OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 17 SEPTEMBER 2022 MEMORIZE: And when they began to sing and to praise, the LORD set ambushments against the children of Ammon, Moab, and mount Seir, which were come against Judah; and they were smitten. 2 Chronicles 20:22

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 17 SEPTEMBER 2022 BIBLE READING ACTS 16:25-26

25. And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them.

26. And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken: and immediately all the doors were opened, and every one’s bands were loosed.

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 17 SEPTEMBER 2022 MESSAGE

I’m sure you are familiar with the story of Paul and Silas. They were imprisoned for casting out the spirit of divination from a girl who made a great deal of money for her master. The master incited people against them and they were sued to court. The magistrate then handed them to a jailer after having them beaten. Thereafter, were put in stocks and thrown into the inner prison.

Let’s even assume that a jail break was planned. If they could have removed the chains, would they have been able to escape through the gates? Mind you child, this is not an action movie or a stunt. It wouldn’t have been possible. Their only weapon, having read how the wall of Jericho collapsed before Joshua and how Jehoshaphat won a battle against three kings, was praise. This they did and the prison doors opened of their own accord.

What have you prayed about for so long that seems as though the answer is not forthcoming? Try praise, it is a sure weapon against the enemy. It can never fail because God Himself comes down when there is praise (Psalms 22:3).

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 17 SEPTEMBER 2022 KEY POINT

Don’t make any request today; just praise God.

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 17 SEPTEMBER 2022 HYMN

‘TIS SO SWEET TO TRUST IN JESUS

1. ‘Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus,
Just to take him at his word;
Just to rest upon His promise,
Just to know, “Thus saith the Lord.

CHORUS
Jesus, Jesus, how I trust Him!
How I’ve proved him o’er and o’er!
Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus!
O for grace to trust him more!

2. O how sweet to trust in Jesus,
Just to trust His cleansing blood;
Just in simple faith to plunge me
’Neath the healing, cleansing flood!

3. Yes, ’tis sweet to trust in Jesus,
just from sin and self to cease;
just from Jesus simply taking
life and rest, and joy and peace.

4. I’m so glad I learn’d to trust Thee,
Precious Jesus, Saviour, Friend,
And I know that Thou art with me,
Wilt be with me to the end.

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 17 SEPTEMBER 2022 BIBLE READING IN ONE YEAR: 2 CORINTHIANS 9:1-15, ECCLESIASTES 1-3

LESSON THREE (03)
TOPIC: THE 3-IN-1 GOD

SUNDAY SCHOOL HYMN

1. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
O how I love Thee well,
I am happy, it makes me glad
To rejoice at Thy birth.

2. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Thy friendship suits me well,
Both young and will sing Thy song,
We long for Sunday School.

3. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Christ was Thy first teacher,
The Holy Spirit, great teacher,
Does manifest in thee.

4. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
This testimony is sure,
That God, the Father Almighty,
Poured His blessings

5. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Though the sun be so bright,
Or if the clouds be black with rain,
I’ll be in Sunday School.

6. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
I rejoice to see Thee,
Will thou pass over me today?
Without my being blest?

Today’s devotional: Open Heaven 18 September 2022

Powerful Declarations: Powerful Declarations For Today 18 September 2022

Today’s Prayer Points: Prayer Points For Open Heavens 18 September 2022

Teens Devotional: Open Heavens For Teens 18 September 2022

BIBLE PASSAGE: MATTHEW 3:16-17.

16. And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him.

17. And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.

MEMORY VERSE: “For there are three that bear witness in heaven: the Father, the Word, and the Holy Spirit; and these three are one.” 1John 5:7 (NKJV).

INTRODUCTION: The doctrine of the 3-in-1 God otherwise known as Trinity is foundational to the Christian faith. It is the revelation of who our Almighty God actually is. God is an infinite Being, existing eternally as three co-equal and infinitely distinct Persons also called the Godhead: God the Father, God the Son, and the Holy Spirit. The origin of the doctrine of the Trinity is the Bible, although the word Trinity is not used in the Bible. The word ‘Trinity’ was coined by one of the early Church fathers, by the name ‘Tertullian.’ This doctrine is called ‘Trinitarianism’ and its adherents are called ‘Trinitarians.’ The focus of this study is to demystify the concept of the Trinity by providing the biblical basis for it with further clarifications.

OUTLINES:
1. BIBLICAL ORIGIN
2. THE EXPLANATION

1. BIBLICAL ORIGIN
The Old Testament provides glimpses of the Trinity. For example, the Hebrew word for God-“Elohiym” – is actually a plural form of the word ‘El’: hence, in Genesis 1:26, God says (in the plural) “Let us make man in our image.” When God created the heavens and the earth, Jesus was the instrument of God’s creation (Jn.1:1-3; Col.1:15-16), in the company of the Holy Spirit who hovered over the waters (Gen.1:2). Gen. 11:7, “Go to, let us go down…..,” also provides us with the evidence of the three-in-oneness of God.

The Torah (the first five books of the Old Testament, also called the Law or the Pentateuch) hinted at the idea of God existing in three Persons and predicted His coming in the flesh (Gen.49:10) to be born in Bethlehem (Mic.5:2). He was not only God’s Son (Isa.9:6) but a Messiah who would be God in the flesh (Zech.2:10-11). From the very beginning of the church in the New Testament, Christians understood the mystery of the Trinity.

For example, John the beloved knew the Son was the Creator (Jn.1:1-2), the “I Am” of the Old Testament (Jn.8:58; Ex. 3:14), equal to the Father (Jn.10:30; 14:9), and the Judge of all the earth (Jn. 5:22), who is to be worshipped as only God is allowed to be (Matt.14:33). Also, the first Christians knew the Holy Spirit was a separate Person (Jn.14:26) who intercedes for us with God (Rom. 8:26-27), proving He is a distinct Person from God the Father. The early believers knew that the Father and the Son sent the third Person of the Trinity, the Holy Spirit-“another Comforter”-to live in our hearts (Jn. 14:16-17, 26; 16:7).

New Testament writers mention all three Persons of the Trinity together numerous times. For instance:
1. At Jesus’ baptism-Matt.3:13-17 (voice of the Father, Son baptized, Spirit descending like a dove).

2. At Salvation- 1Peter 1:2 (chosen by the Father, sanctified by the Spirit, sprinkled with the blood of Jesus).

3. At Sanctification-2Cor.13:14 (grace of the Lord Jesus, love of God, fellowship of the Holy Spirit).

4. At Christians’ Baptism-Matt.28:19 (baptised in one name, yet three Persons-Father, Son, and Holy Spirit).

5. For a witness – 1Jn 5:7- For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one.

CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Why do you belief in the Trinity?

2. THE EXPLANATION
As Christians, we do not believe in three Gods, which is a heresy called ‘Tritheism.’ We do not believe that the Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit are three “forms” of God-like steam, water, and ice: that is the heresy called ‘Modalism.’ The egg is comprised of three parts: the yellowish part, the whitish part and the shell. Despite the three substances, the egg is not three but one. The doctrine of the Trinity holds that God is ‘One Being’ but ‘three Persons.’ The ‘three persons’ define who God is (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) while the ‘one Being’ defines what God is (Infinite, Omnipresent, Omniscient, etc.). .

God has ‘one nature,’ but ‘three centres of consciousness.’ This means that the Father is God (Gal.1:1), the Son is God (Jn.20:28) and the Holy Spirit is God (Acts 5:3-4). They are not three gods but only one God (Deut.6:4). The Father is not the Son, the Son is not the Spirit, and the Spirit is not the Father. They are together: co-equal, co-eternal, having precisely the same nature and attributes (Almighty, unchangeable, infinitely powerful, wise, just, holy, etc.) and worthy of precisely the same worship, confidence, and obedience.

CLASS ACTIVITY 2: What is your view of the Trinity?

CONCLUSION: The doctrine of the ‘3-in-1’ God is Christianity’s most unique, defining, and awesome mystery.

QUESTIONS:
1. What are the biblical bases of the trinity?
2. Explain the concept of the trinity.

FURTHER READING: SUN: Mk.12:30. MON: Tit.1:3. TUE: Phil.2:11. WED: Mk.16:15. THUR: Eph.1:4. FRI: Rom.1:4. SAT: Acts 8:37.

ASSIGNMENT: Students should mention five heretic beliefs/doctrines they have heard on the Trinity.

LESSON THREE (03)
TOPIC: THE 3-IN-1 GOD

SUNDAY SCHOOL HYMN
1. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
O how I love Thee well,
I am happy, it makes me glad
To rejoice at Thy birth.

2. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Thy friendship suits me well,
Both young and will sing Thy song,
We long for Sunday School.

3. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Christ was Thy first teacher,
The Holy Spirit, great teacher,
Does manifest in thee.

4. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
This testimony is sure,
That God, the Father Almighty,
Poured His blessings

5. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Though the sun be so bright,
Or if the clouds be black with rain,
I’ll be in Sunday School.

6. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
I rejoice to see Thee,
Will thou pass over me today?
Without my being blest?

Today’s devotional: Open Heaven 18 September 2022

Powerful Declarations: Powerful Declarations For Today 18 September 2022

Today’s Prayer Points: Prayer Points For Open Heavens 18 September 2022

Teens Devotional: Open Heavens For Teens 18 September 2022

OPENING PRAYER: Father, unravel the mystery of the Trinity to me.

MEMORY VERSE: “For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one”. 1John 5:7

BIBLE PASSAGE: MATTHEW 3:16-17
16. And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him.

17. And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.

INTRODUCTION: The doctrine of the 3-in-1 God otherwise known as Trinity is foundational to the Christian faith. It is the revelation of who our Almighty God is. God is an infinite Being, existing eternally as three co-equal and infinitely distinct Persons also called the Godhead: God the Father, God the Son and the Holy Spirit.
The origin of the doctrine of the Trinity is the Bible, although the word Trinity is not used in the Bible. The word ‘Trinity’ was coined by one of the early Church fathers, by the name ‘Tertullian.’ This doctrine is called ‘Trinitarianism’ and it’s adherents are called ‘Trinitarians.’ The focus of the study is to clarify the concept of the Trinity by providing the biblical basis for it with further clarifications.

TEACHING REVIEW: Matthew 3:16-17.
One insightful piece of evidence of the existence and operation of the Trinity is found in the above text. It records that the Trinity in council was present at Jesus’ baptism.
A. Jesus: After He went out of the water straight from baptism V16a
i. ……………………………………………….. V16b.
B. Holy Spirit: Jesus saw …….….V16c.
C. God the Father: And a voice from heaven …………..…………………………………….…….V17b.

LESSON OUTLINES
1. Biblical Basis
2. The Explanation)

1. BIBLICAL BASIS
A. The old testament provides glimpses of the Trinity. For example:
i. The Hebrew word for God-“Elohim” – is a plural form of the word ‘El’: hence, in Genesis a1:26, God says (in the plural) “Let us make man in our image.”

ii. When God created the Heaven and the earth, Jesus was the instrument of God’s creation (John 1:1-3; Colossians 1:15-16), in the company of the Holy Spirit who hovered over the waters (Genesis 1:2).

iii. Genesis 11:7, “Go to, let us go down…” also provides us with the evidence of the three-in-oneness of God.

iv. The Torah (the first five books of the Old testament, also called the law or the Pentateuch) hinted at the idea of God existing in three Persons and predicted His coming in the flesh (Genesis 49:10) to be born in Bethlehem (Micah 5:2). He is not only God’s Son (Isaiah 9:6) but a Messiah who would be God in the flesh (Zechariah 2:10-11).

B. From the very beginning of the church in the New testament, Christians understood the mystery of the Trinity. For example:
i. John the beloved knew the Son was the Creator (John 1:1-3), the “I Am” of the Old testament (John 8:58; Exodus 3:14), same with the Father (John 10:30-49), and the Judge of all the earth (John 5:22), who is to be worshipped as only God is allowed to be (Matthew 14:33).

ii. Also, the first Christians knew the Holy Spirit was a separate person (John 14:26) who intercedes for us with God (Romans 8:26-27), proving he is a distinct person from God the Father. The early believers knew that the Father and the son sent the third person of the Trinity, the Holy Spirit- “another comforter”- to live our hearts (John 14:16-17, 26;16:7).

C. New testament writers mention all three persons of the Trinity together numerous times. For instance:
i. At Jesus’ baptism- Matthew 3:13-17 (voice of the Father, Son baptized, Spirit descending like a dove).

ii. At salvation – 1 Peter 1:2 (chosen by the Father, sanctified by the Spirit, sprinkled with the blood of Jesus).

iii. At Sanctification- 2Corinthians 13:14 (grace of the Lord Jesus, love of God, fellowship of the Holy Spirit).

iv. At Christians baptism- Matthew 28:19 (baptised in one name, yet, three Persons- Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit).

v. For a witness- 1John 5:7- For there are three that bear record in Heaven, the Father the Word and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one.

CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Why do you believe in the Trinity?

2. THE EXPLANATION
A. As Christians:
i. We do not believe in three Gods, which is a heresy called ‘Tritheism.’

ii. We do not believe that the Father, Son and the Holy Spirit are three “forms” of God -like steam, water, and ice. This is the heresy called ‘Modalism.’ The egg is comprised of three parts: the yellowish part, the whitish part, and the shell. Despite this, the egg is not three but one.

B. The doctrine of the Trinity holds that:
i. God is ‘one being’ but ‘three persons’. ‘The ‘three persons’ define who God is (Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit) while the ‘one being’ defines what God is (Infinite, Omnipresent, Omniscient, etc).

ii. God has ‘one nature,’ but ‘three centres of consciousness.’ This means the Father is God (Galatians 1:1), the Son is God (John 20:28 and the Holy Spirit is God (Acts 5:3-4). They are not three gods but only one God (Deuteronomy 6:4).

C. The Father is not the Son, the Son is not the Spirit, the Spirit is not the Father, but each is God individually and yet they are together: co-equal, co-eternal, having precisely the same nature and attributes (Almighty, unchangeable, infinitely powerful, wise, just, holy, etc.) and worthy of precisely the same worship, confidence, and obedience.

CLASS ACTIVITY 2: What is your view of the Trinity?

CONCLUSION: The doctrine of the ‘Trinity’ is Christianity’s most unique, defining awesome mystery.

EVALUATION: Teachers should ask the students to list the co-existence and activities of the Trinity in the New Testament.

CLOSING PRAYER: Father, let me daily enjoy the presence of the Trinity.

ASSIGNMENT: Mention five (5) heretical belief/doctrines you have heard on the Trinity. (2×5=10 Marks).

LESSON THREE (03)
TOPIC: DOCTRINE OF THE TRINITY

SUNDAY SCHOOL HYMN
1. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
O how I love Thee well,
I am happy, it makes me glad
To rejoice at Thy birth.

2. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Thy friendship suits me well,
Both young and will sing Thy song,
We long for Sunday School.

3. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Christ was Thy first teacher,
The Holy Spirit, great teacher,
Does manifest in thee.

4. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
This testimony is sure,
That God, the Father Almighty,
Poured His blessings on me

5. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Though the sun be so bright,
Or if the clouds be black with rain,
I’ll be in Sunday School.

6. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
I rejoice to see Thee,
Will thou pass over me today?
Without my being blest?

OPENING PRAYER: Father, unravel the mystery of the Trinity to me.

MEMORY VERSE: “For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one.” 1John 5:7.

BIBLE PASSAGE: MATTHEW 3:16-17.
16. And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him.

17. And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.

INTRODUCTION: The doctrine of the Trinity is foundational to the Christian faith. It is the revelation of who our Almighty God is. God is an infinite Being, existing eternally as three co-equal and infinitely distinct Persons also called the Godhead: God the Father, God the Son and the Holy Spirit. The origin of the doctrine of the Trinity is the Bible, although the word Trinity is not used in the Bible. The word ‘Trinity’ was coined by one of the early Church fathers, by the name ‘Tertullian.’ This doctrine is called ‘Trinitarianism’ and its adherents are called ‘Trinitarians.’ The focus of this study is to clarify the concept of the Trinity by providing the biblical basis for it with further clarifications.

TEXT REVIEW:
One insightful piece of evidence of the existence and operation of the Trinity is found in the above text. It records that the Trinity in Council was present at Jesus’ baptism.
A. Jesus: After He went out of the water straight from baptism v16a i. ………………………………………….v16b.
B. Holy Spirit: Jesus saw…………………v16c.
C. God the Father: And a voice from heaven ……………………..v17b.

OUTLINES:
1. BIBLICAL BASIS
2. THE EXPLANATION

1. BIBLICAL BASIS
A. The Old Testament provides glimpses of the Trinity. For example:
i. the Hebrew word for God-“Elohim” – is a plural form of the word ‘El’: hence, in Genesis 1:26, God says (in the plural) “Let us make man in our image.”

ii. When God created the heavens and the earth, Jesus was the instrument of God’s creation (Jn.1:1-3; Col.1:15-16), in the company of the Holy Spirit who hovered over the waters (Gen.1:2).

iii. Gen.11:7, “Go to, let us go down…” also provides us with evidence of the three-in-oneness of God.

iv. The Torah (the first five books of the Old Testament, also called the Law or the Pentateuch) hinted at the idea of God existing in three Persons and predicted His coming in the flesh (Gen.49:10) to be born in Bethlehem (Mic.5:2). He is not only God’s Son (Isa.9:6) but a Messiah who would be God in the flesh (Zech.2:10-11).

B. From the very beginning of the church in the New Testament, Christians understood the mystery of the Trinity. For example:
i. John the beloved knew the Son was the Creator (Jn.1:1-3), the “I Am” of the Old Testament (Jn.8:58; Ex.3:14), same with the Father (Jn.10:30; 14:9), and the Judge of all the earth (Jn.5:22), who is to be worshipped as only God is allowed to be (Matt.14:33).

ii. Also, the first Christians knew the Holy Spirit was a separate Person (Jn.14:26) who intercedes for us with God (Rom.8:26-27), proving He is a distinct Person from God the Father.

iii. The early believers knew that the Father and the Son sent the third Person of the Trinity, the Holy Spirit-“another Comforter”-to live in our hearts (Jn.14:16-17, 26; 16:7).

C. New Testament writers mention all three Persons of the Trinity together numerous times. For instance:
i. At Jesus’ baptism-Matthew 3:13-17 (Son baptised, Spirit descending like a dove, and the voice of the Father).

ii. At Salvation-1Peter 1:2 (chosen by the Father, sanctified by the Spirit, sprinkled with the blood of Jesus).

iii. At Sanctification-2Corinthians 13:14 (grace of the Lord Jesus, love of God, fellowship of the Holy Spirit).

iv. At Christians’ Baptism-Matthew 28:19 (baptised in one name, yet, three Persons -Father, Son, and Holy Spirit).

v. For a witness-1John 5:7-For there are three that bear record in Heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one.

The Old Testament provides glimpses of the Trinity. For example, the Hebrew word for God-“Elohim” – is a plural form of the word ‘El’: hence, in Genesis 1:26, God says (in the plural) “Let us make man in our image.” When God created the heavens and the earth, Jesus was the instrument of God’s creation (Jn.1:1-3; Col.1:15-16), in the company of the Holy Spirit who hovered over the waters (Gen.1:2). Gen.11:7, “Go to, let us go down…” also provides us with the evidence of the three-in-oneness of God. .

The Torah (the first five books of the Old Testament, also called the Law or the Pentateuch) hinted at the idea of God existing in three Persons and predicted His coming in the flesh (Gen.49:10) to be born in Bethlehem (Mic.5:2). He is not only God’s Son (Isa.9:6) but a Messiah who would be God in the flesh (Zech.2:10-11).

From the very beginning of the church in the New Testament, Christians understood the mystery of the Trinity. For example, John the beloved knew the Son was the Creator (Jn.1:1-3), the “I Am” of the Old Testament (Jn.8:58; Ex.3:14), same with the Father (Jn.10:30; 14:9), and the Judge of all the earth (Jn.5:22), who is to be worshipped as only God is allowed to be (Matt.14:33).

Also, the first Christians knew the Holy Spirit was a separate Person (Jn.14:26) who intercedes for us with God (Rom.8:26-27), proving He is a distinct Person from God the Father. The early believers knew that the Father and the Son sent the third Person of the Trinity, the Holy Spirit-“another Comforter”-to live in our hearts (Jn.14:16-17, 26; 16:7).

New Testament writers mention all three Persons of the Trinity together numerous times. For instance:
1. At Jesus’ baptism-Matthew 3:13-17 (voice of the Father, Son baptised, Spirit descending like a dove).

2. At Salvation-1Peter 1:2 (chosen by the Father, sanctified by the Spirit, sprinkled with the blood of Jesus).

3. At Sanctification-2Corinthians 13:14 (grace of the Lord Jesus, love of God, fellowship of the Holy Spirit).

4. At Christians’ Baptism-Matthew 28:19 (baptised in one name, yet, three Persons -Father, Son, and Holy Spirit).

5. For a witness-1John 5:7- For there are three that bear record in Heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one.

CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Why do you believe in the Trinity?

2. THE EXPLANATION
A. As Christians:
i. We do not believe in three Gods, which is a heresy called ‘Tritheism.’

ii. We do not believe that the Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit are three “forms” of God – like, steam, water, and ice. This is the heresy called ‘Modalism.’ The egg is comprised of three parts: the yellowish part, the whitish part, and the shell. Despite this, the egg is not three but one.

B. The doctrine of the Trinity holds that:
i. God is ‘One Being’ but ‘three Persons.’ The ‘three persons’ define who God is (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) while the ‘one Being’ defines what God is (Infinite, Omnipresent, Omniscient, etc.).

ii. God has ‘one nature,’ but ‘three centres of consciousness.’ This means the Father is God (Gal.1:1), the Son is God (Jn.20:28) and the Holy Spirit is God (Acts 5:3-4). They are not three gods but only one God (Deut.6:4).

C. The Father is not the Son, the Son is not the Spirit, the Spirit is not the Father, but each is God individually and yet they are together: co-equal, co-eternal, having precisely the same nature and attributes (Almighty, unchangeable, infinitely powerful, wise, just, holy, etc.) and worthy of precisely the same worship, confidence, and obedience.

As Christians, we do not believe in three Gods, which is a heresy called ‘Tritheism.’ We do not believe that the Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit are three “forms” of God -like, steam, water, and ice. This is the heresy called ‘Modalism.’ The egg is comprised of three parts: the yellowish part, the whitish part, and the shell. Despite this, the egg is not three but one.

The doctrine of the Trinity holds that God is ‘one Being’ but ‘three Persons.’ The ‘three persons’ define who God is (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) while the ‘one Being’ defines what God is (Infinite, Omnipresent, Omniscient, etc.). God has ‘one nature,’ but ‘three centres of consciousness.’ This means the Father is God (Gal.1:1), the Son is God (Jn.20:28) and the Holy Spirit is God (Acts 5:3-4).

They are not three gods but only one God (Deut.6:4). The Father is not the Son, the Son is not the Spirit, the Spirit is not the Father, but each is God individually and yet they are together: co-equal, co-eternal, having precisely the same nature and attributes (Almighty, unchangeable, infinitely powerful, wise, just, holy, etc.) and worthy of precisely the same worship, confidence, and obedience.

CLASS ACTIVITY 2: What is your view of the Trinity?

SUMMARY: The doctrine of the Trinity is a valid mystery across ages and holds that they are not three gods but only one God with three consciousnesses.

CONCLUSION: The doctrine of the ‘Trinity’ is Christianity’s most unique, defining and awesome mystery.

QUESTIONS:
* What are the biblical basis of the trinity?
* Explain the concept of the trinity

EVALUATION: Teachers should ask the students to list the co-existence and activities of the Trinity in the New Testament.

CLOSING PRAYER: Father, let me daily enjoy the presence of the Trinity.

ASSIGNMENT: Mention five (5) heretical beliefs/doctrines you have heard on the Trinity.

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 16 SEPTEMBER 2022 MEMORIZE: The name of the LORD is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe. Proverbs 18:10

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 16 SEPTEMBER 2022 BIBLE READING PHILIPPIANS 2:9-11

9. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:

10. That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;

11. And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Adults Version: Open Heaven 16 September 2022

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 16 SEPTEMBER 2022 MESSAGE

The name a person is called is very important because it can determine the success or failure of the bearer in life. This is why you must not allow yourself to be given just any nickname. Our Heavenly Father knows the importance of names. He must have thought of the best reward for Jesus who willingly surrendered Himself to bear the sins of the whole world, so, He gave Him a name that is above every other.

As powerful and influential as the name Adeboye is, it cannot save any man. Only the name of Jesus can save. I heard of the testimonies of how people that were about to experience an accident called the name of Jesus and they were saved. No wonder our memory verse says the name of the Lord is a strong tower.

My child, when you are in a difficult situation, who do you call? When you have a nightmare, who do you call? Do you use funny expressions like yee! or shout “Mummy” when you need urgent attention? The name of the Lord is a strong tower, especially for the righteous. Call on the name when you need a quick fix.

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 16 SEPTEMBER 2022 PRAYER POINT

When in trouble, call on the name of Jesus.

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 16 SEPTEMBER 2022 HYMN

STANDING ON THE PROMISES OF GOD

1. Standing on the promises
of Christ, our King,
Thro’ eternal ages let
His praises ring;
Glory in the highest,
I will shout and sing,
Standing on the promises of God.

CHORUS
Standing, standing,
Standing on the promises of God, my Saviour;
Standing, standing,
I’m standing on the promises of God.

2. Standing on the promises
that cannot fail.
When the howling storms of
doubt and fear assail,
By the living word of God
I shall prevail,
Standing on the promises of God.

3. Standing on the promises
I now can see
Perfect, present cleansing
in the blood for me;
Standing in the liberty
where Christ makes free,
Standing on the promises of God.

4. Standing on the promises
of Christ, the Lord,
Bound to Him eternally
by love’s strong cord,
Overcoming daily with
the Spirit’s sword,
Standing on the promises of God.

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 16 SEPTEMBER 2022 BIBLE READING IN ONE YEAR: 2 CORINTHIANS 8:1-24, PROVERBS 30-31

Beloved, we are glad you could join in today again, we look forward to your engagement everyday as always. Please, say these declarations in faith and believe God for a performance.

Note: These prayers are spiritual and can only be understood and fully enjoyed by God’s children. If you want to be blessed from these prayers, you must first, surrender your life to the Lord Jesus Christ, by saying this prayer:

“Lord Jesus, I come before You today with a broken and contrite heart full of repentance. Please, forgive me all my sins. Today, I surrender my life to You, I believe that Jesus is Lord and I confess it with my mouth. Jesus, come into my life and save my soul from eternal destruction in hellfire. In Jesus’ name I pray.”

If you joined in that life-changing prayer! Kindly reach us today: [email protected] for guidance on how to grow in Christ.

Join today’s Devotion here: Open Heavens 16 September 2022

Today’s Prayer Points: Prayers points for Open Heavens 16 September 2022

Today’s Powerful Confession: I confess today I shall turn many to righteousness through my words, action and lifestyle. I am wise and I shall shine as the brightness of the firmament. I shine as the stars for ever and ever in the mighty name of Jesus Christ. Amen. Hallelujah!

DAILY DECLARATION

I decree and declare I do righteously because I am of God in the name of Jesus.

I decree and declare evil and its doers are far from me. I am not evil and do not entertain evil in Jesus name.

I decree and declare I am Jesus’ sheep therefore I hear His voice and I listen to Him in Jesus name.

I decree and declare I belong to Jesus and I’m never going back in Jesus name.

I decree and declare that I am Christ-like in deed and actions in Jesus name.

I decree and declare; before the end of this month all my tears will end and new doors will begin to open for me in the name of Jesus

I decree and declare that God will see me through this month and by the end of this month I will be in a better position in Jesus name.

I decree and declare; God will give me access to great places and people that will promote me in life in the name of Jesus.

Thank You Father for Pastor E. A Adeboye, I decree and declare may the wisdom and inspiration of the Almighty upon him never cease and the grace of God will continually dwell with him and his entire household in the mighty name of Jesus.

I decree and declare heaven responds to these prayers and declaration as I say them and I receive answers in Jesus name.

Holy Spirit thank You for the intercessory team, thank You for Your power and presence in their midst, please continue to inspire the intercessory team for more prophetic declarations. Help them to continue to communicate Your heart even through these declarations, please continue to inspire them for more prophetic declarations in Jesus’ name.

Thank You Lord for everyone working on this platform (RCCGONLINE.ORG). Please Lord, perfect everything that concerns them and make them great in Jesus name.

Thank You Holy Spirit for all the testimonies and miracles coming through these prayers. May they be permanent in Jesus name.

Father, let everybody joining in to say this declarations all over the world experience great miracles throughout this month. May we have numerous testimonies in Jesus name.

Somebody shout Hallelujah!

See you tomorrow.

Beloved, we are glad you could join in today again, we look forward to your engagement everyday as always. Please, say these prayers in faith and believe God for a performance.

Note: These prayers are spiritual, this can only be understood and fully accessed by God’s children. If you want to be blessed from these prayers, you must first, surrender your life to the Lord Jesus Christ, by saying this prayer:

“Lord Jesus, I come before You today with a broken and contrite heart full of repentance. Please, forgive me all my sins. Today, I surrender my life to You, I believe that Jesus is Lord and I confess it with my mouth. Jesus, come into my life and save my soul from eternal destruction in hellfire. In Jesus’ name, I pray.”

If you joined in that life-changing prayer, congratulations! Welcome to the family of God. Kindly reach us today via this email: [email protected]

Today’s Devotional: Open Heavens 16 September 2022

Powerful Declarations: Powerful Declarations For Today 16 September 2022

Today’s Powerful Confession: I confess today I shall turn many to righteousness through my words, action and lifestyle. I am wise and I shall shine as the brightness of the firmament. I shine as the stars for ever and ever in the mighty name of Jesus Christ. Amen. Hallelujah!

PRAYER POINTS

Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name.

Thank You, Father, for where You started with me, for where I am, and for where You’re taking me.

Thank You, Father, for bringing me out of the darkness of this world, into Your marvelous light in Christ Jesus.

Father, in anyway I have fallen short of Your glory, please, have mercy and forgive me, in Jesus’ name.

Father, when the saints are being counted yonder, in heaven, please, let me be counted among them, in Jesus’ name.

Father, please grant me the grace to preach the gospel always in Jesus name.

Lord, may I always take every opportunity given to me to preach the good news to people in the name of Jesus.

Father, please teach me how to bring people to Christ through my words and my actions in the name of Jesus.

Oh Lord, give me a burning passion for souls. Let me desire to preach the gospel at all times in Jesus name.

Lord, teach me how to draw men to You. Help me to speak to them in wisdom in Jesus name.

Father, use me for Your Glory. Let me lead a mighty revival for You here on earth through my evangelism in the name of Jesus.

Father please, continually renew the strength of pastor E. A Adeboye in the mighty name of Jesus.

Father I pray for Your wisdom and inspiration over every worker on this platform in the name of Jesus.

Oh Lord, bless your son Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye for all his years of continual service, remember him, guide him on the path, help him remain focused, bless his entire household, and fulfill all Your promises for their liberation, ministry and family, in Jesus’ name.

Thank You Father for the intercessory team and the online platform (RCCGONLINE.ORG) and that which You have put in their hearts, I pray that You make them as flaming swords to bring men to Your kingdom and shut down the works of darkness in the name of Jesus.

Father, bless everyone dedicating their time to pray through these prayers & declarations at the point of their needs. Give them the grace to share/rebroadcast, in Jesus’ name.

Father, please uphold Your children working everyday on this platform (rccgonline.org) to prepare these prayers and declarations with Your right hand of righteousness and all those who have been rebroadcasting them, give them the grace to keep up with this good work of Faith, in the name of Jesus.

By faith, appreciate God for answered prayers. Your testimonies are undeniable in Jesus’ name.

Father, let every challenge, hindrance and obstacle of getting these prayer points across to Your children, timely, and on daily basis be removed, in Jesus’ name.

Submit yourself and your personal petitions to God. Cast all your cares on Him, for He cares for you.

( Philippians 4:6)

In Jesus’ name I pray.

(John 14:13-14; 15:16)

Thank you Father for answered prayers.

(1 Thessalonians 5:18).

#GodBlessOurNation

These prayers have no expiry date! Please, pray them, irrespective of the time they get to you. Remain blessed, in Jesus’ name.

See you here tomorrow.

LESSON THREE (03)
TOPIC: DOCTRINE OF THE TRINITY

SUNDAY SCHOOL HYMN
1. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
O how I love Thee well,
I am happy, it makes me glad
To rejoice at Thy birth.

2. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Thy friendship suits me well,
Both young and will sing Thy song,
We long for Sunday School.

3. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Christ was Thy first teacher,
The Holy Spirit, great teacher,
Does manifest in thee.

4. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
This testimony is sure,
That God, the Father Almighty,
Poured His blessings on me

5. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Though the sun be so bright,
Or if the clouds be black with rain,
I’ll be in Sunday School.

6. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
I rejoice to see Thee,
Will thou pass over me today?
Without my being blest?

BIBLE PASSAGE: MATTHEW 3:16-17.

16. And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him.

17. And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.

MEMORY VERSE: “For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one.” 1John 5:7.

INTRODUCTION: The doctrine of the Trinity is foundational to the Christian faith. It is the revelation of who our Almighty God is. God is an infinite Being, existing eternally as three co-equal and infinitely distinct Persons also called the Godhead: God the Father, God the Son and the Holy Spirit. The origin of the doctrine of the Trinity is the Bible, although the word Trinity is not used in the Bible. The word ‘Trinity’ was coined by one of the early Church fathers, by the name ‘Tertullian.’ This doctrine is called ‘Trinitarianism’ and its adherents are called ‘Trinitarians.’ The focus of this study is to clarify the concept of the Trinity by providing the biblical basis for it with further clarifications.

OUTLINES:
1. BIBLICAL BASIS
2. THE EXPLANATION

1. BIBLICAL BASIS
The Old Testament provides glimpses of the Trinity. For example, the Hebrew word for God-“Elohim” – is a plural form of the word ‘El’: hence, in Genesis 1:26, God says (in the plural) “Let us make man in our image.” When God created the heavens and the earth, Jesus was the instrument of God’s creation (Jn.1:1-3; Col.1:15-16), in the company of the Holy Spirit who hovered over the waters (Gen.1:2). Gen.11:7, “Go to, let us go down…” also provides us with the evidence of the three-in-oneness of God.

The Torah (the first five books of the Old Testament, also called the Law or the Pentateuch) hinted at the idea of God existing in three Persons and predicted His coming in the flesh (Gen.49:10) to be born in Bethlehem (Mic.5:2). He is not only God’s Son (Isa.9:6) but a Messiah who would be God in the flesh (Zech.2:10-11).

From the very beginning of the church in the New Testament, Christians understood the mystery of the Trinity. For example, John the beloved knew the Son was the Creator (Jn.1:1-3), the “I Am” of the Old Testament (Jn.8:58; Ex.3:14), same with the Father (Jn.10:30; 14:9), and the Judge of all the earth (Jn.5:22), who is to be worshipped as only God is allowed to be (Matt.14:33). Also, the first Christians knew the Holy Spirit was a separate Person (Jn.14:26) who intercedes for us with God (Rom.8:26-27), proving He is a distinct Person from God the Father.

The early believers knew that the Father and the Son sent the third Person of the Trinity, the Holy Spirit-“another Comforter”-to live in our hearts (Jn.14:16-17, 26; 16:7).
New Testament writers mention all three Persons of the Trinity together numerous times. For instance:
1.At Jesus’ baptism-Matthew 3:13-17 (voice of the Father, Son baptised, Spirit descending like a dove).

2.At Salvation-1Peter 1:2 (chosen by the Father, sanctified by the Spirit, sprinkled with the blood of Jesus).

3.At Sanctification-2Corinthians 13:14 (grace of the Lord Jesus, love of God, fellowship of the Holy Spirit).

4.At Christians’ Baptism-Matthew 28:19 (baptised in one name, yet, three Persons -Father, Son, and Holy Spirit).

5.For a witness-1John 5:7- For there are three that bear record in Heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one.

CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Why do you believe in the Trinity?

2. THE EXPLANATION
As Christians, we do not believe in three Gods, which is a heresy called ‘Tritheism.’ We do not believe that the Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit are three “forms” of God -like, steam, water, and ice. This is the heresy called ‘Modalism.’ The egg is comprised of three parts: the yellowish part, the whitish part, and the shell. Despite this, the egg is not three but one.

The doctrine of the Trinity holds that God is ‘one Being’ but ‘three Persons.’ The ‘three persons’ define who God is (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) while the ‘one Being’ defines what God is (Infinite, Omnipresent, Omniscient, etc.). God has ‘one nature,’ but ‘three centres of consciousness.’ This means the Father is God (Gal.1:1), the Son is God (Jn.20:28) and the Holy Spirit is God (Acts 5:3-4). They are not three gods but only one God (Deut.6:4).

The Father is not the Son, the Son is not the Spirit, the Spirit is not the Father, but each is God individually and yet they are together: co-equal, co-eternal, having precisely the same nature and attributes (Almighty, unchangeable, infinitely powerful, wise, just, holy, etc.) and worthy of precisely the same worship, confidence, and obedience.

CLASS ACTIVITY 2: What is your view of the Trinity?

CONCLUSION:The doctrine of the ‘Trinity’ is Christianity’s most unique, defining and awesome mystery.

QUESTIONS:
1. What are the biblical basis of the trinity?
2. Explain the concept of the trinity

ASSIGNMENT: Mention five (5) heretical beliefs/doctrines you have heard on the Trinity.

*LESSON: 03*
*TOPIC: RESTITUTION*

*HOUSE FELLOWSHIP ANTHEM*
1. I love this family of God,
So closely knitted into one,
They have taken me into their arms
And am so glad to be
A part of this great family

2. I bless this family of God,
So greatly prospered by the Lord,
They have taken me into their arms
And am so glad to be
A part of this great family

3. I know this family of God,
So deeply rooted in the word,
They have taken me into their arms
And am so glad to be
A part of this great family

4. I see this family of God,
So highly lifted above all,
They have taken me into their arms
And am so glad to be
A part of this great family

5. Come, join this family of God,
So highly favoured by the Lord,
They have taken me into their arms
And am so glad to be
A part of this great family.

OPENING PRAYER: Father, please give all saints the hearts to restitute their ways.

PREVIOUS KNOWLEDGE: Leader should remind members on reasons why they should repent from all ungodly ways that can cause doom to their journey in life.

MEMORY VERSE: “Then they shall confess their sin which they have done: and he shall recompense his trespass with the principal thereof, and add unto it the fifth part thereof, and give it unto him against whom he hath trespassed”. Numbers 5:7

BIBLE TEXT: EXODUS 22:1-5
1. If a man shall steal an ox, or a sheep, and kill it, or sell it; he shall restore five oxen for an ox, and four sheep for a sheep.

2. If a thief be found breaking up, and be smitten that he die, there shall no blood be shed for him.

3. If the sun be risen upon him, there shall be blood shed for him; for he should make full restitution; if he have nothing, then he shall be sold for his theft.

4. If the theft be certainly found in his hand alive, whether it be ox, or ass, or sheep; he shall restore double.

5. If a man shall cause a field or vineyard to be eaten, and shall put in his beast, and shall feed in another man’s field; of the best of his own field, and of the best of his own vineyard, shall he make restitution.

LESSON INTRODUCTION: What is restitution? It means making right what you have done wrongly. Luke 19:8. This is therefore important for genuine Christians and believers to attend to this fact; for without this, the sin is not forgiven no matter how long you pray and fast. Because it is clearly part of true repentance and salvation. Luke 19:9

LEADER’S DIARY
LESSON AIM: To have understanding of what restitution entails and its benefits.

TEACHING OBJECTIVES: At the end of the lesson, members should be able to:
i. Know that restitution involves repentance.
ii. Access benefits that restitution brings.

TEXT REVIEW: EXODUS 22:1-5
i. Restitution adverts God’s wrath.

LESSON OUTLINE ONE
REPENTANCE INVOLVES RESTITUTION
Restitution is restoring or giving back to another person or people that which we have unjustly taken away. If we have deprived others of some material or anything, we must then return those things back or the value of whatever it is. Either intangible or not, every effort must be made to remove the curse of the wrong upon our he if indeed we have genuinely repented. Proverbs 26:11, Luke 19:9-10, 2 Corinthians 7:10-11.

LESSON OUTLINE TWO
BENEFITS OF RESTITUTION
Just as anyone who fails to restitute his/her ways before God and even the man who is wronged or offended; there are still blessings for us if we can yield to do the needful and the blessings are however numerous. They include the following:
1. Divine restoration of the things returned. God will return it back and it shall be in form of blessings unto the one restituted.

2. Prayer of blessings unto you, from the person who was wronged and robbed. Judges 17:1-2

3. Total settlement of old accounts. 1 Timothy 5:24

4. It increases peace among men. Romans 12:18.

5. Access to new life. Luke 19:9.

6. Freedom from curse and God’s anger.

ACTIVITY: Let leader reiterates need for instant restitution.

SUMMARY: Restitution ends living under spell and God’s curse.

CONCLUSION: Undone restitution gives satan chance and opportunity to accuse and oppose you in the presence of God. And you being under curse from the one you have wronged, the problems with which satan will oppose you will just simply and easily come to pass EXCEPT this needful (RESTITUTION) is correctly done. A word is enough for the available wise.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. In Jesus Name, my Heavenly Father I thank You for opening my eyes and heart, to see and understand how important it is to restitute my ways.

2. My Father, My Father, I love to take a step to restitute my ways and blessed of You; please teach me, direct me and help me in Jesus Name.

3. Father, bring all believers to realm of restoring stolen things from God.

4. Father, remove all curses incurred on us through negligence of not restituting in Jesus Name.

GOLDEN DIET FOR THE WEEK
MONDAY: Love does no wrong to a neighbour. RIGHT YOUR WRONG. Romans 13:10

TUESDAY: Restitution is a subset of repentance and it quarantees life too. Ezekiel 33:14-15.

WEDNESDAY: Restitution is fairness. Do not seal your conscience. 2 Samuel 12:5-6.

THURSDAY: Be intentional in giving back. Nehemiah 5:10-12.

FRIDAY: I must let go of my weight. He12:1.

SATURDAY: There is no salvation without restitution. Luke 19:8-9.

SUNDAY: Owe no man nothing but to love them. Romans 13:8-10.

OPEN HEAVEN 18 SEPTEMBER 2022 MEMORIZE: And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come. Matthew 24:14

OPEN HEAVEN 18 SEPTEMBER 2022 BIBLE READING ROMANS 8:19-23

19. For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God.

20. For the creature was made subject to vanity, not willingly, but by reason of him who hath subjected the same in hope,

21. Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God.

22. For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now.

23. And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body.

OPEN HEAVEN 18 SEPTEMBER 2022 MESSAGE

Every athlete on the race track is always looking forward to reaching the finish line. The Heavenly race is not a sprint but a marathon. We have been looking forward to the coming of Christ now for more than two thousand years. I, in particular, have been running this race for almost 50 years now, and! am still running.

I don’t know how long you have been running, but I am quite sure that you are looking forward earnestly to the return of our Lord Jesus Christ. Well, there is a way you can make Him return quickly sharing the gospel of Christ and winning souls into the Kingdom of God.

Matthew 24:14 says: “And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.”

The Bible reading for today says that all Children of God are waiting earnestly for that day when we will be transformed and reign with our Father in heaven, but the only way to hasten the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ is to preach the gospel.

Until people who have not heard the gospel hear it, Jesus will not come. If you want Him to return quickly so that you can reign with Him in paradise (that is, of course, if you are sure that you will make it to heaven), then you will preach the gospel.

I am really looking forward to His return so I will win souls even in the most remote parts of the world. I have been to a country to win souls where they were so few in the whole country, everybody knew one another. Their prison inmates were allowed to go home on weekends to visit their families and come back the next Monday. That is how small the country is.

I will go anywhere; as long as there is someone there who will hear about Christ and can become saved, I am ready to go. Now, it may amaze some people that Jesus has not come yet because you think the whole world has heard about Him.

I was preaching to a group of Ambassadors about God one day; after preaching for more than 30 minutes, one of them asked, What is God? I realized then that he didn’t understand all that I had been saying since.

There are still people out there who haven’t heard about Christ and we will keep waiting for His coming if we don’t go out there to preach to them. Until they hear, He will not return. Thus, we must reach the whole world for Him if we want Him to return soon.

OPEN HEAVEN 18 SEPTEMBER 2022 KEY POINT

Look for new people to tell about Jesus Christ.

OPEN HEAVEN 18 SEPTEMBER 2022 HYMN

OPEN HEAVEN 18 SEPTEMBER 2022 BIBLE READING IN ONE YEAR: EZEKIEL 35:1-15, EZEKIEL 36:1-38, EZEKIEL 37:1-28