Jesus & Little James

Objective
Students will reflect on the times when God doesn’t answer prayers the way we expect, recognize how Jesus can use suffering for a greater purpose, and choose to trust Him in the “not yets” of life.

Warm Up
Healing Relay – Divide the group into 2 to 4 teams. Each team lines up at one end of the room.

At the opposite end, create a “healing station” with items like toilet paper rolls (as bandages), slings, silly glasses, crutches, or lab coats.

Each team designates one “injured” player who must be “healed” with 3-4 goofy medical props.

One at a time, teammates race to the healing station, apply one item to their injured teammate, and return. Once the teammate is fully “healed,” the whole team races back. First team to finish wins.

• What made this game fun or challenging?
• In real life, do we ever treat healing like a checklist or competition?
• Why do you think we want quick fixes– especially when it comes to pain?
• Why might Jesus wait instead of healing us instantly?

Transition
Healing is something we all hope for– physically, emotionally, and spiritually. But what happens when healing doesn’t come right away?

In this scene from The Chosen, Jesus has just sent His disciples out to preach, heal, and cast out demons. But one of them, Little James, is still suffering physically. Watch how Jesus responds with compassion, truth, and a surprising mission.

The Clip
Play the clip “Jesus & Little James” from Season 3, Episode 2 of The Chosen.

Encourage students to listen closely to the emotions expressed by both Little James and Jesus.

• What emotions do you notice in Little James during the conversation?
• Why does Jesus say He hasn’t healed Little James yet?
• What does that reveal about Jesus’ heart?
• What does Jesus mean when He says, “I trust you with this”?
• How can unhealed pain still bring glory to God?

Transition
Sometimes the healing we hope for doesn’t come right away– or not at all. But that doesn’t mean God isn’t working. In fact, He often uses our pain as a testimony to others. Let’s look at what Scripture says about weakness, healing, and trust.

Bible Study
Read 2 Corinthians 12:7-10
Paul shares about his “thorn in the flesh”– a weakness God didn’t remove.

• What do you think Paul’s “thorn” might have been?
• How many times did he ask God to take it away?
• How do you interpret God’s response: “My grace is sufficient for you”?
• Why might God choose to leave some weaknesses in our lives?

Read John 9:1-3
Jesus explains why a man was born blind– not as punishment, but for God’s glory.

• What reason does Jesus give for the man’s blindness?
• How does this reshape how we view suffering and disability?
• Have you ever seen someone’s struggle bring hope or encouragement to others?

Wrap Up
“Even If” Prayer– Have students complete this prayer in their Student Guide:

• Jesus, even if you don’t _____ , I will still trust you.
• Jesus, help me to use my pain to _______.

Give time for personal reflection. If appropriate, allow volunteers to share aloud.

After each share, the group can respond with: “Your story is not over. Jesus is with you.”

Closing Prayer
“Jesus, You are the healer of bodies, minds, and hearts. Help us trust Your timing, even when we don’t understand. Use our pain to show Your strength. Remind us that our story is still being written– and that You are always near. Amen.”