We talked about Matthew before and after Jesus. Matthew was basically a criminal in his day—he stole money, cheated, lied, and betrayed people. But then Jesus brought real change into Matthew’s life.

Let’s watch a video about a modern-day criminal who was in and out of prison for years . . . until Jesus forgave his sins and changed his life.

Show your students the following video [5:46].
Gangster Finds God in Solitary Confinement

Most of us have never committed sins quite like Abner’s. But remember, all sins are offensive to a holy God. That means all of us are separated from Him. Thankfully, Jesus came to earth to restore our relationship with God!

Let’s create an illustration of the way Jesus has made us right with God. Hand each student a sheet of paper and a pen or pencil. Make sure there are a few rolls of transparent tape and several pairs of scissors available for the students to share. We suggest that you complete this activity along with your students so that they can see an example.

At the very top of the page, write GOD in big letters. At the very bottom, write ME. You should be left with some space in the middle.

• What are some common sins that you think middle schoolers commit? (List the sins suggested by your students on the whiteboard if you choose.)

In between GOD and ME on your paper—in that middle space—write some sins that you’ve committed which separate you from God. No one will see this except you, so you can be honest. Give your teens a minute or two to write down some sins.

Obviously, there’s a problem on your paper: sin stands between you and God. Cut those sins out of the middle! Leave the part of your paper that says GOD and the part that says ME, but cut out those sins in the middle. Crumple them up and put them in the trash.

Demonstrate to students that they should cut the list of sins out of the middle of the page as one piece, not mutilate the sheet. Students can discard the sins from the middle of the sheet, but the GOD and ME portions of the page should be kept. The two words will now be on separate (cut-apart) pieces of paper.

If your sins are forgiven, there’s nothing that stands between you and God . . . but you’re still disconnected. Now, here’s the really miraculous thing about what Jesus does when we invite Him into our lives. He doesn’t just take away our sins. He also puts our lives back together! He brings real change.

Remember Abner, the ex-criminal from our video? God put his life back together better than it ever was! Jesus did the same thing to Matthew in today’s Bible story. And He wants to do the same for us, too! Show your students how to use a horizontal piece and a vertical piece of tape in the shape of a cross to reattach the GOD and ME fragments from their original papers. Encourage your students to do the same. Now, not only are you forgiven by God—you’re closer to Him than ever. 

Take home your reattached paper as a reminder to thank Jesus for bringing change into your life. He brings change and forgiveness when we need it the most! Close in prayer, thanking Jesus for restoring our fellowship with the Father.