BE THOU AN EXAMPLE OF THE BELIVERS – IN WORD, October 23rd, 2022
CENTRAL THOUGHT The believer’s utterance should glorify God and edify men at all times. HYMN: TAKE MY LIFE AND LET IT BE TEXT: Prov. 10:11-21, 12:13-19, James 1:19, 26, 3:2-12, 1 Tim. 4:11-14 INTRODUCTION Being an example of believers is to ensure that the lifestyle of such a one totally reflects the person and character of our Lord Jesus Christ. To be an example is to carefully order one’s steps so that he becomes a reference point and a worthy model that represents the ideal. Jesus Christ is our perfect example (1 Peter 2:21). He devoted His life to doing the will of God, was well versed in the holy scriptures and was victorious over all temptations. Furthermore, He was prayerful, compassionate, and focused on His mission to “seek and save the lost”. With Him God was well pleased! Paul in his advice to the youthful minister, Timothy, instructed him to be an example to the believers in speech (word), faith, and in love (charity), amongst other qualities. He was not only to display it, he was asked to propagate it to other leaders and members of the flock. The word of God is to be received by those who hear it, applied in their lives, and disseminated for the good of others. At every point in time the spoken word is very potent and influential. The heavens and the earth were brought into existence and order by the spoken word. Prayers, praises, worship, and exhortations are all products of the lips. There is an unusual power deposit in the spoken word. Management of this resource is expected of every believer. This study will focus on how the believer can be an ideal example in the use of words and how the body of Christ (the church) may derive maximum benefits from it. LESSON OBJECTIVES The objectives of this study are: 1.) Explain the term “an example of the believer” 2.) Discuss how one can be an example of believers in the use of the tongue. 3.) Identify some wrong uses of the tongue and the implications. 4.) List the guiding principles for a Christian in the use of the tongue. 5.) Discuss the positive impact a proper use of the tongue by a believer can make. BIBLE TRUTH Q1) WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE “AN EXAMPLE OF BELIEVERS? 1 Tim. 4:12, Mat. 5:13-16 An example is someone who is worthy of emulation, regarded as a good model for others to copy. It is to display qualities that have compelling attractions to those who observe it, and to display a lifestyle that influences others. “An example of believers” is someone whose life is totally consecrated to the Lord, set apart for His use, dedicated to His course on earth and whose lifestyle directs others to the Lord. He is conscious of his humanity, and he is not carried away by the admiration and compliments of others. In humility, he gives all glory to God and makes continuous effort to be more and more like Jesus. He is a hearer and a doer of the word and encourages others to follow his example as he follows Christ (1 Cor. 11:1). “An example of believers” is not an angel in human flesh, not a supernatural being and definitely not an...
read moreFRIENDS AT BETHANY, October 16th, 2022
CENTRAL THOUGHT A true friend is one who shares with one’s joy/sorrow and helps to find solutions in the time of trouble. HYMN: WHAT A FRIEND WE HAVE IN JESUS TEXT: Luke 10:38-42, John 11:1-12 INTRODUCTION The dictionary defines a friend as someone who trusts, an associate or acquaintance; a friend accepts you just the way you are. Bethany was a village near Jerusalem; the residence of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus who were close friends of Jesus. The Lord Jesus usually stayed with them whenever He visited that region (Matt. 21:17). When Lazarus died, Jesus visited His friends Mary and Martha and brought him back to life. In this study, we shall see how to get our priorities right and appreciate that Christ is indeed a friend, who stays when all others are gone. LESSON OBJECTIVES The objectives of this study are: 1.) To appreciate the relationship between Jesus and the family of Lazarus. 2.) To consider how important hospitality is in the Christian life. 3.) To learn that whatever life challenges we face, Jesus is able to bring the solution. BIBLE TRUTH Q1A) READ LUKE 10:40. WHY WAS MARTHA UPSET WITH MARY? Martha was upset with Mary because she did not join her to prepare food for Jesus when He visited them. Martha requested that Jesus should tell Mary to help her serve, because she thought that physical service would please and draw Christ’s attention to her. She felt that Mary was not hospitable enough especially to a very good friend like Jesus. Q1B) WHAT DOES JESUS’ REPLY TO MARTHA TEACH US? LUKE 10:41-42 Jesus’ reply to Martha teaches that there is time for everything and that we should set our priorities right. “…but one thing needful; and Mary has chosen that good part which shall not be taken away from her”. Vs. 42. Also, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but every word that proceeded out of the mouth of God”. Matt. 4:4. Such an opportunity as being in the presence of the Lord Jesus was so important to wait and learn and hear the word of God. Mary knew this salient aspect of “walk with God” and quickly utilized it but Martha could not discern spiritual matter and so became offended that Mary did not assist in the service. Q1C) HOW CAN YOU APPLY THIS TO YOUR DAILY ACTIVITIES? In our daily Christian lives we should understand the time for spiritual things and make proper use of it. Such time as personal/family devotion, quiet time/meditation, Bible study, Sunday School and when the message of God’s word is on in the church, etc. are precious moments in our walk with God and demand rapt attention. However, the physical aspect of whole life should not be neglected. Q2A) WAS JESUS AGAINST HOSPITALITY? Hospitality is an integral part of Christian life. Jesus was not against hospitality, He demonstrated and appreciated it (Luke 5:29, 19:6); even the scriptures encourage entertaining strangers “for with that we can entertain angels unawares” (Heb. 13:2). Jesus only admonished Martha that there is time for everything; that the particular time of being with Him was to receive Bread of life. Q2B) DISCUSS THE PLACE OF HOSPITALITY IN OUR LIVES AS CHRISTIANS (MATT. 25:35-40, HEB. 13:2-3, 1 PET. 4:9) “Be not forgetful to entertain strangers:...
read moreGRATITUDE, October 9TH, 2022
CENTRAL THOUGHT The believer is called to a life of gratitude. HYMN: ROCK OF AGES CLEFT FOR ME. TEXT: Ps. 100, Ps. 107:1-22, 2 Cor. 9:7-15 INTRODUCTION Gratitude is showing appreciation or the act of giving thanks. For the believer, an expression of gratitude unto the Lord ought to be a lifestyle or a life-long attitude which should not be restricted to a season, time of the year, or when the going is good; but should go on in spite of external conditions. Such expression of gratitude manifests itself in a number of ways; sacrificial giving of one’s talents, time, personal effect etc. to the service of God are some of these ways. Also, cheerful assistance to the poor and less privileged . Generous giving of money through free- will offerings and paying of vows are evidences of gratitude. LESSON OBJECTIVES The objectives of this study are: 1.) To state the meaning of Gratitude 2.) To state the reasons for showing Gratitude. 3.) To enumerate the various ways Gratitude can be shown. 4.) To enumerate the benefits of Gratitude. BIBLE TRUTH Q1.) WHAT IS MEANT BY THE WORD “GRATITUDE”? Luke 17:12-19 Great Illustrated Dictionary defines gratitude as “an appreciative awareness and thankfulness, as for kindness shown or gift received”. So gratitude is an expression of our feelings, showing that we value a kindness, or benefit received. It is also showing appreciation. It is a sincere expression of a heart that is appreciative to the Lord’s doing. According to the reference, Ten lepers were healed but only one returned to show appreciation to the Lord. Also, the scriptures give us the understanding that gratitude is an act of thanksgiving which is a service to God, an act of worship that God desires of His children. (Ps. 95:2, 100:4, and Ephesians 5:2). Q2.) WHY SHOULD WE SHOW GRATITUDE TO THE LORD? GEN. 24:48, DAN. 2:20-22, 2 COR. 4:15, AND PSALM 107:1-9 According to the scriptures in Gen. 24:48, the eldest servant of Abraham had his request made to the Lord (vs 12-14) hence, the statement of his in vs. 48. Again, the Lord deserves our thanks continually because of who He is to us. Showing gratitude should come as naturally as breathing to the believer, who has had a deep understanding of what God means to him or her. The Lord also deserves the thanks of believers because of the many things He has done, what He is doing, and what He will do. If we apply this, during the year, many of us were sick and got healed, hungry and the Lord fed, even committed sins and got forgiven, also lacked wisdom and enablement which God gave. Some people lost their lives, but the grace of God delivered us. The song writer says “we thank thee for creation; direction and grace given to see these things created”. Hence David the psalmist recognized this fact and composed many songs which expressed his gratitude unto the Lord. In one of such psalm, he enjoined us “ oh give thanks unto the Lord for He is good…” (Ps. 118:1). As David, the believer can list the faithfulness of God, His mercies and His love. The outcome of which will cause his soul to rise up with gratitude unto Him. Q3.) HOW SHOULD WE...
read moreA NEIGHBOR TO THOSE IN NEED, October 2nd, 2022
CENTRAL THOUGHT Believers are expected to do good to all men. HYMN: FADING AWAY LIKE THE STARS OF THE MORNING. INTRODUCTION As human beings we are faced with needs at one time or the other; some we can handle on our own, but others can be overwhelming, needing someone to give a helping hand, divine intervention, or man. Our Christian confession and practice should not stop in the church; rather we are expected to extend our care to persons around us who are in need. Needs may be spiritual, physical, material, and emotional. God ultimately is the one that meets all needs, even when done through man as an instrument. In this study we will be examining two outstanding characters in the scripture the Good Samaritan who halted (suspended) his journey to take care of a wounded man and Dorcas who made remarkable impact in the life of the needy in the church. LESSON OBJECTIVES The objectives of this study are: 1.) To identify who is a neighbor. 2.) To understand the correct attitude to a neighbor in need. 3.) To appreciate the exemplary roles of some Biblical characters in meeting other people’s need. 4.) To challenge ourselves to identify with the needy in our midst. BIBLE TRUTH Q1.) WHO IS A NEIGHBOR? According to the Great Illustrated Dictionary, a neighbor is one who lives near or next to another, or a person like yourself or a fellow human being living or situated near another. In other words, a neighbor is one we may live close to or have contact with in the process of our day to day living. The neighbor could therefore be someone in your neighborhood, at workplace, church, and in the larger society. Q2A.) WHAT MADE THE PRIEST AND THE LEVITE TO AVOID THE WOUNDED MAN? In the Old Testament era, Priests and Levites were God’s elects who were supposed to carry out priestly duties. By virtue of this office they were expected to show example in caring for the wounded man; contrary to this, they avoided the man. Let us look at some reasons one may think led to their negligence. They might have thought that the man was an armed robber, beaten and left half dead by a mob.To them, the wounded man may be victim of robbers. And for them to show concern and care for such a man may result in endangering their own lives.It might be as a result of having limited time. They may be in haste in order to meet up with the temple obligations or assignments (the class may suggest other reasons). However, whatever may be their reason or reasons, their attitude towards the man would be considered ungodly. They failed to demonstrate love which is one of the elements of the fruit of the Holy Spirit. A child of God is expected to respond to people’s need especially those around him irrespective of their faith, tribe, color, denomination etc. (Romans 12:9-10). Whatever help one gives to someone in need that individual has done it to God and will definitely receive his or her reward from God. For He (God) will never forget the labor of love one renders (Matt. 25:31-40). Q2B.) IDENTIFY IN SPECIFIC TERMS THE VARIOUS SACRIFICES MADE BY THE GOOD SAMARITAN TO SAVE THE...
read moreThe Excellency of God’s Word, Part 2, September 25th, 2022
CENTRAL THOUGHT God’s word is forever settled and will prosper. HYMN: I AM THINE O’ LORD TEXT: Psalm 119; Isaiah 55:8-11 INTRODUCTION The Bible is God’s written word and will, Jesus Christ is His word made flesh, being “the way, the truth and the life”, John 14:6. God’s spoken word brought the world into being. It’s forever the same, immutable, and inexhaustible. The Psalmist was persecuted by men of rank and authority, who ridiculed his beliefs, seeking to put him to shame and make him give up his faith. But he strengthened himself by meditating on the word of the Lord, which to him was his comfort, his prized possession, his rule of life, and his resource for strength – all of which drove him to desire it even more. God’s word is as sure now as it was then. God’s word is as sure now as it was then. Read it to be wise, believe it to be safe, act on it to be blessed (and prosper). LESSON OBJECTIVES The objectives of this study are: To appreciate that God’s word is excellent.To know the blessings in God’s word. BIBLE TRUTH Q1.) HOW IS GOD’S WORD EXCELLENT? Excellency is a state of being of the highest or finest quality, exceptionally good, superb. It’s being the very best one can be under any condition. The Psalmist tasted and tested God’s word under various conditions and has the following testimonies to share with us about its excellency. God’s word is the remedy for Sin: the Psalmist declares that a person cleanses “his way” (conduct) by obeying God’s word, v.9; testifying that he had assimilated and rejoiced in God’s word so that he might be morally pure. Hence, he pledged “I will not forget, thy word”, v. 16, which “I hid in mine heart that I might not sin against thee”, v 11. God’s word is a light in dark days: When life seems precarious (v. 7), and earthly days seem far from home (v 19), and authorities are condemnatory and suspicious (v. 22-23), God’s word gives purpose to life (v. 17) and makes it bearable (v. 19). Without divine aid there is no comprehension. This prompted the Psalmist to ask God to open his eyes so that he could see the marvelous blessings of God in His word. Salvation comes through God’s word: Realizing that the gospel of our Salvation, Ephesians 1:13, is all that is able to save our souls, James 1:21, the Psalmist called on God to deliver him through His love and His word (promise), v. 41, ref Hebrews 4:12. There is Comfort in God’s word: Declaring his hope in the Word of God which is comfort in trouble, vitality to meet opposition without deviating, emotions anchored to true moral values, uplifting thoughts when otherwise depression might strike home, the Psalmist sang about and meditated on the word, v. 49- 56. God’s word is trustworthy: The Psalmist trusted that the Lord would deal with him according to His Word, v. 65. He declared his trust in the midst of slander, v. 69-70, 51-53, and admitted that through affliction he realized more of the value of the word of God, v. 71-72. There is hope in God’s word: “Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God...
read moreThe Excellency of God’s word (Part 1), September 18th, 2022
Central Thought: God’s word is forever settled and will prosper.Hymn: Thy word is a lamp to my feet, O Lord.Text: Psalm 119; Isaiah 55. (Reading Text Psalm 119:1-24) Introduction:Men who recognize the efficacy of the word of God by allowing His will tobe done in their lives have always beaten all odds and excelled. Josephwent from slavery to be an important leader in Egypt because he preferredthe way of God, obeyed Him and was testified of by Pharoah to be “a manin whom the spirit of God is” (Gen.41:38). Daniel ruled in Babylon andprospered because he believed and trusted in the word of God continually:“an excellent spirit was found in him” (Dan.6:3). Hananiah, in obedience toMishael and Azariah refused to worship any other gods besides the God ofIsrael and rose from the fiery furnace to governorship position. Mosesforsook Pharoah’s palace and against all odds obeyed God’s word todeliver Israel from Egypt. Each of these personalities portray thesupremacy of God’s word. Obeying God’s word always produces result thatfar exceed the highest that can be achieved through any other way, thoughtor decision. No wonder God says in Isa.55:8-9 “For my thoughts are notyour thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as theheavens are higher than the earth so are my ways higher than your ways,and my thoughts than your thoughts”. The bible is God’s written word and will, Jesus Christ is His word madeflesh, being “the way, the truth and the life” (John 14:6). God’s spoken wordbrought the world into being. It’s forever the same, immutable andinexhaustible. The psalmist was persecuted by men of rank and authority,who ridiculed his beliefs, seeking to put him to shame and make him giveup his faith. But he strengthened himself by meditating on the word of theLord, which to him was comfort, his prized possession, his rule of life, hisresource for strength-all of which drove him to desire it now as it was then.Read it to be wise, believe it to be safe. Lesson Objectives: To understand what God’s word is.To know why the written word of God should be appreciated.To appreciate the relevance of God’s wordBible Truth:Q1. What is God’s word?The bible is God’s written word and promise to men. It has been given toguide, instruct and comfort man in life’s journey. From the varioussymbols with which the Bible has been illustrated we see the need tostudy, know and do the word of God. Like a two-edged sword (Heb.4:12)the Bible pierces the heart of the hearer; like a hammer (Jer.23:29) it ispowerful and breaks the resistance of the hearer; like a fire (Jer,20:9;23:29) it is a burning word consuming the dross in the hearer; while likea seed (1 Peter.1:23) the Bible is a living word regenerating the hearer.Moreover, in branding the Bible a mirror, its ability to faithfully reveal theindividual to himself is portrayed (James.1:23-25). This same word issaid to be a lamp and a light (Ps.119:105), illuminating and guiding thebeliever day by day. As food, (1 Peter.2:2; Heb.5:12-14; 1Cor.3:2), theBible is nourishment feeding the soul. The word of God thereforeconvicts, regenerates, reveals, illuminates and nourishes the individual.It is profitable for doctrine, for reproof , for correction, for instruction inrighteousness (2Tim.3:16).There is need to study to show oneself approved as Paul instructedTimothy (1Tim.2:15-16). Until you “receive with meekness the engraftedword...
read moreThe Millennial Reign of Jesus Christ, September 11th , 2022
CENTRAL THOUGHT Those who allow the Lord to reign in their lives now will reign with Him during the millennium. HYMN: THERE IS A LAND THAT IS FAIRER THAN DAY. TEXT: Revelation 20:1-15 INTRODUCTION The word millennium is derived from two Latin words, ‘mille’ – meaning a thousand and ‘anium’ – meaning year. Millennium therefore means a thousand years and the millennial reign of the LORD Jesus Christ refers to the period of one thousand years when the LORD will reign physically over all the nations of the earth with His headquarters in Jerusalem. The millennial reign will be preceded by some events revealed in the Scripture. These events include the rapture, the great tribulation, the judgement of the believers for rewards, the marriage super of the Lamb, etc. The hope of every Christian is to be with the LORD and to reign with Him in millennial splendor. When a Christian is going through trial, part of their sustaining joy emanates from the confidence in the promise of the LORD that He is coming back again to rule on the earth for a thousand years with His saints. However, to be able to reign with the Lord during the millennium, the Christian should have lived consistently for the Lord on the earth in righteousness and holiness. LESSON OBJECTIVES The objectives of this study are: To explain the meaning of millennium and the millennial reign of Christ.To highlight some of the events that will precede the millennial reign of Christ.To know the purpose of the millennial reign of Christ.To understand what will characterize the millennium.To know that the saints will reign with Christ during the millennium. BIBLE TRUTH Q1.) WHAT DOES THE ‘MILLENNIUM’ AND THE ‘MILLENNIAL REIGN OF CHRIST’ MEAN? The word millennium as earlier stated is derived from two Latin words: ‘mille’, meaning a thousand years, and ‘anium’ meaning year. Millennium therefore means a thousand years. The millennial reign of Christ refers to the period of one thousand years when the LORD will physically rule and reign over the nations of the earth with His headquarters established in Jerusalem. In Scripture this period is also variously referred to as the dispensation of the fullness of the times. Ephesians 1:10; the day of the Lord, Isaiah 2:11, 19:21; Ezekiel 39:22. The world age to come, Matthew 12:32, Mark 10:30. The regeneration, Matthew 19:28. The times of the restitution of all things, Acts 3:20-21, and the Kingdom of His Dear Son, Colossians 1:13; 2 Peter 1:11. The millennium will be between the Second Advent and the New Heaven and New Earth. The millennial reign will be literal and earthly, Isaiah 9:6-7; Daniel 2:44-45. The reign will be a world- wide theocratic government. All the raptured saints will join the LORD in this reign as they will return with the LORD at the Second Advent. Q2.) WHAT ARE SOME OF THE EVENTS THAT WILL PRECEDE THE MILLENNIAL REIGN OF CHRIST? The scriptures reveal that certain events will precede the millennium. Some of these events include the rapture, the great tribulation on the earth, the marriage supper of the Lamb, the judgment of the saints for rewards and the advent of the LORD with His saints to begin the millennial reign. A brief summary of what some of the events entail is given...
read moreThe Marriage of the Lamb, September 4th , 2022
CENTRAL THOUGHT Keeping our garments spotless before God guarantees our participation in the marriage feast of the Lamb. HYMN: WHEN THE TRUMPMET OF THE LORD SHALL SOUND. TEXT: Revelation 19:1-10; Matthew 25:1-13. INTRODUCTION The Church comprises a people who have been called out from the life of sin and the influence of the kingdom of darkness, into a life of righteousness and the kingdom of the Son of God. To restore the original plan of God for humanity which is that man should have unbroken fellowship with God. This marriage of the Lamb establishes this unbroken fellowship since the church shall by the marriage be in an eternal union with Christ. The marriage supper of the Lamb is thus, an event at which all believers of all ages, races, languages, and in all continents will be joined in marriage to Christ who is the Lamb that was slain from the foundation of the world. With the marriage of the Lamb at which only those whose garments (hearts) are washed by the blood of Jesus will be allowed to participate thereof. There is the need for believers who want to be a part of the marriage supper of the Lamb to ensure that their lives are kept pure and in a good state to receive the bridegroom. Such preparations will include being vigilant in prayers, abstaining from anything which defiles, and actively serving the Lord in His vineyard. The marriage supper of the Lamb is the glorious hope which propels the believer in his walk with the Lord. LESSON OBJECTIVES The objectives of this study are: To have an understanding of the marriage feast of the Lamb.To know those who are invited to the marriage feast.To know when this marriage feast will take place.To know those who qualify to be a part of the marriage feast.To understand what the marriage supper of the Lamb is intended to achieve.To emphasize the personal preparations required for the feast. BIBLE TRUTH Q1.) WHAT IS THE MARRIAGE FEAST OF THE LAMB? Over many centuries of man’s existence on this earth, there are individuals who have distinguished themselves in their walk with God. They have lived godly lives, abstained from evil, and honored God by their lifestyle. Up until this moment, there has never been an occasion of meeting by this multitude of faithful believers. At the marriage feast of the Lamb, such a meeting shall take place. At that feast, the patriarchs, Abraham, Isaac and Israel, will fellowship with the Prophets, Elijah, Elisha, Isaiah, Ezekiel and others, the first century saints, Peter, Paul, John and others, and with the saints of our contemporary times. At this great feast, a union will take place between all saints and the Lamb of God, Jesus Christ. What a great union that will be. It will be a union that will restore the original plan of God for humanity which is that there should be an unbroken fellowship between man and God. Q2.) WHO ARE THOSE THAT ARE INVITED TO THE MARRIAGE FEAST? The parable of the kingdom of Heaven given by our Lord Jesus Christ in Matthew 22:1- 14 is about a king, who prepared an elaborate wedding banquet for his son, provides a clue on those invited to the marriage feast. When everything for the feast...
read morePreparing for His Coming, Part 4: Judgement, August 28th , 2022
CENTRAL THOUGHT …it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgement. HYMN: WHEN THE TRUMPMET OF THE LORD SHALL SOUND. TEXT: John 5:22-30; 1 Corinthians 3:11-15; Revelation 20:11-15 INTRODUCTION It does not appear popular anymore to talk of a “judgement day” in the future, in which the entire world will be judged by God. People tend not to believe that one day; they must render account to God for their time here on earth. The lifestyle displayed by many today does not suggest that they are expecting that a day of reckoning will dawn sometime in the future. This attitude is ironical because in day-to-day life, people are usually expected to render account for one thing or the other. For example, at the end of a school term or semester, students write examinations which are used to judge their performance. Men ought to expect too that at the end of life on earth, God will ask them to give an account of how they had lived on the earth. However, the Bible states emphatically that judgement is inevitable and awaits all, “it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgement”, Hebrews 9:27. It therefore makes sense to be prepared for the Lord’s coming. Although everyone will be judged, believers will however face judgement without fear of condemnation, Romans 8:1. LESSON OBJECTIVES The objectives of this study are: To understand what judgement is, who is to be judged and who will be the Judge.To understand the basis and nature of GOD’s judgement.To know some of the rewards believers, the Saints, will receive after judgement.To know how we, the believers, ought to conduct ourselves in anticipation of judgement. BIBLE TRUTH QUESTION 1)WHAT IS JUDGMENT? Simply stated, judgement can be considered to be a time or situation when someone is called upon to give an account of his/her stewardship for the purpose of assessing his/her performance. In Biblical context, judgement refers to the time God will require everyone to give account of his stewardship here on earth. Usually, the day this will happen is referred to in Scripture as “Judgement Day”. In Acts 17:31 we read, “Because He has appointed a day, in the which He will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom He has ordained….”. Every human being who has passed through this world will face GOD’S judgement, 2 Corinthians 5:10; Hebrews 9:27; 1 Peter 4:15-19. It is obvious from scripture that GOD will judge the world through the LORD JESUS CHRIST, John 5:22; Romans 2:16; 1 Corinthians 6:2-4; Hebrews 12:23. It is instructive to note that believers and unbelievers will be judged separately. The judgement of believers will be for the purpose of rewarding them for the service rendered to God on earth. This will be after the rapture that is between the rapture and the Second Advent. It will take place at the Judgement seat of CHRIST in Heaven, 1 Corinthians 3:12-15; 2 Corinthians 5:10. As stated in Dake’s Annotated Bible, P. 177 New Testament, believers will be judged concerning: -Doctrines, Romans 2:14-16, Romans 14 -Conduct to others, Matthew 18; Romans 14 -Carnal traits, Colossians 3; Romans 8:1-13 -Words, Matthew 12:32-37 -Things that affect others; slander, quarrels, idle words, foolishness, dishonesty, broken promises, wrong dealings, Romans 1:29-32; 2...
read morePREPARING FOR HIS COMING, PART 3 : CONSEQUENCES OF MISSING THE RAPTURE, August 21ST , 2022
CENTRAL THOUGHT Every believer should be ready for the rapture. HYMN: WHEN THE TRUMPMET OF THE LORD SHALL SOUND. TEXT: Matthew 24:21-24; Romans 11:25-31 INTRODUCTION The coming of the LORD is a biblical fact. The rapture, which will occur first, is the coming in the air; when the saints meet the Lord in the air, takes them back to heaven with Him, presents them to the Father where they remain during the time the tribulation is running its course on the earth, 1 Thessalonians 3:13; John 14:1-3. The marriage super and the judgement of the saints take place in heaven. The rapture is different from the second advent of the LORD. At the second advent, after the tribulation, the LORD and the saints leave heaven together to come down to the earth, 2 Corinthians 5:10; Revelation 19. Therefore, the rapture is the time the LORD comes for the saints to take them to heaven while the second advent is the time He comes from heaven with the saints to the earth to live here and fulfil a mission. After the rapture while the saints will be with the LORD in heaven, there will be untold woes going on in the earth for unbelievers and “believers” that missed the rapture. The consequences of missing the rapture will be grave. The purpose of this lesson is not to prepare us, believers, for the events on earth after the rapture but rather to warn us of the terrible times that will be on earth after the rapture and to encourage us to take our faith more seriously. The great tribulation, an event after the rapture, will be so terrible that the LORD Himself described it as, “…great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be”, Matthew 24:21. Dear believer, this is not the time to play church or be half- heartedly committed to the LORD; the times we live in call for a total consecration, commitment and a whole hearted practice of our faith. LESSON OBJECTIVES The objectives of this study are: To understand the consequences of missing the rapture.To know what the great tribulation is and what characterized it.To know how some events of the present day world compare with event of the great tribulation.To understand how to live in view of the soon return of the LORD. BIBLE TRUTH 1.) WHAT ARE SOME OF THE CONSEQUENCES OF MISSING THE RAPTURE? The rapture is an event which every believer should look forward to with great expectation. The rapture can occur any moment and this should make the believer be in a state of preparedness always. However, and unfortunately, some persons who call themselves believers may miss the rapture. The consequences of missing the rapture are grave. A major consequence of missing the rapture is having to experience or pass through the period of the great tribulation. The great tribulation is a time of great horror upon the earth. It will be a horrifying experience for anyone to be on the earth during the time of the great tribulation. Also, there will be great apostasy after the rapture, obviously arising from the trials and persecutions of the great tribulation. At the rapture of all dead and living in CHRIST will arise...
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