OPEN HEAVEN 11 JUNE 2024 MEMORISE: Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. Ephesians 6:16

OPEN HEAVEN 11 JUNE 2024 READ: MATTHEW 21:18-22 (KJV)

18 Now in the morning as he returned into the city, he hungered.

19 And when he saw a fig tree in the way, he came to it, and found nothing thereon, but leaves only, and said unto it, Let no fruit grow on thee henceforward for ever. And presently the fig tree withered away.

20 And when the disciples saw it, they marvelled, saying, How soon is the fig tree withered away!

21 Jesus answered and said unto them, Verily I say unto you, If ye have faith, and doubt not, ye shall not only do this which is done to the fig tree, but also if ye shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; it shall be done.

22 And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.

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Daily Confession: I confess today that I possess the shield of faith, which protects me from the devil’s attacks, and I build up my faith daily through prayer, studying God’s Word, and trials, ensuring my faith grows stronger to overcome every obstacle and temptation that comes my way in Jesus name, Amen. Hallelujah!

Prayer Points For Open Heavens 11 June 2024

Powerful Declarations For Today 11 June 2024

Open Heavens for Teens 11 June 2024 TUESDAY

OPEN HEAVEN 11 JUNE 2024 MESSAGE

Over the past few days, I have been teaching on the full armour of God.

The shield of faith ensures that the fiery arrows of the devil do not get to you.

This suggests that there will be times when the devil will try to attack your health, finances, marriage and so on.

You should use the shield of faith to ward off all such attacks. A Christian without faith is vulnerable to the devil’s attacks.

Also, a Christian without faith should not expect to receive anything from God as we see in James 1:6-7.

Some things will come up that will try to shake your faith, those are the fiery darts of the enemy.

They will look scary and seem to be able to bring you down, but if you hold on to your faith in Christ, you will ward them off.

Sometimes, they come as mountains standing in your way. You must command those mountains to be removed by faith, and they will be removed.

One interesting thing about the shield of faith is that it can be in different sizes.

In Matthew 8:26, the Bible talks of little faith and then we have great faith in Matthew 8:10.

The size of your faith will determine how many fiery darts you can ward off. This is why Proverbs 24:10 says: “If thou faint in the day of adversity, thy strength is small.”

In order not to faint in the day of adversity, you must build up your faith before adversity comes.

Jude 1:20 says that you should build up your faith by praying in the Holy Ghost. Ensure that you pray in the Holy Ghost every day.

In fact, pray in the Spirit every minute, after all, that is the only way you can really pray without ceasing as instructed in (1 Thessalonians 5:17).

Faith also comes by hearing the word of God as we see in Romans 10:17.

If you want your faith to grow, you must ensure that you study your Bible every day. Also, ensure that you listen to sermons from genuine men of God regularly; this will further help your faith grow.

One final way through which your faith can grow is through trials as the Bible says in (1 Peter 1:7).

Although, many Christians do not want to face challenges, the Bible says that you should count it all joy when you face temptations as they help you become perfect in Christ (James 1:2-4).

OPEN HEAVEN 11 JUNE 2024 KEY POINT

Build up your faith so that you will ward off every fiery dart of the enemy.

Prayer Points For Open Heavens 11 June 2024

Powerful Declarations For Today 11 June 2024

OPEN HEAVEN 11 JUNE 2024 HYMNAL: 16 – ‘TIS SORRY SWEET TO TRUST IN JESUS

1 ’Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus,
Just to take Him at His word;
Just to rest upon His promise;
Just to know, Thus saith the Lord.
Jesus, Jesus, how I trust Him,
How I’ve proved Him o’er and o’er,
Jesus, Jesus, Precious Jesus!
O for grace to trust Him more.

2 O how sweet to trust in Jesus,
Just to trust His cleansing blood;
Just in simple faith to plunge me,
’Neath the healing, cleansing flood.

3 Yes, ’tis sweet to trust in Jesus,
Just from sin and self to cease;
Just from Jesus simply taking
Life, and rest, and joy, and peace.

4 I’m so glad I learned to trust Thee,
Precious Jesus, Savior, Friend;
And I know that Thou art with me,
Wilt be with me to the end.

OPEN HEAVEN 11 JUNE 2024 BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: PSALMS 38-42

AUTHOR PASTOR E A ADEBOYE

MEMORISE: He that keepeth his mouth keepeth his life: but he that openeth wide his lips shall have destruction. Proverbs 13:3

READ: Matthew 12:36
[36]But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.

MESSAGE
A lot of people get robbed either because of their boastful nature or through information gotten from someone close to them; the former is most common. It is not everything about you and your family that people or even your friends should know about. Not everyone is happy about your possessions and the privileges you enjoy. You need to know that some people get close to others so that they can know how to attack them. Know when to stop divulging information about yourself; it will save you from harm. 2 Timothy 2:16 admonishes:
*”But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness.”*

Aside from possibly getting harmed because of the things you say, reckless talking also leads to telling lies, spreading rumours, and gossiping. Do not allow your speech to lead you to sin: you should learn when to speak and when to keep silent.

KEY POINT
Reckless talking can lead you to sin.

HYMN 8 – LEAD US HEAVENLY FATHER, LEAD US
1. Lead us, heavenly Father, lead us
O’er the world’s tempestuous sea;
Guard us, guide us, keep us, feed us,
For we have no help but Thee,
Yet possessing every blessing
If our God our Father be.

2. Saviour, breathe forgiveness o’er us;
All our weakness Thou dost know;
Thou didst tread this earth before us,
Thou didst feel its keenest woe;
Lone and dreary, faint and weary,
Through the desert Thou didst go.

3. Spirit of our God, descending,
Fill our hearts with heavenly joy,
Love with every passion blending,
Pleasure that can never cloy;
Thus provided, pardoned, guided,
Nothing can our peace destroy.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:
1 Kings 8:1-66 Acts 7:51-8:13
AUTHORS: PASTOR E. A ADEBOYE
PASTOR MRS FOLU ADEBOYE

OPEN HEAVEN 11 JUNE 2024
TUESDAY: THE SHIELD OF FAITH

MEMORISE:
“Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.” – (Ephesians 6:16)

READ: MATTHEW 21:18-22 (KJV)
18 Now in the morning as he returned into the city, he hungered.
19 And when he saw a fig tree in the way, he came to it, and found nothing thereon, but leaves only, and said unto it, Let no fruit grow on thee henceforward for ever. And presently the fig tree withered away.
20 And when the disciples saw it, they marvelled, saying, How soon is the fig tree withered away!
21 Jesus answered and said unto them, Verily I say unto you, If ye have faith, and doubt not, ye shall not only do this which is done to the fig tree, but also if ye shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; it shall be done.
22 And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.

MESSAGE:
Over the past few days, I have been teaching on the full armour of God. The shield of faith ensures that the fiery arrows of the devil do not get to you. This suggests that there will be times when the devil will try to attack your health, finances, marriage and so on. You should use the shield of faith to ward off all such attacks. A Christian without faith is vulnerable to the devil’s attacks. Also, a Christian without faith should not expect to receive anything from God as we see in James 1:6-7.
Some things will come up that will try to shake your faith, those are the fiery darts of the enemy. They will look scary and seem to be able to bring you down, but if you hold on to your faith in Christ, you will ward them off. Sometimes, they come as mountains standing in your way. You must command those mountains to be removed by faith, and they will be removed.

One interesting thing about the shield of faith is that it can be in different sizes. In Matthew 8:26, the Bible talks of little faith and then we have great faith in Matthew 8:10. The size of your faith will determine how many fiery darts you can ward off. This is why Proverbs 24:10 says:
*”If thou faint in the day of adversity, thy strength is small.”*
In order not to faint in the day of adversity, you must build up your faith before adversity comes. Jude 1:20 says that you should build up your faith by praying in the Holy Ghost. Ensure that you pray in the Holy Ghost every day. In fact, pray in the Spirit every minute, after all, that is the only way you can really pray without ceasing as instructed in (1 Thessalonians 5:17).
Faith also comes by hearing the word of God as we see in Romans 10:17. If you want your faith to grow, you must ensure that you study your Bible every day. Also, ensure that you listen to sermons from genuine men of God regularly; this will further help your faith grow.

One final way through which your faith can grow is through trials as the Bible says in (1 Peter 1:7). Although, many Christians do not want to face challenges, the Bible says that you should count it all joy when you face temptations as they help you become perfect in Christ (James 1:2-4).

KEY POINT:
Build up your faith so that you will ward off every fiery dart of the enemy.

HYMNAL: 16 – ‘TIS SORRY SWEET TO TRUST IN JESUS
1 ’Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus,
Just to take Him at His word;
Just to rest upon His promise;
Just to know, Thus saith the Lord.
Jesus, Jesus, how I trust Him,
How I’ve proved Him o’er and o’er,
Jesus, Jesus, Precious Jesus!
O for grace to trust Him more.

2 O how sweet to trust in Jesus,
Just to trust His cleansing blood;
Just in simple faith to plunge me,
’Neath the healing, cleansing flood.

3 Yes, ’tis sweet to trust in Jesus,
Just from sin and self to cease;
Just from Jesus simply taking
Life, and rest, and joy, and peace.

4 I’m so glad I learned to trust Thee,
Precious Jesus, Savior, Friend;
And I know that Thou art with me,
Wilt be with me to the end.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: PSALMS 38-42
AUTHOR PASTOR E A ADEBOYE

MEMORISE: A fool hath no delight in understanding, but that his heart may discover itself. Proverbs 18:2

READ: Proverbs 21:23
Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles.

MESSAGE
The saying, ’empty barrels make the loudest noise,’ has been proven over time to be true. If you are talkative, there is a possibility that you will miss out on important information during conversations. Don’t be known as that fellow who acts like a know-it-all; rather, you should spend more time listening when you are in conversations with other people. They may just be saying things that you do not know and that you need to learn.
Also, whenever you are making your requests to God in prayer, keep quiet at intervals to hear the voice of the Holy Spirit. Don’t just rush out of God’s presence when you are done making your numerous requests. God often has things to tell His children, but if we don’t listen, we will miss out on vital information that will help deliver God’s answers to our prayers.
Beloved, you have more to gain when you talk less and listen more.

REFLECTION
Do you often interrupt people during conversations?

HYMN 9 – 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.

CHORUS
O 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.

3. Deeper, deeper! tho’ it cost hard trials,
Deeper let me go!
Rooted in the holy love of Jesus,
Let me fruitful grow.

4. Deeper, higher ev’ry day in Jesus,
Till all conflict past,
Finds me conqueror, and in His own image
Perfected at last.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:
1 Kings 7:1-51 Acts 7:30-50
AUTHORS: PASTOR E. A ADEBOYE
PASTOR MRS FOLU ADEBOYE

MEMORISE: As for these four children, God gave them knowledge and skill in all learning and wisdom: and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams. Daniel 1:17

READ: Matthew 25:14-30
[14]For the kingdom of heaven is as a man travelling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods.
[15]And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every man according to his several ability; and straightway took his journey.
[16]Then he that had received the five talents went and traded with the same, and made them other five talents.
[17]And likewise he that had received two, he also gained other two.
[18]But he that had received one went and digged in the earth, and hid his lord’s money.
[19]After a long time the lord of those servants cometh, and reckoneth with them.
[20]And so he that had received five talents came and brought other five talents, saying, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me five talents: behold, I have gained beside them five talents more.
[21]His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.
[22]He also that had received two talents came and said, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me two talents: behold, I have gained two other talents beside them.
[23]His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.
[24]Then he which had received the one talent came and said, Lord, I knew thee that thou art an hard man, reaping where thou hast not sown, and gathering where thou hast not strawed:
[25]And I was afraid, and went and hid thy talent in the earth: lo, there thou hast that is thine.
[26]His lord answered and said unto him, Thou wicked and slothful servant, thou knewest that I reap where I sowed not, and gather where I have not strawed:
[27]Thou oughtest therefore to have put my money to the exchangers, and then at my coming I should have received mine own with usury.
[28]Take therefore the talent from him, and give it unto him which hath ten talents.
[29]For unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but from him that hath not shall be taken away even that which he hath.
[30]And cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

MESSAGE
As a child of God, you are to invest in your future with the resources at your disposal just as you invest in yourself. In the parable of the talents, the master gave his servants talents. Two were wise enough to invest their talents while the other one buried the only talent he was given. In verse 27 of our Bible reading, the master said, “Couldn’t you have saved my talent in the bank so that it will yield profit for me?” This implies that God expects His children to invest in profitable businesses and make profits.
You are not too young to invest in legitimate businesses. There are several ways to go about it, especially now that we are in the digital age. You can use your savings to buy stocks and shares in companies via apps on your phone. Also, in a generation where science and the media have become the order of the day, you can make good use of the media at your disposal to get the right information on investments.

REFLECTION
What will you invest in this year that will make you stand out from among your peers?

QUIZ
What is the name of the youngest king that ruled Judah, and at what age did he ascend the throne?

HYMN 4 – CHRIST IS OUR CORNER-STONE
1. Christ is our Comer-stone;
On Him alone we build;
With His true Saints alone
The courts of Heaven are filled;
On His great Love
Our hopes we place
Of present grace,
And joys above.

2. Oh, then with hymns of praise
These hallow’d courts shall ring:
Our voices we will raise,
The Three in One to sing;
And thus proclaim
In joyful song,
Both loud and long,
That glorious Name.

3. Here, gracious God, do Thou
For evermore draw nigh;
Accept each faithful vow,
And mark each suppliant sigh;
In copious shower
On all who pray,
Each holy day,
Thy blessings pour.

4 Here may we gain from Heaven,
The grace which we implore,
And may that grace, once given
Be with us evermore;
Until that day,
When all the blest,
To endless rest
Are call’d away

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:
1 Kings 5:1-6:38 Acts 7:1-29
AUTHORS: PASTOR E. A ADEBOYE
PASTOR MRS FOLU ADEBOYE

LESSON FORTY ONE (41)
TOPIC: BE IN HIS PRESENCE

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: “Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fullness of joy; and at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore. “Psalms 16:11

BIBLE TEXT: Psalms 27:4
[4] One thing have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; That I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, To behold the beauty of the LORD, and to enquire in his temple.

LESSON INTRODUCTION: God’s presence is very important in our daily activities. Even the earth shakes, trembles and the heaven drops at His presence (Psalms 68:8). There is nothing hidden from God, everything is completely opened before Him. One of the blessings we enjoy in God’s presence is the fullness of Joy!

LESSON OUTLINE ONE
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE IN GOD’S PRESENCE?
When we talk of being in God’s presence, it means;
* Company of angels embedded in awesome fear – Heb. 12:22.
* Glorious in holiness, fearful, undiluted praises – Exodus 15:11.
* Rejoicing whenever there is immeasurable encounter of salvation – Luke 15:10.
* Uttering words, prophecies that changes destiny.
* Divine visitation – Luke 1:28-35.
* Prayers, supplications and blessings – Acts 2:25,28.
* Standing for divine instruction and directives – Luke 1:19.
* Taking and enlarging territories – Deut. 12:20; 19:8.

LESSON OUTLINE TWO
THE BENEFITS OF BEING IN GOD’S PRESENCE AND THE DANGERS OF NOT BEING IN GOD’S PRESENCE
* Enjoying divine formation and provision – Genesis 2:21.
* Enjoying divine communion.
* Enjoying peace and rest from evil activities – Rom. 15:33; Phil. 4:9; Matt. 11:28.
* Enjoying security and protection from wiles of the devil – Prov. 18:10; Eph.6:11.
* Enjoying hope, joy and crown of rejoicing – 1 Thess. 2:19.
* Enjoying wisdom and power – Daniel 2:20.
* Mountains melt, opposition crumbles Judges 5:5; Psalms 46:6; 68:2; 97:5.
* There is beauty for ashes, oil of gladness – Isaiah 61:3.

SUMMARY: Where can we go from His presence?

CONCLUSION: Every believer should desire to be in God’s presence because according to Psalms 27:4, there is beauty in His presence and there is provision to request and ask God questions.

PRAYER POINTS
1. Father, thank You for Your unfailing presence.
2. Oh Lord, let our desires be to always abide in Your presence.
3. Lord, let all the enemies of RCCG perish at Your presence.
4. Father, as you honoured Mordecai in front of Haman his enemy, please do so for me in the presence of my enemies in Jesus name.
5. Daddy, let Your mighty presence always be with all our pastors in RCCG.
6. Father, let Your presence continue to envelope Daddy G. O. and family.

GOLDEN DIET FOR THE WEEK
MONDAY: Declare Psalms 23:6 upon you and your family.
TUESDAY: Psalms 51:11-Turn it into a prayer now.
WEDNESDAY: Psalms 95:2; 100:2.
THURSDAY: Psalms 22:3 – Praise Him to bring down His presence.
FRIDAY: Psalms 139:7
SATURDAY: Psalms 27:4
SUNDAY: Psalms 97:5

LESSON: FORTY ONE (41)
TOPIC: CULTURAL CHRISTIANITY

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?

BIBLE PASSAGE: Matthew 7:21-23.
[21]Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.
[22]Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?
[23]And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.

MEMORY VERSE: And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch. Acts 11:26.

INTRODUCTION: The Christian faith is the experience of daily living in a dynamic and new personal relationship with God (Romans 10:9-10; John 1:11-13). The very term “Christian” was coined in the city of Antioch as a way to identify the first followers of Christ (Acts 11:26). The first disciples were so much like Jesus that they were called little Christs by their detractors. It is unfortunate that nowadays,some people have made Christianity represent an ideology or a social class rather than a lifestyle of obedience to God. Today, there are two shades of Christianity: Cultural Christianity and Biblical Christianity.

OUTLINES:
1. CULTURAL CHRISTIANITY DESCRIBED
2. IDENTIFICATION MARKS

1. CULTURAL CHRISTIANITY DESCRIBED
Cultural Christians are nominal believers who superficially identify themselves as “Christians” but do not truly adhere to the tenets of the Christian faith (Matthew 15:8).
They wear the label “Christian” without personal conviction that Jesus is Lord (2 Timothy 3:5).
Cultural Christianity is more social than spiritual (1 Corinthians 2:14-15). A cultural Christian identifies with certain aspects of Christianity, such as the good works of Jesus (John 6:26-27),but rejects the spiritual aspects required to be a biblically defined Christian (Romans 8:5). Some people consider themselves Christians because of family background, charity giving, place of residence, Christian name or title, churchgoing or social environment. Others identify as Christians as a way of declaring a religious affiliation. Cultural Christianity is not true Christianity.There was no such thing as cultural Christianity in the days of the early church.

2. IDENTIFICATION MARKS
The following are some identifying marks of cultural Christians:
1. They deny the inspiration of Scripture or parts of Scripture (2 Timothy 3:16; 2Peter 1:21).
2. They ignore or downplay true repentance as the first step toward knowing God (Matthew 4:17; Acts 2:38).
3. They focus on Jesus’ love and acceptance to the exclusion of His teaching on hell, obedience, and self-sacrifice (Mark 9:43; Luke 12:5).
4. They tolerate or even celebrate ongoing sin while claiming to know God (1Corinthians 5:1-2).
5. They redefine scriptural truths to accommodate culture (Numbers 23:19).
6. Claiming God’s promises while ignoring the requirements included with them (Psalms 50:16).
7. They deny or minimise Jesus’ claim that He is the only way to God (John 14:6).
8. They perform enough religious activity to gain a sense of well-being without a true devotion to Jesus (Romans 8:9).
9. They see protection and blessing as goals to be achieved, rather than by-products of a love relationship with God (Mark 12:30).
10. They are lukewarm and choose the church to attend based on any or all of the above (Revelation 3:15-17).

CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Mention what true Christians can do to help cultural Christians.

CONCLUSION: Jesus’ warning in Matthew 7:21-23 should be a wake-up call to cultural Christians.

QUESTIONS:
* Describe cultural Christians in two sentences.
* Mention four ways to identify a cultural Christian.

ASSIGNMENT: Write five differences between a true Christian and a cultural Christian. (2×5=10 marks).

LESSON: FORTY ONE (41)
TOPIC: APOSTLE PAUL

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: Father, please help me to be faithful to the end.

BIBLE PASSAGE: Acts 9:1-7 NKJV‬‬
[1] Then Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest [2] and asked letters from him to the synagogues of Damascus, so that if he found any who were of the Way, whether men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem. [3] As he journeyed he came near Damascus, and suddenly a light shone around him from heaven. [4] Then he fell to the ground, and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?” [5] And he said, “Who are You, Lord?” Then the Lord said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. It is hard for you to kick against the goads.” [6] So he, trembling and astonished, said, “Lord, what do You want me to do?” Then the Lord said to him, “Arise and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.” [7] And the men who journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice but seeing no one.

MEMORY VERSE: “This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief.”1 Timothy 1:15 (NKJV).

INTRODUCTION: Paul was born in AD 10 in the Roman city of Tarsus, Cilicia, Asia Minor (now modern Turkey). He was a Pharisee who was proud of his Jewish heritage, as he describes in Philippians 3:5. Persecuting Christians was the natural way for him to show his devotion. He used his Hebrew name, Saul, until sometime after his conversion when he began to preach Christ. Paul later became “the apostle to the Gentiles” (Romans 11:13). His Roman name, Paul, helped him in his trips into the gentile world. He died in AD 67.

LESSON AIM: To study the character and achievements of Apostle Paul.
At the end of this lesson, students should be able to:
a. Understand the character and achievement of Apostle Paul.
b. Discover and emulate the character and learn other lessons from Apostle Paul’s life

TEXT REVIEW: Acts 9:1-7.
The above text narrates the encounter of Saul who became Apostle Paul with the Lord Jesus Christ on his way to Damascus.
i. Saul was threatening the disciples, he went to the high priest, requesting for letter addressed to the synagogue in Damascus asking for their cooperation in the arrest of any of the followers of Christ. Vs 1-2.
ii. ……………………………………………….v3.
iii ……………………………………………….v4.
iv. Saul said who are you, the voice replied …
………..v5.
v. ………………………………………………v6.
vi. ………………………………………………v7.

OUTLINES:
1. HIS CHARACTER
2. ACHIEVEMENTS AND LESSONS FROM HIS LIFE

1. HIS CHARACTER
Teachers to highlight the following character of Apostle Paul.
1. Saul (now Paul) was a strong-willed persecutor of the church (Acts 8:3; 9:1; 22:4).
2. He had a fiery temperament and always acted on his beliefs; this showed in his sharp separation from Barnabas because of Mark (Acts 15:37-40).
3. After his conversion, Paul channelled his strong will into his apostolic ministry and became the most popular (1Corinthians 15:9-10).
4. He was an eloquent speaker with great persuasive skills (Acts 26:28).
5. Paul was hardworking: he made tents to earn a living (Acts 18:2-3). He also charged his followers to be hard-working (2 Thessalonians 3:10).

CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Why do you think people are reluctant to submit themselves to the calling of God?

2. ACHIEVEMENTS AND LESSONS FROM HIS LIFE
i. Paul was highly educated and spoke fluent Hebrew and Koine/common Greek. He studied under Gamaliel (Acts 22:3).
ii. He wrote 14 epistles of the New Testament.
iii. As an Apostle to the Gentiles (Romans 11:13), he made three great missionary journeys covering the whole of Asia which comprised most of the known ancient world (Acts 19:10).
iv. He had access to the third heaven and paradise (2 Corinthians 12:1-6).
v. He laboured more than other Apostles of his time (1 Corinthians 15:10).
vi. He prayed and even sang in tongues more than others in his time (1 Corinthians 14:15, 18).
vii. However, he suffered many hardships for the sake of Christ (Acts 9:16; 2 Corinthians 11:24-28).

B. LESSONS FROM HIS LIFE
i. One sharp note in the life of Paul is the change from being a persecutor of the church to being a preacher of Christ. This shows that Christ has the power to change anyone – from enemies of God to children of God (Romans 5:10; Galatians 3:26).
ii. Like Apostle Paul, we can learn to be content in all things, drawing strength daily from Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:11-13).
iii. Followers of Christ must be willing to endure hardship for Him (Romans 8:17; Philippians 1:29).

CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Students should discuss how believers can endure hardship for the sake of the gospel.

CONCLUSION: Like Paul, we should be willing to spend and be spent for the sake of the gospel of Christ.

EVALUATION: Mention the achievements of Apostle Paul.

CLOSING PRAYER: Father, help me to finish well and strong.

ASSIGNMENT: Mention five (5) lessons you have learned from the life of Apostle Paul (2×5=10 marks).

MEMORISE: But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolator, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat. 1 Corinthians 5:11

READ: 2 Corinthians 6:14-15
[14]Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?
[15]And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel?

MESSAGE
The world is moving at a great pace, and different unhealthy trends are now becoming the norm. I see casual dating as an avenue to venture into immorality. Casual dating is a form of lust that the devil is using to shift the focus of young people from God. Lust never seeks the will of God. Therefore, don’t put yourself in a position that will lead you to compromise and sin against God. This is because the moment you start dating casually, it is likely that you will start fornicating. Even though the world teaches that there is no big deal in having sex before marriage, the Lord frowns at it. Song of Solomon 8:4 says that you should not wake love before its time.
Beloved, you are at your prime, and it is expected that your focus should be on your spiritual growth, academic success, and financial stability. You should be planning your future; therefore, casual dating is a distraction that can limit you from attaining your glorious destiny. I implore you to flee from anyone who fits into the description of today’s memory verse. They will only waste your time and rob you of God’s promises.

ACTION POINT:
If you are currently in a casual dating relationship, please break it off today.

HYMN 19 – 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 soul’s diseases–
No, not one! no, not one!

CHORUS:
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 Savior given?
No, not one! no, not one!
Will He refuse us a home in heaven?
No, not one! no, not one!

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:
1 Kings 3:3-4:34 Acts 6:1-15
AUTHORS: PASTOR E. A ADEBOYE
PASTOR MRS FOLU ADEBOYE

LESSON: FORTY ONE (41)
TOPIC: APOSTLE PAUL

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?

BIBLE PASSAGE: Acts 9:1-7 NKJV‬‬
[1] Then Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest [2] and asked letters from him to the synagogues of Damascus, so that if he found any who were of the Way, whether men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem. [3] As he journeyed he came near Damascus, and suddenly a light shone around him from heaven. [4] Then he fell to the ground, and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?” [5] And he said, “Who are You, Lord?” Then the Lord said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. It is hard for you to kick against the goads.” [6] So he, trembling and astonished, said, “Lord, what do You want me to do?” Then the Lord said to him, “Arise and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.” [7] And the men who journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice but seeing no one.

MEMORY VERSE: “This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief.”1 Timothy 1:15 (NKJV).

INTRODUCTION: Paul was born in AD 10 in the Roman city of Tarsus, Cilicia, Asia Minor (now modern Turkey). He was a Pharisee who was proud of his Jewish heritage, as he describes in Philippians 3:5. Persecuting Christians was the natural way for him to show his devotion. He used his Hebrew name, Saul, until sometime after his conversion when he began to preach Christ. Paul later became “the apostle to the Gentiles” (Romans 11:13). His Roman name, Paul, helped him in his trips into the gentile world. He died in AD 67.

OUTLINES:
1. HIS CHARACTER
2. ACHIEVEMENTS AND LESSONS FROM HIS LIFE

1. HIS CHARACTER
Saul (now Paul) was a strong-willed persecutor of the church (Acts 8:3; 9:1; 22:4). He had a fiery temperament and always acted on his beliefs; this showed in his sharp separation from Barnabas because of Mark (Acts 15:37-40). After his conversion, Paul channelled his strong will into his apostolic ministry and became the most popular (1Corinthians 15:9-10). He was an eloquent speaker with great persuasive skills (Acts 26:28). Paul was hardworking: he made tents to earn a living (Acts 18:2-3). He also charged his followers to be hard-working (2 Thessalonians 3:10).

CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Why do you think people are reluctant to submit themselves to the calling of God?

2. ACHIEVEMENTS AND LESSONS FROM HIS LIFE
ACHIEVEMENTS: Paul was highly educated and spoke fluent Hebrew and Koine/common Greek. He studied under Gamaliel (Acts 22:3). He wrote 14 epistles of the New Testament. As an Apostle to the Gentiles (Romans 11:13), he made three great missionary journeys covering the whole of Asia which comprised most of the known ancient world (Acts 19:10). He had access to the third heaven and paradise (2 Corinthians 12:1-6). He laboured more than other Apostles of his time (1 Corinthians 15:10). He prayed and even sang in tongues more than others in his time (1 Corinthians 14:15, 18). However, he suffered many hardships for the sake of Christ (Acts 9:16; 2 Corinthians 11:24-28).

LESSONS FROM HIS LIFE
One sharp note in the life of Paul is the change from being a persecutor of the church to being a preacher of Christ. This shows that Christ has the power to change anyone – from enemies of God to children of God (Romans 5:10; Galatians 3:26). Like Apostle Paul, we can learn to be content in all things, drawing strength daily from Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:11-13). Also, followers of Christ must be willing to endure hardship for Him (Romans 8:17; Philippians 1:29).

CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Students should discuss how believers can endure hardship for the sake of the gospel.

CONCLUSION: Like Paul, we should be willing to spend and be spent for the sake of the gospel of Christ.

QUESTIONS
* What are the achievements of Apostle Paul?
* Mention two characters of Apostle Paul.

FURTHER READING: Acts. 20:31. MON: Acts.14:22. TUES: Gal.4:7. WED: Phili.1:29. THURS: 2Tim.2:11. FRI: Eph.1:13. SAT: Gal.2:8.

ASSIGNMENT: Mention five (5) lessons you have learned from the life of Apostle Paul (2×5=10 marks