How to Engage Teenagers in Summer Bible Studies: Strategies That Work
Summer is here, and suddenly your teen’s schedule opens up—but so does their desire to check out of anything that sounds like “school.” Bible study? Not always their top pick.
But here’s the thing: summer Bible studies for teens can be fun, meaningful, and even something they look forward to. It just takes the right mix of flexibility, relevance, and ownership.
If you’re wondering how to keep your teenager engaged in God’s Word this summer, here are some strategies that actually work.
1. Let Them Help Choose the Study
Teenagers are more likely to show up when they have a say in what they’re studying. Let them explore a few Bible study options and choose one that interests them. Think topics like:
- Biblical heroes (like Esther, Joshua, or Paul)
- Themes they’re living (identity, purpose, relationships)
- Books of the Bible they’ve never explored
You could say, “Let’s pick something to study together this summer—something we both want to learn more about.”
📝 Try This: Offer 2-3 options so they don’t feel overwhelmed but still get a choice.
2. Keep It Short and Flexible
Summer isn’t the time for hour-long lectures. Aim for short, focused studies—15 to 30 minutes max. Meet outside. Grab cold drinks. Sit on the deck or go to a coffee shop.
Better yet, don’t meet at the same time every day. Flexibility makes it feel less like a class and more like a conversation.
⏱ Parent Tip: Use a timer if needed—“We’ll just do 20 minutes and then go do something fun.”
3. Go Beyond Reading—Get Them Talking
Teens want to talk—if they feel safe and heard. Ask open-ended questions like:
- What do you think this verse means today?
- How would you have responded if you were there?
- What do you think God is showing you right now?
Let their questions lead the way—even the hard ones.
📘 Use This: A timeline-based study (like our New Testament Overview) helps them see the big picture, keeps lessons interactive, and leaves room for questions.
4. Tie It to Real Life
Want your teen to engage with the Bible? Show them how it connects to real life.
Talk about how Jesus handled stress, friends, or rejection. Point out how people in Scripture faced choices just like they do. Help them journal or sketch what they’re learning—especially if they’re creative or visual learners.
✏️ Try This: Encourage them to keep a summer prayer journal or gratitude list alongside their study.
5. Invite Friends or Make It a Group
Bible study can be more fun with friends. Host a weekly “Bible + BBQ” night or a weekend coffee study with a few other teens. Even a virtual meet-up works if your teen has long-distance friends or cousins.
👥 Bonus Tip: Let them lead once in a while. Giving teens ownership builds leadership and helps them take the Word to heart.
6. Make Space for Silence and Reflection
Not every moment needs to be filled. Give them space to think, pray, and reflect without pressure to respond right away. Encourage them to take what they’re learning into their week.
🧠 Thought Prompt: “What’s one verse or idea from today’s study you want to remember this week?”
Final Thoughts
Summer Bible studies for teens don’t have to feel forced or boring. With the right approach, they can be meaningful, fun, and something your teen wants to keep doing—long after summer’s over.
And here’s the good news: You don’t have to reinvent the wheel. Use a flexible, visual Bible curriculum that helps them connect the dots, builds confidence, and keeps them growing in faith—even on the go.
👉 Want a summer-friendly study that works for middle and high school students? Check out our Old Testament Bible Study Journal for Teens and Adults —perfect for family devotions, small groups, or independent study.
