Church Construction 2013

May 2013 - Planting the Garden

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THE ASCENSION OF CHRIST, April 16, 2023

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THE ASCENSION OF CHRIST, April 16, 2023

CENTRAL THOUGHTThe ascension of the Lord Jesus Christ is a historical fact that is well documented in scripture. HYMN: “Fade, fade, each earthly joy; Jesus is mine” TEXT: Luke 24: 50-53; Acts 1:9-11 INTRODUCTIONThe Lord Jesus was born, lived, died, and rose again from the dead, all in fulfillment of Biblical prophecies concerning Him and to bring about man’s full redemption. After the resurrection, He spent forty days on earth and appeared to many people. Finally, He ascended to heaven. The ascension is that event in which the Lord Jesus departed from the earth visibly and entered into heaven. He came to the earth as the baby born in a manger but left the earth as the exalted conqueror. The Ascension is a historical fact that is well documented in scriptures. It’s manner and benefits will be the focus of this lesson. LESSON OBJECTIVESThe objectives of this lesson include:a. To identify some of the persons that Christ appeared to after His resurrection.b. To examine the manner of His Ascension and determine any similarities with His second advent.c. To know the benefits of the Ascension. BIBLE TRUTH Q1. IDENTIFY SOME OF THE PERSONS CHRIST APPEARED TO AFTER HIS RESURRECTION (Mark 16:9-14)The Lord Jesus appeared to individuals and groups after His resurrection. The list includes:a. Mary MagdaleneShe was the first person that saw the Lord after His resurrection. She had come to the sepulcher (where the Lord was buried) early in the morning in her mourning to further anoint the body of the Lord. However, she met an empty grave and while wondering what happened, the Lord appeared to her and revealed Himself to her. She was the first to carry the good news of the resurrection.b. The Ten DisciplesExcluding Thomas Didymus. Mary Magdalene took the news of the resurrection to the Disciples where they were all gathered. As they wondered about what they had heard, the Lord also appeared unto them (Mark 16:9-14).c. Thomas DidymusWhen Thomas came, the other disciples told Him of the Master’s resurrection, and, that in fact, He had appeared to them. Thomas expressed his doubts. In order to deal with His doubts, the Lord appeared to him (John 20:24-29).d. Cleopas and the other disciple on the way to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-35).Cleopas and another disciple on the way to Emmaus discussed the recent events in Jerusalem which had troubled their minds and brought them much distress. Perhaps the decision to go to Emmaus was a way to soothe their confounded hearts. However, on the way, the Lord appeared to them and they quickly returned to Jerusalem to tell the other disciples.e. OthersMany other people saw the Lord after His resurrection. For example, 1 Cor. 15:6 declares “After that, He was seen of about five hundred brethren at once; of whom the greater part remain unto this present but some are fallen asleep”. Also, in Acts 1:3-9, the 12 disciples saw Him. He also appeared to James (1 Cor. 15:7) and also years later to Paul (Acts 9:1-9).These appearances to different people at different times further buttress the fact of the Lord’s resurrection. He spent the period on earth after His resurrection strengthening the disciples and expounding to them the things “pertaining to the kingdom of God” (Acts 1:3). Q2. WHAT WAS THE MANNER OF HIS ASCENSION? (Mark...

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BURIAL AND RESURRECTION OF CHRIST, April 9, 2023

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BURIAL AND RESURRECTION OF CHRIST, April 9, 2023

CENTRAL THOUGHTChrist’s resurrection is the assurance and proof of the genuine-ness of the Christian faith. HYMN: “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross” TEXT: Matt. 27:57-60; 28:1-7. INTRODUCTIONWhile the burial of Jesus Christ involved the remarkable fulfillment of one aspect of Isaiah’s prophecy (Isaiah 53:9), His resurrection confirms its claims; validates His authority and assures us that because Jesus lives, we shall live also. In this study, we shall examine some details of the burial and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. LESSON OBJECTIVES To understand the role played by Joseph of Arimathea in the burial of the Lord Jesus Christ. To know the attempts made by men to prevent the Lord’s resurrection. To appreciate the significance of the Lord’s resurrection. BIBLE TRUTH:Q1. WHAT WAS THE ROLE OF JOSEPH OF ARIMATHEA IN THE BURIAL OF THE LORD JESUS CHRIST?Luke 23:50-53; John 19:38Joseph of Arimathea was an honorable counselor, a conscious and hopeful believer (disciple of the Lord Jesus Christ) who waited for the kingdom of God. He was a good and just man who never consented to the counsel of evil deeds of the men of his time.After the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ, Joseph of Arimathea went to Pilate, took permission from him, carried the body of Christ, wrapped it with linen and laid it in his (Joseph’s) sepulcher which he hewn for hisown burial. Joseph of Armathea helped to fulfill Isaiah 53:9 “And He made his grave… and with the rich in his death; because he had done no violence, neither was any deceit in his mouth”. He prepared a befitting grave for his own burial and in fulfillment of scripture he offered it up for Jesus’ burial.Contemporary believers have lessons to learn from the life and character exhibited by Joseph of Arimathea.(i). As an honorable counselor, he had the opportunity to “dance” to “the tune of the music of the power to be”, especially with the Jewish leaders, chief priests, elders, and the multitude who proclaimed “Hosanna” today and the next moment “crucify Him”, but he did not because he so much hoped for the eternal honor.(ii). As a believer, he was very conscious and hopeful of the long awaited kingdom of God that he could recognize his role of burying the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. He was a giver. He gave Jesus his best- a rich man’s best.(iii). As “a good and just man”, his position and power in the society did not influence him negatively; rather, he pleased God and had peace with men.These challenges are for believers today. They should not drop eternal value for sensual honor because the Lord Jesus must be lifted up. Q2. DISCUSS THE ATTEMPTS MADE BY MEN TO PREVENT THE RESURRECTION OF THE LORD JESUS CHRIST.Matt. 27:62-66; 28:12-15Christ’s enemies did not forget His saying; they went to Pilate and reminded him of Christ’s words that “on the third day he would rise again” and requested that he (Pilate) should “command that the sepulcher be made sure until the third day, lest His (Christ) disciples come by night and steal him away and say unto the people, “He is risen from the dead: so the last error shall be made worse than the first… so they went and made sure the sepulcher sure, sealing the stone and setting...

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JESUS – HIS PASSION AND CRUCIFIXION, April 2nd, 2023

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JESUS – HIS PASSION AND CRUCIFIXION, April 2nd, 2023

CENTRAL THOUGHTPeace with God through Christ’s sufferings. HYMN: “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross” TEXT: Matt. 27:27-54 INTRODUCTION:The word Passion as used in Galatians 5:24 (NAS, NIV) can be defined as strong feeling, intense desire or enthusiasm towards something. It is also referred to as affection and lust of the flesh. Paul in his letter said “those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh and its passion and desires” (NKJV). But when Passion is used in relation to Jesus Christ, it refers to his suffering and death, in which case it is prefixed by the word “The” – The Passion (of Jesus Christ). In the Christian world, the period is referred to as “The Passion Week”. It starts from “Psalm Sunday” when Jesus triumphantly entered into Jerusalem as a king, through to “Good Friday” when He was crucified. In our study, we shall examine some of the agonies and pains experienced by our Lord Jesus during “the Passion Week”. LESSON OBJECTIVES To critically examine Christ’s sufferings. To understand why He needed to go through all the sufferings. To understand how we are to reciprocate the sacrifice of Christ for us. To examine Christ’s seven last statements on the cross. To identify some of the miraculous events that accompanied the death of Christ. BIBLE TRUTHQ1. READ AND BRIEFLY COMMENT OF THE FOLLOWING PAINS SUFFERED BY OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST. a) False Witness Against Him (Matt. 26: 59-61). Two witnesses who claim to testify against Christ came forward and said “This Man said I am able to destroy the Temple of God and rebuild it in three days: This was false. Jesus said “Destroy this temple and in three days I will raise it up”. However, He never referred to the infrastructural Temple of God, rather He was referring to His body (His death and resurrection), which the so-called witnesses failed to understand. In ignorance, they testified falsely against Christ. This must have really caused Jesus a great deal of pain.b) Smitten and Spat on (Mark 14:65; 15:19; John 18:22).It was a public humiliation of an innocent man. There was no base for such treatment, but for His obedience to the command of His Father, He neither complained nor reacted in any form.c) Given Gall and Vinegar (John 19:28-29; Matt. 27:34,48). It is unimaginable to think of offering bitter or sour liquid to a man hungry or thirsty of water. What a mockery!d) Hands and Feet Pierced (John 19:37; 20:25-27). Jesus was nailed to the cross alive. What a great pain that physical injury caused. The excruciating pain is better imagined than experienced.e) Mocked While Dying (Matt. 27:39-40). While in great pain and distress, deserted by His disciplines, needing encouragement and comfort, even His kinsman mocked Him.f) His Side was Pierced (John 19:34). The only way the soldiers who crucified Him thought it right to ascertain whether He was still alive, while hanging on the cross, was to pierce His side with a spear. What an act of merciless cruelty!g) Flogged with a Whip (Matt. 27:26). Jesus was flogged, not just with an ordinary whip, but one with thorns which made visible marks of injury all over His body.h) He was Stripped and Worn a Crown of Thorns (Matt. 27:28-29). The soldiers forced the “crown” on His head and thorns, piercing...

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STUDY ON JOHN THE BAPTIST (PART TWO), March 26th, 2023

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STUDY ON JOHN THE BAPTIST (PART TWO), March 26th, 2023

CENTRAL THOUGHTThose who faithfully do the will of God are blessed by Him. HYMN: When Jesus comes to reward his servants TEXT: John 1:6-8; 15-36; John 3:22-36. INTRODUCTION:As a forerunner of the Lord Jesus Christ, John the Baptist carried out his God-given mission creditably with sense of purpose and direction. When he appeared on the scene, He called on the people of Israel to turn to God, announcing that the Messiah was coming soon. He preached fearlessly to the King, soldiers, republicans, teachers of the law and the people, encouraging them to turn away from their sins. Those who repented from their evil ways were baptized unto repentance. He lived a humble life within his means in the wilderness. Worldliness, antics, and gimmicks were not part of his character. He was truthful and straight to the point in his preaching.When the Pharisees asked him who he was, he did not mix words, he said “ I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness make straight the way of the Lord….” John 1:19-23. He refused to usurp Christ’s position and told the Pharisees that his mission was to announce the coming of the Messiah and to prepare the way for Him. He remained focused in his mission till he introduced Christ to the people as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the whole world. Thereafter he was beheaded by king Herod at the request of Heordia’s daughter.His faithfulness, commitment, dedication and humility is worthy of emulation by believers in Christ. Although his style of living may not fit into the present day living standard, he was contented and performed his assignment with zeal and zest. This may be why the Lord Jesus had high regard for John the Baptist, Luke 7:28. How would Christ rate you as a believer, a Christian leader, or a minister of the gospel; this is the thrust of this teaching. LESSON OBJECTIVESThe objectives of this study are: To appreciate the ministry of the Baptist. To examine the content of the message of John the Baptist. To know the lessons we can draw from the character of John the Baptist. BIBLE TRUTH:Q1. COULD IT BE SAID THAT THE MINISTRY OF JOHN THE BAPTIST WAS SUCCESSFUL?The mission of John the Baptist on planet earth was to prepare the way for the coming Messiah and introduce Him to the people. (Matt.3:3 and John 1:29-34). This involved preaching to the people to repent of their wicked ways and baptizing them unto repentance. When he appeared on the scene to carry out his mission, he did it to the letter with zeal and zest, not deviating from it. Although it is not recorded that John performed any miracle, (John 10:41) built a synagogue or even owned properties, he was able to carry out his mission without distraction and was successful in his ministry by God’s standard of measuring success. No wonder Jesus said in Luke 7:28 that “For I say unto you, among those that are born of women there is not a greater prophet than John the Baptist”. This is because he successfully accomplished what God sent him to do. He preached the message of repentance to all kinds of people irrespective of their social status and majority of them convinced by the...

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STUDY ON JOHN THE BAPTIST (PART ONE), March 19th, 2023

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STUDY ON JOHN THE BAPTIST (PART ONE), March 19th, 2023

CENTRAL THOUGHTJohn the Baptist, born as a forerunner of the Lord Jesus Christ, lived a fulfilled life. HYMN: Christian seek not yet repose TEXT: JOHN 1:6-8, 15-36; JOHN 3: 22-36; MARK 1:6-8 INTRODUCTION:John the Baptist, a forerunner of the Lord Jesus Christ , was given birth to by aged parents who naturally had passed the age of childbearing. The angel who announced his birth to Zechariah, his father, made it clear that he was to be Nazareth- one set apart for God’s service. He grew up being obedient to God and his parents. He lived a solitary life in the desert and ate locusts and wild honey; and wore raiment of camel’s hair (Matt.3:4). Although John the Baptist did not aim at being wealthy, famous or unique, he was determined to be committed and obedient to God and His word. He knew he had a specific role to play in God’s plan of salvation for the world. No wonder, he went about announcing the coming of the Savior with a tireless zeal. This wild-looking man had no power or position in the Jewish political system but he spoke with irresistible authority. The people who listened to him were moved by his words and responded in their hundreds because he spoke the truth, challenging them to turn from their sins and baptizing them as a symbol of their repentance.In his bid to encourage people to embrace repentance, he challenged Herod to admit his sin of illegally getting married to Herodias (his brother’s wife) but this offended Herodias who decided to get rid of the “desert preacher”. Although she was able to have him killed, she was not able to stop his message. At this time, the Lord Jesus ministry had already begun. John had accomplished his mission.God has given each of us a purpose for living. John the Baptist did not have complete Bible as we know it today, but he focused his life on the truth he knew from the available old testament scriptures. Likewise, we can discover in God’s word the truths He wants us to know. And as these truths work in us, others will be drawn to Him. God can use you in a way He can use no one else. Let Him know your willingness to follow Him today. LESSON OBJECTIVESThe objectives of this study are: To examine the distinguishing character of John the Baptist. To understand the reasons for his total commitment to his ministry. To highlight the significance of John’s statement in John 3:30. BIBLE TRUTH Q1. WHAT ARE THE DISTINGUISHING QUALITIES OF JOHN THE BAPTIST?There are many characteristics that differentiated John the Baptist from many preachers. He was conceived by revelation and was given birth to by aged parents. When angel Gabriel told Zechariah, his father, about the conception and birth, he doubted and became dumb at the word of the angel until the promise was fulfilled (Luke 1:5-20). His birth was predicted in Isaiah 40:3 and Malachi 4:5 years before he was born. He lived in the desert and ate locusts and wild honey and wore raiment of camel’s hair (Matt.3:4).His message was directed to all kinds of people. He preached to the people fearlessly. He was truthful in his preaching and fulfilled his calling. He reproved the King (Luke 3:19)...

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OVERCOMING SPIRITUAL INSTABILITY, March 12th, 2023

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OVERCOMING SPIRITUAL INSTABILITY, March 12th, 2023

CENTRAL THOUGHTFervency in the Spirit prevents spiritual instability. HYMN: I’ve a Message from the Lord. TEXT: LUKE 22:31-34; EPH.4:11-15. INTRODUCTION:Instability can be defined as a state of unsteadiness, unpredictability, vulnerability, inconsistency, or lack of firmness. We can therefore conclude that spiritual instability is lack of consistency in spiritual things. Just as there is economic instability, or political instability, so also there is spiritual instability, which sometimes manifest in a state where a Christian is “tossed to and from by every wind of doctrine.” Spiritual instability sometimes manifest as a result of lingering challenges of life that are beyond human control. The consequences of remaining in this state are so grave that the scripture exhort the believer to “stand fast, be sober, be vigilant…and be strong in the Lord and in the power of His Might”. This is a state we should not allow to get hold of us, as believers. The focus of this study is to examine how a Christian can overcome spiritual instability. LESSON OBJECTIVESThe objectives of this study are to: Know what spiritual instability is: Understand the things responsible for spiritual instability; and Learn how believers can maintain consistent spiritual life. BIBLE TRUTH:Q1. WHAT IS SPIRITUAL INSTABILITY?As defined in the introduction, it is a state of unsteadiness, unpredictability, vulnerability, inconsistency or lack of firmness. It manifests in lukewarm attitude, lack of direction and commitment to spiritual matters. Q2. WHAT ARE THE THINGS RESPONSIBLE FOR SPIRITUAL INSTABILITY IN THE LIFE OF A CHRISTIAN?Some of the causes of spiritual instability are-(I). SIN: (HEB 12:1; PS.119:11; MARK 9:43).Sin generally is a transgression against God. Any time we sin, our relationship with God issevered, so we lose fellowship with Him; our spiritual state becomes unstable. Christians should be very sensitive of the possibility of their being tempted to sin against God, no matter the height of their spiritual state.(II). NOT BEING WATCHFUL AND PRAYERFUL: (MATT.26:41).Christ warned His disciples to be watchful or sensitive of the antics of the enemy of their soul, so they can be spiritually equipped to resist him and remain firm in their faith.(III). NOT BEING SENSITIVE TO THE HOLY SPIRIT: (ROM.8:14, 16; GAL.5:16, 25). We have the Holy spirit to guide, lead, teach, counsel, and comfort us in all situations. We must therefore be sensitive to Him, and live in obedience to His leading at all times.(IV). UNGODLY ASSOCIATION: (1COR. 15:33-34; 2COR.6:14-18; 2COR.11:2-3).The scriptures declares that Christians are the light of the world. The implication of this is that the world is darkness. God is light, ungodliness is darkness and light and darkness have nothing in common. Association with the ungodly puts the Christian at the risk of his faith being compromised. An individual is defined by the friends he/she keeps.(V). WORLDLINESS:(1 JN.2:15-17; JAMES.4:4).We are warned in scripture not to love the world, and that friendship with the world, is enmity with God. The world and all that is in it shall pass away. A believer therefore should not be consumed by the world’s system. 1 John 2:15-17 says, “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the...

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THE VALUE OF WISDOM, March 5th, 2023

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THE VALUE OF WISDOM, March 5th, 2023

CENTRAL THOUGHTWisdom is of more value than Gold, Silver or anything money can buy. HYMN:  Guide me, O thou Great Jehovah. TEXT: PROVERBS 3:13-18; 8:6-36. INTRODUCTION:In our world today; anyone who demonstrates wisdom in any sphere of life usually receives fame and recognition. All scientific and sociological developments in the world are said to be a manifestation of wisdom. Hence the world spends enormous resources in search of wisdom which, they say are needed in politics, education, families and in every area of human endeavor. Sadly, the wisdom that is promoted by the world is earthly, sensual, and devilish as they glorify self and man. Because people seek for wisdom through the occult, “prayer houses”, books written by unholy writers and such activities that are devoid of the presence of God, they do not find true wisdom whose source is God.The scriptures teach that the value of wisdom is far above that of precious metals any anything money can buy, (Prov.3:13-15). Above all, true wisdom comes only from God. (James 1:5). In our text for this study, wisdom is personified and is presented as a person speaking. Wisdom is the greatest; speaks plain truth and deserves to be heard. The characteristics and activities of this wisdom is similar to those of the Holy Spirit. Let us seek wisdom and hold on to her and all other things will find their proper place. LESSON OBJECTIVESThe objectives of this study are: To know wisdom personified. To know the value of wisdom. To know the message of wisdom. To know the gifts of wisdom. To know the relationship between wisdom and the Holy Spirit. BIBLE TRUTH:Q1. HOW IS WISDOM DESCRIBED IN THE TEXT?Wisdom is introduced here as being very precious. Its price is measureless and the man who finds it is full of joy and happiness. This is the type of happiness or joy that comes after a long and fruitful search and effort in trying to get something.A lot of effort is required in finding wisdom. Job describes the search for wisdom as being more difficult than digging for gold and stones in deep, dark mines. The price of this wisdom cannot be compared to any precious metals such as gold, silver, onyx, or sapphire or such substances like coral, pearls, rubies or topaz, (Job 28:12-19).Wisdom has it’s source in God and not in mere strenuous mental effort. In James 1:5, we are enjoined to ask for wisdom from God who gives generously. God’s wisdom is not earthly, sensual or devilish. It is pure, peaceable, gentle, full of mercy, easy to please, ready to do good to others, always fair and honest, (Jam.3:13-18). Solomon, when he became King asked for this wisdom so that he would rule the people of God right. God in response did not only give him wisdom but riches and honor as well, (1 Kings 3:3-18). What then is wisdom?Job describes God’s wisdom, “Behold , the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom: and depart from evil is understanding” (Job 28:28). Wisdom brings to the possessor qualities and value beyond material wealth.The scriptures makes us to understand that Jesus grew in wisdom and statue and in favor with God and man Luke 2:52. In similar manner we must learn to grow in wisdom as we mature as...

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JAMES, THE CHURCH LEADER, FEBRUARY 26th, 2023

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JAMES, THE CHURCH LEADER, FEBRUARY 26th, 2023

CENTRAL THOUGHTDivine wisdom is required for orderliness in the Church. HYMN: “Guide me O Thou Great Jehovah” TEXT: ACTS 15:1-35, 21:17-18 INTRODUCTION:After the death and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, the early church operated as a fellowship with minimal administrative structure. But numerical growth across nations and cultures made it imperative to evolve some form of apostolic order. While it is generally accepted that Apostle Peter had leadership roles to pay, a disciple called James featured prominently in the church at Jerusalem. At the first recorded post – Pentecost Council meeting held in Jerusalem, he was prominent, and actually summarized the decisions of that Council. That council was called to address controversies about Gentile believers and Jewish rituals. After listening to everyone who had something to say, James, by divine wisdom presented a transcript of a decision that honoured God, promoted peace and unity, and acknowledged the work of grace. In this study, we shall examine the issues that led to the Council meeting at Jerusalem and the important lessons to derive from it. LESSON OBJECTIVESThe objectives of this lesson are to: Explain who James was Identify the dispute that led to the Council meeting at Jerusalem Examine the process and procedure adopted by the Council Outline the decisions of the council and the lessons we learn Explain the effects of the decisions on the Church BIBLE TRUTH: Q1. WHO WAS JAMES, THE CHURCH LEADER?Gal. 1:19; Matt. 4:21; 10:3; 13:55; 27:56; James 1:1At least five persons were identified by the name of James in the New Testament. First is James the son of Zebedee and brother of John. This James was one of the early martyrs of the church. Secondly, we have James the son of Alphaeus, one of the twelve Apostles. Next, we have James, one of the four brothers of Jesus mentioned in the Scriptures. Another James is said to be the father (or brother) of Judas (or Thaddaeus). And final mention is made in Matt. 27:56, of James the brother is Joses whose mother was Mary the wife of Cleopas. However, the James that became the church leader in Jerusalem is generally considered to be the Lord’s brother (Gal. 1:19). It is widely accepted that he wrote the general epistle of James and was the resident Bishop of the church in Jerusalem. Q2a. WHAT WAS THE CONTROVERSY THAT LEAD TO THE COUNCIL OF ELDERS AND APOSTLES IN JERUSALEM? Acts 15:1-3The conversion of Gentiles brought some challenges to the early church, starting from Antioch. The question was whether or not gentile converts were to pass through the Judaistic rituals of circumcision and cleansing to become Christians. The debate was fierce and the disagreements were sharp, even among leaders. It was finally resolved that this question be referred to the Elders and Apostles in Jerusalem, the first headquarter of the church. Q2b. WHAT PRINCIPLES WERE ADOPTED TO RESOLVE THE CONTROVERSY?In resolving this controversy, the first strategy was to submit to higher authority, who were better placed in spirit and experience, to resolve doctrinal issues. The protagonists also exhibited matured patience with opposing views. The conduct of the meeting was orderly, speakers allowed to contribute freely and to share experiences. There was no threat of violence or rebellion. They did not resort to voting or casting lots, but...

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RUTH: THE WOMAN STEADFAST IN PURPOSE (PART 3), FEBRUARY 19,2023

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RUTH: THE WOMAN STEADFAST IN PURPOSE (PART 3), FEBRUARY 19,2023

CENTRAL THOUGHTThe believer is required to uphold constancy of godly character in all spheres of life. HYMN: “ I am Thine O Lord” TEXT: Ruth 2:22; 3:18 INTRODUCTIONWe shall be concluding the character study on Ruth, the Moabitess young woman, who got married to a Jewish family, became a widow in Moab, but chose to keep company with her mother-in-law (also a widow) on the return to Bethlehem Judah. Being a stranger in Bethlehem, she did not sit down to bemoan her situation but believed/ trusted in the God of Israel. In the circumstance before her, she exhibited some qualities that are admirable, which today’s believer in Christ Jesus out to notice. In a world of changing morals, the believer is faced with pressure not to be firm, consistent in upholding godly character in society and marriage relationships. The believer therefore has to be persuaded in his/ her heart and follow godly examples that will encourage the resolve to always live a life pleasing to the Captain of our salvation. LESSON OBJECTIVESThe objectives of this study are to: Understand the passion exhibited by Naomi, the mother-in-law Appreciate the obedience of Ruth Appreciate the godly character of the rich man Boaz; and See the benefits of living a godly life BIBLE TRUTH Q1. DISCUSS THE PASSION EXHIBITED BY NAOMI AND THE COUNSEL GIVEN TO RUTHNaomi, the Jewish mother-in-law to a Moabite young woman, after settling down back home in Bethlehem Judah recognized and communicated to Ruth her thoughts: that Ruth needed security, a home, and husband of her own. She revealed to her daughter-in-law, her plan of definitely seeking to bring Boaz and Ruth together as man and wife through the law of kinsman redemption (see Deut. 25:5-10). This was quite thoughtful of Naomi, exhibiting her love and good wish for Ruth, through knowledge of the tradition of the time, to claim the right of Kinsman redemption. According to this law, whoever redeemed the inheritance must also take the wife of a dead brother and raise up seed for him in Israel to keep his family alive.Ruth 3:2-4 show the ten-fold strategic plan of Naomi for Ruth. Naomi, knowing the custom of winnowing (i.e separating chaff from the wheat) at night and the practice to keep watch over the piles of wheat or barley on the threshing floor, gave Ruth this strategic counsel, probably with confidence in the moral character of Boaz. Q2. WHAT WAS THE BASIS FOR RUTH’S OBEDIENCE? (RUTH 3:5-9).Hearing the counsel of the mother-in-law was one thing; heeding or carrying out the plan in obedience is another issue. From the mother-daughter relationship between these two widowed woman, mutual love, and godly character and influence of Naomi, the older one, it was certain that obedience would follow on the part of Ruth. Thus, Ruth’s obedience was based on submission or respect, trust and love, knowing that her mother-in-law definitely meant well for her, and also backed up with her faith in the God of the Jews. Though the need was really there in Ruth’s life, she obediently maintained her faith in the laws of God for the Jews, declaring to Boaz in vs. 9 “for thou are a near kinsman”. Q3. WHAT LESSONS CAN WE LEARN FROM THE RELATIONSHIP THAT EXISTED BETWEEN RUTH AND NAOMI? (RUTH 3:1-6, 16-18)Looking...

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RUTH: THE WOMAN STEADFAST IN PURPOSE (PART 2), FEBRUARY 12th,2023

Posted by on 11:52 am in Sunday School | Comments Off on RUTH: THE WOMAN STEADFAST IN PURPOSE (PART 2), FEBRUARY 12th,2023

RUTH: THE WOMAN STEADFAST IN PURPOSE (PART 2), FEBRUARY 12th,2023

CENTRAL THOUGHTThe believer in Christ should, in Godly fear, have strength of character. HYMN: “I am Thine O Lord” TEXT: Ruth 2 INTRODUCTION:We continue the character study on Ruth, the Moabites, a young woman who through her marriage into a Jewish family had come to believe and trust in the God of Israel. Israel was God’s chosen nation that should have set the standards of high moral living for the other nations, but life in Israel had become bleak. Ironically, it was this Moabites whom God used as an example of genuine spiritual character. Though a young widow, she had accepted to return from her own country with her widowed mother-in-law, now poor, to be bound to each other. (Ruth 1:16-17). They must have shared deep sorrow together, great affection for each other and an overriding commitment to the God of Israel. This second study will attempt to expose Ruth’s determination, faith, godly fear and strength of character, which stand as challenges to each believer in Christ today. LESSON OBJECTIVES:The objectives of this study are to: Appreciate the character of Ruth in a strange land, as being industrious. Appreciate Ruth’s action of faith and exemplary godly qualities. BIBLE TRUTH:Q1. FROM RUTH 2:2-3, WHAT CHARACTER OF RUTH CAN WE APPRECIATE?Ruth made her home in a foreign land. Instead of depending on Naomi or waiting for good fortune to happen, she took the initiative. She didn’t sit or idle away bemoaning her state; instead, she went to work. She was not afraid of admitting her need or working hard to supply it. No matter how devastating our present situation may be, our hope is (and should be) in God. His resources are infinite. His supreme control over circumstances/ situations brings us safety and security. In faith, Ruth went out to the fields, and God provided for her. With her faith in the God of Israel, she accepted the law in Israel (Levit. 19:9; 23:22; Deut. 24:19) that made provision for poor people to pick up or glean any grain that dropped (and is left) from the reapers, to be used for food. She humbly believed in Israel, and because she was a widow with no means of providing for herself, Ruth went into the fields to glean corn or grain. Observe how humbly she speaks in her expectation: “Let me glean after him in whose sight shall find grace/favor.” So, she was not lazy but a hardworking and ambitious young woman. She was one of those virtuous women that love not to eat the bread of idleness, but love to take pain and labor. We must not be shy of any honest employment, though it be mean or lowly. We must also appreciate Ruth’s dutiful regard for her mother-in-law; she will not go out without letting her know and seeking her consent. This is part of the honor due parents, as young people show them respect. Lastly, Ruth believed that while she may not know which way to go nor whom to enquire for, she trusted in the favor that only God bestows that her steps will be ordered. Q2. WHAT LESSONS CAN WE LEARN FROM RUTH’S INDUSTRIOUS CHARACTER, IN THE CIRCUMSTANCES/ SITUATION SHE FOUND HERSELF? RUTH 2:5-7; EPH. 5:15-18; PRO. 10:1-4; 19:15; 20:4; 21:7; 22:13; ROM. 12:11In Bethlehem, a strange...

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