Grade 5 CRE Preparing For The Coming Of Jesus Christ – The Baptism Of Jesus Notes
The Baptism of Jesus
Preparing for the Coming of Jesus Christ — CRE (Age 10, Kenya)
Short Bible Story
John the Baptist lived in the wilderness and told people to say sorry for their sins and be ready for the coming of the Lord. Jesus came from Nazareth to the River Jordan so John could baptise him. When Jesus was baptised, the heavens opened, the Holy Spirit came down like a dove, and God said, "This is my Son, whom I love."
Bible References
Read: Matthew 3:13–17 • Mark 1:9–11 • Luke 3:21–22
What happened (simple points)
- John baptised people in the River Jordan to show they had repented.
- Jesus allowed John to baptise him even though he had no sin.
- The Holy Spirit came down like a dove.
- God spoke from heaven and said Jesus is his Son.
Why Baptism is Important
- It shows obedience to God — Jesus wanted to do what God wanted.
- It is a sign that God forgives and cleans people from sin.
- It marks the start of Jesus’ public work — people began to follow him.
- The Holy Spirit coming like a dove shows God is with Jesus and with people who believe.
How this helps us prepare for Jesus
John prepared people for Jesus by calling them to change their hearts. We prepare by praying, saying sorry for wrong things, helping others and listening to God. When we live like Jesus taught, we are ready for him.
Memory Verse (Easy)
"This is my Son, whom I love." (Based on Mark 1:11)
Activities (fun & simple)
- Draw the scene: Jesus, John, water and a dove. Use blue for water and white for the dove.
- Role-play: Use a bowl of water and pretend to be John and Jesus. Say kind words and a short prayer (no real baptism needed at home).
- Make a paper dove: fold paper, draw wings, and write "Holy Spirit" on it. Hang it in your room.
- Visit your church and ask your Sunday school teacher about baptism in Kenya (many churches baptise in church tanks or in rivers like the River Tana).
Questions to Think About
- Who baptised Jesus?
- Why do you think Jesus was baptised if he had no sin?
- What did the dove and God's voice mean?
- How can you prepare your heart for Jesus this week?
A Short Prayer
Dear God, thank you for Jesus. Help me to say sorry for wrong things, to love others and to be ready for you. Send your Holy Spirit to help me obey you every day. Amen.