
- After a set time, switch roles.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- What did you learn from this game about setting and respecting boundaries?
- How does this game relate to our topic of Christ-centered relationships?
Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:33 (NIV)
“Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.'”
Explanation For Teenagers
- The people we spend the most time with can influence our character and faith.
- Surrounding ourselves with godly friends can help us stay Christ-focused.
Youth Group Discussion Questions
- How do your friends influence your character and faith?
- What can you do to ensure you are surrounded by godly influences in your life?
Closing Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, we thank you for this time together and for your Word that guides us in building Christ-centered relationships. Help us to set healthy boundaries that protect our hearts and keep our focus on you. We pray for wisdom and discernment as we navigate our relationships, both with believers and non-believers. May our friendships reflect your love and grace. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Remember, awesome teens, setting healthy boundaries and keeping Christ at the center of your relationships is a beautiful way to honor God in your lives. Stay strong in your faith, and continue to support and encourage one another on this incredible journey!