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# Lesson Plan: The Demands of Discipleship
## Subject: Christian Religious Studies
## Level: Senior Secondary 3
## Duration: 60 minutes
## Topic: The Demands of Discipleship
### Objectives:
By the end of the lesson, students will be able to:
1. Understand the concept of discipleship in Christianity.
2. Identify and explain the key demands of discipleship according to the New Testament.
3. Reflect on personal commitment to the principles of discipleship in their own lives.
### Materials Needed:
- Bibles (preferably New International Version)
- Whiteboard and markers
- Handouts containing key Bible verses
- Projector (optional)
- Notebook and pens for students
### Lesson Outline:
#### Introduction (10 minutes)
1. **Opening Prayer**: Begin with a brief prayer asking for understanding and insight.
2. **Icebreaker/Discussion Starter**: Ask students to briefly share what they think it means to be a disciple. Note key points on the whiteboard.
3. **Learning Objectives**: Clearly state the learning objectives for the lesson.
#### Content Delivery (20 minutes)
1. **Definition and Context**: Explain the meaning of 'disciple' and give a brief historical context of the term in the New Testament.
2. **Key Bible Verses**:
- **Luke 9:23-24**: “Then he said to them all: ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will save it.’”
- **Matthew 16:24-26**: Relate the message to the demands of self-denial and taking up the cross.
- **Matthew 10:37-39**: Discuss the priority of Christ over familial and personal relationships.
- **John 15:18-21**: The cost of discipleship in terms of facing persecution.
3. **Demands of Discipleship**: Summarize the key demands:
- Self-denial
- Carrying the cross
- Prioritizing Jesus above all else
- Willingness to face persecution
- Commitment to ongoing spiritual growth
#### Interactive Discussion (15 minutes)
1. **Group Activity**: Divide the class into small groups and assign each group a key Bible verse related to discipleship. Have them discuss and prepare a brief presentation on what their verse says about the demands of being a disciple.
2. **Presentations**: Each group presents their findings to the class.
3. **Class Discussion**: Facilitate a discussion on how these demands might be manifested in their daily lives. Encourage students to share their thoughts and personal experiences.
#### Practical Application (10 minutes)
1. **Reflective Exercise**: Ask students to take a few minutes to write down specific ways they can practice the demands of discipleship in their own lives.
2. **Sharing**: (If time permits) Encourage volunteers to share their reflections with the class.
#### Conclusion (5 minutes)
1. **Summary**: Recap the main points discussed in the lesson.
2. **Q&A**: Address any questions or concerns from the students.
3. **Closing Prayer**: End with a prayer, asking for strength and guidance to live out the demands of discipleship in their daily lives.
### Assessment:
- Participation in group discussions and presentations.
- Reflective writing exercise.
- Informal Q&A to gauge understanding.
### Homework/Extension Activity:
- Ask students to read Luke 14:25-35 and write a short essay on how Christ outlines the cost of discipleship in this passage.
### Notes:
- Be sensitive to the diverse backgrounds of students and create an inclusive environment where all feel comfortable sharing.
- Ensure discussions are respectful and focused on understanding the biblical texts.
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This lesson plan aims to be interactive and reflective, providing a solid understanding of the demands of discipleship while encouraging personal application and growth.