The Early Life of Jesus (Continued) – Basic 2 Christian Religious Studies Lesson Note (Second Term)

Learning Objectives

By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:

1. Explain the presentation of Jesus in the temple
2. List the names of people who were at the presentation of Jesus in the temple
3. State what Simeon said at the temple at the presentation of Jesus

Introduction

When Jesus was a baby, His parents took Him to a special place called the temple. Today we will learn about this important event.

Lesson Content

The Presentation of Jesus in the Temple (Luke 2:22-40)

What is Presentation?

• It means to bring someone to meet important people
• Jewish parents brought their first baby boy to the temple
• They thanked God for the baby
• They dedicated the baby to serve God

Why Jesus Was Presented:

• It was the custom for all Jewish families
• Mary and Joseph were obedient to God’s law
• They wanted to thank God for baby Jesus
• They wanted to dedicate Jesus to God

People Who Were at the Temple:

1. Mary – Jesus’ mother who carried Him
2. Joseph – Jesus’ earthly father
3. Baby Jesus – The special child
4. Simeon – An old, good man who loved God
5. Anna – An old prophetess who served God in the temple

About Simeon:

• He was a righteous and devout man
• God had promised him he would see the Messiah before he died
• When he saw baby Jesus, he knew this was the promised Savior
• He was filled with joy and praised God

What Simeon Said (Luke 2:29-32):

• “Lord, now I can die in peace”
• “My eyes have seen your salvation”
• “This child is a light to all people”
• “He will be the glory of Israel”

What Simeon Said to Mary:

• He blessed Mary and Joseph
• He said Jesus would be very important
• He said some people would reject Jesus
• He said Mary’s heart would be sad sometimes (because of Jesus’ suffering)

About Anna:

• She was 84 years old
• She lived in the temple and served God
• She fasted and prayed always
• When she saw Jesus, she thanked God
• She told everyone about the child

Memory Verse

“My eyes have seen your salvation.” – Luke 2:30

Activity

Role-play Simeon holding baby Jesus and saying his prayer of praise.

Multiple Choice Exercise

1. Jesus was presented in the: a) Market b) Temple c) House d) School
2. Simeon was: a) A young man b) A bad man c) An old, good man d) A rich man
3. When Simeon saw Jesus, he said: a) “Go away” b) “I don’t know this child” c) “My eyes have seen your salvation” d) “This is just a regular baby”
4. Anna was: a) 50 years old b) 84 years old c) 20 years old d) 100 years old

Answers: 1(b), 2(c), 3(c), 4(b)