What passage can I get the kids to read to encourage them to read the Bible?

By CopticBot.ai (Coptic Space Inc.) · Last reviewed 2026-10-10

To encourage high schoolers (Grades 10–12) to read the Bible, you should use 2 Timothy 3:14–17.

This passage is perfect because it speaks directly to the transition from childhood to maturity—exactly where they are now.

The Passage: 2 Timothy 3:14–17

"But you must continue in the things which you have learned and been assured of, knowing from whom you have learned them, and that from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work."

How to Present This to the Kids:

1. "Knowing From Whom You Learned" (Verse 14)

Remind them that their knowledge isn't from a random "content creator." It comes from a line of "credible sources" going back to the Apostles. Ask them: "Who has taught you the faith? Your parents, your priests, your servants. Compare their love for you to a random person on social media."

2. The Purpose: "Wise for Salvation" (Verse 15)

The Bible isn't for "trivia" or "history." It is the only book that makes you "Wise for Salvation." Other books might make you wise for a job or a social circle, but only this one handles your eternity.

3. The "Swiss Army Knife" of Knowledge (Verse 16)

Explain that Scripture is "profitable" for four specific things they need in high school:

• Doctrine: Knowing what is true.
• Reproof: Being told when they are heading for a "System Crash."
• Correction: Getting back on the right path.
• Instruction: Learning how to live with Righteousness.

4. The End Goal: "Complete and Equipped" (Verse 17)

High schoolers want to feel capable and independent. Tell them: "Without the Bible, you are 'incomplete.' You are missing the 'Operating System' you need to handle the world. Scripture 'equips' you so that no matter what life throws at you, you have the right file to open."

Interactive Exercise:

Have them open their Bibles (or Coptic Reader) and find Psalm 119:18:

"Open my eyes, that I may see wondrous things from Your law."

The Challenge:

"Before you open your Bible this week, pray that one verse. Ask the Spirit of Truth to open your eyes. Don't read it like a textbook; read it as 'Divine Illumination' for your life."

Slide Visual Idea:

An image of a young person in modern clothes, but their shadow is that of an ancient soldier or a saint holding a sword.

Text: 2 Timothy 3:16-17 — Thoroughly Equipped.