OpenHeavens Post

TOPIC: HONOUR GOD

MEMORY VERSE: “A son honoureth his father, and a servant his master: if then I be a father, where is mine honour? and if I be a master, where is my fear? saith the Lord of hosts unto you, O priests, that despise my name. And ye say, Wherein have we despised thy name?” – Malachi 1:6 (KJV)

BIBLE PASSAGE: 1 Samuel 2:29-30 (KJV) 

LESSON INTRODUCTION: Honour (from the Hebrew word ‘tiph’arah’) means esteem,’ ‘value,’ or ‘great respect.’ To honour someone is to bestow value upon him or to highly esteem another. It is very important to note that all authority and honour belong to God alone (1Tim. 1:17; Rev. 5:13). This lesson points us to why and how we should honour God.

LESSON OUTLINES

1. WHY SHOULD WE HONOUR GOD?
2. HOW SHOULD WE HONOUR GOD?

1. WHY SHOULD WE HONOUR GOD?

God deserves all honour (Rev. 4:11). There has never been, nor will there ever be, anyone in any position of power or of influence who can claim such an honour (1Tim. 6:16). God alone is the creator and the one that sustains the heavens and the earth (Rev. 14:7).

Therefore, as believers, we honour God for who he is (Isa. 45:5-6); because he is our father (Matt. 6:9b); in our recognition that the gift of eternal life and the salvation of our souls come through Jesus Christ and him alone (John 11:25; Acts 4:12; 1Tim. 2:5); for his goodness and wonderful works (Ps. 107:15); for all his benefits we enjoy (Ps. 63:19).

All true believers are to honour God (Ps. 134:1), through our acknowledgement and confession that he is the one and only God (Exodus 20:3).

2. HOW SHOULD WE HONOUR GOD?

There are several ways to honour God. For instance:

1. We give honour and obeisance to him through our adoration and obedience to his will (1Sam 2:29-30).
2. To esteem God, as first in our lives, is to totally commit our lives to him and devote our possession to his service and glory (Matt. 22:37-38; Colossians 3:17).
3. Believers are to honour God with their substances (firstfruits, tithes, offerings, etc.) wholeheartedly (Proverbs 3:9-10).
4. We must honour God by living holy because he is holy and we are created in his image (1Pet. 1:15-16).
5. Honouring God has great rewards: God will honour those who honour him (1Sam. 2:30) and give them overflowing blessings (Proverbs 3:9-10).

CONCLUSION
God deserves all honour and it must be given to him.

MEMORY VERSE: “And as they bound him with thongs, Paul said unto the centurion that stood by, Is it lawful for you to scourge a man that is a Roman, and uncondemned?” – Acts 22:25 (KJV)

BIBLE PASSAGE: Acts 16:22-24,35-39

LESSON 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 (Hos.4:6). This lesson highlights some basic values and principles of human rights with biblical validation and confirmation and also points out the Christian’s role.

LESSON OUTLINES:

1. BIBLICAL PERSPECTIVES

2. THE ROLE OF THE CHRISTIAN

1. BIBLICAL PERSPECTIVES

Human rights include the right to life and liberty, freedom from slavery and torture, freedom of opinion and expression, the right to work and education, and many more. Everyone is entitled to these rights, without discrimination. Therefore, our rights, as Christians, 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 (Gen.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 (Lk.4:16-19, Gal.5:13-14).

3.Everyone (including Christians) 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 any criminal charge against him. Hence, every believer is entitled to a fair and just judicial process (Lk.18:2-5; Deut.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 (Gen.12:1-3).

6.Everyone (including Christians) has the right to freedom of opinion and expression (Num.27:2-4).

7.Everyone (including Christians) 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 Christians) has the right to vote and be voted for. Irrespective of gender, we all have the right to play active roles in our nation’s political process (Deut.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 wage, and the right to organize and form trade unions (1Tim.5:18).

10.Right to rest and leisure: This is to protect workers’ rights (including Christians). No workday should be too long and periodic paid holidays should be available (Gen 2:1-3).

11.Right to education: Everyone (including Christians) is entitled to at least an elementary education. Parents may choose the type of school their children go to, but they do not have the right to deprive their children of education (Lk.2:46-47).

2. THE ROLE OF THE 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 situations and activities. With the guidance of the Holy Spirit (1Cor.12:7), engage in social impact activities as a ministry, call, career, or hobby to help others. (Isa.61:1-3). You may start or join an advocacy group to speak up for what you care about (Prov.31:8-9). Vocalize and challenge the violation of your rights (Acts 16:35-39). Stay connected with social movements and stand up against discrimination. Expose the 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: Christians must not fail to advocate for truth, respect and compassion for humanity, man’s equality before God, and love for neighbours (Zech.7:9-10).

MEMORY VERSE: “For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one.” – 1 John 5:7 (KJV)

BIBLE PASSAGE: Matthew 3:16-17 (KJV) 

LESSON INTRODUCTION: The doctrine of the Trinity is foundational to the Christian faith. It is the revelation of who our Almighty God 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 its adherents are called ‘Trinitarians.’ The focus of this study is to clarify the concept of the Trinity by providing the biblical basis for it with further clarifications.

LESSON OUTLINES:

1. BIBLICAL BASIS
2. THE EXPLANATION

1. BIBLICAL BASIS

The Old Testament provides glimpses of the Trinity. For example, the Hebrew word for God-“Elohim” – is 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 heavens and the earth, Jesus was the instrument of God’s creation (Jn.1:1-3; Col.1:15-16), in the company of the Holy Spirit who hovered over the waters (Gen.1:2). Gen.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 (Gen.49:10) to be born in Bethlehem (Mic.5:2). He is not only God’s Son (Isa.9:6) but a Messiah who would be God in the flesh (Zech.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 (Jn.1:1-3), the “I Am” of the Old Testament (Jn.8:58; Ex.3:14), same with the Father (Jn.10:30; 14:9), and the Judge of all the earth (Jn.5:22), who is to be worshipped as only God is allowed to be (Matt.14:33). Also, the first Christians knew the Holy Spirit was a separate Person (Jn.14:26) who intercedes for us with God (Rom.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 in our hearts (Jn.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 baptised, 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 Holy Spirit).
5. For a witness – 1 John 5:7- For there are three that bear record in Heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one.

2. 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. This is the heresy called ‘Modalism.’ The egg is comprised of three parts: the yellowish part, the whitish part, and the shell. Despite this, 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 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 the Father is God (Gal.1:1), the Son is God (Jn.20:28) and the Holy Spirit is God (Acts 5:3-4). They are not three gods but only one God (Deut.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 ‘Trinity’ is Christianity’s most unique, defining and awesome mystery.

MEMORY VERSE: “And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint.” Luke 18:1

BIBLE PASSAGE: Luke 22:39-46

INTRODUCTION :‘Plugged-in knees’ simply refers to a life of constant prayers. A consistent and persistent prayer life was a regular practice and more of a lifestyle by our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. This exercise was pressed upon us more frequently by our Saviour; thus, He encouraged His disciples to be fervent, consistent, and persevere in the place of prayer Lk. 18:1. He even propounded the parable of an unjust judge, who was overcome by an unrelenting widow, to do her justice contrary to his own inclination Lk. 18:1-7.

OUTLINES
1) THE NEED FOR PERSISTENT PRAYERS
2) HOW TO PRAY REGULARLY

1)THE NEED FOR PERSISTENT PRAYERS
‘Plugged-in’ is to engage wholeheartedly in a task or to be connected. The need for ceaseless prayers is therefore emphasised in the Bible 1 Thess. 5:17 for various reasons.
Some of these are:
To keep the communication line between God and His children open Ps. 55:17. 2.
To be filled with the power of the Holy Ghost and be bold Acts 4:31.
To be guided when there is a need to take a decision Acts 1:24 or find direction Gen. 24:12. 4. For believers in Christ to enjoy the fullness of joy promised them by God all the time Jn. 16:23-24.
To remain standing, though the days are evil Eph. 5:16 and full of sin, error, subtle heretical seducers, and sharp persecutions 2 Tim. 3:13-14; Matt. 24:12-13.
To stay connected to the parent stock, as a branch, and be fruitful. Jn. 15:5-6.
To be able to withstand and confront the forces of wickedness that sought to destroy God’s children Eph. 6:12-13.
To cast out unclean spirits Matt. 17:19-21.
For restoration Jdg. 16:28 and when agonized 1 Sam. 1:10.
To bring the flesh under Matt. 26:41; 2 Cor. 10:3-5 and always look up unto God Ps. 5:3.

2) HOW TO PRAY REGULARLY
We pray frequently when we take prayer as a daily task Ps. 141:2 .
Deliberately pray in the Spirit Eph. 6:18.
Live in the reality, that there is a need to pray without ceasing Mk. 14:38.
Put God first on any issue by contacting Him through prayers Ps. 37:5.
Be actively involved in praying always Col.1:9.
Give yourself to prayers Ps 109:4. Delight in God Job 22:26-27 when praying.
Pray with confidence that God hears, and answers will come 1 Jn. 5:14-15.
Pray everywhere 1 Tim. 2:8.

CONCLUSION
Constant prayer is a necessity for a close walk with God.

OpenHeaven Christian Center Luton celebrate Mother’s Day by honouring the mothers in the church. it was a remarkable day as you can see from the pictures taken.

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MEMORY VERSE: “And Boaz answered and said unto her, It hath fully been shewed me, all that thou hast done unto thy mother in law since the death of thine husband: and how thou hast left thy father and thy mother, and the land of thy nativity, and art come unto a people which thou knewest not heretofore.” Ruth 2:11

BIBLE PASSAGE: Ruth 1:1-18

INTRODUCTION: Christian couples are expected to live according to the dictates of God’s word. For instance, the Bible tells us that a man should leave his parents and cleave to his wife (Gen.2:24). This shows that a line must be drawn between the families from which both partners originated from and the new family set-up the couple is building. However, the Bible admonishes us to honour our parents (Exo.20:12; Deut.5:16) and do what is good to all men especially the members of the household of faith (Gal.6:10). It should be noted that in-laws are people related to us by marriage and we should deal with them with godly wisdom (Jas.3:17).

OUTLINES

1.Build A Cordial Relationship

2.The Thin Line

BUILD A CORDIAL RELATIONSHIP

Let us learn from Ruth’s relationship with her mother in-law. She treated her as she would have treated her own biological mother. We must similarly treat our in-laws like our own blood relations. In relating with in-laws, Christian couples should therefore:

1. Avoid Preconceptions: Don’t relate with your in-laws from a biased perspective. Be open minded in your dealings with them (Rom. 12:10, 16; 1Pet. 3:8, 1Cor 13:1-6).

2. Avoid acting like they are strangers to your home or family. Do well to let your in-laws see you as another child of theirs and not a stranger (Prov. 18:24; Jn. 15:15).

3. Avoid damaging rules: Make sure you avoid rules that can destroy the relationship with your in-laws (1Tim. 5:1-2). Be wise in all decisions relating to your in-laws especially in speech (Ps. 34:13; Col. 4:6).

4. Treat in-laws as important people and avoid strife (Phil. 2:3), (Heb. 12:14), (Rom. 12:18). Exhibit maturity and patience with in-laws (2Cor. 6:4)

5. Remain humble and encourage mutual submission (1Pet. 5:5; Eph. 5:21). Always seek peace and pursue it (Ps. 34:14; Rom. 12:18).

THE THIN LINE

While it is important to establish a cordial relationship with in-laws, it is equally important that in-laws give some breathing space to their married sons or daughters to build a godly home. There should be little or no external interference (Col. 3:21; Matt. 19:4-6). In-laws especially parents of the couple can give advice on issues or counsel them on some aspects if the marriage experience new to the couple (Prov. 11:14; 19:20-21) and prayerfully support their children in marriage without necessarily imposing their views (Eph. 6:4). The married couple should be allows to make their own decisions.

CONCLUSION

Christian couples must relate with their in-laws in love and as light/salt of the world (Matt. 5:13-14). Live at peace and remain humble at all times (Heb. 12:14).

Sunday School Lesson 36

THE ESTHER GENERATION

MEMORY VERSE: “I also and my maidens will fast likewise; and so will I go in unto the king, which is not according to the law: and I perish, I perish” – Esther 4:16b (NKJV)

BIBLE PASSAGE: Esther 2:5-17

LESSON INTRODUCTION: Esther, the main character in the book of Esther, was an orphan raised by her uncle, Mordecai (Esther 2:5-7). Her Hebrew name is Hadassah which means ‘myrlte’ – Rosy flower (Esther 2:7). Esther’s story and life is a case of humility, obedience, divine substitution, great favour, sacrifice and divine intervention, such that youths should learn from.

LESSON OUTLINES

1. THE SPIRIT OF ESTHER
2. LESSONS FROM HER LIFE

1. THE SPIRIT OF ESTHER

Esther became the queen of Persia in B.C 478, even a stranger in the land of captivity (Esther 2:17). She was a woman of faith and courage. This is evident in the way she handled the news of the death sentence resulting from Haman’s fury (Esther 4:16). She portrayed a selfless and sacrificial character that stood in the gap for her helpless kinsmen. She was willing to give her life in an attempt to save the Jews (Esther 4:16b). She was not driven with Zeal but rather, her faith in God gave her confidence.
Esther prayed, fasted and made the great sacrifice (Esther 5:1-4). She saved the Jews from the massacre planned by Harman (Esther 8:3-13).

2. LESSONS FROM HER LIFE

1. Esther was from the ‘less privileged’ family group in Persia (Esther 2:21). Yet, she did not write herself off. She contested for the position of a queen with everyone else, even as a foreigner. Do not look down on yourself (1Tim. 4:12; Titus 2:15). You can do all thing through the power of the Holy Spirit in you (Phillip 4:13, 2Cor. 12:9).
2. Esther became popular for being a resourceful and confident problem solver (Esther 8:3-13). Youths should not see themselves as weaklings, dependent and liabilities (Phillip 2:13, 4:13). They must be bold to face the challenges of life (Prov 28:1)
3. Esther was obedient to a godly leader. Esther obeyed Mordecai in detail. Experienced godly leaders and matured Christian mentors are needed in the journey of life (Esther 4:13-16; 1Cor. 11:1)
4. Just as Esther used the correct manner of approach to gain the attention and favour of the King, youths should also approach God or their leaders rightly to gain attention and favour (Psalm 100:4; Proverbs 24:3). God’s favour is highly required for breakthrough (Esther 2:9,17).
5. When we need help, God is more than willing to help us if we ask him rightly (Isaiah 41:13, James 4:3). Faith and courage will often bring to us the things that we need (Matthew 21:22).

CONCLUSION: Regardless of your family or socio-economic background, God can make great person out of you.

QUESTIONS:

1. Mention the key achievement of Esther as a queen.
2. What lessons should Christian youths learn from the life of Esther?

Sunday School Lesson 34

BEWARE OF SEDUCTIONS

MEMORY VERSE: “It is good neither to eat meat nor drink wine nor do anything by which your brother stumbles or is offended or is made week” . — Romans 14:21 (NKJV)

BIBLE PASSAGE: PROVERBS 7:4-23

LESSON INTRODUCTION :

Seduction is the process of deliberately enticing a person to engage in a relationship or to lead astray as from duty, morality and the like. Also, it could be an attempt to corrupt, persuade or induce into engaging in sexual behaviour that is as enticing someone to desire having sex with the other by doing things by doing this which makes sex appealing and desirable. There is also a relationship between sexual seduction and dressing, of which every Christian youth must beware

LESSON OUTLINE
1. SOME SEDUCTIVE TOOLS
2. DRESSING WITH CAUTION

1. SOME SEDUCTIVE TOOLS
It is an established fact that some things can trigger sexual desire especially among youths. David committed adultery because he saw the nakedness of Beersheba while she was bating (2Samuel 11:1-4). Sexual lust is induced when people who are promiscuous use nakedness to Lure careless ones to an unwholesome desires (Proverbs 7:10-13). This is the same as using pornographic films, magazines or dresses to display acts and images which make people sexually excited (Job 31:1). Some other tools that could be adopted for sexual seduction include fragrance, dance, body language, voice tone, etc (Proverbs 7:12-15). A true Christian must desist from all such things. (1Thessalonians 5:22). It is a terrible offence before God to desire to see other people’s nakedness (Matthew 5:28). Only insane people walk the street naked without any feeling of shame because they’re understanding is a darkened (Ephesians 4:18).
2.DRESSING WITH CAUTION
When the purpose of a thing is unknown, abuse is inevitable. God was forced to dress man when man was not ‘well dressed’ (Genesis 37: 21). The primary purpose of dress is to cover nakedness. Some dresses that are only good for bedroom some not the one on the streets. commercial sex workers and known with certain dressing style to boost their trade. Christian youths should not take to such forms of dressing in the name of modernization (Proverbs 7:10). This has led to the harassment of many youths there is a strong relationship between what we see and what we think (James 11:4). Therefore, your dressing must not induce unrighteous thoughts in orders (1Corinthians 14:40; Romans 14:21). There is a two-fold responsibility on dressing the man is responsible to guide his eyes from impurity (Philippians 4:8 Job 31:1); The woman is responsible to dress decently and avoid exposing sensitive parts of the body (Proverbs 7:6-27; 2Samuel 11:2). This principle is also applicable in the reverse order. 

CONCLUSION: Any form of dressing likely to excite people sexually should not be worn by a Christian youth especially in public places (Philippians 4:5; 1Corinthians 8:13).

QUESTIONS
1. Mention some tools used for sexual seduction.
2. What is the primary purpose of dressing?

Sunday School Lesson 33

BEFORE YOU SAY “I DO”

MEMORY VERSE: “Test al things; hold fast what is good. ” — 1 The. 5:21 (NKJV)

BIBLE PASSAGE: Genesis 29:11-20

LESSON INTRODUCTION :
The foundation of a godly marriage must be properly laid on sound moral and Biblical principles. Before the exchange of vows, where the Christian brother and sister will say ‘I do’, they should have passed through the phase of courtship and ensure that all things are done decently and in order. 1 Cor. 14:40; Amos 3:3. The intending couple should also watch out for some ‘red flags’ before saying ‘I do’.

LESSON OUTLINES
1. IMPORTANCE OF COURTSHIP
2. RED FLAG TO WATCH OUT FOR

IMPORTANCE OF COURTSHIP

Christian courtship is that period before marriage when a Christian brother or sister make plans, relate and reach a compromise on so many issues pertaining to their future together.

Courtship is very important and necessary for the intending couple to observe during which proper biblical foundation must be laid in order to have a happy married life (1 Thess. 5:21). 

One vital issue that must be addressed during this period is to obtain the consent of both parents ( Gen.24:54-59). Courtship is a period to get to know each other intimately apart from carnal knowledge and illicit romance. (1 Cor. 6:18-20; Rom. 12:1-2).

You can pray, study the Bible or attend Christian programs together but avoid hanging out in deviled and tempting places (2 Cor. 2:11; 1 Thess. 5:22).

Know each other’s strengths and weaknesses,likes and dislikes, parents, etc. It is also expedient that you undertake marriage counselling lessons together during courtship (Prov. 11:14).

RED FLAG TO WATCH OUT FOR

There are a number of “red flags” to watch out for before entering a permanent marriage relationship.

Unfortunately, these indicators may not be visible until after the wedding takes place, since some Christians are skilled at hiding their true natures or change with circumstances.

However, a short list of things to look out for includes irrational jealousy, deception,
the strive to be in control( dominate the other partner), physical or emotional abuse/violence, a quick (hot) temper, cruelty towards animals, adherence to unscriptural traditional values, attempts to isolate the other person from his or her friends and family, drug abuse, smoking, disrespect for boundaries, privacy/personal space or low moral values.

If you see any of the warning signs or other strange behaviours in a persist you are entering a marriage relationship with, please pray and seek advice from spiritual leaders or marriage counsellors before you say ‘I do’ (Mark 14:38; Prov. 15:22; 19:20). Marriage should not be view as a ‘do or die’ affairs. You have a destiny to fulfill ( Jer. 29:11).

You may consider the saying that ‘a broken courtship is better than a broken marriage’ and make a wise/ informed decision (Eccl. 10:10; 1 Core. 7:15b).

CONCLUSION : Watch and pray before you say “I DO”.

QUESTIONS
1. Discuss the importance of courtship.
2. Mention some of the red flags to watch out for before you say ‘I do’.

Sunday School Lesson 32

PREMARITAL COHABITATION

BIBLE PASSAGE: 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, 18-20

INTRODUCTION

Cohabitation is not a modern trend. It dates back through most of history. In the Roman city of Corinth, sex outside of marriage was common, so much so that the converts to Christianity had written to the Apostle Paul about the problem.

His reply is in 1 Corinthians 7:1-3. Paul instructed that to avoid fornication, every man should have his wife and vice versa. This menace is becoming rampant in our society today.

OUTLINES
1. MEANING AND REASONS
2. CONSEQUENCES AND REMEDIES

MEANING AND REASONS

By using the word “cohabitation’ here, we are referring to the practice of a man and a woman living together and sharing the intimacy of sex, without being legally married. It entails using ‘a husband and wife model’ without being legally married (Hebrews 13:4).

In some circles, especially among youths or young adults on campuses, it is erroneously called ‘couples life’. There is also a new dimension of the opposite sex living in the same apartment (sometimes due to job placement), having different rooms but sharing common facilities (sitting room, kitchen, bathroom, etc). They can be referred kitchen diaspora or away couples’

People of the opposite sex cohabit for some reasons: financial struggle, test of compatibility, trial or experimental marriage, social or cultural practices, abuse of liberty, ignorance of the consequences, etc.

Living together before or outside of marriage, for whatever reason, is ungodly and should not be practised or encouraged by believers (Romans 1:21-22, 32).

CONSEQUENCES AND REMEDIES

Premarital cohabitation primarily exposes the man and woman to self-imposed temptations, prominent among which is sexual immorality (Acts 15:20; Romans 13:14; 1 Corinthians 5:1; 6:13; Ephesians 5:3).

There is also the problem of appearances: an unmarried couple, living together, is assumed to be having sexual intimacy. Even if that is not the case, the appearance of sin is there (1 Thessalonians 5:22; Ephesians 5:3).

They have put themselves in a compromising position where emotions and availabilities can combine for sinful effect. This can also cause others to stumble or be offended (1Corinthians 8:9; 10:31-32).

By living together, they would have created a bond so strong that it can only be severed with heart-slicing knife’, resulting in intense (sometimes lifelong) pain for both partners.

Furthermore, should either partner later get married to Somebody else, their spouse will experience the pain of knowing they are the 2nd /3rd/4th/5th person on their spouse’s list of live-in partners. Premarital cohabitation sucks the novelty, joy, and fantastic feeling out of the days, weeks, months, and years following the big day.

Nothing is really new except the cloth and the jewelleries. Therefore, it is dishonouring to God and a contamination of the temple of the Holy Spirit (a believer’s body) for a man and a woman to live together before or outside of marriage (Hebrews 13:4; 1 Corinthians 6:19) Premarital cohabitation reverses God’s order (Genesis 2:24).

Productive life-time would have been wasted with a person that one may not eventually get married to.
Emotional trauma (as a result of rejection, depression, obsession, etc) can also set in after an eventual breakup. Many destinies have been destroyed through cohabitation.

Unplanned pregnancies and abortion usually accompany cohabitation. Loss of interest in marriage as well as hindrance to potential suitors is imminent. On the long run, there is a possibility of violence or untimely death.

In order to guide against the evil consequences of premarital cohabitation, we should be aware of our own tendencies toward sin. Rather than flirting with what could lead us into sin, we should take preventive measures to avoid sin (1Thessalonians 5:22).

If you are already entangled in the act of premarital cohabitation, first, tell yourself the truth that you are wrong (1 Corinthians 11:31-32) and repent whole heartedly (1 John 1:8-9). Then, seek the attention of a Christian counselor (Proverbs 11:14).

Break away from the act of cohabiting with the opposite sex (1Corinthians 6:18). Cry to God for the grace to live a life that is pleasing to Him and to have a good testimony before men (Acts 24:16, Colossians 1:10).

CONCLUSION: Premarital cohabitation contradicts God’s idea of a union between man and a woman. Hence, it is a sin that youths must guide against and repent of genuinely.

QUESTIONS
1. Describe the term ‘premarital cohabitation’.
2. Why is it dangerous to cohabit before or outside marriage?