Sunday School

Sunday School Lesson 18

The Spirit Of Fear

MEMORY VERSE: “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” – 2 Timothy 1:7

BIBLE PASSAGE: Genesis 3:6-10 KJV

INTRODUCTION: Generally, fear can be described as a strong uncontrollable, unpleasant emotion caused by actual or perceived danger threat. It is a basic survival mechanism that signals our body to respond to danger with a fight or flight response. The key word for fear in
Greek language is ‘phobos’ from which the common word ‘phobia’ originates. People have phobia from different things and for different reasons. Some people are said to be ‘aquaphobic’ – fear of water, ‘acrophobic’-fear of height, ‘nyctophctic’-fear of darkness, ‘gerascophobic’-fear of ageing, ‘anthropophobic-fear of insects, etc. What does the Bible say about fear? What are the common causes of fear? Getting answers to these questions and many more shall be the focus of this study.

LESSON OUTLINES

1. What Does The Bible Say About Fear?
2. Biblical Instances of The ‘Spirit Of Fear In Action.

1. WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY ABOUT FEAR?
   Scriptures clearly reveal that fear is a spirit (2 Timothy 1:7). It is a spirit that puts people in
   bondage and torment (Romans 8:15; 1 John 4:18). Believers are sometimes tempted to fear
   (Psalm 55:5) but are delivered from it (Proverbs 1:33; Isaiah 14:3) by trusting in God (Psalm
   27:1). A guilty conscience leads to fear (Genesis 3:8,10; Psalm 53:5; Proverbs 28:1). Fear seizes
   the wicked (Job 15:24; 18:11) and characterises the wicked (Revelation 21:8). Fear is the
   consequential opposite of faith (Matthew 14:28-31). One can also be a victim of his fears (Job
   3:25).
   For the righteous, the Bible admonishes that they should fear not’ (KJV) in several passages and
   for seven key reasons. This is to assure them of the blessings in the journey of life (Genesis
   26:24); supplies in Famine (1 Kings 17:13) protection in peril (2 Kings 6:16); strength in
   weakness (Isaiah 41:10) companionship in trial (Isaiah 43:1-3); overshadowing care (Matthew
   10:30-31); and life beyond the grave (Revelation 1:17-18).

2. BIBLICAL INSTANCES OF THE ‘SPIRIT OF FEAR’ IN ACTION
   There are instances in the Bible where the spirit of fear operated in or through the lives of some
   characters. Adam, in hiding from God and attempting to shift responsibility for his sin upon Eve
   (Genesis 3:8-12). Abraham, in calling his wife his Sister (Genesis 12:11-19; 20:2-12). The
   Israelites, when Pharaoh and his host pursued in the wilderness before the red sea (Exodus
   12:10). Aaron, in yielding to the Israelites, when they demanded an idol (Exodus 32:22-24). The
   ten spies, in dissuading the Israelites from entering the Promised Land (Numbers 13:28, 31-33).
   The Israelites, in the battle against Goliath (1Samuel 17:24). David, in fleeing from Absalom
   (2Samuel 15:13-17). Parents of the blind man, who sight restored to (John 9:22). The disciples,
   during the storm at sea (Luke 8:25), When they saw Jesus walking on the sea (Matthew 14:25-
   26) and when Jesus was apprehended (Matthew 26:56). Pilate, in condemning Jesus, through
   fear of the people (John 19:12-16). Peter and other Christians, at Antioch (Galatians 2:11-14).
   If you are truly a believer, resist any attempt at being a victim of fear (2 Timothy 1:7).

CONCLUSION: Fear is not a component of the fruit of the Holy Spirit, therefore refuse to
entertain fear in your life.

QUESTIONS

1. What does the Bible say about fear?
2. Mention scriptural instances where the spirit of fear manifested.

FURTHER READING:
Monday: Proverbs 3:24-26
Tuesday: Psalm 91:4-6
Wednesday: 1 Peter 3:12-14
Thursday: Hebrews 2:14-15
Friday: Luke 12:32,
Saturday: Isaiah 41:13
Sunday: 2 Timothy 1:7

Sunday School Lesson 17

Potency Of The Blood Covenant

MEMORY VERSE: “Whereupon neither the first testament was dedicated without blood.” – Hebrews 9:18.

BIBLE PASSAGE: Hebrews 9:15-28

INTRODUCTION: Promise, vow, bond or oath is used interchangeably as declaration or assurance that one will do something or that a particular thing will happen. However, blood covenant is the most binding agreement in that it involves cutting and shedding of blood. Hence, in this study, we shall attempt to consider the significance and the saving power in the blood of Jesus.

LESSON OUTLINES

1. Significance Of The Blood Covenant
2. The Saving Power In The Blood Of Jesus

1. SIGNIFICANCE OF THE BLOOD COVENANT

We cannot speak of spiritual covenants without speaking of blood. Every spiritual covenant is enacted through the shedding of blood. Therefore not even the first covenant was dedicated without blood.” (Hebrews 9:18-NKJV). The difference between a covenant and a partnership is that covenant involves blood. The covenants of the Old Testament were sealed with the blood of circumcision (Acts 7:8) and the sacrifices of animals but in the New Testament, by the blood of Jesus Christ (Hebrews 9:11-14). Hence, the blood covenant is the seal of the Bible (Hebrews 9:18; Luke 22:20). When we understand the blood covenant and who we are, as well as what we have in the Lord Jesus, we are then no longer bound to our feelings but can stand with boldness (Hebrews 4:15-16). This blood covenant, made on our behalf, by Jesus Christ is a steadfast promise and an unbreakable covenant (Genesis 17:7; Galatians 3:17).

2. THE SAVING POWER IN THE BLOOD OF JESUS

Every human being has the opportunity to be reconciled to God through the blood covenant with the body of Christ, the Savior, who died for us. The blood of Jesus personifies the covenant of salvation (1Corinthians 11:25). We receive God’s righteousness, not because of our own worth, but because of a covenant made long before we were ever born. God and Jesus created a platform for the redemption of mankind (John 3:16). Every sinner is deformed (Romans 5:12), dethroned (Romans 3:23) and awaiting death (Romans 6:23). The blood of Jesus has brought forgiveness (Ephesians 1:7), restoration (Hebrews 9:15) and salvation (Acts 4:12; 11Timothy 2:5-6) to as many as will receive Him (1John 1:8- 9) thereby making them apart of God’s family (John 1:12; 1 Corinthians 1:9). God has also given us an inheritance (Acts 26:18). The saving power in the blood of Jesus neutralises and destroys every evil covenant entered into knowingly or ignorantly (Colossians 2:13-14).

CONCLUSION: The blood of Jesus is the covenant of God for the remission of sin. To enjoy the full benefits of this covenant, you must accept the sacrifice that Jesus offers through His blood (Hebrews 9:28).

QUESTIONS

1. How significant is the blood covenant? Explain.
2. How can the blood of Jesus deliver sinners and those under the captivity of other blood covenants?

FURTHER READING:
Monday: Genesis 17:7
Tuesday: Acts 7:8
Wednesday: Luke 22:20
Thursday: Colossians 2:13-14
Friday: Galatians 3:17,
Saturday: Hebrews 9:11-14
Sunday: 1 Corinthians 11:25

Sunday School Lesson 10

The Lord’s Prayer

MEMORISE: “Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.”- Hebrews 4:6

BIBLE PASSAGE: Matthew 6:9-13

INTRODUCTION: Many people misunderstand the Lord’s prayer to be a prayer that we are to repeat word for word. It has been memorised by countless people throughout history and is often recited corporately. Rather, the Lord’s prayer should be understood as an example and as a
model, of how to pray. Not that we are tied up to the use of this only
l, or of this always; yet, without doubt, it gives us the “ingredients”
that should go into prayer.

LESSON OUTLINES:

1. Petitions In Relation To God And His Honour
2. Petitions In Relation To Human Concerns

1. PETITIONS IN RELATION TO GOD AND HIS HONOUR

“Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.” (Matt. 6:9): Jesus begins His exemplary prayer by acknowledging God the Father. God is our Father, meaning He cares for us. God resides in Heaven, which implies He is above us (Isaiah 55:8-9) and He is the one to whom our prayers should be addressed to.
We hallow His name, meaning we declare that He is holy and praise Him for who He is.
This opening line, therefore recognises that God is both our Father and our King. He loves us, and He is far greater than us (Revelation 1:6).

“Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.” (Matt. 6:10): is a reminder to us that we are to pray for God’s plan in our lives and the world, not our own plan. We are to pray for God’s will to be done, not our desires. That is, after acknowledging the character of God, we are to pray for His purposes. God cares for us and is greater than us. (Jeremiah 29:11), we are to submit our will to His (Matthew 26:39, 42; Acts 21:14).
We are to trust that His way is better and pray that His will be accomplished on earth. (Psalm 37:4-5)

2. PETITIONS IN RELATION TO HUMAN CONCERNS

“Give us this day our daily bread.” (Matt. 6:11):
We do not only desire God’s will on a grand scale, but also on the smaller scale of our lives. (Prov. 30:8). We look to Him for our daily needs; – spiritual, practical, relational, emotional, and physical. (Matt. 6:33)

“And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.” (Matt. 6:12). Our biggest need is to be forgiven. Without God’s forgiveness we are dead in sin. (Ephesians 2:1). With His forgiveness, we are made alive in Christ. (Colossians 2:13). Because we are forgiven, we are called to forgive (Matt. 18:28-35, Mark 11:25). Forgiveness restores our fellowship with God and others. With forgiveness, we can obey the command to love God and love others. (Matt. 23:37-40).

“And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil…” (Matthew 6:13a). This final request demonstrates a heart that is eager to please God. God will not lead us into temptation (James 1:13); He is not the author of evil.
This prayer is an agreement with God that we do not want to sin against Him (Luke 22:40).
It is a plea for help in achieving victory over sin and a request for protection from the attacks of the devil (Psalm 141:4, 9). We pray to be aware of the evil that tempts us and to readily see the escape that He has provided us (1 Corinthians 10:13).Temptation in this verse may also refer to trails of our faith. (1 Peter 1:7; 4:12).

We can conclude our prayers with a remainder of God’s sovereign control, His great power and that our life is for His glory. “…..For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.” (Matthew 6:13b).

CONCLUSION: The Lord’s Prayer is a model provided by Jesus for how to pray.

QUESTIONS:

1. How do we acknowledge and honour God in prayer?
2. How should believers petition God in acceptable manner?

FURTHER READING

MON: Ps. 23;

TUE: Phil. 4:6;

WED: 1Jn. 5:14;

THUR: 1Jn. 5:15;

FRI: 2 Chr. 7:14;

SAT: 2 Chr. 7:14;

SUN: Jer. 29:12.

Sunday School Lesson 11

Temptation

MEMORY VERSE: “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.” – 1 Corinthians 10:13

BIBLE PASSAGE: James 1:12-15

INTRODUCTION: In the Bible, the word ‘temptation’ primarily denotes a trial in which man has a free choice of being faithful or unfaithful to God (Gen. 22:1). Secondarily, it signifies allurement or seduction to sin. The latter is a desire to engage in short-term urges for enjoyment, that threatens
long-term goals. Temptation is one of the most familiar experiences of a true child of God and no one can totally escape from it. Even our Lord Jesus Christ was tempted (Matt. 4:1; Heb. 4:15). This is why the Lord taught us to include in our daily prayer the petition, “And lead us not into
temptation, but deliver us from evil”.

1. SOURCES OF AND REASONS FOR TEMPTATIONS
   God never tempts any man although He may give permission to the devil to do so when he is certain that the result would give be to His glory (James 1:13). In which case, He sets the boundaries (Job 1:1-12; 2:6) The actual sources of temptation are: Satan (Matthew 4:1); The flesh (James 1:14); Evil associations (Proverbs 1:10) and Carnal Christians (Matthew16:22-23). When can God allow temptations to come our way ? The answers are simply:
2. 1.When He wants to test our faith (James 1:2-3)
3. When He wants to test our obedience (Genesis 22:1).
   God permits temptation to know the depth of our love and the sincerity of our testimonies that we would obey Him in all things at all times. It is easy to say that we love God and that He can do all things. It is only at the time of severe trials that we can discover if we mean what we say or not. However, in all these cases, God always provides a way for us to overcome (1Corinthians 10:13). Of course, there are temptations that we bring upon ourselves through the lust of the flesh (1John 2:15-17).

2. HOW DO TEMPTATIONS ARISE?
   Temptations can come through many avenues. We shall list a few of them to know how to watch
   out. Temptations can come through:
3. Poverty or prosperity (Proverbs 30:8-9).
4. Discouragement (Psalm 42:11; 1Kings 19:4).
5. Pride, the case of Nebuchadnezzars fall (Daniel 4:30).
6. Pleasure, that led Demas astray (2 Timothy 4:10).
7. Desire for power, that brought a curse on Simon Magus (Acts 8:19).
8. Lust after women, that ruined Solomon and caused the anger of God against David
   (Nehemiah 13:26, 2 Samuel 11:24).
9. Love of money or greed for material possessions that ruined Achan and led to the
   destruction of Gehazi and Judas Iscariot (Joshua 7; 2 Kings 5; 1 Timothy 6:9-10;
   John 13:21-30).

CONCLUSION: To be tempted is not a sin. However, to yield to temptation is a sin.

Further Readings: MON:1 Jn 3:9;TUE: 1 Pet. 5:9; WED: 1 Pet. 5:8;THUE: Matt.2:41; FRID: Matt. 6:13;SAT: Matt 4:1; SUN:Ps119:11

Sunday School Lesson 12

Overcoming Temptation

MEMORY VERSE: “For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted.” – Hebrews 2:18

BIBLE PASSAGE: Hebrews 4:14-16

INTRODUCTION: Just as we cannot stop birds from flying over our heads but can stop them from nesting in our hair, so also can we not stop temptation from coming. However, we need not accept them or allow them to take a stronghold. The consequence of yielding to temptation can be disastrous whereas resisting it births victory.

LESSON OUTLINES:

1. The Results Of Temptation
2. How Can One Overcome?

1. THE RESULTS OF TEMPTATION
   There are two possible outcomes of temptation. We either yield to it or we resist it and overcome. If a Christian yields to temptation, it becomes sin (1Timothy 6:9). The result then is that the Christian’s testimony is badly affected and he becomes spiritually weak (Matthew 26:41). If the
   temptation is resisted, the Lord is glorified and the Christian grows spiritually stronger (in faith and maturity) and will be able to resist other temptations in the future (James 1:2-4). God is happy because the determination of the Christian to obey Him is confirmed (Genesis 22:15-18).

2. HOW CAN ONE OVERCOME?
   There are several ways of overcoming temptations. We shall mention some of them:

2. We can rely on God’s faithfulness (1 Corinthians 1:9, 1 Corinthians 10:13) and on
   Jesus Christ who is constantly praying for us (Luke 22:31-32).
3. By memorising, meditating and recalling the word of God like Jesus did in Matthew
   4.
4. By constant prayer and carefulness (Matthew 26:41).
5. By fleeing (2 Timothy 2:22). When Joseph found himself cornered by Potiphar’s
   wife, he fled.
6. By resisting (James 4:7). Stay strong in the lord and do not yield to sin Ephesians
   6:10).

CONCLUSION: Avoid falling into temptation whenever it comes. To fall is easy but the scars often remain. Remember, we can do all things through Christ, including resisting temptations.

QUESTIONS:

1. List four possible ways of escape from temptation?
2. What are the results of temptations?

FURTHER READING:
MONDAY: 1 John 2:16
TUESDAY: Numbers 22:17
WEDNESDAY: Job 2:9
THURSDAY: Matthew 4:6
FRIDAY: Matthew 4:9
SATURDAY: Rev. 3:10

SUNDAY: 2 Peter 2:9

Sunday School Lesson 16

Forbidden Blood Covenants

MEMORY VERSE: “Moreover ye shall eat no manner of blood, whether it be of fowl or of beast, in any of your dwellings.” – Leviticus 7:26

BIBLE PASSAGE:Hebrews 9:14-22

INTRODUCTION: Having understood that life resides in the blood with biblical evidences (Lev.17:11) and that every spiritual covenant is sealed with the blood (Heb.9:18). Also, it should be noted that the blood of animals shed in the Old Testament could not cleanse the sins of man once and for all whereas the blood of Jesus shed as a covenant of redemption carries so much power to save man eternally. Covenants have the power of gathering, protecting and blessing people in all circumstances of life. On the other hand, any wrong use of the principle of covenant can bring about grave consequences. In this lesson, we shall attempt to discuss the instances of wrong approaches to blood covenant, the consequences and the way out.

LESSON OUTLINES

1. Wrong Approaches To Blood Covenant
2. Consequences Of Unholy Blood Covenants

1. WRONG APPROACHES TO BLOOD COVENANT

The blood connects the physical and the spiritual world as well as the temporal and eternal world. Blood covenant is usually made when the blood of two individuals mingle. It could be done by cutting the palms of the individuals and then the shaking of hands to combine the blood. It could also be that a few drops of blood from each person is mingled in a glass of wine and then drunk by both. In either case, the blood is mixed, thus indicating that two lives were mixed. Incision (piercing or cutting of the body for ritual, protection or religious purposes) is another way of initiating an individual into a blood covenant with demons (1 Kings.18:28). Sometimes, an animal’s blood could be shed as representative of both individuals mingling their lives together. After all, “the life is in the blood. (Lev.17:11). Regardless of the form it takes, the Bible forbids the mixing or drinking of blood (Lev.7:26), cutting of the skin and incisions which leave permanent scars as a reminder of the covenant from that time on. The Satanic realm fully understands the power of the blood covenant and this is why as soon as a person starts to progress in the satanic order, he is introduced to blood oaths which become progressively harsher and more prescriptive.

Hence, anyone involved in ungodly soul ties as “lovers”, illicit sexual relationships, occult blood sacrifices, suicides, homicides, abortion, etc., enters into a deal with Satan. In this manner, people unite with demons either consciously or unconsciously (Gen.4:8-12). Every believer should avoid this kind of blood covenant at all cost.

2. CONSEQUENCES OF UNHOLY BLOOD COVENANT

Blood covenant among humans is scripturally forbidden. The Bible admonishes that our ‘yes’ should be ‘yes’ and our ‘no’ should be ‘no’ (Matt.5:34-37). If swearing is unscriptural (James 5:12), entering into a blood covenant is evil and can open doorways to demonic afflictions. It can also truncate the destiny of those involved and their descendants (2Sam.12:10-12).

Sexual intercourse also constitutes a blood covenant. Since marriage is a life-long covenant, those who are yet to marry must prayerfully choose who to marry (1Cor.6:16; 2Cor.6:14). This sharing of blood creates a special spiritual connection between souls. Blood diseases can also be sexually transmitted from one partner to the other. Sexual intercourse among the unmarried is a terrible sin (1Cor. 6:18). Generational curses can be transmitted through this blood covenant (2 Sam.12:10-11). In addition, the satanic realm is quick to exact the death penalty on their blood covenant victims (John 10:10). Such sudden death could be painted as accidents, heart attack, unclassified sicknesses, etc (2 Cor. 2:11).

There are many people that have entangled themselves through blood covenants. If you are one of them, the consequences may be deadly except you confess, renounce and cry unto God for total deliverance (John 8:32; Isa.49:24-26).

CONCLUSION: Avoid entering into any form of illicit blood covenant with anyone. It is evil.

QUESTIONS:

1. What are the wrong approaches to blood covenant?
2. What are the consequences of unholy blood covenant?

FURTHER READING:
Monday: Leviticus 7:26;
Tuesday: 2 Samuel 12:10-12
Wednesday: Genesis 4:8-12
Thursday: Isaiah 49:24-26
Friday: 1 Kings 18:28
Saturday: Leviticus 17:11
Sunday: Hebrews 9:18

Sunday School Lesson 15

Life And Covenant In The Blood

MEMORY VERSE: “For the life of the flesh is in the blood: and I have given it to you upon the altar to make an atonement for your souls: for it is the blood that maketh an atonement for the soul.” – Leviticus 17:11

BIBLE PASSAGE: Exodus 24:4-8 KJV

INTRODUCTION: Biologically, blood is that vital liquid flowing in the bodies of many types of animals that usually conveys nutrients and oxygen. In vertebrates, it is coloured red by haemoglobin, conveyed by arteries and veins, pumped by the heart and usually generated in the bone marrow. Biblically, blood is used in the Old Testament to designate the life principle in animal (Lev.17:11a). In the New Testament, it is commonly used in relation to the atoning blood of Christ. Without the blood, life ceases to exist in the body physically. There is also a link between the cleansing power of the blood physically and spiritually. This is why it is important to understand the basic principles underlying blood covenant.

LESSON OUTLINES

1. Biblical Evidences That Life Is In The Blood
2. Meaning And Biblical Instances Of Blood Covenant

1. BIBLICAL EVIDENCES THAT LIFE IS IN THE BLOOD
   The proof that the life of an animal (including humans) is in the blood can be found in the fact that the voice of Abel’s blood cried out from the ground (Genesis 4:10; Hebrews 12:24). It is also unlawful to eat flesh with the blood (Genesis 9:4). The shedding of man’s blood amounts to
   destroying God’s creation and image (Genesis 9:6; Psalm 106:38). It is the blood that activates the body to praise God (Psalm 30:9). More importantly, the blood of Jesus redeems and gives eternal life (John 6:53; Ephesians 1:7). The blood is a witness to the fact that God sacrificed His
   Son (Jesus Christ) to save the world (1John 5:7-9). That shed blood has the power to purge us from all sins (Hebrews 9:22; 1John 1:7)

2. MEANING AND BIBLICAL INSTANCES OF BLOOD COVENANT
   Generally, a covenant is a contract or agreement between two or more parties. It is a solemn promise made binding by an oath which may be either verbal or symbolic. Biblically, the Hebrew word ‘beriyth’ translated covenant means “to cut” which literally has the idea of a blood covenant (1Samuel 18:3; Hebrews 9:18). The divine covenants were ratified by the sacrifice of a victim to show that without atonement there could be no communication of blessings and salvation from God to man (Genesis 15:1-8; Exodus 24:6-8). In some parts of the world and most of the times, a blood covenant is the strongest type of covenant two people could enter into. In fact, every spiritual covenant is sealed with the blood (Hebrews 9:18).
   Blood covenant existed in diverse forms of relationships in the days of the Bible. Such instances
   existed between man and idols (1Kings 18:26-28); man and man (1Samuel 18:3); man and God
   (Exodus 12:13; 24:8).

CONCLUSION: The blood covenant is the strongest form of covenant. There is an existing blood
covenant between God the father and Jesus Christ which every believer benefits from.

QUESTIONS:

1. Describe the term blood biologically and biblically.
2. Mention five facts that establish blood covenant as a biblical principle.

FURTHER READING:
MONDAY: Genesis 9:4-10;
TUESDAY: Psalm 106:38;
WEDNESDAY: 1 John 5:7-9;
THURSDAY: Genesis 15:1-8;
FRIDAY: 1Kings18:26-28;
SATURDAY: Exodus.24:4-8;
SUNDAY: Exodus12:13.

Sunday School Lesson 13

Overcoming Temptation

MEMORY VERSE: “For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted.” – Hebrews 2:18

BIBLE PASSAGE: Hebrews 4:14-16

INTRODUCTION: Just as we cannot stop birds from flying over our heads but can stop them from nesting in our hair, so also can we not stop temptation from coming. However, we need not accept them or allow them to take a stronghold. The consequence of yielding to temptation can be disastrous whereas resisting it births victory.

LESSON OUTLINES:

1. The Results Of Temptation
2. How Can One Overcome?

1. THE RESULTS OF TEMPTATION

There are two possible outcomes of temptation. We either yield to it or we resist it and overcome. If a Christian yields to temptation, it becomes sin (1Timothy 6:9). The result then is that the Christian’s testimony is badly affected and he becomes spiritually weak (Matthew 26:41). If the temptation is resisted, the Lord is glorified and the Christian grows spiritually stronger (in faith and maturity) and will be able to resist other temptations in the future (James 1:2-4). God is happy because the determination of the Christian to obey Him is confirmed (Genesis 22:15-18).

2. HOW CAN ONE OVERCOME?

There are several ways of overcoming temptations. We shall mention some of them:

1. We can rely on God’s faithfulness (1 Corinthians 1:9, 1 Corinthians 10:13) and on Jesus Christ who is constantly praying for us (Luke 22:31-32).
2. By memorising, meditating and recalling the word of God like Jesus did in Matthew 4.
3. By constant prayer and carefulness (Matthew 26:41).
4. By fleeing (2 Timothy 2:22). When Joseph found himself cornered by Potiphar’s wife, he fled.
5. By resisting (James 4:7). Stay strong in the lord and do not yield to sin Ephesians 6:10).

CONCLUSION: Avoid falling into temptation whenever it comes. To fall is easy but the scars often remain. Remember, we can do all things through Christ, including resisting temptations.

QUESTIONS:

1. List four possible ways of escape from temptation?
2. What are the results of temptations?

FURTHER READING:

MONDAY: 1 John 2:16
TUESDAY: Numbers 22:17
WEDNESDAY: Job 2:9
THURSDAY: Matthew 4:6
FRIDAY: Matthew 4:9
SATURDAY: Rev. 3:10
SUNDAY: 2 Peter 2:9

Sunday School Lesson 14

Emotional Intelligence

MEMORY VERSE: “He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.” – Proverbs 16:32

BIBLE PASSAGE: Galatians 5:13-18 KJV

INTRODUCTION: “emotional intelligence” is the concept of knowing our feelings, managing and expressing them appropriately. It is also the ability to skilfully recognise or gauge how others feel and modify our own behaviour depending on the situation at hand in order to live in harmony with them. It is obvious that our God is emotionally intelligent (Psalm 78:38). His emotions are positive, holy, noble and appropriate. Since we are created “in the image of God”, then it means that, as we mature in Christ, our emotions should, in great measure, share His divine qualities with the help of the Holy Spirit.

LESSON OUTLINES:

1. Classification Of Emotions
2. Managing Emotions

1. CLASSIFICATION OF EMOTIONS

We shall attempt to break down emotions into three classes for easy identification.

1. Holy Emotions- these are emotions expressed by God such as compassion (Psalm 78:38), joy (Zeph. 3:17), jealousy (Exodus 20:5b) and holy indignation (Deut. 32:16). Jesus, during His earthly ministry, also expressed some emotions (Matthew 9:36; 21:12). Holy emotions can also accompany a believer’s life in the Spirit in times of praise, worship and adoration (Eph. 5:19). They are not necessarily religious or pious emotions. They are good and beautiful (Phil.4:8)
2. Human Emotions- these are based on our human nature and situations. Our Saviour and Lord, Jesus Christ expressed some natural human emotions during His time on earth for instance, He wept at the tomb of Lazarus (John 11:35), scattered and sent parking those trading in the temple of God (Matt. 21:12-13) and groaned in the spirit being troubled (John 11:33). A feeling or an expression such as happiness, excitement, surprise, ecstasy, grief, disgust embarrassment, pain, fear, sadness abandonment, sorrow, anxiety, stress, anguish and vulnerability are therefore, natural human emotions. For the ‘Christian’ they are temporary. While some of these emotions may be bad, they are not evil or toxic if and when properly managed.
3. Fleshly Emotions – These are toxic, poisonous and destructive emotions such as untamed anger, malice, envy, selfish ambition, carnality, bitterness, lusts, hatred, etc. They are closely tied up with the works of the flesh and with evil deeds (Galatians 5:19-21). Their outcome is spiritual death (Romans 8:6,13; Galatians 5:21b). These emotions were not part of mankind at creation (Genesis 1:31a). Fleshly emotions constitute what Apostle Paul calls the ‘old man’ that must be put off and crucified (Romans 6:6; Ephesians 4:22).

2. MANAGING EMOTIONS

The concept of ’emotional intelligence’ is quite helpful in opening our understanding to how we can manage our emotions and relate better with others. Here are some practical steps to take in order to be emotionally balanced.

1. Self-Awareness: Identity and admit that you have issues with emotions and have a clear picture of how you appear to most people in order to make self-improvements (2 Cor.13:5).
2. Self-Control: Regulate your emotions by putting it under check so that it does not take you over. Proverbs 16:32; 29:11; Eccl.7:9).
3. Seif-Motivation: Regardless of the situation or circumstance, rather than being depressed, moody, sad or aggressive, try to encourage yourself and maintain a stable temper (1 Samuel 30:6).
4. Self-Expression and Empathy: You should always find an appropriate channel and time to politely express your feelings (Proverbs 15:1) and judge people less by seeing things from their points of view (Matthew 7:1-5; 1Peter 3:8-9).
5. Self/’Social-Skill Development: Develop the right level of rapport (relationship) with people you come across and be patient in your dealings with them (Proverbs 16:32, 18:24; Romans 12:18;2Timothy 2:24).

However, all the practical approaches mentioned above may not yield the expected result unless the believer yields himself first to the Holy Spirit who helps him/her respond differently to each of the three categories of emotion.

The Holy Spirit rejoices and assists us when we engage in holy responses. He produces them within us so they can justly be called “the fruit of the Spirit” (Galatians 5:22-23). On the other hand, the Holy Spirit comforts us when the human emotions such as grief overwhelm us (John 14:16). Lastly, He helps us to break the grip of fleshly emotions such as hatred, lust and revenge. In fact the Spirit wars against such impulses so that we cannot fully give way to our worst desires (Galatians 5:16-18). Hence, the Holy Spirit becomes the source of our intelligence when we take heed to His promptings.

CONCLUSION: 

The power to defeat deep and difficult emotions comes from God and involves the human spirit coming into contact with God’s Spirit.

FURTHER READING:

• Monday: Philippians 4:6 KJV; Be careful for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
• Tuesday: John 16:3 KJV; And these things will they do unto you, because they have not known the Father, nor me.
• Wednesday: Matthew 6:34 KJV; Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.
• Thursday: Matthew11:28 KJV; Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
• Friday: Joshua 1:9 KJV; Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.
• Saturday: 1 Peter 5:6-7 KJV; 6 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: 7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.
• Sunday: 1 Corinthians 13:4 KJV; Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,