SALT Boot Camp

SALT is a 9-month student leadership program that equips students to grow in faith, serve consistently, and lead by example in their local church.

Leader's Guide

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Hey leaders, welcome to the PursueGOD Training Podcast. Today we’re going to give you a complete roadmap for leading the SALT program—from the big picture 9-month journey to the nightly flow that makes every meeting meaningful, fun, and spiritually powerful.

If you’re leading SALT, this is your playbook.

Segment 1: The Big Picture Vision

SALT is a 9-month student leadership program that helps high school students:

  • Grow in their faith,
  • Serve consistently, and
  • Lead by example in their local church.

It comes straight from Jesus’ words in Matthew 5:13: “You are the salt of the earth.” SALT students learn to be distinct, purposeful, and impactful in a world that needs Jesus.

The program centers on three core habits:

  1. Read daily through the Bible plan.
  2. Serve weekly on a ministry team.
  3. Meet monthly for teaching, discussion, and accountability.

Your job as a leader? Guide students through these habits, cheer them on, and make it relational, consistent, and fun.

Segment 2: The 9-Month Structure

Here’s the program flow:

  • Boot Camp (Weeks 1–6):
  • These first weeks set the tone. Students meet each other, start the Bible reading plan, find a serving role, and learn the rhythm of SALT.
  • Monthly Meetings (Months 2–8):
  • After Boot Camp, you meet once a month for a leadership lesson, Bible and serving check-in, group discussion, and prayer.
  • Graduation (Month 9):
  • The final meeting celebrates growth, shares stories, and launches students to keep living out their faith.

Every meeting follows a similar rhythm—but the first few weeks focus on relationships and introductions, while later months focus more on leadership growth and consistency.

Segment 3: Preparing Before Each Meeting

Here’s what leaders should do before every SALT meeting:

  • Watch the lesson video/podcast and review the Talking Points and discussion questions.
  • Listen to this leader podcast so you feel confident about the plan.
  • Set the atmosphere: Whether you meet at someone’s home or the church, make it welcoming. Play music, have snacks ready, maybe even start a game while students arrive.
  • Plan the fun: Bring icebreakers or simple games like Uno or Play Nine to make it easy for students to connect.

The goal is for students to show up feeling like this is their space—a place they want to be.

Segment 4: The Nightly Flow

Okay, let’s get practical. Here’s a simple outline for each SALT night:

  1. Food and Fun: Start with snacks or a meal, plus a game or icebreaker. This sets a relational tone.
  2. Watch the Video: Keep it short and focused—it sets up your discussion.
  3. Read the Talking Points: Invite students to take turns reading aloud.
  4. Ask One Question at a Time: Read the question, let the group respond, and keep it conversational.
  5. Check In on Bible Reading & Serving: Encourage consistency and celebrate wins.
  6. End with Prayer Requests: Have each student share one thing to pray about and invite students to pray for each other.

This simple rhythm works whether you’re in Boot Camp or month seven.

Segment 5: Leading with Purpose

SALT isn’t about perfection—it’s about walking with students as they learn to own their faith.

As a leader, remember:

  • Relationships first: Know your students personally.
  • Model consistency: Be faithful in reading, serving, and showing up.
  • Keep it fun and welcoming: Kids come back when they feel connected and cared for.
  • Pray with them and for them: This shapes hearts more than anything else.

By the end of the 9 months, students should feel closer to Jesus, more confident serving, and ready to lead others.

Wrap-Up

So that’s the full SALT playbook: a 9-month journey built on daily Bible reading, weekly serving, and monthly meetings—each night filled with fun, discussion, and prayer.

If you want all the lessons, videos, and guides, go to pursueGOD.org/SALT.

Thanks for leading the next generation—we can’t wait to see what God does through you and your students this year.

TRAINING MODULE

Week 1: Intro to SALT

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SALT Training 1: What Is SALT?
Welcome to SALT Training — the kickoff session of a powerful leadership journey for students. Hosted by Brock and Abigail, this episode lays the foundation for what SALT is all about and why it matters in the life of a Christian student.

What Is SALT?
SALT is the Student Leadership Team program from pursueGOD.org. It’s a 9-month discipleship and leadership track for students in grades 9–12 who want to grow in faith, take ownership of their church, and serve like Jesus.

Here’s how it works:

  • Connect Monthly in SALT team meetings

  • Serve Weekly in a ministry role at your church

  • Read Daily through a chapter-a-day New Testament plan
    At the end of the year, students get a certificate to celebrate their completion.

What Is Student Leadership?
This first lesson focuses on servant leadership — the Jesus way of leading that turns power upside-down. Leadership isn’t about titles or popularity. It’s about loving people, putting others first, and sacrificing your comfort to serve.

Jesus said:

“Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant… For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others.”
Matthew 20:26-28 (NLT)

Why Students?
Most of Jesus’ disciples were likely teenagers or in their early twenties — and God used them to launch the church. Peter was probably the oldest. Timothy was young when Paul mentored him (1 Timothy 4:12), and he was spiritually mature because of the example of his mother and grandmother (2 Timothy 1:5).

That’s why SALT exists. Because students matter. Your voice matters. Your example can make a huge difference in your church today — not just “someday when you’re older.”

“Don’t let anyone think less of you because you are young. Be an example… in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity.”
1 Timothy 4:12 (NLT)

So whether you’re outgoing or shy, already strong in your faith or just starting your journey — the only qualification you need is a willingness to follow Jesus and serve others.

And remember: serving others is cool. Because it’s what Jesus did.

Stay tuned for Lesson 2, where we’ll unpack the core elements of the program — meetings, responsibilities, reading, and more.

Until then… STAY SALTY!

Talking Points:
  • SALT helps students grow in faith and leadership through real-life practice. The program equips high schoolers to lead by connecting monthly, serving weekly, and reading daily—training students to live out their faith as part of a team.
  • Jesus modeled servant leadership, not status-seeking.
    True leadership means putting others first. Jesus taught that greatness comes through serving, and that’s the mindset SALT leaders commit to.
  • Jesus called young people to lead—and He still does. Most of His disciples were likely teens or young adults. Student leaders today can make a real impact when they follow His example.
  • You don’t need to be perfect—just willing. Leadership isn’t about having it all together. Like Timothy, young people can lead by example when they’re willing to follow Jesus and serve others with humility.

Discussion:
  1. Before You Start! Have each leader introduce themselves and answer these questions:
    1. Give a short testimony (2-5 mins) of your joureny to Jesus.
    2. Who has been the biggest influence on your faith journey, and why?
    3. What was your favorite thing to do when you were in high school?
    4. What’s a hobby or activity you enjoy now that most people wouldn’t expect?
    5. What’s one fun or random fact about you that students might not guess?
  2. Read the talking points above as a group, including scripture references. What are your initial thoughts about these points or about the podcast lesson (see audio above)?
  3. How would you define a “leader”? Do you think Jesus’ definition matches what our culture values?
  4. Why do you think Jesus picked young people for such an important mission?
  5. Have you ever felt “too young” or “not ready” to serve God? How does 1 Timothy 4:12 encourage you?
  6. What challenges do you think students face when it comes to leadership or serving others?
  7. What’s one area in your life where you could grow in humility or service right now?

Week 2: SALT in a Nutshell

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SALT Training 2: SALT in a Nutshell
In this lesson, we’re answering two big questions:

  1. What did Jesus mean when He called His followers the “salt of the earth”?

  2. What exactly will this Student Leadership Team program look like over the next nine months?

The Salt Verse Explained

Matthew 5:13 (NLT) — “You are the salt of the earth. But what good is salt if it has lost its flavor?”

Salt in the ancient world wasn’t always pure. It was mixed with other minerals and could become useless if the real salt content was leached out. That’s the kind of “salt” Jesus’ audience understood: outwardly the same, but inwardly powerless.

As Christians, we’re called to live in a way that’s distinct—preserving truth, adding flavor, and creating thirst for the things of God. When our lives stop reflecting the kingdom, we lose our saltiness, and that kind of faith, Jesus says, is functionally useless.

Three Ways Salt Works (and Why It Matters to You)

  • Salt preserves. In Jesus’ day, it kept food from rotting. Today, we preserve God’s truth by living it and sharing it.

  • Salt adds flavor. Our lives should reflect joy, peace, and love—the “flavor” of God’s kingdom.

  • Salt makes people thirsty. A life lived for Jesus makes others curious, hungry for more.

The SALT program helps you do exactly that in your local church—to live like salt and stay salty.

What the SALT Program Looks Like

In one sentence:

Read daily, serve weekly, and meet monthly.

1. Read Daily

You’ll follow a chapter-a-day New Testament reading plan through the YouVersion Bible App.

  • Engage in the reading by commenting at least twice a week.

  • This helps you build consistency in God’s Word and grow spiritually.

2. Serve Weekly

Pick a team and show up to serve—just like Jesus did (Matthew 20:28).
Options include:

  • Greeter Team (everyone’s a greeter!)

  • Clean Team

  • Sound/Media

  • Kid’s Church

The goal, depending on your church’s structure is that you’ll serve during one service and attend another (either your church’s service or Sunday youth class). Serving helps you build responsibility, confidence, and relationships in your church community.

Acts 20:35 — “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”

3. Meet Monthly

We’ll meet once a month for team building, reflection, and leadership growth. A typical SALT meeting includes:

  • Fun icebreaker or game

  • Leadership lesson from pursueGOD.org

  • Reading Plan check-in

  • Serving Team updates

  • Prayer & encouragement

These meetings build community and give space to grow and regroup.

Boot Camp: Your First 6 Weeks

Here’s how we’ll get started strong:

  • Week 1: SALT Training 1 + Leader Introductions

  • Week 2: SALT Training 2 + Student Introductions

  • Week 3: SALT Training 3 + Open Q&A

  • Weeks 4–6: The 6-part Pursuit series, ending with a commissioning

This intro phase helps set the tone and get everyone on the same page before fully launching into regular meetings and serving schedules.

Graduation and the Big Goal

At the end of the 9-month program, you’ll receive a certificate of completion—a great résumé builder and a meaningful milestone of your growth.

But more importantly, SALT is about something eternal:

  • Building your faith before you leave high school

  • Making your faith your own, not just your parents’

  • Becoming a faithful disciple who reflects Jesus to others

And that’s why we say:
Don’t just look like salt. Be salt. Stay salty.

Coming up next: Lesson 3 — Am I qualified to join the team?
Till then, STAY SALTY!

Talking Points:
  • Before You Start! Have each student introduce themselves and answer these questions:
    1. What grade are you in and what school are you at?
    2. What’s one thing you’re really into right now — a hobby, a sport, a show, or even a game?
    3. What’s one thing you hope to get out of being in SALT this year?
  • Jesus called His followers to be the “salt of the earth”—distinct, purposeful, and impactful in a decaying world. Matthew 5:13
  • Salt preserves truth, adds spiritual flavor, and creates thirst for God in others. That’s what the SALT program trains you to do.
  • The program is built on three core habits: read daily (YouVersion plan), serve weekly (ministry teams), and meet monthly (team growth).
  • This isn’t just about filling roles at church—it’s about becoming more like Jesus through service, discipline, and community.

Discussion:
  1. Read the talking points above as a group, including scripture references. What are your initial thoughts about these points or about the podcast lesson (see audio above)?
  2. Why do you think Jesus used “salt” to describe His followers? Which of the three uses—preserve, flavor, thirst—stands out most to you?
  3. What do you think it means to “lose your saltiness” as a Christian?
  4. Which of the three SALT habits (read daily, serve weekly, meet monthly) feels most exciting to you? Which one feels most challenging?
  5. How could serving at church grow your confidence and your faith?
  6. Why do you think it’s important to build the habit of reading God’s Word every day?
  7. What’s one way you hope to grow personally or spiritually through this program?

Week 3: Should I Join the Team?

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SALT Training 3: Why You Should Be a Student Leader
In this final lesson of the SALT training series, we’re tackling the most important and practical question:
Am I really qualified to join the Student Leadership Team?

If you’ve been asking yourself, “Are you sure I can do this?” — you’re not alone. Most student leaders wrestle with one of these doubts:

  • “I’m too quiet.”

  • “I’m not a natural leader.”

  • “I don’t feel strong in my faith yet.”

But here’s the good news: You don’t have to be perfect. You just have to be willing.

Let’s look at three biblical examples that prove it.

1. “I’m kind of an introvert…”

Guess what? So was Moses.

Exodus 4:10-12 (NLT) — Moses said, “I’m not very good with words… I get tongue-tied…”
But God replied, “Now go! I will be with you… and instruct you in what to say.”

Moses didn’t feel confident speaking in public, and he begged God to pick someone else. But God used him anyway to stand before Pharaoh and lead a nation to freedom.
You don’t have to be loud to lead. You just have to obey.

2. “I don’t see myself as a leader…”

You’re in good company. David was overlooked by his own family.

1 Samuel 16:7 (NLT) — “People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”

Everyone saw David as “just a shepherd boy,” but God saw leadership potential in his heart. If you’ve ever felt unnoticed or underestimated, remember: God doesn’t call the qualified—He qualifies the called.

3. “I’m not a very strong Christian yet…”

Neither were the disciples.

  • They doubted.

  • They made mistakes.

  • They even abandoned Jesus during His arrest.

And still, Jesus chose them to build the Church.

1 Corinthians 1:27 (NLT) — “God chose things the world considers foolish… to shame those who think they are wise.”

God delights in using people the world would never expect. And He wants to use you.

1 Timothy 4:12 (NLT) — “Don’t let anyone think less of you because you are young. Be an example… in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity.”

SALT isn’t about being the loudest, the oldest, or the best. It’s about students saying, “I’m willing.”
Willing to grow.
Willing to serve.
Willing to follow Jesus, even if they’re still figuring it all out.

That’s what makes a great student leader.

So… are you in?

We hope you’ve enjoyed this training series. If you’re ready, let your leaders know—and STAY SALTY.

Talking Points:
  • God often calls people who feel underqualified—like Moses, David, and the disciples—to do great things. You don’t have to be perfect to lead.
  • Moses felt insecure and tongue-tied, but God still used him to lead a nation. Exodus 4:10-12
  • David was overlooked by everyone else, but God saw leadership in his heart. 1 Samuel 16:7
  • The disciples were full of doubts and failures, but Jesus still called them. 1 Corinthians 1:27
  • Students can set an example and make an impact when they lead with faith and humility. 1 Timothy 4:12

Discussion:
  1. Read the talking points above as a group, including scripture references. What are your initial thoughts about these points or about the podcast lesson (see audio above)?
  2. Which of the three doubts—”I’m too quiet,” “I’m not a leader,” or “I’m not strong in faith”—do you relate to most?
  3. How does Moses’ story encourage people who feel nervous about speaking or leading?
  4. Why do you think God chooses “ordinary” people to lead in the Bible and today?
  5. What qualities does God look for in a leader according to 1 Samuel 16:7?
  6. Why is being “willing” more important than being perfect when it comes to leadership?
  7. What’s one thing holding you back from saying yes to SALT, and how can you overcome it?

PURSUIT MODULE

Week 4: Student Pursuit 1 and 2

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Can I Really Know God?

Most students wrestle with this question at some point: Can I really know God, or is He too far away? The good news is the Bible doesn’t leave us guessing. God makes a bold promise in Jeremiah 29:13: “If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me.” That means God isn’t playing hide-and-seek. He actually wants you to know Him, and He’s already taken the first step toward you.

But before you jump into pursuing God, it’s fair to ask: How do I know this is legit? Can I really trust the Bible?

1. Can I Really Trust the Bible?

The Bible isn’t just an old religious book—it’s the most well-preserved ancient document in history. The Dead Sea Scrolls confirmed that God has preserved His Word with incredible accuracy. And even though it was written by 40+ authors across 1,500 years, it tells one unified story that points to Jesus. John 5:39. The radical life-change of people like Peter, Thomas, and Paul is further proof that the Bible is trustworthy and Jesus is real.

2. You Were Made in God’s Image

Genesis 1:26 says you were created in the image of God. That gives every human being unshakable value and dignity. It also explains why injustice, racism, and violence feel so wrong to us. God stamped His image into us from the beginning, and when we understand that, it changes how we see ourselves and others. Genesis 1:31.

3. God Designed You for Freedom and Love

From the very start, God gave people the freedom to choose. Genesis 2:16-17. Love can’t be forced—it has to be chosen. And Jesus said the greatest commandment is simple: love God, love others, and love yourself in a healthy way. Matthew 22:37-40. That’s what life is about—not just rules or religion, but relationships.

4. God Is for You, Not Against You

Many people picture God as angry or distant. But Jesus showed us the truth: God is willing to meet you where you are. Matthew 8:2-3. He offers a full and abundant life—not just in eternity but right now. John 10:10. And when we live “full circle”—trusting Jesus, honoring God, and helping others pursue Him—we start to experience that life to the fullest.

5. God Is Already Pursuing You

Even before you were born, God knew you and loved you. Psalm 139:16. He’s been pursuing your heart since day one. The Bible isn’t a list of rules to keep—it’s a love story that invites you to step in. The real question is whether you’re willing to take the next step toward Him. Jeremiah 29:13.

Talking Points:
  • In today’s topic we’re asking the big question: Can I really know God? The Bible says yes—God isn’t hiding from us. He promises that if we seek Him with all our heart, we will find Him. Jeremiah 29:13
  • The Bible is historically reliable, textually unified, and personally transforming—evidence that God has preserved His Word and that it all points to Jesus. Jeremiah 29:13, John 5:39
  • Being made in God’s image gives every person unshakable value and dignity. This truth changes how we see ourselves and how we treat others. Genesis 1:26, Genesis 1:31
  • God gave us freedom so that our love for Him and others would be real. Our ultimate purpose is to love God and love people. Genesis 2:16-17, Matthew 22:37-40
  • God isn’t distant or against us—He is willing to meet us where we are and invites us into a full, abundant life. Matthew 8:2-3, John 10:10
  • God has been pursuing us from the very beginning and we are invited to respond and take the next step in our pursuit of Him. Psalm 139:16

Discussion:

  1. Read the talking points above as a group, including scripture references. What are your initial thoughts about these points or about the podcast lesson (see audio above)?

  2. How would you describe your relationship with God at this point—do you feel near to Him, or more distant?

  3. Which kind of evidence for the Bible—historical, textual, or personal—do you find most convincing? Why?

  4. How does being made in God’s image change the way you think about yourself and other people?

  5. What do you think “life to the full” (John 10:10) would look like for a teenager today?

  6. What comes to mind when you think about God pursuing you personally? How does Psalm 139:16 talk about that?

  7. If pursuing God means taking the next step, what do you think your next step could be right now?

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What’s Wrong with the World? (The Problem of Sin)

If God is real, if the Bible is true, and if every person has value… then why does the world feel so broken? That’s the question people have been asking forever. From global problems like war, injustice, and poverty to personal struggles like guilt, shame, and regret, something is clearly wrong. The Bible gives us one clear answer: sin.

Sin Is Going Our Own Way

When you hear the word sin, maybe you think of an angry preacher yelling at “bad people.” But the Bible explains it much more simply: sin is choosing our own way instead of God’s way.

In Genesis 3:1-6, Adam and Eve lived in a perfect garden with one rule: don’t eat from the tree in the middle. The serpent whispered lies—“Did God really say that?… You won’t die… He’s holding out on you.” Eve and Adam both believed the lie and chose their own way. That first decision broke everything. They lost trust in God, and ever since, humanity has struggled with the same problem.

Sin isn’t just “breaking rules.” It’s trusting ourselves over God. And that choice always has consequences.

Sin Breaks Everything

Think of it like a glass of lemonade. One drop of poison ruins the whole thing. Sin works the same way. Even “small” sins—selfish thoughts, hurtful words, hidden pride—spread damage everywhere.

The Bible describes the results in Galatians 5:19-21: sexual immorality, impurity, jealousy, anger, selfish ambition, division, envy, drunkenness, wild parties. Romans 1:30 adds that people even “invent new ways of sinning.” Sound familiar? Gossip, bullying, ghosting, spreading rumors—the list keeps growing.

The bottom line: sin breaks trust, destroys relationships, and pulls us away from the full life God wants for us. Jesus said in John 10:10, “My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.” But sin robs us of that life.

Sin Lives in All of Us

So where does it start? Is there an age where people officially “become sinners”? The Bible says it goes deeper than bad behavior—it’s in our nature.

Romans 3:10-12 says, “No one is righteous—not even one… all have turned away.” Romans 3:23 says, “Everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard.”

Watch a two-year-old for five minutes and you’ll get it. No one has to teach kids to be selfish—it comes naturally. And honestly, we never really grow out of it. That’s because we don’t just do sinful things—we’re born with a sinful nature.

Why We Must Be Born Again

This raises a big question: if sin is baked into our nature, are we just stuck with it? Thankfully, Jesus gives us the answer.

In John 3:3 He said, “I tell you the truth, unless you are born again, you cannot see the Kingdom of God.”

That phrase “born again” is powerful. Your first birth gave you a sinful nature. But through Jesus, you can have a new birth—a new nature. Notice Jesus didn’t say, “Try harder” or “Be a better person.” He said you need a whole new life.

Jesus lived the perfect life we couldn’t live. He died to pay the penalty for our sin. And He rose again to give us new life. Being born again isn’t about religion—it’s about letting Jesus give you a brand-new start.

The Good News: A Way Back to God

So what do we do with all of this? The Bible’s message is simple:

  • Be honest about your sin. Don’t ignore it or make excuses.

  • Realize sin affects every part of your life.

  • Admit you can’t fix yourself.

  • Trust Jesus to give you new life.

This is why the gospel is called “good news.” God hasn’t abandoned us to our brokenness. Even though sin entered the world through Adam and Eve, new life enters the world through Jesus.

So, what’s wrong with the world? Sin. What’s the solution? Jesus. And that truth isn’t just a theological idea—it’s an invitation. If you’ve never trusted Him, He offers to forgive you and make you new. That’s the turning point not just of the Bible, but of your life.

Talking Points:
  • Sin means going our own way instead of going God’s way. That’s what Adam and Eve did in the garden, and it’s what we still do today. Genesis 3:1-6
  • Sin isn’t just about “breaking rules.” It messes up everything—our thinking, our friendships, and even how we see ourselves. Galatians 5:19-21, Romans 1:30
  • Everyone struggles with sin. It’s part of our nature from birth, not just mistakes we make once in a while. Romans 3:10-12, Romans 3:23
  • We can’t fix sin by ourselves. Trying harder or being “good enough” won’t work. That’s why Jesus said we need to be “born again.” John 3:3
  • Jesus is the only one who can give us a brand-new start. He died for our sins and rose again so we could live the full life God wants for us. John 10:10

Discussion:

  1. Read the talking points above as a group, including scripture references. What are your initial thoughts about these points or about the podcast lesson (see audio above)?

  2. When you look at the world today, what examples do you see that show something is “broken”?

  3. Why can our feelings sometimes lead us in the wrong direction? Can you think of a choice you made that ended up making things harder for you?

  4. Where have you seen sin break trust or hurt relationships in your own life?

  5. Read Galatians 5:19–21. How have you and others justified some of these sins in your own life? (Or other sins like gossip, lying, bullying etc.)

  6. What does it mean to be “born again”? How is that different from just trying harder to be good?

  7. This week, be real with yourself and think about the parts of your life that feel broken or messed up.

Week 5: Student Pursuit 3 and 4

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Jesus: God’s Solution to Our Sin Problem

Every problem needs a solution—and when it comes to humanity’s greatest problem, sin, the Bible says there’s only one answer: Jesus.

We aren’t saved by trying harder, following religious rules, or checking spiritual boxes. We’re saved by trusting in the person and work of Jesus Christ. In Acts 10, Peter shares the gospel with Cornelius’ household, describing five core truths about who Jesus is and what He did to save us.

1. Jesus Is Lord of All
Acts 10:36 – “There is peace with God through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all.”

Peter begins with Jesus’ identity. He’s not just a prophet or teacher—He is Lord.

  • John 1:1-4 shows Jesus as God the Son, the Creator of all things.

  • John 8:58 records Jesus claiming the divine name, “I AM.”

  • Colossians 1:15,19-20 reveals that “God in all his fullness was pleased to live in Christ.”

Jesus is fully God, and that’s essential. If He were only human, He couldn’t save us. He is Lord of all people, not just a select group—He came for everyone.

2. Jesus Is Perfectly Good
Acts 10:38 – “Jesus went around doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil.”

Jesus revealed the goodness of God through His miracles and compassion.

  • He healed the sick, fed the hungry, and even raised the dead.
    But His greatest miracle was His sinless life. Because He never sinned, He was qualified to die for our sins instead of His own.

3. Jesus Was Crucified and Risen
Acts 10:39-40 – “They put him to death by hanging him on a cross, but God raised him to life on the third day.”

At 33, Jesus willingly went to the cross—fulfilling prophecy from Isaiah 53. His death wasn’t an accident; it was God’s plan to save us.
But the story doesn’t end at the cross. On the third day, He rose from the grave.

  • 1 Corinthians 15:14 says, “If Christ has not been raised, then all our preaching is useless.”

The resurrection proves Jesus’ power over sin and death—and His disciples’ transformation proves it really happened.

4. Jesus Is the Judge of All
Acts 10:42 – “Jesus is the one appointed by God to be the judge of all—the living and the dead.”

Jesus is not only Savior but also Judge. Every person will stand before Him to give an account. Romans 2:9,16 teaches that God’s judgment is fair and inescapable.
We are all guilty, and Hebrews 10:31 warns, “It is a terrifying thing to fall into the hands of the living God.”
But here’s the beauty: at the cross, God’s justice and love met. He poured out His wrath on His Son so that we could be forgiven.

5. Jesus Is the Forgiver of Sins
Acts 10:43 – “Everyone who believes in Jesus will have their sins forgiven through his name.”

This is the gospel’s climax. Forgiveness is available to anyone who believes—not through good works, but through faith in Jesus.
Romans 3:23-25 says that “God, in his grace, freely makes us right in his sight through Christ Jesus.”
Through faith, we are forgiven, restored, and made new.

Conclusion: Our Choice
Peter’s message ended with a decision—and the same choice faces you today.

Jesus is Lord of all.
He lived perfectly, died sacrificially, rose victoriously, and will return as Judge.
And He offers forgiveness freely to everyone who believes.

Will you trust Him? Will you believe that His work on the cross is enough to save you? That’s what it means to be born again—to start a new story with Jesus at the center.

Talking Points:

  • Jesus is fully God, not just a prophet or teacher: His identity as God makes Him the only one who can save us. (John 1:1-4, Colossians 1:15-20)

  • Jesus lived a perfect life without sin: He showed God’s goodness through His actions and care for others. (Acts 10:38)

  • Jesus died and came back to life: His death and resurrection prove He has power over sin and death. (Acts 10:39-40, 1 Corinthians 15:14)

  • Jesus will judge everyone one day: He will hold everyone accountable for how they lived. (Acts 10:42, Romans 2:9-16)

  • Jesus offers forgiveness to anyone who believes: Salvation is a gift we receive by trusting in Jesus, not something we earn. (Acts 10:43, Romans 3:23-25)

Discussion:
  1. Read the talking points above as a group, including scripture references. What are your initial thoughts about these points or about the podcast lesson (see audio above)?
  2. Before listening to this episode, how would you have described Jesus to someone?
  3. When you think about Jesus being “Lord of all,” what does that mean for your everyday life—like how you treat people or make choices?
  4. Jesus lived a perfect life. How does that challenge the way you think about what it means to be “good”?
  5. The resurrection means death isn’t the end. How does that change the way you view things like fear, loss, or the future?
  6. Knowing that Jesus will one day judge everyone, how should that impact what you prioritize right now as a student?
  7. Why do you think so many people try to earn God’s approval instead of accepting forgiveness by faith?
  8. If Jesus offers forgiveness to everyone, what’s one step you could take to share that message with a friend who doesn’t know Him yet?

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So far we’ve learned about humanity’s problem (sin) and God’s solution (Jesus). But here’s the thing: the fact that Jesus died on the cross and rose from the dead does not save you from your sins. It’s your personal response to Jesus that opens the door to salvation and makes you “born again.” The Bible calls it “saving faith,” and in this lesson we’ll tell you all about it.

God’s Love

Saving faith starts with God. What was his motivation for sending Jesus to the cross? Why did he make such a costly sacrifice? The Apostle John gives the answer:

1 John 4:9 God showed how much he loved us by sending his one and only Son into the world so that we might have eternal life through him.

Out of love, God sent Jesus into the world to solve our sin problem. Many religions depict a deity who is full of wrath toward the human race. Other faiths describe a god who requires strict obedience to a list of rules. These ideas generate a picture of a transactional god, a cosmic deity doing business with people who struggle to keep up their end of the bargain.

But the God of the Bible is different. He’s a relational God, proactively reaching out to the human race in spite of their failure to bring anything good to the table. And this God didn’t send Jesus into the world with reluctance or out of obligation; he did it willingly – out of love.

Our Attitude

So God’s heart is the first thing you need to know about saving faith. The second thing has to do with your heart. Saving faith requires more than just the right information about Jesus. It also requires the right attitude toward God, which the Bible calls “repentance.”

When the apostle Peter preached his first sermon after Christ’s death and resurrection, he invited people to respond to the message of salvation. Their response perfectly models the heart attitude necessary for saving faith:

Acts 2:37 Peter’s words pierced their hearts, and they said to him and to the other apostles, “Brothers, what should we do?”

Read the full sermon for yourself (Acts 2:14-36) and you’ll see that Peter covers Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection – putting it all in the context of the story of Israel. Then he closes his sermon by pointing out that Israel rejected Jesus and nailed him to the cross. The message should have offended the Jewish listeners.

But that’s not what happened. Instead, the message “pierced their hearts” and the listeners humbly submitted themselves to God. They didn’t claim to know more than Peter, but instead wanted to know what they had to do in order to be saved. Peter’s response was simple:

Acts 2:38 Each of you must repent of your sins and turn to God….

Repentance is the attitude that says, “I’ve changed my mind and I’m ready to go God’s way now.” It’s an act of the will, a relinquishing of control. It happened to the listeners in Acts 2, and it resulted in their humble response to Peter’s message. And it still happens to people today when they’re ready to respond to Jesus in faith.

The Confession

When God begins a saving work in your heart, it’s important to express it in words. The Bible calls this “confession.” To confess literally means to “say the same thing.” When we confess our faith, we are repeating what God has already said. We are agreeing with Him that we’re sinners and that Jesus can save us. Here’s how Paul explained it:

Romans 10:9 If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.

Believe and declare. That’s how we activate saving faith in Jesus. Have you ever done this? Are you ready to do it now? If so, pray a “sinner’s prayer” like this:

“Jesus, I recognize I’m a sinner. I know that you died on the cross and rose from the dead so that I could have life. I’m turning from my sin now, and I’m turning to you in faith. I trust in you alone to forgive my sin and give me new life. Thank you for this free gift. Amen.”

There’s nothing magical about these particular words. What matters is that you have the right information (about sin and Jesus) and that you respond to it with the right attitude (repentance). That’s the essence of confession. Once you’ve done it, the Bible says you’re saved: forgiven of your sins and given a new life in Christ.

Saved by Grace

Some people find this hard to believe. Does the Bible actually teach such a simple pathway to salvation? Is there really nothing more that God requires of me?  It sounds too good to be true! But the Bible makes it clear:

Ephesians 2:8 God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God.

It’s human nature to want to earn our keep. We love the sense of accomplishment that comes from an honest day’s work. In the physical realm this is a good thing and the Bible even commands it (2 Thessalonians 3:10-12). But the spiritual realm works differently. In God’s economy, we cannot work for our salvation. God alone can save us, and he alone gets all the credit.

Jesus did all of the work to save us. The Bible teaches that we are “dead in our sin” – and dead people can’t do anything! That’s why the Bible uses the word “grace”. It literally means “gift”. A gift is freely given, and you can’t work for it. If you try to pay for it, it’s no longer a gift.

Here’s the point: No level of personal performance can earn God’s approval. We are saved 100% by grace the moment we trust Jesus for salvation.

Everyone Who Believes

So there’s one final question you might have about saving faith: Could it really be true for you? This brings us to one final verse:

Romans 3:22 We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jesus Christ. And this is true for everyone who believes, no matter who we are.

Some people are so burdened by their sin or doubts that they feel out of God’s reach. Some may ask, “How could Jesus possibly want a relationship with someone like me? What if I’ve committed the unforgivable sin?” Others question, “I’m not sure my faith is strong enough. I still have questions about the Bible.”

So here’s the good news: the pathway to salvation is simpler than you think. Jesus did the heavy lifting; you just believe. The blood of Jesus is far more powerful than the skeletons in your closet; just believe (Romans 8:1). The message of the cross can overcome your doubts; just believe (1 Corinthians 1:18-21). Those who have trusted Jesus for salvation are made “right with God” in an instant, not in a lifetime of good works. This is what the Bible says about “saving faith” – the most important defining moment of your life.

Saving faith is an end and a beginning. It’s the end of your old life, and it’s the beginning of a new way to live. That’s what we’ll cover in the next few lessons.

Talking Points:

  • Saving faith begins with understanding God’s love, shown through Jesus’ sacrifice for our sins (1 John 4:9).

  • It requires a heart change—repentance, where we choose to turn from sin and follow God (Acts 2:38).

  • Confession is key, where we openly declare Jesus as Lord and believe in His resurrection for salvation (Romans 10:9).

  • Salvation is a free gift of grace, not something we can earn through good works (Ephesians 2:8).

  • Anyone who believes in Jesus, no matter their past, can be made right with God (Romans 3:22)

Discussion:
  1. Read the talking points above as a group, including scripture references. What are your initial thoughts about these points or about the podcast lesson (see audio above)?
  2. Read 1 John 4:9. How did God show His love for us, and why did He do it?
  3. What are the “right things” we need to know to be saved? What does it mean to have the right attitude toward God?
  4. Read Ephesians 2:8. Why is it important to understand that grace is a gift, not something we can earn?
  5. Read Romans 3:22. This verse says that we’re made right with God by faith in Jesus. Do you believe that’s true for everyone, no matter what they’ve done? Why or why not?
  6. Read Romans 10:9. Have you ever confessed your faith in Jesus? If not, what questions do you still have? Are you ready to make that decision today?

Week 6: Student Pursuit 5 and 6

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Pursuit 5: So You’re a Christian… Now What?

You’ve put your faith in Jesus — the most important decision you’ll ever make. But that decision isn’t the end of your story; it’s the beginning of a brand-new life. The Bible says, “Anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!” (2 Corinthians 5:17 NLT)

This episode is about what comes next — the first steps and habits that help you grow in your faith and live out your new identity in Christ.

Your First Step: Baptism

Baptism was the next step for new believers in the Bible. It’s how they publicly showed that they belonged to Jesus.
But baptism doesn’t save you — Jesus already did that. Titus 3:5 says, “[God] saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy.”
Baptism is about obedience. Jesus told His followers to do it (Matthew 28:19). It’s also a symbol of your new life: going under the water shows that your old life is gone, and coming out shows that you’ve been raised to live for Jesus (Romans 6:3–4).

If you’ve trusted Jesus but haven’t been baptized yet, that’s a great next step. It’s your way of saying, “I’m all in.”

The Goal: Learning What Pleases God

Becoming a Christian starts a lifelong journey of learning what makes God happy. Ephesians 5:10 says, “Carefully determine what pleases the Lord.”
The Holy Spirit begins changing your heart so you start to become more like Jesus — showing love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22–23).
This isn’t about trying to be perfect — it’s about letting God transform you through His power and grace.

God gives you everything you need to grow through three main things:

  1. God’s Spirit – living inside you.

  2. God’s Word – guiding your steps.

  3. God’s People – helping you stay strong.

God’s Spirit

When you put your faith in Jesus, the Holy Spirit came to live in you (Ephesians 1:13). He gives you new desires and the strength to follow God (Ezekiel 36:26–27).
You’ll still face temptation and struggles — that’s normal. Galatians 5:16–17 says the Spirit and our old sinful nature are in a battle. But the Spirit helps you fight and grow stronger.

God’s Word

The Bible is God’s truth to help you know Him and live His way. 2 Timothy 3:16–17 says, “All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true… and train us to do what is right.”
If you want to grow, make reading the Bible part of your daily life. Read a little each day, think about what it means, and look for what it shows you about Jesus (John 5:39–40).

God’s People

You weren’t meant to follow Jesus alone. Hebrews 10:25 says, “Let us not neglect our meeting together… but encourage one another.”
You need other believers to help you stay on track — and they need you, too.
Find your people: go to church, join a youth group, be part of a small group or mentoring relationship. God gave every believer gifts to build each other up (1 Corinthians 12:7).

Building New Habits

Spiritual growth takes time and practice, like working out. 1 Timothy 4:8 says, “Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better.”
Here are five habits that will help your faith grow:

  • Prayer – Talk to God every day. Be honest about your feelings, needs, and questions. (1 Thessalonians 5:17)

  • Bible Reading – Read and think about what God says. Let it shape how you live.

  • Community – Stay connected to other believers. (Hebrews 10:25)

  • Giving – Be generous with your time and money. (Matthew 6:21)

  • Mentoring – Help someone else learn to follow Jesus. (Matthew 28:19–20)

You don’t do these to earn God’s love — you do them because you already have it.

The Start of Something New

So you’re a Christian… now what?
Get baptized.
Walk daily with God’s Spirit, stay grounded in His Word, and stay connected to His people.
Build habits that help your faith grow.

You are a new person (2 Corinthians 5:17).
Learn what pleases the Lord (Ephesians 5:10).
And remember — God’s already given you everything you need (2 Peter 1:3).

This is just the beginning of a lifelong journey of becoming more like Jesus — one step at a time, by grace.

Talking Points:
  • Baptism is a public way to show that you belong to Jesus and are ready to follow Him. Matthew 28:19, Romans 6:3–4
  • Following Jesus means learning what pleases God and letting Him change your heart. Ephesians 5:10, Galatians 5:22–23
  • God’s Spirit lives inside you to guide, strengthen, and help you make good choices. Galatians 5:16–17, Ezekiel 36:26–27
  • The Bible helps you know what’s true and how to live in a way that honors God. 2 Timothy 3:16–17, John 5:39–40
  • You grow best when you stay connected to other believers who encourage and challenge you. Hebrews 10:25, 1 Corinthians 12:7

Discussion:
  1. Read the talking points above as a group, including scripture references. What are your initial thoughts about these points or about the podcast lesson (see audio above)?
  2. Why do you think baptism was such a big deal for new believers in the Bible?
  3. What’s one way the Holy Spirit has helped you change or grow since following Jesus?
  4. What’s something you’ve learned from reading or hearing God’s Word that really stuck with you?
  5. Why do you think being around other Christians makes such a difference in your faith?
  6. Which of the five habits (prayer, Bible, community, giving, mentoring) feels hardest for you right now — and what could help you grow in it?
  7. How could you start helping a friend or younger student take their next step in following Jesus?

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Pursuit 6: The Final Step — How to Go Full Circle in Your Faith

In this series, we’ve talked about what it means to become a Christian and how to live like one.
Step 1 was about trusting Jesus for salvation.
Step 2 was about honoring God with your life.
But there’s one more step — the step that brings your faith full circle. It’s what turns a believer into a leader.

Jesus calls every Christian to make disciples. This isn’t just for pastors or adults — it’s for anyone who follows Jesus. When you learn to help someone else grow in their faith, that’s when your own faith really starts to mature.

Why We Make Disciples

We make disciples because Jesus told us to.
Matthew 28:18–19 says, “Jesus came and told his disciples, ‘I have been given all authority… Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations…’”
Making disciples isn’t a suggestion — it’s a command from Jesus.

It’s also His plan for how the church works.
Ephesians 4:11–12 says that leaders in the church are supposed to equip God’s people to do ministry — not do everything themselves.

And the truth is, people around you need it.
Matthew 9:36 says Jesus had compassion on people because they were “confused and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.”
The people in your life need someone to walk beside them, listen to their questions, and point them to truth. That someone could be you.

But What If I’m Not Ready?

A lot of Christians hesitate because they don’t feel good enough, smart enough, or experienced enough to lead someone else.
But the truth is: you grow by doing.
Ephesians 4:14–15 says, “We will no longer be immature… Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ.”
You don’t have to know everything before you start — you just have to start.
Jesus sent His disciples before they had it all figured out. And He’ll help you too.

How to Actually Do It (The PursueGOD Way)

Making disciples doesn’t have to be complicated. If you can have a real conversation, you can make a disciple.
Here’s how to do it in three steps:

Step 1: Engage — Build a real friendship. Ask good questions. Listen. Start with topics that matter to them. (1 Corinthians 2:14)

Step 2: Establish — Once trust is built, walk through The Pursuit series together. It helps people understand the gospel, baptism, and how to follow Jesus. (Matthew 10:19–20)

Step 3: Empower — Show them how to help someone else do the same. That’s how discipleship multiplies. (2 Timothy 2:2)

You don’t need to be perfect — just be willing.

The Essentials of Disciple-Making

If you want to be effective, keep these five essentials in mind:

  • Commit to real relationships. Discipleship isn’t a project; it’s personal. (John 15:12–17)

  • Share truth at the right time. Ask questions and listen before you speak. (Luke 12:12)

  • Do your part, not God’s. You can’t force anyone to grow — that’s God’s job. (Acts 8:29)

  • Point everything to Jesus. It’s not about giving advice; it’s about helping people know Him better.

  • Pray consistently. Keep a list and ask God to move in their lives. (James 5:16)

The Challenge

You were made for more than just church attendance.
You were made for more than private faith.
You were made to make disciples.

Matthew 4:19 says, “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will show you how to fish for people.”

So who can you start with?
Make a list. Start praying. Then take that first step — invite someone into a conversation and see what God does.

You don’t have to be perfect. You just have to be willing.
This is how your faith comes full circle.

Talking Points:
  • Making disciples is not optional — Jesus commands every believer to do it. Matthew 28:18–19
  • You don’t have to be “ready” to disciple someone; you grow by doing it. Ephesians 4:14–15
  • Disciple-making starts with building real friendships and having honest conversations. 1 Corinthians 2:14
  • You help someone grow by walking with them through truth, not by having all the answers. Matthew 10:19–20
  • True maturity means helping someone else take their next step in faith. 2 Timothy 2:2

Discussion:
  1. Read the talking points above as a group, including scripture references. What are your initial thoughts about these points or about the podcast lesson (see audio above)?
  2. Why do you think Jesus told every believer — not just pastors — to make disciples?
  3. What makes you feel nervous or unprepared to help someone else grow in their faith?
  4. Who in your life could you start having spiritual conversations with, and what might that first step look like?
  5. Why do you think helping someone else in their faith can help you grow stronger in yours?

 
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