RCCG HOUSE FELLOWSHIP LEADER’S MANUAL (LESSON 53) SUNDAY 30TH OF AUGUST, 2020
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TOPIC: END OF LAST QUARTER /INTERACTIVE SESSION
SUMMARY OF LESSONS TAUGHT IN THE LAST QUARTER/INTERACTIVE SESSION (LESSON 40-52)
LESSON: FOURTY (40)
TOPIC: JUSTIFICATION.
BIBLE PASSAGE: Psalms 32:1-2; Acts 13:38-39
MEMORY VERSE:
“Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” – Romans 5:1
LESSON INTRODUCTION:
Justification is the act of grace through which one receives forgiveness and remission of sins and is counted righteous before God, through faith in the atoning blood of Jesus. Justification takes place when God declares those who place their faith in Christ to be righteous. 2 Corinthians 5:21 says, “For he hath made him [to be] sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him” in other words, Jesus became our substitute on the Cross so that we could be made “just” or right with God.
LESSON OUTLINES
Apostle Paul writes of sin and justification in terms of two men, Adam and Christ. Through Adam, sin came into the world “wherefore, as by one-man sin entered into the world, and death by sin….” (Romans 5:12). Through Jesus, righteousness came into the world “….even so by the righteousness of one of the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life” (Romans 5:18). The sacrifice of Christ covers our sins, allowing God to see us as perfect and unblemished.
Just as circumcision cannot justify the Isrealites, nor water baptism the Gentiles, so can church membership or confirmation not justify anyone by the standards of God’s righteousness and holiness. Only faith in the atoning work of Jesus Christ on the Cross guarantees universal provision of salvation for all mankind, this could be appropriated on personal basis through faith in Christ Jesus.
JUSTIFICATION THEREFORE COMES:
- BY GRACE: Titus 3:7, “That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life”.
- BY FAITH: Romans 3:28, “Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law”.
- BY BLOOD: Romans 5:9, “Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him”.
- BY HIS NAME 1 Corinthians 6:11, “….. but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God”.
SUMMARY:
It is only Jesus Christ that have the power to save all men from the terror to come.
CONCLUSION:
Haven been saved through faith in Our Lord Jesus Christ, the redeemed should have evidence to show for His justication. Before he was justified, the sinner was plaqued by the work of the flesh, but having been made a new creature, the life-style, speech, conduct and deposition of the redeemed is more of Christ, having been quickened by the spirit of God.
LESSON: FOURTY-ONE (41)
TOPIC: BEWARE OF HIDDEN SINS OF PARENTING
BIBLE PASSAGE: Genesis 27:1-25
MEMORY VERSE:
“For I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the LORD, to do justice and judgment; that the LORD may bring upon Abraham that which he hath spoken of him.” – Genesis 18:19
LESSON INTRODUCTION:
What is Parenting? Parenting refers to the process of nurturing, raising and training a child from infancy to adulthood. It involves parent-child relationship. Parenting involves moulding the character and behavioral pattern of children. Inculcating discipline in them and teaching them moral values. Parents play a great role in shaping up their children’s behaviour and personality. God expects parents to bring up children who will love Him, fear Him, obey Him and serve Him. Parents are the mirror that the children see and copy; it behooves on the parents to be perfect Christian models. Children learn a great deal from their parents.
LESSON OUTLINES
A. PARENTING SINS
Parenting sins need to be differentiated from parental sins.
Parental sins are wrongdoings or misdeeds and offences committed personally by either the father or the mother or both either before their marriage or within their marriage season.
Biblical example includes the sin of disobedience committed by Adam and Eve. Genesis 3:1-11.
On the other hand, parenting sins are wrongdoings or misdeeds and offences committed by either the father or the mother or both BECAUSE OF THEIR CHILDREN.
Rebecca committed the sins of lies, cheating, deception and fraud against her husband, her son Esau, her God and humanity in order to divert her husband’s blessing to her favorite son, Jacob. Genesis 27:6-19.
Parenting sins are sins committed by the parents for their children in the course of bringing up the children. These are usually done to protect the parent’s personal and selfish interests.
B. EXAMPLES OF COMTEMPORARY PARENTING SINS
- Parents who arrange abortion for their pregnant daughters who are impregnated outside wedlock to cover up for family shame and position in the church or society.
Many Christian parents prefer to disobey God’s commandment in Matthew 5:21 “Thou shall not kill.” Than to face the shame associated with having a pregnant daughter outside marriage. - Many parents paid and some are still paying mercenaries to write exams for their children. Many exam malpractices have been officially reported involving the use of third parties paid for by the parents to ensure the success of their children. Some pay for special centres, some pay for question papers and other dirty deals just in the guise of helping their children.
- Many parents use their money to buy employment and school admission etc. Names of many students on provisional admission lists often disappear because some rich parents fund such manipulations to favour their children.
- Over parenting may end up in tragedy. This is excessive use of money and positions to give their wards preferential treatment and in most cases compromising the laws. We have seen parents who buy freedom for their children involved in crimes, cultism etc.
C. WHAT IS THE WAY FORWARD?
- Discipline your children. The Bible, from Genesis to Revelation, teaches that parents ought to lovingly discipline their children. Ephesians 6:4 says, “And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.”
In Proverbs 13:24 the Bible says, “He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.” - Love your children; spend time with them. Cut out some of your so-called “important social engagements” and make your home the center of your social life. God will honor you, and your children will grow up to call you blessed (Proverbs 31:28).
- Teach them high moral and spiritual principles of life. Show them that only the morally and spiritually sound people attain genuine satisfaction in life. Evangelist Phillip had four virgin daughters who were also prophetesses. Acts 12:8-9.
- Teach your children to fear God, obey His commandments, and serve Him Genesis 18:19.
SUMMARY:
Do not be the cause of generational problem for generations to come. Be a wise parent.
CONCLUSION:
Children are the heritage of God (Psalms 127:3). They are considered as blessings from Him. We are only to train them in the way they should go. Proverbs 22:6. In the course of training up our children, we are to make them “keep the way of the Lord, to do justice and judgment”. (Genesis 18:19a). Parents are to ensure that while bringing up their children, they do not introduce them into sin. Parenting sins can cost the parents Heaven and will drag them to hell. Parents must therefore ensure that they do not compromise God’s commandments in the course of bringing up their children.
LESSON: FOURTY-TWO (42)
TOPIC: THE HUSBAND OF ONE WIFE AND ONE THAT CONTROLS HIS FAMILY
BIBLE PASSAGE: 1 Timothy 3:2-13. Titus 1:4-9. Acts 21:7-10
MEMORY VERSE:
“If any be blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of riot or unruly.” Titus 1:6
LESSON INTRODUCTION:
God expects every Christian to grow to maturity even to the full measure of the standard of Christ. Ephesians 4:13-14. He expects us not to be spiritually fed with milk longer than necessary as babies in Christ but to progress to feeding on strong meat. Hebrews 5:12-14. He also expects from those that would lead His people His people that they would meet certain requirements. 2 Timothy 2:21
LESSON OUTLINES
A. GOD’S REQUIREMENTS FOR YOU TO LEAD HIS PEOPLE AT ANY LEVEL:
God does not toy with His children for He sent His son, Jesus to die for them and Jesus purchased His Church with His blood. Acts 20:28.
God has therefore set standards to be met by anyone aspiring to lead His people from the least level to the highest: 1 Timothy 3:2-12
i. A bishop then must be blameless
ii. Vigilant, sober, of good behavior, given to hospitality, apt to teach.
iii. Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre.
iv. But patient, not a brawler, not covetous
v. One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity; (For if a man knows not how to rule his own house, how shall him take care of the Church of God?)
vi. Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he falls into the condemnation of the devil.
vii. Moreover, he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.
viii. Likewise must the Deacon be grave, not doubletongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre
ix. Holding the mytery of the faith with a pure conscience.
x. And let this these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon, being found blameless.
xi. Even so must their wives be grave, not slanderers, sober, faithful in all things.
xii. Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well.
B. OTHER SCRIPTURES SET THE SAME STANDARDS:
- God wants leaders or elders appointed to direct His children aright and He would not compromise on His standards. Titus 1:4-9.
- Acts 6:1-8. Even when seven leaders were to be appointed by the twelve disciples of Christ in the early Church they sought for those with
i. Honest report
ii. Full of the Holy Ghost) i.e. Spirit filled)
iii. Wisdom
C. ARE THESE CONDITIONS ATTAINABLE?
i) Yes, in Acts 21:8-10
8 And the next [day] we that were of Paul’s company departed, and came unto Caesarea: and we entered into the house of Philip the evangelist, which was [one] of the seven; and abode with him.
9 And the same man had four daughters, virgins, which did prophesy.
10 And as we tarried [there] many days, there came down from Judaea a certain prophet, named Agabus.
ii. Phillip, The Evangelist As Our Template.
a. He was full of the Holy Spirit. Acts 8:5-8, 39-40.
b. He was of Honest report. Acts 6:3
c. He was full of wisdom Acts 6:3
d. A husband of one wife and together they raised godly four daughters all virgins. Acts 21:9
e. He had a spirit filled Home and all his four daughters were prophetesses.
f. Their home was warm, peaceful, displined and full of the major reasons why Apostle Paul and his Team spent many days with them and Prophet Agabus equally visited. Acts 21:10
SUMMARY:
God’s standard is sealed. He would not reduce His standard for any man irrespective of your position.
CONCLUSION:
God has high moral and spiritual standards for anyone that would genuinely lead His people because they are very precious to Him, 1 Peter 2:9.
He needs you to direct His flock aright as He doesn’t want them to be scattered without a shepherd. Why don’t you purge yourself of every filthiness and draw closer to Him now 2 Timothy 2:21; James 4:8 and very soon it will be your turn to be used by God. Acts 13:2
LESSON: FOURTY-THREE (43)
TOPIC: FAULTY FOUNDATION, THE BANE OF ALL VICES
BIBLE PASSAGE: Psalm 127:1-5, Matthew 7:24-25
MEMORY VERSE:
“If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?” – Psalm 11:3
LESSON INTRODUCTION:
It is the foundation of every building that determines to what extent that building can keep standing. Once the foundation is weak, the whole building would be defective. A strong and solid foundation ensures the ability of the structure to withstand storms and stress of life. This is the reason E foundation must be laid with care. A lot of marriages begin with the journey along the downward slope even before they got to the altar. Many people unknowingly signed a contract of marital failure before their wedding as a result of the choice of life partner and the foundation they laid.
LESSON OUTLINES
1 FOUNDATION OF MARITAL FAILURE
The very core and basis of marriage which is love and commitment are shunned. Many relationships are based on lies, deception, societal and peer pressure, materialism, financial gains, contracts, sexual prowess, parental selfishness, competition, selfish ambitions, immaturity, traditions and culture and so on.
2 CHALLENGES FACING RELATIONSHIPS AND MARRIAGES TODAY
Challenges facing relationships and marriages today include infidelity, traditions, cultural influences, lack of adequate and proper education on marital, emotional and sexual issues, lack of knowledge, lack of trust, jealousy, lack of discipline communication issues, time, financial pressures, inadequate preparations for marriage, parental influences, peer pressures, materialism, societal pressures from family members, colleagues at work places even church members. Other challenges confronting relationships and marriages today is Internet and its effects such as cyber-sex, phonographic sites, and materials and so on. Addiction to phone messaging, social media chatting, selfies, browsing etc has ruined many relationships and marriages.
3 HOW CAN THESE CHALLENGES BE TACKLED?
a. A solid foundation must be based on Christ Jesus. Make Jesus your foundation. 1 Corinthians 3:11
b. Avoid sexual sins in courtship as much as possible Hebrew 13:4
c. God is the only genuine match matchmaker since he is the manufacturer of man and woman. Allow Him to choose for you.
d. Confess your sin, repent genuinely and ask for mercy from God.
e. Renounce your past misdeeds and restitute your ways.
f. Forgive your spouse.
g. Do the things you used to do when you were first dating: Show appreciation, compliment each other, contact each other through the day and show love to each other.
f. Respect each other. Learn to say “thank you” and “I appreciate…”
g. Apologize when you are wrong.
h. Develop trust in each other.
SUMMARY
With God your insurance is is eternally secured.
CONCLUSION
Many Marriages fail as a result of faulty foundations. A marriage without premarital courtship has a faulty foundation. A premarital relationship involving sexual intercourse has a faulty foundation. A lie-driven relationship is a relationship built on faulty foundation. A marital relationship that is built on the dictates one one of the party’s parents has a faulty foundation. A marriage established and normalized without divine approval has a faulty foundation. A marriage in which blood covenants were formed is built on a faulty foundation and soon. The Bible says in 1 Corinthians 3:11 that “For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ”. Make Jesus your foundation. Adhere strictly to The Word of God.
LESSON: FOURTY-FOUR (44)
TOPIC: YOUTHFUL LUSTS
BIBLE PASSAGE: Genesis 39:7-15
MEMORY VERSE:
“Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.” – 2 Timothy 2:22
LESSON INTRODUCTION:
Youthful means: Young, energetic and full of vigour.
Possibly between 18 years and below 50 years.
Lust on the other hand means having strong physical desire to have sex with somebody, usually without associated feelings of love or affection
LESSON OUTLINES
1 OTHER WORKS OF THE FLESH ACCORDING TO GALATIANS 5:16-21
a. ADULTERY:
Extra marital sex is voluntary sexual relations between a married person and somebody other than his or her spouse.
b. FORNICATION:
Sexual intercourse between two consenting people who are not yet married
c. UNCLEANNESS:
Impure, spiritually dirty
d. LASCIVIOUSNESS:
Always being lewd or showing strong desire for sex.
e. IDOLATRY:
The price of worshipping idols or false gods. Excessive admiration or love shown for somebody or something.
f. WITCHCRAFT:
The use od diabolical means or devilish power to achieve results.
g. WRATH:
Great anger often with a desire for revenge
h. STRIFE:
Bitter and violent conflict, struggle and or rivalry
i. SEDITIONS:
Speech, writing or actions intended to encourage people to disobey constituted authority.
j. HERESIES:
Opinion or belief that contradicts established religious teaching
k. ENVYING:
The resentful or unhappy feeling of wanting somebody else’s success, good fortune, quanlities and or possessions.
l. MURDERS:
The crime of killing another person deliberately and not in self defense or with any other extenuating circumstances recognized by law.
m. DRUNKENNESS:
The state of drinking alcohol to a state of stupor.
n. REVELING:
To enjoy oneself in a lively and noisy way, especially with drinking and dancing.
o. HATRED:
A feeling of intense hostility towards somebody
p. VARIANCE:
Always having different opinions from majority
2 CONDITIONS UPON WHICH WORKS OF THE FLESH ARE CONDEMNED INCLUDE:
In the main Bible Text above, we saw how Joseph refused bluntly to be lured into committing sin against God. Obviously, if he had gone in, that would have settled his destiny and prevented him from fulfilling the purpose of God for his life. Therefore, for us to fulfill our destiny, we must:
- Flee from appearance of all evil. 1 Thessalonians 5:22
- Flee from idolatry. 1 Corinthians 10:14
- Mortify our bodies. Colossians 3:1-3
- Not use the liberty of God for flesh. Galatians 5:13
- Walk in the spirit. Galatians 5:16-18.
- Not lust after evil things. 1 Corinthians 10:6-11
- Not called into uncleanliness. 1 Thessalonians 4:1-7
SUMMARY
The body is the temple of God which must be kept holy as unto God.
CONCLUSION
A youthful lust is against the will of God for us. Lust is part of the work of the flesh which always rebels against the instruction of God.
Galatians 5:16-17. It is not all that glitters that is gold; some are temptations by the devil to ensure that we do not fulfill our destinies. We therefore pray for the Holy Spirit to lead us aright whenever the devil and his deceit are at work.
LESSON: FOURTY FIVE (45)
TOPIC: MODEL OF A CHRISTIAN FAMILY
BIBLE PASSAGE: 2 Peter 1: 1-15; Acts 21:8-10
MEMORY VERSE:
“And the same man had four daughters, virgins, which did prophesy.” – Acts 21:9
LESSON INTRODUCTION:
A family is a set or group of people that is related to one another by blood. A Christian Family can be defined as group of people consisting of Father, Mother, Children and any other person related by blood.
And they must believe in the teaching and practice of the doctrines of Jesus Christ.
Being a model entails being able to offer or display exemplary good qualities/virtues of Jesus Christ for other Families to emulate.
LESSON OUTLINES
- QUALITIES OF A CHRISTIAN FAMILY
Please note that these include but not limited to the underlisted: - They eschew violence and other forms of evil 1 Peter 3:11
- They fear God. Psalms 25:11
- They are prayerful Luke 18:1, Ephesians 6:18-19
- They live holy and righteous life. Psalms 45:7, Leviticus 20:7, 1 Peter 1:14-25.
- They live in complete obedience to the Word of God. Leviticus 20:8
- Within their Closet and outside, they are always an embodiment of Jesus Christ personified, that is, not hypocrites. Mark 7:6, Job 15:34a
- The husband loves his wife and the children just like Jesus loves The Church and gave His life. Ephesians 5:25, Ephesians 6:4, Genesis 18:19, 1 Peter 3:7
- The wife shows exemplary lifestyle by submitting to her husband just like Sarah, when she used to call her husband Abraham as “Lord”. 1 Peter 3:5-7
- The Parent must be ready to chastise the children in love. Ephesians 6:4
- They also correct the children physically and spiritually when necessary. Proverbs 23:13-15.
- The children, through the help of the Holy Spirit, display exemplary character of obeying their parents in totality. Colossians 3:20, Hebrews 12:11
- Peace reigns in such home. John 14:27
- HOW TO BECOME MODEL OF A CHRISTIAN FAMILY
- By imbibing all the Christian virtues, as exemplified in Jesus Christ
- By having a family alter for the prayer
- The Father must be able to provide the lead in being the chief Priest
- By exhibiting all the fruits of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22-23
- Must all be genuinely born again. John 3:3-6, 1 Peter 1:23
- Must all put off the old man. Ephesians 4:22-25
- Must not grieve the Holy Spirit. Ephesians 4:30
- Must be in one mind. 1 Peter 3:8-10
- All the members must live holy. 1 Peter 1:15-16
- They must make the Bible their only constitution. Joshua 1:8
SUMMARY:
A Christian family must be a good example to other families of the world
CONCLUSION:
Acts 21: 8-10. Philip, the Evangelist had a Christian home with a very supportive wife and they both raised godly children; four daughters, all virgins and they were all prophetesses. What a family? What a role model of a Christian family!
A Christian role model Family must be heavenly focused. May the Almighty God make our families Christian role models too in Jesus Name. Amen.
LESSON: FOURTY SIX (46)
TOPIC: CHRISTIAN RELATIONSHIP SHOULD ADHERE STRICTLY TO THE BIBLE
BIBLE PASSAGE: Colossians 3 :1-15, 2 Peter 1:3-9
MEMORY VERSE:
“But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.” – 1 Timothy 6:11.
LESSON INTRODUCTION:
Christian relationship can be defined as the behaviour and or feelings between two or more people or groups of people who are Christians. Relationships like these are expected to be built solidly on the tenets cut across all the stages of life, be it under twelve, teenagers, youths, young adults and full grown adults. The Bible is a complete spiritual and powerful book that ensures that, if properly or religiously followed, will guarantee our peaceful co existence here on earth and we would also make heaven, amongst other benefits.
LESSON OUTLINES
WHY SHOULD CHRISTIAN RELATIONSHIPS ADHERE STRICTLY TO BIBLE?
- The Word of God is God Himself
John 1:1 - The Word of God is a leading light.
Psalms 119:93, Psalms 1:1-3. - The Word of God is reliable and dependable.
Isaiah 40:8, Job 22:21, 1 Peter 1:25 - The Word illuminates one’s understanding.
Psalms 119:130, Proverbs 1:2-9 - It helps to avoid pitfalls of others.
Ephesians 6:11, Genesis 3:1-7, Matthew 4:1-11 - It connects us to the heavenly requirements
- It makes us prosper in the way of the Lord.
- It guides us through our adolescent period, thus not committing sin via peer pressure.
- As parents, it gives direction, in the process of training our children in the ways of the Lord.
Proverbs 13:24, Proverbs 22:15, Proverbs 29:15-17, Ephesians 6:1-4 - It also helps us spiritually, in overcoming the spiritual challenges associated with the process of bringing up our children.
- As Husband and Wife, it helps us to know the extent of our commitment and liabilities to one another.
Ephesians 5:21-25 - As children, it enlightens us and grants us, the grace to develop the spirit of humility to imbibe the training no matter how difficult or hard it may be.
Philppians 2:5-12 - The Word of God has the potency to recreate.
- It is sharper than two edged sword.
Hebrews 4:12
SUMMARY:
God’s Word is the final verdict.
CONCLUSION:
Adhering strictly to Bible is a must as seen from the above reasons, not an option; therefore it must be seen as a commandment that must be Carried out by all that are labelled Christians. Especially for those who are willing not to miss heaven.
LESSON: FOURTY SEVEN (47)
TOPIC: THE GOOD VIRTUES OF RUTH
BIBLE PASSAGE: Ruth 1:1-18
MEMORY VERSE:
“And now, my daughter, fear not; I will do to thee all that thou requirest: for all the city of my people doth know that thou [art] a virtuous woman.” – Ruth 3:11
LESSON INTRODUCTION:
Who can find a virtuous woman? This is a very big question that only God, and those whom He has empowered to solve the riddle, can answer. It seriously takes the grace of God to locate one, because they are very scarce. Ruth exemplified this category of women.
LESSON OUTLINES
LESSON FROM RUTH’S DECISION
- ….Your God shall be my God……. Ruth 1:16-17. The secret of Ruth’s turn around was her decision to turn over her future to Jehovah, the God of Israel. Nobody heard again about Orpah because she went back to her people to serve their idols. Ruth 1:15
- She demonstrated her deep love and total submission to her husband even in death. Ephesians 5:22-24, 1 Peter 3:1-6.
- She showed that she was brought up in a godly way. Proverbs 22:6, 1 Timothy 1:2-5, Psalms 4:3.
- She was resolute in her decision to follow her Mother In Law back to Israel meaning that she was ready to face whatever challenges that may come up in her decision. Ruth 1:16-17.
- She completely obeyed her mother in law. Ruth 3:3-5.
- God’s mercy and favour was upon her. Romans 9:15-18, Esther 2:15-17.
- God opened the door of another husband unto her. 2 Peter 1:2-9.
- All what she lost, she was able to recover through the new husband. Job 42:12
- She was hardworking and not lazy. Ruth 2:2.
SUMMARY:
A virtuous life is always led by the spirit.
CONCLUSION:
Ruth made The God of Israel her God for the rest of her life and God ensured that her destiny was perfected. If you do God’s will, He has a way of rewarding His own people for He said that He has not called the house of Jacob to seek Him in vain. Isaiah 45:19.
God is just and faithful and honors His Words more than His Name. Psalms 138:2
LESSON: FOURTY EIGHT (48)
TOPIC: ABORTION IS A SIN
BIBLE PASSAGE: Genesis 1:26-28
MEMORY VERSE:
“Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not kill; and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgment” – Matthew 5:21
LESSON INTRODUCTION:
What is abortion? Abortion is the ending/termination of pregnancy due to removal of an embryo or fetus before it can survive outside the uterus
When deliberate steps are taken to end the pregnancy, it is called an induced abortion.
Every seed planted in the womb of a woman is a blessing from God waiting for the time and place for the manifestation. This seed refers to a new life that begins at conception. Therefore, every abortion ends (kills) the life of an innocent human being. Exodus 20:13.
LESSON OUTLINES
- COMMON REASONS FOR ABORTION
Various reasons have been adduced for abortion some of which are:
A. To get rid of unwanted pregnancy arising from:
i. Extra-marital affairs David and Bathsheba.
2 Samuel 11:1-5
ii. Fornication: Sexual activities between unwanted people/singles.
iii. Rape: AM on and Tamar. 2 Samuel 13:10-19
iv. Incest: Genesis 19:30-38
B. Birth Control:
Married couples terminate unwanted pregnancy on the ground of birth control. This might be due to lack of finance.
C. Health Challenges: On medical ground, some pregnancies are terminated when the life of the pregnant woman is at risk.
- CONSEQUENCES OF ABORTION
The consequences of abortion may include:
i. Damages to the womb
ii. Untimely death James 1:15, Romans 1:28-32.
iii. Guilt and Shame. Isaiah 47:1-3
iv. Separation from God. Isaiah 59:1-3
v. God’s wrath and judgment. Matthew 5:21, Colossians 3:5-6
- BIBLICAL STANPOINT ON ABORTION
i. God commands us not to kill. Exodus 20:13
ii. It is also a command of God that man should be fruitful and multiply on the surface of the earth. Genesis 1:28
iii. Children are the heritage of God and blessings from Him. Psalms 127:3
iv. Children from God are source/s to man and not sorrow. Psalms 127:5a
v. Every child no matter the issues surrounding the conception has a destiny to fulfill. Jeremiah 1:5, Matthew 18:21.
SUMMARY:
Abortion is a sin and it is not justifiable.
CONCLUSION:
Poverty, rape, health, challenges and other circumstances are not sufficient to justify the killing of human beings before birth.
LESSON: FOURTY NINE (49)
TOPIC: ARE YOU IN THE RIGHT COMPANY OF FRIENDS?
BIBLE PASSAGE: 2 Samuel 13:1-19; 2 Corinthians 6:14-18
MEMORY VERSE:
“But Amnon had a friend, whose name was Jonadab, the son of Shimeah David’s brother: and Jonadab was a very subtil man.” – 2 Samuel 13:3
INTRODUCTION:
A friend is someone who is emotionally close to somebody. A friend is somebody you open your heart to and take counsel from. His counsel may either be positively or negatively inclined. Right company of friends means friends who are willing to advise and influence your final decision positively.
As we dig deep into this topic, we pray that the Holy Spirit will reveal Himself as the Master Teacher. Amen.
A. CHARACTERISTICS OF THE RIGHT COMPANY OF FRIENDS AS CHILDREN OF LIGHT:
- Children of light must be in the company of children of light. “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?” 2 Corinthians 6:14
- As children of light, their counsel for you is to encourage you to obey God totally and do His will. Psalm 33:8-12
- You are assured of safety when you are in the company of good friends. Proverbs 11:14
- Through wise counsel, deliverance, healing, promotion and good health is assured. Mark 2:1-5
B. CHARACTERISTICS OF WRONG COMPANY OF FRIENDS: LIGHT IN THE COMPANY OF DARKNESS. 1 KINGS 22:1-5; 1 KINGS 22:30-34
- They expose you to lots of risks and danger. – 1 Kings 22:30-34
- They will advise you against the wish of your creator. – 1 Samuel 13:3-5
- Possibility of being influenced to go contrary to the will of God. – 1 Samuel 13:5-12
- Consequences of the above negative actions may lead to death, both, spiritually and physically. – 1 Corinthians 11:30; Daniel 6:24; Genesis 37:26-29; 1 Kings 13:7-29
- Consequences of the above negative actions may lead to rejection.
- Such advice will lead to hell fire. – 1 John 3:10-15
SUMMARY:
Show me your friend, that is who you are.
CONCLUSION:
2 Corinthians 6:14-18. God commanded that children of light must not be entangled with children of darkness. It is not negotiable that one should be with the right company of friends always. For believers, the ultimate aim is to make heaven. We should therefore discern those friends that would help us to achieve the purpose of God for our lives; and consequently, we should watch the type of friends we keep.
LESSON: FIFTY (50)
TOPIC: CAN MEN LIVE WITHOUT SICKNESS?
BIBLE PASSAGE: MARK 2:2-12
MEMORY VERSE:
“And when they came to Marah, they could not drink of the waters of Marah, for they [were] bitter: therefore the name of it was called Marah.” – Exodus 15:23
INTRODUCTION: Sickness is a condition of being ill. It is a state of being unstable in health. The will of God for us is in 3 John 1:2.
God always wants us to be in good health, we are majorly the architect of our ill health. God gave us through Adam and Eve, in the garden of Eden, everything we needed to live a hassle-free life, but man’s gullibility and inordinate ambitions and disobedience made man to fall into the devil’s deceit. The consequence of man’s disobedience was the judgement of God upon man.
LESSON OUTLINES
A. SIN; THE PRINCIPAL CAUSE OF SICKNESS IN MAN
- Disobedience: Exodus 15:26; 2 Kings 5:27
- Covetousness / greed: 2 Kings 5:20-27; Mark 7:22-23
- Living a promiscuous life: 2 Corinthians 12:21
- Backbiting / Gossiping: 2 Corinthians 12:19-20; Proverbs 25:23; Psalm 101:5
- Gluttonous: Proverbs 23:21
- Sinful living: Romans 7:12-15
- Curse: Proverbs 26:2; Genesis 3:14-24; Genesis 4:11-13; Joshua 6:26; Genesis 49:3-4
- Pride: King Nebukadnezzar. Daniel 4:29-37; Zephanja 2:9-10; Proverbs 16:18
B. ABUSE AND LACK OF ADEQUATE CARE OF THE BODY CONSTITUTES OTHER MAJOR CAUSES OF SICKNESS:
- Overwork / Stress
- Worry / Anxiety
- Medical neglect
- Drug abuse
- Living a promiscuous life
- Indulging in alcohol and smoking
C. HOW TO LIVE ABOVE SICKNESS
- SPIRITUALLY:
a. Be genuinely born again. John 3:3-22; 1 Peter 1:14-25
b. Be in total obedience to God’s instruction.
Isaiah 1:18-20; Psalm 51:10-14
c. Pay your tithe adequately and regularly as at when due.
Malachi 3:8-12; Proverbs 3:9-10
d. Be a cheerful giver.
2 Corinthians 9:6-8; Romans 12:8
e. Give sacrificially
f. Be prayerful and watchful.
Mark 13:33-37
g. Pursue peace with all men.
Hebrews 12:14; Matthew 5:9; Psalm 34:14
h. Meditate daily on the Word of God.
2 Timothy 2:15-16; 2 Corinthians 6:4-7; Joshua 1:8; Psalm 1:1-3
i. Develop a Father-and-Son relationship with God.
1 John 3:8-9 - PHYSICALLY:
a. Go for medical check-up regularly
b. Eat wisely
c. Exercise regularlyRegulate your work rate
d. Say NO to abuse of drugs
e. Be not involved in promiscuous living
f. Do not indulge in alcohol and smoking
SUMMARY:
Everything we need to be healthy has been given to us. Live a healthy lifestyle.
CONCLUSION:
Can man live without sickness? Yes, it is absolutely possible.
LESSON: Fifty ONE (51)
TOPIC: BE A WEALTH CREATOR
BIBLE PASSAGE: Genesis 26:1-6,12-14
MEMORY VERSE:
But thou shalt remember the LORD thy God: for [it is] he that giveth thee power to get wealth, that he may establish his covenant which he sware unto thy fathers, as [it is] this day.
Dueteronomy 8:18.
INTRODUCTION:
To be a wealth creator, is to be someone that is able to turn something that is hitherto not reckoned with into wealth.
This can only be possible for those who believe in the existence of a Supreme being called Jehovah Jireh, and also follow His precepts to the core, without wavering whenever it seems foolish to do so.
Remember there are only two major sources of becoming a wealth creator – God Almighty and the Devil. We will be concentrating on Godly source of wealth.
LESSON OUTLINES
A. EXAMPLES OF GOD-BACKED WEALTH CREATORS ARE:
- Abraham
- Isaac
- Jacob
- Joseph
- Job
- Solomon
- David
B. CONDITIONS THAT WILL QUALIFY YOU AS GOD-BACKED WEALTH CREATORS INCLUDE:
i. You must be genuinely born again.
John 3:3-6, Galatians 6:15-16
ii. You must develop a Father-son relationship with God, i.e. Intimate.
James 4:8
iii. You must obey, in total, His commandments and statutes.
Job 36:11-11
iv. Do His will.
1 John 2:17, 1 Thessalonians 4:1-6, 5:18, Romans 12:1
v. You must be prayerful
Luke 18:1, 1 Thessalonians 5:17
vi. You must be a cheerful giver.
2 Corinthians 9:7
vii. You must be an incurable soul winner.
John 15:16
viii. You must love and fear God
Psalm 25:14, 1John 4:20-21, 5:1-3, Romans 8:28
ix. You must live holy and righteous living.
1 Peter 1:14-16, Psalm 15:1-2, 24:5, 40:9-11, 45:7.
x. Meditate daily on His Words
Joshua 1:8, Psalm 1:1-3
xi. Have faith in the unfailing Words of God and God Himself.
Colossians 2:5-9, Hebrews 4:2-4, 11:6.
xii. You must be the Doer and not hearer alone, of His Words.
James 1:22-27, Romans 2:13
xiii. Be a tither.
Dueteronomy 12:11, Hebrews 7:5, Leviticus 27:30-34, Malachi 3:12
xiv. Be charitable and lover of good things.
1 Corinthians 13:1-13, 1 Corinthians 16:14, Colossian 3:14
SUMMARY:
Except the Lord gives the power, no man can genuinely make wealth on His own.
CONCLUSION:
Without God, nobody can genuinely create or cause somebody to become wealthy. The memory verse said, thou shall remember the Lord, thy God, who has giveth thee power to make wealth. This means that without God powerfully backing you up, you can neither be, nor make someone to be wealthy. Proverbs 10:22 says “The blessing of the LORD, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it”. Meaning that if you are interested in blessings that are everlasting without sorrow and that goes beyond one generation, then it is better to look unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.
LESSON: Fifty TWO (52)
TOPIC: SHOULD CHRISTIANS TAKE ALCOHOLIC OR STRONG DRINK
BIBLE PASSAGE: 1 Peter 2:9-11, 1 Corinthians 3:16-17
MEMORY VERSE:
“For he shall be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink; and he shall be filled with the Holy Ghost, even from his mother’s womb.”
Luke 1:15
INTRODUCTION:
Jesus said “Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.” Revelation 3:20.
Christians as used in this context refers to those who have invited and accepted Jesus Christ into their lives as their Lord and Saviour and on daily basis are striving to be like Jesus. They are prepared to pay the price of discipleship. Such people are referred to as born again Christians. 2 Corinthians 5:17
LESSON OUTLINES
- THERE ARE THREE CLASSES OF CHRISTIANS
a. Those who just gave their lives to Christ. They are known as babies in Christ. They are young converts who feed on milk.
1 Peter 2:2 “As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby”. They need to be well guided by those who are on strong meats.
b. There are many nominal Christians who choose to remain babies in Christ and are stagnated on feeding on milk when they should have moved to strong meat. 1 Corinthians 3:2, Hebrews 5:12-14. Such people are easily tossed about with strange doctrines and heresies. It is in this class some people will defend alcohol and say “drink responsibly”
c. These are those that are feeding on strong meat and are well grounded on the Word of God and cannot be manipulated by the devil. Sin shall not have dominion over such people because of the grace of God upon them. Romans 6:14. They hear and observe every Word of God. James 1:22-26.
- ALCOHOL AND STRONG DRINKS ARE NOT FOR TRUE CHRISTIANS
a. True born again Christians teetotalers. A teetotaler is one that abstains from alcohol. If on medical advice, some people do away with alcohol for life on health ground; how much more should Christians do for the Holy Spirit that dwells in us as His temple.
b. True Christians are separated unto God for His use – Sanctification.
c. Genuinely born again Christians should not defile the temple of the Lord which is their body so as to avoid the wrath of God. 1 Corinthians 3:17
d. Bishops or Christian leaders should stay away from alcohol. 1 Timothy 3:3
- EVIL EFFECTS OF ALCOHOL IN THE BIBLE
i. Noah, a man favoured by God was a victim of alcohol and he cursed. Genesis 9:20-25.
ii. Lot’s two daughters got him drunk on two consecutive nights in order to make him impregnate them and they achieved their dream. Genesis 30-38
iii. Nabal, Abigail’s husband drank himself to stupor regularly. 1 Samuel 25:36-37.
SUMMARY:
If you want to be responsible, abstain from alcohol.
CONCLUSION:
Christians have been called unto holiness and are to be separated unto God as the temple of the Holy Spirit. 1 Corinthians 3:16-17. If God could instruct that John the Baptist must not be allowed to drink wine or strong drink but shall be filled with Holy Ghost because he would be a great vessel for Him; Luke 1:15. Similarly, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people 1 Peter 2:9. As a chosen generation, we are to be filled with the Holy Ghost and not with wine or strong drinks. Ephesians 5:18.
