RCCG SUNDAY SCHOOL STUDENT’S MANUAL 24 NOVEMBER 2024
LESSON THIRTEEN (13)
TOPIC: QUARTERLY REVIEW/SUMMARY (1-12)
SUNDAY SCHOOL HYMN
1. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
O how I love Thee well,
I am happy, it makes me glad
To rejoice at Thy birth.
2. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Thy friendship suits me well,
Both young and old will sing Thy song,
We long for Sunday School.
3. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Christ was Thy first teacher,
The Holy Spirit, great teacher,
Does manifest in thee.
4. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
This testimony is sure,
That God, the Father Almighty,
Poured His blessing on Thee
5. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Though the sun be so bright,
Or if the clouds be black with rain,
I’ll be in Sunday School.
6. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day
I rejoice to see Thee,
Will thou pass over me today?
Without my being blest?
*SUMMARY OF LESSONS 1-12*
LESSON ONE (01)
TOPIC:THE KINGDOM OF GOD
BIBLE PASSAGE: 1 Chronicles 29:10-12
MEMORY VERSE: “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” Matthew 6:33
INTRODUCTION: The kingdom of God is also known as the kingdom of Heaven (Matthew 19:23-24). The concept of the kingdom of God takes on various shade of meaning in different passages of the Scripture. A general understanding of God’s kingdom programme will help every believer key into the plan and purpose of God for mankind. Moreover, the concept of the kingdom of God is generally considered to be the central theme of Jesus’ teaching.
LESSON OUTLINES
1. ASPECTS OF THE KINGDOM OF GOD
2. SEEKING THE KINGDOM OF GOD
1. ASPECTS OF THE KINGDOM OF GOD
God’s kingdom comprising there aspects: a Universal kingdom, a Meditorial kingdom, and a Spiritual kingdom.
A. UNIVERSAL KINGDOM: This is God’s eternal sovereign rule over all that exists; the entire universe (Daniel 4:3). In this kingdom, God rules in absolute sovereignty over all His Creation (Psalm 47:2, 7-8).
B. MEDIATORAL KINGDOM: God uses divinely chosen human representatives to speak on his behalf and stand in gap of for His people.
i. The Scripture records the special encounters and insights giving to these representatives about God’s will for mankind and His provision to save sinners.
ii. The Mediatorial kingdom will end with the thousand-year (millennial) reign of Christ upon the earth (Revelation 20:4-6).
iii. This will be the concluding link between human history and the eternal kingdom (Revelation 21 & 22).
C. SPIRITUAL KINGDOM: This kingdom is an invisible kingdom that exists in the heart of believers in Christ Jesus (Luke 17:20-21). Jesus said His kingdom was not of this word (John 18:36).
i. He preached that repentance is necessary to be a part of the kingdom of God (Matthew 4:17).
ii. The kingdom of God can be equated by the sphere of salvation that must be entered into by being born again (John 3:5-7; 1Corinthians 6:9-10).
iii. It is Scriptual realm over which God reigns as king, or the fulfillment on earth of God’s will (Matthew 6:10).
CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Is there any difference between the kingdom between the kingdom of God and the kingdom of heaven? Discuss (Teacher should use Matthew 19:23-24 as a guide).
2. SEEKING THE KINGDOM OF GOD
In this Sermon on the Mount Jesus admonishes His audience to first seek the kingdom of God and it’s righteousness (Matthew 6:33).
A. To seek the kingdom of God is to, as a matter of priority:
i. Hunger and thirst for the rule and reign of God in our lives with Jesus being in charge (Matthew 5:6; 6:9-10).
ii. Be willing to submit totally and obey His will as we come under the lordship of Christ and He is in control of our lives.
B. The main benefit of the kingdom is the forgiveness of sins (Acts 3:19; 5:31). It is not rules or regulation but “righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit” (Romans 14:17).
CLASS ACTIVITY 2: What are the practical steps you want to take, to seek God more this year?
CONCLUSION: We are equally commanded to witness to others that the kingdom of God is open to all who will surrender their lives to Jesus (Matthew 3:2; Mark 16:15-16)
LESSON TWO (02)
TOPIC: THE DEITY OF JESUS (PART 1)
BIBLE PASSAGE: John 1:1-5,14
MEMORY VERSE: “And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true, and we are in him that is true, even in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life.” 1 John 5:20.
INTRODUCTION: Generally, a ‘deity’ is a ‘god or goddess’ in a polytheistic religion (belief in many gods). Also, a being of divine status, quality, or nature is referred to as a deity. In the context of the Christian faith, the Deity is the Creator and Supreme Being. The argument about the Deity of Jesus Christ is common among people of other major religions (although they teach that Jesus was a prophet, a good teacher or a godly man). However, the Bible tells us that Jesus was infinitely more than the three combined (Matthew 16:13-16). Jesus is God. He is Divine.
OUTLINES:
1. THE DIVINITY OF JESUS CHRIST
2. REASONS THAT JESUS IS GOD
1. THE DIVINITY OF JESUS CHRIST
Here are some of the biblical evidences that Jesus is God:
1. Jesus is a member of the Godhead (Genesis 1:1; 26a) referred to as the Trinity (God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit).
2. The Bible clearly states that the Godhead resides in Jesus Christ bodily (Colossians 2:6-9).
3. God the Father refers to Jesus as God (Hebrews 1:8).
4. Old Testament prophecies of Christ announce His deity as the mighty God (Isaiah 9:6).
5. Jesus says in John 10:30 “I and My Father are one” and “Before Abraham was, I AM” (John 8:58).
i. Jesus, announcing His identity as “I AM” is a direct application of the Old Testament name for God (Exodus 3:14).
ii. Jesus receives worship several times in the Scripture (Matthew 2:11; 28:9; Luke 24:52). He never rebukes people for worshipping Him.
6. The apostles, through divine inspiration, testify that Jesus is God:
-For instance, John 1:1 says “…the Word was God.”
-John 1:14 says “And the Word became flesh…” This indicates that Jesus is God in the flesh.
iii. Thomas the disciple in John 20:28 declares to Jesus, “My Lord and my God” Jesus did not correct him.
iv. Apostle Paul describes Him as, “…the great God and our Saviour, Jesus Christ” (Titus 2:13).
v. Apostle Peter says the same, “…of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 1:1).
CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Share with the class any encounter with non-believers who reject the fact that Jesus is God.
2. REASONS THAT JESUS IS GOD
A. The provision of salvation only works if Jesus is God, hence the divinity of Jesus is the reason why :
1. He is the only way of salvation (Acts 4:12; John 14:6).
2. Jesus is God incarnate, the eternal Alpha and Omega (Revelation 1:8; 22:13)
3. Jesus has the right to forgive sins. This is something only God can do (Acts 5:31; Luke 5:20-24).
4. Jesus will “judge the living and the dead,” (2 Timothy 4:1) and reward all deeds in the flesh (Rev.22:11-12).
B. Some titles that uniquely belong to Jehovah (the formal name of God) in the Old Testament are used for Jesus:
1. For instance, “Redeemer” (Psalm 19:14; 78:35) is used for Jesus in the New Testament (Titus 2:13-14; Revelation 5:9).
2. Jesus is called Emmanuel-“God with us” (Matthew 1:23).
C. Some actions that can be accomplished only by God are credited to Jesus. For instance, He created and sustains the universe (John 1:3; Colossians 1:16-17).
D. He possesses attributes that only God can have:
i. Eternality (John 8:58).
ii. Omnipresence (Matthew 18:20, 28:20).
iii. Omniscience (Matthew 16:21).
iv. Omnipotence (Luke 7:13-15).
CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Students should distinguish between the biblical explanation of Christ being God (John 1:1-5, 14) and the opinion of people of other religions.
CONCLUSION: Christians should not only believe in the deity of Jesus but must be bold to proclaim and defend it scripturally.
LESSON THREE (03)
TOPIC: THE DEITY OF JESUS (PART 2)
BIBLE PASSAGE: John 14:6-11.
MEMORY VERSE: “But if I do, though ye believe not me, believe the works: that ye may know, and believe, that the Father is in me, and I in him.” John 10:38.
INTRODUCTION: While it may be difficult for some people to believe or accept the fact that Jesus is God, the evidence cannot be denied. Being in the form of God and equal with God (Philippians 2:6), He performed diverse miracles and demonstrated that He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life.
OUTLINES:
1. THE MIRACLES JESUS PERFORMED
2. THE WAY, THE TRUTH, AND THE LIFE
1. THE MIRACLES JESUS PERFORMED
1. A miracle is an event that involves the direct and powerful action of God, transcending the ordinary laws of nature and defying common expectations of behaviour.
2. It is also an extraordinary occurrence that can only be attributed to the supernatural work of God that demonstrates His involvement in human history (Exodus 14:21-22; Joshua 10:12-14).
3. Many miracles were performed by Jesus as proof that He is God. For instance:
i. He turned water to wine (John 2:7-9), walked on water (Matthew 14:25),
ii. Multiplied a meal (John 6:11-13),
iii. Healed the blind, the lame (John 9:7; Mark 2:3, 11), and the sick (Matthew 9:35; Mark 1:40-42),
iv. He even raised people from the dead (John 11:43-44; Luke 7:13-15).
4. Christ Himself rose from the dead (Matthew 28:5-7; Acts 10:41).
5. No other religion can claim the resurrection of its founders.
CLASS ACTIVITY 1:.Share an outstanding miracle you have experienced in your Christian journey with the class.
2. THE WAY, THE TRUTH, AND THE LIFE
A. Jesus used the definite article to distinguish Himself as “the Way, the Truth, and the Life” (John 14:6).
i. A way is a route leading somewhere.
ii. There is no other path to Heaven except Jesus (John 14:1-3; Acts 4:12).
B. Jesus, as the incarnate Word of God (John 1:1) is the source of all truth (John 8:32).
i. According to Psalm 119:142, truth represents the law of God.
ii. Jesus came as the law personified.
iii. When He taught His followers, during the sermon on the mount, He reminded them of the basic points of the law and gave new commands (Matthew 5:21-22, 27-28, 31-32, 33-34, 38-39, 43-44), thereby equating Himself with God as the authoritative standard of righteousness.
iv. Jesus said He came to fulfil the demands of the law and the prophets (Matthew 5:17).
C. Jesus spoke of His authority over life being the source of life (John 10:10b; 14:19).
I. He laid down His life for His ‘sheep,’ and then took it back again (John 10:17-18).
II. He brought true deliverance from a life of bondage to sin and death to a life of victory over sin and freedom in eternity (John 3:15-16; 10:28).
CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Do you believe that Jesus is the only access into the kingdom of heaven or not? Discuss your conviction with the class. (Teachers are to scripturally guide that Jesus is the only access to eternal existence).
CONCLUSION: There is no controversy, Jesus Christ is God. Anyone who disagrees does it at his/her peril.
LESSON FOUR (04)
TOPIC: THE CREATURE CALLED MAN
BIBLE PASSAGE: Ezekiel 18:4-9.
MEMORY VERSE:.“And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul” Genesis 2:7.
INTRODUCTION: God created the intangible being (soul), fashioned in the similitude of the godhead with the divine nature and ability (Genesis 1:26-27). However, the soul, on its own, could not handle or use the things in the physical world because he was intangible. This situation, therefore, requires that provision be made for a container (physical body) through which the soul can operate and relate with the physical world. Hence, the forming of man from the dust of the ground (Genesis 2:7a). The man; now body and soul, was inactive until God breathed life into his nostrils, and man became a living soul (Genesis 2:7; Job 33:4).
OUTLINES:
1.GOD’S IMAGE
2. THE TRIPARTITE MAN
1. GOD’S IMAGE
God’s image upon man, before the fall, consists of these three things:
1. His nature and constitution. (Not those of his body, for God has no physical body).
i. The soul bears God’s image.
ii. The soul is an intelligent immortal intangible being.
iii. Man resembles God in creativity and willpower.
2. His place and authority. Man is God’s representative on earth in authority and dominion.
3. His purity and integrity.
i. God’s image upon man consists of knowledge, righteousness, and true holiness (Colossians 3:10).
ii. Man was made upright (Ecclesiastes 7:29).
iii. Man understood divine things clearly and there was no error in his knowledge (Genesis 2:19).
iv. His will complied readily and universally with the will of God, without resistance.
v. He had no inordinate appetite or passion.
vi. His thoughts had no vanity.
CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Mention other aspects of God’s image upon man before the fall.
2. THE TRIPARTITE MAN
The scripture suggests that man is a tripartite being – spirit, soul, and body (1 Thessalonians 5:23). These three dimensions of man are all important.
A. The spirit of man is that breath God released into the man He formed to make him alive. This is why that spirit (breath) returns to God the giver when man dies (Ecclesiastes 12:7).
B. The soul of man is an intangible being.
i. It gives a man personality, self-awareness, consciousness, rationality, and natural feeling.
ii. It is with the soul that man receives salvation (Mark 8:36; Psalm 19:7a).
iii. The saved/regenerated soul of man will be guided by the spirit to worship God acceptably (John 4:24).
iv. It is the soul that will stand in judgement (Hebrews 9:27; 2 Corinthians 5:10).
v. There are two possible destinations for the soul; Heaven or Hell. When a true believer in Christ dies, the soul goes to Heaven while the soul of an unrepentant sinner goes to Hell (Daniel 12:2; Ezekiel 18:4c).
C. The human body is a physical (material) being made from clay.
i. It is temporal and becomes lifeless when the spirit (breath) is no longer active (Ecclesiastes 12:7).
ii. It helps the soul to relate physically with the world.
iii. It is the body that gets tired and sleepy. When a man dies, the body (with time) decays in the ground (Genesis 3:19; Ecclesiastes 3:20).
iv. We move around with the body to propagate God’s kingdom here on earth.
CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Do you have any other view as regards the tripartite nature of man? If yes, share with the class.
CONCLUSION: The three dimensions of man are all important. However, it must be noted that it is the soul that will stand in judgement.
LESSON FIVE (05)
TOPIC: MY ENEMY: “THE FLESH”
BIBLE PASSAGE: Romans 7:18-22.
MEMORY VERSE: “So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.” Romans 8:8.
INTRODUCTION: ‘The world’ is our external enemy, but we have another enemy which is an internal enemy called, “the flesh.” Our enemy, the Devil, has “a stronghold” inside of us that cooperates with him in his battle against us (Matthew 13:25, 39a). This stronghold is our sinful nature which the Bible calls “the flesh.” The one controlled by the flesh is also referred to as natural man, carnal man, or old man.
OUTLINES:
1. THE “FLESH” DESCRIBED
2. VICTORY THROUGH GOD
1.THE “FLESH” DESCRIBED
A. “The flesh” is not our body, but the sinful nature that dwells in our body (Romans 8:13).
i. One form of the flesh is ‘self.’ Before we were saved, ‘self’ was on the throne of our hearts (Romans 7:5; Ephesians 2:2-3).
ii. The moment we received Christ as our Saviour, He came to live in us (Galatians 2:20).
iii. ‘Self’ did not move out. Not only is it still there, but it wants to continue its rule in our hearts (Galatians 5:17; Romans 7:18-19).
B. The Bible tells us three things about the flesh:
i. ‘Self’ will never obey God (Romans 8:7).
ii. Sin comes from our sinful nature-the flesh (Mark 7:21-23).
iii. The flesh is Satan’s “stronghold” for sinning (Galatians 5:19-21).
C. Here are some of the ways ‘self’ expresses itself in people:
i. Self-pride: Declares himself as first and above all. He expects people to look up to and honour him (Exodus 5:2).
ii. Self-love: Affirms that the person who should be loved more than anyone else is himself (Luke 12:16-20).
iv. Self-pity: Believes that he is poor and not treated right. Always complaining and never satisfied (Exodus 16:2-3).
v. Self-righteousness: He is quite satisfied with his goodness and morality (1 Kings 19:14).
vi. Self-will: Always wants to have his way. He will do what he wants to do and does not care whether it contradicts God’s will (Judges 14:3).
CLASS ACTIVITY 1: The class should mention other ways ‘self’ can express itself in a believer.
2. VICTORY THROUGH GOD
A. Since no sinner can come into the presence of God, our old sinful life must come to an end for us to become ‘a new person.’ God loves us and through His love, He did three wonderful things for us:
i. He ended our old Self-life and created something entirely new i.e. something that sin cannot touch (Romans 6:6-7).
ii. He made us a new person in Christ. When Christ rose from the dead, we rose with Him as “new persons” in God’s new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17).
iii. He gave Christ to us as our new Master. In Christ, we live to do the will of His Father (John 5:30).
B. As long as we are in our bodies, we can never get rid of self, but we can avoid being ruled by self. As believers, we can take the following steps to subdue ‘self’:
i. Choose to keep ‘self’ on the Cross (Galatians 5:24).
ii. Make Christ our King (2 Corinthians 5:14-15).
iii. Live the Christ-life by bearing the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23).
CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Share with the class, other ways believers can subdue the flesh.
CONCLUSION: Be in control of your flesh with the help of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:16).
LESSON SIX (06)
TOPIC: I KNOW WHO I AM
BIBLE PASSAGE: Matthew 16:13-17.
MEMORY VERSE: “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.’’ 2 Corinthians 5:17.
INTRODUCTION: Every true child of God must be able to answer the question ‘Who are you?’ with confidence and full conviction. We must be clear about our identity because knowing who you are makes a difference in your life. Every child of God must be able to declare with boldness that ‘I am a child of God’ (Romans 8:16). Of course, the character of the person speaking must align with the declaration made.
OUTLINES:
1. BEING BORN AGAIN
2. A CHANGED PERSON
1. BEING BORN AGAIN
1. A believer in Christ becomes a new creation by being born again (John 3:1-7).
i. The person becomes born again not by works of righteousness but by mercy. (Titus 3:5).
ii. The individual was dead in sin but now alive to God through the righteousness of Christ (Ephesians 2:4-5; Romans 6:11b).
iii. His sins are forgiven and the blood of Jesus has cleansed him (1 John 1:7; Romans 4:7-8).
iv. He is different from his old nature because he has been recreated in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17).
2. A believer in Christ is not of this world system (John 17:15-16).
i. The person is like a stranger and pilgrim (1 Peter 2:11; Hebrews 11:13).
ii. He lives in the world as one passing through but the world is not passing through him (1Corinthians 7:31).
CLASS ACTIVITY 1: What are your convictions that you are truly a child of God?
2. A CHANGED PERSON
Several things change when a person gives his/her life to Christ:
1. Being born again confers a new identity to such a believer (2 Corinthians 5:17).
2. He is changed from being a sinner to a saint (Philippians 4:21-22).
3. He used to focus and channel all his energy on earthly things but now has a new goal and that is to attain heaven at all cost (Colossians 3:1-2).
4. The lifestyle of a believer; his words, conducts and actions also change (Ephesians 4:22-32).
5. He is determined to please God in all things.
CLASS ACTIVITY 2: How have you changed since you received Christ as your Lord and Saviour?
CONCLUSION: Be delighted and confident in declaring your identity in Christ.
LESSON SEVEN (07)
TOPIC: THE COST OF DISCIPLESHIP
BIBLE PASSAGE: Luke 9:57-62.
MEMORY VERSE: “He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.” 1 John 2:6.
INTRODUCTION: The term “disciple” originally meant a pupil or an apprentice to a teacher or master craftsman. It is another word for a follower of Christ, one who is learning to be like his Master (Matthew 16:24; 1Peter 2:21-22). Discipline is the quality of being able to behave and work in a controlled way which involves obeying specific rules. We shall examine what a disciple’s attitude to sin should be and the key disciplines of true disciples.
OUTLINES:
1. A DISCIPLE’S ATTRIBUTE
2. KEY DISCIPLINES
1. A DISCIPLE’S ATTRIBUTE
1. The starting point in following Jesus’ exemplary life is the forgiveness of sin and reconciliation with God through Jesus’ death.
2. Then, a disciple of Jesus enters a life-long learning process to live the same life as Jesus lived (Luke 6:40). Just as their Master, the disciples of Christ must:
i. Commit to doing all of God’s will while giving up their own will (Luke 22:42);
ii. Live a sin-free life and overcome lust (Galatians 5:24); be willing to suffer (Philippians 1:29);
iii. Love unconditionally in the face of adversity (Matthew 5:43-45);
iv. Be diligent and zealous for the things of God (Hebrews 6:10-11);
v. Have a burden for soul winning (Acts 4:16-20);
vi. Live sacrificially (2 Corinthians 12:15);
vii. Remain humble and obedient (Philippians 2:5-8).
CLASS ACTIVITY 1: What other attributes do you think a disciple should have?
2. KEY DISCIPLINES
Anyone who will follow the examples of Jesus successfully must be disciplined because discipline is the hallmark of success. Some of the key disciplines every disciple of Christ must have are:
1. Purposefulness: Concentration is the secret of power. The first discipline of discipleship is to be purposeful, determined, single-minded, and focused in the pursuit of the Lord and His kingdom (Philippians 3:13; Matthew 6:24).
2. Perseverance: Like our Master, Jesus; Disciples must stay focused on the task and avoid distractions. Be persistent in proclaiming the word at all times, and avoid discouragement (Matthew 10:22-23).
3. Promptness: The ability not to put off for tomorrow what must be done today is a great gift to be sought from God. It is the gift to joyfully run to what God instructs without delay. There is a peril in procrastination (Psalm 95:6-8; Proverbs 27:1).
4. Permanence: When we accepted Christ, there were some things we used to do that we have no business doing now. Things like: harmful habits, ruinous relationships, perilous pleasures, etc. We need to give up our former ways and not look back (Hebrews 12:1-2; Luke 9:58-62).
CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Mention additional key disciplines of a disciple
CONCLUSION: The role of every disciple is to stay committed and true to the Master. This will lead to great success.
LESSON EIGHT (08)
TOPIC: THE POWER OF FORGIVENESS
BIBLE PASSAGE: Genesis 50:17-20.
MEMORY VERSE: “Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man has a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.” Colossians 3:13.
INTRODUCTION: Forgiveness involves an intentional decision to put aside feelings of resentment, anger, and revenge toward someone who has committed a wrong, been unfair, or otherwise hurt you. But some people find it hard to forgive those who have offended them. Some believers even say it is when they get to Heaven before they can forgive. However, the Bible makes it clear that those who refuse to forgive men, will not be forgiven by God too (Matthew 6:14-15). Therefore, we need to understand why believers must practice forgiveness and learn how to achieve it.
OUTLINES:
1. REASONS CHRISTIANS SHOULD FORGIVE
2. ACHIEVING TRUE FORGIVENESS
1. REASONS CHRISTIANS SHOULD FORGIVE
1. One of the fundamental obligations of a Christian is to follow peace with all men (Hebrews 12:14-15).
2. As Christians, we should not only forgive but we should heal (Genesis 45:1-15; 50:15-21).
3. The major reasons we are to forgive are:
a. It is a command (Mark 11:25; Ephesians 4:32).
b. We are the light of the world. We are a living example that others follow and watch consistently (Matthew 5:14; Matthew 5:16).
c. God is angry with us when we refuse to forgive (Matthew 18:32-35).
d. Lack of forgiveness hinders prayers (Mark 11:25).
e. We need to be forgiven (Matthew 6:14).
CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Have you forgiven lately? Share with the class how you felt after the act.
2. ACHIEVING TRUE FORGIVENESS
1. Forgiveness can help prevent depression, anxiety, high blood pressure, and hostility (Romans 12:18).
2. It boosts self-esteem and brings peace of mind (Psalm 32:1-5; Hebrews 12:15b).
3. To forgive, we can adopt the programme known as the REACH model. REACH stands for Recall, Empathise, Altruistic Gift, Commit, and Hold.
i. Recall: To achieve forgiveness, be objective in understanding clearly the wrong done. It is not to wallow in self-pity or to hold a grudge against the offender (Genesis 45:4).
ii. Empathise: Being objective will also help to see from the offender’s point of view, why he or she did what was done. But without downplaying the wrong that was done (Genesis 37:8, 19-21; 50:20a).
iii. Altruistic gift: At this stage, the offended can remember his shortcomings and how he was forgiven. He then realizes that forgiveness is a gift we all need at one point or the other (Colossians 3:13).
iv. Commit: To commit is to make public (share) one’s decision to forgive with an accountability partner who can put a check on you. Apostle Paul wrote publicly about his commitment to have a clear conscience at all times (Acts 24:16).
v. Hold: At the final stage of this model, the offended must be determined to see to it that his decision to forgive is realized. This is tough because memories of the event will often recur. When the feeling of hurt arises, remind yourself that you have forgiven and ultimately, you want the good of the offender (Genesis 50:17-20).
CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Have you had any hurting experience from a close person such that you thought you could not forgive let alone forget but you eventually did? How did you do it?
CONCLUSION: True forgiveness may not come cheap, but its benefits outweigh the pain. Learn to forgive.
LESSON NINE (09)
TOPIC: THE BRANCHES OF LIES
BIBLE PASSAGE: Proverbs 6:16-19.
MEMORY VERSE:.“For my mouth shall speak truth; and wickedness is an abomination to my lips.” Proverbs 8:7.
INTRODUCTION: A lie is a false statement made with deliberate intent to deceive or convey a false impression. It is an intentional act of deviating from the truth. Lies have some terrible offshoots which when put on a scale are all sinful. We however need to look at these horrific subdivisions and do away with them if we want to live a good life, see good days, have a godly home and society, and enjoy God’s presence always (1 Peter 3:10).
OUTLINES:
1. THE SUBDIVISIONS
2..CONSEQUENCES AND REMEDIES
1. THE SUBDIVISIONS
Some of the offshoots of lies include:
i. Falsehood: This is a false statement, a misrepresentation of the fact, the act of rendering something false by fraudulent changes such as documents or measures, (Proverbs 11:1; 20:10; Job 21:34) or simply not telling the truth (Psalm 144:8).
ii. Exaggeration: This is a blood relation to falsehood. It is the act of giving to overstatement and needless embellishment of the truth or a bloated statement that does not exist (Matthew 5:37).
iii. Deceit: This is the act or practice of deceiving; concealment or distortion of the truth for the purpose of misleading, fraud, cheating, etc. Just like a liar, a deceitful person practices mischief and falsehood without any form of restraint. (Psalms 10:7; 50:19). An individual who is untrustworthy, two-faced, or fraudulent is deceitful.
iv. Hypocrisy: An outright display of insincerity by pretending to have qualities or beliefs that one does not have. (Matthew 23:28; 1 Timothy 4:2).
v. Half-Truth: A statement that is only partly true, especially one intended to deceive (Acts 5:1-3, 8). It is always the ally of some vice and another way of being economical with the truth.
vi. Guile: It is the quality of being crafty or the use of tricks to deceive someone; usually to extract money from them (1 Peter 2:1; 2 Corinthians 12:16-17).
vii. Flattering: To praise dishonestly because of ulterior motives (Psalms 78:36; 5:9). Praise singers who wish to curry favour flatter and end the relationship afterwards.
CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Students should mention other subdivisions they know.
2. CONSEQUENCES AND REMEDIES
A. The penalties for these branches of lies include:
i. Getting cut off from God (Job 13:16; Psalm 12:3).
ii. Being detestable (Proverbs 6:16).
iii. Being susceptible to punishment (Proverbs 19:5).
iv. Being accustomed to hypocrisy and iniquity (Matthew 23:28-29).
v. Momentary joy (Job 20:5).
vi. Living an unrealistic life (Proverbs 12:17).
vii. Not seeing good days (1 Peter 3:10; Job 32:22).
viii. No liar will make heaven (Revelation 21:27).
B. There are several things a believer can do to avoid telling lies. These include:
i. Being precise in communications (Matthew 5:37).
ii. Telling the whole truth-this is a virtue that brings honour (Exodus 18:21).
iii. Not playing smart (Proverbs 3:7).
iv. Avoiding hasty responses (James 1:19).
v. Employing God’s wisdom when speaking (James 3:17).
vi. Putting checks on utterances (Job 27:4; 1 Thessalonians 2:5).
CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Give additional ways that can be helpful to someone who helplessly tells lies
CONCLUSION: Be truthful.
LESSON TEN (10)
TOPIC: DIVINE RESISTANCE
BIBLE PASSAGE: 1 Peter 5:5-7
MEMORY VERSE: “But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble” James 4:6
INTRODUCTION: Despite the magnitude of God’s creations (Psalm 8:3-4), God still humbles Himself to behold the activities of man on earth (Psalm 113:5-6). A proud person is therefore repulsive to Him and He resists such an individual. Lucifer was cast out of Heaven because of pride (Isaiah 14:12-14). The Ancient Greek word for ‘pride’ is ‘Hubris’: it describes a personality of dangerous overconfidence or an over inflated self-confidence, synonymous with arrogance. God intentionally builds a wall of resistance against the proud.
OUTLINES:
1. BIBLICAL INSTANCES AND CONSEQUENCES
2. BE HUMBLE
1. BIBLICAL INSTANCES AND CONSEQUENCES
A. The Bible gives records of some characters that were filled with ‘hubris’ and their ends.
i. These include King Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 4:30),
ii. King Belshazzar (Daniel 5:22-23),
iii. Goliath (1 Samuel 17:41-44),
iv. The rich fool in Jesus’ parable (Luke 12:16-19),
v. King Herod (Acts 12:21-23a).
B. These men were resisted and judged by God for their sin of pride (Ezekiel 28:17; Jeremiah 13:15-16). For instance:
i. King Nebuchadnezzar was brought low and he ate grass (Daniel 4:31-32).
ii. King Belshazzar was slain (Daniel 5:30).
iii. Goliath and the rich fool in Jesus’ parable died (1 Samuel 17:50; Luke 12:20).
iv. Herod was eaten by worms and he died (Acts 12:23b).
C. Pride is rebellion against God and a bid to share in His glory.
D. Furthermore, God reserves the following punishment for the proud.
i. He cuts them off by silencing them (Psalm 12:3).
ii. They are known at a distance and kept in derision (Psalm 138:6).
iii. He will destroy their house (Proverbs 15:25).
iv. He will bring them down (Isaiah 2:12).
v. He will cause their arrogance to cease (Isaiah 13:11).
vi. He is against them and will make them stumble (Jeremiah 50:31-32).
vii. He will demean them (Daniel 4:37).
viii. They shall be wasted like debris and straw (Malachi 4:1).
ix. God sets Himself in a battle array against the proud (Obadiah 1:2-4).
x. He repels those who live in pride and self-sufficiency by trusting in themselves and despising others.
xi. Pride is sin (Proverbs 21:4), and thus, the proud is abominable to God (Proverbs 16:5a).
CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Have you ever been taken in pride? Share the consequences with the class.
2. BE HUMBLE
A. Humility is the antidote for pride and a requirement to walk with God (Micah 6:8).
i. To be humble is simply a lack of pride, a state marked by meekness or modesty without any iota of arrogance (Colossians 3:12).
ii. It is the attitude of having no special importance that makes you better than others (Philippians 2:5-8).
iii. Unlike pride which puts a barrier (a wall of resistance) between man and God, humble people receive grace from God (1 Peter 5:5b).
B. Hence, God:
i. Forgives the sins of those who are humble and heals their land (2 Chronicles 7:14).
ii. Hears when they call (2 Chronicles 34:27; Psalm 9:12).
iii. Saves them (Job 22:29).
iv. Guides and teaches them His way (Psalm 25:9).
C. Humility comes before honour (Proverbs 18:12; Philippians 2:7-11) and it brings riches and life (Proverbs 22:4).
D. However, being humble must be a conscious and deliberate resolve:
i. Jesus says whoever humbles himself as a little child, is greatest in the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 18:4).
ii. Humility must be worn like a garment every day (1 Peter 5:5b).
CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Why do some believers exhibit pride despite its serious consequences?
CONCLUSION: Pride goes before a fall (Proverbs 16:18). Be humble.
LESSON ELEVEN (11)
TOPIC: AVOID STRIFE
BIBLE PASSAGE: Genesis 13:7-11.
MEMORY VERSE: “For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.” James 3:16.
INTRODUCTION: Strife is a strong and bitter disagreement over vital issues. It is often associated with conflict, opposition, competitions, violence, etc. As a divisive agent, it causes confusion, destroys unity, and creates hostility in human relationships. Strife is listed among the works of the flesh in Galatians 5:19-21. It is a sign of carnality which breeds division (1 Corinthians 3:3). Strife destroys and it is an honour to stay away from it.
OUTLINES:
1..EFFECTS AND AGENTS OF STRIFE
2. THE RIGHT RESOLUTION
1..EFFECTS AND AGENTS OF STRIFE
A. Strife destroys good fellowship;
i. It extinguishes the warmth and love in a relationship very fast (Genesis 13:7).
ii. Like a virus, it spreads from person to person (2 Samuel 19:9).
iii. No matter who we are, we must take strife out of our lives because it can bring emotional wounds to families (Genesis 27:34-36, 41), and nations can go to war.
iv. It brings disharmony among the fold of Christ (Acts 15:35-39).
v. It can lead to destruction (Galatians 5:15).
B. Strife has some terrible agents that trigger it to action. Some of these include:
i. Pride (Proverbs 28:25a).
ii. Anger/Wrath (Proverbs 29:22; 15:18).
iii. Backbiting (Proverbs 16:28).
iv. Tell-tale (Proverbs 26:20).
v. Argument (1Timothy 6:4; Proverbs 26:21).
vi. Envy (James 3:14; Philippians 1:15).
vii. Unhealthy rivalry (Luke 22:24).
viii. Unteachable spirit (Proverbs 13:10).
ix. Evil desires (James 4:1).
CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Students should describe strife in a word.
2. THE RIGHT RESOLUTION
A. Preventing or staying away from strife must be a personal resolve and a responsibility one must be willing to take up (Philippians 2:3). Therefore, we must:
1. Intentionally work at it and confront it by consciously and consistently saying no to strife (Proverbs 20:3).
2. Avoid needless arguments (Proverbs 17:14).
3. Do away with bitterness (Hebrews 12:15), conflict, violent disagreement, etc.
4. Be a strife-stopper like Abram (Genesis 13:8).
5. Refuse to backbite or be a part of those who foment trouble (Psalm 15:3).
6. Be the first to resolve issues (Matthew 5:23-24).
7. Learn how to disagree peaceably (Romans 12:18).
B. Unity is another major requirement needed to keep strife out of our lives and relationships (Psalm 133:1).
1. Jesus in His prayers in John 17:22 asked the Father to make His followers one, as He and His Father are one.
2. Unity brings positive results, makes us achieve collective goals (Genesis 11:5-6), live in peace, etc. but it requires humility.
3. Psalm 133:2-3 states that unity brings anointing, refreshing, and blessings.
CLASS ACTIVITY 2: How have you been avoiding strife as a believer?
CONCLUSION: Strife is a work of the flesh and it must be kicked out to build unity and achieve giant strides in life.
LESSON TWELVE (12)
TOPIC: A WHOLESOME CHRISTIAN LIFE
BIBLE PASSAGE: 1 Thessalonians 5:21-23.
MEMORY VERSE: “Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.” 3 John 2.
INTRODUCTION: Some Christians have grown with the idea that it is better to focus on spiritual life than anything else in this world since it is the soul that journeys to eternity. This belief has made them concentrate more on spirituality at the expense of other functional aspects of their lives. However, the scripture makes it clear that we should live a balanced life (3 John 2). In this lesson, we shall consider some of the areas believers need to create a balance and the attendant benefits.
OUTLINES:
1. THE FOUNDATION
2. THE BENEFITS
1. THE FOUNDATION
Our faith in God should be demonstrated in the following ways, among others:
1. Willingness to obey His word totally (Proverbs 3:5-7).
2. Family and relationships are vital and should be cherished. Therefore, make good and godly friends (Proverbs 17:17).
3. The people in our lives and relationships are important: they should be valued and esteemed appropriately (1Timothy 5:8; Galatians 6:10; Proverbs 18:24a).
4. Being a good steward over our finances takes a lot of discipline (Luke 16:10-12).
5. Living beyond our means, amassing material possessions, and accumulating irresponsible debt is unwise (Proverbs 22:7).
6. Keeping our bodies healthy by eating a balanced diet, regular exercises, and maintaining personal and environmental hygiene are part of the life God calls us to (1 Corinthians 10:31; 1 Timothy 4:8a).
7. It is important to aspire to reach the top in our careers and be the best in what we do (Proverbs 12:24).
8. Avoid depression, socialize and be happy (Proverbs 17:22).
CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Share with the class what you have not been doing that you will do going forward to live a better Christian life.
2. THE BENEFITS
1. Exercising faith in God will bring peace and confidence to weather the storms of life (Isaiah 26:3; Psalm 56:11).
2. We will grow and mature spiritually to please God and live victoriously (Proverbs 16:7).
3. Spending quality time with family and friends will create a bond and a support base for us (Psalm 133:1-3).
4. Financial stability is a defence (Ecclesiastes 7:12a): it helps us avoid unnecessary tension.
5. Adherence to healthy living enhances longevity and prosperity (Job 36:11; Proverbs 23:21).
6. Fulfilment and greater influence come from reaching the peak in our chosen career; we will also be a blessing to many (Genesis 41:40-41; 45:5).
7. Being the best in what we do makes us sought after (Proverbs 22:29).
CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Students should prayerfully consider a mentor who is living a wholesome Christian life and learn from the person as they learn from Christ.
CONCLUSION: Wholesome living should be the pursuit of every believer. Live a balanced life.
