I have to admit that whenever I’ve looked for resources to share with youth groups, the first thing I look for is a great program that will be of interest to students. I haven’t always looked for or selected resources that teach from a Reformed perspective. With my own children now involved in youth groups, I have a far more focused interest in Reformed resources.
Of course, any book or resource can be viewed from a Reformed perspective. I’ve recently used “Forgotten God” by Francis Chan, and “Radical” by David Platt and found them to be outstanding starting points for discussion with students.
We are, however, blessed to have some outstanding resources many of which are available through Faith Alive Christian Resources and written from a Reformed perspective. I would certainly suggest you consider these and the many other resources available through Faith Alive.
Here are a few resources to consider:
- DWELL – At the 6-8th grade level there are some great components within DWELL, including a devotional book that encourages youth in a non-intimidating way to build a devotional habit and touch base with a mentor.
- WE – This is a new, intergenerational curriculum that offers opportunities for children, teens and adults to learn together. It’s a pretty cool concept.
- Believe It! – This is a great interactive study of the Belgic Confession
- Quest for Faith – Teens and young adults often want to process what we confess, and this book is helpful in that process.
- Questions Worth Asking – This is an experiential course on the Heidelberg for high school students.
- Unity, Reconciliation, and Justice – With the current focus on the Belhar Confession, this resource is a study guide that can introduce the Belhar to students.
- 52 Great Bible Studies – This resource is helpful for preparing studies for youth groups and student-led groups.
- Questions from the Pickle Jar – If you aren’t sure how to approach the topic of sex, this resource may be helpful.
- Route 66 – This is helpful as an overview of the Bible, and is also an understandable read for those who are new to the Bible.
- No Easy Answers – This resource dives into Christian ethics in the real world.
I hope these suggestions are helpful. If any of you have other resources that you have found to work well with youth groups, please respond to this blog. Let’s share the good ideas and excellent resources that have proven to reach youth.
