RCCG JUNIOR ZEAL FOR 2024/2025 – AGE 16-19 TEACHER’S MANUAL – SUNDAY 16TH OF FEBRUARY, 2024 – LESSON TWENTY FIVE (25) – TOPIC: REVISION /SUMMARY

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RCCG JUNIOR ZEAL FOR 2024/2025
AGE 16-19 TEACHER’S MANUAL
SUNDAY 16TH OF FEBRUARY, 2024
LESSON TWENTY FIVE (25)
TOPIC: REVISION /SUMMARY

• Revise the previous lesson with the children.
• Ask them question to ensure lessons have been well understood.
• Tell your class to review the previous lessons during the week.

SUMMARY OF LESSONS 20-24
LESSON TWENTY (20)
TOPIC: SIN
BIBLE TEXT: 1 John 1:5-9.

MEMORY VERSE: Romans 6:23 – “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord”.

LESSON AIM: To explore the nature of sin, its consequences, and how to overcome it according to biblical principles.

INTRODUCTION: The Old Testament Hebrew word for sin is khata. It means to fail or miss the goal. Sin can be simply explained as any thought, word, or action that goes against God’s will. It means deviating from obedience to God’s character and will. “So whoever knows the right thing to do and fails to do it, for him it is sin.” (James 4:17). Someone who has not surrendered their life to the Lord Jesus cannot please God. Therefore, anything they deem as good is, instead, a sin. It’s a hard truth to take in, but a good deed must meet Cod’s standards to be good, and anything not deemed good by God is sin.

OUTLINES:
A. CONSEQUENCES OF LIVING IN SIN.
B. OVERCOMING SIN.

A. CONSEQUENCES OF LIVING IN SIN.
Actions have consequences. And so is sin. Below are some dangers of living a sinful life.

1. Separation from God: Sin creates a barrier between humanity and God. Isaiah 59:2 states, “But your iniquities have separated you from your God; your sins have hidden his face from you, so that he will not hear.”
2. Spiritual Death: The Bible teaches that sin leads to spiritual death, which is eternal separation from God. Romans 6:23a says, “For the wages of sin is death…”
3. Guilt and Shame: Sin often brings feelings of guilt, shame, and regret. Adam and Eve experienced this after disobeying God in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3:7-10).
4. Consequences in Relationships: Sin can damage relationships with others. It can lead to broken trust, hurt feelings, and fractured relationships. Proverbs 17:9
5. Physical Consequences: Some sins can have physical consequences. For example, the apostle Paul warns against sexual immorality, noting that it can lead to physical harm (1 Corinthians 6:18).
6. Eternal Consequences: Ultimately, the consequence of unrepentant sin is eternal separation from God in hell. Revelation 21:8 describes this, saying, “But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars-they will be consigned to the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death.”

B. OVERCOMING SIN
Overcoming sin begins with accepting what God the Father has done in our lives through Jesus Christ. Here, are practical steps to overcoming sin.
i. Recognition and Confession: The first step in overcoming sin is recognizing and acknowledging it This involves honestly examining our thoughts, words, and actions in light of God’s standards. Once we recognize sin in our lives, we must confess it to God. 1 John 1:9 says, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”

ii. Repentance: True repentance involves more than just acknowledging sin; it requires a genuine turning away from sinful behavior. Acts 3:19 says, “Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.”

iii. Renewal of Mind: Overcoming sin also involves renewing our minds with God’s Word. Romans 12:2 instructs us, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is-his good, pleasing and perfect will.”

iv. Prayer and Dependence on God: We cannot overcome sin on our own strength; we need God’s help. Through

iv. prayer, we can seek God’s guidance, strength, and empowerment to resist temptation and live in obedience to Him. James 4:7-8 says, “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you.”

v. Walking in the Spirit: As believers, we have the Holy Spirit dwelling within us, empowering us to live holy lives. Galatians 5:16 says, “So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” By yielding to the Holy Spirit and allowing Him to guide and empower us, we can overcome sinful desires and live in obedience to God.

vi. Fellowshipping with Heavenly Conscious Friends: It’s helpful to have accountability partners and be part of a supportive Christian community like the teens church. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 says, “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.” Fellowshipping with the brethren helps us stay accountable and encourages us in our journey of overcoming sin.

SUMMARY: It’s important to note that while sin has serious consequences, the Bible also teaches about God’s forgiveness and grace through Jesus Christ. Through repentance and faith in Jesus, people can be forgiven of their sins and restored to a right relationship with God (1 John 1:9).

CONCLUSION: Ultimately, our victory over sin is made possible through faith in Jesus Christ. He died on the cross to pay the penalty for our sins and rose again, offering us forgiveness and new life. 1 Corinthians 15:57 says, “But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” By placing our faith in Jesus and His finished work on the cross, we can experience freedom from sin and abundant life in Him.

LESSON TWENTY-ONE (21)
TOPIC: GENDER ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
BIBLE TEXT: Jeremiah 1:5-10

MEMORY VERSE: Gen. 1.27 – “So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them”.

LESSON AIM: To educate teenagers about the concept of gender identity and acknowledgement.

INTRODUCTION: God created humans both male and female. There is a difference between the two. Men are not women, and women are not men. Each gender has something that is distinct and special.

Gender identity is often understood within the framework of God’s creation of humanity as male and female (Genesis 1:27). This foundational scripture affirms the binary nature of gender, reflecting God’s intentional design for humanity. Throughout the Bible, there are references to roles and responsibilities associated with gender, such as the roles of husbands and wives in marriage (Ephesians 5:22-33, Colossians 3:18-19) and the distinctions between men and women in certain contexts (1 Corinthians 11:3-16, 1 Timothy 2:8-15).

OUTLINES
A UNDERSTANDING GENDER IDENTITY
B. EMBRACE YOUR IDENTITY.

A. UNDERSTANDING GENDER IDENTITY
Gender refers to biological distinctions in male and female embodiment. As Christians, we recognize the ways that God has designed both men and women as distinct, yet equal expressions of humanity.

Here are some key physical differences between males and females.

i. Reproductive organs
ii. Secondary Sexual Characteristics
iii. Body Composition
iv. Height and Size
v. Chromosomal Differences

B. EMBRACE YOUR IDENTITY.
i. The word of God (bible) is our standard, anything contrary should be disregarded. Psalm 32:8, Psalm 25:4-5

ii. Embrace your gender identity and roles from scripture, not man-made tradition, societial approval, family, or feelings. Mark 10:6

iii. God gave you a gender identity for a reason. Jer. 1: 5 Do not conform to transgender behavior and practices no matter how popular it has become. It is a sin.

iv. Cross-dressing is sinful because it violates the creational boundaries between male and female. The Bible forbids men and women from dressing as the opposite gender. Deut. 22:5

SUMMARY: Gender acknowledgement is rooted in the recognition of the unique qualities and roles assigned to men and women by God. The bible emphasizes the inherent value and dignity of both men and women, their complementary roles within the family and society, and the call to mutual respect, honor, and service.

CONCLUSION: As child of God who has identity in Christ, you need to think of yourself as part of God’s family; sharing in His values and incorporating them into your life. It becomes part of who you are and informs the decisions you make each day. When people ask you about yourself, you share about the influence Jesus has in your life. Forming your spirit in deep friendship with God is the only way to peace, salvation, and your true identity.

LESSON TWENTY-TWO (22)
TOPIC: SEXUALITY
BIBLE TEXT: 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5.

MEMORY VERSE: Psalms 139:13-14 “For thou hast possessed my reins: thou hast covered me in my mother’s womb. I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well”.

LESSON AIM & OBJECTIVE: To understand the biblical view of sexuality, purity and modesty, through the lesson, students should be able to:

1. Flee every form of premarital sex and immoral practices.
2. Strive to live in purity in accordance to God’s word.

INTRODUCTION: According to Cambridge dictionary, sexuality refers to someone’s ability to experience or show sexual feelings. We were created with a specific gender and specific sexuality when we were knitted in our mother’s womb (Gen 1: 27; Psalm 139: 13-15). We were made to worship God and if we do not, we will worship something else. Our bodies are made in the image of God and should be dedicated to God at all times.

OUTLINES
A. CULTURAL AND SOCIAL INFLUENCES ON SEXUALITY
B. PURSUING PURITY

A. CULTURAL AND SOCIAL INFLUENCES ON SEXUALITY
Teenagers’ understanding of sexuality is influenced by a variety of cultural and social factors. These influences shape their attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors related to sexuality. Let’s discuss some of them.

1. Media and Entertainment: Television shows, movies, music, social media, and online content play a significant role in shaping your perceptions of sexuality. Media often portrays idealized or unrealistic images of relationships, romance, and sexual behavior, which can impact your expectations and behaviors. Jesus said it’s as much a sin to engage in premarital sex as lusting over it. Pornography will bring long-term consequences that will steal your sexual enjoyment in the marriage bed.
   Guard your heart diligently Proverbs 4:23, Matthew 5:28
2. Peer Pressure: Peers and social networks have a powerful influence on a fellow’s attitudes and behaviors related to sexuality. Peer pressure, the desire to fit in, and the influence of friends can impact your decisions regarding dating, relationships, and sexual activity. Be careful and flee from corrupt associations- 1 Corinthians 15:33
3. Family and Home Environment: The family and home environment provide a foundation for one’s understanding of sexuality. Cultural norms, values, and beliefs passed down within families shape your attitudes toward sex, relationships, and gender roles. Open communication, parental guidance, and positive role modeling within the family can have a significant impact on a teen’s sexual health and decision-making. The Bible should be our guide. Genesis 18:19.

B. PURSUING PURITY

1. Pursuing purity means submitting your desires to God – James 1:12-15.
2. Our bodies were created to glorify God 1 Corinthians 6:12-20, Matthew 5:27-30.
3. God’s intended purpose for sexual pleasure and procreation is within the confines of marriage. Sex before marriage ruins relationships – 2 Samuel 13: 1-19, Hebrews 13:4
4. Giving in to sexual temptation creates an appetite for more – Ephesians 4:17-19.
5. Living out a gay or homosexual/lesbian identity is not God’s plan for you. As a true believer of Jesus Christ, you need to stand out. Do not conform to the practices of the world. Exodus 22:19, Ephesians 5:3.
6. Confess your struggles to a trusted adult like your parents, guardian or pastor. Secrets empowers the devil and it enforces the bad behavior/act – Proverbs 28:13.

SUMMARY: Although culture says everyone is having sex, God’s remnant is remaining pure until marriage, and He is blessing a whole new generation for their obedience. I’d you have been sexually active, cry out to Jesus in repentance and He will help you. God promises, “Though your sins are like scarlet, they’ll be white as snow” (Isaiah 1:18).

CONCLUSION: It is Satan’s scheme to seduce and tempt you into sexual sin so as to quench the spirit and fire of God in your live. The enemy is crafty and we must not be swayed by his deceptions. – 1 Thess. 5:19, 2 Cor. 2:11. It is possible to stay pure and abstain from sexual sins, ask the Holy Spirit for the enabling grace and keep striving!

LESSON TWENTY-THREE (23)
TOPIC: ENTITLEMENT MENTALITY
BIBLE TEXT: PHILIPPIANS 2:5-8.

MEMORY VERSE: 2 Thessalonians 3.10 – For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat.

LESSON AIM: To instill in students the values of gratitude, humility, and personal responsibility.

TEACHING OBJECTIVES: Through the lesson, students should be able to:

1. Understand the meaning of entitlement mentality and its consequences.
2. Explore practical ways to overcoming entitlement mentality.

INTRODUCTION: Entitlement is the belief that we inherently deserve privileges or special treatments, or that we have the right to something. It’s when you expect to receive rewards, treats, or special treatment just because you exist, without understanding the importance of hard work, responsibility, or gratitude. This mindset can lead to a lack of appreciation for what you have, difficulties in understanding the value of effort, and challenges in building healthy relationships with others.

OUTLINES
A. CONSEQUENCES OF ENTITLEMENT MENTALITY
B. OVERCOMING ENTITLEMENT MENTALITY

A. CONSEQUENCES OF ENTITLEMENT MENTALITY
1) Unhappiness and dissatisfaction: Individuals with an entitlement mentality may constantly feel dissatisfied with their lives because they believe they deserve more than they have.

ii) Strained relationships: Expecting special treatment or privileges without considering others’ perspectives can strain relationships with family members, friends, friends, and and c colleagues.

iii) Lack of motivation: When individuals believe they are entitled to rewards or privileges without having to work for them, they may lack the motivation to set goals, work hard, or persevere in the face of challenges.

iv) Decreased empathy: Entitlement mentality can lead to a lack of empathy and understanding towards others who may be less fortunate or facing difficulties.

B. OVERCOMING ENTITLEMENT MENTALITY
i. Gratitude: Recognizing and appreciating what you have, rather than constantly focusing on what you lack or feel you deserve. Philippians 4: 11-12, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, Psalm 103:2-5.

ii. Humility: Understanding that everyone must work hard and contribute to earn rewards or privileges, rather than expecting things to be handed to you.

iii. Personal Responsibility: Taking ownership of your actions, behaviors, and attitudes, and understanding that they play a role in shaping your own outcomes in life.

iv). Role of Faith: The role of faith in overcoming entitlement mentality cannot be overemphasized. Always rely on God’s provision and trust in Him with all your heart and His plan for you. Prov. 3:5-6, Psalm 36:7

CONCLUSION: Those unfulfilled desires remind us of where our true satisfaction comes from Christ and Christ alone. To overcome entitlement, we must redefine our source of happiness. When we value attachment to God and others over personal achievement, we’ll grow spiritually instead of getting mad when we don’t get what we want.

LESSON TWENTY-FOUR (24)
TOPIC: FORGIVENESS
BIBLE TEXT: Matthew 18 21 22

MEMORY VERSE: Matthew 6:14- “For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you”.

LESSON AIM & OBJECTIVES: To foster personal growth, healing, and reconciliation in students and families. Through the lesson, students should be able to:

1. Understand what forgiveness is and what is not and its importance in the Christian faith.
2. Explore practical guidance on how to forgive others.

INTRODUCTION: Forgiveness is the intentional and voluntary process of letting go of feelings of resentment, anger, or vengeance towards someone who has wronged you. It involves releasing negative emotions and replacing them with empathy, compassion, and understanding. Forgiveness is not just a moral obligation but a foundational aspect of one’s relationship with God. Matthew 6:14-15, Col. 3:13

OUTLINES
A. UNDERSTANDING FORGIVENESS
B. PRACTICALSTEPS TO FORGIVENESS

A. UNDERSTANDING FORGIVENESS
WHAT FORGIVENESS IS:
i. LETTING GO: Forgiveness involves letting go of feelings of resentment, anger, and bitterness towards someone who has wronged you. Colossians 3:13, Ephesians 4:31-32.

ii) CHOOSING PEACE: Forgiveness is a conscious choice to pursue inner peace and emotional healing. It’s about prioritizing your well-being over holding onto past hurts. Mark 11:25, Matthew 5:23-24

iii) EMPATHY AND COMPASSION: Forgiveness involves cultivating empathy and compassion towards the offender, understanding that they are flawed human beings capable of making mistakes.

iv) MOVING FORWARD: Forgiveness is about moving forward with your life without being bound by past grievances. It’s about focusing on the present moment and building a better future for yourself. Matthew 5:23-24

WHAT FORGIVENESS IS NOT:
i). Excusing or Justifying: Forgiveness does not mean excusing or justifying the offender’s actions. It’s not about minimizing the harm done or pretending that the hurtful behavior was acceptable.

ii) Reconciliation: Forgiveness is not the same as reconciliation. While forgiveness may pave the way for reconciliation, it’s possible to forgive someone without restoring the relationship to its previous state, especially if the offender hasn’t shown genuine remorse or changed their behavior.

iii) Ignoring Boundaries: Forgiveness does not require you to ignore your boundaries or tolerate further mistreatment.

B. 1) PRACTICAL STEPS TO FORGIVENESS
i) Acknowledge the Hurt: Recognize and acknowledge the pain and hurt caused by the offender’s actions. Allow yourself to feel and process these emotions without judgment.

ii) Understand the Offender: Luke 17:3-4

iii) Decide to Forgive: Make a conscious decision to forgive the offender. Understand that forgiveness is a choice you make for your own well-being, not necessarily for the benefit
of the other person. Mark 11:25

iv) Release Resentment: Let go of feelings of anger, resentment, and bitterness towards the
offender. Hebrews 12:15

v) Empathize and Show Compassion: Cultivate empathy and compassion towards the offender. Recognize their humanity and inherent worth, despite their actions. This can help soften your heart and open the door to forgiveness. Psalm 32:1

vi) Avoid Rumination: Refrain from dwelling on the past or replaying the hurtful events in your mind. Instead, focus on the present moment and ways to nurture your own well being. Philp. 4:8

vil) Set Boundaries: Establish healthy boundaries to protect yourself from further harm. Communicate your boundaries clearly and assertively, if necessary, but also remain open to the possibility of reconciliation if the offender demonstrates genuine remorse and willingness to change.

viii) Forgive Yourself: Finally, extend forgiveness to yourself for any mistakes or shortcomings related to the situation. Recognize that you are deserving of compassion and grace, just as much as anyone else. Ephesians 1:7-8

Remember that forgiveness is a process that takes time and effort. It may not happen overnight, and that’s okay. Be patient and gentle with yourself as you navigate the journey towards forgiveness and healing.

SUMMARY: Forgiveness is a serious decision that you make over and over again. We don’t have enough forgiveness to go around. But God does. So when our limited resources run out and we are unable to forgive, we can ask him to forgive others through us. In so doing, we take one more step of obedience and allow ourselves to become a conduit of God’s grace.

CONCLUSION: In Matthew 5:44 Jesus commands us “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” Ask God to reveal his love to your offender in your heart, and for him to dissolve negative emotions. Is there any more powerful witness of God’s transforming grace than someone who can display true forgiveness to the “unforgivable”?

Open Heavens 2025 Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer’s Ministries. The Open Heavens devotional application is available across all mobile platforms and operating systems: iOS, Android, Blackberry, Nokia, Windows Mobile and PC.

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