This session’s central truth is: Heaven is waiting for those who trust in Jesus as mediator of the new covenant. Read this post by Kristen Gilles on how we are first and foremost citizens of heaven. Remind your students that this world is not their permanent home and follow up with some of these questions:
- Where is your loyalty and citizenship? It’s easy for us to be consumed with things in our country or world, but if we have trusted in Christ, our citizenship is ultimately in heaven and we shouldn’t allow other things to distract us from God.
- What thoughts or images come to mind when you think about heaven? What does Hebrews 12:18-24 say about heaven?
- Read and reflect on 1 Peter 2:9 and Hebrews 13:14. How are you living a life that is set apart? In whom do you put your trust and find your hope for eternity? Some of your students may not be Christians, so this is a wonderful time to talk with them about how they can know Jesus.
Conclude by re-stating the central truth and discussing heaven with your students. There will probably be a lot of conversation, so take time to answer questions and re-direct any conversation that gets off topic. Encourage your students to share God’s love and the hope they have with friends and family who do not know Jesus as their Savior.