Church Construction 2013

May 2013 - Planting the Garden

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BE THOU AN EXAMPLE BELIEVER – IN FAITH, November 20th, 2022

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BE THOU AN EXAMPLE BELIEVER – IN FAITH, November 20th, 2022

CENTRAL THOUGHT Exemplary faith inspires other believers to trust God. HYMN: WHEN WE WALK WITH THE LORD IN THE LIGHT OF THIS WORD. TEXT: 1 Tim 4:12, Heb. 11:1-12. INTRODUCTION In 1 Tim 4:12, Apostle Paul writing to Timothy underscored the need for him to be an example of the believers. That essentially mean it was not enough to be a believer in Christ. We are expected to be “reference point” believers, demonstrating the reality of our belief in a way that leaves no one in doubt of the difference Christ makes in one’s life. Is this call was needed for the first century Christians, is it even more urgent for our day, when it is becoming increasingly difficult to distinguish believers from nonbelievers. Apostle Paul’s charge to Timothy was for him to be example of believers in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, and in purity. The focus of this lesson is the call to be example of believers in faith. This is a very important necessity in our walk with God and in demonstrating the reality of God to men. In fact, Heb. 11:6 summarizes it thus: “But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him”. In the light of Apostle Paul’s charge, we are to demonstrate our faith in God, before other believers and also to the watching world. LESSON OBJECTIVES The objectives of this study are: Define the meaning of faith Show how faith is developed Discuss the exemplary life of faith demonstrated by the patriarchs Highlight the benefits of a faith-filled life BIBLE TRUTH Q1. WHAT IS FAITH? Faith simply defined, is our unquestionable or unwavering belief in God’s word and His unfailing ability to fulfill them. The believing heart will say, “if God said so, I believe it”. What we believe God for may not be physically evident, but as we exercise faith, God registers it in our spirit as already accomplished. This is why Heb. 11:1 describes it as “the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen”. When believers of old went on to as on this unseen evidence, they obtained a good report (Heb, 11:2). When God promised Abraham a heir from his loins, there was nothing else to believe on but God’s word of promise. Abraham believed it and it was counted unto him for righteousness (Gen. 15:6). God’s expectation for us today is to believe His word and act on it. It is not mere presumption but a demonstration of our willingness to stake everything on God’s integrity, for the just shall live by faith (Rom. 1:17). It is profitable to the individual to believe God always. Q2. HOW IS FAITH DEVELOPED? Below are some of the ways a believer’s faith can be developed. (i). Romans 10:17 tells us that faith comes from hearing and believing the word of God. In other words, it is the word of God that stirs faith within us. We must therefore continually enrich our faith by a daily intake of the word of God. (ii). Faith is developed when it is tried (Jam. 1:3-4). Faith that has been tried will endure, and in...

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BE THOU AN EXAMPLE OF THE BELIEVERS – IN SPIRIT, November 13th, 2022

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BE THOU AN EXAMPLE OF THE BELIEVERS – IN SPIRIT, November 13th, 2022

CENTRAL THOUGHT Example is better than precept. HYMN: TAKE MY LIFE AND LET IT BE TEXT: 1 Tim 4:12, 1 Cor 12: 1-13; Acts 2:17-18 INTRODUCTION Paul, in his letter to Timothy, encouraged him to be an example to the believers. In this, he was to conduct himself in a manner that is exemplary for the believers in their Christian walk, in faith, love, and complete submission and obedience to the Holy Spirit. The statement, “Let no man despise thy youth”, shows clearly that this life is not based on age or social status. He was to practice godly conduct that comes from godly attitude in life and worship which God has defined in the example of the Lord Jesus Christ. We are not expected to do less. We are, therefore, to live a life that demonstrates an absolute yield to the control of the Holy Spirit, with unreserved obedience to His will and instructions. Paul’s injunction is simply put, “Walk in the Spirit,” which is a demonstration of the life of Christ in us. If we will be bold enough to tell people to follow our lifestyle as Paul did, we have no alternative to Christ- likeness. Other Christians, especially new converts should have us for an example. We must walk close to God, spend time studying His word, tarry in His presence in prayers, and ensure that God’s presence is in our life at all times, so our life could be an example to others. LESSON OBJECTIVES The objectives of this study are: Understand what it means to be an example of the believers in Spirit.Know the conditions of receiving the Holy Spirit.Identify the functions of the Holy Spirit in a believer’s life.Understand the importance of the gift of the Holy Spirit to the church.Understand how life in the Spirit can be sustained. BIBLE TRUTH Q1. WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE AN EXAMPLE OF THE BELIEVERS IN SPIRIT? (1 TIM. 4:12; TITUS 2:7; 1 COR. 4:16; 11:1) At conversion, the believer is given the Spirit of God which dwells in him and conforms him to the image of Christ, to enable him to live the God- kind of life. He no longer lives to fulfill the desires of his old nature, but seeks to please God. He shows himself a pattern of good works in doctrine, integrity, purity, and sound speech that cannot be faulted even by his opponents. His emphasis shifts from bodily appearance to the internal beauty of the spiritual life which is demonstrated in discipline in body, soul, and spirit; and in every way showing himself a pattern of godliness. He operates in love, faith, and good conscience both in words and conduct that attracts others to Christ. To be an example of the believers in Spirit therefore means teaching only sound biblical doctrine and demonstrating same by personal conduct, setting example for other believers to follow. Apostle Paul in his epistles emphasized the need for believes to live in the Spirit in order not to fulfill the carnal desires of the old man. He made Christ his example and demonstrated it throughout his life as a believer; this emboldened him to encourage other believers to imitate him (1 Cor. 4:16; 11:1). Q2. WHAT ARE THE CONDITIONS FOR RECEIVING THE HOLY SPIRIT? (JOHN...

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BE THOU AN EXAMPLE BELIEVER – IN CHARITY & LOVE, November 6th, 2022

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BE THOU AN EXAMPLE BELIEVER – IN CHARITY & LOVE, November 6th, 2022

CENTRAL THOUGHT Owe no man anything, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. HYMN: GRACIOUS SPRIT, HOLY GHOST. TEXT: 1 Tim 4:12, 1 Cor 13:1-13 INTRODUCTION Love is the attribute and nature of God. He demonstrated this love by giving His only begotten Son as a sacrificial lamb to reconcile us to Himself. God-kind of love is unconditional, sacrificial, and directed towards others. It involves selfless service to others. It goes against our natural inclinations. In line with this, Apostle Paul admonished Timothy not to allow anyone to despise his youth, but that he should be an example in Love. In the same vein, the Corinthian believers were to earnestly desire the best gift which is the way of love (1 Cor. 12:31). Only with the help of the Holy Spirit can believers set their own desires and instincts aside to love, while expecting nothing in return. The believer’s love of God is seen in his/her obedience to God’s word and commitment to his/her brethren, for “he that loveth not knoweth not God, for God is love” (1 John 4:8). This study focuses on being an example of the believer in charity. LESSON OBJECTIVES The objectives of this study are: To understand the meaning of the word “Love”To identify the characteristics of true loveTo appreciate the various ways, we can demonstrate love to one another and the impact on our neighborsTo understand the challenges people might face in showing love to others and how to overcome themTo highlight the benefits of showing love. BIBLE TRUTH Q1. WHAT IS LOVE? (MARK 12:29-31 ; ACTS 4:32; 1 JOHN 4:16) Some translations of the Bible render love as charity. Love is that attribute of God that expresses His concern for mankind and by extension requires that men show relate to one another with the same concern. Love is the utter commitment and devotion to God and to one another. Believers are therefore expected to love God with the totality of their being (i.e. the heart, soul, mind, and strength), and to love others as themselves ( Mark 12: 29-31). Q2. WHAT ARE THE CHARACTERISITICS OF LOVE/ CHARITY? ( 1 COR. 13:4-8) The characteristics of love as spelt out in the above scripture are as follows: “ Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, Doth do not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in truth; Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things. Charity never faileth, but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail, whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. “God on His own part has amply demonstrated His love for mankind by offering His only begotten on as a supreme sacrifice for the redemption of mankind. This HE did while we were yet sinners ( Read John 8:16; Rom. 5:8) Q3a.) USING THE FOLLOWING SCRIPTURES, IDENTIFY THE VARIOUS WAYS WE CAN DEMONSTRATE LOVE TO ONE ANOTHER Bearing one another’s burden Gal 6:1-10 … Bear ye one another’s burden, and so fulfill the law of Christ (v2). One of the areas we can demonstrate love to one another is...

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Should Christians celebrate Halloween?

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Should Christians celebrate Halloween?

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BE THOU AN EXAMPLE OF THE BELIVERS – IN CONDUCT, October 30th, 2021

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BE THOU AN EXAMPLE OF THE BELIVERS – IN CONDUCT, October 30th, 2021

CENTRAL THOUGHT Our level of commitment to the Lord is revealed in our conduct. HYMN: TAKE MY LIFE AND LET IT BE TEXT: 1 Tim. 4:12, Eph. 4:17-32 INTRODUCTION Christianity, as someone once said, is not practiced in isolation but in the society. After experiencing salvation, God leaves us in this world to be His living witnesses, revealing His presence in our lives by the way we behave. Thus, the Christian is expected to manifest a Christ like attitude always. In continuation of the series of “be thou an example of the believers”, this particular study focuses on how a believer should demonstrate Christian principles in his public and domestic lifestyle. LESSON OBJECTIVES The objectives of this study are: 1.) Understand what the word conduct means and why it is necessary for Christians to exhibit godly behavior. 2.) Know how a Christian should react when he is confronted with situations that pose as challenges to his faith. 3.) Appreciate the LORD’S instruction that we should strive towards perfection, 4.) Appropriate some ingredients that enhance good Christian behavior. BIBLE TRUTH Q1A) WHAT DO YOU UNDERSTAND BY THE WORD CONDUCT AS USED IN THE TEXT? (See also James 3:13, 1 Pet.1:15-18). As defined in the dictionary, the word conduct has to do with behavior. An individual’s behavior reveals who he really is. More specifically one’s behavior is an aggregate of his character traits. Most times an individual’s belief influences his behavior and therefore his character. Christian conduct therefore has to do with how a Christian behaves or conducts himself in the society. The King James version of the Bible translates the word “conduct” as “conversation”. Thus, our behavior “converses” or “discusses” our real character with others. A proper or godly Christian conduct reveals the presence of God in a believer’s life to the world. Q1B) WHY IS IT NECESSARY FOR A CHRISTIAN TO BEHAVE PROPERLY. Matt. 5:16, 1 Tim. 6:1 We have been told by our LORD Himself that believers are “… the salt of the earth…” and “…the light of the world…” (Matt. 5:13 and 14). It is our responsibility therefore to conduct ourselves as GOD’s representatives in this world. We must manifest His light in us for others to see. He says that He has put HIS light in us and therefore we cannot be hidden. Our lights therefore must shine so that when men see our good works, they will give God glory. (Matt. 5:16). We live in a hurting world and when we Christians live out God’s life in us, we can bring succor to many. We are admonished further in 1 Tim. 6:1 to conduct ourselves properly so that the name of God and His doctrine will not be blasphemed. This is important. We must be careful so that our behavior will not in anyways bring reproach to the Name of our Great and Mighty King. Q2.) DISCUSS IN PRACTICAL TERMS HOW A CHRISTIAN SHOULD REACT UNDER THE FOLLOWING SITUATIONS. -When accused falsely. Matt. 5:11-12 Where such false accusations are grand designs to persecute the believer, he should rejoice bearing in mind that is HIS sovereignty, God has prepared rewards for him in His Kingdom. It is also clear in scripture that the believer has a right o defend himself even in law courts. As the...

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BE THOU AN EXAMPLE OF THE BELIVERS – IN WORD, October 23rd, 2022

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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...

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FRIENDS AT BETHANY, October 16th, 2022

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FRIENDS 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:...

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GRATITUDE, October 9TH, 2022

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GRATITUDE, 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...

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A NEIGHBOR TO THOSE IN NEED, October 2nd, 2022

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A 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...

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The Excellency of God’s Word, Part 2, September 25th, 2022

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The 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...

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