Top Gospel Sermons

MEETING PEOPLE’S NEEDS

2019-07-26T09:07:00.005-07:00

MEETING PEOPLE’S NEEDS

TEXT: Acts 6:1-7; James 1:27; 2:14-17; 1John 3:17,18

MEMORY VERSE: Be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another” (1Peter 3:8).

CENTRAL TRUTH: Believers should show empathy to people in need.

INTRODUCTION:

Growth can bring problems, and the early Church was no exception. The revival that brought in multitudes also produced a crisis that had to be dealt with wisely. One of the problems in today’s society is the friction that develops among people of different backgrounds when they are brought together.

Even though the early Christians were converted, they still brought their various backgrounds with them into the Church Such a combination of people with different backgrounds and exposures can cause problems even when those individuals are Christians. The Apostles, who were the Church’s leaders, were soon alert to the developing crisis. Being full of the Holy Spirit, they faced it and dealt with matters as he gave them wisdom.

1. MEETING PEOPLE’S NEEDS: Acts 6:1-7

We do not know how much time elapsed between Acts 5:42 and 6:1. However, we see immediately that the Church was enjoying steady growth.

Not only had the Church trouble from outsiders, but there were problems inside the Church. Among other things, murmuring was heard among the members. So many people from different backgrounds had been called into the Church so fast that the problem causing the discord was inevitable.

The society into which the Early Church was thrust was totally different from the world we now know. Career opportunities were not open to widows. They had to depend on their families for financial support, and if they had no families. the responsibility fell on the Church. The Church’s handling of this responsibility came into question in Acts 6 by Grecian believers who alleged that the Hebrew believers were distributing this help unevenly.

2. COMPASSION FOR OTHERS: James 1:27; 1Jn.3:17,18. Isa. 58:1-12

This verse is one of only five in the King James Version where the word ‘religion’ is used. In three of the verses it refers to the Jews’ religion (Acts 26:5; Gal. 1:13-14). Christians do not use the word ‘religion' often because there is so much of it that is not genuine. In our day, ‘religion’ is not always synonymous with salvation. There are many people who are considered religious but have not been born again.

in this verse, however, James described the kind of religion on which God looks with favour. He was not trying to give a complete definition of religion, but he emphasized two essential characteristics that mark it as genuine (pure and undefiled). One concerns inward holiness, the other focuses on outward generosity.

3. FAITH IN ACTION: James 2:14-17

In this passage, James was not teaching good works as a means of salvation. His subject was good works after salvation. James instructed us, ‘don’t just talk about faith, live it’. There seems to be a ‘bite’ in the words, ‘though a man say he hath faith'. Words are cheap, but actions are costly. Never sit akimbo thinking that it is the responsibilities of others to “meet needs'. Look for needs to meet and God would raise men to meet yours.

The question. ‘can faith save him?’ is asked in such a way that it seems clear the answer is meant to be “NO”. We must consider this in the light of the context. Nowhere does the Bible teach that good works can merit salvation. James was not discussing conversion. His theme was a strong warning against empty profession of faith that produces no fruit.

To drive home his teaching, James employed an illustration that is powerful because of the ridiculous image it brings to mind. A Christian has no clothes or food, so he brings his need to another Christian, expecting help. Instead, he receives only good wishes. The person Who should help him basically says, “Have a nice day". He tells the needy person to be clothed and fed, but expects him to get his clothing and food somewhere else. This person who only offered his good wishes had the material means to help the other, but was not willing to put forth the effort. (1 Jn. 3:16-18).

it is often not that difficult to respond to the needs of an individual who shares our cultural background and traditions. However, there are many occasions when there is a wide social and cultural chasm between us and those requiring help. Such situations test our commitment to Christ. Often we absorb too easily the selfishness of this age.

Through the centuries, the Church has been in the forefront of helping people during disaster and other emergencies. However, it is often easier to contribute money to such programmes than to become involved personally. It is likely there are people in our own neighborhoods to whom we can minister. Their needs may not be financial. Many people simply need someone to listen and offer encouragement.

Be a channel of blessing!

QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION:

1. Why did the presence of widows in the Church present such a touchy situation at the time?

2. Can we follow this biblical command to help if we are not wealthy?

3 If we are saved by faith without works, why does James say we must also demonstrate good works?

4. In what way can you be a “channel of blessing’ in the Church?

WHICH WAY

2019-07-26T08:36:00.000-07:00

TOPIC: WHICH WAY

TEXT; MATT 7:13

Billy Graham tells of a time early in his ministry when he arrived in a small town to preach a sermon. Wanting to mail a later, he asked a young boy where the post office was. When the boy had told him, Dr. Graham thanked him and said “If you will come to the Baptist church this evening, you can hear me telling everyone how to get to heaven” The boy replied, "I don't think i will be there. You don't even know your way to the post office, how are you going to direct me or show me the way to heaven?”

People have different thinking about what life is, and what it means depends on how we understand it. The boy in his wisdom and understandings didn't know that this life is a journey. He didn't know that there are two main ways which one leads to death(destruction) and other one leads to life. He thought within himself that the man is a scammer. He thought if this man does not know the way leading to a common post office, how will he know the way to heaven?

Let me tell another story of a man that lacked a foresight about this life journey. A young Bible College Students was a witnessing in a town of Atlanta in Georgia As he approached one house, there was an elderly man sitting on the porch, he asked the man “Are you a Christian? The man said no, I am Smith, the Christian live two doors down. The young man (preacher) said no, you don't understand. I mean are you lost? The old man said son, i am not lost, I have lived here for 25 years. The preacher asked him, sir, Are you ready for the Judgment Day? The old man said when is it going to be, the preacher answered? Well, it may be today or tomorrow. They old man replied “please don't tell my wife, she will want to go both days”

The old man was lost in one way but not in another way. He knew way he lived physically, but he didn't know where he was spiritually.

He didn't know anything about this life journey. He probably taught when a man dies, that is the end. He didn't know anything about the judgement day.

People say that there are hundreds of ways, but according to Matthew 7:13,14 There are two main ways that governs this lives journey. (1) The broad way that leads to a wide gate and (2) The narrow way which leads to a small gate.

Everyone is on a spiritual journey as they travel through life. (Whether religious or not we traveled a spiritual path and every journey has a starting point and eventually an end point.

Everyday, we make choices that affect the direction in which we are heading to.

Majority of people make choices that will lead them into destruction while minority of people make choices that will lead them into eternal life. Though in 1Timothy 2:4. God wants all men (all people) to be saved, to find the narrow way, to come to the knowledge of the truth. But the truth is that not everyone will find the way, not everyone will believe that such a way exist.

Some people will see the narrow way, but wont enter.

Some will enter but will not make it through the exit to eternal life.

Before I go further. Let me answer the question of where one can find the way.

Where can one find a way? In John 14:6. Jesus Christ told his disciples the night before the day of his crucifixion that he is the way the truth and the life, no One Cometh to the father except through me. So Jesus Christ is the only way to eternal life. Meaning that if you find Jesus you find the way that leads to life. If you don't find Jesus you don't find the way to eternal life.

NOTE: It is one thing to find the way and another thing to enter into it. It is one thing to enter into the way and another thing to diligently keep moving without turning back. Some people have found the way but they find it very hard to enter. There are people that know the way to eternal life but they are still moving in broad way that leads to destruction.

Some people feel because they know the way, they automatically have eternal life. NO!

Jesus knew this will happen. That is why he says that not every man that will call me Lord Lord will enter into the Kingdom of Heaven(Matthew 7:21). To confirm this go to any church this Sunday and carry out a survey by asking each person where there will go if the trumpet sounds or if God calls them to rest. 99% of the people will tell you that they will make heaven. Jesus said that not every man that called me Lord. Lord will enter into the kingdom of my father. Meaning that not everyone that goes to the church and stare at the way then go back to walk in the broad way will enter into heaven.

It is those that will find the way, enters into it, and strive to be in the way by doing the laws of God that is written in their hearts will have eternal life.

POINT ONE

How will one know that he or she is walking on the broad way?

If you see yourself moving with extra luggage, know that you are on a broad way because in the narrow way there are no rooms, no space for extra luggage. What do I mean by extra luggage? Since wide is the gate and broad is the way you can move freely with materialism, you can move freely with Unforgivable spirit, you can move freely with prejudice, you can move freely with hatred!

The way does not require giving up on anything.

People enter it with no sacrifice on their path.

There are no restrictions concerning what one belief and behavior.

The way allows any behavior one desires.

In this way no need for reformation or change in one's life style.

In this way one makes his or her own rules, one believe what he wants to believe and do what he want.

In this way one has whatever he wants at any time he wants it by his power.

This is why some people that apply this way will fix a date for themselves to be rich, to get married, to have children, to pass exams with magic pens, to get any land by force, to attend any position in the society by force, to attend any position in the church by force.

They do anything to acquire bags, shoes, cloths, cars, houses, lands, latest hair style. Surprisingly they are the highest donors in the church.

People in this way kills without thinking twice (they either kill with physical sword, and with their tongues by falsely witnessing against one another. They will go to the courtroom and swear using the Bible, placing their hands on top of the Bible they will say “I swear that everything I will say in this court of law shall be the truth and nothing but the truth so help me God) but deep inside of them they know that they are standing there to be a false witness against another just to condemn the person to death (Proverbs 25:18 says “A man who Bears false witness against his neighbor is a maul, and a sword, and a sharp arrow). The Bible says that all these things lead to destruction.

DISCLAIMER. I'm not saying that if you enter into this road that you will go to hell. I am saying that if you see yourself in this route and makes a U-turn into the narrow road, you will have eternal life!

HOW CAN YOU ENTER THROUGH THE NARROW GATE?

Jesus Christ says in Luke 13:24 “strive to enter through the narrow gate…” which is a command. How can you obey this command? We obey the command by being converted, by making a U-turn from the broad way.

Jesus Christ says in Matthew 18:3 “unless you are converted and become like children you will not enter the kingdom of heaven” why? Because a child is absolutely dependent on his parents for food, water, shelter, clothing, love - everything. We must become like children, we must stop trusting ourselves and our own righteousness and put our trust in Christ Jesus for all (Not getting everything by force).

We entered through repentance by faith. John 3:36 says “He who believes in the son has eternal life” In a nutshell you have to strive to enter into the small gate.(you can't just stroll into eternal life).

In the narrow way, you don't need extra luggage. It is only you and Holy Spirit and the good fruits that you exhibit.

POINT THREE

In the narrow road, there are things that guides someone to move successfully into the eternal life!

THE WAY SIGNS

l No parking: Philippians 3:12 “Not that I have already obtained all this or have already arrived at my goals, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me” Paul have made a statement that he doesn't claim sinless perfection, but rather pursuing absolute Christ likeness. He didn't park, he didn't stop pursuing absolute Christian likeness. Paul did not say as Christians of nowadays do say. They will tell you my dear, i did it more than you when i repented newly. What's Happening now? Why parking when you have not reached there? Sometimes Christians can be tempted to stop and park when God intends for us to keep moving, to get busy, and to make progress.

l Wrong Way: Proverbs 14:12 “There is a way that appears to be rights, but in the end leads to death”

1 Peter 3:12 Says “For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous”

Psalm 121: 4 Says that our God never sleeps nor slumber.

Let me also tell you that the eyes of the devil are against the righteous and the devil do not sleep nor slumber. He will create destruction to make you turn right or left into the broad way that leads to destruction. God uses the sign through His word to warn us not to go right nor left to avoid harm.

l No U-Turn: Hebrews 10:38 Says “And my righteous ones will live by faith, but I will take no pleasure in anyone who turns away” Luke 9:62 “Jesus replied no one who puts his hands to the plow and looks back is fit for the service in the kingdom of God” Hebrews 10:38 says that God is grieved with whoever that makes a U-turn. That is why he places no U-Turn on the narrow way to eternal life. Christians can be tempted to get off the right road and return to the life they left behind. God is pleased when we follow him by faith without giving in to doubt. Once we have committed ourselves to God there should be no turning back to our old ways of life.

l Speed Limit: Psalm 27:14 “Wait on the Lord, be of good courage and He shall strengthen your heart, wait, I say, on the Lord” Psalm 27:14 has made us to understand that we should wait, we should not get ahead of ourselves and leave God behind. Don't over speed because speed kills. It can make one to die before his or her time. That is why the Lord places this sign on the narrow road to tell you son, daughter always move with me because I am your father, i know everything. If we have to work successfully through this narrow way, we must be patience to walk side-by-side with God.

l Exits: 2 Timothy 4:6,7 “The time of my departure is near, i have fought a good fight, i have finished the course, i have kept the faith” Exit is the time one passes through this life journey, both physically and spiritually. Paul did not stop fighting his fight with sin till he won and rested in a complete victory. No matter how long our road trip takes, we will eventually reach the exit. If we obey all the road signs in this journey to maintain our faith in the narrow way, at the end we will feel relieved like Paul that our journey is over, and we have reached our planned destination.

One May Say How Will I See These Signs?

1. You see these signs through his word.

2. Patterning your ears to always hear from the Lord and from people that started this journey before you.

3. When you pray and ask God to lead you through this narrow way he will always show you these signs when they need arises

CONCLUSION: I don't know which road you are! It is God, the devil, and you that knows the way that you are trekking on.

Are you among those that come to church and se at the small gates but find it hard to enter?

Or are you in the narrow road but failed to be reading the signs?

Today is the day to make things right again. Hallelujah

TRUE AND COUNTERFEIT WISDOM.

2019-07-18T12:46:00.000-07:00

TOPIC: TRUE AND COUNTERFEIT WISDOM.

TEXT: James 3: 13 18.

INTRODUCTION

The tongue can reveal genuine faith. It can give a testimony for God. It can speak wisdom. We must never confuse worldly wisdom with biblical wisdom. Worldly wisdom often leads people away from God. inflating their pride and ego. It raises false standard and pollutes the morality of society.

True wisdom has God as its source. We will never attain a wisdom that will truly make a difference unless we start with God. This is when one is able to make sound judgement. Guided by caution and discretion in words and actions. he avoids many traps and embarrassing situations. Such a person can be said to be prudent (Pro 8:11 -13). the opposite of prudence is rashness which results in reckless conduct and words often resulting in serious trouble. For clarity, let’s consider the study under the following subheadings:

1. The proof genuine wisdom

2. The nature of true wisdom

3. The characteristics of divine wisdom.

4. The benefits wisdom.

READ ALSO
THE DANGER OF COMPROMISE

1. THE PROOF OF GENUINE WISDOM James 3:13; Pro 8:11 -13

Here James returns from the digression of vs 3-12 to the subject of v12. His readers decided to become teachers. But the first qualification for a teacher is wisdom. So he defined true wisdom and contrasted with its counterfeit. (Read Gal. 6:4; James 2:18), James Said “let show his wisdom by his good life" The “wisdom" as it is used in the scriptures (Pro. 12.3), moral and religious intelligence. Simply stated. it is the ability to use knowledge correctly. There are well educated and knowledgeable people, who are woefully lacking in wisdom. this shows in their words and relationships.

2. THE NATURE OF HUMAN WISDOM: James 3: 14-16; 1 Cor 2:6:16; James 1:5,17: Gal 5:19-23 2 Cor 12:20; Phil 2:3; 1:16; Rom 2:18: 16 :17; 1 Cor. 3:3

False wisdom shows itself in strife and hasty spirit. If a contentious man boasts of his wisdom, he is a liar. If these things characterize. us, though we may boast of our wisdom, our whole life is a denial of the truth revealed in Jesus (of. Eph. 4:21). Such" wisdom is carnal, devilish and worldly (1 Cor. 15:48). belongs to nature rather than the Spirit (of. 1 Cor 2:14; 15:44-46: Jude 19) and to demons rather than God (cf. 1 Tirn 4:1). The word “envying” means pain. Jealousy at the good fortune of others (Mtt. 27:18; Mk. 15:10; Rom. 1:29; Phil. 1:15; 1 Tim. 6:4; Titus 3:3; James 4:5; 1 Pet. 2:1). These are sensual living only to satisfy the animal appetites.

3 THE CHARACTERISTIC OF DIVINE WISDOM James 3:17,18; Heb. 12:14: James 2: 1-10

Wisdom that is from above is first pure, that is, chaste, pure and clean; peaceable, gentle (meek, modest and kind). It is easily entreated not stubborn or obstinate. Full of mercy always forgiving and performing acts of kindness. Full of good fruits (Gal. 5:22.23); without partiality; without hypocrisy -honest. open. genuine and true.

These are the fruits of faith. These can only be produced by peacemakers. Discord can not produce righteousness.

4. BENEFITS FROM WISDOM Prov. 3:13, 16-18, 21-26. True wisdom is better than material wealth. It is needful for daily living.

SEEK TRUE WISDOM

THE DANGER OF COMPROMISE

2019-07-18T12:29:00.000-07:00

THE DANGER OF COMPROMISE
Judges 13:1 through 16:31

MEMORY VERSE: “Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life Prov. 4:23

CENTRAL TRUTH: Doctrinal and Moral Compromise undermines Spiritual Leadership.

INTRODUCTION
God has called Christian leaders to help guide and direct other believers around them and to help prepare other Christians to minister the gospel of Jesus Christ to the world. Leaders must take their responsibilities seriously and look to God for the wisdom they need to fulfill their tasks.

Because of their role in helping other Christians in the work of the ministry, leaders are a target for Satan to tempt them away from biblical truth and morals. Leaders must therefore remain vigilant and trust God for victory over every temptation. Only when a leader is victorious in his or her personal spiritual life can he or she be fully effective in leading God’s people.

In every local body of believers, there are individuals whom God has called to serve as leaders. Each believer must make himself or herself available to God to be used in leadership. Remaining pure in doctrine and morals is vital for the ministry of leadership. This lesson is prepared for leaders only, but is treated this way because it is a character study. God’s standard for leaders is the same for heir followers, they are going to the same heaven.

I. EMPOWERED FOR LEADERSHIP - Judge 13:l-3

Judges 13:1 records the beginning of one of the cycles of backsliding in Israel “... Did evil in the sight of the Lord”. The price of straying from the ways of God is judgement . In this case, God handed the Israelite over to the Philistines, people of war who had settled along the coastal plain of Palestine.

Every believer is called by God to perform some service to Christ. Using one’s talent and abilities in that service is one way a believer can be set apart for God. Sampson’s experience as a Nazarite was to go beyond the prescription of the law in two ways (a) he was set apart not by his personal choice, but by God’s choice (b) Rather than ending the period of separation at the time of his own choice, Sampson was to remain set apart for his entire life.

2. CALLING COMPROMISED -Judges 16:4 6, 16 21 The above few verses show two things (1) Sampson’s foolish choice and (2) His stunning defeat. Sampson’s life was marked with acts of physical strength. Unfortunately, he did not rely on God for the spiritual strength needed to fight moral battles. Delilah’s first attempt to learn the secret of Sampson’s strength came as a direct assault. The enemy’s strategies against God’s people are sometimes subtle, but at other times very clear. Sampson’s poor choices compromised his calling as the deliverer of Israel. He had foolishly and perhaps arrogantly placed himself in a place where his enemies could overcome him.
Sampson told Delilah the secret of his physical strength. His special relationship to God and how he could be overcome. Tragically, Sampson was both testifying to the power of God at work in his life and revealing how God’s work through him can be stopped.

Believers who are careless with their commitment to God especially in areas of doctrine and morality risk suffering the loss of their ministries today as surely as Sampson did. The strength of the Christian to do an enduring work lies in his or her relationship with God.

3. RESTORED TO SERVICE - Judges 16:22 & 23

READ ALSO
TRUE AND COUNTERFEIT WISDOM

To celebrate their “victory" over their rival, Sampson, the Philistines gathered to offer sacrifices to their god, Dagon. The vow for Sampson to keep included not cutting his hair. His hair started growing again, this would be typical of a Christian renewing his commitment.

Sampson prayed that God would remember him and help him again as he did in the past. This prayer signaled his renewed faith in God as the source of his strength. When a leader has failed, the only hope for true restoration is to return to the God who called and empowered the leader in the first place. Only God can bring a leader or any Christian who backslides, back to the experience of true effectiveness, Christian living and leadership. God answered Sampson’s prayer by restoring his strength Judges 16:29-31 .

QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION

1 . What is the price of straying away from the ways of God?

2. What are some of the ways a believer can set himself apart for God?

3. How did Delilah begin her betrayal of Sampson?

4. How can a believer resist temptations to compromise his doctrinal and moral standards?

5. How can compromising one’s commitment to the Lord affect one’s ability to fulfill the Lord's call on one’s life?

GOD AT THE CENTER OE OUR-BUSINESS (DO NOT EAT THE SEED)

2019-07-18T12:08:00.000-07:00

TOPIC: GOD AT THE CENTER OE OUR-BUSINESS (DO NOT EAT THE SEED)

TEXTS: PROV 68:19, LUKE 6:38, 2 COR 9:6

AIMS: At the end of the lesson, students should be able to;

1. Discover why they acquire wealth.

2 Preserve the seed.

3. Appreciate God with their substance.

Seed is the life of every plant. In many instances, human beings are regarded as seed especially in family circle. Without seeds there will be no hope for planting in the next season; that is why farmers preserve healthy seeds in their barn. Government; through the ministry of agriculture nurture and improve seeds to aid farmers to cultivate and harvest good farm products.

God has a special way of sustaining wealth for his children. One such way is through giving. When a child of God gives out to God, he or she is depositing in God’s bank where neither rust nor mud can devour. God is faithful, he promised “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” Luke 6:38. Do you desire your wealth to grow to unlimited company? Give out something to somebody today and God will pay you back.

WHY HE MAKE YOU TO PROSPER LUKE 12:42-48. Several Christians feel their money or substance is for their selfish interest. The wealth in your possession is under your care for proper distributions and the supervisor is watching as you do the distributions. The early church parted to all men their need. Acts 2:44-45, Acts 4:34-35.

READ THE FOLLOWING PASSAGES AND DISCUSS HOW GOD VIEW RICH MEN: MATT 19:18, MAT 27:57, Luke 1:51, 1 Tim 6:15:17, Luke 12:16-22, Luke 18:22-25. God desires that one should be rich with material wealth? and that such a person should know God and use his riches to the glory of God and humanity. Joseph was a rich man who buried Jesus in his grave. He fulfilled the prophesy about Jesus Christ in his death “he was rich in his death” Isaiah 53:9. Many dreams could be fulfilled through you, many faces could always smile because of you, and much future could be guarantee because you are there. The church of God could be blessed richly because of you.

HOW IS THIS POSSIBLE ECCL 12:13: The whole duty of man is to keep God’s commandments; believe the bible and do what His prophet as you to do concerning ‘giving’

1. GIVING TO THE CHURCH WHICH DISTRIBUTES Acts 2:44-45, Acts 4:34-35

2. TITHING: Give 10% of our income to God’s work. Lev 27:30, Numb 18:21, 18:24, Deut 14:22, Prov 3:9, Mal 3:10,3:8-11.

3. GIVE FOR SPECIAL PROJECTS: Believers are encourage to give for special projects. Exo 35:5, 2 kings 12:4,5, 9-12 .

4. GIVE TO THE POOR: When you are giving to the poor, you are appreciating God Who creates them and he will bless you.

Remember when giving, you are investing your seed for your self.

WISDOM OF SELF -CONTROL

2018-06-07T04:11:00.000-07:00

TEXT: James 3:1, 4:6

MEMORY VERSE: ”The wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy’ James 3:17

CENTRAL TRUTH: God ’s word requires believers to exercise self control

INTRODUCTION

Many people in today’s society have made seeking pleasure the goal of their lives. They feel this is their right. They will often ignore legal standards and strain close relationships in their efforts to fulfill their desires.

The attitudes of the world can creep into the church. Believers sometimes lose their focus on the mission of the church to evangelize and disciple people and begin to act in a self-centered. When this happens, conflict, division, and ungodliness begin to destroy individuals and churches.

This lesson reveals the importance of having self-control. For the believers self-control is not optional. God’s Word demands that believers allow the fruit of the Holy Spirit to control their lives.

As we look at this week’s lesson, let the Holy Spirit examine our lives. Perhaps we have allowed the attitudes of the world to creep in. Let God's word and the Holy Spirit provide the help we need to make sure our lives reflect the disciplined life of those who are followers of Jesus Christ.

l. CONTROL YOUR TONGUE: James 3:1 -12

We are enjoined to respect the tongue’s power and be mindful of the speech we make. James admonished believers about the responsibility that goes with being a master (KJV teacher, NlV) a person who uses his or her tongue to instruct others (James 3:1). Apparently some believers wanted to become teachers with authority and prestige. But with leadership also comes responsibility and accountability.

While all believers will be judged, God does require more from those who have a place of authority within the church. Having professed an understanding of God’s word, teachers are required to obey it. Also, teachers who teach God's word and later fall away bring harm to the body of Christ. ' " " .

Teachers are not the only ones who need to watch their lives. One way believers can sin is with their speech. The believer who controls his tongue; is “perfect” that is, spiritually mature and has control over other areas of life.

Conflicts often start with a minor disagreement. If this disagreement is not resolved in Christian love, heated words may erupt. As people take sides the division becomes worse,

sometimes people gossip to others and try to draw others into the conflict.

The Psalmist prayed, “Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight O Lord ” (Psalm 19:14). Jesus said that out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. The only way we can control our speech is to make sure our hearts are right with God. Even when people say things against us, we can respond with a soft answer (Proverbs 15:1) only by allowing the peace of God to rule our lives (Col. 3:15), will this kind of cation take place.

READ ALSO:

WISDOM OF HUMILITY

2. CONTROL YOUR ATTITUDE: James 3:13-18

Christian are called to avoid worldly wisdom and use godly wisdom. According to James, those who are wise exhibit their wisdom through their good conversation"(3:13) . The word “conversation" describes the total lifestyle of a person, not just his words. All that this wise person does because he has a good "conversation” way of life is to be done with “meekness” (KJV; “humility" NlV). Meekness includes the idea of gentleness. The term was used of horse to submits itself to the bit. it indicates strength under control. Those who are truly wise exercise self control over their total lifestyle through the spirit’s power.

The characteristics described in verses 13 16 come when we allow selfish motives and bitterness to control us. We must allow the Holy Spirit to examine us and cause His fruit to grow in us (Gal. 5:22.23).

In contrast to wisdom that is earthly, sensual, and devilish, James described a “wisdom that is from above" (James 3:17). In verse 18, James summed up the results of godly wisdom. Righteousness cannot be produced from seeds of bitterness and selfish pleasure. Righteousness grows where, there is peace. Those who love peace will work to create a place where peace can reign.

3. CONTROL YOUR DESIRES: James4: 16

Don't live for pleasure but ask God for grace to live for Him. Conflict IS a part of life. Not all conflict is wrong, though, sometimes conflict can help people work together to solve problems (Acts6: 17.)

Sometimes differing opinions are the basis for conflict. At times, personality differences can ‘ cause conflict. At other times, people may want their own way and are not willing to yield to the wishes of others

According to James, more serious conflicts “fights and quarrels (N IV) comes from sensual lusts or desires for pleasure (James 4:1-3). When wrong desires becomes the ruling force in our lives, it brings an inner conflict with our consciences. This warring within often makes people miserable and can cause them to strike out at others.

It is evident believers do not get what they want when they ask “amiss” (verse 3). They ask for themselves with wrong motives. They try to use God as the means to gratify their desires. God has promised to meet needs, but He will not provide so as person can squander His supply on selfish desires.

Some people will not admit that their selfish desires and seeking after pleasure can affect their relationship with God. But James stated that those who follow this lifestyle are guilty of spiritual adultery (James 4:4). Just as adultery can destroy one’s relationship with one's spouse, friendship with the world can destroy one’s relationship with Christ.

CONCLUSION

Having self-control is more than personal effort. As believers self-control begins when we allow the Holy Spirit to control our lives. The Holy Spirit will use God's word to discipline us and teach us the right way.

QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION

1. Why do teachers have a greater responsibility?

2. In what ways can our speech destroy others?

3. How can believers ensure their speech builds up others?

4. How can believers avoid being influenced by worldly wisdom?

5. How can we tell if wisdom is from above?

6. Why does God sometimes not answer prayers?

7. Why is it dangerous for believers to follow after worldly pleasures?

WISDOM OF HUMILITY

2018-06-07T02:35:00.002-07:00

MEMORY VERSE: "Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord , and He shall lift you up" [James 4:10]

CENTRAL TRUTH: God blesses those who humble themselves before Him.

INTRODUCTION

Humility is not a popular personality trait in today’s society. Many people equate humility with weakness. They believe that if someone wants to get ahead in this world, he or she needs to take charge and be a strong leader, no matter what it takes or who it hurts.

Scripture, though, teaches differently. One can be a strong and successful leader and still be humble. Humility, then, is not weakness, but an honest realization of who one is and where one ’s strength comes from.

"Humility" is a character trait that is to be manifested in Our relationship with God, in the way Witness and in the way we think about the treat others. Perhaps pride has replaced humility in some areas of our lives. As we look in this lesson, let us ask the Holy Spirit to examine our lives. He can help us have the true humility that comes from knowing Christ and submitting to God’s will.

Let us learn to draw near to God for He is the lawgiver. God’ s grace is given to those who humble themselves before God (James 4: 6). Since God’s help is available to those who humble themselves, believers can live Victoriously over sin.

As believers, we are to submit to God. Submission involves obedience and surrendering our will. it is allowing God to be the Lord of our lives no matter what happens.

We cannot avoid temptation, but we do not need to yield to it. We are to resist the devil and any temptation he uses to ensnare us. Drawing nigh to God includes leaving the worldly lifestyle and its sin behind. Our actions and motives are to be conformed to God’ s word instead of the attitudes and motives of the world.

“Cleanse your hands“ and“ ‘purify your hearts" are commands that are reminders of the cleansing of the priest necessary for them to serve in the tabernacle (Exo. 30:19-21). For the believers though, this cleansing refers to spiritual cleanliness in serving the Lord. Believers must be clean in actions (hands) and in motives (hearts) as they serve the Lord.

James condemned speaking evil of fellow believers because to do so is to judge a fellow believer. But more than this, the person who speaks evil is also speaking evil of and judging the law.

James was probably referring to Leviticus 19:18. "Love your neighbour as yourself”. The person who criticizes another believer is violating this law. Not only that, but by his actions, he is stating that this law is unnecessary. He is judging the validity of this law and is ignoring its command.

1. DEFEND ON GOD’S WILL: James 4:13-1 7

Considering life's uncertainty helps us to yield to God's will. People who are successful sometimes believe nothing bad will happen to them They plan their futures as if they have total control over tomorrow, next week and next year. But Scripture does not guarantee any person tomorrow, let alone other year. James 4:13 warns those who believe they controlled their own destiny. Making plans for the future is not wrong if done with a reliance on God. God is a God of planning and order. As we seek Him, He can guide our planning. Planning for the future can help us fulfill God's will for our lives.

While there is nothing wrong with having personal, family, or church goals, making plans without considering God shows a lack of respect for God’s plans for our lives.

Think for a moment about the simple act of eating. Where does the food come from? How is it prepared? God expects people to plant, harvest, and prepare food so they can eat it. Yet it is God who provides seed, makes it grow, and gives strength to people to do the work. Dependence on God is often just acknowledging and thanking Him as the source of all things as we work with the things He has provided so needs can be met.

REED ALSO:
FAITHFULNESS TO THE TRUTH

2. REJECT SELF-INDULGENCE AND OPPRESSION: James 5:1 -3

Bible warns against self indulgence and abusing others. The focus of James 4:13-17 seems to be businessmen in the church, but those mentioned in 5:1-6 appear to be nonbelievers since James does not address them as brothers. ' James warns them of the judgement that is going to come on them (verse 1).

James stated that God will judge these men for hoarding their wealth (verses 2-6). What they had stored for money for their own pleasure and use had rotted. They has stored their money for such a long time that it had become tarnished. These things testified of their greed, selfishness, and lack of concern for others. The Bible does not condemn wealth. What is important is how we use what God has given us. Possessions are not to be used only for our own enjoyment. We also need to consider how they can be used to further God’s kingdom. Those who have no thought of using their possessions to spread the gospel and to help others are not being the stewards God intended them to be. God will judge those who misuse what He has entrusted them with. They face God’s judgement, where their money will not help them. God expects people to use their resources to care for their families. He also expects people to be generous to those who are in need. It is when a person uses all his resources for self indulgence that he falls under God' 3 condemnation such a person has come to trust in his wealth, not in God. Believers represent Christ at all times including their relationships at work. When believers are dishonest in business dealings with others, they tarnish their testimony and hurt the cause of Christ.

CONCLUSION

It is not always easy to be humble. Our jobs may demand that we be aggressive if we are going to succeed. We may feel we need to look out for ourselves or we will be passed by for promotions or other forms of compensation. But God’s blessings i. ill be on our lives when we obey His word and allow humility to characterize our lives.

QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION

1. Why IS speaking evil against other believers wrong?

2 Should Christians make plans for the future? If so, how?

3. What IS the balance between dependence on God and doing things ourselves?

4. Should James 5:l -3 be understood to mean it is wrong to save money for retirement or to provide?

HIS BLOOD THE NUMBER ONE LIFE SAVER 2

2018-04-12T17:57:00.003-07:00

TEXT: Heb 9:22, John 1:29, Matt 26:28, Exo 12:23

AIMS: At the end of the lesson, students should be able to;

Identifies that Jesus blood was shed to them
Examine their lives if they are saved
Appreciate Jesus for such wonderful grace

Jesus Christ shed his blood for you. The blood he shed is powerful. It is related to sacrifice, substitution, salvation, sanctification, security and sovereignty. In most hospital there is a signs that says “giving blood saves lives” Jesus blood is more than the blood given in the Hospital by donors; it is powerful, it cannot be donated to anyone like that. If you have not yet confessed your sins to the one and only holy God and asked for forgiveness on the basis of Jesus’ bloodshed on the cross for you; may i urge you to do so today! Christ alone has the power to use his blood to save you; his blood is more powerful than the blood that runs in our veins.

THE WAGES OF SIN IS DEATH BUT THE GIFT OF GOD IS ETERNAL LIFE - ROM 6:23

The blood that is sustaining human lives contains oxygen. Oxygen is an air that carries life that will terminate one day. Our mortal body had to face death because of sin. The blood of Jesus Christ purifies all sin and declares eternal life for all who are washed by his blood 1John 1:7
The life of every creature is in the blood. When man sin; he uses man of animal blood to plead or make atonement for sin Lev 17:11, but when we are given a new life spiritually by the power of Christ’s shed blood; we become part of his body, and he continues His cleansing and sustaining work for us. And with this we have hopes of eternity with him.
Blood is central to two most important days in the Jewish calendar; a. The Passover which corresponds to Easter and b. The Day of Atonement. In the Passover blood is seen as life saving Exo 12:23. The Day of Atonement literally means “a day of covering” Lev 16

ALSO READ

HIS BLOOD THE NUMBER ONE LIFE SAVER

The blood of Jesus do not cover rather it “takes away the sin of the world” John 1:29. It is very exciting to know that there is new life for us in the blood of Jesus Christ Heb 9:22. The life is eternal when Jesus Christ said “this is my blood... poured out for... the forgiveness of sin” Matt 26:28.

Have you discovered the power of Jesus’ blood in your life? Have you allow his blood to save you? I hope so!!!

CHRISTIAN SERVICE (THE FIRE PROOF SERVICE)

2018-04-09T17:42:00.004-07:00

TEXT: 1 Cor 3:13-15, Matt 9:9

AIMS: At the end of the lesson, students should be able to;

· Explain the word ‘service’

· Realize that they were called to serve

· Mark the necessary facts concerning service

Every child of God is a servant. He was called by God to serve. ‘Service’ is defined as an act of help or skill that a person is able to offer. The Hebrew Equivalent of the word service is “ABODDE” which means work of any kind, act, bondage, bond-servant, labor, ministering, ministry, servile, servitude, tillage, use, work, wrought etc. these root words are interrelated, it implies to “help rendered”. By application, Christian’s service is a part of religious activities. Every child of God must find something to do in the house of God to enlarge His kingdom. There is no room for idleness in God’s kingdom.

Christ disciples were trained such a way that they could labor for God’s work. Jesus often tells them; “the fields are white” meaning much work to be done but few hands and short period of time for the work. They walk with Christ with the impression that they need to serve. Often time, he will send them out to preach or minister to people to expose them. Peter, Mathew and other disciples left their businesses and followed him. He trained them on how to labor to bring God’s kingdom down on earth. After his death, Jesus asked them to remain in the upper room until he sent the comforter. This was to prepare them with Holy Spirit that will assist them in their service which they did not know until a church was set in Jerusalem, they had enough work to do in the Christian community such as; preaching, feeding, settle disputes, caring for the poor and the widows etc. Act 3.

WHY SERVICE IS NEEDED

READ THE PASSAGES AND DISCUSS THE NECESSITY OF SERVICE IN GOD’S VINE YARD.

MATT 16:17, 1COR 12, MATT 7:21, 15-23

God created man with the mind to ‘reason’, ‘create’, ‘administer’ and organize things. Christian as a divine institute built by Christ set on Peter to oversee, need human’s hands to attend to all physical and spiritual matters. We can support to build the church on earth and to make it conducive for a worship center. Every believer therefore is a member of Christ’s body and as such has a definite ministry or service to render. The purpose is for edification, exhortation and the comfort of his children. He saved them so that they in turn will serve him. By serving him, they will know more about him. God detest false-help from false teacher. He need correct men and women to train in his vine yard.

THE USE OF LITERATURE IN EVANGELISM

2018-04-06T11:22:00.002-07:00

TEXT: Psalm 68:1 1; Isa. 52:7; Rom. 10:15

Believers are mandated to publish the gospel among nations. The task of carrying out the great commission and futfilling it is very great Therefore the purpose of this study is to wake us up to the importance of using tracts, letters and books in evangelizing our community and beyond.

Literature in evangelism has been in use right from the Old Testament period. God used Moses to write the Law, statutes and ordinances for the peeple of Israel (Exo. 24:12; 31:1:1 8; 32:1 5,16). Mordecai and Esther commanded letters to be written in the king's seal to the Jews to reverse the death sentence determined by Haman (Esther 8:8,9). Jeremiah wrote a letter to the Jews in Babylon to instruct, encourage and warn them (Jer. 27:1-4; 36:1-3, 23,28). The Holy Spirit inspired saints and Apostles like Paul, Peter, James, John and exhibited the use of literature in evangelism in their epistles to towns and cities to help the saints to keep to what they had learnt. Therefore, there is power in literature evangelism, when it is properly used and the principles are prayerfully followed.

READ ALSO:

The Place of Prayer in Evangelism
REACHING OUT TO THE “SHUT-INS”
PREPARATION FOR STREET PREACHING AND VILLAGE CRUSADE

1. THE POWER OF LITERATURE IN EVANGELISM:

Exo. 17:14;Deut. 11:20; Hab. 2:2; 2 Cor. 9:1; Col 4:16; Jn. 19:19-22.

We can not over-emphasize the power of the written word of God. God gave the order to write down His word. The benefits for this are not far-fetched: All written documents can be re-read at anytime and anywhere. Written words catch and attract people's attention. Whatever is written and read again produces effects (Acts 8:30). Written message is constant. There is readiness in its use. The reader can benefit therein easily. it has ability to penetrate into unnoticed corners. The written word is timeless and it outgrows even the writer. it is also timely. There are facts to show the power of the written word:

(i). Literature ensures enduring word.

(ii). lt affords the opportunity of a better understanding of what is being conveyed.

(iii). It ensures a great awareness in the community of its message. (iv). It transcend man-made barriers.

(v). It affects outreach to difficult areas and seemingly closed doors.

(vi). It enables one to make rich help available to people without being available.

(vii). It helps in projecting the church and her distinctives.

(viii). It gives effective control on the minds of men.

(ix). It helps in mass penetration into any community.

(x). It helps to stabilize the vision of the Church.

2. THE PROPER USE OF LITERATURE IN EVANGELlSM: Lk. 14:28-32. For literature to be effective in evangelism it must be used in the following ways:

(i). Prayerfully - Eph. 2: 1-3. The heart of the people must be committed to God in prayer, so that Satan might be dethroned

(ii). Purposefully -The purpose must be firm. The goal must be known. Be sure of why you are using it and to whom you give it.

(iii). Progressively - You must move from stage to stage. For example, from giving two tracts a day to five etc Do not just throw them away, follow up the goals.

(iv). Pertinently - Ilt must be relevant to the people we are giving it.

(vii). Persistently - It must be given relentlessly and constantly. What is worth doing at all is worth doing well.

A MUST READ

WINNING NOMINAL CHRISTIANS FOR CHRIST
CONSERVING THE FRUITS OF EVANGELISM

3. THE PRINCIPLES OF LITERATURE EVANGELlSM:

LK 19:2-9; Gal. 2:2; Acts 8:30-35; Col. 4:16; 1 Thess. 5:27.

Jesus reached Zacchaeus specially. Paul went to those of repute. He wrote letters to many towns and cities, let us draw out some principles from these outreaches. Save Children of God could evangelize by:

(i). Giving tracts, Christian books, gospel magazines. Tracts aim at -Testifying to those who are unsaved. Reaching the unchurched multitudes. Admonishing those who are perplexed. Convicting and converting nominal Christians and deceived religionists, strengthening the weak. Tracts given to a friend or a complete strange can be a good introduction to spiritual conversation. Tracts can a vital way of spreading the gospel. They are silent missionaries which lead sinners to Christ, heal the sick and strengthen the believers. Tracts can also be an effective means of following up the new converts.

(ii). Letter writting: Lk. 1: 1-4; 1 Thess. 5: 27.

(iii). Witnessing through pictures. Illustrating the gospel to the illiterate children and Adults.

CONCLUSION
Remember, ensure your life is right with God before you render services to God (2 Tim. 2:6; 1 Cor. 9:21 ). Whatever we do after that, we shall receive a reward from the Lord. (1 Cor. 15:58; Rev. 22:12).

PREPARATION FOR STREET PREACHING AND VILLAGE CRUSADE.

2018-04-04T16:34:00.001-07:00

TEXT: Mark 16: 15-20; Lk. 14:28-32; Prov. 24:27.

The great commission of Christ covers every person, people and place. Since the fall of man, God has been providing ways of restoring the fallen man to Himself. The only perfect way came eventually i.e Christ “the lamb of God, which takes away the sin of the world." (John 1:29). The gospel of Christ is the POWER of God unto salvation to EVERYONE THAT BELIEVETH (Rom. 1:16-17). Therefore the whole gospel must be preached to the whole world. To reach the world with the gospel requires planning. Planning in the means and the method to adopt.

The men God can use to carry out this great task. Bringing men to Christ is a great task: “or else how can one enter into a strong man’s house, and spoil his goods, except he first bind the strong man? And then he will spoil his house” (Matt. 12:29). This therefore calls for a crusade a campaign against something believed to be bad (sin) and the preaching of the gospel for the salvation from sin. It is therefore necessary to x-ray the evils of sinners when a street or village crusade is being held. Solutions through Jesus Christ’s redemptive work on the cross must be offered for their sins.

1. PENETRATION INTO THE STREETS AND VILLAGES:

Lk. 22:9;Acts 17:16-25; Lk. 14:28.

To bring the gospel into the streets or villages calls for a serious preparation and planning. The world will always give way to those who know where they are going. Therefore, there is always a period of proper planning before any successful programme (2 Kings 3:11 -18; 4:1-6; lsa. 40:3). Planning and preparations remove any omissions. It blocks the ways of the enemies and prevents them from destroying the success of the outreach.

Areas of Planning and Preparation

i. Proper feasibility survey:

Zech. 2:1-5; Titus 1:12,13; Acts 17: 16-23; 21:27-36; 22:2; 23:6-7; Neh. 1:1-4.

How large is the place? What is their present moral, physical or spiritual state? What do they believe? What is their historical background? What language(s) do they speak? What denomination(s) exist in the place and how many in number? Is there any gospel church? etc these will help in planning, preparation and penetration of the place.

ii. Prayer for success:

Neh. 1:4-11; 2 Chron. 26:11-15; Hos. 10:12; lsa. 62:6,7; Ezek. 36:37-38; 1 Tim. 2:1-4; Matt. 18:18-19.

The feasibility reports received by Nehemiah led him to pray for the people. There must be heartfelt, prevailing, earnest, faithful and consistent prayers before, during, and after the crusade among the leaders and the laity. Praying personally and collectively for a total breakthrough, mass conversion of souls, great restoration, spiritual experience, the minister and equipments etc (Eph. 6: 18-20).

iii. Publicity

The use of town criers, personal contact, early morning cry; awareness in their market and use of fine-coloured publicity garments by the brethren are some things that can help to publicize our crusade. Everybody should show excitement during publicity to attract the watching world Lk. 8:35-40; Ps. 66:16; 89: 1; Ezra 8:36; Acts 8:6. it should be noted however that street outreach/mini crusades may not require a wide publicity but tacks to get the attention of men and is less expensive. It can be done by day or night. Bus, boat or generally carriage evangelism is also useful.

READ ALSO:

The Place of Prayer in Evangelism
REACHING OUT TO THE “SHUT-INS”
WINNING NOMINAL CHRISTIANS FOR CHRIST
CONSERVING THE FRUITS OF EVANGELISM

2. PROCLAMATION OF CHRIST’S GOSPEL:

Acts 8:1,4-8; 9:20; 1 Thess. 4:3-4; 2 Tim. 2:21; Isa. 10:27;Acts 22:1-22; Titus 1:11,12.

The church has almost completely given up open air ministrations to occultists. The occultists feel free to hold their seminars publicly without shame or fear. The time has come for us to rise up and speak boldly for Christ. Preach God’s saving grace, the power of holiness, the possibility of total freedom from sin, His power to heal. Preach Christ not yourself or your Church. All illustrations must be aimed at exalting Christ. This must be done with the power of the Holy Ghost.

3. PRESERVATION OF CRUSADE FRUITS:

Isa. 46: 10; Acts 15:36-41; 18:23; Rom. 1: 11-12.

There must be proper planning and preparation to preserve the fruits of the crusades. This must be done before the crusade or street preaching begins. Such planning include church planting, how to convey souls to church, discipline and teaching the converts in order to establish them in the faith. The hope of the whole world is in the gospel of Christ the power of God unto salvation. Why do the proclaimers feel unconcerned, unmoved, by the sight of thy dying, rotting world? The divine cry is still going on today, “who will go for us?” If we do our own part, God will do His and at last the Soul winner’s crown shall be given to us. Amen!

CONSERVING THE FRUITS OF EVANGELISM

2018-04-02T22:36:00.000-07:00

CONSERVING THE FRUITS OF EVANGELISM

TEXT: Matt. 28:18-20; Mk. 16:15-20; Acts 2:41-47.

INTRODUCTION

There are two parts of the great commission which was given to the church by Our Lord Jesus Christ. The first one is to preach the gospel to every creature and make disciples of the nations, while the second is teaching the disciples that have been made all that Christ has commanded us. This we generally refer to as follow up. Without giving proper attention to this second part of the Great commission all our labour in evangelization may not produce much fruit. Consequently, there will not be much growth in the Church. Therefore, for the Church to grow as God desires, there must be proper conservation of the fruits of evangelism.

1. MEANING OF FOLLOW-UP.

Follow-up has been defined as the conservation, maturation and multiplication of the fruits of evangelism. Winning and building are inseparably linked together in Scriptures. The new convert requires parental guidance and special feeding on the “the milk of the word" (1 Pet. 2:2). Follow-up is the initial work of helping the new convert to develop in his new found faith. It is discipling the new convert. A new born baby needs someone to assist him and bring him up until he is able to take care of himself. So also, a new convert needs the soul-winner to be by his side, clear his initial doubts, answer his questions, assure him from the Scriptures and prayerfully assist him in every way possible until he is able to stand on his own.

READ ALSO:

The Place of Prayer in Evangelism
REACHING OUT TO THE “SHUT-INS”
WINNING NOMINAL CHRISTIANS FOR CHRIST

2. THE PURPOSE OF FOLLOW-UP.

The goal of follow-up is to get the convert established in Christ, integrate into the local church and to be actively involved in doing all that he has been taught.

The Soul-winner, counselor or the one following up the church should teach the new believer one: (1 ). The assurance of salvation (Num. 23:19; Ps. 119:89; 1 Jn. 1 :9; Prov. 28:13; Eph. 2:8,9; Jn. 1:12). Faith in the unchanging word of God, the witness of the Holy Spirit and the fruit of his new life are the basis for such assurance. (2). The daily habit of personal quite time (Mk. 1:35; 6:46; John 15:15; Ps. 55:17). The new believer must be taught how to pray, read, study and meditate on the word of God. (3). Living a victorious Christian life daily (Matt. 28:18-20; John 8:11; Lk. 9:23-26; Matt. 10:37-39; 18:15-35). (4). The importance of fellowship with other believers of like precious faith (2 Pet. 1:1; Heb. 10:24,25; Acts 2:41-47). (5). The personal responsibility and obedience to the great commission (Matt. 28:20; 2 Tim. 2:2; Matt. 9:37.38; Mark. 5:14.20.)

3. THE METHODS OF FOLLOWUP: Acts 15. 36, 41; 18:23; 14:21-23; Phil. 2: 19, 20.

From the above passages we see converts being followed up in various ways and by various methods A new believer could be followed up by: (1). Personal contact (Acts 20:32; 15:36, 41; 18: 23). This is obviously the most effective method of follow-up Personal contact and teaching of the word of God could do more good to the young convert than all Christian literature without personal teaching from the soul-winner himself. The soul-winner will have to organize his time so that he can be with the convert regularly to teach, to share and to pray with. The soul-winner will need Bible Study outlines that are specially prepared for young converts and aimed at bringing them up in love, faith and purity of life. The soul-winner has to bring his convert with him to the place of worship where they will both have good and scriptural food. (2). Personal Prayer (E'ph. 1:16,17; 3:14-19). Prayer is an important part of follow-up. The soul-winner must pray for the convert he is following up. Paul prayed for the churches even when he had not seen some of them. We should have a list of converts and their needs. We should pray for them on definite things and thank God as He gives answers to our prayers. (3). Personal Representatives (Acts 14:21-23; Phil. 2:19,20). There are times when personal representatives may be sent to do the following-up world, (4). Personal correspondence. The epistles of Paul the apostle are follow-up letters. This is follow-up by correspondence. (5). Personal telephone calls.

Follow-up takes time. it is a process, not just an act. We must devote quality time to be able to bring up our converts. There is great danger and judgment if we neglect this task (1 Kings 20:39-40; Ezek. 34:1-10). At the same time, there is great reward if we are faithful in doing the word (Ps. 126:5-6; 1 Cor. 15:58). We should arise and follow-up in (a personal and definite way) every convert of our outreaches. Our rewards are great in heaven.

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4. PlTFALLS TO BE AVOIDED BY THE FOLLOW-UP EVANGELIST.

a. To avoid embarrassments, knock and wait for consent before you enter the house or room of your convert. Avoid unnecessary familiarity

b. Do not shut yourself in with the opposite sex for any reason.

c. Let the Bible be your guide. Talk about Jesus and leave the non-essentials.

d. Teach and read the Bible and encourage the convert to read with you if the person is learned.

e. Do not sit or lie down on the bed of the opposite sex during follow-up.

f. The follow-up evangelist must use their own language if the convert speaks same language.

g. Avoid big and unnecessary grammar. it sometimes causes amusements.

h. Mind the terms you use during personal, correspondence or phone contacts. Avoid using words that are capable of inducing lust or causing misunderstanding especially to the opposite sex. ,

i. Do not often make reference to your past lifestyle, testify of your new life.

j. Dress in modest apparel. Let your nakedness be fully covered. Do not allow the convert sit half naked before you (especially the opposite sex). Do not look like a tout, or prostitute.

k. Do not have bad breath. Be clean in dress, mouth, nose etc., it matters.

l. The evangelist is not permitted to organize all-night prayers alone for the opposite sex to teach him/her to pray.

m. if the evangelist discovers a need in the convert that is single (opposite sex), he/she could pass through mature leaders to solve that problem. .

n. Do not follow-up your converts at night (especrally the opposite sex).

o. Do not talk too much, avoid unnecessary arguments, do not allow your convert to push you into gossip.

p. Do not begin to share your personal problems with the convert or give him your prayer request or ask for loan.

q. Do not take “special or prophets‘ offering" from your convert.

r Report matters you cannot handle to yourArea Leader or Pastor.

CONCLUSION:

We live in the face of a watching world. Our conduct can win people around us or ruin them. in an adulterous generation, such as ours, we must be careful in the way we relate with the opposite sex. Two kingdoms are struggling strongly for that one heart or soul. We should pray that nothing is done in a way even the new convert is discouraged. lf ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.

WITNESSING TO A LOST SOCIETY

2018-04-02T22:00:00.001-07:00

TOPIC: WITNESSING TO A LOST SOCIETY

TEXT: Acts 17:16-33

MEMORY VERSE: Now while Paul waited for them at Athens, his spirit was stirred in him, when he saw the city wholly given to idolatry - Acts 1 7.16.

CENTRAL TRUTH: Christians have the God ordained responsibility to declare the truth of the Gospel to an ungodly society.

The truth of the Gospel is the message of life to the lost and hope to the hopeless from the living God. We are living in a society given to idolatry and other abominations and therefore needs the power of God to bring it back to life. it is only the potent power of God that can quicken men's dead consciousness. “Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord", we need to persuade men by proclaiming the true God, teaching them repentance from dead works and faith in the living God.

READ ALSO:

The Place of Prayer in Evangelism
REACHING OUT TO THE “SHUT-INS”
WINNING NOMINAL CHRISTIANS FOR CHRIST

1. DEALING WITH THE LOST SOCIETY -Acts 17:16-21.

The Athenians and their strangers spent their time in hearing and telling new stories. Listening to fables and philosophies of men. Their philosophers neither believed in God nor in the resurrection. The entire society was given to superstition and idolatry. Conditions like these leave any society in rebellion and disobedience to God and the god of this world blinding the hearts of men with empty philosophies, worldly pursuits, sensual pleasure and vain religion.

The society in its lost state is blind to the truth, deaf to the voice of godly reasoning and need be reached with the message of redemption that is in Christ. It therefore behooves the Church to be stirred up in the spirit and then proclaim the true God to a dying society.

2. PROCLAIMING THE TRUE GOD -Acts 17:22-29.

Paul beheld the devotions of the Athenians as they gave themselves to worship everything conceivable under the sun. He was moved to proclaim to them the true and living God, who made Heaven and Earth and need be worshiped in spirit and in truth. Religion has no power to save the lost society but Christ does.

Today in our society we have people who believe that salvation is in religious observances. They have a form of godliness but deny the power thereof. They must hear the good news of God’s love manifested in Jesus Christ. Christ did not only bring spiritual blessings (redemption and eternal life) but also opened the door of temporal blessings which were lost because of sin (Luke 1 :68-75). Jesus is Ged’s love gift who came as a blessing to the willing and obedient.

3. PREACHING REPENTANCE-Acts17:30-33.

Repentance serves as the foundation for the Christian faith ( Heb. 6:1,2), and it is God's commandment to men of every age and every generation. Without repentance, there can be no forgiveness of sins. without remission of sins, there is no salvation and without salvation there is no relationship with God.

No doubt, some will doubt the salvation message. others will mock but still others will believe and cleave to us. We should not be weary in well doing. We need not delay for life is short and the judgement is coming, but we should present the news loud and clear (Isa. 58:1; luke 24:47).

MUST READ:

EFFECTIVE PERSONAL EVANGELISM

DISCUSSION
1 . What stirred Paul's heart while he was waiting at Athens?
2. What attracted the attention of the Epicureans and Stoic Philosophers
3. Why did the Athenians erect an altar with the inscription “TO THE UNKNOWN GOD”?
4. How did the people respond to Paul’s message?

THE PLACE OF PRAYER IN EVANGELISM

2018-04-02T02:44:00.001-07:00

TOPIC: THE PLACE OF PRAYER IN EVANGELISM

TEXT: Matt. 28: 79,20; Mk. 16: 15; Act. 1:8; 6:8; 2 Cor. 4:3-5; Isa. 66:8

Evangelism is bringing the good news of Jesus Christ as Saviour to sinners with the intention of winning them to Christ or accepting Him as the Lord of their life. The commission to all believers to preach the gospel is universal and this can only be effectively carried out in the power of prayer. Prayer and evangelism are two inseparable arms of gospel commitments.

Praying for sinners without preaching will not suffice, also preaching in the absence of prayers makes our preaching of non effect and powerless (read Ps. 2:8; Rom. 10:14). Witnessing without prayers makes it uninteresting, brings arguments, discouragement and fruitlessness. For the message of salvation to be convicting, awakening, opening sinners eyes to Christ’s sufficiency, quicken faith in the hearer and draw him to sincere and meaningful decision, it takes earnest, effective, persevering and agonizing prayer.

1. EFFECTIVE EVANGELISM:

Jn. 4:5-26; Acat. 8:4-8, 35; 10:34-43; 2 :14-40.

Evangelism bathed with prayer is result-oriented. Whatever the form of evangelism we are involved in, it may be Jesus’ type of personal evangelism with the Samaritan woman, Peter's evangelistic preaching on the day of Pentecost to the multitudes or Philip’s outreach to the Samaritans, they will yield fruitful results if there is adequate prayers before the preaching.

READ ALSO:
EFFECTIVE PERSONAL EVANGELISM
WINNING NOMINAL CHRISTIAN FOR CHRIST

2. ESSENTlALS OF PRAYER
Gen. 18:20-33; Isa. 62:5-7; Ezek. 22:30; 2 Cor. 4:3-5; Isa. 66:8; Ps. 2:8; Ps. 126:5.

Result-oriented preaching is borne out of effectual fervent prayer. For an evangelist (Gospel preacher) to succeed in leading sinners to the Lord, he must recognize the following:

(a). That Satan keeps sinners in bondage to sin and has blinded their eyes to the gospel of our Lord, Jesus Christ. Before the sinner can be saved, the yoke of Satan in their lives must be broken through prayers (2 Cor. 4:3-5).

(b). The heart of sinners are deceitful and desperately wicked. It is only through prayers we can soften such hearts to enable them understand and receive the gospel (Jer. 17:9).

(c). Before a message can burn the heart of sinners and convict them of sin, it must be soaked in prayers (Lk. 24:32).

(d). For unction and anointing to flow through a preacher in order to preach the gospel effectively, it will cost ceaseless praying. Prayer and the word bring the Holy Ghost into action (Acts 10:38).

(e). For the free flow of the word from the source to the audience, prayer must have removed all likely hindrances, spiritual or otherwise that will adversely affect the reception of the word. Furthermore, it is essential to note that the centrality of effective and accomplishing message is prayer, therefore, witnessing must begin and end with and in prayer; thus:

(i). Saturating yourself with power through prayer before going for evangelism. (ii). Praying for the heart that is going to hear the word. (iii). Praying on the message before, during and after delivery (iv). Praying until the fruit is seen.

3. PRAYING FOR EVANGELISTIC OUTREACH:

Acts 4:24-31; 13:1-3; Lk. 6:12; Eph. 6:19, 20; Matt. 18:18,19.

Various prayers such as intercession, prayer of commands, prayer of binding and aggressive spiritual warfare coupled with fasting must be employed. Gospel preaching is spiritual warfare. Such a prayer should be all involving the pastors, Church workers and all members.

Prayer points should include both human agents and the electronic gadgets to be used during an evangelistic outreach. Planning, getting money and gadgets, and other forms of preparation are good and essential, but the place of prayer in evangelism cannot be substituted with any of these. As we PRAY and PLAN we shall see success in all our outreaches.

REACHING OUT TO THE “SHUT-INS”

2018-04-01T08:39:00.002-07:00

TOPIC: REACHING OUT TO THE “SHUT-INS”

TEXT: Isa. 42:6, 7; 61:1; PS. 79:11; 69:33; Matt. 28: 18-20.

Who are the “shut-ins"? Prisoners and those in the remand houses (homes). A prison is a government building where people who are convicted of any crime are locked up as a punishment for as long as the law and the judge prescribe, thereby causing limitation to their movements and rights. Let us remember that there are also remand centres for young people accused of crime.

Different Categories of people found there are:

(a). The righteous but implicated against the law e.g. Joseph - Gen. 39:20,21; 40:2-4.

(b). Those against the law of the land but obedient to God, eg. The Apostles -Acts 5: 17-20; 12:2-10; 16:19-26.

(c). Those who violated the law of the land on criminal grounds, e.g Barabbas Mark 15:6-14.

(d). Those who Violated the law of the land on civil grounds.

(e). Political prisoners who did not compromise with the government of the day on certain issues.

(f). Prophets and ministers whose messages offended the rulers of their days, e.g. John the Baptist, Jeremiah etc - Matt. 14:3-5; Jer. 32:2-5; 33: 1 -3; 37:21 ; 2 Chron. 18:1 -27; Philemon 1,9.

(g). The righteous out of persecution -Acts 26:10; 2 Cor. 11:23.

Jail terms differ as magnitude of offences differ. Even warders and other categories of staff of the prison need the gospel, they also need to be born again.

1. REASONS FOR REACHING OUT TO THE “SHUT-INS”.

(a). Mark of obedience to the Great Commission (Matt. 28: 18-20). (b). Horrible conditions exist because of limited facilities causing premature death and we should rescue them.

(c). Some are serving life jail, some are condemned, some are awaiting trial. They can receive Christ before they die.

(d). Prison is not hell but part of the world to be reached for Christ.

(e). The task of Soul-winning is urgent.

2. MEANS AND METHODS OF BRINGING SALVATION TO THE “SHUT-INS”.

(a). Witnessing to individual inmates General. 40: 1 -1 3.

(b). Using outlines, tracts, gospel books and tapes etc.

(C). Organizing Bible study classes.

(D). Holding special revival sessions -Acts 16:25-31. (e). Playing cassette messages.

(f). Channeling the gospel through Radio Programmes.

(9). Writing personal letters -Acts 1 :1-4

3. MEN WHO CAN REACH OUT TO THE “SHUT-INS".

(a). Men of prayers and importunate intercessory lifestyle Col. 4:12.

(b). Men of Compassion who are easily touched by the infirmities of others Gen. 40:5-8; Matt. 9:36.

(c). Men who are Spirit-filled Isa. 61 :1-3.

(d). Men who are full of the Scriptures and are able to divide the word of God appropriately -Acts 18:24-28. .

(e). Men who are patient, meek, gentle, longsuffering 2 Tim. 2:24-26.

(f). Men of wisdom and understanding who are harmless as doves Pro. 11:30; Matt. 10:16; Philemon 8 21.

4. CONSEQUENCES OF NEGLIGENCE IN THE MINISTRY Matt. 7:26; Ezek. 3:17, 18; 34:4.

If we neglect the “shut-Ins" they will perish. If the wicked perish without hearing the gospel. God will require their blood at our hands. How can they hear then if we fail to go to them? Rom. 10:13,14. The Lord is calling "who shall i send and who will go for us?" (Isa. 6:8). Will you answer the call of God today? Do not let Jesus regard you as a fool. Be wise Prov. 11:30.

WINNING NOMINAL CHRISTIANS FOR CHRIST

2018-04-01T04:16:00.001-07:00

TOPIC: WINNING NOMINAL CHRISTIANS FOR CHRIST

TEXT: Matthew 28:18-20.

The Commission which Jesus handed over to the disciples is the proclamation of the total gospel in all the world. In application, it has no geographical limitations or tribal restrictions. In its scope it covers all cultural identifications and religious affiliations. It is for all ages in all nations and for all creatures (Mk. 16:15). In many communities today, many profess godliness and yet are “children of disobedience” (Col. 3:6). For the people, the Lord has given us a mandate and a mission. Our mission is to win these seemingly religious professors. We must give the task the needed urgency it demands for the souls of men are at stake (1 Pet. 4:7a). Our neglect could lead to their damnation and spell their eternal doom.

1. RECOGNITION OF A NOMINAL CHRISTIAN: Ps. 78:35, 36; Ezek. 33:31, 32; Mk. 7:6-9; Titus 1:16; Lk. 6:46; James 1:23.

Nominality is a problem of the heart. By definition we can say that a nominal Christian is:

(a). One who calls himself a Christian or is so regarded by others, but who has no authentic commitment to Christ based on personal faith. He has no vital personal relationship with Jesus Christ as Saviour and Lord (Titus 1:16; 2 Cor. 4:4).

(b). One who attends church regularly but for cultural reasons only (Ezek. 33:31 ; 2 Tim. 3:5).

(c). One who attends church only for major festivals and ceremonies e.g. during Christmas and Easter periods and for weddings, baptisms, funerals etc (Mk. 7:6-9).

(d). One who hardly ever attends church but maintains a church relationship for reasons of security or tradition.

(6). One who has no relationship to any specific church and who never attends but yet considers himself a believer in God (Prov. 30: 12).

READ ALSO:
THE PLACE OF PRAYER IN EVANGELISM
REACHING OUT TO THE “SHUT-INS”

2. STRATEGIES FOR WINNING NOMINAL CHRISTIANS: Lk. 14:16-23.

A number of factors lead to nominalism. Growth of material prosperity, educational advantage and pride could be some causes. lnsensitivity to the spiritual needs of the members by pastors who are only interested in financial advantages derived from them could be a cause. With all these, there are a number of strategies which could be adopted in reaching them. They could be won through invitation to special church programmes e.g. Gospel concerts, weekend retreats, weekly or monthly seminars with a subject that touches on people’s lives like success, victory, etc (Acts 8:26-37); by the use of evangelism lunch or suppers by families; by organizing open air meetings/crusades (Matt. 5:1,2); through invitation to programmes organized at the Home Caring Fellowship level (1 Cor. 16:19; Jude 12); Organizing school/youth rallies for young people; by the use of audio-visual materials eg. Film shows; through organized hospital outreaches and by encouraging them to attend the annual Camp-meeting of the Church (Neh. 8:4-8). The Kindergarten should not be despised and business and professional groups should be included in our strategies. All these strategies should be prayerfully prepared and employed to enhance their success.

3. GOSPEL PRESENTATION TO THE NOMINAL CHRISTIANS: 1 Cor. 15:3-4; Acts 3:19; 4:12; 2 Cor. 5:14-15.

One goal is to be borne in mind and that is to win them. Hence in presenting the gospel truth to them, show them:

(a). The way God views sin Rom. 6:23; 1 Cor. 6:9,10; Gal. 5:19-21 .

(b). The insufficiency of human work lsa. 64:6; Titus 3:5.

(c). The love of God -John 3:16; Rom. 5:8; 2 Pet. 3:9.

(d). That redemption could only be received through Christ -1 Jn. 2:1 ,2; 2 Cor. 5: 18,21; Rom. 5:1.

(e). The need for repentance -Acts 3:19; Prov. 28:13; 1 Jn. 1:9.

(f). The necessity of believing Christ - Jn. 1:12; Rom. 10:13.

(g). The essence and urgency of personal decision - 2 Cor. 6:2.

Even though we are propelled by the love and desire to win them, the gospel standard must not be compromised. It must be preached as Christ ordained it (Luke 24:47).

4. THE PRICE FOR SUCCESS:

Eccl. 11:6; Rom. 1:14-16; 1 Cor. 9:16; Phil. 2:17; 2 Tim. 4:2.

Persistence, perseverance, commitment and consecration are virtues we need if we are to achieve any measure of success in winning them. Soul-winning was a consuming passion in the life of Christ during His earthly ministry (Jn. 4:34) and that of Paul (1 Cor. 9:16). We must pray for it.

LIFE IN CHRIST

2018-03-29T06:10:00.000-07:00

TOPIC: LIFE IN CHRIST
TEXT: Jn. 3:1-24,5:14.20.

MEMORY VERSE: He that keepeth His commandments dwelleth In Him, and He In him. (1 John 3. 24).

CENTRAL TRUTH: Living In Christ inspires pure conduct and loving service.

INTRODUCTION

Do Christians have reason to celebrate life in Christ? Absolutely! Life in Christ begins by being adopted into God's family. We experience God's love lavished on us. We are given a hope that inspires us to purity and a love for others. yet if we claim to be children of God. we must prove it by a godly lifestyle and deeds of kindness. It is these very things pure conduct in obedience to God's commandments and love for others that are evidences of our living a life in Christ. The benefits of life in Christ are wonderful. We have confidence that God hears and answers our prayers.

Our faith will stand firm as we trust in Christ's care and rest in the knowledge that we are God's. let us celebrate this wondrous life we have in Christ.

1. LIVING AS GOD'S CHILDREN 1 Jn. 3:1-3.

Believers are God‘s adopted children. In adoption. the lack of blood relationship makes the love of the parents more of a choice or act of the will. It is logical for a parent to love a child produced out of physical union, but to love someone else's child as one's own is an amazing act of generosity. This reflects the kind of love God shows to us. God's love is extraordinary. Despite this present obscurity, believers are looking forward to a day

when they will see God as He is (1 Jn. 3:2; 1 Cor. 13:12). John went on to teach that sin is lawlessness, which is rebellion against God's laws (v.4). Jesus came to

take away sin (V5) and whoever continues in sin does not know Jesus (v.6). without the new birth. a person's inner being remains inclined toward sin and he or she remains a child of the devil.

2. EVIDENCES OF LIFE IN CHRIST1 Jn. 3:11-24. in 1 John 3:11

John stated a basic Christian concept: “love one another’. He men described two very different examples people can follow in response to this command Cain's angry response to his brother piety. Abel lived a righteous life whereas Cain was evil (v.12). what John tried to point out is that the way a person loves others reveals the validity or invalidity of his faith (v14). Those who love are alive. Those who do not are dead. Hatred towards someone is as morally wrong as committing the act of murder (v.1 5; see Matt. 5:21.22).

John saw the unwillingness to help someone in need as a heart problem (v.17). God's love changes a man's hear from selfish living to show concern for others. It must be understood that the word brother can refer to a Christian on our similar faith and value. It can also be a generic reference to another human being (similar to the definition of a neighbor from the parable of the good Samaritan).

A believers ongoing acts of love and generosity result in a sense of belonging to God, a heart at rest, and a clear conscience (1 Jn. 3:19-20). Those who live for themselves and up disconnected from God with a heart in turmoil and a guilty conscience. .

3. BENEFITS OF LIFE IN CHRIST 1Jn. 5:14-17.

One of the benefits and characteristics of life in Christ is the ability to connect with God in prayer. 1 Jn. 5:1415 gives characteristics of prayers that connect with God praying according to God's will.

There is also the benefit of victorious faith in 1 Jn. 5:18-20. John challenged that Christians should make a radical about-face in their view of sin (v.18). Despite the hostility of a world under the control of the wicked one, the believer has spiritual protection through “he that is begotten of God" a reference to Jesus. Faithfulness to God brings the believer into a place of safety in God's protection just as Job had a hedge of protection (See Job 1:10). Our faith is assured because we know Jesus keeps us. There Is also the assurance that “we are of God” (1 Jn. 5:19). We recognize that the world is under the sway of the wicked one and wickedness. We were delivered from the power of darkness and translated into the kingdom of Christ as we entered into a right

relationship with God. The new mind-set and relationship sustains the believer in a hostile world with the

assurance that knowledge of the one True God is the source of eternal life. (v.20).

QUESTIONS.

1. What makes love for an adopted child unique?

2. From 1 Jn. 3:11-15 and Gen. 4:1-9. what are some key differences between Cain and Abel?

3. How did John show love is action-oriented in 1 Jn. 3:16-18?

4. What is the connection between the believers lifestyle and prayer!

5. What are some examples of prayer that are not in agreement with God's WI"?

6. How do you understand 1 Jn. 5:18?

LIVING IN GOD’S LOVE

2018-03-29T03:49:00.000-07:00

TOPIC: LIVING IN GOD’S LOVE
TEXT: Jn. 2.17-29; 4:7-21

MEMORY VERSE: Beloved, let us love one another: for love Is of God. 1 Jn 4:7

CENTRAL TRUTH: Love for God and others is the evidence of a genuine Christian life.

INTRODUCTION

The world is constantly changing, uncertain, and offers little stability. The return of Jesus Christ could come at any time. But while waiting, many people defect from Church, pulled away by desires that will pass away h eternity, yet seem so real in this world. The changes that take place are simply another way of looking at what John said was a world that passeth away (1 Jn. 2:17). in response, John saw doing God's will as a lasting alternative.

In this lesson. we will see the contrast between the way of evil and the way of love. We can either live for today or live for eternity the choice is ours. If we want to live for eternity we must live in God‘s love.

1. THE ANTITHESIS OF LOVE 1 John 2:17-19.

In the above few verses, John tries to give proof of the end times. The presence of antichrists in the world indicated to John that it was the last time. The phrases “last days" and “last time" suggest that the return of Christ is imminent. The reference to the Antichrist points to the scriptural expectation of a great enemy of God who will stand against Christ in the last days. But all who oppose Christ by following false teaching and defecting from the church can be considered antichrists. The Antichrist will surely come but the most immediate threat to local churches is antichrists who attend a local church and attempt to lead people astray through false teachings and immoral lifestyles. It must be understood that some who belong to the visible church are not part of the invisible church referring to those who have genuine faith. However, being part of the visible church is one of the defining characteristics of genuine Christians. But the visible church may also have those who are not genuinely saved. ‘

In 1 Jn. 2:20-29, John reminded his readers to abide in Christ. One of the problems in John's day was the existence of those who proposed alternate views of who Jesus was and who believed that special higher forms of knowledge were available to believers. John countered these teachings by pointing out that the “motion” (v.20 KJV) or “anointing" (NIV) Christians had received was sufficient to help them discern spiritual truth. Again the believer had already received the essential teachings of the faith (v21). As a result they did not need new revelations, instead, they needed to hold fast to the truth they already knew. While we should be open to God's work in our lives, sometimes we make ourselves vulnerable spiritually by running after new experiences and teachings. We are not to run from Church to Church and conference to conference chasing after the latest “Christian” fad. in contrast to such behaviours, John spoke of the need to remain faithful to the local church (v19). the spiritual anointing to distinguish truth from error (v20), and the truth of essential teachings about God (vs. 21-25). Many religions fail to meet the standard of John because of their views of Jesus Christ. Islam and Judaism acknowledge God but not Jesus as the son of God. Groups such as Mormons or Jehovah's Witnesses also devalue Jesus by viewing Him as less than God. When this occurs, John is very clear about their place they are “antichrists" (v.22).

2. THE GENESIS OF LOVE 1 Jn. 4:7-10; 1Jn. 2:17-29.

John distinguished believers from unbelievers on the basis of doctrine; while in 4:7-21 , the basis was love. When viewed together, these passages show two simple components of the Christian life: beliefs and behaviour. Right beliefs lead to right behaviour and vice versa. Love is a result of being born again (v7). God is the source of love in a believer's life. In 1 Jn. 4: 1113, John shows that God's love results in acts of kindness by His people to others. When we perform loving acts for others, the invisible God is made visible (v12). Perfect love is action oriented towards others. it is the spirit of God that compels practical demonstration of love (v13).

3. THE COMMAND TO LOVE 1 Jn. 4:14-21.

Loving gives confidence. We are reminded of the perfect unity in the Trinity in (vs. 13-16). The spirit assures us of the relationship we have with God the Father. Jesus is the one who saves us from sin and allows us to relate to the Father. The Father dwells in those who live in His love. it is clear that to truly live in the spirit is to live a life of love and concern that reaches out to others. By responding to the spirit, a committed life of love eliminates the awful dread of facing God without anything of eternal value to show Him. For those who love others, no fear of retribution from God need exist (vs. 18).

God initiated a love-relationship by reaching out to all people through His son (1 Jn.;4:19). in response, believers must be sure that their words and actions both say, “i love God". Those who merely say they love God but show hatred, whether it is by active behaviour or subtle neglect and apathy, are liars in John's view (v3.20).

Active hatred may take many forms: discrimination based on appearances, race, ethnicity, social or economic standing, or developing friendships only with people like us. Passive hatred may involve refusing to help someone in need. not speaking up for certain oppressed people in the community and ignoring injustice.

The acid test to confirm whether we really love God is how we love one another. If we cannot love those around us indeed and truth, then how can we possibly say we love God whom we have not seen? We cannot. It is a complete contradiction to do so (v3.20).

QUESTIONS.

1. According to 1 Jn. 2: 1 8. how do we know it is the last times?

2. Should believers be concerned about antichrists or the Antichrist? Explain. .

3, As believers, what effect can a continuing quest for new teachings have on our lives? l. How can the invisible, unseen God be seen“ by people today?

5. How can hatred of others be active or passive?

EFFECTIVE PERSONAL EVANGELISM

2018-03-29T03:36:00.002-07:00

TOPIC: EFFECTIVE PERSONAL EVANGELISM

TEXT: John 4:5-15, Lk. 19:1-5; Jn 3:1-7

A man who all his adult life time gave himself to witnessing to individuals said, “Even if I were utterly selfish and had no case for anything but my fade happiness. I would choose, If i might under God to be a soul winner”. Real happiness comes to the person who witnesses to another about the Lord and sees that one pass from dead to life (Ps. 126:5,6). It is a great priviledge to see the light of the gospel come into a life to replace darkness, to see a soul free from the bondage of satan and sin and come into the liberty that is in the Lord Jesus Christ (see Isa. 53:6).

There are various ways of helping men who have gone astray to come back to God. One of such ways is personal evangelism. The aspect we are considering in the topic is how we can effectively lead a sinner to the Lord.

1. REASONS FOR SOUL WINNING

a. All men without Christ are lost. No one will become a soul winner until he realizes this truth.

b. Not only are all men in their sinful state lost, but provision is made for all to be saved. Rom. 5:15-21; 1 Jn. 2:2; James 5:20

c. We evangelize to rescue men from God’s wrath and reconcile them to God (2 Cor 5:11).

2. ESSENTIALS OF SOUL WINNING:

(a). CONVERSION: A soul winner must have had can encounter with the Lord (2 Tim. 2:20, 21, Matt 12:35)

(b) CONVICTION: There must be a real conviction in the heart of the soul winner 1 Cor. 9:16, Romans 1:14

HOW CONVICTION COMES:

(i) Have a good knowledge of the Bible

(ii) Have a good knowledge of Christ that salvation comes only through the atoning blood of Jesus Christ

(iii) Know about the second coming of Christ and its implication on the lost.

(iv) Have a good knowledge of God’s salvation plan and its benefits to the saints.

(v) Have a good knowledge of life after death.

(vi) Have a good knowledge of the final state of sinners

(c) COMMISSION: Jesus has given the commission and we must obey it Jn. 5:10; Matt. 28:19-20

3. WHAT WE NEED TO KNOW IN LEADING SINNERS TO THE LORD

To effectively lead sinner to the Lord:

(i) We need to be effective in Prayer Acts. 4:31, 33, Mk. 1:35; Acts 6:6-7

(ii) We need to have something to say, know what to say and have the boldness with which to say it. Acts 13:46; 4:13. We need a heart of love and Christlike life to back it up.

(iii) We need to know how to tell the story simply, forcefully and clearly. Acts 2:14,15.

(iv) We need a good knowledge of God’s word, which is the seed we have to sow Eph 6:17; 1 Pet. 1:23

(v) We need to persuade not stop at proclamation Acts 26:28; 2:29-37; 2 Cor. 5:11

(vi) We need the Holy Spirit’s in filling to effectively lead a sinner to the Lord Act. 1:8; 2:14.

4. STEPS TO RECEIVING CHRIST:

(a) God’s love show the sinner the love of God - Jn. 3;16; 10:10.

(b) Man’s problem (Separation from God) - Rm 3:23; 6:23; Isa 59:1 ,2

(d) Man’s response (Receive Christ) - Jn.1:12; Rev 3:20; 22:7.

5. TECHNIQUES OF APPROACH IN EVANGELISM

Matt 4:18-20; Lk. 13:1-5; Heb. 9:27.

The approach used by anyone in personal evangelism is of great Importance if the soul winner will be effective. A wrong approach may tend to precipitate resentment and predispose the one so approached to a determined resistance. On the other hand, a good approach will completely disarm any biased and prejudiced mind. Many shy away from personal evangelism because of how to open up a discussion with the sinners could be approached through the following methods: ‘

(1) Daily occupation Matt. 4:18-20

(2) Current news Lk 13:1-5; 18:2-4; 1 Cor. 9:27

(3) Personal testimonies Acts 22:1-22; 26:9-29, Mk 1:40-45.

You are saved to be an effective soul winner for Jesus

FELLOWSHlP IN THE LIGHT

2018-03-24T14:48:00.003-07:00

TOPIC: FELLOWSHIP IN THE LIGHT
TEXT: I John 1:7 through 2:16.

MEMORY VERSE: If we walk In the light, as He Is In the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His son cleanseth us from all sin 1 Jn. 1:7.

CENTRAL TRUTH: As we walk in the light, Christ makes possible fellowship with God and other believers.

INTRODUCTION

Good elementary teachers help students to learn the basics of reading, writing. and arithmetic. Without learning the basics. in person lacks the foundation needed to achieve mastery of the details of a topic.

The Apostle John often referred to the recipients of his letters as ‘little children”. mostly a term of endearment but also at times. suggesting a lack of spiritual maturity. With false teachings threatening the church. John recapped the basics of the Christian faith by looking at who Jesus is, what light and darkness are. and how love for others results from faith. The basics would give believers what they needed to face the darkness that was invading the local church through false teachers and their immoral lifestyles.

1. THE WORD OF LIFE 1 Jn. 1.4-4

The word of God is the source of eternal life and the key to fellowship. John's letters focused on helping their readers know that their faith is based on truth. The word 'know' is found 27 times in 1 John (KJV).

Churches were facing faith-philosophy issues as pagan philosophies started to creep into the church. John addressed two types of false teachings in 1 John: Docetism which taught that Jesus only appeared to be human but was really more like a mirage; and Cerinthianism which taught that Jesus received the Divine Spirit at Baptism, but the Spirit left Him before the cross. Both were tied to the views that matter, such as human flesh was evil and spirit was good. These philosophies were part of the false teachings that would become known as Gnosticism. This is why John in (1 Jn. 1:14) went into the basics of the gospel and affirmed that Jesus is the eternal son of God. He made it clear that Jesus came as a man to this earth by using words such as “heard", "seen". “looked upon", and “handled" to convey that Jesus was real. not some apparition as some said. This false teaching questioned Christ's role as mediator between God and maple His physical death on the cross and the bodily resurrection from the death.

According to 1 Jn. 1:3, the outcome of salvation results in both kinds of relationships. Those who neglect fellowship with others miss the mutual edification. encouragement. and the correction that comes from that kind of sharing. Those who neglect fellowship with God set themselves up for the disappointments that result from the shortcomings of other human beings. Those who pursue both kinds of fellowship will achieve a higher level of spiritual maturity and joy in its fullness.

2. WALK IN THE LIGHT 1 Jn. 1:5 through 2:2

Here is a timely admonition, to live a godly lifestyle and to return to God if one has erred. Light symbolizes God and implies brightness, clarity, visibility, and the ability to see in details. Light implies that nothing is hidden. it implies moral righteousness. On the contrast, darkness implies the exact opposite of light. since God is light, those who fellowship with Him must walk in the light (1 Jn. 1:7). To walk in the light is to keep the truths of God's word focused on our daily living so we know quickly if we have stepped off the right road. The false teachers did not think sin was a problem; whereas according to them lack of knowledge of certain spiritual insight was. John called this kind of thinking self deception and encouraged the Christian view where one readily admits sin and confesses it to God to receive forgiveness (see Vs 8,9).

John further explained the ongoing role of forgiveness in the life of Christians in 1 Jn. 2:1 ,2. We must be ready to forgive others as God for Christ's sake forgave us.

3. WALK IN OBEDIENCE 1 Jn. 23-16.

The Christian is called to keep God's commandments and overcome evil. Those who know God “keep His commandments” (v5). Obedience to God provides the basis forthe fellowship believers experience. It also measures the reality of that fellowship. Anyone can testify to knowing God but failure to back up the claim with obedient living shows this person to be liar. Obeying God gives believers a “perfected" (v5) experience of the love of God. While disobedience does not negate God's love for us, it does create the callousness that lessens our ability to experience that love. A believers love for God finds it fullness in Obedient service to Him.

In Leviticus, God required the Israelites to be holy (11 :45) and to love their neighbors (19:18). These requirements for God's people had not changed. even in John's day. What was new were the dimensions that these commands took on through Jesus' life and death. Jesus demonstrated holiness by living a perfect life and exemplified perfect love by dying on the cross. A clear model now existed on which believers could pattern their own lives.

In verses 12-16 of 1 Jn. 2, John addressed three different groups in the church based on age and spiritual maturity, Believers are warned about the dangers of loving the world, a spiritual system that is in constant conflict With God's kingdom (vs. 1 5.1 6). We can not love both God and the world.

QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION.

1. Why did John need to remind believers that the gospel is based on the truth about Jesus?

2. Why would it matter if Jesus only appeared to be human but actually was not?

3. What is the result of having an unbalance approach to fellowship, either focusing on God or other people?

4. Which is more of a problem: people who deny they are sinful or people who feel too sinful to be accepted by God?

5. In 1 Jn. 2:7, John said the commandment was old. he also said it was new. What did he mean by that?

FAITH IN GOD’S SON

2018-03-24T14:26:00.001-07:00

TOPIC: FAITH IN GOD’S SON

TEXT: 1 John 4:1-6; 5:1-13

MEMORY VERSE: This is the record, that God hath given us eternal life, and this life is in His son, 1 Jn. 5:11.

CENTRAL TRUTH: Having faith in Christ results in eternal life.

INTRODUCTION

Having faith in Christ results in eternal life. Assurance of eternal life gives us a different perspective on life now. We see our earthly existence as only a fraction of time compared to the endless ages that await us. This perspective enables us to live an overcoming life, for possession of eternal life helps us develop a right set of priorities. Serving the Lord and others takes top priority for it is the only expression of our earthly life that will have eternal consequences.

That is the focus of our lesson today: how faith in Christ brings victory and eternal life.

1. CONFESSION OF FAITH 1 Jn. 4:1-6

Some people have a naive faith that sees everything as coming from God, good or bad. When times are good, this perspective works. When things go wrong, though, God becomes the object of anger. John's words help us see that good and evil forces are at work in the world. We must be alert to good and evil spirits and true and false teachings. Without discernment, false teachings and evil spirits can overwhelm believers. So we are to ask God for spiritual discernment, especially for the gift of discerning of spirits (see 1 Cor. 12:10). To accept the Bible doctrine of the Incarnation in v.3 means that we believe Jesus is both God and man. If He were merely man, then His death on the cross would be nothing more than martyrdom and could not have provided salvation. While this is not the only test of a teacher's reliability, it is the major one. The doctrine of incamation, is the great difference between Jesus Christ and all other religious leaders, martyrs and teachers. John proceeded to tell believers how to overcome the world in vs. 4-6. When we accept and hold to the Bible's teaching, we have a sure weapon against deception. The Bible provides clear guidelines for testing doctrines. The more we know the Bible therefore, the better we are equipped to combat evil.

2. OBJECT OF FAITH 1 Jn. 5:1-5

We are born again, by faith. Christians are distinguished both by their belief in Jesus Christ and their relationship with other believers. Christ's commands do not impose a burden on us that is too heavy to bear. It is possible for us to keep them not because they are easy but because we are given the strength and ability to meet their demands. We keep them through love (Gal. 5:13.14).

Christians experience victory by faith 1 Jn. 5:4,5. John gave a biblical definition of the believers victory that suggests it is a permanent way of life, the result of faith. Faith in God transforms a person into one who overcomes the world, which John described in 1 Jn. 2:16 as the lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes, and the pride of life. Since these things appeal to temporary, world pursuits, those who live by faith overcome them by holding to God and His eternal values rather than the world's fleeting values.

3. THE THREE FOLD WITNESS 1 Jn. 5:6-8.

Cerinthus, a false teacher of John‘s day taught that Jesus was only divine for a portion of His life. He believed that the divine Christ came on Jesus at His baptism and left Jesus before He died on the cross. He distinguished the man Jesus from the Christ.

John responded by showing that at His baptism, Jesus, the son of God identified Himself with humanity and with human need. At the cross, He again identified Himself with us, took our sins on Himself, became sin for us, as He hung there in our place. Then as a final witness to this, blood and water flowed from His side as a Roman sword pierced it. Jesus was born the Christ (Luke 2:11) and remained in the flesh through all the experiences of life, not just beginning at baptism for a time as Cerinthus taught. 1 Jn. 5:6 introduces the Holy Spirit as the one who testified who Jesus is. Whereas water and blood testify as objective historical facts of Jesus' life, the spirit provides subjective testimony that speaks to the heart of a person, guiding them to the truth, because He is the spirit of truth.

John tied the truth about Jesus to eternal outcomes. 1 Jn. 5:9-13 proves that Jesus gives eternal life. There is no hope for any man who keeps rejecting God's witness of Jesus. In fact the person who rejects the fact that the man Jesus is the divine Son of God is accepting the spirit of the antichrist (2:22; 4:2,3) and can not have eternal life because this life is found only in the divine Son of God. Only those who continue to hold fast the Son continue to have the life God has given in His Son.

QUESTIONS.

1 . How did John warn Christians not to be naive about the world?

2. Why is the incantation of such great importance?

3. How does the Bible provide a safe guard against false teaching?

4. Why do some Christians seem to think that obeying God's commands is “grievous” (1 Jn. 5:3)?

5. Is victory more as a permanent way of life or a fleeting spiritual height that believers sometimes achieve? Explain.

6. In what way does the spirit testify on behalf of Jesus?

FAITHFULNESS TO THE TRUTH

2018-03-24T14:19:00.000-07:00

TOPIC: FAITHFULNESS TO THE TRUTH

TEXT: 2Jn.:1-11; 3Jn.:1-12.

MEMORY VERSE: I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth. 3 John :4.

CENTRAL TRUTH: Christians must resist error and follow the truth.

INTRODUCTION

In modern times, people tend to minimize the differences between religions. suggesting that many roads lead to God and that tolerance and inclusiveness are keys to being a progressive thinker. John did not see it that way. He used words like truth. love. commandments. deceivers, and antichrists. Believers must not fall into what amounted to the New Age enlightenment thinking of the first Century. Truth is incompatible with error. Evil is incompatible with good. Gaius and Demetrius were not of the same Spirit as Diotrephes. The Challenges to the Gospel are serious, demanding somber responses like being unwilling to host people who teach false doctrines.

On the other hand, great joy comes when people help each other succeed, walking by faith. Believers should be excited by the success stories of faith, the testimonies of faithfulness to the truth. These good news items provide reasons to rejoice! Let us be among those who follow the way of truth.

1. COMMENDATION -2John1-3.

From all indications, John wrote this letter to a Christian family, he respected and showed loved for their testimony. The bond among Christians is the truth. They are not bound together by personality type, Socioeconomic class, ethnic background, or any other community unifying trait. The special love that Christians have for each other is a direct result of knowing the truth (v.2). Instead of being “lone rangers", believers are joined by the special bond of truth and love.

The aged apostle took joy simply from knowing that the believers walk in truth (v.4). Sadly, many believers produce joy the same ways the world does. through bigger house, higher education, careers and financial success. Instead, believers are to help each other live by the truth and joy in those successes.

Very few things are harder to deal with than knowing that a child or close family member is not living for God. It can be a source of grief and discord within a home.

2. COMMANDMENTS -2Jn. 5:6.

There is a maxim in teaching that states “Repetition is the key to Iearning". Teachers must repeat the most important things often if people are to remember them. John's teaching is defined by his emphasis on love. His consistent approach on love remained focused on obeying God's Commandments (v.6).

Another major commandment is the command to walk in truth 2 Jn 7-11. in verse 7. John warned that many deceivers had gone out into the world. For those who were led astray, this resulted in the loss of their eternal reward (v.8). John described such teachers as antichrists. They opposed Jesus Christ by denying His humanity. Thinking they were leading the church to a higher form of spirituality, they actually had departed from the Church's teaching, espousing an alternate, heretical view of Jesus. Those who followed this false ' teaching lost everything. They think they do not need to hold unto “old” truths, but can ignore them since they are able to receive new knowledge from God. Those who teach such falsehood transgress and go beyond the teaching of the word (v.9). Believers are not to allow every itinerant preacher who has no spiritual soundness to have open access to their churches and homes. if we support them, we also incur the wrath of God as they.

3. EXHORTATIONS -3Jn.:1-8.

Christians are not only called unto holiness but also unto generosity.~ Even though not all believers will prosper in the same way and enjoy health in the same way, we are called to be generous. in vs. 2. John expressed desire for the recipient to receive physical and spiritual well-being.

Believers are also called to a pure testimony. V.9 introduces someone who had been a hindrance to John's ministry Diotrephes. John used ‘Diotrephes’ evil example to remind believers that they are to discern between those who know God and those who do not by looking at their behaviour (v.11). John men recommended Demetrius as a role model, citing his positive example. How does God see you in His Church?

What role are you playing? (see Mal. 3:18).

QUESTIONS.

1 . Why does John repeat the commandment to love one another so often in his teachings?

2. What limits does John place on Christians hospitality in 2 Jn. 10,11?

3. Explain 3 Jn. :2 .

4. According to 3 Jn. :9,10, what was John's relationship with Diotrephes like?

5. Can you say by the grace of God that you are a role model in your church?

MYSTERY OF REDEMPTION

2018-03-24T14:09:00.003-07:00

TOPIC: MYSTERY OF REDEMPTION REVEALED

TEXT: Eph. 3.1 21

MEMORY VERSE: ”(God) hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the Kingdom of His dear Son. Colossians 1:13

CENTRAL TRUTH: The gospel reveals the mystery of redemption whereby all may share in the promises of Jesus Christ

INTRODUCTION

Many believers view Gods redemption as a New Testament concept. They fail to recognize that before creation, God had provided a way for fallen humanity to be reconciled to Him. And that way is through Jesus Christ.

After Christ is resurrection, the New Testament believers began to understand the full scope of God’s redemption. It was not just for the Jews, God had intended for the Gentiles to become part of His church as well.

Paul referred to this revelation in the gospel as a :"mystery” this word simply describes something that was once not understood but has become clear. This lesson examines Paul's message concerning the mystery revealed to him by the Spirit. Once he understood it, though, he then had to respond to it.

The gospel always calls for some type of response. Allow the Holy Spirit to speak to you through this lesson and respond to Him in obedience.

1. GRACE FOR ALL -Eph. 3: 2 -6

The Gentiles were important to Paul. He was God’s apostle to them and understood their place in God's plan of relationship to His church. As a result of Paul' s ministry to the Gentiles, he was a prisoner of Jesus Christ (Eph. 3:1 ).

For centuries, the understanding that Jews and Gentiles would together make up the people of God was hidden from human understanding. God kept it hidden until it was time for it to be revealed.

The Old Testament hinted at God’s ultimate purpose for the Gentiles, but those clues were not recognized by the Jews. Jesus more than hinted at this truth when He gave the disciples the Great Commission. They were to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19,20). After being tilled with the Holy Spirit, these same disciples were told that they would become Christ's witnesses not only in Jerusalem, but throughout the world (Acts 1:8). Upon reflection this could only mean that the message of God’s grace would be available to the Gentiles. But the Early Church was slow to understand this.

Religious and social prejudice on the part of the Jews caused these early believers to be slow in accepting the Gentiles into the church. The Jewish people had a unique and wonderful calling as the people of God. But this calling included being a light to the nations (See Isaiah 42. 6; 49. 6; 60. 3; Romans 9. 24-26; 1 Cor. 12. 12, 13; Gal. 3: 28; Eph. 2: 1116). The Gentiles are full partakers in all God's promises. They come to God on the same basis as Jews through faith in Christ.

2. PURPOSE OF THE CHURCH- Eph. 3: 7-12

Paul called himself a servant of this gospel through the grace of God (verse 7). But he did not take credit for the ministry, He realized the ministry because of the “effectual working" of God's power in him. He considered himself “less than the least of all saint” (verse 8).

To this end. Paul serves as our inspiring example. He was the great apostle to the Gentiles who bore in his won body the scars of serving the Christ he loved. He was a servant who suffered hunger, thirst, persecution, imprisonments, beatings, and floggings for the sake of Christ's work (2 Cor. 11 23-27), ultimately giving his life for the cause. In all of this, Paul considered himself to be tremendously privileged.

Thus, God's intent for the church is to reveal His wisdom His plan for redeeming mankind through the church (verse 10). This plan not only escaped the knowledge of the Jews, it also was a mystery to the principalities and powers in the heavenly realms (verse 10).

The phrase “principalities and power ” refers to spiritual rulers and authorities. Paul may have been thinking of either angelic or demonic rulers. Both angels and demons were kept from a knowledge of this mystery. Surely if Satan had known God's plan, he would not have permitted the Roman rulers to crucify Christ (1 Cor. 2:8). Similarly, angels had long desire to fully understand God’s redemption purpose, but were previously unable (1 Peter 1:12)

God’s plan was conceived in eternity (verse 11). God’s plan for salvation is through Jesus. Both Jews and Gentiles can now have “boldness and access with confidence" all that God had done for them (verse 12). Faith in Christ and the pure heart it brings means we can come to God confidently with all our needs.

3. LOVE THAT SURPASSES KNOWLEDGE : Eph. 3:14-18

Paul’s prayer is directed to the “Father of our Lord Jesus Christ" (verse 14). By adding “of whom the whole family in heave and earth is named" (verse 15), Paul indicated that all” believers, both Jews and Gentiles, are now part of God's family.

Paul knew that the answer to his prayer was only going to come through the “riches of his glory” (verse 16). He also knew that God is willing to give graciously without limit, those things that are necessary to the growth of His Church.

Paul's desire for these believers was that they would be “strengthened with might by his spirit in the inner man” . Divine strength was needed in their “inner man” in order for the other items in this prayer to be realized. This strengthening would come from the Holy Spirit.

God loves His Church. It is the reason He sent His Son Jesus, to die on the cross in order to pay the penalty for sin. As Christians experience the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, they are able to do His will in the body of Christ and in the world.

Verse 19 sums up Paul's heart for the church. He prayed that they may “be filled with all the fullness of God”. His desire for the body of Christ is nothing less than the best he can pray for, the rich presence of God himself.

QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION

1. Why were the first Christians so slow to comprehend that Gentiles could be saved?

2. How can prejudice keep believers today from sharing the gospel and allowing those from other social and ethnic background to become a part of their church?

3. Read Eph. 3: 11-1 2; What does this age-old plan tell you about God's way of doing things?

4. How do the priorities of Paul's prayer compare with our own?

THE YIELDED LIFE

2018-03-24T14:03:00.001-07:00

TOPIC: THE YIELDED LIFE
TEXT: Phil 8:3-14

INTRODUCTION

Many Christians feel that to be used of God, they need to possess special talent and ability or unique and powerful aptitudes. The truth is that God uses committed men and women that have completely yielded their lives to Him. When God finds such a person willing to be used, there is no limit to what God can do through him. Indeed, nothing less than an unconditional surrender can ever be a fitting response to His sacrifice at Calvary. In our study today we want to consider four marks of the yielded life

(i) Dead to Sin

(2) Dogged in separation

(3) Deference to submission

(4) Dedicated in service.

1. DEAD TO SIN -Rom 6:1,2,6; Gal 2:20; Col 3:1-3; Gal 6:14, 1Pet 2:24; 1Pet 4:1-3, 1:14-16, II Cor 5: 15-17, Gal 5:19-25

Sin is abhorrence to a man that is completely yielded unto God. Like one flees before a lion, so also that man that is completely yielded to God flees from every appearance of evil, not to talk of meddling with sin.

2. DOGGED IN, SEPARATION: John 1 7:6,16,17; Lev 20:26; 1Pet 2:9; Job 31:1, Isa 52:11, 2 Cor 6.14.1 7, Eph 5:11, Ps 1:1,2; 119:63; Dan 1:8; Ruth 1:17,18; 2 Tim 2:4-7.

Every yielded christian separates himself ‘from the world so as to present himself a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God (Rom 12:1). Even though not isolated from the world, he certainly does not get ' himself involved in the evil system of the world. He keeps himself pure and unspotted from the world.

3. DEFERENCE T0 SUBMISSION:

(i) To God -Matt 26:39-42; Jn 5:30: Eph 6:6; Mt 6:10; Ja 4:7; Jn 13:3-9; Ps 119: 105,11,60,128,129; Jer 15:16; Job 23:12.

(ii) To leadership -I Cor 16:16; Heb 13:7,17.

The. life of the yielded christian is characterised by submission to God, His word and the leadership within the church. In His life and ministry, our Lord demonstrated this attitude (Phil 2:6-11; Jn 6: 38; 4:34).

4. DEDICATED IN SERVICE: Lk 22:27; Acts 21:11-14; Phil 3: 7-8,13,14; Acts 16:10; 2Cor 4: 7-12,16; 11:23-29; I These 4:12; Phil 2: 25-30; Rom 16:1 -4.

The desire to evangelize keeps burning in the heart of the committed christian. He knows the shortness of life and the consequences of losing an opportunity to win a sinner unto the Lord. When challenged about earnestness for the Lord, he has no other answer to give than “I must-work the works of him that sent me while it is day, the night cometh when no man can Work.”

THE WATCHFULNESS OF THE RIGHTEOUS

2018-03-24T13:58:00.003-07:00

TOPIC: THE WATCHFULNESS OF THE RIGHTEOUS
TEXT: Genesis 6:8-13; Genesis 7: 1-2; 9:20-22, 1 Cor: 10:1-12

MEMORY VERSE: ”And what I say unto you, I say unto aall, Watch" Mark 13:3-7)

CENTRAL TRUTH: The Christian life is full of battles. The devil, the avowed enemy of righteousness, is always battling for yours soul. And no matter how strong in the faith you think you are, you need to be watchful.

INTRODUCTION

In the midst of corrupt millions of people in his generation, God declared Noah to be righteous. Noah was not only righteous, he was also a preacher, proclaimer and defender of righteousness (2 Pet, 2:5). But the subsequent accounts in the life of this declared righteous man were disappointing and unfortunate. This man, who found grace in the sight of God, declared to be righteous by faith, preacher and preserver of lives, later turn out to be a drunkard. He became a tragic disappointment and a disgrace to himself, his family and righteousness (Gen. 9:20-22, 25).

Noah's fall into the sin of drunkenness should be seen as a warning to the heaven -bound pilgrim. if you are saved, redeemed and made righteous by the precious blood of Jesus, then you need to be extra careful. Our imputed righteousness and the grace of God cannot be taken for granted to the point that we begin to think that one can never fall no matter how one lives.

Presumptuous and self-confident people do often fall into sin. Peter wanted to honour the Lord, saved by him till the very end; but he was too self-confident and therefore fell into the sin of lying. We need to learn from the examples of the Saints who have gone before us(1 Cor. 10:11-12).

1. THE WEAKNESS OF THE RIGHTEOUS -2 Sam. 11:26,27; 12:7-10

Our righteousness is not an inmate or inborn virtue, it is imputed on us by grace (2 Cor. 5:19; Phil. 3:9). It is the grace of God made available to the saints that makes the difference. Salvation, boldness at the throne of grace, conviction and uncompromising stand on the truth are all by grace. But then, the fall into sin of great men of God like Noah, Gideon, Asa, Uzziah, David, Peter, etc; after they had good testimonies, serves as a great warning to all Christians on the need to be watchful at all times. God used Gideon, a “mighty man of valour”, a man of great humility to deliver Israel from the hands of the midianites. More than being a warrior, he was a righteous man (Judge 6:25-28). But his good testimony was soon stained by his slide into idolatry (Judge 8:22, 27).

David, the man after God’s heart, a righteous man who would not kill his enemy, became so morally weak that he committed adultery, killed Uriah and took his wife (2 Sam. 11:26-27; 12:7-10). Righteous people can often be very weak! For thirty-five years King Asa ruled with the fear of God. There was no idolatry but peace and tranquillity in the land. But later, he began to waver in his commitment to the Lord, became oppressive and dictatorial. Instead of accepting God’s warning through prophet Hanani, and taking correction, in his pride, Asa became angry at the prophet’s rebuke. Chastisement came by way of disease, but he was unrepentant and would not come back to the lord. Instead, he sought cure from herbalists and witch doctors and died from the disease (2 Chron. 15:7-9, 19; 16:7, 10-13).

Uzziah was “marvelously helped, still he was strong”, a successful, engineer and inventor. But his success got into his head, he became high-minded, arrogant and incorrigible; and died a leper (2 Chron. 26:5-7, 15-21-). What a tragedy! Peter walked on water, healed and cast out demons, witnessed the transfiguration on the Mount and stoutly defended his master by cutting off someone’s ear when his Lord was arrested. Yet thereafter, fell into sin of lying and denied the Lord thrice (Matt. 26:69-75). Behold the weakness of the righteous! Christian, seek not yet repose, as the enemy is always present to tempt and make you fall.

2. WARNING FOR THE RIGHTEOUS -Rom. 8:9-13; 11:20-22; 1 Cor. 10:1~12; . Heb. 3:12~14

The possibility of departing from the faith once delivered to the saints does exist. There is nothing like eternal or unconditional security being saved and for ever saved. One can fall from grace to grass if one is not careful (Heb. 12: 15-17; 2 Pet. 2:20-22). There are people who are only careful when they feel that members of the church may discover their wrongs and report them to church leadership. But if there is no possibility of their being seen, they engage themselves in evil deeds. Such people are afraid of human and church discipline, they forget that God's eyes are watching them (1 Chron. 28:9). The church may not see you and discipline, but God sees you and will take your name out of the book of life if you sin (Exo. 32:30-33). God’s favour only abides if you are living right, living to glorify His name; but if you rebel against the commandments of God, there will be judgement (1 Sam. 12:14-15).

When the righteous takes things for granted and goes into sin because he is no more watchful and prayerful, judgement follows. If he dies in his sin, secret or open, he loses heaven.

The righteousness of the righteous will not be remembered on the day he goes into sin (Ezek. 3:20; 18:24; 33:18; John 15:2,6).

3. THE WARFARE OF THE RIGHTEOUS - 1 Pet. 2:11; 1 Cor. 9:27; Matt. 11:12

The devil is constantly at war to take the righteous from his righteousness. He wants to accomplish this through seemingly little sins (Songs 2:15). He would be happy to have you overlook the battle after your own soul. He loves passing through the flesh (Gal. 5:16-17; Matt. 4: 1-11). If we must be victorious in the daily battles going on in the soul, we need to be violent with , self, bad habits and anything that can hinder us from making heaven.

If you have been saved, your life is significant in God’s hands, you play significant role in the kingdom and you have taken a stand for the Lord; then Satan is after you, not just your physical but most importantly, your spiritual life. Jesus prayed for Peter, yet he failed in time of temptation, simply because he belittled the power, intention and purpose of the enemy. The righteous ought to watch because eternal life is costly and the enemy is after it. The spirit is willing but the flesh is weak and so watch, (Matt. 26:41).

If you have failed God, it is wisdom to find your way back to Him in humility like David and Peter and refuse to perish in hell. There is still another chance for you now that you are still alive and Christ has not yet come. Return!

QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION

1. Is righteous living possible?

2. Noah started well but his end was tragic. Explain.

3. What do you learn from the lives of Gideon. David and Asa?

4. How true is the doctrine of eternal or unconditional security? 5. What happens to the righteousness of the righteous if he sins? 6.

5. What have you learnt today? ‘ “...Spreading the Gospel of Faith, Purity and Power throughout the World”