Overview:

This lesson focuses on Nathan's confrontation of David, highlighting the role of prophetic correction in addressing moral lapses. The icebreaker involves students sharing personal stories of receiving constructive criticism and its impact. Discussion will explore the ethics of confronting wrongdoing and the potential for personal transformation through accountability. The activity will involve role-playing scenarios where students practice delivering and receiving constructive feedback, emphasizing empathy and growth.

Icebreaker: Worship Word Association

Ask students to sit in a circle. The first student says a word related to worship or the word of God (e.g., "preaching," "Bible," "confession"). The next student must quickly say a word that they associate with the previous word. This continues around the circle. If someone hesitates for too long, that person is out. The game continues until only one person remains. If you have a student who might have a hard time thinking quickly, let that person be the timer and count to ten each time a new person begins.

Read 2 Samuel 11:26 - 12:13a.

Discussion:

Summarize the story Nathan told David about the rich man and the poor man in your own words. Can you think of any real-world and current equivalents?
Why do you think Nathan confronted David with the story of the rich man and the poor man?
How can you apply the lesson from Nathan’s story about owning up to mistakes in your life?
What are some ways we can share and discuss the Word of God with others in our daily lives? (If your group is creative, ask them to consider whether the Word of God is scripture or Jesus? Or something else?)
What does Nathan’s approach in confronting David teach us about how to address someone who has done wrong?
Compare David’s initial reaction to Nathan’s story with his reaction after realizing the story was about him. What changed?
Have you ever known someone, including yourself, to have an initial reaction that then changes after new information? Do you think this is a sign of weakness or strength?
What do you think about the saying, “We desire mercy for ourselves and justice for others” related to this story from scripture? Do you believe that saying is true? How might we move to wanting mercy and justice for all, ourselves included?

Activity: Action Words

As a group, brainstorm practical ways the youth can apply the themes of the passage in their daily lives (e.g., helping a friend in need, apologizing for a mistake, standing up for what is right).

Have each student write down one actionable challenge on an index card that relates to the themes discussed. Examples include, “I apologize to someone I have wronged,” “Stand up for someone who is being treated unfairly,” or “Help a friend with a difficult task.’ Collect all the index cards in a jar or bowl.

Then, invite each student to draw a card from the jar and take on the challenge written on it for the week. They should think about how this action relates to the passage and its themes.

At the next meeting, have students share their experiences completing their challenges. Discuss questions such as, “What was the most difficult part of your challenge?” and “How did this challenge help you understand the passage better?”

Close in a way appropriate for your group.