PREPARE WEEK
STUDENT GUIDE
WELCOME & OPEN PRAYER
[Host] Hey everyone! Welcome to First Priority. We’re really glad you’re here. Today [insert name] is going to talk about what a faith story is and why it matters that we share ours with other people. You don’t have to be perfect or have it all figured out to tell your story. God can use whatever you’ve been through to help someone else. Before we dive in, let’s pray and ask God to speak to us today.
Sample prayer: God, thank You for bringing us here today. Help us understand how our story can make a difference in someone else’s life. Give [insert name] the words to share and give us open hearts to listen. In Jesus’ name, amen.
THE CONVERSATION
[Speaker] Last week we wrote down the names of people that we were going to pray about having a Gospel conversation with. Did you talk to any of them? How did it go? (Allow students to respond and share your experience.) It is never too late to talk to someone about God. Keep praying for boldness!
Today we’re talking about why sharing our faith story matters. Why does it matter that others know we have a relationship with God through what Jesus did for us on the cross? Because where our friends, family, classmates, teachers, coaches, even our enemies spend eternity matters. When we take me to learn how to share what God has done and is doing in our lives, it could change the lives of those around us.
Let’s look at an example from John chapter 4 verse 39, “Many Samaritans from that town believed in Him (Jesus) because of the woman’s testimony.” This woman had a questionable past. She often spent me alone. She was looking for hope. Sound like anyone at your school? Maybe even you? The moment she met Jesus, her life changed forever, and she couldn’t wait to tell everyone she knew.
Have you ever felt nervous or unsure about sharing your faith story? You don’t need to be a pastor or public speaker. You just need to be honest about who Jesus is and what He’s done in your life. People around you are searching, and God wants them to know Him through you.
Throughout the Bible, we see God moving in people’s lives, and He invites us to be a part of other people’s faith journey. Second Corinthians chapter 5 verse 20 says, “Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making His appeal through us.” Yes, us! Our story matters because we matter to God. He wants to use our life to help someone else find Him.
FAITH STORY – POPCORN TESTIMONIES
[Speaker] Let’s practice telling our stories through something called “Popcorn Tes monies.” We’ll ask a series of questions. When you feel ready, “pop up” and share a short answer. These questions will help us think through how to tell our story. (Ask one question at a me and allow students and adults to respond.)
The first part of our story is before we met Jesus. This is the part that everyone can relate to because we all have a “before we met Jesus” me in our life.
- What was your life like before you began a relationship with Jesus?
The second part of our story is more personal because it involves when we met Jesus.
- How old were you when you realized you were a sinner and needed a Savior?
- Where were you when this happened?
- Who told you about Jesus and played a role in your story?
The third part of our story is our life with Jesus. It gives people hope and makes this story a reality.
- What has your life been like since Jesus became a part of your story?
- What changes have you seen?
- Who is walking with you in this chapter of your life?
Remember, our story gives others the chance to trust and follow Jesus. Every story is unique, and every story is powerful.
(Have the student host come back up and give the CHALLENGE and PRAY.)
CHALLENGE & PRAY
[Host] Our challenge for this week is to share our faith story with someone. Let them know what Jesus has done in our life and what He can do in theirs. You never know how one conversation could change a life. Let’s pray!
Sample prayer: God, thank You for writing our story and for loving us no matter what. Give us the courage to share with others what You’ve done in our life. Help us to be bold enough to tell the truth about who You are. I pray for the people around us to know You the way we do. In Jesus’ name, amen.
GAME TIME – Optional
[Host & Mentor] (See the Game Time tab for options.)
