Sunday School

Sunday School Lesson 47

SEEKING REVENGE

MEMORY VERSE: “Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I am the LORD.” – Leviticus 19:18

BIBLE PASSAGE: Romans 12:17-21

INTRODUCTION: Retaliation is a violent response to an act of harm or perceived injustice. To retaliate is to do something harmful or negative, to get revenge for some harm; to fight back or respond in kind to an injury or affront. Both the Hebrew and Greek words translated “vengeance”, revenge, and avenge” have the idea of punishment in their root meaning. The question of non-retaliation or non-violence is often discussed in relation to Matthew 5:38-44.

LESSON OUTLINES:

1. What Does The Bible Say About Retaliation?
2. The Proper Christian Action

1. WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY ABOUT REVENGE?

The Bible has much to say about revenge (retaliation, avenge or vengeance) that contradicts everything that feels right to many people (Isaiah 55:9). For instance, in Romans 12:19, believers are not expected to pay back any evil done against them. Proverbs 25:21-22 and Romans 12:20 admonish us not to stoop low to the level of the offender. Believers should learn not to join their offenders in their errors (Romans 12:21; Matthew 5:39). Hebrews 10:30 also teaches us not to take matters out of God’s hands and insist on fixing things ourselves.

2. THE PROPER CHRISTIAN ACTION

Matthew 5:38-44 serve to drive home the point that a Christian, rather than avenging himself upon a brother who has done him a personal wrong should love his enemies, bless those that curse him, do good to those that hate him, and pray for those who despitefully use and persecute him. Self-vengeance has no place in the Christian life; we should allow God to bring His vengeance on our enemies rather than taking vengeance ourselves (Romans 12:19).

As believers, we must resist the impulse to retaliate but rather live at peace with all men as much as possible (Romans 12:18). Our job as Christians is to forgive, not retaliate (Luke 6:27-31). when we follow God’s commands to love, forgive, and do well to those who wrong us (Matthew 5:44), we can trust that our Defender will do what is right (Psalm 20:1; Zechariah 12:8). We can also set healthy boundaries in destructive relationships (2 Corinthians 6:17; Proverbs 22:24; Ezra 10:11) and make our ways pleasing unto God (Proverbs 16:7).

CONCLUSION: The scripture enjoins us to live peaceably with all men as much as possible. Romans 12:18.

Sunday School Lesson 46

SPIRITUAL AWAKENING

MEMORY VERSE: “Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:6

BIBLE PASSAGE: 1 Thessalonians 5:1-8

INTRODUCTION: Spiritually, sleep could either be caused naturally (Proverbs 3:24) or supernaturally (Genesis 2:21). Sleep is also used as a figurative expression of death (John 11:11-13), spiritual weakness or lukewarmness (Ephesians 5:14). Spiritual sleep is considered dangerous for any believers. This calls for spiritual awakening, i.e. waking up from spiritual sleep.

LESSON OUTLINES

1. SIGNS AND DANGERS OF SPIRITUAL SLEEP
2. REMEDIES FOR SPIRITUAL SLEEP

1. SIGNS AND DANGERS OF SPIRITUAL SLEEP

There are signs or indicators of spiritual sleep that every believer should watch out for. When you notice that you are: more interested in the things of the world or vigorously pursuing wealth (1John 2:15; Ecclesiastes 5:10); manifesting more of the works of the flesh (Galatians 5:19-21); not hungry for spiritual food (Colossians 3:15-16); no longer impacted by the word of God (Isaiah 6:9-10; Jeremiah 15-16); no longer praying or hearing the voice of God (Romans 11:7-8); no longer thirsty for righteousness (Matthew 5:6). In addition, you may be sleeping spiritually when you think you do not need to learn(Proverbs 18:2; Galatians 6:3); pursuing fame or self-glory (Jeremiah 45:5); unmindful of danger(Judges 16:16-25; Jonah 1:3-5); lack commitment in spiritual relationships with spiritually-minded Christians (Hebrews 10:25).

If you are asleep spiritually you cannot discern spiritual matters (1 Corinthians 2:11-14; Proverbs 29:18). By implication whatever you cannot see you cannot get (Genesis 13:14-18; Jeremiah 17:5-6). You are open to spiritual attack(1 Kings19:1-8; Matthew 13:24-30) and sudden destruction ( Acts 20:9-12; Judges 4:17-21). You will become weak (Judges 16:20) and bring disappointment (2 Timothy 4:10). You can miss divine appointment (Matthew 25:1-12).

2. REMEDIES FOR SPIRITUAL SLEEP

The Bible calls for spiritual awakening especially for believers that are slumbering or already asleep in spiritual matters (Romans 13:11). Why should and how can such believers wake up?

One clear reason for spiritual awakening is the nearness of the second coming of Jesus Christ (Romans 13:11b; Matthew 24:42-44). Believers should also note that we are children of light and of ‘the day’ and not of ‘the night’ nor of darkness (1Thessalonians 5:5). To enjoy the true light in Christ, those that are sleeping spiritually must wake up (Ephesians 5:14). Another reason to awake from spiritual sleep is to receive deliverance from the snare of the devil (2Timothy 2:26). Believers should wake up spiritually because, we are in the season of harvest of souls into God’s kingdom (Luke 10:2). Also, it is a time of war and the enemy is wide awake (Matthew 13:25; 1Peter 5:8).

1 Corinthians 15:34 charges every believer to awake to righteousness, strive to know God and stop sinning. If you claim to be a believer in Christ, you must constantly check your lifestyle habits to know whether you are slumbering or sleeping spiritually (2Corinthians 13:5; Luke 21:34). Watch and pray constantly in order to remain spiritually alert (Luke 21:36; Matthew 26:41).

CONCLUSION: Learn to walk in the power of the Holy Spirit in order not to sleep spiritually. If you are already sleeping, wake up.

QUESTIONS

1. What are the signs and dangers of spiritual sleep?
2. Mention the remedies for spiritual sleep

Sunday School Lesson 45

HEALTHY SLEEP PATTERNS

MEMORY VERSE: “And there sat in a window a certain young man named Eutychus, being fallen into a deep sleep: and as Paul was long preaching, he sunk down with sleep, and fell down from the third loft, and was taken up dead.” – Acts 20:9

BIBLE PASSAGE: Proverbs 6:9-11

INTRODUCTION: Healthy sleep patterns is a phenomenon that captures the nature of sleep in humans, the associated disorders and remedies. In this context, it is important to have the knowledge of how much or how well we sleep and deal with any lifestyle habits that run contrary to proper sleeping habits. We shall therefore consider the stages and spectrum of sleep as well as some sleep disorders in this study.

LESSON OUTLINES

1. Stages And Spectrum of Sleep
2. Sleep Disorders

1. STAGES AND SPECTRUM OF SLEEP

Sleep can be in stages. It starts from slumbering or dozing (Matthew 25:1-5). Sleep (Proverbs 3:24), Deep sleep (Genesis 2:21-23; Job 4:13), sleep of death or Coma (Psalm 13:3; Jeremiah 51:57), Death (John 1:11-14).

Physically, the amount of sleep you need varies significantly over the course of your lifetime. It depends on your age and activity-level as well as your general health and lifestyle habits. However, on a sleep spectrum (scale), one can have lack/shortage of sleep (Daniel 6:18), moderate sleep (Ecclesiastes 6:12) or excessive sleep (Acts 20:9). If one does not sleep moderately, it could be as a result of a lifestyle habit (Proverbs 6:9-10;19:15; 20:13) or sleep disorder.

2. SLEEP DISORDERS

Sleep disorder varies. Insomnia’ is difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, even when a person has the chance to do so. Sleep deprivation occurs when an individual gets less sleep than they need to feel awake and alert. Ongoing lack of sleep can lead to excessive daytime sleepiness, emotional difficulties, poor job performance, obesity, risk of heart disease (stroke) and a lowered perception of quality of life.

Oversleeping is called hypersomnia or “long sleeping”. People with hypersomnia might require as many as 10 to 12 hours of sleep per night to feel their best. But Oversleeping has been linked to a host of medical problems, including diabetes, heart disease, and increased risk of death.

Sleep apnea is a temporary cessation of breathing during sleep. It is a potentially serious sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts. If you snore loudly and feel tired even after a full night’s sleep, you might have sleep apnea.

Sleep paralysis occurs when your mind is conscious but you are unable to move your body especially when you are in the process of waking up.

Sleep-walking or talking loud while sleeping is another sleep challenge especially in adults. Anyone with sleep challenge should pray, seek professional counsel and change his/her lifestyle habits.

CONCLUSION: Like in every other area of life, sleep should also be in moderation.

Sunday School Lesson 44

SWEET SLEEP

MEMORY VERSE: “The sleep of a labouring man is sweet, whether he eat little or much: but the abundance of the rich will not suffer him to sleep.” – Ecclesiastes 5:12

BIBLE PASSAGE: Proverbs 3:21-24

INTRODUCTION: Sleep is a state of natural muscle relaxation and periodic suspension of consciousness (reduced interactions with surroundings). Like everything else God has made, sleep is good but can also be greatly abused. Can we sleep too much, too little, and how important is sleep?

LESSON OUTLINES

1. WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY ABOUT SLEEP?
2. WHY IS SLEEP IMPORTANT?

1. WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY ABOUT SLEEP?

The Bible says good sleep is the result of faith and trust in God (Psalm 4:8; 127:2). Sweet sleep is a reward for good labour (Ecclesiastes 5:12; Proverbs 3:24). Sleep is one of the medium through which God communicates with man (1Kings 3:5). However, the Bible says that it is not good to love sleep (Proverbs 20:13); sleep too much (Proverbs 6:9-11); sleep at the wrong time ( Ecclesiastes 3:1; Matthew 26:40-46); deprive oneself of sleep for inordinate ambitious pursuit of wealth (Ecclesiastes 8:16; Psalm 127:1-2). Sleep is something portrayed as a gift from God in passages such as Proverbs 3:24 and Psalm 4:8.

2. WHY IS SLEEP IMPORTANT?

Sleep is a good thing. One possible explanation for our need for sleep is that sleep reminds us that we are creatures, not the Creator. Our physical bodies must be constantly replenished with food, water, oxygen, and sleep in order to continue functioning. We know that sleeping is part of being a healthy person because Jesus had to sleep just like we do (Luke 8:23; Mark 1:35). Sleep is a basic human need and essential for good health, boosts memory, aids body system against infections, replenishes the body, and improves immune function. It is also essential for good quality of life and performing well during the day (better productivity and concentration).

Sometimes, God spoke to people while they slept through dreams and visions (Matthew 2:13,19; 1Kings 3:5). Too much of sleep, however, is bad (Proverbs 10:5).

CONCLUSION: Sleeping at the right time and in the right proportion is good for the health of every believer.

Sunday School Lesson 43

PERSONAL SPIRITUAL HYGIENE

MEMORY VERSE: “Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” – 2 Corinthians 7:1

BIBLE PASSAGE: Hebrews 10:19-23 

INTRODUCTION: God’s desire is that His people will be clean outwardly and inwardly (Zechariah 3:4). He loved those whose hearts and lives are perfect towards Him and has made adequate provision for their all-round cleansing (Hebrews 10:22). In Psalms 51:7, David prayed for God’s cleansing. We also have a crucial role to play in this matter.

LESSON OUTLINES

1. PERSONAL SPIRITUAL HYGIENE AND ITS BENEFITS
2. HOW CAN A MAN CLEANSE HIMSELF?

1. PERSONAL SPIRITUAL HYGIENE AND ITS BENEFITS

Personal spiritual hygiene is a conscious and decisive effort put in by man to purge himself of all filthiness (2 Corinthians 1:7) in order to become whole and acceptable to God, through the help of the Holy Spirit. It involves thorough sanitation of a life whose filth has been revealed through the mirror of God’s word. It is a renewal of one’s mind (Romans 12:2). It is putting away evil deeds (Isaiah 1:16), wickedness of the heart and impure thoughts (Jeremiah 4:14). It is giving no room for sin in one’s life (Romans 6:12).

Personal spiritual hygiene makes us honourable and useful vessels (2Timothy 2:21). It is essential for those that have the hope of eternal life with Jesus (1John 3:3). It provides a platform to appear before God blameless and to obtain answers to prayers (Hebrews 10:22; Hebrews 4:6).

2. HOW CAN A MAN CLEANSE HIMSELF?

It is absolutely true that we are purged and cleansed through the shed blood of our Lord Jesus Christ (Hebrews 9:14, 22). However, the Bible raises a fundamental question in Psalms 119:9, “Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way?…” The Bible also provides the answer,”… by taking heed thereto according to thy word. “Having identified the gray areas in your life, ‘take heed thereto’ necessary adjustments and make changes to show that you fear God. Lay aside weight and besetting sins (Hebrews 12:1). Steer clear of the appearances of evil (1Thessalonians 5:22). Wash thoroughly in the water of God’s word (Ephesians 5:26; Ezekiel 36:25). Mortify the deeds of the flesh (Romans 8:13; Colossians 3:5)- and draw near to God (James 4:8).

CONCLUSION: God is looking for a clean and pure vessels. You can be available for His use by cleansing yourself.

Sunday School Lesson 42

BEWARE OF DOGS

BIBLE PASSAGE: 2 Peter 2:9-22 

INTRODUCTION: The word ‘beware’ is ‘to be careful of or to be mindful of a thing, a person or a circumstance. The scripture warns us to beware of dogs, evil workers and of the concision (fleshly circumcision upon which the Judaizers insisted as being necessary for gentile converts). Dogs are naturally domesticated as pets or for security purposes. However, dogs are also dangerous animals; they can bite, destroy and even kill. In the New Testament times, dogs were regarded as scavengers (Matt.15:26-27). In the context of Philippians 3:2 the word ‘dog’ is used figuratively to represent some classes of people. Who are these ‘dogs’ and why should believers beware of ‘dogs’.

LESSON OUTLINES:

1. Description Of ‘Dogs’
2. Dangers Posed By ‘Dogs’ And The Way Out

1. DESCRIPTION OF ‘DOGS’

The scripture is explicit in the way the issue of dogs is being addressed. Philippians 3:1-3 describes ‘dogs’ as evil workers; people who are deceitful (2 Corinthians 11:13); unfaithfully and deceitfully (2 Corinthians 4:1-2). ‘Dogs’ are people who endeavour to subvert the Gospel of Christ, and the faith of men (Acts 13:8-11). Isaiah 56:10-11 further gave a description of dogs as ministers or leaders who are lazy, greedy, self-centered, and look out only for their own interests. Gnashing teeth, biting, and barking are behaviours common to dogs, so it is with people of violent spirit (Galatians 5:15)

Jesus Christ also speaks in symbolic terms about dogs: He instructed “Give not that which is holy unto the dogs neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you.” (Matthew 7:6). ‘Dogs’ are those who go back to their ‘vomit-old sinful ways-after salvation (2 Peter 2:22; Hebrews 10:38).

Dogs are also mentioned in Deuteronomy 23:18, alluding to the behaviour of homosexuality and male prostitution, which is abominable in the judgment of God. From these examples we can conclude that one aspect of the warning about “dogs” is to beware of people who live and promote a sinful lifestyle in doctrines and deeds.

2. DANGERS POSED BY ‘DOGS’ AND THE WAY OUT

Dogs are destroyers of the faith; they pollute the faith of believers by confusing fundamental doctrines (2 Timothy 3:7-8; 4:3-4). They weaken the conscience of young believers through their meanness and inconsiderable behaviours. They live their lives as if they do not have a responsibility to help young believers grow (1 Corinthians 8:9-12). They defile the church with their pervasive way of life (2 Corinthians 11:13) introducing homosexualism, prostitution and other abominable things into the Christian faith.

To avoid being victims of the antics of dogs, Christians should avoid taking pleasure in those who are regarded as ‘dogs’ by the Scriptures (Romans 1:32). Believers should give attendance to the study of Scriptures in order not to be tossed by the wind of doctrines (1 Timothy 4:13; Ephesians 4:14); Be watchful and prayerful (1 Peter 5:8; Matthew 26:41); Make holiness your lifestyle (Romans 12:1-2) and live in the spirit (Galatians 5:16).

CONCLUSION: Anyone who goes back to his sins after forsaking them is regarded as dogs, be watchful!

QUESTIONS:

1. Who are those described as ‘dogs’ in the Bible?
2. Why are dogs dangerous?

Sunday School Lesson 41

THE CHRISITAN MISSIONARY

MEMORY VERSE: “And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” – Mark 16:15

BIBLE PASSAGE: Matthew 28:19-20

INTRODUCTION: The business of missions includes the Almighty God, the Lord Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit and the Church. Mission is a must and all real Christians should be interested.

LESSON OUTLINES

1. Christian Missions And Home Support
2. You Can Be Personally Involved

1. CHRISTIAN MISSIONS AND HOME SUPPORT

Missionaries are those Christians sent across geographical and cultural boundaries to proclaim the gospel. The take off point is usually from an established body of Christ. It automatically follows, therefore, that the upkeep of the missionary there is the sole responsibility of other members of the body at home. It is written that if a member suffers, other members suffer (1 Corinthians 12:26-26). Christians are supposed to be co-labourers together with God (1 Corinthians J:8-9). Support in prayers and provision of physical needs for the missionaries on the field are the responsibilities of Christians at home. This is missions by proxy. There, on the mission field, it is expected of the missionary to concentrate in order to achieve the purpose for which God has sent him or her (Matthew 6:20-21). Any distractions whatsoever may hinder the speed of his or her primary assignments, Hence, the need for active and prompt home supports.

2. YOU CAN BE PERSONALLY INVOLVED

The woman of Shunem in her spiritual perception found out the man of God (2 Kings 4:8-10). God needed a place for the man of God to lay his head, Both she and her husband agreed to make a chamber for the man of God and put there some essential things needed by him. Apostle Paul commended the Macedonian and Philippian churches for submitting themselves to the will of God and giving their substances for the cause of the gospel (2 Corinthians 11:3; Philippians 4:15-19). Similarly, Priscilla and Aquila, a wonderful Christian couple, were also helpers of Apostle Paul (Romans 16:3-4).

It is obvious that not all born again Christians can be out there on the mission field but all can be involved either directly or by proxy. If you cannot go, you can give and/or groan (pray) in support of missions.

CONCLUSION: God is still calling today, whosoever is willing should respond. You can decide to begin to support a missionary, at least.

QUESTIONS:

1. Give the biblical support for missions and home support.
2. What is peculiar about the Macedonian and Philippians churches in relation to missions?

Sunday School Lesson 38

THE ART AND ACT OF DANCING

MEMORY VERSE: “Then David danced before the LORD with all his might and David was wearing a linen ephod.”- 2 Samuel 6:14 (NKJV)

BIBLE PASSAGE: 2 Samuel 6:12-22

LESSON INTRODUCTION: Dance is a performing art form consisting of purposefully selected sequence of body movement. Dancing is one of those issues that have been questioned in the past. Some groups have viewed all forms of dance as evil. There are no Bible verses prohibiting us from dancing, rather, joyful dancing has been clearly documented in the Bible. However, dance can be used either as an act of worship to glorify God or for wrongful purposes. Youths should get the correct perspective and act wisely.

OUTLINES:

1. DANCING IN THE BIBLE
2. THE CORRECT PERSPECTIVE

1. DANCING IN THE BIBLE

There are instances of dancing in the Bible that can be categorised into two; dancing to God or with good intentions and dancing for idols or with bad intentions. The first appearance of God’s people dancing as an act of worship is found with Miriam the prophetess, Aaron’s sister (Exodus 15:20). Another instance is found in 2 Samuel 6:16, which has David “leaping and dancing before the LORD.” The implication of this is that Christian youths should dance as an act of worship unto God.

In the second category, the Israelites were found dancing before a golden calf in worship and being out of control, they danced naked (Exodus 32:6,19-25). In this case, dancing led to a very sinful activity. Hence, the fact that you can dance or gifted in the art of dancing does not mean that you should dance to any kind of music or at any occasion/gathering where God’s name is not proclaimed or glorified (Ecclesiastes 3:4). This is because, in the process, you may be dancing before idols or to demon-inspired songs/beats.

2. THE CORRECT PERSPECTIVE

Many Christians have forgotten that the Bible warns against end-time devices of Satan (2 Corinthians 2:11). Christian youths should avoid sexually stimulating, indecent and seductive body movements while dancing so as not to create wrong impressions (2 Corinthians 12:19-20; Ephesians 4:17-19). Holding or touching of sensual parts of your body or the body of the opposite gender, in the name of dancing, should be avoided, as this could stimulate sexual urge and impure thoughts (1 Thessalonians 5:22). Also, any dancing that stirs up sinful thoughts or desires in yourself or in others is sinful. Dancing to bring attention to yourself or your body, therefore, would be sinful (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).

As long as dance is decent, God-focused and praiseworthy, it can have a proper place in worship (Psalm 149:3). It is important to understand that dance in the context of worship is not simply self expression. It should be done in a way that is helpful to the entire congregation (Psalm 150:4). Hence, anything during a worship gathering that distracts from a focus on Christ should be left out.

Moreover, the content of a song (lyrics) and the personality of the singer (whether he or she is a child of God) should be verified before you dance to such songs/beats. The believer’s focus for dancing must be to fulfil 1 Corinthians 10:31 that teaches, So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.”

CONCLUSION: You can dance in a way that does not tempt or lure others to sin. Let your dance bring glory to God.

QUESTIONS:

1. Is dancing condemned by the Bible?
2. What is the right perspective to dancing?

Sunday School Lesson 37

JOSEPH: AN EXCELLENT YOUTH

MEMORY VERSE: “And it came to pas from the time that he had made him overseer in his house, and over all that he had, that the Lord blessed the Egyptian’s house for Joseph’s sake; and the blessing of the LORD was upon all that he had in the house, and in the field” . — Genesis 39:5 (NKJV)

BIBLE PASSAGE: GENESIS 41:25-42

LESSON INTRODUCTION :Joseph, the son of Jacob and Rachael, was born in Mesopotamia, (Genesis 30:22-24) in B.C. 1747. His name means “the Lord shall add to me another son”. He is memorable for the wonderful Providence of God, which raised him from prison to be the Prime Minister of Egypt and made him the honoured means of saving countless human lives. His history is one of the most pleasing and instructive in the Bible. It is too beautiful to be summarised. He died at the age of a hundred and ten, B.C. 1637. The story of Joseph spans through Genesis chapter 37-50.

LESSON OUTLINE
1. CHARACTER AND ACHIEVEMENTS
2. LESSONS FROM HIS LIFE

1. CHARACTER AND ACHIEVEMENTS
Joseph was a young man with an unwavering faith, self-control, patience, discretion and loyalty in all aspects of life. Although he was arrogant with his brothers (Genesis 37:3-11), he developed humility in Egypt (Genesis 43:30;45:1-5). Joseph was sold in to slavery by his brothers who were jealous of him (Genesis 37:12-28). He had great faith in God (Genesis 41:14-16). He had strong integrity and loyalty (Genesis 39:5-9). He believed that God would one day bring his dream to reality and did all he could to remain focused (Genesis 39:9). God gave him the ability to interpret dreams (Genesis 40:5-19;41:14-28). He was made second in charge over all Egypt by Pharaoh (Genesis 41:38-45). He was certain it was not his brothers that had sent him to Egypt, but God (Genesis 50:20).

2. LESSONS FROM HIS LIFE
1. Be humble. God sometimes bring adversities and trials into our lives to teach us humility (Genesis 37:28; Deuteronomy 8:3).
2. God can turn into good any evil that people do against you (Genesis 50:20; Romans 8:28)
3. Have integrity. No matter how great the temptation and fierce opposition appears, stay loyal and obedient to God (Gen. 39: 9-12; Psalm 119:11).
4. Write down your God-given vision, dreams or plans, pray over it and be wisely guided in sharing with others (Genesis 37: 6-7; Habakkuk 2: 2-3).
5. Focus on God, not he situation. Do not complain about your predicaments, rather, see them as an opportunity to serve others and minister wholeheartedly to their needs (Gen. 39:3-4; Phillip 2:14).
6. Be God-dependent. Always acknowledge God as the source of your achievements and never take any credit for it (Gen. 45:8; 41:16; Prov. 3:5-6).
7. Manage success. When God honours you with success and prosperity, you must not forget to first honour others (Gen. 45:1-5).
8. Fully forgive. Set your heart to forgive those around you. This will heal your relationship and keep your heart free from bitterness and deep rooted resentment from the past (Genesis 45:5-8; Ephesians 4:32).

CONCLUSION
The Bible story of Joseph is one that teaches us to be courageous in the midst of some of life’s worst storms.

QUESTIONS
1. Highlight the key components of Joseph’s character.
2. Mention some crucial lessons that a Christian youth should learn from Joseph’s life

Sunday School Lesson 35

DEALING WITH ADDICTION

MEMORY VERSE: “All things are lawful for me, but all things are not helpful. All things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.”- 1 Cor. 6:12 (NKJV).

BIBLE PASSAGE: Proverbs 31:2-7

LESSON INTRODUCTION: 

Addiction is a compulsive tendency developed over a period of continuous and repeated actions or exposures to a certain substance. People with addiction use substances or engage in behaviours that become compulsive and often continue despite harmful consequences. Addiction leads to characteristic biological, psychological, social and spiritual manifestations. Today, many youths are suffering from different forms of addiction. What is the way out?

LESSON OUTLINES

1. TYPES AND SIGNS OF ADDICTIONS
2. THE WAY OUT

1. TYPES AND SIGNS OF ADDICTIONS

1. Substance addictions (Proverbs 20:1; 23:29-35; Isaiah 5:11-12; 28:7-8) e.g. drug abuse (cocaine, opioids-heroine, amphetamines, benzodiazepines, tramadol, codeine, crack, inhalants, etc.), alcoholism, smoking (cigarette, tobacco, marijuana, nicotine), caffeine (coffee, coke, cola), etc.
2. Behavioural or process addictions (1 Kings 11:4-5; Proverbs 31:3; 1 Peter 4:3): This is addiction to mood-altering behaviours such as gambling, cell phone and social media, the internet, love and relationships, sexual activity
   (masturbation, sex, pornography, etc.), eating disorders, spending, shopping, watching television, video games, etc.
3. Power addiction is a kind of addiction associated with power, influence and affluence (Proverbs 28:15). People who are addicted to power tend to feel most powerful when they are dominating other people, with little patience for
   anything that stands in the way of their upward path. They are often extremely competitive and have a devastating need to be right. Examples are King Saul (1 Samuel 19:1;8-10) and King Hezekiah (Isaiah 39:1-8).

Some signs of addiction may include: developing a strong desire to use substances or engaging in the problematic behaviour, appearing dirty, inability to fulfil obligations at school, work or home, previously enjoyed hobbies are abandoned in favour of use of substances and withdrawal symptoms.

A person with power addiction may experience obsession, extreme restlessness and in extreme cases, may resort to irrational, destructive behaviour such as manipulation or bribery to achieve goals and maintain the ‘high’.

2. THE WAY OUT

1. Take a stand. You must first of all acknowledge that addiction is an affliction and you are already caught up in its web. Then, you must be willing to break free from its bondage while acknowledging that you cannot help yourself (Psalm 51:14).

2. Seek help (James 5:13-16). You must open up to God (Proverbs 3:4.5;1 Peter 5:7) and to people who can be of help in breaking the evil habit. Surrender yourself for proper screening and therapies (Pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy and spiritual therapy).
3. Avoid relapse. Relapse is to addiction what backsliding is to sin and its episode is usually worse than before the treatment/deliverance (Matthew 12:43-45; 2 Peter 2:20-22).
4. Keep your heart with all diligence (Proverbs 4:23) and renew it daily (Romans 12:1-2; Eph. 4:22-23). Addiction is really a battle of the mind.
5. You must avoid exposures to all forms of triggers (1 Corinthians 15:33; 2 Corinthians 6:15-20; Ephesians 5:11-12).
6. Keep the company of those who can encourage you in your journey to total victory (Hebrews 10:24-25).
7. It is incumbent on the brethren not to cast away the victim at this critical time (Psalm 38:11) but to show him/her love and encouragement until the victory is won (2 Timothy 1:15-16; Psalm 133:1-3).

CONCLUSION: Withdrawal from addiction often comes with a myriad of challenges usually referred to as withdrawal syndrome. You can overcome with the help of God.

QUESTIONS:

1. Mention the types of addiction known to you?
2. Is it possible to overcome addictions, how?