Christian Religious Studies - Junior Secondary 2 - The baptism of Jesus

The baptism of Jesus

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TERM: 1ST TERM

WEEK: 6

CLASS: Junior Secondary School 2

AGE: 13 years

DURATION: 40 minutes

DATE:

SUBJECT: Christian Religious Knowledge

TOPIC: The Baptism of Jesus

SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES: At the end of the lesson, the learners should be able to

1.) Define the term “Forerunner”

2.) Give an account of the Baptism of Jesus according to Matt 3; 3-17, Mk 1: 9-11; LK 3: 21-22

3.) State the significance of the Baptism of Jesus

INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNIQUES: Identification, explanation, questions and answers, demonstration, story-telling, videos from source

INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS: Recommended Christian Religious Knowledge textbooks for Junior Secondary School 2

INSTRUCTIONAL PROCEDURES:

PRESENTATION

TEACHER’S ACTIVITY

PUPIL’S ACTIVITY

STEP 1

Review

The teacher revises the previous lesson

Learners pay attention

STEP 2

Introduction

She then introduces the new topic by defining forerunner and gives an account of the baptism of Jesus

Learners pay attention and participate

STEP 3

Explanation

She further explains the significance of the baptism of Jesus Christ

Learners pay attention and participate

STEP 4

NOTE TAKING

The teacher writes a short note on the board for the learners to copy

The learners copy the note from the board

 

NOTE.

THE BAPTISM OF JESUS

The term “forerunner” refers to a person or thing that comes before another, serving as a precursor or preparatory figure. In a biblical context, it often denotes someone who prepares the way for another's arrival or ministry. In Christianity, John the Baptist is recognized as the forerunner of Jesus Christ, heralding His coming and preparing the people through repentance and baptism.

 

Account of the Baptism of Jesus

The baptism of Jesus is recorded in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke, with some variations in detail:

  • Matthew 3:13-17: Jesus comes from Galilee to the Jordan River to be baptized by John. John initially resists, stating that he needs to be baptized by Jesus. Jesus replies that it is proper to fulfill all righteousness. After being baptized, Jesus comes up from the water, and the heavens open. He sees the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on Him. A voice from heaven declares, "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased."
  • Mark 1:9-11: In this account, Jesus also comes from Nazareth in Galilee and is baptized by John in the Jordan River. As Jesus emerges from the water, He sees the heavens torn open and the Spirit descending like a dove. A voice from heaven says, "You are my beloved Son; with you, I am well pleased."
  • Luke 3:21-22: This passage mentions that when all the people were baptized, Jesus was baptized too. As He is praying, the heavens open, and the Holy Spirit descends on Him in bodily form like a dove. A voice from heaven proclaims, "You are my Son, whom I love; with you, I am well pleased."

 

Significance of the Baptism of Jesus

The baptism of Jesus holds several significant meanings:

  1. Affirmation of His Identity: The baptism marks the public affirmation of Jesus' identity as the Son of God. The voice from heaven serves as a divine confirmation of His status and mission.
  2. Beginning of His Ministry: This event signifies the commencement of Jesus' public ministry. It is a pivotal moment that transitions Him from His private life to His role as a teacher and Savior.
  3. Model of Humility and Obedience: Jesus’ willingness to be baptized, despite being sinless, illustrates His humility and obedience to God’s will. He identifies with humanity's need for repentance and purification.
  4. Empowerment by the Holy Spirit: The descent of the Holy Spirit signifies the empowerment of Jesus for His mission. It indicates the beginning of His ministry filled with the Holy Spirit's guidance and strength.
  5. Call to Repentance and Faith: The baptism of Jesus emphasizes the importance of repentance and faith in God. It aligns with John the Baptist’s message and highlights the need for individuals to prepare their hearts for the coming Kingdom of God

 

EVALUATION:

  1. Who is recognized as the forerunner of Jesus in the Gospels, and what role did he play in preparing the way for Jesus’ ministry?
  2. Describe the events that occurred during the baptism of Jesus as recorded in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. How do these accounts differ from one another?
  3. What significance does the voice from heaven hold during the baptism of Jesus, and how does it contribute to the understanding of Jesus' identity?
  4. In what ways does Jesus’ baptism serve as a model of humility and obedience, and how does this relate to His overall mission?
  5. Discuss the importance of the Holy Spirit’s descent during Jesus’ baptism. What does this event signify for Jesus' ministry and the concept of empowerment in Christian faith?

 

CLASSWORK: As in evaluation

CONCLUSION: The teacher marks their books and commends them positively