Awareness
Key Terms: Jesus, Christ, Christian, Seven Gifts of the Spirit, Fruit of the Spirit
Learning Targets:
Define the meaning and significance of the titles “Jesus,” “Christ,” and “Christian.” Learners will be able to explain how the names and titles—Jesus (“the Lord saves”), Christ (the anointed one), and Christian (one who shares in Christ’s anointing)—express the core identity and unity of the Christian faith across global diversity.
Describe the biblical origin and theological importance of the Seven Gifts of the Spirit. Learners will identify the Seven Gifts (wisdom, understanding, intention/counsel, strength, knowledge, godliness, and fear of God) as described in Isaiah, and explain their role in the life and mission of Jesus and all Christians.
Explain the relationship between wisdom and fear (wonder) in spiritual maturity. Learners will analyze how “the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom,” and discuss how reverence, humility, and wonder are foundational for discernment and wise leadership, drawing on biblical and philosophical sources.
Interpret the meaning of understanding, intention, and strength as spiritual virtues. Learners will demonstrate how understanding (holistic insight), intention (union of wills with God), and strength (empowerment by the Spirit) contribute to active participation in God’s kingdom and the pursuit of justice and compassion.
Analyze the role of knowledge and godliness in Christian life and community. Learners will discuss how conceptual knowledge of God, informed by memory, reason, and will, and the practice of godliness (religious devotion and ethical living) shape personal and communal identity, including the inclusion of diverse peoples.
Connect the Beatitudes and Fruit of the Spirit to the Seven Gifts and Christian character. Learners will relate the Beatitudes (Matthew 5) and the Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5) to the Seven Gifts, showing how qualities like love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control manifest in daily life and relationships.
Evaluate the significance of being led by the Spirit and the practice of spiritual discernment. Learners will assess how Christians are called to follow Jesus by being led by the Spirit, practice spiritual disciplines (such as prayer and the Examen), and contribute to the common good, unity, and transformation of self and community.