RCCG YAYA 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: RUACH ELOHIM
MEMORY VERSE: “The earth was without form, and void; and darkness was on the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters”. Genesis 1:2 (NKJV)
BIBLE PASSAGE: Exodus 31:1-5 NKJV
INTRODUCTION: God is a Spirit (John 4:24) and he operates through His Spirit (Genesis 1-2). The word Spirit in Hebrew tongue is “Ruach” while God is “Elohiym”. The Spirit of God is linked with creation (Psalm 104:30). At Jesus’ baptism, the Spirit of God descended as a dove upon Him (Matthew 3:16). He is active in the work of redemption, restoration and deliverance of God’s people (Isaiah 32:14-17). This lesson shall examine how the Spirit empowers and His divine nature.
LESSON OUTLINES
1. BIBLICAL INSTANCES OF HIS EMPOWERMENT
2. HIS DIVINE NATURE
1. BIBLICAL INSTANCES OF HIS EMPOWERMENT
A. The Spirit of God is not only known for His creative ability, He is also an empowering Spirit (Joel 2:28-29).
B. He is called different names in the Holy Scriptures such as:
i. The Holy Spirit/Ghost (Acts 1:8).
ii. Spirit of holiness (Romans 1:4).
iii. The Anointing (1 John 2:27).
C. There are several instances in the Bible where certain individuals were empowered by the Spirit of God. These include:
i. Joseph: He was empowered with creative leadership and and problem solving skills as well as the gift of administration by the Spirit of God (Genesis 41:37-41).
ii. Bezaleel: The Spirit of God equipped him with wisdom, understanding, knowledge, and all manner of skills (Exodus 31:3-5).
iii. Ezekiel: He was moved by the Spirit of God to see the invisible (what natural eyes cannot see) Ezekiel 11:24; 37:1; 43:5.
iv. Peter: On receiving the baptism of the Spirit of God, He preached a single message and 3,000 souls were saved and added to the church (Acts 2:41).
v. Paul: He preached the gospel with mighty signs and wonder, by the power of this Spirit of God (Romans 15: 19).
vi. Philip: He was supernaturally transported to Azotus by the Spirit of the Lord after he ministered to the Ethiopian Eunuch (Acts 8:39-40).
vii. The Spirit of God also helped Othniel to prevail against the Mesopotamian king, Cushan-Rishathaim (Judges 3:10); Gideon to defeat the Midianites with 300 men (Judges 7:7); Jephthat to overthrow the Ammonites (Judges 11:29, 32); and Samson to deal with the Philistines (Judges 15:14-15).
CLASS ACTIVITY 1: The class should carefully consider the dynamic ways the Holy Spirit has worked through various people in the scriptures and each student should eulogise Him in a word.
2. HIS DIVINE NATURE
There are certain attributes accorded the Spirit of God. These include:
i. Creativity – the creative ability of God is released to people through His Spirit (Exodus 35:30-35).
ii. Inspiration – The Spirit inspires and gives people understanding (Job 32:8; Daniel 4:8-9).
iii. Authority – He is in total control of all situations (Ezekiel 37:14) and acts as a defence for the elect (Isaiah 59:19).
iv. Omniscience – He is all-knowing and possesses all secrets (Psalm 139:7).
v. Omnipotence – He is all powerful and can facilitate what human power could not (Zechariah 4:6).
vi. The Spirit of God possesses emotion and can be grieved (Ephesians 4:30).
vii. It is however dangerous to be a victim of his anger (Isaiah 63:10).
CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Student should mention other attributes of the Holy Spirit known to them.
CONCLUSION: There is no limit to what the Spirit of can do. Allow Him to take full control of your life.
LESSON TWO (02)
TOPIC: ALTERNATIVE SPIRITUALITY
BIBLE PASSAGE: Isaiah 47:13-14 NKJV
MEMORY VERSE: “Give no regard to mediums and familiar spirits; do not seek after them, to be defiled by them: I am the LORD your God.” Leviticus 19:31 (NKJV).
INTRODUCTION: Alternative spirituality is a loosely defined term generally used to describe spiritual practices that do not conform to true Christianity. It is largely characterised by some spiritual practices and rituals that are often chosen by the participants to fit their individual needs. In this lesson, we shall highlight some of them and scripturally view what our perspectives should be as believers.
OUTLINES:
1. Alternative Spirituality Practices
2. Scriptural Perspectives
1. ALTERNATIVE SPIRITUALITY PRACTISES
The teacher should explain some of the alternative powers people seek today.
A. Astrology and the Zodiac is the “interpretation” of an assumed influence the starry hosts (and planets) exert on human destiny (Isaiah 47:13; Daniel 2:27). According to astrology, the sign you were born under, like Aquarius, Pisces, etc. impacts your destiny.
B. Crystal sphere is the belief that a precious stone has an inherent power that can be used to man’s benefit like attracting wealth, rekindling romance, and warding off evil spirits or bad energy thus bringing good luck.
C. Necromancy is the conjuring of the spirits of the dead to magically reveal the future or influence the course of events. In the Bible, necromancy is also called “divination,” “sorcery” and “Spiritism” (Exodus 7:11; 2 Kings 17:17).
D. Others include practices like:
i. Palm reading, visiting false prophets, spiritual bathing etc.
ii. playing some seemingly harmless games designed to initiate people into divination
iii. visiting websites that promise to guide and reveal destiny to unsuspecting victims
iv. perfumes and cosmetics capable of bringing good luck or warding off bad luck
v. Using charms, amulets, talismans, etc. (Leviticus 19:26).
CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Students should mention other ungodly practices prevalent in their community.
2. SCRIPTURAL PERSPECTIVES
A. Astrology, crystal sphere as well as necromancy are forms of divination expressly detestable and forbidden in the Scriptures (Deuteronomy 18:10-14).
i. Stars, along with the sun and moon, were given for “signs” and “seasons” (Genesis 1:14).
ii. To “worship the starry host” is a clear violation of God’s law (Deuteronomy 4:19).
iii. The royal astrologers of the Babylonian court were put to shame by God’s prophet, Daniel (Daniel 1:20; 2:27).
B. Our wisdom comes from God, not the dead (James 1:5).
i. Those who are dead, either go to Heaven to rest or to hell for condemnation.
ii. Anything outside this is the conjuring of demonic spirits. Likewise, anything that seeks to manipulate the spirit world can be categorised as witchcraft. Witchcraft is named along with idolatry as ungodly behaviour (Galatians 5:19-21).
C. All the aforementioned practices involve demonic manipulations
i. They open the one who practices them to demonic attacks.
ii. It is worshipping created things rather than the Creator (Romans 1:25).
D. The word of God is and must remain our guide through life (Psalm 119:105).
CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Students should share any alternative spirituality they have engaged in previously and its implication on their lives.
CONCLUSION: Every spirituality outside the will of Christ is false and demonic. It should not be embraced by true Christians.
LESSON THREE (03)
TOPIC: SIN IS SIN
BIBLE PASSAGE: I John 3:4-10 NKJV
MEMORY VERSE: “Whoever abides in Him does not sin. Whoever sins has neither seen Him nor known Him.” 1 John 3:6 (NKJV).
INTRODUCTION: Various names have been given to sin. Some call it a mistake or failure while some call it a weakness. Whatever name you want to call it, sin is sin. Sin means disobedience to the Almighty God. It is the violation of the perfect holiness of God (1 John 3:4). Sin in the Hebrew tongue is chatta’ah (khat-taw-aw’) meaning habitual offence.
OUTLINES:
1. The Genesis Of Sin
2. Results Of Sin And Way Out
1. THE GENESIS OF SIN
Teachers are to ask the following questions and explain the answers below to the students expounding on the scriptures provided.
i. Question: How did sin start?
Answer: Sin started with Satan (Isaiah 14:12-14).
ii. Question: How did man become involved?
Answer: Sin entered the world through Adam and Eve because they listened to Satan and thereafter disobeyed God by eating the forbidden fruit (Genesis 3:1-8).
iii. Question: Where in the Bible was sin first mentioned?
Answer: The word sin was first mentioned in the Bible in Genesis 4:7 (KJV).
iv. Question: What are the scriptural classifications of sin?
Answer: The scripture classified the following as sin:
i. All unrighteousness (1 John 5:17a; Romans 1:29-31).
ii. Lawlessness (1 John 3:4; 1 Timothy 1:9-11).
iii. Disobedience/rebellion (1 Samuel 15:22-23a; Colossians 3:5-8).
CLASS ACTIVITY 1:
Teachers should allow the students to discuss how sin originated from Satan.
2. RESULTS OF SIN AND WAY OUT
Sin is dangerous and should be avoided.
A. Question: What are the consequences of sin?
Answer: Some of its grievous consequences are:
i. Separation from God: The sinner will be separated from God (Isaiah 59:2).
ii. Exposure to attacks: Sinners have no divine covering, hence, they are susceptible to different attacks (Ecclesiastes 10:8b).
iii. Eternal punishment: sinners will be punished on earth and in eternity (Matthew 25:46).
iv. Death: Sinners will experience spiritual death (Romans 6:23a).
v. Hell: This is the final abode of sinners. (Matthew 25:41).
B. Question: Can sinners hide their sins from God?
Answer: Sinners cannot hide their sins from God (Jeremiah 2:22).
C. Question: Can sinners be free from their sin?
Answer: The joy is that sinners can be free from sin by acknowledging that they are sinners who cannot help themselves.
D. Question: What can sinners do to be free from their sin?
Answer:
i. They need to accept the saving grace of God (Ephesians 2:4-5) through the confession of their sin to Him (1 John 1:9).
ii. Accept Jesus Christ as Saviour and Lord (Romans 10:9-10).
iii. Sinners must repent and forsake their evil ways (Proverbs 28:13; Acts 2:37-38).
iv. Ask Jesus to cleanse their sins with His powerful blood (Ephesians 1:7, 1 John 1:7).
CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Do you have an unconfessed sin? Ensure you settle with your Creator today.
CONCLUSION: God can pardon any sin if we repent of it (Isaiah 55:7).
LESSON FOUR (04)
TOPIC: THE FOUNDATIONAL TRUTH
BIBLE PASSAGE: 2 Timothy 3:13-17 NKJV
MEMORY VERSE: “Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.” John 17:17 (NKJV).
INTRODUCTION: The Greek word for truth is aletheia, which means to un-hide or hide nothing. It conveys the thought that truth is always there, always open and available for all to see, with nothing being hidden or obscured. The Hebrew word for truth is emeth, which means firmness, constancy, and duration. Such a definition implies an everlasting substance and something that can be relied upon. Truth must originate from somewhere. Ignoring the truth always leads to undesired consequences.
OUTLINES:
1. THE WORD IS THE TRUTH
2. BEWARE OF FALSE DOCTRINES
1. THE WORD IS THE TRUTH
1. Jesus made the simple statement I am the truth (John 14:6) John 1:1, 14 tells us that Jesus is the Word.
2. Mathematically, it means:
a. If Jesus=The Truth …………………..equation 1.
b. And Jesus =The Word ……………. equation 2.
c. Therefore, the Word=the Truth (John 17:17).
3. The Truth is not relative; rather it is absolute, accurate, and unchangeable (2 Corinthians 13:8).
4. The truth of God’s word is divinely inspired and therefore profitable for doctrine, reproof, correction, and instruction in righteousness (2 Timothy 3:16; Psalms 119:9).
5. The word gives wisdom and direction (Colossians 3:16; Psalm 119:105).
6. God’s word is sharp and powerful (Hebrews 4:12).
7. If we know the word of God, we know the truth that will deliver and make us free (Psalm 107:20; John 8:32).
8. The word of God is incorruptible: It gives us a solid spiritual foundation in the faith and an inheritance among the saints of God (1 Peter 1:23; Acts 20:32).
CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Students should share experiences that convinced them that the scripture is the truth.
2. BEWARE OF FALSE DOCTRINES
Almost speedily as the word is running with sound doctrines, the devil is also making efforts, as a busybody, to counter the effort of God through his diverse and varying false doctrines such as:
i. Jesus is not the Son of God (1 John 4:1-3).
ii. There is no resurrection of the dead (1 Corinthians 15:13-19).
iii. The days of miracles are over (Hebrews 13:8).
iv. The days of tithing are over (Malachi 3:10-13).
v. Holiness is impossible (Philippians 4:13; Luke 1:37).
CLASS ACTIVITY 2: What other lies or half-truths you have come across in your Christian life that others must beware of?
CONCLUSION: Time spent in ensuring that the original truth is well known is not a wasted one, after all, we know that Satan is more organised in these last days in the spread of his doctrines.
LESSON FIVE (05)
TOPIC: GOD-PLEASERS
BIBLE PASSAGE: 1 Thessalonians 2:1-6 NKJV
MEMORY VERSE: “That you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God” Colossians 1:10 (NKJV).
INTRODUCTION: The Almighty God created us human beings with the capacity to relate with Him and with one another. It is the level of your relationship with God that determines whether you are willing to please Him or not.A God-pleaser refers to someone who does things that bring pleasure to God. Things that make Him smile. These approved behavioural patterns are available in the word of God to learn from.
OUTLINES:
1. Becoming A God-Pleaser
2. Benefits Of Being A God-Pleaser
1. BECOMING A GOD-PLEASER
You must be determined to be a God-pleaser because every good thing requires seriousness and grit for it to succeed. Below are some of the ways to become a God-pleaser.
(i) Be a devout worshipper: God loves to be worshipped because He cannot worship Himself, therefore He seeks worshippers (John 4:23-24).
(ii) Believe and trust God wholeheartedly: One of the ways to give pleasure to God is your absolute trust in Him. (Psalm 118:8). This gives you easy access to Him always (Hebrews 11:5-6).
(iii) Obey and serve Him: God takes pleasure in the people who obey His word (Exodus 19:4-5).
(iv) Actively enlarge His kingdom: Seek to testify about your salvation experience to someone daily, draw men out of darkness into the light, expanding God’s kingdom. (Matthew 28:19-20; Mark 16:15-18).
CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Students should share with the class other things that can be done to please God. Support with scriptural references.
2. BENEFITS OF BEING A GOD-PLEASER
There are so many rewards available to those who choose to please God (Hebrews 11:6). Some of these include:
A. Divine presence with all its abundant wonders. The presence of God brings fullness of Joy (Psalm 16:11).
i. It was the presence of God that prospered Joseph everywhere he went and in everything he did (Genesis 39:2).
ii. The presence of God makes mountains move out of the way (Psalm 68:8).
iii. It was the presence of God that separated the Red Sea. (Psalm 114:3-8).
B. Glorious manifestation both here on earth and in eternity. Those who please God shall be abundantly blessed here on earth and reign with Christ in eternity as kings and priests (Mark 10:28-30; Revelation 5:10).
C. Demonstration of God’s power. When you are a God pleaser, you do not only make the promises of God to come to pass in your life, (2 Corinthians 1:20), but you turn them into time-bound decrees (Job 22:28).
D. Divine safety and security. As a God pleaser, your defence is sure, because God will shield you against every evil targeting you and fight your battles. In other words, your battles become God’s battles (2 Chronicles 20:17, Exodus 14:13-28).
E. Divine promotion. Anyone who pleases God will be divinely promoted and made ten times better than all his/her contemporaries. (Daniel 1:8, 20).
CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Students should share the benefits of doing God’s will.
CONCLUSION: Beloved, it is better and extremely profitable now and for eternity to be a God-pleaser. Be determined to be one and God will help you.
LESSON SIX (06)
TOPIC: MEN-PLEASERS
BIBLE PASSAGE: Ephesians 6:5-8 (NKJV)
MEMORY VERSE: “Bondservants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh, not with eye-service, as men-pleasers, but in sincerity of heart, fearing God.” Colossians 3:22 (NKJV).
INTRODUCTION: A “Men-Pleaser” is an individual who strives to please men or seeks to gain their favour with an ulterior motive. If the motive for your actions, speeches or attitudes is to always please men or the world rather than God, then you are in the category of men-pleasers (Acts 5:29).
OUTLINES:
1. Characteristics And Dangers Of Pleasing Men
2. Overcoming Men-Pleasing Attitudes
1. CHARACTERISTIC AND DANGERS OF PLEASING MEN
A. There are peculiar traits associated with men-pleasers that tend to separate them from the rest of humanity. Some of these are:
1. LOVE FOR HUMAN PRAISE: They are known to love the praise of men and to receive special appellations from other people (John 12:43).
2. EMOTIONAL TOXICITY: They can do anything including to “murder” people, either physically, spiritually or emotionally. While Herod used physical weapons such as imprisonment or guns (Acts 12:1-3), some other people used their tongue, position etc.
3. MANIPULATION OF JUSTICE: Men pleasers usually have undue respect for men such that they tamper with justice and deliver injustice to the poor (Deuteronomy 1:17).
4. FEAR OF MEN: They exhibit fear of man as one of their peculiar traits; they always forget that the fear of man often brings a snare (Proverbs 29:25).
B. However, the scripture warns against being men-pleasers because of the inherent dangers.
1. Anyone who has the habit of pleasing men will live in perpetual bondage (1 Samuel 15:24). Such a person will lose his or her freedom.
2. Men-pleasers will become accomplices in sin (Proverbs 28:21). The person will not have a mind of his or her own and will be easily tossed (Ephesians 4:14).
3. Men-pleasers will become the enemy of God (James 4:4b) because of the attention given to men other than God.
4. Men-pleasers will eventually experience the wrath of God because such a person is working contrary to God (Isaiah 30:1-2; Jeremiah 17:5).
CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Students should mention the additional dangers of pleasing men.
2. OVERCOMING MEN-PLEASING ATTITUDES
Men-pleasing attitudes can be overcome through a high degree of seriousness and consistency: Therefore,
1. Rededicate and consecrate your heart to God by putting the Almighty in His true and deserving first position (Deuteronomy 6:5).
2. God must always be your delight (Psalm 37:4) and love Him passionately (1 John 4:19).
3. Follow people, as they follow Christ (1 Corinthians 11:1). Stop putting your hope in men because vain is the help of man (Psalm 60:11).
4. Pray more in the Spirit for courage (Joshua 1:6) to say no and you will prevail over men-pleasing attitudes.
CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Have you tried to please men before, what was the outcome?
CONCLUSION: God is supreme, worthy of our worship and does not like competition. Beware of men-pleasing attitudes.
LESSON SEVEN (07)
TOPIC: THE CHRISTIAN FAITH
BIBLE PASSAGE: Isaiah 1:18-20.
MEMORY VERSE: “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8 (NKJV).
INTRODUCTION: There are diverse views, both within and without, about the Christian faith. Some call it a religion, while others say it is a way of life. In some quarters, it is believed that it is a personal relationship with God. What exactly is the tenet of our faith as Christians and how does it compare with other faiths? Is it a religion or a relationship?
OUTLINES:
1. More Than A Religion
2. A Call To A Relationship
1. MORE THAN A RELIGION
A. Teachers should ask the following questions:
i. Question: What is religion?
Answer: Simply put, Religion is the belief in and worship of a superhuman – with controlling power, especially a personal God or gods (Exodus 34:14).
ii. Question: Is Christianity a religion?
Answer: Concerning the definition of religion above, Christianity can be classified as a religion. But it is more than religion
iii. Question: So how is Christianity more than a religion?
Answer: Practically speaking, Christianity has a key difference that separates it from other belief systems that are considered religions. Most religions are man-centred. They are built upon the concept that man can reach a higher power – God, through his efforts – good works, sacrifices, rituals, etc. In that regard, Christianity is not a religion.
B. Question: Do men make a religion out of Christianity in any way?
Answer: Just as the Jewish leaders made a religion out of a relationship with God, many people do the same with Christianity:
i. They follow the way of the Pharisees in creating rules not found in Scripture (Mark 7:8).
ii. Some who profess to follow Christ are merely following man-made religion in the name of Jesus (Colossians 2:8).
iii. While claiming to believe Scripture, they are often plagued with fear and doubt that they may not be good enough to earn salvation or that God will not accept them if they do not carry out some ritualistic activities or perform to a certain standard (Ephesians 2:8-9).
iv. The leaders of religious sects add many of their own rules to make it even more cumbersome (Matthew 15:9).
v. They pride themselves on their ability to keep the Law – at least outwardly. This is religion masquerading as Christianity: it is one of Satan’s favourite tricks (Matthew 23:1-7).
CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Students should discuss other reasons the Christian faith is more than a religion.
2. A CALL TO A RELATIONSHIP
The Christian faith is a relationship that God has established with His children because:
1. Question: What are the proofs that the Christian faith is a call to relationship?
Answer:
i. The Bible states clearly that there is nothing man can do to make himself right with God (Isaiah 64:6).
ii. God did for us what we cannot do for ourselves (Colossians 2:13; 2 Corinthians 5:21).
iii. Our sin separates us from His presence, and sin must be punished (Romans 6:23).
iv. God loves us; He took our punishment upon Himself (Isaiah 53:5).
v. All we must do is to accept God’s gift of salvation by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9).
2. Question: Are there other reasons to substantiate that Christianity is a call to a relationship?
Answer: The grace-based relationship between God and man is the foundation of Christianity and the opposite of religion (Titus 2:11-14):
i. We love God because He first loved us (1 John 4:19).
ii. Holiness and obedience to Scripture are important, but they are pieces of evidence of a transformed heart, not a means to attain it.
iii. God desires that we be holy as He is holy (1 Peter 1:16).
iv. He wants us to grow in grace and the knowledge of Him (2 Peter 3:18).
v. We do these things because we are His children and want to be like Him.
vi. God wants us to know Him, draw near to Him, pray to Him, and love Him above everything. That is not religion; that is a relationship.
CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Mention the encounter(s) you’ve had in your Christian faith that shows you clearly that you are in a relationship with God.
CONCLUSION: Christianity is not about signing up for a religion. Christianity is about being born into the family of God (John 3:3).
LESSON EIGHT (08)
TOPIC: THE REDEMPTION PACKAGE
BIBLE PASSAGE: 3 John 2-4
MEMORY VERSE: “As His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue.” 2 Peter 1:3 (NKJV).
INTRODUCTION: After we surrendered our lives to Jesus, He gave us our redemption package. Inside this package is everything that will make life enjoyable. These things make Christianity delightful and beautiful. It is, therefore, expedient that we unfold our redemption package to enjoy its benefits.
OUTLINES:
1..Reasons For Not Enjoying The Redemption Package
2..Unfolding The Redemption Package
1. REASONS FOR NOT ENJOYING THE REDEMPTION PACKAGE
Certain factors may be attributed to the inability of a Christian to enjoy the benefits of redemption.
A. Ignorance is one of them (John 8:32).
i. These benefits are written all over the pages of the Bible.
ii. We must search them out to know them (John 5:39; Acts 17:11).
iii. Until we discover them, we cannot enjoy them (Isaiah 5:13; Hosea 4:6).
B. Another reason is that some Christians have been wrongly taught to be content with their present state.
i. Sometimes you hear them say, “Thank God, I am saved: at least, I am going to Heaven.”
ii. Some Christians may decide to live and die like Lazarus: sick, afflicted, and poor; while others decide to live and die like Abraham; rich and healthy (Luke 16:20-21; Genesis 25:8-10).
iii. Do not be content with your present state, if it is not a pleasant one. Iv. We must revolt against lack, want, sicknesses, affliction, and any other thing that does not bring glory to God in our lives.
CLASS ACTIVITY 1: How can one enjoy the redemptive package?
2. UNFOLDING THE REDEMPTION PACKAGE
Some of the things that accompany salvation can be broadly categorised as follows:
1. Deliverance: This is being set free from the power of darkness and it includes:
i. Deliverance from curses and evil covenants (Galatians 3:13; Romans 8:1).
ii. Deliverance from the spirit of fear (2 Timothy. 1:7). Fear has torment (1 John 4:18).
iii. Deliverance from demonic oppressions (Isaiah 49:24-26; Luke 10:19).
iv. Deliverance from the wrath of God (Romans 5:9; Ephesians 5:6).
2. Victory: This means triumphing, dominating, etc. (1 Corinthians 15:57). In the victory package is victory over:
i. Sin (Romans 6:14).
ii. Enemies (Isaiah 59:19).
iii. Devil (Revelation 12:11).
iv. Sickness and diseases (Exodus 15:26; Isaiah 53:4-5).
v. Death (both physical and spiritual) – Isaiah 28:18a.
3. Prosperity: Abundant provisions have been made for us (2 Corinthians 8:9; Job 36:11). However, some Christians are suffering, not because they are not saved, but because they are not meeting the conditions of the covenant of prosperity (sowing, giving, tithing, etc. – 2 Corinthians 9:6, 8).
CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Students should share with the class what changed in their lives since they gave their lives to Christ.
CONCLUSION: If we, as Christians, look mournful and sickly, it may be that we have not been claiming our redemption benefits. We must claim our redemption package. It is our covenant right.
LESSON NINE (09)
TOPIC: CHRISTIANITY AND SOCIALISATION
BIBLE PASSAGE: 1 Corinthians 6:12-13 (NKJV)
MEMORY VERSE: “Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.” Philippians 4:5 (KJV).
INTRODUCTION: To socialise simply means to talk to and do things with other people in a friendly way. There are various ways of socialising, ranging from relating with people in the immediate environment to getting involved in governance and community development activities. Christian socialisation cuts across recreation, social interaction, cultural activities, and political issues. While there may be diverse opinions on the extent of the involvement of Christians in social issues, it should be noted that moderation should be the watchword.
OUTLINES:
1. BIBLICAL INSTANCES OF SOCIALISATION
2. WORLDLY PERSPECTIVES VERSUS BIBLICAL PERSPECTIVES
1. BIBLICAL INSTANCES OF SOCIALISATION
The Bible contains instances of different forms of socialisation. We shall x-ray them.
A. The Lord Jesus socialized in the following instance:
i. Jesus Christ and His disciples attended a wedding ceremony at Cana of Galilee (John 2:1-2).
ii. He dined with Zacchaeus in his house (Luke 19:5).
iii. He was a friend to the family of Lazarus, Mary, and Martha (Luke 10:38-42) and also paid them a condolence visit (John 11:33-35).
iv. He and His disciples also participated in the Feast of Passover (Mark 14:12-14).
B. Apostle Paul interacted with diverse classes of people for the sake of the Gospel to win some (1 Corinthians 9:19-23).
C. Daniel was involved in political administration in his days (Daniel 1:18-21; 6:1-3).
CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Students should explore some other examples of social events in which God’s people participated in the Bible.
2. WORLDLY PERSPECTIVES VERSUS BIBLICAL PERSPECTIVES
Christians cannot live in isolation in this present world. However, we must know when and how to draw the line between worldly (sinful) and acceptable (holy) socialisations. For instance:
i. Christians are expected to recreate (1Timothy 4:8) but visiting bar/beer joints and nightclubs for recreation is unacceptable.
ii. Christians should avoid participating or feasting at occasions where idols are celebrated (1Corinthians 10:28).
iii. Modernised carnivals with satanic undertones and other places where Christian integrity is questionable should also be avoided (1 Corinthians 8:10-11; 10:19-21).
iv. Watching immoral movies, listening to/singing ungodly music, and wearing seductive dresses in the name of socialisation are also ungodly things Christians must avoid (1 Corinthians 8:8-11).
v. While getting involved in secular activities, Christians should watch out and abstain from things that can make them compromise their faith (Philippians 4:8).
CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Students should identify the inherent dangers of reckless socialisation.
CONCLUSION: Whatsoever we do to socialise should be to the glory of God and the edification of the saints (1Corinthians 10:31). Christians are to show moderation in social interactions.
LESSON TEN (10)
TOPIC: DIVINE RESISTANCE
BIBLE PASSAGE: 1 Peter 5:5-7 (NKJV)
MEMORY VERSE: “But He gives more grace. Therefore He says: “God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.” James 4:6 (NKJV).
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 overinflated 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 end. These include:
i. 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 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 by 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).
iv. He forgives their sins and heals their land (2 Chronicles 7:14).
v. He hears when they call (2 Chronicles 34:27; Psalm 9:12).
vi. God will save them (Job 22:29).
vii. He guides and teaches them His way (Psalm 25:9).
viii. Humility comes before honour (Proverbs 18:12; Philippians 2:7-11) and it brings riches and life (Proverbs 22:4).
B. 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 embrace pride despite its serious consequences?
CONCLUSION: Pride goes before a fall (Proverbs 16:18). Be humble.
LESSON ELEVEN (11)
TOPIC: CONSECRATION
BIBLE PASSAGE: Revelation 1:5-6 (NKJV)
MEMORY VERSE: “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.” Romans 12:1 (NKJV).
INTRODUCTION: Consecration from its Hebrew root “millu’” means a dedicatory sacrifice. This refers to persons or things being separated or belonging to God. They are sacred and set apart for the service of God. In the Old Testament era, the race of Abraham and the tribe of Levi were consecrated to God (Exodus 13:2, 12, 15; Numbers 3:12). In the New Testament, Christians are regarded as being consecrated to the Lord (1 Peter 2:9). In consecration, we have our roles as Christians while God has His roles.
OUTLINES:
1. Our Role
2. God’s Role
1. OUR ROLE
Teachers should guide and give convincing explanations to students with the questions, answers and scriptures below:
A. Question: Why Consecration?
Answer: Consecration plays an important role in our growth as God’s children.
B. Question: Do we have any part to play in consecration?
Answer: Yes. Our part is the practical side of separating ourselves from sinful living (Romans 12:1; 2 Corinthians 6:17).
C. Question: Must all believers be consecrated?
Answer: Yes. This is because consecration is not optional for believers since we are all God’s priests (1 Peter 2:9; Revelation 1:6).
D. Question: So what do we do?
Answer: We dedicate our hearts to God:
i. We must make a conscious, willing decision to surrender our soul, mind, heart, and body to God (Matthew 16:24-25; Hebrews 10:22).
ii. Also since consecration is a personal choice, it is important to reflect on and search out the true motive of our hearts (Jeremiah 17:10; Philippians 4:8).
iii. We must separate ourselves from things the world promotes when the Holy Spirit convicts us that those things are wicked (1 John 2:16).
iv. We must draw closer to God through His word (James 4:8).
E. Question: Are there people in the Bible who were consecrated?
Answer: People who exhibited consecration in the Bible include:
i. Caleb and Joshua (Numbers 32:12).
ii. Josiah and his subjects (2 Kings 23:3; 25).
iii. Apostle Paul (Philippians 3:7-8).
iv. Jesus is the perfect example of consecration, in that He faithfully carried out God’s will and served Him in absolute perfection (John 15:13; Galatians 1:4; 1 John 3:16).
CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Although believers’ consecration is a work in progress, students should share their consecration stories so far.
2. GOD’S ROLE
A. Question: What is God’s role in the consecration of believers?
Answer: God’s part of our being consecrated is to:
i. prepare us for His use by making us holy (Deuteronomy 7:6).
ii. In being prepared for holy use, God also prepares our body for use in the ministry (Ephesians 4:7).
B. Question: How does He achieve it in the life of the believers?
Answer: i. As Christians, God has already cleansed us on the inside and made us holy through His truth (John 15:3).
ii. The mission of Jesus was to sanctify believers (John 17:19). Paul said Christians are called to be “saints,” and their sanctification comes through Christ (1 Corinthians 1:2; Romans 1:7).
CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Students should discuss the possible outcomes a believer who refuses consecration may face in his/her Christian life.
CONCLUSION: God uses sanctified vessels for His glorious purpose (2 Timothy 2:20-21). He can use you in a greater dimension.
LESSON TWELVE (12)
TOPIC: CULTURAL CHRISTIANITY
BIBLE PASSAGE: Matthew 7:21-23 (NKJV)
MEMORY VERSE: “And when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. So it was that for a whole year they assembled with the church and taught a great many people. And the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch.” Acts 11:26 (NKJV).
INTRODUCTION: The Christian faith is the experience of daily living in a dynamic and new personal relationship with God (Romans 10:9-10; John 1:11-13). The very term “Christian” was coined in the city of Antioch as a way to identify the first followers of Christ (Acts 11:26). The first disciples were so much like Jesus that they were called little Christs by their detractors. It is unfortunate that nowadays, some people have made Christianity represent an ideology or a social class rather than a lifestyle of obedience to God. Today, there are two shades of Christianity: Cultural Christianity and Biblical Christianity.
OUTLINES:
1. Cultural Christianity Described
2. Identification Marks
1. CULTURAL CHRISTIANITY DESCRIBED
i. Cultural Christians are nominal believers who superficially identify themselves as “Christians” but do not truly adhere to the tenets of the Christian faith (Matthew 15:8).
ii. They wear the label “Christian” without personal conviction that Jesus is Lord (2 Timothy 3:5).
iii. Cultural Christianity is more social than spiritual (1 Corinthians 2:14-15).
iv. A cultural Christian identifies with certain aspects of Christianity, such as the good works of Jesus (John 6:26-27), but rejects the spiritual aspects required to be a biblically defined Christian (Romans 8:5).
v. Some people consider themselves Christians because of family background, charity giving, place of residence, Christian name or title, churchgoing or social environment.
vi. Others identify as Christians as a way of declaring a religious affiliation.
vii. Cultural Christianity is not true Christianity. There was no such thing as cultural Christianity in the days of the early church
CLASS ACTIVITY 1: According to the text of the lesson (Mathew 7:21-23) what will be Jesus’ justification for labelling some ‘‘Christians’’ workers of iniquity on the last day?
2. IDENTIFICATION MARKS
The following are some identifying marks of cultural Christians:
1. They deny the inspiration of Scripture or parts of Scripture (2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:21).
2. They ignore or downplay true repentance as the first step toward knowing God (Matthew 4:17; Acts 2:38).
3. They focus on Jesus’ love and acceptance to the exclusion of His teaching on hell, obedience, and self-sacrifice (Mark 9:43; Luke 12:5).
4. They tolerate or even celebrate ongoing sin while claiming to know God (1 Corinthians 5:1-2).
5. They redefine scriptural truths to accommodate culture (Numbers 23:19).
6. Claiming God’s promises while ignoring the requirements included with them (Psalm 50:16).
7. They deny or minimise Jesus’ claim that He is the only way to God (John 14:6).
8. They perform enough religious activity to gain a sense of well-being without a true devotion to Jesus (Romans 8:9).
9. They see protection and blessing as goals to be achieved, rather than by-products of a love relationship with God (Mark 12:30).
10. They are lukewarm and choose the church to attend based on any or all of the above (Revelation 3:15-17).
CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Students should examine themselves in the face of the aforementioned identification marks, and share with the class, the biblically acceptable option they would embrace going forward.
CONCLUSION: Jesus’ warning in Matthew 7:21-23 should be a wake-up call to cultural Christians.
