If your class is meeting online, invite teens to bring supplies with them to class. Before class, write the following references on the whiteboard (or screenshared document): Isaiah 6:5-7; Psalm 51:1-3; Daniel 9:5-6; I John 1:8-10; Romans 7:14-17; Revelation 3:15-18; Psalm 139:23-24. In addition, write the following bullet points: Words, Attitudes, Thoughts, Actions.

Sometimes it can be easier to try to cover up or justify our sin than it is to admit it. But there’s no substitute for the forgiveness we receive when we confess our sins. Rather than tie us down, confession and the resulting forgiveness frees us. Have a student read John 8:32.

• Why does the “truth set us free”? (Answers will vary but may include that trying to cover over something leads to lies that entrap us; God’s forgiveness is only available when we speak truth about our sins.)

Distribute supplies (or invite teens to have them ready at home). This week, let’s spend some time “getting free.” Here are some verses and prayer prompts to help you as you spend time with God in confession. Have your students copy down the references from the whiteboard (or screenshared document). Discuss each of the bullet points, giving your students some of the following ideas to prompt their thinking:

Your Words – have you spoken evil of anyone, criticized, used sharp words, told half-truths?
Your Attitudes – have you had a complaining spirit, or been difficult, grouchy, or a know-it-all?
Your Thoughts – have your thoughts consisted of evil desires, lusts, doubts, fears, hatred, bitterness, etc.?
Your Actions – have you broken God’s laws? Do you do what you say you will?

If time permits, you may want to give your students a few minutes to begin their “getting free” time with God. Encourage them to continue spending time in this fashion throughout the upcoming week.

Close your class in prayer.