RCCG YAYA SUNDAY SCHOOL STUDENT’S MANUAL 27 NOVEMBER 2022
LESSON THIRTEEN (13)
TOPIC: FIRST INTERACTIVE SECTION
(SUMMERY OF LESSONS FROM LESSON 1-12)
LESSON ONE
TOPIC: WHO IS ELOHIYM?
MEMORY VERSE: “In the beginning God created the Heaven and the earth”. — Genesis 1:1(NKJV)
BIBLE PASSAGE: GENESIS 1:1-5
INTRODUCTION
Some people, called atheists, do not believe in or intentionally deny the existence of God. The Bible calls them ‘fools’ (Ps. 41:1). Others believe in the existence of many gods and consult with them based on peculiar needs; they are called polytheists. The Bible unequivocally teaches that there is only one God (Elohiym or Elohim) who created all things, sustains all things, and transcends all things. This is what we believe as Christians. It is worth noting that we do not worship or serve the same God with the people of other religions who also believe that there is only one ‘God.’ Who then is our God and what make him unique?
LESSON OUTLINE
1. OUR GOD IS THE UNCREATED CREATOR
2. OUR GOD IS UNIQUE
OUR GOD IS THE UNCREATED CREATOR
As revealed to us by the Bible, we believe that they is only one God who created the Heaven and the Earth (Gen. 1:1). Our God is the creator of both visible and invisible creatures (Col. 1:16). Our God created all living things (humans, animals, and plants) and non-living things (sun, moon,rivers, stars, mountains, etc.)- Psalm 8:3; 86:9-10; John. 1:1-3. Our God is the uncreated creator (Col. 1:17; Ps. 90:2). In our God, every creature receives life (Jn. 5:26; Gen. 2:7). Also, our God created and controls times and seasons (Gen. 1:14; Daniel 2:21a).
OUR GOD IS UNIQUE.
The uniqueness of our God is evident in many of his attributes. Our God is the Supreme being and ruler of all that is (Ps.103:19; 115:3). He is the self existent One (Isa. 45:5-6). Our God is perfect (Ps. 18:30) in holiness (Lev. 11:44; Ex. 15:11), power (Ps. 62:11), goodness (Ex. 34:6) and, wisdom (Rom. 11:33), etc. Our God is everywhere -Omnipresent (Jer. 23:24), All-powerful -Omnipotent (Rev. 19:6) and, All-knowing -Omniscient (1Jn. 3:20). Our God is spirit (Jn 4:24; 2Cor. 3:17). Our God is all light (1Jn 1:5) and glory (Ps. 19:1). Our God is love (1Jn 4:8, 16) and loves us with an everlasting love (Jer. 31:3).
The sovereignty of our God is expressed in the fact that He does whatever pleases Him (1Chr. 29:11; Ps. 115:3). No one can query him (Isaiah 29:16; 45:9). Our God is eternal (Ps. 90:2; Rom. 1:20; Heb. 13:8).
CONCLUSION
Every Christian must believe and declare boldly that our God is the only God.
*LESSON: TWO*
TOPIC: SECRET TO KNOWING GOD
MEMORY VERSE: “That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;”. – Pilllippians 3:10 (NKJV).
BIBLE PASSAGE: ACTS 17:22-27
INTRODUCTION
Within all of us, there exists a strong desire to be known and to know others. More importantly, there is a void in every individual – a quest to know their creator, even if they are not professed believers in God. The apostle Paul expressed his desire to truly know God (Philippians 3:10). It is therefore, important to address the issue of seeking and truly knowing God.
LESSON OUTLINES
1. SEEKING GOD IS INEVITABLE
2. SECRET TO TRULY KNOWING GOD
SEEKING GOD IS INEVITABLE
Our desire to seek and know more of God is the essence of true life (John 17:3; Jeremiah 50:4). The thoughts of God should be paramount in our minds because they will determine the value and direction of our lives (Psalm 48:9; 63:6). Seeking God, then, is an ongoing responsibility and privilege for all Christians (Job 5:8). Therefore, Scriptures admonish us to seek God wholeheartedly (Deuteronomy 4:29); early in life (Psalm 63:1; Eccl. 12:1); continually (Psalm 105:4) with joy (Psalm 70:4); by prayer and supplications, with fasting (Daniel 9:3); through His righteousness (Matthew 6:33) and by studying His word (John 5:39).
Assuredly, those who seek God under the conditions stated above shall find Him (Jeremiah 29:13) and be satisfied (Matthew 5:6); they shall understand all things (Proverbs 28:5 and shall not lack any good thing (Psalm 34:10).
SECRET TO TRULY KNOWING GOD
The uniqueness of our God is evident in many of His attributes.
In an attempt to know God, we must:
1. Receive Jesus Christ into our lives (John 1:12): Jesus makes it clear that He alone is the way to Heaven and personal knowledge of God (John 14:6-9).
2. Understand that the Bible is God’s word and a revelation of Himself, His promises, and His will (John 1:1; Psalm 119:105). The Bible is essentially a love letter written to us from a loving God who created us to know Him intimately (2Timothy 3:14-17).
3. Be committed to obeying what we read in the Scriptures (Titus 1:16; John 15:14). We were created to do good works (Ephesians 2:10). Not only must we read and understand God’s word, but we must also apply doctrines obediently and remain faithful (James 1:21-22).
4. Be committed to prayer, personal devotion, fellowship with brethren (Hebrews 10:25) and always worship God in spirit and in truth (John 4:23-24).
5. Allow the Holy Spirit to lead and guide us always (Revelation 8:14, 26-27). Then, our lives can be filled with God, and we can experience knowing Him intimately.
CONCLUSION
If we genuinely hunger and thirst to know God, He will reveal Himself to us.
*LESSON: THREE*
TOPIC: THE 3-IN-1 GOD
MEMORY VERSE: “For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one”. –1John 5:7
BIBLE PASSAGE: MATTHEW 3:16-17
INTRODUCTION
The doctrine of the 3-in-1 God otherwise known as Trinity is foundational to the Christian faith. It is the revelation of who our Almighty God actually is. God is an infinite Being, existing eternally as three co-equal and infinitely distinct Persons also called the Godhead: God the Father, God the Son and the Holy Spirit. The origin of the doctrine of the Trinity is the Bible, although the word Trinity is not used in the Bible. The word ‘Trinity’ was coined by one of the early Church fathers, by the name ‘Tertullian.’ This doctrine is called ‘Trinitarianism’ and it’s adherents are called ‘Trinitarians.’ The focus of the study is to demystify the concept of the Trinity by providing the biblical basis for it with further clarifications.
LESSON OUTLINES
1. BIBLICAL ORIGIN
2. THE EXPLANATION
BIBLICAL BASIS
The old testament provides glimpses of the Trinity. For example, the Hebrew word for God-“Elohiym” – is actually a plural form of the word ‘El’: hence, in Genesis 1:26, God says (in the plural) “Let us make man in our image.” When God created the Heaven and the earth, Jesus was the instrument of God’s creation (John 1:1-3; Colossians 1:15-16), in the company of the Holy Spirit who hovered over the waters (Genesis 1:2). Genesis 11:7, “Go to, let us go down….,” also provides us with the evidence of the three-in-oneness of God. The Torah (the first five books of the Old testament, also called the law or the Pentateuch) hinted at the idea of God existing in three Persons and predicted His coming in the flesh (Genesis 49:10) to be born in Bethlehem (Micah 5:2). He is not only God’s Son (Isaiah 9:6) but a Messiah who would be God in the flesh (Zechariah 2:10-11).
From the very beginning of the church in the New testament, Christians understood the mystery of the Trinity. For example, John the beloved knew the Son was the Creator (John 1:1-3), the “I Am” of the Old testament (John 8:58; Exodus 3:14), equal to the Father (John 10:30;14:9), and the Judge of all the earth (John 5:22), who is to be worshipped as only God is allowed to be (Matthew 14:33). Also, the first Christians knew the Holy Spirit was a separate person (John 14:26) who intercedes for us with God (Romans 8:26-27), proving he is a distinct person from God the Father. The early believers knew that the Father and the son sent the third person of the Trinity, the Holy Spirit- “another comforter”- to live our hearts (John 14:16-17, 26;16:7).
New testament writers mention all three persons of the Trinity together numerous times. For instance:
1. At Jesus’ baptism- Matthew 3:13-17 (voice of the Father, Son baptized, Spirit descending like a dove).
2. At salvation- 1Peter 1:2 (chosen by the Father, sanctified by the Spirit, sprinkled with the blood of Jesus).
3. At Sanctification- 2Corinthians 13:14 (grace of the Lord Jesus, love of God, fellowship of the Holy Spirit).
4. At Christians baptism- Matthew 28:19 (baptised in one name, yet, three Persons- Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit).
5. For a witness- 1John 5:7- For there are three that bear record in Heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one.
THE EXPLANATION
As Christians, we do not believe in three Gods, which is a heresy called ‘Tritheism.’ We do not believe that the Father, Son and the Holy Spirit are three “forms” of God -like steam, water, and ice: that is the heresy called ‘Modalism.’ The egg is comprised of three parts: the yellowish part, the whitish part, and the shell. Despite this, three substances, the egg is not three but one.
The doctrine of the Trinity holds that God is ‘one being’ but ‘three persons’. ‘The ‘three persons’ define who God is (Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit) while the ‘one being’ defines what God is (Infinite, Omnipresent, Omniscient, etc). God has ‘one nature,’ but ‘three centres of consciousness.’ This means that the Father is God (Galatians 1:1), the Son is God (John 20:28 and the Holy Spirit is God (Acts 5:3-4). They are not three gods but only one God (Deuteronomy 6:4). The Father is not the Son, the Son is not the Spirit, the Spirit is not the Father, but each is God individually and yet they are together: co-equal, co-eternal, having precisely the same nature and attributes (Almighty, unchangeable, infinitely powerful, wise, just, holy, etc.) and worthy of precisely the same worship, confidence, and obedience.
CONCLUSION
The doctrine of the 3-in-1 is Christianity’s most unique, defining awesome mystery.
*LESSON: FOUR*
TOPIC: ‘SOTERIA’
MEMORY VERSE: “I have waited for thy salvation, O LORD “. — Genesis 49:18(NKJV).
BIBLE PASSAGE: LUKE 19:1-10
INTRODUCTION
‘Soteria’ is the Greek word for salvation from the root word, ‘Sozo’ which means to save, rescue, or deliver. It describes the rescue or deliverance from danger, destruction, and peril. Sometimes, the Bible uses the word saved or salvation to refer to temporal, physical deliverance, such as Paul’s deliverance from prison (Philippians 1:19). More often, the word “salvation” concerns an eternal, spiritual deliverance (Acts 16:30-31). Jesus equated being saved with entering the kingdom of God (Matthew 19:24-25). Other concepts that are inherent in salvation include restoration to a state of safety, soundness, health, and well-being as well as preservation from the danger of destruction.
LESSON OUTLINE
1. THE MYSTERIES OF SALVATION
2. HINDRANCE TO AND BENEFITS OF SALVATION
THE MYSTERIES OF SALVATION
The salvation experience occurs in phases. These phases come at different times in the life of a believer. Instant salvation is the first phase of salvation when anyone confesses Christ as Lord and Savior. It described everyone’s chance at being saved (2Corinthians 6:2). It is what everyone has been called unto (Titus 2:11-12). A price has been paid for it through the blood of Jesus (1John 1:7-9) and it comes by grace (Ephesians 2:8) through faith and the Son of God (Acts 4:10-12). It is the prerequisite for the other phase of salvation (John 3:16-17).
The ultimate salvation is the final phase of salvation. It requires that believers play a part (Philippians 2:12) as they live for God and avoid distractions (Hebrews 12:1-2). Instant salvation is the ‘matriculation’ of sin to begin a new Life in Christ (2Corinthians 5:17) while the ultimate salvation is the ‘convocation’ of the saints as life-members of the ‘Kingdom of Heaven’ (Matthew 5:20). The ultimate salvation require a strong partnership with the Holy Spirit (Zech 4:6). The individual who has being saved must endure to the end for the ultimate salvation that gives everlasting life with Jesus Christ (Matthew 10:22).
HINDRANCE TO AND BENEFITS OF SALVATION
Satan has blinded and hardened the hearts of some people to the light of the gospel of Jesus Christ (2Corinthians 4:4). Several things could also hinder a man from receiving the salvation made available by God through Jesus Christ. These include: fear of persecution (2Timothy 3:12); Comfort and riches (Matthew 19:21-22; 1Timothy 6:9-10); Much intellectual/human achievement (1Timothy 6:20-21); False security (Isaiah 31:1); Self-righteousness (Romans 10:3); Worldliness (James 4:4); Lustful adventure and desires (1Kings 11:3-4; Ecclesiastes 2:9-11); Power and position (Acts 26:28); Covetousness (Luke 12:15); Desire to please men (1Samuel 15:24-26); Religious activities (Matthew 23:13); Besetting sins (Hebrews 12:1); Ignorance (1Timothy 1:12). However, there are several benefits attached to being saved by the Lord Jesus Christ. When we accept God’s gift of salvation through Jesus Christ, we receive: Redemption from the slave-market of sin (Titus 2:14); Forgiveness of sin (Ephesians 1:7); The promise of eternal Life (Revelation 5:9-10); Righteousness of God (Romans 5:17); Freedom from the curse of the law (Galatians 3:13); Adoption into God’s family (Gal. 4:5); Peace with God (Colossians 1:18-20); The indwelling of the Holy Spirit (1Corinthians 6:19-20).
CONCLUSION
If perhaps, you have not embraced instant salvation, you need to do so now. The ultimate salvation is achievable despite all challenges of life.
*LESSON: FIVE*
TOPIC: LIGHT OF THE WORLD
MEMORY VERSE: “Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hidden”. — Matthew 5:14 (NKJV)
BIBLE PASSAGE: MATTHEW 5 14-16
INTRODUCTION
Jesus used the phrase ‘light of the word’ to describe Himself and His disciples in the New testament. The light of the word expresses the testimony of a follower of Christ who reveals and illuminates the truth of Jesus Christ everywhere and at all times.
LESSON OUTLINE
1. THE SYMBOLISM OF LIGHT
2. BELIEVERS AS LIGHT CARRIERS
THE SYMBOLISM OF LIGHT
Biblically, light is used severally as a symbol of holiness (Isaiah 10:17). This depicts purity and transparency which must be evidence in the life of the followers of Christ. Light depicts knowledge and the followers of Christ are expected to be people who live in the understanding of the present and the future (Psalm 119:130; Luke 1:76-79). Light represents divine wisdom which was evident in the life of Stephen and Daniel (Acts 6:10; Daniel 5:14). It also epitomizes victory for every believers in Christ Jesus (Esther 8:16-17). Christ showcases His light through the lives of His followers (Isaiah 60:1-3). This translates to the fact that the followers of Christ must standout (Proverbs 4:18)
BELIEVERS AS LIGHT CARRIERS
Believers who have the light of Christ residing in them are expected to shine and be positive stimuli anywhere they are in the world (Romans 13:12). Their light must shine as they show forth their good works (Matthew 5:16) These carriers of light are to illuminate the world as they bring the Good News to the lost (Isaiah 61:1), be a blessing to people (Acts 9:39, proffer solutions to problems (Daniel 2:24), impact the world, take over territories for Jesus and be influential in the world of business, politics, sports, social media, etc. (Genesis 41:39-41; Acts 16:14-15; Daniel 6:1-3) integrity should also be the hallmark of these light carriers as they faithfully walk the talk (Job 27:5).
CONCLUSION
The light of every follower of Christ must shine all over the world.
*LESSON SIX*
TOPIC: KNOW YOUR RIGHT
MEMORY VERSE: “And as they bound him with thongs, Paul said to the centurion who stood by, “Is it lawful for you to scourge a man who is a Roman, and uncondemned?”. — Acts 22:25 (NKJV)
BIBLE PASSAGE: ACTS 16:22-24, 35-39
INTRODUCTION
The United Nations (UN) defines human rights as rights inherent to all human beings, regardless of race, sex, nationality, ethnicity, language, religion, or any other status. As Christians, we must not just know the word of God but must be fully aware of what is available to us and others within the confines of the law that governs our society while we await our transition to Heaven (Hosea 4:6). This lesson highlights some basic human rights with biblical validations and also points out your role as a Christian.
LESSON OUTLINE
1. BIBLICAL PERSPECTIVES
2. YOUR ROLE AS A CHRISTIAN
BIBLICAL PERSPECTIVES
Your rights as a Christian include the fact that:
1. All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. They are endowed with reason and conscience and should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood. Therefore, all people in Christ are one and equal before God regardless of race, ethnicity, wealth, social class, status, and gender (Genesis 1:27; Gal. 3:26-28).
2. Everyone (including Christians) has the right to life, liberty, and security of person. As Christians, we must guard this right and be concerned about the affirmation of life, liberty, and the security of the oppressed so that every person may live life in its fullness (Luke 4:16-19; Galatians 5:13-14).
3. Everyone (including Christian) has the right to recognition before the law everywhere (as a person), regardless of citizenship status (Acts 22:22-27).
4. Everyone (including Christians) is entitled in full equality to a fair and public hearing by an independent and impartial tribunal, in the determination of his rights and obligations and of any criminal charge against him. Hence, every believer is entitled to a fair and just judicial process (Luke 18:2-5; Deuteronomy 1:15-18).
5. Everyone (including Christians) has the right to freedom of movement and residence within the borders of each state. Also, everyone has the right to leave any country, including his own and to return to his country (Genesis 12:1-3).
6. Everyone (including Christian) has the right to freedom of opinion and expression (Numbers 27:2-4).
7. Everyone (including Christian) has the right to freedom of peaceful assembly and association (Acts 2:1, 44). Every aspect of civil society, including religious life, depends on these freedoms.
8. Everyone (including Christian) has the right to vote and be voted for. Irrespective of gender, we all have the right to play active role in our Nation’s political process (Deuteronomy 1:12-13; Acts 6:3).
9. Right-to-work. People (including Christians) have the right to choose their work rather than have their employment commanded. They deserve decent conditions of work, equal pay for equal work (thus no discrimination), a decent, living wages, and the right to organise and form trade unions (1Timothy 5:18).
10. Right to Rest and Leisure: This is with a view to protecting workers’ rights (including Christians) no workday should be too long and periodic paid holidays should be available (Genesis 2:1-3).
11. Right to Education: Everyone (including Christians) is entitled to at least and elementary education. Parents may choose to the type of school their children go to, but they do not have the rights to deprive their children of education (Luke 2:46-47).
YOUR ROLE AS A CHRISTIAN
As a Christian, You should know Your Rights (Acts 22:25). Do not allow others to infringe on your right to live fully -avoid life- claiming/threatening situation and activities. With the guidance of the Holy Spirit (1Corinthians 12:7), engage in social impact activities as a ministry, call, career, or hobby to help others. (Isaiah 61:1-3). You may start or join an advocacy group to speak up for what you care about (Proverbs 31:8-9). Vocalise and challenge the violation of your rights (Acts 16:35-39). Stay connected with social movements and stand up against discrimination. Expose any culprit and publish your encounter if necessary. Avoid jungle Justice; allow a fair hearing. Promote equality and Shun nepotism (partiality). Be ready to commit your time.
CONCLUSION
You must not fail to advocate for truth, respect and compassion for humanity, men’s equality before God, and love of neighbour (Zachariah 7:9-10).
*LESSON SEVEN*
TOPIC: POLITICAL DOMINION
MEMORY VERSE: “Then this Daniel was preferred above the presidents and princes, because an excellent spirit was in him; and the king thought to set him over the whole realm”. — Daniel 6:3
BIBLE PASSAGE: GENESIS 1:26-28
INTRODUCTION
The word Dominion means “rule or power over” God has sovereign power over His creation and has also delegated the authority to mankind to have dominion over the works of His hands (Genesis 1:26 psalm 8:6). However, some Christians are passive and do not see that God wants the church to take charge of and revamp their societies. Instead, they only see the command for believers to preach the gospel as in *Matthew 28:19-20* and wait for God to implement social reforms Himself
LESSON OUTLINE
1. DOMINION THEOLOGY
2. CHRISTIAN’ DISPOSITION TO POLITICAL DOMINION
DOMINION THEOLOGY
Dominion theology refers to a line of thought with regard to the role of the church in contemporary society; it holds that biblical Christians should rule all areas of society personal and corporate by the law of God. This belief is based on *Genesis 1:28,* which says, “be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the Earth, and subdue it: and have Dominion…..”. This verse is a divine mandate to claim Dominion over the earth, physically, spiritually, economically, politically, etc (Luke 19:13). This theological idea about Christian having political Dominion has his root in the nature of God and reality the importance of Justice, the value of freedom, and a rich understanding of the human person has created in the image of God (Psalm 82:6; John 10:34), made for flourishing (Ps. 92:12-13), and called to an eternal destiny (Romans 8:30).
CHRISTIAN’ DISPOSITION TO POLITICAL DOMINION
The political docility of Christians of the early church could be traced to the fact that Israel and some gentile Nations were under the colonial rule of the Roman empire and Christians were thought to be in subjection to the authorities that be (Romans 13:1): at best, they were to pray for those in power and could not participate in the politics of their time (1Timothy 2:1-2). This might have been responsible for Christians hesitate to be actively involved in the politics of our days, whereas, the God will believe and serve is interested in the way the world is governed (Genesis 1:28).
Satan stole the “key of Dominion” when he deceived Adam and Eve. Then, when Christ gave the “keys of the Kingdom” to Peter in *Matthew 16:19* it was a sign that Dominion had been returned to man. Now it is our job to “take back” what is rightfully ours. Political Dominion is a must for Christian, not an option because the Earth is our place of Dominion, not heaven (Ps. 115:16). Christians have to occupy strategic political positions in order to be at the helm of affairs for positive influence.
While it is true that we belong to a heavenly Kingdom that is not of this world, we are still numbered among the people in this world and are subjected to the rules and system of its government (John 17:15-16). It is true that we are seeking another home a city “with foundations” (Hebrews 11:10, 14;13:14) but that should not be an excuse to be nonchalant about our present abode and refused to take responsibility for its governance (Psalm 115:16). It is also true that the world is passing away (1Corinthians 7:31) but we should not forget that we will also give an account of how it is manage before it passes away (1John 2:17).
Therefore, it should be of concern to Christians to be a part of ‘high-level’ decision-making processes to ensure that Justice is done, biblical principles are upheld and the Christian Faith survives and is preserved (Psalm 33:5 Micah 6:8). As the salt and light of the world (Matthew 5:13-16), when we engage ourself in politics and government, we speak out for those who cannot speak and defend the rights of the poor and needy (Proverbs 31:8-9).
CONCLUSION
All Christian are political, whether we realise it or not. If we choose not to engage in politics, it is a vote for the status quo-the way things are.
*LESSON EIGHT*
TOPIC: POLITICS: BE INVOLVED PT1
MEMORY VERSE: “When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice: But when the wicked man rules, the people mourn”. — Proverbs 29:2(NKJV)
BIBLE PASSAGE: NEHEMIAH 5:14-19
INTRODUCTION
Generally, politics can be described as the methodology and activities associated with running a government, an organisation or a movement. Politics is all about influence. It is this influence that further birth positive or negative changes in the lives of the people. The involvement of Christians in politics is neither circular, beyond the ideologies of Christianity because it is the desire of God that belivers take charge and have influence here on earth (Genesis 1:28 Matthew 5:13-16).
LESSON OUTLINE
1. MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT POLITICS
2. WHY SHOULD CHRISTIANS BE INVOLVED IN POLITICS?
MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT POLITICS
Some Christians believe that, since our Kingdom is not of this world, we do not have to be involved in any political activity in the world we presently live in (John 17:14). This is not the whole truth but a misconception aimed at robbing us of our Godly heritage of Dominion (Psalm 8:6; 1Peter 2:9; Revelation 5:10).
Here are some reasons for the misconception or wrong notions about the involvement of Christians in politics;
1. Politics is a dirty game and a worldly affairs
2. Politics involvement will take one to hell
3. All politicians are liar, corrupt and promiscuous
4. It is an opportunity to embezzle money or amass wealth unlawfully
5. Most politicians are fetish or occultic.
WHY SHOULD CHRISTIANS BE INVOLVED IN POLITICS?
In order to disabuse our minds as Christians about our active involvement in politics, we need to consider the following reasons objectively:
1. It is the desire of God that believers take charge and have influence here on earth (Deuteronomy 28:13). We are to take the lead and allowed Kingdom values to shape our society (Matthew 5:13-16).
2. The leaders we elect or failed to elect, have a great influence on our freedom, well-being and the fulfillment of our God-given mandate. They can choose to protect our rights to worship and spread the gospel or prevent us from exercising such rights (Esther 4:14; Daniel 6:7).
3. Politics like other sectors of national developments (health, finance, e t c), should be explored to “teach all nations” in order to demonstrate the examplary life and flavour of godliness (Daniel 6:1-3; Matthew 28:19-20)
4. The involvement of godly Christians in politics will reduce corruption, disorderliness, mischief and other social economic vices in the society (2Corinthians 14:1-6; Proverbs 29:2)
5. To effect positive and lasting changes that will benefit society (Genesis 41:33-40; Proverbs 14:34).
CONCLUSION
God is still looking for the righteous few in order to uplift our Nations (Genesis 18:33)
*LESSON NINE*
TOPIC: POLITICS BE INVOLVED PT2
MEMORY VERSE: “The God of Israel said, The Rock of Israel spoke to me, He who rules over men must be just, ruling in the fear of God.”. — 2Samuel 23:3 (NKJV)
BIBLE PASSAGE: 2SAMUEL 23:1-4
INTRODUCTION
In our previous lesson, we highlighted some misconceptions held by some Christians in some circles. We also examined some of the reasons Christians should be involved in politics from a biblical perspective. In today’s lesson, we shall attempt to guide Christians with genuine intentions on how to be practically involved in politics and avoid pitfalls.
LESSON OUTLINE
1. HOW TO BE INVOLVED IN POLITICS
2. THINGS TO WATCH OUT FOR IN POLITICS
HOW TO BE INVOLVED IN POLITICS
Christians should note that it is their Civic right and responsibility under the law (Titus 3:1, 1Peter 2:13-14) to vote and be voted for (Deuteronomy 1:13). Therefor every eligible Christian should register with the relevant electoral body in order to participate during elections. In addition, it is important for Christians to be ‘card-carrying’ members of any political party of preference. By so doing, Christians can contest and be voted into elective positions or influence the choice of their representatives for elective positions (Exodus 18:21).
To join a political party, you need to get information. Visit the website of the parties available in your country or the respective party secretariat within your locality. Go through their detailed profiles to know the party’s ideology and manifesto. Fill out a party registration form and provide supporting documents/payments as may be required. A membership card will be issued to you as confirmation. Attend party meetings regularly and actively in order to be a voice to be reckoned with.
Christians aspiring for elective leadership positions should be sure to have a leading, burden or passion to serve the people and solve problems 1Samuel 17:29; 34-37; Nehemiah 2:1-5). In order to succeed in politics, Christians should read books and attend seminars/conference on leadership/politics (Proverbs 16:16). It is also important to be mentored by a seasoned Christian political leader (Proverbs 1:5). Christians may also prayerfully join or support and advocacy group (Esther 4:8,13-14) or form a political party with people of like-minds (1Samuel 22:2;Daniel 2:49).
THINGS TO WATCH OUT FOR IN POLITICS
Christians, who are into politics, or aspiring to hold political post, should be prayerful and watch out for pitfall to avoid soiling their garments (1Corinthians 15:33). They should therefore:
1. Desist from any thoughts or act of wickedness. Politics is not a do-or-die affair (Proverbs 16:12).
2. Avoid prayerlessness (James 5:16b-18; Psalm 91:15, Daniel 6:10). our adversary is not resting, be sober and vigilant (1Peter 5:8).
3. Shun all foolishness: get the necessary qualifications or experience (James 15:1; 1Samuel 17:34-37) and act wisely (Matthew 10:16).
4. Never dabble into politics without a godly burden or passion (Nehemiah 2:1-5).
5. Avoid compromising: stand By Your godly virtues and principles (1Corinthians 10:31).
6. Distinguish yourself and do not be hypocritical (1Corinthians 6:17; Romans 12:2).
7. Do not be lured into cultism or bad caucus in the name of ‘belonging’, seeking relevance or power to outwit others (1Corinthians 15:33).
8. Beware of the negative influence of political godfathers (Proverbs 12:5; 25:26).
9. Be resolute in the face of persecution and propaganda. (Nehemiah 4:3,6; Nehemiah 6:5-7; Daniel 6:11-14).
10. Avoid abuse of power do not be tyrannical (2Chronicles 26:16-18).
CONCLUSION
Join a political party today and be a Christian of influence.
*LESSON TEN*
TOPIC: THE SCRIPTURE
MEMORY VERSE: “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness”. – 2Timothy 3:16 (NKJV).
BIBLE PASSAGE: JOHN 7:37- 42
INTRODUCTION
The Bible is a collection of books used by Christians. As Christians, we believe that God speakers to men through his actions and words as they are written down in the Bible (Ps. 68:11). The bible is the written of God. It has one author, God Himself. The Bible is ‘God-breathed’ (2Tim. 3:16). The Human writer wrote exactly what God wanted them to write and the result is the perfect and holy word of God (Ps. 12:6; 2Pet. 1:21). The word “Bible” comes from the Greek word “Biblia” which means “little books.” The Bible is actually a library of 66 books written by at least 40 different writers over a period of about 1500 B.C. or earlier. The last was written about A.D. 100. The Bible was originally written in the Hebrews, Greek, and Aramaic languages.
LESSON OUTLINES
1. THE SCRIPTURE IS FOR A PURPOSE
2. THE SCRIPTURE IS SPECIFIC AND TIME-BOUND
THE SCRIPTURE IS FOR A PURPOSE
The word God sends is for a purpose: it is to meet needs. For instance, God sends His word:
1. To instruct us (Joshua 1:8; Proverbs 1:10).
2. To direct and show the way (Psalm 119:105).
3. To save from sin and it’s consequences (Psalm 119:9, 11).
4. To bless and deal with frustration, failures, etc. (Luke 5:4).
5. To set us free from satanic bondages and self-indulgence (John 8:32, 36).
6. To deliver from trouble, dangers, deaths, etc. (Psalm 107:20).
7. To comfort and encourage us (Joshua 1:3, 5-6).
8. To protect us (Psalm 91:11-12; Psalm 105:14-15).
9. To heal physically, spiritually, and all-round (Psalm 107:20).
10. To correct us (Proverbs 3:11-12; 2Timothy 3:16).
THE SCRIPTURE IS SPECIFIC AND TIME-BOUND
God’s word instructs on what to do and how to do it (John 2:5-8). The word of God came in a very specific manner to Peter (Luke 5:4), Joshua (Joshua 1:3), Jonah (Jonah 1:1-2), and the disciples (Mark 16:15). While some obeyed, others dis but with dire consequences (Jonah 1:3,12).
God’s word must accomplish it’s purpose according to his plan (Matthew 5:18). The word sent also states when action is to be taken (Ecclesiastes 3:1-3). The purpose will be defeated if action is not taken at the right time (2Kings 5:9-14). Delay is dangerous (Hebrews 4:7). Jesus following suit and we must also follow in His step (John 9:4).
CONCLUSION
The word is all-embracing. It will meet all your needs-physical, spiritual, social, economic, etc. Hearken and it shall be well with you.
*LESSON ELEVEN*
TOPIC: LISTENING TO GOD
MEMORY VERSE: “And the LORD came, and stood, and called as at other times, Samuel, Samuel. And Samuel answered, Speak; for Your servant hears”. — 1Samuel 3:10 (NKJV)
BIBLE PASSAGE: 1SAMUEL 3:1-10
INTRODUCTION
We live in a world of voices (1Corinthians 14:10): demonic voices, the voice of friends, voice of enemies, the voice of those who love us, the voice of those who hate us the voice of God, etc. Also different voices come with different impacts. (1Corinthians 4:10b says there is not one of those voices without meaning. It is therefore experience for all believers to learn about the impact of the voices they listen to and the value of listening to God.
LESSON OUTLINE
1. THE IMPACTS OF VOICES
2. THE VALUE OF LISTENING TO GOD
THE IMPACTS OF VOICES
The voice you listen to affects your outcome. For instance,
Eve listened to the serpent (Genesis 3:1-7),
Samson listened to Delilah (Judges 16:6,17)
Amnon listened to Jonadab (2Samuel 13:4-14)
Saul of tarsus listened to Jesus Christ (Acts 9:1-6). Therefore, who you give your ears to effects:
1. Your mindset and invariably your thoughts pattern (Proverbs 23:7).
2. Your choices and decision-making (1Kings 12:6-14).
3. Your emotion, feelings and psychological well-being (Numbers 13:32-33, 14:1-4).
4. Your lifestyle and the steps you take (John 4:25-29).
5. Your life’s outcome and fulfillment of destiny (Acts 26:13-16; Jeremiah 1:4-5).
THE VALUE OF LISTENING TO GOD
1. A fulfilling life and destiny. The most important choices you will have to make in life are choices that will require God to assist you to have a fulfilled life. For example, the choice of who to marry (Proverbs 18:22), the business/career to pursue (Jeremiah 1:5), the place to live or settle (Genesis 26:1-3), etc. These are decisions that will require God’s assistant as you put your trust in Him (Psalm 37:4; Proverbs 3:5-6).
2. The fulfillment of life’s purpose and vision. This is the reason for living as a whole. It seemed God was telling Jeremiah ‘I planned for you, I prepare for you, and organised what you should do with your life before you came’ (Jeremiah 1:5) in *Acts 26:12-19’* Paul narrates the details of his own assignment in life.
3. Supernatural supply or divine provision. As long as God is the one leading, you do not need to struggle for pasture (Psalm 23:1-2). God knows where your supply is, and He will direct you to the right place (1Kings 17:2-6; Matthew 17:27; Luke 5:4-7)
4. Supernatural power and authority. The voice of God comes with power (Psalms 29:4). When God speaks to you, power rushes into you (Ezekiel 37:1-10). There is a boldness that is backed up by the voice of the Lord (Exodus 3:1-10). You can face the future without fear (Genesis 12:1-4).
5. Victory over enemy’s forces including afflictions, battles, or conspiracies (Isaiah 30:31; 1Samuel 30:1-8, 18-19; 2Samuel 5:17-21). Many people are victims of battles, only because they do not know what God is saying and what they ought to do.
6. Escape from danger and disaster (Proverbs 22:3; 1Samuel 23:7-13)
7. The importation of divine wisdom. When God guides, you cannot be foolish (Proverbs 1:5). If you are hearing from God, your wisdom is not contestable (Luke 21:15). You need divine wisdom to handle the affairs of Life successfully (Ecclesiastes 10:10)
8. Existence in peace and tranquility. One of the top secret of Peace is the voice of God (Psalm 85:8). In *Psalm 23:2* ‘….beside still waters’. talks about peace, not ‘troubled Waters’ When you are disconnected from what God is saying you become troubled and worried about everything.
CONCLUSION
The voice you listen to determines your direction and destination. To end well, listen to the voice of God.
*LESSON: TWELVE*
TOPIC: THE MYSTERY OF INIQUITY
MEMORY VERSE: “For the mystery of lawlessness is already at work: only He who now restrains will do so until He is taken out of the way”. –2Thessalonians 2:7(NKJV)
BIBLE PASSAGE: 2THESSALONIANS 2:1-12
INTRODUCTION
Mystery simply means something that baffles understanding and cannot be explained. It takes its root from the Latin word ‘mysterium’ and the ancient Greek word ‘musterion’ meaning a secret or secret rite. Iniquity from its root word ‘anomia’ (in Greek) means illegality, i.e. violation of law or wickedness: transgression of the law, unrighteousness or lawlessness. Therefore, the mystery of iniquity is a system of lawlessness for which believers are warned and should watch out for.
LESSON OUTLINES
1. THE MYSTERY OF INIQUITY EXPLAINED
2. BELIEVERS MUST BE ON THE WATCH
THE MYSTERY OF INIQUITY EXPLAINED
The mystery of iniquity is the working of lawlessness in the world, leading to a worldwide rebellion against God (Matthew 24:12; 2Timothy 3:1-4). It is all about controlling people, systems, finance, etc. (Genesis 11:4). It is an interwoven series of complex systems that have slipped into politics, entertainment, sports, education, religion, media, etc. (Romans 1:21-22). It is also revealed through the spirit of seduction, and doctrines of the devils (2Timothy 3:13; 1Timothy 4:1). It showcases sinful behaviours and diabolic practices in human beings (Acts 8:22-23; Matthew 23:28).
Iniquity relates more to the inner character (Mark 7:21-23) and points to an international desire to twist God’s holy standard (Jude 4). It drives human beings to twist God’s word (Titus 1:11). It will one day culminate in the appearance of the Antichrist, whose spirit is already at work in the world but is being restrained for now so that the world is not as evil as it could be (Thessalonians 2:7-8; 1John 4:3).
BELIEVERS MUST BE ON THE WATCH
With the Spirit of lawlessness everywhere in the world, believers must:
1. Search, rend and guard their hearts diligently and always (Joel 2:13; Proverbs 4:23).
2. Confess any known sin (1John 1:9) I repent to receive forgiveness from the Lord (Acts 3:19).
3. Not conform to this world’s system (Romans 12:2) and be diligent to keep God’s commandments (Deuteronomy 11:22).
4. Watch and pray (Matthew 26:41) and ask for new heart (Psalm 51:10).
5. Put on the new Man (Colossians 3:10) and be constantly renewed by the Holy Ghost (Titus 3:5).
6. Depart from iniquity (2Timothy 2:19) and remove the old yeast of sin (1Corinthians 5:7).
7. Purge themselves (2Timothy 2:21) and let their garments be spotless (Ecclesiastes 9:8)
CONCLUSION
Believers must know that the Spirit of lawlessness is already operating in the world presently and they must ensure that they keep the profession of their faith to the end.
