Rooted Youth Discussion Leading
Purpose Statement
The purpose of our Student discussions is to create a safe, Christ-centered environment where students feel seen, heard, and valued, while guiding them to understand God’s Word clearly, think deeply, grow and ask any questions they have.
1. Lead with the Right Heart
Come prepared spiritually. Pray before group begins.
Lead with care, love, and genuine interest in each student.
Pay attention to what they’re going through, school, family, friendships, struggles.
Remember: this time belongs to them. It is not about you teaching; it is about them growing.
Students open up where they feel safe. Create that safety.
2. Create Engagement
Encourage every student to participate (without forcing anyone).
Call students by name.
Affirm and thank them for sharing.
Keep the group focused and respectful.
If the group becomes distracted or giggly, gently but confidently refocus:
“Hey guys, we don’t get much time for this. Let’s focus and make it count.”
Your tone sets the culture.
3. Ask Strong, Open-Ended Questions
Avoid yes/no questions. Instead of:
“Did that make sense?”
Ask:
“What stood out to you?”
“Why do you think that matters?”
“How could this apply to your life this week?”
“What makes this hard to live out?”
Thought-provoking questions help students move from surface answers to heart reflection.
Silence is okay. Let them think.
4. Break It Down Clearly
If students seem confused:
Rephrase it in simpler language.
Use real-life examples (school, sports, friendships, social media).
Make it practical.
Clarity leads to confidence.
5. Share Personally (Wisely and Briefly)
Share relevant experiences when appropriate.
Be honest and relatable.
Keep it brief, your story should open discussion, not take over.
Encourage other leaders to contribute when helpful. Unity among leaders strengthens the group.
6. Invite Prayer Requests
Before closing:
Ask, “How can we pray for you this week?”
Give space for responses.
If needed, offer prompts:
“Anything stressful coming up?”
“Anything you need strength or wisdom for?”
Listening is ministry.
7. Close in Prayer
Pray specifically for what was shared.
Pray for spiritual growth and boldness.
Pray for protection and wisdom.
Keep it sincere and focused.
Model what dependence on God looks like.
Final Reminder
You are not just leading a conversation.
You are discipling students.
Be present. Be intentional. Be prayerful.
We plant the seeds. God brings the growth.
The purpose of our Student discussions is to create a safe, Christ-centered environment where students feel seen, heard, and valued, while guiding them to understand God’s Word clearly, think deeply, grow and ask any questions they have.
1. Lead with the Right Heart
Come prepared spiritually. Pray before group begins.
Lead with care, love, and genuine interest in each student.
Pay attention to what they’re going through, school, family, friendships, struggles.
Remember: this time belongs to them. It is not about you teaching; it is about them growing.
Students open up where they feel safe. Create that safety.
2. Create Engagement
Encourage every student to participate (without forcing anyone).
Call students by name.
Affirm and thank them for sharing.
Keep the group focused and respectful.
If the group becomes distracted or giggly, gently but confidently refocus:
“Hey guys, we don’t get much time for this. Let’s focus and make it count.”
Your tone sets the culture.
3. Ask Strong, Open-Ended Questions
Avoid yes/no questions. Instead of:
“Did that make sense?”
Ask:
“What stood out to you?”
“Why do you think that matters?”
“How could this apply to your life this week?”
“What makes this hard to live out?”
Thought-provoking questions help students move from surface answers to heart reflection.
Silence is okay. Let them think.
4. Break It Down Clearly
If students seem confused:
Rephrase it in simpler language.
Use real-life examples (school, sports, friendships, social media).
Make it practical.
Clarity leads to confidence.
5. Share Personally (Wisely and Briefly)
Share relevant experiences when appropriate.
Be honest and relatable.
Keep it brief, your story should open discussion, not take over.
Encourage other leaders to contribute when helpful. Unity among leaders strengthens the group.
6. Invite Prayer Requests
Before closing:
Ask, “How can we pray for you this week?”
Give space for responses.
If needed, offer prompts:
“Anything stressful coming up?”
“Anything you need strength or wisdom for?”
Listening is ministry.
7. Close in Prayer
Pray specifically for what was shared.
Pray for spiritual growth and boldness.
Pray for protection and wisdom.
Keep it sincere and focused.
Model what dependence on God looks like.
Final Reminder
You are not just leading a conversation.
You are discipling students.
Be present. Be intentional. Be prayerful.
We plant the seeds. God brings the growth.