Christianity for Beginners
The Christian Religion
Teaching Strategy
The focus of this lesson is to examine the Christian religion in comparison to other major religions of the world. Teachers should review the relevant materials and have students review the materials before class.
Due to the amount and depth of information, it is recommended that this lesson be divided into two sections. The first section is more general in nature addressing the definition of religions and the characteristics of primitive and organized religions of the world. The second section addresses why Christianity is superior to other major religions.
Student Learning Outcomes
- Know: Understand why Christianity is superior to other major religions of the world.
- Feel: Appreciate the teachings of Jesus regarding salvation.
- Do: Apply the teachings of Jesus as we grow spiritually.
Body of the Lesson
Discussion Questions
Below are suggested questions to use during the guided discussion portion of the lesson. There are also suggested responses to questions to help students grasp the various concepts. These are provided to assist the discussion and are not considered as “right or wrong” responses.
1. What are some religions you've heard about or are familiar with?
Responses will vary. Look for how some perceive a "branch" of a given religion rather than the religion itself (i.e. Baptist or Catholic rather than the general term, "Christianity". Refer to this difference later in this first point.)
2. Why do you think that there are so many religions in the world?
Responses will vary but look for key points such as man's preferences, lack of knowledge, or how one is taught. Also consider that it shows mankind generally recognizes that there must be a superior being that is greater than man. In our realization of this we are compelled to seek to worship this superior being.
3. How do you define religion?
Our acknowledgement and actions to worship a higher being (God).
4. What elements of primitive religions can we see in certain forms of Christianity?
Responses will vary but look for elements such as: worship of saints, pictorial depictions of people thought to be deity, mystical practices, burning of candles and incense, use of drugs for heightened awareness.
5. What elements of organized religions can we see in Christianity?
Anticipated response: It has a history/origin, it recognizes a deity (the Trinity), It defines the origin and makeup of humanity in relation to God, it has a process for man's salvation, a method of worship, although universal, there are pockets of Christianity more prevalent than other areas.
6. Why does God permit so many religions to exist and grow?
Answers will vary. If not stated, consider these thoughts:
- Man has historically felt the need to recognize and worship a higher being. Not knowing the identity of deity, he has created a god and worship process to help understand.
- God gives mankind the gift of choice. We've not always used it well.
- Mankind has a history of rebelling against God and wanting his own way over God's.
7. What one thing, in your opinion, makes Christianity superior to other religions? Why?
Answers will vary but look for information gained from the presentation.
8. What are some views people hold of God?
Anticipated Response: Benevolent dictator, vengeful, loving, creative, etc.
9. What is the underlying problem that causes human suffering?
Answers will vary. Separation from God because of disobedience to God's laws (sin) leads to guilt, shame, rebellion, death, judgment, and condemnation.
10. What solution did God provide for our problem with sin?
Answers will vary. God Himself takes the responsibility for paying off mankind's moral debt through the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ.
11. Read Ephesians 2:8-10. What does Paul state is the basis of our salvation?
We are saved by grace through faith. We cannot earn it by our religious practices, pure living, or doing good deeds. What we do as Christians are ongoing expressions of faith but not the dynamic that ultimately saves them.
12. What are some expectations we have as Christians in this life?
Answers will vary. If not stated, consider the following items:
- Freedom from guilt and death
- Peace of mind
- Loving relationships with other believers
- Greater insight into the mind of God
- A spiritual renewal
- In addition to these things Christians can look forward to an afterlife where they are:
- Conscious spirits with personal identity
- Free from physical limits including death and sin
- Joined to God in an intimate personal relationship for eternity
13. How can you as a student use this to grow spiritually and help others come into a relationship with Jesus?
Look for responses that indicate an acceptance of concepts presented in this lesson and other sources. Other indicators may include responses such as the scope and depth of the information provides clarity of understanding the superiority of the Christian religion.