Teen Themes in Proverbs

Colin Badger

Mid-Atlantic Christadelphian Bible School (1990)

The book of Proverbs speaks with timeless wisdom, offering guidance that is as relevant to today’s teenagers as it was to young people in ancient Israel. This series brings together practical lessons on navigating life’s challenges, making wise choices, and developing godly character in a world filled with competing voices. Drawing directly from the vivid imagery and plain-spoken counsel of Proverbs, these classes invite young people to listen to wisdom’s call, turn from the traps of folly, and build a life grounded in God’s truth.

Two Voices

This opening class introduces the central theme of Proverbs—two voices calling for our attention: the voice of wisdom and the voice of folly. Through vivid contrasts, it shows how the choices we make set the course for our lives. The class challenges listeners to recognize these voices in their own experiences and to choose the path that leads to life, peace, and blessing.

Self-Control

Focusing on the virtue of self-control, this class explores how discipline over our thoughts, words, and actions safeguards us from many of life’s pitfalls. Using Proverbs’ practical insights, it illustrates the power of restraint in friendships, speech, emotions, and desires. Teens are encouraged to see self-control not as a burden, but as a pathway to freedom and strength in Christ.

Morality

This session addresses the moral challenges young people face, particularly in relationships and personal integrity. Drawing from the warnings and promises in Proverbs, it calls for purity of heart, honesty in dealings, and faithfulness to God’s standards. Real-life applications make the principles of morality tangible, urging teens to embrace holiness in thought, word, and deed.

Friendship

Here Proverbs’ wisdom on friendships comes to life, highlighting the blessing of good companions and the dangers of bad influences. The class examines loyalty, honesty, and mutual encouragement as hallmarks of true friendship, while warning of the subtle ways negative relationships can pull us off course. Teens are urged to choose friends who will strengthen their walk with God.

Question and Answer

In this interactive session, questions from young people are addressed openly and thoughtfully, applying biblical principles to real-life situations. Topics range from career choices to family roles, with each answer aiming to balance scriptural truth with practical wisdom. This class provides space for honest dialogue, reinforcing the relevance of God’s Word in the decisions teens face today.

This description has been generated by AI and lightly edited.


Give ear, and hear my voice; give attention, and hear my speech.

Isaiah 28:23 (ESV)