TOPIC: Essentials Of Follow-Up [Sunday, 17th June 2018]
MEMORY VERSE: “And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.” – 2 Timothy 2:2 (scroll down for SUNDAY SCHOOL HYMN)
BIBLE PASSAGE: Colossians 4:7-8
7 All my state shall Tychicus declare unto you, who is a beloved brother, and a faithful minister and fellowservant in the Lord:
8 Whom I have sent unto you for the same purpose, that he might know your estate, and comfort your hearts;
INTRODUCTION:
It is an established fact that fruit bearing is a must for the believer and that abiding fruit is God’s command. We must, therefore, proceed to discover some methods of follow-up in order to have fruits that will abide in the kingdom forever.
LESSON OUTLINES
1. Some methods of follow-up ministry
2. Paul and Timothy type of relationship examined
SOME METHODS OF FOLLOW-UP MINISTRY
Following an evangelistic/crusade, a nursery/baptismal class is convened to provide specific help to those who are young in faith (Matthew 28:20). Age or gender-specific instructions or teachings may also be organised (1Timothy 5:1-20). Home Bible study groups or home fellowship centres are good follow-up programmes (Acts 2:46; 16:40; Romans 16:3-5). The use of Christian literatures could be of tremendous use, the best of which is the Holy Bible. Other biographies could be of value. Paul, for example, insisted that the teaching letter to the Colossians be read also to the Laodicean church and vice-versa (Colossians 4:16). In modern days, we should take advantage of technology especially the communication gadgets (mobile phones, computers etc), to send short messages, e-mails, etc. New converts can also be followed up through the platforms of the social media networks (Facebook, Twitter, Whatsapp, etc).
PAUL AND TIMOTHY TYPE OF RELATIONSHIP EXAMINED
This is a closer personalised method of follow-up. It is virtually the most effective (2 Timithy 2:2). During this type of relationship, emphasis is placed on Christian living, Bible doctrine and winning others. Paul emphasised this greatly in his personal follow-up and discipling of Timothy, his son in the Lord (1 Timothy 1:15-18; 4:12-13; 2:1-15). Timothy was brought up in basic Bible doctrines and also instructed to teach others likewise (1 Timothy 1:3-4), especially as it is so easy to make shipwreck or become victim of false teachers and heresies (1 Timothy 1:19-20; 4:1-7; 2 Timothy 2:15-16; 3:1-12; 4:1-5). The personal approach also warned on possibility of backsliding or even apostasy (1 Timothy 6:20-21; 2 Timothy 4:10), and the need to beware of evil association (2 Timothy 4:14-15).
CONCLUSION:
The essence of learning some follow-up techniques is that we shall do them. Remember, the doer fo the word is more blessed than the hearer only (James 1:22-25). If our fruits abide, we shall be rewarded. Here, we shall be full of joy and hereafter we shall shine forever (1Thessalonians 2:19-20; Daniel 12:3).
QUESTIONS:
1. List at least three methods of follow-up.
2. In few words, describe Paul-Timothy type of relationship with reference to follow-up.
Click to read previous RCCG Sunday School STUDENT Manual June 10th, 2018 Lesson 41 — Bearing Fruits That Will Abide
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 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?
