I've been looking for a curriculum to use in youth group during the small group time. Its hard preparing two lessons in a single night, especially when there are so many other responsibilities in life. Finding a curriculum that would give some flow is always a major help. One of the individuals whom I respect most amongst modern writers is John Piper. A conservative, evangelical, charismatic pastor he leads Desiring God Ministries. He is probably best known for his manifesto of the same name, Desiring God. I highly recommend it (it took me several years to read, not because I am a slow reader but because of the depth of the material).

    Anyways, Piper recently wrote a book entitled Don't Waste Your Life and his ministry has started an entire campaign centered around it. While I haven't read the book yet, I decided that it would make a good basis for the guy's group (we can always disagree with what he says and discuss that as well, should the occasion arise) and ordered a group package from Desiring God Ministries. The package arrived today and I must say I am impressed. While I received a special "phone-only" discount, the price still was extremely low. For $70-$80 I received ten copies of Don't Waste Your Life with an additional ten copies of the study guide (which is as hefty as the full volume). Then I received the small group kit which includes an additional copy of each book and a DVD with ten fifteen minute sessions on it. Wow. Now that's what I call quality.

    See, thats one of the things that drew me to Piper in the first place. If you are an individual and you want to learn about God but can't afford to buy resources, Piper allows you to request his materials (a few at a time) for free. Now, even when he asks organizations and individuals to pay - the quantity of material is still great for the cost.

    I'll let you all know how the book is and how it works as a guy's youth group kit.