If you’re short on prep time or just looking for some extra guidance, our weekly Leader Training is designed to help you lead your students through the week’s lesson.
This is the Leader Training for Session 2 of our Winter 2023 study on the Gospel of John, chapters 1–11 (suggested use date: December 11, 2022).
You can also download this week’s leader training in PDF format here.
Session 2: We Found Him!
Key Text: John 1:40-51
Central Truth:
God’s people had been waiting for the promised Messiah, the One who would rescue the world. Though they were looking, some were able to spot Him right away, and others needed to come closer and see: Jesus is the One the world is looking for—and we’re invited to follow Him.
Key Question:
What was Andrew’s immediate response after believing that Jesus was the Messiah? Why do you think he responded this way?
Good news is something we simply have to share, and this text makes it clear that Jesus is good news! When Andrew realized who Jesus was, he couldn’t help but tell others. In the same way, when we better understand Jesus, we can excitedly invite others to know Him.
Keep in Mind:
— This text is fairly straightforward until we get to verse 51. To prepare to help students process Jesus’s confusing response, you may want to re-read the Old Testament passage that this alludes to (Jacob’s dream in Genesis 28:12-15) and look over the corresponding parts in today’s lesson.
— Unbelief is a common theme in John, and it’s a common theme in people! However, it can be very tricky to discuss, particularly in a church setting where some may feel pressure to align with certain beliefs. Consider how you can create an environment where you and students feel comfortable engaging with questions rather than obsessing over answers.
Application:
How is Peter’s new identity a picture of what Jesus does for everyone who follows Him?
The Win:
FOR THE STUDENT: Students have the opportunity to grapple with two of the biggest questions of all time: “Who is Jesus?” and “How will I respond to Him?” This session can deepen their belief in the true Messiah and motivate them to tell others.
FOR THE LEADER: Invite students to go beyond “church answers.” Ask them to consider what they truly believe about Jesus and how they can respond. Resist the urge to correct; instead, invite them to “come and see” through our continued study of John.
Additional Helps:
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Listen to the weekly Lifeway Student Ministry Podcast for fresh perspectives on student ministry in today’s world. Hosted by Ben Trueblood, Director of Student Ministry at Lifeway, and produced by Nathan Howard, Project Coordinator for Lifeway Students.
Read our guide to creating a safer, more engaging environment for online Bible study.
Watch replays of our webinars for group leaders and teachers, hosted by Ken Braddy, Lifeway’s Director of Sunday School. These webinars are designed to help leaders build their confidence, strengthen their groups, and enhance their Bible studies.