Music Video Loop 80

COVER

ALL MUSIC VIDEO BIBLE STUDIES ARE AVAILABLE DIGITALLY AT

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Cover: Flyleaf

Maximizing Music & Media in Youth Ministry

Music Video Loop / Resource Book / Volume 80 / Spring 2013

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ALL MUSIC VIDEO BIBLE STUDIES ARE AVAILABLE DIGITALLY AT

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

CONTENTS

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Music Video Bible Studies:

study song: album title: study theme:

study song: album title: study theme:

study song: album title: study theme

6 TobyMac

8 Flyleaf

10 Owl City

Eye On It Eye On It Discipline

New Horizons New Horizons Hope; In God

Shooting Star The Midsummer Station Evangelism; God’s Representatives

20 MercyMe

22 The Rocket Summer Just For A Moment

24 Planetshakers

You Are I Am lyric video Hurt & The Healer God’s Greatness

Life Will Write The Words Perspective

34 Holly Starr

36 War Of Ages

Don’t Have Love Focus Worldliness

Silent Night Return To Life Difficulties; Hope Within

Music Video Loop Resource Book

Volume 80 • Spring 2013 Maximizing Music & Media In Youth Ministry

The Music Video Loop Resource Book is published quarterly by interlínc, Franklin, TN

Limitless Limitless God’s Power

Direct any questions or comments to interlínc at 1-800-725-3300 or visit interlinc-online.com

TABLE OF CONTENTS <<

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12 Audio Adrenaline

14 Newsboys

16 Propaganda

18 Your Memorial

Kings & Queens Kings & Queens Compassion

Your Love Never Fails lyric video God’s Not Dead God’s Love

Excellent Excellent Righteousness

Shipwreck Redirect Sin; Struggle With

26 Abandon Kansas Turn It To Gold

28 Pioneer

30 Capital Kings

32 Young Chozen

Lights Pioneer Truth

You’ll Never Be Alone lyric video Capital Kings God’s Presence

Class President Class President Evangelism; God’s Representatives

Theme Videos:

38

Department:

4

Turn It To Gold digital single Renewal

Letter From The Editor theme: video:

Peer Pressure “Not Today” Movie

5 How To Use This Resource Book

Staff: Publisher: Allen Weed • Editor: Ken McCoy • The WriteGroup: Rick Bundschuh, Cindy Engøy, Eric Gargus, Dave McGinley, Todd Pearage, Doug Ranck, Jeremy White, Mary Wilson-Peed • Art Direction: Ken McCoy • Cover Design: Thomas Ryan Design • Bible Study Layout: Ken McCoy Production Manager: Glen Allen Green • Proofing: Anne Conley, Jeannine Ugalde, Dale Weed

EDITOR’S >>LETTER

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

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Conditioned To Respond The combination of the Music Video Loop DVD, a television (or video projector), and a sound system can be very powerful.

Our young friends have seemingly been conditioned to respond to video sights and sounds.

When you take advantage of the technology to communicate God’s truth, the resulting ministry effectiveness becomes very compelling.

Around the room the thirty or so teenagers were “hanging out” in groups of three or four. The musicians were tuning up, and a couple of guys were playing Air Hockey while other students were arriving for Sunday School.

He was a hit as soon as he walked into the room.

Well, at least he was very popular with most of the guys. That’s because he brought in with him his brand new skateboard – a new kind of board that, instead of the normal four-wheels/two-trucks, his board had two sets of ten (or so) wheels arranged in a curve across the board. This new kind of board immediately caught most of the guys’ attention, and they surrounded him with questions and good-natured ribbing about being “way out there” in his choice of ride.

His in-room demonstration of the ride characteristics of the board – it’s carving turns, a nd how he could still ollie and flip with it – was cut short when everyone’s attention was instantly diverted by something else. No, the youth leader didn’t get up in front and start the meeting. (As if she had that much control!) But, she did cause every head in the room to turn, every eye focus on the same spot, and every ear to listen.

That’s why we work so hard to make these ministry tools as good as they possibly can be.

You’re getting the latest music videos in the Christian music scene.

More importantly, these Bible Studies are developed by real-life youth leaders like yourself to enable you to make the most of this Video Loop’s effectiveness.

If, in the course of using this material, something really works beyond your expectations, I’d love to hear about it. Tell me about it my emailing me: kenn ymac@mac.com. I’m excited to hear what God does with this thing!

God bless!

She turned on a TV and an interlínc Music Video Loop.

I was astoun ded at what I was observing in the teenagers. Where they had been simply hanging out in groups, they were now all experiencing the same thing. With no announcement or coercion, the youth leader captured every young person’s attention. Within moments they were all finding places to sit, while watching the video on the big-screen TV. If I hadn’t seen it with my own eyes, I wouldn’t have thought it possibl e.

Ken McCoy Editor PS. You’ll want to take advantage of the Theme video of a clip from Not Today – a powerful film that you and your young friends are going to love. The study from the clip is about peer pressure, but the entire film is about something far deeper and moving!

HOW TO USE <<

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How to Use this Music Video Loop Resource Book Sure, at first glance you notice how great it looks—very current, very stylish. Go ahead—flip through this book a bit. Notice the helpful design? Did you catch the organizational details? The more you look at this book, the more you will appreciate the functionality that has been built into it. Here is a quick tour…

The Cover If you’re like most of us, you keep your YLO (Youth Leaders Only) and MVL (Music Video Loop) books stored on a bookshelf. When you want to search for a song or video that deals with a certain topic, slide each book out a couple of inches and read the themes and featured articles for each issue. Cool!

Bible Studies Finding good Christian music isn’t hard, but coming up with ways to

use it in your mini stry with teenagers takes time, talent and energy. The Leader Guides and Student Guides are designed to be useful in your ministry with young people. The Bible studies for the Music Video Loop resource are intended for you to use in a large group format. The videos are great tools in setting up your message, bringing home a point or wrapping up a theme. Real-world youth leaders write the Bible studies; the sessions are field-

tested, and proven effective with real-world teenagers.

opportunities, and information about upcoming releases.

The DVD You can choose to play the entire Music Video Loop or select just one video to view. Use the entire Music Video Loop to create visual interest and energy as your students are hanging out, walking into your event or after your program time. Also on the DVD are valuable interviews, promotional materials for ministry

We hope this effort helps you reach and disciple more young people to be go-for-it Christians!

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Leader Guide

6

TOBYMAC

Artist:

Album Title & Record Company:

Video Title:

Study By:

TOBYMAC TOBYMAC.COM

EYE ON IT FOREFRONT RECORDS

EYE ON IT

CHRIS KEATING

Verse 25 – Explain that every athlete participates in training in order to be able to compete. Christians are no different. Discuss:

Verse 27 – A person can be disqualified for the prize by not training. Discuss:

Theme Discipline

Transition Discuss:

Objective

• What is the significance of the “Eye On It” song title?

Students will be challenged to live for Christ passionately.

• What is TobyMac describing in the video?

Warm Up

• What were some of the lyrics that stood out to you?

Tell the students that you have a prize for whoever has the most endurance. Explain to the students that they will have to stretch their arms out in front of them and see who can keep their arms in front of them the longest. After the contest, award the student an energy drink.

Ask the students if they thought it would be easy or hard to keep their arms extended? Ask the winner if he/she felt like giving up earlier?

Ask why he or she didn’t quit?

Transition

Explain that Christianity, like that activity, takes perseverance and endurance.

TobyMac’s new song “Eye On It” is about staying focused and running the race of Christianity with perseverance.

The Video

Bible Study

Explain that in the video, TobyMac describes the Christian life as a race.

Paul does the same in 1 Corinthians 9:24-27. Have a volunteer read that passage aloud. Then teach about each verse separately.

Verse 24 – Explain that this passage was referring to the Isthmian Games which were similar to the Olympics we have today. Paul was telling the early Christians that Christianity was a lot like running a race. If you are going to run a race, you do so in hopes of winning.

• How is living as a Christian like running a race?

• What motivates the runners?

• What motivates Christians?

Hand out the Student Guides and show the video.

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• How would you train if you wanted to compete in the Olympics?

• What’s your definition of self-control?”

(Self-control is the ability to control one’s emotions, behavior, and desires in order to obtain some reward, or avoid some punishment.)

• Explain that the prize the athletes were competing for during the Isthmian Games was most likely an olive wreath, which brought fame but didn’t last. Say, “We get the crown that lasts forever by disciplining ourselves, going into strict training, and exercising self-control. This crown isn’t for just one person, but for all who follow Christ.”

Verse 26 – Christians, like athletes, need to discipline themselves and work with a purposeful determination. Discuss: • What would you think of an athlete who runs aimlessly?

• How about a Christian who lives aimlessly?

• Can you win a fight with your own shadow? (No, in order to win you must engage your opponent.)

FAITH ASSEMBLY OF GOD CARTHAGE, TEXAS PASTORCHRISK@SBCGLOBAL.NET

• What do you think this verse is saying?

• How would you train in order to run the Christian race?

Wrap Up

In what area of your life do you need to exercise self-control? Music? Movies?

Internet? Friendships? Relationships?

Chemicals? Videogames?

We are saved by grace, not by effort, discipline, obedience, good works, or anything else we do. We are saved FOR good works, not BY good works. The Christian life is a race to present ourselves approved to God, so that one day when we finish the race God has marked out for us we will hear Him say, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

Student Guide

TOBYMAC

Artist:

Album Title & Record Company:

Video Title:

Theme:

TOBYMAC TOBYMAC.COM

EYE ON IT FOREFRONT RECORDS

EYE ON IT

DISCIPLINE

The Video What is the significance of the “Eye On It” song title?

1 Corinthians 9:24-27 Verse 24 How is living as a Christian like running a race?

What motivates the runners?

What motivates Christians?

What is TobyMac describing in the video?

Verse 25 How would you train if you wanted to compete in the Olympics?

What’s your definition of self-control?” (Self-control is the ability to control one’s emotions, behavior, and desires in order to obtain some reward, or avoid some punishment.)

Verse 26 What would you think of an athlete who runs aimlessly?

How about a Christian who lives aimlessly?

Can you win a fight with your own shadow? (No, in order to win you must engage your opponent.)

Verse 27 What do you think this verse is saying?

How would you train in order to run the Christian race?

Wrap Up

What were some of the lyrics that stood out to you?

Explain that the prize that athletes were competing for during the Isthmian Games was most likely an olive wreath, which brought fame but didn’t last. Say, “We get the crown that lasts forever by disciplining ourselves, going into strict training, and exercising self-control. This crown isn’t for just one person, but for all who follow Christ.

In what area of your life do you need to exercise self-control? Music? Movies? Internet? Friendships?

Relationships? Chemicals? Videogames?

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Leader Guide

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FLYLEAF

Artist:

Album Title & Record Company:

Video Title:

Study By:

FLYLEAF FLYLEAFMUSIC.COM

NEW HORIZONS A&M/OCTONE RECORDS

NEW HORIZONS

DOUG RANCK

Say something like, “We can ‘fly’toward ‘new horizons’as we keep our eyes on God. Any other focus will bring anguish. Let’s see what the Bible says about the importance of hope.”

Wrap-Up

Theme Hope; In God

Objective

If we look, we can find plenty to be discouraged about. Living in this fallen world sometimes causes us to default to despair. This lesson will help your youth rediscover the hope we find in Christ despite the situation. Students will identify why they can have hope, and how to have hope in the midst of a hopeless world.

Warm Up

Hand out the Student Guides. Give your group five minutes to complete the Hope And No Hope exercise.

When the time is up, give your group opportunity to share their lists. Once this is complete use these questions for discussion:

• What causes us to have hope in a person, event, or thing?

• What causes us to lose hope?

• Why do some of our childhood hopes and dreams disappear?

Transition

Say something like, “We can find many reasons to be discouraged and hopeless. Evil in our world brings many disappointments and causes us to despair. In today’s lesson we will be reminded that God is in charge and has given us every reason to have hope. We will look at why we can have hope, and how to have hope regardless of the challenges we face.”

The Video

Introduce this video by going to the band’s website and learning a little about the group. Give a quick background. Also explain this is the last album for their lead singer, Lacey, who will be taking a rest. Show the video as your group works through the New Horizons, New Hope exercise.

Transition Ask for volunteers to share the observations they noted. Then, use these questions to reflect on the video: • What do the words, “Sin with a conquest, life floods in with a new quest, here’s a voice for the voiceless and a song for the soulless” tell you about hope?

• Why is it important for us, as the song says, “when the times keep going wrong” for us to “go right?”

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Bible Study

Have one of your most enthusiastic readers present Isaiah 40:27-31. As he or she is reading have your group pantomime some of the action words they hear, such as “tired” or “strength.”

Encourage the reader to pause on those words. When the passage is finished, ask your students to find a partner to work through the Hope = Strength exercise where they will draw a picture of this passage and then answer these questions:

• What do these words say about God? • What do these words say about youth/young people?

• What happens to those who hope in the Lord?

Have your youth share their pictures and responses. Follow with these questions: • What characteristics of God in these words of Isaiah give you hope?

• How is God different from youth?

• Why does this give us hope?

• What does this teach us about the danger of putting our hope in people instead of God?

FREE METHODIST CHURCH SANTA BARBARA, CALIFORNIA DRANCK@FMCSB.ORG

Say something like, “When we put our hope in the Lord we find strength to not dependent on how good or bad our situation may be. Believing this is important, but it can be a challenge.”

As a group, create a list on newsprint or a whiteboard of ways to keep our hope in God. Be sure your participants offer practical ideas besides some of the more standard answers, i.e. pray.

Close the time together by praying for one another in this journey of hope.

Student Guide

FLYLEAF

Artist:

Album Title & Record Company:

Video Title:

Theme:

FLYLEAF FLYLEAFMUSIC.COM

NEW HORIZONS A&M/OCTONE RECORDS

NEW HORIZONS

HOPE; IN GOD

Hope And No Hope

List all the things you still hope for in your life and then list all the things you used to hope for as a child but no longer believe will happen.

Hope

New Horizons, New Hope

Take a few notes while you watch and listen to this video:

No Hope

Hope = Strength

With your partner or small group, draw a picture of this passage here:

How you would summarize the message of this song in one sentence or phrase…

How the band commented on Lacey’s departure through some of the scenes…

How this “tribute” plays into the theme of hope found in the song…

What do these words say about God? What do these words say about youth/young people?

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Leader Guide

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OWL CITY

Artist:

Album Title & Record Company:

Video Title:

Study By:

OWL CITY OWLCITYMUSIC.COM

THE MIDSUMMER STATION UNIVERSAL REPUBLIC RECORDS

SHOOTING STAR

ERIC GARGUS

• What are some ways you see Jesus’ light in others who know Him?

My actions during suffering determine the brightness of my light. Shine no matter where you are 2 Corinthians 4:10

Theme

Evangelism; God’s Representatives

The Video

Students will be encouraged to shine brightly especially in the dark times.

Say, “Owl City’s ‘Shooting Star’ video offers encouragement to all of us to shine bright with the passion of God no matter how dark things get.

Let’s watch and then talk about it.”

Play the video.

Warm Up

Discussion

Objective

Hand out pens and Student Guides.

Direct students to complete the Three Things That Fire Me Up section.

Then open up discussion by asking, “What fires you up?” Before students respond, challenge them to answer in such a way that everyone feels their excitement (scream it out, jump up and down, exhibit the passion for it!) If you start out by sharing one of yours in extremely “pumped up” fashion, the door will be open for lots of laughs and enthusiasm as your group follows suit!

Transition

Say, “Most of the activities you shared have a down side. Sometimes teams lose, bands separate, tryouts don’t go so well, wrong choices are made that lead to sin, and things feel generally dark. What are some things that can tear into your fire and passion?”

• What is this song about?

• What encouragement did you hear in the lyrics?

• Why did the people’s hearts glow?

• What keeps your faith strong even when darkness is all around?

Bible Study

Say, “Let’s explore what the Bible says about how to shine for Christ in a dark world as we complete the You Gotta Shine section together.” Have volunteers read the statement, lyrics, and Scripture, and then discuss the questions.

I can be light to a dark world. When the sun goes down / And the lights burn out / Then it’s time for you to shine 2 Corinthians 4:6

• Share about a time when you were in a dark place and had to search for the light.

• Is searching for Jesus like searching for a light in the dark? Explain.

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I am fragile so people know the light is not from me. All the pouring rain will try to put it out / But not this time 2 Corinthians 4:7 • Share about a time when you realized your body was fragile.

• What are some situations that make you feel like a candle in a rainstorm?

• How can our weakness actually demonstrate God’s strength?

I will suffer both in and for shining brightly. And illuminate a world that will try to bring you down / But not this time 2 Corinthians 4: 8-9 • Share about a time when you had a bad day but still fought hard to shine your light.

• How can this passage relate to school life?

• What are some big issues that are bringing teens down into darkness?

MARIE BAPTIST CHURCH DUBLIN, GEORGIA E4CHRIST@AOL.COM

• Share about a time you were really suffering.

• What is the closest you’ve ever come to the pain Jesus went through between His trial and His crucifixion?

• What can we learn from how Jesus shined even while hanging on the cross?

Wrap Up

Say, “Your light will sometimes dim, and you may want to give up. In those dark times you need to heed the wisdom found in 2 Corinthians 4:16-18.”

Read the passage, and then ask, “Are you looking at how dark it is in your life or how bright it can be by ‘fixing your eyes on Jesus’?” Let the question sink in. Then play the video again while students use the blank space in the Fix My Gaze section to draw or write images and phrases that will encourage them to keep their lights bright in their daily grind.

Student Guide

OWL CITY

Artist:

Album Title & Record Company:

Video Title:

Theme:

OWL CITY OWLCITYMUSIC.COM

THE MIDSUMMER STATION UNIVERSAL REPUBLIC RECORDS

SHOOTING STAR

EVANGELISM; GOD’S REPRESENTATIVES

Things That Fire Me Up

I am ____________ so people know the light is not from me.

My ________ during suffering determine the brightness of my light.

1

All the pouring rain will try to put it out / But not this time

Shine no matter where you are

2

2 Corinthians 4:7 Share about a time when you realized your body was fragile (even with muscles).

3

You Gotta Shine I can be _______ to a dark world.

When the sun goes down / And the lights burn out / Then it’s time for you to shine 2 Corinthians 4:6 Share about a time when you were in a dark place and had to search for the light.

Is searching for Jesus like searching for a light in the dark? Explain.

What are some ways you see Jesus’ light in others who know Him?

What are some situations that make you feel like a candle in a rainstorm?

How can our weakness actually demonstrate God’s strength?

2 Corinthians 4:10 Share about a time you were really suffering.

What is the closest you’ve ever come to the pain Jesus went through between His trial and His crucifixion?

What can we learn from how Jesus shined even while hanging on the cross?

I will _________ both in and for shining brightly.

And illuminate a world that will try to bring you down / But not this time

Fix My Gaze

2 Corinthians 4:8-9 Share about a time when you had a bad day but still fought hard to shine your light.

How can this passage relate to school life?

What are some big issues that are bringing teens down into darkness today?

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Leader Guide

12

AUDIO ADRENALINE

Artist:

Album Title & Record Company:

Video Title:

Study By:

AUDIO ADRENALINE AUDIOA.COM

KINGS AND QUEENS FAIR TRADE SERVICES

KINGS & QUEENS

TODD PEARAGE

their recent reforming.) Tell the group that they are going to watch the video for AA’s new song, “Kings and Queens.” Mark Stuart (their former lead singer who’s still very involved, just not singing because his voice is damaged) says, “This song is about this idea of when we love the least of these, God wraps these little orphans in His majesty and they can become kings and queens. It gives you that idea that these are God’s favorites, these little kids that have been forgotten. There’s going to be a special place in heaven one day because of what they’ve been through here.

This song just connects deeply with Hands & Feet and the message of Audio A right now.”

the room I’ve prepared some images and printed out some articles that I would like for you to take a few minutes to look at and read.” After a few minutes, break up into small groups and continue the discussion.

• In the passage we read, how did Jesus tell us to love “the least of these”?

Theme Compassion

Objective

Youth will be encouraged to show love in a tangible way to “the least of these.”

Warm Up

Print (or cut out) news articles that discuss poverty in the United States as well as around the world. Place these articles and images on a table in the back of the room. As students arrive, hand out blank sheets of paper and ask them to make a list of all the things they wish they owned. (If you’re really brave, find someone your students don’t know and have them dress like a homeless person and stand outside your church asking for money.)

Transition

Have students share some of the items on their “wish list” and why they want them.

The Song

Explain that you will show a video from a great band called Audio Adrenaline. (Do some research on the band so you can explain their past, the Hands & Feet Project, and

Transition

What did you think about the video?

What was your favorite part?

<If you had a “homeless person” outside your church> Say something like, “Some of those were my favorite parts too – but before we go any further, I would like to introduce you to a good friend of mine. This is ______, and he was pretending to be a homeless person.” Discuss his experience and the students’ experience with him. <If you did not have a “homeless person” outside your church> Say something like, “On the table in the back of

© 2013 interlinc • interlinc-online.com • 800.725.3300

Bible Study Discuss:

• What were some things you learned by reading those articles\talking to the “homeless person”?

• How do those things affect your wish list?

Read Matthew 25:31-46. Discuss: • Who did Jesus call “the least of these”?

• Who would you call “the least of these” in our town?

• Who would you call “the least of these” around the world?

• Who does the band call “the least of these”? Do you agree with them, that the orphans in Haiti would be considered “the least of these”?

• Why do you think the band choose the color purple for the flags and powder?

• What message is the band trying to communicate comparing these orphans to kings and queens?

• According to the song, when do “boys become kings and girls will be queens”? (When they are loved.)

THE GATHERING DAYTON, OHIO TODD@THEGATHERINGDAYTON.ORG

• So what are some tangible ways we can show love to these orphans in Haiti?

• What are some tangible ways we can show love to the “least of these” in our area?

Wrap Up

Encourage the leaders and students to put their faith into action. Start by selecting one of their ideas to share their love with “the least of these” in your area. Discuss with students what that might look like and encourage them to be a part of it.

Student Guide

AUDIO ADRENALINE

Artist:

Album Title & Record Company:

Video Title:

Theme:

AUDIO ADRENALINE AUDIOA.COM

KINGS & QUEENS FAIR TRADE SERVICES

KINGS AND QUEENS

COMPASSION

The Video

What was your favorite part?

Matthew 25:31-46 Who did Jesus call “the least of these”?

Who would you call “the least of these” in our town?

Who would you call “the least of these” around the world?

Who does the band call “the least of these”? Do you agree with them, that the orphans in Haiti would be considered “the least of these”?

Why do you think the band choose the color purple for the flags and powder?

What message is the band trying to communicate comparing these orphans to kings and queens?

According to the song, when do “boys become kings and girls will be queens”?

(When they are loved.)

In the passage we read, how did Jesus tell us to love “the least of these”?

Tangible ways to show love to the orphans in Haiti

Tangible ways to show love to the “least of these” in our area

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Leader Guide

14

NEWSBOYS

Artist:

Album Title & Record Company:

Video Title:

NEWSBOYS NEWSBOYS.COM

GOD’S NOT DEAD INPOP RECORDS

YOUR LOVE NEVER FAILS - LYRIC VIDEO

Theme God’s Love

Objective

No matter how hard we try and no matter what we do, we will always come up short of pleasing God. Even through our imperfections, God’s love for us is unwavering, unending, and we can always count on Him and His love to be there for us.

Transition

Thomas Edison once said about his failed attempts to make the light bulb, “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.” In all of his efforts, Edison refused to accept failure. There is, however, one – the One – who never fails us. God’s love is perfect even when we aren’t.

The Video

“Your Love Never Fails” reminds us that God’s love is perfect, even when we are not. It also reminds us that no Description Game – Before you meet, matter what we do, we can never earn prepare five cue cards with common God’s love; it is and has always been phrases using any form of the word FAIL a free gift, given of the Father through (epic fail, failure to yield, heart failure, etc.) His Son, Jesus Christ; a love that bridged the gap over sin, death, and • Form two groups of two people (4 the grave. Have the students listen to total) and send one group out of the the lyrics and write down key lyrics room where they cannot hear what’s that they find important as you show being said in the room. the video.

• Have the first group sit back to back in pairs.

Warm Up

• One person will read cue cards and will have to describe what is on the card WITHOUT saying what’s actually on the card.

• The other person’s goal is to say what is on the card. After that group finishes, switch and have the second group do the same.

Transition

Discuss some of the lyrics that the students found important. Be sure that the students explain why they found that particular lyric important.

• The group with the most correct cards wins. © 2013 interlinc • interlinc-online.com • 800.725.3300

Bible Study

Have students read the verses in this section. As they read each passage, have the students write the answers to the questions on their Student Guide – in the section called Faithful Love.

Lamentations 3:22-25 – In this passage, Jeremiah is lamenting about God’s judgment of Judah (the Babylonian invasion). However, he recognizes that no matter how wicked Judah was, and no matter the wrongs they committed, God’s love was steadfast and He kept and fulfilled His promises according to His truthful and faithful character. As you discuss this passage, have your students answer the following questions on their Student Guide.

• Has there ever been a time when someone granted you forgiveness and love that you knew you didn’t deserve?

• How did you feel?

• How has God showed you that kind of mercy and love in your life?

Romans 8:35-39 – Paul gave us here a definitive statement about the awesome power and faithfulness of God’s love. He reminds us that once we are His, we cannot be separated from His love. Again, have your students wrestle with these questions and answer them in the Student Guide.

Study By: KEITH JONES

CITY VIEW BAPTIST CHURCH KNOXVILLE, TENNESSEE LIFE.CVBC@GMAIL.COM

• Have you ever messed up so badly that you were afraid a friend or family member would stop loving you?

• How did you feel when you realized you were wrong and that they still loved you?

• How can you use this passage to know that God will always love you, no matter what?

Wrap Up

We know that we can never do enough good things to earn our heavenly reward – it is simply given as a free gift to all who accept it. In a world where we constantly fail, God’s love remains perfect, steadfast, and unwavering. Romans 8:28 sums up the truth and purpose of God’s love for us. Have a student read the verse; then have the students jot down a couple of ways that God has worked good in their lives. As they finish, pray with the students that they may understand that God’s love works for the good of His children.

Student Guide

NEWSBOYS

Artist:

Album Title & Record Company:

Video Title:

Theme:

NEWSBOYS NEWSBOYS.COM

GOD’S NOT DEAD INPOP RECORDS

YOUR LOVE NEVER FAILS - LYRIC VIDEO

GOD’S LOVE

Lyrical Poet

As the song plays, write down any lyrics that you find to be meaningful and important. Be ready to explain why you chose that particular lyric.

Faithful Love Lamentations 3:22-25

Has there ever been a time when someone granted you forgiveness and love that you knew you didn’t deserve?

Romans 8:35-39 Have you ever messed up so badly that you were afraid a friend or family member would stop loving you?

How did you feel when you realized you were wrong and that they still loved you?

How did you feel?

How can you use this passage to know that God will always love you, no matter what?

How has God showed you that kind of mercy and love in your life?

Wrap Up

How has God been faithful to work good in your life?

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PROPAGANDA

Artist:

Album Title & Record Company:

Video Title:

Study By:

PROPAGANDA HUMBLEBEAST.COM

EXCELLENT HUMBLE BEAST

EXCELLENT

JEFF WILLIAMSON

Ask the students to discuss:

Wrap Up

Theme

Righteousness

Objective

Today’s students live in a world of false realities. This lesson will drive home the importance of moral excellence/goodness and right knowledge.

Remember, God has given us everything we need for life!

Warm Up

Gotta Hand It To Ya – Have the students form pairs. The players should face each other with their hands behind their backs. On the count of three, they should bring their hands from behind their back with a certain number of fingers on each hand held up. They should hold their hands and fingers up right in front of their face so the other person can see them (a closed fist means a zero on that hand).

The first person to give the total number of fingers up on all four hands wins the game. Each pair should go for the best two out of three. After each round, have the losers sit down and pair the remaining winners against each other.

It should end up with a championship match with two people. Give the winner an inexpensive prize or gag gift that has to do with hands. This game requires quick thinking and is a lot of fun to play.

The Video

Hand out the Student Guides. Prior to playing the video ask the students to focus in on these questions: How does the artist define “Excellent”?

What is he looking to achieve in life?

Show the video.

Transition

Based on the definition that we have established, what is “Excellence”?

Does it vary from the song? Does it vary from the biblical truth that is presented in the song? How is “Excellence” reflected in your life?

Bible Study

For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge… 2 Peter 1:5 (NIV) “Goodness” and “moral excellence” are both used in different translations. “Goodness” is defined as the quality and/or state of being good. “Moral excellence” is the quality of doing what is right and avoiding what is wrong. Share some personal experiences in which you knew of someone that exhibited moral excellence.

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• What pressures and difficulties do you encounter when you strive for moral excellence and/or goodness?

• How difficult is it today for you to display excellence?

Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body, so that you obey its desires. And do not offer any parts of it to sin as weapons for unrighteousness. But as those who are alive from the dead, offer yourselves to God, and all the parts of yourselves to God as weapons for righteousness. For sin will not rule over you, because you are not under law but under grace.

Romans 6:12-14 (HCSB) Paul reminds us that the gospel is all about grace, one that encouragers believers to strive for excellence. Earlier in the letter to the Romans, Paul wrote that grace would lead to “excellence” via eternal life (Romans 5:21) and the time would come once the individual understood the gift of grace that was on display at Calvary. Once the identification with Christ is made, excellence is achieved!

Remember this: Moral excellence will win when sin is defeated. Often this is a hard lesson to learn, however once the truth is learned the reward is everlasting. What are you doing to strive for excellence?

UNION AVENUE BAPTIST CHURCH MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE WILLIAMSON@UNIONAVENUE.ORG

Encourage the students to read over the following verses and to use them as part of their quiet time with God. Philippians 2:12-13 Ephesians 2:8-10 1 John 2:3-4

Student Guide

PROPAGANDA

Artist:

Album Title & Record Company:

Video Title:

Theme:

PROPAGANDA HUMBLEBEAST.COM

EXCELLENT HUMBLE BEAST

EXCELLENT

RIGHTEOUSNESS

The Video How does the artist define “Excellent”?

2 Peter 1:5

Romans 6:12-14

“Goodness” is defined as…

The gospel is all about __________________ , one that encourages us to strive for excellence.

“Moral excellence” is…

Remember this: Moral excellence will win when sin is defeated.

What is he looking to achieve in life?

What pressures and difficulties do you encounter when you strive for moral excellence and/or goodness?

What are you doing to strive for excellence?

How difficult is it today for you to display excellence?

Read over these Scriptures and use them as part of your quiet time with God. Philippians 2:12-13 Ephesians 2:8-10 1 John 2:3-4

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YOUR MEMORIAL

Artist:

Album Title & Record Company:

Video Title:

Study By:

YOUR MEMORIAL FACEBOOK.COM/YOURMEMORIAL

REDIRECT FACEDOWN RECORDS

SHIPWRECK

MARK PITTMAN

Why did I just…? (Romans 7:15-20) Have you known you shouldn’t do something, but did it anyway? How did you feel after doing it? Did you feel as if you were the only person who struggled that way? Since the apostle Paul (a spiritual stud) wrote this, what does his sharing his own personal struggle with us mean to you? Do you think he knew we all would struggle the same way? Why or why not?

might also want to point out that Paul is very clear, that this state of “no condemnation” is for those “in Christ Jesus” and “because of Christ Jesus.”)

Theme

Sin; Struggle With

Transition

Students will realize that Christians will struggle, but Jesus has paid the price for their sin and He has rescued them.

Tell a story about a rescue from your past, or one you research from your area. Highlight the helplessness of the rescued – the uncertainty of the success of the rescue – and the feelings that must have been experienced when the victim was finally safe.

Warm Up

The Video

Objective

We want to put students in the role of “rescuer” – so find/buy/take from your kid’s room a couple of small action figures (plastic “army men” work great because of the large base at their feet.)

You need a figure that will be able to stand on top of a paper/styrofoam cup pyramid. Have a couple teams compete, maybe one teach for each grade, with two players for each team. One player builds the pyramid at least 3-4 layers high and balances the action figure on it. The other player throws (from the other side of the room) a tennis ball at the tower, trying to knock it down while the stacker player attempts to rescue the figure as it falls.

Have the teams see how many times they can build and rescue in a twominute span. Be sure to have a great song like “Rescue Me” or “Superman” theme playing during play. Award the winning team with something “heroic” – a Super Big-Gulp or the like.

Say, “Even though you might not have an ear for scream-o, try to imagine being shipwrecked, lost at sea, or just helpless and waiting for someone to rescue you.” Show the video of “Shipwreck” by Your Memorial.

Bible Study

Say, “We smirk at the 40-year old still living with his parents. But we can take that idea too far, and become unwilling to acknowledge when we need help or when we need someone to meet us where we are and rescue us. Let’s take a look at Romans 7:15-8:2.

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The War (Romans 7:21-23) Why do you think Paul mentioned, “this law at work” (v.21)? What does our inner being (who we are in Christ) delight in when we put our faith in God and make Jesus our Lord? (You may want to expound on what calling Him “Lord” means.) What is the “other law”?

Where is the war fought? Even as Paul shows these two elements at war, when we give our lives to Christ we get a new inner being that delights in what God wants for us.

The Big Rescue (Romans 7:24-8:2) What do you think of when you hear the word, “wretched”? Why do you think Paul used that word? How do you think Jesus rescues us from the war? Even though we are in a war, what does 8:1 say, from God’s perspective about our situation?

What does “no condemnation” really mean? (You may want to jump to John 8:11 and for a picture of what being “condemned” means. You

INTERLÍNC HUNTINGTON BEACH, CALIFORNIA MPITTMAN@INTERLINC-ONLINE.COM

Wrap Up

The war is real. Paul’s emotional display and painting the picture of the struggle is real, even for a spiritual giant that we think had it all figured out. He needed to be rescued. We are not lost, shipwrecked, or condemned, but are in a place where Jesus’ work for us on the cross means we can have a meaningful relationship with God.

Student Guide

YOUR MEMORIAL

Artist:

Album Title & Record Company:

Video Title:

Theme:

YOUR MEMORIAL FACEBOOK.COM/YOURMEMORIAL

REDIRECT FACEDOWN RECORDS

SHIPWRECK

SIN; STRUGGLE WITH

Why did I just…?

Romans 7:15-20

Have you known you shouldn’t do something, but did it anyway?

The War Romans 7:21-23

Why do you think Paul mentioned, “this law at work” (v.21)?

What does our inner being (who we are in Christ) delight in when we put our faith in God and make Jesus our Lord?

The Big Rescue Romans 7:24-8:2

Why do you think Paul used the word “wretched”?

How do you think Jesus rescues us from the war?

How did you feel after doing it?

What is the “other law”?

Did you feel as though you were the only person who struggled that way?

What does “no condemnation” really mean for us?

Where is the war fought?

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MERCYME

Artist:

Album Title & Record Company:

Video Title:

Study By:

MERCYME MERCYME.ORG

HURT & THE HEALER FAIR TRADE SEVICES

YOU ARE I AM - LYRIC VIDEO

JEREMY WHITE

under the Personal Life segment of their Student Guide.

Walk the students through the story by pointing out how Moses’ view of God’s greatness had to be enlarged in order for his fears to be addressed.

He would not have been able to face his fear of Pharaoh without knowing and believing that God was greater.

Students can fill in the blanks under the Ponderings section of the Student Guide about “Lessons from Moses: God’s Power Helps us Overcome…”

Theme

God’s Greatness

Objective

• What qualities signify “greatness” in the following categories: athlete, leader, friend, place?

Students will wrestle with the reality of their “smallness” in relation to God’s greatness, and their dependency in relation to God’s powerful provision.

• Share about a time when your allegiance toward someone or something for its “greatness” was put to the test after this person or thing let you down.

Warm Up

The Video

What’s Greater? – Create slides with two Explain that MercyMe has written a worship song describing the experience competing characters on both sides of of a person experiencing God’s majesty the screen. Have the audience vote by – His greatness – in a very personal way cheering as loudly as possible for their and crying out to Him in response. choice. After each choice is made, have a student or two who voted explain why they voted that way. Some examples: Players: Kobe vs. Lebron / Presidents: Ask students for their reaction to the George Washington vs. Abraham Lincoln / Humanitarians: Mother Theresa vs. video. What did they like about the song? How did interpret the lyrics? Did Bono from U2 / Reality Shows: X-Factor vs. American Idol / Destinations: Paris vs. anything answer or raise questions for them? Next, ask if there are any stuRome / Vacations: Camping vs. Resort dents who know the story behind God / Sports: Baseball vs. Football / Bible being referred to as “I Am.” Heroes: King David vs. The Apostle Paul / Soft Drinks: Coke vs. Pepsi

Transition

Transition

Explain that we are naturally drawn to what we believe signifies greatness.

We usually admire athletes, leaders, places, and things based upon the level of greatness we ascribe to them.

Have students answer the questions

Bible Study

Explain the background story of Exodus 3.

Moses has been on the run after killing an Egyptian man who was abusing a Hebrew slave. After living in the desert for many years, the Lord spoke to Moses and told him to go back into Egypt to demand that Pharaoh release the Hebrews from slavery.

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• Feelings of Insecurity: “But God, I’m a nobody…” (3:11-12) Moses says, “Who am I to be used for such a huge task?” God’s answer: “I will be with you.” Explain that God will call us to do things that will stretch our faith in order to make us rely upon Him as our source of strength. If possible, share a personal example.

• Feelings of Ignorance: “But I don’t know enough about You, Lord…”

(3:13-22) Moses says, “Suppose they ask me who sent me? What do I tell them?” God’s answer: “Tell them I AM sent you.” Explain that the Hebrew word translated “I AM” has no vowels and therefore cannot and would not be pronounced by the ancient Jews. The word signifies that God is the “self-existent, uncreated One – the sovereign and most powerful Being in the universe.”

• Feelings of Inferiority: “But God, the professionals won’t believe me…”

(4:1-9) Moses says, “What if my own Hebrew people don’t even buy my

VALLEY CHURCH VACAVILLE, CALIFORNIA JWHITE@VALLEYCHURCH.COM

story? I’m an educated guy, but their teachers know more about you than I do!” God’s answer: “I will authenticate you by giving you miraculous abilities.”

Explain that Moses is told by God to throw his staff on the ground and it will become a serpent, along with many other miracles to follow.

• Feelings of Inadequacy: “But God, I’m not the best communicator!” (4:10-12) Moses says, “Lord, I have never been eloquent in my speaking ability…”

God’s answer: “Who made your mouth, Moses? You or Me?” Explain that when walking by faith, God enables us to supernaturally accomplish things we otherwise could not in our natural selves.

Wrap Up

Ask the students to discuss the questions under Promptings in the Student Guide.

• As you evaluate the fears Moses faced from the list above, which of the four is most prominent for you? Why do you think this area is a struggle for you?

• Have you recently sensed that God is asking you to step out in faith for something that you feel totally fearful to do? If so, how does Moses’ story encourage you?

• Will you leave this place asking God to show you how and when He will accomplish this thing through you as you learn to trust more fully in the great “I AM” that He has revealed Himself to be?

Student Guide

MERCYME

Artist:

Album Title & Record Company:

Video Title:

Theme:

MERCYME MERCYME.ORG

HURT & THE HEALER FAIR TRADE SEVICES

YOU ARE I AM - LYRIC VIDEO

GOD’S GREATNESS

Personal Life

What qualities, in your opinion, signify “greatness” in the following categories: athlete, leader, friend, place?

Ponderings

Exodus 3 – Lessons from Moses: God’s Power Helps us Overcome…

Feelings of ____________________: “But God, I’m a nobody…” (3:11-12) Moses says, “Who am I to be used for such a huge task?”

God’s answer: “I will be with you.”

Feelings of ____________________: “But I don’t know enough about You, Lord…” (3:13-22) Moses says “Suppose they ask me who sent me?

What do I tell them?”

God’s answer: “Tell them I AM sent you”

Share about a time when your allegiance toward someone or something for its “greatness” was put to the test after this person or thing let you down…

Feelings of ____________________: “But God, the professionals won’t believe me…” (4:1-9) Moses says “What if my own Hebrew people don’t even buy my story? I’m an educated guy, but their teachers know more about you than I do!”

God’s answer: “I will authenticate you by giving you miraculous abilities”

Feelings of ____________________: “But God, I’m not the best communicator!” (4:10-12) Moses says “Lord, I have never been eloquent in my speaking ability…”

God’s answer: “Who made your mouth, Moses? You or Me?”

Promptings

As you evaluate the fears Moses faced from the list above, which of the four is most prominent to you?

Why do you think this area is a struggle for you?

Have you recently sensed that God is asking you to step out in faith for something that you feel totally fearful to do? If so, how does Moses’ story encourage you?

Will you leave this place asking God to show you how and when He will accomplish this thing through you as you learn to trust more fully in the great “I AM” that He has revealed Himself to be?

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THE ROCKET SUMMER

Artist:

Album Title & Record Company:

Video Title:

THE ROCKET SUMMER THEROCKETSUMMER.COM

LOVE WILL WRITE THE WORDS AVIATE RECORDS

JUST FOR A MOMENT (FORGET WHO YOU ARE)

Theme Perspective

Objective

Students will learn that their worth shouldn’t be seen through the world’s lens (perspective) but, rather, through God’s.

Warm Up

“Give a Penny, Take a Penny”- In this warm-up, have enough pennies to give each student at least 2. Tell the students that the goal of the game is to win the most pennies by beating another student in Rock, Paper, Scissors. Each time you win, your opponent must give you a penny; every time you lose, you must give them a penny. When you’re out of pennies, you sit down. You (the leader) can either set an allotted amount of time for the game, or play until there is only one person who wins all the pennies.

Transition

Ask students how they viewed the game; was it too boring? Did it seem challenging enough? Did the students who lost the pennies first show anger and disappointment because winning was by chance instead of skill?

The Video

Tell the students that the video by The Rocket Summer shows how life is full of “lenses” that give us certain perspectives of ourselves, others, and our circumstances. Ask students to pay special attention to the words as they watch the video.

Transition

Take a few minutes to have the students share some of the lyrics that really stood out to them. Ask them to break down the video and the story it was trying to portray. Ask, “What kind of lenses of perspective did the video and lyrics suggest?” (You can ask questions that help guide them, such as why is the mirror her nemesis as the lyric suggests? What do you think “you’re meant for greatness” means?)

Bible Study

Have students fill out the Multiple Lenses section on the Student Guide that deals with 1 Samuel 17 – the story of David and Goliath.

• How tall was Goliath? Over nine feet tall.

• Do you think that the way Goliath looked was intimidating to the Israelites? Yes

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Study By: MANDY KYES

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH GALT, CALIFORNIA MANDYKYES@HOTMAIL.COM

• How did the Israelites react when Goliath challenged them to send their finest and strongest man? They were terrified and deeply shaken (v.11)

Have students fill out the Image of Greatness section and have them share some of their affirmation statements.

• What was David’s older brother’s perspective of David after he asked the question of who Goliath was and what power he really had as a pagan?

His brother claimed he was just there to watch.

Wrap Up

• What was Saul’s perspective of David in verse 33? That he was being ridiculous and just a boy.

• What was Goliath’s perspective of David in verses 42-43? That he was ill-equipped and just a boy.

• How did David view himself in verse 45-46? That he had the Lord God behind him and would conquer Goliath.

Discuss what perspectives the people around David had of him, and how David viewed himself. We sometimes let our perspectives cloud our value.

Whether those perspectives are shaped by others, our circumstances, or ourselves, we need to remember that we are meant for greatness. God sent His Son because He loves us so much more than we could ever imagine. The only perspective that matters is God’s. And if we are valuable to Him, we need to shed any negative perspective we have of ourselves.

End with a prayer that each student will realize that the Lord’s perspective of him or her is priceless. When we serve the Lord and follow His will, we can conquer anything.

Remember, we’re made in the image of Greatness!

Student Guide

THE ROCKET SUMMER

Artist:

Album Title & Record Company:

Video Title:

Theme:

THE ROCKET SUMMER THEROCKETSUMMER.COM

LOVE WILL WRITE THE WORDS AVIATE RECORDS

JUST FOR A MOMENT (FORGET WHO YOU ARE)

PERSPECTIVE

Real Talk

Write some of the lyrics that really stood out to you.

Multiple Lenses 1 Samuel 17 (The story of David and Goliath) How tall was Goliath?

Image of Greatness

List some encouraging things that help you remember how valuable you are. Example: God sent His Son with me in mind!

Do you think that the way Goliath looked was intimidating to the Israelites?

How did the Israelites react when Goliath challenged them to send their finest and strongest man?

What was David’s older brother’s perspective of David after he asked the question of who Goliath was and what power he really had as a pagan?

What was Saul’s perspective of David in verse 33?

What was Goliath’s perspective of David in verses 42-43?

How did David view himself in verse 45-46?

What are some of the lenses that are currently shaping your perspectives?

Do you view yourself as valuable?

Are others’ opinions of you more important than God’s? Of course not! Never forget that you are made in the image of GREATNESS!

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PLANETSHAKERS

Artist:

Album Title & Record Company:

Video Title:

PLANETSHAKERS PLANETSHAKERS.COM

LIMITLESS INTEGRITY MUSIC

LIMITLESS

Theme God’s Power

Objective

Students will have discussed, read, and learned about God’s limitless power and how they can see Him at work in their lives.

Warm Up

Super Hero Charades – Before the students arrive, write 10-25 names of superheroes on slips of paper and put them in a bowl. (You can look up superheroes online.) When your students arrive, form teams. Play “Charades” with these names and when the other team guesses, they must also tell what super power that superhero possesses.

The Video

Explain that the greatest superhero of all times is God – that He created all power and has all power. Tell them they will be watching a music video by Planetshakers of song called, “Limitless” which speaks of God’s unlimited power. Show the video.

Transition

Ask the students if they heard anything in the song that God cannot do.

Ask them what some of the adjectives of God’s power are, and what powers God has.

Transition

Ask the group who their favorite superhero is and why. Ask them what super power they would like to have and why.

Bible Study

Begin this section by saying, “What does God’s limitless power have to do with us? The songs states that, ‘I’m saying goodbye to any limitation, I’m saying hello to the God of all creation’, so what does that mean to us? Let’s see what the Bible has to say.” Have a volunteer read a verse.

Then discuss with the group what that verse says about God’s power.

• Luke 1:37 – Nothing is impossible for God. • Matthew 19:26 – Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”’

• Philippians 4:13 – I can do all this through him who gives me strength.

• Isaiah 41:10 – So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

• John 16:19 – I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

• Joshua 1:9 – Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”

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Study By: CINDY ENGØY

YESWESERVE LONG BEACH, CALIFORNIA WURLDGURL@HOTMAIL.COM

• Romans 8:31 – What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?

Discuss the common themes of these verses, then wrap it up by saying, “Nothing is impossible for God. We do not need to be afraid because He is with us.”

Wrap Up

Close this study by saying, “God is limitless, and since we are Christ followers we have access to His limitless powers – so we have nothing to fear! Did you know that the words, ‘fear not’ appear 365 times in the Bible? That’s one for each day! When we know we have God’s limitless powers, there is nothing to fear! So go out and be a superhero for God!” Close in prayer.

Student Guide

PLANETSHAKERS

Artist:

Album Title & Record Company:

Video Title:

Theme:

PLANETSHAKERS PLANETSHAKERS.COM

LIMITLESS INTEGRITY MUSIC

LIMITLESS

GOD’S POWER

Superhero!

What superhero do you want to be and why?

Bible Study

What are the themes of these verses?

Luke 1:37

Matthew 19:26

Philippians 4:13 What super power would you like to have and why?

Isaiah 41:10

John 16:19

From the video, how is God described and how He is limitless?

Joshua 1:9

Romans 8:31

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Leader Guide

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ABANDON KANSAS

Artist:

Album Title & Record Company:

Video Title:

ABANDON KANSAS ABANDONKANSASLOVESYOU.COM

TURN IT TO GOLD –SINGLE GOTEE RECORDS

TURN IT TO GOLD

Theme Renewal

Objective

Students will learn about how God redeems our mess and creates something of great value from it. They will determine to get involved in their community, taking a mess and creating something valuable from it.

Warm Up

Treasure From Trash –Collect (or purchase from a thrift store) a bunch of small items (clocks, old remotes, dolls, cracked vases, that kind of thing) that don’t work, have missing parts, are broken, and have very little value. You’ll also want to bring some arts-and-craft supplies to your meeting –paint and brushes, glue, sparkling glitter, plastic jewels, etc. Divide your group into working teams, give each team a worthless item, and let them use the arts-and-craft materials to create a piece of art from their piece of junk. Have each team present their finished art to the rest of the group, and then have the group vote which piece is the most valuable.

Transition

up the scroll, sat down, and said, “Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.” Whoa! The Jewish people had been looking forward to these promises being fulfilled for century up century. Today, we know that God keeps His promises.

The Video

This passage lists three “exchanges” that God promises to make: 1) Beauty for Ashes, 2) Joy instead of Mourning, 3) Praise instead of Despair. Let’s look at just one of the “exchanges” He makes for us when we have faith in Him: Beauty for Ashes.

Explain that the art project actually makes a point: we can take something that seems to be worthless and make it valuable. That’s the topic for the rest of this session.

Read this quote from Jeremy Spring, the lead singer of Abandon Kansas, “‘Turn It To Gold’is about redemption –taking something that’s a mess and making it beautiful. In a broad sense, it’s about leaving a legacy that will impact our world around us and make it something valuable even though we are sometimes a mess.” Play the video.

Bible Study

Hand out the Student Guides. Have several translations and paraphrases of the Bible available. Hand them to different volunteers and have them each read Isaiah 61:1-3. Use this outline to teach the group about how God can, “Turn [Us] To Gold.” Have students take notes.

This prophecy was what Jesus read in the church of His hometown when He began His ministry. He stopped reading after “to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor” and didn’t continue on to “and the day of vengeance of our God” –for good reason! He rolled

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If you’ve ever experienced a fire, you’ll understand immediately the mental image of exchanging the ugliness of ash (gray, foul-smelling, and so fine that it gets everywhere!) for beauty.

To the ancient Jews, ash was a daily issue, since they did all their cooking and heating by fire. Also, an overthrown city was often burnt down, so that anyone coming back to it had to deal with the destruction and ugliness of the ever-pervasive ash. Discuss: • If you’ve experienced a fire (or volcano eruption!), what do you remember about the ashes?

• How might ashes be a symbol for something that we experience?

Study By: KEN McCOY

JUMPSTART MINISTRIES ESCONDIDO, CALIFORNIA KENNYMAC@MAC.COM

Sometimes, all that is needed to exchange beauty for ashes is to wash the ash off. A simple cleansing will reveal the beauty that is obscured by ash. (Read Psalm 51:1-9.) In other circumstances, a total rebuild is required.

(Read Psalm 51:10-12.)

Wrap Up

Jeremy also said, “We’d like to challenge our listeners to turn something into gold in their communities. And I don’t mean get a can of gold spraypaint and tag the local rival high school! I mean like that old lady down the street whose yard is full of tall grass, weeds, and leaves. As something as simple as doing the chores your mom asks you to do to as big as a full-on service project for the whole group. The challenge isn’t just cleaning something up, but actually creating something more valuable from it.” Have your group take up the challenge! Have them identify on project that they can do to “turn it to gold.”

Make sure you take before –and-after pictures or videos!

Student Guide

ABANDON KANSAS

Artist:

Album Title & Record Company:

Video Title:

Theme:

ABANDON KANSAS ABANDONKANSASLOVESYOU.COM

TURN IT TO GOLD –SINGLE GOTEE RECORDS

TURN IT TO GOLD

RENEWAL

Isaiah 61:1-3

Where did Jesus stop reading this passage aloud?

Psalm 51:1-9 Sometimes, all that is needed is to _____________________ the ash off. A simple

Why?

_____________________ will reveal the beauty that is obscured by ash.

The three “exchanges” that God promises are:

1) _____________________ for _____________________

2) _____________________ instead of _____________________

Psalm 51:10-12

In other circumstances, a total _____________________ is required.

3) _____________________ instead of _____________________

The problem with ashes is…

If you’ve experienced a fire (or volcano eruption!), what do you remember about the ashes?

How might ashes be a symbol for something that we experience?

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Leader Guide

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PIONEER

Artist:

Album Title & Record Company:

Video Title:

Study By:

PIONEER PIONEERTHEBAND.COM

PIONEER SLO SPEAK RECORDS

LIGHTS

PAUL TURNER

Theme Truth

Objective

Transition Ask:

• Did you have a phone to use as a light to find the candy?

In watching the video, students see a band on a journey. Part of every journey is discovery and as the songs says, “It’s safe to say, we’ll never be the same.”

• Was this activity unfair for those who had light? Why?

Warm Up

The Video

This is a simple game with a larger truth. Hide some mini candy bars around the room before the youth arrive. When you say “GO”, the students should look for them. Count off, 1, 2, and say, “But wait, I forgot one thing: you’ll have to search for them in the dark.” Then go to the light switch and turn of the lights. As you would expect, kids will take out their cellphones and use their light as a way to find the candy. Don’t disallow it, but watch who has a phone and who does not.

• So, it is safe to say that those who have light have an advantage to those who are in the dark?

Tell the group that the band Pioneer sings about discovery and uses the metaphor of a journey to discover this truth.

Bible Study

Read John 1:5 - “The light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not understood it.” Say, “So many people did not get Jesus. They simply could not comprehend what He was saying. Let’s look at three people who did not get Jesus.”

Paul – He stood by and watched a man be stoned to death because of his faith in Christ. Paul did not get it. Read Acts 7:54-59. Say, “What would have been running through your mind if you were Paul? What would you have thought of Stephen and his beliefs? How would you have left that execution that day? Paul had no light © 2013 interlinc • interlinc-online.com • 800.725.3300

to find the truth. That was quickly remedied in Acts 9:1-7. It took a blinding light for Paul to discover who Jesus really was and discover what Stephen knew.

Judas – He was Jesus’ companion for three years. He took care of the money for the group. He was a thief and a liar.

When Jesus talked with his disciples around the table for the last time, he said, “One of you shall betray me.”

Betray Jesus? Why would anyone do that? Yet, Judas thought it was in the best interest of Jesus to betray Him. Some people say Judas did this to force Jesus’ hand. To make Jesus act and get Him to destroy the Romans and set Israel free, but that is not how it worked out. Read Matthew 27:1-5.

Judas did not have or understand the light of Christ. What about you? Do try to force God’s hand to do something in your life?

Peter – There were several incidents when Peter did not understand Jesus.

He did not have the light of Christ to see where this journey was taking him.

The first incident was when Peter tried to tell Jesus how things were going to go. Read Matthew 23:21-28. Another instance is when Peter tried to prevent the guards from taking Jesus from the garden. He even tried to cut off a guy’s head – but the guy ducked and Peter sliced off his ear! Read John 18:1-11. Peter did not have the light to

PLEASANT GROVE ASSEMBLY PLEASANT GROVE, ALABAMA THEDPROJECT@ME.COM

find the truth. He groped around in his own darkness, trying to make his own way for Jesus. We are like this. Rather than accept the light of Christ, we feel around in the darkness trying to find a candy bar of truth.

Wrap Up

Pioneer has another song on the album called “Reaching” that would go well with this lesson. Say, “I am going to turn out the light again. This time I am going to play another song by the band. It’s called ‘Reaching.’ If you are looking for Truth, Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. If you are in darkness, not knowing or understanding Jesus, you are in good company.

Jesus will make Himself known to you if you want. While the song plays, if you want Jesus to shine His light of truth inside you, hold up your cellphone or your hand and someone will come pray for you.”

Student Guide

PIONEER

Artist:

Album Title & Record Company:

Video Title:

Theme:

PIONEER PIONEERTHEBAND.COM

PIONEER SLO SPEAK RECORDS

LIGHTS

TRUTH

Finish These Sentences: I am most like Paul because I don’t understand…

I am most like Judas because I think Jesus should…

I am most like Peter because I want to do things myself, such as…

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Leader Guide

30

CAPITAL KINGS

Artist:

Album Title & Record Company:

Video Title:

CAPITAL KINGS CAPITALKINGSMUSIC.COM

CAPITAL KINGS GOTEE RECORDS

YOU’LL NEVER BE ALONE - LYRIC VIDEO

Theme

God’s Presence

Objective

Students will learn how God shows us we are not alone.

Warm Up

Bring poster board, art supplies, and any other materials (like stones or Legos) for the students to make “signs.” Have the students form groups of 2 – 4. Have each group design a sign that would communicate the fact that we are NOT alone. Have a prize for the best, most colorful, and/or most creative sign. Have the students answer the questions:

The Video

Show the video and have them fill in the blanks on their Student Guide.

Here are the missing words: streetlights that guide you home, GPS when you’ve lost your phone, song rockin’ in your headphones, You’ll never be alone

Transition • What three things does the song mention as signs to let you know that you’ll never be alone?

• Which of those things is most comforting to you?

• What analogy would you add to the lyric? Write your own lyric. “I’m the…”, and “I’ll be the…”

• Do you ever feel alone?

• What speaks to you; what reassures you most that you are not alone?

• How do you feel when you see a billboard about God? • What do you feel is the best way to communicate to your friends and family that they are not alone?

Bible Study

God often uses signs to help us remember something important because we are forgetful people. Read the verses and answer the questions.

Joshua 4:4-7 – What is the sign? What were they to remember? Why do you think this is important?

Ezekiel 20:19-20 – What is the sign?

What are we to remember? What does “keep the Sabbath holy” mean? Do you think you keep the Sabbath holy? Why do you think this is important?

Deuteronomy 11:13-21 – What is the symbol or sign? Where are you to write, teach, and speak them?

Why do you think this is important?

Are God’s words/commands this prevalent to you?

Exodus 12:1-13 – What is the sign?

What is the significance of the blood sacrifice? Why do you think it is important to remember this? How does this point to the life and death of Jesus?

Genesis 9:12-16 – What is the sign?

What will God remember? What should we remember? Why do you think this is important?

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Study By: MARY WILSON PEED

UNKOMMON MEDIA CANTON, GEORGIA MARYBAKERWILSON@GMAIL.COM

Wrap Up

God gives us signs to help us remember His everlasting love for us, and all of the awesome things He has done.

He is the creator of the universe. In His creation God said everything was good – except for one thing. Read Genesis 2:18. God knows we have a basic need for fellowship with Him and others.

Have the students come up with three tangible ideas of things they can do this week as a “sign” to others that God loves them and will never leave them alone. Have each student choose one, and then text it to you.

Later in the week, check in with your students to remind them, or encourage them in their good works.

Close in a prayer that thanks God that we will never be alone.

Student Guide

CAPITAL KINGS

Artist:

Album Title & Record Company:

Video Title:

Theme:

CAPITAL KINGS CAPITALKINGSMUSIC.COM

CAPITAL KINGS GOTEE RECORDS

YOU’LL NEVER BE ALONE - LYRIC VIDEO

GOD’S PRESENCE

The Video

As you watch the video, fill in the blanks: I’m the _________________________ I’ll be the ______________________________ I’ll be the ____________________________ I’ll show you the signs to let you know ________________________ Write your own lyric: I’m the…

I’ll be the…

Joshua 4:4-7

Exodus 12:1-13

What were they to remember?

What is the significance of the blood sacrifice?

Why do you think this is important?

Why do you think it is important to remember this?

What is the sign?

Ezekiel 20:19-20 What is the sign?

What are we to remember?

What is the sign?

How does this point to the life and death of Jesus?

Genesis 9:12-16 What is the sign?

What does “keep the Sabbath holy” mean?

What will God remember?

Do you think you keep the Sabbath holy?

What should we remember?

Why do you think this is important?

Why do you think this is important?

Deuteronomy 11:13-21 This Week What is the symbol or sign?

Where are you to write, teach, and speak them?

Think of three tangible acts that you can do this week as a “sign” to others that God loves them and will never leave them alone.

1

Why do you think this is important?

2

Are God’s words/commands this prevalent to you?

3

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Leader Guide

32

YOUNG CHOZEN

Artist:

Album Title & Record Company:

Video Title:

Study By:

YOUNG CHOZEN

CLASS PRESIDENT 90KWATTS/GOZPUL MUSIC GROUP

CLASS PRESIDENT

ERIC GARGUS

HAVE FUN – Young Chozen says: People actin’ up like my Daddy is nothing.’ Jesus says: Turn from your selfish ways.

AND BE COOL – Young Chozen says: I don’t gotta compromise who I am just to get a high five. Jesus says: Follow me.

• What are some examples of good fun and bad fun?

• What is your definition of being “hip”?

Theme

The Song

Objective

Transition

Evangelism; God’s Representatives

Students will be challenged to represent God in all their endeavors.

Warm Up

Make sure each student has a Student Guide and a pen. Then verbally toss these open-ended “If I” statements out to the group, allowing time for several to complete the statements with their own unique responses. (Note: Encourage them to explain their responses.)

• If I could a rap, I would rap about…

• If I could change one thing about my school, I’d change…

• If I were the President of the United States for a day, I would…

• If I had to define my life’s purpose in one rhyme, it would go like this…

• If I had to choose one way to share Jesus with others, I would…

Transition

Say something like, “New hip-hop artist Young Chozen is bursting on the scene with a fresh album that just might make you move a little.” Let’s listen to the title cut, ‘Class President.’”

Play the song.

Before you ask these questions, consider how you will answer them yourself. And be honest! Students will respond to your honesty whether you like the style of music or not. When students respond, challenge them to explain their answers while affirming their willingness to speak out.

• What do you think the song is about?

• What lyric do you remember from the song?

• What is the strong message throughout the lyrics of the song?

Bible Study

Read Luke 9:23 to the group. Pause and then read it again. Say, “We’re going to take three song lyrics, pair them with the three big points in Luke 9:23, and see how God wants to merge our lifestyles with the wisdom of the Bible. Young Chozen says it is possible to ‘have fun, love God, and be cool’ all at the same time. Let’s see what he is talking about.” Either divide the group into three sub-groups, or dialogue through the discussion questions together.

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MARIE BAPTIST CHURCH DUBLIN, GEORGIA E4CHRIST@AOL.COM

• Which fun do you see people doing more—good or bad?

• What are some ways teens compromise their standards in an attempt at hipness?

• What makes bad fun selfish?

• What does following Jesus mean?

• What are some selfish things a person must give up to have good fun?

• What is hip about following Jesus?

• How can you represent God in the way you have fun?

LOVE GOD – Young Chozen says: My campaign is to show you the Relevant.

Jesus says: Take up your cross daily…

• What does it mean to truly love someone?

• How does your life show appreciation for what Jesus did on the cross for you?

• What is the hardest thing about loving God in how you live every day?

• What are some practical ways you can show God’s love to others daily?

Wrap Up

Ask, “If we try to give up our selfish ways, live by Christ’s standards in every place of every day, and make Him the leader of every aspect of our lives, what do you think might happen?” Then say, “I dare say that you would feel less guilt and more peace, the people around you would take notice and see Jesus in your life, and some might even start following Jesus too.” Close with prayer.

Student Guide

YOUNG CHOZEN

Artist:

Album Title & Record Company:

Video Title:

Theme:

YOUNG CHOZEN CLASS PRESIDENT

90KWATTS/GOZPUL MUSIC GROUP

CLASS PRESIDENT

EVANGELISM; GOD’S REPRESENTATIVES

If I…

If I could a rap, I would rap about…

Jesus Says

“If any of you wants to be my follower, you must turn from your selfish ways, take up your cross daily, and follow me.” (Luke 9:23)

If I could change one thing about my school, I’d change…

If I were the President of the United States for a day, I would…

If I had to choose one way to share Jesus with others, I would…

Class President

Have Fun

Young Chozen says: People actin’ up like my Daddy is nothing.’

What are some examples of good fun and bad fun?

How does your life show appreciation for what Jesus did on the cross for you?

What is the hardest thing about loving God in how you live every day?

What are some practical ways you can show God’s love to others daily?

Which fun do you see people doing more—good or bad?

What makes bad fun selfish?

What do you think the song is about?

What lyric do you remember from the song?

Jesus says: Take up your cross daily…

What does it mean to truly love someone?

Jesus says: Turn from your selfish ways.

If I had to define my life’s purpose in one rhyme, it would go like this…

Love God

Young Chozen says: My campaign is to show you the Relevant.

Be Cool

Young Chozen says: I don’t gotta compromise who I am just to get a high five.

Jesus says: Follow me.

What is your definition of being “hip”?

What are some selfish things a person must give up to have good fun?

What are some ways teens compromise their standards in an attempt at hipness?

What does following Jesus mean?

What is the strong message throughout the lyrics of the song?

How can you represent God in the way you have fun?

What is hip about following Jesus?

Dear Jesus, I want to be less selfish, more like You, and most definitely follow You more closely, so that others will see You in me. In Jesus’ name, Amen. interlinc-online.com • 800.725.3300

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Leader Guide

34

HOLLY STARR

Artist:

Album Title & Record Company:

Video Title:

Study By:

HOLLY STARR HOLLYSTARRMUSIC.COM

FOCUS SAVE THE CITY RECORDS

DON’T HAVE LOVE

CHAD HOLLINGSWORTH

Bible Study

Wrap Up

Theme Worldliness

Objective

Students will discuss the meaning of “worldliness” and compare it to the idea of love.

Warm Up

Form several teams. Have the groups define the word “worldliness” in the their own terms, and then race to write down as many examples of worldliness as possible on a sheet of paper.

Give the teams two to three minutes to accomplish the goal.

Transition

Go to the white board or collect the teams’ sheets of paper. See how many similar answers the different teams wrote. Define the word “worldliness” according to the dictionary. Discuss the reasons for their answers and see if there are any other answers they can come up with as a group. Ask questions like:

• How does your definitions of “worldliness” differ from the dictionary’s definition?

• If a definition is different from the one in the dictionary, does that change any of your answers?

• Is there one thing you can name that is an exact opposite of “worldliness”?

(Hint: You are looking for them to answer, “love” – but if they don’t, let them listen to the song, then revisit this later.

The Video

Select one of the artistic people in the group to draw images that reflect the lyrics of the song as the group is watching the video. This will capture the group’s attention and help them to stay focused on the lyrics.

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Let’s compare and contrast these two opposite concepts of “worldliness” and “love” by looking at a couple of passages of Scripture. First, worldliness: Matthew 16:24-26.

• What does this teaching of Jesus mean to you personally?

• After looking at this passage, can you see how we are so often our own worst enemy? Explain.

Now let’s look at Jesus’ teaching concerning the importance of love: Matthew 22:33-40.

• Consider how Jesus lived His life.

Can you see how He set an example of how we should live ours? Give some examples of Jesus’ demonstration of “selflessness.”

• Does worldliness have any place in a Christian’s life?

• We all struggle with selfishness and worldliness to some degree. How do we get from where we are to where we need to be?

RALLYTHETROOPS.ORG FAIRVIEW, TENNESSEE CHAD@RALLYTHETROOPS.ORG

Hand out the Student Guides. Give the students a few minutes to write down some things that they are willing to give up to help them move away from being worldly to being a reflection of God’s love to others.

Encourage the group to take the paper and place it somewhere they look regularly, like a mirror or locker.

Encourage them to visit that paper regularly to see how they are measuring up to their commitment.

Student Guide

HOLLY STARR

Artist:

Album Title & Record Company:

Video Title:

Theme:

HOLLY STARR HOLLYSTARRMUSIC.COM

FOCUS SAVE THE CITY RECORDS

DON’T HAVE LOVE

WORLDLINESS

My Worldly Struggles

Write a few of the things that tend to draw your attention away from God.

My Godly Priorities

Write a few things that you can do to demonstrate God’s love to others around you.

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Leader Guide

36

WAR OF AGES

Artist:

Album Title & Record Company:

Video Title:

WAR OF AGES FACEBOOK.COM/WAROFAGES

RETURN TO LIFE FACEDOWN RECORDS

SILENT NIGHT

Theme

Difficulties; Hope Within

Objective

Students will learn that in the hard and lonely times they need to look to Jesus and have hope in Him.

Warm Up

Sharks and Minnows – To start the game, everyone says “1-2-3 Not It!” The last one to say “not it” is the first “shark.” The “shark” starts in the middle. The “shark” says, “Come, little fishies!” All the “minnows” run from one end of the “pool” past the “shark” to the other end. If a minnow gets tagged, it becomes a “shark”, too.

Both “sharks” try to tag “minnows” the next time the minnows run. Play until all the “minnows” are caught.

Transition

Ask the first person who was the “Shark” how he or she reacted to being the only “shark” and trying to catch someone to be a shark with him or her.

Ask the others who became sharks how they felt when they got caught?

How did the minnows respond when there were more minnows than sharks? How did the last minnow feel?

The Video

Tell your students that they will watch a video by War of Ages called, “Silent Night.” Show the video. After they watch the video, ask them to fill the first section of the Student Guides about five of their battlegrounds and how they feel.

Transition

Say, “This song can leave you feeling depressed and hopeless with lyrics such as, ‘As your world starts to crumble becoming your battleground, will you stay silent, where is your faith now.’ Is there anything positive in this song to hang on to?”

Bible Study

Say, “The song goes on to say, ‘Follow eyes up front as you hit the floor; take from it strength this is what we were all made for.’ How does the Bible guide us where to look to overcome any hopelessness, defeat, depression that fills our lives. Let’s look.”

Where do we look for help?

(Psalm 121:1-2) When the ancient Israelites would “look to the hills,” they would see stone monuments to false gods and idols. Certainly they couldn’t expect help from idols. Looking past what others place their trust in, we see that our help comes from God who made those mountains.

Where do we look for hope?

Romans 5:1-5) Although we experience difficulty, we can know that hardships create strength and hope. We look to the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.

Why do we have our hope in the Lord?

(Psalm 116:1) We have hope in the Lord because He hears our voices and our cries for help.

Can we trust God with our hope?

(Psalm 25:1-3) Yes, we can trust Him because He will not put us to shame.

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Study By: CINDY ENGØY

YESWESERVE LONG BEACH, CALIFORNIA WURLDGURL@HOTMAIL.COM

Wrap Up

Say, “What or who are your enemies?

Do you feel hopeless because of family problems, relationship problems, grades, your future, or any other things that seem like enemies to you? You don’t need to feel hopeless anymore.

Give those ‘enemies/sharks’ to the Lord, put your hope and trust in Him. He loves you and wants you to triumph over those ‘enemies/sharks.’”

Close in prayer.

Student Guide

WAR OF AGES

Artist:

Album Title & Record Company:

Video Title:

Theme:

WAR OF AGES FACEBOOK.COM/WAROFAGES

RETURN TO LIFE FACEDOWN RECORDS

SILENT NIGHT

DIFFICULTIES; HOPE WITHIN

My Battlegrounds Are:

This Battleground Makes Me Feel (circle one)

______________________________________________________________________ mad

hopeless

vengeful

sad

______________________________________________________________________ mad

hopeless

vengeful

sad

______________________________________________________________________ mad

hopeless

vengeful

sad

______________________________________________________________________ mad

hopeless

vengeful

sad

______________________________________________________________________ mad

hopeless

vengeful

sad

Psalm 121:2 Where do we look for help?

Romans 5:1-5 Where do we look for hope?

Psalm 116:1

Why do we have our hope in the Lord?

Psalm 25:1-3

Can we trust God with our hope?

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Theme Video Leader Guide

38

Peer Pressure

Artist:

Album Title & Record Company:

Video Title:

NOT TODAY

NOTTODAYTHEMOVIE.COM

YOU’RE BECOMING ONE OF THEM

Theme Peer Pressure

Objective

Students will become aware of the influence–for good and for bad­–friends can have on them.

Warm Up

The Video

Explain that a not-yet-released movie called Not Today has a scene near the beginning of the film that will help us think more clearly about the issue of peer pressure. While the film isn’t about peer pressure (it’s actually about something far deeper), this scene sets up the situation for one of the main characters. Show the “You’re Turning Into One Of Them” clip from the film.

Two volunteers stand in front of the room, with one standing right behind the other.

The front person places his hands behind his back, and the person standing Debrief the video by referring to these behind places his arms around and in comments from the clip. After each front of his partner. Put on a long-sleeved statement, ask questions such as, shirt (backwards) over the arms of the “What do you think of that? How would back volunteer. Then, blindfold the back you have responded to that? What’s volunteer. You now have one person really going on?” who can see and speak being controlled Those guys don’t always bring out the by someone who can’t do either Have best in me. available all the ingredients you need to You know, you’re becoming one of them. make a massive hot dog – wiener, bun, mustard, ketchup, onions, chili, cheese; The reason I’m the only one who says the works! Have your volunteers put that is because you don’t hang out together (and eat!) the hot dog. Be prewith anyone who cares enough to be pared for a big mess and a lot of laughs! that honest with you.

Transition

Transition

Explain that everyone experience something similar, everyday. We call it “peer pressure” – it’s almost as though someone else had control of our actions. We all know that the people we spend time with will exert a strong influence on us.

I don’t go to church anymore because it puts me to sleep…

Everyone spends eternity somewhere.

Are you really resorting to that bumpersticker, t-shirt Christianity? Not you!

Don’t let them take you!

Mmmm, 3-Second Rule, remember?

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Is this who you really want to be? Or should I be asking – is this really who you are?

Bible Study

Invite your young friends to look up each of these Scriptures and talk about the questions for each one. (Of course, you will have done your homework beforehand so that you’re not just pooling your ignorance, right?) Hand out the Student Guides, and let the discussion commence!

• Romans 12:2 – What does “conform” mean to you? How can you transform your thinking to be more Christ-like?

• 1 Corinthians 15:33 – Who do you think “bad company” refers to in this passage? How can your friends corrupt your character? Would your character be positively or negatively affected in the following examples?

Why or why not?

• 2 Timothy 2:22 – What are you supposed to flee? What are you supposed to pursue? With whom are you supposed to pursue those virtues?

What does that tell you about whom you should choose to hang around?

• Hebrews 12:1-2 – What does the idea of being “entangled” mean to you? What hindrances do you have that entangles you? How will “fixing your eyes on Jesus” help you to take your stand for Him? How do you get

Study by: KEN McCOY

JUMPSTART MINISTRIES ESCONDIDO, CALIFORNIA KENNYMAC@MAC.COM

the strength and endurance to “run with perseverance the race”?

• Ephesians 5:8 – How can you be “light” in the “darkness” of your school? How can you be different from the world around you instead of conforming to it?

• Romans 1:16 – What kind of courage is required to stand and not be ashamed of being a Christian? What does the phrase, “power of God for the salvation” mean to you?

The Trailer

Explain that the Not Today film uses this situation – a young man heavily influenced by partying friends – to set up a massive contrast with people who are in desperate situations. If you are planning to take your group to see the film, give the details now. Then, show the trailer.

Wrap Up

Ask, “Are you hanging around with people who care enough to be ‘that honest’ with you?” “Are you the kind of friend who will be ‘that honest’ with the people you hand around?”

Explain that peer pressure goes both ways. You can exert a godly pressure on your friends, while resisting the worldly pressure that you might experience. Ask, “Which person are you more like, the girl in the movie clip, or the guy?” Close in prayer.

Student Guide

NOT TODAY

Artist:

Album Title & Record Company:

Video Title:

Theme:

NOT TODAY

NOTTODAYTHEMOVIE.COM

YOU’RE BECOMING ONE OF THEM

PEER PRESSURE

Romans 12:2

What does “conform” mean to you?

2 Timothy 2:22

Ephesians 5:8

What are you supposed to flee?

How can you be “light” in the “darkness” of your school?

What are you supposed to pursue?

How can you transform your thinking to be more Christ-like?

With whom are you supposed to pursue those virtues?

How can you be different from the world around you instead of conforming to it?

What does that tell you about whom you should choose to hang around?

1 Corinthians 15:33

Who do you think “bad company” refers to in this passage?

Romans 1:16

Hebrews 12:1-2

What does the idea of being “entangled” mean to you?

How can your friends corrupt your character?

What hindrances do you have that entangles you?

How will “fixing your eyes on Jesus” help you to take your stand for Him? Would your character be positively or negatively affected in the following examples? Why or why not?

What kind of courage is required to stand and not be ashamed of being a Christian?

What does the phrase, “power of God for the salvation” mean to you?

How do you get the strength and endurance to “run with perseverance the race”?

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blog Some of our thoughts on music, media and student ministry interlinc-online.com/blog

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WILL YOUR GRAD GIFT BE “LEFT BEHIND”?

A BOOK $25

NEW MUSIC 20 SONGS FROM TOP CHRISTIAN ARISTS NEW MEDIA STUDENT VIDEOS NEW GIFT BOOK NEW & MORE DEPTH (NIV COLLEGE DEVOTIONAL BIBLE DEVOS) ALL VIDEOS/DEVOS MOBILE FRIENDLY NEW CLASS OF 2013 WRISTBAND

A PLAQUE $15 Let’s face it, plaques, shirts and books that don’t get read can’t do much to help your kids live for Christ past the youth group.

Now music and media, that’s another story since they spend 7 ½ hours every day in their entertainment media world. The Biblical truths enforced by ConGRADulations! will reverberate on their iPhone, iPod and mobile device playlists for years after graduation. So before your grads hit the road, give them some driving music.

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NOT IF IT IS CONGRADULATIONS!

A SHIRT $20

CONGRADULATIONS! MUSIC/MEDIA GIFT $8.95

A best seller with over 1.2 million copies given to graduates by 25,000 churches, ConGRADulations! is three grad gifts in one: Music Album (20 songs from the top names in Christian music including Lecrae, Red, Tobymac, Switchfoot), Video-Media Content (artist, author, and fellow grad video greetings and advice), and 48-page Gift Book.

Bonus–Class of 2013 Wristband and Links to 20 college-career ministries.

NOW MOBILE FRIENDLY Your grads will be able to immediately access all the media content on theirphones. Point your phone’s QR reader here to see the “What I’ve Learned Video” From Class of 2012 Grad Patrick Ivison.

ALL FOR ONLY

8.95

$

$9.95 CD

(Orders Of 10 Or More Before April 26)

CLICK.LOOK. LISTEN.ORDER. GRAD2013.COM 800.725.3300

MORE RESOURCES FROM INTERLINC-ONLINE.COM The interlinc website is the best online resource for your ministry when it comes to music and media! You can listen to samples of all the music included in each volume of Youth Leaders Only, watch video clips from the Music Video Loops and read artist interviews and bios. You can also download articles on how to use music in your ministry, scope out our up-to-date Music Comparison Chart and check out other amazing resources to keep your youth ministry rockin’!

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REGIONAL PROMOTION interlínc is all about relationships.

That's why we have three regional directors: Mark Pittman in the SouthWest Region (San Diego Office), Troy Hargrave in the SouthCentral Region (Dallas Office) and Chris Renzelman in the NorthWest Region (Seattle Office). They are long-term youth ministry guys who love kids and are passionate about helping you use music in your ministry. Contact them for all your youth ministry music needs. Mark: mpittman@interlinconline.com Troy: thargrave@interlinconline.com Chris: crenz@interlinconline.com

YOUTH LEADERS ONLY Youth ministry's original low cost music subscription service. Get all the tools you need to use music and media to connect with students.

YLO Original: 36 CDs each year plus DVDs, posters, chord charts, music videos and Bible studies all for just $279.95 plus $40. shipping.

YLO Works: 56 CDs each year plus DVDs, posters, chord charts, music videos and Bible studies all for only $429.95 plus $70. shipping.

YLO Access: 60 songs on 4 compilation CDs with corresponding Bible studies, DVDs, posters and chord charts for just $75.95 plus $24. shipping. Find out more at interlinc-online.com/ylo

INTRODUCING YLO SELECT Now there is a version of YLO for every budget – introducing YLO Select. It’s right at half price of YLO Original and you get almost all the benefits plus you get to choose if you want the Main Selections, the Hot Selections, or the Mild Selections. The great part is it is only $13 per month!”

TO ORDER CALL 1-800-725-3300 OR GO ONLINE AT INTERLINC-ONLINE.COM

INTERLíNC

SURVIVING MIDDLE SCOOL BOOK AND MUSIC SOUNDTRACK VERSION 2.0 Middle School (some people know it as “Junior High”) is a whole new world full of new people, new schedules, weird situations and bizarre relationships. It’s a time of life when “transmogrification” takes place in kids’ bodies, homes, friendships, and brains. Middle School is when they learn to navigate the important issues of life.

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Surviving Middle School Version 2.0: The Book & 9-Song Soundtrack has a plethora of tips, tunes, advice and wisdom to guide the middle schooler.

Family Force 5, Relient K, and Stellar Kart join surfer-author Rick Bundschuh in bringing the wisdom—and the fun!

CONGRADULATIONS! MUSIC-MEDIA-GIFT BOOK With over 1.2 million copies given to graduates by 25,000 churches, ConGRADulations! is the #1 grad gift of this decade. BRAND NEW for 2013 it is a New Music (20 powerful songs from the top names in Christian music – Lecrae, Red, for King & Country Tobymac, Owl City), New Mobile Media (artist, author, and grad video greetings and advice, online Bible), New 48 Page Gift Book, New recycled paper Personalizable Gift Package, plus Class of 2013 Wristband. Also includes Ministry Resource Website (transition ministry weblinks, grad devotionals).

CLICK.LOOK.LISTEN. ORDER

NEED2KNOW EZINE Don’t miss out on free resources, downloads and more in our everyother-week e-newsletter. You’ll get “Heart of the Artist” interviews, music and video downloads, event information and more—all delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up at interlinc-online.com/email

YLO SPECIAL EDITIONS Several recent volumes of Youth Leaders Only are available as Special Editions. Topics include building and training your worship team (Rock'N U), evangelism (How To Bring It Up Without Throwing Up), middle school ministry (Making Impressions While The Cement’s Still Wet), the new sexuality (The Naked Truth: The New Sexuality and Youth Ministry). You can get each DVD, Bible studies and discussion starters, plus 15+ songs and corresponding Bible studies for only $29.95 plus $7.00 shipping.

Call 1-800-725-3300 to order.

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FCA AND INTERLÍNC’S PUMP’D WORKOUT AND PRE-GAME MUSIC PUMP’d #1 and #2 are aggressive, powerful collections of songs that prepare athletes and coaches for competition — and fans for the big game. All songs are original recordings by the top names in Christian music. Special pricing as low as $7.95.

INSIDERS GUIDE TO HIGH SCHOOL The Insiders Guide to High School Version 2.0 is a great gift for new kids coming into your ministry as well as for freshmen and sophomores! Multi-Media Disc features: seven great songs from top Christian bands, video student testimonies, Biblical answers to questions like, “Where do I fit in?”, clear Gospel presentation, and powerful Columbine High School video clip.

Special pricing as low as $2.99

TO ORDER CALL 1-800-725-3300 OR GO ONLINE AT INTERLINC-ONLINE.COM

JOIN YOUTH LEADERS ONLY And Your Kids Will Love You! Make the style of my membership:

YLO Original Membership (360+ songs annually) Hot

Mild

$279.95 plus $40.00 Shipping/Handling SHELF AD Alternating

Make the style of my membership:

Hot

Mild

Alternating

Digital version

$279.95 plus $20 Shipping digital

$429.95 plus $70.00 S/H $429.95 plus $20 Shipping digital

YLO Access Membership (50+ songs annually)

$75.95 plus $24.00 S/H

YLO Select Membership (200+ songs annually)

$149.95 plus $30.00 S/H

Canadian orders add additional $70 USD S/H; all other countries add add’l $120 USD S/H

Canadian orders add additional $52 USD S/H; all other countries add add’l $88 USD S/H

Make the style of my membership:

Hot

Mild

Main

Canadian orders add additional $83 USD S/H; all other countries add add’l $120 USD S/H

TOTAL ANNUAL YLO MEMBERSHIP:

_____________

Other Great Resources from interlínc Purchase a Single Box of YLO (extra S/H outside US) YLO Original Single Box choose: Hot Mild YLO Works Single Box YLO Access Single Box

$72.50 plus $10.00 shipping $110.00 plus $17.50 shipping $29.95 plus $7.00 shipping

Pump’d or Pump’d 2 Workout CD (circle one) Order 1–4 CDs for $10.95 each ____ x $10.95 = ____ + $4 S/H = ____ TOTAL Order 5–19 CDs for $8.95 each ____ x $8.95 = ____ + $6 S/H = ____ TOTAL Order 20+ CDs for $7.95 each ____ x $7.95 = ____ + $10 S/H = ____ TOTAL

Transition Tools for Your Students

ConGRADulations! Class of 2013 CD, Mobile Media and Gift Book Order 1–9 CD, DVD and Gift Book Sets for $12.95 each ____ x $12.95 = ____ + $4 S/H = ____ TOTAL Order 10–19 CD, DVD and Gift Book Sets for $10.95 each ____ x $10.95 = ____ + $8 S/H = ____ TOTAL For orders of 20 or more, please call 800-725-3300 or go to grad2013.com

ConGRADulations! Class of 2013 “Add A Hardback Bible” PACK Get the ConGRADulations! Class of 2013 CD, Mobile Media and Gift book PLUS a Hardback The Message Remix Bible ____ or NIV Student Bible ____ or NIV College Devotional Bible ____ Order 1–9 CD, DVD, Gift Book + Bible Packs for $23.95 each ____ x $23.95 = ____ + $15 S/H = ____ TOTAL Order 10–19 CD, DVD, Gift Book + Bible Packs for $21.95 each ____ x $21.95 = ____ + $30 S/H = ____ TOTAL For orders of 20 or more, please call 800-725-3300 or go to grad2013.com

Insiders Guide To High School CD

Order 1-9 CDs for $5.99 each ____ x $5.99 = ____ Order 10-24 for $4.99 each ____ x $4.99 = ____ Order 25-99 for $3.99 each ____ x $3.99 = ____ Order 100+ for $2.99 each ____ x $2.99 = ____ + $0.50 each s/h; max of $20 ____ x $0.50 = ____ s/h TOTAL = _________

Surviving Middle School Book and CD Soundtrack Version 2.0

Order 1–9 Book and CD sets for $12.95 each ____ x $12.95 = ____ + $4 S/H = ____ TOTAL Order 10–19 Book and CD sets for $10.95 each ____ x $10.95 = ____ + $8 S/H = ____ TOTAL For orders of 20 or more, please call 800-725-3300

TOTAL ORDER COST: Please allow 2-3 weeks for delivery. Prices subject to change.

About You

_____________

Name

Church Name

Denomination

Church Mailing Address

City

State

Zip

Church Shipping Address

City

State

Zip

Church Phone

Church FAX

F. 500-999

G. 1000+

Church Website

Give us your email address and we’ll make sure you get additional resources and tools delivered straight to your inbox!

How many students are in your group? (circle one) A. 0-25 B. 26-50 C. 51-99 What is your position or title? (circle one) Full Time Paid Youth Leader Volunteer Parent Para-church Leader

D. 100-199

E. 200-499

Senior Pastor Sunday School Teacher Part Time Paid Youth Leader Other: __________________________________________________________________________

DM-YLBK

YLO Works Membership (560+ songs annually) Digital version

RETURN THIS FORM (OR A COPY) ALONG WITH A CHECK TO: INTERLÍNC • P.O.BOX 680848 • FRANKLIN, TN 37068-0848 FOR FASTER SERVICE, QUESTIONS, CREDIT CARD ORDERS OR BILLING OPTIONS: CALL 1-800-725-3300 OR GO TO INTERLINC-ONLINE.COM

Canadian orders add additional $70 USD S/H; all other countries add add’l $120 USD S/H

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BACK COVER

Bible Studies Alphabetically Listed

By Themes Compassion / 12 Audio Adrenaline / Kings & Queens Difficulties; Hope Within / 36 War Of Ages / Silent Night Discipline / 6 TobyMac / Eye On It Evangelism; God’s Representatives / 10 Owl City / Shooting Star Evangelism; God’s Representatives / 32 Young Chozen / Class President God’s Greatness / 20 MercyMe / You Are I Am lyric video God’s Love / 14 Newsboys / His Love Never Fails lyric video God’s Power / 24 Planetshakers / Limitless God’s Presence / 30 Capital Kings / You’ll Never Be Alone lyric video Hope; In God / 8 Flyleaf / New Horizons Peer Pressure / 38 Not Today Movie Excerpt Perspective / 22 The Rocket Summer / Just For A Moment Renewal / 26 Abandon Kansas / Turn It To Gold Righteousness / 16 Propaganda / Excellent Sin; Struggle With / 18 Your Memorial / Shipwreck Truth / 28 Pioneer / Lights Worldliness / 34 Holly Starr / Don’t Have Love

1-800-725-3300 interlinc-online.com