Last week I started to post an adaptation of a study guide for Thoughts for Young Men by JC Ryle (which would apply equally well to young woman!). The study guide that I’m adapting was written by Bob Hoover for his son and initially used when his son was 12 years old. I would encourage you to consider using this (or some other) resource to create an ongoing context for intentional discipleship of your youth (see post from last Age of Opportunity meeting).
In doing so, I would recommend you start with a relational time of just enjoying being together and talking about whatever comes to mind: sports, current events, life in general, etc. Then I would transition to this study, having had the youth answer the questions in advance. I would also want to make sure I drew them out about current challenges or temptations they are facing – prioritizing their care over the coverage of the content of the pamphlet. A resource like this can be a wonderful spring-board into more substantive fellowship together.
So here are the questions for chapter 2:
- What does Mr. Ryle say is the first special danger facing young men? What are some reasons why he is so concerned about this danger?
- How does pride in a young man express itself toward an older person or parents?
- Write out two verses mentioned about how Jesus displayed humility.
- What is the second danger facing young men? What aspects of youth tempt a young man to be given to pleasure?
- What does 1 Pet. 2:11 say lusts of our flesh will do (quoted by Mr. Ryle)? What do you think that means?
- What is the third danger? What will happen if young men don’t reflect on the end of their present course and ways?
- What do many young men say when they run into sin, and why do they say it?
- What is the fourth danger Mr. Ryle mentions? What does it mean to have contempt for religion?
- What does the author state he is “… never surprised to hear…”?
- What is the fifth danger facing young men? What does Proverbs 29:25 say about this danger?
- Mr. Ryle tells us to “consider how unreasonable the fear of man is.” Share one way why it is unreasonable.
- What has affected you the most from this chapter? What would you like my help in applying to your own life?
