Lesson 2: You Got Next (Student Copy)

“You Got Next?” is a lesson I was asked to teach at the Church of Christ @ Austin Eastside’s Youth Day. While this lesson was originally intended for youth, it can be used in many settings from small groups to senior saints classes.

This lesson challenges students to recognize that spiritual maturity is not optional—it's essential. Drawing from Hebrews 5:11–6:3, we explore how God expects every believer to grow beyond the basics of faith and prepare to lead, serve, and discern right from wrong. Like an athlete waiting to be subbed in, many young Christians are spiritually “next up” but remain unprepared due to complacency, distraction, or fear.

We pair this with a real-life story of Elizabeth Eckford, one of the Little Rock Nine, who showed up ready to make history—only to find herself standing alone because others weren’t prepared to support her. Her courage contrasts with the failure of those who should’ve been there, mirroring how immature Christians can leave others vulnerable by failing to grow.

Through Scripture, story, and reflection, students are called to take responsibility for their faith journey, move past spiritual “training wheels,” and be ready to take their place in building up the Church. The message is clear: You’re not the church of tomorrow. You’ve got next—so be ready today.