Devickys Gem SchoolsThis standard lesson note is compiled based on the Lagos State Unified Scheme of Work for Junior Secondary School 1 (JSS1 / Basic 7) Christian Religious Studies (CRS), Third Term (Week 7 or 8).
JSS1 Third Term CRS Lesson Note
Subject: Christian Religious Studies (CRS)
Class: JSS 1 (Basic 7)
Term: Third Term
Topic: A Call to Repentance: John the Baptist Calls for Repentance
Reference Material: Holy Bible (RSV), Matthew 3:1–12, Luke 3:1–14, Ilesanmi Christian Religious Studies for JSS Bk1.
1. Performance Objectives
By the end of this lesson, students should be able to:
1. Define the biblical meaning of repentance.
2. Describe the life and lifestyle of John the Baptist in the wilderness.
3. Explain the specific message of repentance John preached to different groups of people.
4. State the consequences of a lack of repentance.
5. Mention three ways they can apply John’s message to their lives today.
2. Content Briefing A. The Meaning of Repentance
Repentance is the act of recognizing, feeling sorry for, and turning away from sinful ways to serve God truthfully.
The Hebrew and Greek root words mean a total change of mind and direction.
It involves confessing sins, asking for God’s forgiveness, and abandoning wicked habits.
B. Who was John the Baptist?
He was the forerunner sent by God to prepare the way for Jesus Christ (the Messiah).
His birth fulfilled the prophecy of Prophet Isaiah: "A voice of one calling in the wilderness..."
Lifestyle: He lived in the Judean wilderness, wore clothing made of camel’s hair with a leather belt, and ate locusts and wild honey.
C. John’s Message of Repentance
John preached a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins in the River Jordan. His main theme was: "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." He demanded practical fruit of repentance from specific groups:
Target Group John the Baptist's Specific Instruction
The Multitude (General Public) | Share food and clothing with those who have none. Avoid greed.
The Tax Collectors | Collect no more money than the official government rate. Stop extortion.
The Soldiers | Do not extort money by force or false accusations, and be content with your wages.
Pharisees & Sadducees | Stop relying on being descendants of Abraham; produce good fruit or face the fire of judgment. |
D. The Demands and Significance of His Baptism
John baptized repentant people with water, symbolizing cleansing.
He foretold that Jesus would baptize them with the Holy Spirit and fire.
True repentance demands restitution (making things right) and a continuous life of righteousness.
3. Moral Lessons
God desires a complete change of heart, not an outward show of religion.
True repentance must show in our daily behavior toward our neighbors.
Disobedience to God's call brings heavy judgment and punishment.
4. Class Activities & Evaluation
The teacher evaluates students through the following questions:
1. What did John the Baptist wear and eat in the wilderness?
2. State the primary message John the Baptist preached to the Jews.
3. What specific advice did John give to the tax collectors and soldiers?
4. Differentiate between John’s baptism and the baptism Jesus brings.
5. Assignment
Draw a neat illustration of John the Baptist preaching in the River Jordan.
Read Luke 15:11–32 in preparation for the next topic: The Call to Repentance (The Prodigal Son). I can provide additional segments or materials to help you build or refine your term plan. Would you like me to:
* Generate a marking guide or specific sample answers for the evaluation section?
* Provide the lesson note for Week 8 (The Prodigal Son) to help you plan ahead?
* Draft a 10-question multiple-choice quiz based on this topic for classroom testing?