**Lesson Plan: Jesus Subjects Himself to Religious and Civil Laws**
**Grade Level:** Junior Secondary 2
**Duration:** 45 minutes
**Objective:**
- To understand how Jesus subjected Himself to both religious and civil laws.
- To appreciate the importance of following established laws in society.
- To learn the implications of Jesus' actions for Christians today.
**Materials:**
- Bible (preferably New International Version or any other student-friendly version)
- Whiteboard and markers
- Printed handouts with key scriptures (e.g., Luke 2:21-24, Matthew 17:24-27)
- Projector (if needed for multimedia presentation)
- Notebooks and pens for students
- Small group discussion questions
**Lesson Outline:**
**1. Introduction (5 minutes)**
- Welcome students and introduce the topic.
- Briefly discuss the meaning of "religious laws" and "civil laws."
- Highlight the importance of laws in maintaining order in society.
**2. Scripture Reading and Explanation (15 minutes)**
- Ask students to read Luke 2:21-24 (Jesus' circumcision and presentation in the temple) and Matthew 17:24-27 (Jesus pays the temple tax) together aloud.
- Provide context for both passages:
- Luke 2:21-24: Discuss the Jewish customs and laws about circumcision and presentation of the firstborn.
- Matthew 17:24-27: Discuss the temple tax and the significance of Jesus instructing Peter to pay it.
- Explain how these scriptures demonstrate Jesus' obedience to both religious and civil laws.
**3. Group Activity (10 minutes)**
- Divide students into small groups.
- Distribute printed handouts with the following discussion questions:
1. Why do you think Jesus chose to follow these laws even though He is the Son of God?
2. What can we learn from Jesus’ example about our own attitude towards laws and authority?
3. How can following laws demonstrate our faith and commitment to God?
- Allow groups to discuss and write down their thoughts.
**4. Class Discussion (10 minutes)**
- Reconvene and ask each group to share one key point from their discussion.
- Summarize the key lessons from the groups, emphasizing:
- Jesus' humility and obedience.
- The role of laws in maintaining order and justice.
- The importance of respecting authority as an act of faith.
**5. Application and Conclusion (5 minutes)**
- Ask students to think about a specific law they find difficult to follow.
- Encourage them to reflect on how Jesus’ example can help them change their attitude towards that law.
- Conclude with a short prayer asking for the wisdom and strength to follow both religious and civil laws faithfully.
**Assessment:**
- Observe students’ participation in group and class discussions.
- Review students’ written answers from the small groups.
- Optional: Assign a brief reflection paper on how they can follow Jesus' example in their daily lives.
**Follow-Up Activity:**
- Assign students to read Romans 13:1-7 and write a short paragraph on what it says about Christians' attitude towards civil authorities.
**Note:**
Ensure to create a supportive environment where students feel comfortable sharing and reflecting on personal experiences with laws and authority.