It’s not just about what your teens know. It’s teaching them to use the tools and resources you provide in your message.  Instead of delivering a teaching look at commissioning them to move.

9429495502_770ef74ed6

If you want to move teenagers with your message you need to make sure that you:

MAKE THE BOTTOM LINE CLEAR

The big question they are going to be asking themselves is, “Why does this matter?” In other words how does this apply to their life?  If you can show them then you’ve sold them.

To make your bottom line clear try sticking to one point. Answer the question, “What can I tell them that will help them go deeper in this area?”  Focus on it and drill it down.

GIVE THEM REAL LIFE EXAMPLES

It can be intimidating to go first. Make sure your teens know that they wouldn’t be the first to tackle the subject.

Share with them your personal relationship with the topic.  Provide real life stories, testimonies and examples of how people have succeeded and failed. It will take away the pressure of being perfect.

PROVIDE TANGIBLE ACTION STEPS

If you want teens living out their faith you need to give them practical steps.  And that means making them achievable, tangible and measurable. If a teenager is clear on what he or she needs to do they are more likely to attempt it.

FOLLOW UP AND CHEER THEM ON

Chances are that what you are asking them to do is scary.  On top of clarity they need encouragement.  Ask your leaders to write notes of encouragement.  Follow up with them and ask them how it’s going. If they know you care, then they will see what you are asking them to do is important.

Your message shouldn’t solely focus on teaching, it should inspire, challenge and motivate.  When you can move teens with your message you can create growing disciples who are growing other disciples.

How do you move teens into action through your message?