Sunday School

MEMORY VERSE: “ And not many days after the younger son gathered all together,and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living.” Luke 15:13.

BIBLE PASSAGE: Luke 19:11-27.

INTRODUCTION

The phrase “Occupy till I come” is a biblical reference found specifically in Luke 19:13 (KJV). In other versions of the Bible, it reads: “Do business till I come” (NKJV); “Put this money to work till I come” (NIV);”invest this money for me while I’m gone” (NLT); Operate with this until l return” (MESSAGE). In this context, ‘occupy’ means ‘do business,’ ‘trade,’ ‘invest.’ This phrase is part of a parable told by Jesus, commonly known as the Parable of the Minas or the parable of the pounds. literally , the Pounds, given to the servants in this parable, is ‘money’.

OUTLINE

1. WHAT ‘THE POUND’ REPRESENTS 
2. WHAT YOU CAN DO WITH ‘THE POUND’

1. WHAT ‘THE POUND’ REPRESENTS 

‘The Pound’ in this context represents the ‘resource’ that God has given to a person to help them fulfil their life’s purpose This includes your breath/ life 2 Corinthians 5:15; salvation Acts 9:13-15; good health Mark 15:18-20; variety of resources 1 Chronicles 22:5; Luke 10:33-35; influence Esther 4:12-17; anointing/grace 1 Corinthians 15:10; knowledge of God Ephesians 3:2-5; and spiritual gifts/talents 1 Corinthians 12:4-7.

2. WHAT YOU CAN DO WITH ‘THE POUND’

There are three options available for the servants in the parable of the Pound Luke 19:11-27 and the same is applicable to every child of God: (i) to spend ‘the pound’ frivolously; (ii) to keep ‘the pound’; (iii) to invest ‘the pound.’ We shall consider the first option in this outline – to spend ‘the pound frivolously.’ There are people who think that everything God gives to them is only for their self-satisfaction and comfort Luke 12-16. 21. For instance:

1. Samson spent his ‘pound’ on strange women Judges 14:1-3; 16:1; the strength (pound) was meant to deliver his people from their enemies, but he misused it Judges 13:5. He was killing the enemies without acknowledging God as his source of strength and victories Judges 15:16. He wasted his anointing and lost his uncommon power on the laps of Delilah Judges 16:18-21.
2. Solomon enjoyed God’s help 1 Kings 2:12 but was full of self. He took God’s grace for granted and spent his ‘pound’ on strange women who turned his heart away from God 1 Kings 11:1-4. The Bible makes it clear that the breakthrough, promotion, deliverance, etc. we enjoy is to do good works and propagate the kingdom of God and not for self-gratification Mark 15:43-46; Genesis 41:39-41, 51: Mark 5:1-20
3. Nebuchadnezzar Daniel 4:29-33: Such people pride themselves in their secular achievements and boasts about ‘my hard-earned money, ‘my intelligence or wisdom,’ ‘my plan or strategy’ etc. They do not acknowledge the ‘God-factor’ in their achievements nor offer the praise and glory due to Him. Acts 12:21-23.
4. The Prodigal Son Luke 15:12-13: There are some people wasting their God-given potentials on things that have no eternal value. Some even use their ‘pounds’ to entertain the world and not for the propagation of the gospel or the expansion of the kingdom of God on earth.

CONCLUSION

What are you doing with ‘the pound’ given to you by God? Make up your mind not to be wasteful like the characters above.

FURTHER READING

Sun: Luke 19:13.
Mon: Luke 10:33-35.
Tues: Acts 12:21-23.
Wed: 1 Kings 11:1-4.
Thurs: Luke 15:12-13.
Fri: Mark 5:18-20.
Sat: 1 Corinthians 15:10

MEMORY VERSE: “ And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters.” Genesis 1:2.

BIBLE PASSAGE: Exodus 31:1-5.

INTRODUCTION

God is Spirit John 4:24 and He operates through the various manifestations of His Spirit at work Genesis 1:2. The Spirit of God is linked with creation at every level Psalm 104:30. At Jesus’ baptism, the Spirit of God descended as a dove upon Him Matthew 3:16. God’s Spirit is active in the work of redemption, restoration and deliverance of God’s people Isaiah 32:14-17. This lesson shall examine God’s divine nature how the Holy Spirit empowers.

OUTLINE

1. DIVINE EMPOWERMENT
2. THE DIVINE SPIRIT

1. DIVINE EMPOWERMENT

The Spirit of God is not only known for His creative ability, but He is also an empowering Spirit Joel 2:28-29. He is called different names in the Holy Scriptures such as the Holy Spirit/Ghost Acts 1:8, Spirit of holiness Romans 1:4, the Anointing 1 John 2:27, etc. There are several instances in the Bible where certain individuals were empowered by the Spirit of God. These include:
Joseph: He was empowered with creative leadership and problem- solving skills as well as the gift of administration by the Spirit of God Genesis 41:37-41.
Bezaleel: The Spirit of God equipped him with wisdom, understanding, knowledge, and all manner of skills Exodus 31:3-5
Ezekiel: The Spirit of God inspired him to see the invisible (what natural eyes cannot see) Ezekiel 11:24; 37:1; 43:5.
Peter: On receiving the baptism of the Spirit of God, He preached a single sermon, and 3.000 souls were saved and added to the Church Act 2:41.
Paul: He preached the gospel with mighty signs and wonders,by the power of the Spirit of God Romans 15:19.
Philip: He was supernaturally transported to Azotus by the Spirit of the Lord after he ministered to the Ethiopian Eunuch Acts 8:39-40.

The Spirit of God also helped Othniel to prevail against the Mesopotamian king, Cushan-Rishathaim Judges 3:10; Jephthah to overthrow the Ammonites Judges 11:29, 32; and Samson to deal with the Philistines Judges 15:14-15

2.   THE DIVINE SPIRIT

There are certain attributes accorded the Spirit of God. These include:
1. Creativity – the creative ability of God is released to people through His Spirit Exodus 35:30-35.
2. Inspiration – The Spirit inspires and gives people understanding Job 32:8; Daniel 4:8-9.
3. Authority – He is in total control of all situations and has the final say Ezekiel 37:14. God acts as a defence for the elect Isaiah 59:19
4. Omniscience – He is all-knowing and possesses all secrets Psalm 139:7
5. Omnipotence – He is all powerful and can facilitate what human power could not Zechariah 4:6.
The Spirit of God possesses emotion and can be grieved Ephesians 4:30. It is however dangerous to be a victim of His anger Isaiah 63:10.

CONCLUSION

There is no limit to what the Spirit of God can do. Allow Him to take full control of your life

FURTHER READING

Sun: Numbers 24:2
Mon: 1 Samuel 19:23
Tue: 1 Corinthians 12:3.
Wed: Ephesians 2:22
Thurs: Ephesians 4:30
Fri: 2 Timothy 1:7
Sat: Hebrews 9:14

MEMORY VERSE: “O LORD, how manifold are thy works! in wisdom hast thou made them all: the earth is full of thy riches.” Psalm 104:24.

BIBLE PASSAGE: Colossians 1:16-17.

INTRODUCTION

The word ‘omnificence’ is defined as the ability to create all things or to have unlimited power to create. Omnificence rightly describes God who demonstrated His unlimited power to create all things as noted in the Bible’s first verse: “ In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth” Genesis 1:1. In Colossians 1:16-17, God is also affirmed as the Creator of all things. Although God is the Creator of all, He has given some of His creative ability to man.

OUTLINE

1. OMNIFICENCE OF GOD
2. MAN IN GOD’S IMAGE

1. OMNIFICENCE OF GOD

The Bible tells us that God made all the visible and invisible things in the universe through the power of His word John 1:3; Colossians 1:16; Hebrews 11:3. God’s omnificence goes together with His other qualities such as His omnipotence, meaning He is all powerful, and His omniscience, meaning He is all knowing. God was able to create without limitation (omnificence) because of His power (omnipotence) and wisdom (omniscience) – Jeremiah 10:12; Proverbs 3:19.

In many ways God’s creative work is an expression of His attributes Romans 1:20; Psalm 104:24-25 is full of praise for our omnificent God.The Psalmist praises God for the creation of light, the clouds, the wind, the seas, the mountains, the valleys, the beasts of the field, the birds of the sky, the trees, the sun and moon, and the very rhythm of life. All these creations are a proof of God’s omnificence. Psalm 40:5 wonders at the depth of God’s omnificence. God’s creative power is unlimited and beyond our ability to fully comprehend. God is not only the Creator of all; He also sustains all things Acts 17:28. The omnificent God who created the universe is the same God who cares for each one of us Psalm 8:3-4; Ephesians 1:4.

2. MAN IN GOD’S IMAGE

God created man in His image and likeness – depicting God’s attributes like holiness, intelligence and creativity Genesis 1:26. Although man is not omnificent, God has given man tremendous creative ability ‘being little gods’ Psalm 82:6. Man can even recreate things in the character of the things God had created Exodus 31:3. For instance, in Genesis 1:16 “God made two great lights; the greater light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night” but gave man the ability to create electricity. God can communicate with us anywhere and anytime without the use of material medium Numbers 12:6- 8 but gave man the ability to invent communication gadgets like the mobile phone so that man can communicate with one another anywhere and anytime. God formed man from the clay and made him a living soul through His breathe Genesis 2:7, man is inventing robots in the exact image of man called ‘humanoids.’

Obviously, man is still in the process of fully harnessing his creative potentials and according to Genesis 11:6b “nothing will be restrained from them, which they have imagined doing.” There is a creative ability in every man Job 32:8. All we need to do is to look inward and explore the thoughts, ideas, talents and potentials inherent in us to invent something for our own benefits and the benefit of the society at large especially as God’s children Psalm 8:5-6.

CONCLUSION

God’s creative power stirs our own faith, because through it, we know that He can do all things. As believers, we also share in His creative ability Psalm 82:6

FURTHER READING

Sun: Exodus 35:30-35.
Mon: 2 Chronicles 20:36.
Tue: Amos 6:5.
Wed: 1 Chronicles 23:5.
Thurs: 1 Kings 7:14.
Fri: 2 Chronicles 2:14.
Sat: Exodus 31:1-11.

MEMORY VERSE: “And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.” Revelation 22:12.

BIBLE PASSAGE: Matthew 24:29-31.

INTRODUCTION

The coming of Christ is something that should excite the believer. He should have nothing to fear 1 John 4:17 NLT. This is because His coming is redemptive for those are being saved but judgement for those who are perishing 2 Corinthians 2:15. At His coming, all things would be set in order, and we would be presented to God as a church without spot or wrinkles.1 John 1:5. Everyone will receive their just reward for their works while here on Earth when He comes suddenly unannounced Revelation 22:12- 14; Revelation 16:15;1 Thessalonians 4:13-18. As God’s children, we must be ready for His imminent return which will be preceded by great tribulations such as we are experiencing here on Earth now Matthew 24:1-14, The nations of the world are part of the tools that God will use to punish His people, Israel. All these must happen before Christ comes as King at the very end to judge those whose names hare not written in the book of life. May the Lord show us mercy and grant us grace to be ready when He comes.

OUTLINE

1. CHRIST OUR REDEEMER
2. CHRIST, THE JUDGE AND KING

1. CHRIST OUR REDEEMER

Prior to the creation of mankind on Earth, things were in order until the devil destroyed them. God called for Jesus to eliminate and destroy all the works of the devil to restore all things to their original purpose. God also performed a separation between Light and Darkness because they can never coexist John 3:19-21. Although mankind was made in the image of God, We lost His image and our fragrance and so needed redemption from our fallen state because of the presence of sin 2 Corinthians 2:15; Genesis 4:6-7. The depraved nature of mankind increased so much that God limited their lifespan Genesis 6:3. God started with Noah whom He found righteous, but this attempt failed when Noah got drunk Ezekiel 10:18
God then decided that He would come in the flesh Himself in the person of Jesus Christ to restore man to his original image, by His death on the cross John 3:14-15, 2 Corinthians 3:14-18. Our freedom from the old nature of Darkness is in Christ, Romans 6:1-9. This is the only way we can function in our original capacity as bearers of the image of Christ.

2. CHRIST, THE JUDGE AND KING

God’s judgment against sin and evil is death but His gift is eternal life Romans 6:23. In Christ Jesus, God gave us a way of escape. God is emphatic about judgment of sin in Genesis 48:4-6 Joseph’s sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, were adopted by Jacob, yet in Revelation 7.5-8 Ephraim and Dan were blotted out from the names of the tribes to be sealed during the Lord’s indignation because they caused lsrael| to sin after the sin of Balaam Ezekiel 18:20-32.Similarly, God passed judgement for sin across the scriptures 1 Kings 12:25-33; John 16:11; Revelation 20:10. However, God through Jesus Christ desires to reconcile us back to Himself and keep us from eternal punishment to come in the no distant future John 5:24; Matthew 25:41.
Christ is coming back to this Earth as a King Revelation 20:4. Christ would first need to recall all His servants through a series of calls before He comes back finally with them to rule on the earth. The Word refers to this as the first resurrection Revelation 20:5. The first to rise would be Christ the firstborn, Romans 8:29, 1 Corinthians 15:20-24, Acts 26:22-23, then the dead John 5:28-29, Daniel 12:2, Acts 24:15, then those of us who are alive 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, then those from the tribulation Revelation 20:4, Daniel 7:9, 22, 27. No where did the Scriptures speak of a second resurrection. It only spoke of a second death. The Scriptures refers to everyone that partakes of the first resurrection as victorious. They will reign with Christ for a thousand years on the earth. Revelation 20:14 tells us that anyone whose name was not found in the book of life is thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death Revelation 21:8. After this, the Kingdom of God will come down to dwell with men. Christ will make a new heaven and a new earth, and brings it back to men; there, He will rule and reigns supreme and fill in all. Revelation 21:23.

CONCLUSION

We have not been appointed to face the wrath of God 1 Thessalonians 5:9-10;1 Corinthians 15:24. God’s desire is that the Mystery of Christ might be made known through the Church Colossians 1:26-29 His coming as King is to fill all things all over the universe.

FURTHER READING

Mon: Matthew 24:1- end, 1 Peter 3:18-20,
Tues: 1 Peter 4:5-8,
Wed: Ephesians 4:8-10,
Thurs: Jeremiah 23:18,
Fri: 2 Thessalonians 2:5-8,
Sat: Mark 4:22-24,
Sun: Revelation 1:1-3.

MEMORY VERSE: “ For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth,visible and invisible, whether thrones, dominions, principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him.” Colossians 1:16.

BIBLE PASSAGE: Proverbs 8:22-31.

INTRODUCTION

One of the things that makes God who He is, is His creation of the universe. No other being could have spoken the universe into being.
Understanding what the Bible states about who was involved in the creation and the purpose for the creation will grant us an insight into the some of the attributes and the personality of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. The creation of the universe by Jesus is impeccable proof that He is God Genesis 1:3. Please note that the sun, moon and stars were not created until Genesis 1:14- 16.

Therefore, the light that God called forth in Vs 3 is not the light of the sun, moon or artificial devices such as lamps, LED lights etc, Jesus is that light John 8:12!. Jesus Christ is expressed as the wisdom of God; the Son was beside the Father as a master craftsman who was the daily delight of the Father during the creation process Proverbs 8:22- 31. Jesus was with God at the beginning of Creation John 1:3. We are therefore provided with undeniable evidence that: Jesus was present at Creation as an integral part of the process, all things were created for and by Him. Colossians 1:17: Hebrews 1:3; Hebrews 10:5-7.

OUTLINE

1. UNDERSTANDING CREATION IN JESUS CHRIST.
2. UNDERSTANDING JESUS CHRIST IN REDEEMING CREATION.

1. UNDERSTANDING CREATION IN JESUS CHRIST.

In God’s sovereignty, He appointed Jesus Christ as Heir of all things in the universe Hebrews 1:2

1. All things in the universe were created through Jesus and for Jesus and He alone is the rightful owner Colossians 1:16. All things therefore should only be used in accordance with His word.
2. God formed the Heavens and the Earth to be inhabited rather than empty Isaiah 45:18. God called forth the presence of Christ at the start of creation on Earth Genesis 1:3. God desired to have His Creation on the Earth and chose to inhabit inside man to execute His work on the Earth.
3. God made provision for man to dwell in His light. Hence,God’s first words in the creation story was “Let there be light.” God Commanded the light to shine out of darkness so that our hearts will have a knowledge of Him in the face of Jesus Christ 2 Corinthians 4:6.
4. Creation gave God pleasure to see the Earth inhabited Revelation 4:11: Proverbs 8:30-31.
5. Creation is not purposeless – creation makes the invisible attributes of God to be visible for all mankind to see Romans 1:20.
6. Also, the creation of mankind is not purposeless. The commission that God gave to man in Genesis 1:28 shows the purpose that God had for man.
7. When a man is not abiding in the light of God, such a man is in darkness and likely, also in danger.
8. In the ‘new Jerusalem’ we will have no need of the sun or the moon to shine in it, God will be the everlasting light there forever Revelation 21:23

2. UNDERSTANDING JESUS CHRIST IN REDEEMING CREATION.

Mankind was created to fulfil the purpose of God using all the resources provided by God on Earth Genesis 1:28-30. Man at the beginning before sin which brought spiritual separation came in, worked in full partnership with Genesis 2:18-20; Genesis 3:1-7. Sin brought death to mankind as the man’s spirit became hostile and was no longer had intimate communion with God’s Spirit. Mankind therefore became in existential need of redemption Genesis 3:15. By reason of God’s holiness, a sacrifice was needed to be paid by a sinless, spotless life to pay the price for sin. Jesus takes full responsibility for the redemption of mankind when He says to the Father that “ I have come to do thy will” in Hebrews 10:5-7
1.After creation, the universe experienced corruption and death because of the judgement of God over sin, creation was subjected to futility Romans 8:20-22.
2. God loved mankind So much that He gave His only begotten Son Jesus Christ to redeem mankind John 3:16; Romans 5:8
3. Jesus Christ died for the sins of mankind and crucified our human nature on the cross destroying the devil who had the power of death 1 Corinthians 15:3; Romans 6:6; Galatians 5:24.
4.By His death on the cross, Jesus Christ has given us the opportunity to believe in Him and abide in Him as new creatures fully restored unto God 2 Corinthians 5:17.
5.Jesus Christ’s priority was the reconciliation of mankind to God Galatians 6:15.
6. We are made a new creation for a purpose; to do the good works that God had always wanted us to do from the beginning of creation Ephesians 2:10; Genesis 1:28.

CONCLUSION

All things were created by through Jesus Christ and for Jesus Christ. Jesus delighted in the created work of God and illuminated creation as the light of the world. Jesus Christ also took responsibility for the redemption of creation.

FURTHER READING

Mon: Colossians 1:16,
Tue: John 1:3,
Wed: John 8:12,
Thur: Romans 5:6,
Fri: 2 Corinthians 5:17,
Sat: Galatians 5:16,
Sun: Ephesians 2:10

MEMORY VERSE: “ And He is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He may have the pre-eminence.” Colossians 1: 18.

BIBLE PASSAGE: Colossians 1:15-18.

INTRODUCTION

Christ is the Head of the church, which is His Body. Just as the physical body has a functional head, Christ’s position as Head is not negotiable. It is permanent because it pleased the Father that the fullness of the Godhead dwell in Christ.The Body has closely linked members that have unique ability and function as given by God. This network can be likened to the various organs and systems in the physical body.

OUTLINE

1. THE CHURCH, THE BODY OF CHRIST
2. ROLE OF CHRIST AS THE HEAD OF THE CHURCH

1. THE CHURCH, THE BODY OF CHRIST

The Church is not a location, building, or denomination, it is more than ethnicity, social status or other worldly classification. Rather, the Church consists of people that have repented of their sin, accepted the Lordship of Jesus Christ and trusted their salvation to Him. The Church which has Christ Jesus Himself being the chief cornerstone “ is built” on the foundation of the apostles and prophets Ephesians 2:20. The Church is the Body of Christ -we are His members, His very Flesh and Bones. Each member is baptised into the Body by the Holy Spirit. There is one Body, one Spirit, one hope, one Lord, one faith, one baptism; and one God and Father of all Ephesians 4:36. Each member of Christ’s body must relate to other members in love, gentleness and humility to be effective. No one is to think of himself higher than they are or deceive others, rather, they should spend time forgiving, encouraging others.They should pray sincerely for each other when anyone member hurts and rejoice when one member rejoices Romans 12:15 The members of Christ’s body must be firmly united together for the body to function effectively. Ephesians 4:15-16.

2.  ROLE OF CHRIST AS THE HEAD OF THE CHURCH

Christ who is the Builder of the Church He loves, gives life and nourishment to His Body to ensure all members grow in Him. He unites and gives authority to the Church to perform the mandate given to her. He watches over the Church and promises that the gates of hell will not prevail.
a. Christ gives life to the Church: Christ who is also the Head of the Church; and He is the Saviour of the Body paid the price for our redemption in full. He is the Author of our salvation and at Calvary, a life exchange took place. The adamic nature was crucified, and a new creation (in the divine nature) emerged Galatians 5:24, Colossians 3:3-4, 2 Corinthians 5:17. Those who believe and are baptised into the death of Jesus Christ, share in His death by faith. They are also partakers in His resurrection Life, now on earth. We are made kings and priests to His God and Father Revelation 1:6. We have direct access to the throne of grace,through the Blood shed on the Cross of Calvary, we have victory over sin, Satan and the kingdom of darkness, and the world system.

b. Christ sanctifies His Body: Christ cleanses the Church by washing us from our sins in His own blood. Jesus gave all to deliver and sanctify us to Himself by the washing of water by the Word of God Ephesians 5-26. As Head of His Body the Church, Jesus Christ is looking to present His Church to Himself as a glorious Church. He corrects and admonishes till the Church is holy and without blemish at His return at rapture Ephesians 5:27.

c. Christ leads and gives growth: Christ provides leadership to His Church in a loving rather than a domineering way. Christ nourishes and grows His Body by giving the Church ministry workers as gifts to the Body, so that the Church can be edified and grow to maturity Ephesians 4:11-14. Evidence of maturity the members of the Body IS the fruit of the Spirit. Christ, by the Holy Spirit gives direction to the Church Matthew 23:10, Acts 16:6-10, Revelation 2- 3. Each true believer gets their instruction and direction by the indwelling Spirit Romans 8:14.

d. Christ unites the Church and gives her a corporate identity:The Holy Spirit baptises the believers into the Body and supplies the adhesive of love and peace that holds members together. Each member is expected to be fully submitted to Christ as the functional Lord of their life. This means each member acknowledges Christ in all their affairs and does not lean on their own understanding Proverbs 3:5-8. He is Lord in all areas of their life.

e. Christ gives the Church her authority and mandate: Jesus Christ has been given all authority in heaven and on earth. As Head. He has given authority to His body; the Church to drive out impure spirits and to heal every disease and sickness Matthew 10:1.The Church has authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy Luke 10:19. The Church is called to show the manifold wisdom of God to the world around us Ephesians 3:10. God works to reconcile mankind to Himself through the Church: The Church is given the responsibility of bringing the Good News to all peoples, tribes and nations. In what is termed the Great Commission Matthew 28:19-20.

CONCLUSION

Jesus Christ is the Head of the Church, His Body. We have fellowship with the Father as we live united in Christ, regardless of race and culture. 1 Corinthians 11:3.

FURTHER READING

Mon: Ephesians 1:17-18,
Tue: Ephesians 2:16-22,
Wed: Ephesians 3:4- 6, 16-19,
Thurs: Ephesians 4:1-6,
Fri: Ephesians 4:15-16, 22-32,
Sat: Colossians 1:12-23,
Sun: Colossians 3: 12- 17.

MEMORY VERSE: “Not with the blood of goats and calves, but with His own blood He entered the Most Holy Place once for all, having obtained eternal redemption.” Hebrews 9:12.

BIBLE PASSAGE: Hebrews 9:11-15.

INTRODUCTION

God promised and showed His acts of redemption in His relationship with His people from the beginning Exodus 6:6,15:13, Jeremiah 50:34.The process of offering physical sacrifices to God that was in place in Israel according to Exodus 13:13, 34:20 was inadequate to fully redeem His people. God had to put Jesus’ forward as the final enduring sacrifice to atone for sins to establish His redemptive work for us, His inheritance. John 3:16, Romans 3:25. The Bible points to Jesus who paid the ultimate price of death on the Cross as the Redeemer of humanity. He brought salvation, deliverance from sin, from bondage and from oppression through His birth, death and resurrection. Our Gospel must be all about the mission of Jesus the Redeemer who give His life as a ransom for many Matthew 20:28; Mark 10:45; 1 Peter 2:24. Jesus’ resurrection gave us a new identity and restored our relationship with God. Our redemption cost Jesus everything.

OUTLINE

1. JESUS – MY REDEEMER
2. JESUS – THE REDEEMER OF THE WORLD
3. JESUS- THE REDEEMER OF THE CHURCH

  1.         JESUS – MY REDEEMER

My redemption puts a crown of love and mercy on my head, giving me a mandate to declare God’s Love and God’s mercy to the world. The way and manner I conduct my life must align with the purpose of my redemption. As believers of Christ, living our lives outside the purpose of our redemption in Him is a waste of life and a waste of the grace God has bestowed upon our lives. Read Titus 2:11-14, My Redemption freed me from every yoke, set me up in Christ so I can stand firm in Him forever, “ For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery” Galatians 5:1 ESV. Pray against anything that is subjecting you to everything that Jesus redeemed you from.

 2.  JESUS – THE REDEEMER OF THE WORLD

Jesus extended the work of redemption to the whole world (the people of the world), so He could restore all things to Himself at His second coming. Romans 8:20-21. Redemption through Jesus Christ has now paved the way for reconciliation and salvation of all mankind to God. Jesus by His redemptive work established the total deliverance of the world from condemnation and made a way for its full salvation from the grip of the devil. 1 Peter 1:18-21; John 3:16-17 NIV.

3.    JESUS- THE REDEEMER OF THE CHURCH

The redemptive love of Christ displayed through the Church as we engage in our communities will encourage the people in the world to embrace the truth about their redemption Romans 8:19. 

Read or sing the lyrics of the hymn below: 

The Church’s one foundation, is Jesus Christ Her Lord She is His new creation, by water and the Word From heaven, He came and sought Her To be His Holy Bride With His own blood He bought Her, and for Her life He died. 

Being redeemed by the same Redeemer should pave way for unity and oneness in the Body of Christ–the Church. Romans 12:5-8. Pray for unity and oneness among Church members and the leaders of today’s Church.

CONCLUSION

My redemption cost Jesus everything. This demands that I also give Jesus my everything. To enjoy the fullness of my redemption in Christ, I need to live and grow in the power of my redemption through the Holy Spirit Who will aid me to exercise my full rights for the promised future glory in Christ Jesus.

FURTHER READING

Mon: Isaiah 43:1, 

Tue: Psalm 130:7, 

Wed: 1 Corinthians 6:20, 

Thurs: 1 Corinthians 1:30, 

Fri: 1 Thessalonians 5:9-10, 

Sat: Colossians 1:20-22, 

Sun: 1 Peter 1:3-5.

MEMORY VERSE: “ And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.”John 1:14.

BIBLE PASSAGE: Hebrews 4:14-16.

INTRODUCTION

The concept of hypostatic union states that Jesus Christ is both fully God and fully man. He is simultaneously perfectly divine and perfectly human, having two complete and distinct natures at once. Jesus always had been God John 8:58, 10:30, but at the incarnation, Jesus became a human being John 1:14.

OUTLINE

1. HIS DIVINE NATURE
2. HIS HUMAN NATURE

1. HIS DIVINE NATURE

Scripture is clear that Jesus is God John 20:28; Titus 2:13; Hebrews 1:8. Jesus claimed the divine name “i am” John 8:58 and did things that only God can do Mark 2:3-7. He operated in the power of His divinity John 11:43-44; Matthew 14:18-21. He claimed divine authority Matthew 28:18. Jesus is God’s Son in that He was conceived by the Holy Spirit Luke 1:35. But that does not mean Jesus did not exist before He was conceived. Jesus has always existed John 8:58, 10:30.
An affirmation of the divinity of Jesus is required before any unbeliever can be saved Romans 10:9, and the apostle John provided a sober warning that those who deny Christ’s true humanity are promoting the doctrine of antichrist 2 John 1:7. The statement “I and the Father are one” John 10:30 affirms Jesus’ divine nature, which includes omnipotence Hebrews 1:1-4, omniscience John 2:25, and propitiation for sins of humanity 2 Corinthians 5:21.

2. HIS HUMAN NATURE

The humanity of Jesus is as equally important as the deity of Jesus.Our saviour Jesus Christ was born as a human being while still being divine.While the Godhead has existed and reigned from all eternity Roman 1:20, the second Person of the Trinity, the Son, took on human flesh at a particular point in time Luke 1:35; Hebrews 1:2-6. When Jesus was conceived, He became a human being in addition to being God John 1:1, 14. Jesus became a human being to identify with us in our struggles Hebrews 2:17-18 and, more importantly, so that He could die on the cross to pay the penalty for our sins Galatians 3:13; 1 John 2:2.
Though He is fully God, Jesus (being fully human) experienced the full range of human existence: weaknesses, physical limitations, emotions, and temptations. Jesus became hungry Matthew 21:18, fatigued John 4:6, and sorrowful Mark 14:34; John 11:33- 35. He also socialised John 2:1-5 and showed compassion to those in need Matthew 9:36. He experienced the pain of betrayal Luke 22:21, 47-48. The humanity of Jesus enabled Him to be “tempted in every way, just as we are, yet was without sin” Hebrews 4:15; Matthew 4:1-11. He Suffered with us 1 Peter 4:1. He was made poor 2 Corinthians 8:9; He was despised Isaiah 53:3; He suffered physical pain and endured the sorrows of a lingering and most cruel death Hebrews 12:2.

CONCLUSION

The evidence about the dual nature of Jesus Christ abounds as biblical truths that cannot be ignored or denied.

FURTHER READING

Sun: John 1:14.
Mon: Romans 1:3-4.
Tue: Philippians 2:5-11.
Wed: 1 Timothy 2:5.
Thur: Luke 1:35.
Fri: John 8:58.
Sat: John 10:30.

MEMORY VERSE: “ For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6.

BIBLE PASSAGE: John 1:10-14.

INTRODUCTION

About 700 years before Jesus Christ was born, Isaiah announced the birth of Israel’s Messiah. The prophet’s revelations outlined the details of Christ’s lowly birth in Bethlehem to His glorious future reign in the New Jerusalem when there will be enduring peace on Earth during the Messiah’s rule. It further declares Jesus as the One who Is called Wonderful, Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Throughout His Earthly ministry, Jesus Christ exhibited a different kind of leadership strength than the Jewish people expected. They were looking for a heroic figure like King David who would deliver them from the Roman oppression and authority the Roman Empire obtained through valiant military conquests as well as political might. But the kingdom principles Jesus introduced were based on servant leadership Matthew 12:17-21; 20:28 and a kingdom “not of this world” John 6:15; 18:36.

OUTLINE

1. THE TERM ‘MIGHTY’ EXPLAINED
2. IS JESUS CHRIST THE MIGHTY GOD?

1. THE TERM ‘MIGHTY’ EXPLAINED

“ Mighty” is a translation of the Hebrew word “Gibbor,” defined as “strength, power, hero, warrior.” Isaiah 9:6 tells us that Jesus is El Gibbor, God of Strength, God of Power, God our Hero, God our Warrior. In his predictions about Jesus, Isaiah used titles typically associated with Israel’s kings to illustrate the majestic, Kingly character of the coming Messiah. The title: Wonderful Counsellor has its origins in the Davidic line of monarchs, known for giving and receiving wonderful counsel, the depth of insightful wisdom in these counsels was beyond human comprehension of human beings 2 Samuel 16:23. Everlasting Father and Prince of Peace were divine attributes used to address Earthly sovereigns, and the term ‘Mighty’ relates to the King’s leadership role. In the original Hebrew, Mighty means “having or showing great power in authority or military leadership, being heroic or valiant.” As Israel’s Mighty God, the Messiah would be a brave and powerful leader ruling over the armies of God like no other King before Him. He would be the divine hero and champion defender described in Deuteronomy 10:17: “ For the Lord your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great God, mighty and awesome, who shows no partiality and accepts no bribes.”

2. IS JESUS CHRIST THE MIGHTY GOD?

When Jesus came to the Earth, He voluntarily “gave up his divine privileges; He took the humble position of ‘a servant’ and was born as a human being.” Philippians 2:7. The full manifestation of Isaiah’s prophecy about Jesus being a “ Mighty God” will only be fully experienced at Christ’s second coming. Nevertheless, in every aspect of His life and ministry, from conception Luke 1:35, 49 to ascension Luke 24:50-51 Jesus operated with divine power and authority.

a. His Public Ministry
Jesus started His ministry “in the power of the Spirit, performing mighty works that spread the news about Him throughout the countryside” Luke 4:14. People testified that Jesus was “a prophet who did powerful miracles, they called Him a ‘mighty teacher” Luke 24:19. When Jesus cast out demons and unclean spirits, He proved that He is both divine and mighty, operating under God’s complete authority and power Luke 4:36, Mark 1:32-34. Christ’s supernatural acts confirmed Him as the ‘Mighty God’ Acts 2:22. His resurrection is undoubtedly the most significant proof that who had the power to lay down His life and take it up again John 10:18. Yet He humbly submitted to the weakness and humiliation of death on the cross 2 Corinthians 13:4; Philippians 2:5-8. Now He is far above any ruler or authority or power or leader or anything else – not only in this world but also in the world to come for the benefit of the church Ephesians 1:19-22. As Mighty God, Jesus rose from the dead and now sits at God’s right hand in heaven, high above every other authority, power, and leader.

b. Further Accounts of Jesus Christ
God granted Jesus the authority over all people to give eternal life to those who believe in Him. John 17:2: 10:28; 1 John 2:25. At the end of the age, Jesus Christ will come again to Earth “with power and great glory, at that time, Isaiah’s vision of a Mighty God and King will come to full fruition. Matthew 24:30. Jesus will hand over the kingdom to His heavenly Father after He has destroyed every enemy of God. 1 Corinthians 15:24-25. AS Mighty God, Jesus will judge all the people of the Earth Revelation 18:8, 10. Then He will sit on His eternal throne and reign in great power and authority. Revelation 11:15-17, 12:10. Every creature in Heaven and on Earth will bow down and worship Him. Heaven will ring with shouts of: “Hallelujah! Salvation and glory and power belong to our God” for He was slain, and He alone is worthy “to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honour and glory and praise” forever and ever. Revelation 5:12-13, 19:1.

Do you need strength in your life? Do you need a hero to deliver you? Do you need a warrior to help you fight and win your battles? Jesus is your Man because He is El Gibbor–The Mighty God. He created the universe by His power John 1:3; Colossians 1:16-17.

c. How Should You Respond to Jesus Christ the Mighty God?
Trust Him: Trust also that He is mighty to save John 3:17 KJV
Love Him: Love is a choice decision, an action we take. We show our love for Him by spending time daily in His Word, in prayer, and on obedience to His Word, Jesus commands us to Matthew 22:37-39; John 14:15.
Serve Him: Follow in His footsteps as His servant. Our attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus Philippians 2:5-8. We must not make any mistake about this – Jesus Christ is our Mighty, All-powerful God. He is our God Warrior, our God Hero. May the Lord continue to grant us a greater understanding of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

CONCLUSION

Jesus declared Himself to be God and His followers believed Him to be God. We have salvation because Jesus is God incarnate, the Alpha and Omega Revelation 1:8, 22:13, and God our Saviour 2 Peter 1:1. And in the words of Isaiah in Isaiah 9:6, Jesus is The Mighty God.

FURTHER READING

Mon: 1 John 5:20.
Tues: John 20:28.
Wed: Titus 2:13,
Thurs: John 8:58.
Fri: Deuteronomy 10:17.
Sat: Philippians 2:7, Luke 4:36.
Sun: Mark 1:32-34.

MEMORY VERSE: “ And a cloud came and overshadowed them; and a voice came out the cloud, saying, “This is My beloved Son.Hear Him!” Mark 9:7

BIBLE PASSAGE: Mark 9:2-8

INTRODUCTION

Jesus the Son Of God, was given to us by Father as the propitiation for our sins that we may be reconciled unto Him. He came to His own human creation, and they knew Him not. Only those to whom the Father revealed Him to can know Him Matthew 16:13-17. Jesus Christ the Son of God can only be personally encountered in the place of intimacy alone, just as Peter, James and John experienced as He was transfigured before them. We must hear Him as instructed by the Father Luke 9:34-35.By so doing, we learn of Him and become more like Him.

OUTLINE

1.JESUS: SON OF GOD REVEALED
2. JESUS: FIRSTBORN AMONG MANY BRETHREN

JESUS: SON OF GOD REVEALED

Jesus Christ reveals Himself as the Son of God, and He declares His Sonship to whom He wills. We can only know Him as the Son of God by revelation Matthew 11:27. Jesus declared Himself as the Son of God by referring to God as His Father in Heaven Matthew 7:21; 10:32. The Father also declared Jesus as His Son publicly before all Hebrews 5:5. The Scriptures tell us that Jesus learned obedience by the things He suffered. even as a Son Hebrews 5:8. A prophetic declaration was made by an audible voice during His baptism saying, “This is My beloved Son, in whom am well pleased.” Matthew 3:17.

JESUS: FIRSTBORN AMONG MANY BRETHREN

The love of God the Father for the world made Him give up His Son for the redemption of our sins John 3:16. God forsook Jesus who knew no sin when He took upon Himself the sins of us all 2 Corinthians 5.21. Now that Jesus has died for our sins, all believers must live for righteousness 1 Peter 2:24. Jesus Christ is the firstborn among many brothers and sisters who have become the righteousness of God in Him, and who are predestined to be conformed to His image Romans 8:29. Jesus is the Son of God, and all to whom this is revealed are to come to Him, learn of Him, that they may find rest for their souls Matthew 11:27-29.

CONCLUSION

As God’s redeemed saints who have been washed in the blood of the Lamb: Jesus Christ, we must dedicate our life to living righteously daily and always. Hebrews 1:8-9.