### Lesson Plan: Presentation of Jesus Christ in the Temple
#### Subject: Christian Religious Studies
#### Grade: Junior Secondary 2
#### Duration: 60 minutes
#### Topic: Presentation of Jesus Christ in the Temple
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#### Objective:
- Students will understand the significance of the presentation of Jesus Christ in the temple.
- Students will be able to recount the key events and individuals involved in the presentation.
- Students will discuss the theological implications of this event in the context of Christian faith.
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#### Materials Needed:
- Bibles (preferably New International Version or any version suitable for students)
- Whiteboard and markers
- Printed handouts or a PowerPoint presentation (if possible)
- Projector (optional)
- Worksheets for group activities
- Colored pencils or markers
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#### Introduction (10 minutes):
1. **Greeting and Opening Prayer:**
- Welcome students and start with an opening prayer.
2. **Review and Connection:**
- Briefly review the previous lesson.
- Ask students what they know about Jesus’s early life.
- Introduce today's topic: "Presentation of Jesus Christ in the Temple."
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#### Instruction (20 minutes):
1. **Reading the Scripture:**
- Assign students to read Luke 2:22-40 in their Bibles.
- Optionally, project the verses on a screen or provide printed copies.
2. **Discussion of Key Points:**
- Who are the key figures? (Joseph, Mary, baby Jesus, Simeon, and Anna)
- What is the significance of presenting Jesus in the temple?
- Fulfilling the Law of Moses (Leviticus 12:2-8).
- God's faithfulness and the fulfillment of prophecy.
3. **Explaining the Scene:**
- Explain why Mary and Joseph took Jesus to the temple.
- Highlight Simeon’s prophecy and Anna’s proclamation.
- Emphasize the joy and revelation received by Simeon and Anna upon seeing Jesus.
- Discuss the importance of Jesus being recognized as the Messiah by these devout individuals.
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#### Activity (20 minutes):
1. **Group Discussions:**
- Divide the class into small groups.
- Each group should focus on one aspect of the story (e.g., significance of the temple, role of Simeon, role of Anna, prophecy fulfillment).
- Encourage students to draw connections between the story and modern-day Christian practices.
2. **Creative Expression:**
- Provide worksheets with the temple scene.
- Ask students to draw and label the key figures.
- Encourage students to write a short reflection on what they learned from the story and its significance.
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#### Conclusion (10 minutes):
1. **Group Presentations:**
- Have each group share their insights and drawings.
- Encourage quick discussions and questions from peers.
2. **Summary and Closing:**
- Summarize the key points discussed during the lesson.
- Highlight the theological implications: the recognition of Jesus as the Messiah and the joy it brought to Simeon and Anna.
3. **Closing Prayer:**
- End the lesson with a prayer thanking God for His faithfulness and the gift of Jesus Christ.
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#### Homework:
- Read Luke 2:41-52 (Jesus at the temple at age 12) and prepare to discuss its significance in the next class.
- Write a short paragraph about how the presentation of Jesus in the temple inspires their faith.
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#### Assessment:
- Participation in group discussions and presentations.
- Completion and quality of drawings and reflections.
- Understanding demonstrated in class discussions and responses.
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### Notes for Teachers:
- Be prepared to assist students with difficult passages or concepts.
- Encourage a respectful and open atmosphere for discussions.
- Use additional resources (videos, commentaries) to provide more context if needed.