Christianity for Beginners
Jesus Christ
Teaching Strategy
The focus of this lesson is to examine the person of Jesus Christ, the reason for our faith. It will examine Him as the central theme of scripture, Who He is, what some of the apostles tell us about Him and some of His key sayings about Himself. Teachers should review the relevant materials and have students review the materials before class.
This lesson is foundational for a follow-on lesson about the chronological life of Jesus. Consider using it as not only a lesson in this series, but a review of the future lesson.
Student Learning Outcomes
- Know: Understand who Jesus is.
- Feel: Value the person of Jesus Christ in bringing about our reconciliation to God.
- Do: Use our growing knowledge of the person of Jesus Christ to strengthen our faith.
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. Read Matthew 16:13 and answer yourself, "Who do you say Jesus is"?
Although answers will vary, look for insights into student's personal statements of faith or possible confusion.
2. In what ways has your view of Jesus changed from what you knew of Him to what you've learned of Him?
Look for statements of deeper knowledge, greater love or awareness, or perhaps even no change. In cases of no change explore why and how we can be changed through greater knowledge of Jesus. Encourage all students to continue learning about Jesus so we can learn more of Him, grow in love for Him and follow His teachings.
3. Although the Old Testament does not mention the name of Jesus specifically, how is it about Jesus?
Since man's sin in the Garden of Eden, God has made a way for man to be reconciled to him. This was first spoken of in Genesis 3:15. God then promised Abraham (Abram) in Genesis 12:1-2 that he would bless his family so he could be a blessing to others. This established Israel as the people through whom Jesus would eventually come into the world. Throughout the Old Testament we read prophecies about the eventual coming of the Messiah. We see how God used symbolic ceremonies and other events to illustrate how Jesus would be a sacrifice for man's sin. These are just some of the ways in which the various books of the Old Testament point to the coming of Jesus as our Savior.
4. What is the value of the four gospel accounts to us regarding Jesus?
They provide us the biography of the life of Jesus as well as His teachings.
5. In addition to the four gospels, what is the value of the rest of the New Testament regarding Jesus?
In these we learn more about the teachings of Jesus and how to apply them as citizens in God's Kingdom.
6. What is the value to us of having the apostles write about Jesus?
These men were eyewitnesses to the life of Jesus and given special insights into the His teachings. Through their writings we learn what we need to be faithful servants of Jesus.
7. Why is the apostle Thomas referred to as the "doubting" apostle? Do you agree or disagree with this title?
Answers will vary. Some will agree because even in the face of the statements from the others, he refused to believe. Some will disagree understanding that Thomas was justified in his doubts. Note also that all of the apostles fled at the arrest of Jesus except perhaps John. John was also the only apostle we learn of at the cross during the crucifixion of Jesus. So it might be a bit unfair to single Thomas out as a doubter when in fact they, and us at times, are doubters.
8. What about Paul makes him a credible and effective witness for Jesus?
Paul first had a personal encounter with Jesus on the way to Damascus in Acts 9. This occurred when Paul was hostile to anyone professing Jesus as the Messiah. This dramatic encounter transformed Paul to a devout follower of Jesus. His faith was reinforced continually by his growing knowledge of Jesus as the Messiah. Paul also received special insight into his role as an apostle by the Holy Spirit on occasions as well as various visions from Jesus. Paul is also consistent with his testimony and teachings of Jesus.
9. Read II Corinthians 4:7. What is the treasure Paul speaks of?
We have the teachings of Jesus and the ways of salvation.
10. What is the consistency between the encounter with Jesus by the Samaritan Woman in John 4:25-26, Peter's confession of who Jesus was in Matthew 16:15-17, and the final words of Jesus to his disciples in Matthew 28:18-20 and John 14:6?
In these three events Jesus states that He is the Messiah, the Son of God, and has all authority from God. As such, He truly is the Son of God, our King, and our Savior. And as He stated in John 14:6, He is the only way in which we can come to God.
11. 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 the concepts presented in this lesson and other sources. Other indicators may include responses such as the scope and depth of the information provide clarity of the inspiration and validity of the Bible.