Where Should We Go?
The Lesson Plan on Following Jesus is designed to help young people grow in their faith. It teaches how to overcome the challenges and distractions that come with living as a follower of Jesus. In today’s world, it’s easy to get pulled away by different influences, but this lesson focuses on staying connected to Jesus’ teachings.
By focusing on Jesus, youth can learn to handle doubts and temptations. They will understand that these struggles are normal but can be faced with trust in Jesus. The lesson helps young people build a stronger relationship with Him through prayer, Scripture, and guidance from others in the faith.
This lesson also emphasizes the importance of making wise decisions when faced with peer pressure or when society’s values clash with the Gospel. It reminds young people that true fulfillment comes from following Jesus, not the world’s empty promises. The lesson gives them tools to stay focused on Christ.
In the end, the goal is for youth to see Jesus as their true guide in life. His teachings give them the strength and direction they need to walk by faith. This lesson encourages them to stay close to Him, just like Peter and the apostles did, trusting that Jesus leads them to eternal life.
Opening Game for the Lesson Plan on Following Jesus
We’re going to start with a game called Minefield. Here’s how it works:
- We’ll divide everyone into teams.
- Each team will choose one person to be the caller. The rest of the team members will be blindfolded.
- The goal is for the blindfolded players to make it through a course full of obstacles. Only the caller can give them directions to help them get through safely.
- The blindfolded players can’t see anything, so they must rely on the caller’s voice to guide them.
See the complete instructions for the game and some notes.
After the game, discuss how it went.
- Did your caller give you good directions?
- Why is listening important in this game? What could have happened if you listened to the other team’s caller instead of your own?
- How did trust play a part in navigating the course?
This game teaches us a lot about listening and trusting the right voice, just like when we follow Jesus. As we saw, it was really important to listen carefully to your caller. Without clear instructions, it was easy to get lost or bump into obstacles. In the same way, following the right voice is crucial in our faith journey. We are surrounded by many voices and distractions, but only one voice will guide us safely—Jesus’ voice.
This connects to a moment in the Bible when some of Jesus’ followers faced a choice. In the Gospel of John, Jesus taught about being the Bread of Life, which was hard for many to understand. Some were confused and started to turn away from Him. But Jesus asked His disciples if they would leave too. Let’s read the passage from John 6:60-69 to see how Peter responded and what it teaches us about following Jesus.
Scripture Reading for the Lesson Plan on Following Jesus
Many of Jesus’ disciples who were listening said, “This saying is hard; who can accept it?”
Since Jesus knew that his disciples were murmuring about this, he said to them, “Does this shock you? What if you were to see the Son of Man ascending to where he was before? It is the spirit that gives life, while the flesh is of no avail. The words I have spoken to you are Spirit and life. But there are some of you who do not believe.”
Jesus knew from the beginning the ones who would not believe and the one who would betray him. And he said, “For this reason I have told you that no one can come to me unless it is granted him by my Father.”
As a result of this, many of his disciples returned to their former way of life and no longer accompanied him. Jesus then said to the Twelve, “Do you also want to leave?”
Simon Peter answered him, “Master, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe and are convinced that you are the Holy One of God.”
John 6:60-69 – the Gospel for the 21st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B
Discussion for the Lesson Plan on Following Jesus
In our faith journey, we all face obstacles and challenges. Just like any path we walk in life, following Jesus isn’t always easy. There are times when we doubt what we believe. We might feel pressure to fit in with the world or follow what others are doing. Temptations can also pull us away from what Jesus teaches. In these moments, it’s important to listen to the right voice. But how do we know which voice to trust?
The world is full of different opinions, voices, and ideas. Some voices may tell us that we need to focus on ourselves more, seek out wealth, or chase after popularity. These voices can sound convincing, but they often lead us away from the teachings of Christ. If we follow these voices, we might feel empty or lost. True happiness doesn’t come from chasing after these things. Jesus offers something better. His voice is the voice of truth, love, and hope. When we listen to Jesus, He shows us the way to live with real purpose and joy.
Following Jesus doesn’t mean life will always be smooth. Even the disciples faced tough choices and doubts. But what made them different was their decision to keep following Jesus, no matter what. They stayed with Him, trusted Him, and believed in His wisdom. When we face challenges, we can look to their example. Even when things get hard, Jesus is there to guide us.
One way to stay connected to Jesus is through prayer. Prayer helps us listen to God and bring our struggles to Him. It reminds us that we are not alone in our journey. Another way is by reading the Bible. In the Scriptures, we find Jesus’ words and teachings. His words remind us of what’s true, even when the world tries to distract us. We can also seek advice from people who are strong in their faith, like trusted mentors or spiritual leaders. These people can help us stay on track and give us guidance when we feel unsure.
Sometimes, following Jesus can feel lonely. The world might tell us that we’re missing out or that we’re different for choosing a life of faith. But Jesus reminds us that the path He offers leads to something far greater. It’s not just about fitting in with the world; it’s about finding true joy and peace in Him. Jesus said that His words are filled with Spirit and life. When we follow Him, we’re not just following rules; we’re following the One who gives us eternal life.
In the Gospel of John, Jesus teaches about the Eucharist. He says, “Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life” (John 6:54). This teaching was hard for many of His followers to accept. Some were impressed by His miracles but couldn’t handle this difficult message. They decided to leave Him. But Jesus didn’t water down His message. He knew that following Him would be challenging, but He also knew it was the only way to true life.
When some followers left, Jesus turned to His disciples and asked if they would leave too. Peter responded with faith, saying, “Master, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life” (John 6:68). Peter understood that Jesus was the only one worth following, even when His teachings were hard. He knew that following Jesus was the path to eternal life.
Peter’s response teaches us something important. When we follow Jesus, we might face moments of doubt or confusion. We might not always understand everything. But, like Peter, we need to remember that Jesus has the words of eternal life. There is nowhere else we should go. No other path will lead us to real fulfillment. Even when things are hard, even when we don’t understand everything, we need to trust that Jesus knows what’s best for us.
Following Jesus means choosing faith, even when it’s difficult. It means trusting Him over the voices that try to lead us away. The world may offer us distractions, but Jesus offers us something real—eternal life and a deeper relationship with God. When we choose to follow Him, we are saying yes to a life that matters, a life that brings us closer to God and to the purpose He has for us.
So, where should we go? Let’s stay close to Jesus. Let’s follow Him, even when the path is hard, knowing that He is leading us to eternal life. He will guide us, strengthen us, and give us the grace we need to overcome any obstacle. Following Jesus is the way to true fulfillment, and it’s a journey worth taking.
Small Group Reflection Questions for the Lesson Plan on Following Jesus
Facilitators, encourage your group to openly share their thoughts and experiences as they discuss these questions. Remind them that following Jesus is a personal journey, and everyone’s perspective is valuable. Make sure everyone has a chance to speak, and feel free to let the conversation flow naturally. These questions are meant to spark deeper reflection on how we can live as followers of Jesus in our daily lives.
- What can you do this week to focus more on following Jesus in your daily life?
- What does following Jesus mean to you personally?
- Have you ever faced challenges or doubts when trying to follow Jesus? How did you overcome them?
- In what ways can prayer and Scripture help us stay close to Jesus?
- How does peer pressure or worldly influences affect your ability to follow Jesus?
- Why is trusting Jesus important, especially when things are difficult?
- What role does the Eucharist play in your journey of following Jesus?
- How can we help others stay on the path of following Jesus?
- When was a time you felt distant from Jesus? How did you reconnect with Him?
- How does following Jesus bring peace and joy into your life?
Challenge for the Lesson Plan on Following Jesus
When you face a tough choice, take a moment to pause and ask Jesus what He wants for you. Pray and listen to His voice in your heart. Sometimes the answer may not be clear right away, so don’t be afraid to seek guidance from a youth minister, lay leader, or priest. They can help you find the direction Jesus wants you to take. Following Jesus means making decisions with His help, even when it’s not easy.
If you’ve wandered off the path or made choices that led you away from Jesus, know that He is always calling you back. Jesus wants to forgive and heal you. One of the best ways to return is through the Sacrament of Reconciliation. In confession, you receive God’s mercy and forgiveness. Jesus doesn’t hold your mistakes against you. He takes your hand and leads you forward with love and grace, helping you start fresh.
Prayer for the Lesson Plan on Following Jesus
Let’s gather in a circle and take a moment to quiet our hearts. We are going to close with a prayer that reminds us how important it is to stay connected to Jesus through prayer, especially when we face challenges in life. Prayer helps us listen to Jesus and find the strength to follow Him, no matter what comes our way.
This prayer is called the Walk by Faith prayer. It encourages us to trust Jesus and ask for His guidance as we walk through life. If you’re ever feeling unsure or lost, remember this prayer. You can use it any time to reconnect with Jesus and seek His help.
Let’s pray together:
Jesus,
Help me to walk by faith.
When I face challenges, give me the strength to trust You.
When I am unsure, guide me on the right path.
When I feel weak, fill me with Your grace.
Help me to remember that You are always with me.
Teach me to follow You, no matter what life brings.
Let Your love and light shine through me.
Amen.
More Resources for the Lesson Plan on Following Jesus
Themes for the Lesson Plan on Following Jesus
- Trust in Jesus’ Teachings: We are called to trust Jesus and His message, even when it is hard to understand. His teachings lead us to eternal life. Trusting in Him is a key part of our faith.
- Overcoming Temptation: We face temptations that try to pull us away from Jesus. By following Jesus, we can resist these distractions. Jesus gives us strength to overcome.
- Listening to God’s Voice: In a world full of noise, we need to focus on hearing Jesus. His voice leads us to truth and love. We can find this voice through prayer and Scripture.
- Living by Faith: Faith requires us to walk with Jesus even when we don’t see the whole picture. Trusting Him gives us peace and purpose. Living by faith keeps us close to God.
- Strength in Adversity: Life is full of challenges and obstacles. Jesus promises to be with us through these struggles. Following Him gives us the strength to endure hard times.
- Unity with the Eucharist: Jesus invites us to remain in Him through the Eucharist. His body and blood give us life and help us grow in faith. Receiving the Eucharist connects us deeply to Jesus.
- Resisting Worldly Values: The world often pushes values that go against the teachings of Jesus. We are called to stand firm and not compromise our faith. Following Jesus means choosing His way over the world’s way.
- Seeking Spiritual Guidance: We are encouraged to seek help from trusted spiritual leaders and mentors. They help us stay on the path of following Jesus. Guidance from others can keep us strong in our faith.
- Sacrificial Love: Jesus teaches us to love selflessly, even when it’s difficult. Following Him means putting others before ourselves. This love reflects Christ’s love for us.
- Eternal Life Promise: Jesus offers the promise of eternal life to those who follow Him. His words lead us toward heaven. This promise gives us hope and direction.
- Commitment to Discipleship: Being a disciple of Jesus requires a full commitment. We are called to follow Him in everything we do. Discipleship means dedicating our lives to Christ’s mission.
Background Material for the Lesson Plan on Following Jesus
Following Jesus is central to Catholic teaching. It means living according to His example and obeying His teachings. In the Gospels, Jesus calls us to follow Him, saying, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me” (Matthew 16:24). This call is an invitation to live a life of faith, service, and love. Jesus is not just a moral guide, but the way to eternal life.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church explains that “The way of Christ leads to life; a contrary way leads to destruction” (CCC 1696). This means that by following Jesus, we find the true path to holiness and fulfillment. It also means turning away from sin and worldly values that distract us from God’s plan. As Catholics, we are called to make a conscious decision to follow Jesus daily, despite the challenges and obstacles.
One key aspect of following Jesus is trust. In John 6, Jesus teaches about the Eucharist, saying, “Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him on the last day” (John 6:54). Many found this teaching difficult, and some turned away. But Peter, in faith, responded, “Master, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life” (John 6:68). Peter shows us that following Jesus requires trust, even when we don’t fully understand. This trust is not blind; it is rooted in faith that Jesus is the Son of God and knows what is best for us.
The Eucharist is central to our Catholic faith and plays a major role in following Jesus. By receiving the Eucharist, we remain close to Christ and draw strength for our spiritual journey. As Jesus said, “Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me, and I in him” (John 6:56). The Church teaches that the Eucharist is “the source and summit of the Christian life” (CCC 1324), meaning it is the highest form of communion with God and the source of grace we need to follow Jesus.
Following Jesus also means living out His commandments of love. Jesus taught us to love God with all our heart and to love our neighbor as ourselves (Matthew 22:37-39). This is more than just a feeling; it involves sacrifice and service to others. When we follow Jesus, we commit to loving and serving as He did, even when it is difficult. The Catechism teaches that “By his obedience unto death, Christ communicated to his disciples the gift of royal freedom, so that they might, by the self-abnegation of a holy life, overcome the reign of sin in themselves” (CCC 908). This shows us that by following Jesus in self-sacrifice, we are freed from sin and grow in holiness.
In summary, following Jesus is a lifelong commitment. It means trusting Him, staying connected through the Eucharist, and living out His teachings in our daily lives. Though the path is sometimes hard, Jesus gives us the strength and grace we need to persevere. His way leads to eternal life, and as Catholics, we are called to walk with Him on this journey.
Music Suggestions for the Lesson Plan on Following Jesus
- Lord I Need You by Matt Maher
- I Am the Bread of Life by Steve Angrisano and Tom Booth
- Christ Be Our Light by Bernadette Farrell
- Lead Me Lord by John Becker
- Jesus I Trust in You by Josh Blakesly
- We Walk by Faith by Marty Haugen
More Youth Ministry Lesson Plans and Reflections
If you’re a teacher, youth minister, or catechist looking for more free lesson plans on following Jesus, visit our lesson plans and reflections page. We offer a variety of plans and reflections to help guide young people in their faith journey. These resources are easy to use and designed to deepen their connection with Jesus.
Questions and Answers for the Lesson Plan on Following Jesus
What does “following Jesus” mean?
Following Jesus means living according to His teachings and example. It involves trusting Him, loving others, and growing closer to God through prayer, Scripture, and the sacraments. It’s about making Jesus the center of our lives.
Why is following Jesus important?
Following Jesus is important because He shows us the way to eternal life. His teachings guide us to live with purpose, love, and peace. By following Jesus, we grow closer to God and become the people we are meant to be.
What are the challenges of following Jesus?
There are many challenges, such as peer pressure, temptation, and doubts. The world often promotes values that go against Jesus’ teachings. However, staying focused on Jesus and trusting Him helps us overcome these obstacles.
How can prayer help in following Jesus?
Prayer connects us to Jesus and helps us listen to His voice. It gives us strength and peace when we face challenges. Through prayer, we ask for God’s guidance to help us follow Jesus more faithfully.
How can the Eucharist help in following Jesus?
The Eucharist strengthens our connection with Jesus. When we receive His Body and Blood, we are united with Him and receive the grace to live as His followers. The Eucharist is the source of spiritual nourishment for our journey.
What should I do when I feel distant from Jesus?
When you feel distant, turn to prayer, Scripture, and the sacraments, especially the Eucharist. Seek guidance from a trusted mentor or spiritual leader. Remember, Jesus is always ready to welcome you back and help you on your path.
How do I know I’m following Jesus correctly?
You are following Jesus when you are living by His teachings and seeking to love God and others. Regular prayer, receiving the sacraments, and reading the Bible help you stay on the right path. If you are unsure, seek advice from a spiritual guide or priest.
Can I follow Jesus even if I make mistakes?
Yes, we all make mistakes, but Jesus is always ready to forgive us. Following Jesus means getting back up after we fall and continuing to trust Him. Through confession and prayer, we receive His mercy and can keep following Him.
How do I help others in following Jesus?
You can help others by setting a good example and sharing your faith with them. Encourage others to pray, read Scripture, and attend Mass. Support them when they face challenges, and remind them of Jesus’ love and mercy.
What is the reward for following Jesus?
The greatest reward is eternal life with God in heaven. Following Jesus also brings peace, joy, and a deep sense of purpose in this life. Jesus leads us to true happiness that the world cannot give.
Conclusion
The Lesson Plan on Following Jesus helps young people learn what it means to live as followers of Christ. It focuses on trusting Jesus, following His teachings, and building a strong relationship with Him. The lesson addresses common challenges, like peer pressure and doubts, and provides practical ways to stay close to Jesus, such as prayer, Scripture, and receiving the Eucharist.
By using this lesson plan, students can reflect on how Jesus guides them through life’s struggles. They learn that following Jesus is not always easy, but it leads to true happiness and eternal life. The lesson emphasizes that, even when things are difficult, Jesus gives us the strength to persevere and stay on the right path.
This lesson also encourages discussions about how to overcome obstacles in following Jesus and how to help others do the same. It reminds young people that they are not alone in their journey. Through this plan, students learn that following Jesus brings peace and purpose to their lives.
Your Turn
Try the Lesson Plan on Following Jesus with your group today! It is a great way to help young people grow in their faith and learn how to follow Jesus. After using the lesson, leave a comment to share your own ideas or notes about what worked best. Your input could help others use the plan more effectively.
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