RCCG SUNDAY SCHOOL TEACHER’S MANUAL 27 August   2023, Lesson 52 – FOURTH INTERACTIVE SESSION (SUMMARY OF LESSONS 40-51)

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RCCG SUNDAY SCHOOL TEACHER’S MANUAL
LESSON FIFTY-TWO
DATE: SUNDAY 27TH AUGUST 2023

TOPIC: FOURTH INTERACTIVE SESSION (SUMMARY OF LESSONS 40-51)

LESSON: FOURTY

TOPIC: THEOLOGY OF REST

MEMORY VERSE: “And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made; and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had made”. –Genesis 2:2

BIBLE PASSAGE: EXODUS 20:8-11

INTRODUCTION
Rest is the cessation of work or movement in order to relax or recover strength. It can also be referred to as peace, ease or refreshment. To relax means to become less tense, anxious or firm; to relieve stress; to have a milder manner. God created for six days and then He rested, not because He was tired but to set the standard for mankind to follow (Genesis 2:2-3; Exodus 20:10).

LESSON OUTLINES

1. WHY REST?
2. HOW DO WE REST?

WHY REST?

The teacher should explain the following as reasons why rest is essential:

i. God rested to serve as an example for us to follow. Genesis 2:2-3.

ii. Rest is a divine command (Exodus 20:10).

iii. Rest is a gift from God to mankind. (Mark 2:27).

iv. The Lord Jesus Christ took times off to refresh and also ensured His disciples did the same. Mark 6:31; John 18:1-2.

v. When we rest we exercise our faith in God as the one who can complete everything we had started. Matthew 6:25.

vi. Rest brings about recuperation from fatigue. Luke 8:23.

vii. Rest serves as a relief from anxiety of mind and spirit. Psalm 55:22.

viii. God desires that His people should rest. Exodus 33:14; Job 11:18.

HOW DO WE REST?

i. The teacher should allow each student to mention how they rest.

ii. The teacher should also allow each student to mention how many hours they sleep per day against the medical recommendation of six to eight hours per day.

iii. The teacher should explain the following as suggestions on how to rest:

a. We must trust God to take care of things for us. 1Peter 5:7.

b. When we obey God’s commandment we shall have peace and rest of mind. Hebrews 3:7-8; 4:11.

c. We must avoid unnecessary stressors or things that over burden our hearts and minds e.g. bills, career, families, etc. Psalm 127:2.

d. We must develop absolute faith in God. Proverbs 3:5-6.

e. We should rest properly after each day’s work. Ecclesiastes 5:12a.

f. We could have a day off (at least) to rest or relax in every week Exodus 20:10.

g. We can go on vacation or visit recreation centres to relax our brain, mind and body. John 18:1-2.

iv The teacher should point out to students that the command to rest is not an excuse to be lazy. You have to work for ‘six days’ to get to the ‘Sabbath.’

SUMMARY
Take time out to rest.

CONCLUSION
For the Christian, the ultimate rest is found in Christ. He invites all who are weary and burdened to come to him and cast their cares on Him (Matthew 11:28; 1Peter 5:7).

LESSON: FOURTY-ONE

TOPIC: THE EARTHEN VESSELS

MEMORY VERSE: “But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us”. – 2Corinthians 4:7

BIBLE PASSAGE: 2TIMOTHY 2:20-21

INTRODUCTION
God can make something out of nothing and will never create anything without a purpose. He chose a small potion of the dust to form man and His breath in the nostril of man made the difference, making man a living soul (Gen. 2:7). God has a purpose for all souls He created including all the resources He put into our hands more so because no one can have anything except it is given from above. God expects the resources given to us to flow through us to benefit others and this forms the differences between a container and a vessel.

LESSON OUTLINES

1. TREASURES IN DUST
2. CONTAINERS OR VESSELS

TREASURES IN DUST

The teacher should identify and explain the treasures in the dust as follows:

i. Dust had no serious relevance to man until God touched, made and breathed into it, the breath of life (Gen. 2:7).

ii He deposited part of Himself – His Spirit – into dust and deposited a treasure in it (Job. 32:8).

iii. That small portion of dust began to move on the larger potion with authority from God (Gen. 1:28).

iv. Just as the master, in the parable of the talents in Matt. 25:14-30, was ‘travelling to a far country,’ he gave talents to the servants according to their pre-determined abilities. All the servants got something and none was empty. All of us, therefore, have resources deposited inside of us and no one is empty (2Cor. 4:7).

v. Our Master, Jesus Christ, has deposited great treasures into us (Ephesians 4:7-8)

vi. He expects us to use the resources and make profits so that He will bless us when He comes back (1Cor. 12:7; Rev. 22:12).

vii. What you do with the resources is a matter of choice; you could be a container or a vessel.

CONTAINERS OR VESSELS

A. Difference between a container and a vessel.

i. A container receives and retains whereas a vessel transports (transmit). Abraham received Issac and was willing to release him (Gen. 22:15-18).

ii. A container is a reservoir but a vessel is a channel (Luke 12:16-21; Gen. 12:1-3).

iii. A container is basically static like a pond but a vessel is dynamic (Acts 8:5-6; 26-40).

iv. A container gives only when compelled but a vessel is always giving (Eccl. 11:2-6).

v. A container is limited in reception but a vessel is unlimited because it is constantly flowing (John 20:21-22; Prov. 11:24).

vi. A container abides aline whereas a vessel touches several others (John 12:24; Acts 10:38; John 7:37-39).

B. TRANSFORMATION OF A CONTAINER TO A VESSEL

The teacher should explain how a container can be transformed into a vessel physically and spiritually.

i. Physically: If you attach wheel(s) to a container and pulled, it becomes a vessel.

ii. Spiritually: If the Holy Spirit comes into a container the Spirit will transform the person to a vessel.

iii. Example of a container – transform vessels was Elisha who, forsook his farm and ambition and followed Elijah. 1Kings 19:19-21; 2Kings 2:1-22.

SUMMARY
Be a vessel to honour and not a container.

CONCLUSION
Beware; a vessel could equally become a container. Let the one who thinks he stands take heed lest he falls (1Cor. 10:12).

LESSON: FOURTY TWO

TOPIC: VESSELS FOR THE MASTER’S USE

MEMORY VERSE: “And I sought for a man among them, that should make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before me for the land, that I should not destroy it: but I found none”. –Ezekiel 22:30

BIBLE PASSAGE: JEREMIAH 18:1-6

INTRODUCTION
God does not necessarily need our strength or strong points to use us. Oftentimes, He delights in using our weakness, because whenever He does, we do not get to share in His glory. God wants us to be examples to others of what He can do in and with us if only we are willing and obedient to do His will. God is still looking for vessels to use.

LESSON OUTLINES

1. BIBLICAL EXAMPLES OF VESSELS GOD USED
2. GOD’S REQUIREMENTS AND REWARDS

BIBLICAL EXAMPLES OF VESSELS GOD USED

A. The teacher should establish the fact that God can use any available person because He is no respecter of persons. Acts 10:34-35.

B. The teacher should mention some of the vessels God used in the Bible despite their weaknesses and shortcomings as follows:

i. Moses: A fearful man (Exodus 2:14), of low self-esteem (Exodus 3:11) and stammerer (Exodus 4:10). He was chosen by God to deliver the Israelites from age-long captivity (Numbers 12:6-8).

ii. Gideon: A man of doubt (Judges 6:11-13; 6:36-40) and low esteem (Judges 6:14-15). He became the vessel chosen to liberate his people from the Midianites (Judges 7:19-25).

iii. David: He was the least in his father’s house (1Samuel 17:14a; 16:11-12), an adulterer (2Samuel 11:2-4) and apparent murderer (2Samuel 11:14-17). He became a man after God’s heart (1Samuel 13:14).

iv. Peter: An unlearned fisherman who slept instead of praying (Matthew 26:37-44) and even denied Christ three times (Mark 14:66-72). He was mightily used of God (Matthew 16:16-19, Luke 22:31-32; Acts 2:40-41; 3:6-8).

v. Paul: When he was Saul, persecuted the Church, arrested and aides the killing of many believers (Acts 8:1-3). Jesus converted and made him a chosen vessel especially to the gentile nations (Acts 9:1-15).

GOD’S REQUIREMENTS AND REWARDS

A. The teacher should explain to the students that God is looking for vessels and His requirements include:

i. Faithfulness. Luke 19:17; 1Corinthians 4:2; Jeremiah 5:1.

ii. Availability. Ezekiel 22:30; Isaiah 6:8.

iii. Teachability. John 14:23; Matthew 10:24.

iv. Obedience to His word. 2Timothy 2:21; Proverbs 13:13.

v. Being strong in Christ. John 14:13; 15:16.

vi. Purging of self. 2Timothy 2:21.

vii. Laying aside weights. Hebrews 12:1.

viii. Death to self. John 12:24-26.

B. A WORD OF CAUTION

God can discern every thought and motive behind every action. Hebrews 4:13; Psalm 33:13-15.

C. REWARDS FOR VESSELS GOD USES

God will rewards everything we do in His name, whether in secret or in the open. (Revelation 22:12).

SUMMARY
God has requirements and rewards for His chosen vessels.

CONCLUSION
You are the next vessel to be used by God. Stop resisting Him.

LESSON: FOURTY-THREE

TOPIC: DEFERRED HOPE

MEMORY VERSE: “Hope deferred maketh the heart sick: but when the desire cometh, it is a tree of life”. – Proverbs 13:12

BIBLE PASSAGE: ISAIAH 66:10-14

INTRODUCTION
Hope Is a feeling of expectation and desire for a particular thing to happen. However,when there is an uncomfortable or prolonged delay, weariness and heaviness of heart may set in. Sometimes, while in this valley of life, we fast, pray, work smart and even sow seeds if faith in our bid to find solutions, yet, there might still be a delay. In this lesson, we shall consider biblical examples and winning strategies while waiting.

LESSON OUTLINES

1. SOME BIBLICAL INSTANCES
2. WHAT TO DO WHILE WAITING

SOME BIBLICAL INSTANCES

I. Mention some Bible characters who, despite their relationship with God, waiting painfully and hoped patiently for their expectation to be met and we’re not disappointed in the long run (Prov. 23:18; Rom. 5:5). For instance:

a. Abraham/Sarah as well as Hannah waited long for the ‘fruit of the womb’ – children (Gen. 15:2; 1Sam. 1:2).

b. David hoped painfully for deliverance from King Saul and his enemies (1Sam. 19:18; Ps. 3:1).

c. Joseph had a dream that he would be great but was thrown into the pit, sold into slavery and imprisoned (Gen. 37:5).

d. Job lost his children, business, and health suddenly and hoped for restoration (Job. 1:13-20; 14:7, 14).

e. The children of Israel laboured and suffered for 430years in Egypt before God sent Moses to liberate the (Exodus 12:40).

f. The widow of the indebted prophet was exhausted until she cried to the prophet (2Kgs. 4:1).

II. At the end of the day, God changed their stories:

a. Abraham/Sarah and Hannah were visited by God and they got Issac (Gen. 21:1-5). Hannah received her testimony son (1Sam. 1:20).

b. David later got his deliverance and became a king (2Sam. 6:21).

c. Joseph’s dream became a reality. He became the ruler over the realm of Egypt and his brother bowed to him (Gen. 42:6-7).

d. God blessed the end of Job more than his beginning (Job 42:10).

e. The Israelites eventually got delivered from the Egyptians (Exodus 14:26-29).

f. The indebted widow of the prophet received divine assistance (2Kgs. 4:1-7).

III. Waiting patiently on God in times of distress is key (Isaiah 40:28-31).

WHAT TO DO WHILE WAITING

i. Focus on the aspect of your life that is working (Isa. 50:7) and give thanks to God rather than being sad over what you are yet to receive (Ps. 103:2).

ii. Be optimistic about your long-awaiting miracle (Ps. 27:13) and wait quietly for the salvation of the lord (Lamentation 3:25-26).

iii. Remember that God makes all things beautiful in His own time (Eccl. 3:11).

iv. Refuse to responded to discouragement (Mark 10:46-52).

v. Encourage yourself in the Lord your God (1Sam. 30:6).

vi. Get your heart fixed on your purpose and aspiration (Nehemiah 4:6).

vii. Study the word of God to build your faith (Rom. 10:17).

SUMMARY
During your waiting time, be patient and rely on God who is ever faithful.

CONCLUSION
Hopelessness can lead to despair. Do not give up on God because He never comes late.

LESSON: FOURTY FOUR

TOPIC: REPROBACY

MEMORY VERSE: “Now as Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, so do these also resist the truth: men of corrupt minds, reprobate concerning the faith”. –2Timothy 3:8

BIBLE PASSAGE: ROMANS 1:18-28

INTRODUCTION
Reprobacy is the state or character of being a reprobate. A reprobate is an unprincipled or depraved person. The Greek word translated “reprobate” in the New Testament is ‘adokimos’ which literally means “unapproved, i.e. rejected; by implications, worthless.” It is that which is rejected on account of its own worthlessness (Jeremiah 6:30). Many people have wondered if at this point a person may be beyond hope. It is imperative, therefore, for believers to study the nature and dangers of reprobacy.

LESSON OUTLINES

1. THE NATURE OF REPROBATES
2. DANGERS OF REPROBACY

THE NATURE OF REPROBATES

The teacher should identify the nature of reprobates as indicated below:

i. The desire to suppress the truth with wickedness. Romans 1:18.

ii. Deliberate rejection of God in their imaginations and actions. Romans 1:21, Titus 1:16.

iii. They worship the creature rather than the Creator. Romans 1:23-25, Jeremiah 10:14.

iv. They commit all manner of sins and have no limits or restrictions on sinful behaviours. Romans 1:29-31, Ephesians 5:3.

v. They are wicked and encourage people to join their wicked ways. Romans 1:32, Psalm 50:18.

vi. They are guided by the flesh and do not possess the Holy Spirit. Titus 1:16.

DANGERS OF REPROBACY

A. The Almighty God warns His children against drifting into reprobacy. 2Peter 3:9; Romans 1:28.

B. The teacher should identify the dangers of becoming a reprobate as indicated below:

i. Face the wrath of God. Romans 1:18.

ii. Become unclean and dishonour their bodies between themselves. Romans 1:24.

iii. Practice vile affections e.g. homosexuality, bestiality, etc. Romans 1:26-27.

iv. Do those things which are not convenient. Romans 1:28.

v. Be filled with all unrighteousness. Romans 1:29-31.

vi. Ignore impending judgement and continue in sin. Romans 1:32.

C. Question: Is there hope for a reprobate?

Answer: Yes but based on the following conditions:

i. The reprobate should genuinely return to God who is willing to accept him/her. Isaiah 1:18; John 6:37.

ii. They should repent of their sins. Luke 13:5, 2Peter 3:9.

iii. They should ask God for mercy. Psalm 51:1; 51:17; Isaiah 55:7; Romans 10:13.

SUMMARY
God wants reprobates to repent.

CONCLUSION
Be careful to guard your mind and avoid the gradual drifting, shifting and twisting of thought that moves people towards reprobacy (Romans 12:1-2).

LESSON: FOURTY-FIVE

TOPIC: APOSTASY

MEMORY VERSE: “Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace?”. – Hebrews 10:29

BIBLE PASSAGE: HEBREWS 6:4-6

INTRODUCTION
The term apostasy comes from the Greek word ‘apostasia’ meaning ‘defection,’ ‘departure,’ ‘revolt’ or ‘rebellion.’ Apostasy is the formal disaffiliation from, abandonment of,or renunciation of a religion by a person. It can also be defined within the border context of embracing an opinion that is contrary to one’s previous religious beliefs. It is an act of refusing continue to follow, obey, or recognize a religious faith. One who undertakes apostasy is known as an apostate.

LESSON OUTLINES

1. THE CHARACTERISTICS
2. THE DANGER AND HOPE

THE CHARACTERISTICS

A. The teacher should define “apostasy” as defection, departure, rebellion, disaffiliation, abandonment or renunciation of a religion or faith by a person.

B. The teacher should identify two major forms of apostasy as follows:

i. Falling away from the key and true doctrines of the Bible into heretical teachings that claim to be “the real” Christian doctrine.

ii. Renunciation of the Christian faith which results in a full abandonment of Christ. Heb. 10:29.

C. The teacher should identify and explain the following characteristics of the apostates.

i. They ignore the biblical warning of God’s judgement on sin. Rom. 15:4.

ii. They do not learn from the records of what God did to fallen Angels and wicked nation. Jude 1:6; 2Pet. 2:4; Gen. 19:24-25.

iii. They are moral perverse, rebellion, Defile of the flesh.

iv. They speak evil against people and things they do not understand like spiritual beings and dignitaries. Jude 1:8-10.

v. They are ignorant about God or have become ignorant of God.

vi. They proclaiming false visions and have become self-destructive, self-satisfying, fault-finding, grumblers.

vii. They use flattery and arrogant expressions and mock God. Jude 15-18.

viii. They ignore God and His word like Cain

ix. They are greed and deceitful like Balaam.

x. They rebel against spiritual authorities and directives like Korah (Jude 1:11).

xi. Apostates are sensual (Jude 1:10).

xii. They deny the Lordship of Jesus Christ (Titus 1:15-16).

THE DANGER AND HOPE

A. DANGER

i. The apostate eventually falls away and departs from the truth of God’s word and His rightousness. 1Jn. 2:19.

ii. It can be deduce from Hebrews 6:4-6 that it is impossible to restore apostates back to the faith (by human efforts).

B. HOPE FOR AN APOSTATE

i. The apostate can still return to God who can do all things. Luke 1:37; Jer. 32:27.

ii. The apostate who repents of his/her apostate and humbly and genuinely call on God will receive forgiveness. 2Chr. 7:14; 2Cor. 7:10; 1Jh. 1:9.

C. CAUTION

i. Every believer prays for discernment,combat apostasy, and contend earnestly for the faith that was once and for all delivered to the saints.

SUMMARY
Believers should avoid apostasy totally and those who have departed should cry to God for mercy and restoration.

CONCLUSION
Apostasy is a dangerous trend that can lead to a point of no return. Be watchful.

LESSON: FOURTY SIX

TOPIC: BEWARE OF SCOFFERS

MEMORY VERSE: “Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts”. –2Peter 3:3

BIBLE PASSAGE: JUDE 1:11-18

INTRODUCTION
Scoffer, in Greek, is ’empaiktes’ and it simply translates to a mocker. A scoffer mocks sin, Christ, twists God’s word for selfish gains, opposes the gospel and the things of God. The Bible uses scornful and scoffer interchangeably which all means mocker. Believers are warned to be careful and be on guard.

LESSON OUTLINES

1. TRAITS TO OBSERVE
2. THE DISPOSITION OF BELIEVERS

TRAITS TO OBSERVE

The teacher should define the meaning of scoffers from the lesson introduction and then identify and explain the characteristics of scoffers as indicated below:

i. They deny the truths of the Scripture and entice people to join their error (Jude 4).

Ii They reject the word of the Lord and despise God’s ministers (2Corinthians 36:16).

iii. They question the second coming of the Lord Jesus Christ claiming that the time had lapse(2Peter 3:4).

iv. They mock those who still wait and for the coming of the Lord Jesus (like you and I) (2Peter 3:4).

v They follow ungodly desires and create divisions in the church (2Peter 3:3; Jude 18-19).

vi. They have a form of godliness but they do not possess the power of godliness (2Timothy 3:5).

vii. They present lofty sound ideas to lead people astray (2Peter 2:1).

viii. They incite violent (Proverbs 29:8).

ix. They are proud leaders who trivialize the judgement of God (Isaiah 28:14-15).

THE DISPOSITION OF BELIEVERS

A. The teacher should explain to students that the proliferation of scoffers is one of the signs of the last days.

B. The teacher should identify and explain the following guidelines to students to avoid being ensnared

i. Take seriously the commands to study and meditate on God’s word (Psalm 1:1-2; Joshua 1:8).

ii. Remain spotless and blameless in Christ (2Peter 3:14; Ephesians 5:27).

iii. Continue to look for the appearance of the Lord (Titus 2:13).

iv. Weigh every teaching with the word of God (Acts 17:11).

v. Know that God is never slack concerning His promises (2Peter 3:9)

vi. Be established on your holy faith (Jude 20)

vii. Remain steadfast to the end (1Corinthians 16:13; 1Timothy 6:12).

viii. Try all spirits (1John 4:1)

ix. Grow in grace (2Peter 3:18).

SUMMARY
Believers while observing the traits of scoffers must also follow the guidelines to escape it’s snare

CONCLUSION
Beware of scoffers and refuse to be one (Psalm 1:1).

LESSON: FOURTY-SEVEN

TOPIC: BEWARE OF FALSE MINISTERS

MEMORY VERSE: “But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction”. – 2Peter 2:1

BIBLE PASSAGE: MATTHEW 7:15-20

INTRODUCTION
In the bid to make ends meet, falsehood is fast becoming the order of the day Just as there are Internet fraudsters i.e. scammers, quack practitioners. etc., there are some ‘ministers’ whose God is their belly (Phillip. 3:18-19). Their false teaching/practices result in false churches which Jesus Himself called ‘the synagogue of Satan’ (Rev. 3:9). Believers must recognise false ministers and avoid becoming victims of their antics.

LESSON OUTLINES

1. DESCRIPTION OF FALSE MINISTERS
2. AVOID BEING A VICTIM

DESCRIPTION OF FALSE MINISTERS

A. False ministers are servants of sin and the devil who pretend to be servants of rightousness. So, it is difficult to spot them on the surface. (2Cor. 11:14-15).

B. The Lord Jesus warned believers of the evil purpose and intentions of false ministers to deceive people especially the elect. (Matt. 24:23-27).

C. Some Biblical Descriptions of False ministers.

i. They deny the divine nature, sacrifice and humanity of Christ (1Jn. 4:1-3).

ii. They honour the Lord in their lips but their hearts are far away from God (Matt. 15:8).

iii. They corrupt the gospel because of their immoral lifestyles and selfish interest (Phillip. 3:19; 2Cor. 2:17; Micah 3:11).

iv. They were not called by God. Rather, they call themselves to achieve their own objectives.

v. They deliberately derail into error to deceive and ensnare people. (1Jn. 2:19).

vi. They do not preach the complete gospel and doctrines of Christ – Gal. 1:6-9, 2Cor. 11:4.

vii. They live a life of pretence and falsehood (Matt. 7:15-20).

viii. They replace the truth of the gospel with motivational talks and philosophies of men (Col. 2:8).

ix. There cause divisions among brethren (Rom. 16:17-18)

x. They exploit and extort and milk their followers (Acts 20:29-30).

xi. They trivialise the core issues of eternity and place premium on secular things.

xii. They hardly preach holiness, Heaven, hell, etc. (Isa. 30:9-11; 2Tim.4:3-4).

xiii. They perform false and fake miracles (Matthew 24:24).

AVOID BEING A VICTIM

A. The teacher should identify why some people walked into the traps of false members as indicated below:

i. Lack of knowledge (Isaiah 5:13; Hosea 4:6).

ii. Impatience (Ps. 27:14, Heb. 10:36).

iii. Despite in the bid to get rich quick (1Tim. 6:9-10

iv. Anxiety about what the future holds.

v. Quest to find answers to certain crucial life questions (1Kgs. 22:6-8).

B. Precautions/What to do not to become a victim.
The teacher should state the following precautions:

i. Be prayerful (James 5:16b),

ii. Be watchful (Matt. 26:41),

iii. Be sober (1Pet. 5:8),

iv. Bepatient (Luke 21:19),

v. Study the word of God and be rooted in it (Col. 3:16),

vi. Be filled with the Holy Spirit (Rom. 8:6)

vii. Discern the spirits in operation (1Jn. 4:1, Matt. 24:4-5).

viii. Retrace your steps if you are already sliding away from the truth and ask Christ to help you (Matthew 11:28-30; Ps.46:1).

SUMMARY
False ministers are everywhere around us therefore, they should be identified and avoided at all cost.

CONCLUSION
The best way to guard yourself against falsehood and false ministers is to know the truth (Jn. 8:32). To spot a counterfeit, study the real thing.

LESSON: FOURTY EIGHT

TOPIC: SELF-CLEANSING

MEMORY VERSE: “Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God”. –2Corinthians 7:1

BIBLE PASSAGE: HEBREWS 10:19-23

INTRODUCTION
God’s desire is that His people will be clean outwardly and inwardly (Zechariah 3:4). He loves those whose hearts and lives are perfect towards Him and has made adequate provision for their all-round cleansing (Hebrews 10:22). In Psalm 51:7, David prayed for God’s cleansing. We also have a crucial role to play in this matter. Therefore, we need to examine the issue of self cleansing carefully.

LESSON OUTLINES

1. WHAT IS SELF-CLEANSING?
2. HOW CAN A MAN CLEANSE HIMSELF?

WHAT IS SELF-CLEANSING?

A. MEANING OF SELF-CLEANSING:

i. It is a conscious and decisive effort by a person to purge himself or herself of all filthiness. 2Corinthians 7:1.

ii. It is self-determination to become whole and acceptable to God through the help of the Holy Spirit.

iii. It is a thorough sanitation of the filth in one’s life as revealed by the Holy Spirit through the word of God. Isaiah 6:5.

iv. It is a renewal of one’s mind. Romans 12:2.

v. It is putting away all manner of evil deeds. Isaiah 1:16.

vi. It is decision, back up the Holy Spirit not to allow impure thoughts and wickedness to have a place in our hearts. Jeremiah 4:14.

vii. It is disallowing sin from having a place in one’s life. Romans 6:12-13.

viii. It is putting off the old man with his deeds. Ephesians 4:22; Colossians 3:9.

ix. It is putting on the new man in all righteousness after the image of Christ. Ephesians 4:24.

B. BENEFITS OF SELF-CLEANSING

i. Self-cleansing makes believers honourable and useful vessels to God. 2Timothy 2:21.

ii. It promotes the hope of believers in eternal life with Jesus because; those that will reign with him must be pure. 1John 3:3.

iii. Self cleansing prepares us to be blameless before God. Psalm 24:4-6; Hebrews 10:22.

iv. It propels/provokes to prayers. Psalm 24:5.

HOW CAN A MAN CLEANSE HIMSELF?

A. We are cleansed through the shedding of the blood of Jesus. Hebrews 9:14, 22.

B. But to cleanse ourselves, we must:

i. Obey the word of God completely. Psalm 119:9.

ii. Put away all manner of sin and weight that can stain or contaminate our purity. Hebrews 12:1.

iii. Stay away from all things which have attributes of evil. 1Thessialonians 5:22.

iv. Allow the word of God to wash and correct us even if it is painful. Ephesians 5:26; Ezekiel 36:25; Hebrews 10:22.

v. Not give room or occasion to the flesh to lure us into sin. Romans 8:13; Colossians 3:5, 8-9.

vi. Surrender to the Holy Spirit to take over our thoughts and deeds and us totally. James 4:8.

SUMMARY
Self cleansing is a condition to be useful to God.

CONCLUSION
If you are indeed in Christ and His Spirit is in you, self-cleansing will not be an uphill task.

LESSON: FOURTY-NINE

TOPIC: DYNAMICS OF GRACE (PT 1)

MEMORY VERSE: “For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men”. – Titus 2:11

BIBLE PASSAGE: EPHESIANS 2:4-10

INTRODUCTION
The word translated ‘Grace’ in Hebrew is ‘chen,’ which means to bend or stoop in kindness to another as a superior to an inferior (Gen. 6:8). The Greek word for ‘Grace’ is “Charis” and it connotes something beyond the ordinary course of what can be expected and therefore commendable (1Cor. 15:10). When used in reference to God, it is the benevolent action of Him stooping down to us in kindness to reach us in our needs and convey upon us a benefit. His grace has been termed ‘Unmerited favour’ but it is more than an attitude of favour or mercy.

LESSON OUTLINES

1. UNDERSTANDING GRACE
2. HOW TO RECEIVE GRACE

UNDERSTANDING GRACE

A. The teacher should ask students to mention what they understand by the term “grace.”

B. The teacher should explain the meaning of grace In the light of the following:

i. Grace is God’s favour towards the unworthy or His benevolence on the undeserving (Rom. 5:8-10)

ii. Grace is God’s favour translated into action that releases the enabling power into our lives (1Cor. 15:10).

iii. Grace is God’s gift of salvation for mankind. (Eph. 2:8; Titus 2:11)

iv. The enabling power of God for service (Eph. 3:7-8; 4:7).

v. Grace is the virtue which believers manifest (2Cor. 8:7)

vi. Grace is the benediction which believers enjoy in Christ (Eph. 6:24).

vii. Grace is the divine help which believers receive in times of need (Phillip. 4:19; Heb. 4:16)

viii. Grace is the ability to do exploits (Daniel 11:32; Philip 4:13).

ix. Grace is the appearance of kindness and love of God our Saviour towards man (Titus 2:11 3:4).

C. The teacher should identify some significant differences between the law in the Old testament and grace in the New Testament as stated below:

i. The law blessed ‘the good’ in the old testament but grace saves ‘the bad’ In the new testament.

ii. The law accuses and convicts the offenders in the old testament but Grace cancels bonds and relieves the debtor (Rom. 6:14).

D. The teachers should out that that difference between mercy withholds a punishment we deserve; grace gives a blessing we do not deserve.

HOW TO RECEIVE GRACE

The teachers should enumerated the following ways by which grace can be received as indicated below:

i. By accepting God’s love towards all men (Jn. 3:16; Rom 5:8)

ii. By believing in the Lord Jesus Christ (Rom. 10:9-10) through God’s mercy and the fellowship of the the Holy Spirit (1Tim. 1:13; Heb. 4:16; Matt. 9:13).

iii. By exercising our faith, (no matter how little) at all time (Matt. 17:20; Rom. 1:17).

iv. By being humble before God (James 4:6; 1Pet. 5:5).

v. By loving the Lord Jesus with all our hearts (Eph. 6:24).

vi. Through sufferings and trails arranged for us by God. (Rom. 8:28; 1Pet. 5:10; 2Cor. 12:9).

vii. Through the prophetic words of prayer contained in the bible or spoken to us by our Spiritual headstand fellow believers in Christ (Ps. 107:20; Acts 20:32; 2Tim. 4:22; 1Thess. 1:1).

SUMMARY
The Almighty God gives grace for those who fulfil certain conditions.

CONCLUSION
Grace is the spring and source of all benefits received from God (Rom. 11:6). God’s grace should not be taken for granted (Rom. 6:1-2; Gal. 2:21).

LESSON: FIFTY

TOPIC: DYNAMICS OF GRACE (PT2)

MEMORY VERSE: “Wherefore, since we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, by which we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear:”. –Hebrews 12:28

BIBLE PASSAGE: 2CORINTHIANS 8:6-9

INTRODUCTION
In addition to the description of ‘Grace’ given in the previous lesson, Grace can also be referred to as the divine influence in a human heart that reflects on the outside. It produce favour, beauty, goodwill, loveliness and ability. It increases as one grows in the knowledge of God’s word (2Peter 3:18). We shall therefore consider the various dimensions of grace mentioned in the Bible as well as some actions that can be taken with or against grace.

LESSON OUTLINES

1. DIMENSIONS OF GRACE
2. WHAT YOU CAN DO WITH/AGAINST GRACE

DIMENSIONS OF GRACE

The teacher should give the following Scriptures to the students and ask them to identify the types/dimension of grace they contain.

i. Psalm 145:9; Matthew 5:45. (Common grace).

ii. Ephesians 2:4-9; Titus 2:11. (Saving grace).

iii. 2Corinthians 4:15. (Abundant grace).

iv. Titus 2:12; 1John 2:15-16. (Sanctifying grace).

v. Romans 6:14; Jude 1:24-25. (Sustaining grace).

vi. Philippians 4:13; Luke 1:37. (Supernatural/enabling grace).

vii. Romans 12:6; Ephesians 4:7. (Service/gifting grace).

viii. 2Corinthians 9:8; 1Peter 5:10. (Sufficient grace).

ix. 1Samuel 17:36-37. (Victorious grace).

x. Genesis 22:9-10; 2Corinthians 12:15. (Sacrificial grace).

xi. Acts 4:33. (Great grace).

xii. 1Corinthians 9:27. (Eternal grace).

The teacher should summarize this outline by stating that the access key to the grace is the degree of one’s connection with Christ and the desire to grow in Him. John 15:5; Philippians 4:13; 2Peter 3:18.

WHAT YOU CAN DO WITH/AGAINST GRACE

A. WHAT YOU CAN DO WITH GRACE

i. You can attract blessings through grace. Acts 4:23; Psalm 84:11.

ii. Grace can impact faith. Acts 18:27.

iii. Grace can makes one to become God’s elect. Romans 11:5.

iv. You can become bold/courageous through grace .1Corinthians 15:10.

v. Believers receive calls into ministry by grace. Galatians 1:15.

vi. Through grace, believers render acceptable service to God. Hebrews 12:28.

vii. Through grace, believers can give right answers to questions or human riddles. Colossians 4:6.

viii. Grace releases strength to believers. 2Timothy 2:1.

ix. Grace gives helps in time of needs. Hebrews 4:16.

x. Grace brings hope. 2Thessalonians 2 :16.

B. WHAT YOU SHOULD NOT DO WITH GRACE

i. Receive grace in vain. 2Corinthians 6:1.

ii. Frustrate grace in one’s life. Galatians 2:21.

iii. Fall from grace. Galatians 1:6-8; 5:4.

iv. Fail of the grace of God. Hebrews 12:15.

v. Turn grace into lasciviousness. Jude 4.

vi. Sin in spite of grace. Romans 6:1.

vii. Reject grace through pride. James 4:6.

SUMMARY
We can grow in grace, benefit from grace and also offend grace. The Choice is yours.

CONCLUSION
Every believer must aspire to grow in grace (2Peter 3:18). It is a dangerous thing to abuse grace despite it’s benefits.

LESSON: FIFTY-ONE

TOPIC: CHRIST IS COMING AGAIN

MEMORY VERSE: “Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven”. – Acts 1:11

BIBLE PASSAGE: 1THESSALONIANS 4:13-18

INTRODUCTION
Acts 1:10-11 describes the ascension of our Lord Jesus Christ as personal, bodily and visible, and that His second coming will be in like manner. However, the second coming will be in two stage : the rapture which will be sudden (1Thess. 4:15-17) – when the Lord comes for his saints and we meet Him in the air and then, the revelation that is public (Rev. 1:7) – when the Lord comes with His saints to get up the millennium, at the end of the great tribulation period (1Thess. 3:13). The time of His coming is a secret that only God the Father knows (Matthew 24:36).

LESSON OUTLINES

1. PROPHECIES AND PURPOSE OF HIS SECOND COMING
2. THE MANNER OF HIS COMING AND ITS SIGNS

PROPHECIES AND PURPOSE OF HIS SECOND COMING

A. ASSURANCE OF HIS SECOND COMING

The teacher should established the fact that the great confidence believers have that the prophecies of Jesus’ second coming will also be fulfilled is the fact that the prophecy about His first coming among other prophecies was fulfilled.

B. PROPHECIES OF HIS SECOND COMING

The teacher should identify and explain the following prophecies about the second coming of the lord Jesus:

i. Prophecy by the prophets (Dan. 7:13);

ii. Prophecy by Jesus Himself (Matt. 25:31);

iii. Prophecy by Paul (1Tim. 6:14);

iv.Prophecy and the angels (Acts 1:10-11).

C. PURPOSE OF HIS SECOND COMING

The teacher should identify the following purpose of the Lord’s second coming.

i. To complete the salvation of saints. He has delivered us from power and penalty of sin but then He shall deliver us from the presence of sin and Satan (Heb. 9:28).

ii. To be glorified and admired in His saints (2Thess. 1:10).

iii. To bring to lift the hidden things of darkness (1Cor. 4:5).

iv. To judge (2Tim. 4:1) and to reign (Rev. 11:15).

v. To receive us to be with Himself (Jn. 14:3) and to destroy death (1Cor. 15:25-26).

THE MANNER OF HIS COMING AND ITS SIGNS

The teacher should identify the manner, the nature and the signs of His coming as indicated below:

A. MANNER OF HIS COMING

i. At the rapture: saints will meet Christ in the air (1Thess. 4:17);

ii. At the revelation: we will descend with Him to the earth. (Eph. 4:10; Jude 1:14.

B. NATURE OF HIS COMING

i. Christ’s coming in the clouds (Matt. 24:30);

ii. Christ is coming in the glory of His father (Matt. 16:27);

iii. Christ is coming in His own glory (Matt. 25:31);

iv.Christ is coming in flaming fire (2Thess. 1:8);

v.Christ is coming with power and great glory (Matt. 24:30);

vi. Christ is coming bodily as He ascended (Acts 1:9-11);

vii. Christ is coming with a shout and voice of the archangel (1Thess. 4:6);

viii. Christ is coming with His saints (1Thess. 3:13);

ix. Christ will come with his Holy angels (Matt. 16:27)

x. suddenly (Mark 13:36).

B. SIGNS OF THE SECOND COMING
NOTE: The teacher should distribute the following scriptures to the students and ask them to mention/identify the signs of the second coming.

i. 2Timothy 3:1-7
ii. Matthew 24:5-7, 12-38
iii. Luke 21:20, 24
iv. Rom. 11:25
v. Matt. 24:14
vi. 2Thess. 2:3-8

NOTE: Some of the signs which the Bible mentioned and which the students are expected to identify are as follows:

Appearance of false Christs; wars and rumors of war; famines pestilence; earthquakes; sin will multiply; love of many will become cold; merry-making; eating, drinking, destruction of Jerusalem; fullness of the gentile or completion of the church; preaching of the Gospel everywhere; coming of the antichrist; etc.

C. BELIEVERS’ PREPARATION

i. While we ought to plan and work as if He will not be coming for another century.

ii. We must be prepared and live a holy and pure life all the time as if He will return today (1Thess. 3:12-13).

SUMMARY
Christ will come again.

CONCLUSION
Christ’s second coming is sure and certain (2Pet. 3:3-12).

Open Heavens 2021 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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