Sunday School

MEMORY VERSE: “For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus.” 1 Timothy 2:5.

BIBLE PASSAGE: Matthew 24:29-31.

INTRODUCTION

Our Lord Jesus Christ described Himself as the Son of Man. The implication of this title of our Lord Jesus and the context in which it was used must be correctly understood by every child of God who wants to maximise their relationship with Him. The title “Son of Man” has everything to do with the incarnation of Jesus Christ and is a clear link to His ministry as our Redeemer, High Priest, Friend and the Author and Finisher of our faith. He could not be our Redeemer or High Priest without taking on a human form to be both fully God and Man simultaneously to enable Him to fulfil His role as saviour of mankind Hebrews 4:15. Jesus took on the nature of a human being by choice to restore man to his original and divine purpose 1 Timothy 3:16; John 1:14. It is also as Son of Man that the Lord Jesus accomplished God’s eternal plan and purpose for humanity which was to bring many ‘sons’ to glory through Christ Hebrews 2:10.

OUTLINE

1.THE PATTERN SON
2. THE NEW ADAM
3. JESUS CHRIST AS SON OF MAN

THE PATTERN SON

In the genealogy of Jesus, the connection to the first human being created, Adam is established Luke 3:38. Adam was meant to populate the Earth with sons and daughters of God, but he failed because of his disobedience. Man was created in the beginning to be God’s family on Earth: sonship had always been God’s plan for human beings. Jesus Christ came as Son of Man, the ‘Seed’ of the woman Genesis 3:15, to show us the pattern of life acceptable to God that all mankind should follow 1 Peter 2:21. God so loved the world that He made Himself become Son of Man; the Pattern Son, the first born among many brethren in God’s new family on Earth according to Romans 8:29; John 1:12. Jesus Christ, who is God, incarnate is our complete specimen pattern of how God wanted man to live. Jesus was totally as human as we are (without the sin) so that we, human beings can become all of God that He is (without the deity) as we follow His pattern. In the gospels, we see how Jesus related to the Father as a son, though fully Man. We see His total dependence on the Father. The relationship of Jesus Christ, the ‘Pattern Son’ with the Father demonstrates His commitment to the Father’s will and is an example of how our life ought to be here on Eart as we relate with our Heavenly Father.

THE NEW ADAM

The first Adam represents the origin and nature of all mankind, which falls short of the glory and original purpose of God 1 Corinthians 15:45. Every man born since Adam carries the nature, the life of flesh, the old man, and can neither please God nor have a relationship with Him Romans 8:7-8. When Jesus Christ the Son of Man died on the Cross of Calvary, He represented Adam and paid the penalty of both the first Adam’s sin and sinful nature Romans 8:3. Jesus Christ the Son of Man, ‘the last Adam’ became ‘the new man’ to redeem fallen mankind and restore us to our glorious estate of God the Father lost by the first man 1 Corinthians 15:47.
The title, Son of Man was the same one used by God when He spoke to the prophets like Ezekiel in the Old Testament Ezekiel 2:1, 37:3, 11. David, the Psalmist, also used the term ‘son of man’ when he referred to mankind Psalm 8:4, 144:3.

JESUS CHRIST AS SON OF MAN

a. Jesus Christ could not identify any closer to human beings than being called and referred to as the Son of Man. This is what qualifies Jesus Christ as our Kinsman Redeemer–a near relative. It is as the Son of Man that the incarnation of Jesus bears its significance. This is the very essence of God becoming flesh, being one of us, identifying with us, born a man so that He could suffer and die in our place for the sins of mankind Hebrews 2:14-18.

b. As the Son of Man, our Lord Jesus demonstrated for us how ‘the new man’ should approach and develop a relationship with God that will make us dwell in His presence always John 14:10; 1 Timothy 3:16.

c. As the Son of Man, Jesus Christ showed us God’s original intention for the human being to have authority and dominion on the Earth as God’s representative Genesis 1:26-28, Mark 4:39- 41.

d. In the revelation of Christ as it was given to John the Apostle, he saw Jesus, the Son of Man in His glory Revelation 1:13. Christ in us is the hope of this same glory Colossians 1:27.

CONCLUSION

Jesus Christ the Son of Man is God’s gift of grace to sinful mankind. As the Son of Man, Jesus restores lost humanity to our original position with God and demonstrates for us the extent of His everlasting love Romans 5:19.

FURTHER READINGS:

MON: Matthew 12:8
TUES: Matthew 18:11
WED: Luke 22:69
THURS: John 6:62
FRI: Mark: 13:26
SAT: Acts 7:56
SUN: Isaiah 9:6.

MEMORY VERSE: “ In my father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.” John 14:2.

BIBLE PASSAGE: Revelation 22:1-7.

INTRODUCTION

When we die as believers,our souls go to heaven, a place of rest, as we await our new resurrection bodies made to live and worship in the ‘new earth’ 1 Corinthians 15:42-44; 1 Thessalonians 3:13; 4:14. Out of heaven, a new City called ‘New Jerusalem’ will come down from God to the new earth Revelation 21:2. It shall be the capital city of God’ where God dwells among men Revelation 21:3. It will also be the eternal home of the redeemed of all ages Hebrews 11:13-16; 12:22-24. It is also important to note that the ‘new Heaven’ as well as the new Earth mentioned in Revelation 21:1, is the result of the melting of the current heaven and the earth by fire. It speaks of a change in condition and structure to make it eternally new 2 Peter 3:10-13.

OUTLINE

1. BIBLICAL SNAPSHOT
2. HOW DO I GET THERE?

1. BIBLICAL SNAPSHOT

What we think of as heaven a place of full enjoyment of the presence of God will now be on earth the recreated ‘new earth’ Revelation 21:1-3 This is the believers’ final abode through God’s miraculous intervention and re-creation Revelation 21:5.lt is the home of pure gold Revelation 21:18 having gates made with pearls, and the street of the city laid in gold like transparent glass Revelation 21:21. The glory of God supplies the light in this city so there is no need for the sun or candle and there is no night there Revelation 21:23; 22:5. It is an abode for overcomers Revelation 2:7; 3:21. There is no dull moment in this city as it is filled with rejoicing and shouts of praise Revelation 19:1,3. All tears shall be wiped away by God and there shall be no more death,pain, crying or sorrow Revelation 21:4 It is a city without temples because God and the Lamb are the temples thereof Revelation 21:22. Saints shall see the face of Jesus Revelation 22:4 and they shall sit on thrones in this city Revelation 225c. It is an incredibly majestic, a place of God,s throne Revelation 22:3. It is a place where the righteous shall shine like the sun Matthew 13:43.

2. HOW DO I GET THERE?

As beautiful as the Holy City is, there are conditions to be fulfilled before access can be granted. The very first step is to be born again because access is through faith in Christ Jesus John 3:3-5. After this, believers are expected to do away with the works of the flesh and sin – uncleanness, fornication, inconvenient jesting, covetousness, idolatry, etc. Galatians 5:19-21; Ephesians 5:3-5, lay aside every weight of sinful living, and focus on Jesus Hebrews 12:1-2.
It is for those whose garments are spotless in this world of sin Ecclesiastes 9:8; Revelation 16:15; those who have refused to love the perverted and corrupt world-system 1 John 2:15-17; those who are diligent and blameless in their walk with Jesus 2 Peter 3:14; whose names are written in the Lamb’s book of life Revelation 21:27.

CONCLUSION

Do all you can to get to this place of unparalleled splendour that is beyond human description

FURTHER READINGS:

SUN: Galatians 4:26.
MON: Hebrews 11:10.
TUES: Hebrews 12:22-24.
WED: Hebrews 13:14.
THURS: Revelation 21:1-27.
FRI: Isaiah 65:17.
SAT: 2 Peter 3:12-13.

MEMORY VERSE: “ He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.” Psalm 23:2.

BIBLE PASSAGE: Psalm 23:1-6

INTRODUCTION

Sheep do not birth their lamb in turbulent or stormy places, they keep away from others to deliver what is inside of them. Adam while in the garden; a calm place, was able to name, categorise and file all the animals without any physical aids (computer, pen, paper, etc.) – Genesis 2:15,19- 20. The still waters are a calm place where God brings you to the place that enables you to maximise your potentials. When your head is clear, you can think, remember, and evolve. The challenge however is, how to achieve the calmness that will birth the greatness we feel inside, when we are constantly bombarded with ‘noise’ (challenges, troubles, trials, etc.).

OUTLINE

1. SILENCE THE ‘NOISE’
2. FIND GREEN PASTURES

SILENCE THE ‘NOISE’

Ships do not sink because they pass through waters but because the waters pass through them. You have the power to prevent negative occurrences around you from affecting your mind and potentials. Silence the voice of mediocrity, bitterness, regrets, etc. and constantly assure yourself that you are made for greatness Proverbs 23:7a; Hebrews 12:15. Deal with any destructive behaviour to protect your self-esteem. Avoid being so busy or cumbered, with just trying to survive, focus on accomplishing your visions and goals Proverbs 29:18. Be conscious of time and avoid going round in circles John 9:4. Stop being reactive, wake up daily with an agenda, urgency, and a sense of direction Philippians 4:8. Close all loopholes in your marriage, family, career, etc. and work towards unity, prosperity, and dominion. Your outward prosperity reflects the spiritual prosperity on your inside 3 John 2. Do not limit your vision to your current situation. Sometimes your situation may be preparing you for where God is taking you Genesis 45:5- 8. Dare to stand out rather than fit in.

FIND GREEN PASTURES

Green pasture is a place of freshness or newness Isaiah 43:19. Many do not know how to lay down in the ‘green pastures’ of their life which include new opportunities, relationships, success, etc. Hosea 4:6a.They experience anxiety even in good times because they feel it is abnormal and they fear it will not last Philippians 4:6.

‘He maketh me lie down in green pastures’ means God is willing to make you rest in the blessings He has given you Ecclesiastes 2:24; 1 Timothy 6:17. To ‘ lie down in green pasture’ could mean being hopeful again after series of disappointments Job 14:7, receiving the ability and strength to love again after emotional or mental hurt 1 Corinthians 13:4, 7, to want to live again after barely escaping from depression Job 6:11; 14:14. It could mean getting to the place where you are able to believe that afflictions shall not rise again Nahum 1:9, to try again and succeed in areas where you have once failed Micah 7:8, to receive peace and let go of offences, bitterness and anger that has held you captive for long John 14:27; Ephesians 4:31, etc.

CONCLUSION

You cannot be in a place of still waters until you let go of the things distracting you or invading your space.

FURTHER READINGS:

SUN: Ephesians 4:31-32.
MON: Ecclesiastes 3:7.
TUES: Ecclesiastes 9:10.
WED: Acts 8:23.
THURS: Proverbs 10:12.
FRI: Ecclesiastes 7:10.
SAT: Psalm 46:1-3.

MEMORY VERSE: “ But thou shalt remember the LORD thy God: for it is he that giveth thee power to get wealth, that he may establish his covenant which he swore unto thy fathers, as it is this day.” Deuteronomy 8:18.

BIBLE PASSAGE: Genesis 26:12-16.

INTRODUCTION

There has been so much financial instability in recent times, and it looks like a whole lot of things are becoming unaffordable. Dwindling economic realities around the world makes it more difficult to believe that financial independence is possible, given the rate at which companies fold up, the rate of inflation, and exchange rate vulnerability, just to mention but a few. We would be looking at what financial independence is, how relates to us as Christians and practical steps we can take to attain it.

OUTLINE

1. What is Financial Independence?
2. Attaining Financial Independence

WHAT IS FINANCIAL INDEPENDENCE?

Financial Independence is an act of being financially sufficient. It means having abundant income, savings, or investment to last a lifetime without necessarily waiting to be paid by someone else at the end of the month. It is being able to attend to your needs conveniently stress free, while preparing for tomorrow.
Financial Independence is not starvation, inability to attend to today’s need just to provide for tomorrow, it is not being stingy or lacking the ability to be compassionate and do good to others. It is also not to love money like Achan or Judas Joshua 7:20-21; John 12:4-6.

ATTAINING FINANCIAL INDEPENDENCE

A lot of people today either borrow to survive or wait on a pay cheque from their employer before any financial decision or action is taken over their wellbeing and that of their family.

It is important to know that God has financial plans for us as his children and he does not want us to be poor 3 John 1:2. For instance, Abraham and Isaac trusted God and were financially independent Genesis 24:1, 35; 26:12-16.

Believers can attain financial independence by looking unto God to empower them to do the needful to get wealth Deuteronomy 8:18. We should depend on the Holy Spirit for inspiration and direction Job 32:8. We should give generously, pay tithes, offerings, seed sowing, etc Malachi 3:10-12; 2 Corinthians 9:6-7. It is important to work towards having multiple streams of income Isaiah 60:11. We should invest and not just save Luke 19:16-17. Make every effort to eliminate or avoid debt Proverbs 22:7. Be intentional in acquiring financial knowledge. Be wise, diligent, and prudent Proverbs 12:24.

CONCLUSION

Financial independence is possible for all Christians we have a role to play in attaining it. We need to act as and when prompted by God.

FURTHER READINGS:

SUN: Revelation 21:5;
MON: Genesis 24:12;
TUES: Luke.17:7;
WED: Hosea 2:8;
THUR: John 13:29;
FRI: Proverbs 10:4;
SAT: Proverbs 5:11

MEMORY VERSE: “Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.” 1 Corinthians 10:31.

BIBLE PASSAGE: Daniel 12:1-4.

INTRODUCTION

Technology has existed since Bible days Genesis 11:5-8. However, what appears new to people are the advancement of science and how it expands opportunities for humans. One of the latest advancements in technology in recent times is Artificial Intelligence (AI). There are varying views as to whether Christians should use Al or not. Some believers tag it as end-time tool of the devil and the anti- Christ; others hold the view that it is the result of a creative mind of people made in God’s image Genesis 1:26-27. This lesson will bridge information gap on Al and how it can be purposefully embraced in Christendom.

OUTLINE

1. AI EXPLAINED
2. BENEFITS AND DANGERS

1. AI EXPLAINED

Artificial intelligence (Al) is non biological intelligence found in machines, where they are programmed to perform complex tasks. They can be programmed to make decisions from available options, just like humans, its purpose is meant to improve life. Some examples of where Al operate are like cars, airplanes, and social media applications. Al is a tool created by computer scientists, technicians,and engineers whom God has given the creative ability to improve lives Exodus 31:3-4. However, Al can become the controller and caretaker of man, if care is not taken This can degenerate into humanity worshipping the works of their own hands and this is idolatry Deuteronomy 5:8-9. No tool itself is evil; a blade is not harmful, but it is how people choose to use it. Al can be used to advance God’s kingdom if aligned with Christian values and principles.

2.   BENEFITS AND DANGERS

Artificial intelligence has several benefits for the Christian faith. It can aid access to a wealth of scriptures and other Christian texts within seconds as the need arises John 5:39. It can break down the language barrier in sharing the gospel by translating texts and teachings to a broader global audience. It can be used to build online communities where Christians can pray, fellowship, and offer brotherly support Hebrews 10:24-25. It can make online worship as real as physical gatherings. It can instantaneously give support by providing responses to common spiritual questions and guidance. It can be used to develop personalised trainings to execute kingdom projects. It is also able to make the gospel simpler and easier to understand for the average Christian.
Christians should however watch out for areas of danger 1 Corinthian 10:23; Ephesians 5:15. There are risks and privacy issues in using AI which should not be abused 1 Corinthians 7:31. We must understand our own limits because we are God’s creature not God Genesis 1:27,we can’t out do God’s creative power Isaiah 55:8-9. Christians should be wary of some scientists who are determined to make a new religion out of Al Exodus 23:2a; Leviticus 26:1. Al should not be used in a way that conflicts with Christian beliefs Romans 14:21-22. In providing support for one another, Christians should ensure that human relationships are not replaced by technology Hebrews 10:25. Al should not replace the waiting upon the Lord for fresh words or inspiration 2 Timothy 2:15; Acts 20:32. Christians should beware lest they devote their entire lives to AI or other technological innovations and forget God Deuteronomy 612. Humans should be aware of technological addictions, and this should be avoided so as not to kill mental and spiritual growth 1 Corinthians 6:12.

CONCLUSION

Artificial intelligence is one of the technological tools borne from the creative ability God has given to man. Christians can cautiously use it to the glory of God.

FURTHER READINGS:

SUN: 1 Corinthians 10:31.
MON: Exodus 23:2.
TUE: Deuteronomy 6:10-12.
WED: 1 Peter 3:8-11.
THUR: 2 Chronicles 26:14-16.
FRI: Revelation 4:10-11.
SAT: Psalm 8:1-4.

MEMORY VERSE: “Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before.” Philippians 3:13.

BIBLE PASSAGE: Numbers 11:4-7.

INTRODUCTION

After the children of Israel left Egypt, it is unfortunate that “the spin of Egypt” did not leave them. Despite the miracles of deliverance and divine provisions, they still longed for the cucumbers and garlic they ate as slaves because “yesterday” was vivid in their memories. The same thing applies to some of us who refuse to let go of our past! How can we overcome the urge to cling to the past,embrace today and look on the bright side of tomorrow?

OUTLINE

1. PAST IS PAST
2. THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT

1. PAST IS PAST

Below are some of the ways to deal with past events or occurrences:

1. Be intentional to let go of the ugly past because some bad memories always want to fill our thoughts Philippians 4:8. Do not bask perpetually in the euphoria of the past.
2. Learn from the mistakes of the past and determine to avoid repetition of same errors previously made John 8:10- 11.
3. Forgive yourself and others for whatever happened in the past Genesis 50:15-18; 45:5. Remove the “veil of offense” and never allow it to degenerate into an obstacle Ephesians 4:31; Hebrews 12:15.
4. Go forward by thinking and taking the next step into a brighter tomorrow 2 Samuel 12:18-23.
5. Forget ‘yesterday’ because it is gone. Stop holding on to the past or referring to it incessantly as if you can turn back the hand of the clock Philippians 3:13.
6. Set your mind free from the hurtful past because a negative past enslaves Galatians 5:1; Genesis 33:1-3, 8.
7. Cry to God to take any unwanted memory away. Remember that vengeance is of the Lord: leave the matter to Him Romans 12:19.

2. THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT

Believers must walk with the assurance that tomorrow will be better than their yesterday Job 14:7-9. Hope is a prerequisite needed to forget the past and look forward to the future Job 11:18; 14:14; Romans 5:5 Having a focus will sustain a believer to keep moving Philippians 3:13- 14. Give yourself to the study of God’s word Psalm 119:15-16 and know that He is your help Psalm 46:1-5; this gives uncommon happiness and joy Psalm 146:5. Carve the future by channelling all your energy to positive endeavours to fulfil your purpose in life Judges 11:1-5. No matter what, win your future Proverbs 23:18.

CONCLUSION

Remembering the irreparable past generates sorrow, focusing on a better future brings excitement.

FURTHER READINGS:

SUN: Romans 12:17.
MON: Psalm 1:2.
TUES: Psalm 119:35.
WED: Hebrews 6:1.
THURS: 2 Corinthians 5:17.
FRI: Luke 9:62.
SAT: Proverbs 24:29.

MEMORY VERSE: “ And Samuel grew, and the LORD was with him, and did let none of his words fall to the ground.” 1 Samuel 3:19.

BIBLE PASSAGE: 1 Samuel 7:7-10.

INTRODUCTION

Samuel, the thirteenth judge of Israel was born of Levitical parents 1 Chronicles 6:16, 25-28; 1 Samuel 1:1. The date of his birth was around 1070 BC. His mother was Hannah, a noble and good woman, married to Elkanah. The meaning of the Hebrew word translated Samuel is ‘God heard’ 1 Samuel 1:20. Being a Prophet and a Seer, he was the last and greatest of the Judges of Israel, who were chosen by God to rule over the people, and to save them in time of war and oppression.

OUTLINE

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

1. HIS CHARACTER AND ACHIEVEMENTS

Samuel was a good and obedient person even from childhood 1 Samuel 3:9-10. He was committed to serving God under the tutelage of Eli the Priest 1 Samuel 3:1a. He was available to hear from God at a time when the word and visions from the LORD became rare 1 Samuel 3:1-4. He was bold to declare God’s counsel to the house of Israel when they had abandoned God 1 Samuel 7:3. He preferred the theocratic system to the monarchical order demanded by the Israelites, and he openly displayed his displeasure to the people 1 Samuel 8:4- 6. He was known as an intercessor who hears from God 1 Samuel 7:8-9; Psalm 99:6-7. He was a man Well known for his integrity 1 Samuel 12:1-4.

In 1050 BC, the Lord instructed Samuel to anoint Saul as king over Israel 1 Samuel 9:15-17; 10:1. He defeated the Philistines and ended their forty-year oppression of Israel in 1030 BC 1 Samuel 7:13. Through this victory, the Israelites recovered their captured cities, and they had peace all the days of Samuel 1 Samuel 7:14. God gave him the opportunity to anoint David also as king in place of Saul 1 Samuel 15:28;16:1,13. The Lord did not let his words fail 1 Samuel 3:19. He had a clean record before the Israelites 1 Samuel 12:3. Prophet Samuel died in Ramah in 1011 BC and the whole nation mourned the loss of their beloved leader 1 Samuel 28:3.

2. LESSONS FROM HIS LIFE

1. The gift of Samuel to Hannah is a testimony to the fact that God knows the hearts of everyone, and His promises never fail 1 Samuel 1:17-20.
2. Samuel was a passionate, consistent, and faithful lover of God and His righteousness 1 Samuel 3:20; 8:4-6.
3. God will always talk to His loved ones and reveal His secrets to them 1 Samuel 3:11.
4. Faithfulness to God commands authority and great respect from people 1 Samuel 15:26-28; 16:4.
5. We must choose to obey and honour God totally above men 1 Samuel 15:24, 32-33.
6. God’s spirit helps His beloved and supports them 1 Samuel 7:10
7. Everyone must prepare for the day of accountability and reckoning because it is certain 1 Samuel 8:1-5; 12:3.
8. He was referenced in Acts 3:24 and 13:20 by the Apostles as a Seer and a Prophet and numbered in the hall of fame in Hebrews 11:32

CONCLUSION

God can make use of you like Samuel if you are willing and ready to pay the price.

FURTHER READINGS:

SUN: :1 Samuel 3:20.
MON: 1 Samuel 3:1.
TUE: Proverbs 11:3.
WED: Romans 14:12.
THUR: 7 John 5:3.
FRI: Luke 10:18-20.
SAT: Daniel 2:28.

MEMORY VERSE: “And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.” 2 Timothy 2:2.

BIBLE PASSAGE: 2 Kings 2:9-14.

INTRODUCTION

To pass on the torch means to teach others unique skills, businesses, faith, etc. that we know so that whether we are around or not, others will continue the good work. Apostle Paul knew the importance of this; thus, he charged Timothy to groom other faithful men in the faith and the doctrines 2 Timothy 2:2. The torch of faith and expertise must pass from one person to the other for the light to continue to burn.

OUTLINE

1. LIMITING CONDITIONS
2. THE BLESSINGS

1. LIMITING CONDITIONS

Many conditions hinder people from passing on the torch, but we shall examine a few of them. Ignorance of the enormous benefits that can be derived from duplicating oneself or skill in others prevents some people who are skilful in a particular field from teaching others the same thing they know Exodus 18:13-18. The fear of the ‘student’ being better or greater than the ‘teacher’ prevents some people from passing the torch of what they know or believe to other Proverbs 29:25a. Pride, the self- glory of wanting to be the ‘only one’ skilful or knowledgeable in each field restricts some people from impacting others Philippians 2:3. The desire to be known and called the ‘only pro’ in a field prevents them from influencing other people. The fear of being relegated to the background makes some people hold on to what they know 1 John 4:18. A myopic view of “the bigger the better” is a constraint from accommodating others and sharing the required knowledge.

2. THE BLESSINGS 

knowledge and skill transfer or passing on our faith have so many blessings. Some of which are:

1. Generational Blessings: Passing on a skill or our faith to another generation brings outstanding blessings to the family and makes them stand out 2 Timothy 1:5.
2. Increase in Knowledge: Information goes far when it is shared and with this, comes a great level of enlightenment and education Daniel 12:4.
3. Transfer of Experience: Passing on the torch enables an expert to transfer their wealth of experience to others who can use the skill for more inventions Proverbs 31:1.
4. Joy: There is an unexplainable excitement that comes when we share what we know with others John 4:28- 29.
5. You Become a Guru: Teaching others what you know makes you a source and reference point because those who glean from your wealth of knowledge will likely refer to you and respect your authority in that field of specialization Acts 22:3.
6. It Attracts Favour: Being open-minded to let others know what we know results in goodwill 1 Kings 10:3, 10.
7. Multiplication: Knowledge grows rapidly when it is shared 2 Timothy 2:2.
8. Sustainability: Great skills and expertise are sustained when effectively passed on to others Titus 1:9.

CONCLUSION

Pass on the torch and die empty John 17:4b, 8a; Job 1:21a.

FURTHER READINGS:

SUN: Exodus 18:13-18.
MON: Titus 1:9.
TUES: 1 Kings 10:3-10.
WED: John 4:28-30.
THURS: Proverbs 31:1-9.
FRI: 2 Kings 2:8-14.
SAT: 2 Timothy 2:2.

MEMORY VERSE: “ I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eats of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that i will give is my flesh, which will give for the life of the world.” John 6:51.

BIBLE PASSAGE: 1 Corinthians 11:24-29.

INTRODUCTION

The Covenant meal is the Holy Communion that is taken as a symbol of the new covenant between God and man through Jesus for the remission of sin Matthew 26:26-28. Also, taking this meal demonstrates the Lord’s death till He comes again. Our focus is how the meal can be beneficial, if taken the right way.

OUTLINE

1. CONDITIONS
2. BENEFITS

1. CONDITIONS

To take the Holy Communion in a proper manner, the following terms and conditions apply:

• A Regenerated life. You must have become born again by choice after you believed in God and became a part of His people John 3:3, John 5:24, 1 Corinthians 11:33.
• It must be taken in honour of our Lord Jesus Christ Luke 22:19. Christ expects us to remember His ultimate sacrifice (death) for us till He comes 1 Corinthians 11:25-26.
• It must be eaten worthily. Do not harbour unconfessed sins;bitterness, envy, unforgiveness, unbelief. lust, immorality, etc. 1 Corinthians 11:27; Galatians 5:19-21.
• It must be taken after self-examination. You are to examine yourself to avoid sickness, weakness, or death 1 Corinthians 11:28-30; 2 Corinthians 13:5a.
• It must be taken in a decent and orderly manner. It should not be taken in a rowdy manner 1 Corinthians 11:33-34; 14:40.

2.     BENEFITS

Partaking in the Holy Communion gives life eternal John 6:53-54. It is a desirable meal that gives strength for the spiritual journey ahead 1Kings 19:7-8. The Holy Communion is a meal that paves the way for favour and prosperity Exodus 12:35-36. It is a meal that protects and preserves us during God’s judgment on the wicked by bringing deliverance Exodus 12:27,30-33. At the Holy Communion, secret revelations of the heart are revealed Matthew 26:19-23 It is a healing meal Psalm 105:37; Deuteronomy 29:5-6. It is a privileged meal that all believers could partake in with Christ 1 Corinthians 11:24- 25.

CONCLUSION

The Holy Communion is a sure fortification for all believers in Christ.We must desire and maximise every opportunity to partake of it. Do not allow ignorance or sin stand between you and this Covenant meal.

FURTHER READINGS:

SUN: Exodus 12:23,
MON: 2 Timothy 2:19
TUE: 1 John 4:4,
WED: Isaiah 6:3,
THURS: 1 Corinthians 15:19,
FRI: Ecclesiastes 3:1,
SAT: Matthew 5:45.

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

BIBLE PASSAGE: 1 Peter 1:3-5

INTRODUCTION

Most of us like to be recognised for our accomplishments. We appreciate receiving “rewards” for our productive work. Sometimes, we like to reward ourselves when we achieve a personal goal in life. However, the bible admonishes that Christians should put more premium on heavenly rewards Matthew 6:19-21. Heavenly rewards are God’s compensation for our labour on earth which is to be received in heaven. This lesson attempts to compare between earthly and heavenly rewards and give insights to how we can get heavenly rewards.

OUTLINE

1. EARTHLY VERSUS HEAVENLY REWARDS
2.  

   HOW TO EARN HEAVENLY REWARDS

   1. EARTHLY VERSUS HEAVENLY REWARDS

The Earthly rewards referred to here are those given in recognition for diverse accomplishments. They are distinct in the following ways:

They are sometimes good motivation for hard work and success. They boost morale and provide a sense of belonging. They can act as catalyst for better performance and promote healthy competition 1 Corinthians 9:24. Naturally, they bring satisfaction and sense of fulfilment. However, earthly rewards will fade away (decay), be corrupted and eventually lose their lustre 1 Corinthians 9:25; 1 Peter 1:4. They can be a source of pride in yourself or your achievements Daniel 4:30. They are temporal Ecclesiastes 5:15; Psalm 49:17. They can misdirect one’s heart to a point where one no longer sees the need for God Luke 12:16-21 Earthly rewards are not necessarily a pointer to the end of our earthly story, and We may not have enough of it. On the other hand, heavenly rewards are incorruptible, undefiled and do not fade 1 Peter 1:4 i.e. they are eternal, not subject to decay or theft Matthew 620. They are pointers to the quality of our work here on earth and how genuine we followed God Matthew 16:27; 1 Corinthians 3:8; 14- 15.They are precious rewards to be anticipated because they carry the weight and meaning of our relationship with God Philippians 3:13-15a We shall receive heavenly rewards at the completion of our earthly journey, and we shall be eternally satisfied 2 Timothy 4:6-8; Revelation 22:12. It must be noted that making it to Heaven attracts a reward for believers who faithfully persevere till the end Revelation 2:26.

2.  HOW TO EARN HEAVENLY REWARDS

Earthly rewards by their nature are not eternal and as a result are very limited in prestige. They may look incredibly good and make us feel happy, but do not have enduring value. There’s therefore a need for us to consider how to earn heavenly rewards.
1. Motivation for kingdom work should be driven by genuine love for Christ Colossians 3:23-24; 2 Corinthians 5:14; Ephesians 6:5-7.
2 Sacrificial living and giving Romans 16: 3-4; Acts 2:44-45; 2 Corinthians 8:4. 3. Use of talents and spiritual gifts like singing, teaching, playing of instruments etc. to the glory of God 1 Peter 4:10-11 and not for self-glory or praise of men. Ephesians 6:6-7
4.Commitment to soul winning and other kingdom services Luke 9:62, Galatians 6:9; 1 Corinthians 3:8.
5.Staying steadfast in the face of persecution, trouble, and inconvenience Romans 8:18; Revelation 2:10; 1 Corinthians 15:58.
6. Avoid being deceitful so as not to lose heavenly rewards 2 John 1:7-8.

CONCLUSION

Earthly rewards are good but heavenly rewards are far better. Be wise and pursue eternal rewards.

FURTHER READINGS:

SUN: Genesis 15:1.
MON: Deuteronomy 27:25.
TUES: Ruth 12:2.
WED: 2 Chronicles 20:11.
THURS: Psalm 15:5.
FRI: Psalm 58:11.
SAT: Proverbs 24:14.