Sunday School

MEMORY VERSE: “My soul, wait thou only upon God; for my expectation is from him.” Psalm 62:5.

BIBLE PASSAGE: Lamentation 3:24-26

INTRODUCTION

Waiting on God is not only difficult, sometimes, it seems impossible. We want things to happen in our own timing, according to our plan, but God does not operate on our schedules Isaiah 55:8-9. God wants us to wait on Him in eager anticipation, knowing that he is with us and in control of our lives. He will do what he has promised. He will rescue and save us. He is always working for our good, even when we do not feel his presence or understand the situation Romans 8:28.

OUTLINE

1.THE “WAITING ROOM” AND ITS BLESSINGS

2. WHAT TO DO IN THE WAITING ROOM

1.THE “WAITING ROOM” AND ITS BLESSINGS

The “waiting room” is the place of seeking God’s intervention over a situation or condition Psalms 40:1. It is the gap between God’s promises and their fulfilment Genesis 21:2; Romans 4:18-21. It is the space between “crying” for a change and God’s response to the cry Jonah 2:2; Lamentations 3:55-58. It is where we prepare for the next phase of the journey of destiny Genesis 28:10-16.

Waiting is unavoidable Psalms 145:15; at one point or the other, we all must wait patiently on God for something Psalms 62:5; 130:5-6. Waiting will not be forever 2 Corinthians 4:17; Romans 8:18. Sometimes God puts us in the “waiting room” against our will to give us an opportunity to change Jonah 1:17. At other times, God uses the “waiting room” to test our commitment and grow our faith Psalms 66:10-12. The ability to wait on the lord comes from being confident and focused on who God is and in what God is doing Philippians 1:6.

There are blessings of being in God’s “waiting room”. As we wait on the lord, we learn and experience trust 1 Peter 5:10. Waiting renews our strength Isaiah 40:31; builds our faith and confidence in God Romans 4:20-21; takes away shame Isaiah 61:7; builds patience James 1:3, makes us an authority as we showcase his glory Job 23:10.

2. WHAT TO DO IN THE WAITING ROOM

How we emerge from God’s “waiting room” is dependent largely on our attitude while in there. Waiting on God requires us to put aside our ways of doing things, trust his timing and plans Psalm 90:4. We should not alter God’s timetable by going contrary to his will Job 14:14; Hebrews 12:2. We must be sure of God’s direction Psalms 37:23; Isaiah 30:21. We should be thankful for what God will do in our situation Philippians 4:6-7; 1 Thessalonians 5:18. We need to also learn to be content and patient Hebrews 6:15; 10:36. We should be of good courage Psalms 27:14, actively seeking god in prayer and studying the word of God 1 Chronicles 16:11; Psalms 130:5. We need to consciously take actions as directed by the holy spirit Proverbs 3:5-6.

CONCLUSION

Remember that delay is not denial. You are in God’s “waiting room”, and He is at work.

FURTHER READINGS:

SUN: Psalms 66:10-12
MON: Proverbs 3:5-6
TUE: Romans 4:20-21
WED: Psalms 130:5-6
THUR: Lamentations 3:55-58
FRI: Romans 4:18-21
SAT: Philippians 4:6-7

MEMORY VERSE:“Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a king then? Jesus answered thou sayest that i am a king. To this end was i born, and for this cause came i into the world, that i should bear witness unto the truth. Everyone that is of the truth heareth my voice.” John 18:37.

BIBLE PASSAGE: Philippians 3:12-14.

INTRODUCTION

God does not waste resources. Hence, everything He created is for a purpose. The sun gives light and never ceases to shine Psalm 136:7-9, the cloud gives rain in due season and trees provide food and shade accordingly Leviticus 26:4. Other animals play their parts without hesitation. Amazingly, man struggles to understand and fulfil his purpose for living. The discovery, as well as fulfilment of divine purpose, is the focus of today’s lesson.

OUTLINE

1.DISCOVER YOUR PURPOSE IN LIFE

2. LIVE TO FULFIL IT

1.DISCOVER YOUR PURPOSE IN LIFE

Like Apostle Paul, once you become a new creation in Christ 2 Corinthians 5:17, you must begin to crave the understanding of your purpose for living on earth Philippians 3:12. That purpose has been predetermined by God before you were born Jeremiah 1:54, Galatians 1:15. It is your duty to discover and fulfil it.

Here are some practical clues to help you identify your purpose for living:

1. Potential: You need to identify your in-built ability, your talents, and God-given gifts Ephesians 4:7. Find out the things you do with less stress e.g; singing, drawing, talking to a crowd, helping others etc.The knowledge or skills you acquire in life should shape and sharpen your potential Acts 7:22.
2. Passion: What are those things you have exceptional flare or zeal for, and do often and often? Build your vocation or career on such things. The things that get you excited, gives you joy, and satisfaction can lead you to the fulfilment of your purpose in life Psalm 69:9, Colossians 4:12-13.
3. Prayer: After you have identified your potential(S) and the thing(s) you are passionate about, you need to pray for divine guidance and direction, so that the world and the enemy will not hijack your purpose in life Acts 9:1-2; 10:9-20.

2. LIVE TO FULFIL IT

These seven things will help every child of God fulfil purpose in life.

1. Ask God to reveal to you His plan for your life Jeremiah 1:4-5. Then, draw up a personal vision and mission statement Proverbs 29:18,Habakkuk 2:2.
2. Set achievable goals and pursue them Acts 20:24; Psalm 57:7. Take a step at a time and do not be a mediocre Psalm 37:23, Hebrews 6:1
3. Identify and relate with people of like passion: learn from their mistakes and build on their success 2 kings 2:1-2, 14.
4. Submit yourself for mentoring and counselling: do not claim to know it all Acts 18:24-26; Proverbs 11:14, 15:22.
5. Live as if you have just one more day on earth: do not procrastinate Luke 9:61-62.
6. Focus your attention on doing all things to please God Hebrews 12:2, Colossians 1:10.
7. Always return all the glory to God: do not ascribe anything to yourself Malachi 2:2, Daniel 4:30-34.

CONCLUSION

So many people live and die without making any meaningful impact. Be different fulfil your purpose for creation. You are not a nobody!

FURTHER READINGS:

SUN: Malachi 2:2
MON: 2 Corinthians 5:15
TUE: Jeremiah 1:5
WED: Ephesians 4:7
THUR: Acts 9:1
FRI: Acts 20:24
SAT: Proverbs 11:14

MEMORY VERSE: “But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up” 2 Peter 3:10.

BIBLE PASSAGE: :Revelation 21:1-5.

INTRODUCTION

In Noah’s day, the world was destroyed with water, but God has promised that He would no longer destroy the world with flood Genesis 9:11. The end of the world described in 2 Peter 3:10 as the day of the Lord will occur after the final judgement by God Revelation 20:7-10. This scripture reveals that the universe will be destroyed by fire. Therefore, believers should bear in mind that this present world will not last forever Matthew 5:18, 24:35.

OUTLINE

1.THE END OF THE CURRENT HEAVENS AND THE NEW EARTH

2. EMERGENCE OF THE NEW HEAVEN AND THE NEW EARTH

1.THE END OF THE CURRENT HEAVENS AND THE NEW EARTH

The prophet Isaiah foretold the passing away of heaven and earth isaiah 34:4; 5:16. This refers to the physical heaven and earth – the material world and all it contains – but not to the inhabitants of heaven and earth. To “pass away” is to disappear or be no more.

The “heavens” in 2 Peter 3:10 refers to the physical universe – the stars, planets, and galaxies – which will be consumed by a tremendous explosion, possibly a nuclear or atomic reaction that will consume and wipe out all matter as we know it. All the elements that make up the universe will be melted in the “fervent heat” 2 Peter 3:12. This will also be a noisy event, described in different Bible versions as a “roar” (NIV), a “great noise” (KJV), a “loud noise” (CEV), and a “thunderous crash” (AMP). There will be no doubt as to what is happening. Everyone will see and hear it because we are also told that “the earth and everything in it will be laid bare.”

2. EMERGENCE OF THE NEW HEAVEN AND THE NEW EARTH

In Revelation 21:1, John writes of a new heaven and a new earth in the eternal state, having seen that “the first heaven and the first earth had passed away” Isaiah 65:17, 2 Peter 3:13. God will create a “new heaven and a new earth” revelation 21:1, which will include the “New Jerusalem” Revelation 21:2, the capital city of heaven, a place of perfect holiness, which will come down from heaven to the new earth. This is the city where the saints- those whose names were written in the “Lamb’s book of life” revelation 13:8 – will live forever. Peter refers to this new creation as “the home of righteousness” 2 Peter 3:13.

Knowing that heaven and earth will pass away gives us a new perspective of life. This world is not our home. “We are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells” 2 Peter 3:13. Jesus tells us to have the correct priorities in our daily living Matthew 6:19-20. Peter , after reminding us of the temporary nature of this world, says “wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless. 2 Peter 3:14.

CONCLUSION

Believers should remain faithful to the end because there is hope of eternal life with God beyond this present world.

FURTHER READINGS:

SUN: Revelation 2:7
MON: Revelation 2:17
TUE: Revelation 3:12
WED: Isaiah 65:17
THUR: 2 Peter 3:13
FRI: Hebrews 11:10
SAT: Hebrews 13:14

MEMORY VERSE:“Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ and shall reign with him a thousand years.” Revelation 20:6.

BIBLE PASSAGE:Revelation 20:10.

INTRODUCTION

The Millennial Reign of Christ is a period of a thousand years of a glorious physical kingdom reign of Christ on earth after his return from the Armageddon- the place where God will collect His enemies together for destruction Revelation 16:16.

OUTLINE

1.THE NATURE OF THE MILLENIUM

2. THE BLESSINGS OF THE MILLENNIUM

1.THE NATURE OF THE MILLENIUM

The millennial reign will begin at the end of the tribulation period and elapse before the emergence of the new earth and the new Heaven Revelation 21:1-2. During the one thousand years of Christ’s reign on earth, Satan will be bound with chains and kept in the bottomless pit Revelation 20:1-3. Some of the tribulation saints (no unbeliever)will survive to live on (with their terrestrial bodies)into the millennial kingdom. The saints coming with Christ (with glorified bodies) will reign over cities and the people on earth.

The millennium is described in Matthew 19:28 as the regeneration – when Christ will rule in the new world. It is the time of restitution of all things Acts 3:21, that is the restoration to the original state, as spoken by the prophets 2 Samuel 7:16. During this period, Christ will be manifested in His kingdom. He will, from Heaven, descend with the raptured saints and angels upon Mount Olives, which is before Jerusalem Revelation 19:11-17. Canaan will be taken for an everlasting possession by Christ according to God’s Covenant with Abraham Genesis 17:8; Galatians 3:16. Christ will be manifested to take possession of David’s kingdom according to God’s covenant with David 2 Samuel 7:8-16’ Acts 2:29-32. Christ will manifest as king of righteousness Isaiah 32:1, king of israel John 12:13, king of kings Revelation 19:16 and king over all the earth Zechariah 14:9. He will reveal Himself as the great God Revelation 19:17.

At the second coming of Christ, these covenants will be fulfilled as Israel is re-gathered from the nations, converted, and restored to the land under the rule of the messiah, Jesus Christ Matthew 24:31; Zechariah 12:10-14.

2. THE BLESSINGS OF THE MILLENNIUM

The blessings are numerous, and they include:-

1. Theocratic government where God is the ruler through Jesus christ. The Apostles and the Saints from Adam to the millennium shall reign with Him Isaiah 2:2-4, Matthew 25:31-33.
2. There will be a perfect environment- physically and spiritually.
3. It will be a time of peace in the entire kingdom because the prince of peace is reigning Micah 4:3, Isaiah 11:6-9.
4. The society will be free of crimes and criminality since Satan the tempter is in bondage Jeremiah 31`:33-34. A time of obedience, holiness, and truth will manifest across the whole earth Isaiah 35:8, 65:16.
5. There will be abundant joy and great comfort Isaiah 61:7,10; 40:1-2.
6. The knowledge of the Lord in the hearts of men will spread, ‘as the waters cover the sea’ Isaiah 11:9, Jeremiah 31:33-34.
7. All lands shall flourish and blossom- No more desert, Isaiah 35:1-2, Isaiah 49:9.
8. Everyone will enjoy divine health Isaiah 35:5-6; Isaiah 33:24.
9. Increased life span- people will live long Isaiah 65:20, Zechariah 8:4.
10. There will be noticeable change in the wild- life or animal kingdom Isaiah 11:6, 65:25.

CONCLUSION

“Thine kingdom come and thine will be done on earth as in heaven” is included in the Lord’s prayer. As true Christians, this should be our utmost aspiration.

FURTHER READINGS:

SUN: Matthew 24:44
MON: 1 Corinthians 1:7
TUE: Revelations 7:14
WED: Revelations 2:4
THUR: Isaiah 35:1-2
FRI: Jeremiah 31:33-34
SAT: Matthew 25:31-33

MEMORY VERSE:“For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be.” Matthew 24:21.

BIBLE PASSAGE:Mark 13:19-26

INTRODUCTION

The word, tribulation, means trouble or suffering. There are different kinds of tribulation mentioned in the Bible. These include:the tribulation of the disciples in the world John 16:33; tribulation because of acceptance or obedience to the word of God Matthew 13:21; the tribulation on the way to the kingdom of God Acts 14:22; Matthew 7:14; earthly tribulation that is common to all Job 5:6-7; tribulation on evil doers Romans 2:9 and the great tribulation Matthew 24:21.

The focus of the lesson is the Great Tribulation. The Bible says it is “the mother” of all tribulations. The hardship, turmoil, distress, and perplexity that would be experienced in the days of the great tribulation are unprecedented. What is the great tribulation all about? When will it be? What are the events in the days of tribulation?

OUTLINE

1.UNDERSTANDING THE GREAT TRIBULATION

2. EVENTS IN DAYS OF GREAT TRIBULATION

1.UNDERSTANDING THE GREAT TRIBULATION

The Great Tribulation is also called the time of Jacob’s (the nation-Israel) trouble Jeremiah 30:7. The unbelieving Jews (and unsaved or backslidden Gentiles) will be the candidates of the great tribulation. It will begin after the rapture of the Church and the revelation of the antichrist, the “man of sin” 2 Thessalonians 2:3-7.

The time of the great tribulation is the “seventieth week”, that is, the last one week of the seventy weeks of Daniel. The seventy weeks has three sections: the first seven weeks, the next sixty-two weeks and the last one week. There are seven days in a week. A day in the week represents one year. So, the duration is seven years Daniel 9:20-27.

The first half of the last one week (the first three and a half years) will be for the full physical manifestation of the antichrist, during which he shall make a covenant with Israel Daniel 9:27. The second half of the last one week (the last three and half years) will be time of unprecedented trouble. “In the midst of the week” the antichrist shall break the covenant with Israel and practices “abomination of desolation” in the temple Daniel 9:27, 11:36; Matthew 24:15,16. The last three and half years of the great tribulation will culminate in the second coming of Christ to reign on earth Mark 13:24-26, 2 Thessalonians 2:8.

2. EVENTS IN DAYS OF GREAT TRIBULATION

The Great tribulation will witness series of significant but terrifying events. These include:
1.Unprecedented religious persecution of those who missed rapture at the second coming of Christ Matthew 24:21,22.
2.Unparalleled global religious deception Matthew 24:24-28.
3.Untold global economic problem, in which only those who receive the mark of the Beast can buy or sell Revelation 13:17,18.
4.Series of unrighteous and abominable religious practices 2 Thessalonians 2:3,4,10.
5.Intense temptation all over the world Revelation 3:10.

CONCLUSION

Those who have received Christ as their Lord and personal Saviour and keep themselves holy till He comes at rapture shall be delivered (through rapture) from the days of the Great tribulation. However, the sinners and the backsliders are faced with the danger of the Great tribulation. Beloved, are you truly saved from sins? Examine yourself today and be sure!

FURTHER READINGS:

SUN: Matthew 24:33
MON: John 16:33
TUE: Revelation 2:10
WED: James 1:4
THUR: Revelation 3:10-
FRI: 1 John 3:2-3
SAT: Matthew 24:42.

MEMORY VERSE:‘’And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where i am, there ye may be also.” John 14:3.

BIBLE PASSAGE: 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18

INTRODUCTION

Acts 1:10-11 describes the ascension of our Lord Jesus Christ as being personal, bodily, and visible with power. The second coming of our Lord will be in like manner. However, if will be in two phases. The first phase, regarded as the rapture 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17, will be the coming of the Lord with His saints Revelation 1:7, to set up the millennium reign of 1000 years on earth 1 Thessalonians 3:13. Between the first phase and the second phase of the second coming of Christ is the period of the great tribulation.

OUTLINE

1.PROPHECIES OF HIS SECOND COMING

2. BEHOLD HE COMES!

1.PROPHECIES OF HIS SECOND COMING

The first coming of our Lord Jesus Christ was prophesied and those prophecies came to pass, literally Isaiah 7:14; 9:6. This gives us great confidence that the prophecies of the “Second Advent’ will also be fulfilled literally. His second coming was foretold by the prophets Daniel 7:13-14. Jesus Himself said it Matthew 25:31; John 14:3. The angels and the apostles also witness to it Acts 1:10-11, 1 Timothy 6:14.

He is coming to fulfil the following purposes:

At the first phase (rapture), there will be the completion of the salvation of the saints Hebrews 9:28. Christ will bring to light the hidden things of darkness 1 Corinthians 4:5 and receive us to be with Himself as His bride John 14:3. At the second phase (the physical revelation of Christ),. He will be glorified in His saints 2 Thessalonians 1:7-10, execute judgement, as a conquering King 2 Timothy 4:1. He will reign majestically Revelations 11:15 and destroy death 1 Corinthians 15:25-26.

2. BEHOLD HE COMES!

The following should be noted about the manner of His second coming: at the first phase (the rapture), He will descend from Heaven with a shout and voice of the archangel 1 Thessalonians 4:16, suddenly 1 Corinthians 15:52, in glory of His Father Matthew 16:27, the saints will meet Him in the air and be with Him forever 1 Thessalonians 4:17. At the second phase (the revelation), He will come in clouds to the earth with power and great glory Matthew 24:30, He will come in His own glory accompanied by His angels Matthew 25:31 with His saints 1 Thessalonians 3:13, in flaming fire 2 Thessalonians 1:8 and bodily, as He ascended Acts 1:9-11.

CONCLUSION

Do not be deceived. Christ’s coming is sure and certain 2 Peter 3:3-12. While we ought to plan and work as if He will not be coming for another century, we must live a holy and pure life at all the time as if today He will return 1 Thessalonians 3:12-13. Watch and pray.

FURTHER READINGS:

SUN: Matthew 24:44
MON: 2 Peter 3:3-12
TUE: Revelations 22:20
WED: Luke 13:3
THUR: Matthew 25:13
FRI: 1 Timothy 1:14
SAT: 2 Timothy 2:19

MEMORY VERSE:‘’This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.” 2 Timothy 3:1

BIBLE PASSAGE:2 Timothy 3:1-5.

INTRODUCTION

The translated word for “perilous” in 2 Timothy 3:1 is ‘chalepos’, which means troublesome, dangerous,harsh, fierce, full of risk, hazardous, harmful, dreadful, threatening. The term, “last days”, refers to the period between Christ’s accession into Heaven and His second coming. “Perilous times” constitute part of the last days events to wrap up the world to pave way for the new heaven and earth. ‘The last days’ is not just a prophecy, it started from the days of the Bible Hebrews 1:2,1 John 2:18-19. The importance of the prophecy and warning against the perilous times cannot be over emphasised because we are living in the fulfilment of the perilous times. The purpose of this study is to carefully consider the writing of Paul to Timothy in 2 Timothy 3:1-5 on the things that characterise the ‘Perilous Times’ and the position every believer in Christ should take.

OUTLINE

1.THE CHARACTERISTICS OF PERILOUS TIMES

2. BELIEVERS WATCHOUT!

1.THE CHARACTERISTICS OF PERILOUS TIMES

According to Paul, the conduct of the people will create the perilous times especially for the believers in Jesus Christ. Some people will be ‘lovers of their own selves’ 2 Timothy 3:2, they will be self- centred Philippians 2:21; ‘covetous’ – having lust of the eyes, great eagerness for acquisition of wealth and materialism at all cost Luke 12:15; 2 Peter 2:3; ‘boasters’- expressing vain glory Psalm 10:3; ‘proud’- valuing themselves above all others Proverbs 21:4; ‘blasphemers’- those who speak immorally of God and sacred things Mark 3:29; ‘disobedient to parents’ – disrespecting and dishonouring both biological and spiritual parents Ephesians 6:1-2; ‘unthankful’ – not appreciating God and others for good deeds Romans 1:21; ‘unholy’ – not pleasing God jude 18.

Furthermore, 2 Timothy 3:3 says some people will be ‘without natural affection’ – no family affection and lack of tender love; ‘trucebreakers’ – treacherous and betraying true friendship Romans 1:31; ‘False accusers’ control or unrestrained 2 Peter 2:14; ‘fierce’ -wild or violent, having or displaying an intense, ferocious aggressiveness Psalm 11:5; ‘despisers of those that are good’ – All forms of lies, evil speaking against true believers and godliness Romans 1:30; Nehemiah 2:19.

2 Timothy 3:4 also makes mention of the ‘traitors’- who betray trust and confidences for gain Acts 7:52; ‘heady’ – to be rash, reckless or head strong Proverbs 21:29a; ‘high- minded’ – those who are full of themselves, puffed-up 1 Timothy 3:6; ‘lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God’- All forms of immorality and ungodliness that satisfy the flesh Philippians 3:19.

In addition, 2 Timothy 3:5 speaks of them as ‘Having a form of godliness but denying the power thereof’- Being religious but not victorious above sin, outwardly looking good but inwardly rotten in unrighteousness Matthew 23:27.

2. BELIEVERS WATCHOUT!

Scriptures admonish all believers living in this ‘last days’ to turn away from all ungodly practices to avoid being caught in the web of the perilous times 2 Timothy 3:5. As true believers, we must therefore receive the prophecies/warning and be always conscious of it. We must separate from the company and fellowship of people with the characters above 2 Corinthians 6:14-17. We must avoid all forms of natural desires of our human nature and false doctrines but rather stand firm in faith Romans 8:6-7; Ephesians 4:14. We must be watchful and be prayerful to guide against deception and temptation to sin Matthew 26:41; 2 Corinthians 2:11. We must release ourselves to the Holy Spirit and be sensitive to His leading James 4:7; Romans 8:14.

CONCLUSION

This is a perilous time; every believer that wants to get to heaven must heed the warning, careful to live a separate life from the world and false brethren to please God.

MEMORY VERSE:‘’And hast made us unto our God Kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth. Revelation 5:10.

BIBLE PASSAGE:Romans 13:1-6.

INTRODUCTION

The opinion held by some Christians is that if they are going to follow Christ, they must be quiet and withdrawn from things happening on the Earth, this mindset negates the will of God. As a matter of fact, Christ has called believers unto a life of influence, control, and dominion Psalm 8:6. They are to charge Deuteronomy 28:13 and the issue of governance is of no expectation. As the light of the world, they are to dispel the darkness of unrighteous living, sycophancy, corruption, compromise, lies etc.which are the order of the day, in the present-day government systems of the world.

OUTLINE

1.GOD’S VIEW ON EARTHLY GOVERNANCE

2. WHY CHRISTIANS SHOULD BE INVOLVED IN GOVERNANCE.

1.GOD’S VIEW ON EARTHLY GOVERNANCE

God instituted governance. It is not a secular concept or people’s creation. God is the ultimate “Governor” who delegates the function to humans Psalm 22:28. It is one of the purposes for which man was created Genesis 1:26. It is a calling and manifestation of the gift of the Holy Spirit 1 Timothy 4:12; Romans 12:8. It is a tool for orderliness and sanity Titus 1:5; 1 Corinthians 14:40; Exodus 18:21. It is instituted by God for administration, justice and the general welfare of humanity Psalm 72:4,13; 1 Timothy 2:2. Like marriage, it is instituted by God and should be submitted to, Mark 12:17; Romans 13:1-2. Governance is servanthood. It is a means of serving the governed Matthew 20:25-28. Governance is a ministry and governors are ministers of God Romans 13:3-4.

2. WHY CHRISTIANS SHOULD BE INVOLVED IN GOVERNANCE.

1. It is part of our inherent responsibilities as believers Genesis 1:26; Matthew 5:15-16.
2. To effect positive and lasting change Genesis 41:46-57.
3. Good governance makes a nation stand out among other nations Proverbs 14:34.
4. To make righteous laws and decrees that lead to national progress Exodus 18:16; Proverbs 8:15.
5. It is obeying God’s ordinance of submission to authority Hebrews 13:17, 1 Peter 2:13-14; Romans 13:1-2.
6. It brings blessings and breakthrough on the nation and fulfilment for her citizenry Proverbs 11:10.
7. Governance is God’s institution and so the people of God should not be kept out of God’s institution Romans 13:1-6.
8. To avoid paying the costly price of bad leadership 2 Samuel 23:3.

CONCLUSION

Believers should take their rightful place in deciding the destiny of their nations and turn this world to the Kingdom of our God which is God’s divine mandate for us.

MEMORY VERSE:‘’Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand” Philippians 4:5

BIBLE PASSAGE:1 Corinthians 6:12-13.

INTRODUCTION

To socialise simply means ‘to talk to and do things with other people in a friendly way’. There are various ways of socializing, ranging from relating with people in the immediate environment, to getting involved in governance and community development activities. Christian socialisation cuts across recreation, social interaction, cultural activities, and political issues. While there may be diverse opinions on the extent of the involvement of christians in social issues, it should be noted that everything should be done in moderation.

OUTLINE

1.SOCIALISATION IN PRACTICE

2.WORDLY PERSPECTIVES VERSUS BIBLICAL PERSPECTIVES

1.SOCIALISATION IN PRACTICE

Jesus Christ and His disciples attended a wedding ceremony at Cana of Galilee John 2:1-2. He dined with Zacchaeus in his house Luke 19:5. He was a friend to the family of Lazarus, Mary and Martha Luke 10:38-42 and paid them condolence visit John 11:33-35. He and His disciples also participated in the Feast of Passover Mark 14:12-14; Exodus 12:24-27. Apostle Paul interacted with diverse classes of people for the sake of the Gospel to win some 1 Corinthians 9:19-23. Daniel was involved in the political administration of land in his days this assignment made him interact with various people Daniel 1:18-21; 6:1-3.

2.WORDLY PERSPECTIVES VERSUS BIBLICAL PERSPECTIVES

Christians cannot live in isolation in this present world. However , we must know when and how to draw the line between worldly(sinful) and acceptable Godly socialisations.

For instance, Christians are expected to socialise and mingle 1 Timothy 4:8 but visiting pubs and nightclubs for recreation will not portray you as a serious christian. Christians should avoid Participating or eating at events where idols are celebrated 1 Corinthians 10:28. Modernised carnivals with satanic undertones and other places where christian beliefs and lifestyle is not taken seriously should also be avoided 1 Corinthians 8:10-11; 10:19-21. Watching of immoral movies, listening to/singing of ungodly music and wearing seductive apparels in the name of socialisation are also ungodly things Christians must avoid Philippians 4:5; 1 Corinthians 8:8-11. While getting involved in secular activities, Christians should watch out and abstain from things that can make them compromise their beliefs Philippians 4:8.

CONCLUSION

Whatsoever we do to socialise should be to the glory of God and edification of the saints 1 Corinthians 10:31. Christians are to show moderation in all social interactions.

MEMORY VERSE:‘’And Joanna the wife of Chuza Herod’s steward, and Susanna, and many others, which ministered unto him of their substance.”Luke 8:3.

BIBLE PASSAGE: Luke 23:49-53

INTRODUCTION

Kingdom ‘influencers’ are believers who impact the world through their ‘ministries’ and in the ‘marketplaces’ like the media, politics, hospitality, fashion, marketing, music, education, and technology; by sharing their faith, substance, and expertise to enlarge God’s kingdom here on earth. God needs His children to be kingdom ‘influencers’ who will take over the spheres of influence here on earth for the excellent execution of His agenda. Are you willing to partner with God on this mission?

OUTLINE

1.ATTRIBUTES OF KINGDOM “INFLUENCERS”

2. BECOMING A KINGDOM “INFLUENCER”

1.ATTRIBUTES OF KINGDOM “INFLUENCERS”

Kingdom Influencers, who are believers in Christ contribute significantly to the economy and social well-being of their societies through their chosen career’s vocations and divine calling Acts 16:14-15,40. They are full of good works and positively showcase the grace of God to the people around them Acts 9:36-40; Luke 23:50-51. They are believers who have good mastery of their respective industries and thus use a combination of faith and competence to influence what happens around them Exodus 31:2-6. They are core professionals who strategically promote Jesus along with their trade. Some examples include football stars, athletes, scientists,etc who will always give the credit of their achievements to God. kingdom influencers have specialised knowledge and authority in a specific subject and as such as irresistible forces in their domain Judges 4:4-5; 2 Samuel 23:9-10. As ambassadors of Christ, they deliberately dominate and make God known anywhere they find themselves 2 Corinthians 5:20.

2. BECOMING A KINGDOM “INFLUENCER”

God has called us to influence our world positively. Therefore, it is expedient that a professing believer should be both privately and openly “Christian in all they do.’ -They must have confessed their sins to God, accepted Jesus as their personal Saviour and Lord Romans 10:9. Such believers must be ready to always share the good news about Him everywhere Romans 1:16. Being filled with the Holy Spirit – the Master Strategist-cannot be over-emphasised Ephesians 5:18. To be kingdom ‘influencers’ indeed, we have to develop ‘a large heart’, be friendly and accommodating Proverbs 18:24. We also need to get ready to work hard, work smart, work tenaciously, and aim at becoming known authorities, or experts within our fields of endeavours 1 Kings 7:13-14. As christians, we must individually and collectively establish a strong voice in our positions like the three Hebrew men Daniel 3:16-19,28-29 and Apostle Paul Galatians 2:11-14. We must always be the Game Changer in our sphere of influence 1 Samuel 17:32. Kingdom ‘influencers must be good stewards always be accountable for whatever they do. Luke 19:16-17.

CONCLUSION

Everyone has influence, God expects us to be good stewards of that influence for His Kingdom’s sake.