Christian Religious Education — The New Testament

Subtopic: The Infancy and Early Life of Jesus Christ

These notes explain what the Bible records about Jesus' birth and childhood, how Old Testament prophecies were fulfilled, and why John the Baptist, Jesus' baptism and his early temptations matter for Christians today — including young people in Kenya. Key Bible references are given so you can read the passages yourself.

1. Fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies ✨

The New Testament presents Jesus as the fulfillment of many Old Testament promises about the Messiah. Below are some clear examples with short explanations.

• Born of a virgin — Isaiah 7:14; Gospel: Matthew 1:22–23. Matthew links Jesus’ birth to this prophecy and calls him "Immanuel" (God with us).
• Born in Bethlehem — Micah 5:2; Gospel: Matthew 2:1–6, Luke 2:4–7. Bethlehem is named as the Messiah’s birthplace.
• From the family line of David — 2 Samuel 7; Gospel: Luke 1:32, Matthew 1 genealogy. The Messiah is promised as a ruler from David’s line.
• Ministry in Galilee (light to people) — Isaiah 9:1–2; Gospel: Matthew 4:12–16.
• Suffering servant — Isaiah 53; Gospel writers show how Jesus’ suffering and death fit this theme (see especially the passion narratives).

2. John the Baptist — the link between the Old and New Testaments 📣

John the Baptist is described as the prophet who prepares the way for Jesus. He connects the prophetic tradition of Israel (Old Testament) with the arrival of the Messiah (New Testament).

• Prophetic fulfilment: Isaiah 40:3 and Malachi 3:1 speak of one who prepares the Lord’s way; the Gospels identify John the Baptist with that voice (see Luke 3:2–6; Matthew 3:1–3).
• His message: Repentance, baptism for forgiveness, and readiness for God’s kingdom (Matthew 3; Luke 3).
• Bridge role: John calls people back to Torah-based moral life (justice, honesty) while announcing the coming of Jesus. He points people from law to the living Word — Jesus.
• Relevance for Kenyan youth: John’s call to honest living, repentance and justice resonates with communities facing social challenges. His courage to speak truth to leaders is a model for responsible citizenship.

3. Infancy and early life of Jesus — main events 👶✈️🏠

The Gospels of Matthew and Luke give most details about Jesus’ birth and childhood. Key events to remember:

• Annunciation: Angel tells Mary she will bear a son (Luke 1:26–38).
• Birth in Bethlehem: Jesus is born; shepherds visit after angels announce his birth (Luke 2:1–20).
• Visit of the Magi: Wise men from the East bring gifts and worship (Matthew 2:1–12).
• Presentation in the temple: Jesus presented and recognised by Simeon and Anna (Luke 2:22–38).
• Flight to Egypt and return: Family escapes Herod’s danger and later settles in Nazareth (Matthew 2:13–23).
• Child in the temple: At about 12 years old Jesus discusses Scripture with teachers (Luke 2:41–52): shows his growing understanding and obedience to God.

4. The Baptism of Jesus — meaning and relevance 💧

Jesus’ baptism by John (Matthew 3:13–17; Mark 1:9–11; Luke 3:21–22) marks the start of his public ministry and reveals the Trinity (Father’s voice, Son baptized, Holy Spirit like a dove).

• Why he was baptized: To identify with people, to fulfil all righteousness, and to inaugurate his mission despite being sinless.
• What it teaches Christians: Baptism is a public act of obedience and commitment to God. It shows humility and a new start.
• Kenyan context: Baptism (in church or river) remains an important public sign of joining the Christian community. It can also encourage young people to live responsibly and serve their families and communities.

5. The Temptations of Jesus — scripture-guided responses 🕊️

After his baptism, Jesus spent 40 days in the wilderness and was tempted three times (Matthew 4:1–11; Luke 4:1–13). Each temptation tests a different area of life.

• First temptation: Turn stones to bread — tests bodily needs and selfish use of power. Jesus replies with Scripture about trusting God (Deuteronomy 8:3).
• Second temptation: Throw yourself from the temple to force God to save you — tests presumption and testing God. Jesus answers with Deuteronomy 6:16 about not testing the Lord.
• Third temptation: Worship Satan in exchange for kingdoms — tests loyalty and ambition. Jesus replies with Deuteronomy 6:13, worship only God.
• Lesson: Jesus resists by quoting Scripture; he models prayer, trust, and obedience rather than quick power or showy miracles.

6. Virtues from Jesus to help overcome temptation — practical guidance for teens

Jesus’ life gives practical virtues you can use when facing peer pressure, moral choices or difficulties.

• Prayer: Keep talking to God — Jesus often withdrew to pray (Mark 1:35).
• Know Scripture: Learn short verses (e.g., Matthew 4 responses) so you can remember God’s truth under pressure.
• Humility: Jesus chose obedience and service, not fame or shortcuts.
• Trust in God: Don’t rely only on quick solutions; rely on God’s timing and provision.
• Community: Stay with people of faith who encourage right choices (church, youth group, family).

7. Key Bible passages to read

• Isaiah 7:14; Micah 5:2; Isaiah 53 (prophecies)
• Luke 1–2 (annunciation, birth, presentation, boy in temple)
• Matthew 1–2 (genealogy, birth narrative, Magi, flight to Egypt)
• Luke 3; Matthew 3 (John the Baptist, baptism)
• Matthew 4:1–11; Luke 4:1–13 (temptations)

Reflection questions (for personal or class use)

1. Which Old Testament prophecy about the Messiah surprised you most and why?
2. How does John the Baptist’s call to repentance speak to issues in your community?
3. When faced with a difficult choice, which of Jesus’ responses to temptation could help you most, and how would you use it?
4. How can baptism be a meaningful public step for young Christians in your school or church?

(Note: Use the Bible passages listed to read full accounts. These notes are a guide for study and reflection.)