How LDS Youth Classes Make Scripture Study Engaging for Teens

Discover how the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints tailors scripture learning for its youth, fostering personal connection and practical application.

By Garret Merkley · Explainer · Aug 15, 2026

Branched from How LDS Sunday School Teaches Doctrine Through Restored Scripture

Quick take

LDS youth classes adapt scripture study to be interactive and relevant for teenagers.
Lessons focus on discussion, personal experiences, and applying principles to daily life.
The “Come, Follow Me” curriculum aligns home and church study, empowering youth to lead.
These classes aim to build spiritual resilience and a personal relationship with sacred texts.

LDS Youth Classes (often called Sunday School, Young Men, or Young Women classes) are weekly gatherings within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints designed to help teenagers and young adults (ages 12-18) understand and apply the teachings found in their scriptures. Unlike adult classes, these sessions are specifically adapted to engage younger minds through interactive methods, peer discussion, and direct relevance to their lives.

The "Come, Follow Me" Curriculum

The core of LDS youth scripture study is the "Come, Follow Me" curriculum. This program provides a unified study schedule for individuals, families, and church classes, ensuring everyone is studying the same scriptural texts each week. For youth classes, this means lessons are built around specific chapters or themes from the Old Testament, New Testament, Book of Mormon, or Doctrine and Covenants, rotating annually. This shared focus encourages preparation at home and deepens classroom discussions.

The curriculum materials for youth leaders emphasize asking open-ended questions, facilitating peer-to-peer teaching, and creating an environment where youth can share insights and personal experiences without judgment. Rather than lectures, lessons often involve small group activities, role-playing, and using technology to explore scriptural contexts and meanings. The goal is to move beyond simply reading scriptures to truly understanding and internalizing their messages.

Emphasizing Application and Relevance

A key adaptation for teenagers is the strong emphasis on practical application. Youth leaders are encouraged to help students connect scriptural principles to real-life challenges and decisions they face daily—such as friendships, social media, education, and future choices. Discussions often revolve around "What does this mean for me?" and "How can I live this principle?" This approach helps youth see scriptures not as ancient texts, but as living guides for modern life.

Classes also provide opportunities for youth to practice leadership and teaching. Older teenagers might be invited to help lead discussions, share their testimonies, or even teach portions of a lesson. This empowers them to take ownership of their spiritual learning and develop confidence in expressing their beliefs.

These adapted classes are crucial for helping teenagers navigate a complex world by building a strong spiritual foundation. By engaging with scriptures in a relevant, interactive way, youth develop a personal testimony of their teachings and learn to seek guidance from sacred texts. This process fosters spiritual resilience, equipping them with tools to make informed choices, find comfort in challenging times, and strengthen their relationship with God. It also creates a community of peers who share similar values and can support each other in their faith journeys.

How do these classes differ from adult Sunday School?

While both use the "Come, Follow Me" curriculum, youth classes are highly interactive, discussion-based, and focused on peer engagement and direct application to teenage life. Adult classes may involve more lecture and deeper theological discussion.

Do youth have to prepare for these classes?

Preparation is encouraged, as the "Come, Follow Me" curriculum is designed for home study to precede class discussion. However, the lessons are structured to welcome all, regardless of their preparation level.

What if a teenager struggles to connect with the scriptures?

Leaders are trained to create a supportive environment, encouraging open questions and sharing diverse perspectives. The focus on personal experiences and practical application aims to make the scriptures relatable even for those who initially find them challenging.

Are these classes only for members of the Church?

While primarily for members, like all church meetings, these classes are open to anyone interested in attending and learning more about the Church's teachings.

How are leaders trained to teach teenagers?

Leaders receive training from the Church on how to effectively teach youth, focusing on principles of gospel teaching and learning, fostering discussion, and creating a safe, engaging environment.

Sources

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints official website (Come, Follow Me resources, General Handbook)