COMPLETE NOTES

FORM ONE

INTRODUCTION TO CHRISTIAN RELIGIOUS EDUCATION

THE IMPORTANCE OF LEARNING CRE

Definition of Christian Religious Education (CRE)
Christian Religious Education is the study of God’s
revelation to human beings through scriptures, the persons
of Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit.
Why do schools study CRE?
There are many reasons why schools study CRE. Some of
the reasons are to:
a) Enable you to develop a personal relationship with God.
a) Help you to acquire basic principles of Christian living.
b) Help you to develop a sense of self-respect and respect for
others.
c) Help you to develop positive attitudes and values, which
help you to cope with challenges of life.
d) Contribute to the moral and spiritual development of
students.
e) Help you to contribute positively to the transformation of
an individual and the society as whole.
f) Help you to identify answers to situations of life, including
death and Eternal life.
g) Help learners to identify answers to life’s questions.
h) Promotes international consciousness.
i) Help you to understand yourself.
j) Promote cultural integration.
k) Enable you to acquire a better understanding of God.
l) Unite people.
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m) Guide you in choosing a career
n) Help you to appreciate African religious heritage and
other religions.
o) Promote living values such as honesty concern for others,
kindness, love and unity.

THE BIBLE
The Bible is the sacred book containing God’s revelation to
people. It is the inspired word of God. It is the book through
which God communi-cates with His people.
The Bible as the word of God
The Bible is the word of God because:
a) The written scripture contain God’s word.
b) Through the Bible God communicates his will to humans.
c) It contains word written by inspired authors such as the
prophets who were sent by God.
d) God himself took part in the writing of the Bible. E.g. God
is believed to have written the Ten Commandments
e) It contains the history of salvation realized through Jesus
Christ.
f) The Word gives revelation to mysteries.
g) The Bible contains a message of hope and reconciliation.
h) It reveals that God controlled what was being written and
what He inte-nded the writers to pass to the people.
The Bible as a library
The Bible is referred to as a library since it is a collection of
inspired scri-ptures or books. The Bible contains 66 books.
The Bible is divided into the Old Testament and the New
Testament. The Old Testament contains 39 books while the
New Testament contains 27 books. However, the Ro-man
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Catholic Church accepts 7 additional books referred to as
Apocrypha or Deutero or canonical books. The word
Apocrypha means hidden or secret. They are Esdras (1, 2),
Tobit, Judith, Ecclesiaticus, Baarch and
Maccabees.

Why the Bible is a library

Several studies show that:
a) The Bible contains (66) book just like a library has many
books. The Bible is a collection of books arranged in series.
b) The Bible is a reference book for Christians. The authors
of the Bible had a special spiritual guidance; hence each
book was written for a pur-pose.
c) The books were written at different times in history.
d) The Bible has literary works.
e) The Books written contain different topics.
f) The Bible has different books written by different authors.
g) The books of the Bible were written under different
situations and cir-cumstances.

THE BIBLE: MAJOR DIVISIONS AND ITS BOOKS

Major divisions of the Bible
The bible is divided into two major divisions. These are the
Old Testame-nt with (39 Books) and the New Testament with
(27 Books). The word Testament means covenant or
agreement with God.
The Old Testament books are divided into:
a. Books of the law or the Pentateuch or Torah.
b. Historical books.
c. Poetic Books
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d. Prophetic books.
Law books or the Pentateuch or Torah
The books of law are (i) Genesis (ii) Exodus (iii) Leviticus (iv)
Numbers (v) Deuteronomy.
Moses wrote these books. They contain the law of God as it
was given to the people of Israel through Moses. They also
contain the history of the Israelites from creation to the time
they entered the Promised Land. The author Moses is
regarded as a lawgiver, teacher and prophet.
Historical books
There are the 12 consecutive books from (i) Joshua (ii)
Judges (iii) Ruth (iv) 1, 2 Samuel (v) 1, 2 Kings (vi)1, 2
Chronicles (vii) Ezra (viii) Nehemiah (ix) Esther. These 12
books record the history of the Israelites.
They also contain information about the life and
achievements of some prophets, for example, the life history
of Elisha and Elijah.
Exercise 1 – Go through the 12 books and check page by
page the names of other prophets.
Poetic Books
The books are poetic in nature. The poetic books contain
wise sayings, songs, and prayers. The poetic books are (1)
Psalms which was written by David (ii) Proverbs (iii)
Ecclesiastes (iv) Song of Solomon written by Solomon and (v)
Job.
Prophetic books
These are divided into major and minor prophets. A prophet
is a messe-nger of God, or God’s spokesperson. A prophet is
a mouthpiece of God. Prophets pass information and

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messages from God to the people. They are messengers from
God. Their messages from God concern the future.
Five Major Prophetic Books
I. The major prophetic books are by (i) Isaiah (ii) Jeremiah
(iii) Lamentations (iv) Ezekiel and (v) Daniel. The books
are named after the prophets who prophesied and
probably wrote them. Jeremiah wrote lamentations.
These prophets are called Major Prophets because they
cover a longer period of time. Their prophe-cies are
long, and they prophesied over a long period of time.
II. Minor Prophets. There are 12 books of (1) Hosea (2
Joel (3) Amos (4) Obadiah (5) Jonah (6) Micah (7)
Nahum (8) Habakkuk (9) Zephaniah (10) Haggai (11)
Zechariah and (12) Malachi. These books are by Minor
Prophets who are said to have prophesied over a
shorter period of time if you compare them with the
Major Prophets.
New Testament books are:
a. Biographical books or Gospels.
b. Historical books (Acts of the Apostles).
c. The Epistles.
d. Apocalyptic or Prophetic book
a) Biographical book or Gospels
Gospel means Good News. The disciples of Jesus wrote the
biographical books. They contain information about the
birth, life, ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
The biographical books are four. (i) Mathew – Written by
Mathew (ii) Mark – Written by Mark (iii) Luke – Written by
Luke, the doctor and (iv) John – written by John (the beloved
disciple of Jesus Christ)
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b) Historical books
There is one historical book, which is the Acts of the
Apostles. Luke, the writer of the St. Luke’s Gospel, wrote it.
The book of Acts tells us the history of the early church.
c) The Epistles
There are two Epistles: Pauline Epistles and General
Epistles. Pauline Epistles are letters written by Paul. They
are 13 letters that Paul wrote to (1) Romans (2,3) 1, 2
Corinthians (4) Galatians (5) Ephesians (6) Philip-pines (7)
Colossians (8, 9) 1, 2 Thessalonians (10, 11) 1, 2 Timothy
(12) Titus and (13) Philemon.
General Epistles are letters written to the church by other
people. The letters are 8 in number. They (1) Hebrews (2)
James (3,4) 1, 2 Peter (5,6,7) 1, 2, 3, John and (8) Jude

d) Apocalyptic or Prophetic book

This is the book of Revelation. It is the last book in the New
Testament. It is different from other books. This is because
it is prophetic of things to come. It is about the future. It
was written by John the beloved disciple of Jesus Christ.

MAJOR BIBLE TRANSLATIONS FROM THE ORIGINAL

LAN-GUAGES TO LOCAL LANGUAGES
These books of the Bible are accepted as the Canon of the
Bible. The term Canon means Standard or guidance or rule.
Translation means expression of books by words and
pictures, poems and songs from one language to another.
The Old Testament was originally written in Hebrew, the
langua-ge of the Israelites. Then between 250 – 100 BC, it
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was translated to the Greek language. The Greek translation
of the Bible was known as Septua-gint. This term refers to
70 translators. The Jews in dispersion or Diaspora used this
translation. These were the Jews living outside Palestine.
Between 386 – 420 A.D. Jerome, a great Christian Scholar,
translated the entire bible from Greek into Latin, the
language of the Romans. This tran-slation was called
Vulgate. Christians used the Latin translation of the Bible
up to the 16th century. During the reformation in the 16th
Century, Christians were encouraged to use their own native
languages in worship. From that time, the Bible was
translated into English and German. As Christianity spread
to different parts of the world, there was the need for
translations of the Holy Bible into various languages. In
1804, the British formed the Foreign Bible Society, which
translated the Bible into many languages.
Johann Ludwig Krapf translated the New Testament into
Kiswahili. This was the first Bible translation in East Africa.
Since that time, the Bible Society of Kenya has translated
the Bible into other languages such
as Kikuyu in 1951, Kikamba in 1956, Kimeru in 1964,
Kalenjin in 1968, and Luhya in 1974. By 1980 the Bible had
been translated into 29 Kenyan languages. To date (2010)
the Bible has been translated into 42 languages of Kenya.
Translation and versions used in Kenya today
Besides bible translation into several languages, there are
many English translation versions, which are commonly
used in Kenya. These are (i) King James Version (ii)
Jerusalem Bible (iii) New International

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version (iv) English Bible (v) The Authorized Version (vi)
Good News (vii) Revised Standard Version (viii) New King
James Version (ix) Amplified Bible (x) The living Bible (xi)
The African Bible (xii) Common Bible (xiii) Today’s English
Bible (xiv) American version among others.
Writing of the Bible
By 2010, the Bible Society of Kenya had translated the Bible
into 42 Kenyan languages. The need to read the Bible led to
writing of Bible reading materials to teach literacy in local
languages. Those who wrote
the Bible used different styles, and figures of speech to make
their message vivid and clear. Several literary forms were
used in the writing of the Bible.
These are:
a. Poetry in Psalms
Activity
a) Read Psalms and notice the poetry used by David
when he wrote psalms
b) Read Job. Notice the rhythm of the words
c) Turn to your English textbook – the Integrated
English. Read topic 4 on sound and pattern in poetry.
d) Read any Psalm and any verse from Job. What do you
notice?
Other literary forms that are used in the Bible are:
i) Prose in Leviticus, which is a Legislative text
ii) Wise sayings in Proverbs
iii) Prophetic speeches by Jeremiah
iv) Prayers by Nehemiah
v) Love Songs, for example, the Songs of Solomon
vi) Letters. Here see Pauline Epistles (Romans)
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vii) Gospels, for example, Mark’s Gospel
viii) Religious events, for example, Exodus
ix) Narratives, for example, Genesis
x) Philosophical essays, for example, the book of Job. Here
note the use of metaphors and similes in philosophical
essays.
The effects of Bible translations on African languages
Bible translations:
i) Increased and deepened African faith in God.
ii) Led to increased literacy. After Africans acquired literacy
skills, they read the Bible and improved their literacy skills.
Christian missionaries established schools in order to teach
literacy that helped African to read the Bible.
ii) Made it easy for missionaries to spread the gospel to the
African communities.
iii) Increased the demand for the Bible. This led to writing of
Books and setting up of printing presses in African
countries.
iv) Made it easy for the expansion of the church i.e. more
people became Christians.
v) Led to the emergence of independent churches and
schools.
vi) The missionaries and colonialists learnt the African
languages.
vii) The African converts realized that the missionaries were
unfair to them. There was for example a different treatment
of African by White missionaries. This was inequality of
races, which was and is even now against Christian
teachings.

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viii) Helped Africans to re-discover their cultural identity.
For example the use of African instruments, dressings, and
practice of polygamy, which David and other kings in the
Old Testament did.
ix) Led to the writings and spread of African languages. The
missionaries learnt local languages.
x) Improved communications between missionaries and the
local people because they could understand each other.
xi) Increased printing of reading materials
The effects of Bible translations on Africans
communities
After the first Bible translations, there were immediate
effects or influences on some communities. For example,
some community leaders did not agree with the Christian
teachings. Some wanted to retain aspects of their African
religion. As a result, some communities who disagreed with
Bible translations established their own Christian
denominations in order to preach the Bible, as they
understood it. This was the emergence of independent
churches. Some African communities built independent
schools where their children could learn how to read and
write without being forced to practice all the Christian
teachings.
Review questions
1) What is the importance of reading the Bible?
2) How is the Bible used in society today?
3) How does the Kenya Government use the Bible today?
4) Name the major divisions of the Bible in both the New
Testament and the Old Testament

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5) What are the effects of Bible translation on African
languages?
6) Why is the Bible referred to as (a) a Library and (b) the
Word of God
7) What is the meaning of the term inspiration?
Study activities
1. Read the Bible quotations given above.
2. Carry out role plays e.g. the sacrifice of Isaac by
Abraham.
3. Visit old people in your community and ask them about
African religious traditional practices.

CREATION AND THE FALL OF MAN (GENESIS 1-3, 6-9,

11)
INTRODUCTION
In this topic, you shall learn about creation and the fall of
man. This information is in Genesis.
BIBLICAL ACCOUNTS OF CREATION AND THEIR
MEANINGS
The book of Genesis begins with two creation stories. The
first creation story is in Genesis chapter one. The second
creation story is in Genesis chapter two.
The two creation stories
The first creation story is in Genesis chapter one. The
second creation story is in Genesis chapter two. This story is
like a song or poem. It’s written, “Let there be…” and “God
saw that it was good … to separate,” and “there was evening
and morning on …” Each creation is taken as a day. The
creation took place in the following order. It is orderly:
1st day – God created day and night (Light and darkness)
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2nd day – The Heavens (sky)
3rd day – The Earth, Water / Sea, Vegetation (Plants, trees,
grass)
4th day – Sun, Moon and Stars
5thday – Birds, Sea Creatures
6th day – Animals, Livestock, Man was the last creation
(human beings)
7th day – God rested and blessed the 7th day and made it
holy.
In this creation story, we see God creating things in an
orderly manner, day after day until the 6th day. It was last
in the first account.
God created man from dust and breathed into his nostrils
before anything else is mentioned. God then put man in the
Garden of Eden, which He had made for him so that man
could till and keep it. The garden was planted eastward in
Eden. Out of the ground, God made every tree to grow. In
the middle of the garden, there was the tree of knowledge of
good and evil. Man was given the responsibility of tilling and
conserving the garden. Man was commanded to eat of every
tree in the garden except the tree of
knowledge of good and evil. A river flowed from the garden
and then it separated into four tributaries. God saw that
man should not be alone hence He made him a
helper/mate; a woman from one of the man’s ribs. Man was
also given the responsibility of naming all the animals in the
garden. There is mention of God resting after work

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Differences between the two creation stories
FIRST ACCOUNT SECOND ACCOUNT

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 Mentions what was created -doesn’t mention the daily
on which day. Each creation activities of GOD
takes a day.
-This story is like a song or a -The story is in prose. For
poem. It’s written, “Let there example “… and God said … and
be…” and “God saw that it it was evening...”
was good … to separate”, and
“there was evening and
morning…”
-It is orderly. -Not orderly was last in the first
account
-Mentions what was created -Doesn’t’ mention what was
on which day. created on which day
-Rivers and garden are not -Mentions rivers, and garden for
me-ntioned. tilling
-Man and woman were -Woman was created from ribs of
created together. man
-No mention of the -Mention of the knowledge
knowledge. -Marriage is for companionship
-Marriage is for procreation. -Sun, moon, stars, sky are not
-Sun, moon, stars, sky are mentioned
mentioned -Mention of resting after work
-God rested on the seventh but Sabbath day is not
day hence the Sabbath day mentioned

Similarities between the two accounts of creation

In both creation accounts:
a) Men and women are created by God and are given special
references. Man and woman are special to
God.
b) God rested after creation.
c) God provided the source of food.

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d) God is portrayed as the sole creator of the universe and
everything in it.
e) Man is given the responsibility of controlling animals,
birds and plants that God created
Activity
Find out the differences between the two creation stories
and write them down. Now compare them with my answer.

ATTRIBUTES OF GOD FROM THE BIBLICAL CREATION

ACCOUNTS
The creation stories tell us that God is:
(i) The sole creator and the only source of life
(ii) Immortal and Eternal
(iii) He is self existent
(iv) God of order
(v) Source of goodness and true happiness
(vi) Holy, merciful and just
(vii) Provider and sustainer of the universe and all that is in
it
(viii) All knowing (Omniscient)
(ix) All powerful (Omnipotent)
(x) Everywhere (Omnipresent)
(xi) A personal God.
(xii) He has a mind and a will
(xiii) Moral God. He is interested in the behaviour of man
and woman. He commands her/him to do the right things.

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TRADITIONAL AFRICAN UNDERSTANDING OF
CREATION
Traditional African view of creation is brought out through
traditional stories of creation (Myths). The Agikuyu,
Akamba, Gusii and other Kenyan communities have stories
explaining their origin. These stories
give each community a sense of belonging, and identity. The
stories explain the mysteries of life. These stories have
common characteristics or teachings.
Thus all African communities believe that God: -
(i) Is the chief architect of the world
(ii) Existed from the very beginning of time.
(iii) Created everything out of nothing.
(iv) Provides for the needs of human beings.
(v) Was disobeyed by human beings who had lived in eternal
bliss. This bliss came to an end when human beings
disobeyed God.
(vi) The African communities had different names to describe
God. God was not known as God but as the Creator of
everything that existed on earth and skies. He was Mumbi
and “Mungai” to Gikuyu. He was master of the universe. The
Kamba called Him …Ngai wa Matu. They believed that God
continues to create through human beings.
Examples of African creation stories
1. The Kamba believed that God created man and woman
then tossed them to the earth.
2. The Bukusu say that God the creator (Were Khakaba)
created the world alone.
a. First God created heaven then created two assistants,
Mukhaba and Murumwa. Were the God made the sun,
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moon, stars, a big red cock which crows whenever it
thunders, the rains, the rainbow, mountains, rivers, lakes,
streams and all the other things on earth.
b. Created a woman for the man.
c. Created plants, animals, birds and other creatures.
d. Creation work took six days. On the seventh day Were
rested.
Activity
Ask your parents about your community creation story.

THE TEACHINGS FROM THE BIBLICAL CREATION

ACCOUNTS
I. God is responsible for all creation. He is the sole creator.
God’s creation was good. Everything He created God said it
was good. It was without flaws and mistakes. God is the
provider. God created everything that man needs. He also
created food for all animals and other creatures. God is
orderly.
II. Man has a special place in God’s creation. Man was made
as the keeper of God creation. Man is a co-creator and
keeper of God’s creation since he was made in the image
and likeness of God. Man was comma-nded to work.
III. A woman was made from the man’s flesh. She joins man
in marriage and they become one flesh. God ordains
marriage. Human beings were created to socialize.
IV. Sin is a result of man and woman disobedience of God.
Responsibilities given to human beings by God in the
Genesis stories of creation
After creating man and then woman, God asked man to:
a. Reproduce and multiply.
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b. Rule over the rest of His creations.
c. Be in charge of the fish, birds, and all the animals.
d. Cultivate the garden and guard it.
e. Eat from the fruits of the garden except from the tree of
knowledge of good and evil.
f. Name the animals.
g. Subdue the earth
h. Transform the creation that God has provided human
beings with
i. Use creation – forests, rivers, mountains with
responsibility and respect.
j. Be a steward of God’s creation
k. Engineer God’s creation by creating things from the
creation
l. Dominate the earth
Group work
Work in twos or threes and answer these questions.
i. How does man fulfill the command to subdue and fill the
earth?
ii. How is man a co – creator with God?

BIBLICAL TEACHING: THE FALL OF MAN, ORIGIN OF

SIN AND THE CONSEQUENCES
Introduction
Man and woman fell from the Garden of Eden. This
experience is expla-ined in genesis chapter 3 verse 4;
chapter 6 verse 9 and chapter 11. In these verses, the Bible
is teaching about sin, which made Adam and
Eve fall.

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Sin is defined as iniquity, and guilt. It is to miss a mark, to
transgress. Sin is a rebellion or an offence against God. Sin
originated with the disobedience of Adam and Eve. They had
been commanded not to eat of the fruits of the tree of
knowledge of good and evil – the tree in the middle of the
Garden of Eden. But Adam and Eve ate the fruit after being
deceived by the serpent.
Man had the power to resist temptation but instead he
yielded. Genesis Chapter 3 verse 6 states that man wanted
to be wise and thought how wonderful it would be to become
wise…” hence sin arises from the lack of knowledge of God,
from the denial of trust of God.
The consequences of sin
After sinning, we the human race and sinners:
1) Replaced friendship with God with fear of God.
2) Lost innocence. What had been innocent and good
became shameful. Adam and Eve became ashamed of their
nakedness, something they had never felt before they sinned
against God.
3) Lost good relationship with God. The good relationship
between God and man was betrayed. Human beings – were
alienated from God. “The Lord God sent him out of the
Garden of Eden…”
4) Damaged the perfect relationship between man and
woman. The Lord said to the woman “You will have desire
for your husband, yet you will be subject to him”.
5) Pain became part of human experience. “I will greatly
multiply your pain in child bearing”.

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6) Man began toiling and struggling to meet his needs…
“You will have to work hard and sweat to make the soil
produce anything”
7) The home of man, and the earth itself was placed under a
curse. “Cursed is the ground because of you.”
Enmity between man and wild animals emerged.
9) Man began to die. Death sentence is passed upon all men.
“You will return to the ground… you are dust”
10) Man began to hate. Man developed murderous feelings
in his heart, for example Cain killed Abel, his younger
brother.
11) Man changed and became prone to sin.
12) Life span of man was reduced (see Gen. 6:3) “I will not
allow people to live forever, they will live no longer than 120
years”
13) Man’s language was confused by God after the flood
(read Gen.11: 7)
14) Sin led to embarrassment, mistrust, suffering, pain,
pride, arrogance and death.
Summary
Disobedience of God by Adam and Eve brought serious sin
consequences to human beings. Sin brings sadness and
suffering to man even today.

Activity
In groups of two or three, discuss the origin and
consequences of sin.

CONCEPT OF EVIL
Introduction
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In this lesson, we shall discuss the concept of evil as told by
the traditi-onal African religion and the biblical writings. We
shall study similarities and differences of evil from the two
religions.
What is evil?
In the traditional African society, evil was an offence against
God, spirits and ancestors. It was also viewed as an offence
against another person or community. Evil was also a
misfortune that can befall an individual or a community.
What are the causes of evil?
Many of the traditional African societies do not associate
God with evil. God is not the creator of evil. Some
communities believe that evil is an external power that
exists on its own. Thus in the traditional African society, evil
was understood or explained as something mysterious that
was caused by several people and things. These were:
a) Evil spirits
b) Ancestral spirits – due to disobedience to them
c) Some animals like the chameleon are sources of evil. The
Akamba believed that chameleons brought evil. Other
communities believed that if an owl cries near one’s
homestead, it is a sign of evil.
d) People with mystical powers for example magic, sorcery,
and witchcraft are evils
e) If a member of a community breaks a taboo by
disobedience, this action may bring evil spirits.
f) The spirits of the dead; cause evil; if they are not
remembered or respected. Evil spirits cause harm and
violence.

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Consequences of evil in traditional African society
These were many and ranged from (a) Barrenness (b)
Drought (c) Epidemics (d) Madness (e) Sickness (f) Death (g)
Drowning (h) Burning in a house (i) War (j) Physically and
mentally handicapped children (l) Rebellious children

GOD’S PLAN OF SALVATION

After the fall of man, God took steps to heal the damaged
situation and relationship between Him and Adam and Eve.
GOD:
1. Provided clothing of skin to Adam and Eve.
2. Looked for Adam and Eve since they were hiding from His
presence.
3. Provided Adam and Eve with the knowledge to find
different foods.
4. Declared enmity between man and the snake.
5. Hinted at the ultimate victory of man when He said that
the seed of the woman would crush the snake or serpent’s
head. The serpent would attack the heel of man and woman.
All through the Old Testament, and the New Testament, we
see God’s plan of salvation being manifested. For instance,
GOD chose and separated Abraham from other
communities. The children of
Israel led by Moses (were delivered) from Egypt,. God sent
prophets to teach and warn the Israelites of the dangers of
sin. Finally God sent his only son Jesus Christ to die on the
cross to save human kind.

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SIMILARITIES AND DIFFERENCES BETWEEN
TRADITIONAL AFRICAN VIEW OF EVIL AND BIBLICAL
CONCEPT OF SIN
Similarities
Both the Biblical and traditional African view or agree that
1) God is supreme. God is neither the creator nor author of
evil
2) Sin comes from the disobedience of God by human beings
3) Evil and misfortune are God’s curse to man (Biblical)
while the traditional African society sees evil as curses by
ancestors, and elders. Both curses lead to misfortunes.
4) The result of sin and evil is human sufferings
5) Sin and evil lead to man being separated from God
6) God is the guardian of law and order
7) Human beings have the ability to overcome evil
Differences
1) Biblical account emphasizes personal nature of sin while
in the African concept; sin is more social and communal
2) Biblical account attributes evil to disobedience while
African concept attributes evil not only to disobediences but
other external forces.
3) Biblical accounts offer a message of hope to overcome evil
while African concept doesn’t offer a solution to sin and evil.
4) Traditional African concept all forms of suffering as a
result of sin while in the Bible suffering is not always a
result of sin.
Review questions
1) Explain the differences between the two creation stories
2) State the traditional African view of creation

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3) Explain how human beings continue with the work of
creation
4) What is the origin of sin and evil according to traditional
African society?
5) Give three consequences of sin as stated in Genesis
6) State the consequences of evil according to African
traditional societies
7) Trace God’s plan of salvation of human kind
Compare biblical and traditional African understanding of
evil and sin.
9) What does the command “Subdue the earth” in Genesis 1
verse 28 mean?

FAITH AND GOD PROMISES TO ABRAHAM

BACKGROUND TO THE CALL OF ABRAHAM (Genesis
11:24-32, 12)
Introduction
The background to the call of Abraham is found in the first
book of the bible. This is Genesis which is a Greek word
meaning “Beginning”. The relationship between Adam and
God was good but after Adam disobeyed GOD, their
relationship changed because of sin by Eve and Adam. After
sometime, God repaired this relationship by calling
Abraham and offering salvation.
Background
-Abraham lived with his father Terah at a place called Ur.
Abraham’s father lived among people who worshiped many
gods. One of the god’s whom people of Ur worshipped was
the moon. This worship of many gods is referred to as
polytheism.
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-The family of Terah moved from Ur to Haran. While at
Haran, God called Abraham at 75 years old. He was told
to…. “Leave your country, your relatives and your father’s
home and go to a land that I am going to show you”.
Abraham obeyed God’s call. He left Haran for a land that
was unknown to him. He took his property his wife Sarah
and his nephew lot. At the time of the call of Abraham, he
was known as Abram and his wife Sarai. God changed their
names to Abraham and Sarah. Abraham means Father of
many nations while Sarah means mother of nations.
-On arrival in Canaan, he travelled and came to a place
called Schechem. God appeared to him once more. Abraham
built an altar for the lord at this place. Altars are places of
worship. They were regarded as holy and were
manifestations of God’s presence. An altar was made of
stones.
-After sometime, he separated with his nephew Lot due to
their servants having strife over water for their livestock.
Abraham left Canaan due to feminine. He went to Egypt.
Activity
1. Where did Lot settle?
2. Read GENESIS, chapter 11 (24 – 32) and chapter 12 (1 –
9)

FAITH AND GOD’S PROMISES TO ABRAHAM (HEBREWS

11: 1 – 6)
a. THE MEANING OF FAITH
-Faith is a strong belief, a complete trust or confidence in
someone or something. It is also a firm belief, which is not

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based on any scientific or logical proof. Faith in God is an
attitude of complete trust in God.
It is not based on concrete or tangible objects. Faith is
manifested in the ways of life of a believer.
-Abraham is an example of someone who had faith in God.
He showed his faith in action in several ways.
b. HOW ABRAHAM DEMONSTRATED HIS FAITH IN GOD
1. Although Abraham was old, he left Haran to go to a
strange unknown land of Canaan.
2. After he settled in Canaan, Abraham was assured by God
of his protection and was given other promises such as he
will get a son, and Abraham believed God. Sarah gave birth
to a son when she was
90 years old and Abraham was around 120 years old. This
was as the lord had promised Abraham.
3. The son was named Isaac that means “laughter” –
because Sarah had laughed when she was told that she
would have a child in her old age. The child Isaac was
circumcised when he was eight (8) days old.
4. Abraham was told by God to circumcise all males in his
household including himself. He obeyed.
5. When Abraham was asked to sacrifice his son Isaac to
God, he was ready to do so.
6. Abraham believed that God would fulfill all the promises
he had given to him
7. Abraham demonstrated his faith by building altars
c. GOD’S PROMISES TO ABRAHAM (GENESIS 12:2-3,
15:1-21, 21, 17:1-8, 17:15-18)
A promise is giving an assurance of something to someone.
The promises God gave to Abraham were that:
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1. God told him he would give him a land. His descendants
would be given the land of Canaan to dwell in
2. His name would be made famous
3. His descendants will be many. Abraham would be made a
great nation.
4. God would protect him
5. He was promised a son of their own
6. God would bless him
7. God would bless those who bless him and curse those
who curse him
8. Abraham was promised that he would die in peace and in
an old age
9. His descendants would be strangers in a foreign land but
afterwards would come out with great possessions.
d. THE RELEVANCE OF THE PROMISES MADE BY GOD
TO ABRAHAM TO CHRISTIANS TODAY (Gen. 12: 2 – 3,
15: 1 – 21, 21:1 – 7, 17: 15 – 18)
God called Abraham from idol worship in the same way God
continues to call people to serve him.
1) Through Abraham, God had a plan to restore the
relationship between man and God
2) Christians receive the promises of blessings from God
through Abraham (Gods promises to Abraham fulfilled
through Christians)
3) As Abraham left his own people, Christians should leave
their sinful lives and put their whole trust in God.
4) Abraham is seen as the descendant not only of the
Israelites but also of Christians
5) Christians have faith that God fulfils promises to them as
he did to Abraham
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6) Christians are assured of God’s protection
7) Through God’s dealing with Abraham, God shows that he
values a personal relationship with human kind.
Through Jesus Christ Christians enter into an everlasting
covenant with God. Just like Abraham entered into a
covenant with God.
9) The promise to Abraham of Canaan Promised Land is to
Christians the hope for new land – heaven
10) God continues to make promises to those who believe
him
11) Abraham is the ancestor (Father) of all believers)
e. DEFINE THE TERM COVENANT
i. Definition.
A covenant is a solemn agreement between two persons or
two groups of people. An agreement is between two
separated parties. It’s a pact, a treaty. When it is a covenant,
it conveys a union or partnership.
ii. Characteristics / components of a covenant
There are components or features that must be in a
covenant. A covenant must have a ceremony, sign,
witnesses, promises/vows/oaths, obligations /
consequences, and participants. A covenant establishes a
sacrificial bond between the parties involved. There are
obligations or rules by which the parties must abide by,
adhere to and observe in order to keep the covenant. A
covenant is an agreement and if it is broken, there are
consequences for breaking it. In the Bible, there are many
covenants.
iii. Examples of covenants in the Bible
1. Adamic covenant – Agreement between God and Adam
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2. Noahlic Covenant – God’s covenant with Noah where God
promised to preserve life of man and not to destroy it with
water. The sign of the covenant is the rainbow. In Gen 9
verse 3, GOD told Noah, “Everything that lives and moves
will be food for you…Just as I gave you the green plants, I
now give you everything. Verse 4 says, “But you must not
eat meat that has its lifeblood still in it”
3. Abrahamic covenant – Gods covenant with Abraham. He
promised to fulfill promises He gave to Abraham. These
promises were: (1) Increase numbers of descendant of
Abraham. He will be father of many nations, (2) Be GOD of
his descendants (3) Abraham will have a son an heir, (4)
Given land of Canaan and other lands from the river of
Egypt to River Euphrates, and all for heirs of Abraham (Gen.
15: 17 – 18) (5) Circum-cision of all males at 8 days after
birth even none Israelites living in their land (6) Covenant
with Isaac
4. Mosaic Covenant – is a covenant between the Israelites
and GOD. Moses led Israel to Mt. Sinai. God promised to be
their God. Israelites were given the law written by GOD in
“tablets of stone, with law and commands I have written
for…. instruction”. (Read exodus 23).
5. Davidic Covenant – covenant between David and God –
God promised him that his dynasty would rule forever.
6. Messianic Covenant – new covenant between Christians
and God through Jesus Christ.
iv. God’s covenant with Abraham and its importance
(Genesis 15:1-19)
The covenant was established after God appeared to
Abraham in a vision. During the visitation of God, Abraham
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was 100 years old and Sarah 90 years. He was promised a
son. Abraham wanted assurance from God. God told him to
bring him the following items for sacrifice.
v. Items for sacrifice

pigeon.

placed them opposite each other.

suddenly appeared and passed between the pieces of

animals.
ll into a deep sleep. While he
slept the Lord appeared to him and told him that:

slaves for 400 years. But they will come out of this land with
a lot of wealth and God will punish the nation that will
enslave Israelites.

Then the Lord made a covenant with Abraham and promised

to give him and his descendants the land of Canaan. God
himself passed through the sacrifi-ces and bound himself to
keep the promises.
f) IMPORTANCE OF THE COVENANT BETWEEN GOD AND
ABRAHAM (GEN. 15: 1- 19)

human being

would always protect him. This passed on to the

descendants of Abraham
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relationship between God and all the nations of the earth.

salvation for human kind

am were fulfilled in New
Testament blood of the lamb – death of Jesus Christ

obedience that Abraham shared.

g) COVENANTS IN MODERN LIFE AND THEIR
IMPORTANCE
Modern covenants are (a) Marriage (b) Baptism (c) Oath of
loyalty and (d) Ordination of clergy
Marriage ceremony: In marriage, the bride, bridegroom and
their fami-lies come together. When the two families come
together a relationship is developed. They make an
agreement and both sides are seriously involved in the
ceremony, whether the marriage is civil or religious. During
the marriage ceremony the couple makes vows/promises to
each other, before a priest/ pastor and the congregation.
Two officials witness these agree-ments. Rings are
exchanged as a sign of a lasting relationship. A certifi-cate is
given in some cases as a testimony (sign) of this agreement.
There is eating and drinking.
Baptism: In a Christian baptism, a covenant is entered into
between the believer and God. The believer makes vows
before God. The priest and the whole congregation witness
this agreement. In some churches, a card is issued to the
person who has been baptized as a sign of Christian mem-
bership. The baptized can now take the Holy Communion,

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which is a Christian Ceremony. But when an infant is
baptized, parents take the vows on behalf of the child.
Loyalty /oath: Leaders in public service for example the
president, ministers, Members of Parliament, and chief
officers are sworn in before they take over their new
responsibilities. They swear (take an oath) and promise to
carry out their duties firmly and without fear or favour.
Ordination of the clergy: Church leaders, nuns and priests
take oaths and make vows to God and to the congregation in
a ceremony attended by worshippers.
The importance of modern day covenants
• They bind different groups
• They act as a security
• They strengthen relationships
• They unite people together
• They create loyalty
• They create peace, harmony and bring a sense of
permanence
h) THE TESTING OF ABRAHAM’S FAITH (GEN. 22: 1 –
18)
God tested Abraham’s faith by asking him to go and sacrifice
his only son Isaac. This was the son he loved so much. He
was to travel to Mount Moniah. On reaching Mt. Moriah, he
built an altar, and arranged wood on it. He tied up his son
Isaac and placed him on the altar on top of the wood. He
lifted a knife to kill him. “But the Angel of the Lord called
out to him from heaven. Abraham! Abraham! Do not lay a
hand on the boy…Do not do anything to him. Now I know
you that you fear God, because you have not withheld from
me your son, your only son” (v 11-12). Abraham had
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obedient reverence for God became he did not keep back his
only son from God. God provided a ram for sacrifice. He
named the mountain “the Lord provided” God was pleased
with Abraham and promised him blessings, many
descendants’ victory, and protection.
Activity
Read Genesis 12:1 – 9, 15:1 – 6, 17:23 – 24, 21:1 – 7, 22:1-
19
IMPORTANCE OF FAITH IN CHRISTIAN LIFE TODAY
1. A Christian today is acceptable to God through his faith
in God through Jesus Christ. Without faith it is impossible
to please God.
2. A Christian can only serve God if he has faith in him.
Faith enables a Christian to serve God
3. Faith enables a Christian to accomplish what appears to
be impossible
4. Through faith, Christians are able to trust God to fulfill
his promises to them
5. Faith is the foundation of the Christians salvation
6. Faith in God gives a Christian the power to overcome all
temptations.
8. Christians should expect to have their faith tested just
like Abraham was.
9. Faith enables Christians to patiently wait on God’s
promises
10. Christians through faith in God help the poor, make
right decisions and are able to understand and know God
better.

JEWISH AND AFRICAN PRACTICES OF CIRCUMCISION

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a. IMPORTANCE OF CIRCUMCISION TO ABRAHAM AND
HIS DESCENDANTS (GEN. 17: 1 – 16)
The rite of circumcision was started by Abraham and has
been practiced by the Jews up to the present times.
In the Old Testament, it was important because:
(i) Through circumcision: God assured Abraham that he
would fulfill His promises to him.
(ii) Circumcision was a sign that Abraham and his
descendants had entered into a covenant with God. It was
an outward sign of inner faith.
(iii) Circumcision was a mark of identity for the Jews
(iv) It was a sign of obedience to God
(v) It was an acceptance of God as the only true God and
their willingness to remain faithful to him
In the New Testament
(vi) Circumcision doesn’t qualify one to be a child of God.
One is accepted as a Christian without circumcision as long
as they have faith in God.
(vii) A true descendant of Abraham is the Christian who
truly believes in God and lives according to His will
regardless of colour, race or creed.
b. CIRCUMCISION IN AFRICAN COMMUNITIES
Circumcision is one of the rites of passage among the
African people. It marks the transition from one stage to
another. Many ethnic communities in Kenya still practice
the rite of circumcision. During circumcision ceremonies,
prayers are offered to God for the well being of the initiates
(those who are being circumcised) and the prosperity of the
whole community. Initiates learn secrets of their community

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and society. They are taught myths, origin, religious beliefs,
and sex education. In some
communities, initiates are given new names or ornaments to
signify their new status.
c. JEWISH AND AFRICAN PRACTICES OF
CIRCUMCISION
Similarities
In both Jewish and African communities, circumcision: (a)
is a mark of identity (b) provided a sense of belonging (c) was
observed as a religious experience (d) was compulsory (e)
was a tradition passed from one generation to another (f) is a
time for shedding blood (g) was a time for offering prayers to
God for the well being of the initiates (h) was a time for
giving gifts (i) was a ceremony for initiation (j) was a time for
giving the initiates names (k) took place in sacred places.
Differences
In Jewish community,
i. Circumcision was a rite for boys while in African society it
was for both boys and girls. But it was for boys in a few
communities.
ii. Boys were circumcised when aged 8 days while in the
African society; it was between 15 to 25 years old.
iii. Circumcision was for boy’s organ while in African
societies several forms of initiation were done, for example,
removal of teeth, and body piercing among others.
iv. Circumcision was a command from God while for the
African communities it was in obedience to customary law
where ancestors were invoked to protect the initiates.
Among the African societies

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v. Circumcision was a rite of passage from childhood to
adulthood while for the Jews it was not.
vi. The initiates were given specialized education while the
Jews were not.
vii. The initiates were grouped into age groups, and were
secluded from the community while among the Jews it was
not so.
viii. The rite of circumcision according to seasons while the
Jews once a child is born, they are circumcised on the 8th
day.
ix. After circumcision, the initiates were allowed to marry,
enter a warrior group, own property but for the Jews the
initiate was still a child.
Revision questions
1.Explain why Abraham is referred to as the father of faith
2. Give five actions from the life of Abraham that shows his
faith to God
3. List some of the promises God gave to Abraham
4. Compare and contrast the Jewish and traditional African
practice of circumcision
5. What is the importance of faith to Christians?
6. State the elements of a covenant
7. Give examples of covenants in the bible and the modern
society
8. Discuss the circumstances that led God to enter into a
covenant relationship with Abraham.

SINAI COVENANT
THE CALL OF MOSES

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One day, Moses was looking after or tending the flock of
Jethro his father-in-law. Jethro was a priest of Midian.
When Moses came to mount Horeb, the mountain of God,
the angel of the Lord appeared to him in flames of fire from
within a bush. Moses saw that although the bush was on
fire, it was not burning.
Moses went over to the burning bush to look. God called
him out within the bush… “Moses! Moses!” He replied, “Here
I am”. God then told Moses not to come closer and to take
off his sandals for the place where he was standing was a
holy ground.
God introduced himself as the God of his father, the God of
Abraham, the God of Isaac and the God of Jacob. God then
said he had seen the misery and sufferings of the Israelites
in Egypt. He had heard their cry. God had come down to
rescue Israelites from the hand of Egyptians. God was to
take them to their home, the land of the Canaanites, a land
flowing with milk and honey.
God told Moses that He was sending him to go to Pharaoh
and bring out the Israelites, the people of God, from Egypt.
Moses resisted the call. He asked God “Who am I, that is
should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israe-lites out of Egypt?”
God promised to be with him. God said to Moses… Say to
the Israelites… the Lord. The God of their fathers, God of
Abraham, God of Isaac and God of Jacob has sent me to
you.
Moses was told to assemble the elders of Israel and inform
them that God was going to deliver them from Egypt. Moses
was then to go to the king of Egypt with the elders. He was

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to tell the king “the Lord, the God of the Hebrews has met
with us. (EXODUS 3:1 – 22)
God’s sign to Moses
Moses was given several signs by God In case the people of
Israel did not believe in him.
a) First sign was his staff turning into a snake when he
threw it down. When he touched the snake’s tail it turned
into his staff
b) Second sign was God asked Moses to put his hand inside
his cloak and it was as white as a snow – leprous. He was
asked to put it back into his cloak and it was restored.
c) Moses further complained that he was a stammerer. God
then appoi-nted Aaron, his brother, as his spokesman.
Reasons Moses gave against the call
1. He felt unworthy of the call.
2. He wondered who he was to tell the Israelites that God
had sent him
3. Moses said that he was a stammerer so he let God choose
a spokesperson.
Moses however heeded to the call and went back to Egypt
together with his family. God promised to be with him and
perform signs before Phara-oh.
What does the name Moses mean?
It means drawn out of water.
What did Moses learn about God from his Calling?
Moses learnt that:
1. God is caring, merciful and concerned about the welfare
of his people – Israelites.
2. God is transcendent – he is beyond human
understanding. He cannot be limited to time and space.
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3. God chooses whomever he wills to carry out his plans. He
chose Abraham an old man, a moon worshipper and now
Moses, a murderer, a fugitive and a stammerer.
4. God expects total obedience and faith from those that He
chooses
5. God is powerful, eternal and omnipresent
6. God is holy.
7. God is a God of history, which means He is concerned
with His people’s welfare.
8. God is mysterious – He manifested Himself in the burning
bush that was not being consumed.
How did God prepare Moses to be the future leader of
Israelites?
1. His life was spared when he was rescued by Pharaoh’s
daughter
2. He was nursed by his own mother who taught him about
Yahweh and his own true identity
3. Life in the wilderness hardened him to be bold and to
persevere hardships
4. He learnt to be patient, keen, and responsible as a
shepherd
5. He acquired leadership skills while living at pharaoh’s
palace
6. He learnt literacy and numeracy skills (Educational skills)
at the palace.
7. He was not a stranger to Pharaoh hence he could
approach him freely.

THE TEN PLAGUES EXODUS 7:14-11:10

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During the call of Moses at Mount Sinai, God gave Moses a
rod with which he could perform mighty signs before the
Israelites and before Pharaoh. Aaron was to be his
spokesman. Moses and Aaron gathered the Israelite elders
and leaders to tell them what God had said to them. After
Moses had performed the miracles that God had showed
him; the Israelite leaders believed him.
They then approached Pharaoh so that he may release the
Israelites. However instead of releasing the Israelites,
Pharaoh became crueler. He gave Israelites harder work.
When Pharaoh refused to release Israelites, God instructed
Moses to bring ten plagues upon Egypt.
These plagues brought; great trouble and suffering to
Israelites.
Ten plagues
1) The plague of blood (Exodus 7: 14 – 25)
Moses and Aaron used the rod. They struck the waters of
the river as God instructed them. All the water in the rivers,
canals, and pools in Egypt turned into blood. All the fish
died and there was no water to drink. This situation lasted
for seven days. However Pharaoh’s heart was hardened. He
did not release the Israelites.
2) The plague of frogs (Exodus 8:1 – 15)
God then sent Moses to tell Pharaoh that if he refused to
release the Israelites the whole land would be covered with
frogs. At the command of Moses, Aaron held out the rod of
Moses and frogs covered the whole land. On seeing this,
Pharaoh pleaded with Moses and Aaron to pray to the Lord
to get rid of the frogs and he would release them. They

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prayed and all the frogs died. Pharaoh, however, changed
his mind and refused to release the Israelites.

3) Plague of gnats (Exodus 8:16 – 19)

The lord instructed Moses to tell Aaron to strike the ground
and Aaron did so and all the dust in Egypt turned into gnats
or small flies that bites. The magicians of Egypt could
perform the first two plagues.
They could not bring the plague of gnats. Egyptians
acknowledged that the presence of gnats or small flies that
bites was God’s work. But even with this information,
Pharaoh still refused to release the Israelites.
4) Plague of flies (Exodus 8:20 – 32)
The Lord warned Pharaoh through Moses once more. He was
told that God would send swarms of flies to the Egyptian
houses. The Israelites houses would be spared. Even after
bringing the plague of flies, Pharaoh’s heart hardened even
more
5) Death of cattle (Exodus 8:1 – 7)
A plague of disease befell the Egyptian cattle. Not a single
Israelites’ animal died. Pharaoh was not moved; and he
refused to let Jews go home.
6) Plague of boils (Exodus 9:8 – 12)
Moses threw ashes into the air as God had instructed. This
produced boils, which became open sores on the skin of the
Egyptians. Unmoved by the suffering of his people, Pharaoh
still refused to let the Israelites leave.
7) Plague of hail (Exodus 9:13 – 35)

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Moses raised his rod and there was a hailstorm with lighting
and thunder. The people, animals and plants that were
struck by the lightning died. Pharaoh then promised to let
the Israelites go but as soon as Moses prayed for the
hailstorm to stop, pharaoh hardened his heart and refused
to let the Israelites leave.
8) Plague of Locusts (Exodus 19:1 – 20)
Locusts covered the whole land and ate all the crops in the
fields. The locusts ate all that had not been destroyed by the
hailstorm. When Moses prayed to God, for locusts to leave;
Pharaoh hardened his heart and refu-sed to let the Israelites
leave.
9) Plague of darkness (Exodus 10: 21 – 29)
God then instructed Moses to stretch out his hand to
heaven. There was total darkness in Egypt for three days.
But there was light where the Israe-lites they were living.
Pharaoh remained unmoved and would not release the
Israelites out of Egypt.
10) Death of Egyptian first-born males (Exodus 11: 1 –
31).
After the plague of darkness, God sent Moses once more to
Pharaoh. He was told that this time even his family would be
affected. The Lord would kill all the first-born Egyptian sons
and first-born male animals at mid-night. This plague
occurred during the night of Passover. Pharaoh was moved
and allowed Israelites to leave Egypt.
What do the plagues tell us about God’s attributes?
GOD:
1. Empowers His people to perform miracles and to do His
work
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2. Is Almighty and more powerful than the Egyptian gods.
3. Is determined to fulfil His plans.
4. Is a God of justice. He protects the oppressed.
5. Gives everyone a chance to repent. Notice that each time
Pharaoh promised to release the Israelites; God relieved the
Egyptians from the plagues.
6. Fulfils His promises – He had promised Abraham to
deliver his descen-dants from foreign lands.
7. Expects total obedience and faith.
8. Communicates His will through natural events.
9. Is caring and loving.

PASSOVER (EXODUS 12:1-30, 19, 20, 34)

The tenth plague is called the Passover. It happened on the
fourteenth day of the month. The Israelites were to offer one-
year-old lamb per family. If a family was too small, they were
to share the lamb with their neighbours. If a lamb was not
available, a one-year-old goat could also be used. They were
told to:
1. Slaughter the lamb/goat; smear some of the blood on the
sides and tops of the door- frames of their houses.
2. Roast the meat and eat it with bitter herbs and
unleavened bread (bread without yeast). If there were any
leftovers they were to burn them with fire.
3. Eat in a hurry while fully dressed and having packed their
belongings. They were told to borrow silver, clothings,
jewellery, and gold from the Egyptians.
4. That on the same night, the ‘angel of death’ would kill
every first born both males and animals in the houses
without blood.
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5. The angel of death would pass over the houses with blood
sparing them. The blood was a sign to indicate this is a
house of Israelites. When the Lord sees the blood, He will
pass over that house (V.13)
6. The Israelites were told to celebrate / commemorate from
generation to generation the Passover as a festival to the
Lord.
7. The Israelites were not allowed to come out of their
houses on the night of Passover.
8. At midnight, the Lord struck down all firstborn in Egypt
from Phara-oh’s household to the firstborn of the prisoners
and firstborn of livestock.
9. There was loud wailing over Egypt. Every house had
someone dead.
Significance of items used during the Passover
1) Roasted Meat – this is the easiest method of preparing
food since the Israelites were to leave in a short time.
2) Bitter herbs – was a reminder of the suffering and
hardships and slavery experienced in Egypt.
3) Eating while standing. Deliverance was near, hence the
need to leave in a hurry.
4) Eating while fully dressed with their stuff at hand. This
signified a quick deliverance; hence Israelites should be
ready to leave Egypt at once.
5) Eating unleavened bread – the bread was to be eaten and
none left over hence there was no need to add yeast for
preservation.
6) Collecting Jewellery – God had promised Abraham that
after slavery for four hundred and thirty years, his
descendants shall be freed with great possessions.
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7) Remaining indoors – for security from death. Anyone
outside was killed.
Blood on doorposts – a sign for deliverance. The angel of
death would pass over doors with blood.

THE EXODUS
Introduction
Exodus means movement of a large number of people.
Crossing the Red Sea
During the night of the Passover, Pharaoh summoned Moses
and Aaron and told them to leave, to go and worship their
Lord. All the Israelites, their flocks and herds were urged to
leave in a hurry. Pharaoh took his chariot army and followed
the Israelites and found them camped by the Red Sea.
God led the Israelites over the desert towards the Red Sea.
Moses took the body (bones) of Joseph, as Joseph had
requested the Israelites to do. “When God rescues you, you
must carry my body with you from this place” (Ex 13 vs. 19)
During the day the Lord went in front of them in a pillar of
cloud (angel of God) to show them the way, and during the
night the lord went in front in a pillar of fire to give them
light, so that they could travel night and day. This pillar of
cloud led the Israelites by day and night.
The Egyptian army followed Israelites and caught up with
them by the Red Sea where they had camped.
Moses asked the scared Israelites to move near the sea.
God told Moses to lift up his stick, and hold it over the sea.
The waters of the Red Sea divided and the Israelites crossed
the sea on dry ground with walls of water on both sides. The
angel of God, and the pillar of cloud (who had been in front
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of the army of Israel) moved behind the Israelites and
provided light to them as they cross.
The Egyptians army pursued Israelites. The pillar of cloud
made it dark for Egyptians who could not see where they
were going. Just before daylight, the Lord looked at the
Egyptians from the pillar of cloud and fire and God threw
the army of the Egyptians into confusion. Moses was asked
by the Lord to stretch out his hand. He did so and waters
returned to its normal level drowning Egyptian army and
their horses.
God protected the Israelites during the Exodus by:
1) Making them cross the red sea on dry ground.
2) Providing water in the wilderness.
3) Providing manna and quails.
4) Defeating Amalekites – their enemies.
5) Protecting them from snakes and diseases in the
wilderness.
Provision of water in the wilderness
Israelites travelled in the desert for three days without
water. The water, which they found at Marah was bitter and
could not be drunk. They called the place ‘Marah’ meaning
‘bitter’. This made them complain. Moses prayed to the Lord.
The Lord showed Moses a piece of wood. Moses threw it into
the water and it became fit to drink. God continued
providing Israelites with water.
Again the Israelites lacked water and complained bitterly
(Ex.17:1 – 9). God instructed Moses to strike a rock and
water came out of it. Moses called that place ‘Massah’ –
which means ‘testing ‘and ‘Meribah’ – meaning ‘rebellion’.
This was because the Israelites quarreled and tested God.
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Provision of manna and quails (EX 16:1 – 35)
As the Israelites were travelling through the desert, they ran
out of food. They were hungry and complained to Moses.
Their complaints displeased the Lord for they often told
Moses they wished he had let them die in Egypt instead of
dying in the wilderness. This showed that the Israelites did
not trust God to provide for them.
In the morning, they were given Manna, which is a Hebrew
word for the type of bread given to Israelites by God. The
bread looked like wafers or flakes and tasted like coriander
seed.
In the evening, GOD provided Israelites with quail’s meat.
The provision of manna and quails (meat) lasted for 40
years.
On the 6th day of each week, God gave them food for two
days one for the 6th day and the other for the 7th day
(Sabbath).

DEFEAT OF THE AMALEKITES (Exodus 17: 8 – 16)

Challenges faced by the Israelites during the Exodus
During the Exodus, the Israelites faced the challenge of the
Amalekites. These were desert Nomads who attacked the
Israelites in the wilderness. When the Amalekite army came
against Israelites, Moses ordered Joshua to gather men and
fight.
God promised to destroy the Amalekites forever. During the
battle, Moses held up his rod. And each time he raised his
hands with the rod, the Amalekites were defeated. When he
brought his hands down, the Israe-lites were defeated.

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Because of this, Aaron and Hur supported Moses’ hands
until the Amalekites were defeated.
In the wilderness God protected the Israelites form
snakebites. He also used a cloud to protect the Israelites
from the scorching heat during the day. At night, the pillar
of fire provided warmth to protect them from the harsh cold
of the wilderness.
The importance of the exodus in the history of the
Israelites
The exodus showed Israelites that:
1) God loves and tolerates His people.
2) God did not abandon the Israelites despite their lack of
faith.
3) God gave the Israelites encouragement through his
servant Moses.
4) It was the end of the oppression of Israelites in Egypt.
5) Moses was God’s chosen leader.

MAKING THE SINAI COVENANT (EXODUS 19: 24 1 –

The Sinai covenant
God and Israelites. God had specific instructions on how
the Israelites were to prepare to make the new covenant.
Before making the covenant, God brought Israelites to the
foot of Mt. Sinai and asked Moses to ask them if they were
willing to make the covenant with HIM. GOD asked them to
enter into a personal relationship as a community with HIM.
The Israelites agreed to make a covenant. They agreed to
obey all God’s com-m.ands. God then promised to make
them;
i His people
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ii. A kingdom of priests
iii. A holy nation
God and Moses. God wanted to confirm that Moses was His
true pro-phet. He therefore told Moses that He would come
in a thick cloud to meet Israelites. In preparation for God’s
coming on Mt. Sinai the
Israelites were to:
I. Make themselves holy by washing their clothes (garments)
II. Mark the boundaries on the foot of the mountain to
prevent any person or animal from climbing the mountain.
III. To abstain from sexual relations
At Mt Sinai, God manifested His presence in the form of
thunder, lightening, earthquake and a thick cloud of smoke
that covered the whole mountain. In addition, there was a
loud trumpet blast that made the people tremble. Moses
climbed the mountain. God gave Moses the Ten Comma-
ndments after sealing the covenant.
Sealing of the covenant. The Lord told Moses “Come up the
mountain to me, you and Aaron, Nadab, Abibu and 70 of
Israel leaders. At a distance bow down in worship, and come
alone to me.”
A ceremony was then prepared to seal the covenant. This is
how it was sealed:
a. Moses built an altar at the foot of the mountain.
b. He set up twelve stones, which represented the twelve
tribes of Israel.
c. He then sent young men to burn sacrifices to the Lord
and sacrificed some cattle as fellowship offering and peace
offerings to God (EX 24 vs. 5).

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d. Moses took half the blood of animals and poured it in
bowls; and the other half he threw against the altar (vs. 6).
He then took the book of the covenant, and read it aloud to
the Israelites who responded by saying “all that the Lord has
spoken we will do; and we shall be obedient”
e. Moses then took the blood in the bowls and sprinkled it
over the people; saying “This is the blood that seals the
covenant which the Lord made with you when he gave all
these commands.”
Theophany. God’s presence manifested itself in several
ways such as:

– Exodus story
– story of
Elijah
– Exodus of
Israelites from the wilderness
These were physical manifestations of God’s presence.

BREAKING THE SINAI COVENANT (Exodus 32:1 – 35;

34:6 –8)
Israelites dishonored their pledge to obey God upon sealing
the covenant; Moses went back to talk to God in the
mountain. He left Aaron in charge of Israelites’ affairs. He
stayed in the mountain for forty days. The lord revealed His
glory to Moses at Mt. Sinai and declared His character. ”The
Lord the compassionate and glorious God, slow to anger and
forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin (Ex 34:6 –
The Israelites urged Aaron to make them gods that they
could see. Aaron agreed. He melted the rings of gold and
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moulded a bull calf god. Israelites were happy and said “this
is our god who took us out of Egypt”. They offered burnt
offerings and peace offerings to it and indulged themselves
in eating, drinking and sex. By accepting a bull calf as their
god, the Israelites expected bull calf of gold to give them the
same strength and fertility like the Egyptian gods. Through
this act, they broke their covenant
with God.
When Moses came down from the mountain, he found
Israelites worshipping the gold bull calf. He got
annoyed. He threw down the stone tablets he was holding;
on which the 10 commandments were
written. Moses then took the golden calf, and burnt it into
powder and mixed it with water. He then
made those worshipping the calf to drink the mixture. Moses
ordered those who had sinned to be killed.
LESSON EIGHT: RENEWAL OF THE COVENANT (Exodus
34:1 – 14).
Learning outcomes. After studying this lesson, describe
conditions for the renewal of the covenant
The renewal of the covenant came after Moses pleaded with
God not to destroy the Israelites after they
broke the covenant. God spared the Israelites. God agreed to
renew the covenant with the Israelites. He
gave them several conditions for its renewal.
Conditions for the renewal of the covenant
The Israelites were:
a) To obey God’s commandments
b) Not to make any treaty with those who lived in the land
where they were going.
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c) To break down their altar, smash their sacred stones and
cut down their Asherah (Idols). Not to
worship any other god and not to make idols for worship.
d) To keep the feast of unleavened bread (Passover).
e) Not to marry people form other tribes.
f) To rest on the Sabbath day.
g) To sacrifice and offer their best produce and animals to
God.
God in turn promised to
a) Bless them. Protect and preserve the Israelites.
b) Make them prosper so much that the surrounding
nations would enquire about their source of
wealth and success.
With these conditions, the covenant between God and the
Israelites was renewed. From the making and
renewal of the covenant, it is clear that:
(i) God expected the Israelites to obey and have faith in Him
(ii) God wanted a personal relationship with Israelites.
(iii) God is the only one to be worshipped.
(iv) God is powerful.
LESSON NINE: WORSHIPING GOD IN THE WILDERNESS
Learning outcomes. After reading this lesson
a. Explain God’s purpose in delivering the Israelites from
Egypt
b. Describe features of worship
a. God’s purpose in delivering the Israelites from Egypt was
to worship and offer sacrifices to Him in the
wilderness. He also intended to fulfil his promises to
Abraham.
b. Features of worshipping God in the wilderness.
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(i) The Israelites: Worshipped God through intermediaries.
These were the priests who came from the
tribe of Levi.
(ii) The Israelites: Were guided in their worship and in daily
living by the Ten Commandments and other
ordinances
(iii) The Ark of the Covenant was made in the wilderness. It
was God’s dwelling place. It was a special
box put into the tabernacle. A tabernacle was a portable
tent. The ark symbolized the presence of God
and the Israelites carried it wherever they went.
(iv) Offerings of farm products or agricultural produce were
given to God. These included among other
farm products; vegetables, flour. Oil and fruits.
(v) Other offerings to God were drinks, and incense. The
offerings could be burnt, baked, boiled or
roasted.
(vi) There were several Sacrifices. They included:
– burning a whole animal
completely
– sacrifice offered when one had
sinned and wanted to have his sins
forgiven.
– part of an animal was offered, while the
people ate part of the meat.
– the best animal was given to God. It was
offered as a thanksgiving

sacrificed to God.

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(vii) Festivals and feasts. Israelites observed several festivals
and feasts. These included:

– feast of weeks or Pentecost. It marked the

celebration of the harvest of wheat.

season when the Israelites gathered the

fruits from the Orchards.

when the Israelites dwelt in tents.

through singing, worship and dancing.

LESSON TEN: THE TEN COMMANDMENTS (Exodus. 20: 1 –
17)
Learning outcomes. After reading this lesson,
a. Recite the ten commandments
b. Apply the ten commandments in your life
c. Describe Israelites new understanding of the nature of
God
d. Explain to yourself and others the nature of God
a. The Ten Commandments
While on Mount Sinai, God gave Moses Ten Commandments
written on a stone tablet. The first four
commandments deal with relationship between man and
God. God said:
1. You shall have no other gods but me.
2. You shall not make yourself a graven image.
3. You shall not mention Gods’ name in vain.
4. Remember the Sabbath day and keep it holy.

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The last six commandments give man’s relationship with
fellow human beings. God said:
5. Honor you father and mother that your days may be long
on earth.
6. You shall not kill.
7. You shall not commit adultery.
8. You shall not steal.
9. You shall not bear false witness against your neighbour.
10. You shall not covet your neighbor’s property.
These are my thoughts. (1) Worshipping God (2) Being
faithful to God (3) Resting (4) respecting parental
authority (5) love humanity (6) Be faithful to your wife or
husband (7) respect other people’s property
(8) be truthful always (9) be satisfied with what God has
given you.
b. Israelites understand the nature of god
The Israelites had a new and wider revelation about God.
Besides GOD being a caring, loving, and a
provider, they learnt that:
a. God is a jealous God. He does not allow the worship of
others gods. He alone should be worshipped.
b. God does not condone evil. He punishes those who
cause/engage in it.
c. God values a personal relationship with his people.
d. God wants people to live in harmony among them.
e. God forgives those who repent. He is loving, merciful and
compassionate
f. God is a healer – he healed Israelites in the wilderness
when a snake attacked them

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g. God is a God of victory. He defeated the Amalekites,
perizzites, and Hittites etc.
h. God is faithful and can be depended upon.
i. God is holy, slow to anger, powerful and just.
j. God demands obedience to His commands.
Revision questions
a. What are the qualities of Moses as a leader?
b (i). Describe the call of Moses (exodus 3:1-22)
(ii). Why was Moses hesitant to God’s call?
c (i). What is the significance of the items used for the
Passover feast (similar to what is the meaning of
the Passover meal)
(ii). Compare the lord’s supper to the Passover feast
d. Describe how the Sinai covenant was made
e. Describe the circumstances that lead to the breaking of
the Sinai covenant
f. How was the broken covenant renewed?
g. Describe how the Israelites worshipped God in the
wilderness
h. What is the relevance of the ten commandments?
i. What did the Israelites learn about god in the wilderness?
TOPIC FIVE: LEADERSHIP IN ISRAEL: DAVID AND
SOLOMON
Learning outcomes. By the end of this topic, you should be
able to:
a. Explain the reasons for and against kingship in Israel
b. State king Saul’s achievements, failures and lessons
learnt from Saul.
c. Explain the importance of David as King of Israel and
ancestor of Jesus Christ.
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d. Describe the qualities of a good leader drawn from King
David’s leadership
e. State King Solomon’s achievements and failures
f. Explain the importance of the temple in Israel.
LESSON ONE: REASONS FOR AND AGAINST KINGSHIP IN
ISRAEL
Introduction
Yahweh remained the God of Israel and the sovereign ruler
of his people.
Learning outcomes. By the end of this lesson, you should
a. Define leadership
b. Name Israel judges in Canaan
Leadership refers to the manner in which a community’s
way of life is ruled or controlled. When
Israelites settled in Canaan, Judges ruled them for the first
200 years. Some of the judges were (i)
Othniel, (ii) Ehud (iii) Samson (iv) Deborah (v) Gideon
(vi) Shamgar (vii). Samuel (viii). Barak
Duties of judges
a. Leading Israelites to war against their enemies
b. Settling disputes among the people
c. Acting as religious leaders and leading Israelites in
worship –
d. Offering sacrifices on behalf of the people.
e. Some of the judges acted as God’s prophets
f. They anointed kings, for example Samuel anointed King
David.
Demands for a King in Israel
After Israelites settled in Canaan, the Promised Land, they
started demanding for an earthly king to rule
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over them. These demands for a king ruler were brought
about by:
i Samuel’s sons Joel and Abijah were corrupt and took
bribes. The sons of Samuel, who were judges,
lacked his good leadership qualities.
ii The Israelites wanted a warrior king who could lead them
to war against their enemies.
iii The Israelites wanted to be like the other nations around
them who had kings.
iv The Israelites wanted a human leader whom they could
see, approach, and talk to him face to face.
v The Israelites wanted security, which could be provided by
a stable political government ruled by law
and order.
vi They wanted a government that had a regular army,
vii They also wanted an established law court system.
Reasons against Kingship in Israel (Samuel 8:10 – 20)
By demanding for a king, the Israelites were seen as
rejecting Yahweh – their unseen ruler. Two, there
would be danger of hereditary kingship which would lead to
oppression / dictatorship. God told Samuel
to give Israelites strict warnings against Kingship by
explaining how the king would treat them. A king
would: -
(a) Recruit Israelites sons forcefully into the army.
(b) Grab peoples land.
(c) Force people to pay taxes to the government
(d) Turn people into slaves.
(e) Introduce forced labour.

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(f) Force their daughters to work for his wives, sons, and for
the royal house in general.
The people of Israel were distinct from other nations. Asking
for a king meant rejecting God as their
unseen king. Further to this, Israel could become like other
nations, which did not worship Yahweh.
Then the covenant with God and the people of Israel would
cease.
LESSON TWO: ACHIEVEMENTS AND FAILURES OF KING
SAUL
(Israel 13:8 – 14; 15:7 – 25)
Learning outcomes. After reading about King Saul, you
should
a. State his achievements
b. Identify his failures
c. Suggest lesson we can learn from his failures
Samuel was directed by God to choose and anoint Saul as
the king of Israel. Saul was from the tribe of
Benjamin. He became the first human king of the nation of
Israel. He accomplished several things.
Successes of King Saul
1) He was anointed by God; as king to rule the Israelites
2) He was chosen even though it was not God’s idea for a
king over his people.
3) He was a great warrior. He led the Israelites to war and
defeated their enemies
Failures of King Saul
1) God told Saul through Samuel to destroy the Amalekites
completely. Saul however disobeyed God. He

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spared the king and the fat livestock. He claimed to have
spared the fat animals for sacrifice to God.
Because of this disobedience, God rejected Saul as king.
2) The Israelites were faced with many enemies. The worst
were the Philistines. It was a custom for the
king of Israel to enquire from God whether to go to the battle
or not. The priest/prophet gave
permission to the king to go to war. When Saul was faced
with the dilemma whether to fight or not,
Samuel enquired from God. Saul did not wait for permission
to go to war from Samuel the priest. He
decided to bypass Samuel by offering a sacrifice to God
before going to war. This action displeased God
because it was not his work to offer sacrifice to God. It was
the work of priests.
3) After God rejected Saul as the king of Israel, Samuel was
guided by God to go to Bethlehem. He was
asked to go to the home of Jesse who had eight (8) sons. In
that home, God was to show Samuel the
next king of Israel. Samuel would then anoint the chosen
son of Jesse. Seven of Jesse’s sons were
brought before Samuel one by one. God told Samuel that he
had not chosen any of them. When David, a
shepherd, was brought before Samuel God said to him ’this
is the one – anoint him!” (1 Samuel 16:12).
David was anointed (poured oil on) as the next king of Israel.
However he had to wait until Saul died
before he could take over kingship.
4) After Samuel anointed David to become the next king of
Israel, Saul was jealous and plotted many
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times to kill him. David was employed to serve Saul. He
played the harp, lyre wherever an evil spirit
possessed Saul.
5) When Samuel died; the Philistines gathered to fight Israel.
Saul was filled with terror. Saul enquired
from God whether he should go to war, but did not get an
answer. Saul disobeyed God by asking a
medium (witch) to consult the dead for him. This act led to
the death of Saul together with his son
Jonathan in battle.
6) Saul was concerned with what people thought of him
than pleasing God. He wanted to please people
and not God. He was disobedient with God (1 Samuel 15:24)
Lessons, which Christians can learn from King Saul’s
failures
1) Value of being patient.
2) Christian should obey God, follow His commands and not
be afraid of people.
3) Christian should obey religious leaders placed over them
by God.
4) Christian leaders should be humble
5) It is against the teachings of God, against the will of God
to consult the spirits of the dead through
mediums.
7) Without faith, it is impossible to please God.
God desires sincere worship.
9) Political leaders should consult and listen to religious
leaders.
10) Christians should not turn against their enemies or
rivals. They should not plot to have them
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destroyed and killed.
LESSON THREE: IMPORTANCE OF DAVID (1 Samuel 16: 1
– 23, 2 Samuel 6:1 – 15)
Learning outcomes. After reading about King David, you
should
a. State his importance to God and the Israelites
b. Analyse achievements and failures of King David
c. Trace David lineage up to Jesus Christ
d. Narrate fulfillment of the promises to David in the New
Testament
e. Give reasons why God rejected David’s offer to build him a
temple
David took over kingship of Israel though some people
resisted his rule. At first he ruled the house of
Judah. Later on the other tribes rallied behind him.
Importance of King David
David became king after the death of Saul. He ruled for over
40 years as king of Judah and Israel.
Achievements of David
1) He was a brilliant military commander
2) He captured the old fortress of Jerusalem from the
Jebusites and made it his capital city.
3) He removed the ark of covenant from the house of
Abinadab in Shiloh and brought it to Jerusalem.
4) He expressed great faith in God. Through his faith in God,
he was able to kill Goliath, the great
Philistine warrior.
5) He was a skilled musician and composed marry psalms
that were used and are still being used in
temple and church worship.
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6) David respected the prophets of God and always
consulted them whenever he wanted to do
anything.
7) He expanded the geographical boundaries of Israel
through conquests.
He was a great diplomat and established good political
relations with the neighboring kings.
9) He was a shrewd administrator who chose wise elders
and counselors to advice him.
10) God promised to establish an everlasting kingdom for
David
11) David ruled over Israel, administering law and justice to
all people.
12) He took a census of the Israelites and used the
information to (a) recruit young men into military
service and (2) decide on the policy of taxation.
13) David had remarkable leadership qualities. He was kind.
He spared mephibosheth, Saul’s grandson.
14) David was humble. He was ready to accept sins he had
committed and repent e.g. he repented after
committing adultery with Bathsheba.
David as an ancestor of Jesus Christ (2 Samuel 1 – 29, LK
1:26 – 33)
David intended to build a splendid temple for God in
Jerusalem. He felt it was not fair for the Ark of the
Covenant to continue dwelling in a tent while he himself
lived in a magnificent palace. To achieve this
goal, David consulted Nathan, the prophet on whether to
build the temple. The prophet approved the

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idea. But that night, Nathan received a revelation form God
that stated that David was not to build a
house (temple) for God. David’s son would build the temple
of God (2 Samuel 7:5 – 6). Prophet Nathan
gave David God’s message to David.
The message was that
a) His son will build the temple
b) God would give David’s descendants a place to settle
c) God promised to raise up an heir from the house of David
to sit on the throne
d) God promised to make David’s name great or famous
among all other leaders of the earth.
Reasons why God rejected David’s offer to build him a
temple
Here are some of the reasons:
a. David had been involved in a lot of wars with the
Israelites’ enemies and had thus shed a lot of blood.
b. God was a God of the people and could not be confined to
a house.
c. It was the will of God to establish the house of David
(build David a house) rather than David builds a
house for him (God). The human body is the temple of God.
God dwells in the hearts of people.
d. David had grown old. God wanted him to rest.
e. God had planned that David’s son would build a house for
him – a place to house the Ark of the
Covenant. King Solomon, David’s son built the temple and
fulfilled God’s promises to David. Solomon’s
rule was peaceful and prosperous.

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The New Testament is a fulfillment of God’s promises to
David
1) The gospel writers tell us that Jesus was born in the
family of David (Luke 1:26 – 27)
2) The angel of God during the annunciation of the birth of
Jesus said that He will be like his ancestor
David (Luke 1:32 – 33)
3) Jesus was born in Bethlehem which was also the
birthplace of David (Luke 2:4)
4) Bartimaeus the blind man of Jericho hailed Jesus as the
son of David
5) During his triumphal entry to Jerusalem, Jesus was
hailed by the crowd as the messiah descended
from David.
6) In his genealogy, saint Mathew says that Jesus was a
descendant of David (Matt.1: 1)
Failures of King David.
Although David had many virtues:
1) He ordered Uriah to be placed at the battle forefront so
that he can be killed.
2) Uriah was the husband of Bathsheba. David had
committed adultery with her.
3) He took Bathsheba as his wife
LESSON FOUR: LEADERSHIP OF KING DAVID
Lesson outcomes. By the end of this lesson, you should
assess leadership qualities demonstrated by king
David
David showed
1) Courage and bravery. David was courageous and brave.
Modern leaders should be ready to die with
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and for their subjects.
2) Gratitude – thankful and grateful. David always thanked
God for any success or favors he received.
Good leaders should be thankful and grateful to God as well
as to their fellow human beings.
3) Loyalty. David was loyal to God and to the Israelites. A
good leader should be loyal, and never betray
his people.
4) Justice. David administered justice to all his subjects
without favoring anyone. No tribalism or
nepotism. A leader should be fair to all (2 Samuel 8:15).
5) God – fearing, having faith. David was God fearing. He
expressed his total trust in God. Modern
leaders need to emulate this quality.
6) Humility. A leader should be a humble person. Though
David had been appointed as the king, he
continued to serve Saul until Saul died. He accepted his
failures and asked for forgiveness
7) Kind. David was a kind leader. Leaders should be kind.
David spared the life of Saul twice yet Saul
wanted to kill him.
Wisdom. David was careful when choosing legal advisors to
assist him in his rule. He was also wise. He
reduced tribal jealousies by choosing Jerusalem; a neutral
spot for administrative purposes.
9) Delegation – a shrewd administrator. A good elder should
be able to delegate duties. David delegated
duties. He involved others in advising, and administering
LESSON FIVE: ACHIEVEMENTS AND FAILURES OF KING
SOLOMON (1 KING 3 – 12)
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Learning outcomes. By the end of this lesson, you should:
a. Analyse achievements of king Solomon
b. State failures of king Solomon
After David died, his son Solomon became the next king.
Kingship in Israel was hereditary. Solomon was
chosen by David to be his successor. He took over from
David at a time of peace and security established
by David.
Achievements
1) He made Israel rich by establishing trade with other
countries
2) He was a good trader and a successful merchant. He
traded in copper, horses, timber, silver and gold.
He established international trade with the neighboring
countries. For example, he traded with Tyre in
cedar and pine logs.
3) He established a well equipped large army for Israel
4) He was a builder. He built a magnificent temple for God in
line with God’s promise to David. He also
constructed other cities (Megiddo) and a palace for himself.
5) He is remembered for his amazing administrative skills.
He had 550 officials in charge of labour force.
6) He was a diplomatic ruler. He established friendly ties
with his neighbours. This ensured continued
peace. For instance he married the daughters of the kings of
Egypt, Moab, Eden and Sidon so as to
establish strong ties with those nations.
7) He had great wisdom. He judged a difficult case between
two women who were claiming ownership
of the same child.
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He composed many wise sayings known as the proverbs of
Solomon. He also composed songs like Song
of Solomon and Song of Songs and poems in Ecclesiastes.
9) He dedicated the temple of God with great rejoicing.
10) He brought the Ark of the Covenant to the temple of
Jerusalem.
Failures of King Solomon
1) He married women from many foreign countries. These
actions made Solomon break the Torah as
Israelites were not supposed to marry foreigners. Through
these marriages, idol worship started in
Israel. This was because he allowed his wives to worship
their gods, build temples and altars for them.
This led to introduction of idolatry in Israel.
2) Solomon constructed his palace for 13 years. He then
built God’s temple for 7 years. This showed that
he probably loved himself more than God.
3) He killed his own half brother Adonija on suspicion that
he could be a rival to the throne.
4) Solomon lived lavishly, and expensively. He thus
burdened the Israelites with high taxes.
5) He used forced labour. This was the same as enslaving
the Israelites.
6) He worshipped idols. Solomon’s heart was turned to such
other gods as Ashtoreth / ashitarte –
goddess of Sidon and Molech – the god of the Ammonites.
This was breaking God’s commandments
7) He sold part of Israelite territory to the king of Tyre
He used pagan skills when designing, decorating, and
furnishing the temple.
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9) He made treaties with other nations inspite of the fact
that God had forbidden Israel from making
treaties
10) He was extravagant. He used a lot of state wealth to
entertain and please his many wives and
concubines.
Activity. Many husbands in Kenya practice polygamy. I want
you to find out from your neighbours what
are the advantages and disadvantages of polygamy. Then
write a paper arguing either for polygamy or
monogamy.
LESSON SIX: IMPORTANCE OF THE TEMPLE IN ISRAEL
Learning outcomes. By the end of this lesson, you should
a) Define a temple
b) State the importance of the temple to Israelites.
Definition of a temple
This is a building dedicated to the worship of God. Solomon
built the temple as a fulfillment of the
promises that God gave to David, that his son would build a
house for him.
Importance and uses of a temple
1) It was a centre of worship. Prayers and sacrifices were
offered to God from the temple.
2) It symbolized the presence of God among the Israelites.
3) The Ark of the Covenant was kept in the temple as a
symbol of God’s presence among his people.
4) The temple acted as a symbol of unity in Israel. Every
year all the Israelites had to go to Jerusalem to
celebrate such feasts as the Passover, feast of tabernacles’
day of atonement. This led to the unity of the
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Israelites.
5) Dedication of children and purification were done in the
temple.
6) It was a residence for the priest.
7) It was a business centre where people bought and sold
animals needed for sacrifice.
The temple acted as a school to the scribes, rabbis and
others who studied and interpreted the Mosaic
Law.
9) The temple also acted as the judicial court of Israel.
Judges worked from the temple
10) It is where religious ceremonies like naming and
circumcision of baby boys took place.
11) It was a house of prayer.
Revision questions
a. Explain the reasons against kingship in Israel 1 Sam 8:
10-20
b. Explain the importance of David as king of Israel
c. How did Jesus fulfil the prophecies of prophet Nathan as
a descendant of David? (i.e. areas where
Jesus is mentioned as coming from David)
d. What are the failures of king Solomon?
e. Which leadership qualities can modern leaders learn from
David?
TOPIC SIX: LOYALTY TO GOD – ELIJAH
LESSON ONE: EFFECTS OF IDOLATRY IN ISRAEL
Introduction
After the death of Solomon, the kingdom of Israel split into
two countries. the southern kingdom called

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Judah ruled by King Rehoboam and the Northern kingdom
called Israel led by King Jeroboam. Other
kings who ruled these two nations were King Abijah, King
Asa of Judah, and king Nadab, Baasha, Elah,
Zimri, Omri, and Ahab of Israel. During the time of Elijah
king Ahab ruled – Israel.
Learning outcomes. After studying this lesson on idolatry,
you should
a. State factors that led to spread of idolatry in Israel
b. Analyse religious schism between Judah and Israel
c. Describe King Ahab’s marriage to the Phoenician princess
(Tyre)
d. Explain the failure to completely destroy temples, and
places of worship
e. State effects of idolatry in Israel
a. Factors that led to spread of idolatry in Israel
When Israelites intermarried with other communities, they
worshipped their gods. The Bible makes it
clear that
i There was a lot of influence by Canaanite religion
ii There was division /schism of Israel into 2 kingdoms
iii Ahab’s married the Phoenician princess
iv Israelites did not destroy all gods after settling in Canaan.
Influence of the local Canaanite religion
Idolatry is the worship of idols. An idol is an image
representing a god made using precious materials
such as gold, bronze, stone, and hardwood images kept in
the places of worship. God had forbidden
Israelites from bowing down to images and worshipping
idols, intermarrying with non-Israelites, and
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making treaties. When Israelites settled in Canaan, they
forgot God’s commandments. They
intermarried and were greatly influenced by the local
religion.
Israelites changed from being pastoralist to farmers. They
therefore worshipped Baal the god of rain,
agricultural fertility, and storms. Israelites worshipped Baal,
for rain for their crops. The Israelites were
also attracted to the visible gods of Canaan as opposed to
the invisible Yahweh. This is how idolatry
spread in Israel. However some Israelites maintained
worship of Yahweh only (monotheistic) while
others worshipped Yahweh and Baal (syncretism).
Characteristics of the Canaanite religion. Canaanite religion
was:
1. Polytheistic. They worshipped many gods. The Israelites
religion was monotheistic. They worshipped
Yahweh and no other God. They abandoned their religion
and worshipped many gods like Canaanite.
This influenced the Israelites.
2. A nature religion. The gods were related with the forces of
nature such as rain, sun, storms, drought,
famine, wind, water and death.
3. Ensured continued fertility of land, people, animals
4. Based on many families of gods. There was
a. EL – Chief god – who was their father, king, creator
b. Asherah – wife of El – the goddess of motherhood and
fertility
c. Baal – also referred to as Baal Hadad, son of El and
Asherah – the god of rain, agricultural fertility,
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storms
d. Astarte – wife of Baal -the goddess of war
e. Anat – sister of Baal – the goddess of war and love
f. Maat – the goddess of love
g. Mot – most feared. The god of drought, famine and death
5. Free and temple of prostitution. Israelites turned to
temple prostitution. Women who wanted to
increase vitality of their husbands had sexual relations with
the male priests in the Baal temples.
6. Had many places of worship. One could pray in the
temple, under sacred trees, and on top of the hills
among others.
7. Based on offerings and sacrifices of human beings.
Exercise. State differences between Israel and Canaanite
religion
b. Religious schism between Judah and Israel
Schism occurred among the Israelites because there were
sharp differences within them. These
differences were religious, political and social. After the
death of Solomon, the nation of Israel was split.
Rehoboam ruled one group while the other was ruled by
Jeroboam. Because of this split, Jeroboam
could not go to Jerusalem to worship in the temple. He thus
set up other places of worship one at
Bethel, and another at Dan. Jeroboam also set up images to
represent Yahweh. Though he had no
intention of Idol worship, it turned out to be so because he
made his subjects to offer sacrifices to these
golden calves, which he had designed as images
representing Yahweh. He also built places of worship on
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hilltops like the Canaanites. He chose priests from other
families in addition to the Levite Family.
Furthermore, he organised religious festivals and feasts in
the month of his choice. As it were, they
coincided with the Canaanites calendars. He then burnt
incense at the altar of idols. Jeroboam therefore
started idol worship and gave room for idolatry. Kings who
succeeded him followed this idol worship.
c. King Ahab’s marriage to the Phoenician/Tyre princess
Ahab married Jezebel, the daughter of the King Ethbaal of
Sidon (Tyre) to strengthen ties with
Tyre/Phoenicia. Queen Jezebel was ambitious, and a strong
follower of Baal religion. Ahab allowed her
to bring her gods to Israel. She forced Israelites to worship
Baal and not Yahweh. She imported 450
prophets of Baal and supported them using public treasury.
Ahab built a temple to Baal In Samaria. He
also put up an image of goddess – Asherah.
d. When Israelites settled in Canaan, they did not destroy
temples, places of worship, idols, images that
they found there. As a result Canaanite’s religious practices
influenced Israelites’ worship of Yahweh
leading to idolatry.
The effects of idolatry harmed Israelites as:
1) Syncretism developed. This was a process of mixing
beliefs and practices from different religions.
Israelites worshipped Yahweh and the gods of Canaan.
2) Former places of worship for the Canaanite gods were
used as places of worship for Yahweh

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3) The Canaanite agricultural calendar was adopted by
Israelites
4) Names of the Canaanite gods were used for Yahweh. For
example, EL was referred to as Yahweh
5) Parents began naming their children after Baal.
6) Feasts and celebrations were changed to correspond with
those of Canaanites when they celebrated
their feasts.
7) King Ahab declared worship of Baal as the state religion
Queen Jezebel ordered the destruction of the altars of
Yahweh
9) Prophets of Yahweh were killed. Elijah went into hiding.
10) The 450 prophets of Baal were made the officials of the
royal court in order to promote and protect
Baal religion
11) Israel started to experience long droughts because
Yahweh withdrew his blessings. This made Israel
worshippers of El
LESSON TWO: ELIJAH’S FIGHT AGAINST CORRUPTION
AND FALSE RELIGION IN ISRAEL
Learning outcomes. After studying Elijah, you should
a. Describe the contest at Mount Carmel
b. Explain how Elijah fought against corruption
c. Explain the relationship between Ahab and Naboth
d. Describe God’s sentence to Ahab.
e. Relate Elijah’s encounter with Yahweh at Mt. Horeb
f. Identify forms of corruption
a) The contest at Mount Carmel (1 King 18:17 – 46). Carmel
refers to the vineyard of the Lord. King Ahab

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brought trouble to Israel because of worshipping the idols of
Baal. Elijah told Ahab that the problems
Israel was facing were due to worship of Baal,
The decision. Elijah requested king Ahab to call a meeting at
Mt Carmel. In attendance would be all
Israelites, 450 prophets of Baal, and 400 prophets of the
goddess Asherah who were supported by
Queen Jezebel and Elijah
Elijah told Israelites it was decision time. They had to
choose their God. Would it be Yahweh, the God of
Israel or Baal the god of Jezebel of Phoenician/Tyre. If it was
to be Baal, then they were told to follow
him, if they select Yahweh as their God then they were to
follow him (1 kings 18 vs. 21).
The choice. Elijah proposed a contest between him and Baal
prophets. He asked for two bulls one for
him, the other for 450 prophets of Baal. The contest was
who can light fire? Yahweh or Baal? He
proposed that Baal prophets and himself be given each a
bullock. Both shall cut the bull into pieces and
put them on wood without lighting fire. The Baal prophets
shall pray to their god and Elijah shall pray to
the Lord. The one who sends fire to consume the sacrifices ..
he is God. The people of Israel accepted
Elijah’s proposal.
Actions. The prophets of Baal prayed first because they were
many. They took the bull, prepared it and
prayed to Baal until noon (vs. 26). They prayed louder, and
cut themselves with knives and daggers; but

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there were no answer. The prophets of Baal kept on ranting
and raving until evening but there was no
answer (vs. 29).
Elijah asked people to gather near him. He prepared the
altar of the Lord to repair work. He took 12
stones representing the 12 tribes of Israel (who were named
after the 12 sons of Jacob or Israel) and
used them to rebuild the altar. He then dug a trench around
the altar. This trench could hold 14 litres of
water. He placed the wood on the altar; cut the bull into
pieces and laid them on the wood. He asked for
four barrels of water and poured it on the offering and wood.
He poured water on the altar three times
until the water overflowed, run around the altar and filled
the trenches. Elijah then called on the Lord
“O Lord, the God of Abraham, …prove now that you are the
God of Israel and that am your servant and
have done all this at your command” (vs. 29).
The Lord sent fire down and it burnt up the sacrifice, wood,
stones, and dust and licked up the water
that was in the trench. When people saw this, they
proclaimed ‘The Lord, is God; the Lord alone is God”.
Elijah asked people to arrest the prophets of Baal, led them
down to the river Kishon and killed them.
And after this there was rain in Israel (vs.40).
Lessons learnt from Mt. Carmel. Israelites acknowledged
that Yahweh is:
i Is their only God and that Baal was not God
ii Is powerful
iii Is a merciful God
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iv Is a jealous God as He will have no other gods but him
v Is a God of justice who punishes idolaters and sinners
vi Answers prayer
vii Is a forgiving true God
viii Protects his servants
b) Elijah’s fight against corruption (1 Kings 21: 1 – 29)
Corruption is defined as dishonesty. It’s a form of injustice
when dealing with either an individual or the
community for selfish gain and benefit. In a corrupt society
people in leadership or with wealth take
advantage of the weak, and the poor. The powerful exploit
the poor and the powerless by denying them
their rights. An example of corruption in Israel is the story of
the Naboth’s Vineyard.
Naboth’s vineyard. Ahab wanted Naboth to either sell to him
his vineyard or exchange it with another
vineyard. Naboth refused to sell his inheritance. Jezebel, on
seeing that Ahab was sorrowful told him
that she will get him Naboth’s vineyard. Jezebel sent out
letters in Ahab’s name to the elders of the city.
She found two witnesses who could bear witness that
Naboth had blasphemed God and king Ahab.
Witnesses testified that Naboth had blasphemed God. He
was stoned to death. God then sent Elijah to
meet with Ahab as he went to possess the vineyard of
Naboth.
God’s sentence to Ahab. God pronounced to Ahab through
Elijah that (1) dogs shall lick his own blood
from the place where dogs licked the blood of Naboth (2) His
sons shall be killed (3) Dogs shall eat
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Jezebel by the wall of Jezreel (4) Evil shall be brought upon
Ahab’s house.
This was because Ahab had broken these commandments:
ndment – which forbids murder

witness. Ahab allowed his wife to bear false

witness against Naboth
– you shall not covet your neighbor’s
property.
Elijah’s encounter with Yahweh at Mt. Horeb (Mr. Sinai) 1
Kings 19
After killing the prophets of Baal, Elijah was threatened by
Jezebel. She vowed to kill him. Elijah ran
away to the wilderness. The angel of God fed him with a loaf
of bread and a jar of water. After eating
and drinking Elijah walked to Mt. Sinai – the holy mountain
of God. He stayed there for 40 days and 40
nights. In the mountain God appeared to him.
There was a strong wind, an earthquake, a fire but the Lord
was not in them. Then the lord spoke to
Elijah in a still small voice. God told Elijah “ return and
anoint Hazael as king of Syria, Jehu as king of
Israel, and anoint Elisha as a prophet and your successor.
Self-assessment question. How can Christians help reduce
corruption in Kenya?
Answer
First is to recognize the various forms of corruption like:
tribalism, bribery, cheating in business, stealing,
misuse of public funds, grabbing public land, robbery with
violence and dishonesty
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Self-assessment question. How can Christians fight
corruption? Christians can fight corruption by:
a). Employing life skills
a) Applying their critical thinking. This is the ability to make
appropriate decisions; by weighing in the
consequences of actions before taking decisions.
b) Creative thinking and being imaginative. This is the
ability to explore new ways of handling issues,
c) Decision making which is the ability to make the right
choices
d) Assertiveness. This is the ability to express ones opinion
with confidence
e) Praying for the corrupt to change their behaviour
f) Setting a good example by acting as a good role model
g) Educating people on the evils of corruption
h) Reporting those who are engaged in corrupt dealings /
practices to the relevant authorities.
i) Obeying the laws of the society /country
Voting for morally upright leaders.
LESSON THREE: REASONS WHY ELIJAH FACED DANGER
AND HOSTILITY AS A PROPHET OF GOD
Learning outcomes. By the end of this lesson, you shall
a. Explain why Elijah, faced hostility
b. Show relevance of Elijah’s prophetic mission to
Christianity today
It’s not easy for a person to oppose the government and its
policies. The person normally faces danger
and hatred. Elijah faced hostility from King Ahab, his wife
Jezebel and the 450 prophets of Baal.
Elijah faced hostility because
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a. He pronounced a three years drought in Israel, which
brought sufferings.
b. He put to death 450 prophets of Baal
c. He boldly condemned king Ahab for taking away Naboth’s
vineyard
d. He preached at a time when there was idolatry, and Baal
was the official religion in Israel
e. He identified himself with Yahweh in the midst of
prosecution of God’s prophets by Jezebel.
Relevance of Elijah’s prophetic mission to Christians today
Lessons Christians learn from the life of Elijah
1) Elijah was courageous. Church leaders should remain
courageous and condemn any form of social
injustice
2) Modern Christians learn to remain faithful to God
through word and deed even if it would cost them
their lives
3) As God helped Elijah in difficult times he will also help
the Christians hence they should not despair.
4) Elijah was a man of prayer Christians should pray to God
always.
5) Christians should advocate for the rights of the poor and
speak out against any form of oppression.
6) Christians should not give false evidence against their
neighbours
7) Christians should be persistent like Elijah was in their
struggle against injustice
God communicated with Elijah in a still small voice
indicating his intimacy with the prophet. This means

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that God is able to establish an intimate relationship with
his faithful.
Review questions
a) Describe the qualities of Elijah that led to his
achievements
b) What is schism and syncretism
c) What are some of the characteristics of Elijah that a
modern Christian should strive to emulate?
d) What are the effects of idolatry in Israel today?
e) Describe Elijah’s fight against false religion in Israel
f) Describe Elijah’s fight against corruption 1 kings 21
g) What can Christians learn from the teachings of Elijah?
TOPIC SEVEN: SELECTED ASPECTS OF AFRICAN
RELIGIOUS HERITAGE.
Introduction
All Traditional African Communities believe in a Supreme
Being who is the origin and sustainer of all
things: He is the creator of the university and all that it
contains.
All Africans agree that nobody has ever seen God. Therefore,
nobody can really describe Him, yet
through their religious insights, Africans have formulated
ideal about the nature of God. These ideas
concern His real being and His activities.
“Traditional religion” refers to African culture that existed in
the sub – Saharan Africa. African traditional
culture had no scriptures or texts because most of it was
oral. It was preserved and handed down from
generation to generation-through oral traditions;
ceremonies; rituals, and leading personalities.
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Learning outcomes. By the end of this topic, you should be
able to
a) Explain and appreciate the African concept of God spirits
and ancestors
b) Identify attributes of God
c) Explain the African understanding of the hierarchy of
beings
d) Describe the role of God, spirits and ancestors
e) Explain the responsibilities of the living towards God,
spirits and ancestors
f) Describe the traditional African way of worshipping God,
venerating and communicating with the
ancestors and spirits.
LESSON ONE: AFRICAN CONCEPT OF GOD, SPIRITS AND
ANCESTORS
Learning outcomes. By the end of this lesson, you should
a. Describe the African concept of his/her religion
b. State attributes of God
c. Draw a diagram showing hierarchy of beings
Africans believed in existence of a supreme being who lived
in mountains, clouds and the sky. God was
the creator of the universe. In African traditions, religion
was integrated in every aspect of life and daily
activities. For example, farming activities involved God,
spirits and ancestors. People would pray to God,
spirits ancestors so as to ask for blessings in order to have a
good harvest. Livestock keepers believed
that fertility of their animals is a result of the blessings of
God. If God was appeased, animals would
increase.
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Natural phenomena such as thunder, lightning, rain; good
harvest, and birth were linked to the Supreme
Being and the invisible world. If there were calamities such
as drought, disease, famine, and death, it
was an indication that God, spirits and ancestors were
displeased with humankind. Many communities
have invocations uttered through out the day
Nature or Attributes of god
God is described with many names, which are God’s
attributes. These are among others:
a) God is Good – Nearly all-African communities describe
God as being good to all people and things. He
gives rain, sunshine and life among many other gifts.
b) God is merciful. The Akamba refer to God as “God of pity”,
the ‘merciful one’. God shows mercy in
times of danger, illness, difficulty or anxiety.
c) God is holy. He is pure, holy and does not make mistakes.
Yoruba call him God who is pure, without
blemish. The Kikuyu say God is “Possessor of whiteness”
and the Bukusu – ‘master whitewash’. African
traditions all approach God with reverence, fear, respect and
honor. For example when offering
sacrifices, they would offer a one-colour animal either white,
black, or brown and not a spotted animal.
d) God is powerful i.e. Omnipotent. God is described as
almighty. His power is expressed in natural
occurrences like thunder, lighting, earthquakes, rains, and
floods.
e) God is all knowing (Omniscient). God knew all things;
nothing can be hidden from him. He discerns
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hearts.
f) God is all present (Omnipresent).He is present everywhere
in the universe
g) God is limitless. God has no limit. He is both very far and
very near, beyond and within.
h) God is transcendent .God cannot be exhausted by human
imagination. He is unexplainable, beyond
human experience and understanding.
i) God is all understanding
j) God is self – existent .He made all things but he himself is
not made. He exists on his own. Zulu explain
that God is ‘he who is of himself.
k) God is a spirit He is invisible, and everlasting.. Shilluk of
Sudan refer to him as ‘great spirit’ ‘the
formless spirit.
l) God is everlasting. God is eternal, never changes, and
never dies. The Yoruba call him ”the mighty
immovable rock that never dies.
m) God is God created the creator .The world Kikuyu call
him “Mumbi”
n) God is just. Kikuyu refer to God as “Mugai” meaning
“divider”. ‘One who shares out’. God judges
fairly, punishes those who do wrong and rewards the good
with blessings.
o) God is the provider. All communities acknowledge that
God provides them with everything they have.
Africans built representation of the power of God. They
identified sites, places and things that
represented the presence and power of God. For example
things like big trees, thick forest, high
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mountains, unique rock formations and large rivers and
animals. In these places they built sites, and
shrines. Shrines were regarded as holy and people
approached them with reverence
Spirits. They were believed to exist between God and human
beings in the universe. Spirits were diverse
and created by God. Some spirits were dead human beings.
Spirits were divided into nature, sky, earth
and human spirits that were either long dead (ghosts) or
recently dead (ancestors).
There were different types of spirits. These were:
a. Divinities. These are spirits created by God. They are
close to God and act as his agents. They are in
charge of natural phenomena like the sun, moon and stars.
They are intermediaries between God and
ancestral spirits, human beings and other creatures. They
reveal God’s plans through diviners and
mediums
b. Human spirits / common spirits. These are inferior to
divinities but higher than human kind. They are
remains of human beings after their death. These spirits
monitor human activities. Human spirits have
lost their names and are not longer remembered by the
living. They are believed to live in the under
world, undergrounds, in thick bushes, forests, rivers,
mountains, lakes, skies, and caves among other
places. These spirits can bring harm to the living if
disrespected. They appear to people in dreams or in
form of shadows. They can also enter or possess a person
and cause abnormalities.
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3. Ancestors / living dead
These are spirits of the recently dead. They are remembered
by the living when children are named
after them. They are actively involved in the lives and
activities of the living. Their offerings (food or
drink) are poured on the ground for them to receive.
Ancestors are in a period of transition between the living
and the higher categories. They are believed to
know the problems of the living and therefore consulted
constantly. They are also associated with evil
such as revenge for burying them without honor, or not
following the instructions they gave before they
died or failing to pour them libations. When they are happy
with the living, they are a source of
blessings. Ancestors who did evil things or committed
suicide are forgotten and ignored.
Hierarchy of beings. Hierarchy means the order or ranking
from the highest to the lowest of created
beings. At the top is
Divinities

Ancestors

Human Beings

Animals and Plants

Non-living Things
LESSON TWO: THE ROLE OF GOD, SPIRITS AND
ANCESTORS
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Learning outcomes. By the end of this lesson: -
a. Write a description of God from an African perspective
God is the creator. The Akamba community believed that
God whom they called Mulungu created man
and woman. He then tossed them to the earth. The Luhya
claim God created them from the black
topsoil hence their skin complexion.
God is the source of life and giver of life. Barren women pray
to God to ask for children. Human beings
depend on God for life, rain, air, and sunshine.
God is the provider. He gave domestic animals to human
beings for their use. Domestic animals have
many uses such as repayment of dowry, food, and sacrifices
to God, payment of a fine by an offender.
Many wild animals are used in folk songs and tales to
discourage cowardice, and laziness
God is a protector of human beings from evil.
God is the giver of moral laws and a judge of people
God offers solutions to man’s problems through mediums,
and prophets
God gives power to the specialists such as medicine men,
women and priests.
God punishes people for wrongdoing
Wild animals such as hyena are used in folk stories to
discourage cowardice. Stories of tortoise illustrate
the importance of being slow but sure. Snakes in some
communities such as the Luhya were not killed.
The community believed snakes were immortal ancestors
coming to visit the living.

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Plants were used as food for people and animals. Trees were
used for fuel and building materials. Some
trees were used as sacred places of worship.
Non-living things such as the rain, rocks, and rivers had a
religious importance. Rain is seen as a blessing
from God. When rain fails, diviner/rain maker was
consulted. Rocks, and mountains were believed to be
dwelling places for the living, the dead and the spirits.
The spirits were viewed as neither good nor evil. Human
beings feared them. Their roles were many.
They;
i Appeared in dreams especially to diviners, priests,
medicine men and women, and rain makers to relay
information
ii Were consulted by religious specialists to find the cause of
a problem in a given situation.
iii Were bad (naughty) spirits, which disturbed people.
African communities believed that bad sprits
could call out one’s name but on turning there’s no one.
iv Were manipulated by some human beings to cause harm
to others
v Relayed God’s messages to human beings.
vi Sometimes possessed a person causing the person to be
sent away from the village to the forest, or a
way from home.
vii Acted as intermediaries between humans,’ divinities and
God.
Role of ancestors is to: -
1) Appear to families in dreams, and visions.
2) Give family instructions i.e. what should be done.
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3) Rebuke those who fail to honor them and warn them of
impending punishment
4) Act as mediators between the living and God.
5) Enquire about family affairs as they considered as
members of the family
6) Request for sacrifice of an animal which is slaughtered for
them
7) Cause illness or mental disturbance to members of a
family if they are disregarded or disobeyed.
Preserve the culture of a community
9) Welcome those who die to the spirit world.
LESSON THREE: RESPONSIBILITY OF THE LIVING
TOWARDS GOD, SPIRITS, AND ANCESTORS
Learning outcome. After studying this lesson, you should
a. State responsibilities of the living to God, spirits, and
ancestors
b. Explain the various forms of worship
Responsibilities of living include
Human beings are expected to worship God, spirits and
ancestors and show (i) reverence and respect or
veneration to God. They are also expected to (i) pray (ii) sing
and (iii) dance.
Worship. This is our major responsibility as God expects us
to meet and communicate with the spiritual
world and God. There are several ways of worshipping God.
These include among others:
(a) Sacrifices and offerings. Sacrifices include shedding of
blood of animals and birds. Offerings are in the
form of foodstuffs, milk, water and honey. God was
worshipped because He is recognized as the
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absolute owner of life and property. We also worship God in
order to (i) invoke Him for special blessings
(ii) thank Him (iii) express our personal fellowship and
communion with God (iv) avert or prevent evil.
Evils bring about epidemics, famine, floods, and drought.
(b) Singing and dancing. Africans worshipped God through
singing, dancing, clapping of hands,
drumming, and use of musical instruments.
(c)Prayers, invocations and blessings.
Prayers were accompanied with sacrifices or offerings.
Community leaders prayed to God, spirits and
ancestors.
(d) Invocations are shortened form of prayers e.g. “Help me
oh God” ‘Oh great God”. These are prayers
at the spur of the moment. They are few words full of
meaning and calling for help form God.
(e) Formal blessings. An elder or older person gave blessings.
It is believed that the person blessing the
other one is doing so on behalf of God.
(f) Venerations. Africans treated their ancestors with great
respect and honor. They for example
worshiped ancestors daily. Worshipping included placing
food or pouring libation of beer, milk, water
and honey for the spirits. As this act was done, they uttered
words to accompany the offerings. Libations
were done daily by some communities.
(g). Ancestors were honored by:
red to God.

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rituals. For example during birth, and initiation.

Communication with spirits

Diviners and mediums talk with ‘spirits”. To do so, they sit
quietly in a place; singing, dancing and
clapping their hands. As they dance, sit and sing, diviners
lose their senses and get possessed by the
spirit. The spirits speak give them messages for individuals
and communities. Spirits communicate on
issues such as (i) lost property (ii) revealing by name the
enemy in the society (iii) making demands on
the living (iv) giving advice (v) giving warnings on impending
danger and (vi) making promises to bless a
family or clan. Spirits that possess mediums are not
harmful.
There are bad evil spirits harmful to people whom they
possess. Some evil spirits cut themselves; others
throw themselves into a fire, river, and lake.
Revision questions
a) Explain African beliefs about god ( or qualities)
b) Describe the African understanding of the hierarchy of
being
c) Describe the role of the ancestors to the living
d) What was the responsibility of the living towards God?
e) Describe the T.A. ways of worshipping God.
TOPIC EIGHT: AFRICAN MORAL AND CULTURAL VALUES
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the topic, you should be able to
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a Explain the meaning of life and its wholeness in the
traditional African society
b Explain the African concept of community and kingship
system
c Outline the factors contributing to harmony and mutual
responsibility in the African communities
d Describe rites of passage and their role inculcating moral
values in the traditional African society
e Explain the role of religious specialist and their relevance
in modern society
f Explain the African moral values
g Discuss and evaluate continuity and change in the African
understanding of leisure, dress, old age,
widows, orphans, dowry, community, land, medicine,
worship and property.
LESSON ONE: MEANING OF LIFE AND ITS WHOLENESS IN
THE TRADITIONAL AFRICAN SOCIETY
Learning outcomes. By the end of the lesson you should be
able to:-
1. Describe the meaning and wholeness of life in the
traditional African society
2. Describe the African understanding of a community
Life originates from God and it progress from one stage to
another with a certain rhythm each person
has to follow. Each stage of life is marked by rites of
passage. Life is continuous and unending. Each
person is expected to value life and to be responsible. Life
involves sharing. It is immoral to be greedy
and self centred. People are to be hospitable, warm and
caring toward other people. Unity and harmony
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are to be upheld. Life is viewed as whole only if a person
went through all the stages or rites of passage
Life was propagated through bearing children. Life cannot be
divided into religious and secular. Every
element of life has a religious meaning. Life is communal.
Life was celebrated at every stage. Everyone
depends on others. Labour was divided. There were duties
for men, children and women.
In African traditional society, human life is precious. Murder
was condemned harshly. Suicide was
considered the worst thing anyone could do. It was seen as a
curse on the family. If one died at
childhood, it was regarded as abortion. Death did not mark
the end of life. Death is referred to as ‘saying
goodbye to food”, “sleeping,” “going home”, “being called by
the ancestors”.
African concept of a community
A community is a group of people who share a common
language, religion, and culture and may live in
the same geographical location. This group of people or an
ethnic group shares common interests and
characteristics. For example, African communities:

A clan is made up of people who have the same forefather. A

clan is composed of families. A family is

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made up of members (living or dead) who are related by
blood and marriage. Family members therefore
include the ancestors and the unborn.
LESSON TWO: KINSHIP SYSTEM IN AFRICAN
COMMUNITIES
Learning outcomes. After studying African kinship system in
African communities, you should be able to:
a. Explain the importance of kinship system
b. Give factors that contribute to harmony and mutual
responsibility
Kinship refers to the relationships between people. These
can be by blood, marriage or adoption. People
that belong to the same kinship system are referred to as
kin.
Importance of kinship system and ties
Kinship relationships were and still are important among
African communities. This is because these
ties:
i Provided company. This ensured that people were not
lonely.
ii Provided a sense of belonging which one of the human
needs. We all want to belong
iii Controlled social relationships between people related by
blood or marriage.
iv Promoted mutual responsibility and help
v Enhanced a sense of security which is a human need
vi Regulated marital customs, rules and regulations.
vii Enabled people to live peacefully and in harmony.
viii Bind the community together enhancing social cohesion
and loyalty to each other
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ix Facilitated care for the disadvantaged members of
community.
x Ensured that all members of the community are have
knowledge of community beliefs and practices
xi Provided a peaceful way of settling disputes.
xii Provided mechanisms for proper inheritance of property
for example land.
Factors contributing to harmony and mutual responsibility
in African communities. These are many.
Some of them are (i) rites of passage (2) good morals (3)
participation in communal activities such as
ceremonies, work, leisure activities and worship (4) sharing
of property and ideas (5) division of labour.
Tasks were distributed according to one’s age, gender and
status. (6) rules/social norms regulated how
people grew up; knowing what is wrong and right. Good
morals help people to live in peace and
harmony
LESSON THREE: RITES OF PASSAGE
Learning outcomes. I expect you to read this lesson and
a. Name the main stages of human life
b. Explain the rite of circumcision in your community
c. Narrate initiation rituals
d. Discuss the importance of marriage in your community
with peers
e. State the importance of funeral and burial rites.
In traditional African society, there were four main stages of
life. These were (i) birth and naming (ii)
initiation (iii) marriage and (iv) old age and death
Birth and naming
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When a woman conceived, and pregnancy was visible, she
was treated specially. She wore charms to
keep away evil eyes. She ate special food and avoided sexual
relations. The family and husband did not
expect her to perform heavy task. When she was ready to
deliver, mid wives helped in delivery. After
delivery, the placenta was seen as a sign of fertility hence it
was buried in the fertile land such as a
banana plantation. Some communities preserved placenta
while others threw it into a running stream.
Birth
The arrival of a baby and its sex was announced through
ululations or shouts. The placenta was disposed
off ceremoniously. The mother was purified and baby
protection rites were conducted. Once purified, a
mother could wear charms to protect herself and the baby
from malicious spirits, sorcery, witchcraft,
and evil eyes.
Thanksgiving ceremonies were performed to show gratitude
to God. The hair of the mother and child
was shaved as a sign of purification and newness of life.
Naming
Naming of babies was carefully chosen. A baby could be
named after either a season, weather,
ancestors, place or time of delivery, occasion, experience of
mother during delivery, significance events
such as war, and drought, personality of the child, and
names of heroes and gods. A good example is the
name ‘Were’ amongst the Luhya.
Twins had special names.
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Initiation – the second rite of passage.
There were different types of initiations such as circumcision
for boys and clitorisdectomy for girls,
excision of teeth and body marks. Initiation rites were
important and every individual was expected to
go through them or be rendered an outcast. Initiation
practices were seen as tests for courage and
bravery. They helped the communities when identifying
future leaders and warriors.
Initiation was very important in communities where it was
practiced. Initiation marked a transition from
childhood to adulthood. In this transition, the initiate
acquired new rights, new status in life, and
privileges. For example the new initiates were allowed to
marry, own property, and inherit the father’s
property. In addition the initiates received specialized
education. They were taught how to behave as
adults, warriors, future husbands and parents.
The education brought families, relatives and friends
together. This act strengthened kinship ties. It also
prepared the initiates to face the difficulties and challenges
of adult life. In addition, initiation helped to
structure the community. Initiation was programmed to fit
an age set; and it marked passage of specific
time. Thus each initiation ceremony was held regularly,
normally between 16 – 21 years of age. If you
calculate, you can see that 16 to 21 years introduced a new
age set or group of young people. The age
set held power for 16 to 21 years and handed over to the
new generation. Initiation was therefore a
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mark of identity. It gave the initiate a sense of belonging. It
bonded the initiates together with the
ancestors.
Initiation rituals are not popular today as they were in the
past. This is because many communities have
undergone social and cultural changes because of modern
education. As a result some families take
their sons to hospitals to be circumcised to prevent
HIV/AIDs and to avoid infections because of
unhygienic traditional initiation practices.
Other reasons are (i) urbanization and migration, (ii)
individualization (iii) Christians religious values.
These have made some communities abandon some rites
e.g. clitorisdectomy and (iv) some countries
have made girl’s circumcision illegal and an issue of human
and health rights.
Attitude to birth and naming
There has been a change in attitude to birth and naming.
This is because initiation is no longer a
community but a family affair. In addition, pregnant women
attend antenatal clinics. Majority of
pregnant women give birth in hospitals and health centres.
Thus a doctor and not a midwife announce
the sex of the baby. In modern society, the mother and child
are no longer secluded. Lastly most parents
prefer western names for their babies.
Marriage was a requirement for all members of the
community. It was a source of status in the
community. Since a leader had to be married.

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Young men and women married after initiation. Marriage
was a happy occasion and a source of wealth.
The father gave young initiates some animals for dowry.
Fathers of girls received dowry payments, as
bride price was mandatory. It was given to the parents of the
girl in form of (a) Cows (b) Goats (c)
Camels (d) Jewellery (e) Poultry. The young men inherited
the father’s property.
Importance of dowry. Dowry unified the community. When
young women were married, their parents
lost their labour. Dowry payments compensated for this
loss. Men paid dowry as a sign of commitment
to their wife and parents.
Importance of marriage
Marriage was sacred. It was and ordained by God. Marriage
created new social relationships and
expanded web of kinships. During the marriage ceremonies
the whole community rejoiced, and feasted
together. The newly married couple learnt new knowledge
and skills. The community and society
respected the newly married couple. Children born from this
union propagated and ensured continuity
of family, and the community.
Modern community and marriage. There has been a change
in attitude towards marriage. As a result:
marriage is no longer seen as sacred and divorce is common.
In addition, dowry has been
commercialized, as it is no longer seen as important. Some
young men do not pay dowry. In fact
marriage is no longer seen as a sign of status
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Children were important in marriage. Barren women were
frowned upon. Polygamy solved issues of
childlessness. Couples without children can now adopt them
from the Child Welfare society.
Divorce. This was very rare. It happened only if the girl (i)
was not a virgin (ii) practiced witchcraft (iii)
and did not show respect towards her husband.
Old age and death. This is the age of wisdom. Old people
were respected. Grey hair was a sign of respect
and wisdom. In all culture, the elders were the custodians of
the law, norms and regulations. Social and
religious specialists were seers, rainmakers, priests,
diviners, and medicine men among others
Death. Old age is followed by death. It was seen as a
transition into the spiritual life. Besides old age,
many cultures believed that death was due to either
breaking of the traditional customs and taboos,
curses, evil spirits, witchcraft, war, diseases and epidemics.
Burial rites were performed in many African
communities.
Disposing of the dead body. Several methods were used to
dispose the body. These were burials, leaving
bodies in the forest, and throwing body to animals or placing
the body in an abandoned house. African
communities believed that animals carried the spirit of the
dead person to the next life. Burial rites were
performed by the bereaved. They buried the body with ones
person belongings and tools. Thus if a
person was a great warrior, he was buried with a war coat.
Celebrations accompanied funeral rites.
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Funeral songs (dirges) were performed. There was drinking
and eating.
Importance of funeral and burial rites
Burial rites created a good relationship between the dead
and the living. They were therefore given to
appease the world of spirits, express unity in the society,
cleanse the remaining relatives and obey the
customs of the community. Rituals that were performed
depended on the community. Some of the
rituals for the dead included.
a) Shaving of heads. Some mourners shaved their hair
completely, while others shaved in a specific
pattern.
b) Dancing and singing, and giving gifts to the bereaved
family
c) Mourning (d) Drum beating (e) Horn blowing 9f) Grave
side fires
Here are some questions to make you think about marriages
1. In your opinion, what has brought changes in modern
marriages?
2. Explain why divorce is rising in Kenya and Africa.
3. What changes do we see in contemporary marriages?
4. What has brought about these changes?
5. What are the major causes of death in Kenya today?
LESSON FOUR: RELIGIOUS SPECIALISTS AND THEIR
RELEVANCE IN MODERN SOCIETY
Learning outcome. After studying this lesson,
1. Identify religious specialists
2. State the role of medicine men, priests, mediums,
prophets, diviners, and seers
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3. Describe roles of herbalists, elders, and rainmakers
4. Explain the role of religious specialists in your culture
Religious specialists include Medicine men / healers,
Herbalists, Diviners, Mediums, Prophets / Seers,
Rainmakers, Priests and Elders. Religious specialists were
given power by their parents who taught them
religious duties. Others received divine call through dreams
and visions. A few learnt from experts via
apprenticeship. This is learning by observing and practicing
what one sees the master teacher doing.
Roles of the medicine women/men in the Community.
Medicine women/men are healers who were and
are respected by the community. This is because they were
and are able to:
1) Treat and heal the sick
2) Solve serious and complicated chronic illnesses
3) Give medicine in form of powder, herbs, minerals or liquid
form and observed patients swallowing,
drinking, sniffing, and applying on the skin.
4) Offer prayers and sacrifices to God
5) Give charms to protect individual persons from evil
spirits.
6) Perform specialized medical roles in some communities in
spite of the fact that we have modern
hospitals, counselors and psychologists.
Elders were and still are community leaders. They were not
religious specialists but the community gave
elders duties, which made them close to religious leaders.
Herbalists and their relevance. Herbalists were synonymous
with witch doctors. They cured people
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through herbs just like the medicine women/men.
Communities’ belief: that herbalists are witchdoctors
and possess magical powers. Herbalists continue to be
consulted as ‘witch doctors’ or “waganga”. Today
herbalists do religious tasks that were traditionally done by
diviners.
Diviners were able to find hidden secrets and knowledge;
reveal witches and thieves. They
communicated with spirits and enhanced the work of
healers and medicine people. They worked as
medicine people and were healers of people. They used
magic powers and predicted future
occurrences. They used items such as pebbles, water, bones
or gourds in divination. They also warned of
future calamities. They were mediators between God,
ancestors and the people. To be a diviner, one
had to be trained. There was a specialized curriculum
prepared by diviners.
Relevance of diviners in modern society. Diviners
(‘witchdoctor’ “mganga”) are not popular today and
are hardly consulted. But the unfortunate Kenyans consult
them who: need a job, promotion, and
children. This consultation is secret.
Mediums were channels of communication between the
living and the spirits of people’s ancestors. The
ancestor spirits possessed mediums and through them
ancestors gave information and messages to
their relatives.
Priests were religious leaders and functionaries. They were
intermediaries between people, ancestors,
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spirits and God. Their work was to make sacrifices and give
offerings on behalf of the people. They
officiated during planting and harvesting rituals. They
offered prayers and blessed the needy. They cared
for the shrines and poured libations to the ancestors. They
led the community in public worship. They
were political heads and judges. Today, traditional priests
are not relevant since most Kenyans follow
several religious practices like Christianity, Hindus, Islam
and many others. But there are however, a few
traditional priests who take care of community shrines.
Prophets / Seers predicted the future. They foretold events
such as invasions, wars, drought, and
epidemics. They gave advice. They also performed religious
duties. They could bless and curse. Religious
prophets are common today but traditional prophets are not
common.
Rainmakers were responsible for bringing or withholding
rain to a community. They interpreted weather
conditions. They performed certain rituals like asking God
for rains. They were highly respected in the
society. Modern science has replaced rainmakers
Meteorological departments have made the rainmakers
redundant.
Elders were custodians of community values and secrets.
They acted as educators. They gave
punishment to offenders of social norms/rules. They acted
as counselors and guided the youth on
matters of sex and marriage. They helped in maintaining
roles for important religious functions, such as
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rites of passage. They were political leaders in the
community. They were negotiators and solved
conflicts since they settled family disputes especially
agreements concerning land. They were custodians
of the traditional values, customs and history of the people.
Relevance. Elders are relevant in modern society. They are
referred to as village elders and are
recognized by the government of Kenya.
LESSON FIVE: AFRICAN MORAL VALUES
Introduction. African communities were regulated by a strict
code of laws and moral values. In this
lesson we shall study moral values, which regulated
individual members of society as well as the
community itself.
Learning outcomes. After reading this lesson, you should
1. Give examples of cultural values
2. Define moral values
3. Identify forms of misconduct
3. State a punishment for each misconduct
What is a cultural value? These are community practices
and beliefs. Each community has cultural values
that it accepts and upholds. These cultural values are laws,
customs, and forms of behaviour,
regulations, rules, observances and taboos. The cultural
values form a moral code, which regulates the
community. For example, if the culture, values private
property, it will have laws that forbid theft of
property. These laws are cultural values. Cultural values
influence the social order and peace. God gives

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peace and harmony. God is seen as the giver and guardian
of the law. Disobedience was and still is
regarded as evil, wrong and was and still is punishable by
law.
What is a moral value? Moral values are standards of
behaviour towards others. They are based on what
is valued by the community. Moral values are also positive
attitudes. Each community decided what is
important to it and what is desirable for its members to
practice and uphold.
The moral values that communities observed were many.
They included amongst others:
1. Hospitality and Love for self and others. This is the habit
of welcoming all people, treating oneself and
others well. Members of the community were taught how to
be hospitable to visitors, strangers and
how to assist the needy.
2. Honesty. This is developing good habits like telling the
truth, Loyalty, Respect, Co – operation with all.
3. Obedience to parents, elders, community leaders and
elders. Cultural regulations were followed and
adhered to leading
4. Caring for others. This is being responsible to members of
the community
5. Developing social moral behaviour like Humility, Sharing,
Responsibility, Chastity, Integrity, Tolerance,
Perseverance, and Courtesy
6. Working Hard. Do chores. These were according to sex,
age and social-economic status.

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7. Cooperation. Members cooperated and worked together
with others.
Moral values were learnt in the process of socialization.
Leisure activities helped in acquisition of moral
values. Learning moral values was a lifelong process. The
most valued behaviour was obedience.
Children were to obey their parents; wives obey their
husbands; community obeys their leaders, and
elders.
Learning to obey was a life long process. An obedient person
was respected and rewarded.
Misconducts. There were taboos that the community
observed. Failure to obey community laws
resulted in punishments. The community did not allow
stealing of livestock. Domestic animals were the
most valued private property. Individuals owned livestock
while land ownership was communal. There
were many forms of punishment for stealing livestock and
committing other crimes. For example
a. Payment of heavy fines to replace stolen livestock
b. Being beaten in a sack
c. Thrown down a hill
d. Cast out of community. Thieves and murders built their
homes at the outskirts of the community.
They were not allowed to interact anymore with the
members of the community.
e. Being covered with dry banana leaves and then set on fire.
LESSON SIX: CONTINUITY AND CHANGE
Introduction
Learning outcome. From this lesson, you should be able to:
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1. Compare traditional and modern way of life
2. Trace property ownership in traditional and modern
communities
3. Explain how money economy has affected the traditional
way of life
4. State how communities can look after orphans, widows,
and old people
Community. Formal education introduced the western way
of life. Employment and trade forced
Africans to leave their villages to look for employment and
markets in towns. These actions led to
urbanization and pluralism. As a result different
communities came to towns and lived together.
1. Paid employment. Workers were paid by money. The
concept of money changed community life.
Individualism ownership of money replaced communalism
2. Land used to be communal. There was plenty of land for
everyone. But changes were brought by
modern life. For example, health improved and people lived
longer. There were fewer deaths and
population increased. With money, there was an expansion
of trade. Individuals started buying land
with money instead of clearing forests.
Modern life changed the concept of land. Individual started
owning land. The colonial governments
introduced policies about land ownership in different African
countries. In communities where
education was accepted and money economy took over from
livestock economy, communal land
disappeared.
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Parents did not have land for inheritance. As a result, people
moved and bought land away from their
ancestral birthplaces. This resulted in both migrations and
immigrations.
3. Property. Traditionally property included land, cattle
(Livestock), women/ wives, and children. In
African traditional culture, this property belonged to men or
the first-born son in paternal societies. In
maternal communities, it belonged to wives and daughters.
Today property or wealth is in different forms such as
money, buildings, vehicles, land, shares, stock,
jewels, insurance, and others. Women, men and children
own property. Because of this, the status of a
person is measured by property.
Dowry – Bride price / bride wealth
In African societies, bride price was very important. It was
given in various forms. For example cows,
animals skin, and camels. Today dowry is commercialized.
It’s mainly in form of cash money. This has
made marriage costly for the poor. Some young people are
staying together without a formal wedding
in church or in the community. Others do not want to pay
dowry. Young couples are living together in
what is called – come – we – stay arrangements.
4. Health Medicine
In traditional society, Illness was caused by witchcraft,
sorcery, bad omen, or curses. Diviners, herbalists,
and healers treated the sick people.
Today bacterial, viruses, or environmental factors, cause
illnesses. These are treated by nurses, and
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doctors; in hospitals and health centres. There is however a
craze for herbalists. The communities are
consulting herbalists and are taking herbal tea, and
medicine
5. Dress
Mode of dressing varied between countries. It was dependent
on the type of climate. African
communities were clothes made from skins or hides, leaves
of bananas and trees. Women wore beads,
and necklaces for decoration.
Modern mode of dressing is a mixture of African, Asian and
European wear. There are clothes for men,
women, and unisex. African and western ornaments are
worn for beauty and style.
6. Worship. Worship is an important activity in African
communities. There are different forms of
worship, which are done in various places. Those who were
converted to Islam worship in Mosques.
Those converted to Hinduism worship in temples. Christians
worship in churches. The few traditional
African communities continue to worship their ancestors in
shrines. These are very few.
But a few groups are turning back to traditional worship
and reviving worship of ancestors and spirits,
and their traditional God. For example “Mungiki” a cult in
Kenya, made up of young people, worship the
traditional Ngai and practice traditional culture.
Traditional religions have many offerings such as foodstuffs
and sacrifices such as goats, cows, sheep
and chicken. Human sacrifice has been discarded.
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It is illegal, and it is murder. In the news, we have heard of
cases of body parts being stolen from a dead
body in mortuary probably for religious rituals. This is illegal
and a criminal offence.
Modern offerings in most religious institutions consist of
money.
7. Death changes immediately the status of families.
Mothers and fathers become widows and
widowers. Children become orphans. Many parents, wives
and husbands have died because of HIV /
AIDS, road accidents, diseases and other modern calamities.
They have left orphans, widows and
widowers.
Orphans used to be looked after by grandmothers, brothers
and uncles. Today government, churches,
charities, NGOs, well-wishers, and guardians, the elder
sibling looks after orphans. Some orphan sisters
and brothers drop out of school to look after the rest. Some
orphans have ended up in the streets
because there is no one to look after them
Widows. Traditionally brothers inherited widows. However,
widow inheritance is being discouraged to
prevent HIV / AIDS. But on the other hand, widows are
encouraged to remarry as society has become
individualistic and no longer assists community members as
an obligation.
Widowers are not inherited and many of them remarry soon
after the death of their wives.
8. Old age. In traditional African communities, old people
were respected. But now old age is not
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respected. The aged are seen as a burden to their children.
This is because the need medical care, food,
and other forms of care to meet their needs. Most of them
are neglected and mistreated. In traditional
communities, children took care of their aged parents. Today
some children care for their parents.
Fortunately, churches have set up homes for the aged. An
example is “Nyumba za wazee”. A few old
people can look after themselves since they have pension
schemes, life insurance policies, income
generating projects, investments and bank deposits. They
can care for themselves.
Revision questions
a) What is the significance of the kingship system
b) Outline and explain factors contributing to harmony and
mutual responsibility in the traditional
African society
c) What was the purpose of the bride wealth in the
traditional African society?
d) Explain the role of medicine men in the African
communities and their relevance today.
STUDY ACTIVITIES
Read the Bible quotations given
Carry out role-plays e.g. the sacrifice of Isaac by Abraham
Consult the aged to assist in the understanding of African
traditional practices
Form one answers
Topic: one
1.What is the importance of reading the Bible?

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 spel.

other books.

2. In society, people in schools, crusades, churches,

lodgings, homes, and hospitals read the Bible.
3.In the government, the Bible is used for swearing in the
Courts, Parliament and Cabinet when
members of parliament are nominated to become ministers
of the government.
4.The major divisions of the Bible are the old and the new
testaments.
Read 1.3.4. Above for more information
2. What are the effects of Bible translation on African
languages?
The Effects of Bible translation into African languages
The translations increased and deepened people’s faith in
God. They also led to the establishment of
schools. The Gospel spread to local communities and many
of them became Christians. The missionaries
and colonialists learnt African Languages. This led to the
promotion of African languages. This helped the
African converts to judge when the missionaries were unfair
or when they practiced inequality of races.
8. Why is the Bible referred to as (a) a Library and (b) the
Word of God
(a) The Bible is referred to as a Library because its:
1. Books are arranged in a series and in order.
2. A reference book
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3. Is a book of literary works
4. Books were written under different situations and
circumstances
5. Books are many
1. Inspiration is a process through which God took the
initiative to prompt and enlighten the writers of
the Bible its Godly influence.
TOPIC TWO: CREATION AND THE FALL OF MAN
1. Find answers on the differences between the two creation
stories in lesson four
2. Traditional African view of creation is in lesson four.
Africans’ view was that:

all creation
continues to create through human beings
3. Human beings continue with the work of creation in
lesson four
4. The origin of sin and evil read again lesson five
5. Consequences of sin in lesson five
When Adam and Eve sinned

became spoilt

rience

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6. Consequences of evil are in lesson six
Africans understand evil as barrenness, war, drought,
epidemics, madness, sickness, death, burning in a
house and others
7. God’s plan of salvation is lesson seven. The lesson tells us
that GOD saved human kind by providing:

from others
rom Egypt

8. Compare the biblical concept of sin and the African

concept of evil.
Similarities:

sin is a result of disobedience, greed and

selfishness of humankind.

form of a curse.

s reconciliation and forgiveness between

God and man. Thus sin does not end a
relationship.
Differences

whereas in many Traditional African communities,

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the spirits of the dead causes evil.

while the African communities believe that

punishment is here on earth.

are descendants of Adam (1st parents’ sin). In

Traditional African Community, a child is born free of evil.

Traditional African Community, man does through

sacrifice to the ancestral spirits.
9. Subdue the earth in genesis 1 verse 28
TOPIC THREE: FAITH AND GOD’S PROMISES TO
ABRAHAM.
Qn 1. Explain why Abraham is referred to as the Father of
Faith
Faith is complete trust in somebody or something. This is
because he demonstrated faith in his life’s
actions.
and.

name.
– Isaac.

elationship with
God where he gave his best animals as a
sacrifice.
Qn 2. Give five (5) actions from the life of Abraham that
shows his faith in God

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go to an unknown land.
omises God gave him.

the other at Bethel.

– accepted to make a covenant with God where
he sacrificed the best of his animals.
– accepting the command to circumcise
himself and all male children in his household.
– willing to offer his only son Isaac as a
burnt offering to God.
Qn 3. List some of the promises God gave to Abraham.

who blessed him.

– like stars on the sky.

n land but God
would deliver them.

his descendants.

Qn 4. Compare and contrast Jewish and Traditional African

practice of circumcision
A. Similarities

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sign of membership to the community.

to be circumcised are treated as

outcasts in the community.

with God and ancestors.

a ceremony which being

kinsmen together.

next.

temple/under mugumo tree/ shrine etc.

Differences

as marriage, becoming a warrior, decision-

making and property ownership. In Jewish community, the
boys are too young to take up responsibility.

while in the Traditional African Community,

both boys and girls are.

African Community, they move from childhood

to adulthood.

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while in the Traditional African Community, it is
at puberty.

people, but in Traditional African

Community, one is bound to the ancestors.

of their covenant with him while Traditional

African Communities do it in obedience to the customs and
traditions of their duty.
h
community while in the Traditional African
Communities, it occurs after every four – six years.

to a group of age mates in the Traditional

African Communities.
as is the case in most
African communities.

choose future leaders, which is not the case

with the Jews.

communities unlike in the Jewish

communities.

Various forms are practiced in the Traditional

African communities. These include:

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 face/body)
Qn 5. What is the importance of faith to Christians?

Christians part of the great nation of God.

people of God.
Christians make correct choices in life e.g.
When choosing a career, marriage partners
etc.

their lives and are able to overcome them.

answer.

totally.

le to believe what they have not seen through

faith.

their faith in Christ.

Qn 6. State the elements of a covenant

– a certificate/sign.
– given by both partners.
– whose blood seals it or an oath taken.
– must be present

regulations
k it.
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Qn 7. Give examples of covenant in the bible and the
modern society
The Bible

destroy the earth with flood – rainbow is the

sign of the covenant (Gen 9).
mised to fulfil the
promises he made to Abraham. The sign
was circumcision (Gen 15 & 17).
–
sign was the Law – 10 commandments
(Exd 24).
– promise to
David’s kingdom would last forever (2
Sam:7).

(Jr 31: 31 – 34).

Modern Society
• Baptism
• Marriage
• Oath of allegiance/loyalty
• Ordination
• The National Anthem binds all
• The loyalty pledge
• Employment contract
Qn 9. Discuss the circumstances that led God to enter into a
covenant relationship with Abraham

nation, son, many descendants.

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 fulfillment of God’s promises to
Abraham.

would renew the relationship between

himself and man after the separation by the 1st parents.
TOPIC FOUR: SINAI COVENANT.
Qn a. What are the qualities of Moses as a leader?

palace where he grew up.

maid taught him the history of Israel.

-in-law’s herds made him gain

experience of shepherding people.

Egyptian gave him experience in desert life

through where he would lead the Israelites.

family leadership. Later he applied this to

his work.

community.
-maker: helped him solve problem facing his people
in the wilderness e.g. lack of food, water.

community of Israel i.e. the Ten Commandments.

-in-law serving the family
e.g. fetching water. Later he was able to
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serve the Jews.
Qn b (i) Describe the call of Moses: Exodus 3: 1 – 22
-in-law’s flock at
Mt Sinai.

drew nearer to get a better look.

bush and told him to remove his shoes

because he was standing on holy ground.
en the suffering of his people
in Egypt and heard their cry.

and release them from bondage.

point of reference when asked who sent

him.

use as proof of his work.

ted further saying he was a stammerer.

spokesman.

already dead.
Qn b (ii) Why was Moses hesitant to God’s call?

Egypt after having killed and Egyptian and ran

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away.

Qn c (i) what is the significance of the items used for the

Passover feast (similar to what is the meaning
of the Passover meal)?

whose blood saved their 1st born from the

angel of death.

unleavened bread is easy to bake.

in Egypt.
Other Meanings:

Israelites were to leave Egypt.

form of flies. Burning was the simplest

way of disposal & sacred.
Qn c (ii) Compare the Lord’s Supper to the Passover feast
Similarities:

Israelites from slavery while the Lord’s

Supper saved people from bondage of sin.
t – suffering.
– the Passover lamb in the
Lord’s Supper Jesus is the paschal lamb.

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 –
Moses and Jesus respectfully.
is remembered in both cases i.e. Old
testament and new covenant respectfully.

emphasized.
Differences:

the Lord’s Supper, Jesus was the last sacrifice

and instead bread and wine are offered to represent his
blood and body.

few, the Lord’s Supper is not compulsory in

all Christian churches.
ver is for the salvation
of the Jews only while the blood of Jesus
shed on the cross is for the salvation of the whole human
race.

offered in the Lord’s Supper.

Qn d. Describe how the Sinai covenant was made

power.

following in preparation for the making of

the covenant.

garments.

or crossing the border.

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Note: All these happened after Moses had gone up the
mountain and God had promised to make the
Israelites the following if they obeyed him.
i. His people
ii. A kingdom of priests
iii. A holy nation

to meet their God. God manifested himself

in the following forms: thunder, lightening, earthquake and
a thick cloud that filled the mountain and a
loud trumpet blast.

was to guide them as a covenant people.

ds the Lord had
spoken (Ex 24: 3 – 4)

Qn e. Describe the circumstances that led to the breaking of

the Sinai covenant

on which the Ten Commandments where

written. He delayed (40 days) thus forgetting God.

power of God that had delivered them from

Egypt.

uphold the covenant. He yielded to their

demands to make and worship idols.

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copied/continued with it.

Egypt unlike the Yahweh who was invisible.

Qn f. How was the broken covenant renewed?

where he would rewrite the commandments.

renewal of the covenant.

These were:
a) To obey God’s command.
b) Not to make treaties with other nations.
c) To tear down the altars of the gods of other nations and
temples.
d) Not to worship idols.
e) Not to make images to represent God.
f) Not to marry foreign wives.
g) To keep and celebrate the three festivals namely,
Passover, feast of weeks and the feast of in
gathering.
h) To keep the Sabbath day holy.
i) Dedicate to God 1st born male children and animals.

a) Protect and preserve them

b) Bless them
c) Make them prosper

Laws on the stone tablets.

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 s renewed.
Qn g. Describe how the Israelites worshipped God in the
wilderness

God.

wilderness in the following ways: -

1) The Ark and the Tabernacle: The Ark was a wooden box
where the Ten Commandments were kept.
They signified the presence of God. The tabernacle was a
portable tent for meeting between God and
the Israelites.
2) The Sabbath: They observed the Sabbath as a sacred day
for resting and worshipping God.
3) Festivals: Celebrated many festivals as one way of
worshipping God. E.g. Passover.
4) Altars – built them when there was need to worship God –
meeting place between God and the
people and sacrifice to God.
5) Observance of the Ten Commandments. These guided
them on how to live with God and man.
6) Religious leaders: God chose priest from the tribe of Levi
to organize worship.
Qn h. What is the relevance of the Ten Commandments to
Christian today?
ans learn that God is a jealous God. They avoid
holding other things in their lives strong in the
place of God.

represented by visible man-made objects or

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described in human terms.
o observe the Sabbath by worshipping
God.

respecting their parents.

ive upright and moral lives.

Qn i. What did the Israelites learn about God in the

wilderness?

– provided manna, water etc.

of cloud & fire, earthquakes etc.

– no worship of other gods.
– forgave those who broke the covenant and punished
those who refused to repent.
ate. Give them a 2nd chance after
breaking the covenant.
– helped them defeat Amalekites.
God valued a personal relationship – commandments given.
TOPIC FIVE: LEADERSHIP IN ISRAEL
Qn a. Explain the reasons against Kingship in Israel (1 Sam
8:10 – 20)

as soldiers in the army.

making the young men work in his farms

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and in making weapons. Daughters would work in his
house.

servants.

administration.

l would be like other nations who did not know

Yahweh.

Qn b. Explain the importance of David as King of Israel

publicly anointed by elders in a religion

ceremony. He too became ancestor of many communities.

promising God.

Ammonites etc.
d Israel through his military conquests and
marked the boundaries of the nation.

capital city.

Covenant there, which had been housed –

Abidjab’s.

prosperous.

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advise him.

blished the largest and most enduring dynasty that

lasted 400 years.

humbled himself before God.

f God and consulted them

before making decisions.

wanted all the Israelites to emulate.

Qn c. How did Jesus fulfil the prophecies of prophet Nathan
as a descendant of David? (i.e. Areas where
Jesus is mentioned as coming from David)

was engaged to Joseph, a descendant of

David. The Angel referred to Jesus as the King whose
wisdom would last forever (Lk 1:26-33).
– the birth place of David (Lk
2: 4 – 5)

Jesus.
, the crowds
who met him sang with joy and shouted
‘Hosanna to the son of David.’

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he referred to Jesus as a descendant of
David (Acts:2 29-35).
omised a
savior descended from the house of David
(Lk 1:69)

David (Lk 18:38).

Qn d. What was the failure of King Solomon?

King David. He failed to live according to

the covenant way of life in the following ways.

clearly stated that the Israelites should not

marry foreigners because they can come with their gods –
idols.
ed the wives to worship their gods (idols) thus
leading to spread of idolatry in Israel.

temple for their worship.

Israel, as King. They copied him.

i. He built his palace for 13 years but took only 7 years to

build God’s temple. Shows he loved himself
more the God.
ii. He used foreign designs and materials in the construction
of the temple, ignoring God’s specifications
on how to build it.

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iii. He liaised pagan craftsmen from Tyre to design, decorate
and furnish the temple.

brother, Adonijah. He suspected that Adonijah

would become his rival to the throne.

had a large army and servants.

nd women who went to work in

the palace as servants for the wives.

labour.
– sold 20 towns of Galilee to King of
Tyre as payment of a debt he could not pay
contrary to God’s command.

condition set during the renewal of the

Sinai covenant.

Qn e. Which leadership qualities can modern leaders learn

from David?
e: A good leader is one who does not favour some
people like David (I Sam 24: 1 – 12).

need to be brave and courageous in their

work (I Sam 17:41 – 54).
God before any
undertaking. Leaders should do the same.

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Leaders should be happy and grateful to God.

David was loyal to God and his people (2

Sam 2:7)

like David did e.g. he forgave Saul twice (2

Sam 19: 9 – 39).

forgiveness from God and people. David was humble

and asked for forgiveness any time he went wrong.

did (2 Sam 20: 23 – 26)

those they serve as David did to the

prophets and his people.
TOPIC SIX: LOYALTY TO GOD- ELIJAH.
Qn a. Qualities of Elijah that led to his achievements
• Elijah was fearless and courageous. His courage helped
him to face king Ahab and queen Jezebel and
condemn them for their wickedness such as corruption and
idolatry
• He was faithful to God. Yahweh guided him in his dealings
with Baal prophets and king Ahab.
• He lived a simple life. For example, he wore simple clothing
made of carmel’s skin.
• He stood for the covenant at a time when the religion of
Yahweh was in danger

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• He had the power of God in him and was able to control
rain.
• He confirmed that Yahweh had authority over land and
over the people.
b) Schism is sharp religious, social, political differences
within a group or organization
Syncretism is the process of mixing religious beliefs and
practices
c) Some characteristics of Elijah that a modern Christian
should strive to emulate
1) Courage
2) Faithfulness
3) Zealousness for God
4) Concern for the needy / poor
5) Provision of social justice
6) Patience
Qn d. What were the effects of idolatry in Israel?

Yahweh alongside the gods of Canaan.

h by the names used
for Canaanites gods e.g. El.

Canaanite gods like Baal.

correspond with their Canaanite celebrations

and feasts.
rted the high places used for worshipping Baal
to Yahweh’s shrines without removing the
graven images of idols.

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destroyed. They no longer treated one
another as brothers.
behaved like the Canaanites leaders by
oppressing the weak and grabbing other
people’s property.

killed.

they angered Him by worshipping other gods.

of other god a part from Yahweh.

Canaanites rituals and sacrifices.

Qn e. Describe Elijah’s fight against false religion in Israel

Baalism had become the official religion.

the people had turned away from Yahweh.

go to King Ahab and tell him that the

drought was as a result of idolatry in Israel.

Mt Carmel to hold a contest.

and Baal’s 450, saw that they could prove

who the true God is.

too sacrifice their own to call on their Gods

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to send fire. The one who could send is the true God.

he never sent fire.

god but he never sent it.

epresenting
the 12 tribes of Israel.

cut bull on top of the wood.

until it flooded.
God
of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob to send fire.

water in the trenches.

Yahweh was the true God.

e prophets of Baal
and the prophetesses of Asherah.

rain. Yahweh sent His servant to watch for the

sign of rain from the sea.

which he saw a small cloud forming.

Qn f. Describe Elijah’s fight against corruption – 1 Kings 21

power for personal gain.

take advantage of the weak/poor by

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exploiting them and denying them their rights.

man named Naboth.

ell him the vineyard or
exchange with another one.

ancestral land was against the covenant law. The

land belonged to God.

she arranged Naboth’s murder through false

accusations.

on Ahab for committing such an evil act in

Israel.

i. Dogs would lick Ahab’s blood at the same place where

they had licked Naboth’s.
ii. Ahab’s dynasty would fall kike those of the Kings before
him who had disobeyed God.
iii. All family members of Ahab would face violent deaths.
led himself before God and
repented. God postponed Ahab’s punishment
to the days of his son.
Qn g. What can Christian learn from the teachings of Elijah?

controls the forces of nature – can bring rain or

stop it.
– Mt Carmel.

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 – pardoned those who repented on Mt
Carmel.

God – killed the 450 prophets worshipping

Baal.
r – protected Elijah.
– provided Elijah with food.

like Elijah did in the case of Ahab and

Naboth.

exploitation.

overcome difficulties like Elijah.

osting their
lives to Naboth.

accountable to Him.

Elijah did – facing Ahab, killing the 450 false

prophets etc.

them back to God.

TOPIC SEVEN: SELECTED ASPECTS OF AFRICAN
RELIGIOUS HERITAGE
Question a: Explain African beliefs about God (or qualities)

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 d are found in their proverbs,
myths, songs, prayers, narratives and
religious ceremonies.

human understanding.
-
powerful – omnipotent.
ved that God’s power is expressed in natural
occurrences such as thunder, earthquake
floods and volcanic eruptions.
-knowing omniscient.

– meaning he is everywhere at all

times.
– beyond human understanding. Because of
the transcendent nature, Africans found it
impossible to represent him using physical representations.
They viewed him as being far yet too near
them.
the provider and sustainer of creation.

or end.

awesome power of God. This is why large

mountains, thick forest, unique rock formation were used as
shrines.

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Qb. Describe the African understanding of the Hierarchy of
Beings
Hierarchy of Beings
Divinities

Ancestors

Human Beings

Animals and Plants

Non-living Things

hierarchy of being – creator.

forces in the
universe, created by God.

long time ago.

and are still remembered by the living.

d the unborn.
– for man’s use as food
and sacrifice to God.
-living things: Such as mountains, rocks,
rivers, caves, dwelling places of God and
Spirits.
Qc. Describe the Role of the ancestors to the living

human beings.

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beings to God.

wishes concerning human beings.

community.

through punishment.
Qd. What was the responsibility of the living towards God?

acknowledgement that He is the giver of life.

their needs.

ust Him.

Qe. Describe the Traditional African ways of worshipping

God

thanksgiving, to avert evil and ask for forgiveness,

before planting and after harvest, epidemics, birth, naming,
invitation, weddings, funerals etc for
different reasons.

offered in recognition of God as owner of

property and provider.

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continuation activity done anytime as the
need arises.

spiritually. This brought the city together.

in greetings and
farewells e.g. “Go with God”, God be with you”.
Qf. What were the African ways of venerating and
communicating with the spirits and ancestors?

they were
believed to be senior to human beings and
closer to God.

them.

invitation, marriage and burial.

keep in contact.
– thus they became immortal
and members in the physical world again.

Giving them proper burial ceremonies.

TOPIC EIGHT: AFRICAN MORAL AND CULTURAL VALUES.
Qa. What is the significance of the kinship system?

African society because of the following factors.

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each other. This promoted peaceful and
harmonious relationships.
-operation among community members
especially in times of difficulty.
ped to ensure that the disadvantaged members of the
community were taken care of.

kinship system. This showed concern or

the families or relatives they left behind.
he preservation of cultural
identity.

elders acting as arbitrators.

inheritance.

clan by giving them a sense of belonging.

through marriage.

regulations. People who were related in any way

could not be allowed to marry.
Qb. Outline and explain factors contributing to harmony
and mutual responsibility in the Traditional
African Society

expected to do the right thing according to the

norms of the community.

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community were expected to participate in
communal activities e.g. wrestling, dances and communal
work.

created harmony among the people.

n of labour: Tasks were distributed according to
one’s age; gender to avoid conflicts in roles.

youth, and women had their respective roles

to play that enhanced harmony in the community.
Virtues like generosity, obedience, kindness and
honesty were encouraged since they
contributed towards harmonious living.

the spirits and ancestors created a sense of

togetherness.
Qc. What was the purpose of bride wealth in the Traditional
African Society?

care of her.

because the woman would now belong to

another family.
was a sign of contract that the man would marry the girl
and they would live together until death.

of a wife and a family.

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 long-lasting friendship between the families of
the groom and the bride.

bride and the groom.

contract.
Qd. Explain the role of medicine-men in the African
Communities and their relevant today
1) Medicine men

traditional doctors.

prevention
measures for the illness.

ancestors.

and evil spirits.

animals.

life.
2) Relevance of Modern Society

esearchers today work side

by side with traditional healers since herbs
are used to make modern medicine.

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cannot be treated in hospitals hence; they
turn to herbalists.
ieve that medicine people who practice
magic have the power to change their
fate.
FORM TWO
GOD MEETS US IN JESUS CHRIST
ST. LUKE’S GOSPEL
INTRODUCTION
Matthew, Mark, Luke and John record the life of Jesus
Christ and his ministry in the four Gospel books.
We shall trace the life, and ministry of Jesus Christ as
written by St Luke to Theophilus. St Luke was a
medical doctor.
TOPIC ONE: OLD TESTAMENT PROPHESIES ABOUT THE
MESSIAH
Introduction: Read 2 Samuel 7:13, Isaiah 7:10-16
Messiah
Meaning: The word Messiah is from a Hebrew word
meshiach, which means the anointed: thus a
Messiah is one called, anointed and appointed by God to
serve Him.
Prophecy:
A prophecy refers to a prediction of what will happen in
future.
Messianic Prophecies: These are those predictions that were
made by the prophets to describe the
coming of a righteous King who will rule Israel according to
God’s will.
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with prophet Nathan’s prophecy to King
David.
NOTE:
The Roman ruled the Israelites before the birth of Jesus.
They hated the Roman leadership and longed
for somebody of their own to lead them into victory over the
Roman rule.
The prophet of Israel (the Old Testament) communicated a
message that God would send a messiah to
bring all people into a lasting relationship with Him. The
prophets who were sent had different ideas
about the Messiah. Their ideas about the Messiah were
different from the Jewish expectations –
whereby they hoped for political King to lead them into
victory over the Roman rule. But the prophets
were talking about a religious one – to free them from sin.
Topic Outcomes. By the end of this topic, you should be able
to:
a) Explain the Old Testament prophecies about the coming
of the Messiah.
b) Relate the concept of the Messiah in the Old and New
testaments.
c) Explain the link between the Old and the New Testament
d) Discuss the role of John the Baptist.
LESSON ONE. OLD TESTAMENT PROPHESIES ABOUT THE
COMING OF THE MESSIAH.
Learning Outcomes. By the end of this lesson, you should be
able to describe prophesies of Nathan,

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Isaiah, Jeremiah, Psalmist prophecy (David) and Micah
concerning the Messiah
(i) NATHAN’S PROPHECY (2 Samuel 7:3 – 17) and (Psalms
89: 20 – 38).
David proposed to build God a house. Nathan, the prophet
was given a message (an oracle) for David. In
this prophecy, God told Nathan to tell King David that:

forever.

avid’s heir shall build a house for God’s name. God would
establish the throne of his Kingdom
forever.

David died. But God’s mercy shall not depart from the heir
of David. Hence the promise that the
Kingdom of David, shall last forever referred to the messiah
who was to come. David is an ancestor of
Christ.
(ii) ISAIAH’S PROPHECY – Isaiah 7: 10 – 16; 9: 1- 7; 61:1 –2;
and 63.
In these readings, Isaiah prophesied that the Messiah would
be:

with us”

Father, and the Prince of Peace.

God inside him
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to the captives, proclaim the year of favour
from God.

suffering servant (Isaiah 53)

CHARACTERISTICS OF THE SUFFERING SERVANT –
ISAIAH 53

as a criminal.

the sinners

iii. JEREMIAH’S PROPHECY- JEREMIAH 23: 5 – 6.

God promised to rise up a (branch) who shall:

– “The Lord our

salvation’
What does the term a ‘righteous branch ‘means?
iv. MICAH’S PROPHESY, (MICAH 5: 1 – 5).
Micah prophesied that:

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v. THE PSALMIST PROPHECY (Psalm 41:9 and 110:1 –2).
David spoke of

Summary
Nathan, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Psalmist prophecy (David) and
Micah prophesied of a Messiah to come. The
Jews expected a Messiah who would be a political leader, a
victorious ruler and a King. They expected a
Messiah:

power and prosperity;

n, there shall be no illness, no sorrow, no
injustice,

Revision questions
1) Describe the prophecy of Jeremiah concerning the
Messiah
2) What does the term Messiah mean?
3) Highlight the Jewish expectations of the Messiah in the
Old Testament?
4) Did Jesus Christ fulfill the O.T. prophecies concerning the
Messiah? How?
5) Which prophets in the Old Testament prophesied about
the expected Messiah?
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LESSON TWO. THE CONCEPT OF THE MESSIAH IN THE
NEW TESTAMENT
Learning Outcomes. By the end of this lesson, you should be
able to explain the concept of the Messiah
in the New Testament
The concept of messiah is found in Luke 1:26 – 38; 2:1-23;
23:1 – 35; 24:50 – 51. The writer of Luke’s
Gospel makes it clear that Jesus fulfilled the Old Testament
prophecies concerning the coming of the
Messiah. How did He do this? Well Jesus fulfilled the Old
Testament prophecies because;

(Luke 1:32) Nathan’s prophecy

s called Emmanuel, Isaiah’s prophecy. Mathew

1:18 – 25
– Micah’s prophecy
– Nathan, and
Jeremiah prophesies. Jesus was referred to as a
‘Son of David’ (Luke 18:38)
alvation said by Simeon during
dedication of Jesus. Luke 2:29 – 32. This was a
fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy.

scroll. Isaiah 61:1 – 2. and Luke 4: 18 – 19

uld perform
miracles. Jesus performed many miracles.

fulfilled through the passion, death and

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crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
– friend,
fulfilling the Psalmist prophecy.
Note that the Jews in the New Testament expected a
messiah who would deliver them from the rule of
the Romans. Jews expected Jesus to be a political leader or
king. However, Peter called him ‘the Christ of
God’ (Luke 9:20). Matthew called him King of the Jews in
chapter (2 verse 2). Hence, Jesus came as a
Spiritual Leader and King, and not as a political Leader /
King.
Self-Assessment Questions
1. What does the name Emmanuel mean?
2. Explain the concept of the Messiah in the New
Testament?
LESSON THREE. ANNUNCIATION OF THE BIRTH OF JOHN
THE BAPTIST
Introduction
The parents of John the Baptist were Zechariah and his wife
Elizabeth. Zechariah’s name meant ‘God has
remembered’. Elizabeth’s name meant ‘God has sworn’.
Learning outcome. By the end of this lesson, you should be
able to describe the annunciation of the
birth of John the Baptist and Jesus.
John the Baptist
1. The Annunciation – Read – Luke 1:5 – 25.
Zechariah was a priest. He and his wife Elizabeth were old,
good and righteous people of God. But they
did not have a child. They were barren. But God gave them a
child, John the Baptist. His birth was
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announced to his father, Zechariah, when he was in the
temple offering incense. An Angel appeared to
Zechariah and told him that his prayers had been heard. His
wife Elizabeth will bear a son. The angel said
the child would be called John, which means that ‘God is
gracious’. The child

As an adult, John

wine.

Zachariah expressed unbelief to these words. Angel Gabriel

told him that he shall be dumb until the
fulfillment of the God’s words.
The Birth, Circumcision and Naming Of John the Baptist
Elizabeth brought forth a son. This brought great joy to her
and Zachariah. The cousins, and neighbours
of Elizabeth wanted the Child to be named Zechariah after
the father. But Elizabeth insisted on the
name John. When Zechariah was asked to name the child,
he wrote down the name John. On the 8th
day, the child was named John as the angel had said. John
was circumcised on the 8th day according to
the Jewish traditions.
After naming his Child John, the mouth of Zechariah
opened immediately and he started to speak. He
sung a song – referred to as Benedictus in Luke 1:67 – 79.
As he sung the Benedictus, Zechariah
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prophesied that God has:

Zechariah said this about his Child John:

(i) Calling men to forgiveness

(ii) Showing men the light of salvation
(iii) Guiding people into peace.
LESSON FOUR. THE ROLE OF JOHN THE BAPTIST
The role of John the Baptist is found in Isaiah 40: 3 – 5,
Malachi 3:1, 4:5 – 6, and
Luke 7: 20 – 35.
Learning Outcomes. By the end of this lesson, you should be
able to describe the role of John the Baptist
in the Gospel.
John the Baptist had an important role to play according to
the Angel who announced his coming birth.
His role was to: .

nce the coming of God’s reign that was near.

– Jesus
Christ.

before the coming of the Messiah. John the

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Baptist was likened to Elijah.
Topic review questions
1. Outline the qualities of John as described by angel
Gabriel to Zechariah
2. Why was John referred to as the second Elijah?
3. What lessons do Christians learn from annunciation of
the birth of John the Baptist?
4.describe the birth of John the Baptist
TOPIC TWO: THE INFANCY AND EARLY LIFE OF JESUS –
LUKE 1:26 – 38
Learning Outcomes. By the end of this lesson, you should:
a. Explain events leading to the birth of Jesus
b. Describe the meeting between Mary and Elizabeth
c. Describe the birth of Jesus
d. Explain the dedication of JESUS
e. Describe Jesus at the Temple
a. Angel Gabriel announces the birth of Jesus. Angel Gabriel
said that Mary would conceive and bear a
child. Angel Gabriel called Mary ‘ the highly favoured one’.
Mary was an ordinary virgin girl in Galilee
engaged to marry Joseph, a descendant of David. The Angel
said that Mary will bear (i) A Son (ii) called
Jesus (which means God serves. (iii) The child shall be great
(iv) He shall be called the son of the highest.
(v) He shall be given the throne of his father David (vi) He
shall reign forever (vii) His kingdom will never
end.
Read again and explain what angel Gabriel said concerning
the child to be born to Mary?
b. Mary visits Elizabeth. Luke 1:39-56
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Angel Gabriel had told Mary that her cousin Elizabeth was
also going to have a child. Mary went to visit
her. The child in Elizabeth’s womb leaped when Mary
greeted Elizabeth. The Holy Spirit revealed to
Elizabeth that Mary is the mother of her Lord, the Messiah.
Mary answered Elizabeth by singing the
hymn “The Protector” in Psalm 121:3, The Love of God.
Psalm 103:17, 98:3.
The Magnificent. In this hymn Mary says:
Her soul magnifies the Lord.
The Lord has regarded the poor and those of low estate.
God’s mercy is on them that fear him from generation to
generation.
God humbles the proud and mighty, and exalts those of low
estate (the lowly)
God has filled the hungry and sent the rich away empty
Through the magnificent, Mary, expresses her joy, gratitude
and favour given to her and the world.
c. The birth of Jesus Christ. Luke.2: 1 – 20
The birth of Jesus took place in Bethlehem, in Judea,
during the reign of Augustus Caesar, a Roman
Emperor. During that time, Rome was conducting a census
of the people / citizens for the purpose of
collecting taxes. The census was ordered by the emperor to
determine payment of taxes. The method
that Rome was using was counting. Joseph, of the house of
David went to his hometown, called
Bethlehem; for the census. Jesus was born during this time.
He was wrapped in swaddling clothes and

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laid in a manger because there was no accommodation in
Bethlehem.
The first people to receive the news that a Savior was born
were the shepherds. An angel announced
the birth of the Savior, Christ the lord, to the shepherds.
The shepherds went to Bethlehem and saw the
child Jesus. They spread the word concerning what had
been told them about the child.
How was the annunciation of the birth of Jesus
extraordinary?
d. The dedication of JESUS – LUKE.2: 22 – 38
Like John the Baptist, Jesus was circumcised, and named
on the 8th day. He was named Jesus which
means ‘the savior’ or Yahweh or save’s. Mary and Joseph
observed the Jewish customs according to the
Law of Moses. For her purification and dedication of the
child Jesus, Mary brought a pair of turtledoves
as an offering. The fist born males were dedicated to God as
Holy. Simeon took the child up in his arms
for dedication and said that:
“The child is set for the fall and rising of many in Israel. A
Sword will pierce Mary’s soul on account of the
child.” Prophet Anna also came to the temple and
prophesied that the child shall bring deliverance.
e. Jesus at the Temple Luke 2:42 – 52
The parents of Jesus Mary and Joseph, went to Jerusalem
every year for the feast of the Passover. When
Jesus was 12, he accompanied them to Jerusalem. After the
feast the parents went home without

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realizing that their child, Jesus was not with them. But
while on the way, they realized he was not
amongst them.
They returned to Jerusalem, and looked for him for 3 days.
They found him sitting in the temple;
listening and asking teachers questions. All those who were
in the temple were astonished by his
wisdom and intelligence. It is in the temple that Jesus is
revealed, first as a true son of his people and
also as light and salvation for all people. On being
questioned by Mary and Joseph, Jesus answered thus:
”Didn’t you know I had to be in my Father’s house, about
my Father’s business?” This was an echo of
Malachi 3:1 “the Lord whom you seek will suddenly come to
his temple”.
Answer these questions
1 Trace occasions when angels appeared to people in the
new testament
2 How did Jesus follow the customs and traditions of the
Jewish people?
Answers
1. Occasions when angels appeared to people in the New
Testament
(a) Angel appeared to Zechariah to announce birth of John
the Baptist
(b) Angel appeared to Mary to announce the birth of Jesus
Christ
(c) Angels appeared to the shepherds on the night Jesus was
born

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(d) Angel appeared to Joseph in a dream warning him to flee
to Egypt with the child and Mary
2. How Jesus followed the customs and traditions of the
Jewish people
(i) He was named on the 8th day
(ii) He was circumcised on the 8th day
(iii) His parents took him to the temple for the annual
cerebrations of the. Passover
(iv) He went to the synagogue
(v) In his dedication as a first male, his parents offered the
sacrifices expected from them.
Topic Review Questions
1. Explain events leading to the birth of Jesus
b. Describe the meeting between Mary and Elizabeth
c. Describe the birth of Jesus
d. Explain the dedication of JESUS
e. Describe Jesus at the Temple
TOPIC THREE. THE GALILEAN MINISTRY – LUKE 3-8
John the Baptist and Jesus Christ
Learning Outcomes. By the end of this topic, you should:
a) Explain the teachings of John the Baptist
b) Describe the baptism and temptation of Jesus and its
relevance to Christians today.
c) Give reasons as to why Jesus was rejected at Nazareth
d) Describe the first miracles of Jesus at Capernaum
LESSON ONE. THE PREACHING OF JOHN THE BAPTIST
(Luke3: 1 – 20)
John the Baptist preached about
a. Baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. Baptism
means to dip in water’. Repentance means
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‘change of heart/mind, turning around. Baptism was a
symbol of repentance, which means a total
change heart/mind, a confession of sins). Baptism of water
was a preparation of the baptism of fire and
Holy Spirit by Jesus.
b. He warned people of God’s coming Judgment. The
religious leaders stressed outward observance of
the law rather than inner righteousness. John the Baptist
told them to bear fruits worthy of repentance.
He told them to live righteous lives and not as hypocrites
(brood of vipers). Religious leaders also
assumed that since they were descendants of Abraham, God
would not punish them. He warned them
that God could raise descendants of Abraham from stones.
c) He announced the coming of the Messiah as Judge. John
the Baptist became famous that some
thought he is the promised messiah. He however pointed to
a messiah who will not baptize with water
but with the Holy Ghost and fire (Jesus Christ).
d) He preached on social justice. He taught, emphasized,
advised:

have

collectors not to collect more than what was

required.
ldiers should not to abuse their power by accusing
others falsely, robbing. They were told to
be content with their wages.

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e). He condemned King Herod’s immoral behaviour. King
Herod had married Herodians – his own
brother’s wife. Herod imprisoned John the Baptist and this
led to his death (Luke 3 v.22)
What does the term social justice mean?
Find the answer in (d).
Summary of the teachings of John the Baptist

nt.

judge.

share with the poor.

authority.

taxation.

Relevance of the teachings of John the Baptist to Christians

today
The teachings challenge Christians to be fair, honest, and
just in their dealings with other people.
Christians should avoid being hypocritical to one another.
Christians need to know that God will judge
them for their wrongdoing. Hence Christian should repent
their sins sincerely and seek forgiveness.
Christians should warn non-believers of the coming
judgment. They should preach against evils without

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fear; and avoid corruption, and sexual immorality.
Christians should live together in harmony. Baptism
was important to Christians.
Group Activity. Read Luke and find out how John the
Baptist was killed, why and by whom
LESSON TWO. THE BAPTISM OF JESUS AND ITS
RELEVANCE TODAY
Learning Outcomes. By the end of this lesson, you should be
able to:
a. Describe the baptism of Jesus Christ
b. Give reasons why Jesus was baptized
c. State relevance or the importance of the baptism of Jesus
to Christians
a. The baptism of Jesus Christ (Luke 3: 21 – 22)
When Jesus was around 30 years of age, He went to be
baptized by John the Baptist. Jesus was the last
to be baptized. Although he did not need to repent as He did
not sin ; He nevertheless was baptized
even though He was without sin.
When he was baptized, the heaven opened and the Holy
Ghost descended on Him in the form of a dove.
At the same time, a voice from heaven said, “This is my
beloved son, in whom I am well pleased”.
b. Reasons why Jesus was baptized. He was baptized
because:
a. Jesus wanted to show his approval of John’s Ministry of
baptism
b. Jesus accepted the work of redemption of human kind to
be completed through suffering and death

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c. Jesus identified himself with the sinful humankind who
needed redemption through baptism
d. Jesus carried all the sins of humankind (baptized last)
e. He wanted to carry sins of people/humankind upon
himself in order to bring about reconciliation
between people and God.
f. God can confirm to the people that Jesus Christ was the
messiah (Ps 2:7)
g. It was an act of preparing those who were ready to receive
the Messiah.
h. Baptism was a way of fulfilling the Old Testament
prophecy.
c. Relevance or the Importance of the baptism of Jesus to
Christians
1) Christians practice baptism. They follow example of Jesus
baptism. There are many forms of baptism
such as full immersion in water, sprinkling of water on the
forehead, partial immersion (head only) and
passing under a flag.
2) Christians teach importance of baptism. It qualifies a new
convert to become a member of Christian
fellowship.
3) Through baptism, Christians receive the power of the Holy
Ghost.
4) Through baptism, Christians identify themselves with
Jesus Christ and all that he stands for.
5) Baptism unites Christians in the body of Christ.
6) Baptism is a symbol of death and resurrection. In some
denominations, the baptized are given new
names of other Christians and Jews.
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7) Baptism signifies the forgiveness of sins
Through baptism one is considered a child of God.
9) Baptism is a form of preparation for the kingdom of God.
10) Baptism is a sign of Christ’s forgiveness of sins.
Lesson Revision questions
a. What is the relevance of john the Baptist teaching to
Christians today?
b. Give reasons why Jesus accepted to be baptized
c. Describe the baptism of Jesus
d. What is the significance of the baptism of Jesus to
Christians today
LESSON THREE. TEMPTATIONS OF JESUS: RELEVANCE
TO CHRISTIANS TODAY
Learning Outcomes. By the end of the lesson, you should
a. Narrate temptations of Jesus
b. State relevance of the temptations of Jesus to modern
Christians
c. State lessons that Christians can learn from temptations
of Jesus
a. The temptations of Jesus (Luke 4:1 – 13). Jesus, full of
the Holy Spirit returned from Jordan into the
desert. Like Elijah, Moses, He ate and drunk nothing for 40
days and nights. He was hungry after 40 days.
It is at this time of weakness when the devil tempted Him.
First temptation. The devil told Jesus to proof that He was
the Son of God by turning the stones to
become bread. Jesus however replied that it is written man
does not live on bread alone to sustain him
but on everything that the Lord says (Deut 8:3). Satan was
telling Jesus to use his Messianic power and
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Spirit to obtain material security for himself and his
followers for selfish, materialistic purposes.
What can we learn from this temptation? Jesus was not
seeking to establish a material paradise on
earth.
Second temptation. The devil led Jesus up to a high place
(High Mountain) and showed Him in an instant
all the Kingdoms of the world. He told Him that he would
give Him all their authority and splendor, if He
bows and worships Satan. Jesus replied… it is written
worship the Lord your God and serve him only. Do
not worship other gods (Deut.6: 13-14). Satan wanted Jesus
to use Godly power and influence. This was
idolatry i.e. worshipping other gods.
What can we learn from this temptation? Jesus did not
come to seek a worldwide political military reign
as many Jews expected Him to do.
Third Temptation. The Devil led Jesus to Jerusalem and had
Him stand on the highest point of the
temple. He told Jesus to throw Himself down if He was the
Son of God for it is written that the Lord will
command angels to guard him (Psalm 91:11 – 12). Jesus
replied and said it is written, do not put the
Lord your God to the test. Satan wanted Jesus to presume
on God’s good care by jumping from the roof
of the temple.
What can we learn from this temptation? Jesus will not force
belief in His Messiah ship through a
spectacular sign.

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Notice that the temptations came after Jesus’ Baptism,
where he had solemnly accepted the opening of
his public ministry and God confirmed it. Therefore the
temptations were a testing of his loyalty to God’s
chosen way of life.
b. Relevance of Jesus temptations to Christians
Jesus, though without sin was tempted. His followers must
expect to be tested in their faith. Christians
learn that it is not sinful to be tempted. Since Jesus was
tempted, he understands Christian’s difficulties
when they are tempted. Jesus is always ready to help
Christians to cope with temptations.
Why do you think Christians are tempted?
Through temptations and trials, Christian’s faith in God is
strengthened. Christians learn to refer to the
Bible for guidance when tempted. Jesus said that it is
written… in reference to scripture. Christians
should seek the Holy Spirit to give them strength to fight
any form of trials and temptations.
Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit went to the wilderness and was
tempted by the devil……………” In
temptation, God does provide a way out. Thus followers of
Jesus Christ (Christians) should not be
seekers of spectacular signs.
LESSON FOUR. REJECTION OF JESUS AT NAZARETH
Learning Outcomes. By the end of the lesson, you should
a. Describe rejection of Jesus at Nazareth
b. Suggest possible reasons for rejection
a. Rejection of Jesus at Nazareth (Luke 4:14 – 30).

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After the temptation, Jesus went to Galilee, His home
district to begin his ministry. As a faithful Israelite,
Jesus attended service in the synagogue every Sabbath day.
During that time, it was customary for
visiting Rabbis (Teachers of the law) to be given the honor of
reading from the law or to address the
congregation. When Jesus was given this opportunity, He
opened the scroll and read from Isaiah 61: 1 –
3 …’The Sovereign Lord has filled me with his spirit. He has
chosen me and sent me.’ Luke writes in 4 v
18 “ The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has
chosen me to bring good news to the poor”. On
completion of the reading, Jesus told them that today this
scripture has been fulfilled in their hearing.
From this reading Jesus referred to himself as the Messiah.
The people of Nazareth in indignation
wanted to kill Jesus by throwing him over a cliff.
b. Possible Reasons for Rejection. Jews of Nazareth rejected
Jesus because one, they knew him as the
son of Mary and Joseph. They did not know Him as the Son
of God. Two, Jesus did not fit into the idea of
a political King that the Jews were expecting. They were
waiting for a King with an army and horses.
Three, Jesus preaching was seen as being against that of
Pharisees, Scribes and Sadducees: the religious
leaders at that time. Four, Jesus pointed out evils of
religious leaders. Five, a leader is never accepted at
home especially in a superior or senior position. Six, Jesus
did not follow the general rules of the Mosaic

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Law. These were fasting, healing and working on the
Sabbath day. Worse still Jesus associated Himself
with Jewish outcasts such as sinners, and the sick.
Discussion question
1. What are the possible reasons for rejection of Jesus at
Nazareth?
Answers
(i) He was known by people as son of Mary and Joseph
(ii) He did not fit in the idea of a political king that Jews were
expecting
(iii) Often times one is not accepted at home and at a senior
position
(iv) He did not follow the general rules of the law of Moses
(v) He associated with sinners, and outcasts
LESSON FIVE. HEALING AT CAPERNAUM
Learning Outcomes. By the end of this lesson:
a. Describe Jesus’ healing at Capernaum
b. Explain healing of a man possessed with an evil spirit
c. Describe Jesus healing of Simon’s mother – in law
a. Jesus’ healing at Capernaum LK. 4:31 – 44
After his rejection in Nazareth and an attempt to throw him
down a hill, Jesus went on to Capernaum.
Here he cast out demons (Luke 4: 40 – 41). He was teaching
people. He performed many miracles of
healing. For example:
i. Healing a man possessed by an evil spirit. A man was
possessed by an unclean demon/spirit. He was in
the synagogue. When he saw Jesus, the evil spirit shouted,
“Ah! What do you want with us, Jesus of

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Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you
are, the Holy one of God” (Luke 4:34). Jesus
replied, “Be silent and come out of him.” The Demon threw
the man down and came out without doing
any harm. The man was made whole.
ii. Jesus heals Simon’s mother – in law. After Jesus left the
synagogue, he went to the house of Simon
Peter’s mother in law. She had a fever, Jesus commanded
the fever to leave and she was made whole
immediately.
Which lessons do Christians learn from the healings at
Capernaum
There are many lessons. These are that
1) Jesus is the son of God
2) Jesus came to establish the Kingdom of God and destroy
the kingdom of Satan.
3) Jesus has power over evil spirits / demons.
4) Jesus came to save human beings from the slavery of sin
5) God cares for his people.
LESSON SIX. THE CALLING OF THE FIRST DISCIPLES
Luke 5: 1 – 11
Introduction: A disciple is a learner, a student or a follower.
Learners followed a master so as to learn
about religious matters. Disciples were followers of Christ.
Learning Outcomes. By the end of the lesson, you should be
able to describe the call of the first
disciples.
Rabbis. These were teachers of law. They had special
schools where they taught law. In these schools,

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learning was by memorization and repetition what students
heard from the rabbis.
The disciples of Jesus did not memorize. They learnt by
observation. They were witnesses – and they
spoke what they heard and described or explained what they
saw.
Call of the first disciples
Jesus entered into Simon’s ship and started to teach people
who were there. Later, He told Simon to
“push off a little from the shore”. Jesus sat in the boat and
taught the crowd. After speaking, he told
Simon, and his partners James and John; “Push the boat
out further to the deep water…and let down
your nets for a catch of fish”. Simon told Jesus that they
had toiled all night, and caught nothing. But if
you say so, I will let down the nets. Simon obeyed. They let
down the nets and caught a multitude of
fish. They called for assistance from other fishermen. When
Simon Peter saw this, he told Jesus “Go
away from me, Lord! I am a sinful man!” Jesus said to
Simon “Don’t be afraid, from now on you will be
catching people”. On getting to the shore, Peter and his
friends James and John sons of Zebedee forsook
all and followed Jesus
Thus the first disciples of Jesus were Simon Peter; James
and John.
Lessons from the call of the first disciples
1) God can choose anybody to serve him regardless of his or
her social status.

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2) God still calls people to serve him in various capacities as
evangelists, pastors and others.
3) Those called should repent their sins as Peter did
4) Christians should trust in God – Simon Peter trusted
Jesus and cast his nets even though they had
caught no fish from the same spot.
5) God can intervene in people’s lives through miracles
(miraculous catch of fish)
6) Christians should work together as a team. Fishermen
worked together.
7) There is hope for those who follow Jesus. He told them
‘follow me and I will make you fishers of men’
God reveals himself to people in everyday activities as Jesus
revealed himself to Simon Peter, and his
friends James and John through fishing.
9) Christian’s vocation may require renunciation of family
ties and occupations or a change of life.
10) Those called to serve God are expected to be humble
LESSON SEVEN. OPPOSITION IN GALILEE
Learning Outcomes. By the end of the lesson, you should
a. Describe the Pharisees? Scribes? Sadducees.
b. Identify the differences between the Pharisees and the
Sadducees.
c. Explain why Jesus faced opposition from Pharisees,
Sadducees, and Scribes
Jesus ministry consisted of teaching, healing and doing
many miracles. Because of this work, Jesus faced
opposition from the Pharisees, Sadducees and Scribes.
These were Jewish religious leaders.
a. Opposition by Pharisees and Sadducees. Luke 5:12- 6:11
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Why did Jewish religious leaders; the Pharisees? Scribes?
Sadducees oppose Jesus? There were many
reasons for Jewish opposition to Jesus. These were:
1) Jesus was becoming more famous than the religious
leaders
2) His claim to forgive sins. This was reserved only for God.
3) His association with tax collectors / publicans and
sinners. For example, Jesus ate with Levi.
4) His failure to observe the law of fasting. Jesus disciples
did not fast like the disciples of the Pharisees
and John the Baptist.
5) Doing what religious leaders regarded as unlawful things
on the Sabbath day. For example,
a. Eating on Sabbath with unwashed hands (disciples),
b. Plucking corn on the Sabbath day
c. Working. Jesus healed on the Sabbath day. This was
considered as work, which was unlawful. Jesus
healed a man with a paralyzed hand on the Sabbath day.
d. Touching the unclean. Jesus reached out his hand and
touched a leper and healed him. Religious
leaders were not allowed to touch the unclean lepers.
e. Associating with tax collectors who were regarded as
sinners because they were corrupt. They
collected more tax than the required amount. Jesus was
supposed not to associate with them or support
them in any way.
Who were the Pharisees? These were

honour them.
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 ody to recognize them.

God.

ones.

Characteristics of Pharisees
a. They believed in the Law of Moses and accepted the first
five books of the Bible as God inspired. They
insisted on strict observance of the law.
b. They upheld and insisted on the observance of the oral
traditions of the elders.
c. They followed strictly 632 distinct rules and regulations
broken down from the ten commandments
d. They believed in the teachings of the prophets and other
writings of the Old Testament.
e. They passed religious traditions of the Jews from
generation to generation and regarded this as a duty
or obligation.
f. They believed in the existence of angels and regarded them
as intermediaries between God and
human beings.
g. They believed in the existence of demons and Satan
h. They believed in and waited for the Messiah of God to
come
i. The believed in the resurrection of the dead
j. The believed in the judgment of God at the end of time for
all human kind
k. They were strong nationalists and political leaders who
resisted all foreign influences and power.
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Who were the Scribes?
The word Scribe means ‘a writer. The work of a scribe was to
rewrite by hand – new manuscripts of the
Jewish scriptures. The copied the word exactly as it was.
The scribes were either Pharisees or Sadducees.
At the time of Jesus, majority of the Scribes were associated
with the Pharisees. A scribe was also a
‘Rabbi’ – teacher. Some scribes managed schools called
‘Rabbinical Schools’. In these schools, Jewish
male youth learnt the Mosaic Law from the age of 13 years.
Scribes were represented in the Jewish
religious council called the Sanhedrin. Sanhedrin was the
Jewish Court of Justice, which tried those who
committed religious sins.
Who were the Sadducees?
Sadducees were the wealthy people. They were an influential
group. These were the majority in the
Sanhedrin, the Jewish Court of Justice. The poor hated
them. They were also members of the Jerusalem
priesthood. The chief priests were mainly drawn from the
Sadducees. They believed in the divine
authority of the Law of Moses and the Pentateuch’s first five
Books of the bible. They believed that
Moses wrote the first 5 books of the Bible. They regarded all
the other books in the Old Testament as
not divinely inspired. Hence they rejected them. They
rejected and did not believe in (a) The
resurrection of the dead (b) Last judgment (c) Coming of the
Messiah (d) Angels and demons and (e) the

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oral traditions of the Pharisees. They were enemies of the
Pharisees particularly because of religious
matters. However, they joined with the Pharisees and
Scribes to oppose Jesus Christ.
LESSON EIGHT. THE SERMON ON THE PLAIN (Luke. 6:12–
16, 27– 49)
Review
In the previous section, we learnt that Jesus chose His
apostles. He came down the hill and stood on a
level place. He gave a sermon to those present. This address
is referred to as the sermon on the plain in
Luke’s Gospel.
The people had come to hear Jesus’ word to receive healing
and for Jesus to exercise unclean spirits
from them. In the sermon, Jesus talked of the
characteristics of the new community. All those who
would listen to His word would be the “New Israel”.
Learning Outcomes. By the end of the lesson, you should be
able to
(a) Name the12 disciples
(b) Summarize the teachings of Jesus on true discipleship
© Analyse the teachings of Jesus on the plain (sermon on
the plain)
Selection of 12 disciples (Luke. 6:12 – 16)
Jesus went into a mountain to pray. In the morning, he
called his disciples. From them, he selected 12
disciples, whom he also called apostles. Apostle means one
who is sent, a missionary. The 12 disciples
were: (1) Simon Peter (2) Andrew (3) James (4) John (5)
Phillip (6) Bartholomew (7) Mathew (Levi) (8)
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Thomas (9) James son of Alphaeus (10) Simon who was
called the Patriot (11) Judas son of James and
(12) Judas Iscariot who became the traitor (Luke vs. 14-16)
Jesus teachings’ on true discipleship
Jesus taught that a follower or disciple of Christ should:
(a) Have unshakeable faith
(b) Be obedient to God’s word
(c) Be self-critical/analytical/self-searching
(d) Be kind, loyal, objective, fair, and generous
(e) Accept others without discrimination.
(f) Be a disciple and show concern for others.
The Sermon on the plain (Luke 6: 17 – 49)
The Sermon on the plain is a lecture or lesson that Jesus
gave to “ a large number of his disciples and a
large crowd of people who had come from Judea, Jerusalem,
tyre, and Sidon. They came to listen to the
sermon of Jesus and to be healed of diseases, evil sprits.
The purpose of the sermon was to teach the
crowd the meaning of following Christ. Jesus covered 6
beatitudes or topics in his sermon. These are.
1) Blessings and woes – beatitudes (2) Love for enemies (3)
Judging others (4) Giving to the needy (5) A
tree and its fruits (6) Wise and foolish builders – hearing and
doing the words of Jesus.
We shall now discuss each of these beatitudes in detail.
1. Blessings and woes. Jesus taught that:
(i) Blessed are the poor for theirs is the Kingdom of God.
(ii) Blessed are the hungry for they shall be filled
(iii) Blessed are those who weep now for they shall laugh

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(iv) Blessed are those who men shall hate, reject, reproach
for the sake of Christ’s for their great reward
is kept in heaven.
(v) Woe to those who are rich, for they have already received
their reward.
(vi) Woe to those who are full for they shall go hungry
(vii) Woe to those who laugh now for they shall mourn and
weep
(viii) Woe to those whom people speak well, for ancestors
said the same about the false prophets.
Those who accept to be followers of Christ are promised
blessings while those who reject Christ are to
suffer in future.
2. Love your enemies. Luke. 6: 27 – 36.
Love is often defined as a warm feeling / affection towards
somebody or something. Jesus taught his
followers to love their enemies and do well to those who hate
you. Bless those who curse you. Pray for
those who mistreat you. Do unto men as you expect them to
do unto you. Lend also to your enemies.
Love your enemies and do good to them. Lend and expect
nothing back. Be merciful.
From these teachings: true discipleship of Jesus Christ:
a) Entails unconditional love even for enemies
b) Doing good without expecting any returns
c) Praying for those who mistreat us
d) Showing love to our enemies by exhibiting God’s love in
us.
e) Is love; because those who love are children of the most
high who is kind and merciful to the sinners.
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(3) Judging others Luke. 6: 37– 42
Jesus taught his followers not to judge others lest they are
also judged. They should not condemn others
lest they are also condemned. He asked disciples to forgive
others and they shall also be forgiven. True
discipleship requires acknowledging one’s shortcomings and
avoiding criticism of others.
(4) Giving to the needy.
A true disciple should share what they have with the needy.
Those who share shall be rewarded. He also
said that the blind couldn’t lead the blind. There is a master
and a follower. The disciple is not above his
master.
(5) A tree and its fruits.
A healthy tree bears good fruits. A poor tree bears poor fruit.
Neither does a corrupt tree bring forth
good fruits. A tree is known by its fruits. Followers of Christ
are evident to others by their actions. They
are not hypocritical or fault finding.
(6) Wise and foolish builders.
A wise builder digs a deep foundation on a rock. When
floods come, the house is able to stand. A foolish
builder builds his house upon the sand. Without a
foundation, when floods come, the house falls and is
ruined. Wise builders are those who hear the word of God
and do what is required. Those who do not
adhere to the teachings are the unwise builders. True
discipleship entails obedience to the teachings of
Jesus Christ.

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Relevance of the lessons of the Sermon on the Plain to
Christian Life
Christians are urged to love even those that hate them. The
challenges that followers of Christ
encountered in the New Testament are not different from
those that Christians experience today.
Christians should forgive others, share with the needy, avoid
judging others, and follow the teachings of
Christ.
Lesson Revision questions
1. Give the main teaching of Jesus on the sermon on the
plain
2. What is the relevance of the (beatitudes) sermon on the
plain to Christians today?
LESSON NINE. JESUS’ WORKS OF COMPASSION
In this lesson, Jesus’ works of compassion is discussed.
These include the works of mercy for those in
distress and pity for the suffering. Jesus’ mission lays its
foundation in these works of compassion,
because He came to establish the kingdom of God by
conquering all forms of suffering caused by Satan.
Compassion is a feeling of empathy for other people’s
sufferings. It’s being merciful, showing concern
and affection for others.
Learning Outcomes. By the end of this lesson, you should be
able to:
a) Give examples of Jesus works of compassion
b) Narrate Jesus works of compassion
c) Give reasons why Jesus used parables
d) Identify categories of the miracles of Jesus
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e) Give lessons learnt from each example in each category
a. Examples of Jesus works of compassion. There are many
examples of compassion
i) Healing of the centurion’s servant (Luke 7:1 – 10)
Centurion is an officer in charge of 100 men. Jesus healed
the servant of a Roman soldier and a Gentile.
The Centurion showed love and concern for his servant. The
centurion sent Jewish elders to Jesus with a
request to heal his servant. The leaders said ‘this man
deserves to have you do this, because he loves
our nation and has built our synagogue’ (Luke 7:5). Jesus
agreed and went with the elders. But before
Jesus reached the centurion’s house, the centurion sent his
friends to stop him from coming to his
house. He said that he was not worthy to have Jesus under
his roof. He said that he was a man of
authority. Hence Jesus could give an order and the servant
would be healed. On hearing this, Jesus
declared to the crowd ‘ I tell you, I have not found such great
faith even in Israel’. When the men
returned, they found the servant well.
Lessons Christians can learn from the healing of the
centurion servant.
1. Faith in God is important for healing to occur
2. We should confess our faith in Jesus. The centurion
declared his faith in Jesus by saying he believed
that Jesus could heal his servant by his word.
3. Christians should have compassion like Jesus. He took
compassion on the servant and was ready to go
and heal him.
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4. Salvation was not for Jews alone, but for all who believed
in Jesus. Centurion was not a Jew but a
gentile officer in the Roman army. But he had faith in Jesus
healing.
5. Christians should love each other regardless of their
background or social status – the centurion loved
his servant dearly.
6. Christians should learn to relate well with all around
them – the centurion related well with the
Jewish elders and others.
7. Jesus has power to heal any form of sickness.
ii) The raising of the widows son – Luke 7:11 – 17. A widow
is a woman whose husband is dead. The
widow was of the city of Nain. When Jesus neared the gates
of the city, he saw the funeral procession of
the widow’s son, the only son of his mother. Jesus had
compassion on the widow and told her ‘ weep
not’. Jesus then touched the casket and said ‘young man I
say unto you, arise’. The dead sat up and
began to speak. All the people were filled with fear and
glorified God, saying God has visited his people.
Lessons Christians learn from the raising of the widow’s son
1) Jesus has power over death
2) Jesus empathizes with the suffering
3) Acts of love should not be hindered by traditions – Jesus
touched the casket even though Jewish
traditions forbid it.
4) The Widow of Nain was a gentile. This is a sign that
salvation was universal.

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5) The crowd acknowledged Jesus’ lordship; Christians
should acknowledge the lordship of Jesus.
What are the practices pertaining to the disposal of the dead
in your culture? and community?
iii) Assurance to John the Baptist (Luke 7:20 – 30).
A question arose whether Jesus Christ was the Messiah.
John the Baptist wanted to assure his disciples
that Christ; was the expected messiah: and not him (John
the Baptist). He sent his disciples to Jesus to
ask “if you are the one he said was going to come, or if we
should expect someone else?” (Vs. 20). Jesus
told the disciples of John to go back and tell John of the
miracles works they saw and heard. Jesus then
gave a testimony of John the Baptist as a prophet, whose life
and missions is beyond that of ordinary
prophets. Jesus testified that John the Baptist; was the
forerunner or messenger of Jesus Christ: as the
prophets in the Old Testament had written. The Pharisees
and the publicans (teaches of the law)
however rejected the testimony about John the Baptist. They
had refused to be baptized by John. Those
baptized by John the Baptist, the tax collectors
acknowledged the testimony of Jesus. Jesus rebuked the
Pharisees and teachers of law for their hypocrisy.
In what ways were the Pharisees and teaches of law
hypocritical?
iv) The forgiveness of the sinful woman (Luke 7: 36 – 50)
Jesus was invited by one of the Pharisees called Simon to
his house to dine with him. In that city, there

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was a sinful woman. She went to the house of Simon when
she learnt that Jesus was in the Pharisees
house. She brought with her an alabaster jar full of
perfume. She stood behind Jesus. She was weeping
and washing his feet with her fears. She then wiped the
tears from the feet of Jesus with her hair, kissed
his feet, and anointed them with oil (an alabaster box of
ointment). When Simon, the host saw this he
said within himself, ‘if this man was a prophet, he would
know who this woman is who is touching him”
a sinful woman. Jesus told Simon a parable of a man who
forgave two people that owed him money –
one 500, the other 50. Jesus asked which of the two debtors
would love him most. Simon said the one
that was forgiven much, Jesus then told Simon that when
he came to his house, Simon did not give him
water for his feet; neither did he welcome Jesus with a kiss;
nor provide him with olive oil. But the
woman washed his feet with her tears, and wiped them with
her hair. She also kissed his feet. Jesus told
the people that her sins, being many are forgiven for she
loved much. Jesus turned to the woman and
told her ‘thy sins are forgiven’. ‘Thy faith has saved thee, go
in peace’. The people who were eating with
Jesus murmured. Who was Jesus? He forgives sins.
Lessons from the forgiveness of the sinful woman
1. The Jews believed that by associating with sinners, one
becomes virtually defiled. Jesus however
allowed the sinful woman to touch him.

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2. By her actions, the woman acknowledged that she was a
sinner, and repented. This was in contrast to
the Pharisees who were self-righteous and therefore did not
repent.
3. The Woman’s great love for Jesus led to her being forgiven
of her sins.
4. Christians need to accept their sinful nature and seek
forgiveness from God.
5. Faith in Jesus is necessary.
Summary. Jesus is accepted women to be his followers
unlike the Jewish customs which viewed women
as lesser than men. Other women that played a key role in
the ministry of Jesus include Mary
Magdalene, Joann Joanna and Susanna among many
others.
Lesson Revision questions
1. What role do women play in the church ministry?
2. Narrate the story of the forgiveness of the sinful woman
(Lk 7: 36, 8:3)
3. What lessons do you learn from the above story?
4. Describe the story of the raising of the widow’s son at
Nain (Lk 7: 11-17)
Answers
Women play many roles in the church ministry. Some of
these are:
(i) Carrying out duties of pastors, bishops, and deacons
(ii) Management. Some are heads of the women groups
(iii) Leading in church service
(iv) Participating as church ushers, choir singers, and youth
leaders
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(v) Attending church. Women are part of the congregations
LESSON TEN. JESUS TEACHING IN PARABLES (LK. 8: 4-
21)
Introduction
Jesus used parables to teach. A parable is a Greek word. It
means comparing or ‘putting side by side’ in
order to understand. A parable is defined as a short story or
description, which teaches something or
answers some questions. It is an allegory – an earthly story
with a hidden or heavenly meaning.
a. Use of parables. Jesus used parables in his teachings in
order to explain unfamiliar messages in a
language that his hearers could understand. Other reasons
were because Jesus wanted to:
1) Provoke critical thinking
2) Make the audience understand issues from a different
point of view
3) Explain the nature of the kingdom of God by giving real
life examples.
4) Explain the nature of God. The parables brought out the
attributes of an invisible God. For example,
the parable of the prodigal son who had been lost.
5) Attract the attention of his audiences so that they could
listen and understand.
6) Make people understand how they should relate to one
another. Read the parable of the good
Samaritan
7) Teach God’s love to mankind. The parable of the lost
sheep, lost coin.

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Separate / identify those who were sincere in seeking the
kingdom of God from the onlookers.
9) Challenge the imagination of his hearers since entry to
God’s kingdom was a personal decision.
10) Make an indirect attack on his opponents like the
Pharisees, the scribes and the Sadducees.
11) Teach his disciples that they should be persistent and
never be discouraged.
12) Make his teachings interesting and easy to understand.
1. The parable of the sower Lk 8:4 – 15
Jesus told this parable to the crowd that followed him. He
said that a farmer went out to sow corn. He
scattered seeds in the field. As he did so, some of them fell
on the path, and they were trampled on and
eaten by birds. Other seeds fell on the rock ground. When
they germinated, they withered because they
lacked moisture. Some seed fell among thorns bushes. They
grew with bushes, which choked them as
they grew. Some other seeds fell on fertile soil. They grew up
in fertile soil and their yield was100 seed
for each seed sown.
Meaning or interpretation of the parable
Jesus gave the meaning of the parable to his disciples. He
said that the seed is the word of God.
i. Seed that fell on the path represents people who hear the
word of God, and then the devil comes and
takes away the word from their hearts so that they do not
believe. Such listeners are like the seeds that
fell on the path. They hear the word but soon after the devil
takes away the message to stop them from
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believing and being saved.
ii. Seed that fell on the rocky ground are people who receive
the word with joy but it does not stay with
them. They believe for a while but when faced with trials and
temptations they stop believing and fall
away.
iii. Seed that fell on the thorny bushes stands for people who
receive the word. However, they fail to
follow their beliefs because of interference by life’s worries,
riches and pressures of the world. They fail
to mature as believers.
iv. Seed that fell on the good soil are those people with a
noble and good heart. They hear the word, and
retain it in their hearts. Such people persevere and produce
good harvest.
v. Interpretation. The different types of soil in this parable
refer to different kinds of Hearts of people.
The farmer is Jesus, God or Preacher. We learn that:

persevere so as to bear fruits.

2. The parable of a lamp under a bowl (Lk.8: 16 – 18). Jesus
taught that no one lights a lamp, then covers
it with a bowl or hide it under a bed. When one lights a
lamp, they put it on the lamp stand so as to
illuminate a room and for people to see the light. For
whatever is hidden or covered up shall be
revealed. In this parable Jesus is the light. The disciples had
a duty to pass on to others messages they

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had learnt from Jesus. They should not keep messages to
themselves.
Interpretation. From this parable of a lamp under a bowl, we
learn that:
i A Christian has a duty to share the knowledge of God with
others
ii One cannot be a Christian if this knowledge is hidden
iii Those who do not share may loose their beliefs.
3. Jesus mother and brothers. Luke 8:19 – 21
The mother of Jesus and brothers came to see him.
Someone told Jesus that they were there. He told
the crowd. “My mother and brothers are those who hear the
word of God and obey “. Accepters and
believers are the members of the family of Jesus.
Lesson Revision Questions
1. Give reasons why Jesus used parables
2. Identify various methods used by Christians in spreading
the gospel today
3. Discuss the reasons why Jesus faced opposition fro the
Jewish leaders.
LESSON ELEVEN: MIGHTY WORKS OF JESUS
Learning outcomes. By the end of this lesson
a. Organise in categories miracles performed by Jesus
b. Narrate each miracle
c. Discuss the significance of the miracle and lessons to
learn
Jesus continued to do miracles; and teach. His work is
referred to as the mighty works of Jesus in various
books. Miracles can be defined as acts of power whose
purpose is to establish the kingdom of God.
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Miracles can also mean extraordinary events that go against
the laws of nature.
a. Categories / types of miracles
Jesus performed four types of miracles. These were:
1) Nature miracles – miracles that dealt with nature e.g.
calming of the storm
2) Raising of the dead e.g. Jairus daughter
3) Healing miracles – healing Simon’s mother in law of fever,
healing of the woman with the flow of
blood.
4) Exorcism miracles – casting out of evil spirits e.g. the
Gerasene demonic
i) The calming of the storm
One day, Jesus entered a boat with his disciples to go across
Lake Galilee. As they sailed Jesus was
asleep in the ship. Suddenly, there was a strong wind and
the boat began to sink. The disciples woke him
up saying, “ Master, we are about to die”. Jesus woke up
and gave an order to the winds and the raging
waters. They obeyed and there was calm. He then said to his
disciples ‘where is your faith?’ Disciples
were afraid and amazed and wondered, “Who is this man?”
Winds and waves obey him.
This miracle teaches Christians to have faith and to depend
on Jesus when they face raging temptations
and persecutions. Jesus has power over nature.
ii) Jesus Heals a Man with demons (Lk8: 26 – 39)
Jesus and his disciples sailed to Gerasa town across Lake
Galilee. On arrival a man who had demons in

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him for a long time met Jesus. He lived naked in tombs, and
wilderness. On seeing Jesus, he cried out,
threw himself down at the feet of Jesus and shouted; “Jesus
son of the Most High God! What do you
want with me?” ” I beseech thee, torment me not’. Jesus had
ordered the demons to go out of him.
Jesus asked him “what is your name?” He replied Legion or
Mob. This was because the man had been
possessed by many demons. The demons begged Jesus not
to send them into the deep but to let them
go into some pigs (swine) that were feeding by. Jesus
allowed them and the devils went out of the man,
into the pigs. The herd ran down the cliff into the lake and
drowned. The herders run to the city and
spread the news. The multitude found the man sitting at the
feet of Jesus clothed, and in his right mind.
The multitude asked Jesus to leave their country region. The
healed man wanted to follow Jesus but
Jesus declined and told him to go and tell others of the great
things that God had done for him. The man
went to town and told all “what Jesus had done for him”.
This miracle teaches Christians that:
1. The mission of Jesus’ was universal.
2. Jesus mission is to teach all the people irrespective of
their race, tribe or geographical location. The
demon man was healed in a Gentile area.
3. Jesus has power over evil
4. Powers of evil (demons) are real
5. Human life is more valuable than man’s material things

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6. The demons – evil spirits identified Jesus as the Son of
the most High
7. Christians need to fight the power of evil
SAQ. What were the causes of mental illness and spirit
possession in traditional African society and in
modern society?
iii) Jairus daughter is raised. Lk.8: 40 – 42, 49 – 56
Jairus was an official in the local synagogue. He begged
Jesus to come to his house and heal his only
daughter who was 12 was dying.
iv) Woman with the flow of blood is Healed (Lk. 8:43 – 48)
When Jesus was on route to Jairus house, great crowds
followed him and pressed him on either side.
Amongst them was a woman who had suffered from severe
bleeding for 12 years. She consulted doctors
and spent all her savings on physicians. But she was not
cured. The society considered the woman
unclean. It blamed her for her illness. She herself was
embarrassed by her condition. This woman
walked behind Jesus and she touched the hem of the
garment of Jesus. Her bleeding stopped at once.
Jesus asked, who touched me? Everyone denied it. Peter
replied the multitude was around Jesus and it
was difficult to know who had touched him. Jesus persisted
someone touched him. The woman who had
touched Jesus the woman came forward, and fell at his feet
and confessed to all her sickness and
explained why she touched Jesus and how she was healed
at once. Jesus said to her “My daughter, your
faith has made you well. Go in peace”.
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Jairus daughter is raised. Lk.8: 40 – 42, 49 – 56
As Jesus was talking to her, Jairus was told that his little
girl was dead. “Don’t bother the teacher
anymore. Jesus told Jairus not to fear but to believe and she
will be well. When he got to the house he
went into the room with Peter, John and James and the
parents of the girl. People around were weeping
and wailing. But Jesus told them not to weep. She is not
dead but asleep. They scorned and laughed at
him for saying that she is asleep because they knew she was
dead. Jesus took the girl by hand and called
out “Get up, my child” – ‘little girl arise’. She immediately got
up and Jesus ordered the parent to give
her food. He commanded them not to tell what had
happened.
Teachings from these two miracles
The miracle of raising Jairus daughter teaches Christians
that Jesus is compassionate and the author of
life. He has power over death, resurrection and life.
In the miracle of healing the Woman with the flow of blood:
a. Jesus made her healing public. This was probably
because He wanted to acknowledge the woman’s
faith in the public. Jesus made it clear that her faith made
her whole.
b. Jesus wanted to challenge the cultural practices that kept
women in bandage and could not
participate in public life.
c. Jesus made her healing public so that the community can
receive her back and shall not isolate her
again.
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From this miracle of healing this woman, Christians learn
that one; Jesus is the healer. He has power
over all sicknesses even those without cure. Two, Christians
should have faith in Jesus Christ.
Lesson Revision Questions
1. Narrate the healing of the Gerasene demoniac Lk 8: 26-39
2. What lessons can Christians learn fro the healing of the
demoniac man above?
3. What do the miracles of Jesus teach us about him?
4. Compare the raising of Jairus daughter and the healing of
the woman with the flow of blood
Answers.
A comparison of the raising of Jairus daughter and the
healing of the woman with flow of blood
(i) Jairus daughter was 12 years old and the woman sick
with the flow of blood had suffered for 12 years.
(ii) Jesus referred to both of them as daughter
(iii) Their situation – death and flow of blood did not have a
cure
(iv) The public witnessed the miracle of the woman with the
flow of blood.
(v) Jesus commanded Jairus to keep secret raising of his
daughter
LESSON TWELVE. COMMISSIONING OF THE TWELVE
DISCIPLES
Lk 9:1 – 10
Introduction. Commission means to officially ask someone
to do something.
Learning Outcomes: By the end of the lesson, you should be
able to:
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a Describe the commissioning of the twelve disciples.
b Explain the story of the feeding of the 5000
c Describe the transfiguration of Jesus
d Explain the teachings of Jesus on faith and humility.
a. The commissioning of the twelve disciples
The twelve disciples or followers accompanied Jesus
wherever he went. They were regarded as apostles.
An apostle comes from a Greek word ‘Apostols’ which means
‘send out’ one who is sent or a
‘missionary’. The commissioning of the 12 disciples meant
that they were given four main duties, power
and authority to:
a) Exorcise or cast out demons
b) Cure diseases
c) Heal the sick
d) Preach the Kingdom of God and proclaim the arrival of
God’s
Instructions. They were told to:
i) Take nothing for the journey
ii) Initiate attack on the forces of evil
iii) Depend entirely on God to take care of them
iv) Take no stick, no beggars’ bag, no food, no money and
not even an extra shirt for their journey
v) Whatever house they entered they were to stay there until
they leave the town.
vi) If they were not welcomed, they were to leave that town
and shake the dust off their feet as a
warning to that city or town.
With these instructions, the disciples left and travelled to all
villages preaching the Good News and
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healing people everywhere. King Herod was perplexed by the
work of the disciples and he desired to see
Jesus.
b. Feeding of the five thousand.
Please open your Bible and read Luke chapter 9. Verses 11-
17)
After reading these verses, about feeding of the five
thousand (5000) people we learn that
1. Jesus is concerned about people’s physical needs
2. Jesus demonstrated that he is the bread of life
3. Jesus has divine power
4. The Church has the duty of continuing to feed its
followers both spiritually and physically.
5. The feeding of the 5000 people points to the Messianic
banquet
6. Christians must learn to share whatever they have with
one another
7. From this miracle, Jesus expected his disciples to
appreciate their responsibility. Their work was not
only to preach and heal but also feed the hungry. Feeding
was both physical and spiritual.
The personality of Jesus and his identity Lk. 9:18 – 27
When Jesus was alone with his disciples, he asked them
who people say he is. The disciples told him that
some say he is John the Baptist, others say he is Elijah and
others say he is one of the old prophets who
have risen again. Jesus asked them who they, disciples say
he is. Peter replied that he is Christ of God.
Jesus then told them not to tell people who he is for he Son
of man has first to suffer many things be
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rejected by the elders chief, priests and scribes, be killed
and be raised the third day. Jesus announced
to the disciples of his passion (great sufferings) Jesus is the
Christ (anointed) of God – Messiah as well as
the son of man. A divine nature and a human nature. Jesus
went on ahead to tell his disciples that they
should deny themselves (self – denial) take up their cross
daily and be ready to lose their lives for Jesus.
However, great is the reward for the faithful.
LESSON THRTEEN: THE TRANSFIGURATION (LK.9: 28 –
36)
Instructions. Read. Luke chapter 9, verse 28 to 36. Then
answer revision questions that follow.
A brief summary from the Bible
Transfiguration is change or transformation of form or
appearance. Jesus was transformed in
appearance when he took Peter, John and James to the
mountain to pray. During the transfiguration,
Moses and Elijah came down from heaven to talk with Jesus
about his coming death in Jerusalem.
Moses, Elijah and Jesus were in heavenly glory and glorious
splendor. Peter, John and James were
asleep. When they woke up, they saw Jesus’ glory. They also
saw Elijah and Moses with Jesus. Peter
suggested to Jesus that they build three tents for Jesus,
Elijah and Moses. As he spoke a cloud
overshadowed them. A voice from the cloud said ‘this is my
son, whom I have chosen——– listen to
him”. The cloud left and the disciples found themselves with
Jesus. They kept what they saw and heard
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to themselves.
Significance and importance of transfiguration
a. The voice from heaven confirmed that Jesus is the Christ
of God, or the Messiah
b. Moses represented the Old Testament law. Jesus came to
fulfil the Law of Moses. It showed that
Jesus was not against the Law of Moses.
c. Elijah represented the Old Testament Prophets. This
meant that Jesus had fulfilled the Old Testament
prophecies. He is above the prophets.
d. Jesus is above or greater than the law and the prophets.
e. Transfiguration was a way of preparing the disciples for
the death and resurrection of Jesus. Death is
not the end of life (Moses and Elijah appeared to confirm
this)
f. The transfiguration prepared and gave strength to Jesus
for what lay ahead of him
g. Dazzling appearance showed the glory of Jesus
h. The transfiguration also shows the importance of
encouraging each other.
5.0 Revision questions
a. Explain the teachings of John the Baptist
b. Describe the baptism and temptation of Jesus and its
relevance to Christians today.
c. Give reasons as to why Jesus was rejected at Nazareth
d. Describe the first miracles of Jesus at Capernaum
e. Narrate and dramatize the temptations of Jesus from the
gospel according to St Luke,
f. Identify five occasions when Jesus was tempted
g. Explain ways in which Christians can be tempted today
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h. Outline ways in which Christians can overcome
temptations in the contemporary world
i. Identify lessons that Christians can learn from the
temptations of Jesus?
j. What is the role of the clergy in Kenya?
k. How does the church participate in the upkeep of the
clergy?
l. Define and describe the transfiguration of Jesus
TOPIC FOUR: THE JOURNEY TO JERUSALEM – LUKE ch.
9-18
Introduction
As Jesus travelled to Jerusalem, He prepared His disciples
for the life they were to lead after He leaves
them.
Learning Outcomes. By the end of the topic, you should be
able to
a Identify duties and privileges and cost of a disciple.
b Describe the teachings of Jesus on prayer, hypocrisy,
wealth and watchfulness’.
c Describe parables Jesus used to teach about prayer,
hypocrisy, wealth and watchfulness.
LESSON ONE. DUTIES, PRIVILEGES AND COST OF
DISCIPLESHIP
Lesson Outcomes. When you read this lesson, you should:
1. Explain discipleship
2. List duties given to disciples by Jesus Christ
3. Explain relevance of Christian discipleship to modern
Church
Jesus’ teaching on faith and humility

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A brief summary from the Bible. Read (Luke 9: 37 – 50) for
details. After the transfiguration, Jesus used
two incidents to teach his disciples about faith and humility.
One incident was the healing of a boy
possessed by an evil spirit (Luke 9: 37 –43). Jesus rebuked
the unclean spirit out of the boy and the boy
was healed. Jesus told His disciples that their lack of faith
was the reason why they did not cure the boy.
Jesus informed his disciples that faith in him was important
when carrying out his work.
Jesus’ teaching on His Work
The next question was ….. who is to work for Jesus? All
Christians can work for Jesus even believers who
are gentiles. Read (Luke 9 vs. 49 – 50). Jesus told his
disciples not to forbid others from carrying out his
work for whoever is not against Him is for Him. This means
that whoever had faith; even the Gentiles
could carry out Jesus work.
Jesus’ teaching on His followers
Jesus was determined to go to Jerusalem. As He travelled,
men volunteered to follow him wherever he
was going. Jesus replied that foxes have holes, birds of the
air have nests but the Son of Man has
nowhere to lay his head. Jesus had no earthly home. His
mission on earth was only for a time. A man
requested to follow Jesus but asked permission to bury his
father. Jesus told him to let the dead bury
their dead. Disciples of Jesus have to leave their families in
order to do His Work.
Mission of the 72 men. Read Luke 10:1 – 24
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On the way to Jerusalem, Jesus sent out 72 disciples on a
mission to promote the Gospel of the Kingdom
of God through preaching and service. The 72 disciples were
sent in 2s in order to encourage or help
each other. The 72 were given instructions. Jesus told them
that He has given them power over demons,
serpents, scorpion. They have power over all the powers of
Satan. When disciples returned, they
reported that demons obeyed them. In Luke 10 verse 20,
Jesus asked the 72 to rejoice not because
demons flee but because their names are written in heaven.
Out of the many followers, Jesus chose 12
apostles who learnt from Jesus and became His witnesses.
Jesus’ teaching on the greatest disciple
Read (Luke 9: 46- 48). The disciples asked themselves– who
is the greatest amongst disciples amongst
the 12 disciples? In response Jesus took a child by His side
and said to the disciples. Whoever welcomes
this child in my name, welcomes me, as well as the one who
sent me. For the one who is least amongst
you shall be the greatest in Heaven. Lessons from this
example. Jesus explained that His disciples
needed values of humility and simplicity. These virtues were
needed to carry out the work of
discipleship.
Teaching about Discipleship
1. True followers of Jesus Christ must
a. Be ready to detach themselves from families and material
possessions.

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b. Be ready to face rejections because not all people will
accept them or their message.
c. Be ready to serve.
d. Be ready to cater for people’s physical needs.
e. Be self – less.
f. Not be hypocrites and should accept hospitality whenever
it is given.
g. Be able to exercise self-evaluation.
2. Duties of a disciple were:
a) To preach the good news of salvation to other people and
be ready to suffer for the sake of Christ.
b) Obey God’s commandments and follow teachings of
Jesus.
c) To help the needy spiritually and with material needs.
d) To teach others about the Kingdom of God.
e) To heal the sick.
f) To cast out demons.
g) Be prepared to suffer for the sake of the gospel.
h) Being loyal to Jesus and faithful to the gospel.
i) Commitment and loyalty
3. Privileges of a disciple
a) One becomes a member of the Kingdom of God.
b) They get an assurance of eternal life.
c) They receive joy of winning other people to follow Jesus.
d) They receive peace, and blessings of God.
How are these teachings relevant to modern church leaders
and members?
Modern church leaders have a duty to continue preaching
God’s word to all people. They should serve

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God in several ministries such as visiting the sick, caring for
orphans, the destitute, widows, widowers,
and the aged. They should also be ready to suffer and even
face rejection for the sake of the Christ.
Exercise
1. What are the characteristics of a true follower of Christ?
2. State the privileges of being a disciple of Jesus Christ
3. Why did Jesus choose the 12 disciples?
LESSON TWO: A COMMITTED FOLLOWER OF CHRIST
Read Luke 10: 25-37, and Luke 11: 1-13
a. The parable of the Good Samaritan
A teacher of law asked Jesus questions in order to tempt
him. One was “ what must I do to receive
eternal life? (Read Luke 10: 25 to 28). Jesus replied with a
question. What do the scriptures say? He
replied and Jesus told him to do as the scripture say. . He
asked another question. Who is my neighbour?
(Luke 10 v 29). Jesus answered with the parable of the Good
Samaritan. In this parable, the righteous
people among the Jews, Levites and priests, did not help the
injured man. A Samaritan whom Jews
considered unclean and sinners helped him. After narrating
this parable Jesus asked the lawyer, who of
the 3 travelers was a good neighbour? The lawyer said the
Samaritan.
Lessons learnt from the parable of the Good Samaritan
In the above parable, Jesus stressed that a follower of Jesus
should be:
(1) Committed

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(2) Show love of God by loving people in need and their
neighbours. A neighbour is anybody who
requires assistance or help regardless of race, ethnicity,
creed, colour or gender. Jesus wants his
followers to show love and concern to all people regardless of
their background. A neighbour uses
his/her resources selflessly to help the needy. A neighbour
is also compassionate, kind, and generous to
the needy.
Jesus Visit to Martha and Mary (Read Luke 10: 38 – 42)
Martha welcomed Jesus in her home where she lived with
her sister Mary. While Martha prepared food,
Mary sat at Jesus’ feet listening to his teaching. Martha
complained. She was doing all the work while
Mary sat listening to Jesus teaching. Jesus told Martha that
Mary had made the right choice to listen to
His teaching.
Lessons we can learn from Jesus Visit to Martha and Mary
1. A committed follower of Jesus is one who creates time to
study and listen to God’s word.
2. A follower of Christ should ensure that their commitment
to God is not overshadowed by daily duties,
worries and responsibilities.
3. Jesus visit to Mary and Martha was also to teach
disciples on the characteristics of a true disciple.
Revision exercise
1. From the teachings of Jesus, on the parable of the good
Samaritan; who do you think is a committed
follower of Jesus?

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LESSON THREE. JESUS’ TEACHING ON PRAYER (Read
Luke 11:1 – 13)
Prayer is communication with God. It is talking with God.
People pray to God all the time. For example,
people pray to God when:
1. They are in problems and in happiness;
2. Seeking healing and wealth,
3. Giving thanks to God,
4. Identifying the needs to be met, and asking for favors
from God
5. Repenting and confessing their sins
6. Thanking God
There are many forms or types of prayers. These are:
1. Intercessory prayer – Praying for the needs of others.
2. Prayer for repentance – for forgiveness of sins.
3. Thanksgiving prayer – giving thanks to God for what he
has done.
4. Worship prayer – prayers to worship God.
5. Praise prayers – to praise God, Honor God.
6. Supplication and petition prayer – whereby an individual
makes their needs known to God and asks
for divine intervention.
Jesus prayed often during his life’s Ministry. The disciples
asked him to show them how to pray. Jesus
responded by teaching them the Lords Prayer.
“Our Father who art in Heaven
Hallowed be thy name
Thy Kingdom come
Thy will be done on earth as
It is in heaven
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Give us this day our daily bread
Forgive us our trespasses
As we forgive those who trespass against us
Lead us not into temptation
But deliver us from evil”
a) Our Father who art in heaven – The disciples were told to
address God as ‘Our father’. God is to be
seen and addressed as a Father.
b) Hallowed be thy name – The name of God should be
respected and revered.
c) Thy Kingdom come – In Prayer, Christians/disciples are to
pray that the rulership of God reign
amongst them.
d) Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven – Christians to
obey the will of God.
e) Give us this day our daily bread – Christians to pray for
their needs.
f. Forgive us our trespasses – we ask for forgiveness of our
sins and those of others.
g. Jesus taught that one should be persistent in prayer. If a
man goes to his friend at midnight and asks
for bread to give to his visitor, the friend will open the door
and give his friend all that he needs. This is
because his friend was persistent in knocking on the door.
In conclusion, if prayers are to be effective, one must have
faith and be persistent. Believe that God shall
answer prayers. A committed follower of Jesus should pray
at all times. In prayer, one should
acknowledge that God is the Father and that all prayers
should be addressed to him. Two, one should
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have faith that God answers prayers. Therefore we should be
persistent in prayer.
Reasons why Christians should pray

rotection

Revision exercise
1. What did Jesus teach about prayer?
2. What is the importance of prayer?
LESSON FOUR: USE OF GOD’S POWER TO OVERCOME
EVIL. Read Luke 11:14 – 28
Learning outcomes. By the end of the lesson, you should be
able to:
1. Narrate Jesus teaching about demons
2. Explain why the sign of Jonah was important
3. Describe how God’s power overcomes evil
a. Jesus and Beelzebub. (Read Luke 11: 14 to 28)
Jesus drove out a mute demon. The possessed man began to
talk. The crowd said that Jesus was casting
out demons using the power of Beelzebub (the price of
demons). Beelzebul was an evil spirit. However
Jesus replied “Any country that divides itself into groups
which fight each other will not last very long,
and a family divided against itself will fall. Jesus said it is by
the power of God that drives out demons.
Lessons learnt
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i. Satan cannot fight against himself therefore Jesus cannot
be an agent of Beelzebub / Satan.
ii. Gods Kingdom and that of Satan were two separate
Kingdoms and could not co exist.
iii. The destruction of Satan’s power meant that the
Kingdom of God was in Israel and it was powerful.
God’s power destroyed Satan’s kingdom. It is impossible to
be neutral in the battle between Christ and
Satan. One has to belong to either Christ or Satan.
iv. Jesus has power to drive out demons.
v. Demons occupy people. They bring disabilities and
diseases.
What makes people to be insane? Mentally sick
b. The sign of Jonah. (Read Luke 11: 29 – 32)
After Jesus drove out the dumb spirit, Jews demanded
performance of greater miracles. They wanted
Jesus to prove that he was their expected messiah. Jesus
said that Jonah was a great miracle. But Jesus
was greater miracle than that of Jonah, and King Solomon.
King Solomon was full of wisdom. He was so
great that Queen of Sheba came to listen to his wisdom.
Jesus like Jonah had brought a message of
judgment. Jesus is greater than Jonah or Solomon. If Jews
refuse to receive and listen to Jesus, the
Gentiles like Queen of Sheba, will bear testimony against the
Jews and receive God’s salvation.
c. The light of the body. Read Luke: 11: 33 – 36
Jesus taught that no one lights a lamp and hides it under a
bowl. A lamp is placed where all can see its

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light. He said that the human eye is the lamp or the light of
the body. Jesus asked the listeners to make
sure that “the light in you is not darkness” (vs. 35).
What is the main message in this story?
LESSON FIVE: JESUS TEACHING ON HYPOCRISY,
WEALTH, WATCHFULNESS AND READINESS
Introduction
Hypocrisy is being dishonest and insincere or pretending to
someone else or people. What did Jesus
teach about hypocrisy?
Learning outcomes. After reading these verses in Luke:
1. State what Jesus taught on hypocrisy
2. Explain value of wealth
3. Discuss how modern Christians can be watchful and
ready for the coming of Jesus Christ
a. Hypocrisy. Read Luke 12: 1- 12
A Pharisee invited Jesus to his house for a meal. When
Jesus did not wash before eating the meal, the
Pharisee was surprised. Jesus told him “.. you Pharisees
clean the outside of your cup and plate, but
inside you are full violence and evil”, greed and wickedness
(vs. 39). Jesus condemned the Pharisees for
their hypocrisy. They were concerned with outward
appearances and traditions such as ceremonial
washing of cups, hands, and dishes but not the souls of
people. They loved the outward show and public
recognition. Pharisees tithed, “but neglected justice and love
of God” (vs. 42). They imposed rules and
regulations for people to follow, yet they themselves did not
practice what they preached. They refused
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to confess their sins but pointed out sins in others. They
hinder others from entering the kingdom of
God. They had failed to make people understand the true
interpretation of the law. They were like
unmarked graves – dead to people yet the people trusted
them. After this teaching, the Pharisees and
the teachers of the law began to oppose Jesus fiercely.
What do we learn from Jesus teachings? Followers of Jesus
should be
1. Sincere and upright (honest); (2) obey God’s commands;
(3), live to please God but not other people;
(4) confess publicly their loyalty to God and (5) love God
without fear and (6) be dependent on the Holy
Spirit
b. The Parable of the Rich Fool. (Read Luke 12:13 to 21).
Someone wanted justice. His brother had refused to share
with him his father’s wealth. He wanted Jesus
to order his brother to divide their father’s inheritance
between him. In response, Jesus answered him
with the parable of the rich fool.
A rich man expected a good harvest of his crops. He thought
he did not have storage for the crop he
expected to harvest. The man said to himself. i will demolish
my granaries and stores, then build bigger
ones to store all my corn, and other goods. He expected to
have enough food to last him a lifetime. Then
he can enjoy his wealth; eating, drinking and making merry.
But God told him that his life would be
demanded from him that same night. What will happen to
his wealth, as he was not rich in God’s sight?
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Lessons to learn
i Followers of Jesus should not put their trust in material
wealth but in God
ii Life consists of food, other material wealth and trust in
God
iii Whoever seeks God’s kingdom, will receive material
blessings from God
iv Jesus did not condemn material possessions but rather
the attitude towards material possessions.
v Jesus condemned attachment to material wealth instead of
trust in God who controls our lives.
c. Watchfulness, Readiness, and Instructions. (Read Luke
12: 35 – 59)
Jesus told his disciples to be:
i Watchful and ready for the return of the Son of Man i.e.
Jesus.
ii Faithful servants so that when Jesus returns, he will find
them ready and acting responsibly
iii Watchful of possible divisions in families
iv Royal to Christ
v Ready for the coming of the Son of Man. He will come at
unexpected time; like a thief who comes
when the owner of the house is not aware.
vi Observing things of the kingdom of God, which were
present in the person of Jesus.
vii Like good servants, and watch over the affairs of the
master.
viii Be decision makers and follow the teachings of Jesus
without being watched.
Review questions
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1. In what ways were the Pharisees hypocritical?
LESSON SIX: THE KINGDOM OF GOD
Learning Outcomes. By the end of this topic, you should be
able to
1. Explain the teachings of Jesus about the kingdom of God
4. Narrate the parables of
a. The unfaithful fig tree
b. The mustard seed
c. Parable of the feast
d. Parable of the great feast
e. Parable of the lost sheep and the lost son
The Kingdom of God
Kingdom of God refers to rule of God, or God’s authority on
people’s lives and the world He created. The
kingdom of God was present in Jesus. It is now and in the
future reality. The teachings, and miracles of
Jesus were a manifestation of the Kingdom of God. For
anyone to enter God’s kingdom, one has to
repent and ask for forgiveness. The Kingdom of God
continues to grow and spread through the work of
the Church. Those who accept the teachings of Jesus Christ
about God’s Kingdom are members of the
Kingdom of God. Now to enter the Kingdom of God, one has
to repent and not judge others.
Read Luke 13:1-5. Luke has explained the kingdom of God
and outlined who will enter it.
The Kingdom of God has unfruitful fig tree (Read Luke, 13: 6
– 9). A farmer had a fig tree that was
unproductive for 3 years. He ordered the gardener to cut it
down. The gardener requested for the fig
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tree to be given another chance. He promised to dig around
the fig tree and add fertilizer. If it bears
fruits well, it can survive, if it doesn’t bear fruit, then it
should be cut down.
Lessons learnt from the parable
The unproductive fig tree represents followers of Jesus who
are unproductive because they do not
follow the teachings of Jesus Christ. God gives people
chances to repent just like the fig tree was given a
second chance to bear fruit. Jesus is the gardener who
pleads for people before God. The followers of
Jesus are expected to be fruitful.
What are the figs used for?
a. Parable of the mustard seed. Read Luke, 13:18 – 19
Jesus likened the kingdom of God to a mustard seed, which
is very small. When a mustard seed is
planted, it grows fast to become a big tree. It is difficult to
control its growth. When mature, the fig tree
attracts many birds, which feed on its seeds.
Lesson learnt from the parable.
The Kingdom of God

b. Parable of the Yeast. Read Luke, 13: 20 – 21

The Kingdom of God is like yeast. Yeast makes dough rise
and the bread big. The Kingdom of God grows
secretly and slowly just like the dough rises without being
noticed. It is only God who knows how a

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kingdom grows. The Kingdom of God grows as a small unit
that eventually grows, spreads and reaches
out to many people in many nations.
c. The narrow door. Read Luke, 13: 22 – 30
As Jesus was teaching in towns and villages, a person asked
him whether a few people would be saved.
Jesus replied that his followers should make every effort to
go through the narrow door as it leads to the
Kingdom of God. The narrow door will not remain open
forever.
Lesson learnt from the parable

gdom is through repentance

d. Jesus heals a crippled woman on the Sabbath. Luke,

13:10 – 12
Jesus was teaching in the synagogue on Sabbath. Jesus
healed a woman who had an evil spirit, which
had bent her back (Hunch back) for 18 years. Jesus saw her
and told her “woman, you are free from your
illness!” She was made straight and immediately glorified
God. The official of the synagogue was
annoyed that Jesus was healing on a Sabbath. He and
others were hostile to Jesus for healing/working
on the Sabbath. Jesus told him, you hypocrite. You feed and
look after your animals on the Sabbath day.
Jesus emphasized that human life is more important than
animal life or even observing the Sabbath.
Lessons learnt from the parable

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Jesus came to set people free from the bondage of sickness
and Satan. Jesus work of liberation is
continuous. It has to be performed even on a Sabbath day
because human life is more important than
animal life or even observing the Sabbath.
e. Jesus’ Love for Jerusalem. (Read Luke13: 31 – 35)
As Jesus continued with his teachings, he reached
Jerusalem. Pharisees informed him that Herod
wanted to kill him. His response was ‘go and tell that fox ” I
will continue healing the sick and casting out
demons. Jesus however, lamented over Jerusalem for
rejecting God’s messengers. God would abandon
Jerusalem for rejecting Jesus. Jerusalem was the site of
Jesus death. It would eventually acknowledge
Jesus as the Messiah who brings salvation to Israel and to
the rest of the world.
f. Man with dropsy healed (Read Luke 14:1 – 6).
Jesus was invited to the house of the leading Pharisees for a
meal on a Sabbath. A man with dropsy
(swollen legs and arms) came to Jesus for healing. The
Pharisees watched Jesus closely to see what he
would do. Jesus asked the Pharisees “ does our Law allow
healing on the Sabbath or not?” They kept
quiet. Jesus healed the man who then left. Jesus asked the
Pharisees, would they save their son or an ox
if it fell in a well on a Sabbath. They kept quiet.
g. Humility and Hospitality. (Read Luke 14: 7 – 14)
Jesus was in the house of a leading Pharisees and observed
that some of the invited guests were

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choosing the best places to sit at the table. He taught the
disciples how to be humble. He said, when
invited for a meal, let the owner give you a seat of honor that
is reserved for important and honorable
guests. Read verse 11.
Jesus advised his host to invite the poor, cripples, and the
blind who cannot invite you, as they have
nothing to give back for generosity.
Lessons learnt from the parable
Jesus is teaching about humility and hospitality. Those who
are humble shall be elevated. Those who
elevate themselves shall be humbled. Followers of Jesus
should extend invitations to the poor and the
underprivileged in the society. The Kingdom of God belongs
to the humble people.
c. The parable of the Great Feast. Read Luke, 14: 15 – 24.
A man said to Jesus, “How happy are those who will sit
down at the feast in the Kingdom of God” (verse
15). In response Jesus told him that a man made a great
feast and invited many friends and colleagues
to the feast. The invited guests failed to come and a servant
was sent to inform them that the feast was
ready. All the invited guests gave personal excuses
explaining why they could not come.
The master was angry and asked the servant to invite the
poor, crippled, lame, the blind and anyone
willing to come to the feast.
Lessons learnt from the parable
God has invited all people to the great feast of the Kingdom
of God. Those who honor his invitation will
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be blessed. Those who reject the invitation will be excluded
from the feast. Jesus explained that the
Kingdom of God is like a great feast open to all Jews and
Gentiles.
To enter the Kingdom of God, one has to make a personal
decision because following Jesus means
sacrificing activities that we consider important to us.
d. The Cost of Being a Disciple
Read Luke 14: 25 – 33
True discipleship means loving Jesus more than ones
family. This is a great sacrifice to detach oneself
from the family. A disciple must be ready to suffer for the
sake of following Jesus. Following Jesus
requires skills of careful thinking, planning and detailed
preparations. Jesus compared true discipleship
to the planning required when building a tower or engaging
in a military operation.
Lessons / teachings learnt from the parable
True discipleship means making great sacrifices, “none of
you can be my disciple unless you give up
everything you have” (verse 33). Jesus disciples are expected
to do careful planning before deciding to
follow him because they are required to love God more than
anyone else even their relatives and
friends.
e. The parable of the Lost Sheep
Read Luke, 15:1 – 7
Pharisees and teachers of law complained to Jesus because
Jesus was teaching ordinary people such as
tax collectors, and outcasts considered sinners by them.
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Jesus told the Pharisees and teachers of law the parable of
the lost sheep. He told them that if a
shepherd with 100 sheep lost one of them, what action
would he take? Wouldn’t he leave the 99 sheep
and go out to look for the lost sheep? And on finding it,
wouldn’t the shepherd celebrate with friends
and neighbours? Jesus said that God celebrates if “over one
sinner who repents than over 99
respectable people who do not need to repent.”
Lessons / teachings learnt from the parable
iii God is a shepherd and takes care of all his people.
iv He does not want any of his people to be lost.
v God searches for those lost in sin until he finds them.
vi When one sinner repents, God is overjoyed and rejoices.
vii God is the good shepherd who has come to seek and save
the lost.
f. Parable of the Lost Coin.
Read Luke, 15: 8 – 10
If a woman losses one of her ten silver coins, she searches
until she finds it. And if it is found, she invites
her friends and neighbours to celebrate.
Lessons learnt from the parable
God and the angels in heaven search make every effort to
seek the lost sinner until they find them. Jesus
lights the world, looking for sinners who are lost because
they are precious in God’s sight.
g. Parable of the Lost Son (prodigal son)
Read Luke 15:11 – 32
Jesus then told the story of a father who had two sons. The
younger was given his share of inheritance
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he had requested. He went to foreign lands and wasted his
inheritance. He became poor and decided to
return home and ask his father to forgive him and employ
him as a servant.
His father kissed him and celebrated his return. The father
announced to his guests that the son who
was lost is now found. – - The one who was dead is now live.
The elder son was angry and unhappy because his father
had never held a celebration for him, inspite of
his hard work and obedience.
His father told him “my son you are always here with me,
and everything I have is yours”. We are just
celebrating the return of the lost son.
Lessons learnt from the parable
a. A person dies spiritually if they sin
b. God loves all people including sinners
c. God is ready to forgive every sinner who repents
d. There is no sin that God cannot give
e. Jesus taught that both the righteous and unrighteous
require God’s forgiveness
f. There is joy and happiness in heaven when one sinner
repents.
g. Christians should confess their sins and acknowledge
that Jesus saves repentant sinners
h. God accepts unconditionally any sinner who comes back
to him in repentance
i. Confession of sins is a condition for entering the Kingdom
of God.
A GREAT FEAST FOR ALL WHO ARE PREPARED Luke 14: 1
– 35
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SAQ. What are the qualities of those who belong to the
kingdom of God?
Answer. Qualities of people who belong to the Kingdom of
God
Those who belong to the Kingdom of God:
i. Obey God’s commandments
ii. Accept God’s rule in their lives
iii Show God’s love to others
iv Are ready to make sacrifices so as to be followers of Jesus
v Read God’s word and preach to others
vi Confess their sins and seek forgiveness of their sins
through repentance.
Review questions
1. Give an explanation of the term Kingdom of God
2. What did Jesus teach about the kingdom of God?
3. What lessons do Christians learn from the parables of the
lost son?
Answer
1. The term Kingdom of God means the role of God or God’s
authority in people’s lives and the world.
LESSON SEVEN: TEACHINGS ON WEALTH AND POVERTY.
LK 16:1 – 32
Learning Outcomes. By the end of the topic, you should be
able to:
a) Explain the teachings of Jesus on wealth, and poverty
b) Narrate the teachings of Jesus on repentance
Introduction
While wealth is possession of material things such as money
or occupation of a high social economic

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status, poverty is the opposite. It is lack of basic needs such
as water, education, food, shelter, clothing,
and health.
When teaching about wealth, Jesus taught using two
parables. These were: (1) parable of the shrewd
manager (2) parable of the rich man and Lazarus
Parable of the shrewd manager
Read Luke, 16: 1 – 18
When the shrewd manager realized that his master was
going to sack him due to his dishonesty, he
asked the debtors to change the amounts they owed their
master to smaller amounts. He did this to
make friends with a few people who would give him a place
to stay after he was sacked. The master
praised the shrewd manager and did not sack him. The
shrewd manager is praised not because of his
dishonesty but because he acted promptly and with great
presence of mind in a moment of crisis.
Jesus is encouraging his disciples and followers to make
prompt (quick, appropriate, timely) decisions.
They should use wealth to serve God. It should not be
allowed to take the place of God. Followers of
Jesus should be honest in small and big things.
The Rich Man and Lazarus. Read Luke, 16: 19 – 31.
A rich man lived in luxury. At his gates was a poor man,
called Lazarus whose body was covered by sores.
The rich man did not feed Lazarus. He ate food remains
together with the rich man’s dogs.
When rich man died, he went to hell. When Lazarus died, he
went to heaven and sat at Abraham/s
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bosom. When in hell, the rich man was tormented while
Lazarus was at peace.
Lessons to learn from this parable.
The rich isn’t condemned for being rich but because of his
altitude towards Lazarus. He used his wealth
for self-gratification and not for service to the needy. The
wealthy should realize that it is God who gives
wealth and he should be given honor. Riches can hinder the
wealthy from inheriting eternal life,
especially if they put their trust in riches instead of God who
is the source of all wealth and blessings.
Revision exercise
1. From the parable of the rich fool what can Christians
learn about the use of wealth?
2. Narrate the parable of the shrewd manager
LESSON EIGHT. JESUS TEACHING ON FORGIVENESS
Read Luke 17: 1 – 4
Learning outcomes. By the end of this lesson, you shall
explain the power of Christian faith.
Sin. Read Luke 17: 1-4.
Jesus taught his disciples to forgive offenders who repent.
Those who sin should seek forgiveness. If they
offend 7 times in a day, forgive them 7 times. Followers of
Jesus need faith to forgive others.
The power of faith. Read Luke, 17: 5 – 11.
Faith is defined as complete trust or confidence in God. It is
absolute truthfulness and trust in everything
that comes from God. The apostles asked Jesus to increase
their faith. Followers of Jesus should have

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faith. Faith has no measure. Faith as big as a mustard seed
can empower Christians to perform miracles
that serve God. Faith is necessary. With faith, Christians
can forgive others and be servants of God.
Disciples should have faith. Christians understand that they
owe everything to God.
Jesus heals ten lepers. Read Luke, 17:11- 19
Jesus was on his way to Jerusalem when he met ten lepers.
They requested Jesus to heal them.
Jesus told them to go and show themselves to the priests.
On the way, they were healed. One of them, a
Samaritan, returned to thank Jesus for healing him. The
Samaritans and the Jews did not associate. Jesus
told the Samaritan that his faith has made him whole. Faith
is necessary for healing any disease.
Leprosy is a disease that leads to loss of fingers, toes and
other parts of the body. It was a dreadful skin
disease, which Jews feared. Lepers were isolated from other
people. They lived dejected lives
The coming of the kingdom. Read Luke 17: 20 – 37
The Pharisee demanded to know when the kingdom of God
would come. Jesus replied that the kingdom
of God was within those who had accepted Jesus and his
teachings. Those who wanted had received the
kingdom. Faith is necessary to discover the power of God’s
kingdom.
The coming of the son of man, i.e. Jesus will bring the
kingdom to reality.
The coming of the son of man is also referred to as the day
of the Lord, Day of Judgment. Read Luke, 21:
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27- 28. Those who obey Jesus will be saved but those who
reject him will be punished.
Lessons to learn. God expects Christians to have faith in
him. Christians should have faith in Jesus so that
they can inherit eternal life. Faith is needed to strengthen
Christians. Faith is important in the life of a
Christian until Jesus returns, i.e. the second coming.
Revision exercise
1. What did Jesus teach on forgiveness
LESSON NINE. PERSISTENCE IN PRAYER, Read Luke, 18:1
– 14
Learning outcomes. By the end of this lesson, discuss the
values of persistence in prayer
To teach about persistence in prayer, Jesus used two
parables. These were the parables of: the widow
and a corrupt judge and examples of prayer by a Pharisee
and a tax collector.
a. The widow and the unjust judge. Read Luke, 18: 1 – 9
Jesus had already taught the disciples how to pray. He now
tells them that they ought to pray and not
faint. He gives a parable to explain his point.
A widow went to a corrupt judge to have her adversaries
judged. The judge was corrupt and ignored
her. He however gave in to her demands since she was
persistent and wearing him down. The judge
helped her because of her persistence and courage.
Lessons learnt from the parable
Followers of Jesus should pray with courage and be
persistent in prayer. God hears and answers prayers.

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Christians should pray without ceasing and with faith and
trust that their prayers will be answered.
b. Parable of the Pharisee, and tax collector, Read Luke,
18:9 – 14
A Pharisee and tax collector went to the temple to pray. The
Pharisee offered a long prayer focusing on
his achievements. The tax collector (publican) did not have
much to say except asking for mercy, as he
was a sinner. Followers of Jesus should acknowledge they
are sinners and seek forgiveness. They should
approach God in humility and avoid spiritual pride, and self-
righteousness.
Revision exercise
1. State the parable of the widow and the unjust judge
LESSON TEN. THE WAY TO SALVATION, Read Luke, 18: 15
– 19: 1 – 27.
Introduction: The word ‘salvation’ refers to the act of saving
or being saved from sin. Those who have
received salvation area assured of eternal life. To receive
salvation a person must acknowledge that he
is a sinner and repent their sins. In this way, they receive
forgiveness and are reconciled to God.
Learning outcomes. By the end of this lesson, you should
a. State the meaning of salvation
b. Discuss characteristics of salvation
c. Give examples of those who will enter the Kingdom of
God.
d. Explain how Jesus predicted his death
Introduction

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Salvation means being saved from a life-threatening
situation. In Christianity, salvation refers to the
process of being delivered from sin and its consequences.
Those who are saved are assured of eternal
life.
Jesus taught about salvation using children to illustrate his
message. This is what happened. Some
people brought their children to Jesus so that he could bless
them. The disciples scolded them. Jesus
asked the children to come to him and he blessed them.
Jesus taught his disciples that they must be humble like
children in order to enter the kingdom of God.
The road to salvation is by being simple, humble, and
trusting like little children. The kingdom of God
belongs to those who humble themselves like the little
children.
The rich man. Read Luke, 18:18 – 30
The entry into the kingdom of God was further explained
through the story of the rich man. The rich
man came to Jesus wanting to know how he could inherit
eternal life and be saved. Jesus reminded him
of the importance of keeping the commandments. The young
man responded that he had observed the
commandments since he was young. Jesus told him there is
one thing remaining to do; sell everything
he has, and give it to the poor, and then follow Jesus.
The rich man was very sorrowful for he was very wealthy.
Wealth can hinder the rich from receiving
salvation. Jesus acknowledged the sacrifice made by his
disciples. He emphasized that disciples shall
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receive salvation in the present and in life to come. Salvation
is a gift from God. Salvation is received; by
those who accept to follow Jesus. Trusting in wealth can be
a hindrance to salvation. The rich may find it
difficult to inherit eternal life.
Jesus predicts his death, a 3rd time. Read Luke, 18: 31 –
34.
Jesus predicted his death a three times. First was after
asking his disciples who they say he was. The
second time was after transfiguration when his face was set
towards Jerusalem. The third prediction
shall be in Jerusalem (Luke 18:31-34). Jesus told the
disciples that previous prophecies would be fulfilled
in Jerusalem. His death was going to take place in
Jerusalem according to the writings of the prophets. It
was going to be a painful death. He shall be beaten, mocked,
spit upon and put to death. But on the
third day, he shall rise again.
The disciples did not understand what Jesus was telling
them. Jesus had to die so that those who
believed in him may receive eternal life. The death and
resurrection of Jesus gives Christians hope of
eternal life.
Jesus heals a blood beggar. Read Luke, 18: 35 – 43
As Jesus neared Jericho, a blind man sat by the roadside
begging. When he heard the multitude pass by,
he inquired what was going on and he was told that Jesus of
Nazareth was passing by. He then cried out
“Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me”

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The crowds rebuked him but he cried out louder to Jesus to
have mercy on him. Jesus asked him what
he wanted. He said he wanted to see. Jesus told him to
receive his sight for his faith had made him
whole. The beggar was joyful and he followed Jesus
rejoicing.
Lessons learnt.
Christians should have faith in Jesus. They should also be
persistent and make specific requests.
LESSON THIRTEEN: JESUS AND ZACCHAEUS LK 19:1 – 9
Learning outcomes. By the end of this lesson,
a. Narrate events leading to salvation of Zacchaeus
b. Explain meanings of the story of the man who gave gold
coins to his servants
Zacchaeus was short. His profession was a tax collector. He
was rich. He wanted to be saved.
When Jesus was passing by Jericho, he wanted to see
Jesus. He couldn’t because he was short. He ran
and climbed a sycamore tree to see Jesus. When Jesus came
to the place where Zacchaeus was, he
looked up and said “Hurry down, Zacchaeus, because I
must stay in your house today” (verse 5).
Jesus then went with Zacchaeus to his house. When people
saw this they grumbled, and murmured.
They said that Jesus was going to a house of a sinner.
Jesus told them that salvation has come to the house of
Zacchaeus, a son of Abraham … the Son of man
came to seek and save the lost. There is no sin that God
cannot forgive, even that of a tax collector.

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Zacchaeus told Jesus that he was going to give to the poor
half of his wealth and whatever he took from
any man and woman wrongfully, he will restore four times.
From this salvation, we learn that the rich
should share their wealth with the needy.
The Parable of the Gold Coins: Luke, 19: 11 – 27.
A certain nobleman went to a far country. Before he left he
called his ten servants and gave each a gold
coin (ten pounds in total). He told them to trade with the
coins until he returns.
When he returned, he called the servants to report profits
they had made. The first servant said that
one-pound coin had made profit of 10 pounds (gold coins).
He made the manager of ten cities. The
second servant had traded and gained 5 pounds. He was
made the manager of 5 cities. The third one
had hidden the pound. He did not trade. He accused the
master of being mean, and cruel. He returned
the pound, which was given to the servant with 10 pounds.
Lessons to learn.
This parable was about the kingdom of God. God expects us
to use opportunities he has given to us for
his work. Each one of us shall account for the use of the
abilities and skills that God gave to us –
students, workers, and other professionals. To receive
eternal life, Christians should repent and be
obedient to God’s instructions.
Revision questions
1. What did Jesus teach by using the example of little
children?
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5. Give an account of how Jesus healed the blind beggar
6. Explain the relevance of Jesus’ teachings on salvation to
Christians
TOPIC FIVE: THE JERUSALEM MINISTRY. Luke, 19: 28 –
21: 38
Lesson Outcomes. By the end of this topic, you should:
a. Describe the triumphant entry of Jesus into Jerusalem
b. Narrate events in the cleansing of the temple
c. Discuss Jesus’ teachings about eschatology
LESSON ONE: THE TRIUMPHANT ENTRY OF JESUS TO
JERUSALEM LK. 19:28 – 40
Learning outcomes. By the end of this lesson, you should
a. Explain why Jesus rode on a young colt into Jerusalem
b. Discuss why Jesus wept over Jerusalem
b. Describe what Jesus did when he went to the temple
a. The triumphant approach to Jerusalem. Luke 19: 28- 40.
Jesus death had to happen in Jerusalem. Hence Jesus went
to Jerusalem. He sent two disciples to a place
where there was a colt (young donkey) that no person had
ever ridden. They took it to Jesus. They threw
their garments on the colt, and Jesus sat on it. As Jesus
rode, people spread their clothes on the road. As
Jesus neared Jerusalem, a “large crowd of his disciples
began to” praise God (vs37). The crowd said
‘blessed be the king who comes in the name of the lord’.
The Pharisees told Jesus to rebuke the disciples. Jesus told
them if the disciples kept quiet the stones
would start shouting.
Jesus made his entry into Jerusalem in a royal (kingly)
procession. He was Israel’s humble king who came
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with peace and not a political leader. He rode on a donkey –
a symbol of peace. This was unlike the
political kings who rode on the horses during that time.
b. Jesus weeps over Jerusalem. Read, Luke 41- 44.
When Jesus was near Jerusalem he wept. He then foretold
the coming destruction of Jerusalem due to
its rejection of the messiah.
The rejoicing of his triumphant entry to Jerusalem turned to
mourning as he foretold the destruction of
Jerusalem by Romans in 70 A.D.
c. Jesus goes to the temple. Read Luke 19:45 – 48.
Jesus went to Jerusalem temple and evicted traders. He told
them that the house of God is a house of
prayer not a den of thieves. Jeremiah spoke these same
words during his temple sermon. The chief
priests and scribes began planning how to kill Jesus.
LESSON TWO. PHARISEES, SCRIBES QUESTION JESUS.
LUKE 20 1-47
Learning outcomes. By the end of the lesson you should be
able to: -
1. Describe the question about the authority of Jesus
2. Describe the parable of the tenants in the vineyard
3. Describe the question about paying taxes
4. Describe the question about resurrection
5. Describe Jesus’ teachings against the teachers of law
6. Describe the parable of the widow’s offering
a. The question about Jesus’ authority. Read Luke, 20:1 – 8.
The Jewish leaders wanted to know from Jesus by whose
authority he was doing all the things he was

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doing. In response Jesus asked them “did John’s right to
baptize come from God or from human
beings?” (Vs4).
They discussed among themselves and decided not answer.
Jesus told them “neither will I tell you”. In
response to his authority being questioned he told a parable.
b. The parable of the Tenants in the Vineyard.
Read the parable in Luke, 20: 9 – 18. The tenants refused to
pay the owner of the vineyard his share of
the harvest. They threw out the servants he sent to collect
his share of the harvest. When he sent his
son, they killed him so that they can own the vineyard.
Jesus asked the people… “What will the owner of
the vineyard do to the tenants?”
c. The Question about paying taxes. Read Luke 20:19-28
Pharisees, and scribes (teachers of the law) and chief priests
planned to arrest Jesus but they were
afraid of the people. They sent spies to trick Jesus by asking
this question -” …is it against our law for us
to pay taxes to the Roman Empire, or not?
Jesus used the currency and told them “pay the Emperor
Caesar what belongs to him and pay God what
belongs to God.” (Verse 25)
This was a tricky question. Jesus here teachers people to
obey the rules of the land and to obey God’s
rules.
d. The Question about Resurrection
The Sadducees who did not believe in resurrection tempted
Jesus with another question. They wanted

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to know this. When resurrection comes, who shall be the
husband to a woman who was married to the
first brother and inherited as a widow by the other six
brothers?
Jesus told them the men and women who shall be worthy of
resurrection shall not marry. They shall be
like angels and cannot die (verse 34 to 38)
e. Jesus warns against the Teachers of the law
Jesus warned his disciples. Be careful and guard yourselves
against teachers of the law, the scribes. They
were hypocritical. They wore long robes, said long prayers,
looked for positions of honor and exploited
the widows.
f. The Widow’s Offering. Luke, 21: 1- 4
When people were giving offerings in the temple, a widow
gave “two little copper coins”. Jesus said the
poor widow had given all she had. Likewise Christians
should give to God not to be seen but from their
hearts. It is not the quantity of the gift that matters but the
attitude of the giver.
LESSON THREE: THE TEACHINGS OF JESUS ABOUT
ESCHATOLOGY LK. 21: 5 – 38
Eschatology is from two Greek words, ‘eschatus’ and ‘logos’.
Eschatus means end, Logos means study.
Eschatology means the study of the end times or in CRE the
last days of Jesus. For biblical information,
read Luke 21:5-38 and Mathew 24: 1 – 36 and Mark 13:1-
31.
Learning outcomes. After this lesson, you should:
a. Identify signs of end times
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b. State uses of the temple during the time of Jesus
c. Discuss ways in which Christians can apply the parable
of the fig tree
d. State relevance of Jesus’ teachings on eschatology
a. Signs of the end times. Jesus gave many signs that will
inform Christians that end of the time has
come. These were to happen at different times. The signs
were:
a) Destruction of the temple of Jerusalem by invading
armies which shall surrounded it
b) Hatred of disciples and Christians because they were
followers of Christ
c) Rejection of disciples by families because they were
followers of Christ
d) Betrayal of the followers of Christ
e) Prosecution and imprisonment of Christians.
f) Many false messiahs. People would come claiming to be
the Messiah, the Son God
g) Wars as nation rise against nations
h) Eruption of natural calamities such as plagues,
earthquakes, famines, great fear among people.
i) Disruption in the sky and seas. Fall of strange heavenly
beings from the sky and rise of seas.
j) Natural calamities such as earthquakes, plagues, famines
bringing despair and distress in all nations
k) The times shall be announced by signs in the stars,
moon, sun and sea
l) Appear of the ‘Son of man ‘ in power and glory at the end
of times.
b. Uses of the temple during the time of Jesus
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During the time of Jesus, the temple was used for (a) Child
dedication (b) Circumcision (c) Purification (d)
Trading and business centre (e) Worshiping and prayer (f) a
place for celebrating festivals such as the
Passover and other major feasts (g) a learning centre or
school for religious purposes. For example
disciples of the scribes learnt law in the temple.
The destruction of the temple symbolized the birth of
Christianity. From that time Christians became the
new temple of God.
c. The parable of the fig tree Lk.21: 29 – 33
Jesus used the parable of the fig tree to explain more about
the end times. Appearance of leaves in the
fig tree and other trees inform us that summer will soon
come. When Christians see signs of the end
times, they should know that the kingdom of God is about to
come. Jesus told disciples to be watchful,
alert, and praying for strength to endure the coming
tribulations. See the previous teachings on
watchfulness and readiness. Christians are to watch out
and be ready for the end times.
d. Relevance of Jesus’ teachings on eschatology
These teachings assure and continue to tell Christians these
messages from Jesus:
a) There is life after death
b) Christ will return to receive the faithful
c) Christians are to be watchful, prayerful, and hopeful
despite trials and tribulations
d) Christians are assured of God’s protection from evil.

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e) Christians should prepare for the coming of Christ by
leading a righteous life
f) Do not lose hope
g) Do not be pre occupied with the cares of this would for
they never end
h) Preach and spread the word of God
i) Obey God’s commandment
j) Help the needy
Revision questions
a. Describe Jesus triumphant entry into Jerusalem
according to Luke chapter 19:29- 30
b. What does the manner of Jesus entry into Jerusalem
reveal about the nature of his kingdom?
c. What lessons can Christians learn from Jesus’
triumphant entry into Jerusalem
d. State and explain why Jesus wept over Jerusalem
e. Explain the cleansing of the temple
f. Give reasons why Jesus cleansed the temple of Jerusalem
g. What lessons can Christians learn from the cleansing of
the temple?
h. Explain Jesus’ conflict with the Jewish leaders
i. Describe the parable of the tenants in the vineyard
j. Explain the relevance of the parable of the of tenants in
the vineyard
k. Explain the question about paying taxes
l. Explain the question about the resurrection
m. What is eschatology?
n. What will happen at the end of the world (eschatology)
according to Jesus’ teaching in Luke’s gospel
21; 5-38
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o. How do Christians prepare for the second coming of
Christ?
TOPIC SIX: THE PASSION, DEATH AND RESURRECTION
OF JESUS
LK. 22 – 24
Passion is a strong feeling of love, hate or anger. Passion of
Jesus is the great sufferings of Jesus, which
was a deep emotional anguish.
Learning outcomes
By the end of this topic, you should be able to:
(a) Discuss the events of the Lord’s supper
(b) State relevance of the Lord’s supper to Christians today
(c) Describe the events that took place at mount Olives
(d) Describe the events that took place between the arrest
and burial of Jesus
(e) Relate the relevance of the sufferings and death of Jesus
to Christians today
(f) Explain the importance of resurrection of Jesus to
Christians
(g) Describe the resurrection of Jesus – the evidence of his
resurrection
(h) Narrate the ascension of Jesus
The plot against Jesus
The Jewish religious leaders were determined to ensure that
Jesus was either arrested or killed (Lk.22: 1
– 6)
They were helped by Satan who entered into Judas Iscariot
one of the twelve disciples of Jesus. Judas
decided to betray Jesus. He communed with the Jewish
leaders who agreed to pay him money to betray
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Jesus. He searched for a way to betray Jesus without
knowledge of Jesus. He forgot who was Jesus.
Judas agreed to betray Jesus probably because:
a. He belonged to the party of Zealots who wanted political
changes
b. He was probably frustrated by Jesus’ approach to the
Kingdom of God which was establishing a
peaceful spiritual kingdom
c. He expected Jesus to establish a political kingdom
d. He was greedy for money
e. Satan entered him
LESSON ONE: THE LORDS SUPPERS/ THE LAST SUPPER.
LK 22: 7 – 13
The last supper was the lost Passover meal that Jesus took
before his arrest. Passover is celebrated in
obedience to God’s command to Moses. It is a remembrance
of Israel’s deliverance by God from slavery
in Egypt.
a. The Passover meal
Preparations for the Passover, Read Luke 22: 7 – 23.
Peter and John were sent by Jesus to go and prepare the
Passover meal. They were to do so in a house
in the city. They were taken to the house by, a man who was
carrying a vessel of water. They were given
a big furnished upper room upstairs. They prepared the
Passover meal as instructed by Jesus.
Passover meal
During the meal with the 12 disciples / apostles Jesus told
them that this was going to be his last meal

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with them before his death. He took a cup of wine gave
thanks to God and said “Take this and share it
among yourselves. I tell you that from now on I will not
drink this wine until the Kingdom of God
comes.” The cup of wine was his blood that he was going to
shed for them. Wine therefore symbolized
the blood of Jesus, shed for the purification of humankind
and forgiveness of sins. This blood is the New
Testament and covenant with Christians.
After drinking of wine, He “took a piece of bread, gave
thanks to God “ and shared it and told them that
the piece of bread represented his body which is “given for
them”.
He presented his death as a sacrifice whose blood sealed the
new covenant. His death replaced the
sacrifices of the Old law, those of animals, which sealed the
Sinai covenant. The new covenant will be for
all people including Gentiles. This is to fulfil God’s promise
of salvation for all people.
Jesus and disciples ate Passover together so that henceforth
Christians would eat the meal together in
remembrance of Jesus. Passover was initially taken to
remind them of the deliverance from Egypt. But
during the last supper, Jesus gave the Passover a new
meaning.
As they ate, Jesus foretold of his betrayal by one of his
disciple.
SAQ.
i. Which items were used to celebrate the Passover in the
Old Testament?
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ii. What items do modern Christians use to celebrate the
Lord’s Supper?
Comparisons of the Lord’s Supper and the Passover
(a) The Passover commemorates the divine act of redemption
of the Jews from their bondage in Egypt
while the Last Supper commemorates the deliverance of
human kind from sin.
(b) The Passover feast reminded the Israelites that they were
free, redeemed people while the Lords
Suppers is to remind Christians of their forgiveness of sins.
The death of Jesus set Christians free from
sins.
(c) Passover was followed by the Old covenant of Mount
Sinai. The Lords suppers is a new covenant
based on the death of Jesus for sins of humankind
(d) Passover (Old testament) was sealed by the blood of
Lambs while New Covenant (Lords suppers) is
sealed by the blood of Jesus on the cross.
(e) Items for celebrating in Passover (old testament) are
different from the cup of wine and pieces of
bread used by Jesus to celebrate his last supper with the
disciples.
Relevance of the Lord’s Supper today
Christians celebrate the Lords supper. This celebration is
called the Eucharist, the Lords suppers, or
Lords meal. Christians celebrate it as an act of repentance;
through which they receive assurance of
forgiveness of their sins. The presence of Jesus becomes a
reality when Christians share bread and wine.

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Bread and wine are symbols of heavenly feast, which
Christians will partake in God’s kingdom.
The Lords supper is also a sacrifice of praise and
thanksgiving to God. It is a time for rededication to
Christ and self-renewal. Through the celebration of the
Lords supper, Christians anticipate the second
coming of Jesus and the establishment of Gods Kingdom. It
is also a time to remember the death and
resurrection of Jesus and reflect on God’s love for
humankind.
b. The Argument about Greatness. Read Luke, 22: 24 – 30
A question arose among the disciples. They wanted to know
who among them was the greatest? Jesus
told them that they do not belong to the world system of
authority given on the basis of wealth and
fame.
The authority among the disciples will be determined on the
basis of their service to others. The
greatest is the servant. Jesus likened himself to a servant
hence disciples are called to serve. By sharing
in trials and sufferings of Jesus, the disciples will share in
his ruling power over the new Israel.
Leadership in church should be understood in terms of
service – being a servant of people. In the
community of Christians, all people who are followers of
Jesus are all equal.
SAQ. In your opinion, which are the signs of greatness in
the world?
c. Jesus Predicts Peters’ Denial. Read Luke, 22: 31 – 38

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Jesus told peter that Satan had received permission to test
or tempt all the disciples but Jesus had
prayed for Peter’s faith not to fail. Jesus told Peter that he
shall deny Jesus three times before the cock
crows.
Jesus was telling his disciples that they will encounter
hostility in their evangelism hence they should be
prepared for suffering and opposition because of Him as
Isaiah 53:12 says ‘he shared the fate of evil
men.’
Jesus death was imminent inevitable. The disciples were
expected to be strong
LESSON TWO: PRAYER, ARREST OF JESUS AND DENIAL
BY PETER
Learning Outcomes. By the end of this lesson, you shall:
a. Narrate the events that took place at Mount of Olives
b. Describe the arrest of Jesus
c. Discuss Peter’s denial of Jesus
d. Describe the arrest of Jesus
a. Prayer on the Mount of Olives. Read Luke. 22: 39 – 46
After celebrating the last supper, Jesus went to the Mount of
Olives with his disciples to pray to resist
temptation. Jesus went ahead of his disciples, knelt down
and prayed.
Jesus left them to pray by himself. He said” Father if you
will, take this cup of suffering away from me.
Not my will, however, but your will to be done” (42). An
angel came to strengthen him. He prayed
earnestly, in agony and turmoil great than the physical pain.
He sweated great drops of blood.
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After praying, Jesus found his disciples asleep “worn out by
their grief” vs. 45). Jesus asked them to
wake up and pray to avoid temptation.
Significance
The disciples fell asleep. This was a sign of moral and
physical exhaustion. Jesus expressed inner struggle
about the fulfillment of his messianic mission. He prayed for
God’s help. Christians should always pray to
avoid temptation and seek God’s help.
b. Betrayal and arrest of Jesus. Read Luke, 22: 47 – 53
Jesus was arrested by: the chief priest, elders, officers of the
temple guard, and a crowd of people as he
talked to his disciples. He was taken to the house of the
high priest. Judas had identified Jesus with a
kiss. Jesus asked Judas” him “Judas, is it with a kiss that
you betray the Son of man?”
Jewish religious leaders had come to arrest Jesus as they
arrested other criminals. Jesus told his disciples
not to resist his arrest. He rejected armed resistance
refusing the role of a political messiah. Peter
followed him from a distance.
c. Peters Denies Jesus. Read Luke, 22: 54 – 65
After Jesus was arrested he was taken to the house of the
High Priest. As Peter sat warming himself with
others, a maid identified Peter. She said, “This man too was
with Jesus. Peter denied knowing Jesus
three times. After the third denial, the cock crowed just as
Jesus predicted.
Jesus turned and looked at Peter who remembered the
words of Jesus. “Peter went out and wept
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bitterly” (Vs. 62). Weeping was a sign of repentance
LESSON THREE: THE TRIALS AND CRUCIFIXION OF
JESUS
Lesson Outcomes. By the end of this lesson. You should
a. Describe trials of Jesus by the various authorities
b. Explain the importance of the judgement by Pilate
c. Narrate events leading to crucifixion of Jesus
a. Trials of Jesus by the various authorities
i. Trial by the Sanhedrin Lk.22: 66 – 71
After being taken to the house of the High Priest, the next
morning Jesus was taken to the Jewish
religious council or court; called the Sanhedrin. They all
asked him if he was the messiah. Jesus told they
wouldn’t believe whatever he says. But “ the Son of Man will
be seated on the right hand of Almighty
God.” (Vs. 69). Jesus told them he was the Son of God. The
Sanhedrin accused Jesus of blasphemy, a sin
punishable by death.
ii. Trial before Pilate. Read Luke 23: 1 – 5
The second court was the Roman court. The judge was
Pilate, the Roman Governor. In this court the
Sanhedrin accused Jesus of:

authority

They could not accuse him of blasphemy before Pilate since

this offence was not acceptable under the
Roman law. Pilate asked Jesus if he was the king, Jesus
replied, “ So you say”. (vs.3). Pilate found no fault
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with Jesus so he sent him to Herod.
iii. Trial by Herod. Read Luke, 23: 6 – 12
Herod was in Jerusalem. When Jesus was brought before
him, he expected Jesus to perform miracles to
impress him. He asked Jesus many questions and Jesus
kept quiet. Herod and his soldiers mocked Jesus,
and ridiculed him. They put on him royal clothes; then sent
Jesus back to Pilate.
iv. Jesus is sentenced to Death. Read Luke 23: 13 – 25
Jesus was brought back to Pilate a second time. Pilate
repeated that Jesus was not guilty (innocent) of
any crime. Pilate offered to have Jesus beaten and then
released.
The crowds, leaders and chief priests gave their judgement.
“Kill him!” and release Barabbas, who was a
rioter and a murderer. Pilate did not find Jesus guilty. But
he did what they wanted. He released
Barabbas and “ handed Jesus over for them to do as they
wished” (vs. 25).
v. The crucifixion of Jesus. Read Luke 22: 26-43
Jesus was led away to be crucified. Solders forced Simon of
Cyrene to carry the cross for Jesus. Women
followed Jesus and weeping. Jesus told them not to weep for
Him but for themselves and their children.
Jesus was then crucified at a place called Golgotha (place of
skull) or Calvary together with two male
criminal; one on His right and the other on His Left. Jesus
asked God to forgive them (persecutors) for
they did not know what they were doing.

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The Jewish leaders, said “He saved others; let him save
himself if he is the Messiah whom God has
chosen” (vs. 35); Solders mocked Jesus and said “Save
yourself if you are the king of Jews” and one
criminal hanged with Jesus mocked Jesus and told Him
“Aren’t you the Messiah? Save yourself and me”.
The other thief rebuked him saying they deserved the
punishment for their deeds but Jesus had done
nothing. This thief repented and told Jesus, “Remember me,
Jesus, when you come as King”. Jesus told
him that he would be in paradise with Jesus on that day (vs.
42 – 43).
On top of the cross, Jews wrote, “This is the King of the
Jews” (vs. 38).
LESSON FOUR: DEATH OF JESUS. Read Luke. 23: 44 – 50
Learning outcomes. By the end of this lesson,
a. Describe the death of Jesus
b. Narrate the burial of Jesus
c. State relevance of the suffering and death of Jesus to
Christian life today
a. The death of Jesus. There was darkness from 12 o’clock
until thee o’clock. The veil/curtain of the
temple tore into two. Jesus cried out with a loud voice “
Father, into they hands I commit my spirit”. At
this shout Jesus died.
The Roman centurion saw and praised God. He declared,
“Certainly this was an innocent man”. The
multitude that watched the crucifixion and death went home
beating their breasts, a sign of repentance.

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The women, who knew Jesus from Galilee, stood at a
distance watching all these things.
b. The burial of Jesus. Read Luke 23: 50 – 56.
Joseph from Arimathea, a town in Judea sought permission
from Pilate to bury the body of Jesus. He
was waiting for the coming of the Kingdom of God, a likely
secret disciple of Jesus. He was a good and
honorable man.
The body of Jesus was laid in a sepulchre (Tomb) where
nobody had ever been laid. Jesus’ burial in
Joseph’s tomb fulfilled Isaiah’s prophecy that the suffering
servant of Yahweh was buried in a rich man’s
tomb (Isaiah 53:9)
The Galilean women and Joseph saw where the body of
Jesus was laid. They went home, and prepared
spices to use to wash Jesus’ body. They rested on the
Sabbath.
c. Relevance of the suffering and death of Jesus Christ to
Christian life today
Christians today should practice or do the following
activities.
i. Pray in times of sorrow, pain, trials and temptations.
iii They should not give up when rejected.
iv They should be aware of hypocrites and traitors amongst
them.
v They should be willing to suffer for the sake of the
Kingdom of God.
vi They should be ready to fight for a just cause
vii They should never condemn the innocent.
viii They should go through their suffering bravely.
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ix They should know and accept suffering as a part of the
Christian calling
x They should not be afraid of rejection by people l
xi They should be encouraged that Jesus suffered for them.
d. In which ways can Christians prepare for their death?
Death is inevitable. Hence, Christians should at all times:
live a holy life, repent sins, forgive those who
have wronged them, make a will, accept death as inevitable,
and read the word of God
LESSON FIVE: THE RESURRECTION OF JESUS. Read Luke
24: 1 – 53
a. The Resurrection. Resurrection refers to the event of
Jesus rising from the dead
After the Sabbath day, on Sunday morning; Mary
Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, Salome
(Joanna) and other women, went to the tomb with the spices
they has prepared. They found the
entrance open. The stone covering the tomb was rolled
away. The tomb was empty. The body of Jesus
was not in the tomb.
Suddenly, two men, who were angels, appeared dresses in
dazzling and shining clothes. They said “ Why
are you looking among the dead for one who is alive? He is
not here; he has been raised. ”
The women went and told the 11 disciples, who did not
believe them. Peter ran to the tomb and found
it empty.
Women were the first to witness the resurrection of Jesus
Christ. This is significant as they (women)

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were empowered to become witnesses of Christ as
evangelists beyond the Jewish culture.
b. Witnesses of the resurrection of Jesus
The disciples en route to Emmaus
Two disciples were traveling to Emmaus, which was 11 km
from Jerusalem discussing Jesus suffering,
death and the empty tomb. Jesus met them but their eyes
were blinded and they did not recognize him.
The disciples explained to Jesus the events that had taken
place and how they had hoped that Jesus
would liberate Israel from the Roman rule.
Jesus explained to them the scriptures concerning the
messiah. When they got to Emmaus, they invited
him to dine with them for it was evening. When Jesus, “took
the bread and said the blessings; then he
broke the bread and gave it to them”, the disciples
recognized Jesus but he vanished out of their sight
(vs. 30-31). They returned to Jerusalem and told the 11
disciples that Jesus has risen.
c. Jesus appears to his Disciples. Read Luke 24: 36 – 49. As
the two disciples explained the event that
happened on the journey to Emmaus, Jesus came and said
to them ‘Peace be with you’ (vs. 36). Disciples
were terrified and frightened. He asked them to look and
touch his hands, and feet. He was not a ghost.
He has flesh and bones unlike ghosts, which do not have.
He explained to the apostles his mission, which was
prophesied by prophets, and written in the Law of
Moses, and Psalms (v.44).

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He commissioned the disciples to preach repentance and
remission of sins and be his witnesses. He also
promised to send them the promise of the father (Holy Spirit)
SAQ. What was the nature of the resurrected body of Jesus?
d. The ascension of Jesus, Luke, 24: 50 – 53
From Jerusalem, Jesus took his disciples to Bethany, a
town outside Jerusalem. He lifted his hands and
blessed them. As he blessed them, he was lifted up and
carried to heaven.
The disciples worshipped him and returned to Jerusalem
with great joy. They continued to go to the
temple to praise and give thanks to God.
The disciples were now confident about their mission and
who Jesus was
e. The importance of the resurrection of Jesus to Christian
Resurrection is the foundation of Christian faith.
Christianity is based on the fact that Jesus resurrected
and was taken up to heaven. Further to this:
1. Resurrection proved that Jesus is the Son of God.
2. Through resurrection, Christians have hope of eternal life
3. Through resurrections, Christians are assured of a new
life in Christ
4. Sin and death were conquered by resurrection, giving
hope of victory to Christians over death and sin.
5. Resurrection is a fulfillment of the writings of the
prophets. It fulfilled Old Testament prophesies by
Moses, Elijah, Elisha and others.
6. It is a proof that there is life after death.
7. Through resurrection, man was reconciled to God.

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8. Jesus has power over death, over Satan and his Kingdom
of darkness
9. It led to the coming of the Holy Spirit.
Revision questions
a. Give the different names used in reference to the lord’s
supper by Christians in different churches
b. Describe the institution of the lord’s supper
c, State the Christian teaching about the lord’s supper
d. What is the meaning of the lord’s supper to Christians?
e. Compare the Passover feast with the practice of the lord’s
supper
f. Describe the prayer on mount olives
g. Describe the betrayal and arrest of Jesus
h. State the reasons that made Judas Iscariot to betray
Jesus
i. Describe the trial of Jesus under the following headings:-
the council of Sanhedrin, the trial before Pilate, the trial
before Herod and Pilate’s judgement.
j. Why do you think Pilate agreed to have Jesus crucified?
k. Identify and explain the lessons that Christians learn
from the actions of Pilate during the trial of Jesus
l. Actions taken by the Jewish leaders to ensure that Jesus
was put to death
m. Explain the crucifixion of Jesus
n. Describe the death of Jesus
o. The burial of Jesus
p. Define the term resurrection
q. Describe the four witnesses of the risen Christ
r. Describe Jesus’ appearance to the disciples
s. Describe the ascension of Jesus
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t. Give five evidences from the bible to show that Jesus rose
from the dead
u. Explain the significance of passion, death and the
resurrection of Christ
v. What is the significance of Jesus resurrection to
Christians today
w. Explain five importance of eulogy of death of the society.
Revision question and answers
OLD TESTAMENT PROPHESIES ABOUT THE COMING OF
THE MESSIAH
Lesson one:
1. The prophecy of Jeremiah about the Messiah
a) He shall be a descendant of David
b) He shall be a king
c) He shall prosper
d) He shall execute judgment and justice
e) He shall ensure Judah/Israel is safe and lives in peace
f) He shall be called the lord our righteousness
2. Meaning of Messiah mean?
Messiah is a Hebrew word ‘Meshiach’ which means ‘the
anointed one’. It is equivalent to ‘Christ’, a
Greek word, which also means the ‘Anointed one’. A Messiah
is therefore someone called, anointed and
appointed by God to serve Him in a special way.
In the Old Testament, the Priests and Kings were the only
people who were anointed. When a person is
anointed oil is poured on them. The anointed person was set
aside from the rest of the people in order
to serve God and His people. Examples of anointed people
are Aaron (Priest) and King David. In addition,
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God himself anointed Prophets: for example, Samuel, Elijah,
Jeremiah, and Nathan among others.
3. Jewish expectations of the Messiah in the Old Testament
The messiah shall be a political leader, a victorious ruler, a
king to lead people to a time of great power
and prosperity, a king in whose reign there shall be no
sorrow or injustice nor fear, a king to rule forever
4. How Jesus Christ fulfilled the Old Testament prophetic of
the messiah
a) He was born from the lineage of David
b) He was born of Mary, a virgin as foretold by Isaiah
c) The messiah was called Immanuel (Jesus) Isaiah prophecy
d) He was born in Bethlehem – Micah’s prophecy
e) He was referred to as “son of David” – Nathan/Jeremiah/s
prophesies
f) He suffered – suffering servant prophecy by Isaiah
5. Prophets in the Old Testament who prophesied about the
expected Messiah
Isaiah, Nathan, Jeremiah, Micah and psalmist prophecy.
Answers.
Qn 1. The qualities of john as described by angel Gabriel
a. He would be a prophet of god
b. He would prepare the way for the messiah
c. He would bring joy to Zachariah and others
d. He would be a nazarite
e. He would call people to repentance
Qn 2. Why john was referred to as the second Elijah
• Like Elijah john had also lived in the wilderness
• John was also filled with the holy spirit and proclaimed
god’s message to the people
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• He also met opposition from the king just like Elijah
• He was beheaded and Elijah was threatened with death by
jezebel
• He stood firmly for the covenant way of life
• He was a great prophet of his time
• He led a simple life and faced many problems like hunger
just like Elijah
Qn 3. What lessons do Christians learn from annunciation
of the birth of john the Baptist?
• God answers prayers however long it may take
• Christians should not doubt God’s messages
• We should be persistent, faithful and patient in prayers
• Christians should be devoted to God in prayer
• Children are a gift from God and a source of joy to their
parents
• God has a purpose for every child’s life
Qn 4. Describe the birth of john the Baptist
• Elizabeth was very happy and so was Zachariah
• John was circumcised after eight days in accordance with
the Jewish customs
• Elizabeth named the child john
• Zachariah affirmed the name of their son in writing
• They were surprised at the name because it was not in
Zechariah’s lineage
• Zechariah was now able to talk
• He broke into a hymn called the Benedictus
• Zechariah expressed his feelings of joy, gratitude and
praise
• Zechariah told of the mission of his son.
TOPIC TWO: INFANCY AND EARLY LIFE OF JESUS
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Qn 1. What lessons can Christians learn from the
annunciation of the birth of Jesus Christ?
• God exalts the humble and rejects the proud
• Christians should humbly accept god’s plan for their lives
• God has a purpose for the life of every one
• Nothing is impossible with god
• God wanted Jesus Christ to be part of the human family
for him to identify with the human race
Qn2. describe Mary’s visit to Elizabeth
• Mary went to visit Elizabeth after angel Gabriel told her
that Elizabeth was expecting a baby
• Mary greeted Elizabeth and the baby in the Elizabeth’s
womb leapt with joy
• The spirit also revealed that Mary was the most blessed of
all women
• Mary sang a song known as the magnificent
Qn3. identify the main ideas in the magnificent
• Mary thanks god for
• Being good to her
• His goodness and love for all human beings
• Fulfilling his promises to the people
• Delivering the oppressed from the oppressors
Qn 4. Describe the dedication ceremony during the infancy
of Jesus
• The parents of Jesus offered the purification sacrifices
according to the law of Moses
• Simon was moved by the holy spirit and took Jesus into
his arm and praised God
• Simon prophesied about the mission of Jesus

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• Prophetess Ann thanked God for sending Jesus who would
bring redemption
• The things Simon and Anne said about their child amazed
the parents of Jesus.
TOPIC TWO: THE GALILEAN MINISTRY
Qn a. What is the relevance of John the Baptist teachings to
Christians today?
• Christians should not fear to condemn the evils in the
society
• Christians should commit their lives wholly to the work of
God
• Christians should accept their role with humility and
preach the gospel
• Christians should be ready to proclaim the gospel even
harsh environment for the people to know God
• Christians should share their resources with the less
fortunate
• Christians should be contended with their pay and thus
not accept bribes
• Christians should learn to be truthful in their work
environment
• Christians should pronounce the consequences of
judgement to those willing to repent
Qn b. Give reasons why Jesus accepted to be baptized
• To be identified as the messiah
• To identify himself with the sinful human kind
• To receive the Holy Spirit
• For God to manifest the trinity
• It was a cleansing ritual
• To acknowledge the work of John the Baptist
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• He saw it as a way of fulfilling the old testament
prophesies about the Messiah
• It was his final acceptance of the work of salvation
Qn c. describe the baptism of Jesus
• When all the people were baptized Jesus was also baptized
• He was baptized by John the Baptist in river Jordan at a
place called Bethbora
• Jesus was praying when the heavens opened
• The holy spirit descended from heaven upon him inform of
a dove
• A voice came from heaven saying “ thou art my beloved son
with thee I am well pleased
Qn d. what is the significance of the baptism of Jesus to
Christians today?
• Christians get new names that symbolizes new life in
Christ
• Christians receive the Holy Spirit who gives them guidance
in their lives
• Christians identify themselves with Jesus and the church
• Water is symbolically used as a cleanser as it wipes away
one’s sins and gives a new life
• Christians are brought together as members of the church
of Christ
• During baptism Christians receive the Holy Spirit who
guides them in their lives
• The old self dies and becomes a new person as a Christian
• It is the first step of being accepted into the Christian
brotherhood
LESSON THREE: TEMPTATIONS
Qn a. describe the temptations of Jesus
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• Satan told Jesus to turn stones into bread
• Jesus answered that man does not live on bread alone
• Satan then took Jesus to a high place and showed him all
the kingdoms of the world. Satan promised
to give Jesus everything if Jesus worshipped him
• Jesus answered that one should worship God and serve
him alone
• Hastily, satin took Jesus to the pinnacle of the temple. He
asked Jesus to throw himself down since
God would send his angles to ensure that he did not get
hurt. Jesus answered that no one should tempt
God
Qn b. from the gospel of St. Luke, identify five occasions
when Jesus was tempted
• In the wilderness
• When he healed a dumb man the commanded a sign
• Jesus was tempted to arbitrate between two brothers
• When the rich young ruler called Jesus a good teacher
• When he was asked whether it was right to pay taxes to
Caesar
• In the garden of Gethsemane, he was tempted to escape
the cup of suffering
• During his trial he was asked whether he was the Messiah
• During crucifixion he was spat on but did not fight back
• On the cross one of the thieves wanted him to deliver them
• He was questioned by the Sadducees about resurrection
Qn c. Outline ways in which Christians can overcome
temptations in the contemporary world
• They should depend on Jesus

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• They should be well versed with the scripture so that they
can refer to the bible
• They should seek guidance and counseling
• They should attend bible classes for the right
interpretation of the bible
• They should have faith or believe in God to help them
during trials
• They should avoid bad company
• The should take part in active leisure
• They should avoid circumstances that can lead them to sin
• They should resist Satan
Qn d. Explain ways in which Christians can be tempted
• To give a bribe in order to get a job
• To engage in irresponsible sexual behaviour due to peer
pressure
• To steal money entrusted to them
• To cheat in examinations
• To take drugs/alcohol
• To exploit those who serve under them in their places of
work
• To keep excess change from a shopkeeper or tout
• To show off
Qn e. What lessons can Christians learn fro the temptations
of Jesus?
• Since Jesus was tempted, he fully understands our
difficulties
• God does not tempt us beyond our strength
• Through temptations we will also be tempted
• Through temptations and trials our faith is strengthened

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• When we are tempted we should turn to the bible for
guidance
• We should seek the holy spirit who enabled Jesus to
conquer evil
LESSON EIGHT: THESERMON ON THE PLAIN:
1. Give the main teachings of Jesus on the sermon on the
plain
The sermon on the plain consisted of five main parts
namely:
Blessings (Lk 6: 20 – 26) and woes
These are also referred to as the beatitudes. Here, Jesus had
a message for the poor, the rich, those who
hunger and those who are full, those who weep and those
who laugh. His concern is to show the social
differences and mystery of Christian suffering. Persecution
seems to be a common phenomenon for
followers of Christ. The poor are those who cannot meet
their basic needs and Luke depicts them as
hungry and weeping.
The disciples are included in the poor because they have
given up everything. But Jesus gives hope.
Jesus warns the rich against using their economic points to
oppress the poor. They have an opportunity,
however to belong to the Kingdom by using their riches to
help the needy.
Love of Enemies: (6:27-37)
Followers of Jesus are supposed to “Love your enemies, do
good to those who hate, bless those who
curse you, and pray for those who abuse you”.
Judging Others (6:37-43)
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Disciples are expected to acknowledge their own
shortcomings before they can condemn the faults in
others. Failure to recognize one’s fault is a hindrance to
becoming a member of the Kingdom of God.
Evidence to Good Discipleship
The proof of a person’s goodness is seen in his deeds. The
true nature of a person cannot be hidden
because what they do and say will reveal their nature.
Hearing and Doing (6: 47-49)
It is not enough for His followers to proclaim Christ as Lord.
They must also do what He tells them.
Q2. What is the relevance of the (beatitudes) sermon on the
plain to Christians today?
The teachings on blessings and woes tell us that the goal of
a person should be to inherit the Kingdom of
God.
Christians should love their enemies as Jesus loved them
sinful as they were.
Human beings are self-centered. It is easier to see other
people’s mistakes than our own Christian
should examine them before passing judgement on others.
By so doing we appreciate that we are all
sinners who should seek forgiveness from God and we
should always appreciate others however sinful
they may be.
Be steadfast in faith and do good all the time.
LESSION 9: JESUS’ WORKS OF COMPASSION
Q2 Narrate the story of the forgiveness of the sinful woman
(Lk 7:36-8:3)

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 one occasion, Jesus was invited by Simon the Pharisee
to his house to eat with him.

weeping.

them with her hair.

d them with an ointment.

were a prophet, He would have noticed that

the woman was a sinner.

creditor who has two debtors, one owed him

hundred denarii and the other fifty.

the creditors more.

them using her hair and oiled them.

loved much, one with little love receives little

more.
woman had
not stopped kissing Him.

forgiven sins?

in peace.”
Q3. What lessons do Christians learn from the above story?
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 ept their sins and seek for
forgiveness as the sinful woman did.

woman “Your faith has save you.”

Jewish religious leaders).

he magnitude of sin that matters but the attitude
of a person towards his sins.

Q4. Describe the story of the raising of the widow’s son at

Nain (Lk 7:11-17)
us went to the city
of Nain.

said to her, “Do not weep.’

o carried him stood still.

visited His people.

LESSON 10: JESUS’ TEACHING – WHAT IS THE
IMPORTANCE OF PARABLES?
1. Give reasons why Jesus used parables
• To attract the attention of his listeners
• To help his listeners understand better
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• To separate the serious people from the onlookers
• To enrich his teachings
• To avoid direct confrontation with his enemies
• It was a common way of teaching those days
• To teach about God’s mercy to sinners
• To make people think critically out issues concerning
God’s kingdom
• To relate patent issues with those of the future kingdom
positively
Qn 2. Identify various methods used by Christians in
spreading the gospel today
• Preaching
• Teaching
• Being role models
• Holding crusades
• Organizing seminars and conferences
• Electronic mechanisms e.g. sms and emails
• Print media e.g. posters and magazines
• Door to door evangelism
• Through demonstration and role play
• Through the mass media e.g. radios and TVs
• Through Christian music e.g. cassettes and C.Ds
Qn 3. Discuss the reasons why Jesus faced opposition from
the Jewish leaders
• His popularity
• His interpretation of the Sabbath
• His failure to observe the law of fasting
• He associated with tax collectors
• He claimed to be the messiah
• He out rightly condemned them
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• Teaching with authority
• His claims to forgive sins.
.
LESSON 11: MIGHTY WORKS OF JESUS
Q1 Narrate the healing of the Gerasene demoniac – Lk 8:26-
39.

demon – possessed man in a gentile town called

Gerasa.

dead.

him.

that he was called “Legion” – which stands

for 2000 – 6000 soldiers.

leave him.
s let the evil spirits to go to the pigs, which were
grazing nearby.

Q2. What lesson can Christian learn from the healing of the
demoniac man above?

evil/spirits into the pigs, which drowned into the lake

and saved the man.

was a gentile.
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 – physically and spiritually.

esus came to destroy the power of evil.

constantly. But with Jesus’ help they will

overcome it.

their aid, however, much.

d give out their material possession to save
those in need. This man needed help.

to in his village etc.

Q3. What do the miracle of Jesus teach us about Him?

e.g. the raising of the widow’s son.

He is the life and the
resurrection.

Gesarone demoniac who was a gentile.

– they helped Him teach.
showed the concern for human life,
physically, spiritually and mentally.
LESSON 12: COMMISSIONING OF THE TWELVE
DISCIPLES (LK 1:1-10)
Q1. What is the role of the clergy in Kenya?

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 against their sins.

forgiveness.

Q2. How does the church participate in the upkeep of the

clergy?

– foodstuffs as part of sadaka during

service.
LESSON 13: THE TRANSFIGURATION
Q2. Describe the transfiguration of Jesus (Luke 9:28-37)

He was about to do was the will of His

Father.

went to Mount Hermon to pray.

became dazzling white.

departure (death), which He was to accomplish

in Jerusalem.

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stood with Him.

Jesus, ‘Master, it is well that we are here, Let us

make booths, one for you, one for Elijah and one for Moses.

were afraid.

my chosen, Listen to Him.’

Q3. What is the significance of the transfiguration of Jesus
(Lk 9:28-37)?

God.

continue with His work after death.

prophecies and God. This is seen with the

appearance of Elijah and Moses.

marked the onset of His passion, which

would lead to His death.
Jesus that He was doing the right thing and
God was in support of His suffering.

TOPIC FOUR: THE JOURNEY TO JERUSALEM

LESSON 1: DUTIES, PRIVILEGES AND COST OF
DISCIPLESHIP
Q1. What are the characteristics of a true follower of Jesus?

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enduring hardship because Jesus did not have a
permanent home.
-denial and suffering.

Q2. State the privileges of being a disciple of Jesus

nal life.

through preaching.
Q3 Why did Jesus choose the 12 disciples?

news.

To witness to his work.

miracles.

A COMMITED FOLLOWER OF JESUS Lk 10:25 11:1-13

(Note: Not the parable of the Samaritans)
Q1. From the teaching of Jesus on the parable of the Good
Samaritan, who do you think is a committed
follower of Jesus?

requires help regardless of their social status

sly to help the needy

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practices in responding to a needy situation

identifying with the needy and being ready

to experience their suffering.
LESSON 3: JESUS’ TEACHING ON PRAYER
Q1. What did Jesus teach about prayer?

parable of Friend at Midnight.

the tax collector and the Pharisee.

a father.

Qs 1 & 2 are out of topic.

LESSON 5: JESUS’ TEACHINGS ON HYPOCRISY, WEALTH,
WATCHFULNESS AND READINESS
Q1. Hypocrisy – In what areas were the Pharisees
hypocritical?
s which were done
ceremoniously. The Pharisees were too
strict on this, which was not important. He told them to pay
attention to issues of charity than external
appearance.

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 – They paid this well for the support of
priests but neglected justice and love for God.

taking reserved seats and their desire to be

noticed at market places by wearing long white robes.

persecuted the prophets of God.

LESSON 6: (Lesson 6 will come later)
AKUKA FIND THEY ARE IN THE TEXT
LESSON 7: JESUS’ TEACHINGS ON WEALTH AND
POVERTY
Read Lk: 11:13-34 : Parable of the rich fool
Q1. From the parable of the rich fool, what can Christians
learn about the use of wealth?

Q2. Narrate the parable of the shrewd manager

his servant.

manager and asked him for a full account of

how the property was being managed.

friends with some of his master’s debtors so

that they would take care of him if he got sacked.

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pay 50 barrels and one who owed 1000
was asked to pay 800 barrels.

in his moment of crisis.

LESSION 8: TEACHING ON FORGIVENESS
What were the teachings of Jesus on forgiveness?
hould forgive and forget

PERSISTENT IN PRAYER
Q1. State the parable of the widow and the unjust judge 18:
1-8

ought always to pray and not lose heart.

nor regarded man.

e was a widow in that city which kept coming to
him and wanted her right given.

though I neither fear God nor regard man,

yet because this widow bothers me, I will allow her set her
right or she will wear me out by her continual
coming.

and will he not vindicate His elect who cry

to Him day and night?

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speedily.
LESSON 10: THE WAY TO SALVATION Lk 18: 15 – 19
Q1: What did Jesus teach by using the example of little
children?

kingdom of God belongs to such as them.

ter God’s
kingdom, he must humble himself like children.

simple, humble, innocent and trusting like

children.
Q2. Give an account of how Jesus healed the blind beggar
(18:35-43)

o be bold and determined.

blindness.
Q3. Explain the relevance of Jesus’ teaching on salvation to
Christians

seek forgiveness in order to receive salvation

and eternal life.

earn salvation.

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receive salvation.

parable.
ey too learn that wealth can be a hindrance to salvation.

TOPIC FIVE: THE JERUSALEM MINISTRY

Qn a. describe Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem
according to Luke chapter 19: 29-30
• After his journey from Galilee ended, Jesus approached
Jerusalem passing through Bethaphage,
Bethany and the mount olives
• He sent two of his disciples to a village to get him a donkey
on which nobody had ridden
• He gave the disciples instructions that if the owner of the
donkey demanded to know why they were
untying it, they were to respond, “ The lord has need for it”
• When they got the donkey, they threw their garments on it
and helped Jesus to sit on it
• As Jesus rode along, they spread their garments on the
road
• The crowds following him rejoiced and praised God for all
the wonderful work Jesus had done this
included: teaching, healing and feeding the hungry
• The crowds sang, “ Blessed is the king who comes in the
name of the lord. Peace in heaven and glory in
the highest”. By singing, the crowds acclaimed Jesus as
king.
• The Pharisees objected to the crowds singing and asked
Jesus to silence them
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• Jesus responded that if his followers were silent, “ the very
stones would cry out”. Insensitive than
stones not to know what was happening, that is, the
Messiah has come
Qn b. what does the manner of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem
reveal about the nature of the kingdom of
God?
• Jesus was a descendant of David, prophesied Messiah and
son of God
• Jesus is a triumphant, victorious yet a humble king. A
donkey is a symbol of humility and peace. So he
came to establish a peaceful kingdom
• Jesus wanted to proclaim the coming of his kingdom but
not as an earthly/ military leader, thus
leading them to lay their garments for him to step on. In
doing this, they were acknowledging Jesus as
Jerusalem’s promised king
• Jesus was greeted as a king the same way the kings of
Israel were greeted with acclamation and joy
• By riding on a donkey, Jesus fulfilled the prophesy of
Zechariah which says, the king is coming riding on
a donkey triumphant, humble and victorious
• Christianity is not propagated through violent means but
peace
Qn c. what lessons can Christians learn fro Jesus’
triumphant entry into Jerusalem?
• Christians learn that they should be prepared to receive
Jesus into their lives like the crowd which
escorted him to Jerusalem

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• Christians also learn that they should emulate Jesus and
be channels of peace in their communities
• They also learn that they should expect opposition and
resistance as they witness to Christ. They
should not give up hope
• Christians learn that they should be humble like Jesus in
their service to others
• Christians should thank and praise God for his
intervention in their lives by sending Jesus
• They should be bold in their witnessing to Christ like the
crowds that followed Jesus to Jerusalem and
declared him king
Qn d. state and explain why Jesus wept over Jerusalem.
• When Jesus came close to the city of Jerusalem he wept
over it saying, “ If you only knew what is
needed for peace! But now you cannot see it! The time will
come when your enemies will surround you
with barricades block you and close in on you from every
side. They will completely destroy you and the
people within your walls, not a single stone will they leave in
its place because you did not recognize the
time when God came to save you”.
• According to Luke, all song and rejoicing stopped suddenly
when Jesus was deeply distressed at the
sight of Jerusalem
• Jesus knew that Jerusalem (the city of peace) would reject
his final appeal and by so doing would bring
judgement down on itself. The destruction of the city is
viewed as the consequence of its rejection of

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Jesus. They cannot see when the true peace comes in the
person of Jesus. The coming destruction is a
symbol of God’s judgement on lack of trust. The tears of
Jerusalem are the tears of tragedy.
• The heart of the tragedy is that Jerusalem did not
recognize the time when God came to save them
• Now Jesus says that Jerusalem was not ready to receive
him as their savior and this would lead to her
ruin
• Just like the Babylonians were God’s instrument of
destruction of Jerusalem during the time of
Jeremiah, so will the Romans be instruments of destruction
of Jerusalem
• Jerusalem was completely destroyed by the Roman armies
in the year A.D 70
Qn e. Explain the cleansing of the temple.
• While in Jerusalem, Jesus entered the temple where he
found people buying and selling
• He drove them out and overturned their tables saying that
they had turned his father’s house into a
den of robbers
• Here Luke uses this incidence to show how Jerusalem was
still unprepared for the day of God’s visit
• Jesus carried out a symbolic act by driving out those who
were buying and selling in the temple
• Jesus used the words of Jeremiah who too attacked the in
his time for turning the temple into a
hideout for thieves
• According to Jesus the temple will no longer give them the
sense of security because it will be
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destroyed
• Although the temple will be destroyed, a new one will be
built. This is the Christian community, which
will be a house o prayer for all nations. The new temple will
not be limited to Jesus alone but to all
people
• In short Jesus is the Messiah. He exposed the
unrighteousness of public life in Jerusalem by attacking
the merchants in the temple
Qn f. Give reasons why Jesus cleansed the temple of
Jerusalem
• The temple authorities had allowed a market in the court
of the gentiles where the everyday money
issued by the Roman government could be exchanged for
the special temple coins which had to be used
for paying the temple tax
• In the same place they could also buy the animals needed
for sacrifice. This animals had to be certified
as acceptable
• But both the changing of money and the certifying of
animals gave ample opportunity for making
exorbitant profits
• Jesus made his protest because all this trading was hiding
for the real purpose of the temple and
prevented Israel from being a light to the gentiles. For this
reason, the temple would be destroyed
because it was no longer serving as “ a house of prayer”.
Qn g. what lessons can Christians learn from the cleansing
of the temple?

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• Christians learn that they should respect the house of God
and use it appropriately
• Christian leaders should avoid exploiting members
through asking for excessive contributions
• Christians should pay more attention to inward
righteousness than external observance of rituals
• Christians should have more courage like Jesus to
condemn evil practices by leaders in the church and
society
• Christians should be exemplary with their life styles so as
to win others to the kingdom
• Finally the cleansing of the temple by Jesus provides
valuable lesson to Christians who are called upon
to be Christ’s ambassadors. There are many incidents where
churches have been subjected to disrespect
and dishonor and this discourages many people from
knowing God. Christians should also avoid
leadership wrangles, corruption, sexual abuse, gossip and
many others that have caused churches to
split
Qn h. explain Jesus’ conflict with the Jewish leaders
• In a series of conflicts in and around the temple between
Jesus and the official leaders of the Jewish
nation, the public ministry of Jesus came to its close
• After the cleansing the temple, he daily dominated the
temple area teaching large crowds. His
popularity grew steadily and the leaders felt the threat
against their own position. They could not allow
this to go on but they were afraid to arrest Jesus. In the end
they tried to trap him into making
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statements which would either get him into trouble with the
Roman authorities or discredit him before
the people
• First Jesus was challenged about his authority. The
Jewish religious leaders wondered whose authority
Jesus used. They wanted to know which Rabii taught him or
to which Jewish religious groups he
belonged to i.e. the Pharisees or the Sadducees
• If Jesus proclaimed himself as the Messiah he could be
accused before the Roman authorities for
rebellion
• If he refused to make his claim the crowds would soon
leave him alone
• But Jesus skillfully defeated his adversaries. He invited
them to answer their own question. “ Tell me,
did John’s right to baptize come from God or human
beings?”
• Whatever answer they gave to Jesus’ question about John
the Baptist would apply in even stronger
measures to their own question about Jesus
• But they had never supported John and they could no now
admit that his right to baptize came from
God
• If they did they would also have to accept Jesus whom
John had announced. Neither could they say
John was a prophet for that would bring trouble from the
people who held John in high self-esteem
Qn i. Describe the parable of the tenants in the vineyard
• After the question of Jesus’ authority, Jesus challenged
the Jewish leaders by telling them the parable
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of the wicked tenants. He said that there was once a man
who planted a vineyard, let it to the tenants
and then left home for a long time
• When the time came to gather the grapes, he sent a slave
to the tenants to receive from them his
share of the harvest but the tenants beat the slaves and sent
him back without a thing. The same
treatment was given to the second and the third slave
• The owner decided to send his own son whom they killed.
He therefore decided to come by himself,
killed the tenants and handed over the vineyard to other
men
• When the people heard this they said, “surely not” but
Jesus explained to them “the stone which the
builders rejected as worthless turned out to be the most
important of all. And every one who falls on
the stone will be cut to pieces and if that stone falls on
someone, it will crush him to dust
• In this parable, the vineyard represents God’s kingdom,
Israel. The servants are the prophets sent to
Israel and they are rejected. The son here represents Jesus
and the owner is God who will bring
judgement on Israel
• The stone that the builders rejected has become the
cornerstone this shows that Jesus saw himself as
the rejected but most important. He makes a new
foundation of Israel for both Jews and Gentiles. On
hearing this, the Pharisees wanted to seize Jesus but were
afraid of the people
Qn j. what is the relevance of the parable of the tenants?
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• Over the centuries the situation has not changed. Jesus is
still rejected by nations and by men
• What happened to Jesus happened as he foretold those
who follow him
• Church history reveals many examples of men rejected by
political and religious leaders and by the
people their time and who have later been seen as the key
man in the revelation of God’s purpose
• As Christians we should also pray for strength and
guidance from God to be able to deal with rejection
• As Christians we should not fear rejection but stand firm
for the truth
• Christians should also seek pastoral counseling fro the
church leaders and other Christians. When we
endure persecution we may be finally proved right
Qn k. the question about paying taxes
• The teachers of law and the chief priest, after falling to
arrest Jesus bribed some spies to ask whether
it was right for the to pay taxes to Caesar or not
• The Israelites were compelled to pay taxes to the Romans
who controlled them
• Many resented this because according to them payment of
taxes using coins which had some
emperors image was a violation of the Jewish law which
forbade the use of images
• If Jesus would tell them to pay, the people would be
against him for supporting Roman rule over them
• Many resented this because according to them people
would be against him for supporting Roman
rule over them
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• If he told them not to pay, they would accuse him to the
Roman authorities
• Jesus knew their trick and wanted his questioners to make
their own decision about the issue
• According to him it was right for the Roman government to
exert the tax payments without
demeaning God’s authority
• In other words, by having the silver coin in their
possession, the Jews accepted Roman authority
• They had a duty to pay tax to the emperor because they
enjoyed the benefit of the Roman rule
• At the same time they had a duty to be loyal to God. A
person’s loyalty should not be owed to the
state or Caesar
Qn l. explain the question about resurrection
• The Sadducees raised the question concerning marriage an
resurrection or life after death
• They asked Jesus whose wife a woman would be in the
resurrection when she married seven brothers
who had died without bearing children
• The question was meant or designed to make Jesus look
foolish thus to shame him. This would
undermine the popular support that we had prevented
action against Jesus
• In his response, Jesus made the following observations
• He does not accept the assumption that marriage
continues after resurrection
• Quoting from exodus a book that the Sadducees accepted,
Jesus confirms that there is life after death
• The resurrection life is different from earthly life
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• It is a new existence where those who resurrect, live with
God as his children in eternity
Qn m. what is eschatology?
• The term eschatology is derived from two Greek words
’Eschatus’ and ‘Lagos’, which means end and
study respectively
• Eschatology therefore is the study of the last things such
as death, judgement, life after death and th
end of the world
• Jesus talked about the end of the world to his disciples
just before he was arrested
Qn n. what will happen at the end of the world (eschatology)
according to Jesus’ teaching in Luke’s
gospel 21: 5-38?
• Jesus taught hi disciples about the end times in the
temple of Jerusalem
• In his speech, he talked about what will happen to the city
of Jerusalem and the world at the end of
time
• Jerusalem was going to be destroyed because of her
refusal to recognize and accept the Messiah
• Jesus told the disciples of the signs that would accompany
the end of the world
• People come claiming to be Jesus the Messiah, the son of
God
• There will be wars between nations
• Natural calamities like earthquakes, famines and plagues
will occur
• Strange heavenly beings will come from the sky
• There will be disruption in the sky and in the sea
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• All nations will be in despair
• People will faint from fear as they witness these signs
• At the end of all these, the son of man will appear in power
and glory
• Jesus’ teaching of the end times was meant to provide
encouragement to the disciples in difficult
times
• They were expected to have hope
Qn o. how do Christians prepare for the second coming of
Christ?
• Christians should prepare for the second coming of Christ
by not losing hope in the face of trials and
tribulations because the kingdom of God with its promises
of a new life will definitely come
• They prepare for his second coming by leading a righteous
life. They are to avoid too much feasting
and drinking
• They should prepare by being watchful through prayers so
that God will give them courage and
strength to stand firm in their faith
• They should prepare by preaching the word of God to those
who have not heard it
• They should prepare by being obedient to God’s
commandments
• They should prepare by helping the needy
• They should prepare by preaching and evangelizing and
converting others
TOPIC SIX: THE PASSION, DEATH AND RESURRECTION
OF JESUS CHRIST
THE LORD’S SUPPER
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Qn a. give the different names used in reference to the
Lord’s Supper by Christians in different churches
• The holy Eucharist
• The mass
• The lord’s table or the table of the lord
• The Holy Communion
• The Last Supper
• The breaking of bread
• The sacrament
Qn b. describe the institution of the Lord’s Supper
• Jesus was at the last supper with his disciples the night
he was betrayed
• In the room which had been arranged by Jesus. He told
his disciples how much he had longed to eat
the Passover meal with them before he suffered death
• He took a piece of bread and gave thanks to God and broke
it. He gave it to them saying, “ this is my
body which is given for you. So do this in memory of me”
• He took a cup of wine and gave thanks to God and said “
take this and share it among yourselves”
• He also gave them a cup of wine after supper saying “ this
cup is God’s new covenant sealed with my
blood which is poured out for you
Qn c. state the Christian teachings about the Lord’s Supper
• The Last Supper was inaugurated by Jesus
• It’s celebration of the crucified and rise Christ
• The Lord’s Supper is a gift from God
• It is a sacrifice of praise and thanks giving
• It is the church’s effective proclamation of God’s mighty
works acts and promises
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• It is a sign of the unity of the church or the believers
• It is a new paschal meal of the church. The meal, which by
visible signs communicates God’s love in
Jesus Christ. It is the sacrament of Christ’s real presence
• The bread is a symbol of the body of Christ which was
crucified
• The wine or cup is a symbol of his blood, which was shed.
It is the blood of the new covenant
• It is a fore state of Christ’s passion and of the final
kingdom. It is symbolic of the heavenly banquet
• It is central to Christian worship. (Eucharist)
Qn d. what is the meaning of the Lord’s Supper to
Christians?
• The sacramental meal communicates God’s love in Christ
• The washing of the disciples feet by Jesus signifies humble
service to and love for one another
• They proclaim the lord’s death until his second coming
• They share in the body of Christ
• The unity of Christians is evidenced
• The bread symbolizes the body of Jesus which was
crucified on the cross for the sins of human kind
and for the healing of their diseases
• The wine symbolizes the blood of Jesus which was shed for
forgiveness of sins
• The wine also symbolizes the sealing of a new covenant
• The partaking of the Lord’s Supper strengthens the faith of
believers in that, Christ’s presence is felt
and in this way they constantly keep in touch with him
• The lord’s supper enhances a personal relationship
between the individual believer ad Christ
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• It is thanksgiving to God for everything accomplished in
creation, redemption and sanctification
• Through the Holy Communion, Christians offer themselves
as a holy and living sacrifice. They
rededicate and renew themselves. Those who share in the
sacred meal declare their loyalty to Christ
• The Lord’s Supper is an act of repentance. The partakers
receive re-assurance of the forgiveness of sins
and are assured of salvation
• The bread and the wine which represents the body and
blood of Jesus become the final sacrifice
replacing all O.T sacrifices that were offered for the salvation
of the human race
Qn f. Prayer on mount olives
• After celebrating the last supper, Jesus and his disciples
went to mount olives
• He knelt down and prayed and asked his disciples to join
him
• In response, God sent an angel from heaven to encourage
him
• Jesus prayed in agony until his sweat was like drops of
blood
• This sweat which was like blood was an indication of the
struggle and agony he went through to
accept the will of his father
• Though Jesus suffered agony and turmoil, he approached
it with great courage and composure
• His suffering was even greater for it involved more than
physical pain. It meant bearing the sin of the
world
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• So he prayed to God, his father to give him strength for his
coming mission
• When he went back to his disciples, he found them asleep
a sign of moral and physical exhaustion or
maybe it was an indication that they were in sorrow because
Jesus had told them he was about to be
crucified
• In conclusion, we can say that Jesus expressed an inner
struggle about the fulfillment of his Messianic
mission. So he prayed to God to help him bear the suffering.
Prayer was very important in Jesus’
ministry
Qn g. describe the betrayal and arrest of Jesus
• When Jesus came down from Mt. Olives he met a
multitude of people
• Judas Iscariot appeared accompanied by a large crowd,
the chief priest, elders and the temple guards
who had ordered to arrest Jesus
• Judas Iscariot came forth and kissed Jesus. This was a
sign identifying Jesus as the man they were
looking for. That kiss was the betrayal
• When the disciples noticed what was happening one of
them used his sword to cut off the ear of a
high priest’s slave
• In other words Jesus stopped his disciples from resisting
his arrest
• By rejecting armed assistance, Jesus was refusing the role
of a political Messiah
• Jesus was arrested and taken to the house of the chief
priest Annas
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Qn h. state the reasons that made Judas Iscariot to betray
Jesus
• He lacked moral courage to stand by Jesus during his
moment
• He could have been an informer of the Jewish religious
leaders
• He was overcome by the power of evil
• He was disappointed by Jesus’ teaching on spiritual
kingdom rather than fulfilling the Jewish
expectation of a political Messiah who could liberate them
from the Roman rule
• He was a mercenary motivated by greed for money
• He had little faith in Jesus or lost his trust in Jesus Christ
• He was not loyal to the master
• He was a northerner who felt foreign and thus was jealous
against other disciples
• He was a zealot who believed in war rather than peace
Qn i. Describe the trial of Jesus under the following
The council of Sanhedrin
• Jesus was brought to the Sanhedrin council early in the
morning following his arrest
• The council of elders asked him if he was the Messiah
• Jesus responded by speaking of the son of the man coming
in triumph
• The Sanhedrin accused him of the sin of blasphemy for
allegedly claiming to be the son of God
• He was condemned to die for alleged blasphemy
• In the Jewish law, blasphemy was punishable by death
The trial before Pilate

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• Since the Sanhedrin could not carry out the death
sentence, they took Jesus to the Roman governor
Pilate
• They accused Jesus of inciting the people to revolt,
forbidding payment of taxes and claiming to be a
king in rebellion to Roman authority
• They could not accuse Jesus of blasphemy. This charge
would not be accepted under Roman law
• However, by taking Jesus to Pilate, the Jewish religious
leaders wanted the Roman authority to take
responsibility for Jesus’ death
The trial before Herod
• Jesus’ ministry works had mesmerized Herod. So when
Pilate learned that Jesus was from Galilee, he
handed him over to Herod who was the district officer of
Galilee and happened to be in Jerusalem at
that time
• The trial of Jesus before Herod (only mentioned in St.
Luke’s gospel) is not really a trial because king
Herod only wanted to satisfy his curiosity about Jesus
• He joined the soldiers in mocking Jesus
• Jesus refused to answer Herod’s questions and he
consequently sent Jesus back to Pilate
• Interestingly the mockery by Herod and his soldiers as
another step in the public ridicule of Jesus. It
will continue as he hangs on the cross
Pilate’s judgement
• Jesus was brought to Pilate a second time
• Pilate reiterated that he found Jesus not guilty of any
crime
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• The chief priests prevailed upon Pilate who passed a
sentence of death on Jesus to die by crucifixion.
This was the punishment of high treason according to the
Roman law
• The Jewish leaders asked that Barnabas a criminal be
released instead of Jesus
• It was customary for a convicted person to be released
during the Passover
• So the Jewish leaders and not the Jewish people or Pilate
were responsible for Jesus’ death
• Jesus was killed because of the blind hatred of the Jewish
leaders
Qn j. why do you think Pilate agreed to have Jesus
crucified?
• He was afraid of a Jew revolt. It was his duty to maintain
peace in his territory in accordance with the
expectations of the Roman emperor. If he had released
Jesus, the Jew would have caused a disturbance
• He did not want to be disloyal to the Roman emperor after
learning that Jesus had been accused of
treason. Disloyalty could have resulted in losing favor with
the emperor and consequently his job
• He washed his hands. This means that he was absolving
himself of the guilt of having Jesus crucified.
This is because he had learnt from the Jewish leaders that
Jesus was the Son of God. His wife had also
cautioned him about Jesus’ innocence. Pilate himself had
found no evidence to convict Jesus
Qn k. identify and explain the lessons that Christians learn
from the actions of Pilate during the trial of
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Jesus
• Jesus is the king of the Jews
• Jesus is without sin. Pilate found no guilt in Jesus and he
sent him to Herod
• Pilate gave in to their demands on the grounds of treason-
Christians should refrain from giving false
witness
• Pilate was afraid of a revolt. It was his duty to maintain
peace as a Roman officer. Christians learn that
they should not be compromised by worldly standards
• Christians should stand firm for the truth because the
truth will always prevail
• Christians should strive not to loose favour with God. They
should desire to please God rather than
man
• Pilate washed his hands he learnt that Jesus is truly the
son of God (innocent)
• Great evil can happen when the truth is at the mercy of
political pressure
• Christians should take time before making decisions
• Resisting the truth leaves a person without purpose or
direction
Qn l. actions taken by the Jewish leaders to ensure that
Jesus was put to death
• They paid Judas Iscariot to betray him
• They bought false witnesses to accuse him of blasphemy
before Sanhedrin/ blasphemy was punishable
by stoning to death
• They hurriedly tried Jesus at night before people knew
what was happening
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• They framed treason charge against Jesus when he
appeared before Pilate/ treason carried a death
sentence
• They employed armed temple guards and armored soldiers
to deal with those who would fight for
Jesus
• They blackmailed Pilate to have Jesus crucified
• They organized a mob to shout for the death of Jesus and
release of Barnabas
• They crucified him dead when they got permission from
Pilate
Qn m. explain the crucifixion of Jesus
• Jesus was given the cross beam to carry to his crucifixion
site
• Simon of Cyrene helped him carry it
• A group of women followed Jesus and wept over his plight
• Jesus asked them to weep over themselves and their
children
• He talked about the impending destruction coming over
Jerusalem
• Jesus eventually arrived at Golgotha and was nailed on the
cross
• Two criminals were crucified on either of his sides
• After his crucifixion, the soldiers cast lots to divide his
garments. This action fulfilled psalms 22: 18,
Jesus is the righteous Messiah who suffers unjustly and is
mocked by people as he cries to God
• The soldiers, Jewish leaders and one of the thieves mocked
Jesus for claiming to be the royal Messiah
• Jesus is mocked with the challenge to save himself
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• One of the criminals crucified with Jesus usually referred
to as the repentant thief acknowledged Jesus
as the Messiah and admitted the justness of his own
condemnation
• Above Jesus it was written, “ this is the king of Jews”
• Jesus forgave his killers and all those who had accused
him falsely. He promised one of the thieves
hanging on the cross a place in paradise
Qn n. describe the death of Jesus
• The death of Jesus was preceded by extra ordinary
happenings
• Darkness covered the land for three hours
• The curtain in the temple tore into two
• Jesus died after crying “ father into thy hands I commit my
spirit”
• On seeing Jesus die, the Roman centurion who was
present testified to Jesus’ innocence. As he
recognized Jesus’ lordship
• In his death, Jesus showed total commitment to God’s will
Qn o. the burial of Jesus
• Joseph of Arimathea, a rich and righteous member of the
Sanhedrin asked Pilate to allow him bury
Jesus
• Joseph could have been a secret disciple of Jesus
• Jesus’ burial in Joseph’s grave fulfilled Isaiah’s prophesy
concerning the suffering servant of Yahweh
who was buried in a rich man’s tomb
• A group of women followed Joseph and saw where he
buried Jesus

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• They went back home to prepare spices with which to
wash Jesus’ body after the Sabbath
• Jesus was indeed a king judged by the way he was buried
THE RESURRECTION:
Qn p. define the term resurrection
The term resurrection refers to the event of Jesus rising
from the dead. This event took place on the
third day i.e. the Sunday morning after Jesus was crucified
on Friday afternoon
Qn q. the witnesses of the risen Christ
The testimony of the repentant thief
• He rebuked his unrepentant companion
• He recognized his own sinful condition
• He declared Jesus to be sinless
• He professed in Jesus’ true Messiah-ship and Lordship
• He recognized that Jesus would live and exercise his
saving power after he died
The testimony of Joseph of Arimathea
• Joseph of Arimathea was a secret disciple of Christ
• He witnessed to the lordship of Jesus Christ after his
death by his actions
• He did this by seeking permission from Pilate to bury the
body of Jesus
• By giving Jesus this royal burial he was witnessing to the
truth that Jesus was king
Testimony of the holy woman
• On the day after the Sabbath, Mary Magdalene and Mary
the mother of Jesus went to the tomb
planning to prepare Jesus’ body for a proper burial

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• On arrival, they found the stone covering the tomb had
been rolled away
• The tomb was also empty
• Two men in dazzling clothes confirmed that Jesus had
risen as he had prophesied. The two men were
angles
• When the women learnt of Jesus’ resurrection, they broke
the news to the apostils and all the others.
The apostles rejected the women’s testimony
The testimony of disciples on their way to Emmaus
• Jesus appeared to the disciples who were on their way to
Emmaus
• They were discussing Jesus’ suffering, death and the
empty tomb
• They regarded Jesus’ death as a tragedy, for they had
hoped he would liberate the Jews from the
Roman rule
• Jesus explained to the scriptures, which say the messiah
would suffer to reach his glory.
• They invited Jesus to dine with them
• Jesus shared the Holy Eucharist with them before they
recognized whom he was at the breaking of the
bread
• The disciples at Emmaus thus became the second
witnesses to the risen Christ. The effect of this
testimony is that the disciples went and told the eleven
apostles about their encounter with the risen
Christ
Qn r. the appearance of Jesus to the disciples

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• As the disciples narrated their encounter with Jesus to the
eleven apostles, Jesus appeared to them
• Jesus asked them to confirm that he had risen by touching
his body
• He explained to the apostles his mission through telling
them the prophesies about him in the law of
Moses, prophets and psalms
• Jesus brought his disciples to be witnesses by proclaiming
repentance and forgiveness of sins
• He tested some cooked fish
• He promised that he was going to be with them through
the power of the Holy Spirit
THE ASCENSION OF JESUS
Qn s. Describe the ascension of Jesus
• From Jerusalem Jesus led his disciples to Bethany
• He raised his hands blessed the disciples and lifted to
heaven
• The disciples returned and witnessed Jesus’ ascension
with joy
• They continued to go to the temple to pray to God waiting
for the holy spirit that Jesus had promised
them
• From this incidence where Jesus blessed the disciples, we
learn that the disciples became confident
about their mission. This earlier disbelief and blindness to
who Jesus was now overcome
Qn t. Give five evidences from the bible that show that Jesus
Christ rose from the dead
• The tomb was empty
• Assurance of the angle to the women that Jesus had risen
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• Thomas witnessed the resurrection by feeling the scars on
Jesus’ hands
• The women who had gone to the tomb had found it empty
• The disciples witnessed his resurrection when he appeared
to the two disciples at Emmaus
• Jesus shared a meal with his disciples after his
resurrection in Jerusalem
• Jesus walked with the disciples up to Bethany prior to his
ascension
Qn t. explain the significance of passion, death and the
resurrection of Jesus to Christian life
• The passion deed and resurrection refers to seven
incidences namely, Jesus’ last supper, suffering in
the garden, suffering before Sanhedrin, Pilate and Herod;
mocking by the soldiers, death on the cross,
resurrection and ascension
• Those events are of great significance to the modern
Christians. First they proof that Jesus was indeed
the son of God and the Messiah
• The passion, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ was a
fulfillment of the old testament prophesies
and Psalms
• The resurrection resulted in the rapid spread of the
church. The spread of the church is as a result of
the risen Christ and the influence of the Holy Spirit
• The resurrection is thus the basis/ the central idea or
foundation in the Christian faith and missionary
activity; if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is
useless and you believing it is useless

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• The passion, death and resurrection reveal the power of
God to those who believe in him. They also
prove that Jesus who was God’s triumphant envoy is alive
and Christians are assured living again after
the physical death
• The raising of Jesus from the dead proved that Jesus was
not only man but lord over human life so that
Christians share in his life on earth by believing in him and
living according to the fruits of the holy spirit
• The resurrection of Jesus is a source of inspiration and
confidence in Christians. It also points to the
fact that Jesus was a man of his word i.e. he fore told the
resurrection and it came to pass. His
resurrection was a real fact because he showed his disciples
the crucifixion marks
• All that happened during the passion, death and
resurrection of Christ was just a completion of God’s
revelation through Christ
• They also point to the power and glory of God in which
those who believe share in the hope of their
own resurrection in the second coming of Jesus
Qn v. the significance of Jesus’ resurrection to Christians
today
• It is the foundation of the Christian faith and hope which
their belief would be useless
• Christian faith would be in vain (futile) if Jesus had not
resurrected
• Through resurrection Christians have confidence and hope
in God because the one they believe in has
been exalted and sits at the right hand of God almighty
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• Through the resurrection, Christians are given hope of
eternal life
• The resurrection of Jesus led to the coming of the holy
spirit which helps Christians to live according to
the teachings of Christ, preach the gospel and speak boldly
against the evils in the society
• The resurrection give meaning to baptism in that one dies
in sin and is raised with Christ to new life
• The resurrection confirms the divinity of Jesus as the true
son of God
• The resurrection gives Christians courage to face death
because they have hope of resurrecting at his
second return
• It is remembered by Christians during the Eucharist
Qn w. explain five importance of Eulogy of death in the
society today
• It enables mourners to know the cause or nature of death
• It enables the mourners to forgive the dead person incase
of any grudge between them and the dead
person
• It enables the mourners to ask for forgiveness from the
dead person
• It enables the mourners know the wish or last words of the
deceased before he/ she died
• Mourners have an opportunity to declare what they owe or
are owed by the dead
• It enables mourners to know the contribution of work of
the dead to the society
• It provides the mourners with an opportunity to know the
nature or character of the dead and his/her
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social life
• It enables mourners to know the background or life history
of the deceased e.g. education.
FORM THREE
SELECTED TEACHINGS FROM THE NEW AND THE OLD
TESTAMENTS
TOPIC ONE: GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
Learning Outcomes. By the end of this topic, you should be
able to: -
a) Discuss what Jesus taught about the role and gifts of the
Holy Spirit.
b) Describe the manifestations of the Holy Spirit in
Christianity today.
c) Identify the fruits of the Holy Spirit
d) Interpret the message of Peter on the day of Pentecost.
LESSON ONE: TEACHINGS OF JESUS ON THE ROLE OF
THE HOLY SPIRIT. Read JOHN 14:15-26, 16: 5-15,
and ACTS 1: 7- 8
Introduction
The Holy Spirit is the third person in the trinity. There is the
power of Christ, the power of God, and the
Holy Spirit who gives gifts such as prophecy and healing.
The Holy Spirit is mentioned several times in
the Bible; (1) during creation in Genesis, (2) at the
annunciation of the birth of Jesus, (3) at the beginning
of the ministry of Jesus, (4) during baptism, (5) revelation of
Jesus in the temple (6) Jesus spoke of the
Holy Spirit during his mission or ministry, after resurrection
and before ascension
Learning outcomes. By the end of this lesson:
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a. State the role of Holy Spirit in the church and in
Christian lives today
b. Enumerate the gifts of the Holy Spirit
c. Analyse the Manifestation of the Holy Spirit in the church
and Christians today
d. Give the role of love in church and in Christian lives today
a. The role of Holy Spirit in Church and in Christian lives
today.
Read JOHN 14:15-26 and JOHN 16: 5-15, ACTS 1: 7- 8
The Holy Spirit has many roles in the church and in
Christian lives today. These roles are to:

those who love Jesus Christ and obey God’s

commandments.

Christ and introduce them to their deeper

meanings.

Christ.

e Son of God.

Christ.

Christians to face prosecution on the account of

following Jesus.
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sinful people.

to heal, to preach the word of God, to

encourage, and to condemn evil in the society.
b. Paul teaching about the Gifts of the Holy Spirit.
Read 1 Corinthians chapters 12, 13, and 14.
Spiritual gifts are extra-ordinary favors, talents, abilities,
and dispositions given to Christians by God for
the benefit of all believers. The gifts are used for the service
of others and not for self-glorification and
gratification.
The message of Peter on the day of the Pentecost
Peter told the disciple that what was happening was the
fulfillment of Jesus’ prophecy.
- He said that Jesus of Nazareth was the Son of God.
- He said that the suffering and death of Jesus was
according to God’s plans.
Death was the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecy.
Gifts of the Holy Spirit
1. Gift of wisdom: – having deep understanding of issues-
‘seeing far’, being perceptive.
2. Gift of knowledge: – ability to understand the basic facts
about Jesus, His mission and knowledge
about spiritual issues.
3. The gift of faith: – refers to the confidence in God’s help. It
is deep trust in God.
4. The Gift of healing: – ability, and power to heal all forms
of sickness by calling upon the name of Jesus
Christ.
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5. The gift of performing miracles: – gift of healing miracles,
creative miracles for example, dead legs
becoming alive.
6. The gift of preaching
7. The gift of prophecy: – the ability to interpret God’s word.
The ability to foresee what will happen in
the future as revealed by God.
8. The gift of distinguishing spirits or discernment: – the
ability to know whether a spiritual gift is from
God, the Holy Spirit or from the evil spirit
9. The gift of speaking in tongues. The ability to utter, speak
in a tongue, language unknown to the
believer. Tongues are used when addressing God for self-
edifications. It is personal growth.
10. The gift of interpretation of tongues: – the ability to
understand and interpret the messages of those
speaking in tongues.
11. The gift of love. (Read 1 Corinthians 13)
Paul stressed that all the gifts of the Holy Spirit are to be
demonstrated with love. He stressed that love,
a fruit of the Holy Spirit is supreme over other spiritual gifts
possessed by Christians. It’s the greatest of
all. Speaking in tongues, preaching, and martyrdom without
love is useless.
Components of Love
Love is patient, kind, not jealous or boastful, not arrogant or
rude, is not ill mannered or selfish, and
does not insist on its own way. It is not disrespectful. It is
not irritable or resentful. It does not rejoice at
wrong but rejoices in truth. It bears all things.
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Love believes all things, hopes all things, and endures all
things. Love is eternal. Love never fails. The
other gifts are temporary but love, faith and hope are
eternal.
c. Manifestation of the Holy Spirit in the church and
Christians today
Gifts of the Holy Spirit have been manifested in churches
today. We see this manifestation through
people possessing the gifts of the Holy Spirit. For example,
leaders in church have displayed the gift of
wisdom. Preachers, and Christian’s ministers have been
casting out demons and performing healing.
There are reported cases of interpretation of tongues and gift
of prophecy in churches today.
When Christians display the gifts of the Holy Spirit such as
speaking in tongues the Holy Spirit is
manifested. Other manifestations of the Holy Spirit are:

in preaching, and casting out demons

among others

kindness.
ancing, shouting (fruit of joy)

d. Criteria for Discerning the Gifts of the Holy Spirit.

Christians who have the Holy Spirit and are guided by Jesus
have certain characteristics. These are:

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accordance with Jesus teaching.

the Holy Spirit. These fruits are love, joy,

peace, and patience.

and strife.

do not practice idolatry, and sorcery. They

do not have in their hearts and minds hatred, and jealously
or any other negative feelings and actions.
e. The fruits of the HOLY SPIRIT (GALATIANS 5:16-26)
Paul taught that the fruit of the spirit are: Love, Joy,
Patience, Long suffering, Goodness or Generosity,
Faith and faithfulness, Peace, Meekness and kindness,
gentleness, self- control and temperance.
Answer these questions after reading – JOHN 14:15-26 and
JOHN 16: 5-15, ACTS 1: 7- 8 and 1
Corinthians chapters 12, 13, and 14.
1. What is the role of the Holy Spirit among Christians?
(Read a)
2. Discuss the gifts of the Holy Spirit
3. Write a talk about the Holy Spirit
4. Define love?
5. Describe the different types of love
6. Why do Christians need the Holy Spirit today?
7. State the role of love in church and in Christian lives
today.

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8. How has the gift of the Holy Spirit been manifested in
Christian lives?
9. Which activities show that the Holy Spirit is working
among Christian in Kenya.
10. How have the gifts of the Holy Spirit been misused in the
church today?
Answers are also in the text. Read sections with answers
1. The role of the holy spirit
An advocate, a counsellor and a comforter.
He would remind and introduce the disciples to the deeper
meaning of the word of Jesus Christ.
To reveal the myth and mysteries of God.
He would affirm the right of Jesus as the Son of God.
He would reveal the glory of Jesus’ death.
He would enable the disciples to discern and expose the
secret heart of sinful men.
2. The gift of the Holy Spirit has been misused today by
pride and public manifestation of the gift as a
way of show off. Some Christians have misused the gift of
Holy Sprit of prophecy by prophesying for
money.
LESSON TWO. PETER’S MESSAGE ON THE DAY OF
PENTECOST. Read ACTS 2: 14-41
Introduction
Jews commemorate Pentecost day. This is the day that God
gave Moses his laws on mount Sinai. It is
also referred to as the festival of weeks. Pentecost day was
celebrated 50 days after the Passover. It was
compulsory for all Jews. On this day, Jews brought offering,
the first fruits of harvest, to the temple in
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Jerusalem.
Learning outcomes. By the end of this lesson You should be
able: -
1. Describe Pentecost day
2. Narrate Peters’ Message.
3. Explain the relevance of the Pentecostal Experience
a. Pentecost a day
On the Pentecostal day, the disciples were gathered in
Jerusalem awaiting the promise of the Holy
Spirit. And as promised, the Holy Spirit came in the form of
a strong wind, and tongues of fire. The Holy
Spirit rested on the head of each disciple. The disciples
received the gift of the Holy Spirit. They spoke in
new tongues. Some of the observers mistook this experience.
They thought that the disciples were
drunk with wine.
Peter stood up to explain what was happening and defend
the disciples. He told those who saw the
experience that the disciples were not drunk. It was in the
morning.
b. Peter’s Message. Read Joel 2: 28 – 32
Peter told the onlookers that; what was happening is
fulfillment of Joel’s prophesies about the
outpouring of Gods spirit. He said that Jesus of Nazareth
was the Son of God. This was proved by the
miracles that Jesus performed. He emphasized that the
suffering and death of Jesus was according to
God’s plans. Jesus is a descendant of David. Death and the
resurrection of Jesus fulfilled prophesies in
the Old Testament.
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God raised Jesus from the dead. He taught that Jesus had
both the nature of God and Man. The apostles
are the living witnesses of the resurrection of Jesus. Jesus
has been exalted and sits on the right hand of
God where He is Lord and Judge. They holy Spirit is a gift
from Jesus
Peter then invited the listeners to repentance so that they
could be forgiven and receive the gift of the
Holy Spirit. Three thousand souls accepted salvation
message and were added to the fellowship of the
disciples.
c. After the Holy Spirit infilling.
The disciples sold their possessions and goods and assisted
the needy. They did many wonders and
signs. They continued to live in unity, worshiping God,
fellowshipping together, and breaking the bread.
d. Lessons Christians learn from Leadership of Peter.
Christians should be:
1. Courageous and stand up for Jesus Christ all the times.
2. Ready to spread the Gospel of Christ.
3. Win new converts to Jesus by inviting them to
repentance.
4. Have faith in the risen Christ.
5. Pray to be filled with the Holy Spirit like Peter and those
in church leadership should take their roles
seriously.
e. Relevance of the Pentecostal Experience
Speaking in diverse tongues signified that Christianity is a
universal religion. It pointed out the

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importance of all languages when communicating to God.
There were no specific languages for speaking
with God, as it was when Latin was the language of literacy
and Christianity.
Christians should be bold in their preaching. They should
not be afraid as they have the counsel and
helper, the Holy Spirit. Christians should understand that
God chooses anyone as a leader, preacher, and
witness of Christ.
Pentecostal experience signifies that Christians need to
receive and be filled with the Holy Spirit
Revision questions
a) Explain the meaning of the Pentecost
b) Describe the manifestations of the holy spirit on the day
of the Pentecost (Acts 2: 1-40)(or narrate the
events that took place on the day of the Pentecost)
c) Write down five teachings about Jesus from Peter’s speech
on the day of the Pentecost
d) What were the qualities of peter that made him a
successful leader of the apostolic church?
e) What lessons can Christians learn from the events of the
day of the Pentecost?
f) State the teachings of Jesus on the holy spirit (John
14:14-26) (acts 1:7-8)
g) What is the role of the holy spirit according to Jesus?
h) What is the role of the holy spirit in the believers or the
church or Christians?
i) Outline the fruits of the holy spirit
j) State the criteria for discerning the spiritual gifts
k) List down the gifts of the holy spirit
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l) Explain why Paul taught that love is the greatest of all
spiritual gifts
m) Explain how the Holy spirit is manifested in the church
today
n) State ways in which the gifts of the holy spirit are being
abused in the church today
TOPIC TWO: THE UNITY OF BELIEVERS
Learning outcomes. By the end of this topic, you should be
able to:
a) Explain teaching in selected New Testament texts of the
unity of believers.
b) Identify the metaphors used to describe unity of believers.
c) Identify the causes of disunity in the early and modern
church
LESSON ONE: TEACHINGS OF THE UNITY OF BELIEVERS
IN SELECTED NEW TESTAMENT TEXTS
Unity of believers refers to oneness of those who have faith
in Jesus Christ.
Learning outcomes. By the end of this lesson you should be
able to: -
i. Describe activities of early Christians
ii. Describe characteristics of the people of God
iii. Explain the meanings of these symbolic expressions
- The body of Christ
- The Vine and the Branches
- The Church / Assembly of God
- The Bride
a. Early Christians
The early Christians in Jerusalem demonstrated their unity
by.
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The showed oneness and unity as believers. They expressed
their oneness using various terms, images,
metaphors and symbols. They regarded themselves as the
people of God, the church and an Assembly
of God. When they celebrated the last supper, eating of
bread was a symbol of the body of Christ. They
saw themselves as belonging to one tree with the vine and
branches. As followers of Christ, the early
Church saw itself as the Bride of Christ.
b. Discussion of Symbolic Expressions
i. The people of God
Read 1 PETER 2: 9-10. Peter has outlined the
characteristics of the people of God. He says that the
people of God are
Believers in God: through faith in Jesus Christ.
The ‘Chosen race’, ‘a royal priesthood’, a holy nation’ ‘a
chosen people’
Those who stand out from the rest because they live a holy
and righteous life.
Form a Holy nation chosen to proclaim the works of God.
Not just the descendants of Abraham but people who follow
Jesus Christ and His teachings.
ii. The body of Christ
Read 1 Corinthians 12:12-27, and Ephesians’ 4:1-12.
The Holy Spirit is the one who brings Christians together as
one body of Christ to serve the church.

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Christians are given gifts for the purpose of sharing the body
of Christ.
Jesus Christ is the head of the church. And just as the body
has many parts, playing different roles, so
has the Church. Every member of the church plays a vital
role because different members have different
spiritual gifts and callings. Some are Apostles, Teachers,
Prophets, Evangelists, Pastors and Miracle
performers, Administrators and those who show mercy to
others and encourage (exhort) others.
All church activities should be directed to the welfare of the
church, just as the function of each part of
the body is necessary for the well being of the whole body.
To have a united body, members should be
meek, and patient in order to bear the fruit of the Holy
Spirit. For a church to be united, or to be
considered as one body, Christians should have faith in God
the father, one Lord Jesus Christ, one Holy
Spirit and have faith in God through Jesus Christ.
iii. The Vine and the Branches
Read John 15:1-10
The vine represents Jesus. Vine tree was a tree that bore
grapes. The vine tree was a symbol of
prosperity and peace. Jesus is the vine and the Father is the
vinedresser. Christians/ believers are the
branches. They are expected to produce good fruits by
remaining faithful and united in Christ. Faithful
branches bear fruit like good Christians while unfruitful
branches are like unfruitful Christians.

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Christians should remain united to Christ who is the vine so
as to bear fruits. The teachings of Jesus
purify the Christians. The dead branches of the Vine trees
are cut off and the livings ones are trimmed or
pruned. This is done so that the vines may produce high
yields. Likewise unfaithful Christians, believers
are rebuked and corrected so as to bear high yields.
iv. The Church or Assembly of God. Read Ephesians 5: 21 –
32
Church is a Greek word “““ekklesia””, which means people.
People who belong to the Lord. Assembly of
God is the coming together of people of diverse social and
cultural backgrounds who recognize lordship
of Jesus. The church is likened to the relationship between a
husband and a wife. Christians (the church)
are expected to be united with Christ just as a husband and
wife are united in marriage. Just as
husbands and wives are expected to love one another, so
too, are Christians called upon to express love
to one another and to love God.
A husband is the head of a family; Jesus is also the head of
the church.
v. The Bride. Read 2 Corinthian 11: 2, and Revelations 21: 1
– 12
In the Old Testament, God calls Israel a bride. In the New
Testament, Christians are referred to as “a
bride’ in the New Jerusalem’. God or Jesus Christ is the
bridegroom. Christians are reminded that the life
on earth is a temporary home. Their real home is in heaven,
the Holy city of God. Just as a bride is
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expected to be faithful to her husband, so are Christians
expected to be faithful to God by observing the
covenant way of life. Deviation from the covenant was
portrayed as adultery.
John, who wrote the book of revelations, sees a vision of a
new heaven and a new earth in which faithful
Christians will be rewarded. Christ will come to take His
bride to eternity to live there forever. The
relationship between Christians and Jesus/ God is like a
marriage. It is a covenant. It is a relationship
where the church (bride) is expected to submit to God. Jesus
died for the church, a show of His or God’s
love. Likewise Christians should be committed in their
relationship to God.
SAQ. 1. Discuss in twos who is a bride and what takes place
in a wedding.
2. Discuss the significance of the symbols used to express
the unity of the believers. These are “The
people of God”, “The body of Christ”, “The vine and the
branches” “The church or assembly of God” and
“The bride”.
LESSON TWO: CAUSES OF DISUNITY IN THE EARLY
CHURCH
The early church experienced some challenges, which led to
divisions among the early disciples and
Christians.
Learning Outcomes. After reading this lesson,
i Identify causes of disunity in the early church
ii State causes of disunity in the modern church

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iii Compare the causes of disunity in the early and modern
church
iv Suggest possible solutions to disunity in modern church
a. Causes of Disunity in the Early Church
After Jesus ascended to his Father and left the Holy Spirit to
look after his followers, the disciples
established congregations or communities to spread the
Word of God. As believers of Christ met and
prayed together, there were disagreements and divisions
brought about by several factors and issues.
These were:
Disputes, among early Christians; concerning leadership of
the Church. Christians wanted different
leaders: Paul, Apollos, Cephas or Christ. Paul told them that
Christ couldn’t be divided (1 Corinthians
1:10 -21).
Sexual immorality was another cause of disunity in the early
church. Some Christians were doing or
having irresponsible sexual behaviours. These were incest,
fornication, and prostitution. Paul
condemned such behaviours and told Christians to stop
sinning and honor God with their bodies. The
body of a Christian is the temple of the Holy Ghost (1
Corinthian 5: 1-13, 6:12 – 20).
Christians settling disputes in civil courts. Paul advised they
ought to talk over issues among themselves
and agree to solve problems on their own (1 Corinthians 6).
Dispute over marriage and divorce. Some Christians were
opposed to marriage. Others were

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encouraging divorce. Paul addressed these issues in 1
Corinthian, chapter 71-16. Paul advised Christians
that it was okay to marry or not to marry. But marriage was
needed to stop immorality.
Eating of meat offered to idols. Some Christians were eating
meat offered to idols while others were
against it. Paul advised Christians not to eat anything that
will cause their faith to weaken or fail. (1
Corinthians 8 and10: 14 – 20.
There were disputes about dressing during worship. Should
women cover their head during worship?
Should women shave hair? Should men wear long hair? (1
Corinthian 11:1-16).
Some Christians were overeating and over drinking during
the Holy Communion – misuse of the Lord’s
Supper, (1 Corinthians 11:17 – 33).
Misuses of spiritual gift especially the gift of speaking in
tongues. Paul taught that all gifts are equal (1
Corinthians 12).
There was a misunderstanding about the resurrection of the
body and the dead. Some were saying
there is no resurrection. Paul preached that if there is no
resurrection then their preaching was in vain
as they were witnesses to the resurrection of Jesus Christ (1
Corinthians 15).
b. Causes of disunity among believers and church in Kenya
today
Leadership differences. Some Christians are struggling for
power. This has led to formation of splinter
groups, divisions and enmity between these groups.
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Cultural differences. Christians are divided by their African
cultural beliefs from their backgrounds. This
culture is merged with Christianity and Western cultural
practices forming a unique mixture of beliefs.
Some Christians are permissive, while others are
conservative. This has led to disunity, for example in
the areas of dressing.
Discrimination. There is inequality within the church
between the rich and the poor, the whites and
blacks. Some Christians are viewed as more spiritual than
others, on basis of the tribe, gender, wealth
and social status among others.
Misuse of freedom of worship. Christians are starting
sprinter churches, probably because they want to
control church finances without supervision by the wider
church. To justify their departure, they spread
propaganda against the ‘mother’ church, and other
churches in order to attract followers. The more
followers a church has the more tithe it collects.
Misuse of church funds. Some church leaders and followers
misuse church funds
Differences in the practice of baptism
Arrogance and pride by some Christians.
Sins: sexual immorality in the church, divorce and marriage
issues.
Some Christian denominations reject the human nature of
the person of Jesus Christ; that Christ had
both a human and divine nature e.g. Nomiya church.
SAQ. Can you think of factors that led to disunity among
Christians in the early church that you have
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noted in the Kenyan church?
c. Reasons why Christians should work in Unity.
Christians face many problems and they therefore need to
work together in unity to:
Promote oneness of Christians in Jesus Christ.
Promote the teachings of Jesus Christ.
Achieve effective evangelism or ministry.
Adopt a common attitude to the integration of African
culture in worship.
Prevent the formation of sprinter groups and cults.
Reduce the internal wrangling.
Have a common stand in dealing with issues affecting the
society.
d. Possible Solutions to disunity
The church should settle issues that divide its members by
Christians:
Learning to appreciate and respect the practices and belief
of other Christian’s denominations.
Having or forming a common goal
Striving to be guided by the principle of love in solving
problems facing them.
Observing the teachings of disciples, prophets, apostles,
God, laws of Moses, Jesus and the Bible.
Avoiding doing anything to their fellow Christians that would
cause suffering and disharmony.
Activities that the early church did in order to remain united
were that they:
Ate bread together.
Held fellowships together.
Shared with the needy.
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Prayed together for each other
In the current worldwide Church, there is disunity amongst
believers or Christians. The most common
ones are due.
Leadership differences and wrangles for power.
Cultural differences amongst Christians.
Some Christians are permissive while others are
conservative.
Differences in the interpretation of the Bible.
Misuse of church funds
Pride and arrogance.
Revision questions
a. Write down terms used in the new testament to refer to
believers in Christ
b. Identify five causes of disunity in the church today
c. Identify factors which cause disunity among the
Christians today
d. Discuss reasons why members of Christian families in
Kenya find it difficult to harmoniously live
together
e. Explain how the church strengthens family relationships
today
TOPIC THREE. TEACHINGS FROM SELECTED OLD
TESTAMENT
PROPHETS
INTRODUCTION
This chapter introduces one to the work of prophets in the
Old Testament. In Form One, some prophets
were taught e.g. Moses, Elijah, Nathan and Samuel.
Traditional African prophets were also taught.
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In Form Three, we compare true and false prophets and the
Traditional African prophets.
Learning outcomes. By the end of the topic, you should be
able to:
a. Define a prophet, and prophecy
b. Identify categories of prophets
c. Explain the importance of prophets in Israel.
d. Describe the characteristics of prophets.
e. Explain how prophetic messages were written.
f. Compare the relationship between prophesies in the Old
Testament and the New Testament
LESSON ONE: PROPHETS
Learning outcomes. After reading this lesson, you should be
able to: -
1. Give a correct definition of a prophet, and prophecy
2. List prophets in categories
a. Definitions of a prophet, and prophecy
The word prophet comes from a Hebrew word “Rabii’
meaning ‘one who is called or one who
announces God’s message. A prophet is also referred to as a
seer. A prophet is a person sent by God to
teach and give people messages about things to come in
future from God. Prophets received divine
messages from God and communicated them to the people.
A prophet is therefore a person who foretells events as
revealed to him or her by God. Examples of
prophets include Samuel, Elijah, Jeremiah and
prophetesses (female prophet) Deborah, and Huidah.
Prophecy is a statement, a message of something that is
going to happen in the future. The action of
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giving future messages is called prophecy.
b. Categories of prophets
There were many categories of prophets. These were:
a) Major Prophets. These were Prophet’s whose messages
covered a long period of time. Their
messages were long and detailed. For example Prophet
Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Daniel.
b) Minor prophets. There are 12 books of the Minor Prophets
examples They are called minor because
their messages are short, brief and do not contain detailed
information. The Minor Prophets are Amos,
and Hosea, Joel, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum,
Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, Malachi.
c) Canonical prophets the term canon means law. Canonical
prophets are law prophets. The individual
utterances of these prophets are laws. Both minor and
major prophets are canonical prophets,
d) The early prophets are Moses, Nathan Elijah, and Elisha.
These prophets belonged to guilds schools.
Their prophecies are not recorded under their names. Their
prophecies are written in books, which do
not bear their names.
e) Cultic prophets like Hannah (N.T.) served in the places of
worship. They assisted the priest officiating
worship
f) Professional / court prophets like Samuel, Micah, and Gad
lived together in the temple and in groups.
They earned their living through their work. They did not
work elsewhere

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g) False prophets are pretenders to speak in the name of
Yahweh but God did not call them. They spoke
lies in accordance with the messages people wanted to hear.
c. Characteristics of true prophets
There were two (2) major categories of prophets in the Old
Testament, (1) true prophets and (2) false
prophets. True prophets are those whose prophecies
occurred and were fulfilled. Prophesies of false
prophets did not occur. True prophets distinguished
themselves from false prophets and ordinary
people.
They experienced God dramatically when He called them
and in their ministry. They were God’s
spokesmen and women. They responded in faith to their
call.
God gave them specific tasks in their commission and God’s
assurance and support in their ministry.
They urged people to repent and turn back to God.
In their messages, they taught that God demands sincere
worship and not elaborate rituals. They
understood God and taught about God righteousness,
goodness, mercifulness, and loving care. They
condemned evil in the society and proclaimed God’s
judgment and punishment to those who failed to
keep the covenant. They spoke with authority and acted
with courage. They upheld God as a universal
God for all nations. They talked of a remnant that shall
remain after punishment or those that have
continued to worship God sincerely. Their utterances were
true because they were fulfilled
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They spent a lot of their time in prayers. They prayed
regularly. At such times they withdrew from
people in order to have a quiet time to seek God.
All the true prophets received opposition from their
audiences and they were ready to suffer for telling
God’s word.
d. The Characteristics of false prophets.
Some of the prophecy of false prophets contradicted
prophesies of the true prophets. False prophets
followed their own imaginations, and gave false hopes. They
told people what they wanted to hear.
They had no personal knowledge of God. Hence, their
prophecies were not in line with the divine
revelations.
They used evil forces such as magic, and divinations to call
upon the spirits of the dead. They were paid
for prophesy and benefits materially from their clients. They
served Baal and were mainly immoral. They
committed crime.
Review questions
How can we know true and false prophets today?
LESSON TWO: IMPORTANCE OF PROPHETS IN ISRAEL
Introduction
Learning outcomes. After reading this lesson, you should:
1. Describe the work of prophets in Israel
2. Explain how God communicated with prophets and
Israelites
3. Analyse the content of the Prophetic messages
1. Work of prophets in Israel

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Prophets kept Israelites in communication with God. They
communicated God’s will to the people of
Israel. They foretold God’s judgments and punishment for
sinners. They condemned the behaviour of
the rich towards the poor. Through their messages, people
reformed their lives since they condemned
all forms of social evils and ritual sins.
They contributed to the writing of their messages leading to
the compilation of the Bible.
Prophets guided and gave people hope. They taught people
the laws of God. They warned people of
dangers to come. They condemned idolatry and stressed the
worship of one true God, Yahweh.
They anointed the Kings in Israel. Kings consulted the
prophets before any major undertaking such as
war among others.
They acted as conscience of kings. They advised them and
challenged Kings when they went wrong.
2. God’s communication with prophets and Israelites
God communicated to Prophets through visions, voices that
were audible and clear, events, prayers,
dreams, signs, ordinary things, and words which came to
their minds with great power.
Writing messages of the prophets
The canonical prophets as mentioned earlier had their works
and prophecies recorded under their
names. Canonical prophets are referred to as writing
prophets. It’s possible that some prophets wrote
down their own prophecies. They wrote what God spoke to
them as He dictated. An example is
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Jeremiah who wrote what he was told …’Get a scroll and
write on it everything that I have told you
about Israel, Judah and all nations. (Jeremiah 36:2, Isaiah
30:8).
Two, the prophet’s message were probably written by other
people. These were their assistant,
secretary, scribe, and disciples or followers as the prophet
prophesied.
Thirdly some of the prophetic messages could have been
preserved as oral traditions and later written
as books. A good example is 2 Kings.
e. Content of the Prophetic messages
Prophetic messages contained lessons from God to Israel.
For example, the:
i. Prophetic sayings were and still are oracles or poetic
passages spoken by God himself through
prophets. The prophecies were addressed to different
nations. They carried specific teachings to the
people, for example predicting future occurrences
ii. Narratives in the first person give an account of the
prophet’s testimony. They spoke of their
experiences with God, and responses to the call of God. They
tell us about prophet’s impelling
compulsion to speak God’s word. The narratives are written
in the first person. They have a format ‘ The
Lord said to me… The year that King Uzziah died, I was the
Lord…”
iii. Narratives in the third 3rd person have messages written
by a third party, i.e. not the prophet but

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another person. For example, “Isaiah said to them, “Thus
you shall say to your master, thus says the
Lord: “Do not be afraid of the words.” (Isaiah 37:6). The
message recounts the prophets’ personal life,
and political background.
LESSON THREE: PROPHESIES IN THE OLD TESTAMENT,
NEW TESTAMENT AND AFRICAN TRADITIONAL
SOCIETY
Introduction
The Israelites and the African traditional societies as well as
other world communities had prophets who
foretold the future. Among the Israelites, there were
prophets chosen by God and false prophets who
told messages which communities wanted to hear. Among
the African traditional communities, there
were wise men and women who prophesied about the future.
In this lesson, we shall compare these prophecies and learn
what was similar and different about these
them. The Old Testament prophecies are compared with
those from the African traditional society and
the New Testament
Learning outcomes. After studying this lesson, you should
be able to:
a. State relationships between Prophesies in the Old
Testament New Testament and the African
Traditional Society
b. Discuss the similarities between prophets in the African
traditional society and the Old Testament
c. Identify differences between prophets in the African
traditional society and the Old Testament
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a. Relationships between Prophesies
Several Old Testament (O.T.) prophecies were and are
fulfilled in both the old and New Testament (N.T)
in the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. The Law of Moses is
used in both the Old Testament and the New
Testament. However Jesus gave the law a deeper meaning.
The teachings and prophecies of the prophets provided the
foundation for the message in the New
Testament. The prophecies of Prophet Nathan to King David
that God would raise up an offspring from
the lineage of David was fulfilled in Jesus Christ, the
expected messiah.
Jesus disciples in the New Testament referred a lot to
messages in the Old Testament. The teachings of
Jesus in the New Testament are based in the Old Testament
prophecies. They are therefore similar to
each other because New Testament is a continuation of the
Old Testament.
The New Testament is the new covenant spoken of by
Prophet Jeremiah and other Prophets like Isaiah,
Micah, and Nathan. Their prophecies about Messiah are
fulfilled in the New Testament.
b. Similarities between prophets in the African traditional
society and the Old Testament. In both
traditions, prophets:

religious matters.
n God and people

disobedience
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explained why they were going to occur.

and thoughts

prophetesses.
c. Differences (O.T.) between prophets in the African
traditional society and the Old Testament.
The Old Testament prophets had a personal relationship
with God. They communicated God’s messages
to Israelites.
The prophets in the African traditional society
communicated and received messages from the ancestor
spirits
Old Testament prophets were God’s mouthpieces. They
began their prophesy with ‘thus saith the
lord’…. While the prophets in the African traditional society
predicted what would happen to individuals,
and communities.
The authority of prophets in the Old Testament came from
God while the authority of prophets in the
African traditional society came from their ancestors’ spirits.
In the Old Testament prophets were called directly by God
while in some African traditional

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communities the prophetic office was hereditary. The African
traditional prophets dealt with family and
local community issues while Old Testament prophets dealt
with national issues, and crises. African
traditional prophets were diviners while Old Testament
prophets consulted God.
d. Relevance of Old Testament prophets to Christians today
Christian should be ready to be messengers of God. The call
to be a Christian has a prophetic role. Some
Christians are called to the office of a prophet and should
prophecy for the glory of God and for the
common good of the people. As God’s spokes person one
should always stand for the truth. Christian
should proclaim God’s will even if the message is not
pleasant to the people.
Once appointed as a prophet, one should pass the messages
to who ever they are sent to without fear
or favour. God’s messengers should always condemn the
social political economic evils in the society.
As God’s messengers Christians should live exemplary lives.
They should stand for what they preach and
should expect persecutions because of their works as God’s
messengers. They should be ready to suffer
for the sake of the gospel.
Christians should pray to God to give them guidance,
wisdom, and inspiration to be able to handle
hardships in their lives. They should provide hope for the
people in times of suffering.
Christians should realize that God calls both men and
women to His service. They should be ready to
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obey Gods’ prophetic call and not run away e.g. Jonah. They
should be concerned and take care of the
welfare of the poor community members.
Revision questions
1. Define the terms prophet and prophecy
2. List five categories of true prophets
3. State the difference between true and false prophets
4. In what ways were God’s prophets called?
5. Outline the similarities and differences between the old
testament prophets and the traditional
African ones.
6. What is the relevance of prophets to Christians today?
TOPIC FOUR: PROPHET AMOS
Introduction
Amos is one of the prophets God sent to Israel to warn the
people because of their evil life.
Politically, the Nation of Israel had become rich. There grew
classer, the rich and the poor. The rich
started oppressing the poor.
Socially, there was still the rich – poor gap. The rich
exploited the poor. Merchants sold bad food,
expensive and used false measurer.
Religiously, the Israelites had turned away from God and
were worshiping false gods. Syncretism was
practiced. Priests were paid and God’s prophets were
rejected.
It is in this situation that Amos was called.
He is called through visions.
Amos is one of the canonical or writing prophets. The book
of Amos is a temptation of oracles spoken by
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the prophet on different occasions. Note that after the death
of King Solomon, the kingdom of Israel
was split into two and rules by Rehoboam and Jeroboam.
The northern Kingdom; called Judah was ruled
by Rehoboam and was inhabited by two tribes. The southern
kingdom called Israel was ruled by
Jeroboam and was inhabited by 10 tribes. Amos came from
Judah and prophesied in Israel.
Topic Learning Outcomes. By the end of this topic, you
should be able to:
a) Analyse Prophet Amos work in Israel
b) Describe the call of Amos
c) Explain the teaching of Amos
d) Relate relevance of Amos teaching to Christianity today
LESSON ONE: Prophet Amos work in Israel
Read Amos 1:1
Learning outcomes. After reading this lesson, you should:
1. Describe the call of Amos
2. Describe the socio, political and economic situation in
Israel during the time of Prophet Amos
3. Explain religious situation in Israel
1. The call of Amos (AMOS 1:1,3:8,7:10 – 15)
Prophet Amos was born in a village called Tekoa in Judah,
the southern kingdom. Before his call, Amos
was a shepherd and a dresser of sycamore trees. He was not
a professional prophet. But God called him
to be a prophet. He received his call in form of a vision
around 758 BC. Amos responded to God’s call
with obedience. He felt a deep compulsion to prophesy
(Amos 3:8). God directed him to give his
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message to the people of Israel, the northern kingdom (Amos
7:15). He was asked to speak the will of
Yahweh. He was also to fore tell punishment if Israelites did
not repent their sins. His message was
opposed, and challenged by Amaziah the priest of Bethel.
3. Religion. Israelites worshipped Yahweh and other gods.
Idolatry was also present. This form of
worship is called Syncretism . There was religious hypocrisy.
Like today, there was an emphasis on
external observances of religious practices and less concern
for internal observances. The priests were
paid for religious work. Those who couldn’t pay did not have
religious ceremonies. They were offered at
the expense of the poor. The prophets of God were rejected.
4. Social – economic – political situation. When Amos
prophesied, King Jeroboam ruled Israel, the
northern kingdom while King Uzziah ruled Judah. Amos was
sent to prophesy to the people of Israel in
the northern kingdom. He concentrated his work mainly in
Bethel and Samaria – the capital city of Israel
and the main centres of worship.
When Amos started his prophesy, there was peace and
prosper in Israel and Judah. Both kingdoms were
wealthy. However, the wealth did not reach the poor. This
was because the wealth and power were in
the hands of the king, his family, his officials, and wealthy
merchants. As a result, Israel citizens were
divided into two classes; the rich and the poor.
Unfortunately, the rich people owned big luxurious houses.
They drunk wine, and used the most
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expensive perfumes. They acquired their wealth at the
expense of the poor. They oppressed and
exploited the poor. The merchants of trade for example, were
dishonest in their trade businesses. They
sold bad wheat to unsuspecting customers and overcharged
customers by measuring with false scales.
Because of the inflated prices, the poor borrowed money
from the rich at high interest rates to buy
basic things like food. Hence, there was massive bribery and
corruption in society and law courts.
As a result the poor lacked basic necessities or needs like
food, shelter, and clothing. It was at this time
when God sent Amos to give prophesy to Israel.
SAQ. How did the rich oppress the poor in Israel?
LESSON TWO: VISIONS OF AMOS
Read AMOS 7: 1 – 9, 8:1 – 3. 9:1 – 4)
Vision is a picture we have in our mind. It is a future to
come. Amos was shown many visions by God.
Lesson outcomes. After reading these verses in Amos you
should be able to: -
1. Analyse all the visions and
2. State the message of each vision
3. Summaries things that God condemned through Amos
1. The vision of the locusts (Amos 7:1 – 3 )
Amos saw a swarm of locusts being sent by God to destroy
all plants and food crops in the land. The
locusts were, a sign of disaster, which God was going to
send to Israel as a punishment for their
disobedience. Amos cried to God to forgive the people. God
heard and changed his mind.
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2. The vision of a great fire (Amos 7:4 – 6)
Amos saw a vision of a supernatural fire that burnt up the
land. He asked God to forgive the people and
God listened. The punishment was stopped.
3. The vision of a crooked wall/ the plumb line (Amos 7:7 –
9)
Amos saw the Lord standing beside the wall checked it with
a plumb line. The wall represented the
Israelites. They stopped observing the laws of their covenant
with God. God found Israelites disobeying
the covenant. God promised to destroy holy places of Israel..
4. The vision of a basket of ripe fruits (Amos 8:1 – 3)
In this vision, Amos saw a basket of ripe fruits. Fruits are
harvested at the end of the summer. This
meant that Israel was ripe for punishment for her refusal to
turn to God. Amos did not pray for
forgiveness. God would no longer withhold His judgment.
Time for repentance was over.
5. The vision of the destruction of the altar. Read Amos 9:1 –
4.
Amos saw the Lord standing by the altar. The Lord ordered
the destruction of the temple. The shrines of
Dan and Bethel were destroyed because they were the
centres of idolatry. No one would escape
punishment no matter where they hide.
Summary of issues that God pointed out to Israel through
Prophet Amos
a. Lack of social justice
There was lack of social justice and responsibility by the
king of Israel. Social justice means dealing with
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other people fairly. It implies showing concern for the needs
of others.
b. Lack of responsibility. This refers to the rulers and people
of Israel being accountable for their actions.
In modern life, it is doing ones duty and fulfilling ones
obligation to God and others.
c. Practice of hypocritical religion in Israel. The Israelites
were insincere in their worship. They made
empty sacrifices. They worshipped idols as well as God. They
profaned the name of God (Yahweh). They
made idols of Baal and offered sacrifices to them. They
worshipped other gods. This is syncretism and
God does not allow worship of any other God but himself.
d. God’s judgment against Israel and other nations. God
promised to destroy Israel and leave a remnant
of them for restoration.
e. Oppressions of the poor by the rich
God condemned King Jeroboam rule of Israel because of the
oppression of the poor, government
corruption and bribery of king’s officials. These officials sold
the righteous for silver and the needy for a
pair of sandals (shoes) i.e. its like practising slavery. The
rich trampled on the poor, despised them and
placed no value on the poor. The poor gave their garments
as security for loan. This was contrary to
God’s commandments. The garment was supposed to be
returned back to the owner before sunset. The
Samaritan women were ‘fat like the well fed cows of Bashan’
led luxurious lives and were very unkind to

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the poor. The rich took an excessive share of the harvest
from the farmers. Rulers loved luxury and were
arrogant. They loved material things and showed pride in
material possessions. They used expensive
perfumes.
f. Corruption and bribery. The judges were corrupt. They
accepted bribes. There was a conspiracy
between the rich and the judges against the poor
g. Pride in materials possessions
The capital city of Israel was Samaria. It was built on a
mountain called Bethel, which was also a place of
worship. There was prosperity in the land. The Israelites
prided themselves in their riches and materials
possessions. Amos told them God would destroy their
wealth.
h. Dishonesty. This is telling lies, cheating or using unjust
means to get certain things. The wealthy
merchants waited impatiently for the end of the holy days so
that they could engage in lucrative
businesses. They cheated the poor by using false scales.
They sold bad wheat to the poor. They mixed
good and bad grains and sold them to unsuspecting people.
i. Sexual immorality
Sexual immorality was prevalent or common in Israel. For
example a father and son would have sex with
the same girl. There was temple (cultic) prostitution. There
was dishonesty; sexual immorality. This
sexual behaviour made the temple unholy.
j. Drunkenness

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They Israelites spent time drinking when the poor lacked the
basic needs. They engaged in excessive
drinking of wine. They even forced the Nazarites to drink
wine. They accepted drunkenness.
k. Profaning the name of the God
Israelites did not respect the name of God. They committed
sin. They forced Nazirites to drink wine;
forcing it down their throats yet they knew that Nazirites
were people set aside and chosen by God to
serve God. This act showed contempt of God’s commands.
Nazirites were not supposed to drink wine or
cut their hair. Israelites did this to show their contempt of
the Lord,
l. Hypocritical Religion and Idolatry in Israel
Hypocrisy is pretending to be something different from the
person one is. It is also saying one thing, and
doing another thing. For example, Israelites did a lot of
religious rites according to the laws of Moses
and yet majority of them were unjust, corrupt and
oppressed the poor. They observed the external
religious activities while their hearts were corrupt and
insincere. Amos condemned Israelites for this
hypocrisy, characterized by insincere worship, and mixture
of religious beliefs leading to diverse
practices of religion i.e. syncretism. This is a combination or
mixture of Israelites’ monotheism
(Yahwehism) and worship of idols and other gods especially
Baal, the gods of their neighbours.
m. Empty sacrifices

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The Israelites made elaborative offerings and sacrifices. Yet
God was interested only in sincere worship
and free will offerings and not mere sacrifices, and tithes.
‘Take away from me the noise of your songs’
(Amos 5:21 – 23).
LESSON THREE. GOD’S JUDGMENT AGAINST ISRAEL AND
OTHER NATIONS
Read Amos chapter 1 and 2
Learning outcomes. After studying this lesson, you should
be able to:
a. State the sins committed by Israel and other nations
b. Identify how God punished Israel and other nations
i) Israel. She committed several crimes, which were
condemned by Prophet Amos. Read lesson two
again before you go on and list down crimes that were
pointed out by Amos. Okay, you have seen that
Israel committed crimes of injustice, disobedience to God,
breaking their covenant with God, idolatry,
hypocrisy among other sins mentioned above. Israel was
punished for these crimes.
Punishments were severe. Israelites would be exiled forcibly
and painfully. Earthquakes, famines, fires,
oppression from foreign kings, epidemics and divine silence,
would destroy their kingdom and holy
places.
ii) Syria. Its capital was Damascus. Syria committed war
crimes. The soldiers were excessively cruel in
times of war. They murdered their prisoners brutally. For
this cruelty, their punishment was to be

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severe. Their palaces would be destroyed by fire and the
people would be exiled in Kir.
iii) Gaza and philistines. Their crime was capturing other
people and selling them into slavery. For this
sin, God’s punishment was destruction of their city by divine
fire. It would burn down the wall of Gaza
city and destroy it. God would have no more association
with them.
iv) Tyre. Their Crime was violation of a treaty of friendship
they had made. They broke it by capturing a
“whole nation into exile in the land of Edom”. The
punishment was …God would send fire to destroy city
of Tyre and its fortress (Amos 1:9-10).
v. Edom. Her people were descendants of Esau. Yet Edom
was ruthless to the Israelite to whom they
were closely related. For this crime of ruthlessness, the
punishment was … God would destroy them by
fire
vi) Ammon committed crime of brutal killings. The people of
Ammon attacked and killed their
neighbours. They “ripped open pregnant woman in Gilead”
(vs. 13). God’s punishment was destruction
of the fortress and wall of the city of Rabbah by fire. “Their
king and his officers will go into exile: (vs.
15).
vii) Moab. The people of Moab; their crime was mishandling
the body of the king of Edom. They burned
his bones to ashes. God’s punishment was destruction of
the city of Kerioth by divine fire. The people,
their rulers and leaders would be killed in battle.
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viii) Judah. Their crimes were (1) failure to obey God’s
commands and (2) despising god’s teaching.
ix) Samaria, Egypt and Ashdod. Their crime was dishonesty
and “filling their mansions with things taken
by crime and violence” (Amos 3:10). Women of Samaria
committed the crime of drunkenness,
oppressing the weak and poor. The punishment for all these
countries is destruction of their land,
mansions and army. But a remnant will not go to captivity,
and shall not be destroyed. Amos said the
remnants are like … 2 legs, or a piece of an ear of a sheep
rescued from the mouth of a lion (Amos 3:12)
x) Amaziah the priest of Bethel. He strongly opposed Amos
and told him to go back and prophesy in
Judah. Amos told Amaziah God sent him to Israel. His
punishment for opposing God’s messenger was..
Amaziah’s wife would be a harlot, his children will die in the
war, his land will be given to others, and
Amaziah will die in a foreign land (Amos 7: 14-17).
Lessons to learn from God’s judgment of Israel and other
nations
The Assyrians attacked Israel, occupied their land and
exiled others. God is (a) universal, (b) God hates
sin (c) God is concerned about the welfare of his people
(d) God is merciful and spares a remnant
xi. Israel’s election (Amos 2:9 – 11, 3:1 – 2, 9:7
Election: is an act of choosing a person or group of people
for a purpose or action. Israel’s election refers
to God’s choice of the Israelites out of the entire human kind
to be his people. God chose them to serve
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him, be a Holy nation and to be the light of the world. God
made a covenant with the Israelites. In the
covenant they agreed to live a holy life. In return, God
looked after them. He led them out of Egypt to
the wilderness and finally to Canaan. God chose His
prophets from the Israelites and raised Nazirites.
Despite God’s favour, the Israelites rebelled and sinned
against God. And although Israelites were
reminded that God cared for other nations equally and are
to be punished if they disobeyed God; and
that they were neither superior, nor better than other
nations, they disobeyed God several times.
xii. The day of the lord Amos taught that the day of the lord
would be a day of severe judgment for sins.
. It is not a time of happiness, joy or victory. It is a day of
darkness, terror, disaster, gloom, wailing,
flooding, mourning, defeat, punishment, famine for food and
God’s word.
xiii. The Remnant and Restoration. Remnant means a small
number of survivors. These are the Israelites
who will remain after the entire nation is punished. They are
also those who returned to Jerusalem after
the exile.
Restoration is an act of reinstating things / persons to their
former state or position. Amos informed the
Israelites that God was still looking after them, and waiting
for their repentance. The nation of Israel
would not be destroyed completely. God would preserve the
few righteous ones. He would raise the

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fallen dynasty of David. People would be restored back to
their land to rebuild their cities. There was to
be a great harvest and grapes shall overflow.
xiv. Duty of Christians. Christians are the selected people of
God. As the chosen ones, they should one,
live holy lives and two, use their position to serve God and
others. Three, Christians have a moral
responsibility to spread God’s word, four, care for the needy
and five, be the light of the world.
xv. The Day of the lord. Read Amos 5:18-20, 6:3-5, 8:7-13.
in the Old Testament, the day of the Lord is
the day that Yahweh would make Israel victorious against
other nations. On this day the Israelite
believed that God would establish his rule over and with
Israel. The day of the Lord was also believed to
be the day when Israel would be prosperous, would have
favour with God, and the just would triumph
over the wicked.
In the New Testament, the day of the lord is also the Day of
Judgment (Parousia). It is the day of the
second coming of Christ. On that day, everyone will be
judged. Christians believe that it is the day that
Christ will come for His bride (the church). Those who had
obeyed the laws of God shall be received by
Christ and given the reward of the eternal life. On that day,
God’s kingdom shall be established and
Christ will reign forever.
xvi. Relevance of Amos teachings to Christians today. The
messages of the prophecy of Amos are

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relevant to Christians today. This is because God is
universal. He chose Israel but still punished her for
her disobedience, and sins just as He punished other
nations like Syria and Gaza.
The message that God hates hypocrisy is very clear. Thus
Christians should truthful and practice what
they preach. They must worship God in sincerity. Other
messages are:
Justice. Christians should be just / fair in dealing with
others.
Self – Indulgence. Christians should not pursue luxury and
self-indulgence when others lack the basic
needs.
Bribery. Christians should condemn bribery and corruption,
and uphold justice.
Punishment. Christians should bear in mind that God will
punish every evil.
Wealth. When Israel became wealthy, they departed from the
covenant with God. Christians should
share their wealth with the needy and acquire their wealth
justly
Hypocritical religion. Amos taught about hypocrisy in
religion. This was for example offering empty
sacrifices. Christians have to learn to be sincere, to be
concerned about their internal well being and soul
more than outward observances of religion.
Drunkenness. Christians should not engage in activities
that can divert their faith from God. If that
happens, they should learn to be Repentant.
Revision exercise
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1. List the visions that Amos saw
2. Explain the evils that Amos condemned in his teachings
3. Give reasons why prophet Amos condemned idol worship
in Israel
4. List evils in the society today that Amos would condemn
TOPIC FIVE. PROPHET JEREMIAH
Introduction.
Israel had not taken heed to Amos’ prophecies. This was
especially on idolatry. So, God sent another
prophet to continue with the same work. Jeremiah was
therefore appointed as a prophet.
Jeremiah is one of the Old Testament Major Prophets. He
was called to a prophet at around 627 B.C. He
was called as a young man, probably 20 years old. He
prophesied in the southern kingdom- Judah, for a
period of 40 years. His prophetic ministry took place before
and during the exile of Judah.
Learning Outcomes. By the end of this topic, you should be
able to: -
a Describe the political, Social, and religious background of
prophet Jeremiah.
b Describe the personal life and call of Jeremiah.
c Explain the evils condemned by Jeremiah.
d Explain the contents of the temple sermon.
e Highlight the relevance of Jeremiah’s teaching on evils,
false prophets and Christians today.
LESSON ONE: THE CALL JEREMIAH
Learning outcomes. After reading this lesson, you should be
able to: -
i. Describe the situation of the people of Judah
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ii. Identify religious, political and socio classes of Judah
iii. Describe the call of Jeremiah
iv. Explain lessons that modern Christians can learn from
the call of Jeremiah
a. The Kingdom of Judah
Social background
The people of Judah were divided into three social classes.
At the top were the (i) Aristocrats. These
were the ruling class, which consisted of the king, his
family, royal officials, princesses, priests, and
professional prophets. This class of the rich oppressed the
poor.
Below them was the class (ii) of technical professional such
as stonecutters, carpenters, builders,
masons, blacksmiths, masons, and others craftsmen (2
Kings 12:12). Below them was class (iii) made up
of poor people such as slaves, widows, orphans, and
foreigners. All these poor people were mistreated.
In terms of ethics, there was moral degradation. They
committed adultery, prostitution, murder, false
witness, and corruption.
Religions background.
The Kings and people of Judah worshipped idols. They
practiced human sacrifice, divination and magic,
and listened to false prophecies. They abandoned their
covenant with God and their way of life and
practiced syncretism, which is worshipping God and other
false gods like Baal.
King Josiah tried to restore true worship by carrying out
several reforms. Prophetess Huldah prophesied
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that Judah would be punished after Josiah’s death since he
humbled before Yahweh.
Political Background.
Prophet Jeremiah lived in the 7th century BC and
prophesied when Judah was ruled by King Josiah, and
later his sons Jehoiakim, and Zedekiah; and king
Jehoiachin. Judah was conquered and ruled by
Assyrians who were conquered by Egyptians who ruled
Judah up to 605 BC. Egyptians; were conquered
by Babylonians under King Nebuchadnezzar. This was
according to the prophecies of Jeremiah.
b. The Call of Jeremiah. Read Jer 1: 19.
Jeremiah’s father was a priest called Hilkiah. He was born in
the territory of Benjamin; at a place called
Anathoth, He was well educated.
Jeremiah was called to be a prophet in 627 B.C during the
reign of King Josiah. He received his call in
form of a dialogue with Yahweh. God told him that he had
appointed him to be his messenger; even
before he was formed in his mother’s womb, God had
selected him to be a prophet. Jeremiah said he
was too young and did not know how to speak. Jeremiah
was forewarned of the hostility he would
encounter in his prophetic career. God told him that He
would protect him and not to fear.
God touched Jeremiah’s mouth. This symbolized that God is
the one who shall put words in his mouth.
Jeremiah responded to God’s call in faith and obedience. He
was given a message that God was going to

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bring judgment upon the Kingdom of Judah. God promised
to make him a fortified city, an iron pillar and
bronze wall for protection. He was commanded by God not
to marry, neither have children and not to
attend social gatherings, weddings, and funerals. His
mission made him isolated and lonely.
As a result, his own family and relatives rejected him and
plotted to kill him. But he had few friends like
Ebed- melech, Ahikam who helped him to get out of a pit.
Jeremiah was persecuted by; the kings of Judah. Priests
including priest Pashhur opposed him, and false
prophets like Hannaniah. He prophesied that God shall
punish wicked Kings, priests, and ordinary
people. He suffered spiritually and emotionally.
At the fall of Jerusalem in 587 B.C, the army officers of
Nebuchadnezzar released him from prison. He
went to Egypt where he died at an old age and as a faithful
servant of God. His life was symbolic to the
people of Judah. During his call, Jeremiah saw two visions.
Vision one was the vision of a “branch of an almond tree”.
The tree seemed dead, bare, yet life was in it. This vision
was telling Judah that although God seemed to
be ‘sleeping’, He was watching over them if they obey Him.
Vision two was “a pot boiling in the north, and it is about to
tip over this way” (1:13). The boiling pot
tilted away from the north signified that the destroyers of
Judah would come from the north. The pot
was ready to boil over and spill its contents. This meant that
Judah was soon going to have trouble.
Babylon would pour horrifying disasters on Judah.
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Lessons from the call of Jeremiah
God has a purpose for each person and He can call anybody
to do His work. He calls the unborn, the
young, old, rich, and poor. God prepares people for His
work, through specific experiences at family
level, in school, and church.
A person who is called to serve God should be ready to meet
opposition. God protects His servants and
promises to be with them. Jeremiah felt inadequate to
speak. Christians should not let their human
weakness hinder them from performing their tasks.
Christians should respond to God’s call in
obedience.
LESSON TWO. EVILS ADDRESSED BY JEREMIAH. Read
Jeremiah 2, 3, 4, 5,7, 9, 10, 23, and 28.
Learning outcomes. After reading this lesson,
1. Name the evil practices that Jeremiah condemned
2. Explain why Jeremiah condemned these evil practices
There were many evils in Judah and Israel. We have
mentioned some of them. These were: necromancy,
dishonesty, deception, false prophecy, human sacrifice, and
idolatry
i. Necromancy. Words related to necromancy are divinations,
magic, sorcery, and playing tricks on
people’s minds. Necromancy is the art of seeking hidden
knowledge from the mysterious world of
spirits: using magic, and divination, which is invoking the
dead. Divination was condemned in the
Hebrew language. Diviners, magicians, sooth sayers and
fortunetellers used necromancy. Prophet
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Jeremiah condemned necromancy.
Reasons why Jeremiah condemned necromancy
Necromancy was a deception and therefore an evil practice.
The diviners gave false information from
their own imagination. This practice polluted the true
worship of Yahweh and indicated Israelites lack of
faith in the one true God. Two, by trusting in divination, and
magic, the Israelites showed their lack of
knowledge of the one true God. Three, by consulting the
mediums, the Israelites disobeyed God (Jer
27:8-10).
ii) Deception and Dishonesty
Dishonesty is lack of moral integrity or moral uprightness.
Deception is cheating, and telling lies
intentionally. It is also giving false and misleading
information.
The Israelites were dishonest because they worshiped God
and at the same time committed social
injustices against their brothers and sisters. Their
repentance was insincere. There was treachery, and
greed. They laid traps for each other. People pretended to be
friendly and at the same time conspired to
kill. Jeremiah challenged the Israelites people to ‘circumcise
their hearts which were deceitful. Their
tongues were ‘deadly arrows’ and they listened to false
prophesies like that of Hannaniah
Jeremiah condemned deception. This was because it led to
syncretism, and hypocrisy in worship; and
breaking down of the covenant way of life. Jeremiah warned
the Israelites and asked them to repent
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iii. False prophesy by Hannaniah. Jer 28
During the reign of king Zedekiah, Hannaniah broke the
yoke that Jeremiah was wearing. Hannaniah
spoke in the name of Yahweh. He lied to the people as he
spoke from his imagination and dreams.
Jeremiah denounced Hannaniah. He predicted and
prophesied the death of Hannaniah in the same year.
And it came to pass. Jeremiah had also prophesied that the
captivity of Judah should be long contrary to
Hannaniah who said Judah will be exiled for 2 years.
Reasons for condemning false prophets
Prophets of Baal were still in existence. False prophets like
Hannaniah had filled the people of Israel with
unrealistic hopes of peace yet Judah was to be destroyed.
Recall the characteristics of true and false
prophets. False prophets did not condemn sin. They
prophesied for money and in the process misled
people away from Yahweh. False prophets prophesied from
their dreams, imaginations and not from
God. They gave people false hopes. They intended to make
themselves popular, with the King and the
people.
iv) Human sacrifice. The people offered human sacrifice to
idols and oppressed each other. Human
sacrifice is the act of killing human beings for a religious or
spiritual purpose. The Israelites copied this
activity from the Canaanites. Children were believed to be
the best sacrifice since people believed they
would get great favors from the deities. Some kings such as
Ahaz and Manasseh sacrificed their sons to
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idols. Jeremiah condemned human sacrifice.
Reasons for condemning human sacrifice
Human sacrifice was an act of idolatry. It indicated infidelity
of the Israelites to the one true God. It
demonstrated Israel’s disrespect for the sacred gift of life. It
showed their lack of knowledge of the true
nature of Yahweh. Human sacrifice defiled the land for life is
in the blood. Blood speaks hence the land
was crying at this vengeance. God did not ask for human
sacrifices. Human sacrifice was a sign of lack of
love of God and love for one another. It is a demonstration of
disregard for human life. Only God has the
right to take away life. In our country people kill each other
every day especially on the road. Why do we
do this?
v. Idolatry
Idolatry is the worship of many gods. Idols are images made
by people for worship. The Israelites
practiced syncretism, which we said was the worship of
Yahweh and idols. The people of Israel were
worshipping Baal the Queen of heaven, sun, moon, stars,
and also Yahweh (Jer 8:2).
Idols were placed even in Yahweh’s sacred places. The
temple was defiled by idols. This the temple
unclean. Jeremiah condemned it. He told the people of Israel
that “{they have forsaken the fountain of
living waters (GOD) and hewn out for themselves broken
cisterns (IDOLs) that can hold no water” (Jer 2:
11-13).

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Why did Jeremiah condemn idolatry? Read Jer 2: 20, 2:1- 3,
5: 7- 8.
Idolatry is like adultery and prostitution. It defiled people
and was a sign of lack of faith in Yahweh. It
defiled the land. Idolatry led to divine judgment and
punishment.
People of Judah abandoned Yahweh the ‘Husband’ and
chased “lovers” the idols and deities The
Israelites (Northern kingdom) had been punished before and
yet Judah did not learn from them. By
worshipping idols Judah broke the covenant and their
relationship with God. And unless the people of
Judah repented, they would be punished; as there is only
one true living God to be worshipped and
obeyed. Is there idolatry among Christians today’s
vi. Other evils condemned by Jeremiah
People of Judah trusted that the temple was secure, holy
and cannot be destroyed. Jeremiah denounced
this false belief about the temple. He warned them that God
would destroy the temple because of the
many evils committed in it. The temple of God had become a
‘den of robbers’ and human sacrifices.
People of Judah committed other evils such as hypocrisy
(Jer 7; 9-10); social injustice (adultery, murder),
stubbornness, and rebellion.
vi. The temple
Temple is a place of worship. The temple of Israelites was in
Jerusalem. It signified the presence of God
among his people. The Israelites believed God could never
destroy or allow destruction of the temple.
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Jeremiah stood at the gates of the temple court during
Jehuiakim’s reign, and Judah that God would
destroy the temple and send them to exile. He urged them to
repent and turn back to God. King Josiah
heard the message of Jeremiah and he reformed religious
practices in Judah.
vii. Religions reforms carried out by King Josiah
This topic is not clearly spelt out in the syllabus. It is based
on the book of Deuteronomy. The scroll was
discovered in the temple during repairs.
Josiah ordered the repair of the temple of God. He led a
national ceremony to review the covenant. He
destroyed idols and altars associated with the worship of
foreign deities throughout Judah. He
eliminated all the priests associated with the worship of
false deities. He celebrated Passover in
Jerusalem. The successors of King Josiah did not follow his
example. They became corrupt. They
persecuted the prophets of God. They listened to false
prophets. They promoted idolatry and child
sacrifice.
viii. The Relevance of Jeremiah’s teachings to Christians
today.
Christians should denounce hypocrisy in the society today.
They should not result to witchcraft,
divination and sorcery. They should be upright, and worship
God in sincerity. They are to proclaim divine
judgment upon those who refuse to obey God’s will, just like
Jeremiah declared God’s judgment upon
Judah due to the sins of the people.
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Like Jeremiah, Christians should speak out against modern
idols like love of money, power, obsession
with sports, sex, and drugs among other evils. Christians
should condemn destruction of human life,
violence; murder, abortion, parents killing their own
children, genocide and exploitation of the poor.
Christians should be aware of the existence of false
teachings and prophecies. They should pray for
God’s guidance and wisdom to be able to distinguish truth
from false teaching. Christians have a
responsibility to correct one another and call on sinners to
repent.
Christians are to be trustworthy, upright, and merciful to
the poor and condemn dishonesty. They
should practice justice in their relationship with others;
preach against disobedience, stubbornness and
pray to God to help them overcome these vices.
Read these review questions and answer before reading
answers>
1. Why was Jeremiah reluctant to accept the call?
2. Which evils / sins did Jeremiah Condemn?.
3. Give examples of idol worship in Kenya.
4. Describe Jeremiahs temple sermon
SAQ answer.
1. Jeremiah felt inadequate because he was too young to
work for God. He argued that he did not know
how to speak. He was afraid. He knew he would face stiff
opposition from the people of Judah. The
message of God’s judgments is difficult to deliver.

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2. Read text again and look for evils and sins that Jeremiah
condemned.
3. Examples of idol worship in Kenya are many. Some
people including Christians practice witchcraft,
sorcery, personality cults and hero worship of religions and
political leaders. Other people, worship
money, materialism, media, and sports obsession with
power / status Sexual immorality – devil worship
4. Jeremiahs temple sermon. Read text again.
LESSON THREE. JEREMIAH’S TEACHINGS ON JUDGMENT
AND PUNISHMENT
Read Jeremiah 5:12-18, 6;1-30, 7:30, 8:1-17, 10: 17-25,
15;1-9, 17:1-13, 25: 1-38
Learning Outcomes. By the end of this topic, you should be
able to: -
a Summarize in two paragraphs Jeremiah key teachings.
b Explain the significance of symbolic acts related to
judgement and punishment.
c Describe suffering and lamentations of Jeremiah
d Explain the teachings of Jeremiah on the new covenant.
a. Jeremiah teachings. Sin was internalise in the hearts of
the people of Judah. God punished them. God
punishes people because of their unfaithfulness.
Punishment is a penalty, for an offence or a crime
committed.
But in punishing people, God is a just judge. He does not
punish people without a reason irrespective of
their status.
God judges people by looking into their hearts. Divine
judgment is for a group. For example, the people
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of Judah were punished as a group. However God searches
each person’s heart and judges accordingly.
God executes His judgment by means of political and
historical events. Divine punishments are in forms
of natural disasters like drought, famine, and epidemics.
God’s punishment is unavoidable, and
inescapable. Judah took the best option by surrendering to
the Babylonians.
The purpose for God’s judgement is to correct the sinner.
God gave his people a chance to repent before
he punished them. God’s judgment is universal. It is not
limited to one nation. God punished the
neighbours of Judah who at that time were Egypt, Moab,
Ammon, and Babylon. God’s punishment is
severe compared to that of venomous snakes that bite the
people of Judah. God’s judgement is not
necessarily a punishment from God for one’s sins. It is
symbolic. The sufferings of Jeremiah were
symbolic of the life of the people of Judah.
What can we learn about God’s punishments? Are modern
disasters such as cyclones, floods,
earthquakes, landslides, epidemics, bomb blasts, civil wars,
forest fires, rebellions in schools a sign of
God’s judgment and punishment? What do you think?
b. Symbolic acts related to judgement and punishment
People use several methods to convey messages to each
other. We use songs, advertisements, dramas,
and stories by the fireside, in novels, the Internet, and
magazines to communicate messages about

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children, adults, society, political leaders, poverty and many
others. The prophets used: (1). Oracles;
‘Thus says the Lord’; (2) Allegories (3) Parables (4) Songs (5)
Symbolic Visions (6) Symbolic actions and (7)
dramatized messages
Symbolic acts of Jeremiah
i The linen waist cloth (Jer.13)
ii Jeremiah’s personal life (Jer.16)
iii Jeremiah’s visit to a potter (Jer.18)
iv The broken earthen flask (Jer.19)
v The symbolic vision of 2 baskets of figs (Jer.24)
vi The wearing of the yoke
i. The Linen Waist Cloth. Read Jer.13
Jeremiah was instructed by God to buy a linen waistcloth
and wear it around his waist without dipping it
in water. He was told to hide the cloth in a hole near river
Euphrates. Afterwards he was told to take the
cloth. He found it spoilt for wearing.
Significance. The liner material was for priestly garments in
Israel. It symbolized Israel’s holiness. The
unwashed cloth represented Judah’s sinful pride. Israel
used to cling close to God but now Israel / Judah
were spoilt, rebellious, arrogant and pursued foreign gods.
God was going to destroy them if they did
not repent. The spoilt linen waistcloth was a symbol for
future God’s action.
ii. Jeremiah’s personal Life. Read Jer 16. His life was a
symbolic act. He was told not to marry, have
children, and nor attend funerals, social gatherings, feasts
and wedding parties.
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Significance. The personal life of Jeremiah was one of
suffering. This signified the suffering that the
people of Judah would be subjected to. Judah was punished
because of their wickedness and rebellion.
Jeremiah’s loneliness signified the perishing of families
through the sword, famine and disease. It would
be a time of terror for the families of Judah. Their normal
social life of feasting, merry making would
come to an end. There would be no weddings and no one to
bury the dead. Hence Jeremiah was
forbidden from mourning for the dead.
iii. Jeremiah’s at the potter’s house (Jer.18)
Jeremiah was told to go to a potter’s house. He found the
potter making a clay vessel. “ Whenever a
piece of pottery turned out imperfect, he would take the clay
and make it into something else (18: 4).
The potter made a better pot, more perfect vessel than the
spoilt one.
Significance. God is the potter. People of Judah are the clay.
As the potter destroyed to vessel, God
intended to destroy Judah because of their wickedness and
mould those who repented into better
people. God was going to shape them into faithful people.
God’s judgement was to be a corrective
punishment.
iv. The broken clay Jar. Read Jer.19. God told Jeremiah to
buy a clay flask
He then took some elders and priests to the valley of Valley
of Hinnon. He delivered a sermon

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condemning the people of Judah for their idolatry and other
evils. Jeremiah then broke the clay jar in
their presence and announced to them that Yahweh would
destroy Jerusalem and Judah as Jeremiah
had destroyed the jar.
Significance. The kings, priests and prophets of Judah
would be shattered like the clay flask because of
their sins. Sine, they brutally sacrificed their children; they
are to suffer horrifying experiences at the
hand of their enemies. They shall suffer starvation and turn
into cannibals; eating their own children and
neighbours (v.9).
Broken pieces of a clay pot cannot be moulded. No one was
to escape judgment. However there is hope
after punishment.
v. Two Baskets of Figs (Jer.24). Jeremiah received the
visions, after the deportation and exile of leading
citizens of Judah and Israel to Babylon. Two baskets of figs
were placed in front of the temple. One
basket had very good figs, which had ripened. The other
basket had bad figs unfit for human
consumption.
Significance. The basket of good figs signified the first exile.
God would renew their hearts; use them to
fulfil his promises to the Israelites. He would recreate them
to a new people. The basket of the bad figs
represented people living in Jerusalem and Egypt. Since
they were not exiled they had a self-righteous
attitude. They thought that God spared them because they
were truthful but it was not so. They shall
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also be destroyed through famine, and diseases. This vision
signifies hope and restoration of the
Israelites.
vi. Jeremiah Wears an Ox Yoke. Read Jer. 27. When
Zedekiah son of Josiah became the ruler of Judah,
Jeremiah was instructed by God “to make” for himself “ a
yoke out of leather straps and wooden
crossbars” and to wear it around his neck (27: 2). Jeremiah
moved around in the yoke for quite
sometime in public.
He was also given a message for ambassadors of kings of
Edom, Moab, Ammon, Tyre, and Sidon, who
were coming to see King Zedekiah in Jerusalem. They were
to give God’s message to their kings. The
message was to “submit to King Nebuchadnezzar of
Babylonia; his son, and his grandson. Any nation
that accepted this message shall not suffer; but if any nation
..will no submit to King Nebuchadnezzar of
Babylonia rule, God will punish that nation by war,
starvation and disease” Read Jer 27:6-8. The message
for king Zedekiah was to surrender to the Babylonian rule
and live, if he resists he would perish.
The message for priests and people of Judah was not to be
misled by the false prophets. The temple
would be destroyed. Its treasures looted by the Babylonians.
Significance. The yoke represented the Babylonians rule.
Nebuchadnezzar was used by God to bring
judgment to all nations. Yahweh is a universal God and his
judgment is universal. Sinners are punished

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regardless of their origin or nation. Those who repent are
spared.
Reflection questions
Why did God inspire Jeremiah to use symbolic acts to
convey his message?
Answer
Israelites were stubborn. Jeremiah acts were reminders to
Judah to turn to God and stop idolatry and all
the sins they were committing. They had drifted too far from
God. False prophets were prophesying lies
to them. The people of Judah were expected to meditate on
these acts and understand God’s will for
them and see the seriousness of the matter. This was also to
imprint a lasting impression in their minds.
SAQ. Which methods do pastors / priests use to
communicate God’s message to Christians today?
c. The sufferings and lamentations of Jeremiah
Read Jer 11, 12, 17:14 – 18, 18:18- 23 , 20: 1 – 6, 27, 37,
and 38.
Jeremiah sufferings were experiences that were painful;
physically and emotionally. In suffering there is
loss and grief. Lamentations are strong emotional
expressions of pain and grief. Jeremiah suffered in the
following ways
I. Rejection by his own family and relatives. They plotted to
kill him. This grieved Jeremiah.
II. Anathoth planned to kill him but God protected
Jeremiah. He pronounced God’s judgment upon them
III. Jeremiah suffered when he was accused falsely. He was
accused of blasphemy after the temple
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sermon. He foretold the destruction of the temple, just like
Jesus Christ in the New Testament did.
IV. He was accused of treachery. That he was planning to
leave Jerusalem and join the Babylonians. This
led to Jeremiah being arrested and put in an underground
jail.
V. Jeremiah received death threats because of speaking for
God. King Jehoiakim plotted to kill prophet
Uriah. The prophet escaped to Egypt but he was followed to
Egypt, arrested and killed by king
Jehoiakim. The king had planned to accuse Jeremiah of
Uriah death. Ahikam and other elders defended
Jeremiah. (Jeremiah 26)
VI. Jeremiah suffered loneliness and solitude. He felt
emotional anguish and complained to God of his
orders not to marry, neither attend social gathering and
celebrations. This made Jeremiah lonely since
he did not participate in the family life, political life,
community activities and religious life.
VII. Jeremiah experienced inner personal struggle due to his
love for his own people He did not want to
see them suffer but the people were stubborn Read Jer. 12:1
– 6, 15:10 – 21, and 27.
VIII. Jeremiah’s prophesying judgment caused him
emotional pain and agony. His messages were mainly
of severe judgment and punishment.
IX. He went through a spiritual struggle in his relationship
with God. He felt frustrations, doubts, self-pity
and despair. He wondered why God made him suffer. Why
do the wicked prosper? He also wondered
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why God was taking too long to fulfil his prophecies. God
assured him that Judah would be punished and
promised to give Jeremiah victory against his enemies.
X. Jeremiah suffered physical assault, imprisonment and an
attempt on his life. Pashhur, the chief
temple priest ordered beating and chaining of Jeremiah to
the temple gate. Jeremiah prophesied that
Pashshur’s name would change to ‘terror everywhere’.
XI. King Zedekiah released Jeremiah from the cell to his
court. Jeremiah continued to prophecy and was
thrown in a muddy cistern. Here he was rescued by Ebed-
melech an Ethiopian Eunuch. The court
officials had accused him of not being patriotic. Jeremiah
remained in jail until the Babylonians
overthrew Jerusalem. He did not change his prophecies.
Read Jer. 10:1 – 6, 27, 37, and 38.
Is there relevance of the sufferings and lamentations of
Jeremiah to Christians today? From his suffering
Christians learn to be ready to face opposition and rejection
from their own family members and
relatives for the sake of the gospel. Christians should be
prepared to suffer persecution for the Lord.
Christians should be ready to make sacrifices for the sake of
God. Be ready to lead humble lives.
Jeremiah’s open confessions to God encourage Christians to
be open to God. Christians should let God
avenge for them just like Jeremiah prayed to God to revenge
his enemies. Christians should not lose
hope in times of difficulty. Christians learn that tribulations
strengthen their faith. Christians should
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learn to deal with negative emotions such as self – pity, grief
and trust God. Jeremiah was told by God to
repent of his negative utterances. Christians should do the
same as they are assured of divine security
and protection against their persecutors.
LESSON FOUR. JEREMIAH’S TEACHING ABOUT THE NEW
COVENANT
A covenant is an agreement. Another word for covenant is
testament. Jeremiah taught that there would
be a new covenant between God and Israel. This new
covenant would be different from the Old (Sinai)
covenant. The new covenant would renew the broken
relationship between God and his people.
Lesson outcomes. After reading Jeremiah’s teaching:
a. State the terms of the new covenant.
b. Identify the differences between the old covenant and the
new covenant
c. Summarize the similarities between the old covenant and
the new covenant
a. The New Covenant. In the new covenant, the law would be
written in the hearts of the people unlike
the old covenant where the law was written on stone tablets.
Every individual would know God
personally and not through prophets as it was during times
of Jeremiah and previous one. Each person
would be responsible for his/her sins. God would forgive
sins and remember them no more. The new
covenant would be established after God’s punishment of
Israel and establishing a’ new Israel’, a ‘new
people’ of God.
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The new covenant would establish a new beginning. People
would forget the first Exodus. The second
Exodus would be deliverance and restoration from Babylon.
God would initiate the new covenant as he
did with the first. It would be a new covenant of peace,
unity, prosperity, Joy and gladness. In the new
covenant a ‘righteous branch’ would be established. The new
covenant would be everlasting. It would
not be broken again.
b. Differences between the old covenant and the new
covenant
Old Covenant New Covenant
1. Based on law Based on faith
2. Word written on stone tablets Word written in peoples
hearts
3. God known personally by a few priests prophets and
prophets Each to person to know God personally
4. Covenant broken when people sinned Everlasting
covenant
5. Sins punished collectively Sins punished individually
6. 1st Exodus from Egypt 2nd Exodus from Babylon
7. Sealed by animal sacrifice Sealed by Jesus sacrifice
(blood)
What are the similarities between the old and the new
covenant? Jesus fulfilled the new covenant. Jesus
is the ‘righteous branch’ from the lineage of David. In the
last supper, before his death, Jesus said ‘this
cup which is poured out for you is the new covenant in my
blood. Read Luke, 22:20. The death and

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resurrection of Jesus marks the new covenant. Jesus spoke
of forgiveness of sins of humanity Jesus
forgave people’s sins, for example, the sinful woman in
Simon’s house (Luke7: 36 – 50). In the new
covenant the law would be written in people’s hearts. Jesus
summarized the Mosaic Law into ‘love God
with all your heart, mind, strength and love your neighbour
as you love yourself. Jesus established the
kingdom of God as a new community of God’s people based
on faith (the Christians).
Jesus fulfilled the new covenant prophecies The teachings of
Jeremiah new covenant of hope and
restoration is fulfilled in Jesus Christ and the new testament
church (Christians) Heb.8:7 – 12.
LESSON FIVE. JEREMIAH’S TEACHINGS ON HOPE AND
RESTORATION
Learning Outcomes
(a) Explain the symbolic acts related to hope and restoration
(b) Describe the fall of Jerusalem and the exile of the
Israelites
(c) Relate the relationship of the teachings of Jeremiah to the
New Testament and Christian life today.
A. Symbolic acts related to hope and restoration.
The symbolic acts were one hope and restore. Hope is to
expect something that is desired; while to
restore is to bring back as nearly as possible the former or
original state or condition. The symbolic acts
were 5 in number.
The first symbolic act was a vision of 2 baskets of figs. We
have discussed it. Refer to the symbolic act
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related to judgment.
The second symbolic act was Jeremiah buying a field. God
instructed Jeremiah to buy a field from his
cousin Hanamel of Anathoth. Jeremiah bought the field for
17 cents of silver. He then handed the title
deed and open copy to Baruch. Baruch was told to keep the
title deed and the copy in an earthen vessel
for preservation for a long time. Jeremiah prophesied the
restoration of the exiles to their homeland.
The significance of this symbolic act is the assurance of
restoration of Judah and Israel after suffering.
People will be restored to their homeland. After 70 years
people of Judah would reconstruct their
homes, cultivate their land, and own property (Jer 32; 1 -
15).
The third symbolic act was Jeremiah’ letter to the Jews in
Babylonia. Jeremiah wrote to the people of
Judah a letter of encouragement while in exile. They were to
settle down, build houses, marry and have
children, live in peace with the Babylonians. They were to
pray for the welfare of their masters and to
ignore false prophets who lied to them about the safety of
Jerusalem and a quick return. God would
restore them back to their land after 70 years of exile were
over. The exiles were to trust in God and not
give up (Jer.29).
The four symbolic act was a wooden ox yoke. The yoke
represented captivity and suffering of Jews in
exile. It was also a sign of hope if the people of Judah were
willing to submit to the Babylonian rule. God
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would restore them back to their land. Their yoke would be
broken and they would be set free.
The fifth symbolic act was the visit to the porter’s house
b. The fall of Jerusalem and the exile of the Israelites
(Jer.39)
Jeremiah’s prophecy came to pass. Jerusalem fell to the
Babylonians in the ninth year of king Zedekiah
in 587BC. The Babylonians conquered Jerusalem and seized
it. King Zedekiah fled but; he was captured
by the Babylonians army. He witnessed the execution of his
sons. His eyes were gauged out. He was
then taken in chains to captivity in Babylon. Solomon’s
temple was looted and destroyed. Villages,
Jerusalem and the palace were destroyed and burnt down.
The priests, court officials, army officials,
people in the upper class, craftsmen were executed. City
people were taken to Babylon as captives. The
poor, aged and a few people were left behind and given
vineyards to farm.
Nebuchadnezzar’s army was brutal to the Israelites. Many
were killed. A few like Ebed – Melech were
spared as prophesied by Jeremiah (he had rescued him from
the well). Nebuchadnezzar ordered the
release of Jeremiah. He was treated well
Judah became a province of Babylon. Gedaliah was
appointed governor of Judah. He stayed at Mizpah,
the headquarters of Judah. Ishmael killed Gedaliah. Later
Jeremiah was forced to go to Egypt by the
Israelites. Jeremiah died in Egypt, an old man, and still
faithful to his call.
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LESSON SIX. RELATING THE TEACHINGS OF JEREMIAH
TO THE NEW TESTAMENT AND CHRISTIAN LIFE
TODAY
Learning outcomes. By the end of the lesson you should be
able to: -
1.Describe the teachings of Jeremiah in relation to Christian
life today
2. Describe the teachings of Jeremiah in relation to the new
testament
Jeremiah was rejected by his; relatives, friends and the
Israelites. In the New Testament, Jesus was
rejected in his hometown of Nazareth: and by the religious
leaders of Israel. Jeremiah compared himself
to a lamb being led to the slaughter. Jesus in the New
Testament is referred to as a lamb led to the
slaughter. Jeremiah’s suffering symbolizes divine judgment
over Judah. However Jesus sufferings was to
bring salvation to all mankind. Both Jeremiah and Jesus
experienced spiritual agony. Jeremiah
experience agony and felt left alone by God. Jesus too felt
agony when praying in the garden of
Gethsemane and when on the cross.
Jeremiah taught that God is universal and a just judge. The
gospel of Jesus is universal and everybody is
judged according to his or her faith in God. Jeremiah and
Jesus accused the Israelites of turning the
temple into a “den of robbers”. Jeremiah and Jesus were
both accused of blasphemy. Both challenged
false beliefs about the temple. Both Jeremiah and Jesus
spoke of the coming judgment of God.
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The new covenant was fulfilled in the life and ministry of
Jesus Christ Jeremiah spoke of hope and
restoration. Jesus gives hope of eternal life in the New
Testament.
ii. Relationship of Jeremiah’s teaching to Christian today.
Christians are to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ. They are
empowered by the Holy Spirit to endure
suffering and to grow spiritually. Christians like Jeremiah
face false prophets who speak in Jesus name.
Christians are to be watchful and obey Yahweh
Like Jeremiah Christians should call people to repentance.
The new covenant is fulfilled in Christian’s
individual relationship with God. Christians are the new
people, the new Israel as prophesied by
Jeremiah. His teachings reveal that God is universal.
Christians are from all corners of the earth.
Christians should prepare for divine judgment by practicing
love, righteousness, self-denial, and faith in
God.
Revision exercise
1. List the evils that Jeremiah condemned
2.What are some of the evils that church leaders condemn
today?
3. Explain the symbolism used during the call of prophet
Jeremiah
4. What did Jeremiah teach about the new covenant?
5. Why did prophet Jeremiah condemn the way the Israelites
worshipped?
6. Explain Jeremiah’s temple sermon as recorded in
jeremiah7: 1-15
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7. What forms of punishment did Jeremiah prophesy that
God would use on Judah?
8. Outline the content of Jeremiah’s letter to exiles in
Babylon
9. Explain four symbolic acts related to judgement and
punishment as demonstrated by prophet
Jeremiah
10. Identify the relevance of Jeremiah’s teaching to
Christians today
11. In what ways is the prophetic mission of Jeremiah
similar to that of Jesus?
TOPIC SIX. NEHEMIAH
Introduction
The book of Nehemiah is a historical writing. Nehemiah is a
record of his deep dependence on God and
his frequent prayer to God. Nehemiah means “Yahweh has
comforted. Nehemiah was the son of
Hacaliah of Judah. He was not a prophet. He was exiled to
Babylon. Persians captured Babylon and
improved the living condition of the Israelites. They were
allowed religious freedom but had to pay
tributes.
Learning outcomes. By the end of this topic you should be
able to;
a. Describe the historical, religious and social background to
Nehemiah
b. Identify occasions when Nehemiah prayed
c. Explain the importance of prayer in Christian life
D .Describe leadership qualities of Nehemiah and relevance
to Christians today.
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LESSON ONE. BACKGROUND TO NEHEMIAH
Learning outcomes. After reading this lesson,
i. Describe how the people of Judah lived and worshipped.
ii. Explain the conquest of Israel and Judah by foreign forces
iii. Give reasons why God allowed Judah and Israel to be
conquered and exiled.
a. Political and historical background. From 587 BC to 538
BC, Israelites were in exile. In 538 B.C., the
first group of Israelites was set free and returned to Judah.
Cyrus the Great, of Persia ruled his subjects
through governors. They were led out of Babylon by Joshua
the high priest and Zerubbabel who became
the first governor of Judah.
Some Jews remained in Babylon. They were referred to as
Jews in Diaspora or dispersion. Other Jews
remained in other lands including Egypt, and Mediterranean
lands
Nehemiah. He was a cupbearer in the palace of the Persian
king Artaxerxes I. He later became a
governor of Judah. Even after the rebuilding of the wall of
Jerusalem, Israelites remained subjects of the
Persian king.
The Wall of Jerusalem was important to Israel and Judah.
The Wall represented a sense of pride,
ownership, privacy, independence and
Security. The Greeks conquered the Persians; who were later
conquered by Romans.
b. Social background
The Jews in foreign lands retained their Jewish way of life.
The land of Israel was partly occupied by
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foreigners. The foreign cultures of neighboring rulers
influenced Israelites who returned. They for
example, intermarried with foreigners, a custom that God
did not allow. Israelites were not to
intermarry with other people according to the Mosaic Law.
In spite of this however, Jews maintained
their separated identity. Some of the foreigners despised
Jews. The wealthy Jews oppressed the poor
Jews. In Jerusalem there was starvation. Nehemiah
condemned oppression of the poor.
c. Religious background
Jews returned to rebuild the temple of Jerusalem and the
altar of God for sacrifices. While in exile, Jews
were allowed by the Babylonian king to practice their
religion. They worshipped Yahweh, practiced
circumcision, obeyed dietary laws and observed the
Sabbath. The exiles could not however observe all
the religious practices for example offering animal sacrifices.
Nehemiah returned to Jerusalem to rebuild it’s the wall. The
temple of Jerusalem was rebuilt, cleared
and dedicated to God.
LESSON TWO. Prayers by Nehemiah and modern Christians
Learning outcomes. After reading this lesson the learner
should be able to:
a. Outline occasions when Nehemiah prayed to the Lord.
b. Discuss the importance of prayer
Nehemiah prayed, mourned, and fasted. He prayed often
and for all actions, keeping God’s law,
forgiveness, punishments, human relations, Jerusalem,
good works, contributions and offerings,
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observance of Sabbath day, and preparing duty allocations
for priests and Levites. .
i. When he learnt about the suffering of Jews who remained
in Judah and the ruined state of Jerusalem;
He prayed for forgiveness on behalf of his people (Neh.4: 1 –
11).
ii. Making a request to King Artaxerxes to be permitted to
return to Judah (Neh.2: 4 –
iii. When his enemies ridiculed the Jews and planned to
discourage them from rebuilding the wall of
Jerusalem. Tobiah in particular said that the wall was
poorly constructed and it could be brought down
by; a fox jumping on it. Nehemiah requested God to punish
the enemies who were mocking temple
builders (Neh.4: 4 – 5).
iv. When he learnt that his enemies were conspiring to
attack Jerusalem to stop the construction work,
he prayed and organised people to provide a 24-hour guard
of the wall (Neh.4: 7 – 9).
.v. For his good work, he prayed for his works (Neh 5:19).
vi. When his enemies plotted to destroy him, he prayed God
for strength and courage to overcome his
enemies (Neh 6: 19).
vii. When Shemaih attempted to frighten him to hide in the
temple claiming that there was a plot to kill
him, Nehemiah prayed and asked God to punish his
enemies (Neh 6:14).
viii. When he organized contributions for Levites and
musicians; and people to distribute them. He asked
God to remember his work for the house of God (Neh 13:14).
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ix. He stopped trade on the Sabbath day, and organised rest
on the Sabbath day. He warned traders
against violating the Sabbath law. He asked Lord to
remember him for these actions (Neh.13: 22).
x. Nehemiah prayed for punishment of the son of Joiada.
The son of Joiada had brought disgrace to the
priest hood by marrying a foreigner, the daughter of
Sanballat from the town of Beth Horon, (Neh
13:29). After cleansing the Israelites of foreign influence, he
forbade mixed marriages
xi. He prepared duty regulations for priests and Levites. He
allocated them duties. He then organised
Jews to bring offerings for maintaining priests and Levites.
He prayed God to remember his work for the
temple, priests and Levites (Neh 13:31).
b. Importance of prayer in Christian life
Through prayers, Christians express their faith in God and
praise God for his greatness, goodness,
holiness, and majesty. Prayer brings Christians closer to
God; it strengthens their relationship with God.
Through prayer Christians request for their needs,
blessings, success, good health, and protection
among other requests.
Prayers help Christians to listen to God and to seek his will.
Prayer is a source of strength. It gives
Christians courage to face and overcome life’s challenges.
Christians seek guidance, comfort and support
in times of trials. In prayer, Christians intercede for the sick,
poor, hungry, prisoners, friends, family and

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community. The communal / public prayers unite
Christians together. Through prayers, Christians ask
for forgiveness and the ability to forgive others. In prayers,
Christians trust that God listens and answers
their prayers.
LESSON THREE: LEADERSHIP QUALITIES OF NEHEMIAH
Learning outcomes. By the end of the lesson you should be
able to: -
1. State the leadership qualities of Nehemiah
2. Explain the relevance of Nehemiah’s leadership qualities
to Christians today
Introduction. A leader is someone charged with the
responsibility of guiding, controlling, directing and
leading others. Nehemiah had many leadership qualities.
These were: -
1) God fearing man. Nehemiah feared God, relied and
depended on God.
2) Prayerfulness – he prayed constantly before and after
making decisions.
3) Courageous – He displayed courage even when his life
was in danger
4) Hard work and commitment. He was dedicated to the
rebuilding of the wall of the temple and
Jerusalem.
5) Team spirit – he was a team leader, motivating people to
work.
6) He had planning and organizational skills
7) He was visionary
He had compassion for the needy especially the poor, Levites
and priests
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9) He was patriotic loved his country
10) Wisdom. He made wise decisions at the right time.
11) He led by example, a role model
12) He was honest and sincere in his prayers
13) He was shrewd and impartial
14) His trusted God absolutely.
15) He was decisive. He told God about decisions he had
made and asked for their recognition.
16) He was humble. He asked to be allowed to return to
Jerusalem and oversee the repair of its wall and
temple.
16) He believed in law and punishment of wrong doers. He
asked God to punish lawbreakers especially
Jews who married foreigners.
b. Relevance of Nehemiah’s leadership to Christians today
Christians should copy all the leadership qualities of
Nehemiah. They should trust in God and seek his
guidance in all their activities and needs.
1. Christians should live a life of prayer
2. Christians should be courageous, be ready to defend the
gospel of Jesus Christ.
3. Christians should be dedicated to their work. Work
diligently and honestly
4. Christians should set realistic goals and organize their
activities.
5. Christians should seek wisdom from God to be able to
choose appropriate activities to attain their
visions.
6. Christians should care for the needy and be
compassionate to all
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7. Christians should be patriotic and ready to defend their
country against internal / external threats.
8. Christians should need to fight for the rights of the
helpless children, widows, orphans, and aged.
9. Christians should seek God first, view themselves as
servants of God and be good role models.
LESSON FOUR. BUILDING THE WALL OF JERUSALEM
The wall of Jerusalem was destroyed when Babylonians
conquered Judah. After finishing the wall, he
dedicated it to the Lord. Dedication is to devote something in
honor of a person held dear or to set aside
something for some special purpose.
Learning Outcomes. After reading this lesson, you should be
able to: -
a. Describe the problems that Nehemiah faced when
building the wall of Jerusalem
b. Describe the dedication of the wall of Jerusalem
c. Identify lessons, which Christians can learn from
Nehemiah.
a. Nehemiah rebuilt the wall of Jerusalem. The rebuilt wall
had several gates with different names. The
gates were the entrances to Jerusalem. Their names were
Dung gate, Potsherd gate, Fountain gate,
Water gate, Horse gate, East gate, Sheep gate, Fish gate,
Watch gate and Ephraim gate. Knowing the
names of the gates may not be necessary but its good
information.
b. Problems faced by Nehemiah. When Nehemiah was
building the wall of Jerusalem, he faced many

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challenges. There was lack of cooperation by the nobles of
Tekoa. They did not want to do manual work
at first but they later repented. Nehemiah faced opposition
from enemies such as. Sanballat, and
Tobiah, the Arab who tried to thwart the progress of
Nehemiah’s work.
As he built Jerusalem, the rich oppressed the poor. This was
worsened by famine
The priests misused the temple and the offerings. For
example, temple duties had been abandoned. The
Levites were not getting their share of the offerings and the
Sabbath was violated. There was laxity in
observance of the Sabbath. This was a challenge to
Nehemiah because Sabbath day should be kept holy.
There was a lot of foreign influence because of the conquests
by several foreign armies, intermarriages
and interactions between Jews, neighboring people and
foreigners. Marriages in particular threatened
the identity of the Israelites as a nation. Worse still Priests
married to foreign women defiled the
priesthood according to Nehemiah. Because of these
assimilations of Jews through marriages,
Nehemiah knew that Israel and Judah would eventually be
lost as God’s nation. Because of his
opposition to these interactions, Nehemiah received death
threats.
c. Dedication of the wall of Jerusalem (NEH. 12:27 – 47)
The rebuilt wall was dedicated to God. The wall restored
security and prestige of God’s people. The wall

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of Jerusalem was set-aside for God in a solemn ceremony.
There was a dedication ceremony in which
people sung with symbols, harps, lyres, trumpets and other
instruments. The priests, and Levites
purified themselves.
The people led by Ezra, Nehemiah, the priests and other
leaders of Judah walked around the wall. They
divided themselves into two groups. One group walked from
the right side and the other group from the
left side and converged at the temple. Sacrifices were offered
and people rejoiced. Some men were
appointed to be in charge of the storehouses; where tithes,
and first fruits of harvest were kept.
d. Relevance of Nehemiah’s experience to Christians today
Christians should expect opposition, as did Nehemiah. They
should not be afraid of being ridiculed,
mocked and despised. If it happens, Christians should
persevere in God’s work. They should put their
trust in God like Nehemiah did.
They should also fight for the welfare of the disadvantaged
groups and not exploit them. They have a
moral obligation to condemn injustice and take practical
steps to help solve problems that afflict
individuals, groups, nations, and society. They should be in
the forefront fighting HIV/ AIDS and drug
abuse.
Christians should be on the look out for external influence
that may corrupt morals of the society and
the church. They should learn that leadership involves
suffering, persecution, and sacrifices. This is
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foregoing personal interests for the sake of the kingdom of
God.
LESSON FIVE: RENEWAL OF THE COVENANT
Learning outcomes. After reading this lesson, you should be
able to: -
i. List the stages followed to renew the covenant.
ii. Identify issues that Ezra mentioned in his prayer
iii. List the vows that were made by the Israelites during
renewal of the covenant
i. Stages of the renewal of the covenant. Israelites were the
chosen people of God. They had suffered
many hardships. There was therefore a need for the renewal
of the covenant between God and
Israelites. The ceremony to renewal the covenant was held in
Jerusalem and was led by Ezra, the Levites
and other religious leaders. The renewal of the covenant can
be discussed in 3 main stages:
Stage 1. A great public assembly was held in the square of
Jerusalem inside the water gate. God’s law
was read and expounded to the people. The people of Israel
praised and worshipped God. They cried
and grieved. They were sad because they realized that they
had failed to observe the Mosaic Law. They
were instructed to go and celebrate, as it was a holy day of
God and an occasion for joy not sorrows.
State 2. The feast of booths/tabernacle was celebrated for 7
days. It was a reminder of the days in the
wilderness when the Israelites dwelt in tents. The Law of
Moses was read each day during the
celebrations.
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Stage 3. There was a public confession of sin. People fasted,
prayed and praised God. The public
confession was followed by the renewal of the covenant vows
and a promise to keep God’s law in
future.
Ezra’s prayer closed the celebrations. In his prayer, he
recalled God’s acts of creation. He then recounted
the history of the Israelites. He mentioned the previous acts
of God; where the Lord had demonstrated
His love and mercy for the Israelites. He then confessed the
sins of their ancestors and the present
Israelites. These were the sins of rebellion and disobedience.
ii. Promises and vows made by Israelites during the renewal
of the covenant. Israelites promised God
that they would
to God’s law, by obeying all his commands
and requirements.

ensure that the house of God was not neglected.

vide sacrifices and offerings for the temple and arrange
for provision of wood for burnt sacrifices
according to the law.

and flocks as required by the law.

ed by the law.
Which lessons can we learn from the renewal of the
covenant? God is good, loving, merciful, and faithful

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to his promises. God forgives all people and we are all
sinners. We fail in our moral obligation to God
and to one another.
Since we are sinners, we should repent our sins and strive
to live according to God’s law. Christians are
to encourage one another as well as others to repent as it
brings about reconciliation with God and with
one another.
Christians should be forgiving and avoid situations that lead
them to sin
SAQ. Check from form 1 work, this information.
1. Outline Nehemiah’s final reforms
2. What is a covenant?
3. What are the components of a covenant?
4. Discuss how the covenant was renewed
5. List examples of covenants in the Old Testament and
modern life.
6. Explain what Christians can learn from the experiences of
Nehemiah
7. Compare or relate the teachings from Nehemiah’s
exemplary life to the teaching of St. Luke’s Gospel
and Christian life today.
LESSON SIX: FINAL REFORMS OF NEHEMIAH
Introduction. Changes for improvement are known as
reforms, which are either political, economical,
social, religious or a combination of any of them. Examples
of reformers are King David, Prophet Elijah,
and Martin Luther King among others.
Nehemiah. After building the wall, Nehemiah went back to
King Artaxerxes II who if you remember had
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given permission to go to Jerusalem and build its destroyed
perimeter wall. Later he returned to
Jerusalem and carried out these reforms.
Lesson outcomes. After reading this lesson, you should be
able to:
a. List reforms of Nehemiah
b. Suggest what we can learn from the teachings of
Nehemiah and that of St. Luke’s Gospel
a. Reforms by Nehemiah. We have discussed reforms, which
Nehemiah carried out during his stay in
Judah, where he was the governor (Neh 5:14). The major
reforms were
i Rebuilding the wall of Jerusalem as well as its gates.
ii Cleansing of the temple: Nehemiah threw him out Tobiah a
foreigner who was living in the temple
quarters.
iii Reinstatement of the Levites and other temple workers.
Levites, and musicians had left the temple
duties to work in their farms to earn a livelihood. They were
supposed to work in the temple and be
supported by member contributions. Nehemiah organised
Jews to make offerings and tithes to support
temple workers. With these contributions, Nehemiah
reinstated and redeployed Levites, priests,
musicians and other temple workers.
iv Reform of the Sabbath observance. The Israelites were
told by the Lord to work for 6 days and rest on
the Sabbath day. The Jews started working on the Sabbath
day. The merchants camped outside waiting

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for the reopening of the gates of the temple to do business.
When Nehemiah started rebuilding
Jerusalem, he ordered closure of the gates of Jerusalem
from the eve of Sabbath to the end of the
Sabbath.
v Separations from foreigners (Neh.13: 23 – 30). It was
against God’s law to marry foreigners. Nehemiah
cursed the men who had married foreign wives. He beat
Jews, pulled their hair and forced them to take
oaths that neither they, nor their sons nor daughters shall
intermarry.
vi Purification of priesthood and the office of the Levites.
Nehemiah cleansed the priesthood. He sent
away Eliashib, a grandson of the High Priest Joshua,
because he had given Tobiah a foreigner, a room in
the temple.
b. Comparing teachings of Nehemiah and St. Luke’s Gospel
i Nehemiah lived a prayerful life while St. Luke’s gospel
emphasizes importance of prayer. Jesus taught
the role of prayer in Christianity.
ii Nehemiah fasted, St. Luke’s gospel records that Jesus
fasted.
iii Nehemiah prayed for forgiveness of sinful Jews. We see
Jesus in St. Luke’s gospel being a leader who
prayed for the forgiveness of his enemies.
iv Nehemiah cared for the needy. Jesus showed compassion
to the needy and taught his followers to
follow His example.
v Nehemiah condemned evil so did Jesus

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vi Nehemiah is seen as a reformer of the Mosaic Law. In St
Luke Gospel, Jesus was also a reformer. He
insisted on inner holiness.
vii Nehemiah cleansed the temple of traders so did Jesus.
viii Nehemiah was very strict on the Sabbath observance. St.
Luke’s gospel teaches that Jesus is lord over
Sabbath. He healed and “Worked” on Sabbath.
ix Nehemiah was opposed to racial intermarriages, St. Luke
Gospel was dedicated to Theophilus, a
gentile convert
x Christianity kingdom of God in St. Luke’s gospel is for all,
not just the Jews.
xi. Nehemiah had good leadership skills and wisdom. These
are demonstrated in St Luke Gospel.
c. Relating Nehemiah’s teachings to Christian life today
i Prayers and fasting are fundamental to Christians just like
they were to Nehemiah who led a prayerful
life.
ii Nehemiah’s example teaches Christians to face all forms of
opposition with courage, wisdom, and
firmness
iii The good leadership qualities of Nehemiah are relevant to
Christians and they are to be emulated.
iv Nehemiah cared for the needy. Christians should learn to
give spiritual food, physical food and
clothing to the needy, orphans, widows.
v As Nehemiah renewed the covenant, Christians should
seek spiritual renewal publicly and privately.
They should seek for communal as well as individual
forgiveness.
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vi Nehemiah cleansing the temple and organised an
inventory for temple contributions, offerings and
tithes. He also appointed key people to look after temple
contributions and pay Levites and priests.
Christians should learn to use the church buildings and
contributions rightly
vii Nehemiah was guided by the Law of Moses and land just
like Christians are guided by the scriptures
(Bible) and the law of the nation. The Bible is the source and
basis of Christian principles.
Revision questions
1. Describe the political background of Nehemiah
2. Describe the social background to the vocation of
Nehemiah
3. Describe the religious background to the vocation of
Nehemiah
4. Describe occasions when Nehemiah prayed
5. State occasions when Christians pray
6. What is the importance of prayer in Christian life?
7. Identify the leadership of Nehemiah’s patriotism
8. Explain the relevance of Nehemiah’s leadership to a
Christian today
9. Explain the relevance of Nehemiah’s experience to
Christians today
10. explain the problems that Nehemiah encountered in his
vocation
11. Explain the steps taken by Nehemiah to renew the
covenant
12. State the promises the Israelites made during the
renewal of the covenant
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Study activities. Visit a church or your church and observe
the display of the gifts of the Holy Spirit by the
members. Study the books of Amos, Jeremiah and
Nehemiah before hand.
Form three answers.
TOPIC ONE: THE GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT.
Qn a. Explain the meaning of the Pentecost.

annually.

celebrated during the wheat harvest in order to

thank god for the blessing of the harvest.

Jerusalem for this celebration.

, the meaning of the festival changed.
It was celebrated to commemorate the
coming of the Holy Spirit upon God’s people as they
gathered in the upper room.
Qn b. Describe the manifestations of the Holy Spirit on the
day of Pentecost. (Acts 2: 1-40) OR (narrate
the events that took place on the day of Pentecost).

filled the house.

them.

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could not understand what they were saying.

xplained that they were not drunk as

it was too early in the day to get drunk.

prophesied by prophet Joel.

and crucified who had sent them the Holy

Spirit.

Qn c. write down five teachings we learn about Jesus from

Peter’s speech on the day of Pentecost.

through Jesus.

David

and Christ/ messiah

hand of God
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sinners/crippled/the dead
Qn d. What were the qualities of peter that made him a
successful leader for the apostolic church?

- witness of the ministry of Jesus Christ.

wisdom and knowledge i.e. Anania’s and
Saphira’s case
Qn e. what lessons can Christians learn fro the events of the
day of Pentecost

promises e.g. he promised to send the Holy spirit

and did it
m in the holy spirit is very important for every
believer

obeyed Jesus by testifying in Jerusalem and

they received the Holy Spirit.

disciples did this and they received the Holy

Spirit

gospel with boldness

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Qn f. state the teachings of Jesus on the Holy Spirit

teach the world and reveal the truth about

God

them understand or know more about Jesus

give advice

for him to die and return to the father so

that Holy Spirit will be sent to them. It was to replace Jesus
as a counselor and an advocate

forgive
t
them

and judgement

whole world
lor

Qn g. what is the role if the holy spirit according to Jesus?

disciples
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 spirit would convict the world of their sins and
lead them to righteousness

ority but would speak

only what he hears from the father

world

God

Qn h. what is the role of the Holy Spirit in the believers (or

Christians or the church)

s Christians to produce the fruit of the spirit

of Jesus

prayer
ues in worship

Jesus

others
Qn i. Outline the fruits of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:6-26)
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with God

-
Qn j. state the criteria for discerning of the spiritual gifts

influence of th Holy Spirit will be able to

recognize Jesus as lord and savior

or true frit. To discover whether or not

the person who has the holy spirit must bear the fruits of
the spirit

by his or her way of life. He/she will act and

behave in accordance with the teachings of Jesus.
, prophecy should always in
agreement with the scripture because the Holy
Spirit cannot contradict what is written

believers

e guided by principles of sincerity and

honesty
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edify her
Qn k. List down the gifts of the Holy Spirit.
d is an
his purpose for human life)

the truth about Jesus Christ

God’s inspiration and help in undertaking

difficult tasks
of healing: the power to heal all types of sicknesses

scriptures and foretell its future

implications
gifts: the ability to tell the
difference between gifts that come from the spirit
and those that are not

and interpret tongues

spiritual gifts.
Qn l. Explain why Paul taught that love is the greatest of all
spiritual gifts.

said that love is patient and kind

conceited. It does not hold grudges or ill

mannered or selfish
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resentful

gifts because in prayer, the gift of tongues

becomes nothing but meaningful when accompanied by love
(charity)

move mountains but has no love, he is nothing

nothing without love

Qn m. Explain how the Holy Spirit is manifested in the
church today

the gospel

churches

are prayed for

love, Christians show mercy to all
members of the society regardless of their race,
sex or age (helping the poor in the society)

guidance to the church

believers are able
to tell the type of spirit that is in
operation
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accomplish tasks that seem rather impossible

withstand a persecution to the point of death

their sins

visions and dreams

through the Holy Spirit

l gatherings, there are many
supernatural things during worship e.g. shaking and
swaying

congregational levels

and issues in church

singing and dancing or music

bible

Ecumenism: working together of the churches

magazines

meetings
instructions
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Qn n: State ways in which the gifts of the Holy Spirit have
been abused in the church today.

money before being prayed for or being

healed

future

innocent faithful

develop pride or selfishness or superiority

complex

into ecstasy or trance which may lead to

injuries

preacher with intention of exploiting others

or situations
TOPIC TWO: UNITY OF BELIEVERS
Qn a. Write down the terms used in the New Testament to
refer to believers in Christ

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Qn b. identify five causes of disunity in the early church

Some Jewish Christians were not ready to

accept gentile Christians in the church unless they
underwent circumcision
ligence of the widows in the distribution of
food

Barnabas, Peter and Paul

loyalty to individuals. They said that they

belonged to individuals like Apollo others Peter and others
Paul

according to the teachings of Christ

became arrogant because they were more

gifted than others

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sin, salvation, Christology, Holy Spirit,
dressing

communities in Jerusalem and Antioch

Qn c. identify factors, which cause disunity among
Christians today
by some Christians

power

holy spirit

o live according to the law of

God or their failure to live exemplary

others

sparency and accountability in running church

affairs

creates a situation where some Christians

think that they are more spiritual or holier l than others
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 d themselves in
different political camps
-making.
Women are under represented

youth in running the church

along tribal lines

Qn d. Discuss reasons why members of Christian families in

Kenya find it difficult to harmoniously live
together

se e.g. beating, raping, incest or favourism

education

professionalism

influences or permissive

Qn e. explain how the church strengthen family

relationships today

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through publications on Christian living
e.g. magazines, books or pamphlets

visits

vices

SELECTED OLD PROPHETS AND THEIR TEACHINGS.

Q1. Define the terms prophet and prophecy
Prophet: Refers to one who speaks God’s message. He is
God’s spokesman. His message includes
predictions of the future.
Prophecy: Is the message spoken by a prophet. Oracles
spoken by prophets.
Q2. List the five categories of true prophets
i) Major prophets
• These include Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel and Daniel.
• They are called Major Prophets because the books are long
and contain clearly written messages.
• They bear the names of the writers.
ii) Minor prophets
• These refer to 12 books that are short and contain less
important than those in major books e.g. Amos,
Hosea, Joel, Obadiah through to Malachi.
iii) Canonical prophets

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• Both the major and minor prophets are together referred to
as canonical prophets.
iv) The early prophets
• They belonged to guilds or schools.
• They lived together in communities under a chief prophet.
Elijah and Elisha are examples.
• These are those who served in places of worship e.g. at
Dan, Bethuel)
• They were called cultic prophets because they were
associated with religious activities in shrines.
• They traveled around together delivering oracles.
v) Cultic prophets
• They worked side by side with priests and said prayers
especially people’s petition to Yahweh.
Q3. State the difference between true and false prophets
True prophets False prophets

by God.

people into immorality.

from God.

gods.

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Q4. In what ways were God’s prophets called?

Samuel.

– an object becoming a
significant sign of God’s power and activities Jer.
1:11-13.

Q5. Outline the similarities and differences between the Old

Testament prophets and the Traditional
African Ones
a) Similarities:

erformed the role of healing people physically and

spiritually (miracle).

were considered supernatural.

to religious codes.
gs and solutions to their people in case they
offended the Supreme Being.

b) Differences:
Old Testament Tradition African
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from spirits and ancestors.
herited

community

Did not
Q6. What is the relevant of prophets to Christians today?

the will of God.

throughout prophecy – since Abraham.

preaching).

Testament prophets.

Jeremiah.
lijah, Christians should
do the same.

in times of suffering.

prophets did e.g. Jeremiah e.g. persecution,

rejection etc.
emn sin like the prophets.

they need them.

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PROPHET AMOS
Q1. List the visions that Amos saw
-3
-6
Amos 7:7-8
-3
-4
Q2. Explain the evils that Amos condemned in his teachings

• Amos condemned temple prostitution – 23:17.

• Father and son were going to the same woman.
• They copied these from the Canaanite pagans, which was
wrong and unfaithful to Yahweh.

The righteous, the rich made the poor slaves. This is

because they borrowed from the rich and could not
repay so they made them work like slaves and treated them
harshly. Some sold them for a paid of
sandals. This was breaking God’s laws, which guided them
on how to treat their poor fellow Israelites.

Amos accused them for breaking God’s covenant by

worshipping other gods.

• Merchants used false measures

• They overcharged the poor
• Sold goods of low quality
• They sold poor people for not paying debts
• They too charged high interest rates

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• He condemned elders who were unjust and corrupt.
• They took bribes and grew rich from heavy levies from
innocent people in law courts.

• He condemned women of Samaria who drink and lived in

luxury when there were poor needy people.

• God gave Israelites items that were to be given out to the

creditors as a guarantees for the goods
borrowed e.g. Millstones for grinding, were to be taken and
returned in the evening because they were
used daily.

• Poor were being oppressed and violated.

– Indulgence and false sense of security
• Leaders thought God could not punish them because they
were a chosen race.
• But Amos told them they would be attacked.
Q3. Give reasons why Prophet Amos condemned idol
worship in Israel

Israelites to worship one God.

obedience to God.

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internal.
Q4. List evils in society today that Amos would condemn

PROPHET JEREMIAH
Q1. List evils that Jeremiah condemned
• Human sacrifice
• Hypocrisy in worship
• Dishonesty in business
• Defilement of the temple – temple prostitution
• Social injustice
• Idolatry
• False prophecy
• Necromancy
• Exploitation of the poor
Q2. What are some of the evils that the church leaders
condemn today?
• Hypocrisy/pretence in worship
• Murder/suicide/abortion/genocide
• Exploitation of the poor/robbery
• Dishonesty
• False prophets
• Human sacrifices among devil worshippers
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• Sexual immorality e.g. adultery
Q3. Explain the symbolisms used during the call of Prophet
Jeremiah

God was the source of the message.

Jeremiah was to deliver.
– God was
watching to see the fulfillment of the message
he gave to Jeremiah.
ing facing away from the North and about to
tilt toward Judah. God would use a nation
from the North to bring judgement on the people of Judah
because of their wickedness.

going to protect him even though he was

going to meet opposition.

would pass judgement on the nation of

Judah and other nations.

restoration of people of Judah after exile.

Q4. What did Jeremiah teach about t the New Covenant?

remnant community after exile.

n
the new covenant.

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 f a new people of God
or new Israel.
Q5. Why did Prophet Jeremiah condemn the way the
Israelites worshipped?

worship other gods – they worshipped idols.

d with
external religious observance while their
hearts were far from God.

gods e.g. Asherah.

Yahweh and foreign Gods.

e.g. Jeremiah. They even killed some.

human sacrifice.

iness and deceitful to one

another.

magic.

relationship.
Q6. Explain Jeremiah’s temple sermon as recorded in
Jeremiah 7:1-15
het Jeremiah to speak in the temple.

understanding religion through the practice of

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syncretism and immorality.

people of Judah had to change their way of

life and stick to the covenant they made with God.

murderer/exploitation of the weak, orphans

widows and foreigners.
tice of human sacrifice was murder and
displeasing to God.

destruction because of its holiness was not

true.

of a foreign nation.

judgement upon them.

people to exile.
Q7. What forms of punishment did Jeremiah prophesy that
God would use on Judah?
unishment would be in form of a foreign body that
God use to conquer Judah.

affect people and animals.

and sword.
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Babylonian.

nation and their enslavement.

survivors to captivity.
Q8. Outline the content of Jeremiah’s letter to exiles in
Babylon (Jer. 29)

and live in them.

t their produce.

Q9. Explain four symbolic acts related to judgement and

punishment as demonstrated by Prophet
Jeremiah
– the rotten/useless linen cloth that had
been hidden in the caves and lift to rot
stood for Israel’s state of being useless before the eyes of
God. A sign that they had soiled their
priesthood.
asked not to marry the solitary life
symbolized solitude in exile.
– the bad fruits signified that the
bad people would be punished.

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 – he was asked to carry a wooden yoke and
work around with it signifying suffering in
Babylon – exile.
– destruction of the temple.
– whereby the potter destroyed a pot due
to poor shape and remolded it. God would
remold Israel to a shape befitting them.
– these would be sorrow and
suffering, no help while in exile.
Q10. Identify the relevance of Jeremiah’s teaching to
Christians life today

did.

prophets.

did.

holy and upright lives as Jeremiah did.

the lives of Christians.

prophesied by Jeremiah in the new covenant.

Q11. In what ways is the prophetic mission of Jeremiah
similar to that of Jesus?

authorities.
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 of the people of
Jerusalem.

Jeremiah predicted the new covenant that is fulfilled by

Jesus.
Prophet Nehemiah
Qn 1. Describe the political background of Nehemiah
an exile which lasted
between 589- 538 BC

this bondage

great king of Persia

In 538 BC king Cyrus allowed Israelites to return to Judah

temple of Jerusalem

rebuild alters of God

temple was rebuilt and dedicated

Artaxerxes authorized Ezra to re establish

Israelites religious and moral expectations of the Mosaic
Law.

king authorized him to go and rebuild the

walls of Jerusalem
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accomplished the reconstruction of the walls of
Jerusalem in 52 days. He then dedicated the walls to God.

the Israelites remained subjected to the

Persians and continued to pay tribute. The Persians were
later overthrown by Romans who ruled the
entire region until the time of the birth of Jesus
Qn 2. Describe the social background to the vacation of
Nehemiah

ct

them

who partially occupied their land

walls of Jerusalem
poor e.g. they would confiscate
their property for failure to repay debts
Qn 3. Describe the religious background to the vocation of
Nehemiah

continue with their religious lives

period of purification

the altar under Zerubbabel for offering

burnt offerings to God

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and Zachariah and dedicated to god by Ezra
miah embarked on rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem
amidst opposition in 52 days the wall was
complete. Consequently, Jerusalem once more became the
centre of worship for Israel. Idolatry was not
allowed again in Israel after the exile.
rusalem was dedicated to Yahweh. The
Israelites renewed their covenant with God
under prophet and priest Ezra. Nehemiah carried out
various religious reforms
Qn 4. Describe occasions when Nehemiah prayed
Jews back
in Judah

king Atarterxes to request him to allow him

go back to Judah

as he reconstructed the walls of Jerusalem

Jerusalem

temple as hi life was in danger

a house of
God

Sabbath law

temple
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Qn 5. State occasions when Christians pray
they are faced with diverse persecutions. They ask
God to protect them

God to give them revelation

ask God to help them

n is facing political crisis. They pray for
peace

perform certain miracles for them e.g. healing

Qn 6. What is the importance of prayer in Christian life?
e thanks to him
and to repent

stability. It helps put our problems to God

character to remain steadfast in their

responsibilities despite the challenges

personal attacks and temptations

tribulations
oser to God, we use it to praise God, use it
to ask for God’s supply of their needs, used
to ask for forgiveness and promotes important virtues e.g.
persistence and patience and promotes unity
among different communities
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Qn 6. Identify the leadership of Nehemiah’s patriotism

getting the news of distribution of Jerusalem,

he was forced to go back home.

in most cases he prayed before carrying

out an activity

an educated, talented and trustworthy

young man
and he shared it with
enthusiasm to inspire Jerusalem leaders to rebuild
the wall

things right

process. He organized how the wall of

Jerusalem was to be built in steps

wall before starting the work

his people in Israel. he had a sense of

responsibility to his community

and overlooked the abuses placed on him

keep guard over Jerusalem

. He
hence cancelled all debts that people had
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counteract his opposer
Qn7. explain the relevance of Nehemiah’s leadership to a
Christian today

God

power and giver of gifts

honest to help him/ her in ruling the

country

help
istian leader should keep his /her plans a secret
until it matures to make an announcement

Nehemiah did

o temptations; the way

Nehemiah was opposed we should be
ready to resist temptations

the society Christians should act as role

models by carrying out spiritual activities with the truth and
helping in work after starting projects.
Qn 8. Explain the relevance of Nehemiah’s experience to
Christians

s of the weak and use their

work place, family and friends
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their enemies

their endeavors
Nehemiah
did

difficulties

HIV/AIDs scourge
Qn 9. Explain the problems that Nehemiah encountered in
his vocation

demanded high interests on borrowed money

his/her efforts to build the walls of

Jerusalem
. His adversaries wanted to kill him
-operation and support from the Jews. They
refused to work with him on the wall project

about foreign influence which threatened

to extinct the Jew culture and language

daily chores on the Sabbath day

and God’s enemies

of
sacrificial offerings as required by the law
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Qn 10. Describe the steps taken by Nehemiah to renew the
covenant

explained the meaning of the Law of Moses. The

Israelites listened carefully and their lives changed. They
responded Amen, amen

scriptures, they realized that they had not been

celebrating the feast of shelters. This was to remember their
deliverance from Egypt. They were also to
think about God’s protection and guidance

they had not been following God’s

commandments. Nehemiah was devoted to confession of
national sin and prayers to God’s grace
s with Israel. They recital of God’s
mighty acts is done in this. They
remembered their history and this renewed God’s grace and
power in them

writing and the leaders put seals

nt that people and God was done by
the Israelites joining hands
Qn 11. State the promises that Israelites made during the
renewal of the covenant

to the Mosaic Laws

d’s commandments and live
according to his laws

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by Torah
-born sons to God

corn or anything else on the

Sabbath day

that God’s house was okay

Group study activities

1. Read and study the book of Luke by
2. Dividing up the chapters in the book of Luke among the
members of the class and let every group
present a summary of the chapters allocated to them.
3. Check out movies about the life, death and resurrection of
Jesus Christ but note that your study
according to the syllabus is based on St. Luke’s gospel.
FORM FOUR – CONTEMPORARY CHRISTIAN LIVING
Form four work deals with social issues in society. We shall
compare the issues in the following
communities – The Traditional African Society Christian
community and the contemporary one. By the
end of it the student should be able to understand the
meaning of life and live to it’s fullest.
TOPIC ONE. INTRODUCTION TO CHRISTIAN ETHICS
Instructions. Form four work covers contemporary issues in
a Christians life. You are advised to read
newspapers, listen to radio news, watch television news and
current affairs and any other relevant news
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source. Work in twos. Give yourself topics to study and then
give a presentation to your partner or colearner.
Learning outcomes. After reading and discussing Christian
ethics, you should be able to:
a. Explain the meaning of Christians ethics
b. Explore the basics of Christian’s ethics
a. Christian ethics. The word ethics comes from a Greek
term ‘Ethikos’ which means custom, or conduct.
Ethics are moral principles, which influence a person’s
behaviour. Ethics are defined as the systematic
study of human actions and behaviour. We use ethics to
judge, determine and assess the right and
wrong of human behaviour. Morals refer to human
character, which is the inclination to behave in oneway or
another. Ethics is the study of morals and they determine
and influence personal and societal
behaviour. Christian ethics is the study of human conduct
or behaviour from a Christian point of view.
b. Basis of Christian ethics. Sources of Christian’s ethics: -
1. The bible, teachings of Jesus Christ
2. Human reason and experience
3. Natural law
4. The Christian community – the church
5. Situation ethics
6. Authoritative Christian literature – based on the bible
7. Gods revelation – through prophets
i. Human reason. These are internal thoughts that guide us
when we are making decisions and taking
actions. We use our minds and thoughts when confronted
by situations. They also rely on internal
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thoughts in their life experiences.
Internal guiding thoughts have many parts. One is our
Conscience. This is our inner self that tells us and
lets us know what is right and wrong. There are four types
of consciences; doubtful conscience, sensitive
conscience, certain conscience and perplexed conscience.
For a Christian, rights and wrongs are in the Bible. God
gave the Law of Moses to Israelites. Jesus came
and explained the Old Testament and taught new scriptures
in the New Testament. These teachings,
which we have covered from Form one to three, explain very
clearly what is right and wrong. When
doubtful of the morality of an action, Christian consults the
Bible to know if a decision is right or wrong.
ii. Human Experiences: – these are internal and external
guides

i.e. human reason and their life

experiences in making decisions.

experience (external guides)

Internal guides
(i) Conscience: – Mind, aspect of knowing right or wrong.
When right, there’s’ approval when wrong it
registers guilt.
When doubtful of the morality of an action we should not do
it
If conscience is perplexed then make us decision. A decision
should be based on a certain conscience.
Types of conscience
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- Doubtful conscience
- Sensitive conscience
- Certain conscience
- Perplexed conscience
2. One can also make decisions based on knowledge and
free will
To make a decision one should have
- Facts about the act, its aims, circumstances.
- One should be free to perform
A decision ought to be thoughtful
3. Intuition: – inner feeling, insight
It’s an internal moral sense to do good or avoid evil.
Intuition is important in situations that require
quick and immediate that requires quick and immediate
action.
4. Feelings
Feelings are subjective e.g. it feels good to do so this, hence
will do…” it can be dangerous to make
decisions purely based on feelings especially in marriage
friendship etc.
Eternal guides
Experience
Guides here include authoritative persons such as parents,
teachers, police, civil leaders philosophers,
and religious leaders.
Rules from secular, religions, and African traditional culture
are part of external guides.
The bible
The bible, quoted in the text but now out of text guides
Christian behaviour. God communicates to his
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people through the Bible. The Bible offers answers to
questions in relation to the life of a Christian.
Today, there are ethical issues not found in the bible e.g.
HIV / AIDS, sexual and reproductive health
rights, contraceptives, abortion, globalization, cloning,
environmental degradation, genetically modified
foods, terrorism, international trade etc. this gives reason
and other sources / factors are basis of
Christian ethics in addition to the bible.
Moral principles in the bible
- They are mostly found in the teachings of Jesus and the
ten commandments, sermon on the mountain
- Christians are also encouraged to have
Faith
- The virtues encouraged include generosity, love, kindness,
faithfulness, patience, humility, peace,
mercy, loyalty etc.
Christian community – church
Church leadership can make decisions, which touch on
their followers. They guide people on ethical
issues e.g. politics, land, justice, abortion, contraception etc.
Church organizations give rules on those conduct of their
members.
Natural law
- The awareness that one has to choose good and avoid evil
- If one studies human nature and reflects upon it he/she
will discover natural laws of human behaviour
- Natural law, natural rights such as right to education, life
own property many etc. are incorporated into
the constitution of any nation.
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- The constitution then guides the behaviour of list citizens;
Christians being citizens of a country are
guided in their behaviour by the constitution.
Situation ethics
One should reason out the rightness or wrongness of an act.
The rightness or wrongness of an act
depends on its uniqueness, the circumstances
- Christians are warned against making decisions based on
circumstances or the situation e.g. a pregnant
student seeking abortion as the option so as to continue
with education.
Gods revelation
God reveals himself to people through prophets, natural
events, the law, dreams and visions. Through
such ways God guides Christian on how they should
approach certain issues. God’s revelation does not
contradict with the bible.
Revision questions
1. What is the meaning of Christian ethics?
2. What is the basis or source or foundation of Christian
ethics?
3. List the basic life skills that one needs to be able to lead a
better life
TOPIC TWO: CHRISTIAN APPROACHES TO HUMAN
SEXUALITY,
MARRIAGE AND FAMILY
INTRODUCTION
Christian approaches refer to how Christians view and
handle issues of human sexuality, marriage and

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the family in accordance with Christians ethics. Through
marriage, the family is formed.
LESSON ONE: HUMAN SEXUALITY
Learning Outcomes. By the end of this lesson, you should be
able to:
a Define human sexuality, marriage, and family
b Explain the Christian teaching of human sexuality
c Assess the traditional African understanding of human
sexuality
d Determine gender roles in traditional African home
e Explain Christians teachings about male and female
relationships
f Explain and appreciate Christian teaching on responsible
sexual behaviour
g Explain Christian teaching on irresponsible sexual
behaviour and their consequences
a. Human sexuality. This is a sacred gift from God. It was
given to Adam and Eve. Human sexuality is that
which makes us male or female. It is our biological or
physiological differences associated with the state
of being male or female. It is part of our biological make up.
Males and female have different body
structures, features, appearances and biological
characteristics. In terms of physical strength more men
are stronger than females. Besides the biological make up,
we have an emotional side, which includes
our attitudes, and feelings. Females are said to be more
emotional, and talkative than males. Human
sexuality is also in our brain and mind and it is what makes
us human beings. If you look at animals they
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also have different physiological features based on sexual
differences.
b. Christian teaching on human sexuality. Males and
females are God’s creation. Men and women were
created for many reasons. These are (1) to be fruitful and to
multiply; and (2) for companionship. In
Genesis we learn that men and women share the image of
God because God intended man and woman
to play complementary roles and both are equal before God.
Sex in marriage is a sign of love and it is sacred. In marriage
man / and woman become one flesh. Both
of them have the ability to control their sexual desires.
Christian teaching forbids: sex before marriage,
adultery or unfaithfulness, and other unnatural sexual
behaviours like lesbianism, homosexuality or
being gay, and incest. God created human body and it is to
be kept holy. Chastity is encouraged while
unfaithfulness in marriage is discouraged. Husbands /
wives are to respect one another and give to each
other in mutual love.
c. Traditional African understanding of human sexuality.
Human sexuality is highly valued in traditional
African communities. It is understood in terms of marriage
and parenthood. Procreation was the sole
purpose of sex. Sex was to be practiced in marriage and it
was regarded as another sacred duty.
Adultery was discouraged and offenders punished.
Irresponsible sexual relationships were forbidden. Virginity
before marriage was highly valued. If a girl

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lost her virginity before marriage, she was treated with scorn
and punishment. If a boy impregnating a
girl, he was fined.
In traditional African society it was a taboo to discuss openly
sex matters. Grandparents taught sex
education to their grandchildren. Sex education was taught
during initiation stages. Free mixing of girls
and boys was not allowed except under supervision. Girls
were married off immediately after initiation
to avoid temptation of engaging in pre-marital sex. To
reinforce self – discipline in relationships between
the opposite sexes the African traditional society instilled the
fear of supernatural curses through myths,
taboos and rules.
Marital status. Husbands and wives were expected to relate
to each other, their parents, and in laws
according to the community customs. Conflicts between a
husband and a wife were resolved through
intervention of relatives.
d. Gender roles. There are specific chores and duties for
either male or female in African traditional
societies. Roles were therefore according to gender. Boys
went hunting, herding, while girls fetched
firewood, and helped in cooking. At an early age, girls and
boys would mix freely as they played
together. Mature boys and girls however, were restricted
from mixing freely without supervision by
elders. But there was gender identification. The boys
identified with their fathers and other male adults,

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while girls identified themselves with their mother and other
female adults.
Education. Children belonged to the community and not
just to their biological parents. At the
adolescent stage; 13 – 18 years education was given to the
adolescents and intensified at initiation
stage. Boys and girls were taught traditional rules, and
secrets of the society during initiation. Learning
was informal. Knowledge was communicated through songs,
stories and riddles among other forms of
presentations. All adults acted as parents to the young ones.
Socialisation. Men were socialized to be superior, while
women were socialized to accept their
subordinate position and role. Everyone knew and accepted
what he/she was culturally supposed to do.
Division of labour was based on sex. In the African
communities, despite their differences, there were
many common customary roles, rules, regulations, taboos
and beliefs that governed the practices
related to male – female relationships from early childhood
to old age. These traditional African
practices relating to male – female relationships existed at
various levels. In all of them, man held
superior positions when compared to those of women.
Age. Old women and men were accorded respect. They were
consulted for advice and counsel. Kinship
system was emphasized.
e. Christian teaching on male- female relationships. We
learn that the husband is the head of the house

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and should love his wife like Christ loved the church. Once a
wife is loved, she should submit to her
husband. We also learn that both male and female are equal
and co – creators with God. Adam and Eve
were created to complement each other. Likewise men and
women should love each other. Jesus taught
that each man should have one wife and vice versa. Once
married, the husbands’ body belongs to the
wife and hers belong to him. If that is the case, wife and
husband should avoid immorality.
Males and females are to relate freely. But the youth are to
avoid the passions of youth. These are
sexual sins. There are no specific chores or duties for either
male or female. Relationship between sexes
should be governed by love, chastity, respect, self-control,
and self-discipline. Parents are to love their
children, while children are to obey and honor their parents.
Parents are asked to bring up their children
in a Godly way.
LESSON TWO. CHRISTIAN TEACHING ABOUT HUMAN
SEXUALITY
Lesson Outcomes. By the end of this lesson, you should
a. Outline Christian teaching on responsible sexual
behaviour
b. Analyse Christian teaching on irresponsible sexual
behaviour
c. Discuss effects and consequences of irresponsible sexual
behaviour
d. Give examples of the effects of irresponsible sexual
behaviour
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Sexual behaviour is part of human behaviour. The Bible
gives principles of sexual behaviour in the Ten
Commandments.
a. Christian teaching on responsible human sexuality.
Christianity teaches us about responsible sexual
behaviour. Being responsible means that one is exercising
self – control or self-discipline in matters of
sexual behaviour. Self-discipline is necessary when we have
a relationship with the opposite sex (Read, 1
Cor.7: 9 1 Peter 5:8). It is called responsible sexual
behaviour, which is obedience to God’s commands.
Christians promote healthy social relationship between boys
and girls, men and women, and husbands
and wives. Responsible sex is between male and female.
Sexual intercourse is allowed only between
married couples (1 Cor.7: 3 – 5). Married couples are obliged
to be sexually faithful to one another
(Heb.13: 4) adultery is condemned (exodus 25:14).
Relationship between a husband / wife should be
one of respect faithfulness, love, care, mercy, submission,
tolerance, and forgiveness
b. Christian teaching on irresponsible sexual behaviour.
There are many irresponsible sexual behaviours.
They include among others all acts and forms of: perversion,
misuse, and abuse of sex, incest, rape,
fornication, adultery, homosexuality, lesbianism or gay,
prostitution, concubine, masturbation, bestiality
and child marriages among others. These irresponsible
sexual behaviours are against God’s will for

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humanity. Christians are to shun irresponsible sexual
behaviour. This is because their bodies are the
temples of the Holy Spirit. Thus whatever Christians do with
their bodies, it should be for the glory of
God.
Let us now discuss in brief some of the irresponsible sexual
behaviour; beginning with
(i) Incest, which is a sexual relationship between people who
are closely related by blood. For example,
sex between a brother/sister, father / daughter. Incest is
condemned in the Bible. It was punishable by
death in the Old Testament. Read Leviticus 18:6 – 8.
ii) Rape. Rape cannot be justified and it is condemned in The
Bible. Rape is an act of forcing another
person to have sexual intercourse without his or her
consent. It is sexual violence and a crime against
humanity. It is also a denial, and a violation of human rights
of the victims who are sexually assaulted.
Victims of rape include boys, men, girls, women, and babies
especially girls.
Rape is an expression of hatred toward the opposite sex. In
traditional African society rape was
abhorred and culprits were punished by death. In Kenya
rape is punishable by 20 years imprisonment.
Indecent assaults or sexual abuses such as touching a
person of the opposite sex without their
permission or use of vulgar language are both punishable by
up to 5 years imprisonment.
iii. Fornication. This is consensual sexual intercourse
between unmarried people. It is condemned by
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both African and Christian teachings and punishment in
African traditional society was by either
payment of fines, stoning, and ritual cleansing. In the Old
Testament, men were forced to marry the girl.
Jesus said that fornication was due to people’s evil
thoughts. Abstinence for the youth is encouraged
and preached.
Why do the youth engage in pre – marital sex? There are
several reasons. Some of them are: sexual
curiosity, proving manhood, human weakness, lack of self
control, testing fertility, fear of being jilted /
rejected; commercial sex for money; copying acts in the print
and electronic media. Others reasons are
frustrations, drug abuse, bribe to get a job, and
permissiveness in the society.
iv. Adultery is committed by adults who have extra marital
affairs; between “married partner and
another party”. Adultery is having sex outside marriage with
a person with whom one is not married to.
Adultery is caused by lack of self – control, sexual
dissatisfaction, long periods of wife and husband
separation, sexual dysfunction and vengeance by an initially
faithful spouse who wants to be even with
the unfaithful spouse.
v. Prostitution. This is the practice of giving sexual pleasure
for money or other material benefits. A
prostitute can either be male or female. Prostitutes are
referred to as commercial – sex workers.
Why is there prostitution? There are factors leading to
prostitution. These are economic reasons such as
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unemployment, poverty, rejection of a girl at home, drug
abuse, stress, anger, anxiety, frustrations in
the family and pornography. The church condemns
prostitution because it defiles the body, which is a
temple of the Holy Spirit. It’s sexual immorality. Read Gal 5:
19 – 21.
vi. Homosexuality/ Gay/ Lesbianism. This is sex between
people of the same sex for example; man and
man (homosexuality), woman and woman (lesbianism).
Homosexuality is a common practice in modern
world. It is also a church problem. The Anglican Church in
USA, and Canada have accepted
homosexuality. The Anglican Church has gay bishops.
African Anglican churches are opposing this
practice.
What makes people prefer sex with the same sex? The
Christian view is that homosexuality is a sign of a
lack of Christian moral values. It may also be due to
confinement in a prison and permissiveness in
society. If it is allowed to continue, it shall disintegrate
traditional African values. Because of its threat to
God’s people, the Church condemns homosexuality. Other
reasons for condemning it is because (1) God
created a male and a female. Read, Genesis 1:28. Two, sex is
sacred. Homosexuality is an unnatural
relationship, which lowers human dignity. It does not
provide sexual fulfillment (as traditionally).
Homosexuality is illegal in Kenya.
vii. Sexually transmitted Diseases (STDs). There are many
diseases passed from one person to the other
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through sex. These are gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes genitalis
is, hepatitis B, clamydia, trichonomiasis,
HIV/AIDS. Lets discuss them one by one.
HIV / AIDS. This is human immune deficiency virus (HIV)
that causes acquired immune deficiency
syndrome (AIDS) condition. Syndrome refers to many
symptoms. HIV is transmitted largely through sex
with an infected partner; through blood transfusion; sharing
sharp objects with infected persons; and
from an infected mother to the unborn child. The HIV virus
destroys the white blood cells, and weakens
the body ‘s immune system. When the body is weak, it is not
able to fight, and defend itself against
infections. Persons with the virus are vulnerable and
susceptible to opportunistic infections.
The signs / symptoms of AIDS are manifestations of
symptoms of the opportunistic infections. Some
symptoms include persistent coughs, loss of weight, oral
thrush, loss of appetite, and diarrhoea.
Churches encourage Christians to be compassionate to
HIV/AIDS affected people, and to support the
infected and the affected individuals like the orphans,
widows, and widowers. It also teaches against
sexual immorality and against all forms of discrimination.
Gonorrhea is caused by a bacterium called “Neisseria
gonorrhea”. Its symptoms appear a4 days after
infection. Its symptoms are burning sensation when passing
urine; pain or discomfort in the genitals;
sticky discharge or pus in the vagina or through the urethra.
The good news is that Gonorrhea is curable
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if treated early.
Syphilis. Primary syphilis may show up in the form of a sore
or a wound in the genitals a few days after
infection. The wound heals by itself without treatment after
some time. Syphilis infection may take
several years about 7 years before its symptoms re appear.
The symptoms of syphilis are a painless sore
or pimple on the man’s penis or woman’s vulva; and swelling
of the glands in the groin. Other
symptoms, which may appear later, are skin rashes, and
sores either in the face armpits, under breasts,
mouth or throat.
Herpes genital is a sexual disease caused by a virus. It
creates wounds in the genitals. A pregnant woman
can transmit the infection to her newborn baby during
delivery. This disease can be controlled although
there is not an effective treatment.
Hepatitis B virus causes Hepatitis B. It is transmitted
through sex, injections by unsterilized needles and
contact with contaminated blood. The infection does not
show on the genitals. The signs and symptoms
of Hepatitis B include yellowness of the eyes (jaundice) due
to liver damage and pain around the upper
abdomen.
c. The effects of irresponsible sexual behaviour.
There are many effects of irresponsible sexual behaviour.
They include among others HIV / AIDS,
sexually transmitted infections (STI), abortion; family
separations and divorces, deaths, unplanned

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pregnancies; children living in the streets; school drop outs
and psychological problems.
i. Effects of incest. These are many. One, incest undermines
the healthy relationships between members
of a family as it brings shame and guilt among the parties
involved. Two, incest destroys relationships
within the family and can lead to breaking up of a marriage.
Three, incest destroys self-esteem, self –
respect, and dignity of the victim. We find that abused boys
and girls end up having problems when
trying to establish healthy relationship with members of the
opposite sex. Four, incest can lead to
pregnancy, and abortion. And as you have read in the
newspapers, it can lead to infections with sexually
transmitted diseases (S.T.I.’s) and HIV / AIDS. As I write, a
father was jailed for life for raping his
daughter and infecting her with HIV/AIDS virus.
ii. Effects of Rape. This crime has very serious consequences
and harmful effects on the victim. Rape
may result in pregnancy and can led to physical,
psychological, social, and spiritual side effects. The
victim may suffer (1) serious physical injuries and (2) may
contract both the STI’s, and HIV / AIDs. The
victim is traumatized, and ashamed of self. The victim
suffers from guilt, loneliness, humiliation,
posttraumatic stress disorders, and depression among
others psychological manifestations. Young rape
victims in particular may loose trust in the opposite sex. All
these sufferings can lead to suicide and
death.
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iii. Effects of Fornication. Some of these are having children
out of wedlock; feelings of distrust, guilt,
and hurt; contracting STI’s and HIV/AIDS; loss of self-
respect; early and forced marriage and abortion.
iv. Effects of Adultery. Christians teach against adultery
because it is against God’s commandments and
can lead to divorce, abortion, STI, HIV/AIDS, domestic
violence, murder (death) and psychological
problems.
v. Effects of Prostitution are many. It can lead to break up of
marriage, and family. It lowers a person’s
dignity and can lead to unplanned pregnancies, school
dropouts; infections such as STI’s and HIV /AIDS
and improper use of family resources.
vi. Effects of homosexuality. It is a threat to procreation. It
promotes loose short-term informal
relationships and therefore promotes HIV / AIDS.
Homosexual couples are prone to HIV/AIDS infections
because of having many partners; although this is changing
in USA where homosexual couples are being
married in churches.
vii. Effects of Sexually transmitted diseases
HIV / AIDS effects are numerous. They include recurrent
illness due to opportunistic infections. There is
also stigmatization. Some individuals have feelings of guilt,
anger, denial and depression. The sick
persons have to look for extra finances to care for their
health. They have the burden for medications,
and special diet. HIV/AIDs has no cure and leads to death
like many other diseases. Parents die and
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leave their children as orphans.
Gonorrhea effects are many. The disease damages a
woman’s fallopian tubes leading to infertility; and a
man’s epidydymis leading to sterility. An infected expectant
mother can infect her newborn baby with
gonorrhea. The disease may affect the eyes of the unborn
child causing blindness. Gonorrhea can also
cause inflammation of joints, the heart and liver.
Effects of Syphilis are damage to the heart, brain and the
nervous system. This disease can lead to
madness and death of the victim. If a child is infected while
in the womb, or during birth, the brain
maybe damaged. The child may have either physical
deformities or the infected mother may give
stillbirths.
Effects Herpes genitals. Infection can cause severe brain
damage; cancer of the neck of the womb. If a
woman is pregnant, the disease can cause death of the
baby. The wounds and sores exposes the sick
person to HIV /AIDS infections.
Effects of Hepatitis B. This disease damages the liver and
may lead to death of the infected person. It has
a vaccine, but not treatment.
viii. Other consequences of irresponsible sexual behaviours
These are death, unplanned pregnancies,
children living in the streets, school dropouts and
psychological problems related to irresponsible sexual
behaviour. These include among others: stress, depression,
self – pity, withdrawal, aggressiveness, and
violence.
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Stress is the response of the body and mind to any situation
that exerts pressure or makes demands on
a person. The intensity or pressure experienced determines
the level of stress. Some of the signs of
stress are: anxiety, worry, drop in performance, chest pains,
mood swings, rebellion, ulcers, heart
palpitations, fatigue and guilt feelings.
Solutions. To avoid stress, it is suggested that individuals
should accept that one is stressed; identify
sources of stress, rest, exercise, listening to therapeutic
music and talk to a counselor.
Depression. This is an acute mental disorder. It is also a
state of hopelessness and low spirits. Depression
can be mild or severe. It has physical, emotional and
behavioural signs and symptoms. Let me caution
you that it is only a medical doctor who can know if one has
a depression or not. We are told by doctors
that signs of a depression are: persistent headaches and
chest pains; loss of appetite; too much
appetite; loss of memory; insomnia i.e. lack of sleep; weight
loss or gain; nervousness and mood swings;
low self-confidence; suicidal tendencies and self-pity. Other
signs and symptoms are loss of libido
(sexual desire); poor performance in school and in work
places; hopelessness; loss of interest in ones
activities; hypertension and high blood pressure
d. Irresponsible social and human behaviour. There are
social and human behaviours that are contrary
to Christian life. These unacceptable behaviours are
abortion, and divorce.
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Abortion is termination of pregnancy before the foetus is
capable of independent life. There are two
types of abortions. One is spontaneous abortion or
miscarriage. The other is induced abortion, which is
deliberate and illegal in Kenya. Induced abortion has been
debated in Kenya. The main question is
should abortion be legalized or not. This is because abortion
is legal in some European countries.
Why do mothers seeking abortion? There are many reasons,
which are known only to mothers. These
are one, pregnancy due to rape and incest. Two, if the
mother believes that the unborn child will be a
burden. This may be because the baby is conceived outside
wedlock and the mother lacks economic
resources to take care of the baby. Another reason maybe
that the mother is in school, and she cannot
look after the baby and continue with her education. Three,
medical personnel may abort a deformed
foetus or in order to save the life of the mother if it is in
danger.
Christian’s view of abortion as murder (Exodus20: 13). This
is because abortion interferes with the
mother’s body, and destroys the baby. Christian view is that
the body is the temple of the Holy Spirit.
God is the giver of life and He alone has the right to take it
away. Abortion carries with it stigma and the
effects mentioned above make Christians condemn abortion.
e. Effects of irresponsible social and human behaviour.
Effects of abortion are infertility, ectopic pregnancy,
destruction of a woman’s body parts; fetal
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malformation; risk of the mother bleeding to death and
destruction of uterus. Other effects are that the
mother may experience in future still births, miscarriages,
risk of barrenness; failed abortions leading to
deformed babies and psychological problems that we have
discussed. These are stress and depression.
Revision questions.
1. Explain the T.A. understanding of human sexuality
2. Explain Christian attitudes towards human sexuality
3. In what ways is sex abused in Kenya?
4. Why do you think minors are defiled or sexually abused
in Kenya?
5. Explain the Christian teaching on male/female
relationships
6. What is the Christian teaching on responsible sexual
behaviour?
7. List the different types of irresponsible sexual behaviour
8. Explain the Christian teaching on irresponsible sexual
behaviour
9. State the effects of irresponsible sexual behaviour
LESSON THREE: MARRIAGE
Learning Outcomes. By the end of the lesson you should be
able to;
a. Explain in brief the meaning of marriage
b. Explain Christian teachings about marriage
c. Describe courtship in African Traditional society
d. Discuss the traditional African and Christian approaches
to marriage preparation
e. Explain celibacy as an alternative to marriage

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a. Definition of marriage. Marriage is a binding legal union
between a man and a woman who agree to
have a lasting relationship as husband / wife. Marriage
partners choose each other. In some cases,
senior member of the family and church influence the choice
of a marriage partner. When marrying
partners agree to marry, they are joined in church and they
become husband and wife. Marriage is thus
a covenant in which the partners give themselves to one
another.
Marriage involves other members of the community hence it
is a social and community affair. Marriage
is a permanent union. Marriage is a community requirement
in which everyone in the community
participates. Each person is expected to undergo marriage
because it is a rite of passage. Marriage gives
a person, a high social status and prestige in the
community.
Marriage is also a covenant between a man and a woman
that should not be broken. Two people are
joined in marriage in order to procreate and perpetuate the
community. Once married, a couple is
allowed to have sexual relationship, and companionship.
Marriage is an expression of and fulfillment of
mutual love and comfort. It enhance unity; social prestige,
and respect in society. Purpose of marriage is
sexual fulfillment; cultural and social requirement;
obligation to build a family; and procreation although
children are a gift from God.
Forms of marriages
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There are many forms of marriages. There is a marriage
ceremony organised as a symbol or mark of the
union between a man and a woman. These marriages
ceremonies are either civil, or religious. The main
religious ceremonies are Christian, Islamic, Hindu, and Sikh
among others. We also have African
customary ceremonies many of which are polygamous.
Christianity does not allow polygamous
marriage.
Secular approaches to marriage.
In the modern world, some people choose not to marry for
personal reasons. Some people have
children without getting married while others opt to have a
marriage without children. Husband and
wife are equal. Monogamy is practiced for economic reasons.
In some families’ women are the heads of
the family. Choosing a partner is an individual act and not
communal. In marriage traditional qualities of
a good wife such as industrious, honesty, and hospitality
are not considered. The modern society values
external beauty, financial status and social status. As a
result, there is a high rate of marriage,
separation, and divorce. At times young people fail to be
married in church. There is no formalization of
marriages. These marriages are called “Come-we-stay”
arrangements.
Gender issues in marriage. The wife is subordinate to the
husband but had rights. Marriage did not end
with death of the husband. The wife was inherited by one of
her husband’s brother. This is widow
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inheritance / Levirate marriage. She could also refuse to be
inherited but remained married to that man
even in death. The wife could not marry outside the family
because of dowry. There was dowry payment
to parents. If a wife died, the man would marry the sister of
his dead wife. This is surrogate marriage.
Those who did not marry were considered “lesser humans”.
Young people were prepared for marriage
during initiation, which was witnessed in a public ceremony.
During marriage, couple makes vows to
each other. The ancestors are invoked to bless the marriage.
Factors that lead to a stable, healthy and successful
marriage
People are different and they understand their roles
differently. Here am giving you a few suggestions.
Discuss with your study companions and come up with
other suggestions. One important factor is
mutual responsibility by the couple. This occurs if there is
mutual consultation with each other in
decision-making. Two is forgiveness of each other. Three is
good treatment of each other especially with
equal respect. Four is sharing scriptures together. Five is
giving love and respecting each other. Six is
having a faithful sexual relationship and lastly being open
and honest.
Seven is African traditional qualities of a good wife who is
described as: hardworking, fertile, morally
upright, generous, kind, obedient, humble, clean, beautiful,
polite, warm hearted and hospitable. Eight

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are the qualities of a good husband, which are described as:
being able to provide good leadership in the
family. Other qualities are being aggressive, wise, brave,
courageous, responsible and good property
manager.
b. Christian Teaching about Marriage. Christians teach that
marriage is sacred and that it is a divine
institution, which is ordained God. God started it when he
created Adam and Eve. Marriage should
therefore be monogamous and permanent as God protects
marriages. The woman should submit to the
husband who is told to love the wife as Christ loved the
church. Church teaches respect of each other.
Marriage is complete even without children as it is between
a male and a female. Marriage is not
obligatory and it ends when one partner dies.
Christian’s preparation and approach to marriage
Christians organise youth seminars, and rallies to teach the
youth how to choose marriage partners and
how to treat wife / husbands; care for the children; behave
towards in laws; acquire wealth (men); and
head a family. Youth are taught to avoid sexual intimacy
before marriage. Those intending to marry are
encouraged to go for pre marital counselling. During
counselling, they are informed that love is the most
important bond of unity in marriage. Church encourages
partners to go for HIV /AIDs test before
marriage. Marriage ceremony is conducted in church
Choice of a marriage partner

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There are many ways of identifying a marriage partner. One
is arrangement by parents. If not one can
make an individual decision and choose a wife or husband.
Two is through an intermediary or third
party. In African traditional polygamous marriages, the first
wife identified a wife for her husband.
Girls would be given out to a chief as a gift
c. Courtship in African Traditional society (A.T.S). Courtship
varied from community to community.
Courtship is the period between engagement and wedding
ceremony. During courtship premarital sex is
forbidden. Girls and boys dressed with bracelets and rings.
Courtship was important in A.T.S. This was
because the man and woman who were girls and boys got to
know each other better before marriage. It
was a period when girls/boys were instructed in family life
education. It was also a period for linking the
two marrying families. The couple had time to learn about
one another’s character, and know their
families. It is a symbol (sign) of the girl’s presence in her
home (maternal home). She continues to live
with her own people.
The families and clan had an opportunity to check if the
marrying couple was related and if their clans
were acceptable to the parents. Courtship gives time to the
two families to negotiate and pay the bride
wealth or dowry.
Bridal Wealth, dowry, bride price are all expressions of
partnership. The family of the man pays dowry to

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the family of the woman. Some churches disregard bride
wealth, while others encourage it. Dowry is
paid in different forms. The girl’s family decides what it
wants. Will it be livestock (poultry, pigs, camels,
cows, goats, sheep), beer, grain, jewellery and clothes among
others.
Importance of dowry. It acts as a compensation for the girls
labour and seals the marriage covenant. It is
a public expression of appreciation for the coming of a new
wife/mother into the man’s family. It
promotes friendship and cements relationship between
families. It shows commitment and seriousness
of the future husband. After dowry payment, the woman
belongs to her husband.
A ceremony is carried out depending on the community.
Bride price payment is accompanied by
marriage ceremonies. Lastly dowry helps in maintaining
peace
Traditional African approaches to marriage preparation.
Polygamy is one husband, married to many
wives. Polygamy is allowed by the African traditional religion
because it occurs if the first wife is barren;
ensures that all women have husbands; prevents infertility;
provides extra labour in farms. A
polygamous man has a higher status because many wives
symbolize wealth.
Children are important in a marriage because they promote
social status of their parents. They cement a
bond of unity between husband / wife. They are a source of
labour, and wealth. They are heirs to the
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family wealth
They provide security to the family.
Divorce is legal dissolution of marriage. Christians allow
divorce because of specific grounds. Divorce
was rare in African traditional societies. Divorce is granted
under circumstances of: adultery, witchcraft,
laziness, cruelty and disrespect of wife.
In the contemporary society, divorce is sought after or
allowed because of: unfaithfulness in marriage or
adultery; domestic violence; misuse of family resources;
childlessness; in-law interference and alcohol
abuse.
Legal reasons for divorce
According to the laws of Kenya, divorce is allowed under the
following reasons; adultery; if a man
deserts his wife for more than 3 years; if a partner becomes
insane; and domestic violence for example,
physical, and psychological torture.
Christian teaching about divorce. Christians discourage
divorce because marriage is a permanent status.
There is no room for divorce. Church discourages divorce
because of its adverse effects. Some
denominations allow divorce if there is adultery. God hates
divorce. Married couples should remain
faithful to each other
Effects of divorce are strained relationships, children
suffering psychologically, and experiences of
rejection. A divorcee faces social stigma, rejection, and
isolation. If parents separate, they create single

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parent families. These families suffer from economic
hardships and feelings of failure and inadequacy.
e. Celibacy as an alternative to marriage. Celibacy is a Latin
word “Coelebes” meaning bachelor. Why do
some people fail to marry? There are many reasons. Some of
these are to pursue education leading to
delayed marriage; and career demands (workaholic). Other
people are discouraged by examples of
failed marriages. Other reasons maybe economic
independence, poor health, HIV /AIDS, mental illness;
parental interference and disappointment from past failed
relationships. This happens if parents do not
approve a partner.
Revision questions
1. Explain the traditional African understanding of marriage
2, what is the importance of children in traditional African
society?
3.what is the Christian teaching about marriage?
4. What is the importance of courtship period in T.As
5. Why are many people opting for celibacy?
LESSON FOUR: THE FAMILY
Introduction.
As society grows and changes, the family grows and
changes. As a result, there are several types and
practices of the family. In this lesson, we shall discuss the
traditional family as it is practiced in the Bible,
the traditional African societies and some Christian families.
Learning Outcomes. By the end of the topic, the learner
should be able to
a Explain types of families in society
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b Analyse traditional African family values and practices
c Explain Christians family values and practices
d Discuss problems related to family life today
e Compare approaches to family by Christians and
traditional African society
f. Discuss responsible parenthood
The family. What is a family? Family is the basic social unit
of human society. This basic unit is extended
to include relatives bound together by blood, marriage,
friendship, and adoption. They are all members
of the family. In Kenya, there are many types of families.
a. Types of families
i. Nuclear family is parents and their children. .It is father,
mother, and children. There is an increase of
monogamous families or nuclear because of urbanization as
rural youth come to towns in search of
white-collar jobs. Migration to cities by people of different
tribes has led to pluralism. Education, high
cost of living have led to the death of the African culture,
which required men and women to marry
many partners to produce many children to defend their
tribe.
Advantages of nuclear families are many. One, the man is
able to give undivided attention to one wife
and children. Two, there is sharing of mutual love, and
peace in the home. Three it is economical to
manage one family. Four there is little competition for
attention, less strife, quarrels and stress. Five, it is
easier to monitor the behaviour of a few children.

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ii. Polygamous family – Father, mothers, children. These
type of family have disadvantages in modern
Kenya. Modern society is a cash economy. Thus if a man
has many wives and children, they may lack
basic necessities like food, shelter, education and clothes.
iii. Single parent family – one parent, and children. Single –
parent families are created by several
circumstances. One is by parents separating. Separation of
parents is due to several reasons. These are
for example, one partner going to another country and
failing to return to his or her country and family.
Two, a single family is created by divorce. Divorced parents
may decide not to marry again. Three is
when one parent refuses to marry. This happens when a girl
gets pregnant and the boy does not marry
her. Four is because of death of a spouse. The remaining
parent may decide not to remarry. Five is when
some mothers decide to have children without marriage.
This may not be correct as there is no research
to suggest it. Six is imprisonment of one partner for a long
time. One parent is left looking after children
because one is in jail.
iv. Extended family – father, mother, children, uncles,
aunts, and cousins. This is the common family
type in traditional African communities.
v. Children led family. This happens when parents die and
the 1st born takes care of brothers and sisters
including cousins.
vi. Grandparent headed family. The HIV/AIDs epidemic has
introduced this type of family where
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grandparents take care of their grandchildren due to the
death of both parents especially the mother
due to HIV / AIDS disease. This scourge has made many
children orphans. In other cases parents go for
further studies abroad and leave their children with their
parents.
b. Traditional African family values and practices. In African
societies creation of a family is through
marriage, and subsequent procreation. Family is viewed as a
sacred institution in African society. The
African traditional family includes the dead (ancestors), the
unborn children and the living.
An African traditional family has obligations and duties.
These were (1) offering sacrifices to ancestors,
(2) pouring libations; and (3) giving the dead decent burials
(4) providing basic needs to their children (5)
bringing up children to be morally upright individuals.
Further to this, the African traditional family is
responsible for the upbringing, caring, and protection of its
children. This is demonstrated by the nuclear
family, which provides necessities required to meet and
satisfy the economic needs of its members.
The African traditional family is expected to participate in
communal activities. Work in the family was
divided according to age, gender and social status. Each
family member worked for its basic needs as
well as the welfare of the community.
The African family had well-stated and practiced values
There were (1) respect for family members (2)

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providing responsible parenthood, which is the process of
bringing up children to become all round or
self reliant persons (3) educating children in all aspects of
life. Parents and the extended family
members helped their children to develop intellectually and
cognitively.
The family taught children physical skills. It also gave
children confidence to appreciate their physical
strength. Children were taken through a rigorous physical
curriculum of games such as wrestling,
swimming and running to develop their physical strength.
Children’s bodies were nourished thoroughly.
They were served good and nutritious food, which improved
their muscle strength.
Children were taught social skills. They learnt how to
behave towards adults, peers and grandparents.
They developed social skills since parents allowed them to
socialize and interact with other children,
grandparents and the community. This made them grow
socially, emotionally and psychologically.
They had a curriculum for teaching and training in
traditional African religious values, family matters,
moral and social values. This teaching of children started
from an early age. The teaching method used
was observation and practice. Parents taught by being good
role models. They were expected to model
desired values and family practices. Children were taught
how to relate with one another as brothers
and sisters. Parents were to show tolerance to children.
These values show that African parents
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understood their parental roles and responsibilities.
These values were sometimes; exploited by the irresponsible
family members or specific individuals.
This exploitation encouraged dependency, leading to
conflicts, competition, hatred, and jealousy.
Christian parents are expected to train their children to
know God; be self -disciplined, and follow the
Christian way of living. Another duty is to provide basic
needs to their children.
Christian understanding of the family
Among Christians, family is sacred and instituted by God.
Read again about the Christian teachings about
marriage.
Role of children in the Christian family
A Christian child is expected to obey parents, honor them,
and respect parents. This is one of the Ten
Commandments given to Moses by God.
Parenting styles
a) Dictatorship /authoritative / autocratic – the parents is
the final authority, imposes decisions
b) Permissive or liberal style – also referred to as “Laissez
faire” the children do as they want
c) Democratic style – parents discuss with their children on
family issues. This is the best style.

Families are faced with numerous problems such as

a) Children abuse – sex assault, beating
b) Domestic violence – abusive language, frequent fights,
emotional abuse
c) Diseases e.g. HIV / AIDS epilepsy , autism.
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d) Children with special needs, blindness, deafness or those
with mental challenges, motor co –
ordination (Autism)
e) Separation, divorce
f) Childlessness
g) Single parent families – economic hardships
h) Misuse of family resources, economic crisis
i) Affluence – a lot of wealth
j) Unemployment, underemployment
k) Retrenchment – laying off of some employees in order to
reduce the workforce
l) Mismanagement of family finances
m) Alcohol and drug abuse
n) The generation gap
o) Poor relations with in-laws
p) Cultural and religious differences
• Traditional African approaches to problems related to
family life today
1) Individuals were prepared for challenges of family life
right from childhood
2) Adolescents, initiates were given family life education
3) People entered marriage knowing that it’s a life long union
4) Rules were clear to govern marriage relations
5) Polygamy helped reduce unfaithfulness
6) There were no single parent families. Members lived
together reducing loneliness
7) Widows / widowers were encouraged to marry again
Traditional brew was taken in moderation
Christian’s approaches to problems related to family life
today
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1) Christian families are obliged to live according to
Christian principles and values such as mutual
respect, self discipline, understanding, honesty,
faithfulness, love and forgiveness
2) Premarital counseling is carried out
3) Church holds regular seminars and conferences on family
life matters. Love and respect for each
other. Christian wife to submit to husband who is head of
the family. They are taught to take each other
as complementary and equal partners.
4) Women are encouraged to form participate in church
organizations e.g. mothers union, women’s
guild where they learn roles of being a wife, mother, and a
woman.
5) Some churches offer advice to families on management of
their families. They are encouraged to
have investments.
6) Breadwinner is encouraged to write a written will
7) To improve the parent – child relationship churches offer
guidance and counseling to the youth
Christian parents are advised to set positive role models to
their children
9) Parents are encouraged to be open and promote effective
communication with their children
10) Churches in case of serious family conflicts such as
child abuse, domestic violence, advise legal
action.
11) Churches organize youth seminars where they talk
about drug abuse, premarital sex, negative peer
pressure and media influence etc.
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12) Relevant information is passed through books,
pamphlets, magazines, media FM, TV etc.
13) Some churches welcome unwed mothers
14) Churches provide health services, guidance on HIV /
AIDS
15) Some churches care for widows, orphans widowers and
the needy
Revision questions
1. State the different types of families
TOPIC THREE: CHRISTIAN APPROACHES TO WORK
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the topic you should be able to
a Define the term “work” and “vocation”
b Explain and appreciated the traditional African attitude
towards work
c Explain the role of professional ethos, ethics and code in
society
d Explain virtues related to work
e Discuss the moral duties and responsibilities of employers
and employees
f Discuss Christian approaches to issues related to
employment
LESSON ONE: DEFINITION OF TERMS
Learning outcomes. By the end of this lesson, you should be
able to:
a. Explain the meaning of work. Vocation, profession, trade,
craft, and job
b. Give general reasons why people work
Work

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Use of energy, physical or mental, for the purpose of
improving human life. It is any activity that requires
expenditure of energy or application of skills e.g. studying,
teaching, cooking, farming etc.
Vocation
Work can be described as a vocation, profession, trade,
craft, career or a job.
Vocation is from a Latin word “Vocare” which means call ‘
Christians believe that every individual has been called of
God to various duties.
Vocation is work that requires special skills, special training
or a unique call or a special mission in
society.
Profession
Work that is characterized by a code of ethics, lengthy
specialized training, advance knowledge and self
– disciple. Professionals have their own set standards. The
professionals determine entry requirements
for new members and usually have machinery for dealing
with errant members. E.g. Law, medicine,
architecture etc.
A trade
Refers to an occupation, a way of making a living. Some
trades require specialized training examples
hairdressing
A craft
An occupation which requires manipulative skills or use of
the hands e.g. woodcarving, pottery,
weaving. A craft may be a trade depending on the nature of
occupation.
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A career
An occupation that one chooses to pursue in his/her life. It’s
the general way of earning a living.
Job
Refers to tasks performed, services rendered in return for
payment of wages. Most jobs are temporary
others casual and others permanent and pension able.
What determines one’s career, vocation?
1. Available opportunities for future development in a
particular job
2. The need to serve others especially the church and the
needy
3. Interests, strengths, talents, abilities
4. Inclination or attraction to a certain kind of work
5. Pressure from parents, peers etc
General reasons why people work
a) It’s an essential element of life
b) God ordained work. Humans work for their food
c) Work contributes to the development of the community
d) Work is personal. It defines a person
e) People work to earn a living
f) People work for enjoyment, leisure
g) To assist and give to the needy
h) To get luxuries
i) People work to raise their standards of living
j) For self satisfaction and fulfillment
k) For personal development
l) To keep a person occupied and not idle
m) To acquire wealth and status in the society
n) To socialize with other members of the society
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o) To attain independence and not depend on someone else
LESSON TWO: TRADITIONAL AFRICAN ATTITUDE TO
WORK
Learning outcomes. By the end of the lesson, you should be
able to:
a. Explain importance of work
1. Work is essential to the well being of the individual and
survival of the community
2. Work ensured basic needs such as food, shelters etc were
provided.
3. In traditional African society work was divided according
to the age, gender, and status e.g. chief,
elder of the individual.
4. Everyone was a worker. Boys assisted in herding, fishing,
girls assisted in cooking fetching firewood.
Women cooked, took care of babies constructed houses
(maasai) etc.
5. Works among the traditional African societies included
pastoralist, farmers, livestock keeping, fishing,
bee keeping etc
6. Work was a communal affair; people would work together
and assist each other
7. Work was not for a wage (Money). The rewards of work-
included food, communal unity, acquisition
of moral values etc.
8. Hard work was emphasized, laziness was condemned
9. There were some specific works for specialization e.g.
herbal medicine men, divination, prophecy, rain
making, pottery etc.

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10. Work involved giving prayers, offerings, and sacrifices to
God
11. Through work, the basic needs of the individual,
community were fulfilled
12. Through work potentials; talents and skills were
explored, acquired and utilized.
13. Work had a religious dimension as well as a social
dimension. It brought people together improving
their relations
14. SAE
1. Find out how different communities in Kenya lived in the
past and how they live today
2. How did the lifestyle of the communities influence daily
activities
LESSON THREE: CHRISTIAN TEACHING ON WORK
Learning outcomes. By the end of the lesson you should be
able to: -
1. Describe the christens teachings about work
The Christian teaching on work is based mainly on the
interpretation of the bible, the teachings of Jesus
and the teachings of the apostles. Some of the teachings are:
-
1. God himself instituted work. He created the heavens and
the earth and all in it. Since God worked
man should work. (Gen. 2:1)
2. God’s work of creation is good (Gen. 1:31) Christians
should endeavor to produce good works
3. Work is a duty, an obligation, a command Christians are
responsible for God’s creation (Gen.2: 15).

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They are to protect it – animals, birds, plants, marine life are
all under the care of man.
4. Human beings should work to acquire their basic needs
(Genesis. 1:29 – 30, 3:19) God blesses the
work of our hands
5. Human beings are co – creators with God (Gen.1: 28) God
continue to create through human beings.
Human beings glorify God through their work.
6. God reveals himself through his work of creation. God
had a purpose for his creation. He is orderly,
source of life, Almighty etc.
7. Work is a co – operative undertaking. Eve was created to
be Adam’s helper (Gen. 2:20) Christians
should co – operate in their undertakings
8. Hard work is praised and laziness is looked down upon.
(Proverbs 31:27). Christians should work for
their daily needs and not become a burden to others.
9. Work should be accompanied with rest (Gen.2: 2) God
rested on the 7th day from all his work. God
commanded the Israelites to rest on the 7th day.
10. People should enjoy what they have worked for (Ecc.3:
22)
11. Work should be done for the glory of God and for the
good of the society.
12. People should work honestly not steal but work to earn
an honest living (Eph.4: 28)
13. Those who do not work should not eat
They should always work since God is always at a work
(John 15:17)

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LESSON FOUR: ROLES OF PROFESSIONAL ETHOS,
ETHICS AND CODES IN THE SOCIETY
Learning outcomes. By the end of the lesson, you should be
able to: -
1. Define the following terms, professional ethics,
professional codes and professional ethos
2. Describe the role of ethics
Definitions
Professional ethics –: principles of behaviour / conduct that
guide members of a particular profession.
What workers are allowed to do and not to do.
Professional ethos
The group identity of members of a profession, their unique
custom or character e.g. what identifies
doctors, lawyers etc.
Profession codes or code of ethics
Collection of laws arranged systematically according to
major concerns and core functions of the
profession.
Roles
- To regulate the behaviour of professional (workers)
- Enables professionals to understand their role
- Ensures professionals provide quality of services to their
clients
- To encourage respect among professionals
- Give guidance on how professionals should relate to one
another
- They safe guard professionals against being compromised
/ misused
- They determine expected level of performance
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- They serve as a measure of competence
- Act as a measure of quality service
- They protect the professionals
- They provide a reference point for disciplining (used to
discipline the errant professional)
- They inspire respect and high esteem for professionals
- Through professional codes, ethics, ethos, professional
earn public trust
LESSON FIVE: VIRTUES RELATED TO WORK
Learning outcome. By the end of the lesson the learner
should be able to: -es
1. Define the term virtue
2. Give examples of virtues related to work
Definition
A virtue is a good human habit. It’s a moral principle, moral
quality or goodness of character and
behaviour.
Examples of virtues elated to work
(i) Diligence – hardworking
(ii) Honesty, integrity – ability to be relied upon (Integrity)
Honest is being truthful.
(iii) Faithfulness – being trustworthy and loyal
(iv) Responsibility – ability to make decisions and take action
independently. Being mindful of other
people’s welfare
(v) Tolerance – ability to bear with others or with difficult
situations
LESSON SIX: MORAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF
EMPLOYERS AND EMPLOYEES

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Learning outcomes: by the end of the lesson, you should be
able to: -
1. State and explain the duties and responsibilities of
employers towards employees
2. List the rights of employers
3. Outline the moral duties of employees
4. List the rights of employees
Employers: government, non – governmental organization,
private sector – individuals, company, selfemployment.
Employers have several duties and responsibilities towards
their employees. They are:
- To organize and conduct business efficiently for the benefit
of the institution, employer, community
- To respect the employee, treat them with dignity
- Pay a fair wage to the employee
- Ensure good healthy and safe working conditions
- Provide social welfare for the employees e.g. time off, leave
days, time for recreation
- Grant leave as required by law or the terms of contract
- Take care of the welfare of the employees give medical
cover, pension scheme etc
- To motivate their employees
- To reward employees
- Compensate employees made redundant
Rights of the employer
Employers have a right to / are entitled to
(a) Get profits from their businesses
(b) Carry out their businesses without unfair taxation
(c) Form association with other employers
(d) Obtain and conduct business
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(e) Hire, dismiss employees in accordance with the
requirements of their firms and contract
(f) Demand a fair days work
(g) Conduct business without subjection to unfair conditions
and competitions
Moral duties of the employees
1. Carry out their duties to the best of their ability without
supervision
2. Respect and protect the property of the employer
3. Encourage peaceful solutions to any problems
encountered in their work place
4. To work diligently for self – fulfillment and development
5. To respect their employer and fellow employees
6. Observe terms of contract with employer
7. Be loyal, honest, respect to the employer
Rights of the employees
To receive fair wages
To have a reasonable work load
Have reasonable hours of work
Have safety and protection at work
Right to join a labour union
Right to further individual training and development
education
Rights to retirement, terminal benefits
Rights to a fair opportunity for provision
A right to time for rest
Right to Favourable working conditions
LESSON SEVEN: CHRISTIANS APPROACHES TO ISSUES
RELATED TO EMPLOYMENT

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Learning outcomes. By the end of the lesson you should be
able to; -
1. Define the following terms, wages and industrial action
2. State the Christian teachings on wages
3. List the reasons for industrial action
4. State the results of workers strike/ industrial action
5. Explain the Christian approaches towards strikes
Wages and industrial action (Strikes)
A wage is payments for work done. Payment is in modern
times done according to hours, weeks or days
that one works.
Christian teachings on wages
- Human beings have the right to work for a decent living
(Matt.20:1 – 16) They should be paid for their
work.
- Workers should be paid wages to the amount and value of
their work (1 Timothy 5:18)
- Wages should be paid as agreed upon (Mathew 20:13)
- Employers should not take advantage of the poverty of the
employee (Deuteronomy 24: 14 – 15)
- Human beings should not be enslaved to work (Ex.5:22 –
23)
- Employers who degrade their workers in wages are
condemned (Deut.24:14 – 15, Jer.22:13)
- Oppression is condemned (Amos 5:18, 8;4)
- Workers wages should never be withheld (James 5:4)
Industrial action
Also commonly called ‘Strike’ this is an effort by workers to
stop work in protest by boycott go-slow sit –

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ins or refuse to work. There has been increase of industrial
action in the recent past in most countries of
the world.
Reasons for industrial actions
1 Due to increased awareness of workers rights
2 Exposure to global trends through the media
3 Formation of trade unions that fight for the rights of
workers
4 Due to poor working conditions
5 Underpaying workers
6 Threatening workers with unjustified dismissals
7 Suspending the workers / interdiction – unjustly
8 A hostile working environment
Results of workers strikes (industrial / action
a) Pay cuts
b) Demotions
c) Loss of jobs
d) Employers suffer losses
e) Inflation
f) Injuries even death when confronted by police
g) Victimization of some individuals
h) Bitterness among the workers and employers
Christian approaches towards strikes
a) Christians recommend a peaceful co – existence between
workers and employers
b) There should be fairness, justice, love among workers,
employees
c) There should be an open communication channel across
the ranks from top to bottom
d) Employees should not destroy property
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e) Working conditions should be better and improved
f) Employees to be human when dealing with employees
LESSON EIGHT: CHILD LABOUR
Learning outcomes. By the end of the lesson you should be
able to: -
1. Define the term child labour
2. State the reasons why children are employed
3. State the disadvantages of child labour
4. List down the causes of child labour
5. Describe the position of the church in dealing with child
labour
A child is a person below 18 years. A child does not have an
identity card, does not vote (in Kenya).
According to International Labour Organization the
minimum employment age is 14 years.
Child labour
It is engaging a person below the age of 14 years in wage /
paid employment.
Reasons why children are employed
- To provide cheap labour
- They cannot fight for proper terms
- They are easily hired and fired
Disadvantages of child labour
Children are not yet mentally and physically prepared to do
adult jobs. This leads to
a) Exploitation of children
b) Children paid less, taken advantage of
c) It inhibits the growth of a child and denies them a chance
to enjoy their childhood
d) It deprives them of their right to basic education
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e) It exposes children to hazards (dangers) from machines,
chemicals
f) Heavy workload deprives children of social educational,
moral, psychological, physical rights
Places where children are employed
- Plantations – coffee, tea
- Domestic services – homes
- Tourism sector
- Industries
- Children are trafficked and employed as commercial sex
workers
Causes of child labour – reasons why children work
1 Lack of money / poverty
2 Death of parents
3 Dropping out of school due to pregnancy, indiscipline,
(truancy), poor academic performance or lack of
school fees.
4 Those who never went or taken to school
5 Lack of good role models e.g. coast province Mombasa,
Malindi has several of the financially stable
people being school dropouts, engaged in drug trafficking,
commercial sex etc.
6 Influence of cultural values e.g. circumcision of boys in
some communities is done later in life and one
is declared an adult e.g. the kikuyu circumcising at 13
years, or 12 years
7 Children being lured by employers
8 Greed for material benefits
9 Being homeless ending up as a street child
Position of church in dealing with child labour
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- The church condemns it
- It has put up homes for poor children (orphanages)
- It provides guidance, counseling to both parents and
children
- Children are blessing from God hence should be loved and
cared for
- Parents have the responsibilities to protect their children
from harm.
LESSON NINE: UNEMPLOYMENT AND SELF –
EMPLOYMENT
Learning outcomes. By the end of the lesson you should be
able to: -
1. Define the term unemployment and self employment
2. State the causes of unemployment
3. Describe the response of Christians to issues of
unemployment
4. List the problems faced by self employed people
Unemployment
When people are capable and willing to work but are unable
to find a viable income or occupation it is
referred to as unemployment.
Causes of unemployment
1 Preference for prestigious white collar jobs (Office jobs,
non – manual jobs)
2 Corruption – tribalism, nepotism, bribery denying jobs to
the qualified in preference for the
unqualified.
3 Unequal distribution of wealth – some regions are more
resourceful than others. Industries, good
infrastructure concentrated in some areas.
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4 Inadequate resources for self – employment (lack of
capital, skills)
5 Limited job opportunities – probably due to high
population growth
6 Few international investors in Kenya, probably due to high
crime rate, insecurity
Identify ways of creating job opportunities
Response of Christians to issues of unemployment
a) They encourage self – employment in cases of
unemployment
b) They have set up vocational training, polytechnics to train
people towards jobs that are for self –
employment
c) Christians condemn idleness
Self-employment
Self-employment is an economic activity initiated, controlled
by an individual. It is an occupation in
which a person initiates a personal enterprise and manages
it with the help of others.
Examples
Small businesses enterprises, Jua kali sector, music
industry, entertainment (e.g. comedians),
community work, agriculture etc
Problems / challenges
- Some lack sufficient capital to start a business and keep it
running
- Lack of necessary skills to run the business
- High taxation leading to some business closing down
- Small scale traders face undue competition from larger
firms
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Revision questions
1. What is work?
2. List any six reasons why people work
3. Explain T.As attitude towards work
4. List some of the factors that have changed the attitude
towards work in the modern society
5. What are the rights of employers?
6. State the duties of employees
7. Why has child labour become common in Kenya?
8. What are the causes of unemployment in Kenya?
9. What can the government do to reduce unemployment in
Kenya?
TOPIC FOUR: CHRISTIANS APPROACHES TO LEISURE
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the topic, you should be able to
a Explain the meaning of leisure
b Discuss the traditional African understanding of leisure
c Discuss Christian teaching on leisure
d Discuss the importance of leisure
e Outline various forms and uses of leisure
f Explain how leisure is misused in the society today
g Discuss the abuse of alcohol and other drugs and their
effects
h Explain Christian criteria for evaluating the use of leisure

LESSON ONE: MEANING OF LEISURE

Work is an obligation – however people cannot work 24
hours. They need to rest. God rested on the 7th
day after work. Work and rest are complementary elements
of human life.
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Definition of leisure
This is the time when one is free from work or other duties.
Time at one’s own disposal, which can be
utilized in a productive manner depending on one’s interests
and abilities.
Leisure provides mental, physical relaxation, spiritual,
emotional relaxation and enrichment
Forms of leisure
1. Passive
2. Active leisure
Passive involves use of mental energy
Active leisure – there is use of physical energy
Examples of activities of passive leisure are
- Watching television
- Reading story books
- Playing video games
- Chatting with friends
Examples of activities of active leisure are
- Jogging
- Mountain climbing
- Gardening
- Dancing
- Tree planting
- Playing football
Leisure is used for
- Enjoyment
- Entertainment – song, dance, watching movies etc
- Relaxation – exercises
- Socialization – sharing, education

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- Religious engagement – wedding ceremonies, visiting the
sick, worship
In passive leisure others entertain while in active leisure the
person is active, whole body is involved.
Active leisure enables a person to
1. Develop his/her body
2. Build stamina
3. Strengthen relationships etc
Some leisure activities are dangerous e.g. boxing, motor
racing; while others are expensive e.g. golf.
Other leisure activities are addictive while others are
unproductive.
- Leisure activities should be planned for
- Leisure activities can also be economic, income generating
activities.
LESSON TWO: TRADITIONAL AFRICAN UNDERSTANDING
OF LEISURE
Learning outcomes. By the end of the lesson, you should be
able to: -
1.Define leisure according to the traditional African
understanding
2. State the various forms of communal leisure activities
In traditional African society leisure permeates all aspects of
life. Leisure activities accompany work.
Leisure and work were entertainment. Work was
accompanied by singing, reciting stories sharing past
events. Examples of leisure activities in traditional African
society include
- Wrestling
- Running
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- Playing ajua
- Mock fighting
- Swimming
- Spear throwing
- Poetry
- Music and dance etc
Leisure activities that were communal include
• Bull fighting
• Tongue – twisters
• Poetry recitation
• Telling of myths legends
• Dancing
• Brain teasers
• Riddles etc
o Work in African society included fishing, tilling the land,
herding, hunting, harvesting
o Most leisure activities in traditional African society were
active form of leisure, communal, not
individualistic and not for monetary gains
o All forms of leisure had an educational value. Folk stories
had a moral value. People were taught not to
be selfish, greedy jealousy etc Myths and legends tell of the
origin of the community and its history of
important people as well as history of the community.
o In African traditional society, leisure led to acquisition of
values or virtues such as co – operation,
sharing, solidarity, love, bravery, empathy, endurance,
tolerance etc.
o Most activities were linked to the worship of God and,
veneration of the ancestors
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o Leisure activates were organized along gender and age
group season (E.g. harvest – dancing, singing);
wet rainy seasons – boat swimming
o Rites of passage e.g. initiation, marriage, birth and naming
provided leisure activities
o Leisure activities were planned for
LESSON THREE: CHRISTIAN TEACHING ON LEISURE
Learning outcomes. By the end of the lesson you should be
able to: -
1. Describe the Christian teachings on work
2. State the various ways that Christians use their leisure
Christian teach that
a) Work and leisure are of divine origin. God rested on the
7th day after working
b) Leisure is a gift from God leisure should be put to good
use. Its not be wasted
c) Leisure provides us with the opportunity to worship God.
Leisure should be used to serve God.
d) Christians associate leisure with personal growth and
fellowship
e) Jesus recognized the need for rest by withdrawing his
disciples from their active ministry. Its good to
have time alone for reflection, rest, visit friend etc.
f) Leisure should be used to seek God and help others e.g.
Jesus prayed, helped the needy restored
people’s health.
Ways Christian use their leisure time – activities

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 – time spend away with a group of people to be
alone with God

LESSON FOUR: IMPORTANT USE AND MISUSE OF

LEISURE
Learning outcomes. By the end of the lesson you should be
able to: -
1. State the importance of leisure
2. List the ways that leisure can be used properly
3. Describe how leisure is misused today
Importance of leisure
Leisure is necessary. It’s important in various ways
1) It is a good time to assess the work we have done
(Reflection time)
2) It brings people together leading to self – growth and
fulfilment (Social function of leisure)
3) Leisure helps individuals to discover their hidden talents
4) Leisure relaxes the mind – a change of activity, relieves
the mind
5) Leisure refreshes the body – restores lost energy
6) Leisure enables Christians to offer charity to those in
need
7) Leisure provides time for worship and spiritual renewal
Leisure gives one time to rest
9) It’s time for recreation
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10) Give one time to attend social occasions
11) Allows people to travel and visit friends and relatives
12) Leisure can be used to enhance and acquire new skills
and knowledge
13) It’s a time to develop and discover ones talents
Uses of leisure – proper of leisure
Leisure can be used for
a. Religious experience
b. A time for rest
c. Leisure is used to provide us with time to help others
d. Leisure can be used to spread the word of God
e. Development of talents
f. Its an opportunity for individual growth
g. Leisure strengthens social relationships
h. Leisure can be used for reflection on one’s decision;
actions etc leisure activities reveal who we are.
i. Leisure can be used for educative and economic purposes
Proper use of leisure is when leisure time is spent doing
activities that add value to us.
Misuse of leisure today
Leisure time can be misused through various activities e.g.
1) Spending too much time in passive activities e.g.
pornography watching, watching films that are
violent
2) Spending leisure time in idle talk – gossip-leading to
conflicts
3) Spending time in gambling, casinos making bets on
horses playing Ajua games etc
4) Alcohol and drug taking – when a person over drinks
alcohol, spends time drinking at the expense of
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family, abusing drugs is misuse of leisure time.
5) Leisure can also be misused by engaging in dangerous
activities.
Night dancing, disco dancing has become a common form of
leisure worldwide. What are the
advantages and disadvantages?
LESSON FIVE: DRUG ABUSE AND ITS EFFECTS-
ALCOHOL, SOFT AND HARD DRUGS
Learning outcomes. By the end of the lesson, you should be
able to: -
1. Define the terms drug, drug use, drug abuse
2. State the different ways that drugs are administered
3. List the various categories of drugs
4. List the different types of drugs
5. Describe the various effects of different drugs
A drug is any substance which when taken may alter or
cause changes in the normal functioning of the
body.
Drug abuse
Improper use of drugs. Using a drug for another purpose
than what it is intended for
Drug use
Proper use of drugs
Drugs are taken in various forms namely
1 Liquids
2 Lotions
3 Ointment
4 Powder
5 Cake form,
Drugs are classified as legal and illegal
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Ways of administering drugs
Drugs are taken /administered in various ways
- Infecting
- Inhaling / smoking
- Chewing
- Swallowing
- Drinking
- Sniffing / snuffing
Categories of drugs
a) Medicinal
b) Soft drugs
c) Hard / narcotic drugs
Types of drugs
1) Preventive drugs e.g. drugs to prevent polio, cholera,
yellow fever
2) Curative drugs – drugs that cure diseases
3) Sedatives, palliatives – drugs that alleviate pain, put
patients to sleep e.g. drugs for diabetes, heart
diseases, asthma, painkillers
4) Tranquillizers – drugs that relieve tension induce sleep
e.g. piriton, valium
5) Stimulants – drugs used to increase physiological activity
of a particular organ. They arouse the
activity of the central nervous system / senses.
6) Volatile drugs – these drugs intoxicate the user, they are
derived from petroleum products paint
thinners dry cleaning fluids glue etc. stimulants and volatile
drugs classified as soft drugs.
7) Hard drugs or narcotic drugs

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These are highly addictive drugs. The body forms
dependence on these drugs. These drugs affect the
mind causing drowsiness; sleep, stupor and they are the
most commonly abused drugs. Examples are

- From coca leaves

- Its highly addictive
- Causes mental problems
- Can lead to death on overdose
- A very expensive drug
Other side effects are confusion, Convulsions, circulatory
collapse and rapid heart beat

- A plant of Indian hemp

- Also called marijuana, Hashish, Cannabis, Sativa
depending on which part of the plant is taken i.e.
leaves, stem, or roots.
- Users become aggressive excited or high
- Bhang changes perception of space, time and reality
- It causes drowsiness and irresponsible behaviour
- Its side effects causes people to be engaged in criminal
activities e.g. robbery with violence as it gives
changes in perception

Its used to suppress pain clinically

- Its addictive
- Its derived from cocaine
- Used as local aesthetic

- Its pain relieving

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- Highly addictive
- Powder heated in foil paper, vapour forms hence smoked
referred to as” chasing the dragon”
- Also called brown sugar
- Its injected and inhaled
- An overdose can lead to death
- its expensive
- It causes respiratory problems
- Its depressive
- Withdrawal symptoms when heroine is not available are
nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and severe
anxiety

- Cigarette
- Alcohol
- Miraa / khat
Cigarette
- Made from tobacco
- Cigarettes contain
a) Nicotine – a highly addictive substance.
b) Carbon monoxide, which damages arteries heart and
lungs
c) Tar – black substance which promotes cancer of the
throat, heart and lungs
Cigarettes are legal drugs in Kenya.
Pregnant women may miscarry or terminate the pregnancy if
they smoke.
Leads to chest respiratory diseases poor blood circulation
Leads to destructive fires due to carelessness
Miraa / khat
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1 Plants / legally in Kenyan, and other parts of the world
2 They are chewed
3 Causes temporary excitement
4 Makes one loose appetite for food and sex
5 The juice in miraa causes temporary excitement in the
user when ingested
6 Miraa makes the user to be irritable
Alcohol
- Alcohol is a drug made through fermentation
- It’s a drink used in social ceremonial occasions
- It’s in form of beer wines, traditional brew (e.g. busaa,
muratina, mnazi )and spirits e.g. whisks, brandy,
gin, chang’aa
- Alcohol is prepared by fermentation or distillation – heating
to a certain degree.
- In African traditional society, alcohol was fermented and
used for
1. Medicinal value
2. Entertainment
3. Marriage celebrations
4. Beer parties given to visitors
- Excessive drinking was discouraged
- Drunk people were scorned or scolded
- Young people were not allowed to drink alcohol
- When alcohol is taken excessively it is abused
Alcohol abuse
- Alcohol can lead to body dependence or addiction
- Consequences of abusing alcohol are such as
(i) Squandering family resources
(ii) Health deterioration
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(iii) Lack of concentration leading to poor quality of work
(iv) Family break-ups due to frustrations
A man experiences a desire for sex but lacks the ability to
perform leading to break ups
(v) Deformed foetus if a mother abuses alcohol when
pregnant
(vi) Alcohol destroys brain cells
(vii) It leads to unruly behaviour such as fights, violence
(viii) One is vulnerable to risky behaviour – a drunk person
is unable to make proper decisions hence
vulnerable to sexual infections such as HIV / AIDS
(ix) Can make a person cause accidents if driving under the
influence of alcohol or staggering on the
road.
LESSON SIX: CAUSES OF ALCOHOL AND DRUG ABUSE
(REASONS WHY PEOPLE ABUSE ALCOHOL AND
DRUGS)
Learning outcomes. By the end of the lesson you should be
able to: -
1. State and explain the effects of drugs
2. State and explain the causes of drug use and abuse
(i) Frustration due to unemployment, inability to perform
well and meet set standards or other personal
frustrations.
(ii) Idleness – when idle some turn to alcohol and drug use
(iii) Addiction
(iv) Boredom
(v) Bad examples from adults
(vi) Availability of drugs in the Kenyan market
(vii) Negative peer pressure
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(viii) Experimentation then addiction
(ix) Media influence
(x) Societal permissiveness
(xi) Urbanization
(xii) Pressure of work
(xiii) Financial stress
(xiv) Globalization – foreign world influences
Effects of drug abuse
Drug abuse poses danger to the health of a person, affects
family, society in general. Effects of drug
abuse are
A. Psychological problems – drugs are addictive. The body
becomes dependant on them. It cannot
perform without the drugs. It leads to depression,
irritability, aggressiveness, paranoia, one becoming
afraid to face reality etc.
B. Crime – robbery, theft, people abusing drugs will rob,
steal so as to get money to buy the drugs. Drugs
have led to students setting schools on fire, killing their
fellow students
C. Illusion – users do not face reality
D. Health problems – one is prone to diseases because of
frequent use of drugs. Drugs weakens the
body’s system e.g. alcohol leads to liver Cirrhosis, stomach
ulcers. One is susceptible / prone to HIV /
AIDS infection STI’s lung cancer, still birth etc
E. Economic problems
Drugs are expensive. Abuse leads to depletion of family
resources leading to poverty
F. Loss of job and income
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G. Social problems
Abuse of drugs leads to family conflicts, leading to
separation, divorce, family quarrels fights and even
murder (domestic violence)
H. Accidents
I. Frustrations
J. Poor performance in school work
K. Death
People die out of drug abuse. An over dose of heroine,
cocaine kills. Alcohol can lead to a blackout, this
affects the brain
LESSON SEVEN: REMEDIES TO DRUG ABUSE
Learning outcomes. By the end of the lesson you should be
able to:-
1. List down the various remedies to drug use and abuse
Drug abuse has become a global problem. Remedies or
solutions include
a) Law enforcement – through bodies such as UNDCP United
Nations International
Drug Control Programme Anti Narcotics Police Units,
NACADA National Agency for
the Campaign Against Drug Abuse so as to control abuse of
Narcotics and other drugs.
b) Education
People to be educated on the effects of drugs. The
curriculum from primary to secondary to include
topics on drug abuse.
Guidance and counselling
Religious teachings – all religious condemn the abuse of
drugs
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Family values to be promoted. Parents should set good
examples to their children
Every individual to cultivate individual values. Respect their
body and take care of their bodies
Rehabilitation of drug users / abusers
LESSON EIGHT: CHRISTIAN CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING
THE USE OF LEISURE
Learning outcomes. By the end of the lesson you should be
able to: -
1. Describe the Christian’s criteria for evaluating the use of
leisure
Criteria – criterion – a principle or standard for judging
something.
How does a Christian determine whether a certain leisure
activity is lawful, acceptable before God –
criteria for evaluating the use of leisure
1) Christians, should engage in leisure activities which
promote their respect and dignity they should
socialize with people who are morally upright (bad company
corrupts good morals)
2) God ordains leisure hence it should serve God’s purpose.
3) Leisure should come after work
4) Leisure should be used for the good of others. The
activities that are harmful to others should be
avoided
5) Activities chosen should enrich their knowledge of God
6) Activities should provide service to others
7) Leisure doesn’t mean laziness
A Christian should not engage in a harmful activity to self
but those that promote respect and dignity
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9) Christians to avoid activities that lead to sin or to
addiction
10) They should perform an activity which develop their
physical emotional social and spiritual well
being
11) Leisure should be enjoyed with moderation
12) Activities for leisure should be moral, within the laws of
God and pleasing to good.
Revision questions
1. Identify five (5) reasons why the taking of alcohol as a way
of spending leisure is condemned
2. Write down five ways in which modern Christians use
their leisure time
3. Give five ways in which drug use and abuse could affect a
Christian
4.identify ways in which Christians can overcome
temptations to drug use and abuse
5(a). Why is leisure important in the life of a Christian?
5(b). What factors have contributed to the misuse of leisure
in Kenya?
6.state the factors that have led to the misuse of drugs in
Kenya
TOPIC FIVE: CHRISTIANS APPROACHES TO WEALTH,
MONEY AND POVERTY
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this topic, you should be able to: -
a. Define the concepts wealth, money and poverty
b. Explain and appreciate the traditional African
understanding of wealth and poverty

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c. Describe the impact of the introduction of money economy
in the traditional African society.
d. Explain Christian teachings on money, wealth and
poverty
e. Discuss Christians approached to some issues related to
wealth money and poverty
f. Uphold the Christian principles in acquiring and using
wealth
LESSON ONE: DEFINITION OF THE CONCEPTS WEALTH,
MONEY AND POVERTY
a) Wealth: – accumulation…
Accumulation of materials owned by an individual, family or
a group of people. Wealth is property that
has economic value e.g. land, animals, money, valuable
possessions such as jewellery, commercial and
residential buildings etc.
Ways of acquiring wealth

b) Money
It’s the medium of exchange that functions as a legal tender.
It is something that is generally accepted as
a medium of exchange, a means of payment. It is usually in
form of coins or notes. Good monetary
media (money) has certain qualities.
Qualities of money
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• It should be acceptable
• It should be fairly stable
• Easy to divide into small units
• Easy to carry
• Should be relatively scarce
• It should be durable
• Its value should be maintained through proper control of
its circulations
Money is a measure of wealth. What it can purchase is the
value. Money is used to buy services, goods,
pay debts etc.
Examples of currencies in the world are
Ksh. (Kenya), Rand (South Africa) US & Dollar, Pound
(Britain) Euro (Europe), Yen (Japan) Etc
c) Poverty
State of being without adequate basic necessities of life e.g.
food, shelter, clothing
It’s a state of helplessness. It is characterized by poor
health, hunger, and lack of education facilities,
uncared for environment.
Causes of poverty
a. Adverse climatic conditions (Geographical factors)
b. Poor family background (historical and social factors)
c. Political stability leading to civil wars
d. Poor governance
e. Regional imbalance of natural resources
f. Low level of technology
g. Laziness
h. Over dependence on foreign aid

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LESSON TWO: THE TRADITIONAL AFRICAN
UNDERSTANDING OF WEALTH AND POVERTY
Learning outcomes. By the end of the lesson you should be
able to: -
1. Define the terms wealth and poverty according to the
traditional African understanding
2. State the various ways in which wealth was acquired in
traditional African communities
3. List the causes of poverty in tradition African
communities
Wealth
In African traditional societies wealth was measured in
terms of the amount of land, livestock, grains,
wives, children possessed by an individual or the
community.
Wealth was acquired in various ways.
(i) As a gift from God
Most Africans believe that wealth is a blessing from God.
(ii) Inheritance
In cases where the head of the family is dead, the eldest son
becomes the custodian of the estate. The
clan and community elders give direction on how the wealth
is to be shared out.
(iii) Bride wealth
(iv) Farming
(v) Exploitation of natural resources – honey, wood for
carving, building materials etc
(vi) Trade
African communities were involved in barter trade where
they exchanged good and services
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(vii) Raids – wealth was also acquired by raiding other
communities – goats, sheep,
Cattle.
- People were encouraged to work hard to acquire wealthy
honesty
- Wealthy people were highly regarded and were considered
for leadership
position
- Wealth was incomplete without a family
Poverty
Poverty was viewed as punishment or curse for wrongdoing.
Other causes of poverty according to African Traditional
Society were: -
• Laziness
• Lack of inheritance
• Raids by other communities
• Famine
• Natural calamities
• Sickness – rendering the individual weak to acquire wealth
- In acquiring wealth, principles such as value for human
life, mutual responsibility, and sharing,
communal ownership were emphasized.
- Places that were communal include grazing land, rivers,
and watering places
- Laziness was ridiculed through songs, riddles and
proverbs.
LESSON THREE: IMPACTS OF THE INTRODUCTION OF
MONEY ECONOMY IN TRADITIONAL AFRICAN
SOCIETY

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Learning outcomes. By the end of the lesson you should be
able to: -
1. Define economy, development and money economy
2. Explain the reasons for the introduction of money
3. Explain the impact of money economy in traditional
African society
Introduction
- Money was introduced to Africa by the Europeans
- Before colonial period, Africans practiced barter trade –
actual goods exchanged with other goods e.g.
animals would be exchanged with food grains, millet,
sorghum, cowpeas, children exchanged for food
during famine.
- Trade merchants from Asia had introduced into Africa
forms of currency such as the cowrie shells, gold
and the Indian rupees. Europeans introduced currency still
used today
Economy: – careful management of resources, finances,
income and expenditure of a family, a business
enterprise, community or a country. The economy of a
country is to be well managed if it has the ability
to meet the social economic needs of her members.
Development
It’s measured by the healthy of its economy in the provision
of health, education, housing, sanitation,
employment, longevity of life, decrease of material and child
mortality.
Money economy: – Use of money as a means of exchange in
economic activities e.g. banking,
investment, insurance, payment of goods and services.
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Reasons for money introduction
1) Colonization brought a lot of changes such as unoccupied
land declared ‘Crown land’ for colonialists.
2) Tax introduction
Africans were supposed to pay taxes to the government.
Taxes were paid in form of money.
3) Introduction of formal education
School fees was introduced. Fees were paid in form of
money.
4) Introduction of modern medical services
People paid medical services using money.
5) Emergence of new lifestyles
Converts to Christianity were emphasized on to have
materials, hence had to work to improve their
living standards. They built houses, took their children to
schools practiced modern family techniques
hence had to use money.
Impact of the introduction of money economy in traditional
African society
1) Introduction of wage – labour
2) Break up of family ties as people migrated from rural to
urban areas in search of employment
3) African land taken by the colonialists, reducing people to
squatters hence need to work
4) There was creation of a gap between people – the rich and
the poor
5) Emergence of vices e.g. corruption, bribery, prostitution,
robbery
6) Deterioration of cherished African values e.g. bride wealth
has become commercialized, customs lost
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etc.
7) Loss of African human dignity. Africans had to pay taxes
to the colonial government. They were forced
to work in European farms so as to get money. They worked
under dehumanizing conditions
Production of traditional food crops declined replaced by
cash crops.
9) Individual ownership of land was emphasized. Land could
be sold at will
10) There was increase of rural – urban migration leaving
the rural people less educated.
11) Exploitation of the poor by the rich – poor wages,
overcharging prices on foods.
12) Destruction of the natural environment to create room
for building projects, urban centres
13) The cost of living increased. Almost everything is
acquired by money.
LESSON FOUR: THE CHRISTIAN TEACHING ON WEALTH,
MONEY, POVERTY
Learning outcomes. By the end of the lesson you should be
able to: -
1. Explain the Christian teachings on wealth
2. Explain the Christian teachings on poverty
Teaching on wealth
1) Wealth is a blessing from God
2) Those who obey God’s laws, teachings of the prophets are
promised blessings by God Deut28: 1 – 4
3) Wealth has duties associated with it e.g. 10% tithe, alms
to the poor, and an aspect of stewardship.

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4) Wealth should be used wisely. People are not owners of
their property but are stewards. Should
share with the poor, needy.
5) Wealth is not permanent e.g. parable of the rich fool.
When people die, they take nothing with them.
Naked into the world, naked out of the world. Job. 1:21
6) Wealth can create a false sense of independence feeling of
self reliance no need for God
7) Wealth should be obtained justly – no happiness for a
person who gets riches in the wrong way.
Wrong attitude to wealth can lead to idolatry and other
dangers. Matt.19: 23 – 24 danger of
materialism – making riches their God, the love of money is
the root of all evil (1 timothy 6:10)
9) It is wrong to discriminate against others on the basis of
material possessions. Jesus associated with
the rich, the poor, the sick etc.
10) Seek spiritual wealth, which is permanent and more
fulfilling than material wealth, which is
transitory – temporal. Matt 6:19 – 20)
11) Acknowledge God as the source of ones riches
12) Use wealth to help the needy
13) Wealth is an instrument to enable us live decently.
14) Obsession with money and wealth leads to sin
15) Church leaders should avoid greed for wealth (1 Timothy
3:3)
16) God will judge rich exploiters.
Christian teaching on poverty
1) Christian teachings discourage irresponsible behaviour
and habits e.g. laziness, idleness and
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negligence. Some people became poor because of such.
2) Some people become poor because of misfortunes
3) Others are poor because of judgment due to disobedience
to God
4) God cares for the poor
5) Those with more should share with the poor
6) People should work to alleviate poverty in the society
7) Jesus helped the poor so should we
The poor in spirit will be blessed
LESSON FIVE: CHRISTIAN APPROACHES / RESPONSE TO
ISSUES RELATED TO WEALTH AND MONEY.
Learning outcomes. By the end of the lesson you should be
able to: -
1. Describe the Christian’s response towards wealth and
poverty
2. State the factors causing poverty
3. Describe how wealth/ resources can be distributed fairly
Christian can respond by
A. Insistence on fair distribution of wealth
B. Fighting against bribery and corruption
C. Using life skills
D. Practicing Christian values
Introduction
- Affluence – having a lot of material possessions and a
luxurious standard of living. Poverty is a state of
lack of the basic necessities.
- Illegal means of acquiring wealth include fraud, grabbing
public land, selling narcotic drugs etc
Factors that have contributed to poverty
1. Political instability
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2. Lack of formal education
3. Laziness
4. Negative attitude towards work – choosing jobs
5. Historical factors – colonization lack of land
6. Exporting unprocessed agricultural products cheaply
then sold back expensively.
A. Fair distribution of wealth / resources
a) Christians to promote the value of justice, fairness, social
responsibility. How? By having anti –
corruption crusades, be role models, teach or import skills,
advocate for cancellation of foreign debts,
taxation to all etc.
b) Fair salaries
c) Promotion of affordable and decent housing
d) Favourable terms of loans
e) Encourage Jua Kali artisans
f) Christians to demand transformation of society through
implementation of just economic policies that
can ensure fair distribution of wealth.
g) Encourage foreign investors through good infrastructure,
incentives e.g. shorter process to register
business, security.
h) Christian to encourage investments by churches and
inculcate in people the values of hard work,
proper time management free education free health care for
the poor or needy.
Fair distribution of wealth / resources refers to jobs,
infrastructure, hospitals, water, agricultural
products etc.
LESSON SIX: BRIBERY AND CORRUPTION
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Learning outcomes. By the end of the lesson you should be
able to: -
1. Define the following terms bribery and corruption
2. Explain the factors that contribute to bribery and
corruption
3. Explain the consequences of bribery and corruption
Fighting against bribery and corruption
Bribery and corruption are related terms.
Corruption: – practice of giving a bribe in the form of money,
goods or privileges in return for a service.
Bribery: – act of giving money, material goods or services to
someone to influence the recipient to give
underserved favour.
It is aimed at influencing a decision to favour.
Bribery is a form of corruption.
- Corruption is some kind of moral degeneration. A practice
whereby someone uses
his/her influence in an activity that is not morally
acceptable.
- Example of corruption include promotion by a senior for a
favour, colluding to miss work, use of
government vehicles to attend to personal matters.
In Kenya, Kenya Anticorruption commission KACC is a
national body formed to fight corruption.
Factors leading to bribery and corruption
1. Un-employment – one will bribe to secure employment
2. Greed for money – caused by peer pressure, poor moral
values, wrong ethical foundation about
money etc.
3. Fear – fear of being imprisoned
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4. Ignorance – giving bribes in form of gifts
5. Disintegration of traditional African values
6. Lack of moral integrity – no Christian values, one having
no spiritual basis
7. Frustration in the place of work
8. A perverted conscience
Consequences of corruption and bribery
1. Leads to injustice
2. Leads to incompetent supplies of goods or services being
awarded hefty contracts – leads to poor
services e.g. road construction
3. Poor infrastructure, poor public service delivery
4. Leads to undermining moral fabric of society – leading to
social hopelessness and despair
5. Has led to lack of trust in public servants, and the
government
6. Discontentment among people.
7. Degrades the personality of an individual
8. Can lead to imprisonment and lose of job
LESSON SEVEN: CHRISTIAN ATTITUDE TOWARDS
BRIBERY AND CORRUPTION
Learning outcomes. By the end of the lesson you should be
able to: -
1. Describe the Christian attitude towards bribery and
corruption
2. Define the following terms life skills, decision making,
critical thinking, creative thinking, self esteem
and assertiveness
3. List the steps involved in decision making
1. It is condemned as an evil practice (a social evil) Ex. 23:8
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2. Bribes cause injustice proverbs 17:23
3. Seen as morally wrong as they negatively affect one’s
family
4. Jesus drove out merchants from the temple. They had
started exploitation of the poor.
5. Condemned because it degrades the personality of an
individual
6. Amos condemned taking and giving of bribes
7. Bribes blinds the eyes
In the parable of John the Baptist condemned soldiers from
taking bribes
Corrupt judge and the widow, corruption is condemned
8. Christians are to live righteously and not give bribes or
receive. They are the light of the world.
9. Money gained from corruption is not acceptable before
God.
C Using life skills
Life skills are abilities, which enable a person to face the
challenges of life in an effective way they are

a. Decision making
Process of identifying the best alternative to overcome a
challenge encountered. Often decisions we
make do not only affect us but those around us.
Steps to decision – making
1. Identify the challenge (problem)
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what’s the problem? What is bothering you?
2. Understand the challenge / problem: – What is really
bothering you?
3. Find out possible solutions
4. Find out the possible options and alternatives
5. Consider the possible consequences for each option
6. Select the best option
7. Implement
8. Evaluate the outcome of the action
b. Critical thinking
g. Ability to examine and assess a given situation impartially
or objectively. It involves reasoning
carefully. Getting detailed information, consider the option
before making a decision. Critical thinking
makes a person responsible for their actions.
c. Creative thinking
This is the act or practice of using ideas imaginatively to
solve a problem
d. Self-esteem
- This is the regard one has about himself or herself. Self-
esteem can be low or high, positive or negative.
A positive or high self-esteem person has confidence, is
outgoing, social, appreciates self, realistic and
independent.
- A person with low, negative self-esteem is naïve,
withdrawn, shy, feels inadequate, and no selfconfidence.
e. Assertiveness
Ability to express ones feelings and wishes without hurting
others. Assertive people are confident; direct

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in dealing with others assertive people have a high self-
esteem.
LESSON EIGHT: CHRISTIAN VALUES RELATED TO
WEALTH, MONEY, AND POVERTY.
Learning outcomes. By the end of the lesson you should be
able to: -
1. Define the terms, values, love. Honesty, reliability,
fairness, justice, respect, humility, faithfulness,
persistence and chastity
2. State the values related to work
Values – Beliefs, which guide people on what is right and
wrong. There are
- Social values
- Cultural values
- Moral values
Values related to wealth are: -
- Love
- Honesty
- Reliability
- Fairness
- Justice
- Respect
- Faithfulness
- Humility
- Persistence
- Chastity
Love – intense emotion of attachment, affection, warmth,
fondness, regard for a person or something
How should love guide a Christian in relation to wealth
creation?
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Honesty – quality of being truthful, fair trustworthy, sincere,
genuine. The opposite of honesty is
dishonesty.
Reliability – being dependable, faithful, predictable,
unfailing. The ability of being relied upon and
keeping promises.
Fairness – condition of being unbiased, free from
discrimination.
Justice – fair dealings with the people, as they deserve
according to the law. Being fair, giving people
what’s due to them. Opposite of justice is injustice.
Respect
Quality of having high regard for somebody or something.
Politeness. It’s important to respect other
people’s property.
Humility – quality of not thinking that you are better than
others. Being humble. Opposite of humility is
pride, being proud. Those who humble themselves shall be
exalted.
Faithfulness – quality of remaining loyal or true to someone.
Christians should be faithful at their places
of work and in allocating their wealth to God’s work.
Those who are entrusted with public resources to manage
on behalf of the people should show a high
degree of faithfulness.
Persistence – quality to persevere. Quality to continue
steadfastly, unrelentingly despite opposition e.g.
the unjust judge and widow, job =, Jeremiah are people who
persisted.

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Chastity – a state of being pure, holy, innocent modest. It is
abstinence from actions that may make one
impure before God.
-Christians should strive hard not to defile their bodies in
search of wealth
-Christians should strive to live holy lives, avoid
prostitution, drug abuse; corruption
-people use sexual favour to get jobs or promotion.
Christians should thus avoid such.
Revision questions
1. Explain the biblical teaching on wealth
2. Discuss the biblical teaching on acquisition and use of
wealth
3. Explain ways in which people misuse wealth in Kenya
today
4. Show how misuse of wealth leads to family instability
5. Give ways in which the Kenyan government is alleviating
the high levels of poverty
6. State the factors that have contributed to high levels of
poverty in Kenya today
TOPIC SIX: APPROACHES TO LAW, ORDER AND JUSTICE
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the topic you should be able to:
a Define the terms ‘law’ ‘order’ and ‘justice’
b Describe the traditional African practices that promote
law, order and justice.
c Explain the Biblical teaching on law, order and justice.
d Identify and evaluate the need for law, order and justice in
the society.
e Explain the rights and duties of citizens
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f Explain the causes and remedies of social disorder.
g Evaluate the role of Christians in the transformation of the
society
h Discuss church-state relationship
LESSON ONE: DEFINITION OF TERMS
Learning outcomes. By the end of the lesson you should be
able to: -
1. Define the following terms law, order and justice
2. State the types of law
3. State the types of statutory laws
Introduction
- Law, order, justice are essential for the survival of any
society
- Following laws leads to order and justice lack of following
leads to disorder and injustice laws of Kenya
are laid down in the constitution.
A. Law
Established rules by an authority to regulate human
behaviour in the community Schools laws, religious
laws, factory laws, hospital laws etc. laws differ from society
to society. Laws are dynamic. Laws cover all
aspects of life.
B. Order
Condition brought about by obedience to set rules or laws.
Order leads to peaceful co – existence in the
society. Where there is order, things are done systematically.
The opposite of order is disorder.
Types of laws
1. Non – legal laws – no court action e.g. school rules

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2. Customary traditional laws – based on culture, social
traditions. They have to agree with state laws.
They are respected by state.
3. Statutory laws / legal laws – laws made by local council
or national government and citizens are
expected to obey them.
Types of statutory laws
a) Civil laws – made by parliament on issues such as taxes,
labour, divorce etc
b) Criminal law – on crime / punishment
c) Constitutional law – matters of state and governance
d) Company law
e) Religious laws e.g. Islamic law ‘sharia’
C. Justice – treating others the way they deserve in relation
to the law. Its administration of rightful
dealings in a fair manner according to their actions. A just
society follows rules and administers legal
action to those who offend others or disobey rules. Justice
means treating people the same way without
discrimination.
LESSON TWO: IMPORTANCE OF LAW, ORDER AND
JUSTICE
Learning outcomes. By the end of the lesson you should be
able to: -
1. State the importance of law, order and justice
a) They are essential to preserve harmony and protect people
b) Laws guide people and ensure people’s rights are
protected.
c) They protect people’s property and enable people to live in
harmony
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d) They protect the consumer from exploitation
e) They safeguard religious freedom
f) Laws control power of those in authority and promote
political stability
g) Provides stability, encouraging economic growth
h) Helps to control discontentment among people
i) Helps implementation of taxes effectively
j) Provides / help in maintenance of security
k) Ensures human rights are upheld
l) Enables the government to protect its citizens from
internal or external threats.
m) International law regulates relations between countries.
LESSON THREE: RIGHTS AND DUTIES OF CITIZENS
Learning outcomes. By the end of the lesson you should be
able: -
1. Define the terms citizen, rights and duty
2. List the rights of citizens
3. State te duties/ responsibilities of citizens
Citizen – person who is a member of a state, kingdom,
empire. A person who has full rights as a member
of a country by birth, decent, registration, naturalization.
Rights – legal claims that one is entitled to from the
government
Duty – ones responsibility to the government.
Rights
1) Right to life – to live securely
2) Right to education
3) Right to liberty / freedom e.g. one should not be
imprisoned, detained, without trial. One is innocent
until proven guilty
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4) Right to protection of property
5) Right to own a family – right to marry and raise a family
6) Right to health
7) Freedom of movement
Right to freedom of association
9) Right to freedom of assembly
10) Freedom of religion
11) Right to own property
12) Right to equality – non discrimination
13) Protection of freedom of expression and speech (own
opinions, ideas)
Children have rights e.g.
Right to life, education, parental care, health, protection
from exploitation, right to identity etc.
Duties of citizens (responsibilities)
1) Pay taxes to the government
2) Respect the flag and national anthem
3) Respect those in authority
4) Respect the laws of the land
5) Register as a voter and voter in national elections
6) Be responsible at work
7) Participate in national development
Promote peace and harmony in the society
9) Report errant members of the society to law enforcement
agents
10) Protect the environmental – clean, plant trees, avoid
poaching etc
LESSON FOUR: TRADITIONAL AFRICAN PRACTICES THAT
PROMOTE LAW, ORDER, JUSTICE

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Learning outcomes. By the end of the lesson you should be
able to: -
1. State and explain the traditional African practices that
promoted law, order and justice
Some of the practices that promote law, order and justice
are
a) Punishment of offenders
People who committed offences such as stealing, murder,
witchcraft were punished through death,
curses, paying heavy fines etc. this promoted law, order,
justice
b) Installation of rules, kings, chiefs, elders
They were installed to maintain law, order and to execute
justice in their areas of jurisdiction
c) Administration of oaths
- Administered by specialists and are used as a method of
establishing and maintaining law and order
d) Making of covenants
- Covenants were made if there was a conflict between two
communities. They would promise to live in
peace and harmony.
e) Observing of taboos and customary law
Taboos were prohibitions. Those who went against taboos
were severely punished
f) The kinship system – defined how people related one to
another
g) Rites of passage – ensured customs, laws were adhered to
h) Religious practices- such as praying, singing, sacrificing
and giving of offerings had the effect of
maintaining order.
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LESSON FIVE: BIBLICAL TEACHING ON LAW, ORDER AND
JUSTICE
Learning outcomes. By the end of the lesson you should be
able to: -
1. Describe the biblical teachings on law, order and justice
God initiated Law, order, and justice.
1. God’s creation is orderly. God desires order
2. Man was created with a conscience to know right from
wrong sin has consequences or punishment.
God does punish disobedience i.e. justice
3. God instituted the laws as part of his plan for salvation
e.g. law of circumcision, Torah (10
commandments), circumcision of the heart, laws on what to
eat etc.
4. God’s law governed kingship in Israel. National prosperity
depended on a king’s ruler ship. Kings were
to ensure law and order
5. In the New Testament John the Baptist urged people to
observe the law (social justice).
6. Jesus taught that the kingdom of God is based on law,
order and justice. There should be fair
treatment for all people
7. Jesus said that the law of Moses was given to guide
people
8. Christians should obey the law of the land and respect
those in authority
9. The apostolic teachings stress the need for law, order,
justice (1 Cro.14: 33)
10. Christians should be orderly.

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11. The birth of Jesus was orderly. His ministry was also
orderly hence should Christians.
LESSON SIX: CAUSES OF SOCIAL DISORDER AND THEIR
REMEDIES
Learning outcomes. By the end of the lesson you should be
able to: -
1. State and explain the causes of social disorders
2. State the causes of discrimination
3. Explain the causes of crime
4. List the forms of punishment
Social disorder is a state of confusion or lack of order in the
society
Causes
1) Discrimination
2) Inequitable distribution of wealth, resources
3) Crime
4) Racism
5) Tribalism
6) Sexism
Discrimination
Discrimination is unfair treatment. Discrimination is on
basis of
- Race
- Tribe
- Sex / gender
People or a particular person is singled out and treated with
disfavor or distaste. It is showing bias or
prejudice.
Causes of discrimination
a. Culture
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b. Prejudice – bias original from opinions that have no
known basis or supporting facts – stereotypes
c. Ignorance e.g. on HIV /AIDS
d. Social status – ones position in a society
Inequitable distribution of wealth and resources
- This is when riches of family, community, and nation are
not fairly shared out due to
Selfishness or poor planning. Some areas are marginalized.
Racism – unfair treatment of people because of their race
Tribalism – discrimination on basis of ethnic group
Crime – an offence against state, normally settled in court.
Its antisocial behaviour causing disorder.
Causes of crime (Why people commit crime)
1. Poverty
2. Public mistrust for law enforces
3. Lack of parental guidance
4. Wide gap between the rich and the poor
5. Greed for power, money
6. Materialism
7. Drug and substance abuse
Sexism
- Discrimination against people because of gender
- Women are discriminated in areas such as jobs, no
promotion for women, oppression of women at
home, cultural values demeaning the status of women, wife
beating / men beating, female genital
mutilation (FGM) early children marriages etc.
Remedies to social disorder
1) Rehabilitation for drugs users / abusers
2) Punishment for offenders of crime
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Forms of punishment
- Imprisonment
- Payment of fines
- Corporal punishment
- Probation
- Being assigned community work
- Being placed under house arrest
- Learning in approved schools, Juvenile homes
3) Equitable distribution of national resources
- Develop marginalized areas
- Create jobs
4) Campaign against drug abuse
5) The public to use hot lines to report crime to police
6) Preach against racism, tribalism, and preach equality,
freedom and interaction with all people
7) People to be sensitized to appreciate and respect different
ethnics groups
Promote national unity through education /cultural
programmes
9) Creation of more national schools so as to have students
from all backgrounds
10) Encourage domestic tourism
11) Enlighten women on their rights
12) Employment on merit
13) Rich countries to share wealth with the poor
LESSON SEVEN: ROLE OF CHRISTIANS IN
TRANSFORMING THE SOCIAL, ECONOMIC, POLITICAL
LIFE OF
THE SOCIETY

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Learning outcomes. By the end of the lesson you should be
able to: -
1. Define the term transformation
2. Describe Christian’s participation in social life
3. Describe Christian’s participation in political life
4. Describe Christian’s participation in economic life
Transformation is to completely change the attitude,
character, and well being of the society
a) Christian participation in the social life
- Christians are involved in the preaching of the gospel in
many places in the country. They use print and
electronic media to spread the gospel.
- Christians have shown concern for the destitute and
victims of violence in the society by building
homes for them and providing them with food and clothing.
- Christians run schools, vocational institutions, universities
providing educational services
- Christians offer medical services to the society
- They speak openly against sexual immorality, murder,
bribery, corruption, abortion etc.
- They show compassion to those in need the poor, HIV /
AIDS orphans, widows, widowers, aged etc.
- They offer guidance and counselling to dysfunctional
families (the pastors, those trained to do
counselling – almost all pastors get a training in guidance
and counselling)
b) Christians participation in the political life
- Christians participate in the political life by advocating for
fair distribution of wealth
- They offer prayers for government, political leaders
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- They exercise their right by voting
- They also participating in the political life by standing up
for elections (Vying for elections)
c) Christian participation in economic life
- Christians participate in economic life by paying taxes to
the government
- By contributing in collection of funds for construction of
churches, schools, hospitals
- They invest in business that promotes their own
development as well as the development of the
country.
- They provide financial resources in order to assist others to
start economic activities or self
employment
- They discourage business practices such as using faulty
scales, hiking of prices cheating in business etc
and encourage proper acquisition of wealth
d) THE CHURCH – STATE RELATIONSHIP
The government and the church interact at various levels
and in different areas
a) Religious leaders give advice to the state
b) The church speaks against corruption, robbery, rape,
abortion, vices which the government is fighting
c) The church is the conscience of the state
d) Both educate the citizens on the constitution and their
rights
e) The church preaches peace, love, unity, order
f) The state needs support of the church in mobilizing
citizens to adopt government policies
g) Both are involved in rehabilitation of prisoners
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h) The church builds schools and other institutions that
supplement government institutions.
i) The church is involved in formulation of educational
curriculum.
However the church differs with government on various
issues such as
a) Use of condoms (Some churches opposed to this)
b) Use of live bullets by the law enforces when curbing riots
c) Fight on corruption a thorn to the church since state
leaders are involved
d) Issue of death penalty – church been fighting against
death penalty to convicts
NB. The government lifted the death penalty as a form of
punishment in the year 2009.
Revision questions
1.state ways in which Christians can promote peace/unity
in the society
2. Why should Christians take part in voting?
TOPIC SEVEN: CHRISTIAN APPROACHES TO SELECTED
ISSUES RELATED TO MODERN SCIENCE,
TECHNOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the topic, you should b able to:
1. Explain the Christian view on some issues related to
modern science and technology
2. Explain the Christian view on the effects of modern
science and technology on the environment
LESSON ONE: DEFINITIONS
Science – subject field that deals with a systematic study of
our surroundings and behaviour of materials
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in the universe
It is based on observation, experimentation and
measurement.
Technology – application of science to achieve desired
objectives.
Environment – our surroundings – both natural and human
made i.e. mountains, lakes, land, forests,
animals, buildings, flowers etc
LESSON TWO: POSITIVE AND NEGATIVE EFFECTS OF
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Learning outcomes. By the end of the lesson you should be
able to: -
1. State the various ways that science and technology has
improved our lives
2. State the negative effects of science and technology
Ways science and technology has improved human lives
1) Improvement of crop production – a quality seeds,
fertilizers leading to improved yields
2) Better nutrition, health care, medical services
3) Improvement of livestock production through artificial
insemination, quality medicine leading to more
milk production.
4) It has led to development of efficient means of transport –
land, air, seas
5) Work has been made easier and enjoyable. There is use of
machines, automation, use of computers.
6) People’s lives have been spared, saved e.g. through life
saving machines (ICU), incubators
7) Business transactions are being done through the
internet
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Communication has been made easy – fax, email, short text
messages on mobile phones etc
9) Research is ongoing for incurable diseases i.e. HIV /
AIDS, cancer
10) There is better management of environment
11) Technology has made the world a global village
12) Through family planning methods, its easier to control
population growth
13) There’s a better security system through use of
scanners, alarms, electrified fences etc.
14) Improvement of learning through e–learning
15) There’s easier movement from one country to another
Negative effects of science and technology
1. People use medicine to commit suicide
2. Increase of crime, fraud and death through modern
means of communication
3. Destruction of family relationships
4. Breakdown of community names, values morals,
breakdown of families
5. Terrorism
6. Greed for money / materialism
7. Unemployment – replacement of personnel by machines
8. Health hazards such as accidents in factories
9. Pollution, air poisoning
LESSON THREE: CHRISTIAN VIEW ON ISSUES RELATED
TO SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY.
Learning outcomes. By the end of the lesson you should be
able to: -
1. Define the following terms euthanasia, blood transfusion,
organ transplant, genetic engineering and
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plastic surgery
2. Describe Christians’ view on euthanasia, blood
transfusion, organ transplant, human cloning, genetic
engineering and plastic surgery
3. State the reasons for and against euthanasia, blood
transfusion, organ transplant, human cloning,
genetic engineering and plastic surgery
a. Euthanasia
b. Blood transfusion
c. Organ transplant
d. Genetic engineering
e. Plastic surgery
Euthanasia
It’s a Greek word, which means an easy and painless death.
It is ‘mercy killing’ ending a person’s life so
as to alleviate them from experiencing pain.

en its practiced against or without the

sick person’s consent

a) Injecting an overdose of sleeping pills to the sick person

b) Switching off life support machine
c) Exposing the person with chronic pneumonia to very cold
air.
Christians view on Euthanasia
Christians are opposed to euthanasia for several reasons
such as
a) Life is sacred, a gift from God and only God can take away
human life
b) Suffering is part of human life
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c) Euthanasia is against medical ethos, which demands that
doctors and nurses work for the sustenance
of human life and alleviation of suffering but not to
terminate it.
d) Jesus has power over sickness and through his name all
sickness are healed
e) Accepting euthanasia discourages medical research on
vaccines that may cure various diseases.
f) Euthanasia discourages patients and makes them to lose
hope in life. They may feel unwanted and
rejected.
Blood transfusion
- It’s the process of injecting a person’s blood into another
person through his/her veins. The giver is a
donor the receiver is a recipient.
Reasons for blood transfusion
1. When a person is suffering from acute anemia (little blood
in the body) low blood
level.
2. To restore blood lost during fatal accidents, wars, or
childbirth
3. To maintain blood levels for patients undergoing major
operations
4. To correct the low haemoglobin level of some patients
5 Blood has to be screened for any diseases, and then kept
in blood bank after determining
the blood group. The transfusion should be in a hygienic
way. The equipment used
should be sterilized
6. Donors should not be below 16 years or above 65 years
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Alternatives to blood transfusion
a) Volume expanders – increase fluid levels in the body
b) Growth factors – intra operative / post operative
c) Blood salvage – same blood when on surgery is saved then
transfused back to the patient
Christian view on blood transfusion
a) Some Christian’s believe it is wrong to take blood from a
healthy person and transfuse it to another
person.
b) Blood is life and life cannot be taken from one person to
another
c) Blood transfusion is essential as it saves life
d) Blood transfusion can transmit dangerous diseases like
HIV / AIDS and Hepatitis B
e) God has given Christians the intelligence and capability to
make the right decision and choice
Organ transplant
- This is the removal of a defective organ and replacing it
with a healthy one. Body organs transplanted
are kidneys, heart and eyes small intestines, pan crease.
- The purpose is to replace the damaged organ of a recipient
- Common transplants are the heart, kidney, eyes from
living and the dead (heart) within a span of
hours. Eyes can be transplanted from animals.
Christian view on organ transplant
a) It saves life hence acceptable to some
b) Its transferring human life from one person to another
c) Its wrong to transplant from animals – view by some
Christians

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d) Some support organ transplant by referring to the story of
creation of Eve from parts of Adam
e) It is part of human beings continuing with the creation
work of God.
f) It is an expression of love and concern for those suffering
as taught by Jesus Christ.
Genetic engineering
- It’s a scientific technique used by scientists to change the
biological characteristics of living organisms
by deliberately altering the structure of individual genes.
- There are genetically modified foods, genetically engineered
seeds, test tube babies, human clones,
and genes of human insulin.
Human cloning
This is a form of genetic engineering. It’s a creation of
genetically identical copy of a human being,
human cell.

(human cloning)
n cells from an adult are used
in creating medicine or for research

cancer

tube babies are where the egg and sperm is

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fused together outside the body.
the cells
from an embryo, then preserved using
chemicals, then put in a womb/uterus to grow. Some do not
need a sperm cell, they use other body cells
for fertilization.
Reasons for advocating human cloning

people with special abilities or talents

characteristics.

Reasons against human cloning

1. God is the sole creator. Cloning takes the place of God.
2. It de –humanizes human beings purpose of human
reproduction
3. It destroys uniqueness of each individual (Cloning is an
exact copy)
4. It can be abused and used to create antisocial people
(rapists, thieves)
5. May create deformed people
6. It’s un-ethical, immoral experiment. Its destruction of the
embryo hence abortion
7. 95% of clones have failed (animal) most animals died
8. Its illegal
9. Closed animals died of cancer, had arthritis, deformities
and an early death
10. Cloning may bring a destructive copy of humans
Advantages of genetic engineering

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1. Implanting genes that are diseases free in people, plant
and animals could prevent diseases.
2. Genetic crops yield more
3. Helps to determine the biological parent in case of dispute
on babies (DNA)
4. Helps to increase disease resistance in crops and altering
animal traits in plants and animals
5. Assists in classifying blood during screening before it’s
transfused to another person.
Christian view of genetic engineering
1. Christians support genetic engineering that is beneficial
to human beings e.g. Cure of genetic
diseases, production of drugs, plant and animals
2. Human beings are made in God’s image and are loved by
God with or without defects.
3. The dignity of the human being is eroded or disregarded
and should be upheld.
4. Christians oppose cloning and test tube babies
5. Its against God’s will or teaching
Plastic surgery
- It’s to change or mould the shape of something, to enhance
or restore an area of the body
- It’s repairing or improving of damaged, diseased or
unsatisfactory shaped parts of the body with pieces
of skin or bone taken from other parts of the body.
- Skin grafting is the most common type of plastic surgery
- Plastic surgery is done on cleft lips i.e. cosmetic surgery,
breast surgery – reduction or enlargement,
surgery done to look younger.
Reasons for plastic surgery
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- It can help restore ones confidence or self – esteem
- It enhances beauty, attractiveness or youthfulness
- It enhances a person’s life and can be a life changing
procedure
- It may help a person to get a new job
Disadvantages
- Its expensive
- Can lead to transmission of diseases
Christian views on plastic surgery
- Some support it, as it has some benefits
- Some Christian oppose plastic surgery in order to look
younger
- Some argue that some people do it because of a lack of self
– acceptance, low self esteem hence
should work on such issues first.
LESSON FOUR: THE CHRISTIAN VIEW ON THE EFFECTS
OF MODERN SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY ON THE
ENVIRONMENT (POLLUTION, DESERTIFICATION)
Learning outcomes. By the end of the lesson you should be
able to: -
1. State the various ways of caring for the environment
In Genesis 1, man was given the responsibility of taking care
of the environment
Ways of taking care of the environment
1. Cleaning up the environment, clean up rivers
2. Educating people on the importance of conservation
3. Dispose industrial wastes properly
4. Enforce use of environment – friendly fuel (unleaded fuel)
5. Factory owners to supply protective wear to factory
workers
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6. Planting of trees and flowers
7. Establishing airports, industries, and disco clubs away
from residential areas.
8. Advocate for laws to be passed to minimize noise from
vehicles, aircrafts, entertainment centres.
9. Waste to be managed through

– plastic bottles to be recycled to plastic bins, old

newspapers to be recycled to tissue papers.
– burning waste products to produce electricity
Waste can be managed to reduce use of ‘Throw away’ goods
e.g. batteries to use of electricity.
LESSON FIVE: POLLUTION AND ITS EFFECTS.
Learning outcomes. By the end of the lesson you should be
able to: -
1. Define the terms pollutant and pollution
2. Give examples of pollutants
3. State and explain the types of pollution
4. State the effects of the various types of pollution.
It’s introduction into the environment of substances or
energy that is liable to cause hazards to human
health, harm to living resources and ecological systems
In simple terms pollution is the contamination of the
environment.
Substances that cause pollution are called pollutants. Some
of the pollutants include;

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 – violent rays from nuclear plants

Types of pollution
a) Water pollution
p) Air pollution
q) Land pollution
r) Radiation pollution
s) Sound pollution (noise)
Water pollution
This is the increase of substances in water in excess of its
rightful chemical components thus making it
unsuitable for human, animal or plant use.
- Disposing domestic and industrial waste into rivers, lakes,
seas etc pollutes water.
- Disposing agricultural chemicals pesticides into water
bodies.
- Oil spilling into waters
- Poor sanitation bathing or washing clothes in rivers or
dams
Effects of water pollution
a. Causes diseases, which are communicable such as
cholera, typhoid, and dysentery.
b. Leads to death of marine life – birds (Flamingo) fish by oil
spills
c. Mercury (metal) leads, silver is poisonous. They kill
organisms.
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d. Water becomes unfit for human consumption
Air pollution
- Presence of contaminants in the atmosphere caused by
a. Smoke
b. Fumes
c. Dust – from mines, quarries
- When there is an increased level of carbon dioxide in the
atmosphere that’s pollution
- Other major atmospheric pollutants include gases such as
chlorofluorocarbons (CFC), and sulphur
dioxide (SO2)
- Nitrogen Oxide (NO) i.e. fumes from vehicles, aircrafts,
industries
Effects
(i) Leads to diseases such as bronchitis, asthma
(ii) Leads to depletion of the Ozone layer leading to ultra –
violent rays of the sun penetrating to the
earth causing skin cancer, cataracts (eye problems), low
plant yields.
(iii) Causes rusting of roofs
(iv) Causes acid rains
(v) Carbon dioxide (02) in the atmosphere has led to global
warming.
(vi) Formation of smog (thick fog), which can lead to
accidents.
(vii) Colored rain due to large amounts of dust in the
atmosphere
(viii) Eyesight loss due to gas leakages from industrial
plants.
Land pollution
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Land pollution is any physical or chemical alteration to land,
which causes change in its use and renders
it incapable of beneficial use without treatment.
- Improper or excessive use of insecticides, pesticides makes
land acidic
- Land is also polluted by improper disposal of waste /
garbage, broken glasses.
Effects
(i) Waste is an eye sore spoiling the beauty of the
environment
(ii) Broken glass can lead to injuries
(iii) Open mining leaves pits, which are a danger to people
and animals.
Noise pollution
- Experienced especially in urban centres, near roads,
running water, mining areas, airports, music from
bars, nightclubs etc.
- An instrument called sound meter measures noise. The
lowest unit is O Decitel, which is okay. More
than 80 decibels is harmful to the ear.
Noise over 80 decibels can cause (effects)
- Deafness, hearing problems
- Psychological disorders – frustrations, irritation
- Insomnia
- Shock due to sudden noise
- Cracking of walls
Noise can be minimized by

airports, bars, main roads

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public vehicles

e effects of noise pollution

Pollution caused by radiation

Atomic explosions e.g. Hiroshima / Nagasaki in Japan in

1945. The side effects of mutations of born
children. Some children born with deformities. The radiation
caused chromosome mutations. Some
mutations on the cells of the parent / grandparents.

exposed to these radiations (x – rays) it can

lead to development of cancer.
LESSON SIX: DESERTIFICATION
Learning outcomes. By the end of the lesson you should be
able to: -
1. Define the term desertification
2. Describe the causes of desertification
This is slow encroachment of desert – like a condition to
land that was previously productive making it
desolate, uncultivatable and uninhabitable. Human activity
accelerates creation of deserts.
Causes of deserts
1. Natural
a) Persistent rains in a semi – arid area
b) Exposure of an area to very high, very cold temperatures
c) Inadequate rainfall for a long period of time
2. Human
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Human activities that lead to desertification are
(i) Cutting down of trees (deforestation) for land use such as
building, industries, and not replacing
them.
(ii) Use of water from wells to irrigate land. Its harmful
especially salty water – salt on soil salination is
toxic to soils.
(iii) Incorrect use of pesticides and fertilizers destroy soil
nutrients.
(iv) Industrialization – industries emit carbon dioxide (CO2)
leading to formation of acid rain, which leads
to unproductive land hence desertification
(v) Overgrazing especially among the pastoralist
communities
(vi) Poor farming methods like cultivation on riverbanks and
slopes, which causes soil erosion, leading to
desertification.
LESSON SEVEN: SOLUTIONS TO DESERTIFICATION
Learning outcomes. By the end of the lesson you should be
able to: -
1.state the solutions to desertification
Land can be restored through the following ways;
(i) Removal of people, livestock from certain areas e.g. forests
(ii) Installation of good drainage systems
(iii) Reduction of water logging / salination
(iv) Use of alternative sources of fuel such as wind, solar,
biogas instead of cutting down trees to use as
fuel (charcoal)
(v) Advocate for penalties to those who pollute the
environment – factories
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(vi) Replace trees that are cut down
(vii) Build water storage facilities to store rain water then
use it for irrigation
(viii) Educate people on the importance of the environment
(ix) Use of manure instead of harmful fertilizers
Emulate Prof. Wangari Maathai implanting trees – 8th
October 2004 she was awarded the Nobel peace
prize, an international award, for her efforts in preserving
the environment.
Revision questions.
1. How can modern Christians evaluate scientific and
technological discoveries
2. Why is the church in Kenya opposed to plastic surgery?
3. How has science and technology improved human life?
4. What are the consequences of science and technology in
our society?
C.R.E. – QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
TOPIC ONE
CHRISTIAN ETHICS
Q1. What is the meaning of Christian Ethics?

guided by Christian principles and value.

Q2. What is the basis or sources or foundation of Christian
Ethics?

– preachers

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 ar/Civil Law
Q3. List the basic life skills that one needs to be able to lead
a better life
(a) Critical thinking
(b) Creative thinking
(c) Decision – making
(d) Self-esteem
(e) Assertiveness
TOPIC TWO
MALE/FEMALE RELATIONSHIPS
Q1. Explain seven Christian teachings on male/female
relationships

in the image and likeness of God.

compliment each other.

-creator with God – done through procreation.

rights.

people but with consent from each other.

stians appreciate different roles of men and women in
the church e.g. leadership in choir for
women and men.
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TOPIC THREE. HUMAN SEXUALITY
Q1. Explain the Traditional African understanding of human
sexuality
cret in many
African communities.

life – procreation.

presence of children.

education.

age group e.g. games of sexual nature take

place within an age group. The age group has control of each
other and there is no sex whatsoever.
ex education is
provided to the initiates.

manhood and womanhood.

of labour is on the basis of sex.

copying their parents.

Q2. Explain Christian attitude towards human sexuality

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 ms of irresponsible sexual behavior are condemned.
Q3. In what ways is sex abused in Kenya?

– sex outside marriage

nism/gayism

– using of technological devices in

sex
Q4. Why do you think minors are defiled or sexually abused
in Kenya daily?
-control among some men.
drug abuse.

– mad people.

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Responsible Sexual Behaviour
Q 5. What is the Christian teaching on responsible sexual
behavior?
female.

adultery.
-control.

has to shun forbidden sexual behavior e.g.

fornication.

uphold human dignity and respect for our

bodies.

should be for the glory of God (1 Cor. 7:19-20).

Q6. List the difference types of irresponsible sexual behavior
• Homosexuality (lesbianism, sodomy)
• Bestiality
• Masturbation
• Rape
• Incest
• Prostitution
• Fornication
• Abortion
Q7. Explain the Christian teaching on responsible sexual
behavior
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 nvolves coveting – a sin.

Q8. State the effects of irresponsible sexual behavior

e involved (adultery) divorce may occur.

result of adultery.

standing and
friction.

pregnancy/AIDS.

-pity and loneliness.

LESSON THREE: THE FAMILY

Q5. State the different types of families
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LESSON TWO: MARRIAGE
Q1. Explain the Traditional African understanding of
marriage

where the three members of the

community meet (i.e. living, departed and the unborn).
ust participate.

and the society rejects him in turn.

-human or
lawbreakers.

oys and girls are prepared for this sacred

institution during initiation.

Q2. What is the importance of children in Traditional African

Society
parents at old age.

incomplete.

community.

name.
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 g of children.

know each other. Young children are

introduced to their relatives e.g. during initiation, marriage
etc.

Q3. What is the Christian teaching about marriage?

– fornication.

– no divorce.

Q4. What is the importance of courtship period in

Traditional African Societies?

character.
ther the boy and girl
are related.

thus a firm relationship is established.

-wealth.

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responsibilities.
Q5. Why are many people opting for celibacy instead of
marriage today?

– to
serve God.
– cannot father children.
– one may want to pursue education
– too demanding to allow one get time for
a family.

– one may not have money for a big

house, wedding and bringing up a family.

– whereby young people feel

satisfied when they have enough money.
– or whom their son should marry.

CHAPTER SIX
CHRISTIAN APPROACHES TO WORK
Q1. What is work?
Answer

or both.
Q2. List any six reasons why people work
-satisfaction and fulfillment.

er to acquire basic needs of life.

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community.
and stop depending on others.

Q3. Explain the Traditional African attitude towards work

human existence here on earth.

able to change,
reorganize and restructure their society.

people built their houses, places of worship,

produced art like sculpture and carving.
was taught
early in life.

to hunt, herd etc accompanied with boys

while mother did house work with the help of daughters.

seated.
ed work was God’s will and so they invoked
God’s name through prayer, sacrifice to bless
their work.

decided when to work, when to rest but rest

came after work.

told stories as they worked.

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e.g. building houses, song etc.
– work was compulsory.
– solidarity. This is because
they shared work (communal work).
Q3. List some of the factors that have changed the attitude
towards work in the modern society
– determine the type of work.

tion

Communities where it was social.

manual work.

st bidder.
Q4. What are the rights of employers?

rk input as agreed upon

on the employment contract.

Q5. State the duties of employees

without
supervision e.g. be punctual, present etc.

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destructive ways e.g. strike.
– fulfillment and development.

Q6. Why has child labour become common in Kenya?

Definition: – This is the employment of children on a full
time basis.
Reasons:

proper terms and conditions of service.

negotiate for their terms.

come by their parents
or guardians.
Q7. What are the causes of unemployment in Kenya?
– There are too few job opportunities as
compared to the many young people.
– many youth are looking for
white-collar jobs despising the available “blue
jobs.”
– In the job market whereby the
rich are able to give while the poor though
with good qualifications cannot secure a job.
-employment.
nd poor economic policies from the
government.
– Structural Adjustment of Programmes i.e. Policy –
not giving funds has led to poverty.
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agric sector that has been the greatest
employer in Kenya.

Sectors.

country. This has discouraged local and

international investors.
Q8. What can the Government do to reduce unemployment
in Kenya?

-employment whereby loans and space are

given.
– starting that
gears students into blue-collar jobs.

–urban migration.
– sending away foreign workers.
CHAPTER SEVEN
CHRISTIAN APPROACHES TO LEISURE: AND THE USE
AND ABUSE OF DRUGS
Q1. Identify five (5) reasons why the taking of alcohol as a
way of spending leisure is condemned

to addiction.

adultery, and fornication.

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as motor accidents.
Q2. Write down 5 ways in which modern Christian use their
leisure time

Christians.
-help projects to assist the needy.

Q3. Give 5 ways in which drug abuse could affect a

Christian family

-ups/separation/divorce.

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Q4. Identify ways in which Christians can overcome
temptations to drug abuse
-control.

oper use of
drugs/healthy activities.
Q5. Why is leisure important in the life of Christians?

develop the different talents given by God.

be guided.

Q6. What factors have contributed to the misuse or leisure

in Kenya today?

drugs/contraceptives.

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 ons.

Q7. State the factors that have led to the misuse of drugs in
Kenya today

use of drugs.

CHAPTER EIGHT
CHRISTIAN RESPONSE TO ISSUES RELATED TO WEALTH,
MONEY AND POVERTY
Q1. Explain the biblical teaching on wealth

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more fulfilling.
on basis of material
possessions.

people should realize that

they are only stewards.
Q2. Discuss the biblical teaching on acquisition and use of
wealth

condemned.

not be idolized.

in the hands of a few.

infrastructure.
Q3. Explain ways in which people misuse wealth in Kenya
today

loss of wealth.

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racing, wrestling.

practices e.g. sex tourism.

Q4. Show how misuse of wealth leads to family instability

family needs.
-marital sexual
relations/prostitution.

children/encourages laziness.

family love – has no time for the family.

Q5. Give ways in which Kenyan Government is alleviating

levels of poverty

formal and informal sectors (easy access to

loans).

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Cereal Board.

Q6. State the factors that have contributed to high levels of

poverty in Kenya today

background.

CHAPTER NINE
CHRISTIAN APPROACHES TO LAW, ORDER AND JUSTICE
Q1. State ways in which Christians can promote
unity/peach in the society

minals.

Q2. Why should Christians take part in voting?

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 -given duty.
ous leaders who will encourage
values/virtues.

vices in the society.

CHAPTER 10
CHRISTIAN APPROACHES TO SELECTED ISSUES
RELATED TO MODERN SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND THE
ENVIRONMENT
Q1. How can modern Christians evaluate scientific and
technological discoveries?
-level
power of thinking.

problems.

all things e.g. in things like plastic surgery,

test tube babies etc.

problems.

increasing man’s trust in scientific and technological

production.

science.

effect of alcohol, smoking, etc.

coveries instead
he should control it.
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Q2. Why is the church in Kenya opposed to plastic surgery?

ils.

idolatry.

tissues may be detached from a donor with an

infectious disease.

different appearances.
God’s power of
creation/healing.

Q3. How have science and technology improved human life?

improved social interaction and faster

movements.
t work where machines are
used.

food production.

production.

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technology.

matters by use of radar, alarms and

electrical fencing.

industrial development.

beings with new skills for survival.

and the Internet.

Q4. What are the consequences of science and technology in
our society today?

computers have taken over.

they want maximum profits.

roads etc.

are separated due to employment whereby a

mother lives in the rural with children while
the father goes to town to work.

individualis

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