Understanding and accepting authority can be challenging, especially for young people. They often question rules and the reasons behind them. This lesson plan, “Taught By God – The Authority of Jesus,” helps youth explore the idea of authority from a Catholic perspective. It focuses on Jesus’ authority as taught in the Bible, particularly in the Gospel of John.
The lesson plan uses Jesus’ teachings to show how God guides us. It explains how, even though people questioned Jesus, His words and actions demonstrated His divine authority. This plan helps youth understand that following Jesus means trusting His teachings and commands. It emphasizes that Jesus’ authority is rooted in His love and truth.
A key aspect of the lesson is the Eucharist. The lesson explains that receiving the Eucharist is not just an act of faith but also an acceptance of Jesus’ authority. Jesus said, “This is My Body,” and we believe Him. This act of faith is a powerful way to connect with Jesus and acknowledge His role as our guide.
Overall, this lesson plan helps youth see the importance of authority in their faith. It encourages them to trust Jesus and His teachings, showing that His authority is meant to guide us towards a loving relationship with God. Through this lesson, young people can deepen their understanding of what it means to follow Jesus and live according to His teachings.
Opening Game for Taught By God – Lesson Plan on the Authority of Jesus
Begin with a game of Simon Says – The Balloon Edition. In this version, you’ll play Simon Says with a balloon on your back.
For complete instructions and tips, visit: Simon Says – The Balloon Edition.
After the game, ask a few questions:
- Did you find any of the instructions difficult to follow?
- How good are you at following instructions?
Scripture Reading for Taught By God – Lesson Plan on the Authority of Jesus
It can be hard to follow directions, even when we want to. Sometimes, we don’t want to follow instructions, especially if we don’t recognize the authority of the person giving them.
Let’s read the gospel of the day:
John 6:41-51 (The people question the authority of Jesus) – the Gospel Reading for the 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time – Year B
I am the bread of life. Your ancestors ate the manna in the desert, but they died; this is the bread that comes down from heaven so that one may eat it and not die. I am the living bread that came down from heaven; whoever eats this bread will live forever; and the bread that I will give is my flesh for the life of the world.”
The Jews murmured about Jesus because he said, “I am the bread that came down from heaven, ” and they said, “Is this not Jesus, the son of Joseph? Do we not know his father and mother? Then how can he say, ‘I have come down from heaven’?”
Jesus answered and said to them, “Stop murmuring among yourselves. No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draw him, and I will raise him on the last day.
It is written in the prophets: They shall all be taught by God. Everyone who listens to my Father and learns from him comes to me. Not that anyone has seen the Father except the one who is from God; he has seen the Father.
Amen, amen, I say to you, whoever believes has eternal life.
Discussion for Taught By God – Lesson Plan on the Authority of Jesus
All through the Old Testament, God gave the Israelites commandments to guide them. These rules were meant to bring them closer to God and establish Israel as His chosen people. The Israelites were familiar with the idea of being taught by God. When Jesus spoke, He often referred to this concept, like in the passage from Isaiah 54:13:
All your children shall be taught by the Lord; great shall be the peace of your children.
This was a reminder that God’s guidance brings peace and direction.
However, history shows that God’s people didn’t always listen. The Israelites often ignored God’s commandments, choosing their own way instead. When Jesus began His ministry, many questioned His authority. They were skeptical because they thought they knew Him—He was just the son of Joseph and Mary, after all.
So, when He claimed to be the Bread of Life and said that people needed to eat His flesh and drink His blood, many found it hard to accept. They couldn’t believe that this familiar figure was the Messiah.
Have you ever struggled to accept someone’s authority? Maybe it was a teacher, a parent, or even a friend. It can be tough, especially if you think you know better or if the person is asking something difficult. This was the case with the people who heard Jesus. They couldn’t accept His words and walked away.
Now, let’s think about the Eucharist. As Catholics, we believe that when Jesus said, “This is My Body,” He meant it.
St. Cyril of Jerusalem said it well:
Since Christ Himself has said, ‘This is My Body,’ who shall dare to doubt that It is His Body?
When we receive the Eucharist, we are accepting Jesus’ authority. We trust His words and believe that we are truly receiving His body and blood. This isn’t just a ritual; it’s an act of faith and trust in Jesus.
Receiving the Eucharist is not only an act of faith but also an act of submitting to the authority of Jesus. By coming to the altar, we acknowledge that we believe in His teachings and accept Him as our Lord. It’s a powerful moment of connection with God. Have you ever thought about how your belief in the authority of Jesus affects the way you receive the Eucharist?
When we truly believe in Jesus’ authority, it changes our approach to the Eucharist. We come with reverence and a deeper understanding of what we are receiving. It’s not just a symbol; it’s a real encounter with Jesus. This belief can deepen our faith and bring us closer to Him.
So, next time you participate in the Eucharist, think about what it means to trust in Jesus’ authority. Reflect on how this trust influences your life and your relationship with God. It’s a journey of faith, and every time you receive the Eucharist, you’re saying “yes” to following Jesus and believing in His words.
Small Group Reflection Questions for Taught By God – Lesson Plan on the Authority of Jesus
After the main discussion, break into small groups to dive deeper into the topics covered. This is a great opportunity for everyone to share their thoughts and learn from each other.
- Understanding Authority: Why do you think it’s important to recognize and trust the authority of Jesus? Have you ever struggled with understanding or accepting Jesus’ teachings? How did you handle it?
- The Role of the Eucharist: What does receiving the Eucharist mean to you personally? How does believing in the real presence of Jesus in the Eucharist influence your faith?
- Applying Jesus’ Teachings: Can you think of a time when following Jesus’ teachings helped you in a difficult situation? How can we better listen to and follow Jesus’ guidance in our daily lives?
Encourage everyone to share their experiences and thoughts. Remind the group that this is a safe space for open and honest discussion. Each person’s perspective is valuable and can help deepen the understanding of the topic.
Challenge for Taught By God – Lesson Plan on the Authority of Jesus
This week, when you receive the Eucharist, take some time to pray and reflect. Think about how you can better accept the authority of Jesus in your life. Ask God to reveal areas where you rely on your own understanding instead of His wisdom. It might be a decision you’re facing, a habit you want to change, or a relationship that needs healing. Be honest with yourself and with God.
After your reflection, choose one specific area to focus on. Make a commitment to trust in Jesus’ teachings and guidance more than your own judgment. Pray for the strength to follow through and, if appropriate, take concrete steps to act on that commitment. This could mean making a different choice, seeking forgiveness, or spending more time in prayer. Trust that God’s ways are always for your good and that His guidance will lead you in the right direction.
Prayer for Taught By God – Lesson Plan on the Authority of Jesus
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus, and for the guidance He offers us through His teachings. Help us to trust in His authority and follow His ways with open hearts. As we go forth from this lesson, fill us with the strength to live according to Your will and to trust in Your wisdom. May the Holy Spirit guide us in all we do, and may we always seek to grow closer to You. Amen.
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Themes for Taught By God – Lesson Plan on the Authority of Jesus
- Divine Authority of Jesus: Jesus teaches with authority given by God. This authority is evident in His teachings and miracles. Accepting His authority is key to following Him.
- Importance of Obedience: Jesus calls us to follow His teachings. Obedience to His commands is a sign of love and faith. It brings us closer to God.
- Faith in the Eucharist: The Eucharist is the real presence of Jesus. Believing in this mystery is essential. It is an act of faith and trust in Jesus’ words.
- God’s Guidance: God guides us through Jesus’ teachings. This guidance helps us make moral decisions. It leads us to a deeper relationship with God.
- Listening to Jesus: Listening to Jesus means paying attention to His words. It involves reading the Bible and prayer. It helps us understand God’s will for our lives.
- Role of the Church: The Church teaches with the authority of Jesus. It helps us understand and live out His teachings. The Church guides us in our faith journey.
- Jesus as the Bread of Life: Jesus offers Himself as spiritual nourishment. He is the source of eternal life. This theme emphasizes the significance of the Eucharist.
- Prophets and Fulfillment: Jesus fulfills the prophecies of the Old Testament. He is the promised Messiah. Understanding this helps us see the continuity in God’s plan.
- Trust in God’s Plan: Trusting Jesus means trusting God’s plan for us. Even when we don’t understand, we believe God knows what’s best. This trust is a core aspect of faith.
- Community and Faith: Faith is lived out in community. Sharing in the Eucharist unites us as the Body of Christ. Community support helps strengthen our faith.
- Spiritual Growth: Learning from Jesus helps us grow spiritually. His teachings challenge and inspire us. They guide us to become more like Him.
Background Material for Taught By God – Lesson Plan on the Authority of Jesus
Trusting in the authority of Jesus is a key part of Catholic teaching. In the Gospels, Jesus often spoke with authority, not like the scribes. This authority came from His identity as the Son of God. He taught with wisdom and performed miracles, showing He had power from God. The Church teaches that Jesus’ authority is a gift to guide us in truth and love.
One of the central beliefs in the Catholic faith is that Jesus is the Son of God. This belief is based on many Bible passages, like when Peter says, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God” (Matthew 16:16). Jesus responds by saying that this truth was revealed by God the Father, not by human means. This shows that recognizing Jesus’ authority is something that comes from God. Trusting in Jesus’ authority means believing in His teachings and following His commands.
In the Catechism of the Catholic Church, it is stated that “faith is first of all a personal adherence of man to God. At the same time, and inseparably, it is a free assent to the whole truth that God has revealed” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 150). This means that faith is not just about believing certain facts; it is about a relationship with God. Trusting in Jesus’ authority is part of this relationship because it means accepting what He teaches as the truth revealed by God.
One of the most important teachings of Jesus is about the Eucharist. In John 6:51, Jesus says, “I am the living bread that came down from heaven; whoever eats this bread will live forever; and the bread that I will give is my flesh for the life of the world.” This teaching is central to Catholic belief in the Eucharist as the real presence of Jesus. Catholics believe that during Mass, the bread and wine become the body and blood of Christ. This belief is based on Jesus’ own words and the teaching authority of the Church. Trusting in the authority of Jesus means believing in the truth of the Eucharist.
The Church also teaches that Jesus gave His authority to the apostles and their successors. In Matthew 16:18-19, Jesus says to Peter, “And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.” This passage shows that Jesus gave authority to Peter and, by extension, to the Church. Catholics believe that the Church, guided by the Holy Spirit, continues to teach and uphold the truth of Jesus’ teachings.
Trusting in the authority of Jesus means listening to the Church’s teachings. The Church helps us understand what Jesus taught and how to live it out in our lives. This includes following the commandments, receiving the sacraments, and living a life of prayer and service. Trusting in Jesus’ authority is not always easy, especially in a world with many different ideas and beliefs. But for Catholics, it is a source of strength and guidance.
In summary, trusting in the authority of Jesus is a central part of Catholic faith. It means believing in Jesus as the Son of God, accepting His teachings, especially about the Eucharist, and following the guidance of the Church. This trust leads to a deeper relationship with God and a more faithful Christian life.
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More Youth Ministry Lesson Plans and Reflections
Teachers, youth ministers, and catechists can find more free resources, including the “Taught By God – Lesson Plan on the Authority of Jesus,” on our website. These resources offer lesson plans and reflections to help young people grow in their faith. Visit our lesson plans page to explore more and support your teaching and ministry.
Questions and Answers for Taught By God – Lesson Plan on the Authority of Jesus
What is the main focus of the Taught By God – Lesson Plan on the Authority of Jesus?
The main focus is understanding and trusting the authority of Jesus. It explores how Jesus’ teachings guide us and how we can follow Him faithfully. The plan also explains the importance of the Eucharist and the role of the Church.
Why is Jesus’ authority important in Catholic teaching?
Jesus’ authority is important because He is the Son of God and teaches the truth. Catholics believe that His teachings are from God and guide us in living a good and holy life. Trusting His authority helps us grow in faith.
How does this lesson plan help young people?
The lesson plan helps young people understand why they should trust and follow Jesus. It explains His teachings in a simple way and shows how these teachings are still relevant today. It also encourages them to deepen their faith through the sacraments.
What role does the Eucharist play in this lesson plan?
The Eucharist is a key part of this lesson plan. It teaches that the Eucharist is the real presence of Jesus’ body and blood. Understanding and believing in this mystery is an important aspect of trusting Jesus’ authority.
How can teachers and catechists use this lesson plan?
Teachers and catechists can use this lesson plan to guide discussions and activities about Jesus’ teachings. The plan includes questions and activities that help students reflect on their faith and how they can follow Jesus.
What does the lesson plan say about the role of the Church?
The lesson plan explains that the Church continues Jesus’ mission and teaches with His authority. It helps us understand and live out His teachings. Trusting in the Church’s guidance is part of trusting in Jesus’ authority.
How does this lesson plan address doubts about faith?
The lesson plan encourages open discussion about doubts and questions. It provides answers from Catholic teachings and helps students see the reasons for believing in Jesus and His teachings. It supports a deeper understanding of faith.
Is the lesson plan suitable for all age groups?
While the lesson plan is designed for youth, it can be adapted for different age groups. The language and activities can be adjusted to suit the level of understanding of the students.
What resources are recommended alongside this lesson plan?
The plan suggests using the Bible, the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and other Catholic teaching materials. These resources help provide a deeper understanding of the topics discussed.
How does the lesson plan encourage personal faith growth?
The lesson plan encourages personal reflection and prayer. It invites students to think about how they can apply Jesus’ teachings in their own lives and grow closer to God.
Conclusion
The “Taught By God – Lesson Plan on the Authority of Jesus” focuses on helping young people understand and trust in Jesus’ authority. It explores key teachings from the Gospels, emphasizing that Jesus is the Son of God who speaks with divine authority. The lesson plan explains how Jesus’ teachings are essential for guiding our lives and growing in faith.
A significant part of the lesson is understanding the importance of the Eucharist. The plan teaches that the Eucharist is not just a symbol but the real presence of Jesus’ body and blood. By believing in this, students learn to trust Jesus’ words and His promise of eternal life. This belief in the Eucharist is a core part of Catholic faith and is highlighted as a key aspect of following Jesus.
The lesson plan also covers the role of the Church in continuing Jesus’ mission. It explains that the Church, guided by the Holy Spirit, teaches with the same authority as Jesus. Students are encouraged to listen to the Church’s teachings as part of trusting in Jesus’ authority. The plan includes discussions, reflections, and activities to help students engage with these concepts and apply them in their daily lives.
Overall, this lesson plan helps young people see the importance of Jesus’ authority in their faith journey. It encourages them to explore their beliefs, ask questions, and deepen their understanding of Catholic teachings. By trusting in Jesus and the Church, students can grow in their relationship with God and live a more faithful Christian life.
Your Turn
Try the “Taught By God – Lesson Plan on the Authority of Jesus” with your youth group or class. It’s a great way to explore Jesus’ teachings and the importance of trusting in His authority. After using the plan, share your experiences and any variations or insights in the comments section. Your feedback can help others learn and grow in their faith too!
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