Lesson Plan for J.S.S. One (Age 11)
Subject: Christian Religious Studies
Class: J.S.S. One
Week of the Term: 3rd Week
Topic: Relationship in the Family (Continued)
Sub-topic: Different Roles of Members of the Family (Ephesians 6:1-9, 5:21-33, Colossians 3:18-21, 1 Peter 3:1-7)
Instructional Objectives
At the end of the lesson, students should be able to:
- Identify the roles of different family members.
- Explain the Biblical responsibilities assigned to each member of the family.
- Highlight the importance of fulfilling these roles for family harmony.
Entry Behaviour
Students already understand the concept of family and the importance of maintaining relationships within it.
Instructional Materials
- Bible passages (Ephesians 6:1-9, Colossians 3:18-21).
- Chart showing the family structure and assigned roles.
- Flashcards summarizing responsibilities of family members.
Reference Materials
- Oyeniran, J. K., Adeolu, T. M., & Akintoye, F. T. (2018). Christian Family Life. Adeola Publishers.
- Matthew, Mark, & Luke. (1987). Holy Bible, New International Version. Zondervan Publishers.
Content
Different Roles of Members of the Family
In the family, each member has distinct roles and responsibilities. These roles ensure that the family functions smoothly and provides the necessary love, care, and support. The Bible gives valuable guidance on the roles and responsibilities of family members, particularly in the letters of Paul and Peter. Below are the key roles of family members as described in the scriptures:
1. Role of Parents (Ephesians 6:1-4, Colossians 3:21)
- Parents as Leaders and Teachers:
In Ephesians 6:4, parents, especially fathers, are instructed not to provoke their children to anger but to bring them up in the nurture and instruction of the Lord. Parents should guide their children in the ways of God and provide a good example.- Fathers: The Bible places a special emphasis on the father’s role in the spiritual and moral guidance of the family. Fathers are expected to love their wives and children, to be patient, and to lead with wisdom.
- Mothers: Mothers are called to nurture, support, and care for their children while playing an essential role in the moral and emotional development of their children.
- Role of Fathers (Ephesians 6:4, Colossians 3:21):
Fathers are also specifically called to avoid provoking their children to anger, which could cause frustration and bitterness. Instead, they should provide gentle discipline, encouragement, and instruction.
2. Role of Children (Ephesians 6:1-3, Colossians 3:20)
- Obeying and Honoring Parents:
In Ephesians 6:1-3, children are commanded to obey their parents because it is right and pleases the Lord. Honoring parents is the first commandment with a promise, which promises long life to those who honor their father and mother.- Obeying Parents: Children are called to obey their parents in all things, for this is what pleases God.
- Respecting and Honoring: Children should also respect and honor their parents, listening to their guidance and advice.
3. Role of Husbands and Wives (Ephesians 5:21-33, 1 Peter 3:1-7)
- Husbands as Loving Leaders (Ephesians 5:25-33, 1 Peter 3:7):
Husbands are called to love their wives as Christ loves the church. This means that husbands should love their wives sacrificially, selflessly, and unconditionally. In Ephesians 5:28-29, it is written that husbands should love their wives as they love their own bodies, providing care, protection, and support.- Husbands should lead with humility and respect, honoring their wives as equal partners in the marriage.
- Wives as Supportive Helpers (Ephesians 5:22-24, 1 Peter 3:1-6):
Wives are called to respect their husbands and support them in their leadership. Ephesians 5:22 says that wives should submit to their husbands as the church submits to Christ. However, this submission is not about inequality but about harmony and mutual respect in marriage.- Wives should be loving, respectful, and caring partners, contributing to the emotional and spiritual well-being of the family.
- Mutual Love and Respect (Ephesians 5:21):
Both husbands and wives are instructed to submit to one another in love. Mutual respect and cooperation are essential for a successful marriage. A healthy marriage relationship should be based on love, trust, and shared responsibilities.
4. Role of Extended Family (1 Timothy 5:8)
- Providing Support:
In addition to the immediate family members (husband, wife, and children), the extended family, including grandparents, uncles, aunts, and cousins, also plays an important role in family relationships. In 1 Timothy 5:8, it is written that individuals should provide for their family members, especially those who are in need. Extended family members can offer emotional support, care, and sometimes material assistance.
5. Role of Family in Building Relationships (1 Peter 3:8-9)
- Being Peaceful and Loving:
The Bible also calls family members to be loving and peaceful with one another. 1 Peter 3:8-9 encourages believers to have unity, compassion, and humility in their relationships with one another. Family members should be quick to forgive, patient with each other, and seek peace. This creates a harmonious family environment where everyone feels loved and cared for.
Lesson Presentation (Step-by-Step Procedure)
Step 1: Introduction
Begin by asking students: “What are the responsibilities of your father, mother, or yourself in your family? Are these roles important?”
Step 2: Explanation
Explain the different roles of family members using examples and Bible passages. Discuss how each role contributes to family stability.
Step 3: Bible Reading and Discussion
- Read Ephesians 6:1-9 and Colossians 3:18-21 aloud.
- Highlight specific instructions for fathers, mothers, and children.
Step 4: Group Activity
Divide students into groups to role-play scenarios demonstrating family roles (e.g., a father providing guidance, a mother caring for children, and children obeying parents).
Step 5: Class Discussion
Discuss how fulfilling these roles helps to strengthen family bonds and prevent conflicts.
Evaluation
Formative Assessment:
Monitor students’ participation during the role-play and discussions.
Summative Assessment:
Ask students to:
- List two roles of the father and mother in the family.
- Cite a Bible verse that outlines children’s responsibilities.
- Explain why it is important for each member to fulfill their role.
Summary/Conclusion
Summarize the roles of family members as outlined in the Bible, emphasizing their significance in fostering unity and love.
Assignment
Ask students to write a short essay on how they can better fulfill their role in their own family, referencing at least one Bible passage.