### Lesson Plan: Comparative Account of the Temptation in the Synoptic Gospels
#### Subject: Christian Religious Studies
#### Grade Level: Senior Secondary 3
#### Duration: 60 minutes
#### Topic: Comparative Account of the Temptation in the Synoptic Gospels - Matthew 4:1-11, Mark 1:12-13, Luke 4:1-13
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### Objectives:
By the end of this lesson, students should be able to:
1. Identify and understand the accounts of Jesus' temptation in the Synoptic Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke.
2. Compare and contrast the details and emphases of each account.
3. Discuss the theological significance and implications of the temptation narratives.
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### Materials Needed:
- Bibles (preferably in the same version for consistency, e.g., NIV, KJV, etc.)
- Whiteboard and markers
- Handouts with parallel columns for Matthew, Mark, and Luke's temptation narratives
- Projector and screen (optional for displaying comparative text)
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### Lesson Structure:
1. **Introduction (10 minutes)**
- **Prayer:** Begin with an opening prayer.
- **Hook:** Ask students if they've ever faced a challenge or temptation that tested their resolve or values.
- **Purpose:** Introduce the topic and explain that today's lesson will explore how Jesus faced temptation as recorded in the Synoptic Gospels.
2. **Presentation (20 minutes)**
- **Reading Assignment:** Divide students into three groups. Assign each group one of the three Gospel accounts (Matthew 4:1-11, Mark 1:12-13, and Luke 4:1-13).
- **Group Reading:** Have each group read their assigned passage aloud within their group.
- **Discussion:** In groups, have students summarize their assigned narrative and note any unique elements or details.
3. **Comparative Analysis (20 minutes)**
- **Group Sharing:** Each group presents their summary and unique elements observed in their assigned passage.
- **Class Discussion:** Use a whiteboard to list the key points from each group's presentation.
- Matthew: Three specific temptations, dialogue between Jesus and Satan, scripture quotations.
- Mark: Brief account, emphasis on the role of the Holy Spirit and the presence of wild animals and angels.
- Luke: Similar to Matthew but with a different order of temptations.
- **Comparative Chart:** Distribute handouts with parallel columns or display a chart on the projector. Fill in the details observed for each Gospel.
4. **Theological Reflection (10 minutes)**
- **Discussion Questions:**
- Why do you think each Gospel writer included or omitted certain details?
- What is the significance of the order of temptations in Matthew and Luke?
- How does understanding Jesus’ temptations help us face our own?
- **Personal Reflection:** Provide students a few minutes to write a brief reflection on what they have learned about resisting temptation through Jesus' example.
5. **Conclusion (5 minutes)**
- **Summary:** Recap the main differences and similarities in the temptation narratives.
- **Closing Prayer:** Lead a prayer focusing on seeking strength and guidance to overcome personal temptations.
- **Assignment:** For homework, ask students to write a one-page essay on how the temptation of Jesus provides a model for Christian living.
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### Assessment:
- Participation in group discussions and presentations.
- Completion and quality of personal reflection.
- One-page essay (to be submitted in the next class).
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### References:
- Holy Bible (Preferred versions)
- Relevant commentary or study Bible notes on the Synoptic Gospels
### Notes:
- Encourage inclusive participation by making sure every student reads and shares during group work.
- Emphasize the practical application of theological concepts throughout the lesson.
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This lesson plan aims to deepen students' understanding of the temptation narratives and their relevance to Christian faith and practice.