TOPIC: LESSONS FROM THE FOUR LEPERS

OPENING PRAYER:

Dear Lord, help me to turn my weakness into strength as I learn from the four lepers.

PREVIOUS KNOWLEDGE:

The teacher should review the lesson for the previous week.

TODAY’S LESSON

BIBLE PASSAGE: 2 Kings 7:1-5

Then Elisha said, Hear ye the word of the Lord; Thus saith the Lord, To morrow about this time shall a measure of fine flour be sold for a shekel, and two measures of barley for a shekel, in the gate of Samaria.

² Then a lord on whose hand the king leaned answered the man of God, and said, Behold, if the Lord would make windows in heaven, might this thing be? And he said, Behold, thou shalt see it with thine eyes, but shalt not eat thereof.

³ And there were four leprous men at the entering in of the gate: and they said one to another, Why sit we here until we die?

⁴ If we say, We will enter into the city, then the famine is in the city, and we shall die there: and if we sit still here, we die also. Now therefore come, and let us fall unto the host of the Syrians: if they save us alive, we shall live; and if they kill us, we shall but die.

⁵ And they rose up in the twilight, to go unto the camp of the Syrians: and when they were come to the uttermost part of the camp of Syria, behold, there was no man there.

MEMORY VERSE: 2 Kings 7:3

And there were four leprous men at the entering in of the gate: and they said one to another, Why sit we here until we die?

INTRODUCTION

In Bible times, people suffering from skin diseases like leprosy were treated as outcasts. There was no cure for the disease, which gradually left a person disfigured through loss of fingers, toes, and eventually limbs.

It is, therefore, surprising and challenging how God decided to use these categories of people to bring relief to the nation of Israel during the famine, despite their limitations (1 Corinthians 1:27).

TEACHER’S DIARY

LESSON AIM:

To teach students lessons from the biblical four lepers.

TEACHING OBJECTIVES:

At the end of this lesson, students should be able to:

a. Understand that one can live above limitations.

b. Know practical values that can help to live limitations.

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

c. Teach the lesson outline, summarise, conclude, evaluate the lesson and give assignment to the students.

TEXT REVIEW: 2 Kings 7:1-5

A. In this passage, Prophet Elisha prophesying concerning the famine experience in Samaria says:

i. Hear ye the of the LORD; Thus saith the LORD, To morrow about this time shall a measure of fine flour be sold for a shekel. V1a.

ii. And two measures ………… V1b.

B. But a lord on whose hand the king leaned answered the man of God, and said:

i. Behold, if the LORD would …………… V2a.

ii. And Elisha said, Behold, thou shalt see …………….. V2b.

C. Meanwhile, there were four leprous men at the entering in of the gate: and they said one to another, Why sit we here until we die? V3.

i. If we say ……………. V4a.

ii. Now therefore come, and let us fall ……………… V4b.

iii. And they rose up save …………………… V5a.

iv. And when they were come to ……………… V5b.

TEACHING METHOD:

The Lecture Method.

TIME MANAGEMENT:

The teacher should apply the two-lesson of teaching time.

OUTLINES:

1. LIVING ABOVE LIMITATIONS

2. LESSONS TO LEARN

1. LIVING ABOVE LIMITATIONS

A. Teachers should explain the meaning of limitations as:

i. Obstacles on our way to the fulfilment of God’s plans and purposes for our lives especially as Christians.

ii. Setbacks, stagnations, and losing out in the of life.

B. The sources of limitations may include but are not limited to:

i. Spiritual (Daniel 10:12-13).

ii. Human misdeeds or errors (2 Samuel 4:4).

iii. Natural (Exodus 14:10).

iv. Afflictions (Exodus 3:7).

C. In our Bible passage – 2 Kings 7:1-5, leprosy (among other diseases) confined and restricted the purpose for living of some men:

i. These lepers were treated as outcasts; they stayed outside the camp (Numbers 5:2-3).

ii. They could not live among their brethren (Leviticus 13:45-46).

iii. They were confounded to entering of the gate (2 Kings 7:3; Luke 17:12).

D. We are bound to have challenges as Christians (Jeremiah 1:19).

i. The good news is that God has assured us of being more than conquerors through Christ (Romans 8:37).

ii. However, we have a lot to learn from the case of the lepers in 2 Kings 7:1-5, who asked themselves a fundamental question “Why sit we here until we die?”

CLASS ACTIVITY 1:

Students should share any experience where they succeeded in spite of difficulties.

2. LESSONS LEARN

The teacher should ask the students to mention the lessons that can be learned from the actions of the four lepers. He/she should then explain the lessons as follows:

1. Unity: The lepers were united. Unity is strength and it is easy to accomplish a feat when we are unified (Amos 3:3; Psalm 133:1-3).

2. Purposefulness: They were determined to achieve their goal and this helped them to conquer their fears despite their condition (2 Kings 7:4; Daniel 1:8).

3. Understanding: They were able to analyse and interpret the situation they found themselves in. This informed the decision they made and there was no strife amongst them (Proverbs 20:3).

4. Daring: They were audacious. They made up their mind to go to the camp of the enemy irrespective of the odds (Esther 4:16; 2 Kings 7:4).

5. Resolute: Twilight is a period of obscurity or haziness but the lepers were not deterred. Even in this period of uncertainty, they still went ahead with their plans. Do not give up on your dreams (2 Kings 7:5a, Daniel 3:15-18).

6. Saving Culture: Do not eat with “10 fingers!” After eating to the full they still kept some behind. Savings is important to grow big (2 Kings 7:8; Proverbs 21:20).

7. Compassion: They rebuked and went to report their findings to the king’s household so that everyone could benefit from the booty (2 Kings 7:9; 1 Peter 3:8).

8. Stop Procrastinating: Immediately they decided to tell the porter of the city their discovery they followed it with a decisive step. They did what they thought in their mind (Proverbs 13:4; 2 Kings 7:10a).

9. Share Information: They did not wholly withhold information about all that they saw at the Syrian camp. They took the good news to the right source; the king (Hebrews 13:16; 2 Kings 7:10).

CLASS ACTIVITY 2:

The class should mention other lessons that can be learned from the lepers other than the ones stated above.

CONCLUSION: RCCG SUNDAY SCHOOL TEACHERS MANUAL 10 DECEMBER 2023

As believers, we must see beyond our limitations and fulfil our purpose (Philippians 4:13).

QUESTION

* Mention three sources of limitation.

Mention two lessons believers can learn from four lepers.

EVALUATION:

Teachers should ask the students to explain how they can fulfil their purpose in the face of limitations.

CLOSING PRAYER:

I receive the grace to fulfil my purpose irrespective of limiting circumstances around me.

RCCG SUNDAY SCHOOL TEACHERS MANUAL 10 DECEMBER 2023 ASSIGNMENT

Mention five people in the Bible who overcame their limitations and fulfilled their destinies. (2×5=10 marks).

RCCG SUNDAY SCHOOL STUDENT MANUAL 10 DECEMBER 2023 (LESSON 15)

TOPIC: LESSONS FROM THE FOUR LEPERS

BIBLE PASSAGE: 2 Kings 7:1-5

Then Elisha said, Hear ye the word of the Lord; Thus saith the Lord, To morrow about this time shall a measure of fine flour be sold for a shekel, and two measures of barley for a shekel, in the gate of Samaria.

² Then a lord on whose hand the king leaned answered the man of God, and said, Behold, if the Lord would make windows in heaven, might this thing be? And he said, Behold, thou shalt see it with thine eyes, but shalt not eat thereof.

³ And there were four leprous men at the entering in of the gate: and they said one to another, Why sit we here until we die?

⁴ If we say, We will enter into the city, then the famine is in the city, and we shall die there: and if we sit still here, we die also. Now therefore come, and let us fall unto the host of the Syrians: if they save us alive, we shall live; and if they kill us, we shall but die.

⁵ And they rose up in the twilight, to go unto the camp of the Syrians: and when they were come to the uttermost part of the camp of Syria, behold, there was no man there.

MEMORY VERSE: 2 Kings 7:3

And there were four leprous men at the entering in of the gate: and they said one to another, Why sit we here until we die?

INTRODUCTION

In Bible times, people suffering from skin diseases like leprosy were treated as outcasts. There was no cure for the disease, which gradually left a person disfigured through loss of fingers, toes, and eventually limbs.

It is, therefore, surprising and challenging how God decided to use these categories of people to bring relief to the nation of Israel during the famine, despite their limitations (1 Corinthians 1:27).

OUTLINES:

1. LIVING ABOVE LIMITATIONS

2. LESSONS TO LEARN

1. LIVING ABOVE LIMITATIONS

Limitations are Obstacles on our way to the fulfilment of God’s plans and purposes for our lives. These can come from various sources:

Spiritual (Daniel 10:12-13).

Human misdeeds or errors (2 Samuel 4:4).

Natural (Exodus 14:10).

Afflictions (Exodus 3:7, etc

In our Bible passage, 2 Kings 7:1-5, leprosy confined and restricted the purpose of these men’s living because lepers were treated as outcasts;

they stayed outside the camp (Numbers 5:2-3),

could not live among their brethren (Leviticus 13:45-46),

and stayed at the entering of the gate (2 Kings 7:3).

We are bound to encounter setbacks, even as Christians: being Christians does not exempt us from the challenges of life (Jeremiah 1:19).

The good news is that God has assured us of being more than conquerors through Christ (Romans 8:37).

However, we have a lot to learn from the case of the lepers in 2 Kings 7:1-5, who asked themselves a fundamental question “Why sit we here until we die?”CLASS ACTIVITY 1:

Students should share any experience where they succeeded in spite of difficulties.

2. LESSONS LEARN

1. Unity: The lepers were united. Unity is strength and it is easy to accomplish a feat when we are unified (Amos 3:3; Psalm 133:1-3).

2. Purposefulness: They were determined to achieve their goal and this helped them to conquer their fears despite their condition (2 Kings 7:4; Daniel 1:8).

3. Understanding: They were able to analyse and interpret the situation they found themselves in. This informed the decision they made and there was no strife amongst them (Proverbs 20:3).

4. Daring: They were audacious. They made up their mind to go to the camp of the enemy irrespective of the odds (Esther 4:16; 2 Kings 7:4).

5. Resolute: Twilight is a period of obscurity or haziness but the lepers were not deterred. Even in this period of uncertainty, they still went ahead with their plans. Do not give up on your dreams (2 Kings 7:5a, Daniel 3:15-18).

6. Saving Culture: Do not eat with “10 fingers!” After eating to the full they still kept some behind. Savings is important to grow big (2 Kings 7:8; Proverbs 21:20).

7. Compassion: They rebuked and went to report their findings to the king’s household so that everyone could benefit from the booty (2 Kings 7:9; 1 Peter 3:8).

8. Stop Procrastinating: Immediately they decided to tell the porter of the city their discovery they followed it with a decisive step. They did what they thought in their mind (Proverbs 13:4; 2 Kings 7:10a).

9. Share Information: They did not wholly withhold information about all that they saw at the Syrian camp. They took the good news to the right source; the king (Hebrews 13:16; 2 Kings 7:10).

CLASS ACTIVITY 2:

The class should mention other lessons that can be learned from the lepers other than the ones stated above.

CONCLUSION: RCCG SUNDAY SCHOOL STUDENT MANUAL 10 DECEMBER 2023

As believers, we must see beyond our limitations and fulfil our purpose (Philippians 4:13).

QUESTION

* Mention three sources of limitation.

Mention two lessons believers can learn from four lepers.

RCCG SUNDAY SCHOOL STUDENT MANUAL 10 DECEMBER 2023 ASSIGNMENT

Mention five people in the Bible who overcame their limitations and fulfilled their destinies. (2×5=10 marks).

RCCG YAYA SUNDAY SCHOOL TEACHER MANUAL 10 DECEMBER 2023 (LESSON 15)

TOPIC: DELEGATING

OPENING PRAYER:

Dear Lord, help me to understand the act and art of delegating in Jesus’ name.

TODAY’S LESSON

Dear Lord, help me to understand the act and art of delegating in Jesus’ name.

BIBLE PASSAGE: Acts 6:1-8

¹ Now in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplying, there arose a complaint against the Hebrews by the Hellenists, because their widows were neglected in the daily distribution.

² Then the twelve summoned the multitude of the disciples and said, “It is not desirable that we should leave the word of God and serve tables.

³ Therefore, brethren, seek out from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business;

⁴ but we will give ourselves continually to prayer and to the ministry of the word.”

⁵ And the saying pleased the whole multitude. And they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit, and Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas, a proselyte from Antioch,

⁶ whom they set before the apostles; and when they had prayed, they laid hands on them.

⁷ Then the word of God spread, and the number of the disciples multiplied greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests were obedient to the faith.

⁸ And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and signs among the people.

MEMORY VERSE: Acts 6:3 (NKJV)

“Therefore, brethren, seek out from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business”

INTRODUCTION

To delegate means to assign a job function or task to another with the expectation of getting the desired results.

During Jesus’ earthly ministry, he delegated the evangelistic assignment to His disciples for broader ministerial results (Luke 10:1-2).

The ability to delegate is an important virtue that must be found in every leader whose psyche is to raise new leaders and not to just maintain followers.

TEACHER’S DIARY

LESSON AIM:

To teach the church about the concept of delegation as seen in the scriptures

TEACHING OBJECTIVES:

To teach the church about the concept of delegation as seen in the scriptures.

TEXT REVIEW: Acts 6:1-8

A. In the above texts, the twelve apostles delegated duties to the mentored disciples

i. When the number of the disciples increased then, the Grecian members murmured against their Jewish counterparts that ……………… v1.

ii. The Apostles addressed the teeming disciples that ……….. v2.

iii. ……………………………………………….. v3.

B. The apostles chose to ……………….. v4.

iv. ………………………………………… v5.

v. The group brought them (the chosen) to the apostles who prayed and laid hands on them ……….. v6.

vi. ………………………………………. v7.

vii. ………………………………………… v8.

TEACHING METHOD:

The Lecture Method.

OUTLINES:

1. REASONS FOR DELEGATING

2. CRITERIA FOR DELEGATING

1. REASONS FOR DELEGATING

Some of the reasons for delegating are stated as follows:

i. It is one of the means of raising quality and committed leaders (Luke 10:1, 17).

ii. It allows for an individual’s contribution towards the achievement of the goal of an organisation’s vision advancement (Acts 6:3).

iii. It helps the group leader achieve more. (2 Samuel 18:1-2).

iv. It upholds structures that are created to handle a specific task and check for efficiency (Exodus 36:1).

v. It unveils the strength an organization bears (1 Chronicles 12:1-2).

CLASS ACTIVITY 1:

Students should give additional reasons for delegating.

2. CRITERIA FOR DELEGATING

A. Delegating is a very vital tool in leadership-building as well as the organisation’s success.

B. However, certain criteria must be considered before delegating a task.

Some of these include:

(1)Humility: The leader should know he/she is not “all-sufficient’ (1 Peter 5:5). The follower must also appreciate the privilege of being considered for such a task (James 4:6).

(2) Authority: The leader should release necessary authority to the follower (Matthew 28:18-20).

(3) Willingness: The follower must be willing to take up the task (Isaiah 6:8).

(4) Availability: The follower has to be available to run such a task (2 Samuel 23:15-17).

(5) Qualification: skillfulness and exposure of the follower matters (Exodus 31:2-7).

(6) Reputation: The follower must have a good testimony among others (Acts 6:1-6).

CLASS ACTIVITY 2:

Students should mention additional criteria in delegating.

CONCLUSION: RCCG YAYA SUNDAY SCHOOL TEACHER MANUAL 10 DECEMBER 2023

Delegating strategically helps in achieving great success. No one can do everything alone. Leaders should, however, avoid under-delegating and over-delegating.

EVALUATION:

Teachers should ask the students to mention three reasons for delegating.

CLOSING PRAYER:

Father, whenever You need anyone for Your service, count me worthy.

RCCG YAYA SUNDAY SCHOOL TEACHER MANUAL 10 DECEMBER 2023 ASSIGNMENT

Give five (5) examples of tasks that Church leaders can delegate (2×5=10 marks)

RCCG YAYA SUNDAY SCHOOL YOUTH 10 DECEMBER 2023 (LESSON 15)

TOPIC: DELEGATING

BIBLE PASSAGE: Acts 6:1-8

¹ Now in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplying, there arose a complaint against the Hebrews by the Hellenists, because their widows were neglected in the daily distribution.

² Then the twelve summoned the multitude of the disciples and said, “It is not desirable that we should leave the word of God and serve tables.

³ Therefore, brethren, seek out from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business;

⁴ but we will give ourselves continually to prayer and to the ministry of the word.”

⁵ And the saying pleased the whole multitude. And they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit, and Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas, a proselyte from Antioch,

⁶ whom they set before the apostles; and when they had prayed, they laid hands on them.

⁷ Then the word of God spread, and the number of the disciples multiplied greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests were obedient to the faith.

⁸ And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and signs among the people.

MEMORY VERSE: Acts 6:3 (NKJV)

“Therefore, brethren, seek out from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business”

INTRODUCTION

To delegate means to assign a job function or task to another with the expectation of getting the desired results.

During Jesus’ earthly ministry, he delegated the evangelistic assignment to His disciples for broader ministerial results (Luke 10:1-2).

The ability to delegate is an important virtue that must be found in every leader whose psyche is to raise new leaders and not to just maintain followers.

OUTLINES:

1. REASONS FOR DELEGATING

2. CRITERIA FOR DELEGATING

1. REASONS FOR DELEGATING

Some of the reasons for delegating are stated as follows:

i. It is one of the means of raising quality and committed leaders (Luke 10:1, 17).

ii. It allows for an individual’s contribution towards the achievement of the goal of an organisation’s vision advancement (Acts 6:3).

iii. It helps the group leader achieve more. (2 Samuel 18:1-2).

iv. It upholds structures that are created to handle a specific task and check for efficiency (Exodus 36:1).

v. It unveils the strength an organization bears (1 Chronicles 12:1-2).

CLASS ACTIVITY 1:

Students should give additional reasons for delegating.

2. CRITERIA FOR DELEGATING

Delegating is a very vital tool in leadership-building as well as the organisation’s success.

However, certain criteria must be considered before delegating a task. Some of these include:

(1)Humility: The leader should know he/she is not “all-sufficient’ (1 Peter 5:5). The follower must also appreciate the privilege of being considered for such a task (James 4:6).

(2) Authority: The leader should release necessary authority to the follower (Matthew 28:18-20).

(3) Willingness: The follower must be willing to take up the task (Isaiah 6:8).

(4) Availability: The follower has to be available to run such a task (2 Samuel 23:15-17).

(5) Qualification: skillfulness and exposure of the follower matters (Exodus 31:2-7).

(6) Reputation: The follower must have a good testimony among others (Acts 6:1-6).

CLASS ACTIVITY 2:

Students should mention additional criteria in delegating.

CONCLUSION: RCCG YAYA SUNDAY SCHOOL YOUTH 10 DECEMBER 2023

Delegating strategically helps in achieving great success. No one can do everything alone. Leaders should, however, avoid under-delegating and over-delegating.

QUESTION

* Mention three reasons why leaders should delegate.

* What are the criteria for delegating responsibilities?

FURTHER READING

SUN: Mark 16:8.

MON: 1 Tim. 3:7.

TUES: Deut.1:13.

WED: Heb. 13:17.

THURS: Gen. 3:22.

FRI: Mark 6:7.

SAT: Matt. 10:1

RCCG YAYA SUNDAY SCHOOL YOUTH 10 DECEMBER 2023 ASSIGNMENT

Give five (5) examples of tasks that Church leaders can delegate (2×5=10 marks).

TOPIC: HEARING FROM GOD

Memory Verse: Isaiah 30:21a

“And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee. saying, This is the way, walk ye in it … “

Bible Text: 1 Samuel 3:4-10

⁴ That the Lord called Samuel: and he answered, Here am I.

⁵ And he ran unto Eli, and said, Here am I; for thou calledst me. And he said, I called not; lie down again. And he went and lay down.

⁶ And the Lord called yet again, Samuel. And Samuel arose and went to Eli, and said, Here am I; for thou didst call me. And he answered, I called not, my son; lie down again.

⁷ Now Samuel did not yet know the Lord, neither was the word of the Lordyet revealed unto him.

⁸ And the Lord called Samuel again the third time. And he arose and went to Eli, and said, Here am I; for thou didst call me. And Eli perceived that the Lord had called the child.

⁹ Therefore Eli said unto Samuel, Go, lie down: and it shall be, if he call thee, that thou shalt say, Speak, Lord; for thy servant heareth. So Samuel went and lay down in his place.

¹⁰ And the Lord came, and stood, and called as at other times, Samuel, Samuel. Then Samuel answered, Speak; for thy servant heareth.

LESSON INTRODUCTION

It is very important for every believer to hear from God. The relationship between parents and children should be the kind of relationship between God and believers. Parents talk to their children, their children hear and respond.

The truth is that the Almighty God is always speaking but unfortunately, our minds are too crowded to hear His voice.

WHO CAN HEAR FROM GOD?

Hearing the voice of God follows an intimate relationship with Him.

From our Bible reading for today, we saw that initially, Samuel did not recognize the voice of God but in the process of time, he grew in his relationship with God and he was able to hear Him expressly.

Therefore, who are those that can hear from God?

i. Those who desire to hear God.

ii. Those who read, study and meditate on the Word of God regularly – Rom. 10:17; Joshua 1:8 and Psalm 1:1-3.

iii. Those who hate sin and love righteousness – Hebrews 1:9.

iv. Those who love to fellowship with the Holy Spirit – Romans 8:14.

v. Those who love to be still before God – Psalms 85:5.

vi. Those who obey His commands.

vii. Those who are humble and teachable – James 4:10; 1 Peter 5:5.

viii. Those who have faith in God – Hebrews 11:6.

HOW TO HEAR FROM GOD?

• You must have a relationship with God
• Hunger and thirst for Him – Matt. 5:6; Psalms 42:1.
• Read and study the Word of God – Il Timothy 2:15.
• Position yourself like Samuel to be still before Him.
• Be opened because God can speak in diverse ways.
• Through prayer and fasting – Mark 9:29.

CONCLUSION: RCCG HOUSE FELLOWSHIP MANUAL 10 DECEMBER 2023

The life of a believer becomes easier when they hear from God. There will be no anxiety because the Word of God brings peace.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Father, please remove everything hindering us from hearing You as a church.
2. Father, make us Your special vessel for special use.
3. Lord, please disconnect us from every unprofitable alliance.
4. Father, please sanctify our ears to hear and eyes to see divine mysteries.
5. Father, help Daddy and Mummy G.O. to continually hear from You.
6. Your personal request.

ASSIGNMENT: RCCG HOUSE FELLOWSHIP MANUAL 10 DECEMBER 2023

Study God’s encounter with Moses in Exodus 3.

GOLDEN DIET FOR THE WEEK

MONDAY: And the Lord heard the voice of the lad – Gen. 21:17.

TUESDAY: God hath spoken once; twice have I heard this – Psalms 62:11.

WEDNESDAY: Hast thou heard the secret of God? – Job 15:8.

THURSDAY: O Lord God of hosts, hear my prayer: give ear – Psalms 84:8.

FRIDAY: Hearing ear and the seeing eye, God made both – Prov. 20:12.

SATURDAY: Faith comes by hearing – Romans 10:17.

SUNDAY: So that all that hear will laugh with me – Genesis 21:6.

TOPIC: HEARING FROM GOD

Opening Prayer:

Father, please open my ears to hear Your voice whenever You speak to me in Jesus name.

Previous Knowledge:

Leader should remind members of what agape love is and what love can do.

TODAY’S LESSON

Memory Verse: Isaiah 30:21a

“And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee. saying, This is the way, walk ye in it … “

Bible Text: 1 Samuel 3:4-10

⁴ That the Lord called Samuel: and he answered, Here am I.

⁵ And he ran unto Eli, and said, Here am I; for thou calledst me. And he said, I called not; lie down again. And he went and lay down.

⁶ And the Lord called yet again, Samuel. And Samuel arose and went to Eli, and said, Here am I; for thou didst call me. And he answered, I called not, my son; lie down again.

⁷ Now Samuel did not yet know the Lord, neither was the word of the Lordyet revealed unto him.

⁸ And the Lord called Samuel again the third time. And he arose and went to Eli, and said, Here am I; for thou didst call me. And Eli perceived that the Lord had called the child.

⁹ Therefore Eli said unto Samuel, Go, lie down: and it shall be, if he call thee, that thou shalt say, Speak, Lord; for thy servant heareth. So Samuel went and lay down in his place.

¹⁰ And the Lord came, and stood, and called as at other times, Samuel, Samuel. Then Samuel answered, Speak; for thy servant heareth.

Lesson Introduction:

It is very important for every believer to hear from God. The relationship between parents and children should be the kind of relationship between God and believers. Parents talk to their children, their children hear and respond.

The truth is that the Almighty God is always speaking but unfortunately, our minds are too crowded to hear His voice.

LEADER’S DIARY

Lesson Aim:

To make believers understand what it takes to hear from the Almighty God.

Teaching Objectives:

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

• who can hear from God.
• how to hear God.

Text Review: 1 Samuel 3:4-10

• Be careful with the assignment God has given you, it can be withdrawn.
• To every useful vessel, there is a worthy replacement to take over in case he misses out.
• Arrogance and carelessness are the bane to a carefree vessel.
• In that little state you are, you can be selected for greater assignment.

Lesson Introduction: In our Bible reading for today, we have three entities involved;

• The Almighty.
• Eli – The Priest and
• Samuel – The young Lad.

God chooses to speak to anyone, anytime and anywhere. He does not need anyone’s permission. Samuel was not expecting God to come and talk to him, but He came. He did not recognise God’s voice, he mistook the voice of God for Eli’s voice. Saul of Tarsus did not expect Jesus to stop him on his way to Damascus.

Teaching Method:

Use interactive and lecture method.

Time Management:

Share the teaching time using the suggested time schedule.

Lesson Outline One: WHO CAN HEAR FROM GOD?

Hearing the voice of God follows an intimate relationship with Him.

From our Bible reading for today, we saw that initially, Samuel did not recognize the voice of God but in the process of time, he grew in his relationship with God and he was able to hear Him expressly.

Therefore, who are those that can hear from God?

i. Those who desire to hear God.

ii. Those who read, study and meditate on the Word of God regularly – Rom. 10:17; Joshua 1:8 and Psalm 1:1-3.

iii. Those who hate sin and love righteousness – Hebrews 1:9.

iv. Those who love to fellowship with the Holy Spirit – Romans 8:14.

v. Those who love to be still before God – Psalms 85:5.

vi. Those who obey His commands.

vii. Those who are humble and teachable – James 4:10; 1 Peter 5:5.

viii. Those who have faith in God – Hebrews 11:6.

Lesson Outline Two: HOW TO HEAR FROM GOD?

• You must have a relationship with God
• Hunger and thirst for Him – Matt. 5:6; Psalms 42:1.
• Read and study the Word of God – Il Timothy 2:15.
• Position yourself like Samuel to be still before Him.
• Be opened because God can speak in diverse ways.
• Through prayer and fasting – Mark 9:29.

Activity:

Discuss those that heard God in the Bible and their lifestyle.

CONCLUSION: RCCG HOUSE FELLOWSHIP LEADERS MANUAL 10 DECEMBER 2023

The life of a believer becomes easier when they hear from God. There will be no anxiety because the Word of God brings peace.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Father, please remove everything hindering us from hearing You as a church.
2. Father, make us Your special vessel for special use.
3. Lord, please disconnect us from every unprofitable alliance.
4. Father, please sanctify our ears to hear and eyes to see divine mysteries.
5. Father, help Daddy and Mummy G.O. to continually hear from You.
6. Your personal request.

ASSIGNMENT: RCCG HOUSE FELLOWSHIP LEADERS MANUAL 10 DECEMBER 2023

Study God’s encounter with Moses in Exodus 3.

GOLDEN DIET FOR THE WEEK

MONDAY: And the Lord heard the voice of the lad – Gen. 21:17.

TUESDAY: God hath spoken once; twice have I heard this – Psalms 62:11.

WEDNESDAY: Hast thou heard the secret of God? – Job 15:8.

THURSDAY: O Lord God of hosts, hear my prayer: give ear – Psalms 84:8.

FRIDAY: Hearing ear and the seeing eye, God made both – Prov. 20:12.

SATURDAY: Faith comes by hearing – Romans 10:17.

SUNDAY: So that all that hear will laugh with me – Genesis 21:6.

Open Heaven For Teens 9 December 2023 Memorize: Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might. Ecclesiastes 9:10

Open Heaven For Teens 9 December 2023 Bible Reading Ecclesiastes 3:1-3

Open Heaven 9 December 2023

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 9 DECEMBER 2023 MESSAGE

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 9 DECEMBER 2023 KEY POINT

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 9 DECEMBER 2023 BIBLE READING IN ONE YEAR: Ephesians 4-6

AUTHORS: PASTOR E.A ADEBOYE
PASTOR MRS FOLU ADEBOYE

Open Heaven 10 December 2023

Open Heaven 11 December 2023

Open Heaven 12 December 2023

OPEN HEAVEN 13 DECEMBER 2023 MEMORIZE: Then he said, I have sinned: yet honour me now, I pray thee, before the elders of my people, and before Israel, and turn again with me, that I may worship the LORD thy God. 1 Samuel 15:30

OPEN HEAVEN 13 DECEMBER 2023 BIBLE READING 1 Samuel 15:24-30

²⁴ And Saul said unto Samuel, I have sinned: for I have transgressed the commandment of the Lord, and thy words: because I feared the people, and obeyed their voice.

²⁵ Now therefore, I pray thee, pardon my sin, and turn again with me, that I may worship the Lord.

²⁶ And Samuel said unto Saul, I will not return with thee: for thou hast rejected the word of the Lord, and the Lord hath rejected thee from being king over Israel.

²⁷ And as Samuel turned about to go away, he laid hold upon the skirt of his mantle, and it rent.

²⁸ And Samuel said unto him, The Lord hath rent the kingdom of Israel from thee this day, and hath given it to a neighbour of thine, that is better than thou.

²⁹ And also the Strength of Israel will not lie nor repent: for he is not a man, that he should repent.

³⁰ Then he said, I have sinned: yet honour me now, I pray thee, before the elders of my people, and before Israel, and turn again with me, that I may worship the Lord thy God.

Beloved, kindly share these life-changing messages, prayers, and declarations with the precious people around you.

Open Heaven 12 December 2023

OPEN HEAVEN 13 DECEMBER 2023 MESSAGE

Fame is something that many people pursue without actually knowing just how dangerous it is.

Once you are in the limelight, you have to become extra careful.

You have to watch your every move because people are looking at you.

Sometimes when we go for an event and I am to sit at the high table, my driver will say “You sit at the high table and we will sit where we can eat”.

Those at the high table, though hungry, always act otherwise.

Even if they eat at all, it would only be a little, with plenty of caution because all eyes are on them.

When you are famous, it is as if you are on the high table everyday of your life and believe me honestly, there is nothing like just being free to do whatever you want to do without anyone looking at you.

When you are famous, you cannot even take a stroll outside or play in a public place like every other person.

One of the dangers of being famous is that people tend to forget that famous people are human beings too.

I thank God that I have never been after fame so I show regularly that I am as human as anybody can be.

I still occasionally buy roasted plantain on the roadside.

These days it has become more difficult to do that because of the escort vehicles, but as often as I can, I still do, not minding who is looking at me.

I am not after fame so whatever anybody thinks is their own business.

When you are famous, people expect more from you than the average person and if care is not taken, you would not want to disappoint them.

Don’t pursue fame; as exciting as it may seem, it comes with a lot of problems.

Fame may come as you fulfil your assignment on earth, but it should not be your goal.

Those who chase after people knowing and liking them all the time are likely to get into trouble.

In our Bible reading today, King Saul got into trouble with God because he wanted to look good in the eyes of the people.

The only fellow you should live to please is God

OPEN HEAVEN 13 DECEMBER 2023 KEY POINTS

Pursuing fame will land you in trouble.

OPEN HEAVEN 13 DECEMBER 2023 HYMN

RCCG HYMN 3: Ancient Words

1. Holy words long preserved
For our walk in this world
They resound with God’s own heart
Oh, let the ancient words impart

Chorus
Ancient words ever true
Changing me and changing you
We have come with open hearts
Oh, let the ancient words impart

2. Words of Life, words of Hope
Give us strength, help us cope
In this world, where e’er we roam
Ancient words will guide us home

3. Holy words of our Faith
Handed down to this age
Came to us through sacrifice
Oh heed the faithful words of Christ

4. Holy words long preserved
For our walk in this world
They resound with God’s own heart
Oh let the ancient words impart

OPEN HEAVEN 13 DECEMBER 2023 BIBLE READING IN ONE YEAR: 2 Thessalonians 1-3

AUTHORS: PASTOR E.A ADEBOYE
PASTOR MRS FOLU ADEBOYE

OPEN HEAVEN 15 DECEMBER 2023 MEMORIZE:And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. Matthew 16:18

OPEN HEAVEN 15 DECEMBER 2023 BIBLE READING John 21:15-17

¹⁵ So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my lambs.

¹⁶ He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my sheep.

¹⁷ He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep.

Beloved, kindly share these life-changing messages, prayers, and declarations with the precious people around you.

Open Heaven 14 December 2023

OPEN HEAVEN 15 DECEMBER 2023 MESSAGE

In my study of what it takes to become a favourite of God,

I saw in Luke 5:1-11, where the Bible tells us that after Jesus paid Peter a visit and performed that miracle of a boat-sinking catch, Peter left all and followed Him.

He didn’t sell the fish he caught that day.

However, all the other disciples also left everything they had and followed Him (Matthew 19:27),

so there must be something extra about Peter, and I saw a little bit of it in Mark 14:54 when Jesus was to be arrested and the disciples, fled.

The Bible says Peter followed after the Lord.

I know that people always like to underline the fact that he followed afar off, but at least he followed.

Where were the others?

Peter always followed Jesus because there was a rope permanently tied to Him and the Lord -the rope of love.

The love Peter had for Jesus was like a magnet drawing him closer to the Lord daily.

As soon as Peter recognised the Lord after His resurrection, he jumped into the sea to go and meet Jesus.

He abandoned the great catch of fish that he had just gotten – again.

Clearly, this shows that Peter was very much interested in the Lord, not what the Lord could give. He was interested in the Lord Himself.

Those who become God’s favourites are people who are not after what God can give them but after God Himself.

They just love God with all their hearts – whether He gives them anything or not.

It is this selfless love that made God choose Peter as His spokesman.

In Acts 2:14-40, on the day of Pentecost, who preached? Peter.

In Acts 3:1-8 at the Beautiful Gate, who spoke to the lame man? Peter.

When God wanted to uproot Ananias and Sapphira – the first pretenders in the Church, it was Peter who pronounced their death.

The Lord will not make you His favourite when He sees that your belly is actually your god and not Him (Philippians 3:19).

Some people want to be able to command the devil, but he mocks them because he knows that they love the things of the world, so they are under his control, not the other way around.

OPEN HEAVEN 14 DECEMBER 2023 DEVOTIONAL REFLECTIONS

Do you really love God – regardless of what He can give you?

OPEN HEAVEN 15 DECEMBER 2023 HYMN

RCCG HYMN 11: I’ve Found A Friend In Jesus

¹ I have found a friend in Jesus, He‟s everything to me; 
He‟s the fairest of ten thousand to my soul!
The Lily of the Valley, in Him alone I see
All I need to cleanse and make me fully whole.
In sorrow He‟s my comfort, in trouble He‟s my stay; 
He tells me every care on Him to roll. (Hallelujah)

Chorus:

He‟s the Lily of the Valley,
the Bright and Morning Star; 
He‟s the fairest of ten thousand to my soul. 

² He all my grief has taken, and all my sorrows borne;
In temptation He‟s my strong and mighty tower; 
I have all for Him forsaken, and all my idols torn
From my heart, and now He keeps me by His power. 
Though all the world forsake me, and Satan tempt me sore, 
Through Jesus I shall safely reach the goal: (Hallelujah)

³ He‟ll never, never leave me, nor yet forsake me here, 
while I live by faith and do His blessed will;
A wall of fire about me, I‟ve nothing now to fear; 
with His manna He my hungry soul shall fill. 
Then sweeping up to glory, I‟ll see His blessed face, 
where rivers of delight shall ever roll.

OPEN HEAVEN 15 DECEMBER 2023 BIBLE READING IN ONE YEAR: 2 Timothy 1-4

AUTHORS: PASTOR E.A ADEBOYE
PASTOR MRS FOLU ADEBOYE

OPEN HEAVEN 14 DECEMBER 2023 MEMORIZE: As it is written, Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I hated. Romans 9:13

OPEN HEAVEN 14 DECEMBER 2023 BIBLE READING Romans 9:10-16

¹⁰ And not only this; but when Rebecca also had conceived by one, even by our father Isaac;

¹¹ (For the children being not yet born, neither having done any good or evil, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth;)

¹² It was said unto her, The elder shall serve the younger.

¹³ As it is written, Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I hated.

¹⁴ What shall we say then? Is there unrighteousness with God? God forbid.

¹⁵ For he saith to Moses, I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion.

¹⁶ So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy.

Beloved, kindly share these life-changing messages, prayers, and declarations with the precious people around you.

Open Heaven 13 December 2023

OPEN HEAVEN 14 DECEMBER 2023 MESSAGE

When you look at the Apostles of the Lord, you will see that there were twelve of them, but there were three in the inner circle and there was one who was called The Beloved.

These three were the favourites of Jesus Christ and He took them with Him everywhere He went.

When He was going to Jairus’ house, He had all the twelve disciples with Him, but it was only those three who He took with Him (Mark 5:35-42).

Peter, James and John saw His power; they saw Him raise the little girl from death while the others only heard about it.

Why did the Lord have a special inner circle amongst His disciples and why did He love one of them specially?

Well, the simple answer is that God has favourites.

Many people say that God has no favorites. This is not true.

The question you should be asking therefore is “How do I become one of His favourites?”

When you read Romans 9:11-16, the Bible says a woman was pregnant with a set of twins.

Before they were born, God said the elder would serve the younger, that He loved one and hated the other even, when they were not yet born.

He said He would have mercy on whom He will have mercy and compassion on whom He would have compassion.

He said it is not of him that willeth or of him that runneth, but of the Lord who hat showeth mercy.

In Acts 10:34-35, the Bible says:
Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him.

This passage makes me see clearly that God looks out for certain things in people before He makes them His favourites.

I took a close look at Peter, James and John – His three favourite disciples. I studied Peter and John especially, because it wasn’t long after Jesus’ ascension that James was killed.

I will share what I learnt from these two with you in the next two days.

OPEN HEAVEN 14 DECEMBER 2023 PRAYER POINTS

Father, even if You will only pick one person as Your favourite, please let it be me.

OPEN HEAVEN 14 DECEMBER 2023 HYMN

RCCG HYMN 6: I Am So Glad That Our Father In Heav’n

¹ I am so glad that our Father in heaven
Tells of His love in the Book He has given;
Wonderful things in the Bible I see,
This is the dearest, that Jesus loves me.

Refrain:
I am so glad that Jesus loves me,
Jesus loves me, Jesus loves me;
I am so glad that Jesus loves me,
Jesus loves even me.

² Jesus loves me, and I know I love Him;
Love brought Him down my poor soul to redeem;
Yes, it was love made Him die on the tree;
Oh, I am certain that Jesus loves me!

³ In this assurance I find sweetest rest,
Trusting in Jesus, I know I am blest;
Satan, dismayed, from my soul now doth flee,
When I just tell him that Jesus loves me.

⁴ Oh, if there’s only one song I can sing,
When in His beauty I see the great King,
This shall my song through eternity be,
“Oh, what a wonder that Jesus loves me!”

⁵ If one should ask of me, how can I tell?
Glory to Jesus, I know very well!
God’s Holy Spirit with mine doth agree,
Constantly witnessing Jesus loves me.

OPEN HEAVEN 14 DECEMBER 2023 BIBLE READING IN ONE YEAR: 1 Timothy 1-6

AUTHORS: PASTOR E.A ADEBOYE
PASTOR MRS FOLU ADEBOYE