Church Construction 2013

May 2013 - Planting the Garden

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PRAYER AND IT’S EFFECTS, July 5th, 2026

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PRAYER AND IT’S EFFECTS, July 5th, 2026

CENTRAL THOUGHTThe prayer of the believer moves the hand of God to turn human events to line up with God’s will. TEXT: LUKE 18:1-8, ACTS 4:23-31 INTRODUCTION:There is a race to be run; “there is a fight to be fought and there is a faith to be tenaciously held unto”. The Christian race is not like 100 meters dash, but rather it is a long-distance race which requires strength and perseverance for one to be able to say, “I have finished the race”. Prayer offers the believer the sustained strength for this long drawn-out race. Prayer is a two-way communication that the Lord established to ensure that every believer has vital contact with Him. Prayer takes different forms of expression, adoration, thanksgiving, repentance, supplication, and intercession. It provides a direct line and an express channel to the throne of grace from which strength, support, encouragement, renewal, and hope are received. Believers who take full advantage of this divine provision find themselves always above situations that make others depressed and frustrated.When the Lord taught us to always pray and not to faint at heart, it is because He knew that there would be situations that could be long-drawn in our lives that would require perseverance. Issues that are long-drawn tend to wear out people emotionally and spiritually. After a while, people tend to lose hope and become discouraged. Their faith wanes, and their confidence in the Lord diminishes. A sustained prayer life would eliminate these negative situations. Instead of the believer complaining, murmuring, blaming others, and even God, for his predicament, he takes his case to God in prayers and leaves it atthe throne of Grace where, in God’s divine time, help would be received. It is unfortunate that many times a believer gives up just before his help arrives.We are correctly instructed by the Lord that Elijah was a man like anyone of us. He was human and plagued with the same kind of weaknesses like any of us. His prayer was effectual in keeping the heavens closed for three and a half years and thereafter it opened (James 5:17-18). What that tells us is that we can pray to move the hand of the Lord to change the course of human history to the praise and gloryof His name. We must reiterate that it is humans, like everyone of us, with faith in God who can get this done through prayers. LESSON OBJECTIVES To know what prayer is. To know the various areas that demand prayers. To know the issues that make for acceptable prayers. To know some hindrances to prayers. To know how to achieve a prayer life that makes a positiveimpact. To know that there is a need for a consistent prayer life inthese last days. BIBLE TRUTH:QUESTION 1) WHAT IS PRAYER?Prayer is the means by which communication is carried out in relationship between the believer and his heavenly father. As we are all aware, a key requirement for the success of any relationship is communication. That similarly applies to our relationship with the Lord. Prayer offers the means by which this communication is achieved.Prayer, therefore, is the life-line for the believer; it grants him access to the throne of Grace. Prayer is a two-way communication. The Lord makes His mind known to His children who...

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LIKE THE MEN OF ISSACHAR PT. 2, JUNE 28TH, 2026

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LIKE THE MEN OF ISSACHAR PT. 2, JUNE 28TH, 2026

CENTRAL THOUGHTOur reaction to events is a proof of the level of our knowledge of God. Hymn: “Stand up stand up for Jesus”.TEXT: EXODUS 14:5-31 INTRODUCTION:The journey of the children of Israel (God’s own people) from the call of Abraham through to the land of Egypt and back to the promised land featured many challenges; one of which was at the red sea. The Israelites thought they were doomed but God proved Himself mighty. The believer as a pilgrim in this life may face challenging situations that can discourage him/her from reaching the promised land-Heaven.The focus of this study is to derive lessons on how Israel and Moses handled these challenges under God. LESSON OBJECTIVES To know what life challenges are. How Israel reacted to life challenges. Understand the proper Christian attitude to life challenges. Know the ultimate goal of our victories over life challenges. BIBLE TRUTH:QUESTION 1) WHAT DO YOU UNDERSTAND BY LIFE CHALLENGES?Life challenges are those difficulties/problems faced by people (believers and nonbelievers alike) in their journey of life; those tests/trials/temptations that confront one’s life and tend to cause pain, inconveniences, hardship etc. They can come as sickness/disease, barrenness, joblessness, spiritual attack, persecution etc. All life challenges are temporary. They don’t last forever.After the long stay of Israel in the land of Egypt and the appointed time for them to return; the Egyptians refused to let them go. God showed may signs and wonders but they refused to let Israel go until after the death of their first-born. They initially allowed them to go but later pursued them to the red sea (vs.5-9). This teaches us that when we have accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, the devil will not leave us alone. He and his cohorts continue to attack believers in all forms- with sin, worldliness and powers of darkness. Hence we are enjoined to put on the whole amour of God (Eph 6:10-18). QUESTION 2) READ EXODUS 14:10-12; 15:22-24; 16:2-3 AND DISCUSS THE REACTIONS OF ISRAEL TO SOME OF THE CHALLENGES THEY FACED. “And they said to Moses, because there were no graves in Egypt, hast thou taken us away to die in the wilderness? Wherefore has thou dealt thus with us to carry us forth out of Egypt. Is not this the word that we may serve the Egyptians than that we should die in the wilderness?”. The children of Israel were full of complaining, murmuring and even attempted to stone Moses because of hard conditions on their way to the promise land. They wished they could go back to Egypt or had not gone out at all. Instead of focusing on God and praying for His intervention, they accused Moses of making them come out and denying them of protection, food and water to drink.Some believers exhibit negative reactions to life challenges. Lack of understanding of God’s word on a particular issue pushes some believers to complain and murmur instead of asking for God’s direction. Some of these are where there is lack of basic necessary provisions, unanswered/delayed prayers, prolonged sickness, joblessness, barrenness etc. It shows that people react to events according to the level of knowledge of God they have. Our test of the knowledge of God is proved through our reaction to events. QUESTION 3a) HOW DID...

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THE IDEAL CHRISTIAN HOME, JUNE 21st, 2026

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THE IDEAL CHRISTIAN HOME, JUNE 21st, 2026

Hymn: “Oh, What Fellowship; CENTRAL THOUGHTWe need God’s help in building and maintaining a Christ-centered home. TEXT: 1 CHR. 12:32; 2 TIM. 3:1-8; ROM. 13:11-14 INTRODUCTION:The ideal Christian home is a home that is centered on Christ, where peace and love reigns. The hymm “God give us a Christian home” is a beautiful prayer that acknowledges our need for God’s help in building and maintaining a Christ-centered home. In this study, we will explore the importance of maintaining a Christian home, and as we do that we may be inspired to cultivate Christ-centered homes that bring glory to God and bless those who dwell in them. Amen. LESSON OBJECTIVESThe objectives of this lesson are to: Understand the importance of having a Christian home Identify the characteristics of a Christian home Explore the biblical foundations for a Christian home Encourage believers to seek God’s help in building a Christian home BIBLE TRUTH:QUESTION 1) WHAT IS A CHRISTIAN HOME?A Christian home can be defined as a household where the values and principles of Christianity are practiced and upheld. It is a place where the family members aim to follow God’s will, live according to His word, love, and serve Him; and have love for one another. The Bible provides guidance on the characteristics of a Christian home and how families can create and maintain a home that honors God. QUESTION 2) WHAT ARE THE CHARACTERISTICS OF A CHRISTIAN HOME?A Christian home is characterized by a foundation of faith in Jesus Christ and the application of biblical principles in everyday life. Some of the key characteristics of a Chrisitan home include: Love:Love is the cornerstone of a Christian home. In John 13:34-35, the Lord Jesus commands His disciples to love one another as He loved them, and He says that the world will know they are His disciples by their love for one another. Prayer: A Christian home is one that is built on prayer. In Philippians 4:6, Paul instructs the believer to “not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” Bible Study:The Bible is the foundation of the Christian faith, and it is important for Christian families to study the Bible together. In 2 Timothy 3:16-17, Paul says that “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” (NIV) Forgiveness:Forgiveness is a key characteristic of a Christian home. In Matthew 6:14-15, Jesus says. “For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses. Service:Christian families should serve one another and be light to the world. In Mark 10:45, Jesus says, “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (NIV) Hospitality:A Christian home should be a welcoming place for others. In Romans 12:13, Paul says, “Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.” Unity:Unity is important in a Christian home. In Psalms 133:1, it says, “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” (NIV). QUESTION 3) WHAT ARE...

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CHRISTIAN COMPORTMENT IN BUSINESS AND WORKPLACE, JUNE 14TH, 2026

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CHRISTIAN COMPORTMENT IN BUSINESS AND WORKPLACE, JUNE 14TH, 2026

CENTRAL THOUGHTEvery Christian must comport himself rightly at all times.Hymn: “Stand up, stand up for Jesus” TEXT: 1 THESS.4:4-7; ROM.12:18; HEB.12:14.INTRODUCTION:In society today, the way and manner people comport themselves is not much to be desired. Many do not care about the effect of their actions or utterances on others as long as they want whether rightly or wrongly. However, this should not be the case with Christians. We are the salt of the earth and the light of the world. Therefore, we must be the savor of the knowledge of Christ in every place.Our outward appearance, character or disposition must be a constant manifestation of our Christian identity. We should consider our character and behavior as visible testimony of our Christian values. LESSON OBJECTIVES To explain what the phrase “Christian comportment” means; Identify various challenges Christians can encounter in the place of work or business Discuss what should be our attitude as employees in the place of work or business. Identify what should be the attitude of employers. Explain how we can make our Christianity all-embracing, holistic and integrated in our daily lives especially in our place of work. BIBLE TRUTH:QUESTION 1a) WHAT DO YOU UNDERSTAND BY THE PHRASE “CHRISTIAN COMPORTMENT”.The phrase “Christian comportment” refers to the way and manner a born again child of God should behave towards other people, in all places. He must be able to exhibit Christian values in all his dealings. QUESTION 1b) IDENTIFY SOME CHALLENGES CHRISTIANS CAN ENCOUNTER IN THE PLACE OF WORK OR BUSINESS? Lev. 19:15; 1 Sam.8:3; Isa 1:23; Mic.3:11; James 2:1-4; Amos 5:10-15There are many challenges Christians can encounter in the place of work or business. Some of these challenges are discussed below:(a) Bribery/ corruptionBribery has to do with persuading someone to act improperly in one’s favor by a gift of money, services or any other thing that may not be due such a person. While corruption refers to dishonest or fraudulent conduct by those in power, typically involving bribery. In our society today, bribery and corruption have been so accepted as the norm such that in most cases it is almost difficult to get things one is rightly qualified for in the workplace without having to bribe his or her way through. A Christian should not be involved in such unwholesome practices. We neither give nor receive bribes in the process of carrying out our legitimate jobs we are paid for. “And thou shalt take no gift: for the gift blindeth the wise, and perverteth the words of the righteous” (Exo.23:8). Bribes have been termed gratification, and many have been deceived into not seeing the danger in them. Most often than not bribery leads to perversion of justice in the work place. Evey Christian must resist it vehemently no matter the consequence.(b) Racism:Racism has to do with prejudice, discrimination or antagonism directed against someone of a different race based on the belief that one’s race is superior. A Christian should realize that all men were created by God in His image and after His likeness. No one should discriminate against anybody based on the fact that such a person is not of his race. The bias should be erased from the mind of a Christian and he should treat everyone equally. Each person should be treated and given...

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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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