![]() Additionally, recognize their desire to connect with others and build relationships.ĭon’t immediately assume that introverted teens are shy or lack opinions. It's essential to communicate with outgoing teens, ask for their input, and understand what they genuinely enjoy doing. Some may find joy in behind-the-scenes tasks and taking care of details. Not all extroverts thrive in the spotlight. A few small shifts in our approach can help us see beyond the surface.Īvoid making assumptions about extroverts’ preferences for public roles-like giving announcements or leading worship. Because of this, I’ve taken time to research and understand the experiences of introverts within the church. Leading Bible studies with teenagers in mind doesn’t have to mean making major changes to your teaching plan, so we’re including a few tips to help you get started! How do I plan a ministry where both introverts and extroverts will feel at home?Īfter that formative revelation about my personal ministry practice, I (Gio) began to recognize that many church settings are typically tailored to suit extroverted individuals. When planning Bible studies for teens of different ages, experiences, and learning styles, here are 3 questions youth leaders often ask. By considering the setting, audience, lessons, and techniques employed by Jesus, we can see that he was always adapting to effectively engage his learners. When those who came to learn from him were uncertain or misguided, Jesus probed with questions to get them to see their own thinking flaws and discover the truth for themselves. Jesus also used direct questions to challenge the assumptions of his learners. ![]() When challenged about paying taxes by Pharisees, Jesus offered a physical Roman coin as a visual aid to enhance his lesson. During his teaching, Jesus called these fishermen to join him and shared that he would transform them into "fishers of people." Jesus cleverly connected what occupied the disciples’ days with the invitation to follow, capturing their attention and interest. But consider Jesus’ calling of his disciples: The shores of the Sea of Galilee served as the backdrop, with Peter and his brother Andrew being the students. If your youth group is large or has a broad range of unique personalities and needs, you might feel like adapting for everyone would be a huge task. Effective teaching with teens begins by asking yourself some good questions ![]() Now, as I plan youth activities and Bible studies, I strive to notice and factor in their individual ways of interacting with the world. I’ve had to learn to grasp the unique personalities and learning needs of my students, and to appreciate the diverse perspectives they bring to the table. Imagine my surprise when I finally realized that, instead of a huge extravaganza right before Bible study, my teens preferred a cozy, lo-fi gathering with relational games, painting, and even journaling or writing poetry. “The louder, the better” was my measurement for ministry success.īut here’s the plot twist-amidst all the hoorah, I didn’t quite catch on to the fact that most of my young people were introverts. Think karaoke battles, American Ninja Warrior meets Bible trivia competitions, and enough laughter to fill a football stadium. I planned the most epic and action-packed activities as ice-breakers before our Bible studies. During my first 3 years in youth ministry, my extroverted energy was on full blast. Of course, I will admit that I can be a little “extra” sometimes. I, Gio, have been described as enthusiastic, spirited, and fun-loving. How would your teenage students describe you as a youth leader?
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