RCCG YAYA Sunday School Teacher Manual For November 26, 2023 Lesson 12 Topic – 1ST INTERACTIVE SESSION & QUARTERLY REVIEW
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RCCG YAYA SUNDAY SCHOOL TEACHER’S MANUAL
SUNDAY 26TH OF NOVEMBER,
LESSON THIRTEEN (13)
TOPIC: 1ST INTERACTIVE SESSION & QUARTERLY REVIEW
SUNDAY SCHOOL HYMN
1. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
O how I love Thee well,
I am happy, it makes me glad
To rejoice at Thy birth.
2. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Thy friend friendship suits me well,
Both young and will sing Thy song,
We long for Sunday School.
3. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Christ was Thy first teacher,
The Holy Spirit, great teacher,
Does manifest in thee.
4. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
This testimony is sure,
That God, the Father Almighty,
Poured His blessing on Thee
5. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Though the sun be so bright,
Or if the clouds be black with rain,
I’ll be in Sunday School.
6. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day
I rejoice to see Thee,
Will thou pass over me today?
Without my being blest?
INTERACTIVE SESSION:
i. Teachers And Students Should Discuss How To Move The Sunday School Forward In The New Quarter.
ii. They Should Discuss Challenges And Set New Goals.
iii. They Should Pray For The Success Of The Sunday School And All Officials In The New Quarter.
SUMMARY OF LESSONS 1 -12
LESSON ONE (01)
TOPIC: “CETHER”
BIBLE PASSAGE: Psalm 91:1 (NKJV).
MEMORY VERSE: “He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.” Psalm 91:1 (NKJV).
INTRODUCTION: “Cether” is a Hebrew word translated as “secret place.” It literarily means “to hide or be concealed.” Other words for a secret place include shelter, covering, or a dwelling place. One who abides in the secret place of God dwells in a place of rest, lifted up above principalities and powers (Ephesians 1:20-21; 2:6). It is a place of His holy concealment in all things, where God reveals heavenly secrets to us. How then can we enter the secret place and enjoy the benefits?
OUTLINES:
1. ACCESS TO THE SECRET PLACE
2..BENEFITS OF THE SECRET PLACE
1. ACCESS TO THE SECRET PLACE
The secret place of the Almighty is available to any believer who is willing to pay the price. We can enter through:
1. A continuous life of holiness (Psalm 15:1-5): This simply means absolute obedience to God’s word.
2. Praise, thanksgiving, and prayer of faith (Psalm 100:4. Jeremiah 33:3): We must endeavour to always praise God by faith.
3. A desire to remain in God’s presence (Psalm 27:4): God loves fellowship and we must not be in a hurry in His presence.
4. A life of absolute dedication to the Lord and avoidance of worldly entanglement (1 John 2:15; 2 Corinthians 6:17-18).
5. A pure heart (Psalm 24:3-4): We must avoid wandering thoughts.
6. Quietness and trusting confidence (Isaiah 26:3).
7. Avoidance of distractions (Matthew 6:6).
8. Transparent honesty to God (Psalm139:7-12).
9. A consecrated life (Leviticus 20:7).
CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Students should share their experience of fellowship with God.
2. BENEFITS OF THE SECRET PLACE
The benefits of dwelling in God’s secret place include:
1. A closer fellowship with God (James 4:8).
2. Access to classified information (Numbers 12:8; Amos 3:7).
3. A focused gaze on Christ and things of eternal value (Hebrews 12:2; Matthew 6:19-21).
4. A self-assessment of faith will be enhanced (2 Corinthians 13:5).
5. The fruit of the Spirit will take root, and be growing (Galatians 5:22-23).
6. Divine protection and deliverance (Proverbs 18:10).
7. Divine authority and attention (1 Kings 17:1; 18:37-40).
8. Access to supernatural breakthroughs (Exodus 14:21-22).
9. Divine provision made available (Psalm 84:11).
CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Students should narrate an experience they can never forget where they thought God had forsaken them but later discovered His abiding presence.
CONCLUSION: To enjoy the benefits of the secret place of the Most High, we must remain on the side of God.
LESSON TWO (02)
TOPIC: DIVINE LEADING (PART 1)
BIBLE PASSAGE: Psalms 37:3-7
MEMORY VERSE: “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with My eye.” Psalm 32:8 (NKJV).
INTRODUCTION: Divine leading is about being directed by God. Being led or guided by God is a necessary key for Christians. It is the only way to fulfil God’s will in every of our decision-making processes (2 Kings. 3:11). Therefore, we need to learn the avenues through which God leads His people. Moreover, in this dispensation, the leading of the Holy Spirit is inevitable and indispensable.
OUTLINES:
1. AVENUES FOR DIVINE LEADING
2. RECOGNISING DIVINE LEADING
1. AVENUES FOR DIVINE LEADING
A. It is important to note that God, in His sovereignty, can adopt any or several means to lead those who put their trust in Him. Here are some of them:
1. Through the word of God (1 Samuel 3:21; Hebrews 1:1-2).
2. Through a witness of the Spirit (Romans 8:14, 16). The witness of the Spirit can also come in the form of God’s peace that passes all understanding (Philippians 4:6-7).
3. Through the voice of the Spirit. This is beyond just a witness; it is a hearing:
i. This hearing can be inward (which means no one else, around you, hears it).
ii. The Bible calls it a “still small voice’- like the sound of a gentle whisper (1Kings 19:12).
iii. Sometimes the voice comes in the midst of a godly thought (Acts 10:19).
iv. The voice of the Spirit can also be outward; in which case you look around as if you heard or somebody else heard what you are hearing (1 Samuel 3:3-5; Acts 9:3-5).
4. Through revelations – dreams, visions, trances (Joel 2:28).
i. Dreams can come from your thought (Ecclesiastes 5:3), or the devil – scary and tormenting (nightmares), or from God – insightful, instructional, or revelational(Job 33:14-17). Dreams happen when you are fully asleep (day or night).
ii. Vision can come when you are awake and see something like a still or motion picture (day or night) -Daniel 2:19.
iii. Trance is like the average between a dream and a vision (you are half awake, half asleep) when the physical senses seem to be suspended (Acts 10:10-11).
5. Through ordained situations or circumstances (Jeremiah 18:1-6). God can take you by or through a happening to give you a clear direction for life.
6. Through prophetic utterances and confirmations (Hosea 12:10). However, believers are cautioned against living at the mercy of prophecy (1 John 4:1).
7. Through diverse means as deemed fit by God (Hosea 12:10).
CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Students should mention other ways God speaks to them.
2. RECOGNISING DIVINE LEADING
A. The Holy Spirit takes on the role of a Guide and Counsellor, leading us in the way we should go and revealing God’s truth (Luke 12:12).
B. Some of the most important ways to recognise the Holy Spirit’s guidance is to be familiar with God’s word:
i. The Bible is the ultimate source of wisdom about how we should live (2 Timothy 3:16).
ii. Believers are to search the Scriptures (John 5:39), meditate on them, and commit them to memory (Psalm 1:2).
iii. The word is the “sword of the Spirit” (Ephesians 6:17), and the Spirit will use it to speak to us (John 16:12-14) to reveal God’s will for our lives.
iv. He will also bring specific scriptures to mind at times when we need them most (John 14:26).
C. We must always test our inclinations against the Scriptures. This is because:
i. The Holy Spirit will never push us to do anything contrary to God’s word (1Corinthians 14:33). If it conflicts with the Bible, then it is not from the Holy Spirit and should be ignored.
ii. It is necessary for us to be in continual prayer with the Father (1 Thessalonians 5:17).
iii. Not only does this keep our hearts and minds open to the Holy Spirit’s leading, but it also allows the Spirit to speak on our behalf (Romans 8:26-27).
CLASS ACTIVITY 2: The class should discuss how they recognise divine leading.
CONCLUSION: If you are not led by God, you will wander and get lost in the wilderness of life. Let God lead you.
LESSON THREE (03)
TOPIC: DIVINE LEADING (PART 2)
BIBLE PASSAGE: Habakkuk 2:1-2
MEMORY VERSE:.“It happened after this that David inquired of the LORD, saying, “Shall I go up to any of the cities of Judah?” And the LORD said to him, “Go up.” David said, “Where shall I go up?” And He said, “To Hebron.” 2 Samuel 2:1 (NKJV).
INTRODUCTION: The Bible is full of records of believers who yielded to the leading of God. While it may seem difficult for some people in our contemporary world to allow God in their pursuits, Christians that meet the requirements will walk in the path of God.
OUTLINES:
1. BIBLICAL INSTANCES OF DIVINE LEADING
2. REQUIREMENTS FOR DIVINE LEADING
1. BIBLICAL INSTANCES OF DIVINE LEADING
The following are some instances of those led by God in the Bible:
i. In Genesis 12:1-4: God ordered Abram out of his country to a Promised Land and he obeyed.
ii. Numbers 9:17-23: The Israelites obeyed the instruction of God to travel with the cloud.
iii. Genesis 31:3: God instructed Jacob to return to his fatherland
iv. 1 Kings 18:1: God told Elijah to show himself to Ahab as He would open the heavens for the rain to fall.
v. 2 Samuel 5:19: David inquired from God whether to go against the Philistines or not.
vi. Matthew 2:9-12: God guided the wise men to the place of Jesus’ birth.
vii. Acts 9:10-1: The Lord gave and guided Ananias to the specific address of Saul of Tarsus. Surprisingly, the Holy Spirit can forbid you to perform a task, though, it may seem like it would please God (Acts 16:6).
CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Like the above examples, students should mention specific instructions they got from God and whether or not they obeyed.
2. REQUIREMENTS FOR DIVINE LEADING
Some of the requirements for divine leading are listed below:
1. Delight in the Lord (Psalm 37:4-5; 1 Corinthians 2:9).
2. Passion for God’s will (Luke 22:42). The will of God does not leave you miserable but rather it takes you to the expected end (Jeremiah 29:11).
3. The willingness to be led (Romans 8:14; Psalm 23:1-2).
4. The attitude of meekness (Psalm 25:9): meekness equals being teachable.
5. The attitude of enquiry (Jeremiah 6:16; Matthew 7:7).
6. The attitude of hearing and listening – activate the listening mode (Psalm 85:8; Habakkuk 2:1-2).
7. The attitude of patience (Isaiah 28:16). Do not force yourself to hear what God is not saying.
8. Soak in and meditate on the word of God (Psalm 119:105).
9. Pay attention to godly leaders over you (1 Samuel 3:9).
10. Obey previous instructions (Mark 4:24b). If you have not harkened to previous instructions, you may not hear the next move of God.
CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Mention an encounter you have had in your walk with God that shows you clearly that you are in a relationship with Him.
CONCLUSION: If God is the one leading you, you can never miss the mark. Ask for the grace to understand the mind of God and be guided in the right direction. If you think you have gone far in the wrong direction and refuse to turn back, you will only end at the wrong destination.
LESSON FOUR (04)
TOPIC: “QADASH”
BIBLE PASSAGE: John 17:17-19
MEMORY VERSE:
“To the church of God which is at Corinth, to those who are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all who in every place call on the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours.” 1 Corinthians 1:2 (NKJV).
INTRODUCTION: “Qadash” is a Hebrew word that is translated as “sanctified.” In the Old Testament, sanctification frequently denotes the ceremonial or ritual consecration of any person or thing to God. Thus, the Hebrews, as a people, were holy unto the Lord, through the covenant with its rites and atoning sacrifices (Exodus 31:13). In the New Testament, sanctification is the second work of grace after salvation that every believer must experience. Hence, every believer is called to a wholly sanctified life.
OUTLINES:
1. SANCTIFICATION- CONCEPT AND PROCESS
2. PRACTICES OF A SANCTIFIED LIFE
1. SANCTIFICATION- CONCEPT AND PROCESS
i. To sanctify means to make holy or set apart for God (Exodus 29:44).
ii. Sanctification is making truly and perfectly what was defiled and sinful (Colossians 2:13).
iii. It is a progressive work of divine grace upon the soul justified by the love of Christ (Romans 3:24).
iv. It is the advanced work of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer from the moment of salvation to perfection (1Corinthians 6:11).
v. It is gradual cleansing from a corrupt nature to a spotless nature (John 15:3; Jude 24). Every Christian should be holy as God is holy (1 Peter 1:15-16).
vi. Sanctification and truth are inseparable. Those who love to be sanctified must love the truth which is the word of God (John 17:17).
B. The Holy Spirit does the work of sanctification through:
i. God’s word (2 Thessalonians 2:13).
ii. The blood of Jesus (1John 1:7).
iii. Faith in the Lord Jesus which is an important ingredient in the work of sanctification (Galatians 2:20).
CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Students should mention other ways they could sanctify themselves from this corrupt world.
2. PRACTICES OF A SANCTIFIED LIFE
Here are some of the notable practices of a sanctified life:
1. They live holy (Leviticus 11:44).
2. They are bonded to Christ (Romans 8:35).
3. They walk straight and are transparent in their dealings (Psalm 15:2).
4. They live by the standard of God’s word (Psalm 119:11).
5. They have direct access to God (Psalm 15:1).
6. They are filled with the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 5:18).
7. They have overflowing joy (Psalm 64:10).
8. They are peaceful (1 Peter 3:11, Hebrews 12:14).
CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Students should mention other forms of practices of a sanctified life.
CONCLUSION: Believers must live a sanctified life, to have continuous fellowship with God both here on earth and in eternity.
LESSON FIVE (05)
TOPIC: SPIRITUAL SACRIFICES
BIBLE PASSAGE: Hebrews 13:15-16
MEMORY VERSE: “You also, as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.” 1 Peter 2:5 (NKJV).
INTRODUCTION: Spiritual sacrifices replaced the material sacrifices of the Old Covenant (Exodus 29:36). No longer do we offer bulls, goats, and lambs on the altar (Hebrews 10:1-11). Our worship today involves the offering of spiritual sacrifices. What are these spiritual sacrifices and who qualifies to offer them acceptably?
At the end of this lesson, students should be able to:
a. Know what spiritual sacrifice is. b. Identify the elements of spiritual sacrifice.
c. Discover who can offer it. d. Distinguish between material and spiritual sacrifice.
OUTLINES:
1. SPIRITUAL SACRIFICES DESCRIBED
2. OFFERING ACCEPTABLE SPIRITUAL SACRIFICES
1. SPIRITUAL SACRIFICES DESCRIBED
A. Spiritual sacrifices are:
i. Continuous offerings from believers to God in faith.
ii. They are words or deeds motivated by a desire to glorify God alone (Hebrews 13:16).
iii. Just as the smoke of the incense ascended in the sanctuary under the Old Covenant, so our spiritual sacrifices ascend to God (Psalm 141:2; Revelation 5:8).
iv. The believer’s prayers, praises, will, body, time, treasures, talents, and spiritual gifts.
B. Therefore:
i. The fact that the incense was always burning means we should always pray (Luke 18:1).
ii. Fasting is also a spiritual sacrifice that aids the believer’s prayer (Daniel 9:3). God created us to praise Him, and we must offer the “sacrifice of praise” to Him continually (Hebrews 13:15).
iii. Just as Jesus surrendered His will to the Father (Luke 22:42), so should we, though it’s an ongoing battle (Romans 7:18-20).
iv. Our talents and spiritual gifts are from God and should be offered for the perfecting of the saints, the work of the ministry, and the edification of the body of Christ (Ephesians 4:7, 11-12).
v. Our treasures (financial/material) contribute to the spiritual sacrifices to be offered to God, the kingdom work on earth, the ministers of God, and the people in need (Philippians 4:18; Proverbs 19:17; Galatians 6:10).
vi. The apostle Paul also charges believers to present their bodies as living sacrifices unto God (Romans 12:1).
CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Students should mention the spiritual sacrifices they have made to God.
2. OFFERING ACCEPTABLE SPIRITUAL SACRIFICES
A. Believers constitute the new priesthood (1 Peter 2:9). Therefore, to offer acceptable spiritual sacrifices:
i. We must appear before God sanctified (Psalm 24:3-4; Leviticus 10:1-3).
ii. We must present our bodies as “living sacrifices’ (Romans 12:1-2).
iii. Our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians6:18-20).
B. The believer’s body must be yielded to God as an instrument of righteousness (Romans 6:12-13). This implies that:
i. We are to maintain good sexual boundaries (Ephesians 5:3).
ii. We must refuse to use our bodies for theft or to bring harm to another person (Colossians 3:12-13).
C. Spiritual sacrifices must be offered;
i. Obediently (1 Samuel 15:22)
ii. Willingly (2 Corinthians 9:6)
iii. Cheerfully (2 Corinthians 9:7)
iv. Timely (Ecclesiastes 11:6)
v. In reverence to God (Malachi 1:8).
CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Students should share with the class how they have offered spiritual sacrifices in a timely manner.
CONCLUSION: Sacrifice is part and parcel of worship. Jesus promised us rewards for every kind action done in His name (Mark 9:41).
LESSON SIX (06)
TOPIC: SPIRITUAL INTELLIGENCE
BIBLE PASSAGE: Judges 7:9-15
MEMORY VERSE: “And one of his servants said, “None, my lord, O king; but Elisha, the prophet who is in Israel, tells the king of Israel the words that you speak in your bedroom.” 2 Kings 6:12 (NKJV).
INTRODUCTION: Generally, Spiritual Intelligence is defined as the human capacity to ask questions about the ultimate meaning of life and the integrated relationship between us and the world in which we live. From a Christian perspective, it can be defined as reasoning ethically and morally to live life according to Scripture through the Holy Spirit. It is also a process of gaining spiritual insight into events yet to happen. Spiritual intelligence includes having a foreknowledge of the adversaries’ activities before they are carried out (2 Kings 6:8-11). All over the world, it is a well-known fact that one of the key tools for any effective military operation is intelligence. Spiritual intelligence is similar to this.
LESSON AIM: To teach students the importance of spiritual intelligence for a victorious living on earth.
TEACHING OBJECTIVES: Through this study, students are expected to:
a. Define spiritual intelligence and its relevance to Christianity.
b. Mention biblical examples of those who employed spiritual intelligence.
c. Highlight the process that employs one to be spiritually intelligent. d. List the benefits one could derive from being spiritually intelligent.
TEXT REVIEW: Judges 7:9-15.
The Bible passage reveals how God encourages Gideon with regard to the battle with the Midianites.
LESSON OUTLINES 1: BIBLICAL EXAMPLES
All through the Bible we see instances where intelligence was employed in order to gain an advantage over the enemy. Some of these instances are mentioned below.
1. Prophet Elisha offered intelligence service to the king of Israel. This made the king escape assassination (2Kings 6:8-13).
2. Jesus has advanced knowledge of the plan to forcefully make him a king. He was able to isolate Himself (John 6:14-15).
3. David’s knowledge of King Saul’s plot to kill him aided his escape (1 Samuel 19:11-12; 1-Samuel 23:6-13).
4. Paul’s awareness of the plot to arrest and kill him led to the brethren helping him out (Acts 9:23-25).
5. Gideon’s divine intelligence led to victory over Israel’s enemies (Judges 7:9-15).
CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Students should share with the class how they have employed spiritual intelligence to attain victory.
LESSON OUTLINE 2: PROCESS AND BENEFITS
A. God reveals deep secrets to His children (Daniel 2:22).
B. To become spiritually intelligent, believers must:
i. Develop intimacy with the Holy Spirit (John 14:26).
ii. Live a lifestyle of unceasing prayer, and be watchful (James 5:17; Habakkuk 2:1-2).
iii. Be committed to obeying God’s word and be spiritually disciplined (1 Kings 13:11-22).
C. A believer who is spiritually intelligent will:
i. Gain dominance over the enemy and put the enemy at his/her mercy (1 Samuel 24:9-16).
ii. Overcome temptation and the resultant sin (Genesis 39:9).
iii. Escape the snares of the enemy (Psalm 91:1-3).
v. Be protected against the hidden wickedness of man (Isaiah 8:9-10).
vi. Frustrate any satanic agenda against them (Isaiah 54:17).
CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Students should mention the benefits that come with applying spiritual intelligence.
CONCLUSION: No child of God is redeemed to be dominated but to dominate. For believers to take over, they must gain spiritual intelligence over their adversaries through prayers in the Holy Ghost and a life of holiness.
LESSON SEVEN (07)
TOPIC: BIBLICAL DESCRIPTION OF SIN
BIBLE PASSAGE: Romans 5:12-15
MEMORY VERSE: “Whoever commits sin also commits lawlessness, and sin is lawlessness.” 1 John 3:4 (NKJV).
INTRODUCTION: Sin is described in the Bible as a transgression of the law of God (1John 3:4) and rebellion against God (Deuteronomy 9:7). Sin had its beginning with Lucifer who was not content with his position, as he desired to be higher than God, and that was his downfall (Isaiah 14:12-15). Since the time of Adam and Eve’s rebellion against God, sin has been passed down through all the generations of mankind and we (Adam’s descendants) have inherited sin from him (Romans 5:12).
OUTLINES:
1. TYPES OF SIN
2. REDEMPTION FROM THE PENALTY OF SIN
1. TYPES OF SIN
1. Inherited Sin: Through Adam, the inherent inclination to sin entered the human race, and we became sinners by nature.
i. When Adam sinned, his inner nature was transformed by his sin of rebellion, bringing to him spiritual death and depravity which would be passed on to all who came after him (Romans 5:12).
ii. We are sinners not because we sin; rather, we sin because we are sinners (Romans 5:19a).
iii. This passed-on depravity is known as inherited sin.
iv. Just as we inherit physical characteristics from our parents, we inherit our sinful nature from Adam (Psalm 51:5).
2. Imputed sin: The Greek word “ellogeo’ translated as “imputed” means “lay to one’s charge or credit to one’s account.”
i. Before the Law of Moses was given, sin was not imputed to man, although men were still sinners because of inherited sin (Romans 5:13).
ii. After the law was given, sins committed in violation of the law were imputed (accounted) to them (Romans 5:20a).
iii. Even before transgressions of (disobedience against) the law were imputed to men, the ultimate penalty for sin (death) continued to reign (Romans 5:14).
iv. After Moses (from the dispensation of the law), humans were subject to death both because of inherited sin from Adam and imputed sin from violating the laws of God.
v. God used the principle of imputation to benefit mankind when He imputed the sin of all to the account of Jesus Christ, who paid the penalty for that sin – death – on the cross (1 John 2:2).
vi. It is important to understand that sin was imputed to Him, but He did not inherit it from Adam.
vii. He bore the penalty for sin, but He never became a sinner (2 Corinthians 5:21).
3. Personal sin: This refers to the sins committed every day by human beings.
i. We have inherited a sinful nature from Adam, we commit individual sins, everything from seemingly innocent untruths to murder (1 John 5:17a).
ii. Those who have not placed their faith in Jesus Christ must pay the penalty for these personal sins, as well as inherited and imputed sin (Romans 6:23).
CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Students should mention other types of sin they have come across in the Bible.
2. REDEMPTION FROM THE PENALTY OF SIN
i. The only just penalty for sin (inherited, imputed, and personal) is death; physical and eternal (Romans 6:23; Revelation 20:11-15).
ii. Thankfully, all three types of sin have been crucified on the cross of Jesus, and now by faith in Jesus Christ as the Saviour we have redemption (Ephesians 1:7; 1 John 3:5).
iii. Once we confess our sins to God and ask for forgiveness for them, we are restored to perfect fellowship and communion with Him (1 John 1:9).
iv. Believers have been freed from the eternal penalty of sin and now have the power through Jesus to refuse to sin (1 John 3:9).
CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Students should share any experience of freedom they had from the claws of sin and the effect on their existence.
CONCLUSION: God imputed the righteousness of Christ to believers and credited our accounts with His righteousness, just as He had credited our sins to Christ’s account (2 Corinthians 5:21)
LESSON EIGHT (08)
TOPIC: SONSHIP (PART 1)
BIBLE PASSAGE: Galatians 4:4-7
MEMORY VERSE:.“But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:” John 1:12 (KJV).
INTRODUCTION: In the family of God, gender does not define sonship (Genesis 1:27). Anyone who is under the Lordship of Jesus Christ, adopted through grace is a son of God (Ephesians 1:5). Sonship in our context refers to a relationship with the Almighty God through Jesus Christ which makes Him Father to all believers (Romans 8:15). Sonship is a very important source of authority and dominion which distinguishes sons from others (John 1:12; Galatians 4:7). Beginning from Jesus, the Father always deliberately robes His sons with power (John 5:27; Acts 1:8). This is to empower them to operate fully as His representatives on earth. This lesson focuses on Jesus as the son of God as well as the believers.
OUTLINES:
1. JESUS, THE SON OF GOD
2. BELIEVERS AS SONS
1. JESUS, THE SON OF GOD
The Holy Scripture acknowledges the sonship of Jesus severally because the Scripture itself is about Him (John 5:39; Luke 24:44). Jesus’ sonship was acknowledged by:
i. God, the Father (Matthew 3:16-17).
ii. Jesus Himself (John 10:36).
iii. The Devils (Luke 4:41).
iv. His disciples (John 6:67-69).
v. His accusers (Matthew 27:54).
vi. A Jew (John 1:49).
vii. The angelic host (Luke 1:35).
B. Also, Jesus’ miracles distinguished Him as the only begotten of the Father (John 11:4).
C. His outstanding teaching ministry confirmed Him as the Son of the Most High God (Matthew 7:29; Luke 4:31-32).
D. The prophetic declaration of His birth established the truth about His Sonship (Isaiah 7:14; Luke 1:32).
CLASS ACTIVITY 1:.Students should discuss how to explain the Sonship of Jesus to non-believers.
2. BELIEVERS AS SONS
A. Having established Jesus’ Sonship, the Bible indicates that all believers regardless of gender are “sons” of God (Galatians 3:26-29) in the same degree as Jesus.
B. This truth resonates throughout the New Testament and is at the very heart of the gospel (1 John 3:1-2).
C. The Holy Scripture has several proofs for our sonship, some of which include:
1. Our adoption as sons (Romans 8:15).
2. The fact that we were given the same Spirit as Jesus (Galatians 4:6).
3. Being divinely led by the Spirit of God (Romans 8:14).
4. Prophetic support (2 Corinthians 6:18).
5. Jesus’ assertion (John 20:17).
6. Expectation of God’s creatures (Romans 8:19).
7. The fatherhood of God in Jesus’ prayer model (Matthew 6:9).
D. In addition, just like Jesus, the Scriptures establish the fact that we too as sons:
i. Have power and authority (Luke 10:19).
ii. Have essentially the same mandate (John 14:12).
iii. Are in this world as Jesus is (1 John 4:17).
iv. Have the same fate (John 15:20).
E. The disciples of Jesus, down the ages, have demonstrated the same power and authority (Acts 3:6-8).
CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Having realised our sonship and authority in Christ, students should discuss how they have harnessed this privilege.
CONCLUSION.You must be born again to attain the “sonship status.” (John 1:12).
LESSON NINE (09)
TOPIC: SONSHIP (PART 2)
BIBLE PASSAGE: John 14:10-14
MEMORY VERSE: “Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do, because I go to My Father.” John 14:12 (NKJV).
INTRODUCTION: In our previous lesson, we established the fact that like Jesus – the only begotten Son, all believers in Jesus Christ are God’s adopted sons and have equal status with the begotten Son. Just as Jesus demonstrated divine power and enjoyed direct access to the Father during His earthly ministry, believers are entitled to the same flow in the family of God. Today, we will attempt to consider some of the privileges that the “sonship status” confers on us as well as the right mindsets for this reality and the attendant responsibilities.
OUTLINES:
1.THE PRIVILEGES OF SONS
2 THE MINDSET AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF A SON
1. THE PRIVILEGES OF SONS
Becoming the “son of God” is the greatest achievement anyone could have because the “sonship status” confers so many privileges on the believer which include:
i. Uncommon divine revelations (John 15:15).
ii. Stewardship of God’s estate (John 17:10).
iii. Heir-ship of God (Galatians 4:7).
iv. Divine Honour (John 12:26).
v. Eternal life (John 3:15-16).
vi. Access to authority (Luke 10:19).
vii. Supernatural preservation (John 17:12).
viii. Supernatural stamina (Ephesians 3:16-17).
ix. A place in God’s kingdom (John 14:2-3).
x. Freedom from sin and its attendant slavery (1 John 3:8-10).
xi. Appointment unto glory (John 17:22).
xii. Intimacy with the Father (Matthew 6:9, 31-32).
xiii. Access to royalty (1 Peter 2:9).
CLASS ACTIVITY 1:.Students should share the privileges they have enjoyed as sons of God.
2. THE MINDSET AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF A SON
A. To operate in and maximize the status of sonship, we must develop the right mindset and be committed to the responsibilities attached. These include:
i. Total surrender and obedience to the Father’s will (Philippians 2:5-8).
ii. Openness to correction and chastening (Hebrews 12:5, 7, 11).
iii. Power and authority consciousness (Mark 16:17-18).
iv. Awareness of Divine presence (Hebrews 13:5).
v. Courage and boldness (Ephesians 3:11-12).
B. As sons we must also have:
1. A sense of responsibility towards the kingdom (Matthew 6:33).
2. Intimacy with God through the Holy Spirit (1John 2:27).
3. Absolute trust in the Father (Proverbs 3:5-7).
4. Passionate love for the Father (Mark 12:29-30).
5. Love and compassion for humanity (1 John 3:15-17, 1 John 4:20).
6. Commitment to holiness (1 Peter 1:15-16).
CLASS ACTIVITY 2: The teacher should ask the students to mention what has changed about them since they accepted Christ as their Lord and Saviour.
CONCLUSION: To fully enjoy all the privileges of sonship, believers must develop the right mindset and undertake the accompanying responsibilities.
LESSON TEN (10)
TOPIC: HONOURING GOD
BIBLE PASSAGE: 1 Samuel 2:29-30
MEMORY VERSE: ‘‘A son honours his father, And a servant his master. If then I am the Father, Where is My honour? And if I am a Master, Where is My reverence? Says the LORD of hosts To you priests who despise My name. Yet you say, ‘In what way have we despised Your name?” Malachi 1:6 (NKJV).
INTRODUCTION: Honour (from the Hebrew word ‘tiph’arah’) means ‘esteem,’ ‘value,’ or ‘great respect.’ To honour someone is to bestow value upon him or to highly esteem another. It is very important to note that all authority and honour belong to God alone (1 Timothy 1:17; Revelation 5:13). This lesson points us to reasons for honouring God and ways to honour God.
OUTLINES:
1. REASONS FOR HONOURING GOD
2. WAYS TO HONOUR GOD
1..REASONS FOR HONOURING GOD
1. Question: Why is God honoured?
Answer: God deserves all honour (Revelation 4:11).
a. There has never been, nor will there ever be, anyone in any position of power or of influence who can claim such an honour (1 Timothy 6:16).
b. God alone is the Creator and the One that sustains the heavens and the earth (Revelation 14:7).
2: Why do believers honour God?
a. For who He is (Isaiah 45:5-6).
b. He is our Father (Matthew 6:9b).
c. In our recognition that the gift of eternal life and the salvation of our souls come through Jesus Christ and Him alone (John 11:25; Acts 4:12; 1Timothy 2:5);
d. For His goodness and wonderful works (Psalm 107:15);
e. For all His benefits (Psalm 68:19).
All true believers are to honour God (Psalm 134:1), through our acknowledgement and confession that He is the one and only God (Exodus 20:3).
CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Students should mention other reasons why they must honour God apart from the ones already stated.
2. WAYS TO HONOUR GOD
1. Question: What are the ways of honouring God?
Answer: There are several ways to honour God. Some of them are stated below.
i. We give honour and obeisance to Him through our adoration and obedience to His will (1 Samuel 2:29-30).
ii. To esteem God, as first in our lives, is to totally commit our lives to Him and devote our possessions to His service and glory (Matthew 22:37-38; Colossians 3:17).
iii. Believers are to honour God with their substances (firstfruits, tithes, offerings, etc.) wholeheartedly (Proverbs 3:9-10).
iv. We must honour God by living holy because He is holy and we are created in His image (1 Peter 1:15-16).
2. Question: Are there rewards for honouring God?
Answer: Yes, there are great rewards for honouring Him.
God will:
i. Honour those who honour Him (1 Samuel 2:30).
ii. Give overflowing blessings to those who honour Him (Proverbs 3:9-10).
CLASS ACTIVITY 2: The class should discuss how they can honour God without dishonouring men.
CONCLUSION: God deserves all honour and it must be given to Him.
LESSON ELEVEN (11)
TOPIC: HONOUR MEN
BIBLE PASSAGE: Romans 13:7-8
MEMORY VERSE: ‘‘Honour all people. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king.” 1 Peter 2:17 (NKJV).
INTRODUCTION: In our previous lesson, we learned about reasons for honouring God and ways to honour God. We also learned the meaning of honour which is to bestow value upon someone or highly esteem another. The Bible exhorts us to give honour to whom it is due (Romans 13:7). In this lesson, we shall attempt to categorise those who deserve honour and how we can attain honour as well.
OUTLINES:
1. PEOPLE DESERVING HONOUR
2. ATTAINING TRUE HONOUR
1. PEOPLE DESERVING HONOUR
A. The idea of honouring people is biblical and can be showcased in many of our basic relationships. Here are some of them:
i. Citizen-Authority relationships: We are to honour those in authority through obedience and demonstration of respect, irrespective of their age or qualification. This comes from the fact that they represent God’s ultimate authority (Romans 13:1-2).
ii. Laity-Clergy relationships: The Bible speaks of the leadership of the church as deserving “double honour’ (1Timothy 5:17).
iii. Employee-Employer relationships: We are equally commanded to honour one another in our employer-employee relationships (Ephesians 6:5-9).
iv. Husband-Wife relationships: In a marriage relationship, the husband is expected to love and show appreciation to his wife while she reciprocates with reverence (Ephesians 5:33).
v. Children-Parents relationships: The command to honour our parents comes with a promise (Exodus 20:12). To do otherwise is to attract untimely death (Matthew 15:4).
B. On the whole, the Bible admonishes us to honour all men (1Peter 2:17).
CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Should the wicked/ungodly leaders be honoured?
2. ATTAINING TRUE HONOUR
A. The Bible teaches that:
i. True honour is found in God (Deuteronomy 26:19).
ii. Anyone who wishes to attain true honour must, first of all, have a cordial relationship with God (Psalm 91:14-15).
B. To attain honour, we must be:
i. Righteous (Proverbs 21:21).
ii. Humble (Proverbs 22:4; Proverbs 15:33).
iii. Wise and intelligent (Proverbs 4:7-8).
iv. Hardworking and diligent (Proverbs 22:29).
v. Faithful and maintain integrity (Psalm 41:12; Proverbs 20:7), among others.
CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Students should discuss whether wealth or riches should be a criterion for honour.
CONCLUSION: If we honour those promoted by God, He will honour us too. Do not look down on anyone.
LESSON TWELVE (12)
TOPIC: MINISTRY OF MENTORS
BIBLE PASSAGE: 2 Timothy 2:1-2
[1]You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.
[2]And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.
MEMORY VERSE: “For though you might have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet you do not have many fathers; for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel.” 1 Corinthians 4:15 (NKJV).
INTRODUCTION: A mentor is a person who gives a younger or less experienced person help and advice over a period of time, especially at work, school, Church, ministry, family, etc. The person is an experienced and trusted adviser (Exodus 18:17-21). The ministry of a mentor is an active office of someone who is intentionally committed to raising those who aspire to be guided into their reality. This office is not to make them become like their mentor but to guide them into becoming whom God has wired them to be in life. It is glaring that there is a scarcity of genuine mentors everywhere, hence, there is a need to understand the place of mentorship.
OUTLINES:
1. PURPOSE OF MENTORSHIP AND COMMON MISTAKES
2. ACCESSING MENTORS
1. PURPOSE OF MENTORSHIP AND COMMON MISTAKES
A. The teacher should ask the students what they understand by mentorship
i. Mentorship is a relationship involving two individuals, where one serves as the mentor and the other as the mentee (Exodus 18:20; 1 Kings 19:16).
ii. A mentee is an individual who has submitted to the tutelage of a mentor to learn from his/her vast array of insight (Acts 22:3).
B. While it is good to be mentored by an experienced individual, the purpose of mentorship should be well understood (1 Kings 19:16). Mentorship is to:
i. Bridge the gap of knowledge existing in a sphere of life.
ii. Maintain certain ordinance that has been in existence.
iii. Have men who will continue certain legacies.
iv. Raise a platform where the young can glean from the knowledge of the old and provide a platform for trans-generational impact.
C. Certain mistakes should be avoided in mentorship. These include:
i. Not being intentional about the mentorship process.
ii. Not being egocentric on the side of the mentee (that he/she knows more than the mentor).
iii. Not thinking mentorship is slavery in disguise.
iv. Not having over-familiarity syndrome.
v. Not having mentors who fully open up to their mentees for fear of being betrayed or rising above them.
CLASS ACTIVITY 1:Discuss your experience as a mentor or mentee and the lessons learned.
2. ACCESSING MENTORS
1. How do we access a mentor?
2. Do we choose a mentor or a mentor chooses us?
A. Ideally, mentoring ought to be intentional – the mentor carefully and prayerfully chooses whom to mentor.
B. However, in present-day reality, the reverse seems to be the case – people now search for whom to mentor them.
C. Knowing the right kind of mentor is as important as finding one.
D. You can as well be coached by proxy through books, tapes or other materials.
E. There are formidable steps that can be used as yardsticks for finding or selecting mentors for yourself:
i. You need to understand yourself and your purpose in life.
ii. You must also understand the field of expertise in which you want to function and search for the individual with proven records in that sphere.
iii. A godly behavioural lifestyle is very essential in the chosen mentor.
iv. Make the mentorship process official so as to have the best kind of communication between you and the mentor.
v. Choose someone that would be available to guide you to your goal. This is very important.
CLASS ACTIVITY 2: How can you maximize mentorship without abusing it?
CONCLUSION: A mentorship relationship is not friendship. The mentee must not become irresponsible in handling certain aspects of his/her life in the process of mentorship.