Lectionary Year C, Unit 03: Epiphany 3-Transfiguration Sunday

This unit covers the four Sundays in Year C, Epiphany Week 34 through Transfiguration Sunday. It is designed to help students understand that Spirit-led and empowered ministry to the poor, oppressed, enslaved is the core of Christian faith in the world; God's love for all people; our need to respond faithfully to God when we encounter Him; and Christianity's unique claim that Jesus is the Son of God.

Lesson 1: Jesus' Mission Statement- Jesus' ministry was empowered by the Holy Spirit and aimed most directly at helping those who are oppressed, deprived, or ignored. (Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10; Psalm 19; I Corinthians 12:12-31a; Luke 4:14-21)

Lesson 2: The Outsiders- Does God love everyone equally? YES! Does He love some better than others? NO! God loves every person equally regardless of who they are or what they have done. Our response to all people should be like that of Christ. (Jeremiah 1:4-10; Psalm 71:1-6; 1 Corinthians 13:1-13; Luke 4:21-30)

Lesson 3: God Encounter-The Bible is full of stories about people whose lives were changed after they encountered God. When we encounter God, an appropriate response includes reverence, confession, and a complete commitment to follow Him. (Isaiah 6:1-8 (9-13), Psalm 138, 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, Luke 5:1-11)

Lesson 4: Last One Standing-Christianity is unique in its claim that Jesus is the Son of God. Jesus stands alone as the one who deserves honor and glory. (Exodus 34:29-35, Psalm 99, II Corinthians 3:12-4:2, Luke 9:28-36 (37-43))