OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 2 SEPTEMBER 2024 MEMORISE: Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body. 1 Corinthians 6:18

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 2 SEPTEMBER 2024 READ: 1 Thessalonians 4:3-4

3. For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication:

4. That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour;

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 2 SEPTEMBER 2024 MESSAGE

Sexual purity means complete abstinence from sexual sins such as fornication, pornography, bestiality, homosexuality, lesbianism, masturbation, et cetera.

However, sexual purity is not just about avoiding sexual habits; it entails choosing to live in a way that honours God and reflects His character.

In a world that often promotes sexual activities, it is important to stand firm in your commitment to honouring God with your life.

God expects you to be holy, as you read in today’s Bible reading.

Having premarital sex or engaging in any sexual activity before marriage is a sin against God and your body, and the Bible says that God Himself will judge those who engage in sexual sins (1 Corinthians 3:17).

God’s plan for sex is for it to be a beautiful and intimate expression of love between a husband and his wife within the confines of marriage.

Anything outside of this is a violation of God’s design and can cause harm to the violators. I want you to know that you can be pure.

To be pure, study God’s word and flee every form of sexual impurity.

Also, do not think immoral thoughts or engage in immoral conversations.

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 2 SEPTEMBER 2024 KEY POINT

Sexual purity is achievable.

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 2 SEPTEMBER 2024 HYMN 7

I AM THINE O LORD.

1.I am Thine, O Lord
I have heard Thy voice,
And it told Thy love to me;
But I long to rise in the arms of faith
And be closer drawn to Thee.

Chorus:
Draw me nearer, nearer blessed Lord,
To the cross where Thou hast died.
Draw me nearer, nearer, nearer blessd Lord,
To Thy precious, bleeding side.

2. Consecrate me now to Thy service, Lord,
By the power of grace divine;
Let my soul look up with a steadfast hope,
And my will be lost in Thine.

3. Oh the pure delight of a single hour
That before Thy throne I spend,
When I kneel in prayer, and with Thee, my God
I commune as friend with friend!

4. There are depths of love
that I cannot know
Till I cross the narrow sea;
There are heights of joy
that I may not reach
Till I rest in peace with Thee.

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 2 SEPTEMBER 2024 BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Ecclesiastes 1:1-3:22 2 Corinthians 6:1-13

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 1 SEPTEMBER 2024 MEMORISE: For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 1 SEPTEMBER 2024 READ: Philippians 4:6-7

6. Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

7. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 1 SEPTEMBER 2024 MESSAGE

Another trick the devil always keeps handy, especially for the children of God, is fear.

Fear is false evidence appearing real, and the devil has used it to prevent many believers from enjoying the abundant life that God has prepared for them.

Bible scholars have discovered that the phrase ‘fear not’ appears in 365 places in the Bible, which could imply that God is saying ‘fear not’ to you every day.

In Matthew 14:22-36, Peter saw Jesus walking towards him and the other disciples on water and asked if he could join Him.

Jesus asked him to come, and he stepped on the water and started walking towards Jesus.

Suddenly, fear gripped him when he looked around, and he immediately started to sink.

The reason many children of God give in to fear is that they look around and consider the unpalatable situations around them.

Some others look down on themselves and think that they can never make it based on their background, family, the environment they live in, et cetera. However, you should be like the Psalmist in Psalm 121:1; look up, your help will come from God.
God has not given you the spirit of fear; He has given you the spirit of power, love, and a sound mind. When you put your faith in God, fear is automatically displaced

CONFESSION:
I break free from the shackles of fear. I have a sound mind. I have the mind of Christ, and I overcome every challenge, in Jesus’ name!

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR
Job 40:1-42:17; 2 Corinthians 5:11-21

HYMN 35, ‘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.”

Refrain
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;
And 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, Savior, Friend,
And I know that Thou art with me,
Wilt be with me to the end.

LESSON ONE (01)

*TOPIC: WHERE ARE THE NINE?*

OPENING PRAYER: Father, please give every creation heart of gratitude to say thank you for your unwavering love to mankind in Jesus name.

PREVIOUS KNOWLEDGE: The centre leader should commit few minutes of members time to session of thanksgiving to God that brought us to another year in the Redeemed Christian Church of God

MEMORY VERSE: And Jesus answering said were there not ten cleansed? But where are the nine? Luke 17:17

BIBLE TEXT: Luke 17:12-17
[12]And as he entered into a certain village, there met him ten men that were lepers, which stood afar off:
[13]And they lifted up their voices, and said, Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.
[14]And when he saw them, he said unto them, Go shew yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass, that, as they went, they were cleansed.
[15]And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God,
[16]And fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan.
[17]And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine?

LESSON INTRODUCTION: Many do not show appreciation to God for daily, weekly, monthly and yearly miracles received, even in RCCG, not all that witnessed BEYOND EXPECTATION CONVENTION were alive to see HEAVEN’S CONVENTION, God deserves our thanksgiving for different victories, miracles of protection, provisions on daily basis and unseen battles He fought for us. Ingratitude denies many access to more blessing, we need to cultivate virtue of appreciation as believers so as to avoid God blocking us from enjoying fulfilment of divine promises, therefore take time to give God praise.

LESSON AIM: To have understanding that God detests act of ingratitude.

LEADER’S OBJECTIVES: At the end ofthe lesson, members should be able to;
– See the reasons for gratitude is essentials as believer’s to God.
– Learn how God reacts to grateful souls.

TEXT REVIEW: Luke 17:12-17
a) Before there can be divine Response, there must be IMMORTALITY.
(b) Mercy also makes way for God
assistance.
(c) Be attentive to divine instruction, very key to your testimony victorious song.
(d) Your testimony or thanksgiving is divinely demanded required.
(e) When you thank God, your healing becomes wholeness

LESSON OUTLINE ONE: SHOW GRATITUDE
Gratitude to God is a strong feeling of appreciation to Almighty God for the assistance received from Him, for;
(1) Immeasurable support on daily basis. Psalm 68:19
(2) Victory over the enemies. Isaiah 59:19
(3) Immense intervention over shame. Luke 5:1-7
(4) Healings and recoveries. Mark 5:25-34, 1 Samuel 30:18
(5) Divine repositioning. E.g Daniel and Esther
(6) Bringing the giants in one’s destiny down. 1 Samuel 17:45-51 Zechariah 4:6,7
(7) Making us more than conquerors. Romans 8:37

LESSON OUTLINE TWO: BENEFITS OF GRATITUDE
(a) Wholenessi.e. entirely sound, healthy, uninjured. Luke 17:17-19
(b) Receiving grace for abundance, living in surplus. Matthew 15:36,37.
c) Proclaimed dead received ordained life. John 11:41-44
(d) Hope is restored. John 11:44
(e) The bound and the afflicted are set at liberty
(f) The impossible receives divine attention. Mark 8:1-3
(g) God’s mercy and His faithful love never ends or depreciates Psalm 139, Daniel 2:22.
(h) Revelation of deep and wonderful things.
(i) Gratitude brings glory to God and keep us in God’s will. 2 Corinthians 4:15, 1 Thessa.5:18.

SUMMARY: “Oh! Give thanks unto the Lord, for He is good; for His mercy endures forever 1 Chronicles 16:34

CONCLUSION: Showing gratitude to God makes Him happy, cause Him to do more for us, makes your life His dwelling place. Whenever a child quits thanking His father for his benevolence, that child’s right is shortened. Don’tbe like Samson, be grateful like David!

WEEK 1 ACTIVITY: What differentiates David from Samson and Why do we have ungrateful believers in ourchurches today?

PRAYER POINT’S
(1) Father, thank you forgrace to witness anotheryear in the RCCG.
(2) Father, give me yielding and receptive heart to your word this year
3) Father, grant heart of gratitude to appreciate the price you paid for me.
4) Father, don’tletyour presence depart from Daddy and Mummy G.O
(5) Father, cause RCCG to enjoy more ofyour awesome presence in this New Year.

GOLDEN DIET FOR THE WEEK
MONDAY: In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. Genesis 1:1
TUESDAY: Praise the name of the Lord a song, magnify Him with thanksgiving. Psalm 69:30
WEDNESDAY: Let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually
THURSDAY: The fruit of our lips should give God thanks. Hebrews 13:15
FRIDAY: For He spake, and it was done, He commanded, and it stood fast. Psalm 33:9.
SATURDAY: For the Lord is a God of knowledge, by Him actions are weighed. 1 Samuel 2:3.
SUNDAY: That I may sing praise to you and not be silent. Psalm 30:12

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 31 AUGUST 2024 MEMORISE: Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall. Proverbs 16:18

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 31 AUGUST 2024 READ: Isaiah 14:12-16

12. How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations!

13. For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north:

14. I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High.

15. Yet thou shalt be brought down to hell, to the sides of the pit.

16. They that see thee shall narrowly look upon thee, and consider thee, saying, Is this the man that made the earth to tremble, that did shake kingdoms;

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 31 AUGUST 2024 MESSAGE

Today, I will teach about another trick of the devil, which is pride.

Pride is a total package that comes with arrogance, self-satisfaction, boasting, haughtiness, conceit, et cetera.

Pride is dangerous because it is silent, and it sometimes poses as confidence.

Thus, a proud fellow often thinks that he or she is just being confident and bold to air his or her opinions.

When pride is seated in the heart of a fellow, it is extremely difficult to curb.

Pride is a sin which originated from satan, who thought that he could overthrow God.

As a result, he was sent out of heaven alongside his agents.

A proud fellow can be easily singled out because pride cannot remain hidden.

The speech of the proud is always laden with the pronoun ‘I’.

A proud fellow displays an unwarranted attitude of overconfidence and inordinate ambition; he or she always wants to have the last say.

Beloved, the Bible highlights the end of the proud, and it is destruction. Learn from what happened to satan and his cohorts.

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 31 AUGUST 2024 PRAYER POINT:

Father, please forgive me if I have displayed any form of pride in my actions and thoughts.

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 31 AUGUST 2024 BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JOB 37:1-39:30; 2 CORINTHIANS 4:13-5:10

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 31 AUGUST 2024

HYMN 44: DEEPER, DEEPER IN THE LOVE OF JESUS
1. Deeper, Deeper In The Love Of Jesus
Daily Let Me Go;
Higher, Higher In The School Of Wisdom,
More Of Grace To Know.

Refrain:
Oh, Deeper Yet, I Pray,
And Higher Ev’ry Day,
And Wiser, Blessed, Lord,
In Thy Precious, Holy WorD.

2. Deeper, Deeper! Blessed Holy Spirit,
Take Me Deeper Still,
Till My Life Is Wholly Lost In Jesus,
And His Perfect Will. [Refrain]

3. Deeper, Deeper! Tho’ It Cost Hard Trials,
Deeper Let Me Go!
Rooted In The Holy Love Of Jesus,
Let Me Fruitful Grow. [Refrain]

4. Deeper, Higher, Ev’ry Day In Jesus,
Till All Conflict Past,
Finds Me Conqu’ror, And In His Own Image
Perfected At Last. [Refrain]

LESSON ONE (01)
TOPIC: RUACH ELOHIM

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 old 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 blessing on Thee

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?

MEMORY VERSE: “The earth was without form, and void; and darkness was on the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters”. Genesis 1:2 (NKJV)

OPENING PRAYER: Father, give me a deeper understanding of your spirit.

BIBLE PASSAGE: Exodus 31:1-5 NKJV
[1] Then the Lord spoke to Moses, saying:
[2] “See, I have called by name Bezalel the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah.
[3] And I have filled him with the Spirit of God, in wisdom, in understanding, in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship,
[4] to design artistic works, to work in gold, in silver, in bronze,
[5] in cutting jewels for setting, in carving wood, and to work in all manner of workmanship..

INTRODUCTION: God is a Spirit (John 4:24) and he operates through His Spirit (Genesis 1-2). The word Spirit in Hebrew tongue is “Ruach” while God is “Elohiym”. The Spirit of God is linked with creation (Psalm 104:30). At Jesus’ baptism, the Spirit of God descended as a dove upon Him (Matthew 3:16). He is active in the work of redemption, restoration and deliverance of God’s people (Isaiah 32:14-17). This lesson shall examine how the Spirit empowers and His divine nature.

TEXT REVIEW: EXODUS 31:1-5
A. God told Moses that He has called Bezaleel …………………..vs1-2.

B. God filled Bezaleel with His Spirit in:
i. Wisdom
ii. …………………………..
iii. …………………………
iv. ……………………….. V3.

C. The purpose of filling Bezaleel with the Spirit of God is:
i. ……………………………. V4a.
ii. ……………………………. V4b.
iii. ……………………………. V4c.
iv. ……………………………. V4d.
v. ……………………………. V5a.
vi. ……………………………. V5b.
vii. ……………………………. V5c.

LESSON OUTLINES
1. BIBLICAL INSTANCES OF HIS EMPOWERMENT
2. HIS DIVINE NATURE

1. BIBLICAL INSTANCES OF HIS EMPOWERMENT
A. The Spirit of God is not only known for His creative ability, He is also an empowering Spirit (Joel 2:28-29).

B. He is called different names in the Holy Scriptures such as:
i. The Holy Spirit/Ghost (Acts 1:8).
ii. Spirit of holiness (Romans 1:4).
iii. The Anointing (1 John 2:27).

C. There are several instances in the Bible where certain individuals were empowered by the Spirit of God. These include:
i. Joseph: He was empowered with creative leadership and and problem solving skills as well as the gift of administration by the Spirit of God (Genesis 41:37-41).

ii. Bezaleel: The Spirit of God equipped him with wisdom, understanding, knowledge, and all manner of skills (Exodus 31:3-5).

iii. Ezekiel: He was moved by the Spirit of God to see the invisible (what natural eyes cannot see) Ezekiel 11:24; 37:1; 43:5.

iv. Peter: On receiving the baptism of the Spirit of God, He preached a single message and 3,000 souls were saved and added to the church (Acts 2:41).

v. Paul: He preached the gospel with mighty signs and wonder, by the power of this Spirit of God (Romans 15: 19).

vi. Philip: He was supernaturally transported to Azotus by the Spirit of the Lord after he ministered to the Ethiopian Eunuch (Acts 8:39-40).

vii. The Spirit of God also helped Othniel to prevail against the Mesopotamian king, Cushan-Rishathaim (Judges 3:10); Gideon to defeat the Midianites with 300 men (Judges 7:7); Jephthat to overthrow the Ammonites (Judges 11:29, 32); and Samson to deal with the Philistines (Judges 15:14-15).

CLASS ACTIVITY 1: The class should carefully consider the dynamic ways the Holy Spirit has worked through various people in the scriptures and each student should eulogise Him in a word.

2. HIS DIVINE NATURE
There are certain attributes accorded the Spirit of God. These include:
i. Creativity – the creative ability of God is released to people through His Spirit (Exodus 35:30-35).

ii. Inspiration – The Spirit inspires and gives people understanding (Job 32:8; Daniel 4:8-9).

iii. Authority – He is in total control of all situations (Ezekiel 37:14) and acts as a defence for the elect (Isaiah 59:19).

iv. Omniscience – He is all-knowing and possesses all secrets (Psalm 139:7).

v. Omnipotence – He is all powerful and can facilitate what human power could not (Zechariah 4:6).

vi. The Spirit of God possesses emotion and can be grieved (Ephesians 4:30).

vii. It is however dangerous to be a victim of his anger (Isaiah 63:10).

CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Student should mention other attributes of the Holy Spirit known to them.

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

CLOSING PRAYER: Father, help me to walk in the fullness Your Spirit in the mighty name of Jesus.

ASSIGNMENT: Mention 10 things you can achieve through the Spirit of God

LESSON ONE (01)
TOPIC: THE KINGDOM OF 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 old 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 blessing on Thee

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, give me the understanding of what Your Kingdom is all about.

MEMORY VERSE: “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” Matthew 6:33

BIBLE PASSAGE: 1 Chronicles 29:10-12
10. Wherefore David blessed the Lord before all the congregation: and David said, Blessed be thou, Lord God of Israel our father, for ever and ever.
11. Thine, O Lord is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty: for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is thine; thine is the kingdom, O Lord, and thou art exalted as head above all.
12. Both riches and honour come of thee, and thou reignest over all; and in thine hand is power and might; and in thine hand it is to make great, and to give strength unto all.

INTRODUCTION: The kingdom of God is also known as the kingdom of Heaven (Matthew 19:23-24). The concept of the kingdom of God takes on various shade of meaning in different passages of the Scripture. A general understanding of God’s kingdom programme will help every believer key into the plan and purpose of God for mankind. Moreover, the concept of the kingdom of God is generally considered to be the central theme of Jesus’ teaching.

TEXT REVIEW: Chronicles 29:10-12
David, while eulogising God before the congregation, declares Him as the God of their father, Israel. v10.
i. He goes further to say that greatness ……….. v11a.
ii. He acknowledges that ………………… v11b.
iii. Also, riches and honour ………………. v12a.
iv. In God’s hand ……………………,,………. v12b.

LESSON OUTLINES
1. ASPECTS OF THE KINGDOM OF GOD
2. SEEKING THE KINGDOM OF GOD

1. ASPECTS OF THE KINGDOM OF GOD
God’s kingdom comprising there aspects: a Universal kingdom, a Meditorial kingdom, and a Spiritual kingdom.

A. UNIVERSAL KINGDOM: This is God’s eternal sovereign rule over all that exists; the entire universe (Daniel 4:3). In this kingdom, God rules in absolute sovereignty over all His Creation (Psalm 47:2, 7-8).

B. MEDIATORAL KINGDOM: God uses divinely chosen human representatives to speak on his behalf and stand in gap of for His people.
i. The Scripture records the special encounters and insights giving to these representatives about God’s will for mankind and His provision to save sinners.
ii. The Mediatorial kingdom will end with the thousand-year (millennial) reign of Christ upon the earth (Revelation 20:4-6).
iii. This will be the concluding link between human history and the eternal kingdom (Revelation 21 & 22).

C. SPIRITUAL KINGDOM: This kingdom is an invisible kingdom that exists in the heart of believers in Christ Jesus (Luke 17:20-21). Jesus said His kingdom was not of this word (John 18:36).
i. He preached that repentance is necessary to be a part of the kingdom of God (Matthew 4:17).
ii. The kingdom of God can be equated by the sphere of salvation that must be entered into by being born again (John 3:5-7; 1Corinthians 6:9-10).
iii. It is Scriptual realm over which God reigns as king, or the fulfillment on earth of God’s will (Matthew 6:10).

CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Is there any difference between the kingdom between the kingdom of God and the kingdom of heaven? Discuss (Teacher should use Matthew 19:23-24 as a guide).

2. SEEKING THE KINGDOM OF GOD
In this Sermon on the Mount Jesus admonishes His audience to first seek the kingdom of God and it’s righteousness (Matthew 6:33).
A. To seek the kingdom of God is to, as a matter of priority:
i. Hunger and thirst for the rule and reign of God in our lives with Jesus being in charge (Matthew 5:6; 6:9-10).
ii. Be willing to submit totally and obey His will as we come under the lordship of Christ and He is in control of our lives.

B. The main benefit of the kingdom is the forgiveness of sins (Acts 3:19; 5:31). It is not rules or regulation but “righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit” (Romans 14:17).

CLASS ACTIVITY 2: What are the practical steps you want to take, to seek God more this year?

CONCLUSION: We are equally commanded to witness to others that the kingdom of God is open to all who will surrender their lives to Jesus (Matthew 3:2; Mark 16:15-16)

CLOSING PRAYER: Father, please give me the grace to abide in your kingdom forever.

ASSIGNMENT: Identify 10 scriptural references in the Book of Matthew where the kingdom of Heaven is likened to natural things (1×10=10 Marks).

LESSON ONE (01)
SUNDAY 1ST SEPTEMBER, 2024
TOPIC: THE KINGDOM OF 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 old 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 blessing on Thee

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?

MEMORY VERSE: “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” Matthew 6:33

BIBLE PASSAGE: CHRONICLES 29:10-12
10 Wherefore David blessed the Lord before all the congregation: and David said, Blessed be thou, Lord God of Israel our father, for ever and ever.
11 Thine, O Lord is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty: for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is thine; thine is the kingdom, O Lord, and thou art exalted as head above all.
12 Both riches and honour come of thee, and thou reignest over all; and in thine hand is power and might; and in thine hand it is to make great, and to give strength unto all.

INTRODUCTION: The kingdom of God is also known as the kingdom of Heaven (Matthew 19:23-24). The concept of the kingdom of God takes on various shade of meaning in different passages of the Scripture. A general understanding of God’s kingdom programme will help every believer key into the plan and purpose of God for mankind. Moreover, the concept of the kingdom of God is generally considered to be the central team of Jesus’ teaching.

LESSON OUTLINES
1. ASPECTS OF THE KINGDOM OF GOD
2. SEEKING THE KINGDOM OF GOD

1. ASPECTS OF THE KINGDOM OF GOD
God’s kingdom comprising there aspects:
a Universal kingdom, a Meditorial kingdom, and a Spiritual kingdom.

UNIVERSAL KINGDOM: This is God’s eternal sovereign rule over all that exists; the entire universe (Daniel 4:3). In this kingdom, God rules in absolute sovereignty over all His Creation (Psalm 47:2, 7-8).

MEDIATORAL KINGDOM: God uses divinely chosen human representatives to speak on his behalf and stand in gap of for His people. The Scripture records the special encounters and insights giving to these representatives about God’s will for mankind and His provision to save sinners. The Mediatorial kingdom will end with the thousand-year (millennial) reign of Christ upon the earth (Revelation 20:4-6). This will be the concluding link between human history and the eternal kingdom (Revelation 21 & 22).

SPIRITUAL KINGDOM: This kingdom is an invisible kingdom that exists in the heart of believers in Christ Jesus (Luke 17:20-21). Jesus said His kingdom was not of this word (John 18:36). He preached that repentance is necessary to be a part of the kingdom of God (Matthew 4:17). The kingdom of God can be equated by the sphere of salvation that must be entered into by being born again (John 3:5-7; 1Corinthians 6:9-10). It is Scriptual realm over which God reigns as king, or the fulfillment on earth of God’s will (Matthew 6:10).

2. SEEKING THE KINGDOM OF GOD
In this Sermon on the Mount Jesus admonishes His audience to first seek the kingdom of God and it’s righteousness (Matthew 6:33). To seek the kingdom of God is to, as a matter of priority, hunger and thirst for the rule and reign of God in our lives with Jesus being in charge (Matthew 5:6; 6:9-10). We must also be willing to submit totally and obey His will as we come under the lordship of Christ and He is in control of our lives. The main benefit of the kingdom is the forgiveness of sins (Acts 3:19; 5:31). It is not rules or regulation but “righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit” (Romans 14:17).

CONCLUSION: We are equally commanded to witness to others that the kingdom of God is open to all who will surrender their lives to Jesus (Matthew 3:2; Mark 16:15-16)

QUESTIONS:
1. Explain the three aspects of God’s kingdom.
2. How can you seek the kingdom of God?

FURTHER READINGS: SUN: Psalm 103:19 MON: 1 Kings 3:13 TUE Daniel 2:44 WED: Psalm 103:21 THUR: Deuteronomy 7:21 FRI Like 24:47 SAT: John 6:15.

ASSIGNMENT: Identify 10 scriptural references in the Book of Matthew where the Kingdom of Heaven is likened to natural things. (1×10=10 Marks).

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 30 AUGUST 2024 MEMORISE:Be not desirous of his dainties: for they are deceitful meat. Proverbs 23:3

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 30 AUGUST 2024 READ: Luke 4:5-8
5. And the devil, taking him up into an high mountain, shewed unto him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time.
6. And the devil said unto him, All this power will I give thee, and the glory of them: for that is delivered unto me; and to whomsoever I will I give it.
7. If thou therefore wilt worship me, all shall be thine.
8. And Jesus answered and said unto him, Get thee behind me, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.

Open Heaven 30 August 2024

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 30 AUGUST 2024 MESSAGE:

A trick is a cunning act or scheme that is intended to deceive or outwit a fellow. The devil has several tricks that he uses to trap his victims. One is through inordinate desires.

This tactic comes in the form of a sugar-coated and generous offer, such as a gift or a promise of greatness. The packaging of such an offer is usually so attractive and glamorous, but inside the offer lies destruction.

The devil tried to play this trick on Jesus Christ in today’s Bible reading, but He did not fall for it. For some reason, this trick is especially more potent and effective in this generation.

We are in a world where instant riches, exhibition of immorality, and riotous living have become the order of the day. Today, ill-gotten fame and wealth are celebrated on social media, even among some Christians.

Consequently, the enemy is using these weapons of deception to entice vulnerable individuals into evil deeds.
Is anyone promising you something glamorous in exchange for nothing? Ensure that you do not fall for it.

The devil doesn’t give anything for free; there is always something that he wants to take from you. If he offers you success, he might take your life in return. If he cures you of a headache, he might take your head in return. Reject any offer from the devil.

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 30 AUGUST 2024 KEY POINT

Glamorous offers might be tricks from the devil; don’t fall for them.

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 30 AUGUST 2024

HYMN 46, O LORD MY GOD WHEN I’M IN AWESOME WONDER

HYMN 41, JESUS, MY LORD, MY GOD, MY ALL

1. Jesus, My Lord, My God, My All,
Hear Me, Blest Saviour, When I Call;
Hear Me, And From Thy Dwelling Place
Pour Down The Riches Of Thy Grace;
Refrain:
Jesus, My Lord, I Thee Adore;
Oh Make Me Love Thee More And More.

2. Jesus, Too Late I Thee Have Sought;
How Can I Love Thee As I Ought?
And How Extol Thy Matchless Fame,
The Glorious Beauty Of Thy Name? [Refrain]

3. Jesus, What Didst Thou Find In Me,
That Thou Hast Dealt So Lovingly?
How Great The Joy That Thou Hast Brought
So Far Exceeding Hope Or Thought! [Refrain]

4. Jesus, Of Thee Shall Be My Song,
To Thee My Heart And Soul Belong;
All That I Have Or Am Is Thine,
And Thou, Blest Saviour, Thou Art Mine. [Refrain]

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 30 AUGUST 2024 BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JOB 34:1-36:33; 2CORINTHIANS 4:1-12

LESSON ONE (01)
TOPIC: RUACH ELOHIM

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 old 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 blessing on Thee

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?

MEMORY VERSE: “The earth was without form, and void; and darkness was on the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters”.Genesis 1:2 (NKJV)

BIBLE PASSAGE: Exodus 31:1-5 NKJV
[1] Then the Lord spoke to Moses, saying:
[2] “See, I have called by name Bezalel the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah.
[3] And I have filled him with the Spirit of God, in wisdom, in understanding, in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship,
[4] to design artistic works, to work in gold, in silver, in bronze,
[5] in cutting jewels for setting, in carving wood, and to work in all manner of workmanship.

INTRODUCTION: God is a Spirit (John 4:24) and he operates through His Spirit (Genesis 1-2). The word Spirit in Hebrew tongue is “Ruach” while God is “Elohiym”. The Spirit of God is linked with creation (Psalm 104:30). At Jesus’ baptism, the Spirit of God descended as a dove upon Him (Matthew 3:16). He is active in the work of redemption, restoration and deliverance of God’s people (Isaiah 32:14-17). This lesson shall examine how the Spirit empowers and His divine nature.

LESSON OUTLINES
1. BIBLICAL INSTANCES OF HIS EMPOWERMENT
2. HIS DIVINE NATURE

1. BIBLICAL INSTANCES OF HIS EMPOWERMENT
The Spirit of God is not only known for His creative ability, He is also an empowering Spirit (Joel 2:28-29). He is called different names in the Holy Scriptures such as the Holy Spirit/Ghost (Acts 1:8), Spirit of holiness (Romans 1:4), the Anointing (1 John 2:27), etc. There are several instances in the Bible where certain individuals were empowered by the Spirit of God. These include:

JOSEPH: He was empowered with creative leadership and and problem solving skills as well as the gift of administration by the Spirit of God (Genesis 41:37-41).

BEZALEEL: The Spirit of God equipped him with wisdom, understanding, knowledge, and all manner of skills (Exodus 31:3-5).

EZEKIEL: He was moved by the Spirit of God to see the invisible (what natural eyes cannot see) Ezekiel 11:24; 37:1; 43:5.

PETER: On receiving the baptism of the Spirit of God, He preached a single message and 3,000 souls were saved and added to the church (Acts 2:41).

PAUL: He preached the gospel with mighty signs and wonder, by the power of this Spirit of God (Romans 15: 19).

PHILIP: He was supernaturally transported to Azotus by the Spirit of the Lord after he ministered to the Ethiopian Eunuch (Acts 8:39-40).

The Spirit of God also helped Othniel to prevail against the Mesopotamian king, Cushan-Rishathaim (Judges 3:10); Gideon to defeat the Midianites with 300 men (Judges 7:7); Jephthat to overthrow the Ammonites (Judges 11:29, 32); and Samson to deal with the Philistines (Judges 15:14-15).

2. HIS DIVINE NATURE
There are certain attributes accorded the Spirit of God. These include:
CREATIVITY – the creative ability of God is released to people through His Spirit (Exodus 35:30-35).

INSPIRATION – The Spirit inspires and gives people understanding (Job 32:8; Daniel 4:8-9).

AUTHORITY – He is in total control of all situations (Ezekiel 37:14) and acts as a defence for the elect (Isaiah 59:19).

OMNISCIENCE – He is all-knowing and possesses all secrets (Psalm 139:7).
Omnipotence – He is all powerful and can facilitate what human power could not (Zechariah 4:6). The Spirit of God possesses emotion and can be grieved (Ephesians 4:30). It is however dangerous to be a victim of his anger (Isaiah 63:10).

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

QUESTIONS:
1. Mention five Bible characters helped by the Spirit of God.
2. Mention at least three divine natures of the Spirit of God.

FURTHER READINGS: SUN: Num.24:2; MON: 15am. 19:23; TUE: 1Cor 12:3; WED: Eph 2:22; THUR: Eph.4:30; FRI: 2Tim. 1:7; SAT: Heb. 9:14.

ASSIGNMENT: Mention 10 things you can achieve through the Spirit of God. (1X10=10 Marks

OPEN HEAVEN 4 SEPTEMBER 2024 MEMORISE: A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city: and their contentions are like the bars of a castle. Proverbs 18:19

OPEN HEAVEN 4 SEPTEMBER 2024 READ: Genesis 27:38-41:

³⁸ And Esau said unto his father, Hast thou but one blessing, my father? bless me, even me also, O my father. And Esau lifted up his voice, and wept.

³⁹ And Isaac his father answered and said unto him, Behold, thy dwelling shall be the fatness of the earth, and of the dew of heaven from above;

⁴⁰ And by thy sword shalt thou live, and shalt serve thy brother; and it shall come to pass when thou shalt have the dominion, that thou shalt break his yoke from off thy neck.

⁴¹ And Esau hated Jacob because of the blessing wherewith his father blessed him: and Esau said in his heart, The days of mourning for my father are at hand; then will I slay my brother Jacob.

OPEN HEAVEN 4 SEPTEMBER 2024 MESSAGE

Many Christians take people’s love and loyalty for granted. When a brother or sister in Christ loves you, be careful not to disappoint them because if you do, and the fellow is offended, they may never regain the love they had for you.

If someone is willing to make sacrifices for you, take that as a challenge for you to also make sacrifices for them.

When they are loyal to you, you must also be loyal to them. The closer someone is to you, the more careful you must be not to offend them.

Many ministers of God feel that because they are the head of a ministry, they can do whatever they like without caring about the people that love them.

For some, the moment they become popular, they begin to take those who started out with them for granted. Many sworn enemies today are people who were close friends yesterday.

There is an English proverb that says, “Make new friends and keep the old; one is silver, the other is gold.” Old friends are gold; they knew and loved you when you were nothing.

As years pass by, your new friends will also start turning to gold. You can keep making new friends but keep the old ones.

One thing that has helped us in RCCG is that everyone who laboured with us when we were still very small is honoured and appreciated.

This way, the younger ones see that if they work hard, they will not be neglected.

The worst enemy anyone can have is the enemy within his or her household. An enemy that goes in and out with someone is very dangerous.

Believers must be careful not to offend their brothers and turn them into enemies; they are likely to suffer greatly for it.

When you notice that there is something that may offend your brother, call him aside and discuss it with him.

Matthew 5:23-24 says that when you go to God with an offering, and you remember that a brother has something against you, you are to leave your offering there and seek to reconcile with that brother before you come back to give the offering.

Note that  the Bible does not say, “If you have something against the brother,” but, “If the brother has something against you.”

Don’t put a stumbling block between yourself and God.  The Bible says in Romans 12:18, “If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.”

As much as it may be in your power, live in peace with everyone around you.

OPEN HEAVEN 4 SEPTEMBER 2024 KEY POINT

A brother’s love is strong, but it must never be taken for granted.

OPEN HEAVEN 4 SEPTEMBER 2024 BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Ezekiel 36-38

A brother’s love is strong, but it must never be taken for granted.

OPEN HEAVEN 4 SEPTEMBER 2024 HYMN 11

I’VE FOUND A FRIEND IN JESUS