Christian Religious Studies - Senior Secondary 3 - The baptism of Jesus Christ

The baptism of Jesus Christ

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TERM: 1ST TERM

WEEK: 1

CLASS: Senior Secondary School 3
AGE: 17 years
DURATION: 40 minutes (2 periods)
DATE:
SUBJECT: Christian Religious Knowledge
TOPIC: The Baptism of Jesus Christ

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

  1. Explain the meaning and purpose of baptism.
  2. Describe the purpose of Jesus’ baptism.
  3. Compare the synoptic accounts of Jesus’ baptism in Matthew, Mark, and Luke.
  4. State the significance of Jesus’ baptism.
  5. Identify the different types of baptism and their purpose.

INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNIQUES: Explanation, storytelling, Bible reading, comparison, discussion, question and answer, picture analysis

INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS: Bible (Matt. 3:13-17, Mk. 1:9-11, Luke 3:21-22), pictorial chart showing Jesus’ baptism, CRK textbook for SS3

INSTRUCTIONAL PROCEDURES:

PERIOD 1 and 2:
PRESENTATION

STEP

TEACHER’S ACTIVITY

STUDENT’S ACTIVITY

STEP 1Review

The teacher revises the previous topic "The Sovereignty of God" through questioning.

Learners respond to the review questions.

STEP 2Introduction

The teacher introduces the new topic by showing a picture of Jesus’ baptism and asking learners if they know what baptism means.

Learners observe the picture and share their thoughts.

STEP 3Explanation

The teacher explains:

a. Meaning and purpose of baptism: symbolic washing away of sin, public declaration of faith.

b. Purpose of Jesus’ baptism – to fulfill all righteousness, to set an example.

c. Synoptic accounts: Matthew 3:13–17, Mark 1:9–11, Luke 3:21–22 (students read the texts and compare).

d. Significance of Jesus’ baptism: affirmation of His sonship, presence of the Trinity, beginning of His ministry.

e. Meaning and types of baptism: immersion, sprinkling, pouring – same spiritual purpose.

Learners listen, ask questions, read the passages, and participate in discussions.

STEP 4Note Taking

The teacher writes a structured summary note on the board.

Learners copy the note into their notebooks.

NOTE

THE BAPTISM OF JESUS CHRIST
A. Meaning and Purpose of Baptism

  • Baptism is the symbolic act of purification or washing away of sins and entrance into a new life with Christ.
  • It is a public declaration of faith and obedience to God.

B. Purpose of Jesus’ Baptism

  • Jesus had no sin but chose to be baptized to fulfill all righteousness, identify with humanity, and set an example.

C. Synoptic Accounts of Baptism

  • Matthew 3:13-17 – Jesus approached John the Baptist. The heavens opened, the Spirit descended like a dove, and a voice from heaven affirmed Jesus.
  • Mark 1:9-11 – A brief version, similar to Matthew.
  • Luke 3:21-22 – Emphasizes the prayer of Jesus during His baptism.

D. Significance of Jesus' Baptism

  • God confirmed Jesus as His Son.
  • The Holy Spirit empowered Jesus for His ministry.
  • It marked the beginning of His public ministry.
  • Displayed humility and obedience.

E. Types of Baptism

  • Immersion, sprinkling, pouring – all represent the same act of spiritual cleansing.

 

EVALUATION:

  1. Define baptism.
  2. Why was Jesus baptized even though He had no sin?
  3. Mention the Bible passages that give the synoptic account of Jesus’ baptism.
  4. What was the significance of Jesus’ baptism?
  5. Mention two types of baptism.

CLASSWORK: As in evaluation

CONCLUSION: The teacher marks learners’ notes, gives constructive feedback, and encourages learners to reflect on the importance of obedience and public commitment to God.