OPEN HEAVEN 23 JULY 2024OPEN HEAVEN 23 JULY 2024 MEMORISE: And now, behold, the hand of the Lord is upon thee, and thou shalt be blind, not seeing the sun for a season. And immediately there fell on him amist and a darkness; and he went about seeking some to lead him by the hand. Acts 13:11

OPEN HEAVEN 23 JULY 2024 READ: Acts 13:1-11

1 Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.

² As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them.

³ And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.

⁴ So they, being sent forth by the Holy Ghost, departed unto Seleucia; and from thence they sailed to Cyprus.

⁵ And when they were at Salamis, they preached the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews: and they had also John to their minister.

⁶ And when they had gone through the isle unto Paphos, they found a certain sorcerer, a false prophet, a Jew, whose name was Barjesus:

⁷ Which was with the deputy of the country, Sergius Paulus, a prudent man; who called for Barnabas and Saul, and desired to hear the word of God.

⁸ But Elymas the sorcerer (for so is his name by interpretation) withstood them, seeking to turn away the deputy from the faith.

⁹ Then Saul, (who also is called Paul,) filled with the Holy Ghost, set his eyes on him.

¹⁰ And said, O full of all subtilty and all mischief, thou child of the devil, thou enemy of all righteousness, wilt thou not cease to pervert the right ways of the Lord?

¹¹ And now, behold, the hand of the Lord is upon thee, and thou shalt be blind, not seeing the sun for a season. And immediately there fell on him a mist and a darkness; and he went about seeking some to lead him by the hand.

OPEN HEAVEN 23 JULY 2024 MESSAGE

When you’re baptised in the Holy Spirit, it might seem like nothing has changed about you, but the reality is, you have become very dangerous to the enemy and his cohorts.

In 2 Kings 1:9-12, Elijah was not looking dangerous; he had no weapon in his hands and was not wearing a warrior’s attire.

However, the captains and soldiers that were sent to arrest him never lived to tell the story. You may look the same to your enemies, but the moment you are baptised with the Holy Ghost and fire, if they try to touch you, they will be consumed.

To become dangerous to your enemies, ensure that you carry the fire of God inside you in great measure.

For over 13 years, I never went to my village because witches and wizards had threatened to deal with me.

I became born again, and not long after I was baptised with the Holy Spirit and fire, I received an invitation to attend a programme in the village.

When I told my mother about the invitation, she begged me not to go. I told her that I now carry fire and anyone who touches me will roast.

She said, “But you don’t look any different; you are the same Adejare that I know.” I replied, “The naked wire looks the same whether electricity is passing through it or not.

However, touching it while electricity is passing through it is a suicide attempt.”

I went to the village, and no witch dared to touch me. Today, I announce my arrival beforehand so they can hide before I arrive.

In Nigeria, after drinking a bottle of Coke, we sometimes use the empty bottle as a container for kerosene.

Once the bottle has become a kerosene container, you dare not put it in your mouth again.

The devil knows that once you start carrying fire, he has to step carefully around you.

If he has been tormenting you, the way to get him off your shoulder is to carry the fire of God.

Pray so often that the fire of God starts boiling inside you. Become addicted to praying in the Holy Ghost.

As you do this, the fire of God will burn inside you, and you will become dangerous for the devil to attack.

Any yoke he had previously placed on you will break completely, and you will be free from his hold.

When you have the fire of God burning in your bones, you will become a threat to the devil and his demons. Are you ready to carry God’s fire?

OPEN HEAVEN 23 JULY 2024 ACTION POINT

Speak in tongues for at least one hour today, and make this a daily practice going forward

OPEN HEAVEN 23 JULY 2024 HYMN 1

ALL HAIL THE POWER OF JESUS’ NAME

OPEN HEAVEN 23 JULY 2024 BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Isaiah 35-37

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 22 JULY 2024 MEMORISE: I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. Romans 12:1

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 22 JULY 2024 READ: HEBREWS 13:4-6

4. Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.

5. Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.

6. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 22 JULY 2024 MESSAGE:

When i was younger, sexual perversion was not publicly embraced, and this put a check on many Christians.

However, in recent times, Satan has distorted the truth about love and sex, and this is having dangerous effects on young people today.

The internet is filled with sensual images and videos that influence many people to engage in sexual immorality.

Premarital sex is not as satisfying as the world presents it; rather, it destroys destinies.

Some people may try to exonerate themselves by saying that they do not have premarital sex, but if they engage in masturbation, pornography, fondling of breasts and genitals, or kissing, they have already committed fornication, and God’s judgement is that such people have no place in Heaven.

God designed sex to be experienced in marriage, and His instructions are for our good so that we can escape the dangers of unwanted pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases, heartbreaks, and a broken relationship with God.

My dear child, if anyone asks you for sex, tell him or her not to destroy your destiny, and run for your life.

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 22 JULY 2024 PRAYER POINT

Father, please help me to keep myself sexually pure until marriage, in Jesus’ name

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 22 JULY 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]

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 22 JULY 2024 BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: 2 Chronicles 6:10 Romans 7:14-8:8

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 21 JULY 2024 MEMORISE: As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God. Psalm 42:1

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 21 JULY 2024 READ: JEREMIAH 31:3-13

[3]The LORD hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee.

[4]Again I will build thee, and thou shalt be built, O virgin of Israel: thou shalt again be adorned with thy tabrets, and shalt go forth in the dances of them that make merry.

[5]Thou shalt yet plant vines upon the mountains of Samaria: the planters shall plant, and shall eat them as common things.

[6]For there shall be a day, that the watchmen upon the mount Ephraim shall cry, Arise ye, and let us go up to Zion unto the LORD our God.

[7]For thus saith the LORD; Sing with gladness for Jacob, and shout among the chief of the nations: publish ye, praise ye, and say, O LORD, save thy people, the remnant of Israel.

[8]Behold, I will bring them from the north country, and gather them from the coasts of the earth, and with them the blind and the lame, the woman with child and her that travaileth with child together: a great company shall return thither.

[9]They shall come with weeping, and with supplications will I lead them: I will cause them to walk by the rivers of waters in a straight way, wherein they shall not stumble: for I am a father to Israel, and Ephraim is my firstborn.

[10]Hear the word of the LORD, O ye nations, and declare it in the isles afar off, and say, He that scattered Israel will gather him, and keep him, as a shepherd doth his flock.

[11]For the LORD hath redeemed Jacob, and ransomed him from the hand of him that was stronger than he.

[12]Therefore they shall come and sing in the height of Zion, and shall flow together to the goodness of the LORD, for wheat, and for wine, and for oil, and for the young of the flock and of the herd: and their soul shall be as a watered garden; and they shall not sorrow any more at all.

[13]Then shall the virgin rejoice in the dance, both young men and old together: for I will turn their mourning into joy, and will comfort them, and make them rejoice from their sorrow.

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 21 JULY 2024 MESSAGE

Due to our different temperaments and personality traits, we respond to God differently.

For example, if you are very emotional, you may naturally raise your hands while singing worship songs and say that you felt God’s presence afterwards.

For some other teenagers who love spending quality time alone, they will most likely feel God’s love during their daily devotion or quiet time.

Some other teenagers may become responsive when they read about God’s promises in the Bible, and they will feel the love of God more when they realize all that He has done for them.

Whichever category you fit into, just know that God loves you and wants to constantly be in touch with you.

To stay in touch with God, reflect on your life and take note of how you respond to Him.

It won’t likely be the same way others around you respond to God, but be sincere in your evaluation and ask the Holy Spirit for help.

Feel free to express your love for God in ways that resonate with your spirit through the study of His word, worship, giving, evangelism, et cetera.

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 21 JULY 2024KEY POINT

Never pretend in your expression of love to God; be true to yourself and God.

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 21 JULY 2024 HYMN 54

THERE’S NOT A FRIEND LIKE THE LOWLY JESUS

1. There’s Not A Friend Like The Lowly Jesus,
No, Not One! No, Not One!
None Else Could Heal All Our Souls’ Diseases,
No, Not One! No, Not One!

Refrain:
Jesus Knows All About Our Struggles,
He Will Guide Till The Day Is Done;
There’s Not A Friend Like The Lowly Jesus,
No, Not One! No, Not One!

2. No Friend Like Him Is So High And Holy,
No, Not One! No, Not One!
And Yet No Friend Is So Meek And Lowly,
No, Not One! No, Not One!

3. There’s Not An Hour That He Is Not Near Us,
No, Not One! No, Not One!
No Night So Dark But His Love Can Cheer Us,
No, Not One! No, Not One!

4. Did Ever Saint Find This Friend Forsake Him?
No, Not One! No, Not One!
Or Sinner Find That He Would Not Take Him?
No, Not One! No, Not One!

5. Was E’er A Gift Like The Saviour Given?
No, Not One! No, Not One!
Will He Refuse Us A Home In Heaven?
No, Not One! No, Not One!

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 21 JULY 2024 BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: 2 Chronicles 4:1-6:11 Romans 7:1-13

OPEN HEAVEN 22 JULY 2024 MEMORISE: Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. 2 Timothy 3:5

OPEN HEAVEN 22 JULY 2024 READ: Titus 1:15-16

15 Unto the pure all things are pure: but unto them that are defiled and unbelieving is nothing pure; but even their mind and conscience is defiled.

16 They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.

OPEN HEAVEN 22 JULY 2024 MESSAGE

We live in a world where people have learnt how to ‘package’ themselves to look a certain way, whereas they are not who they package themselves to be.

Many years ago, when The Redeemed Christian Church of God was not as big as it is now, my mother-in-law said that it was difficult to differentiate between the pastor who was a mechanic and the one who was a lecturer in the university because they all looked alike in their suits on Sundays.

However, the secret comes out on Mondays when everyone goes to their places of work. Some people know how to dress like Christians and even speak and pray like fervent Christians, but deep within them, they are unbelievers.

Being in this world is like their Sunday; no one can tell the difference now. However, Monday is coming at rapture; then, the difference will be clear.

Believe me, it does not matter if everyone in the world thinks that a fellow is the closest person to Jesus Christ. If he or she is not truly born again, Jesus will deny the fellow on the last day.

Jesus Christ said in Luke 5:37-38 that if you put new wine in an old wineskin, both the content and the container will be lost forever.

And no man putteth new wine into old bottles; else the new wine will burst the bottles, and be spilled, and the bottles shall perish. But new wine must be put into new bottles; and both are preserved.

You cannot call Jesus ‘Lord’ and keep on obeying the devil. If you do so, you are trying to put new wine (the Holy Spirit) into an old wineskin (your sinful heart), which will only result in destruction at the end of the day.

Some people can deceive the whole world with their container, but that will only put them in more trouble because it will become more difficult for them to get on the right track with God.

Many pastors have gone to hell because when they realised that they should genuinely give their lives to Christ, they were too ashamed to come out for an altar call or make restitution for the things they had done while they were pretending.

Don’t pretend to be a Christian; genuinely give your life to Christ if you haven’t done so and live a holy life henceforth.

OPEN HEAVEN 22 JULY 2024 KEY POINT

Make your inside clean first, and then the outside will be clean as well. It is not the other way around.

OPEN HEAVEN 22 JULY 2024 HYMN 23

TAKE MY LIFE AND LET IT BE

OPEN HEAVEN 22 JULY 2024 BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Isaiah 32-34

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 20 JULY 2024 MEMORISE: I am the vine, ye are the branches: Hethat abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing John 15:5

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 20 JULY 2024 BIBLE READING. 2 CHRONICLES 20:15-18

15 And he said, Hearken ye, all Judah, and ye inhabitants of Jerusalem, and thou king Jehoshaphat, Thus saith the LORD unto you, Be not afraid nor dismayed by reason of this great multitude; for the battle is not your’s, but God’s.

16 To morrow go ye down against them: behold, they come up by the cliff of Ziz; and ye shall find them at the end of the brook, before the wilderness of Jeruel.

17 Ye shall not need to fight in this battle: set yourselves, stand ye still, and see the salvation of the LORD with you, O Judah and Jerusalem: fear not, nor be dismayed; to morrow go out against them: for the LORD will be with you.

18 And Jehoshaphat bowed his head with his face to the ground: and all Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem fell before the LORD, worshipping the LORD.

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 20 JULY 2024 MESSAGE

Being positioned in God’s will means abiding in God and His word. It refers to being exactly where God wants you to be. As a Christian who is pursuing God’s will, you will encounter opposition, but God has promised that you will be victorious.

In today’s Bible reading, King Jehoshaphat had pulled the whole of Judah out of idol worship into worshipping God. He and his people had won the battle against the Moabites, but they became afraid when a more powerful army was coming up against them. God showed up for them when they obeyed the instruction to praise Him, and they emerged victorious.

This is encouraging for any child of God. It is a reminder that there will be battles along your path, but God has promised to never leave you nor forsake you (Hebrews 13:5). However, you must maintain your position in Christ so that you will not experience defeat. I charge you to remain steadfast in God’s will and watch Him fight your battles.

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 20 JULY 2024 PRAYER POINT

Father, please strengthen my conviction andhelp me to stand with you until the end.

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 20 JULY 2024 BIBLE IN ONE YEAR 2 CHRONICLES 1:1-3:17 ROMANS 6:1-23

OPEN HEAVENS FOR TEENS 20 JULY 2024 HYMN 21 STANDING ON THE PROMISES OF CHRISTMY KING

1. Standing on the promises of
Christ, my King,
Through eternal ages let his praises ring;
Glory in the highest, I will shout
and sing,
God.
Standing on the promises of

Refrain:
Standing, standing,
Standing on the promises of
God, my Savior;
Standing, standing,
I’m standing on the promises of God.

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

3. 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. [Refrain]

4. Standing on the promises I cannot fall,
all,
List’ning ev’ry moment to the Spirit’s call,
Resting in my Savior as my all in
Standing on the promises of God. [Refrain]

OPEN HEAVEN 21 JULY 2024 MEMORISE: With the ancient is wisdom; and in length of day’s understanding. Job 12:12

OPEN HEAVEN 21 JULY 2024 READ: Exodus 18:13-24

13 And it came to pass on the morrow, that Moses sat to judge the people: and the people stood by Moses from the morning unto the evening.

14 And when Moses’ father in law saw all that he did to the people, he said, What is this thing that thou doest to the people? why sittest thou thyself alone, and all the people stand by thee from morning unto even?

15 And Moses said unto his father in law, Because the people come unto me to enquire of God:

16 When they have a matter, they come unto me; and I judge between one and another, and I do make them know the statutes of God, and his laws.

17 And Moses’ father in law said unto him, The thing that thou doest is not good.

18 Thou wilt surely wear away, both thou, and this people that is with thee: for this thing is too heavy for thee; thou art not able to perform it thyself alone.

19 Hearken now unto my voice, I will give thee counsel, and God shall be with thee: Be thou for the people to God-ward, that thou mayest bring the causes unto God:

20 And thou shalt teach them ordinances and laws, and shalt shew them the way wherein they must walk, and the work that they must do.

21 Moreover thou shalt provide out of all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place such over them, to be rulers of thousands, and rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of tens:

22 And let them judge the people at all seasons: and it shall be, that every great matter they shall bring unto thee, but every small matter they shall judge: so shall it be easier for thyself, and they shall bear the burden with thee.

23 If thou shalt do this thing, and God command thee so, then thou shalt be able to endure, and all this people shall also go to their place in peace.

24 So Moses hearkened to the voice of his father in law, and did all that he had said.

OPEN HEAVEN 21 JULY 2024 MESSAGE

If you have elders around you, you have rare wisdom around you, and you should learn from their wealth of wisdom.

There are certain things that elders know that Google, as vast as it is, does not know.

The elders have some alternative treatments for sicknesses and diseases that modern science has not caught up with yet.

There are some experiences that they have when it comes to relating with other people that you cannot learn in any book or university.

If you take care of your elders and learn from them, there is a lot you will know and have as an advantage over your peers.

In Yorubaland, when we see a child behaving wisely, we call him or her Omo Agba meaning the child of an elder, because we know straight away that he or she must have learnt a lot from an elderly person.

With all of Moses’ education in Egypt, the greatest nation in those days, his father-in-law, Jethro, was the one who taught him a valuable lesson about delegation.

Moses got the best leadership education in the world and thought he was a good leader until he was exposed to an elder’s wisdom.

Jethro’s counsel showed him that he was not that wise after all. You may think you are wise because you are educated and have the internet at your fingertips, but if you listen to the elders, you will discover a lot of truth that will really help you in life.

When an elder advises you, take that advice dearly because what you do with it could be the difference between success and failure.

In 1 Kings 12:6, King Rehoboam met with elders on how to rule the people. They gave him advice which was filled with wisdom.

However, he went to meet his younger friends for advice, and because theirs seemed more exciting, he pushed aside the advice of the elders.

Rehoboam’s actions caused a civil war, and he lost the kingdom of Israel, as we see in verses 18 and 19:

Then king Rehoboam sent Adoram, who was over the tribute; and all Israel stoned him with stones, that he died. Therefore king Rehoboam made speed to get him up to his chariot, to flee to Jerusalem. So Israel rebelled against the house of David unto this day.

Never despise the advice of godly elders.

OPEN HEAVEN 21 JULY 2024 ACTION POINT

Write a list of godly elders that you have around you, and start taking care of them and spending time with them from now. You will learn a lot from them before they go to be with the Lord.

OPEN HEAVEN 21 JULY 2024 HYMN 27

WHAT A FRIEND WE HAVE IN JESUS

OPEN HEAVEN 21 JULY 2024 BIBLE IN ONE YEAR; Isaiah 29-31

OPEN HEAVEN 20 JULY 2024 SATURDAY: HONOUR ELDERS

OPEN HEAVEN 20 JULY 2024 MEMORISE

Thou shalt rise up before the hoary head, and honour the face of the old man, and fear thy God: I am the Lord.

Leviticus 19:32

OPEN HEAVEN 20 JULY 2024 READ: 1 Timothy 5:1-3

Rebuke not an elder, but intreat him as a father; and the younger men as brethren;

2 The elder women as mothers; the younger as sisters, with all purity.

3 Honour widows that are widows indeed.

OPEN HEAVEN 20 JULY 2024 MESSAGE

Nowadays, many young people think that they are superior to elders because they believe they are more sophisticated. An elder is an elder, regardless of their educational, financial, and/or social status.

People must always honour elders if they don’t want curses on their heads (Deuteronomy 27:16).

Today’s memory verse says that when you see an elder coming, you must rise up in honour of the elder. Don’t let an elder pass by you without greeting them. If an elder is carrying something, you must run to them and help with whatever they are carrying.

When an elder is talking to you, don’t talk back immediately; let the elder finish speaking before you speak. Take a cue from Elihu in Job 32:4:

Now Elihu had waited till Job had spoken, because they were elder than he.

Furthermore, in Job 32:6, Elihu did not just share his opinion; he spoke with honour to the elders, telling them that he was afraid to speak because he was before them. In verse 8, you will see that Elihu was the one who spoke the words that we often quote,

“There is a spirit in man, and the inspiration of the Almighty gives him understanding.”

Clearly, he was wise and had understanding from God. You cannot claim to be filled with the Holy Spirit and dishonour your elders; that would be a lie.

Now you may say, what if an elder has done something terrible that is not expected from elders? The Bible says in 1 Timothy 5:1-3 that you must never rebuke an elder. It may surprise you to know that when Elihu did the things I referred to in the previous paragraph, he was very angry with the elders. He was angry with Job because Job was self-righteous, justifying himself rather than God.

Yet, he waited for him to finish speaking before sharing his opinion with honour. Don’t say you have holy anger and speak to an elder disrespectfully.

Don’t claim to be fighting for God and dishonour an elder. No matter how wrong an elder is, you must share your opinion respectfully and never dishonour them.

OPEN HEAVEN 20 JULY 2024 KEY POINT

A true child of God always honours elders, regardless of his or her status.

OPEN HEAVEN 20 JULY 2024 BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Isaiah 25-28

OPEN HEAVEN 20 JULY 2024 HYMN 30

WHEN WE WALK WITH THE LORD

LESSON FOURTY SEVEN (47)
TOPIC: HELPING THE YOUTHS TO LOCATE THEIR PATHS TO VICTORY

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

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

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

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

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

OPENING PRAYER: Father, please make our youths submit to godly counsel and instructions and make our youths victorious in the battles of life.

PREVIOUS KNOWLEDGE: Leader should remind members that there is power in the infilling of the Holy Spirit and there are signs.

MEMORY VERSE: “The glory of young men is their strength, and the beauty of old men is their gray head.” Proverbs 20:29

BIBLE TEXT: Judges 14:1-2
[1]And Samson went down to Timnath, and saw a woman in Timnath of the daughters of the Philistines.
[2]And he came up, and told his father and his mother, and said, I have seen a woman in Timnath of the daughters of the Philistines: now therefore get her for me to wife.

LESSON INTRODUCTION: John 6:33 tells us that the world is a place of tribulation (troubles and challenges) with assurance of victory because Jesus has paid the price for our victory. The Bible also tells us that wen should be sober and vigilant because our adversary is always on the prowl (I Pet. 5:8). The devil’s assignment is to steal, kill and to destroy John 10:10. Parents and leaders, therefore, have the responsibility to teach and guide the youths so as not to fall prey to the antic of the devil. When youths are victorious, they will be able to fulfill their glorious destinies in Jesus name – I John 5:4.

LESSON AIM: To ensure youths find answers to victorious living. Teaching Objectives: At the end of the lesson, members should be able
to:
* be watchful of pitfalls especially youths.
* know what to do to remain victorious youths.

TEXT REVIEW: Judges 14:1-2
a. Samson, though anointed from birth, was supposed to be under the guidance of his parents but refused to obey them.
b. Samson failed to obey the laws of God that forbade Jews from marrying the Philistines. He rather demanded his parents to get a Philistine for him as wife
c. Samson could not subdue hust, hence, he disobeyed God’s law

LESSON OUTLINE ONE
BE WATCHFUL OF THE PITFALLS (CASE STUDY: SAMSON AND REUBEN)
To be watchful of pitfalls is to be on the alert for the possible negative influences, attractions, lust, wolves in sheep clothes, etc. that can lead to errors, mistakes, decisions that can cause harm, failure, reproach, etc Every youth should ask God to guard their eyes – Psalms 119:37. The Bible admonishes that we keep our hearts diligently to avoid pitfalls
Proverbs 4:23. Samson and Reuben failed to:
i. guard their eyes from women-Job 31:1.
ii. subdue their lust for women-Proverbs 6:25.
iii. honour and obey their parents-Ephesians 6: 1-3.
iv. obey the laws of God-Deuteronomy 28:1-2.
v. submit to authority-1 Peter 5:5.

LESSON OUTLINE TWO
TO BE VICTORIOUS… CASE STUDY: DANIEL
1. For a youth to be victorious, they need to; 1. excel in wisdom and understanding.
2. study the word of God-Daniel 9:2; Joshua 1:8.
3.pray to God daily and always-I Thessalonians 5:17.
4. follow divine instructions -Daniel 1:8; Joshua 1:8.
5. shun any act of compromising of faith in God -Dan, 6:5,10; 2 Tim. 1:7
6. Affect others positively-Daniel 6:25-26; Matthew 5:16.

ACTIVITY: List some benefits of walking in the path of victory as a youth.

SUMMARY: Victory in life is only assured when we walk in obedience with God. John 15:5. Walking with God involves knowing Him as Lord and Saviour, studying and obeying His Word, praying for direction, assistance and grace.

CONCLUSION: John 16:33 tells us that we will always face challenges in the world but as Christians, we are sure of victory. We must therefore teach and encourage the youths to draw near to God so that He will be with them in their battles-Hebrews 7:25.

PRAYER POINTS
1. Father, we thank You for all parents, teachers, leaders and Pastors in RCCG.
2. Lord, we thank You for obtaining victory for us on the cross of Calvary.
3. Father, please open the eyes and hearts of our youths to know You and live their lives for You alone.
4. Father, help our youths to walk with You like Daniel.
5. Father, let our youths depend on You alone when they face challenges of life.
6. Father, build a future generation of righteous men and women for You in RCCG,

ASSIGNMENT: What are the qualities seen by God in David as a Youth?

GOLDEN DIET FOR THE WEEK
MONDAY: Mark 9:23 It is possible for youths to live a life without blemish.
TUESDAY: Job 22:28 – Make positive declarations upon the live of the youths.
WEDNESDAY: Job 36:11 Pray for the youths that this will be their portion.
THURSDAY: Psalms 2:1b-Our youths will not imagine vain things in Jesus name.
FRIDAY: Psalm 25:2-Father, let not the enemy put us to shame concerning our youths.
SATURDAY: Jeremiah 1:12-Father, perform Your word in the lives of our youths.
SUNDAY: Jeremiah 33:3-Father, when the youths call on You, in Your mercy please answer them.

LESSON: FORTY SEVEN (47)
TOPIC: PERILOUS TIMES

SUNDAY SCHOOL HYMN
1. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
O how I love Thee well,
I am happy, it makes me
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: O God, please help me to be watchful in the name of Jesus.

BIBLE PASSAGE: II Timothy 3:1-5 NKJV
[1] But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come:
[2] For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,
[3] unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good,
[4] traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God,
[5] having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away!

MEMORY VERSE: “But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come.” 2 Timothy 3:1 (NKJV).

INTRODUCTION: The translated word for “perilous” in 2 Timothy 3:1 is ‘chalepos’, which means troublesome, dangerous, fierce, dreadful, etc. The term, last days, refers to the period between Christ’s ascension into Heaven and His second coming. Perilous times constitute part of the last days. The ‘last days’ is not just a prophecy. It started from the days of the Bible (1 John.2:18-19). The importance of the prophecy and warning against the perilous times cannot be over-emphasised because we are living in the fulfilment of these perilous times. The purpose of this study is to carefully consider the writing of Paul to Timothy in 2 Timothy 3:1-5 on the things that characterise the Perilous Times and the position every believer in Christ should take.

LESSON AIM: To study the characteristics of the perilous times and some cautions for believers.

TEACHING OBJECTIVES: Through this lesson, students should be able to:
a. Understand the characteristics of the perilous times.
b. Discover some cautions for believers against the period.

TEXT REVIEW: 2 Timothy 3:1-5.
The teacher should identify any 10 features of the perilous times according to the passage.
i. ………………………………………………ii……………………………………………….
iii. ……………………………………………
iv. …………………………………………….
iii. ……………………………………………
v. .…………………………………………….
vi. …………………………………………….
vii. ……………………………………………
viii. .…………………………………………
ix …………………………………………….
x. …………………………………………….

OUTLINES:
1. CHARACTERISTICS OF PERILOUS TIMES
2. CAUTION FOR BELIEVERS

1. CHARACTERISTICS OF PERILOUS TIMES
According to Paul, the conduct of the people will reveal perilous times. These characteristics are indicated below:
i. Some people will be lovers of their selves (2 Timothy 3:2) i.e. they will be self-centred (Philippians 2:21).
ii. Covetous -having lust of the eyes, craziness for wealth and materialism (Luke 12:15);
iii. Boasters -expressing vain glory (Psalm 10:3).
iv. Pride -valuing themselves above all others (Proverbs 21:4).
v. Blasphemers -those who speak immorally of God and sacred things (Mark.3:29).
vi. Disobedient to parents – disrespecting and dishonouring parents both physically and spiritually (Romans 1:30).
vii. Unthankful -not appreciating God and others for good deeds (Romans 1:21).
viii. Unholy -not pleasing God (Jude 18).
ix. Lack of natural affection -no family affection and lack of tender love (2 Timothy 3:3, Romans 1:31).
x. Trucebreakers -treacherous and betraying true friendship.
xi. False Accusers -character assassination (Proverbs 10:18).
xii. Incontinent -without self-control (2 Peter 2:14).
xiii. Fierce -wild or violent, having or displaying an intense, ferocious aggressiveness (Psalm 11:5).
xiv. Despisers of those that are good – All forms of lies, evil speaking against true believers and godliness (Nehemiah 2:19).
xv. Traitors -a betrayer of trust (2 Timothy 3:4; Acts 7:52).
xvi. Heady -reckless or headstrong (Proverbs 21:29a).
xvii. Lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God -All forms of immorality and ungodliness that satisfy the flesh (Philippians 3:19).
xviii. “Having a form of godliness but denying the power thereof’ (2 Timothy 3:5)- Being religious but not victorious above sin, outwardly looking good but inwardly rotten in unrighteousness (Matthew 23:27).

CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Each student should mention one characteristic of the perilous times.

2. CAUTION FOR BELIEVERS
Scriptures admonish believers living in this “last days’ to
i. Turn away from all ungodly practices in order not to be caught in the web of the perilous times (2 Timothy 3:5).
ii. Receive the prophecies/warning and be conscious of it at all times.
iii. Separate from the company and fellowship of people with the characters above (2 Corinthians 6:14-17).
iv. Avoid all forms of carnality and false doctrines (Romans 8:6-7; Ephesians 4:14).
v. Be watchful and be prayerful to guard against deception and temptation to sin (Matthew 26:41; 2 Corinthians 2:11).
vi. Release ourselves to the Holy Spirit and be sensitive to His leading (James 4:7; Romans 8:14).

CLASS ACTIVITY 2: What roles can believers play to ensure they remain in the faith in this period?

CONCLUSION: This is a perilous time; every believer that wants to get to heaven must heed the warning, and be careful to live a separate life from the world and false brethren to please God.

EVALUATION: What are the signs of perilous times and the cautions for the believers?

CLOSING PRAYER: Almighty God, please carry me on Your wings and do not let me perish in this perilous times.

ASSIGNMENT: Mention five (5) measures you have put in place to overcome the perilous times (2×5=10 Marks).

LESSON: FORTY SEVEN (47)
TOPIC: PERILOUS TIMES

SUNDAY SCHOOL HYMN
1. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
O how I love Thee well,
I am happy, it makes me
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: O God, please help me to be watchful in the name of Jesus.

BIBLE PASSAGE: II Timothy 3:1-5 NKJV
[1] But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come:
[2] For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,
[3] unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good,
[4] traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God,
[5] having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away!

MEMORY VERSE: “But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come.” 2 Timothy 3:1 (NKJV).

INTRODUCTION: The translated word for “perilous” in 2 Timothy 3:1 is ‘chalepos’, which means troublesome, dangerous, fierce, dreadful, etc. The term, last days, refers to the period between Christ’s ascension into Heaven and His second coming. Perilous times constitute part of the last days. The ‘last days’ is not just a prophecy. It started from the days of the Bible (1 John.2:18-19). The importance of the prophecy and warning against the perilous times cannot be over-emphasised because we are living in the fulfilment of these perilous times. The purpose of this study is to carefully consider the writing of Paul to Timothy in 2 Timothy 3:1-5 on the things that characterise the Perilous Times and the position every believer in Christ should take.

OUTLINES:
1. CHARACTERISTICS OF PERILOUS TIMES
2. CAUTION FOR BELIEVERS

1. CHARACTERISTICS OF PERILOUS TIMES
According to Paul, the conduct of the people will reveal perilous times. Some people will be lovers of their selves (2 Timothy 3:2) i.e. they will be self-centred (Philippians 2:21); covetous – having lust of the eyes, craziness for wealth and materialism (Luke 12:15); boasters – expressing vain glory (Psalm 10:3); proud – valuing themselves above all others (Proverbs 21:4); blasphemers – those who speak immorally of God and sacred things (Mark.3:29); disobedient to parents – disrespecting and dishonouring parents both physically and spiritually (Romans 1:30); unthankful – not appreciating God and others for good deeds (Romans 1:21); unholy- not pleasing God (Jude 18).
Furthermore, 2 Timothy 3:3 says some people will be without natural affection – no family affection and lack of tender love (Romans 1:31); trucebreakers – treacherous and betraying true friendship; False accusers – character assassination (Proverbs 10:18); incontinent – without self-control (2 Peter 2:14); ‘fierce’ – wild or violent, having or displaying an intense, ferocious aggressiveness (Psalm 11:5); despisers of those that are good – All forms of lies, evil speaking against true believers and godliness (Nehemiah 2:19).
2 Timothy 3:4 also makes mention of traitors – a betrayer of trust (Acts 7:52); heady – reckless or headstrong (Proverbs 21:29a); lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God- All forms of immorality and ungodliness that satisfy the flesh (Philippians 3:19).
In addition, 2 Timothy 3:5 speaks of them as ‘Having a form of godliness but denying the power thereof’ – Being religious but not victorious above sin, outwardly looking good but inwardly rotten in unrighteousness (Matthew 23:27).

CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Each student should mention one characteristic of the perilous times.

2. CAUTION FOR BELIEVERS
Scriptures admonish believers living in this ‘last days’ to turn away from all ungodly practices in order not to be caught in the web of the perilous times (2 Timothy 3:5). As believers, we must receive the prophecies/warning and be conscious of it at all times. We must separate from the company and fellowship of people with the characters above (2 Corinthians 6:14-17). We must avoid all forms of carnality and false doctrines (Romans 8:6-7; Ephesians 4:14). We must be watchful and be prayerful to guard against deception and temptation to sin (Matthew 26:41; 2 Corinthians 2:11). We must release ourselves to the Holy Spirit and be sensitive to His leading (James 4:7; Romans 8:14).

CLASS ACTIVITY 2: What roles can believers play to ensure they remain in the faith in this period?

CONCLUSION: This is a perilous time; every believer that wants to get to heaven must heed the warning, and be careful to live a separate life from the world and false brethren to please God.

QUESTIONS:
* What events will characterise the perilous times?
* What scriptural cautions are believers to adhere to during perilous times?

FURTHER READING: SUN: Jude 1:4. MON: 1Tim. 4:1. TUE: 2Tim. 4:3. WED:2Pet. 3:3. THUR: 1Jn. 2:18. FRI: Jude 1:18. SAT: 2Pet. 2:10.

ASSIGNMENT: Mention five (5) measures you have put in place to overcome the perilous times (2×5=10 Marks).