We start these prayers and declarations in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. The grace to keep improving rests upon us all, in the mighty name of Jesus

Daily Confession: I confess today that my words are filled with love, wisdom, and encouragement. I speak the truth in love, building up those around me. My words bring peace, guidance, and hope, and I always consider their impact on others, in Jesus’ name

Open Heaven For Teens 25 September 2023

Open Heaven 25 September 2023

Prayer Points:

Father, please grant me wisdom and discernment to speak the truth in love, correcting, rebuking, or commending others as needed, just as Your Word instructs (Ephesians 4:15), in Jesus’ name

Father, please help me to be a source of encouragement and hope with my words, bringing peace to troubled hearts and providing guidance to those who are lost, in the mighty name of Jesus

Father, please guard my tongue and grant me self-control so that I may not utter words that could harm or discourage others but instead edify and build them up (Proverbs 15:4), in the mighty name of Jesus

Father, help me always to remember the power of my words and the impact they can have on someone’s faith and well-being. May I choose my words carefully, considering their effect on others, in the mighty name of Jesus

Father, please grant me the grace to empathize with others, to see through their eyes, and to withhold words that I would not accept in good faith if spoken to me, in Jesus’ name

Father, I ask for Your provision and divine protection over my life and household, in the mighty name of Jesus

Father, thank You for the gift of Daddy E. A. Adeboye and Mummy to us, grant them their heart desires and deliver them from all evil, in the mighty name of Jesus

Declarations:

I decree and declare that my words are seasoned with love and wisdom, and I speak the truth to others, aiming to build up and not tear down in Jesus’ name

I declare that I am a vessel of peace, and my words bring comfort and guidance to those in need, dispelling confusion and despair, in Jesus’ name

I decree and declare that I have control over my tongue, and I use it to speak life and encouragement to those around me, in line with Proverbs 15:4, in Jesus’ name

I declare that my words are a source of inspiration and hope, uplifting the faith of others and helping them grow spiritually, in Jesus’ name

I decree and declare that I always consider the impact of my words on others, empathizing with their feelings and refraining from hurtful speech, in Jesus’ name

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 5 SEPTEMBER 2023 MEMORIZE: But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: Ephesians 4:15

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 25 SEPTEMBER 2023 BIBLE READING COLOSSIANS 4:5-6

[5]Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.

[6]Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 25 SEPTEMBER 2023 MESSAGE

We live in an age where “speaking your mind” is seen as a sign of having confidence and good self-esteem, but when you speak rashly or abusively, you are not exhibiting the trait of your Heavenly Father.

Rather than be spiritually immature, you are to speak the truth to everyone in love, whether to correct, rebuke or commend them.

Many erring young believers have deviated from the faith because other believers, who should correct them in love, condemned them to destruction by their words. Little wonder why the rate of depression and suicide keeps increasing.

As a Christian teenager, your words should be such that will bring peace to the troubled heart and direction to a confused soul, and not words that would cause someone to backslide,

Beloved, whenever you want to speak, especially to address a bad situation or correct a fellow’s mistake, first put yourself in their shoes to know if you would accept your own words in good faith. If not, please don’t say it. Don’t add pepper to injury.

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 25 SEPTEMBER 2023 ACTION POINT

Ask for forgiveness if your words or actions have made anyone backslide or vow never to be a Christian.

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 25 SEPTEMBER 2023 HYMN

HYMN 5 – TAKE MY LIFE AND LET IT BE

1. Take my life and let it
Consecrated Lord to Thee
Take my moment and my days
Let them flow ceaseless praise.

2. Take my hands and let them move
At the impulse of Thy love
Take my feet and let them be
Swift and beautiful for thee

3. Take my voice and let me sing
Always only for my king;
Take my lips and let them be
Filled with messages from Thee.

4. Take my sliver and my gold
Not a mite would I withhold
Take my intellect, and use
Every power as thou shalt choose.

5. Take my will and make it Thine,
It shall no longer mine:
Take my heart, it is Thine own;
It shall be Thy royal throne,

6. Take my love, my Lord, I pour
At Thy feet its treasure store;
Take myself, and I will be
Ever, only, all for thee

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 25 SEPTEMBER 2023 BIBLE READING IN ONE YEAR: HABAKKUK 1-3

AUTHORS: PASTOR E.A ADEBOYE
PASTOR MRS FOLU ADEBOYE

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 24 SEPTEMBER 2023 MEMORIZE: Not slothful in business: fervent in spirit: serving the Lord: Romans 12:11

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 24 SEPTEMBER 2023 BIBLE READING Hebrews 10:25

Daily Confession: I confess today that In Jesus’ name, I confess that I am devoted to the things of God, bringing glory to God’s name, in the mighty name of Jesus. Hallelujah!

Open Heaven 24 September 2023 Sunday

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 24 SEPTEMBER 2023 MESSAGE

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 24 SEPTEMBER 2023 ACTION POINT

No one stands alone and succeeds: you need to be constantly in touch with fellow believers.

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 24 SEPTEMBER 2023 HYMN

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 24 SEPTEMBER 2023 BIBLE READING IN ONE YEAR: Nahum 1-3

AUTHORS: PASTOR E.A ADEBOYE
PASTOR MRS FOLU ADEBOYE

OPEN HEAVEN 25 SEPTEMBER 2023 MEMORIZE: Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. John 14:27

OPEN HEAVEN 25 SEPTEMBER 2023 BIBLE READING ISAIAH 66:12-14

12 For thus saith the Lord, Behold, I will extend peace to her like a river, and the glory of the Gentiles like a flowing stream: then shall ye suck, ye shall be borne upon her sides, and be dandled upon her knees.

13 As one whom his mother comforteth, so will I comfort you; and ye shall be comforted in Jerusalem.

14 And when ye see this, your heart shall rejoice, and your bones shall flourish like an herb: and the hand of the Lord shall be known toward his servants, and his indignation toward his enemies.

OPEN HEAVEN 25 SEPTEMBER 2023 MESSAGE

Since your Daddy is called the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6), you must start behaving like a child of the Prince of Peace.

In our Bible reading today, He promised you peace like a river. If you have been finding it difficult to sleep, remember Psalm 127:2, where He said He gives His beloved sleep.

When I became General Overseer, we had 39 parishes, but there were so many problems. I was always so worried about the work of God and though I was just 40 years old, my hair had started to turn grey.

I asked God, “Lord, why?” and He said, “You are carrying a burden that is not yours.

You cannot share My glory. If you cannot share My glory, you cannot share My burden; let me carry My burden”.

Right there and then, I stopped worrying, and my hair gradually turned black again. If the devil has seized your peace, you need to claim it back.

James 4:7 says you should resist the devil and he will flee from you. At times you need to fight to get that peace.

Initially, when you start resisting the devil, he will act as if he wants to fight, but when he realises that you are not going to back down, he will flee.

When I was very young, I was very small in stature and there was a bully in my primary school.

He knew I couldn’t defeat him in a fight, so he always tormented me. He tortured me at every opportunity.

One day, something moved inside of me. I just decided, “I’m going to fight this boy. I know I can’t beat him because he is too big, but we will fight until he kills me, and then the government will kill him, so that it will be a draw”.

The next time he came to torment me, I said, “Don’t touch me”. Shocked, he said, “You spoke?” and hit me. I hit him too and He knocked me down. I got up and hit him again.

He Knocked me down several times but I Kept getting up. After a while, he must have thought, “This boy wants to die”, so he ran away and I chased after him.

The bully was now running from me because I refused to back down. From that day on, I had peace.

Your Saviour is the Prince of Peace and He has already given you His peace (John 14:27). Claim it today and it shall be yours in Jesus’ name.

OPEN HEAVEN 25 SEPTEMBER 2023 KEY POINT

Sometimes you have to fight for your peace. Resist the devil in prayers and he will leave you alone.

OPEN HEAVEN 25 SEPTEMBER 2023 HYMN

OPEN HEAVEN 25 SEPTEMBER 2023 BIBLE READING IN ONE YEAR: HABAKKUK 1-3

AUTHORS: PASTOR E.A ADEBOYE
PASTOR MRS FOLU ADEBOYE

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 23 SEPTEMBER 2023 MEMORIZE: Let brotherly love continue. Hebrews 13:1

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 23 SEPTEMBER 2023 BIBLE READING EXODUS 20:17

[17]Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour’s house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbour’s wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbour’s.

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 23 SEPTEMBER 2023 MESSAGE

Whenever there are two or more individuals in a group, family or community, rivalry is likely to
develop.

It shares characteristics with jealousy and covetousness and has no basis in love. So, the first thing to note is that rivalry is not a fruit of the Spirit; anyone who engages in it is not a true child of God.

Some signs to know if you have this trait in you include: reacting to other people’s successes with disdain or resentment, and being envious of what others have achieved.

When you start feeling like this towards anyone, you need to quickly call your heart to order by asking the Holy Spirit for help.

Sometimes, you may even be confronted by your failures and be abused for not achieving good results.

I encourage you to react based on love and not hatred. Just tell the person, “when it is my turn, my star will shine too.”

The right attitude to other people’s achievements is to become inspired to achieve the same or better results.

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 23 SEPTEMBER 2023 KEY POINT

Be happy for everyone because when it is your turn, your star will shine.

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 23 SEPTEMBER 2023 HYMN

HYMN 21 – I WANT TO BE LIKE JESUS

1. I want to be like Jesus,
So lowly and so meek;
For no one mark’d an angry word,
That ever heard Him speak,

2. I want to be like Jesus,
So frequently in prayer;
Alone upon the mountain top,
He met his Father there.

3. I want to be like Jesus,
I never, never find
That He, though persecuted was
To anyone unkind.

4. I want to be like Jesus,
Engaged in doing good;
So that of me it may be said
“He hath done what he could.”

5. I want to be like Jesus,
Who sweetly said to all,
“Let little children come to Me;”
I would obey the call.

6. But oh I’m not like Jesus,
As anyone may see;
O gentle Saviour, send Thy grace,
And make me like to Thee

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 23 SEPTEMBER 2023 BIBLE READING IN ONE YEAR: MICAH 5-7

AUTHORS: PASTOR E.A ADEBOYE
PASTOR MRS FOLU ADEBOYE

LESSON FOUR (4)

TOPIC: GOD’S PURPOSE OR YOUR PURPOSE?

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, help me to achieve Your own desire for my life in Jesus name.

PREVIOUS KNOWLEDGE: Leader should remind members what it means to walk in God’s covenants and examples of those who walked in God’s covenants.

 

MEMORY VERSE: “Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and ordained thee aprophet unto the nations. ” Jeremiah 1:5

BIBLE TEXT: Luke 5:1-11

[1]And it came to pass, that, as the people pressed upon him to hear the word of God, he stood by the lake of Gennesaret,

[2]And saw two ships standing by the lake: but the fishermen were gone out of them, and were washing their nets.

[3]And he entered into one of the ships, which was Simon’s, and prayed him that he would thrust out a little from the land. And he sat down, and taught the people out of the ship.

[4]Now when he had left speaking, he said unto Simon, Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught.

[5]And Simon answering said unto him, Master, we have toiled all the night, and have taken nothing: nevertheless at thy word I will let down the net.

[6]And when they had this done, they inclosed a great multitude of fishes: and their net brake.

[7]And they beckoned unto their partners, which were in the other ship, that they should come and help them. And they came, and filled both the ships, so that they began to sink.

[8]When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord.

 

[9]For he was astonished, and all that were with him, at the draught of the fishes which they had taken:

[10]And so was also James, and John, the sons of Zebedee, which were partners with Simon. And Jesus said unto Simon, Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men.

[11]And when they had brought their ships to land, they forsook all, and followed him.

LESSON INTRODUCTION: God always has a more excellent purpose for our lives which is greater than our own personal Wishes, ambitions, occupation or even our happiness. To know why we exist, we must first personally know the CREATOR through His word (Bible). For example, prophet Jeremiah in Jeremiah 1:5 reveals to us that God’s plans and programme for us have been ordained and divinely sanctioned.

LESSON AIM: To ensure members aim at God’s purpose first for their lives.

TEACHING OBJECTIVES: At the end of the lesson, members should be able to know:

• what God’s purpose is.

• that following your purpose has irreconcilable consequences.

TEXT REVIEW: Luke 5:1-11

– Following God’s purpose starts with total surrender.

– Your purpose can be found in the present job you are doing.

– For every purpose fulfilment, there is commitment. No room for laziness.

LESSON OUTLINE ONE

WHAT IS GOD’S PURPOSE?

God created us for His pleasure:

– To worship HIM. Worship should not only take place in the church or Christian gatherings rather, it should be a lifestyle – Rev. 4:11.

– To love one another as He loves us – Matt. 22:37-39.

– To become like Him in holiness and godly walk with Christ – Hebrews 12:1-3.

– To be His witness to the end of the world – Mark 16:15; Matt. 28:19-20.

– To utilise all His provisions for us and reach our expected end Jer. 29:11.

– To remain steadfast, unmovable till His appearing.

– To put the devil and his cohort where they belong – Luke 10:19; Acts 10:38.

LESSON OUTLINE TWO

YOUR PURPOSEAND ITS IMPLICATIONS

When your purpose contradicts divine purpose, there is serious repercussion. Let’s use Jonah as case study.

– Walking out of God’s presence – Jonah 1:3.

– Exposure to serious danger – Jonah 1:4.

– Putting other members of your household into serious danger.

– Loss of vision and dreams.

– Inability to hear from God again – Jonah 1:7.

– Defeat to the devil i.e. loss ofauthority.

– Untimely death- Judges 16:29-30.

ACTIVITY: What is God’s purpose for your life, career, marriage, parisk etc.?

SUMMARY: There is God’s purpose for everyone but the act of following your own purpose has serious implication.

CONCLUSION: God’s purpose is the key to our lives. Once you missed out on your destiny, you are doomed except God in His merey intervenes.

PRAYER POINTS

 

1. Father, let Your purpose for my life be established without delay.

2. Father, link me to every factor required for my destiny fulfilment.

3. Father, let every evil pattern militating against my divine purpose die.

4. Father, withdraw my step to journey against Your purpose for my life.

5. Father, release fresh grace on Daddy G.O. for more glorious heights.

ASSIGNMENT: Share your experience of last week’s lesson with new Converts.

GOLDEN DIET FOR THE WEEK

MONDAY: God can stop man from executing his purpose – Job 33:17.

TUESDAY: Without counsel, purposes are disappointed – Prov. 15:22; 20:18.

WEDNESDAY: There is time to every purpose. Be sensitive – Eccl. 3:1;8:6

THURSDAY: To God’s purpose, there’s no annulment – Isaiah 14:27.

FRIDAY: A child of God should not play with God’s plan – Acts 19:21.

SATURDAY: All things work perfectly to those that function in God’s plans – Rom. 8:28.

SUNDAY: There is an eternal purpose for believers – Eph. 3:11.

LESSON FOUR (04)

TOPIC: GOD’S PURPOSE OR YOUR PURPOSE?

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: “Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and ordained thee aprophet unto the nations. ” Jeremiah 1:5

BIBLE TEXT: Luke 5:1-11

 

[1]And it came to pass, that, as the people pressed upon him to hear the word of God, he stood by the lake of Gennesaret,

[2]And saw two ships standing by the lake: but the fishermen were gone out of them, and were washing their nets.

[3]And he entered into one of the ships, which was Simon’s, and prayed him that he would thrust out a little from the land. And he sat down, and taught the people out of the ship.

[4]Now when he had left speaking, he said unto Simon, Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught.

[5]And Simon answering said unto him, Master, we have toiled all the night, and have taken nothing: nevertheless at thy word I will let down the net.

[6]And when they had this done, they inclosed a great multitude of fishes: and their net brake.

[7]And they beckoned unto their partners, which were in the other ship, that they should come and help them. And they came, and filled both the ships, so that they began to sink.

[8]When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord.

[9]For he was astonished, and all that were with him, at the draught of the fishes which they had taken:

[10]And so was also James, and John, the sons of Zebedee, which were partners with Simon. And Jesus said unto Simon, Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men.

[11]And when they had brought their ships to land, they forsook all, and followed him.

LESSON INTRODUCTION: God always has a more excellent purpose for our lives which is greater than our own personal Wishes, ambitions, occupation or even our happiness. To know why we exist, we must first personally know the CREATOR through His word (Bible). For example, prophet Jeremiah in Jeremiah 1:5 reveals to us that God’s plans and programme for us have been ordained and divinely sanctioned.

LESSON OUTLINE ONE

WHAT IS GOD’S PURPOSE?

God created us for His pleasure:

– To worship HIM. Worship should not only take place in the church or Christian gatherings rather, it should be a lifestyle – Rev. 4:11.

– To love one another as He loves us – Matt. 22:37-39.

– To become like Him in holiness and godly walk with Christ – Hebrews 12:1-3.

– To be His witness to the end of the world – Mark 16:15; Matt. 28:19-20.

– To utilise all His provisions for us and reach our expected end Jer. 29:11.

– To remain steadfast, unmovable till His appearing.

– To put the devil and his cohort where they belong – Luke 10:19; Acts 10:38.

LESSON OUTLINE TWO

YOUR PURPOSEAND ITS IMPLICATIONS

When your purpose contradicts divine purpose, there is serious repercussion. Let’s use Jonah as case study.

– Walking out of God’s presence – Jonah 1:3.

– Exposure to serious danger – Jonah 1:4.

– Putting other members of your household into serious danger.

– Loss of vision and dreams.

– Inability to hear from God again – Jonah 1:7.

– Defeat to the devil i.e. loss ofauthority.

– Untimely death- Judges 16:29-30.

ACTIVITY: What is God’s purpose for your life, career, marriage, parisk etc.?

SUMMARY: There is God’s purpose for everyone but the act of following your own purpose has serious implication.

CONCLUSION: God’s purpose is the key to our lives. Once you missed out on your destiny, you are doomed except God in His merey intervenes.

 

PRAYER POINTS

1. Father, let Your purpose for my life be established without delay.

2. Father, link me to every factor required for my destiny fulfilment.

3. Father, let every evil pattern militating against my divine purpose die.

4. Father, withdraw my step to journey against Your purpose for my life.

5. Father, release fresh grace on Daddy G.O. for more glorious heights.

ASSIGNMENT: Share your experience of last week’s lesson with new Converts.

GOLDEN DIET FOR THE WEEK

MONDAY: God can stop man from executing his purpose – Job 33:17.

TUESDAY: Without counsel, purposes are disappointed – Prov. 15:22; 20:18.

WEDNESDAY: There is time to every purpose. Be sensitive – Eccl. 3:1;8:6

THURSDAY: To God’s purpose, there’s no annulment – Isaiah 14:27.

FRIDAY: A child of God should not play with God’s plan – Acts 19:21.

SATURDAY: All things work perfectly to those that function in God’s plans – Rom. 8:28.

SUNDAY: There is an eternal purpose for believers – Eph. 3:11.

LESSON FOUR (04)

TOPIC: CHRISTIAN WORSHIP

*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 God, teach me how to worship You acceptably.

BIBLE PASSAGE: John 4:19-24

 

[19]The woman saith unto him, Sir, I perceive that thou art a prophet.

[20]Our fathers worshipped in this mountain; and ye say, that in Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship.

[21]Jesus saith unto her, Woman, believe me, the hour cometh, when ye shall neither in this mountain, nor yet at Jerusalem, worship the Father.

[22]Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews..

[23]But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him.

[24]God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.

MEMORY VERSE: O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the LORD our maker. Psalms 95:6.

INTRODUCTION: Worship is an act of paying homage that involves deep respect, reverence, adoration, and showing sincere love to a supreme being. The Almighty God who created us must be worshipped for who He is and not because He needs anything from us (1Peter 2:9). We are created to show the splendour of God by glorifying Him (Psalms 29:2). Since we are created for worship, it is important we find out the ways to do it to be acceptable by God who commands it.

LESSON AIM: To teach the church, how to worship the Lord acceptably.

TEACHING OBJECTIVES:

Through this lesson, students should be able to:

a. Understand what Christian worship is.

b. Know what to put in place to worship acceptably

c. Distinguish between acceptable and unacceptable forms of worship

TEACHING PLAN:

To achieve the above-stated objectives, the teacher should:

a. Allow the students to recite the memory verse, read the Bible passage, contribute to the discussion, do class activities and assignment.

b. Allow the Assistant Teacher to see to the well-being of the class, mark attendance and assignment.

c. Teach the lesson outlines, summarise, conclude, evaluate the lesson and give an assignment.

TEXT REVIEW: John 4:19-24.

A. The dialogue between our Lord Jesus Christ and the Samaritan woman is quite enlightening. Her curiosity for truth is something every believer should possess. It records that:

i. The woman saith unto him, Sir, I perceive that thou art a prophet. V19.

ii. Our fathers worshipped in this mountain; and ………………………………..V20.

B. Jesus’ response to her is an insight into what true Christian worship entails.

i. Jesus saith unto her, Woman, believe …..V21.

ii. Ye worship ye know not what: we ……..…V22.

iii. But the hour cometh, and .………..V23.

iv. God is a Spirit, and they …………..V24.

Teachers should fill in the gaps from the passage during the preview exercise.

 

OUTLINES:

1. Preparing For Worship

2. Acceptable Worship

LESSON OUTLINE 1: PREPARING FOR WORSHIP

Teachers should highlight the necessary things to put in place while preparing for worship as follows:

A. Our heart

i. Before moving into the external act of worship, there is the need for us to put our hearts in order (Psalm 51:10).

ii. This is to ensure that hindrances to our worship are off-loaded from our hearts (Romans 12:1-2).

iii. We must get rid of the “old man” with his deeds – anger, hatred, bitterness and other vices (Colossians 3:8-9).

B. Reconciliation

i. There is the need for us to also reconcile with God and man in any area of offence (Matthew 5:23-24; Acts 24:16).

ii. We need to make restitutions where necessary (Luke 19:8).

CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Students should mention other things Christians need to put in place in preparing for worship.

LESSON OUTLINE 2: ACCEPTABLE WORSHIP

A. Not all worship is acceptable to God (Psalm 15:1-5). There are various forms of unacceptable worship. These include:

1. Vain worship: this is based on lip service and not from the heart (Mark 7:6).

2. Ignorant worship: it refers to worship without the knowledge of who God really is and how He should be worshipped (John 4:22; Acts 17:22-23).

3. Will or self-imposed worship: it refers to satisfying personal will and desire instead of carrying out God’s instruction (Colossians 2:20-23; Leviticus 10:1-2).

B. Therefore, acceptable worship must be rendered to God:

i. In spirit and in truth (John 4:20-24).

ii. In holiness (Psalm 96:9).

iii. From a heart “void of offence toward God, and toward men” (Acts 24:16).

iv. By faith, like the sacrifice of Abel (Hebrews 11:4).

CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Students should mention other forms of unacceptable worship one can engage in.

CONCLUSION: The scripture teaches that only God should be worshipped (Exodus 20:1-5) and this should be done in spirit and truth.

QUESTIONS

* In what ways should believers prepare for worship?

* Mention four things that make the act of worship acceptable to God.

EVALUATION: Students should mention three ways to worship God acceptably.

CLOSING PRAYER: Father, I receive the grace to worship You acceptably.

ASSIGNMENT: Write five differences between Christian worship and idol worship. (2×5=10 marks).

LESSON FOUR (04)

TOPIC: CHRISTIAN WORSHIP

*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: John 4:19-24

[19]The woman saith unto him, Sir, I perceive that thou art a prophet.

 

[20]Our fathers worshipped in this mountain; and ye say, that in Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship.

[21]Jesus saith unto her, Woman, believe me, the hour cometh, when ye shall neither in this mountain, nor yet at Jerusalem, worship the Father.

[22]Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews.

[23]But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him.

[24]God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.

MEMORY VERSE: O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the LORD our maker. Psalms 95:6.

INTRODUCTION: Worship is an act of paying homage that involves deep respect, reverence, adoration, and showing sincere love to a supreme being. The Almighty God who created us must be worshipped for who He is and not because He needs anything from us (1Peter 2:9). We are created to show the splendour of God by glorifying Him (Psalms 29:2). Since we are created for worship, it is important we find out the ways to do it to be acceptable by God who commands it.

OUTLINES:

1. Preparing For Worship

2. Acceptable Worship

1. PREPARING FOR WORSHIP

Before moving into the external act of worship, there is the need for us to put our hearts in order (Psalms 51:10). This is to ensure that hindrances to our worship are off-loaded from our hearts (Romans 12:1-2). We must get rid of the “old man” with his deeds – anger, hatred, bitterness, and other vices (Colossians 3:8-9).

There is the need for us to also reconcile with God and man in any area of offence (Matthew 5:23-24; Acts 24:16). We need to make restitutions where necessary (Luke 19:8).

CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Students should mention other things Christians need to put in place in preparing for worship.

2. ACCEPTABLE WORSHIP

Not all worship is acceptable to God. There are various forms of unacceptable worship. These include:

1. Vain worship: this is based on lip service and not from the heart (Mark 7:6).

2. Ignorant worship: it refers to worship without the knowledge of who God is and how He should be worshipped (John 4:22; Acts 17:22-23).

3. Will or self-imposed worship: it refers to satisfying personal will and desire instead of carrying out God’s instruction (Colossians 2:20-23; Leviticus 10:1-2).

Therefore, acceptable worship must be rendered to God in spirit and truth (John 4:20-24); offered in holiness (Psalms 96:9); from a heart void of offence toward God, and toward men (Acts 24:16). It is one done by faith, like the sacrifice of Abel (Hebrews 11:4).

CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Students should mention other forms of unacceptable worship one can engage in.

CONCLUSION: The scripture teaches that only God should be worshipped (Exodus 20:1-5) and this should be done in spirit and truth.

QUESTIONS:

* In what ways should believers prepare for worship?

* Mention four things that make the act of worship acceptable to God.

ASSIGNMENT: Write five differences between Christian worship and idol worship. (2×5=10 marks).

LESSON FOUR (04)

TOPIC: “QADASH”

*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: Father, please help me to live a sanctified life.

BIBLE PASSAGE: John 17:17-19

 

[17]Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.

[18]As You sent Me into the world, I also have sent them into the world.

[19]And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also may be sanctified by the truth. Jesus Prays for All Believers

MEMORY VERSE:

“To the church of God which is at Corinth, to those who are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all who in every place call on the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours.” 1 Corinthians 1:2 (NKJV).

INTRODUCTION: “Qadash” is a Hebrew word that is translated as “sanctified.” In the Old Testament, sanctification frequently denotes the ceremonial or ritual consecration of any person or thing to God. Thus, the Hebrews, as a people, were holy unto the Lord, through the covenant with its rites and atoning sacrifices (Exodus 31:13). In the New Testament, sanctification is the second work of grace after salvation that every believer must experience. Hence, every believer is called to a wholly sanctified life.

LESSON AIM: To teach believers, how to live a sanctified life.

TEACHING OBJECTIVES: Through this lesson, students should be able to:

a. Understand what “qadash” is. b. Know the concept and process of sanctification.

c. Highlight the practices that govern a sanctified life.

TEXT REVIEW: John 17:17-19.

In the above passage, Jesus continues to pray for the apostles that they may be sanctified through the truth of God because;

i. ……………………………………………..v17b.

ii. ……………………………………….….v18b.

iii. …………….…………………………….v19b.

Teachers should fill in the gaps from the passage during the preview exercise.

OUTLINES:

1. SANCTIFICATION- CONCEPT AND PROCESS

2. PRACTICES OF A SANCTIFIED LIFE

1. SANCTIFICATION- CONCEPT AND PROCESS

i. To sanctify means to make holy or set apart for God (Exodus 29:44).

ii. Sanctification is making truly and perfectly what was defiled and sinful (Colossians 2:13).

iii. It is a progressive work of divine grace upon the soul justified by the love of Christ (Romans 3:24).

iv. It is the advanced work of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer from the moment of salvation to perfection (1Corinthians 6:11).

v. It is gradual cleansing from a corrupt nature to a spotless nature (John 15:3; Jude 24). Every Christian should be holy as God is holy (1 Peter 1:15-16).

vi. Sanctification and truth are inseparable. Those who love to be sanctified must love the truth which is the word of God (John 17:17).

 

B. The Holy Spirit does the work of sanctification through:

i. God’s word (2 Thessalonians 2:13).

ii. The blood of Jesus (1John 1:7).

iii. Faith in the Lord Jesus which is an important ingredient in the work of sanctification (Galatians 2:20).

CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Students should mention other ways they could sanctify themselves from this corrupt world.

2. PRACTICES OF A SANCTIFIED LIFE

Here are some of the notable practices of a sanctified life:

1. They live holy (Leviticus 11:44).

2. They are bonded to Christ (Romans 8:35).

3. They walk straight and are transparent in their dealings (Psalm 15:2).

4. They live by the standard of God’s word (Psalm 119:11).

5. They have direct access to God (Psalm 15:1).

6. They are filled with the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 5:18).

7. They have overflowing joy (Psalm 64:10).

8. They are peaceful (1 Peter 3:11, Hebrews 12:14).

CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Students should mention other forms of practices of a sanctified life.

CONCLUSION: Believers must live a sanctified life, to have continuous fellowship with God both here on earth and in eternity.

EVALUATION: Students should mention three practices of a sanctified life.

CLOSING PRAYER: Father, I receive the grace to live a sanctified life.

ASSIGNMENT: Mention five (5) factors that can make sanctification difficult in this world (2X5=10 Marks).