Church Construction 2013

May 2013 - Planting the Garden

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THE ROLE OF THE CHRISTIAN IN NATION BUILDING, JUNE 7TH, 2026

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THE ROLE OF THE CHRISTIAN IN NATION BUILDING, JUNE 7TH, 2026

CENTRAL THOUGHTThe Christian is God’s instrument for building a Godly nation. Hymn: Onward Christian Soldier TEXT: ROMANS 13:1-7, 2 CHRONICLES 7:11-16, NEHEMIAH 1:1-4; 2:2-6 INTRODUCTION:Nation Building is one area of earthly life where the church has not been very forthcoming. The church has not been able to go beyond the tripod of preach, pray and complain when it comes to issues of governance of our nation. When it comes to definition, the word nation is referred to as a community of people with some common heritage. National instructions as agencies whose main focus ought to be to mobilize, aggregate and harness citizens and resources to do the will of God, and to ensure the common good of all. If this is well understood, it clearly follows that great nations can only be built by Godly men, on Godly principles. Nations of the world are groping in darkness and backwardness because of absence of leaders with proper mindset, commitment and zeal to do the will of God.The word of God has revealed to us, before time, where good leadership and prosperity can be found (2 Chronicles 7:14). At this time in our national life, the people of God must rise up to the occasion by hearkening to the voice of God and by showing ourselves as models of good citizenship. The “How and Why” is the focus of this study. LESSON OBJECTIVES To highlight the responsibilities of the believer to his nation as a citizen To identify the purpose of Government and how we can contribute to its attainment To identify major areas of shortcomings by believers in the past and present dispensations To suggest the way forward for believers today BIBLE TRUTH:QUESTION 1) HOW WOULD YOU OBJECTIVELY ASSESS THE NATIONS OF THE WORLD TODAY?There’s a prevalence of under development in some nations of the world due to poverty, corruption, insecurity, unemployment and general mismanagement in government. Nations are discriminated against by other supposed superior nations. There is increased religious inclination by higher level of moral bankruptcy. Other nations have enthroned satanic policies in governance, hence the upsurge of violence, restiveness and general insecurity.A sober reflection on the state of our nation will compel believers to mourn (fast and pray), to intercede for God’s mercy and grace, and to preach a national repentance. Nehemiah, Mordecai and Daniel are some examples of believers who were patriotic enough to bear national burden. QUESTION 2) ENUMERATE SOME RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE CHRISTIAN IN NATION BUILDING.Nations are built by her patriotic citizens, not by foreigners, and not by wealth. As believers in Christ and as citizens of our nations, there are God- given responsibilities we must consciously execute or our nation to be great. Some of them are as follows: To conduct ourselves in a lawful manner by obeying rules and regulations enacted for the common good for all citizens. To be patriotic through our support for and participation in genuine National causes, and all activities that promote acceptance, unity and progress. To pay our taxes and rates to government for the provision and maintenance of social infrastructure and for the sustenance of public institutions. To ensure the protection, maintenance and correct use of public property located in our neighborhoods. To always be part of those who take a united stand against evil in the...

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CHRIST’S LETTER TO THE SEVEN CHURCHES: THE CHURCH IN LAODICEA, MAY 31ST, 2026

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CHRIST’S LETTER TO THE SEVEN CHURCHES: THE CHURCH IN LAODICEA, MAY 31ST, 2026

Hymn: “I am Thine, O Lord.” CENTRAL THOUGHTIt is God’s desire that every believer becomes a disciplined and committed follower of Christ. TEXT: REV. 3:14-22 INTRODUCTION:Laodicea was an old city in Asia Minor which the Syrian King Antiochus II enlarged, beautified, and renamed after his wife Laodice. It grew to become a great commercial center. A Christian church was established there probably from Ephesus. It was wealthy but painfully lukewarm. Christ’s message to the Laodicean church appears to contain the most serious rebuke to any church, as they were neither here nor there. It is clear that Christ loved this church all the same. Hence, He rebuked them sharply. Believers in Christ must learn to take their stand for God, both in good and bad times and serve Him committedly. LESSON OBJECTIVESBy the end of this lesson, believers should be able to: Explain how Christ introduced himself to the church Compare how Christ rated the church with how they assessed themselves Identify some things that can distract believers from being hot Christians Appreciate Christ’s counsel to the church. BIBLE TRUTH:QUESTION 1) HOW DID CHRIST INTRODUCE HIMSELF TO THE CHURCH? (Revelations 3:14)In this text, the Lord called Himself, “the Amen, the faithful, and true witness”. “Amen” means “so be it”, but when used at the beginning of a sentence, it is translated “verily”. Qualifying the “Amen”, the article “the” presupposes that Christ is the supreme authority whose message to the church is genuine, incontrovertible and not subject to any disputation. Further to the introduction, He described Himself as the faithful and true witness and the beginning of the creation of the world. This claim was sustained by St. John’s gospel (John 1:1-5). The implication of these is that Jesus is the author of creation, the supreme authority, and sovereign Lord. Believers should whole heartedly receive every word of God and obey Him. We should not harden our hearts to divine instructions. QUESTION 2) COMPARE HOW CHRIST RATED THE CHURCH WITH HOW THEY ASSESSED THEMSELVES. (Revelation 3:15-17)The Lord Jesus saw the Laodicean church as lukewarm. They were neither cold nor hot. This implies that in spite of their claim to being Christians, they were indifferent to spiritual matters. There was that lack of serious spiritual fervency. Their knowledge of Christ remained shallow and superficial. There was no clear-cut demarcation between them and their unbelieving neighbors. The zeal for God was absent. Secondly, Christ saw them as poor and wretched in matters of spiritual values (righteousness, prayers, gifts and fruits of the Spirit, etc.). They were also adjudged to be blind, meaning that they were insensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit. They were said to be miserable because their hope was only on the material things of this world. Above all, they were assessed as being naked because they lacked the divine covering of God. Believers should be clothed with the garment of righteousness always. The Laodicean brethren, however, evaluated themselves differently. They allowed their huge wealth emanating from their flourishing commercial activities to becloud their sense of spiritual judgement. They were materially rich, but spiritually wretched. Believers should be careful not to arrogantly think their wealth is a result of God’s acceptance of their faith even when they are not living right with God. QUESTION 3) READ THE FOLLOWING...

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CHRIST’S LETTER TO THE SEVEN CHURCHES: THE CHURCH IN PHILADELPHIA, MAY 24TH, 2026

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CHRIST’S LETTER TO THE SEVEN CHURCHES: THE CHURCH IN PHILADELPHIA, MAY 24TH, 2026

Hymn: “When We Walk with the CENTRAL THOUGHTObedience to God’s word attracts divine recognition and reward. TEXT: REV. 3:7-13INTRODUCTION:Philadelphia, which means “brotherly love”, is a city on the border of Lydia and Phrygia in Asia minor. It was the seat of one of the seven churches in Asia. The Lord Jesus Christ knew and saw the church in Philadelphia as true, faithful, and loyal. Though not strong (having little strength), they kept to Christ in obedience and service. God was pleased with them. The present day church has a lot to learn from this church. In this study therefore, we shall learn what made them stick and a model for today’s church. LESSON OBJECTIVESThe objectives of this lesson are to: Explain how the Lord introduced Himself to the church Why the church was commended Discuss the implication of “the open door” promised to the church Explain the clause “which say they are Jews and are not, but do lie” Appreciate what the Lord promised those that will overcome. BIBLE TRUTH:QUESTION 1) HOW DID CHRIST INTRODUCE HIMSELF TO THE CHURCH IN PHILADELPHIA? (Rev. 3:7)Right from the Old Testament Scriptures, God has been ascribed the attribute of holiness (Isa. 6:3). God is sinless and faultless; hence, His evaluation of His church is perfect, thorough, and indisputable. That makes Him the “True” God that He is. He is incomparable to any other being in heaven, on earth, and even beneath the earth. He has the key of David, “… he that openeth and no man shutteth, and shutteth, and no man openeth” demonstrated the supreme and indisputable power and authority of our Lord Jesus Christ. The implication of this introduction is that our Lord is a just and impeccable judge of everyone. He does not fear anyone and righteously evaluates everyone’s conduct. On the judgement day, His verdict will be final. We must live to please Him to earn His commendation like the church in Philadelphia. QUESTION 2) WHY WAS THE PHILADELPHIAN CHURCH COMMENDED? (Rev. 3:8,10)In spite of the not too enviable condition of the Philadelphia church (for thou has a little strength), they kept and obeyed the word of God. Christ was pleased with them on account of this. Also, in the seemingly ugly situation of theirs, they stood in defense of the name of Christ. Jesus also commended them because they “… have kept my command to endure patiently” (NIV). This church distinguished herself in obedience to God’s word, defense of God’s name, and patiently endured in times of challenges. These qualities should be emulated by the church of today in order to please the Lord. QUESTION 3) WHAT IS THE IMPLICATION OF THE “OPEN DOOR” PROMISED TO THE CHURCH? Rev. 3:8-9; 1 Cor. 16:9The Lord Jesus Christ was so pleased with the commitment of the Philadelphia church that He set before them “an open door”. This could imply blessings in every area of life. God truly rewards faithfulness, He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him (Heb. 11:6). Believers who fully yield to God are made instruments of honor to be used by the Master (2 Tim. 2:20-21). Thus, they enjoy greater opportunities to serve God in different dimensions of life. The promise of “open doors” for the faithful servants of God also implies that the unfaithful...

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CHRIST’S LETTER TO THE SEVEN CHURCHES: THE CHURCH IN SARDIS, MAY 17TH, 2026

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CHRIST’S LETTER TO THE SEVEN CHURCHES: THE CHURCH IN SARDIS, MAY 17TH, 2026

CENTRAL THOUGHTTake heed, watch and pray. Hymn: ‘ When We Walk with the Lord”. TEXT: REV. 3:1-6 INTRODUCTION:Revelational letters were written to the seven churches in Asia, of which the church in Sardis was one. The message was from Christ and was directed to the “angel of the church”. Apostle John was the channel of communication for the message which centered around bearing true allegiance to God. The city of Sardis at the time was a famous one. It was well secured and was a great Center of commerce. The church there was well-known and had a great reputation for being very lively. This human opinion about the church became the focus of Christ’s message. Though well-known and popularly acclaimed as a vibrant church, before God it was rated dead because of complacency and compromised spiritual testimony. This study will examine the state of this church as revealed by the letter, with a view to drawing valuable lessons. LESSON OBJECTIVESThe objectives of this lesson are to: Explain the significance of Christ’s introduction Identify points of commendation for this church State points of complaint against this church Discuss the instruction and promises to this church Relate the state of this church to the present-day Church BIBLE TRUTH:QUESTION 1) HOW DID CHRIST INTRODUCE HIMSELF TO THIS CHURCH AND OF WHAT SIGNIFICANCE IS IT? Rev. 3:1To the church in Sardis, the Lord Jesus Christ introduced Himself as, “He that hath the seven Spirits of God; and the seven stars.” By this introduction we see that the Lord isall-knowing, with power and authority over the church. QUESTION 2) WHAT WERE THE KEYS REMARKS ON THE CHURCH IN SARDIS? Rev. 3:1,4Two key remarks were made about the church. The first is that they have a name listed among the living, but they were dead. The implication of this is that the distant past was glorious and commendable but not the present. The second remark is that there were a few names in Sardis who had not defiled their garments, and they will walk with the Lord in white, for they were worthy. QUESTION 3) WHAT WERE THE POINTS OF COMPLAINT AGAINST THIS CHURCH? Rev. 3:2-3 The complaints against the church in Sardis were direct. The first was that they were living in past glory, having long abandoned true fellowship with God; in fact, before God it was a dead church. The second is that the Lord did not find the works of this church perfect. Their commitment could not stand any test from God. They lost focus and were no longer watching, to the extent that the little remnants were ready to die. They became complacent towards the faith. For all these, the church in Sardis was sharply rebuked and told to repent before it is too late. QUESTION 4) HOW DID CHRIST COUNSEL THIS CHURCH, AND WHAT WERE THE CONSEQUENCES OF NEGLECTING THE COUNSEL? Rev. 3:2-4The counsel of Christ to this church was direct and straight forward. First, they were commanded to return to godly watchfulness by being sensitive and alive in the Spirit, and steadfast in their service to God. This may be in terms of persons or in terms of Godly practices. They were also admonished to recollect themselves in terms of what they had received and heard, and to welcome...

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GOD’S EXPECTATION FOR THE FAMILY, MAY 10TH, 2026

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GOD’S EXPECTATION FOR THE FAMILY, MAY 10TH, 2026

CENTRAL THOUGHTGod’s expectation is for us to raise up godly families. Hymn: “ WILL YOUR ANCHOR HOLD IN” TEXT: EPH. 5:21-33, 6:1-4, COL. 3:8-19, HEB. 13:4-6 INTRODUCTION:The Lord God created the heavens and the earth, instituted marriage with the first family of Adam and Eve. God declared that everything He had created was very good (Gen. 1:31). He placed everything in its strategic position (including the first family). But Satan (the enemy of God and man) challenged that family, caused them to sin against God who drove them out of the Garden of Eden. He placed at the garden of Eden Cherubim and a flaming sword which turned every way, to keep them away from the tree of life. Ever since, satan, has been attacking family unit and is still in the act: to steal, kill and destroy. This study will therefore address God’s expectation for the family. LESSON OBJECTIVESThe objectives of this study are: 1.) To know the times, we are in. 2.) To know God’s expectation from our families. BIBLE TRUTH:QUESTION 1A) ENUMERATE THECHARACTERISTICS OF THE TIMES WE ARE IN. 1 Tim. 4:1-3, 2 Tim. 3:1-8, 1 John 2:15-18The times we are in, called perilous times or the last days, are characterized by all forms of wickedness, backsliding, preaching/practices of false doctrines and hypocrisy. The scriptures says that “men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient, to parents, unthankful, unholy, without natural affection, truce breakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce despisers of those that are good, traitors, heady, high-minded, lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God: having a form of godliness but denying the power thereof….”The present times are also filled with the love of the world. Worldliness has crept into some families that one hardly differentiates the language, manner of life, dressing, conduct, etc. of a believer from that of the unbeliever. Some believers live as if they are going to spend the rest of the lives here on earth; they have forgotten that they are strangers and pilgrims in this world only passing through to another world. QUESTION 1B) WHAT ARE THE EFFECTS OF THESE CHARACTERISTICS ON THE HOME.Romans 1:18-32, Gal. 5:17-21, Psalm 125:5, Prov. 21:17 The spirit of the last days which is the antichrist has adversely affected the believers’ homes and the effects are innumerable. Sin/disobedience, works of the flesh, spiritual poverty, lack of focus on eternity, the love of the world causing deviation, distorted gospel, heretic beliefs and preaching of the doctrines of the devil are on the increase and corrupt practices are manifest undermining the imminent coming of our Lord Jesus Christ to take the prepared saints to heaven. Families go to church, partake in different activities, yet exhibit ungodly character as if they do not have the knowledge of God. Children and youths witness the evil of the practice of cultism and prostitution. We should be careful not to partake of this evil or live in disobedience, for God cannot share His glory with any man. QUESTION 2A) WHAT IS GOD EXPECTING FROM YOUR FAMILY/HOME?Gen. 6:8-9, 8:18-19, 1 Peter 3:1-12For I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him and THEY SHALL KEEP THE WAY OF THE LORD to do justice and judgement. God’s expectation from Christian homes is that...

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CHRIST’S LETTER TO THE SEVEN CHURCHES: THE CHURCH IN THYATIRA, MAY 3rd, 2026

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CHRIST’S LETTER TO THE SEVEN CHURCHES: THE CHURCH IN THYATIRA, MAY 3rd, 2026

CENTRAL THOUGHTTrue allegiance should be solely to Christ. Hymn: “When We Walk with the Lord” TEXT: REV. 2:18-29 INTRODUCTION:The church belongs to Christ and He is very interested in what goes on in it. The city of Thyatira was prominent for her flourishing trade in clothes, leather works, bronze works, and pottery. The city could boast of powerful cults that controlled the ruling authorities.The church in this city had her fair share of the influence of the society. The Lord Jesus commenced this church for her exemplary acts of good deeds in material provisions but expressed concern and disgust about the prominence of an active “Jezebel” who advocated and practiced immoral behavior and idolatry in the church.The letter to the church in Thyatira was intended to serve as a reminder of where true allegiance should lie.This study is therefore intended to examine the documented state of the church in Thyatira and draw valuable lessons. LESSON OBJECTIVES1.) Explain the significance of Christ’s introduction2.) Identify points of commendation for this church3.) State points of complaint against this church4.) Discuss the instructions and promises to this church5.) Relate the state of this church to present day Christian experience. BIBLE TRUTH:QUESTION 1) HOW DID CHRIST INTRODUCE HIMSELF TO THIS CHURCH AND OF WHAT SIGNIFICANCE IS IT? Rev. 2:18Jesus Christ described Himself in three ways to the church in Thyatira. First, He is the Son of God. Secondly, He had eyes like unto a flame of fire, and thirdly, His feet are like fine brass. He is the only begotten Son of God who was made the Lamb of sacrifice for the salvation of mankind. His eyes likened unto a flame of fire signifies His piercing insight and the seriousness of His judgement. His feet being likened to fine brass signifies perfect strength and steadiness of His authority. QUESTION 2) WHAT ARE THE POINTS OF COMMENDATION FOR THIS CHURCH? Rev. 2:19Their true state was well known to the Lord, and the Lord reflected on the aspect of their works, charity, service, faith, patience, and their increasing acts of good works. The commendation on this church centered on their charity and service which was exceptional. Their patience and growing fruitfulness received the Lord’s mention. It is the Lord’s desire that all Christians should manifest growing fruitfulness. QUESTION 3) WHAT WERE THE POINTS OF COMPLAINT AGAINST THIS CHURCH? Rev. 2:20-23The Lord had few points of complaint against the church in Thyatira, and they all centered around the conduct of a certain false prophetess named Jezebel. The church was accused of tolerating Jezebel, a self-appointed prophetess and false teacher, who was the ringleader of an entangling web of false doctrines mingled in hypocrisy and immorality. She also advocated that believers could participate in eating things sacrificed to idols. The Lord had given her space to repent, but she remained adamant and obstinate. Now it is judgement of destruction against her and her immoral partners, except they repent. They attempted to draw the servants of God into fornication and to offer sacrifices to idols. They abused the patience of God to harden themselves in their wickedness. They will be cast into a bed of pain, and her children will not be spared. God uses judgement to stop the obstinate, for the safety of the faithful. God will always...

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CHRIST’S LETTER TO THE SEVEN CHURCHES: THE CHURCH IN PERGAMOS, APRIL 26TH, 2026

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CHRIST’S LETTER TO THE SEVEN CHURCHES: THE CHURCH IN PERGAMOS, APRIL 26TH, 2026

CENTRAL THOUGHTThere is a promise of great favor to all who will live victorious lives in Christ Jesus. Hymn: “O God Our Help in Ages Past”. TEXT: REV. 2:12-17 INTRODUCTION:The Lord Jesus Christ knows His church fully well. He is the Head, while the church is His body. Seven revelational letters were written to seven churches, of which the church in Pergamos was one. All seven letters are similar in pattern, but the contents were designed to address the peculiarities of each church. They were intended to serve as a reminder of the allegiance of each church to God and were specially addressed to the “Angel” (Guardian, Pastor, Overseer) of the church.Pergamos was the capital city of the province of Asia. The city was known for her many temples and shrines dedicated to different idols. It was also the first city to introduce Emperor worship. The Lord termed it the “seat of satan”. Despite all these, the church in Pergamos showed exceptional commitment to God, but were complacent towards some false doctrines.In this study, we intend to examine and learn from the experiences of this church. LESSON OBJECTIVESThe objectives of this lesson are to:1.) Explain the significance of Christ’s introduction2.) Identify points of commendation for this church3.) State points of complaint against this church4.) Discuss the instructions and promises to this church5.) Relate the state of this church to present day Christian experience BIBLE TRUTH:QUESTION 1) HOW DID CHRIST INTRODUCE HIMSELF, AND OF WHAT SIGNIFICANCE IS IT?Rev. 2:12To the church in Pergamos, Jesus Christ introduced Himself as “He which hath the sharp sword with two edges”. The church in Pergamos was infested with people of corrupt minds and Christ was resolved to fight against them with the sword of His mouth. The sword refers to the word of God. It is sharp because it penetrates flesh as well as spirit and soul. It has two edges because the word of God as a weapon is both offensive and defensive. It is an embodiment of both law and grace. QUESTION 2) WHAT ARE THE POINTS OF COMMENDATION FOR THIS CHURCH? Rev. 2:13While commending this church, Christ graciously noted the circumstance of the place as one where satan’s seat was based. This city must have been infamous for wickedness, error, and cruelty. Christ took notice of the trials and difficulties faced by this church, commended them for their steadfastness in upholding the faith and the name of the Lord. Mention was made of a worthy and faithful member by name, Antipas, who was killed for his faith in JesusChrist. This church was ready to seal their faith and fidelity with their own blood so that the saving grace of Jesus Christ could be made more manifest. They were neither discouraged nor drawn away from their steadfastness by reason of satanic onslaught. QUESTION 3) WHAT WERE THE POINTS OF COMPLAINT AGAINST THE CHURCH IN PERGAMOS? Rev. 2:14-15The points of complaint by the Lord Jesus Christ against the church in Pergamos centered around the corrupt practices of a few members which had affected their fellowship with God. There were those who held onto the doctrine of Balaam. This doctrine had three prongs namely: Teach an enemy how to cast a stumbling block before the children of God through ungodly company. Trivialized eating of...

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CHRIST’S LETTER TO THE SEVEN CHURCHES: THE CHURCH IN SMYRNA, APRIL 19TH, 2026

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CHRIST’S LETTER TO THE SEVEN CHURCHES: THE CHURCH IN SMYRNA, APRIL 19TH, 2026

CENTRAL THOUGHTThe Church should not be in harmony with the world system. Hymn: “When Peace Like a River Attendeth My Way”. TEXT: REV. 2:8-11 INTRODUCTION:The Lord Jesus Christ knows His church fully well. He is the Head, while the church is His body. The church derives her ministry and authority by being firmly rooted on the eternal foundation laid by Christ.Seven revelational letters were written to seven churches as direct messages from the glorified Christ.The church is Smyrna was one of the smallest among the seven churches mentioned and appears to be materially impoverished. It was suffering persecution from members of the church who were not active believers.In this study we shall examine the contents of this letter with a view to drawing valuable lessons. LESSON OBJECTIVESThe objectives of this lesson are to:1.) Explain the significance of Christ’s introduction2.) Identify points of commendation for this church3.) State points of complaint against this church4.) Discuss the instructions and promises to this church5.) Relate the state of this church to present day Christian experience. BIBLE TRUTH:QUESTION 1) HOW DID CHRIST INTRODUCE HIMSELF, AND OF WHAT SIGNIFICANCE IS IT? Rev. 2:8Jesus Christ introduced Himself to the church in Smyrna as the First and the Last, which was dead and is alive. As opposed to the rest of humanity, Christ was there at the beginning and He will be there forever. He died as sacrifice for our sins, but now He lives to make intercession for our justification and acceptance in God’s sight. QUESTION 2) WHAT ARE THE POINTS OF COMMENDATION FOR THIS CHURCH? Rev. 2:9For this church the Lord Jesus Christ commended them for their work and took notice of their troubles, which included tribulation arising from their steadfastness in faith, their material impoverishment because they desired to have an unblemished testimony for Christ. Jesus Christ commented on the wickedness and falsehood of their enemies, who were blasphemous, claiming to be Jews, whereas they were not. These are those who pretend by word to obey the peculiar covenant-people of God but indeed are of the synagogue of satan. The synagogue of satan is a reference to impersonators of the children of God and their mission is to destroy the church. QUESTION 3) WHAT WERE THE POINTS OF COMPLAINT AGAINST THIS CHURCH?There was no direct complaint against the church in Smyrna. However, there were imposters within this church who were enemies of Christ in the strict sense of it. Their claim tocovenant right of salvation was false as satan was their master. The important thing is that the church in Smyrna stood her ground against these satanic agents. QUESTION 4) DISCUSS THE INSTRUCTIONS AND PROMISES PLACED BEFORE THIS CHURCH.Rev. 2:10Christ gave a word of command to them to the effect that why should “fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer.” The devil was behind it and it was intended to try their faith. The trial would involve being cast into prison, tribulation for “ten days”, and even death. This word assured them that God had gone ahead to procure their victory. The tribulation would only affect some, not all of them; was not going to be perpetual, but for a limited time. This was to try them (or prove their faith) and not to destroy them.There are three vital lessons to...

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CHRIST’S LETTER TO THE SEVEN CHURCHES: THE CHURCH OF EPHESUS, APRIL 12TH, 2026

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CHRIST’S LETTER TO THE SEVEN CHURCHES: THE CHURCH OF EPHESUS, APRIL 12TH, 2026

CENTRAL THOUGHTGod is displeased when His Grace is taken for granted. Hymn: “Take my life, and let it be…” TEXT: REV. 2:1-7 INTRODUCTION:The Lord Jesus Christ knows His church fully well. He is the Head, while the church is His body. The church derives her ministry and authority by being firmly rooted on the eternal foundation laid by Christ. Seven revelational letters were written to seven churches as direct messages from the glorified Christ. Each letter follows a similar pattern of an introduction of Himself, commendation for the church, complaint against the church, a call to action, and a promise to the faithful. The common theme of the letters is “Persevering in faith” and is designed as a reminder of their allegiance to God. The letters are addressed to the “Angel” (Guardian, Pastor, Overseer) of the church.Ephesus was a famous city and the church here was a center for the spread of the gospel in Asia. This church was in constant struggle with false teachers, and this attracted the attention of Jesus Christ.In this study we shall examine the contents of Christ’s letter to the church in Ephesus with a view to drawing valuable lessons. LESSON OBJECTIVESThe objectives of this lesson are to: Explain the significance of Christ’s introduction Identify points of commendation for this church State points of complaint against this church Discuss the instructions and promises to this church Relate the state of this church to present day Christian experience BIBLE TRUTH: QUESTION 1) HOW DID CHRIST INTRODUCE HIMSELF, AND OF WHAT SIGNIFICANCE IS IT?Rev. 2:1Jesus Christ introduced Himself to the church in Ephesus as “He that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candle sticks.” The stars refer to God’s agents of leadership in the Church, while the golden candle sticks refer to the church itself (Rev. 1:20). Both the stars and the candle sticks are known for light which shines brighter in darkness. “Right hand” is indicative of authority, while “golden” implies high level of treasure. Ministers are extensions of Christ’s authority and the church is a treasure of high value to Christ. He sustains His ministers and looks after His church. QUESTION 2) WHAT ARE THE POINTS OF COMMENDATION FOR THIS CHURCH? Rev. 2:2-5The commendation of this church is capped in “works and labor” that is known to the Lord Jesus Christ Himself. They were commended for their diligence in duty, patience, suffering, and zeal against what was evil. Diligence and good works must be accompanied with patience to bear,and patience to wait to receive the promise. They exercised the gift of discernment and were able to detect “apostolic imposters”. QUESTION 3) WHAT WERE THE POINTS OF COMPLAINT AGAINST THIS CHURCH? Rev. 2:4The Lord expressed just one reservation about this church, and it bothered on the foundation of Faith. “Thou have left thy first love.” It was not stolen, neither was it lost. It was carelessly consigned to the background, perhaps due to much labor and much pains from trials. They started gradually to ignore that warm and lively affection for Christ and for one another, and soon it abated and cooled off. Love is the basic law of the kingdom. First love is love for God at all times. Second love is love...

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VICTORY OVER DEATH, APRIL 5TH, 2026

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VICTORY OVER DEATH, APRIL 5TH, 2026

CENTRAL THOUGHTBy His death and resurrection, the Lord Jesus Christ conquered death for mankind. Hymn:“ CHRIST THE LORD IS RISEN TODAY TEXT: JOHN 3:25-36INTRODUCTION:Victory is the act of winning or the state of having won. It is a success in a struggle. Death as applied to man in the scripture can be spiritual or physical. Physical death is the last end of life or occasion of loss of life. Spiritual death is the eternal separation from God or cutting off from realizing God’s eternal purpose for which mankind was created. The death of Jesus initially appeared to look like a defeat. The disciples’ hope seemed to have been lost or dashed. The enemies thought they had succeeded; but little did they know that our Lord had gone to give the final blow to their master, the devil. In this study, we shall be looking at how the Lord defeated death and rose from the grave triumphantly. LESSON OBJECTIVESThe objectives of this study are: 1.To know Joseph of Arimathea’s role in the burial of the Lord Jesus. 2.To discuss the efforts made by the enemies to ensure that Jesus did not rise from the grave. 3.To understand that Christ’s victory over death is the Hope of the believer (mankind). 4.To examine some of the evidences that Jesus actually rose from the dead. 5.To understand the Benefits of Christ’s Resurrection. BIBLE TRUTH:QUESTION 1a) WHO WAS JOSEPH OFARIMATHEA? Matthew 27:57, Jn. 19:38-42Joseph of Arimathea was a secret follower/disciple of Jesus. He was a religious leader, an honorable member of the Sanhedrin. He did not consent to the counsel and the deed of the Jewish leaders who opposed Jesus. (Lk. 23:51). Joseph of Arimathea was a wealthy man who was able to afford a private tomb which he later gave up for Jesus. QUESTION 1b) COMMENT ON HIS ROLE IN THE BURIAL OF CHRIST. Lk. 23:50-53After Jesus’ death on the cross, Joseph of Arimathea asked for his body, then buried Him in a new tomb and rolled a great stone to the door (Matt. 27:60). Joseph was a secret disciple of Jesus. He risked his life and position to give a proper burial to his Lord. It is frightening to risk one’s reputation (position) even for what is right. The disciples who had publicly followed Jesus fled, but Joseph who had followed secretly, boldly took a stand (after the death of the Lord Jesus) that could cost him his life. He cared enough about Jesus to ask for His body so he could give it a proper burial. This singular act of Joseph of Arimathea has made him to become well known in Christian fold today. QUESTION 2) WHAT EFFORTS WERE MADE BY THE ENEMY TO ENSURE JESUS DID NOT RISE FROM THE GRAVE? Matt. 27:62-66The enemies that were represented by the religious leaders took Jesus’ resurrection claims more seriously than even the disciples did. The disciples did not remember Jesus’ teaching about His resurrection, but the religious leaders did. Because of His claim, they were afraid of Jesus after His death as when He was alive. As a result of this, they tried to do everything possible to ensure that His body remained in the grave. They made sure that the tomb was thoroughly sealed and guarded. According to Life Application study...

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