OPEN HEAVEN 17 MARCH 2024 MEMORIZE: The memory of the just is blessed: but the name of the wicked shall rot. Proverbs 10:7

OPEN HEAVEN 17 MARCH 2024 BIBLE READING Acts 9:36-42

³⁶ Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did.

³⁷ And it came to pass in those days, that she was sick, and died: whom when they had washed, they laid her in an upper chamber.

³⁸ And forasmuch as Lydda was nigh to Joppa, and the disciples had heard that Peter was there, they sent unto him two men, desiring him that he would not delay to come to them.

³⁹ Then Peter arose and went with them. When he was come, they brought him into the upper chamber: and all the widows stood by him weeping, and shewing the coats and garments which Dorcas made, while she was with them.

⁴⁰ But Peter put them all forth, and kneeled down, and prayed; and turning him to the body said, Tabitha, arise. And she opened her eyes: and when she saw Peter, she sat up.

⁴¹ And he gave her his hand, and lifted her up, and when he had called the saints and widows, presented her alive.

⁴² And it was known throughout all Joppa; and many believed in the Lord.

Rccg Sunday School Student’s Manual 17 March 2024

Rccg Sunday School Teacher’s Manual 17 March 2024

Rccg House Fellowship Member’s Manual 17 March 2024

Rccg House Fellowship Leaders’ Manual 17 March 2024

Rccg Yaya Sunday School Student’s Manual 17 March 2024

Rccg Yaya Sunday School Teacher’s Manual 17 March 2024

Open Heaven 16 March 2024

Open Heaven 18 March 2024

OPEN HEAVEN 17 MARCH 2024 MESSAGE

Knowing fully well that there is a time to be born and a time to die, we ought to be thankful to God for each day that He gives us life.

I, however, have a question I will like you to answer sincerely – what will people remember you for after you’ve left the earth?

Another question which I consider even more important than the initial one is, when your time is up on earth, what account will you give to God of how you spent your life?

Hebrews 9:27 says:
And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:

In other words, death is not the end of our existence, but rather a transition to another state.

One way our lives carry on after death is through the things we are remembered for.

There are those whose remembrance brings gladness and joy, while the remembrance of some others brings bitterness and sorrowful memories.

One woman who was remembered for good after she died was Dorcas.

She was one of the early believers in our Lord, and she lived a good life of service and righteousness.

This is the testimony of her life as written in Acts 9:36:
…this woman was full of good works and alms deeds which she did.

A lesson here for us is that our good works play a great role in showing our faith and commitment to God. Speaking on this, James 2:15-17 says:

If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit? Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.

The gospel of Jesus must find practical expression in your life through your good works; the testimony of the brethren concerning Dorcas confirms this.

She was so full of good works that the church found it difficult to accept her demise, and so, she was brought back to life.

Psalms 112:5-6 says:
A good man sheweth favour, and lendeth: he will guide his affairs with discretion. Surely he shall not be moved for ever: the righteous shall be in everlasting remembrance.

Beloved, what good deeds will people remember you for? Think about this and remember the words of today’s memory verse.

OPEN HEAVEN 17 MARCH 2024 KEY POINTS

Seize every opportunity that God brings your way to do good to all men.

 

OPEN HEAVEN 17 MARCH 2024 HYMN

RCCG HYMN 16: PRAISE HIM, PRAISE HIM, JESUS OUR BLESSED REDEEMER

1 Praise him, praise him! Jesus, our blessed redeemer!
Sing, O earth, his wonderful love proclaim!
Hail him, hail him! Highest archangels in glory!
Strength and honour give to his holy name!
Like a shepherd, Jesus will guard his children.
In his arms he carries them all day long.
O ye saints that dwell on the mountain of His Zion,
Praise him! Praise him! ever in  joyful song.

² Praise him, praise him! Jesus, our blessed redeemer!
For our sins, he suffered, and bled, and died.
He our rock, our hope of eternal salvation,
Hail him, Hail him! Jesus, the crucified;
Loving Saviour, meekly enduring sorrow,
Crowned with thorns that cruelly pierced His brow;
Once for us rejected, despised, and forsaken,
Prince of Glory, ever triumphant now.

³ Praise him, praise him! Jesus, our blessed redeemer!
Heav’nly portals loud with hosannas ring!
Jesus, Savior, reigneth forever and ever!
Crown him, crown him! prophet, and priest, and king!
Death is vanquished! Tell it with joy, ye faithful,
Where is now thy victory, boasting grave?
Jesus lives! No longer thy portals are cheerless;
Jesus lives, the mighty and strong to save.

OPEN HEAVEN 17 MARCH 2024 BIBLE READING IN ONE YEAR: Judges 14-16

AUTHORS: PASTOR E.A ADEBOYE
PASTOR MRS FOLU ADEBOYE

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 16 MARCH 2024: Set your affections on things above, not on things on earth. Colossians 3:2

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 16 MARCH 2024 READ Colossians 3:1-4

Prayer Points For Open Heavens 6 March 2024

Powerful Declarations For Today 6 March 2024

Open Heaven 6 March 2024

Open Heaven 7 March 2024

Open Heaven 8 March 2024

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 16 MARCH 2024 MESSAGE

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 16 MARCH 2024 REFKECTION

What is your focus as a Christian?

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 16 MARCH 2024 HYMN 12 –  MY ALLNEARER, MY GOD TO THEE

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 16 MARCH 2024 BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Numbers 6:1-7:89 Mark 12:38-13:13

AUTHORS: PASTOR E. A ADEBOYE
PASTOR MRS FOLU ADEBOYE

LESSON TWENTY NINE (29)
TOPIC: CHRISTIANITY AND GOVERNANCE

*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 friend 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 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: O Lord, we pray for believers in all nations to arise and turn a new attitude to governance in the name of Jesus.

BIBLE PASSAGE: Romans 13:1-6
[1]Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.
[2]Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation.
[3]For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same:
[4]For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil.
[5]Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake.
[6]For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God’s ministers, attending continually upon this very thing.

MEMORY VERSE: And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth. Revelation 5:10.

INTRODUCTION: The opinion held by some Christians that if they are going to follow Christ, they must be quiet and withdrawn from things happening on the earth, negates the will of God as spelled out in the Scripture. Christ has called believers unto a life of influence, control, and dominion (Psalms 8:6). They are to take charge (Matthew 5:15-16) and the issue of governance is no exception. As the light of the world, they are to dispel the darkness of unrighteousness, sycophancy, etc. which are the order of the day, in present-day governance systems of the world.

TEXT REVIEW: Romans 13:1-6.
Some directives are given to the governed in the above passage. Identify any five of them.
i ……………………………
ii. …….……………………
iii. …..……………………
iv. ……..…………………
v. …………….……………

LESSON AIM: To study the view of God on governance and why Christians should be involved.

TEACHING OBJECTIVES: Through the lesson, students should be able to:
a. Discover God’s position on human government.
b. Discover the benefits of believers getting involved in governance.

TEACHING PLAN: To attain the above-stated objectives, the teacher should:
a. Allow students to review the previous week’s lesson. They should also be allowed to contribute to the discussion as highlighted in the lesson; they should submit their assignments to the Assistant Teacher for assessment.
b. Allow the Assistant Teacher to conduct the class and guide the discussions. The Assistant Teacher should also mark the attendance and the assignment.
c. Teach the lesson outline, guide the discussions, summarize, conclude, evaluate the lesson, and give an assignment.

OUTLINES:
1.THE VIEW OF GOD ON GOVERNANCE
The students should be made to know that:
i. God instituted governance. It is not a secular concept or people’s creation.
ii. God is the ultimate “Governor” who delegates the function to humans (Psalm 22:28; Daniel 4:34).
iii. It is one of the purposes for which the spirit-being called ‘man’ was created (Genesis 1:26).
iv. It is a calling and manifestation of the gift of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 12:28).
v. It is a tool for orderliness and sanity (1 Corinthians 14:40; Exodus 18:21).
vi. It is instituted by God for administration, justice, and general welfare of citizens (1Timothy 2:2).
vii. Like marriage, it is instituted by God and should be submitted to (Mark 12:17; Romans 13:1-2).
viii. Governance is servanthood. It is a means of serving the governed (Matthew 20:25-28).
ix. Governance is a ministry and governors are ministers of God (Romans 13:3-4).

CLASS ACTIVITY 1: What do you think government can do to deliver more services to the citizens?

2. CHRISTIANS SHOULD BE INVOLVED IN GOVERNANCE
Christians need to be involved in governance because:
1. It is part of our inherent design as believers (Genesis 1:26; Matthew 5:15-16).
2. We are to effect positive and lasting change (Genesis 41:46-49; 53-57).
3. It stands out the nation among other nations (Proverbs 14:34).
4. We shall make righteous laws and decrees that lead to national progress (Mark 6:27; Luke 2:1).
5. It is obeying God’s ordinance of submission to authority (Hebrews 13:17, 1 Peter 2:13-14).
6. It brings blessings and breakthroughs to the nation and fulfilment for her citizenry (Proverbs 11:10).
7. Governance is God’s institution and the word of God. So, people of God should not be kept out of God’s institution (Romans 13:1-6).
8. We must avoid paying the costly price of bad leadership (2 Samuel 23:3).

CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Mention the dangers of not participating in politics.

CONCLUSION: Believers should take their rightful place in deciding the destiny of their nations and turn the kingdom of this world into the kingdom of our God which is God’s divine mandate for us.

QUESTIONS:
* What is God’s view on governance?
* Mention five (5) reasons Christians should be involved in governance.

EVALUATION:
i. What are the views of God on governance?
ii. Why should Christians be involved?

CLOSING PRAYER: God, please guide our leaders right and help the citizens to obey and respect the laws of the land.

ASSIGNMENT: Mention any five (5) issues that discourage some believers from getting involved in governance. (2X5=10 Marks).

LESSON TWENTY NINE (29)
TOPIC: CHRISTIANITY AND GOVERNANCE

*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 friend 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 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?

BIBLE PASSAGE: Romans 13:1-6.
[1]Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.
[2]Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation.
[3]For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same:
[4]For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil.
[5]Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake.
[6]For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God’s ministers, attending continually upon this very thing.

MEMORY VERSE: And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth. Revelation 5:10.

INTRODUCTION: The opinion held by some Christians that if they are going to follow Christ, they must be quiet and withdrawn from things happening on the earth, negates the will of God as spelled out in the Scripture. Christ has called believers unto a life of influence, control, and dominion (Psalms 8:6). They are to take charge (Matthew 5:15-16) and the issue of governance is no exception. As the light of the world, they are to dispel the darkness of unrighteousness, sycophancy, etc. which are the order of the day, in present-day governance systems of the world.

OUTLINES:
1. THE VIEW OF GOD ON GOVERNANCE
2. CHRISTIANS SHOULD BE INVOLVED IN GOVERNANCE

1. THE VIEW OF GOD ON GOVERNANCE
God instituted governance. It is not a secular concept or people’s creation. God is the ultimate “Governor” who delegates the function to humans (Psalms 22:28; Daniel 4:34). It is one of the purposes for which the spirit-being called ‘man’ was created (Genesis 1:26). It is a calling and manifestation of the gift of the Holy Spirit (1Corinthians 12:28). It is a tool for orderliness and sanity (1Corinthians 14:40; Exodus 18:21). It is instituted by God for administration, justice and general welfare of citizens (1Timothy 2:2). Like marriage, it is instituted by God and should be submitted to (Mark.12:17; Romans 13:1-2). Governance is servanthood. It is a means of serving the governed (Matthew 20:25-28). Governance is a ministry and governors are ministers of God (Romans 13:3-4).

CLASS ACTIVITY 1: What do you think government can do to deliver more services to the citizens?

2. CHRISTIANS SHOULD BE INVOLVED IN GOVERNANCE
Christians need to be involved in governance because:
1. It is part of our inherent design as believers (Genesis 1:26; Matthew 5:15-16).
2. We are to effect positive and lasting change (Genesis 41:46-49; 53-57).
3. It stands out the nation among other nations (Proverbs 14:34).
4. We shall make righteous laws and decrees that lead to national progress (Mark.6:27; Luke. 2:1).
5. It is obeying God’s ordinance of submission to authority (Hebrews 13:17, 1 Peter 2:13-14).
6. It brings blessings and breakthroughsto the nation and fulfilment for her citizenry (Proverbs 11:10).
7. Governance is God’s institution and the word of God. So, people of God should not be kept out of God’s institution (Romans 13:1-6).
8. We must avoid paying the costly price of bad leadership (2 Samuel 23:3).

CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Mention the dangers of not participating in politics.

CONCLUSION: Believers should take their rightful place in deciding the destiny of their nations and turn the kingdom of this world into the kingdom of our God which is God’s divine mandate for us.

QUESTIONS:
* What is God’s view on governance?
* Mention five (5) reasons Christians should be involved in governance.

ASSIGNMENT: Mention any five (5) issues that discourage some believers from getting involved in governance. (2X5=10 Marks).

LESSON TWENTY NINE(29)
TOPIC: HE IS ABLE

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, beyond our expectations, please do exceedingly mighty works in our lives in Jesus name.

PREVIOUS KNOWLEDGE: Leader should ask three members to explain what they understand as; seed, sower and the ground as per the last lesson, respectively

MEMORY VERSE: “Now onto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think according to the power that worketh in us” Ephesians 3:20

BIBLE TEXT: Exodus 19:4
Ye have seen what I did unto the Egyptians, and how I bare you on eagles’ wings, and brought you unto myself.

LESSON INTRODUCTION: God has the ability to do what no man can do for He alone has the mighty power to do a miraculous work out of His abundance and strength. “For with God nothing shall be impossible” – Luke 1:37 and nothing is too hard for Him to do – Jere. 32:17

LESSON AIM: To inspire members of divine ability that can bring miracles desired.

TEACHING OBJECTIVES: At the end of the lesson, members should be able to know:
– that God is able to save to the uttermost
– the God is able to do exceedingly

Text Review: Exodus 19:4
a. The Israelites so what God did to the Egyptians
b. How He bore them on Eagle’s wings
c. He brought the Israelites to Himself

LESSON OUTLINE ONE
HE IS ABLE TO SAVE TO THE UTTERMOST
1. He is able to deliver-I Corinthians 10:13; Luke 18:9-14.
ii. He is able to keep from stumbling or falling-Jude 24.
iii. He is able to save from death-Hebrews 5:7
iv. He is able to subdue all things-Philippians 3:21.
v. He is able to comfort and help His own-Heb. 2:18; Psalms 37:5.
vi. He is able to save completely-Hebrews 7:25.

LESSON OUTLINE TWO
HE IS ABLE TO DO EXCEEDING ABUNDANTLY i. i. His grace flows super abundantly and beyond measure-I Tim. 1:14.
ii. He can give considerably more than what you expect/anticipate – Eph.3:20.
iii. He can promote/take to a height that can never be imagined-I Sam. 9:15-21.
iv. He can open sources of supply in unimaginable quantities and ways – II Kings 4:1-7. Phil. 4:19.
v. He has promised to give us a life far better that we could imagine-1 Cor. 2:9.

ACTIVITY: What are some examples of God’s performances beyond human expectations?

SUMMARY: Able God. There is no impossibility with Him.

CONCLUSION: Our God by His mighty power within us is able to do far more than we could ever dare to ask or even dream of. We must therefore keep and strengthen our faith in Him and hang on to the very end.

PRAYER POINTS
1. Father, please do the impossible in our homes, parishes and centres.
2. Lord, arise and save Your church all over the world completely from every troubler of peace and progress.
3. Father, let Your grace flow abundantly beyond measure in order to bring Your purpose, plans and promises to fulfilment in our lives.
4. Let every siege over Your agenda for our lives be removed by fire.
5. Personal request

GOLDEN DIET FOR THE WEEK
MONDAY: Genesis 18:14. Jeremiah 32:17. TUESDAY: Isaiah 59:1-2.
WEDNESDAY: Romans 8:32
THURSDAY: Ecclesiastes 3:11.
FRIDAY: Isaiah 43:1-4.
SATURDAY: Romans 8:28.
SUNDAY: 1 John 3:8.

LESSON TWENTY NINE(29)
TOPIC: HE IS ABLE

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.

MEMORY VERSE: “Now onto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think according to the power that worketh in us” Ephesians 3:20

BIBLE TEXT: Exodus 19:4
Ye have seen what I did unto the Egyptians, and how I bare you on eagles’ wings, and brought you unto myself.

LESSON INTRODUCTION: God has the ability to do what no man can do for He alone has the mighty power to do a miraculous work out of His abundance and strength. “For with God nothing shall be impossible” – Luke 1:37 and nothing is too hard for Him to do – Jere. 32:17

LESSON AIM: To inspire members of divine ability that can bring miracles desired.

LESSON OUTLINE ONE
HE IS ABLE TO SAVE TO THE UTTERMOST
1. He is able to deliver-I Corinthians 10:13; Luke 18:9-14.
ii. He is able to keep from stumbling or falling-Jude 24.
iii. He is able to save from death-Hebrews 5:7
iv. He is able to subdue all things-Philippians 3:21.
v. He is able to comfort and help His own-Heb. 2:18; Psalms 37:5.
vi. He is able to save completely-Hebrews 7:25.

LESSON OUTLINE TWO
HE IS ABLE TO DO EXCEEDING ABUNDANTLY i. i. His grace flows super abundantly and beyond measure-I Tim. 1:14.
ii. He can give considerably more than what you expect/anticipate – Eph.3:20.
iii. He can promote/take to a height that can never be imagined-I Sam. 9:15-21.
iv. He can open sources of supply in unimaginable quantities and ways – II Kings 4:1-7. Phil. 4:19.
v. He has promised to give us a life far better that we could imagine-1 Cor. 2:9.

ACTIVITY: What are some examples of God’s performances beyond human expectations?

SUMMARY: Able God. There is no impossibility with Him.

CONCLUSION: Our God by His mighty power within us is able to do far more than we could ever dare to ask or even dream of. We must therefore keep and strengthen our faith in Him and hang on to the very end.

PRAYER POINTS
1. Father, please do the impossible in our homes, parishes and centres.
2. Lord, arise and save Your church all over the world completely from every troubler of peace and progress.
3. Father, let Your grace flow abundantly beyond measure in order to bring Your purpose, plans and promises to fulfilment in our lives.
4. Let every siege over Your agenda for our lives be removed by fire.
5. Personal request

GOLDEN DIET FOR THE WEEK
MONDAY: Genesis 18:14. Jeremiah 32:17. TUESDAY: Isaiah 59:1-2.
WEDNESDAY: Romans 8:32
THURSDAY: Ecclesiastes 3:11.
FRIDAY: Isaiah 43:1-4.
SATURDAY: Romans 8:28.
SUNDAY: 1 John 3:8.

LESSON TWENTY NINE (29)
TOPIC: NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

*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 friend 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 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: Dear Lord, let my generation glorify You through my life of active service.

BIBLE PASSAGE: Nehemiah 2:1-8 (NKJV)
[1]And it came to pass in the month of Nisan, in the twentieth year of King Artaxerxes, when wine was before him, that I took the wine and gave it to the king. Now I had never been sad in his presence before.
[2]Therefore the king said to me, “Why is your face sad, since you are not sick? This is nothing but sorrow of heart.” So I became dreadfully afraid,
[3]and said to the king, “May the king live forever! Why should my face not be sad, when the city, the place of my fathers’ tombs, lies waste, and its gates are burned with fire?”
[4]Then the king said to me, “What do you request?” So I prayed to the God of heaven.
[5]And I said to the king, “If it pleases the king, and if your servant has found favor in your sight, I ask that you send me to Judah, to the city of my fathers’ tombs, that I may rebuild it.”
[6]Then the king said to me (the queen also sitting beside him), “How long will your journey be? And when will you return?” So it pleased the king to send me; and I set him a time.
[7]Furthermore I said to the king, “If it pleases the king, let letters be given to me for the governors of the region beyond the River, that they must permit me to pass through till I come to Judah,
[8]and a letter to Asaph the keeper of the king’s forest, that he must give me timber to make beams for the gates of the citadel which pertains to the temple, for the city wall, and for the house that I will occupy.” And the king granted them to me according to the good hand of my God upon me.

MEMORY VERSE: “And I said to the king, “If it pleases the king, and if your servant has found favour in your sight, I ask that you send me to Judah, to the city of my fathers’ tombs, that I may rebuild it.” Nehemiah 2:4 (NKJV).

INTRODUCTION: National development is simply an approach that entails the process of progressive growth in a diverse and specified direction of a group of historically constituted, stable community of people. The nation and its development is a major concern to God, hence, He works through an individual or group of people as building blocks for any nation to develop. The quality of the people is indeed the quality of the nation.

LESSON AIM: To learn how believers could be part of national development.

TEACHING OBJECTIVES: Through this lesson, the students should be able to:
1. Understand the concept of national development.
2. State some principles for the making of nations.
3. Identify clear steps to national development.

TEXT REVIEW: Nehemiah 2:1-8.
Nehemiah was a great leader and committed servant who had a burden for his nation which was beyond his personal need; he was passionate about rebuilding the walls of his country. Through his burden, he was able to:
1. Prayerfully ………………………….vs 4-5.
2. Secure .………….……………………v6.
3. Additional …….……………………v7.
4. Nehemiah separated his personal need from his national need. These two are different. He also acknowledged that all his requests were granted because ………………………v8.

OUTLINES:
1. THE MAKING OF A NATION
2. STEPS TO NATION BUILDING

1. THE MAKING OF A NATION
A. God is mindful of nations and their development (Genesis 17:5-6).
B. His concern is such that He wants to make individuals become nations and at the same time influence nations even with His gospel (Matthew 28:19; Micah 4:1-2).
C. The making of a nation, therefore, entails some principles which include:
1. The principle of Indoctrination (Daniel 1:3-8): To indoctrinate simply means to introduce someone to a kind of attitude. This is a principle adopted by the Babylonian king in order to align her citizens into their thought patterns. By so doing, there is a continuation of what the nation stands and lives for (Nehemiah 8:8).
2. The Principle of rightful positioning (Daniel 6:1-3): This simply entails positioning individuals who are knowledgeable and skilful in the various sectors of nation-building (Genesis 41:39-43).
3. The Principle of collective effort (Genesis 11:1-6): This principle focuses on joint efforts of people with a common outlook – in the direction of common growth and development. Everyone contributes positively in the right direction.
4. The Principle of preservation (Genesis 41:48): This focuses on resource management and distribution.

CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Students should discuss their views on the current state of their nation.

2. STEPS TO NATION BUILDING
A. God’s build-up in the life of an individual is always beyond that individual.
B. His aim, however, is to bring nations out of the person or give him/her power over nations (Genesis 17:5; Revelation 2:26).
C. We are very instrumental in the hands of God in the development of nations. This development entails us knowing that our identity is beyond the “Me syndrome” but that of a nation, and thus we are to have a mentality that is induced with nation development (1 Peter 2:9).
There are steps individuals and groups must take to aid national development. These include:
1. Being born again: This put you at an advantage because of your oneness with God’s thoughts and ways (1 Peter 1:23).
2. Allowing the word of God indoctrinate us (Romans 12:2).
3. Partnering with the Spirit of God in the finding and fulfilment of our purpose (Nehemiah 2:3-5).
4. Learning valuable skills in line with what you have discovered as your sphere of influence (Daniel 1:3-4).
5. Being productive and getting involved in projects of national interest and recognition.
6. Being politically informed. Avoid being a political novice as politics control major decisions in every nation (Daniel 6:3).
7. Reaching out to people in our sphere with the reality of the gospel of Christ (Romans 1:16).

CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Students should discuss the practical things they would do to effect positive changes in their nation.

CONCLUSION: The quality of the people indicates the quality of the Nation; therefore, building people inevitably builds the nation. Let our hands be strengthened to build.

EVALUATION: What is national development? 2. Mention two principles that the making of a nation entails.

CLOSING PRAYER: Dear Father, please give me the grace to make an impact in my generation.

ASSIGNMENT: Mention five (5) things you can do to contribute to your nation’s development (2×5=10 Marks).

LESSON TWENTY NINE (29)
TOPIC: NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

*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 friend 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 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?

BIBLE PASSAGE: Nehemiah 2:1-8 (NKJV)
[1]And it came to pass in the month of Nisan, in the twentieth year of King Artaxerxes, when wine was before him, that I took the wine and gave it to the king. Now I had never been sad in his presence before.
[2]Therefore the king said to me, “Why is your face sad, since you are not sick? This is nothing but sorrow of heart.” So I became dreadfully afraid,
[3]and said to the king, “May the king live forever! Why should my face not be sad, when the city, the place of my fathers’ tombs, lies waste, and its gates are burned with fire?”
[4]Then the king said to me, “What do you request?” So I prayed to the God of heaven.
[5]And I said to the king, “If it pleases the king, and if your servant has found favor in your sight, I ask that you send me to Judah, to the city of my fathers’ tombs, that I may rebuild it.”
[6]Then the king said to me (the queen also sitting beside him), “How long will your journey be? And when will you return?” So it pleased the king to send me; and I set him a time.
[7]Furthermore I said to the king, “If it pleases the king, let letters be given to me for the governors of the region beyond the River, that they must permit me to pass through till I come to Judah,
[8]and a letter to Asaph the keeper of the king’s forest, that he must give me timber to make beams for the gates of the citadel which pertains to the temple, for the city wall, and for the house that I will occupy.” And the king granted them to me according to the good hand of my God upon me.

MEMORY VERSE: “And I said to the king, “If it pleases the king, and if your servant has found favour in your sight, I ask that you send me to Judah, to the city of my fathers’ tombs, that I may rebuild it.” Nehemiah 2:4 (NKJV).

INTRODUCTION: National development is simply an approach that entails the process of progressive growth in a diverse and specified direction of a group of historically constituted, stable community of people. The nation and its development is a major concern to God, hence, He works through an individual or group of people as building blocks for any nation to develop. The quality of the people is indeed the quality of the nation.

OUTLINES:
1. THE MAKING OF A NATION
2. STEPS TO NATION BUILDING

1. THE MAKING OF A NATION
God is mindful of nations and their development (Genesis 17:5-6). His concern is such that He wants to make individuals become nations and at the same time influence nations even with His gospel (Matthew 28:19; Micah 4:1-2). The making of a nation, therefore, entails some principles which include:
1. The principle of Indoctrination (Daniel 1:3-8): To indoctrinate simply means to introduce someone to a kind of attitude. This is a principle adopted by the Babylonian king in order to align her citizens into their thought patterns. By so doing, there is a continuation of what the nation stands and lives for (Nehemiah 8:8).
2. The Principle of rightful positioning (Daniel 6:1-3): This simply entails positioning individuals who are knowledgeable and skilful in the various sectors of nation-building (Genesis 41:39-43).
3. The Principle of collective effort (Genesis 11:1-6): This principle focuses on joint efforts of people with a common outlook – in the direction of common growth and development. Everyone contributes positively in the right direction.
4. The Principle of preservation (Genesis 41:48): This focuses on resource management and distribution.

CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Students should discuss their views on the current state of their nation.

2. STEPS TO NATION BUILDING
God’s build-up in the life of an individual is always beyond that individual. His aim, however, is to bring nations out of the person or give him/her power over nations (Genesis 17:5; Revelation 2:26). Thus we are very instrumental in the hands of God in the development of nations. This development entails us knowing that our identity is beyond the “Me syndrome” but that of a nation, and thus we are to have a mentality that is induced with nation development (1 Peter 2:9).
There are steps individuals and groups must take to aid national development. These include:
1. Being born again: This put you at an advantage because of your oneness with God’s thoughts and ways (1 Peter 1:23).
2. Allowing the word of God indoctrinate us (Romans 12:2).
3. Partnering with the Spirit of God in the finding and fulfilment of our purpose (Nehemiah 2:3-5).
4. Learning valuable skills in line with what you have discovered as your sphere of influence (Daniel 1:3-4).
5. Being productive and getting involved in projects of national interest and recognition.
6. Being politically informed. Avoid being a political novice as politics control major decisions in every nation (Daniel 6:3).
7. Reaching out to people in our sphere with the reality of the gospel of Christ (Romans 1:16).

CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Students should discuss the practical things they would do to effect positive changes in their nation.

CONCLUSION: The quality of the people indicates the quality of the Nation; therefore, building people inevitably builds the nation. Let our hands be strengthened to build.

QUESTIONS:
* What is national development?
* Mention two principles that the making of a nation entails.

FURTHER READING: SUN: 1 Cor. 6:3. MON: 1 Peter 1:14. TUES: 1Thess. 4:3. WED: Eph. 1:18. THURS: 1 John 2:15. FRI: Col. 3:10. SAT: Matt. 19:28.

ASSIGNMENT: Mention five (5) things you can do to contribute to your nation’s development (2×5=10 Marks).

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 15 MARCH 2024 MEMORISE: The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure. 1 Corinthians 10:13

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 15 MARCH 2024 READ: James‬ ‭2:10‭-‬13‬ 

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 15 MARCH 2024 MESSAGE

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 15 MARCH 2024 PRAYER POINT

Father, have mercy on me; give me grace to overcome every temptation in Jesus’ name.

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 15 MARCH 2024 HYMN 14 – STANDING ON THE PROMISES OF GOD

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 15 MARCH 2024 BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Numbers 22:21-23:30 Luke 1:57-80

AUTHORS: PASTOR E. A ADEBOYE
PASTOR MRS FOLU ADEBOYE

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 14 MARCH 2024 MEMORISE: For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it. because it will surely come, it will not tarry. Habakkuk 2:3

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 14 MARCH 2024 READ: 1 SAMUEL 13:7-14

[7]And some of the Hebrews went over Jordan to the land of Gad and Gilead. As for Saul, he was yet in Gilgal, and all the people followed him trembling.

[8]And he tarried seven days, according to the set time that Samuel had appointed: but Samuel came not to Gilgal; and the people were scattered from him.

[9]And Saul said, Bring hither a burnt offering to me, and peace offerings. And he offered the burnt offering.

[10]And it came to pass, that as soon as he had made an end of offering the burnt offering, behold, Samuel came; and Saul went out to meet him, that he might salute him.

[11]And Samuel said, What hast thou done? And Saul said, Because I saw that the people were scattered from me, and that thou camest not within the days appointed, and that the Philistines gathered themselves together at Michmash;

[12]Therefore said I, The Philistines will come down now upon me to Gilgal, and I have not made supplication unto the LORD: I forced myself therefore, and offered a burnt offering.

[13]And Samuel said to Saul, Thou hast done foolishly: thou hast not kept the commandment of the LORD thy God, which he commanded thee: for now would the LORD have established thy kingdom upon Israel for ever.

[14]But now thy kingdom shall not continue: the LORD hath sought him a man after his own heart, and the LORD hath commanded him to be captain over his people, because thou hast not kept that which the LORD commanded thee.

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 14 MARCH 2024 MESSAGE

There is always something we desire, and sometimes, we have to wait a little before we get it.

A secondary student waits to graduate, gain admission into a prestigious University, then get a dream job, and so on.

However, a peculiar thing about all the waiting periods is that the student hopes that someday, his or her dreams will come true.

There are three major things you should do as a Christian while you wait: keep asking, and don’t stop asking till your joy is full. Daniel prayed until he got answers.

Even when the Prince of Persia blocked his prayers from being answered, he didn’t stop praying (Daniel 10:12-13).

Also, don’t be idle while waiting for the manifestation of your request. Remember, the idle hand is the devil’s workshop; get busy.

For instance, while waiting for admission into a higher institution, learn a skill, get a certification, or do anything else that is productive.

Finally, never go back to the world even if you don’t eventually get answers.

Don’t look for alternatives to get your requests granted. Keep trusting in God.

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 14 MARCH 2024 PRAYER POINT

Remind God of the promises yet to be fulfilled in your life and pray about them fervently today.

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 14 MARCH 2024 HYMN 14 – 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 can-not fail,
When the howling storms of doubt and fear assail
By the living word of Go 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 HEAVENS FOR TEENS 14 MARCH 2024 BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Numbers 21:1-22:20 Luke 1:26-56

AUTHORS: PASTOR E. A ADEBOYE
PASTOR MRS FOLU ADEBOYE