Church Construction 2013

May 2013 - Planting the Garden

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THE SANCTITY OF MARRIAGE, May 8th, 2022

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THE SANCTITY OF MARRIAGE, May 8th, 2022

CENTRAL THOUGHT Godly foundation, guarantees the sanctity of marriage. HYMN: I’M PRESSING ON TEXT: Gen. 2:21-25; Eph. 5:21-33 INTRODUCTION Marriage, was instituted by God in the garden of Eden where God placed the first man He made Adam. God also provided a ‘help meet for him’ (Gen.2:18) whom Adam called woman, “the bone of my bone and flesh of my flesh.” The man and woman were called husband and wife. God originally intended that marriage should be an estate of sanctity, (-saintliness, godliness, holiness). Hence marriage is described as Holy matrimony. This study focuses on some factors that have polluted the marriage institution, and attempt to offer possible solutions. LESSON OBJECTIVES The objectives of this study are: To understand the type of foundations that we can lay for the sanctity of marriage.To examine some of the factors that have polluted marriage institution.To discuss some of the factors that can promote the sanctity of marriage. BIBLE TRUTH Q1. WHAT FOUNDATION CAN WE LAY FOR THE SANCTITY OF MARRIAGE? Marriage is a union of a man and a woman who live throughout their life time having having all things in common, being in one accord in every area of their lives. The individuals should realize that it is the creation of God, therefore no other foundation can guarantee its sanctity except the Word of God. In other words, the sanctity of marriage can only be sustained through the fear of God that emanate from the knowledge of His word, and deliberate determination to obey the same. Psalm 127 v 1a says “Except the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it”. A Christian should not marry an unbeliever. God’s desire is that marriage should be honorable in all things (Heb.13:4). Giving honor to marriage will require the utmost in Christian conviction and only a monogamous type of marriage is more likely to provide the atmosphere for the exhibition of the honor God expects in marriage. Saintly marriage should be bible based. In grateful acknowledgement of all that God has done for us, Christians must consecrate themselves to God, so as to live a life of holiness in the fear of God, even in marriage. Individuals in a marriage relationship must live honestly and commit themselves to honoring and glorifying God in their marriage. Q2. DISCUSS HOW THE FOLLOWING FACTORS HAVE ADVERSELY AFFECTED MARRIAGE. A. Economic problems: It is now a common phenomenon for husband and wife to leave home in the morning and come back at night, in the name of trying to make ends meet. Children are normally left, either to themselves, or in the hands of house helps, who may not care so much, about the children’s welfare. Economic pressures can adversely affect marriage if not properly handled. The class should discuss! B. Improper Child Upbringing (Prov.22:6): Improper child upbringing has had its toll on marriage. Children who become deviant constitute problems to their families and society. Children who would make positive contribution to the stability of a marriage need to be taught the word of God and guided to obey the instructions therein. When this is properly done, such children bring joy and peace to the family. C. Delayed Child Bearing: There may be pressures from the parents, in-laws, relatives, brethren and even clergy men...

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UPHOLDING THE SANCTITY OF SCRIPTURES, May 1st, 2022

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UPHOLDING THE SANCTITY OF SCRIPTURES, May 1st, 2022

CENTRAL THOUGHT Ye do err not knowing the scriptures. HYMN: WHEN WE WALK WITH THE LORD TEXT: Matt 22:23-33; Lk.2:40-52 INTRODUCTION The word of God has often been acknowledged as the inerrant, invariable rule by which the believer lives. The Israelites had just the Old Testament before the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. We are privileged in our dispensation to have both the Old and New Testament as the written word of God. By the word, believers are sanctified, separated unto a walk with God almighty even as the Lord. Jesus Christ prayed: “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth”. (John 17:17) At age 12, the boy Jesus made teachers of the law who are sometimes referred to as “doctors of the law” appear shallow in their knowledge of the Scriptures. The Pharisees, Sadducees and the Scribes nonetheless persisted in testing the Lord with what they perceived to be “hard question” but on each occasion the Lord turned them into pupils who needed to be taught. On one occasion the Lord told them very pointedly what their basic problem was: “..Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God” Matt.22:29. In this study we seek to understand the context of this statement, and to know how it applies to us today, even in the technologically advanced twenty-first century world. LESSON OBJECTIVES The objectives of this study are: To understand that the Scriptures remain the standard for all.To understand that deviation from the Scripture leads to error.To learn how the people in the context erred.To learn from the Scriptures how we may avoid error. BIBLE TRUTH Q1. WHAT STANDARD SHOULD MAN USE TO MEASURE HIMSELF? The Scriptures remain the standard of life, the rule by which life is measured. (2Tim.3:16-17) “All Scripture is given by the inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” Being perfect implies completeness and being “thoroughly furnished” means to be completely equipped and exhaustively endowed. Thus, the ability to perform good works (works of God) is from these Scriptures as we receive the equipment to live successful Christian lives. This again is echoed by Peter in 2 Pet.1:3 “According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and Godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue.” It is by the Scriptures we know how to do good and live Godly. The word of God shows us the path to righteousness. (Ps. 119:105) “Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” As believers, we need the Scriptures to guide our feet, and to prevent us from going astray. “O Lord, I know that the way of man is not in himself: it is not in man that walketh to direct his steps.” Q2. HOW DOES THE DEVIATION FROM THE SCRIPTURES LEAD TO ERROR? The text implies that we err if we deviate from the Scriptures. It Is a common experience to have a manual accompanying an electronic equipment, detailing how to set up the particular device. Any deviation from the instructions may invariably result in malfunction. It is unwise to...

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LIVING WITHOUT GOD, April 24th, 2022

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LIVING WITHOUT GOD, April 24th, 2022

CENTRAL THOUGHT God is graciously inviting all to Himself through the Lord Jesus Christ. HYMN:  I AM THINE, O LORD Text: Romans 1:18-32, 2:1-10 INTRODUCTION: Very soon we shall all stand before the throne of God to give account of our lives here on earth. One may say “No time now to study the Bible, no time to pray, no time to go to church, no time to live a holy and righteous life” but a day is coming when everyone will wish they had lived a holy and righteous life; but it would have become too late. What shall it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses his precious soul in hell fire? Though one may accumulate abundant wealth and fame here on earth and does not have Jesus, it is just a waste. Peter said in 2 Peter 3:10-12 “…the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up”. A life without God is a hopeless end. God created man to have fellowship with Him, but when man fell, having chosen to disobey God, he lost his glorious union and fellowship with God. Man became a sinner by nature and consequently a servant of Satan and a child of disobedience. This study is aimed at considering the attitude of a person whose life is ruled by sin and God’s reactions as well as provisions to such a person. LESSON OBJECTIVES The objectives of this study are: To understand what it means to live without God.To examine the characteristics of people that live without God in this world.To learn the implications and consequences of living without God.To know the ways people mock God’s kindness and the dangers that follow such an attitude.To consider Biblical provisions on how a person can be free from sin and have eternal life. Q1a. WHAT DO YOU UNDERSTAND BY “LIVING WITHOUT GOD”? John 15:1-5 Contrary to the claims of those who believe that there is no God, through the centuries, it is certain that man cannot live without God. Man can have a mortal existence without acknowledging God, but not without the fact of God’s existence. As the Creator, God originated human life. We owe our being to the God whose image we are made (Genesis 1:27). Our existence depends on God, whether we acknowledge His existence or not. Therefore, to live without God, simply means to live without the reverence and fear of God in one’s heart. Also, it means not acknowledging the sovereign power and authority of God in one’s life; it is to live a life that is self-sufficient but not Christ-sufficient. Without Christ we might live for the moment, but with Him we will live forever. Our actions have everlasting consequences when we abide in Christ. A person living without God can also be described as a natural man or an un-regenerated man. Q1b. WHY IS IT THAT A NATURAL (UN-REGENERATED) MAN DOES NOT OBEY GOD’S WORD OR FOLLOW HIS WILL? Romans 1:21, 8:7-8, 1 Corinthians 2:14, 2 Corinthians 4:4 The natural man in the above passage refers to the un-regenerated or the unbelievers; in other words, man in his natural fallen state without the regenerating grace of God. Paul is saying in this passage...

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DEATH AND RESURRECTION OF THE LORD JESUS CHRIST, April 17th, 2022

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DEATH AND RESURRECTION OF THE LORD JESUS CHRIST, April 17th, 2022

He is Risen. Crucifixion at Sunrise. Light From Within The Tomb Of Jesus. Outside view on Tomb. CENTRAL THOUGHT By His death and Resurrection, the Lord Jesus Christ conquered death. HYMN:  CHRIST THE LORD IS RISEN TODAY Text: John 11:25-26, Rev. 1:16-18, 1 Cor. 15:3-8 INTRODUCTION: The word “death” as applied to man in the scripture means separation or a cutting off from realizing God’s purpose, for which he was created. Death does not mean annihilation or extinction of being. There are three types of death namely physical, spiritual and second death or eternal death. Physical death is the common denominator of all mankind in the sense that the rich and the poor will both die. This is the separation of inner man from the outer man; that is the soul and the spirit from the body. The body dies and goes to dust (Gen. 3:19). The body without the spirit is dead (James 2:26). Spiritual death is separation of man from God because of sin (Gen. 3:8, Isa. 59:2, Matt. 8:22, Col. 2:13, 1 Tim. 5:6). Eternal death is the eternal separation from God (Isa. 66:22-24, Matt. 10:28, Rev. 2:11). Resurrection means the act of raising a person or thing from death or the state of life. The death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ are two key events in the scriptures that have profound importance in our Christian faith. They are the basis of our salvation and the hope of the glorious life to come. LESSON OBJECTIVES The objectives of this study are: To know the significance of the death of ChristTo know the different types of resurrection.To know how the resurrection of Christ brought hope to believers.To know how believers should live in view of the hope of the resurrection. Bible Truth Q1. WHAT IS THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THE DEATH OF CHRIST? John 12:24, 1 Cor. 15:3-4, Heb. 2:14, 9:11-28 The violent death of Jesus Christ on the cross of Calvary was to pay the price of and for our lawlessness. We are bought with a price (a ransom), this price is the precious blood of Jesus, which was shed on the cross of Calvary and on our behalf (Gal. 3:13, 4:4-5). Our redemption means that we are released from the law and from sin, which was not possible by our keeping of the law in order to obtain acceptance from God. We are also redeemed from guilt as we receive forgiveness of sin (Eph. 1:7). Christ’s death was substitution. By this He took our place of death, which we rightly deserved. His substitution death qualified Him to become our advocate and intercessor before the Father in Heaven. Christ’s death is significant in that we are not only forgiven but in the sight of God, we appear as if we had never sinned. This is possible only by having Christ’s righteousness imputed to us, who were enemies of God (Rom. 4:23-25). An individual can therefore, identify with the death of Christ by believing in Him (John 3:16) and also walking in the newness of life (Rom. 6:3-5). Q2. WHAT DO YOU UNDERSTAND BY THE RESURRECTION? MENTION OTHER TYPES OF RESURRECTION. Resurrection is the act of raising a person or thing from death or returning to life, experienced by a person that had been dead. Resurrection...

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BETRAYAL AND TRIALS OF JESUS, April 10th, 2022

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BETRAYAL AND TRIALS OF JESUS, April 10th, 2022

CENTRAL THOUGHT Our Lord Jesus came to redeem mankind. HYMN:  WHEN I SURVEY THE WONDROUS CROSS Text: Matthew 26:14-25; John 18:12-24 INTRODUCTION: It is a very painful thing to experience betrayal. It is more painful when that betrayer is from a very close confidant, who in all decent conscience was supposed to act in the best interest of the betrayed. This was the beginning of the climax of the passions of Jesus. One of His disciples, betrayed Him, came with an armed band and pointed him out even with a kiss. Thereafter He was tried in what would be described as a mockery of justice. The Jews had a predetermined objective of getting rid of Jesus. What was left was how to recruit witnesses; get a cooperating judge or use threat or public pressure to intimidate one judge to execute their motive. That was the summary of events that led to the crucifixion of Jesus. However, on the other side of the divide, God Almighty with the entire host of heaven were watching, knowing that the destiny of mankind was about to receive an eternal revival! The tragedy of the world today is that men do prefer noisy falsehood, absolute darkness and barbaric evil to truth, light, and righteousness. This study will focus on all that happened during the betrayal and trials of Jesus and on the possible lessons we can draw from them. LESSON OBJECTIVES The objectives of this lesson are to: To present the highlights of the betrayal of JesusTo list and briefly explain the stages in the trial of JesusTo compare the justice system Jesus experienced with the present-day systemTo discuss the significance of the death of Jesus Bible truth: Q1. ENUMERATE THE HIGH POINT OF THE BETRAYAL OF JESUS. Jesus had twelve persons he specifically ordained as “Apostles”. They were his ministerial assistants and trainees being prepared for higher responsibility; Jesus Iscariot was one of the twelve. Though he was in charge of the finance of the group, he was a thief (Mark 3:13-19, John 12:4-6). The religious order of that time never liked Jesus because He spoke the truth and often reproved their hypocrisy. They decided to get rid of Him. They gave the job of betraying Jesus to Judas Iscariot for a fee- thirty pieces of silver. Judas accepted and started feeding them with information on the itinerary and action of Jesus. When they came to arrest Him, Judas was the one who identified Jesus to them with a kiss (John 18:1-3, Luke 22:47-48). Jesus was led away. Judas could not stand his own conscience later. He returned the “fee” he was paid, in confusion and not out of genuine repentance. He took his own life. The Religious leaders refused to accept the refund from Judas, calling it blood money rather they bought a land with it and designed it for the burial of strangers Matthew 27:3-7. These were the high points of the drama of the traitor called Judas Iscariot. Q2. LIST AND BRIEFLY EXPLAIN THE STAGES AND EVENTS IN THE TRIAL OF JESUS. Jesus was tried before different tribunals all in effort to secure a death sentence through a verified fault. But this was not to be, hence they resorted to piling pressure on Pilate. The stages of the trial were...

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COMMITMENT IN SERVICE, April 3th, 2021

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COMMITMENT IN SERVICE, April 3th, 2021

CENTRAL THOUGHT God rewards faithful service. HYMN:  TAKE MY LIFE AND LET IT BE Text: John 13:1-17; Luke 22:24-30 INTRODUCTION: Commitment is an undertaking, promise or pledge to do something for somebody or a course.  Service is to attend to somebody or something, work for, and perform duties and or, being devoted to somebody or something. Commitment in service therefore is devotedly attending to the kingdom’s business in a manner of urgency as if the work could only be done by you to the exclusion of others without procrastinating.  It is the practical expression of our love for God and man.  When we serve willingly and wholeheartedly, we prove our faith to the world around us.  This study will consider the Biblical mandate for service, identify areas or ways we can serve and highlight rewards for committed service. LESSON OBJECTIVES The objectives of this study are: Understanding the phrase… “Commitment in service”.Examining the ways Christ exemplified commitment in service.Examples of commitment in service of some Bible characters.How we should serve God and humanity with commitment.The rewards for commitment in service. Q1. WHAT DOES THE PHRASE “COMMITMENT IN SERVICE” MEAN? At the point of giving one’s life to God, an individual covenant’s to serve God committedly.  To be committed in service, and individual is totally and completely sold out to God, with one singular desire, to do the will of the Master, John 4:34, 5:30; Psalm 40:8.  God at all times should be the center of our commitment and not man.  Commitment to God should not be because of a desired miracle after which the individual abandons or neglects God.  Commitment is doing for God the right thing, at the right time, undermining whether you are alone on the particular course and with no regards to personal convenience, comfort, denials and sacrifices. Commitment cannot be forced on anyone.  It is a desire and act that flows from within, as a result of one’s love for God.  It is a test of the quality of love, affection, dedication, loyalty and genuineness of our faith in God.  The place of commitment is a place of sincerity with God and man, being devoid of all forms of eye service, Colossians 3:22-24.  Unlike Job (Job 2:3-6) and Abraham (Genesis 22:11-12) who passed their test of commitment and were approved of God, most present day Christians are carefree like the soldiers in Judges 7:3-5, who at a time of their test never recognized that their commitment was being tested.  Some Christians in like manner have disappointed God by being lazy and taking the things of God with levity, without commitment.  We must serve God with a perfect heart, 1 Chronicles 28:9, in love, Galatians 5:13, and in sincerity, Joshua 24:14. Q2. EXAMINE THE WAYS CHRIST EXEMPLIFIED COMMITMENT IN SERVICE WHILE ON EARTH. John 4:34; 9:4 Christ’s approach to commitment in service was in two major ways: He saw commitment in doing the will of the Father as mandatory, to be done, and carried out without an option or choice.  Christ, in equating commitment to food consumed by man for continuous sustenance, clearly showed that a believer needs to be committed to God to be spiritually healthy and alive just like natural food keeps man healthy and alive, John 4:34.In John 9:4, Christ saw commitment in...

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THE MAN BARNABAS, March 27th, 2022

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THE MAN BARNABAS, March 27th, 2022

CENTRAL THOUGHT God is the ultimate source of comfort and encouragement but He uses people as His channels. HYMN:  BLESSED BE THE TIE THAT BINDS Text: Acts 4:32-37, 11:19-30 INTRODUCTION ‘Joses’ was his real name but the Apostles nicknamed him Barnabas, which means ‘son of consolation’ or ‘son of encouragement’.  He featured prominently in the early Christian development and ministry of Apostle Paul.  He was one of the first persons to sell his land to help Christians in Jerusalem.  He was of great help to the people around him, a generous landowner.  He lived in pioneer days when the gospel was new and left an indelible mark.  He did wonders with encouragements; whenever he encouraged Christians, non-Christians flocked to become believers.             We all need encouragement, and we all need to learn to be encouragers.  Barnabas offers us a good, biblical example of an encourager.  In this study, we shall examine closely the life of this man as an outstanding example of generosity and motivation. LESSON OBJECTIVES The objectives of this study are: To know who Barnabas was.To examine the character and generosity of Barnabas.To identify those qualities in Barnabas that made the Jerusalem Church send him to Antioch.To highlight the roles played by Barnabas in Paul’s ministry and the challenge thereon. Bible Truth: Q1. WHO WAS BARNABAS? Acts 4:36; Colossians 4:10             Barnabas’ real name was “Joses” which was the Greek form of the Hebrew name Joseph.  He was a Levite, though born in Cyprus, Acts 4:36.  An Island in the Mediterranean, a great way off Jerusalem.  In acknowledgement of his generosity and comfort for the Lord’s people, the apostles called him “Barnabas” which means the son of consolation, or son of exhortation, or son of encouragement.  Barnabas was thus a consoler, and exhorter and an encourager.  He encouraged people both to be better in person and to do better in works. Q2. HOW DID BARNABAS DISPLAY GENEROSITY?             Barnabas is introduced as an outstanding example of generosity. He had land whether in Cyprus where he was born, or in Judea where he now lived or elsewhere is not too clear.  What is certain is that he sold such land and brought the money, laying it at the Apostles feet, Acts 4:37.  The money was distributed to others according to need, Acts 4:34-35.  Barnabas was not under compulsion to make this contribution; he did out of love for God and His people.  Barnabas thus placed less premium on earthly inheritance and laid for himself great treasures in heaven.  This was no isolated act of magnanimity, rather, it was part of his life.             Barnabas was a cheerful giver, noted for comforting the Lord’s people and speaking peace to the wounded heart.  In the early days of the church, believers shared their possessions in common.  Barnabas provided a major stimulus to the spirit of cooperation by selling his own land and laying the proceeds at the Apostles feet for onward distribution to all brethren according to need.  Barnabas was not a native of Jerusalem as he was from Cyprus.  His generosity benefited those who though strange to him were members of God’s great family. Q3. WHY WERE JERUSALEM BELIEVERS AFRAID OF SAUL OF TARSUS AND WHAT ROLE DID BARNABAS PLAY IN SAUL’S ACCEPTANCE? Acts 9:26-27             Barnabas’ character came...

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JOSIAH THE YOUNGEST KING, March 20th, 2022

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JOSIAH THE YOUNGEST KING, March 20th, 2022

CENTRAL THOUGHT God upholds those who covenant to walk with Him. HYMN:  I AM THINE O LORD, I HAVE HEARD THY VOICE Text: 2 Chron. 34:1-33; 2 Kings 23:1-29 INTRODUCTION The name one bears is very significant, mostly as it relates to the things of God.  Josiah means “Jehovah heals”.  Josiah was the youngest to start reigning amongst the forty-two kings of Israel.    He was the 16th of the kings of Judah since the splitting of the kingdom of Israel.  He also was the 8th and last good king of Judah besides David, and became king at the age of eight due to the wishes of the people of the land.  Early in his youth he sought God and walked in the ways of his “Father David”. Resolving to follow the footsteps of David makes one to say that he was a reformer and his period can be referred to as the renaissance of Judah because before he came to the throne true worship of God had collapsed completely during the reign of his Father, Ammon.             This study shall consider the reforms, undertaken by Josiah after he found the book of the law in the temple, and how this should impress and spur us up as Christians. LESSON OBJECTIVES The objectives of this study are: To understand who Josiah was.To enumerate/highlights the reforms he made.Discuss what he did when God’s word found in the temple was read to him. Bible Truth: Q1. WHO WAS JOSIAH? 2 Chron. 33:21-25             Josiah was the Son of Amon, and Amon was the Son of Manasseh.  Prevailing circumstance in the kingdom of Judah brought him to the throne early (2 Kg. 21:23-24).  Commentary has this to say (Dake’s) “Josiah was the youngest to start reigning, of Israel’s forty-two Kings.  His reign was the 16th of the kings of Judah since the division of the kingdom and lasted longer than that of any of the rulers of the ten tribes except one, Jeroboam II.”  To buttress this Josiah started to reign at a very tender age of 8 years and reigned in Jerusalem for thirty-one years (2 Chron. 34:1). Q2. HIGHLIGHT JOSIAH’S TESTIMONY AS A GODLY KING? 2 Chron. 34:2-3             The Bible says he did what was right in the sight of the Lord and walked in the ways of his Father David.  He showed much interest in the things of God.  Sought God in his youth and began as a youth to purge Judah and Jerusalem from the high places and grooves, the carved images, etc.  One of his first assignments was the repair and renovation of the temple.  When the book of the Law was found in the temple by Hilkah (the high Priest) and read, he rent his clothes in repentance because he realized that they had transgressed. Q3. WHAT WERE THOSE RELIGIOUS REFORMS OF KING JOSIAH?             Josiah reforms could be enumerated thus: A. He ordered the priest to bring out all the vessels made for Baal and Asherah and burnt them. B. He deposed the idolatrous priests whom the Kings of Judah had ordained to burn incense in the high places of the cities of Judah and Jerusalem. 2 Kgs 23:5 C. He broke down the houses of male cult prostitutes, (cult prostitution).  This was a situation...

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THE WOMAN CALLED REBEKAH, March 13th, 2022

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THE WOMAN CALLED REBEKAH, March 13th, 2022

CENTRAL THOUGHT Our actions must be guided by the word of God and the fear of the Lord. HYMN:  I AM THINE, O LORD Text: Genesis 24:15-25, 27:1-46 INTRODUCTION: Rebekah was the young woman who became the wife of Isaac, Abraham’s son.  She came from a well to do family in upper Mesopotamia, now North-Eastern Syria.  She was the daughter of Bethuel, a relative of Abraham; her family background is given in Genesis 22:20-23.  Rebekah’s humility and hospitality earned her favor before Eleazar, Abraham’s servant.  It was common courtesy to give a drink to a stranger, but it took added character to also fetch water for ten thirsty camels.  In the study, we shall be looking at her character and attitude, with the view of deriving some lessons. LESSON OBJECTIVES The objectives of this study are: 1.  To know who Rebekah was. 2. To identify her shining qualities as a girl and a wife. 3. To examine her character and draw some lessons from them. Bible truth: Q1. WHO WAS REBEKAH IN THE BIBLE? Genesis 24:15-20, 24, 67             Rebekah was the daughter of Bethuel, the son of Milcah which she bore unto Nahor Abraham’s brother.  She became the wife of Isaac, and mother of Esau and Jacob.             Rebekah was dutiful, chaste, respectful, humble, loyal, loving, obedient, hospitable, good, smart, strong, wise, and faithful. Q2. HOW DID REBEKAH TREAT ABRAHAM’S SERVANT – ELIEZER, ANY LESSON.  Genesis 24:15-25; Leviticus 19:34; Hebrews 13:1-2             Rebekah treated Abraham’s servant well.  She fitted into Eliezer’s prayer and did according to all his desire for the woman who was to marry his master’s son.  She did not mind whether he was a stranger; she treated him respectfully.             We should prayerfully do good to all that come across our way for we may at the same time entertain angels unawares.             However, we should be careful the way we receive strangers today because many people especially believers have suffered untold hardship spiritually and physically while trying to show hospitality.  We should be wise and prayerfully allow God to lead us to those we can entertain as He did to Rebekah.  There is no doubt that Satan has dispersed his demons and human agents to encounter God’s plan of hospitality but God also is there to give His children grace to discern, and wisdom to reject demonic strangers. Q3. AS A WIFE, HOW WAS REBEKAH TO ISAAC?  ANY LESSON FOR TODAY’S WOMAN?             “And Isaac brought her into his mother Sarah’s tent and took Rebekah and she became his wife and he loved her: and Isaac was comforted after his mother’s death.”  Rebekah was a wife to Isaac and comforted him.  Wives of today should be a source of comfort to their husbands.  She was loyal and submissive to her husband in the face of challenges.             In situations of delayed child bearing, we should encourage ourselves with the scripture.  Deuteronomy 7:14, “….there shall not be male or female barren among you…”  Believers are expected to solely depend on God who has promised that there shall be no barrenness.  Rather than trading blames, partners should pray for each other as Isaac entreated the Lord for Rebekah, Genesis 25:20-21.  Patience is also required by those who have such challenge in their homes seeing that God...

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THE MAN ZACCHAEUS, March 6th, 2022

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THE MAN ZACCHAEUS, March 6th, 2022

CENTRAL THOUGHT All who seek Jesus Christ earnestly find Him and are made whole. HYMN:  HAVE YOU BEEN TO JESUS Text: Luke 19:1-10 INTRODUCTION Zacchaeus was very desperate; hence he was ready to meet with Jesus by all means necessary. Zacchaeus suppressed shame, humiliation, public comments, side talks and desperately sought for the Lord and Savior of the world.  He was very conversant with the events around him and made good use of the environmental opportunities (a sycamore tree) he had.  This paid off and enabled him to know the Lord, see Him and got all possible physical and spiritual benefits available to man from the Master.             Zacchaeus as a rich man, would not have bothered to get the truth, and get carried away with his riches to buy his way through and acquire for himself church titles and high seat which could not have gotten him a place in God’s kingdom on the day of judgement.             Today, sinners are deceived to come to the house of God the way they are and pretend to get converted. As soon as they start attending the church gatherings, they feel good without being properly and thoroughly discipled by the leaders. Thus, they see no reason any more to repent and be converted.  Christ actually accepted Zacchaeus, but encouraged him to get fully converted.  Zacchaeus’ volunteered restitution was evidence of his rebirth through Christ ministration to him. This lesson therefore, would address man’s need for salvation, how to get saved, why Christ came and the evidence of true salvation. LESSON OBJECTIVES The objectives of this study are: 1.  Who Zacchaeus was and why he sought for Jesus Christ. 2. Why Christ came, why man needs Him and the evidences of man’s rebirth. 3. What Christ’s death accomplished for man. 4. Man’s role in accessing salvation. Bible Truth: Q1a. WHO WAS ZACCHAEUS? Luke 19:2, 5, 8 Zacchaeus simply means pure.  This may imply that his parents expected him to be of a pure disposition in life.  Thus, his life ambitions might have been influenced greatly by economic and employment circumstances which compelled him to become a tax collector and a seemingly sinful public enemy.             He was described as a “chief” tax collector.  He thus must have been one of the chief inspectors of taxes of his time, to the Roman Empire – the then World Super Power, assigned to the Jewish territory.  This made him to be hated by the Jews who saw him as an agent of the Romans’ task-masters whose activities afflicted them with financial and economic pains.  The Roman tax collectors got much from the people and remitted less to their masters and became affluent with the excess instead of reducing the payers’ burdens. Q1b. WHAT WAS ZACCHAEUS’ SINCERE DESIRE TOWARDS JESUS CHRIST? Luke 19:3             Zacchaeus sincerely sought to see Jesus Christ, to know who Christ was as a person, the miracle working ability in Him as well as the inherent power with which He saves sinners.  He must have heard about Christ from people who benefited from Him, so his expectation was very high.  He admitted the facts about himself, exposed the secrets about his sinful life to the Lord who sees clearly even in the thickest darkness.             His humility and truthfulness made room...

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