LESSON FIFTY-TWO
TOPIC: FORTH INTERACTIVE SESSION
SUMMARY OF LESSONS FROM LESSON 40-51
LESSON: FORTY
TOPIC: EFFECTIVE PERSONAL EVANGELISM
MEMORY VERSE: “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek”. –Romans 1:16
BIBLE PASSAGE: MARK 16:15-18
INTRODUCTION
Personal evangelism is the act of a person sharing the gospel with another. While there are many different methods of evangelism and means of helping others find salvation through faith in Jesus Christ, personal evangelism has been found to be very effective. Personal evangelism is the responsibility of every believer. God calls each of us to different tasks and endows us with different gifts, but the goal is the same-the salvation of the Lost (1Corinthians 12:6-7; Luke 19:10). He places us in strategic positions for influence, not privilege. We have neighbours, co-workers, friends, and relatives who need to hear the good news about Jesus. Like Apostle Paul, believers should not be ashamed of sharing their faith with others (Romans 1:16).
LESSON OUTLINES
1. THE PREPARATION PHASE
2. CREATIVITY IS KEY
THE PREPARATION PHASE
It is important to consider the following points as you prepare to evangelise:
*Prayer:* When our prayer lives are consistent and meaningful, we are ready to engage in personal evangelism. This is because beautiful words and impassioned speech may move a soul, but they cannot transform a hard and sinful Heart. Only the power of the Holy Spirit can bring convintion and repentance (2Timothy 2:25). You are to pray that God will change their hearts and open their eyes to what they are about to hear (2Corinthians 4:4), the Holy Spirit will show them that Jesus Christ is the only way to salvation (John 3:16) and God will give you the words they need to hear (Colossians 4:6).
*Righteous lifestyle:* Before you can preach to others, ensure you live a godly life (1Peter 3:15).
*Boldness:* You need to ask God for courage to preach the gospel (Acts 4:29). All that God requires is your obedience to preach the gospel. It is God’s responsibility to convert (Luke 8:5-15).
*Biblical knowledge:* To effectively preach, you need to study and learn what God says about His plan of salvation (2Timothy 2:15).
*A story:* Share your salvation experience and God’s transforming power in your life (Phillipphins 3:4-6; 1Corinthains 15:9; John 9:25). We may not know all the scripture s, but we do know what Jesus has done for us, that once we were blind to scripture truths and now we can see.
*The right attitude:* You should share the gospel with love and respect without condemning your audience (1Corinthains 13:1-3; Mark 12:30; Matthew 7:3-5).
CREATIVITY IS KEY
You do not have to share the gospel in exactly the same way as other people or as other times. The Bible makes it very clear that we are all different in our skills and abilities (1Corinthains 12:12-26; Ephesians 4:11-16). So, it is important to find a way to promote the message of Jesus in a way that fits your skills and abilities.
You must maximise every opportunity you have to tell others about Jesus. Supporting others who do more face-to-face evangelism also counts. You can write a tract, compose a song, and do graphic arts or something as simple as serving behind the scenes in ministry. All of this are just necessary and as valuable as being the one who explains the gospel to a lot of persons (1Corinthains 3:5-8).
CONCLUSION
As long as we have breath, we can do personal evangelism. As long as we stay surrendered to the Holy Spirit, He will do it through us (Luke 12:12; John 9:4).
*LESSON: FORTY-ONE*
TOPIC: DIGITAL EVANGELISM
MEMORY VERSE: “For we must needs die, and are as water spilt on the ground, which cannot be gathered up again; neither doth God respect any person: yet doth he devise means, that his banished be not expelled from him”. – 2 Samuel 14:14
BIBLE PASSAGE: HEBREWS 10:21-24
INTRODUCTION
As at January 2020, total world population stood at 7.75 billion, smart mobile phone users are about 5.1 million, internet users 4.54 billion and active social media users 3.80 million. Statistics also shows that every minutes, about 1 million people log unto Facebook 3.8 million searches are made on Google, 4.5 million videos are viewed on YouTube and 347 thousand users scroll on Instagram.
The Bible is clear that everyone who has a personal encounter with Jesus is called to be his witness (Mark 16: 14-15, acts 1:8). With the emergence of New digital technologies and internet/social media platforms, digital evangelism is an effective means of reaching the world with the gospel.
LESSON OUTLINES
1. BIBLICAL VIEW OF DIGITAL EVANGELISM
2. OPTIMISING THE DIGITAL WORLD FOR EVANGELISM AND DISCIPLESHIP
BIBLICAL VIEW OF DIGITAL EVANGELISM
Simply put, digital evangelism is about strategically and intentionally using the internet and social media platforms through communication gadgets like smartphones, pad/tablets, computer, video cameras and other digital devices to preach the gospel or share our Christian experience with others. It is about extending our divine calling/ministry beyond the physical walls of the church (Act 1:8; 2Corinthians 5:17-18). We can infer from Mark 5:18-19 that Jesus want us to spread the Gospel of salvation to our friends using the trending means.
Obviously, Jesus Christ did not follow nearly one method of spreading the gospel. In various ways, he sought to gain the attention of the multitude, For instance Jesus use the boat of Peter as ‘platform’ to teach the multitude (Luke 5:1-3) and on another occasion, He climbed the mountain to gain enough coverage (Matthew 5:1-2). While apostle Paul, traveled from city to City and wrote many letters using the printing press available during the era of reformation. This means that we should study, plan, and devise methods to reach the people where they are using the means and tools available in this era (1Corinthians 9:21-23). In this era, through a simple communication device we hold in our hands we can reach and teach the world (Matthew 28:19-20).
OPTIMISING THE DIGITAL WORLD FOR EVANGELISM AND DISCIPLESHIP
There are definitely positive aspects of social networking. It has surmounted great hurdles and barriers of the most hostile communities of the world, even those against the gospel for Christians, social media site can be productively hamessed for ‘Kingdom expansion’.
Reconnecting with old friends and increasing our sphere of influence can lead to evangelistic opportunities unavailable elsewhere. social Media allows us to re-enter the daily lives of people we may have lost contact with an open up new avenues for sharing Christ. As such, we can influence the views of other by what we post bringing encouragement and spiritual guidance to others and using friends list, Facebook/WhatsApp status updates or tweet to pray regularly for friends and their needs
(Hebrews 10:24-25).
Social media and modern technologies have eased entry into the world of telling stories, sharing ideas, and expressing thoughts through creative visual content to a wide audience. We can all the writers, content creators and publishers now. This means that when it comes to creating content for evangelism and discipleship, the role is no longer restricted to pastors, theologians, and other trained professionals. Therefore, making use of digital means to further the gospel work means that more church members can be missionaries. The presence of the church online will be stronger, and more people will know of the saving love of Jesus.
CONCLUSION
Digital evangelism should be Incorporated with traditional forms of evangelism. It does not replace traditional methods such as one-on-one, mass, tracts, evangelism etc. (Matthew 28:19-20).
*LESSON: FORTY-TWO*
TOPIC: DEGREES OF RESTITUTION
MEMORY VERSE: “He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?”. – Micah 6:8
BIBLE PASSAGE: GENESIS 33:1-11
INTRODUCTION
Simply put, restitution is the act of making right the wrong done against someone or an institution. God is a just God and He expects Justice from everyone (Micah 6:8; Jeremiah 22:3). This is such a universal law of human relationships that even the world’s court’s know that it is just and right to required that corrections be made for wrong action of the past.
LESSON OUTLINES
1. KINDS OF RESTITUTION
2. SATISFACTORY COMPENSATION
KINDS OF RESTITUTION
There are two kinds of restitution, depending on what was taken/lost.
1. Restitution for material loss. This is to make material or monetary reparation, compensation, reimbursement or repayment (or the equivalent) to the victim for what was lost, forcefully taken, damaged, or injured due to our (wrongful or accidental) actions (1Samuel 12:3; Luke 19:8).
2. Restitution for personal loss. When it comes to relationships, once it is realised that we have wounded another person, inadvertently, or consciously, restitution is the act of retracing our steps for the purpose of attempting (as much as it is in our power to do so) to make right any offence, or restore any emotional or non-material loss endured by another due to our sinful or unintentional hurtful actions, words or other choice(s)-(Genesis 33:1-11; Genesis 50:15-21).
David actually asked God to test his heart for him so that God could point out his wrong (Psalm 26:2; Psalm 139:23-24).
SATISFACTORY COMPENSATION
Generally speaking, if making restitution will require that the person pays a great deal more than the thing is worth: it requires that satisfaction only be made. For instance, if you borrow someone’s car and wreck-it, but replacing the exact make and model of car would cost way more than the car is worth, making satisfaction would mean that you pay the car’s owner an amount agreed upon that better represents the loss instead of the huge sum that an identical replacement would cost.
Knowing this guideline, do not loan out something that cannot be replaced unless you are okay with losing it. You may not be able to receive an exhaust replacement (such as something with sentimental value that makes the thing priceless to you). This teaches us that it is not just the borrower that needs to be sure they can afford to replace the thing loaned to them, but the lender must also do some calculations of their own (Isaiah 24:4).
Over compensation, or the desire for it, is evil on the part of the one who has lost, in that it is greed and covetousness.
The completion of restitution will appease our conscience and give us peace of mind. It releases others from the temptation to withhold their forgiveness since the payment has been voluntarily made by the offender.
CONCLUSION
Understand your degree of offence and make efforts to compensate satisfactorily.
*LESSON: FORTY-THREE*
TOPIC: PROCESSING RESTITUTION
MEMORY VERSE: “If the iron be blunt, and he do not whet the edge, then must he put to more strength: but wisdom is profitable to direct”. – Ecclesiastes 10:10
BIBLE PASSAGE: GENESIS 20:1-18
INTRODUCTION
Sometimes moving forward will be difficult until we have made the past right. This is important for those who realise that their sin has wounded others and has genuinely sorry as they are eager to obey and please God.
LESSON OUTLINES
1. CAUTION AGAINST RUSHING INTO RESTITUTION
2. HOW TO PROCESS RESTITUTION
CAUTION AGAINST RUSHING INTO RESTITUTION
It is good to sincerely decide to make all right the wrongs of the past. However, sometimes in our rush to obediently cooperate with God, or to selfishly get out from under a load of guilt and regret, we rush headlong into the act of restitution and end up making a bigger mess instead of cleaning things up (Proverbs 26:212; 29:20).
Many stories of restitution often end in Great sadness instead of reconciliation. Hastily plunging into restitution can easily make new ones and frequently they are bigger than what we are trying to correct.
HOW TO PROCESS RESTITUTION
When we finally make the decision to make amend for a wrong we have done, there are a few wise steps to consider so that our attempt to make things right does not make them worse instead.
1. *Counsel:* it is best to seek advice before proceeding with restitution, so that an adviser can guide us through the correction there maybe legality that needs to be considered and sometimes restitution does not need to be made (Proverbs 11:14 Proverbs 19:20).
2. *Scope:* The general rule is that restitution can be as broad as the offence. A private offence is settled in private and a public one needs to be settled in public eg. social media (Luke 19:8; Act 16:37). Outside of getting some counsel, those who are not part of the problem or solution should not be involved in the process. If a thing is between you and God, keep it there except maybe with a trusted partner (1John 1:9; James 5:16). If the thing that needs to be made right include a legality, a Christian legal experts may need to be involved (luke 12:58; 1Corinthians 6:1).
Sometimes, when civil laws have been broken, it require a more severe punishment in the form of corrective measures or even imprisonment. This ensures the payments has the form of correction measure or even imprisonment this ensures the payment has been sufficient, especially when what was taken or damage cannot be replaced because no financial/material price is sufficient.
Note that peculiar cases should be handled with the help of a mature and trusted Christian counselor/pastor.
3. *Wait:* Restitution is often best made after time is given a chance to work a deeper healing, allowing your heart to soften. Patient and self-control are two of the fruit of the spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) and when dealing with a long-standing hurt it is usually best to pray our hearts into a better state before proceeding with the restitution (James 1:4).
4. *Substitution:* If it is not possible to make restitution to the offended person, you find a relative or give it to the Lord. Council will help you decide what is appropriate.
5. *Restitution not reconciliation:* Occasionally, reconciliation is not the goal. The relationship may never go back to where it was before the disagreement or wound. We cannot control how people respond and we must not Express disapproval if our efforts are rejected. Reconciliation is certainly desirable in most cases, but there are some situation where, even though we have apologized, it will be unhealthy or unwise for us and maybe for them to resurrect the previous relationship (Genesis 33:12-17)
CONCLUSION
Restitution give peace of mind to those who will honestly do it
*LESSON: FORTY-FOUR*
TOPIC: APOLOGISING CORRECTLY
MEMORY VERSE: “Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another”. –Romans 14:19
BIBLE PASSAGE: 1SAMUEL 15:12-26
INTRODUCTION
Originally, the word ‘apology’
(apologia in Greek) means a defence, excuse, or justification in speech or writing, as for a cause or doctrine. However, towards the end of the 16th century there was a twist in the use of the word ‘apology’ to mean a written or spoken expression of one’s regret, remorse, or sorrow for having insulted, failed, injured, or wronged another.
As, Christian, we know we are meant to be kind, loving, humble and respectful (Ephesians 4:32). One true test of this is how we handle situations when we have been wronged or wrong others. A lot of people find it hard to admit when confronted with the wrongs they have committed. Some may even find it harder to ask someone for forgiveness especially when they feel the other person shares in the blame.
LESSON OUTLINES
1. WHY ‘I AM SORRY’ IS NOT ENOUGH
2. THE CORRECT APPROACH
WHY ‘I AM SORRY’ IS NOT ENOUGH
There is a subtle but sensitive difference between saying ‘sorry’ and apologising correctly. Most times, people’s idea of apology is insufficient. For some, offering an apology is all about verbally saying ‘I am sorry’ but this is only a band aid in that it covers up painful events for the other person without really making things right. It does not also fully take into account the level of wrong done. Although, simply saying ‘I am sorry’ might ease the tension of bumping into someone accidentally or mistakenly saying what should not be said, but when we have truly wronged someone, that person needs us to accept responsibility for the pain caused. Saying sorry just because we are caught and not because we are humble enough to truly admit our wrong and God is not impressed (Genesis 50:15-18; 1Samuel 15:24-26).
Therefore, a true apology focuses on your actions and not on the other person’s response/reaction.
THE CORRECT APPROACH
Whenever we wronged God or someone else, God expects to make things right (2Chronicles 7:14). Often, when a person apologies in a wrong way, the offence is not cleared. Some of the wrong approaches to apologising include the following statements:
(1) *”I was wrong, but you were wrong too.”* This is incorrect because you are not taking full responsibility for your offence.
(2) *”If I have been wrong, please forgive me.”* To use “If” before your apology means that you are saying, “I am not really convinced that I was wrong. ” Therefore, it is not a real apology.
(3) *” I am sorry I know I lost my temper, but you made me do it.”* This is wrong because you are not taking responsibility for your wrong-doing but putting the blame on the other person.
(4) *” I said I was sorry. What more do you want from me?”* This apology is not correct because the tone is aggressive, not remorseful and may not give the offended enough time to heal.
To apologies correctly, we should take full responsibility for our offence, we should take responsibility for our offence, name the offence, ask the person to forgive us and wait for the answer (Matthew 5:23-24). If need be, offer also make restitution (Luke 19:8).
Here is an example of the right way to apologies: “Christy, I was wrong in losing my temper and talking to you the way I did. Please forgive me. “To settle the matter completely, if the person says that you are forgiven, it is good to ask, “Do I need to say any more about this matter?” When a Christian apologises correctly, he is demonstrating humility, a character quality God holds in high esteem (James 4:10). Being reconciled to an offended brother or sister should be our priority (Matthew 5:23-24). Note that you do not apologise to people for being right with God (1John 3:21).
Biblical examples of those that offered apologies correctly include the prodigal son (Luke 15:17-20) and Jacob (Genesis 32,33).
CONCLUSION
Apologising correctly humbles us and reminds us that we still make mistakes and need forgiveness from God and others.
*LESSON: FORTY-FIVE*
TOPIC: UNDERSTANDING OF THE TIMES
MEMORY VERSE: “And of the children of Issachar, which were men that had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do; the heads of them were two hundred; and all their brethren were at their commandment”. – 1Chronicles 12:32.
BIBLE PASSAGE: Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
INTRODUCTION
Orderliness is one of the characteristics of our God. There is time for everything and he has made everything beautiful in his time. Like the son of Issachar, christians must constantly pray for the wisdom and grace to understand the time and how to act accordingly In life (1Chronicles 12:32).
LESSON OUTLINES
1. UNDERSTANDING THE TIMES
2. IT IS NOT YET TIME TO REST
UNDERSTANDING THE TIMES
A part from the list of events that characterise times and seasons in the third chapter of the book of Ecclesiastes, believers are clearly admonished in scripture to watch and act wisely (Mark 13:33). For instance, God wants believers to discern:
1. The seed (sowing) time and harvest time (Gen. 8:22; Gal. 6:7-9).
2. The time of God’s favour (Psalm 102:13; Isaiah 40:2).
3. The time to praise and trust God (Psalm 34:1; Ps. 62:8; Job 14:14).
4. The time to awake out of spiritual sleep or slumber (Romans 13:11; Ephesians 5:14; 1Corinthians 15:34).
5. The time to serve God diligently (Eccl. 12:1; John 9:4).
6. The perilous time (2Timothy 3:1-7; 1Timothy 4:1; 2Peter 3:3).
7. The time of judgement (2Peter 2:9; 2Peter 3:7).
IT IS NOT YET TIME TO REST
As believers, we must realise that we are sojourners here on earth and at the close of age we shall give account of our pilgrimage (Hebrews 11:13; 1Peter 2:11). This is why our Lord, Jesus said “I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work.” (John 9:4). It is true that God is not against rest after labour (Mark 6:31; Eccl. 5:12), however, believers should not rest before time (1kings 13:7-9) or give up on their calling (1Kings 19:4). The king’s business requires haste (1Sam. 21:8). Therefore, the hour to work is now (Ps. 119:60; Eccl. 12:1). It around (1Peter 5:8; Matt. 13:25) No matter the situation, God has the solution. He is beautiful for all situations (Ps. 48:1-2; Eccl. 3:11).
CONCLUSION
To live daily I’m God’s will and fulfill purpose, a believer must understand the times and act appropriately.
*LESSON: FORTY-SIX*
TOPIC: SUICIDE FORBIDDEN
MEMORY VERSE: “Casting all your cares upon Him, for He careth for you”. –1Peter 5:7
BIBLE PASSAGE: ROMANS 5:1-8
INTRODUCTION
Suicide is the act of intentionally causing one’s own death or deliberately killing one’s self. Research shows that approximately 90% of people who have died by suicide were suffering from a mental illness at the time. The most common mental illness reported is depression. Also, many suicides happen impulsively in moments of crisis with a breakdown in the ability to deal with life stresses, such as financial problems, relationship break-up or chronic pain and illness. In addition, experiencing conflict, disaster, violence,abuse (physical, sexual, emotional, verbal and so on), discrimination or loss and a sense of isolation are strongly associated with suicidal behaviour. Intense sadness and/or hopelessness; not caring about activities that used to matter; withdrawal from, family, friends, sports and social activities; substance (drug, alcohol) abuse are some of the common signs of suicidal thoughts.
LESSON OUTLINES
1. BIBLICAL VIEW OF SUICIDE
2. ANTIDOTES TO SUICIDAL THOUGHTS/ATTEMPTS
BIBLICAL VIEW OF SUICIDE
The Bible views suicide as equal to murder (self murder). God is the only one who is to decide when and how a person should die. We should say with the Psalmist, “My times are in thy hand…” (Psalms 31:15). God is the giver of Life. He gives, and he takes away (Job 1:21). The Bible mentions six specific people who committed suicide: Abimelech (Judges 9:54), Saul (1Samuel 31:4), Saul armor-bearer (1Samuel 31:4-6), Ahithophel (2Samuel 17:23), Zimri (1King 16:18) and Judas (Matthew 27:5).
Suicide, the taking of one’s own life, is ungodly because it rejects God’s gift of life. No one should presume to take God’s authority upon them to end his or her own life. Some people in scripture felt deep despair in life. Solomon, in his pursuit of pleasure, reached the point where he “hated life” (Ecclesiastes 2:17). Elijah was fearful and depressed and yearned for death (1Kings 19:4). Jonah was so angry at God that he wished to die (Jonah 4:8). Even the Apostle Paul and his missionary companions at one point were under great pressure that resulted in despair (2Corinthians 1:8).
However, none of these men committed suicide. Solomon learn to fear God and keep his commandments (Ecclesiastes 12:13). Elijah was comforted by an angel allowed to rest, and given a new commission (1Kings 19:5,15). Jonah received admonition and rebuke from God (Jonah 4:1-3,8-11). Paul learned that, although the pressure he faced was beyond his ability to endure, the Lord can bear all things (2Corinthians 1:9).
ANTIDOTES TO SUICIDAL THOUGHTS/ATTEMPTS
According to the Bible suicide is a sin (Exodus 20:13). Therefore, if you or anyone around you expresses suicidal thoughts or exhibits self-harming behaviours, seek pastoral and professional help. In addition, the following steps may help to rescue anyone having suicidal thoughts.
1. Take a few moments to consider letting God prove his love to you (Romans 5:5)
2. Know that Jesus identifies with you in your time of rejection and humiliation (Isaiah 53:2-6)
3. Jesus Christ endured suffering and shame so that you might have all your sins forgiven and your weight of guilt removed (Romans 5:7-8; Romans 8:32).
4. Know that Jesus will forgive and repair your brokenness and restore your joy if you humbly receive him as your Savior (Isaiah 1:18; 2 Corinthians 5:17).
5. Be assured that Jesus will always come to your rescue whenever you are in trouble if only you cry to or call upon him (Psalm 61:1-2; Jeremiah 33:3; Psalm 50:15).
CONCLUSION
No matter how bad things are in your life, there is the God of love who is waiting for you to guide you through your tunnel of despair and out into His marvelous light.
*LESSON: FORTY-SEVEN*
TOPIC: THE SPOTLESS BRIDE
MEMORY VERSE: “That he might present it it himself a glorious church, not having spot, or winkle,or such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish”. –Ephesians 5:27
BIBLE PASSAGE: Ephesians 5:17-30
INTRODUCTION
The church, that is the congregation of all born again believers, is referred to as the bride if Jesus Christ in Ephesians 5:25-27. Almost invariably, when a man chooses a bride,he chooses someone who is closest to him in manners, attributes, aspirations, ways of doing things, and the like, because only birds of the same feathers flock together (Amos 3:3). The Lord Jesus Christ is holy, spotless and without blemish; hence his bride must be without spot or wrinkle too.
LESSON OUTLINES
1. THE ESSENCE AND PROCESS OF BEING SPOTLESS
2. AREAS OF SPOTLESSNESS
THE ESSENCE AND PROCESS OF BEING SPOTLESS
It is a reasonable question if a Christian asks, ‘why must I be spotless?’ Or why must I be pure in all things that there cannot be found in me a single spot, fault or blemish? Here are just few of the reasons. First, a Christian is a child of God (John 1:12), and the child must be like his father. In fact, the Lord Jesus Christ said that every child of God must be as perfect as our father in heaven is perfect (Matthew 5:48). Secondly, the Christian is part of the bride of Christ. From which it follows that the Christian is part and parcel of the holy, spotless, Christ (Ephesians 5:29-30). Since Christ is spotted holy, it follows that no part of him can be less holy than himself. Thirdly, the wedding between Christ and his bride is going to take place in heaven. And nothing unholy shall be allowed into heaven (Isaiah 35:8). Therefore, if you wish to be part of the bride at the wedding of the lamb, you must be without spot or wrinkle (Eph. 5:27).
The step toward a life of spotless holiness begin with the new birth in Christ. (2Cor. 5:17). This is then followed by purging yourself of all sinful habits and excesses (Job 11:14-15; 2Tim. 2:21).After which you must steer clear of the wordly situation that can stain you or get you thinking along wrong tracks (James 1:27; 1John 2:15-17). Then of course, you must live daily for God, taking one day at a time and living it as if it will be the last (Romans 12:1-2; 2Cor. 13:5). Since all determinations are useless without the help of God, you most constantly call on Jesus for help (John 15:5; Phil. 4:13).
AREAS OF SPOTLESSNESS
The next reasonable question is ‘in what area should the bride of Christ be spotless?’ The answer, of course, is ‘in all things’. However, we will specifically look at three areas: in words, in thoughts and in deeds.
1. *Spotless in words:* Christians are expected to ‘bridle their tongues’ by putting a check or carefully selecting their words in order to avoid offences (James 3:2; Col. 4:6). In order to be spotless in word, a Christian must abstain from gossiping, backbiting, lying, rumour-mongering and other speech that defiles (1Peter 4:15; Rev. 21:27;; Mark 7:20).
2. *Spotless in thoughts:* Before someone can be spotless in words, he has to be spotless in thoughts (Ps. 19:14). This is because whatever comes out of our mouth is an overflow of what is in your heart (Matthew 12:34-35; Proverbs 23:7). Consequently, we are advised to watch very closely what we think about and meditate upon. In fact, there is a list of things that must occupy the thoughts of a Christian. These are the things that are true, just; honest, pure, lovely, of good report, virtuous and praiseworthy (Philippians 4:8).
3. *Spotless In deed:* We must not only be spotless in words and thoughts but also in deeds. In fact, our deed are to be as pure as light. We are to shine at home, in the office, market-place and everywhere so that the world will know who is really our Father (Matt. 5:14-16). True holiness cannot be hidden; it will always shine forth.
CONCLUSION
It is not enough for the Christian to be holy. They must be spotlessly so. Anyone who hopes to be part of the bride of Christ must stay spotless.
*LESSON: FORTY-EIGHT*
TOPIC: THE MARRIAGE SUPPER OF THE LAMB
MEMORY VERSE: “And he saith unto me, write, blessed are they which are called unto the marriage supper of the Lamb. And he saith unto me, These are the true saying of God”. –Revelation 19:9
BIBLE PASSAGE: REVELATION 19:1-9
INTRODUCTION
Marriage, in the context, symbolizes the union between Christ and the Church (Ephesians 5:22-32). It is, however, important to note that the marriage supper of the Lamb is the next event after the first phase of the second coming of Christ (the rapture).
LESSON OUTLINES
1. DESCRIPTION OF THE MARRIAGE
2. IMPORTANCE AND QUALIFICATION
DESCRIPTION OF THE MARRIAGE
The marriage supper of the Lamb is the consummation of the union between Christ (The Bridegroom) and the Church (the bride-without spot or wrinkles) – *Ephesians 5:27; Revelation 19:1-9; Matthew 22:1-14.* The marriage will take place before the second phase of the second coming of Christ to the earth. Christ is the Bridegroom. The bride is the redeemed or saints of all ages who will have part in the first resurrection and who will live in the New Jerusalem forever (Revelation 21:2). It is believed that the marriage supper will take place in Heaven (Revelation 19:9).
IMPORTANCE AND QUALIFICATION
The marriage supper of the Lamb is meant to assemble the saints of all ages and present them to God, the Father (Matthew 25:32-35), who will wipe away tears from their faces (Revelation 7:17). It is also to take away the saints from the earth before the activities of the anti-Christ and the period of the tribulation (Isaiah 57:1). It will also be the period to reward faithful and diligent saints.
Those who will qualify for the marriage Supper of the Lamb are the faithful saints of God, whose garments of righteousness have not been stained (Revelation 21:27; Hebrews 12:14).
CONCLUSION
The marriage Supper of the Lamb, like all Biblical prophecies, will be fulfilled. You cannot afford to miss it. Pray to God to keep you standing in Him and count you worthy of this great and unique event.
*LESSON: FORTY-NINE
TOPIC: THE DAYS OF TRIBULATION
MEMORY VERSE: “For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no nor ever shall be”. – Matthew 24:21
BIBLE PASSAGE: MARK 13:19-26
INTRODUCTION
The word, tribulation, means trouble or suffering. There are different kinds of tribulation mentioned in the Bible. These include: the tribulation of the disciples in the world (John 16:33); tribulation because of acceptance or obedience to the word of God (Matthew 13:21); the tribulation on the way to the kingdom of God (Acts 14:22; Matthew 7:14); earthly tribulation that is common to all (Job 5:6,7); tribulation on evildoer (Romans 2:9) and the great tribulation (Matthew 24:21).
The focus of the lesson is the Great Tribulation. The Bible says it is”the mother” of all tribulations. The hardship, turmoil, distress and perplexity that would be experienced in the days of the great tribulation are unprecedented. What is the great tribulation all about? When will it be? What are the events in the days of tribulation?
LESSON OUTLINES
1. UNDERSTANDING THE GREAT TRIBULATION
2. EVENTS IN THE DAYS OF GREAT TRIBULATION
UNDERSTANDING THE GREAT TRIBULATION
The Great Tribulation is also called the time of Jacob’s (the nation – Israel) trouble (Jeremiah 30:7). The unbelieving Jews (and unsaved or backsliding Gentiles) will be the candidate of the great tribulation. It will begin after the rapture of the Church and the revelation of the antichrist the “man of sin” (2Thessalonians 2:3-7)
The time of the great tribulation is the seventieth week that is, the last one week of the seventy weeks of Daniel. The seventy weeks has three sections: the first seven weeks, the next sixty two weeks and the last one week. There are seven days in a week. A day in the week represent one year. So the duration is seven years (Daniels 9:20-27).
The first half of the last one week (the first three and a half years) will be in for the full physical manifestation of the antichrist, during which he shall make a covenant with Israel (Daniel 9:27). The second half of the last one week (the last three and a half years) will be a time of unprecedented trouble. “in the midst of the week” the antichrist shall break the covenant with Israel and practices “abomination of desolation* in the temple (Daniel 9:27; Daniel 11:36; Matthew 24:15-16). The last three and half years of the great tribulation will culminate in the second coming of Christ to reign on earth (Mark 13:24-26; 2Thessalonians 2:8).
EVENTS IN THE DAYS OF GREAT TRIBULATION
The Great tribulation will witness series of significant but terrifying events.
These includes:
1. Unprecedented religious persecution of those who missed rapture (Matthew 24:21-22)
2. Unparalleled global religion deception (Matthew 24:24-28)
3. Untold global economic problem, in which only those who receive the mark of the beast can buy or sell (Revelation 13:17-18)
4. Series of unrighteous and abominable religious practices (2Thessalonians 2:3-4)
5. Intense temptation all over the world (Revelation 3:10)
CONCLUSION
Those who have received Christ as their lord and personal saviour and keep themselves holy till He comes at rapture shall be delivered (through rapture) from the days of the Great Tribulation. However, the sinners and the backsliders are faced with the danger of the Great tribulation. Beloved, are you truly saved from sins? Examine yourself today and be sure!
*LESSON: FIFTY*
TOPIC: PARADISE
MEMORY VERSE: “And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, Today shall thou be with me in paradise”. – Luke 23:43
BIBLE PASSAGE: LUKE 16:19-26
19 There was a certain rich man, which was clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day:
20 And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores,
21 And desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man’s table: moreover the dogs came and licked his sores.
22 And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham’s bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried;
23 And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom.
24 And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.
25 But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented.
26 And beside all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence.
INTRODUCTION
Paradise is a place of blessing where the righteous go after death. The word paradise, is usually used as a synonym for “heaven” (Revelation 2:7). Paradise is a place of rest for believers in Christ. It is a place where believers are United with Christ and His Father (Luke 23:43). Jesus used “paradise” as a synonym for ‘heaven’. The Apostle Paul wrote of someone (probably himself) who “was caught up to Paradise” (2Corinthians 12:4). In this context, paradise obviously refers to Heaven.
LESSON OUTLINES
1. THE NATURE OF PARADISE
2. THE BENEFITS OF BEING IN PARADISE
THE NATURE OF PARADISE
Paradise is the Father’s house (John 14:2). Jesus told the thief that he would be with him in Paradise that very day (Luke 23:43). Paradise is a place that is wonderful beyond description (2Corinthians 12:4). Paradise of God is also said to be a high and holy place (Isaiah 57:15) where there is no sin (Psalm 15:1-2; Revelation 21:27). The paradise of God has the tree of Life for the health Nations (Revelation 22:2). It is a peaceful place (Isaiah 65:25). It is also a place that those who have faith in the Lord will enter immediately upon death (Act 7:55-56). Paradise is a place of bliss and happiness (Psalm 16:11). There is no need to worry about what happens after death if you are born again and living in holiness because whoever believes in Jesus Christ and endures to the end will be saved (Acts 4:12; Matthew 10:22). The inhabitants of the paradise of God are holy (Revelation 21:27)
THE BENEFITS OF BEING IN PARADISE
The Paradise of God has the tree of Life with its 12 kinds of fruits, yielding it’s fruit each month. The leaves of the tree are for the healing of the Nations (Revelations 22:2,14; (Ezekiel 47:12). No longer will there be any accursed, but the throne of God and of the Lamb will be in it, and His servants we worship Him (Revelation 22:3). Saints we see the face of the Lord and His name will be on their foreheads (Revelation 22:4; 1Corinthians 13:12; 1John 3:2). Night will be no more. There will be no need for light or sun, for the Lord God will be their light, and they will reign forever and ever (Revelation 22:5). There will be no more sin or the sorrow that sin brings. The greatest of this sorrow is death which has been conquered by Jesus Christ’s victory at Calvary (Isaiah 25:8; 1Corinthians 15:54).
To have access to God’s paradise, repentance, confession of sin, and putting your trust in Christ is very essential. A fearful expectation awaits those who are not on God’s side (Revelation 20:11-15).
CONCLUSION
One thing is sure, if you miss heaven (paradise), you cannot miss hell. Be prepared
*LESSON: FIFTY-ONE*
TOPIC: ETERNAL REWARDS
MEMORY VERSE: “For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;”. –2Corinthians 4:17
BIBLE PASSAGE: 1CORINTHIANS 9:16-27
INTRODUCTION
It is generally believed that the rewards to be given at the judgement seat of Christ will consist of crowns and other glorious things. *2Corinthians 4:17* speaks of the momentary light affliction, which is descriptive of this world of sorrow, pain, tears and problems. However, the moments that will cross to the other side, this moment of affliction will be exchanged for an “exceeding and eternal weight of glory”. The believers falls asleep in Christ (John 11:11), suddenly awakes in the Lord’s presence and the glory begins (Philippians 1:23)
LESSON OUTLINES
1. WHAT GLORIES ARE BELIEVERS TO EXPECT?
2. WHAT CROWNS MAY BELIEVERS WIN?
WHAT GLORIES ARE BELIEVERS TO EXPECT?
Every born-again child of God, living a holy life and walking in the Spirit of God should expect:
1. To be with Christ on the last day (John 14:3). Everyone is happy to be in the presence of the king of kings
2. To behold the glory of Christ (John 17:24). We shall not only behold His face but also His glory. The disciples saw a glimpse of this glory on the mount of Transfiguration. We shall see it in full when we get to heaven.
3. To be glorified with Christ (Romans 8:17-18). We are not just to behold His glory but we are to be glorified too. We do not know what this actually means but it is surely going to be marvelously wonderful.
4. To reign with Christ (Romans 8:17-18). We shall reign with the king of kings in *Matthew 25:20-23,* in the parable of the talents, the faithful ones were made rulers over many things. This is a challenge to us today.
5. To inherit all things (Revelation 21:7). Not some things but all things.
WHAT CROWNS MAY BELIEVERS WIN?
It is possible for believers to win several crowns. for example there is:
1. Crown for faithful ‘runners’ (1Corinthians 9:24-25). It is an incorruptible crown. An eternal one. It is for those who patiently run the race to Heaven and the temperate in all things (Hebrews 12:1).
2. Crowns for soul winners (1Thessalonians 2:19).It is called the crown of rejoicing. Perhaps, each converts will be a jewel, a star on that crown.
3. Crowns for anticipators, that is, those who are expecting the Lord’s return (2Timothy 4:8). This is called the crown of righteousness. Everyone ought to win this crown. Each one of us ought to be watching for the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ.
4. Crowns for the faithful ones (James 1:12). This is called the crown of life. There seems to be three conditions for winning this crowns:
i. Enduring temptation and overcoming evil
ii. Loving the Lord
iii. Being faithful unto death, enduring to the end, even if it means martyrdom (Revelation 2:10).
5. Crowns for true Pastors (1Peter 5:4). This is called the crown of Glory. This is the crown for the elders, the under shepherds, Pastors, Missionaries and Teachers who perform their duties so well that the Great Shepherd will say “Well done” to them.
6. Crown of gold for the redeemed (Revelation 4:4). It is not only earthly kings and queens that have crowns. Redeemed men, born-again, holy living Christians shall have crowns too.
CONCLUSION
Be faithful, even unto death.
