HOW CHRISTIANS DEMONSTRATES MERCY

 

Memory Verse: James 2:8
If ye fulfil the royal law according to the Scripture, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself, ye do well, (KJV).

Central Truth
Christians can stand firm and grow spiritually during trials.

Learning Objectives
At the end of this lesson, students will be able to:

1. Recognise the dangers of showing favouritism.
2. Explain why treating others unfairly is a violation of God’s commands.
3. Consider ways they can demonstrate their faith through works.

The Lesson Outline
1. By Not Showing Favouritism*
A. Respect Everyone Equally -*James 2:1-4*
B. Keep a Proper Perspective -James 2:5-7*

2. By Fulfilling the Royal Law
A. Favouritism Violates God’s Laws James 2:8-11
B. The Time for Judgement Is Coming – James 2:12, 13

3. By Doing Good Works
A. Living Faith Involves Action – James 2:14-20
B. Ensure Your Faith is Living – James 2:26

Introducing the Lesson
Question: What do these three items have in common: a car, a bicycle, and a lawnmower?_
Among the many possible answers to this question, we can be sure one would be: All perform a valuable function, but only when they are moving otherwise, they just clutter our garages.

In a similar way, God expects us to put our Christianity into action. True faith is seen in more than just what we believe or even in what we say. It involves expressing God’s love and mercy in our relationships with others. Today’s lesson examines ways Christians can put their faith into practice every day by demonstrating God’s mercy to others.

The Holy Scriptures

James 2:1 My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons.
2. For if there come unto your assembly a man with a gold ring, in goodly apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment
3. And ye have respect to him that weareth the gay clothing, and say unto him, Sit thou here in a good place; and say to the poor, Stand thou there, or sit here under my footstool:
4. Are ye not then partial in yourselves, and are become judgess of evil thoughts?
5. Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him?
6. But ye have despised the poor. Do not rich men oppress you, and draw you before the judgment seats?
7. Do not they blaspheme that worthy name by the which ye are called?
8. If ye fulfil the royal law according to the scripture, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself, ye do well:
9. But if ye have respect to persons, ye commit sin, and are convinced of the law as transgressors.
10. For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all.
14. What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him?
15. If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food,
16. And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body: what doth it profit?

*Commentary and Application*
*1. By Not Showing Favouritism*
*A. Respect Everyone Equally–James 2:1-4*
Chapter 2 of James begins with an explicit call to fellow Christians not to show favouritism. The construction of his statement in verse 1. indicates that this was already a problem and needed to stop. Such a practice is inconsistent with what it means to be a Christian.
James illustrated the problem of showing favouritism with a
hypothetical situation involving a wealthy dignitary and a poor man entering a church meeting (verses 2-4). The rich man is quickly and politely escorted to a seat in a place of honour. Meanwhile, the poor man is directed to stand in an out-of-the- way place or squat on the floor. It is clear that discrimination is taking place based on worldly values and motives. The lack of respect for the poor man-contrasted with the preferential treatment of the rich dignitary—is evil.

Question for Application

*Why do you think Christians might be tempted to favour rich, successful people and disrespect the poor?*

We may hope that our association with such rich people will benefit us in some way. Conversely, poor people hold little chance of bringing us tangible benefits, either as individuals or as a church.

*Questions for Application*
*What other classes or kinds of people might Christians be tempted to favour or disregard?*

B. Keep a Proper

Perspective–James 2:5-7

James pointed out that, among other reasons, favouritism is flawed because we tend to favour people who aren’t necessarily godly or worthy of our preferential treatment. He highlighted the folly of favouring the rich by noting that the Early Church was made up mainly of the poor (James 2:5; see also 1Corinthians 1:26-29). James’ point is that Christians are rich in faith. God’s promises are greater than anything worldly riches can provide.
At the same time it’s important not to misunderstand James. He wasn’t saying that poverty has some inherent spiritual value or that rich people can’t serve God. We must keep a proper perspective by valuing spiritual things. Riches and other temporal things hold no value in eternity.
The flawed values of many in James’ audience caused them to insult the poor. Three rhetorical questions in verses 6 and 7 brought this point home. The poor in the churches had been exploited and oppressed by the rich. They had used their power in the legal system to harass poor believers. Perhaps worst of all, the impoverished Christians had heard the rich slander the very name of the Lord they worshipped. Yet some believers favoured such men at the expense of their spiritual brothers and sisters.

*Question for Application*
*What can we do to guard against showing favouritism?*

We must examine our hearts and motives. Do we look at people in terms of what we think they can do for us or as God sees them? We need to keep a proper prospective when we interact with others.

2. By Fulfilling the Royal Law
A. Favouritism Violates God’s Laws–James 2:8-11

Question for Application
What, then, should be the principle that guides how we interact with others?

 

The rich, like the poor, need God’s mercy, forgiveness, and
salvation. Thus, we should love them no matter how they live, what they do, or even what values they hold. This love must be sincere and godly, not based on what they can do for us.

Such love is seen in the command in James 2:8. Love for our neighbours is seen as the royal law because it is God’s supreme command for all human relationships. Everything God commands us to do to, for, and with other people is governed by this principle. We must extend His love equally to all rich or poor, good or bad, attractive or repulsive.

James used this foundation to make a startling proclamation:
Favouritism for one person over another puts us in the same category as lawbreakers, like murderers and adulterers (verses 9-11). Violating God’s commands leaves us guilty in His eyes. Whether we’ve acted immorally or acted with prejudice, we’re in violation of His will. Such a pronouncement serves to make a seemingly minor act of favouritism anything but small.
Yet there’s a way to avoid breaking God’s laws: Love your neighbour as yourself (verse 8). That neighbour isn’t just the person next door or on the other end of the pew. The term “neighbour” applies to all those we come in contact with. All people equally deserve to see God’s love shown through us.

*Question for Application*
*How would you respond to someone who says, can’t reach out and show God’s love to everyone. That’s why I focus my time, attention, and resources on certain people-namely, the ones with whom | have the most in common’?*

It is true that we cannot be everything to everyone. Yet we must keep in mind that God sees our motives as well as our actions. We must resist the temptation to avoid showing His love to those who are the different from us. Sometimes that love is demonstrated in simple ways, through tone of voice, attitude, and simple respect. Loving our neighbours is the right thing to do.

B. The Time for Judgement Is Coming–James 2:12,13

*Question for Application*
*What do you think it means to say that we will be judged by the law of liberty’ (James 2:12, KJV)?*

There are two principles to keep in mind in answering this question.
First, like all sins, prejudice and partiality will lead to God’s judgement. Therefore, we must avoid them at all costs.
Second, all Christians will face a time when the quality of their works will be evaluated (see 1 Corinthians 3:12-15). Yet, God is merciful. Believers need not fear His judgement as long as they are following His ways.

 

They are to be quick to act with mercy and love toward those around them.
Because our actions and attitudes will be judged, we must respond with appropriate words and actions. We’re surrounded by people who need God’s mercy. Some are rich and influential, but others are poor, oppressed, and easily overlooked. God calls us to show mercy, love, and respect to all. We can do so with the promise that in the end well receive God’s mercy when we stand before Him.

Question for Application

Why can it be a struggle to keep the reality of future judgement in mind when deciding how to treat those around us?*

We can’t see the spiritual realm, so it can be easy to lose sight of spiritual realities. There are usually no immediate consequences when we pretend not to notice that not-so-appealing visitor at church or ignore an opportunity to help the needy in our neighbourhoods. But when we maintain an eternal perspective, God will help us show His mercy–as much as we are able in every part of our lives.

*3. By Doing Good Works*
*A. Living Faith Involves Action–James 2:14-20*
*Question for Application*
*What part do good works play in our salvation?*

To answer this question, we need to see salvation as more than a moment in time when we repent and believe. Salvation includes the new life we enjoy in Christ as we move toward eternity.
With this perspective of salvation in view, we must remember that we’re not saved by good works (Ephesians 2:8,9). At the same time, our actions must reflect the new Iife we have received through Christ. This is evident in our good works (Philippians 2:12,13). James stated this in no uncertain terms, posing a rhetorical question in James 2:14 which declares that faith without appropriate actions can’t save us.

 

This may sound overly strong until we read his vivid illustration in verses 15 and 16. This person is desperate, yet is brushed aside by the believer with a glib I wish you well.” It’s hard to imagine a more heartless scene.

Such a lack of mercy betrays the absence of true love. God’s love compels us to right action. Anything less is empty words.
James then issued a challenge: “Show me thy faith without, thy works, and I will show thee my faith by my works” (verse 18, KJV). Faith can’t exist apart from action. Mere mental assent isn’t true faith; even demons believe in God (verse 19). Godly faith goes much deeper, expressing itself in a changed life. Faith motivates us to reach out to the needy. It demands that we love the unlovely. It calls us to respect the poor as well as the rich. Genuine, saving faith is followed by action.

In verse 20, James recognised that some people would demand proof that faith without works is dead.

Question for Application
What are some biblical examples of people of faith putting their faith into action?

In verses 21-25, James cited Abraham and Rahab as examples of faith and works in action. Scores of other examples could also be given.
Often, great men and women of faith suffered terribly because they put that faith into action. (See Hebrews 11.) They did so willingly-and so should we. Our beliefs involve much more than our words. They call us to a lifestyle of obedience to the God we have placed our trust in.

B. Ensure Your Faith Is Living–James 2:26

James’ propensity to use vivid llustrations in making his point continued in James 2:26. The body without the spirit is dead and useless. The term “spirit” carries with it the sense of “soul” or “breath” and refers to the essence of life. When the spirit is gone, life is gone In the same way faith without the deeds is void of life, essence, and usefulness. Genuine, living faith will be accompanied by action. The two are inseparable.

Question for Application
What does it mean to act on your faith?

It’s important to see the “bigger
picture” when it comes to acting on our faith. Words, actions, attitudes, habits, and priorities all can be involved. Obviously, acting on our faith includes sharing the love and salvation of Christ with a hurting, needy person. But we also act on our faith when we pray consistently for a lost loved one. Or we might take steps to remove a sinful habit.
James 2 challenges us to examine our hearts and our actions. Are we harbouring ungodly thoughts or preferences? We act on our faith when we repent and ask God to help us change. Do we see a person, place, or situation in need of God’s mercy? Our faith takes action when we do our part to reach out with that mercy.
The one thing we must do is to make sure our faith is not a dead faith. Living faith is active faith. How we put it into action will depend on the needs we face and how God enables us. We must find ways to express our faith in our everyday living. This is particularly true in how we relate to others.

CALL TO DISCIPLESHIP

It’s human nature to be drawn to some people while tending to ignore others. Usually, our intentions are good. We might be so fixated on reaching a coworker we’ve witnessed for the last year that we ignore the single mom in the next cubicle who is hurting and could use encouragement or a helping hand.
God has called us to put His love into action toward all people-the
ones we like being around as well as those we don’t. Take time to explore your own life this week. Do you tend to shun a particular individual or group of people? Make a point to treat everyone with a kind word and a loving attitude.

 

Ministry in Action

In John 13:35, Jesus said the world would know we are His disciples by our love for one another. Identify a specific, practical need in the life of someone you know that might: otherwise be overlooked. Then do what you can to help meet that need.

Learning Objectives

At the end of this lesson, students will be able to:_

1. Consider the vanity of the world’s view of greatness.

2. Recognise the benefits of practising humility and peace.

3. Choose to follow Christ’s model of servanthood.

 

The Lesson Outline

*1. Reject Vanity and Sectarian Pride*
A. It’s about Giving, Not Getting
*Mark 9:33-37*
B. Avoid an “Us Versus Them” Mentality
*Mark 9:38-40*

*2. Commit to Humility and Peace*
A. Reward and Judgement
*Mark 9:41, 42*
B. Purification and Peace
*Mark 9:43-50*

3. Achieve Greatness Through Service

A. Self-Seeking Request
Mark 10:35-40

B. Selfless Service Required
*Mark 10:41-45*
_______________
*Introducing the Lesson*
_______________
Greatness is often defined by excellence and success, which are usually accompanied by fame and fortune. But as is often the case, God has a different perspective on things. Today’s lesson focuses on what Jesus taught is true greatness.
_______________
*The Holy Scriptures*

Mark 9:35- “` And he sat down, and called the twelve, and saith unto them, If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all.

36. And he took a child, and set him in the midst of them: and when he had taken him in his arms, he said unto them,

37. Whosoever shall receive one of such children in my name, receiveth me: and whosoever shall receive me, receiveth not me, but him that sent me.

38. And John answered him, saying, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name, and he followeth not us: and we forbad him because he followeth not us.

39. But Jesus said, Forbid him not: for there is no man which shall do a miracle in my name, that can lightly speak evil of me.

40. For he that is not against us is on our part.

43. And if thy hand offend thee, cut it off. thee should enter into life maimed than having two hands to go into hell, into
the fire that never shall be quenched:

45. And if thy foot offends thee, cut it off: thee should enter halt into life than having two feet to be cast into hell, into the fire that never shall be quenched:

47. And if thine eye offends thee, pluck it out: thee should enter into the kingdom of God with one eye, than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire:

10:35 – And James and John, the sons of Zebedee, come unto him, saying, Master, we would that thou shouldest do for us whatsoever we shall desire.

37. They said unto him, Grant unto us that we may sit, one on thy right hand, and the other on thy left hand, in thy glory.

42. But Jesus called them to him, and saith unto them, Ye know that they which are accounted to rule over the Gentiles
exercise lordship over them;and their great ones exercise authority upon them.

43. But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister:“`
_______________
*1. Reject Vanity and Sectarian Pride*
A. It’s About Giving, Not Getting
*Mark 9:33-37*

People have been seeking fame and prominence since time began; it is not just a contemporary issue.
Those with some form of power or influence often enjoy popularity among the people in any society.
It was that way in the time of Jesus. He and His disciples had entered a house and He asked them what they had been debating about as they travelled. Their argument had been about which of them would be the greatest. Obviously, they did not wish to tell Jesus what they had been discussing (Mark 9:33,34).

Although they remained silent, Jesus knew what had taken place on the road. As teachers often did at that time, He sat down and gathered His disciples around Him to teach a lesson (verse 35). The mark of true greatness is not to be found in the domineering attitude that often characterises worldly leaders. This arrogant leadership pattern does not have a place in the kingdom of God.
Those who desire true greatness must adopt an attitude of service. Ministering to the needs of others must become of greater concern than self-promotion.

To illustrate what He was saying, Jesus had a child stand among the
disciples (verse 36). Then He embraced the child and let the disciples know that greatness comes by caring about people especially those who tend to be thought of as insignificant. How can a child advance someone’s career? Why waste time and energy
on someone who can’t help you get ahead? Yet Jesus said that those who would welcome a child in His name are welcoming Jesus and His Father. And God can exalt those who humble themselves.

Question for Application

_What can be done to ensure that believers practise humility and servanthood?_

We must reject self-promoting
actions and attitudes and put the welfare of others first. We must embrace Jesus’ teaching that it’s
about giving, not getting.
_______________
B. Avoid an “Us Versus
Them” Mentality
*Mark 9:38-40*

It seems as though John
interrupted Jesus to report that the disciples had seen a man driving out demons in Jesus’ name. They “forbade him,” because he was not
one of the Twelve (Mark 9:38, KJV).
_______________
*Question for Application*
_______________
_Why do Christians sometimes fall prey to sectarian pride?_

God often blesses Christians in a way suited to their own needs, personality, and background. Forgetting that God loves variety, they take their own experience and
make it a pattern for others. They make their own ways of doing things authoritative. They then feel that their authority has been spurned and their religion insulted when Someone serves the Lord and exalts the name of Jesus without joining with them in all particulars. They forget that the kingdom of God is bigger than any one church or denomination.

Jesus used John’s s confession to teach about the unity He desires in
the kingdom of God. The man had used Jesus’ name to bring deliverance, and God had honoured
the man’s prayer with a miracle (verses 39,40). It would be hard for
someone who ministered in Christ’s name to speak against Him. Jesus’ view of who could participate in the mission of the Kingdom was bigger than that of the Twelve.

The desire to be part of an elite, Superior group was not what Jesus was trying to shape in the lives of His disciples. Arrogance has no place in God’s kingdom. Those who follow Christ must work together in the name of Christ for His greater glory.
An “us versus them” mentality within the body of Christ hinders the advance of God’s kingdom.
“Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (Ephesians 4:3, KJV) strengthens the Church and can result in the world’s observing the love of God in people (John 17:23).
_______________
*2. Commit to Humility and Peace*
A. Reward and Judgement
*Mark 9:41,42*
Jesus continued to teach the
disciples, stating that if a person gave just a cup of water-a small gesture in His name to one of His followers, that person would be rewarded (Mark 9:41). There is an intimate connection between Jesus and His disciples, so much so that what is done for them is the same as doing it for Him (see verse 37).

And just as there is a reward for those who do good to one of His disciples, so there is punishment to those who harm one of them (verse 42). The phrase “little ones that believe in me” (KJV) is best understood to refer to followers of Jesus, not just children. For any who would cause a person who believes in Jesus to sin, it would be better for that person to be thrown in the sea with the heavy millstone used for crushing grain around his or her neck.

Jesus was commending
humility to His disciples. They were not to look down on the smallest act
of kindness nor hinder others who act in His name, that is, by His authority.
_______________
B. Purifícation and Peace
*Mark 9:43-50*
At this point in His teaching,
Jesus moved from the danger of causing others to sin to the danger of allowing oneself to fall into sin. In Mark 9:43-48, He mentioned three parts of the body that lead us into sin: the hand, the foot, and the eye.

The hands can be thought of as the wrong things that ambitions drive us to do. The foot could be understood as the wrong things that pride will lead you to do. And the eye could be regarded as covetousness, our desire for things in this world.

Jesus stated that each of these things that lead to sin have a single solution: remove the member that causes you to sin. This seems like a very drastic measure, but Jesus told His hearers that it would be better to be maimed by cutting off a hand or a foot, or to remove an eye than “to go into hell, into the fire that never shall be quenched” (verses 43,45, KJV).
_______________
*Questions for Application*
_______________
_Was Jesus stating that we should literally maim ourselves in order to avoid sinning?_

Absolutely not! Jesus was using hyperbole -the use of exaggerated examples–to draw attention to the very serious issue of sin. Sin is destructive and a life of sin leads to eternal death and hell. Jesus used this radical language to stress the importance of doing whatever is necessary to enter into life-particularly eternal life.

Our attitude toward sin must not be casual. As we seek to know and please God, He will enable us to overcome sin.

Jesus spoke of there being
times in all our lives when there would come a testing, a salting with fire for purification (verse 49). Just as we must take steps to cut out sin from our lives so we can be totally devoted to God, the fire of trials and persecution can cause us to rid ourselves of any desires other than living in total surrender to God’s will.

Jesus’ desire is for His followers to be like good salt (verse 50). Salt was used in ancient times much as it is today to flavour and to preserve food. If the salt lost its saltiness it would become useless, no longer good for purification or flavouring. In the same way, if we lose our self-sacrificing devotion to Christ, we become useless to Him.

We are to be influenced by the Holy Spirit to preserve peace with one another through His divine
grace.
_______________
*Questions for Application*
_How can believers have peace one with another (Mark 9:50, KJV)?_

Humility and the desire for
peace are essential for healthy relationships. As we humble ourselves before God and others, the Spirit brings about a sense of unity that cannot exist when selfish pride is present. Those who desire peace are willing to work through disagreements in order to secure better relationship. They are willing to forgive, and forgiveness is vital for peace and unity.
_______________
*3. Achieve Greatness Through Service*
A. Self-Seeking Request
*Mark 10:35-40*

Later on during the ministry of Jesus, He and His disciples were on their way to Jerusalem (Mark
10:32-34). At this time, Jesus again told the disciples that He would be
killed, but then raised to life. From the incident that follows Jesus’ declaration, it is obvious that the apostles did not understand what Jesus had said.

James and John asked Jesus if one of them could sit on His right side and one on the left when He become the ruler in His glory (verses
35-37). These were places of authority they desired in their self-seeking request.

Jesus questioned their desire, asking if they could drink the cup He would have to drink and be baptised
in the same way as He. Jesus’ path to glory war through ultimate
servanthood. He would achieve greatness throgh humil:ation, suffering, and willing solf-sacrifice.
Did James and John want to
accompany Him through this (verse 38)? In their hearts they believed they could, for most likely James
and John still believed the Messiah would rise up in God’s power and overthrow Israel’s oppressors
(verse 39).

Jesus knew that His cup held horrible suffering, something they could not yet grasp, but that they
would suffer for Him as well (verse 39). Yet Jesus told them that only the Father could grant the positions of
authority they requested (verse 40).

Question for Application

How can we determine if our requests and desires are self-seeking?_

B. Selfless Service Required

Mark 10:41-45

The other disciples heard about the request of James and John and became upset with them (Mark 10:41). Using this uncomfortable
time as a teachable moment, Jesus gathered His disciples together to share with them about leadership and greatness from God’s point of view (verse 42). The disciples were aware of how Gentile rulers lorded it over their subjects. Too often rulers
misuse authority to advance themselves, not benefit those under their authority.

Jesus strongly opposed this
type of leadership as inappropriate in His kingdom. Rather, those who
wish to be great are those who serve and who humbly fulfil their calling.

Those wanting to be first and primary in leadership must submit themselves to be slaves (verses 43,44). Greatness involves service
to others. Serving others can break down barriers caused by wealth and position.

Being a servant is so contrary to our society as to be considered nearly absurd, but this is God’s world and sin has turned it upside down for a time. Jesus is our example of true
greatness, for He came from heaven’s glory as a servant, to serve humanity by giving His life as a ransom for us all (verse 45). A ransom is the payment to free another from prison or slavery.
Jesus Was our ransom to free us from slavery to sin.
_______________
*Question for Application*
_How can we live out the servant leadership style of Jesus in a world so contrary to His views?_

We can do this only by
practising the qualities of
servanthood Jesus displayed: humility, meekness, obedience,
self-denial, selflessness, and service. We must not focus on what we may lose, but on how we may benefit others. By acting out of genuine love to meet genuine needs
of any neighbour we can live out the servant-leadership model of Jesus.

Achieving greatness in God’s kingdom is summarized in the word
“servant.” Will we trust God to exalt us if we will humble ourselves? Will we follow the example of our Master
and Savior who “came not to be ministered unto, but to minister and to give his life a ransom for many” (verse 45, KJV).
_______________
*Call to Discipleship*
_______________
Take time this week to think about what you consider to be of value in Vour life. Who have you esteemed as great over this past year? What have you valued most in yourself? Can these things you have valued compare to Christ’s view of greatness?

Determine to become, through humility and service, the one God will honour. Make a list of characteristics a person like that might have; then make the effort to become that kind of servant. What might you need to change at home or in the office? How can you make those changes?

It is not easy to live a life of humility in a world so opposed to God’s way,
but the Spirit of God will be your strength and reward.

Study 1 READY FOR TOUGH TIMES

TEXT: 41 Thess 2:2,14-16; 3:1-7; 2 Thess 1:3-5; 3:1-2

Key Verse: 2 Thessalonians 1:4 Therefore, among God’s churches we boast about your perseverance and faith in all the persecutions and trials you are enduring. (NIV)

Focus:  while many adult Christians have experienced resistance to their faith, the immaturity of youth tends to intensify the cruelty that many Christian teens can experience. As you prepare for this study, try to remember (or imagine) what it’s like to be a Christian teen in a hostile environment. If you weren’t a Christian as a teen, consider how you felt toward Christians, and what you thought you understood about them.

It’s quite possible that at some point your students have already wondered if it’s worth being different when they could be accepted by simply coming to a compromise of their beliefs. This temptation will become more prevalent as resistance to Christianity intensifies in the days ahead. While it’s difficult to understand or explain all the reasons for Christian suffering, history proves that believers’ attitudes and actions in the face of persecution caused many others to believe. Encourage your students to remember that their reaction to trouble might help others accept God’s truth for their lives. Be prepared to address the reality that many who compromise their faith seem to prosper. Although there are temporary benefits to compromise, the eventual outcome can be eternally devastating.

>>The Basic Message
•WHAT’S THE BIG IDEA?
Suffering is an inevitable part of the Christian life and, if handled right, can help us develop spiritual strength.
• WHY DOES IT MATTER?
If we don’t handle persecution correctly, t could leave us bitter and spiritually defeated.
• HOW DO I LIVE IT?
Recognize suffering as an opportunity to grow, draw encouragement from Jesus’ example through suffering, and pray for those who suffer for their faith.

>>Illustration Option: SUFFERING FOR JESUS
Relate the story of John Bunyan, the author of Pilgrim’s Progress, who was imprisoned twelve years for preaching the gospel. He had a wife and children, one of whom was blind. At any time during his stay in prison, he could have gone free if he promised not to preach the gospel. But John Bunyan believed that his faithfulness to God was more important than anything in this life, and to compromise it would deny all he held true, including his life and family. Over those twelve long years, Bunyan’s family lived in poverty beyond description, and Bunyan was haunted by the consequences of his decision to remain faithful to God. Yet, during his imprisonment, he wrote works that have since been read by millions — enriching their lives at the expense of his own. Discuss with students the following questions:
• What do you think causes a person to make the kind of decision Bunyan made?
• What is the toughest thing that you have gone through as a result of your Christian faith?
• Why do you think God allows people who love Him and faithfully serve Him to suffer? >>Guide: Explain that most Christians will face times of sufferings for their faith, it is important to understand why this happens and how we can be victorious through suffering, realizing that the results of suffering can be beneficial.

>>Study Overview: Explain that today’s study considers:
• The reason Christians experience trouble.
• The proper attitude Christians should have in times of trouble.
• How persecution can have positive results in the lives of believers and others who are influenced by Christian suffering.

>>Inform and Discuss
a). The Reason for Trouble >>Guide: Read or have volunteers read 1 Thess 3:1-7. Explain that suffering should not surprise us as Christians. It is part of our calling as we live in a world that opposes us by nature.

1. Why do you think there is such opposition to the principles of Scripture by those in the world? [Hint: God’s principles contradict people’s lifestyles and choice. People don’t like to feel restrained in this way. While the gospel demands that we deny ourselves and love others as we love ourselves, the world’s standards tend to regard self-satisfaction and personal fulfilment as top priorities. Thus, the principles of the gospel! Put a roadblock in the path of finding satisfaction according to the world’s standards. As such, there’s bound to be tense conflict.) .

 

2. What role do you think unseen spiritual forces play in the suffering Christians experience?
Hint: Although other people’s attitudes, words, and actions might inflict suffering in the lives of Christians, Paul recognized that persecution against Christians is spiritual and an attack of Satan.

3. What does the fact that the apostle Paul suffered tell us when we suffer for Christ now?

>>Hint: it doesn’t matter how spiritual we become, we are not exempt from spiritual attacks.

b). Our Attitude During Trouble

1. Read or ask a volunteer to read 1 Thess 2:14-16. How can this passage encourage us when we face persecution? [Hint: We would not be facing persecution if we weren’t making a spiritual impact in our world. Besides, we are not the first to be persecuted for our faith. Jesus suffered persecution, and those who present the salvation messages will meet with persecution.]

2. Read or ask a volunteer to read 2 Thess 1:3-5. Why do you think our faith can grow as a result of persecution? [Hint: One of the reasons for which Satan orchestrates persecution is to bring us to a point where our conviction is compromised and rubbished. His ultimate aim is to hinder God’s work. But when we stay faithful to God in the face of persecution, we show that our faith is genuine. And as we respond to persecution by drawing closer to Jesus, we’re strengthened, and our faith increases as we see Jesus come through for us in such difficult times.

 

3. Paul commended the Thessalonians for “enduring” persecutions and trials (2 Thess 1:4). What attitude do you feel is represented by the word “enduring”? How does this reflect the way you face persecution in your life? (Guide: Explain that the English word “endure” comes from a Greek word that is proactive rather than defensive. In essence, it refers to pushing against or pressing on rather than retreating or just holding on. So, while the term forces us to acknowledge that something is coming against us, we choose to stand firm and move forward despite the pressure. It is a call to action.]

>>Note: We do not have to enjoy persecution, but it glorifies God when we defy the world’s standards, and face opposition to our faith with a correct attitude. If we will view our persecution as an extension of the persecution Jesus faced, and realize that we are making a spiritual difference in the lives of people, we would be able to put up with the difficulties it causes in our lives.

c). The Result of Trouble

1. Read or ask a volunteer to read 1 Thess 2:2. Why do you think people become bolder in sharing their faith after they have faced persecution for their faith? [Hint: When faith costs something, its value increases, and it’s embraced more firmly. That’s why individuals who successfully faced persecution for their faith will develop the boldness to share the gospel with others.]

2. Do you think that John Bunyan (from the opening illustration option) would have been as successful for the cause of Christ if he had not been imprisoned for his faith? Why? [Hint: We really don’t know the answer to this, but much of what we read of him was written while in prison. The passion that kept him in prison likely made its way Into the words he wrote.]

3. Read or ask a volunteer to read 2 Thess 3:1-2. In what ways do you identify with other Christians who suffer for their faith, and how do you respond to their situation? (Guide: Answers will vary. Perhaps fellow students at school have been made fun of, and your students have either prayed for them or stood by them. Explain that Paul could call on the Thessalonian brethren to pray for him and his team because they had faced persecution. As such, they could pray for others who are facing persecution, knowing what the power of prayer could do at such a difficult time.)

>>Involve Them: TROUBLING TIMES

Have students respond to the following questions in the light of what they have learned in this study: i. You are a missionary in a foreign country and the people there do not want to hear your message. ii. You are in school and confronted by a popular student concerning your opposition to immoral living. iii. You are with other Christian friends when someone comes up, spits on you, and calls you a “super-Christian.” iv. You see a fellow Christian from another church being mocked for his or her faith. v. You hear of people being persecuted or killed for their faith in another part of the world.

Inspire Them: Remind students THE BASIC MESSAGE of this study (pg 73), even as you explain WHAT the Big idea behind the study is; WHY it Matters; and HOW we can live the lesson captured in this study.

Guide: Explain that Christians have always been persecuted for their faith. Unbelievers are often offended by the way we live and what we proclaim because it causes conviction in their lives. The persecution we face actually confirms that we are living in right relationship with God.

 

Conclude the study by challenging students to live faithfully for God regardless of the cost. Remind them that serving God is always worth it in the scope of eternity; and that although persecution is painful, it is only temporary. Then pray for them, and encourage them to equally pray for one another throughout the week.

 

>>Teacher Hint: Ask Yourself…
1. Do students realize that being persecuted for their belief is a normal consequence of being a true Christian?

2. Are they prepared to look at the potentials available through persecution, rather than focusing on the pains?

3. Have they embraced the importance of offering support to others who face persecution for their faith?

 

Action Point

PS: I know you might agree with some of the points that I have raised in this article. You might not agree with some of the issues raised. Let me know your views about the topic discussed. We would appreciate it if you could drop your comment. Thanks in anticipation.

CRMNuggets is committed to fact-checking in a fair, transparent and non-partisan manner. Therefore, if you’ve found an error in any of our reports, be it factual, editorial, or an outdated post, please contact us to tell us about it.

 

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JESUS HEALS AND GIVES LIFE

 

_______________
*Memory Verse: Acts 10:38*
___________________
_God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him,_ (KJV)

Central Truth

_Jesus Christ is able to heal the mind, body, and soul._
___________________
*Learning Objectives*
___________________

 

At the end of this lesson, students will be able to:

1. Rejoice in Christ’s power over Satan, sin, sickness, and death.

2. Describe the relationship between power and ministry.

3. Explain how human need can lead to faith.

________________
The Lesson Outline
________________

 

1. A Demoniac Made Whole

A. A Demonised Man
*Mark 5:1-10*

 

B. A Delivered Man
Mark 5:11-20
______________
2. An Incurable Illness Healed
A. Ongoing Illness

Mark 5:25, 26
B. Desperate Faith

Mark 5:27-34

3. A Girl’s Life Restored

B. Desperate Need

 

Mark 5:21-24

B. Divine Intervention

 

Mark 5:35-43

Introducing the Lesson

The nursery rhyme “Humpty
Dumpty” has a familiar but tragic ending:
AIl the king’s horses, and all the king’s men, couldn’t put Humpty together again.” In the end, Humpty is broken and hopeless despite the best efforts by all the king’s men and horses.

 

Jesus is able to put broken people
back together again, no matter how sick or sinful they are. Today’s lesson shows that Jesus has power over evil spirits,
sicknesses, and even death.

The Holy Scriptures

Mark 5:1 – “`And they came over unto the other
side of the sea, into the country of the Gadarenes.

2. And when he was come out of the ship, immediately there met him out of the tombs aman with an unclean spirit,

3. Who had his dwelling among the tombs; and no man cculd bind him, no, not with chains:

6. But when he saw Jesus afar off, he ran and worshipped him,

7. And cried with a loud voice, and said, What have I to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of the most high God? I adjure thee
by God, that thou torment me not.

8. For he said unto him, Come out of the man, thou unclean spirit.

15. And they come to Jesus, and see him
that was possessed with the devil, and
had the legion, siting, and clothed, and in his right mind: and they were afraid.

25. And a certain woman, which had an issue of blood twelve years,

26. And had suffered many things of many physicians, and had spent all that she had, and was nothing bettered, but rather grew worse,

27. When she had heard of Jesus, came in the press behind, and touched his garment.

41. And he took the damsel by the hand, and said unto her, Talitha cumi; which is, being interpreted, Damsel, I say unto thee, arise.

42. And straightway the damsel arose, and walked; for she was of the age of twelve years. And they were astonished with a great astonishment.“`

1. A Demoniac Made Whole

A. A Demonized Man

Mark 5:1-10

After the disciples saw Jesus
stop the raging windstorm during
their trip across the Sea of Galilee
(Mark 4:39), they arrived on the
other side in the country of the
Gadarenes, probably expecting to
get some rest after the harrowing trip across the sea (5:1). Instead, they
immediately faced another
frightening scene: a very disturbed
man coming up to Jesus (verse 2).

One of the problems Jesus
faced during His ministry was
people who were possessed by
demons.

Questions for Application

_Is demon possession another
expression for what we now know
is mental illness? Explain._

In reality, the answer is probably
the opposite of what the question
implies–many people today are
diagnosed with mental illness that
may actually be demon-possessed.

 

The Bible always categories
demon possession as separate from
illnesses. Some people may have
mental illnesses; some may be
possessed by demons.

 

Mark 5:3-5 describes
behaviours of a man who had an
“unclean spirit” (verse 2, KJV). He
lived among the tombs. He had
extraordinary strength that could not
be restrained by chains or shackles.
He exhibited bizarre behaviour,
frequently screaming and cutting
himself with stones.

 

Regardless of
behaviour, discerning of
spirits-divine revelation-is
needed to know if a person is
demon-possessed or simply
mentally ill.

 

Satan and his demons want to
destroy people’s lives. They
controlled this man so much that he
was reduced to living like a wild
animal. When Jesus recognised the
man’s condition, He commanded
the unclean spirit to come out of him
(verse 8).

 

 

The demons recognised Jesus’
power over them and submitted to
Him, as shown by the man’s running
over to bow down before Him
(verses 6, 7). The demons
recognised Jesus as the Son of
God.

 

 

But they initially resisted His
Command to come out of the man.
Ironically, they asked Jesus not to
torment them (verse 7), ignoring
their own torment of the man (verses 6-8)

 

 

*Questions for Application*

How does Mark 5:9 show that the man had comple tely lost his identity?

 

When Jesus asked for the
man’s name, the man was not allowed to answer for himself. The
demons spoke for him, calling
themselves “Legion,” a term used
for a Roman regiment of six
thousand soldiers.

 

This is exactly what Satan
wants to dodominate people so
thoroughly that they completely lose
their identity and self-control. He il
wants to control them so they no
man could no longer even speak for
himself; for surely he would not have
begged Jesus to keep the demons
close by (verse 10).

 

He was a victim a
longer act on their own volition.
This man could no longer even speak for himself; for surely he would not have begged Jesus to keep the demons close by (verse 10). He was a victim whose will was totally controlled by Satan.

 

 

B. A Delivered Man

*Mark 5:11-20*
Apparently, the demons were afraid that Jesus would cast them
immediately to a place of of torment rather than at the appointed time of
judgement (Mark 5:7), so they
requested to be sent into a herd of
pigs that was nearby (verses 1 11,12).

 

Jesus permitted them to do so, The
herd of pigs “ran violently down a
steep place,…and were choked in
the sea” (verse 13, KJV).

Questions for Application

Why would Jesus allow the demons to go into the swine?

Commentators who interpret this man’s problem as a mental illness have a hard time explaining
why the swine rushed down into the water and drowned (verse 13). But
the dramatic end of the herd of pigs gave proof that the demons had gone out of the man. It also showed that Jesus had power over demons.

 

Questions for Application

How is the demons’ effect on the
pigs consistent with their effect
on the man?

As agents of Satan, demons
Cause self-destructive behaviour,
evidenced by the similarities
between the man’s behaviour and
the pigs’ behaviour. This incident
illustrates Jesus’ statement that the
thief (Satan) seeks to steal, kill, and
destroy (see John 10:10).

 

 

Mark’s
account also shows believers that
Jesus is more powerful than demons
and can cast them out by His word
alone. Jesus promised that His
followers would be able to cast out
demons also (Mark 16:17).

 

News of the event spread
rapidly. Many of the townspeople
came to see what had happened
(5:14). They found the former
demoniac “sitting, and clothed, and
in his right mind” (verse 15, KJV).

 

What they saw made them afraid of
Jesus, who had proven more
powerful than the violent man who
had disrupted their lives. They
asked Him to leave (verses 16,17).
In contrast, the former
demoniac wanted to be with Jesus,
but Jesus did not allow him to do so
(verses 18,19).

 

 

The man was to
return to his home and tell others
about the things the Lord had done
for him. The former demoniac did as
Jesus commanded him and testified
of what Jesus had done for him.
Those who lived in Decapolis
marvelled at the news (verse 20).

 

Questions for Application

What are some characteristics of
people before and after they
become believers in Christ?

 

*2. An Incurable lIllness Healed*
A. Ongoing llIiness

*Mark 5:25,26*
One of the common
characteristics of life in ancient
times and life today is that people
get sick and spend lots of money
trying to get well. After telling the
story of the demonic that Jesus
delivered, Mark intertwined two
more stories that further reveal
Jesus’ power to meet all of our
needs.

 

 

As Jesus was making His way
through a large crowd, a
hemorrhaging woman was there,
trying to get to Him (Mark
5:21,24,25). Her constant bleeding
over the past 12 years kept her
perpetually unclean.

 

According to
the Law, anyone who touched her
would also become unclean (see
Leviticus 15:25-33). Like the
demoniac with an unclean spirit, she
was an outcast because of her condition.

 

 

Although medical doctors are
highly regarded today, in ancient
times the practice of medicine was
crude, and most doctors lacked skill.
Even the Talmud, a collection of
rabbinic writings, has a disparaging
comment about physicians.

 

 

The
Woman’s progress report reflected
this low view of the medical
profession. She “grew worse” from
her visits to doctors instead of
getting better (Mark 5:26, KJV). She
was also ruined financially from the
expense of the treatments.

 

 

B. Desperate Faith
*Mark 5:27-34*
After hearing about Jesus, the
woman believed that if she could just
touch His clothes, she would be
healed (verses 27,28). She acted on
this belief by pressing through the
crowds to touch Him.

 

 

After 12 years of suffering, the
woman was healed instantly (verse
29). She knew it. Jesus also knew
something had happened (verse
30). Power had gone out of Him. He
stopped and asked who had touched
His clothes.

 

The disciples’ response to
Jesus’ question reveals they did not
understand what had happened. Nor
did those in the crowd. They needed
to know that power is available to
those who touch the Lord.

 

The woman, after years of
shame and uncleanness, was now
well. She came forward after Jesus
kept looking for the person (verse
32). She was afraid after years of
being an outsider, but she came, fell
down before Jesus, and told Him her
story (verse 33).

 

Jesus responded by saying to
her, “Daughter, thy faith hath made
thee whole; go in peace, and be
whole of thy plague” (verse 34,
KJV).

 

The word for “whole” (KJV) is
used of both spiritual and physical
healing in the New Testament. The
rest of the verse suggests both are in
view: “Go in peace” (with God
because your sins are forgiven) and
“be freed from your suffering” (NIV).

 

 

This woman’s need, coupled
with what she had heard abOut
Jesus, stirred her faith to seek the
Lord. Her encounter with the Lord
left her a changed woman, for she
had received healing for her body
and her soul.

 

__________________
*Questions for Application*
How do we know this woman had
faith?

 

This Woman was saved in part
because she suffered with a
sickness. Suffering is often the
doorway that leads people to God
just as it did this woman.

__________________
*Questions for Application*

How is this woman’s story
representative of the way in
which many people come to know
the Lord?

__________________
*3. A Girl’s Life Restored*
A. Desperate Need
*Mark 5:21-24*
Jesus was on His way to heal
someone else when He healed the
hemorrhaging woman. After
crossing the Sea of Galilee following
the deliverance of the demoniac,a
large crowd had gathered to see the
miracle worker (Mark 5:21).

 

A
synagogue ruler named Jairus
came to Jesus and fell at His feet,
begging Him to heal his daughter,
who lay near death at home (verses
22,23).

 

As ruler of the local synagogue,
Jairus was probably a man of
considerable importance, but
human need has a t tendency to
equalise people despite their
positions in life. Poor and rich alike
have problems they can’t solve.

 

Jesus agreed to go with Jairus
and minister to his daughter (verse
24). The crowd stayed with them.
miling around Jesus as He walked
While on the way to Jairus’ house,
the healing of the hemorrhaging
woman took place (verses 25-34).

 

B. Divine Intervention
Mark 5:35-43

*Question for Application*
What would you have thought if
you were Jairus and you were
delayed by others while your child
lay dying?

 

Any parent who has had a sick
child knows Jairus must have been
agonising over the struggle and
delay in getting back to his sick
daughter. She was dying; any delay
could mean the difference between
life and death.

 

He may have been
angry with the crowds who were
preventing his daughter from being
healed. Then suddenly., someone
from the house arrived with news
that his daughter was dead (Mark
5:35).

 

Jairus must have been
devastated to hear of the death of his child, but Jesus seemed unmoved and resolute, simply encouraging
Jairus to “only believe” (verse 36,
KJV). Unlike those who delivered the
news, Jesus knew death did not
have power over this situation.
Despite the difficulty Jairus faced,
Jesus encouraged him to trust God.

 

 

Only three of the
disciples –Peter, James, and
John -were allowed to come with
Jesus to Jairus’ house (verse 37).
When they arrived at the house, it
was filled with mourners (verse 38).
Jesus questioned why they would
be mourning, for the girl was not
dead, only sleeping (verse 39).

 

They
laughed in scorn at His statement.
But Jesus took control of the
situation and sent them all out of the
house (verse 40).

 

So with only the parents of the
girl and three of His disciples
present, Jesus took her by the hand
and restored her to life (verses
40-42). Mark recorded the
response of the parents and
disciples, “They were astonished
‘with a great astonishment” (verse

Jesus to Jairus’ house (verse 37).

 

When they arrived at the house, it
was filled with mourners (verse 38).
Jesus questioned why they would
be mourning, for the girl was not
dead, only sleeping (verse 39). They
laughed in scorn at His statement.
But Jesus took control of the
situation and sent them all out of the
house (verse 40).

 

So with only the parents of the
girl and three of His disciples
present, Jesus took her by the hand
and restored her to life (verses
40-42). Mark recorded the
response of the parents and
disciples, “They were astonished
‘with a great astonishment” (verse
42, KJV). Jesus had power not only
over demons and sickness, but also
over death!

 

 

Jesus displayed His power in a
number of ways. He cast demons
out of a man. He healed sicknesses,
forgave sins, and raised a girl from
death to life.

 

 

We can receive His help
and see His power at work in any
problem we may face as we place
our faith in Him. May we answer
those who would ask, “Why troublest
thou the Master any further?” by
acting on our faith that Christ has
power to meet all of our needs.

 

_______________
*Call to Discipleship*
_______________
Are some people in your life facing spiritual, physical, financial, or other
problems that seem hopeless? Jesus still ministers to people who have
problems. He uses ordinary people in His Church to reach out to them in His power and name.

 

 

This week, look for people in need and view their needs as opportunities to involve Jesus in their lives. If they will open up to Him, He will meet their needs and change their lives. He touched a demoniac, a hemorrhaging woman, and a dead little girl. He can also touch those who reach out to Him today.

 

_______________
*Ministry in Action*
_______________

Have the class pray for those who are in need. Begin by praying for
people in class that day. Then ask students to identify others who are in
need. List their names and needs on the board. Consider having students
pray together in groups of two or three for these people. Close the teaching
session by worshipping the Lord as the One who heals mind, body, and soul.

 

Do you enjoy this article, add Our Posts to your Reading List.

Action Point

PS: I know you might agree with some of the points that I have raised in this article. You might not agree with some of the issues raised. Let me know your views about the topic discussed. We will appreciate it if you could drop your comment. Thanks in anticipation.

 

CRMNuggets is committed to fact-checking in a fair, transparent and non-partisan manner. Therefore, if you’ve found an error in any of our reports, be it factual, editorial, or an outdated post, please contact us to tell us about it.

 

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OUR MISSION

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OUR VISION

To become a reference point in the blogging space by the year 2030. We want to be among the first 30 blogs in Nigeria.

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Jesus Proves His Authority. AG Adult Sunday School Manual

*Memory Verse: Mark 1:27*

They were all amazed,
insomuch that they
themselves, saying, What thing is this? what new doctrine is this? for with authority commandeth he even the unclean spirits, and they do obey him, (KJV).

*Central Truth*

Jesus Christ has authority in heaven and
the Earth.

Learning Objectives

At the end of this lesson,
students will be able to:

1. Appreciate Jesus’ authority to forgive and heal.
2. Explain the significance of Jesus being Lord of the Sabbath to Christians.
3. Submit to Jesus divine authority over their lives.

1. Authority to Forgive Sins
A. Faith Rewarded
Mark 2:1-5
B. Authority Demonstrated
Mark 2:6-12

2. Lord of the Sabbath
A. Questionable Behaviour
Mark 2:23-28
B. Questionable Healing
Mark 3:1-5

3. Authority from Heaven
A. Jesus’ Authority Questioned
Mark 11:27, 28
B. Jesus’ Authority Rejected
Mark 11:29-33

Introducing the Lesson

Have you ever had a problem with a bill? Perhaps you were charged for something you didn’t buy or a payment was incorrectly credited. Though the person you talked to was pleasant and was trying to be helpful, you soon realised that you needed to talk to someone with the authority to fix the
problem. When you spoke to the supervisor or manager, the situation was quickly resolved.

Today’s lesson looks at incidents in the ministry of Jesus that proved His
authority. If we will live in submission to
His lordship, we will find fulfilment and purpose.

The Holy Scriptures

Mark 2:3 – And they come unto him, bringing
one sick of the palsy, which was borne of four.

4. And when they could not come nigh unto him for the press, they uncovered the roof where he was: and when they had broken it up, they let down the bed
wherein the sick of the palsy lay.

5. When Jesus saw their faith, he said unto the sick of the palsy, Son, thy sins be forgiven thee.

6. But there were certain of the scribes sitting there, and reasoning in their hearts,

7 Why doth this man thus speak
blasphemies? who can forgive sins but God only?

8. And immediately when Jesus perceived in his spirit that they so reasoned within themselves, he said unto them, Why reason ye these things in your hearts?

9. Whether is it easier to say to the sick of the palsy, Thy sins be forgiven thee; or to say, Arise, and take up thy bed, and
walk?
10. But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins, (he saith to the sick of the palsy,)

11. I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy bed, and go thy way into thine house.

12. And immediately he arose, took up the bed, and went forth before them all; insomuch that they were all amazed, and
glorified God, saying, We never saw it on this fashion.

27. And he said unto them, The sabbath was made for man, and not man for the sabbath:

28. Therefore the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath.

11:27 – And they come again to Jerusalem: and as he was walking in the temple, there come to him the chief priests, and the scribes, and tie elders,

28. And say unto him, By what authority doest thou these things? and who gave
thee this authority to do these things?

1. Authority to Forgive Sins
A. Faith Rewarded–Mark 2:1-5

Questions for Application
Why was Jesus’ popularity growing. among the people? Because Jesus healed people and cast out demons, He was attracting crowds throughout Galilee

(Mark 1:27,28). Returning to Galilee to what had become His home base (2:1), a crowd gathered, intent on hearing Jesus preach (verse 2). The house was so crowded that no one else could get in, especially a paralytic on a pallet who was being carried by four men (verse 3),
Undeterred by the crowd, they must have taken the stairway up to the roof, a common feature of homes in Jesus’ day. They then removed a section of tiles and lowered the man down on his pallet right in front of Jesus (verse 4). Jesus was the only hope for their paralysed friend; they were doing everything they could to get him to Jesus.

 

The bold move by the paralytic’s friends might have angered some.
But moved by faith, these men would
not be deterred by the crowd. They were willing to take he steps necessary to get to Jesus so their
paralytic friend could be healed.

Questions for Application
What did Jesus see that indicated they all had faith?

 

Although only the paralytic was coming for healing, Jesus saw “their” faith (verse 5). He saw their extraordinary, single-minded effort to reach Him. This was evidence of faith.

 

Jesus did not heal the paralytic immediately. Instead, He pronounced the man forgiven (verse 5). The paralytic probably expected to walk, but Jesus honoured his faith by forgiving him of his sins, his most important need. By doing this, Jesus demonstrated His diviníty, for only
God can forgive sins. This point was
not missed by the scribes.

*B. Authority Demonstrated–Mark 2:6-12*
By forgiving the sins of the paralytic, Jesus demonstrated His
deity. Not only could He heal, He could forgive sins, This caused the religious leaders great surprise. They considered His action blasphemy (Mark 2:6,7).

Although He could have exercised His divine ability to know their hearts, it seems more likely that Jesus discerned what they were thinking because He knew how the religious leaders thought (verse 8)

Question for Application

How did Jesus show He had divine authority?

 

Jesus’ next question reinforces His claim to be God. Is it easier to heal a paralytic or forgive sins?
Jesus was pointing out that both were humanly impossible. Jesus had claimed to forgive the man, but that could not be proven. So Jesus healed the man to prove that He could also forgive sins (verses 9,10). His point is that if He can perform one divine act-healing a paralytic, which they could see-then He can
do the other divine act too, which they couldn’t see-forgiving sins.

 

To further reinforce His claim of deity, Jesus called himself “the Son
of Man” (verse 10, KJV), a messianic title from Daniel 7:13. In verses 13 and 14, the Son of Man is portrayed as a heavenly figure to whom God gives authority, glory, and sovereign power. Jesus’ claim to deity was validated when the paralytic responded to His command and the
man got up and walked (Mark 2:12).

 

In response, the people “glorified God” (verse 12, KJV), which was an appropriate response to a dramatic healing. What they had seen could not have occurred without divine intervention.

Jesus’ authority to forgive sins and to heal has not changed. The
question is, will we seek Him out in faith to receive the forgiveness and healing we need.

2. Lord of the Sabbath

A. Questionable Behaviour–Mark 2:23-28

The Pharisees frequently
criticised Jesus for His attitude toward the Sabbath. Jewish tradition had expanded laws about the Sabbath far beyond what the Scriptures taught. Jewish oral tradition had actually identified thirty-nine categories of work that were forbidden on the Sabbath. According to Deuteronomy 23:25 what the disciples were doing was acceptable; however, it did violate the Jewish traditions for Sabbath keeping and thus angered the Pharisees.

 

The Pharisees appeared to be watching Jesus and His disciples to see if they could catch them doing something wrong. The Pharisees apparently spent much time and energy watching for Jesus and His disciples to make mistakes. They thought they were doing the right thing, but, actually, they were keeping people away frorn God and reinforcing their own as the spiritually elite.

 

To defend His discples actions Jesus pointed out that David and his
companions, when they were in need and hungry, ate the showbread, which the aw stated was only to be eaten by the priests (see 1 Samuel 21:1-6: Leviticus 24:5-9). Jesus used that incident to teach the religious leaders an important point about the Sabbath: It was given for man’s benefit, not to
be a burden to him (Mark 2:27).

Jewish tradition had turned the Sabbath into an intolerable burden of rules to keep. God made it to be a day of rest to renew people after six days of work and to cause people to recognise God as the One who provides for their needs. As the Son of Man, Jesus asserted His Lordship over the Sabbath (verse 28). He had the authority to declare what was in keeping with the spirit of the Law regarding the Sabbath.

Question for Application
What are some of the struggles believers have in determining what it means to keep the Sabbath?

Christians often relate Sunday worship to keeping the Sabbath.
Part of the reason for this is that Jesus was resurrected on Sunday, so the Early Church eventually began worshipping on Sundays.
Like the Pharisees, Christians began to.make rules about what was acceptable to do on Sundays.

 

Some Christians focus so much on keeping the rules of their faith that
their faith loses its joy. Rather than enjoying their salvation and sharing it with others, they criticise those who do not go to church as much as they do, or they look down on those who participate in certain things on Sundays that they don’t or who do not participate in things they believe are important. This critical attitude leads to judging others. Seeking to
preserve the rules, people lose sight
of the true spirit and intent of the Sabbath.

 

There was debate about how the Sabbath laws applied to New Testament believers (Romans 14). It
seems reasonable that setting aside a day for rest, worship, and mutual encouragement with other believers
should remain a central part of a Christian’s life. But all days should be dedicated to the Lord through holy living and godly service. The way we practise our faith is to allow us to draw closer to God, to please Him, and to encourage others to live for Him.

B. Questionable Healing–Mark 3:1-5

Jesus viewed the Sabbath as a time to meet the needs of others, especially since people already took time to gather for worship. The
synagogue provided an opportunity for ministry and for showing that He
is Lord of the Sabbath.

Unfortunately, the religious leaders.
were there as well, more concerned about keeping the traditions intact
than about the needs of people. They were still defending the “man created for the Sabbath” position.

 

The Pharisees believed Jesus had the power to heal and perform miracles, for they watched to see if He would. If Jesus healed someone, they could accuse Him of breaking the Sabbath (Mark 3:1,2).

 

Jesus was aware of the plotting of His enemies and refused to let
them make Him afraid to do what was right. Instead, He would do what was right and challenge others to do the same.

Jesus’ question about doing good on the Sabbath (verse 4) affirmed His teaching that the Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. Jesus explained that doing “good” by healing someone captures the
intended spirit of the Law. Keeping the traditions and ignoring human needs or destroying life by refusing to heal is “evil” and is a misuse of
religion.

The Pharisees’ attitude
angered Jesus, who was “grieved for the hardness of their hearts”
(verse 5, KJV). They were more concerned with the keeping of their
rules than about the welfare of their
fellowman. Jesus’ compassion for
the man remained, and He healed him.

3. Authority from Heaven
A. Jesus’ Authority Questioned–Mark 11:27,28

The events in chapters 2 and 3 occurred early in Jesus’ ministry. Mark 11 is about 3 years later during the final week of Jesus’ life. Jesus was in Jerusalem to die and rise again (see 10:32-34 ), in
accordance with God’s plan to provide salvation for the world.

 

Many had come to believe in Jesus, but not many of the Jewish
religious leaders had. The tension between Jesus and these leaders
had intensified, especially after Jesus had cleansed the temple, driving out the merchants who were
selling their goods in the temple courts (11:15-18). Jesus’ ministry was no longer affecting only obscure villages. He was now in Jerusalem. their religious centre, acting as if He had authority over the temple, Judaism’s most holy site.

 

In response to Jesus’ actions. the Sanhedrin, the Jewish ruling council, dispatched some delegates to investigate Jesus’ activities.
Finding Jesus strolling in the temple courts, they wanted to. know who authorised Him to do the things He was doing (verse 28), particularly going to their temple courts and driving out the merchants.
_______________

Question for Application
Were these religious leaders sincere in their attempts to understand who sent and authorised Jesus? Explain.

 

Throughout Jesus’ ministry, many of the religious leaders had
followed Jesus and had challenged Him. Despite all the things they saW
Him do, their hearts remained hard.

So this question was not sincere,- because they were looking for an excuse to kill Him (see verse 18).
Their question was an attempt to discredit Jesus publicly and erode His public support. From what can be gleaned from the Gospels, these
leaders considered Jesus to be a very dangerous man who could destroy their nation and way of life if
He were not dealt with (see John
11:45-53).

*B. Jesus’ Authority Rejected- Mark 11:29-33

Sensing their insincerity, Jesus responded to the question from the religious leaders by promising to tell
them about His authority if they first answered His question (Mark 11:29). Jesus’ question put them in a bind by asking in essence, ‘Did God authorise John to baptise people or not?” (verse 30).

 

These men were stuck in a precarious position. The truthful answer would show them to be wrong (verse 31). The wrong answer would turn the people against them (verse 32). So they chose the safe response: “We cannot tell” (verse 33, KJV). If they were unwilling to answer, neither would Jesus answer.

Another opportunity to access Jesus’ divine authority had passe
These religious leaders reject Jesus’ authority as coming from God and so missed out on what God wanting to do in their lives.

Question for Application

In what ways can people today both non-Christians an Christians, reject Jesus authority?

Call to Discipleship

Jesus Christ has all authority in heaven and the Earth. He has that
authority based not only on who He is, the only begotten Son of God, but
also because He lived in perfect obedience to His Father’s authority. He modelled for us whatit means to live under God’s authority.

 

When we yield ourselves to Christ’s authority, we will strive to live in
obedience to His teachings that are revealed in the Bible and to listen to the voice of His Spirit. This means making choices every day that are based on His right to tell us what to believe and how to act. As we learn more of His Word and put it into practice, we can better demonstrate His lordship over our lives.

 

Begin today to learn His Word through establishing a daily time of personal devotions. If you already have done this, assist someone else in getting started.

Ministry in Action
Find some practical ways to minister to others in the name and authority of Christ. Visit a widow or elderly person in a nursing home. Be generous toward someone in need. Visit and pray for someone who is sick. God can
Change someone’s life through your efforts.

 

 

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Memory Verse: Mark 1:14,15 – Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God, and saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel, (KJV).

Lesson Text:
Mark 1:1-35.

Central Truth:
Jesus still ministers to those who believe in Him.

INTRODUCING THE LESSON
One of the striking things about Jesus is how quiet His life was for most of His first 30 years. Jesus’ childhood seems unremarkable. To those in His hometown, He was simply known as “the carpenter’s son” (Matthew 13:55, KJV). He seemed so ordinary to them that they could not believe He was anything more than they themselves.

Unlike the other Gospels, Mark began his account of Jesus’ life with His introduction into public ministry, which was launched with His baptism in water. From that day on, Jesus lived a life that changed the world forever.

LESSON OUTLINE
1. BEGINNING OF THE GOSPEL
A. Preparation By John – Mark 1:1-8
B. Inauguration Of Jesus’ Ministry – Mark 1:9-13.

2. PREACHING AND CALLING DISCIPLES
A. Announcing The Good News – Mark 1:14-15
B. Calling The First Disciples – Mark 1:16-20.

3. TEACHING AND HEALING
A. Authoritative Ministry – Mark 1:21-28
B. Miraculous Power – Mark 1:29-35.

Learning Objectives
At the end of this lesson, students will be able to:

1. Describe how Jesus
launched His public ministry.
2. Consider the implications
of following God’s call.

3. Be receptive to Jesus’ teachings and healing power.

The Holy Scriptures

Mark 1:1-4,9-12,16-17,21-22,34-35
[1]The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God;
[2]As it is written in the prophets, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee.
[3]The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.
[4]John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins.
[9]And it came to pass in those days, that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized of John in Jordan.
[10]And straightway coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens opened, and the Spirit like a dove descending upon him:
[11]And there came a voice from heaven, saying, Thou art my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.
[12]And immediately the Spirit driveth him into the wilderness.
[16]Now as he walked by the sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and Andrew his brother casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers.
[17]And Jesus said unto them, Come ye after me, and I will make you to become fishers of men.
[21]And they went into Capernaum; and straightway on the sabbath day he entered into the synagogue, and taught.
[22]And they were astonished at his doctrine: for he taught them as one that had authority, and not as the scribes.
[34]And he healed many that were sick of divers diseases, and cast out many devils; and suffered not the devils to speak, because they knew him.
[35]And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed.

Commentary and Application

1. Beginning of the Gospel
A. Preparation by John–Mark 1:1-8
Mark starts at the beginning of Jesus’ ministry by stating He is the “Son of God” (Mark 1:1, KJV). Before making the case for Jesus’ being the Son of God, Mark described the preparatory role of John the Baptist. John was the prophesied forerunner who fulfilled the Old Testament prophecies quoted in verses 2 and 3. This quotation is a combination from Malachi 3:1 and lsaiah 40:3 that tell of a forerunner who would prepare the way for the Messiah’s arrival. God’s plan, centuries in the making, was reaching a climactic point.

 

Question for Application
How did John the Baptist prepare the way for the Messiah ?

John prepared the way for Jesus by preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sin (verse 4). Many people responded, turning from their sins. They demonstrated their repentance by being baptised by John in the Jordan River (verse 5).

 

John was “the voice of one crying in the wilderness” (verse 3, KJV), dressed in a manner and lived a lifestyle like the prophet Elijah, indicated that he too was a prophet of God (verse 6; see 2 Kings 1:8). John’s role was to help people be prepared for the life-changing ministry of Jesus.

 

As he preached about repentance, John referred to “one mightier than I” who would baptise with the Holy Spirit (verses 7,8). John had followers, but he announced his deference to One coming who would be greater than him. The centuries of messianic expectation were about to be fulfilled.

Question for Application
How can the life of John the Baptist influence Christians today?

Like John the Baptist, we, as Christians, are to live a godly.lifestyle that points others to Jesus.
Believers are to tell sinners how to be saved and live as God wants. John was announcing the first coming of Jesus; it is now our responsibility to announce in our lifestyle and words that Jesus is coming again. We want people to be ready for Him when He comes.

B. Inauguration of Jesus’ Ministry–Mark 1:9-13
Jesus voluntarily submitted to the same baptism of repentance that John called his hearers to (Mark 1:9). Though He did not require repentance, Jesus’ being baptised in water was an act of identification and dedication. As Jesus Would later bear our sins by taking our place on the cross, by being baptised in water, He identified himself with sinful people. He dedicated himself to the ministry that was to climax in the death and resurrection water baptism pictures.

 

So in water baptism we identify ourselves with Christ’s death and resurrection and dedicate ourselves to live for Him (Romans 6:3,4). We make a public declaration of our faith in Christ and our intention to live a lifestyle that will continue to testify for Him.

 

After emerging from the water, Jesus received two indicators of His divine Sonship (Mark 1:10). First, the heavens opened and the Spirit descended on Him like a dove. Second, God voiced His pleasure with His Son (verse 11). Jesus’ identity as God’s Son received the divine witness of the Father and the Spirit. John’s preparation was now complete.

 

Jesus’ preparation for ministry continued as the Spirit led Him into the wilderness (verse 12). He was there 40 days, being tempted by Satan (verse 13). Wild beasts were there with Him. However, angels ministered to Him and kept Him safe.

Question for Application:
How can Christians overcome temptation?

Believers are to follow Jesus’ example through times of testing or temptation. Jesus shows us that temptation is not a sin and that those who are tempted should not believe the lies of the tempter. He tempts us to take the easy way out or to do what makes us feel good. We are to depend on God’s Holy Spirit for strength to do what is right and overcome the temptation to sin, just as Jesus did.

2.. Preaching and Calling Disciples
A. Announcing the Good News–Mark 1:14,15
God’s plan of salvation was unfolding. The prophecy regarding Galilee of the Gentiles in Isaiah 9:1,2 was fulfilled as Jesus began His public ministry there, announcing that the good news had arrived (Mark 1:14,15). Jesus said, “The kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe thẹ gospel” (verse 15, KJV).

Question for Application
How was Jesus’ message both similar to and different from John the Baptist’s message ?

John the Baptist and Jesus preached the message of repentance, turning away from sin. Where John called for repentance to be accompanied by baptism, Jesus called for repentance to be accompanied by belief or faith in the good news of the kingdom of God. John pointed his hearers to One who was coming in the future; Jesus announced that the kingdom of God had arrived.

 

Believers must be patient as they await God’s plan for their lives to unfold. God planned and prepared the world for centuries before Jesus’ arrival. Jesus himself lived in obscurity for 30 years before He launched His ministry. In a time where communications around the world can occur almost instantly, believers must remember to keep God’s long-term perspective in mind.

B. Calling the First Disciples–Mark 1:16-20

Questions for Application
Why would the four men Jesus called drop everything and follow Him (Mark 1:16-20) ?

This was not the first time these men had encountered Jesus. Simon and Andrew had met Him previously
(John 1:35-42), and James and John probably had also. Some of them had been disciples of John the Baptist. They had knowledge of Jesus. So when Jesus asked them to leave their fishing and follow Him, they dropped everything and followed Him to become “fishers of men” (verse 20, KJV).

There is always a cost in following Jesus.

Questions for Application
What kind of things must we leave behind to follow Jesus ?

While we often think of the sacrifices pastors and missionaries have made to follow Jesus, each person who chooses to follow Jesus must make sacrifices. The most important one is the choice to live not for self but for God. We offer our lives to the Lord and ask Him to use us as He wills. We are called to spend ourselves to advance the kingdom of God, trusting that God will supply our needs and make every sacrifice an offering of joy.

 

All Christ’s followers are called to “become” fishers of men. We do not need to wait until we become experts in the Bible or theology to witness of Christ. We can begin by telling others what Jesus did for us and how we know He wants to work in their lives as well. We are to be honest about not having all the answers and willing to assist unbelievers with their sincere questions.

3. Teaching and Healing
A. Authoritative Ministry–Mark 1:21-28
Jesus went to the synagogue in Capernaum on the Sabbath and began to teach (Mark 1:21). While this may seem strange to us, in Jesus’ day each synagogue had a ruler who managed its affairs and invited visiting teachers whom he felt were competent to speak. As news about Jesus spread, He Could easily get invitations to speak in the synagogues.

 

The people in the synagogue were astonished because Jesus taught with authority, not as the scribes did (verse 22). They never gave their own opinions. They simply restated what famous rabbis had said by reading their opinions. In contrast, Jesus taught with personal authority, stating His personal knowledge of the Scriptures, ministering under the anointing of the Spirit, and speaking with moral authority that comes from character.

 

When confronted with spiritual power, the audience was astonished. But a demon-possessed man responded to Jesus’ authority by calling Jesus by name, acknowledging His power and His relationship to God (verses 23,24). Jesus’ authority often evoked strong responses from demons, for they knew that He had the power to destroy them.

Jesus rebuked the demon and ordered it out of the man (verses 25,26). This was one of the first miracles that demonstrated Jesus’ divine authority. Even evil spirits had to submit to His power (verse 27)!

Good news travels fast. Soon the whole region of Galilee had heard about Jesus’ power (verse 28). As is evident from later verses in Mark 1, people in need sought out Jesus in response to the authority He demonstrated that day in the synagogue.

B. Miraculous Power–Mark 1:29-35

Upon leaving the synagogue,.Jesus and His disciples, James and John, went to Simon and Andrew’s home, probably to share a Sabbath meal (Mark 1:29). Again, Jesus faced a human need. Simon’s mother-in-law was sick in bed with a fever (verse 30). Mark records the straightforward facts- Jesus helped her get up out of bed, and she was healed of her fever. She then served them (verse 31).

 

This healing is an example of what simple faith can accomplish. Jesus performed no elaborate ritual. He apparently did not put His hand on her forehead or even say anything to her. He simply helped her up, and in that act, He healed her.

Questions for Application
Why did people come to Simon and Andrew’s house after sunset?
The Sabbath laws prohibited carrying anything on the Sabbath. When it ended at sunset, the people of the city came to the house (verses 32,33). They probably had heard what happened in the synagogue that morning and knew Jesus had power to do miracles.

Questions for Application
Why did Jesus not allow the demons to speak this time?

Jesus healed many people and cast out many demons, but unlike in the synagogue He did not allow the demons to speak (verse 34). At this point in Jesus’ ministry, He wanted to avoid a premature conflict with the religious leaders that would hinder the training of His disciples and the preaching of the gospel. Jesus often commanded people and demons not to tell who He was (see Mark 3:12; Matthew 8:4).

Questions for Application
What example does Jesus give us about spiritual renewal?

After a day of intense ministry that included teaching, healing, and casting out evil spirits, Jesus took time for spiritual renewal through prayer (verse 35). He could have justifiably slept late that next morning after a long day of ministry, but He was up before dawn the next day, praying. Other references to His praying suggest that Jesus followed a pattern of engagement in ministry and with drawal for spiritual restoration. He engaged the world to preach and meet their needs followed by withdrawal to replenish His spiritual resources through prayer. This pattern shows that Jesus did not rely on being divine or on His initial anointing by the Spirit at His baptism to carry Him through days of ministry. He prayed for daily renewal. If Jesus did this, how much more should we?

Call to Discipleship
John fulfilled his role as the one who announced Jesus’ ministry. After
years of living quietly as a carpenter’s son, Jesus voluntarily subjected himself to John’s baptism and to the Spirit’s leading in fulfilling His role as God’s Son. Both of these examples show the importance of preparation. John prepared the way for Jesus to launch His ministry. Jesus prepared himself during His 30 quiet years leading up to His 3% years of ministry.

What are you preparing for? Are you helping someone else to be successful in ministry? Are you preparing yourself to be an effective believer when your ministry opportunity comes? Both John and Jesus prepared for and fulfilled their ministry roles.

Following Jesus as His first disciples did required commitment to Him. As believers, we must still make the choice to leave everything behind that Would hinder us from completing the ministry God has planned for us. We must follow the disciples’ example and give ourselves completely to Him.

Ministry in Action
Jesus still ministers to those who believe in Him. Take time at the end of class to minister in His name to those in need. Ask students who would like the class to pray for them to stand up. Ask others in the class to lay on hands and pray for those who have expressed needs.

Action Point
PS: If you would like to have an online course on any of the courses that you found on this blog, I will be glad to do that on individual and corporate level, I will be very glad to do that I have trained several individuals and groups and they are doing well in their various fields of endeavour. Some of those that I have trained includes staffs of Dangote Refinery, FCMB, Zenith Bank, New Horizons Nigeria among others. Please come on Whatsapp and let’s talk about your training. You can reach me on Whatsapp HERE. Please note that I will be using Microsoft Team to facilitate the training.

I know you might agree with some of the points that I have raised in this article. You might not agree with some of the issues raised. Let me know your views about the topic discussed. We will appreciate it if you can drop your comment. Thanks in anticipation.

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Lesson Bible Text:
Ephesians 5:22-25; Colossians 3:18; Proverbs 31:10-12,27-29; 1 Peter 3:1-6.

 

Central Truth:
The Christian wife’s devotion to her husband reflects the church’s relationship to Christ.

 

INTRODUCING THE LESSON

Society today affords women more opportunities than ever to contribute their talent to the world. But society continues to need women who are dedicated wives and mother if the family unit is to survive and thrive. This week’s lesson offers a Biblical guidelines for women to follow to build strong marriages. The challenge is to keep those guidelines in focus while considering opportunities and goals few women during Biblical history could ever dream of. If you are a wife, then God has called you to a wonderful position. As a Christian wife, God has given you a very big responsibility to respect your husband, take care of your home and then live a lifestyle that will glorify Christ in your home. 

 

LESSON OUTLINE

1. RESPECT YOUR HUSBAND

A. Timeless Example – Ephesians 5:22-23
B. Loyalty Priorities – Ephesians 5:24; Colossians 3:18.

 

2. BE COMMITTED TO THE FAMILY

A. Priceless Partner – Proverbs 31:10-12
B. Home Builder – Proverbs 31:27-29.

 

3. DEVELOP CHRISTIAN CHARACTER

A. Lifestyle Evangelism – 1 Peter 3:1-2
B. Inner Beauty – 1 Peter 3:3-6

Learning Objectives

At the end of this lesson,
students will be able to:

1. Accept whole-heartedly
God’s demands on loyalty from wives towards their husbands.

2. Follow scriptural call to and prioritise the home and Wife ‘s priceless responsibility as a home builder.
3. Esteem godly character as the foundational sources of a woman’s beauty.

Learning Objectives
At the end of this lesson, students will be able to:

1. Accept whole-heartedly God’s demands on loyalty from wives towards their husbands.
2. Follow scriptural call to prioritise the home and Wife ‘s priceless responsibility as a home builder.

3. Esteem godly character as the foundational sources of a woman’s beauty.

Ephesians 5:22-24

[22]Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord.
[23]For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body.
[24]Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing.

Colossians 3:18
[18]Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as it is fit in the Lord.

Proverbs 31:10-12,27-29

[10]Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.
[11]The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil.
[12]She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.
[27]She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.
[28]Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.
[29]Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all.

1 Peter 3:1-5

[1]Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives;
[2]While they behold your chaste conversation coupled with fear.
[3]Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel;
[4]But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.
[5]For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands:
 

Commentary and Application

1. Respect Your Husband

A. Timeless Example– Ephesians 5:22, 23*

Question for Application
Does Ephesians 5:22, 23 apply to our lives today, or does it describe cultural realities in the Early Church?

It is difficult to reconcile
Ephesians 5:22 with prevailing secular views of the wife’s role. But approaching the verse from the viewpoint of the modern women’s liberation movement is a mistake.

The push to “liberate” women is a reaction against the abuse of Women, both in the home and in society. Women’s rights groups have pursued some positive goals, such as the right to vote and equal opportunity in the work place. But Some women’s groups have become mired in a carnal view of Women.

Women are being misled into believing they abase themselves if they give in to the wishes of any man. Women are encouraged to exalt self-expression at the expense of their husbands, their children, the smooth functioning of their homes, even their unborn babies.

Ephesians 5:22 is not about abuse, grovelling, or giving up one’s identity. It is about living out one’s Christian testimony. A godly wife submits to her husband “as unto the Lord,” because she is submitted to the lordship of Christ.

Verse 23 approaches the marriage equation from the husband’s side. He is “the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church.” As last week’s lesson emphasized husbands who lead in a Christlike manner sacrifice themselves to meet their wives’ needs.

Clearly, Ephesians 5:22, 23 not based on changing cultural mores. Wives who are committed to pleasing the Lord will respect their husbands. The verses connect the timeless framework of the home with timeless spiritual principles.

*B. Loyalty Priorities–Ephesians 5:24; Colossians 3:18

(Ask a student to read Ephesians 5:24 to the class). The context of a wife’s submitting to her husband is that of the Church submitting to Christ. The idea here is that a wife will demonstrate godly submission to her husband as an expression of her relationship to Christ. This builds value into the wife’s respect for her husband, but also calls for the husband to model Christ in the home.

Question for Application

What does “in everything” mean in this passage?

Verse 24 applies the call for submission very broadly. It does not say a wife can pick and choose areas in which she will respect her husband’s wishes. However, this is not the only verse to address the subject.

The phrase “as is fitting in the Lord” (Čolossians 3:18) offers additional guidance for wives. A wife is not to follow her husband’s wishes if doing so would involve any kind of sin. That would never be “fitting” or appropriate behaviour to God.

Husbands and wives must remember that the wife’s first loyalty is to God, and that marital submission is an outgrowth of that loyalty. The husband must seek to support God’s plan for his wife, not undermine that plan in selfish fulfilment of his own goals. He will recognise the importance of her spiritual gifts and divine calling. This means those considering marriage need to be open with one another about the direction God is leading their lives. God intends that husbands and wives work as partners to accomplish His purposes. The husband’s leadership in the home is best expressed under these circumstances.

 

2. Be Committed to the Family

A. Priceless Partner- Proverbs 31:10-12

A woman’s place in society in New Testament times was much more limited than today. Yet Ephesians 5:22-24 clearly demonstrates that God’s view of the wife is much higher than the value placed on her by society 2,000 years ago. That contrast is even greater in Old Testament times.

Heathen societies in Old Testament times commonly held a low view of women. In Egyptian art, women often appeared on a smaller Scale than men as a portrayal of their lower social status. The Athenian hero, Pericles, reportedly said that the greatest glory for a woman was to be talked of as little as possible.

There is nothing second class in this portrayal of the ideal wife. She is “of noble character” and “worth far more than rubies” (Proverbs 31:10,
NIV). She stands out as a woman of talent and intelligence, worthy of the confidence of her husband. She is committed to a lifelong relationship with her partner, determined to do him good as long as she lives. Each of these verses touch on key factors in a marriage relationship.

Verse 10 places enormous value on the wife. Indirectly, it calls on husbands to prioritise their relationships with their wives above their pursuit of material success. Many marriages have fallen by the wayside when one partner has become more married to a career than to the spouse.

 

The wife’s noble character is also impacted by her husband. Paul warned Christians not to be unequally yoked, because he knew a spouse has the most powerful influence on one’s beliefs, attitudes, and actions. Christians must seek out other committed believers as marriage partners. Husbands must Iive in such a way as to encourage Christlike character in their wives.

Verse 11 describes the husband’s confidence in his wife and her ability to bring good things into his household. This not only honours the wife’s abilities, it describes the necessary choice husbands must make to allow their wives to become all that God intends them to be. Confidence is a choice. Many husbands who ridicule their wives for perceived shortcomings have never stepped back and allowed their wives to demonstrate their God-given gifts.

As more marriages fall by the wayside in modern society, heeding the Bible’s call for lifelong commitment becomes even more vital, The extent to which a wife brings her husband “good.. all the days of her life” (verse 12), rests in large measure on how her husband invests himself in her. The husband who understands the priceless worth of his wife and gives of himself
accordingly reaps a lifetime of companionship. Such a deep relationship is a balm to the soul during life’s most difficult days.

B. Home Builder-Proverbs 31:27-29

The home is the main building block of every society. It is the nurturing ground for a nation’s future teachers, doctors, preachers, and those in government service. The Bible gives due attention to the wife’s vital role within the home.

Verse 28 points to more than just compliments given in return for services rendered. The word “blessed” includes the idea of being honest or true. In other words, this mother’s testimony is influencing her children. They recognize the depth of her character.

Today, there are even more opportunities for women to rise to the top of a career or field of expertise, than in Bible days (see verse 29).
But again, God’s Word prioritises the home. “Thou excellest them all,” is the praise the ideal wife of Proverbs 31 hears.

3. Develop Christian Character
A. Lifestyle Evangelism–1Peter3:1,2

Marriage to an unbelieving spouse creates one of the most difficult environments in which to live out a Christian testimony. The person who is the closest human believer is out of companion to the fellowship with that believer’s Saviour. The case of a wife living with an unsaved husband creates an additional quandary. How can she respect the spiritual leadership of some one who does not acknowledge her Lord?

In 1 Peter 3:1, 2, Peter called attention to this dilemma, and his answer may seem surprising to
some women. If this were simply Peter’s opinion, one could argue against it. But the Holy Spirit inspired this passage. He views the Christian wife as His closest ally in reaching out to an unsaved husband.

Question for Application
What exceptions to this rule might a wife have to consider?

A wife who seeks to follow the leadership of an unsaved husband is never obligated to disobey God in the process. Her husband may be bound by sinful habits and he may attempt to include her in them. At such times, she will need the guidance of the Holy Spirit to express her priority of being loyal to God.

The expression “without the word be won” (verse 1, KJV; “won over with out words,” NIV) is powerful. In some homes, unsaved husbands may violently oppose any mention of the name of Jesus. In other homes, the believing wife may affect a tone of self-righteousness that harangues an unsaved but otherwise kindly husband. But the wife who prayerfully commits her every action to the Holy Spirit’s guidance will communicate volumes about her faith to her spouse by her behaviour.
                                                   
B. Inner Beauty– 1 Peter 3:3-6

The Christian wife is a woman of unsurpassed beauty. Christ’s transforming work gives her a wellspring of love to share with her life companion and her children. If her spouse is unsaved, she has the opportunity to draw him to Christ if her spouse is a believer, she has the privilege of standing with him in service to the Lord.

Peter had such beauty in mind when he wrote 1 Peter 3:3, 4. The woman with a gentle and quiet spirit is not spineless. Rather, she is in a position to hear the still small voice of God’s Spirit. Like the woman described in Proverbs 31, she may possess great strength of character and many gifts and talents. But she focuses her abilities on pleasing God. This, as the surrounding verses show, includes her loving respect for her husband.

Question for Application
Was Peter claiming that the use of outer adornment was wrong?

While some groups of believers have interpreted this passage as a prohibition against jewelry, makeup, or certain fashion trends, this was not Peter’s emphasis. He was
showing the priority of inner beauty over outward adornment. The Bible often describes the use of jewelry, perfumes, and beautiful clothing in a positive light. But godly character must be the foundational source of a woman’s beauty.

One of the most beautiful women mentioned in the Bible is Sarah, the wife of Abraham. Her beauty caught the attention Egypt’s pharaoh despite the harem of wives he already had. And her beauty captivated him when she was well past middle age! Peter picked Sarah as an example of beauty, but he did not focus on the face that stunned Egypt’s palace (1 Peter 3:5,6). He directed his attention to her godly character.

Sarah and other godly women of the Old Testament are mentioned as examples to wives living in every era. Peter did not call on women to refer, to their husbands as master. He described Sarah’s practice in order to reveal her heart attitude of faithfulness to God and to Abraham. It is that attitude that God wants every Christian wife to develop today. It is an attitude committed to doing what is right and not giving in to fear.

Sarah was a Woman of great faith. Her life bears out this reputation. She faithfully stood by Abraham, travelling from their home in Haran into the land of Canaan. She became the mother of Isaac, the son of promise, in her old age. Her life is so significant in Scripture that even her burial arrangements occupy a chapter of Genesis.

By connecting the wives in his audience with Sarah (verse 6), Peter made a key observation, the woman who fulfils her God-given role within her marriage is truly a spiritual giant in God’s eyes.

Call to Discipleship

A wife reaches her full measure as a lifelong partner when she brings her husband “good, not harm, all the days of her life” (Proverbs 31:12), demonstrating to him the love, compassion, and servant’s heart of Christ.
As she seeks to be the wife God desires her to be, she will not only create an environment of blessing in her home, but will also mature spiritually herself and draw closer to her Lord. The Bible invites a woman to serve her family and her God and build a lifelong marriage rich in love and dignity and full of joyful expression.

1. How can a Christian wife’s devotion to her husband reflect the Church’s relationship to Christ?
2. In what ways can a married couple show the world the relationship that Christ has to His bride, the Church?
3. List Some practical suggestions on ways a Christian wife can Win her unsaved husband to the Lord.

 

Ministry in Action
Some students in your class may be dealing with marital discord or
even facing the dissolution of their marriage because they have never made Jesus Christ the Lord of their lives. Invite them to make that decision today.

 

Action Point
PS: If you would like to have an online course on any of the courses that you found on this blog, I will be glad to do that on individual and corporate level, I will be very glad to do that I have trained several individuals and groups and they are doing well in their various fields of endeavour. Some of those that I have trained includes staffs of Dangote Refinery, FCMB, Zenith Bank, New Horizons Nigeria among others. Please come on Whatsapp and let’s talk about your training. You can reach me on Whatsapp HERE. Please note that I will be using Microsoft Team to facilitate the training.

I know you might agree with some of the points that I have raised in this article. You might not agree with some of the issues raised. Let me know your views about the topic discussed. We will appreciate it if you can drop your comment. Thanks in anticipation.

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Memory Verse: Ephesians 5:25 – Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it, (KJV).

 

Bible Text: Ephesians 5:25-33; Colossians 3:19; 1 Peter 3:7,12.

 

Central Truth: Christian husbands are to love their wives as Jesus Christ loves the Church.

INTRODUCING THE LESSON

“I love you.” Those words have been spoken countless times and in every language. Many a man has made that declaration to the woman he believed would meet his deepest needs. Many have followed those words with, “Will you marry me?”
Sadly, many men have failed to understand the depth of meaning behind “I love you,” and as a result, failed to meet the obligations of marriage when that proposal was accepted.

Every day young couples, even Christian couples, go into marriage with almost no idea of what it means to be a godly husband or wife. This lesson offers solid biblical guidelines for being a Christian husband, but even wives can benefit from some of the key principles.

As Christians, both husbands and wives are to model their lives after Jesus Christ. So, while this lesson describes the pattern Christ has established for the husband, elements of that pattern will enrich a wife as well.

THE LESSON OUTLINE

1. LOVE YOUR WIFE
A. Sacrificial Love – Ephesians 5:25
B. Beneficial Love – Ephesians 5:26-27.

2. CARE FOR YOUR WIFE

A. Golden Rule – Ephesians 5:28-30
B. Priority Relationship – Ephesians 5:31-33.

3. HONOUR YOUR WIFE
A. Sowing And Reaping – Colossians 3:19
B. Spiritual Yardstick – 1 Peter 3:7,12.

 

Learning Objectives
At the end of this lesson,
students will be able to:

1. Understand an appreciate God’s sacrificial love as a model for the man.

2. Reappraise our priorities in relationships; husbands making rooms to be a blessing to the wife.

3. Realise the truth that husbands are responsible to God on how they treat wives and how it affects their relationship with God.

The Holy Scriptures
Ephesians 5:25-33

[25]Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;
[26]That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word,
[27]That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.
[28]So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself.
[29]For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church:
[30]For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones.
[31]For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh.
[32]This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church.
[33]Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.

Colossians 3:19
[19]Husbands, love your wives, and be not bitter against them.

1 Peter 3:7,12
[7]Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered.
[12]For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil.

Commentary and Application

1. Love Your Wife
A. Sacrificial Love-Ephesians 5:25

Question for Application

What kind of feelings come to mind when contemplating being in love?

When we ask someone what it is like to be in love, we often get an idealistic answer focusing on companionship, shared happiness, and an unbroken chain of pleasant experiences. These are the most Common descriptions of love in the popular media.

The Bible calls for a love from the husband for his wife that is modelled after the love of Jesus for the Church (Ephesians 5:25). And if there is one word that encompasses what Christ’s love is, it is sacrifice. This kind of love requires a ‘what- can-l-give?” mentality.

When we think of the length to which Jesus Christ “gave himself for it [the Church],” we find a tall order for every husband. The husband seeking to express this kind of love to his wife will be prepared to make any sacrifice for her benefit.

B. Beneficial Love- Ephesians 5: 26, 27

Sacrifice needs to be qualified, however. The Bible does not call the husband to become a slave in order to provide a selfish wife with every luxury A godly attitude of self-sacrifice has godly goals in mind.

The benefits described in Ephesians 5:26, 27 are specifically connected to the relationship between Christ and the Church. If that point is not clear, some husbands can overestimate their role in the wife’s walk of faith. Every person is individually responsible for his or her salvation decision.

Christ’s action on behalf of the Church is clearly intended to be a model for some aspects of a husband’s relationship with his wife. Verse 28 begins with “So ought men to love their wives” (KJV) or “In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives” (NIV), and points back to the statements in verses 26 and 27. What Christ personally accomplished for the Church, a husband can encourage in his wife’s life.

 

Vers 26 focuses on the spiritual cleansing Jesus brings about in the believer’s life. A husband who promotes spiritual disciplines in the home creates an environment in which his wife can thrive spiritually. If he is committed to Bible study, prayer, and fellowship with other Christians, she will be encouraged to pursue these goals as well.

 

Verse 27 speaks of the perfect union between Jesus and His spotless Bride, the Church. Christ and the Church enter this heavenly marriage in complete purity.

 

Question for Application
How can fallen humans mirror this ideal picture of marriage?

Man and woman come together in marriage as imperfect human beings. But they are to pursue holiness in every aspect of their relationship, including sexual intimacy.

While modern society makes a joke out of the idea of a virgin bride, the Bible’s call for sexual purity is clear. Christian couples are to observe sexual abstinence during courtship and remain faithful during marriage. Unfortunately, the world contradicts this kind of commitment.

The husband who sees his wife as holy before God will promote her welfare constantly. During their most intimate moments, he will not debase her or treat her as an object.

Holiness must permeate the Christian marriage. Husbands must interact with their wives in a manner that draws them closer to Christ.
All of his activities – from daily chores, to hobbies, to entertainment and vacations – must be entered into by the husband in such a way that his wife will be positively affected, so she will “be holy and without blemish” (verse 27).

2. Care for Your Wife
A. Golden Rule- Ephesians 5:28-30

Questions for Application
If a husband is committed to meeting his wife’s needs, how can he receive any benefit from marriage himself?

We tend to look at marriage in terms of what we can get out of the relationship.

Questions for Application
What qualities were you looking for in your dates, and by extension, in your future spouses?

There is nothing wrong with looking for desirable qualities in a wife. But the priority in a healthy marriage must be on what the husband can do for his wife to nurture those qualities.
The husband who truly loves his wife with a Christlike love builds her up emotionally and spiritually. He then enjoys the fruit of a relationship with a partner who has been nurtured in these areas.

“But I just don’t understand my wife and how to meet her needs,” men might object. The Bible offers a surprisingly simple key to successful marriage based on the similarities between the sexes. Ephesians 5:28 calls on husbands to treat their wives like they treat themselves. This requires the kind of selfless love described in the previous verse. It also reveals the balance in God’s equation for a healthy marriage. For a husband to treat his wife according to this guideline, he must also care for his own needs.

Jesus applied this principle to all relationships, “Love thy neighbour as thyself” (Matthew 19:19). The husband who loves his wife as his own body, as called for in Ephesians 5:28, is loving the person closest to himself.

Some men might try to twist this concept and claim they need to meet their own needs first in order to be good husbands.

The end of verse 28 helps husbands keep a correct perspective, “He that loveth his wife loveth himself.” Husbands, who first focus on their wives and their needs, will bring blessing into their marriage relationship and to themselves.

In verses 29 and 30, the relationship between Christ and the Church enters the picture again. The Church is not only Christ’s bride, but also His body. Just as people seek to meet their physical needs, Christ meets the needs of the Church as His body.

An important aspect of marriage is the husband’s ability to provide for his wife’s needs. Husbands can fall.into the trap of trying to give their wives every comfort at the expense of building a rich personal relationship. Christ’s love and provision for the Church are understood in the context of His unity with the Church (verse 30).

Everything He provides for the Church enriches His relationship with the Church. In marriage, the unity of the relationship is far more important than a wealthy lifestyle.

Priority Relationship-Ephesians 5:31-33

Ephesians 5:31 to the class is one of the most popular verses of Scripture read in marriage ceremonies. But reading the verse at one’s wedding and applying its truth in one’s home are two different tasks entirely.

Question for Application
What does verse 31 tell us about the priority of the marriage relationship?

Our closest relationships during our formative years are with our immediate family.
The marriage relationship must be so close that even the bonds to a loving father or mother fall behind it.

This doesn’t mean a husband no longer honours his parents. But he makes sure that his wife can trust him to prioritise her needs over those of anyone else – even those who have been the dearest to him throughout his life. Every other relationship must make way for the needs of the marriage partnership.

Discussing which night of the week to get together with friends may seem like a mundane matter, but everyday events, such as going out with friends, create the climate of a marriage. The husband must approach every part of marriage with the attitude of being a blessing to his wife.

Paul’s conclusion in verse 33 is respect their husbands. As a follower of Jesus, a Christian wife will respect Christlike character in her partner.

3. Honour Your Wife

A. Sowing and Reaping- Colossians 3:19
Ephesians repeatedly calls for a husband to love his wife and describes the marriage relationship in terms of Christ relating to the Church. When Paul wrote to the Colossians, he again called husbands to love their wives (Colossians 3:19).

But Paul went further in this epistle. (Ask another student to read the second half of the verse.) He included a warning with his command- do not be bitter (KJV) or harsh (NIV) with your wives.

Paul is warning husbands that how they treat their wives can. directly affect the marital
relationship. Over time, the husband who is harsh to his wife can transform a loving partner into an embittered foe, turning his home into a battleground. Once the transformation takes place, it is not easily undone.

Building a successful marriage is a lifelong process of sowing and reaping. Husbands who sow discord with their wives will very likely reap a miserable marriage’ or possibly a divorce.
Husbands who faithfully sow Christ’s love with their partners have a good chance of reaping the wife exemplified by the Church.

B. Spiritual Yardstick– 1 Peter 3:7, 12
Marriage has the tremendous potential for great sorrow in daily life.
It also has an enormous impact on our spiritual lives. Peter warned the reader of his first epistle that an unhealthy marriage relationship can adversely affect one’s relationship with God.

Question for Application
Why would Peter connect the health of one’s marriage with the effectiveness of one’s prayers (1 Peter 3:7)?
The husband who treats his wife harshly is disobeying the standard of love established by God and illustrated by Christs own love for His Church. This is sin, pure and simple. Husbands who insist on whitewashing abusive treatment of their wives are making excuses for their own sin. Unconfessed sin always creates a barrier between the believers and God.

 

The major thrust of verse 7, however, is one of encouragement. Peter wanted his readers to focus on the positive results of a loving marriage relationship. He encouraged husbands to treat their wives with consideration, and he did so using two key ideas. First, he pointed to the natural weakness of the woman compared to the man. This is an unfashionable truth today.

The “battle of the sexes” has been played out in countless public arenas, from athletic events to popular sitcoms. But the fact remains, God created men with the physical strength and those traits that facilitate their role as protectors and leaders in the home and in society at large.

Question for Application
Does this statement make men better than women in God’s sight?
Anyone who doubts the Biblical teaching of a woman’s complete equality with a man needs only to read the next phrase in verse 7. Women are not just “the weaker vessel,” but are “heir together [with their husbands] of the grace of life.”

God created women to Complement the characteristics of men. When Christian men and women join together in a lifelong marriage relationship, they build a partnership in which the strengths of each partner counter-balance the weaknesses of the other.

Husbands are responsible to God for how they treat their wives. According to verse 12, it will affect their relationship with God. Husbands have a choice.
They can either pursue the Christlike path building up their wives and reaping both a happy marriage and God’s blessing. Or they can selfishly pursue their own dreams and goals regardless of the cost to their partner. They may even bully their way to a certain degree of success with an intimidated wife. But the harvest they reap spiritually and perhaps for eternity, will be grim.

Call to Discipleship

The worship chorus, “To Be Like Jesus”, includes the line “all l ask is to be like Him” Perhaps few couples think of this song when evaluating where their marriage is heading, but that line summarises the key to every marriage’s success.

A husband who commits himself to being like Jesus every day will build a foundation for his marriage strong enough to withstand any attack. He will remain faithful to his wife, will lovingly meet his wife’s needs, and will give his very life for her if necessary.

Just as Christians must rely on Christ’s work in them in order to live for Him. Husbands must rely on Christ to model His behaviour in their marriage.

 

The Biblical pattern for husbands is not achievable by any man in human strength alone. But the man who takes hold of all that Christ has to offer will find that his own inner transformation makes possible an outer expression of abiding love to his spouse.

 

1. How can a husband’s Christlike love win an unsaved wife to Christ?
2. List some practical ways a Christian husband can express his love for his wife.

3. What do you think is your greatest responsibility as a husband? What does your wife think it is?

Ministry in Action
Some students in your class may be dealing with marital discord or even facing the dissolution of their marriage because they have never made Jesus Christ the Lord of their lives. Invite them to make that decision today.

 

 

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Memory Verse: Joshua 24:16 – As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord (KJV).

Central Truth:

God blesses the family that lives by His Word.

Bible Text:
Joshua 24:14-24; Psalm 127:1-7; 128:5-6.

 

 

INTRODUCING THE LESSON

What evidence do we have that God values the family? His Word offers so many examples of His care and concern – from Genesis account of creation, in which God gave life to a husband and wife and commanded them to have children, to Revelation’s description of the return of Christ for His Church in language reminiscent of a wedding celebration.

 

The narratives spanning these books include a wealth of stories about people’s everyday lives and the way in which they relate to one another. Father, mothers, husbands, wives, brothers, sisters, and a host of cousins, in-laws, and other relatives all interact in the pages of Scripture. Their lives are recorded to provide guidance for our own.

 

God does not just offer His Word as a guidebook for family living, however, and expect us to do all the reading and application for ourselves. He desires to be our partner in building our marriages and raising our children. When His participation is sought, healthy families are built. God not only values the family; He invests Himself in it.

 

LESSON OUTLINE
1. CHOOSE TO SERVE GOD

A. Example Of Righteousness – Joshua 24:14-15
B. Response Of Commitment – Joshua 24:16-18,24

 

 

2. GOD BUILDS THE HOME

A. Don’t Try It Alone – Psalm 127:1-2
B. Trust In God – Psalm 127:3-5.

 

3. GOD BLESSES THE HOME

A. Rewards of Faithfulness – Psalm 128:1-4
B. Impacting Our World – Psalm 128:5-6.

*Learning Objectives*
At the end of this lesson.
students will be able to:

1. Make early and timely
decision to lead and inspire their family to live for God and serve the interest of His Kingdom.

2. Show and Maintain
consistency in following God’s footsteps in building the home: Without Him, every home is destined for disaster.

3. Understand that God rewards and blesses our faithful work with Him.

THE HOLY SCRIPTURES
Joshua 24:14-18
[14]Now therefore fear the LORD, and serve him in sincerity and in truth: and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the flood, and in Egypt; and serve ye the LORD.
[15]And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.
[16]And the people answered and said, God forbid that we should forsake the LORD, to serve other gods;
[17]For the LORD our God, he it is that brought us up and our fathers out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage, and which did those great signs in our sight, and preserved us in all the way wherein we went, and among all the people through whom we passed:
[18]And the LORD drave out from before us all the people, even the Amorites which dwelt in the land: therefore will we also serve the LORD; for he is our God.

Psalms 127:1-5
[1](A Song of degrees for Solomon.) Except the LORD build the house, they labour in vain that build it: except the LORD keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain.
[2]It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows: for so he giveth his beloved sleep.
[3]Lo, children are an heritage of the LORD: and the fruit of the womb is his reward.
[4]As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth.
[5]Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them: they shall not be ashamed, but they shall speak with the enemies in the gate.

Psalms 128:1
[1](A Song of degrees.) Blessed is every one that feareth the LORD; that walketh in his ways.

Commentary And Application

1. Choose to Serve God
A. Example of Righteousness–Joshua 24:14, 15

When Joshua called the Israelites together near the end of his life, the gathering should have been a great celebration. In the years Joshua had led the armies of Israel through Canaan, God had granted them repeated victories. More and more of the Promised Land came under Israel’s control.

 

God had promised that victory in Canaan would be a gradual process so His people could take over farms, vineyards, and homes that were maintained rather than inherit a wasteland (See Deuteronomy 7:22).

 

With much of Canaan under Israel’s control and with a lifetime battle record that included only one defeat, Joshua could have been expected to offer a glowing speech of lsrael’s gratitude for God’s blessings. Sadly, Joshua could only half meet such an expectation.

 

In Joshua 24:1-13, Joshua reviewed God’s protection and provision for His people, God had remained faithful. But Israel’s victories in battle had not led to day-to-day spiritual victories.

 

When God outlined lsrael’s battle campaign in Deuteronomy 7, He called for the complete removal of Canaan’s inhabitants and their false gods. But in recounting lsrael’s victoríes over their enemies, the Book of Joshua also records their disobedience (17:12,13).

 

Joshua was well aware of Israel’s compromise, and his speech reveals that the problem stretched back to the days of the Israelites’ slavery in Egypt. Not only was Israel influenced by the idolatry that remained in Canaan, they had never totally removed the idols of Egypt (Joshua 24:14). Joshua’s statement in verse 15 is tinged with bitter irony.

Question for Application

Was Joshua really inviting the Israelites to live in idolatry?

Joshua was pointing Israel to the only correct choice they could make. They had to give up their false gods and serve the true God who had proven His faithfulness to them.
Joshua’s own commitment to God is clear in his statement of determination to serve the Lord regardless of the path lsrael might choose (verse 15).

 

Godly parents today can find themselves in Joshua’s position. After years of living a Christian testimony before their children and encouraging them to make a commitment to Christ, the final decision remains with those children. When grown sons and daughters decide to pursue their own paths and exclude God, grieved parents must still proclaim their own undying devotion to the Lord. Their faith may be the means of drawing a child back to God, or salvaging the lives of grandchildren being raised in a home where Christ is not welcomed.

*B. Response Of Commitment–Joshua 24:16-18, 24

The people’s response to
Joshua’s plea was what he had hoped for. They identified themselves as faithful servants committed to living for God. To forsake God in order to serve idols Would be the farthest thing from their minds (Joshua 24: 16). They acknowledged that God had delivered them from slavery and protected them during their journey.

 

to Canaan (verse 17). He was the One who was responsible for their victories over their enemies, and they committed themselves to serve Him (verse 18). “He is our God,” they proclaimed.

 

History proves the fleeting worth of Israel’s promises. It wasn’t too many years after Joshua died, that the Book of Judges recorded one act of rebellion after another. But where a human reading of Joshua 24:16-18 in light of Judges would dismiss the value of the Israelites’ promises, God’s view of the human heart takes into account human failure. His grace seeks to work in sinful lives at whatever point they are opened to Him.

 

Parents must never forget this in their struggle to bring up their children to live for the Lord. The parent who gives up on a child in that child’s times of rebellion may be cutting off the child’s greatest reason to ever come back to God the parent’s own unwavering encouragement to live a holy life.

 

Joshua knew the Israelites’ longstanding tendencies when it came to their obedience to God. That obedience came and went (verses 19, 20). But he continued to goad the lsraelites into making a firmer commitment to God, a commitment they voiced again in verse 24. Had Joshua given up and let the lsraelites go their way, idolatry would have overrun the land. As it was, his encouragement and example led to a revival that lasted for some years after his death (see verses 25-31).

Parents who commit to raising the children to serve Christ are headed for years of hard work,
fervent prayer, and maybe some challenging confrontations. That is reality. But they are not called to undertake this task alone. God is the divine Builder of every home.

2. God Builds the Home

A. Don’t Try It Alone–Psalm 127:1, 2
Every picture-perfect family we may encounter has gone through a lot of challenges to achieve whatever measure of order we observe. Young married couples move into their years of establishing a household with the uncertainty of fledgling independence.

 

The challenge in the formative years of a marriage is to remain independent enough to develop personal life skills without overlooking the wisdom offered by people with many years of experience. In pursuing healthy adult independence, we must be especially careful to maintain our dependence on God. Without Him, any home is destined for disaster.

 

Psalm 127:1 , 2 identifies God as the indispensable member of any team, whether the project is home construction or community oversight. At every level of organisation, God is the One who gives the needed strength and wisdom.

 

The context of this psalm shows that the references to building
include the establishment of the family. Building a family is a task spanning many years and includes countless difficulties as well as vast rewards. When parents attempt to look too far ahead, they can become discouraged at the scope of their responsibilities. yet the primary mistake is relying exclusively on human effort to meet needs. Just as verse 1 proclaimed about the

 

 

builders and the watchmen, verse 2 shows that no amount of human effort will prove fruitful without God’s
assistance.

*Question for Application*
ls Psalm 127 calling for inactivity on our part?

By no means are these verses ridiculing human industry. Rather, they are stressing that all such effort will help them reach worthy goals only when carried out in cooperation with God.

 

Couples receive so many conflicting messages from the world when establishing their homes and raising their children. If one were to believe every ad, no family could be happy without living in a mansion, driving a fleet of new cars, or owning closets full of the latest fashions.

 

When materialistic messages are allowed to take root, parents find themselves working extra hours or taking on extra jobs in order to “adequately provide” for their children. This comes at the sacrifice of the most crucial provision of all -a loving relationship built through quantity as well as quality time together. No amount of possessions can substitute for a healthy parent/child relationship. It is Just such a relationship that will most strongly Influence children to put their trust in their loving Heavenly Father.

B. Trust God-Psalm 127:3-5

Just as parents can fall for the myth of “more is better” in terms of materialism, they can also fall for the myth of “less is better’ when it comes to building their families. Contrary to popular belief, large families are not a threat to our planet but are an avenue for God’s blessing (verse 3). However full your quiver may be (verse 5), the key to this blessing is the kind of trust in God that is the basis for this entire psalm. Whether you have numerous sons (and certainly daughters) or few, if they are raised to fear God, they will grow up to be a support to you and a blessing to the community (verses 4,5).

 

In the final analysis, however, Psalm 127 calls for a reorientation of focus. The tasks needed to house and clothe and feed a family have to be carried out. But rather than focusing on these tasks first, godly parents must focus on God first (see MatthewW6:25-34). Daily communion with Him sets the stage for accomplishing those tasks at work and around the home to meet the needs of the family.

3. God Blesses the Home
A. Rewards of Faithfulness– Psalm 128:1-4

Psalm 128:1 issues a call for daily consecration. God’s blessings do not materialise in an instant like wishes from some genie in a bottle. He works with the believer day by day, blessing that person’s life in response to faithful obedience. Parents who want to experience God’s blessings In their home need to be consistently obedient. They cannot pick and choose from God’s Word what they find attractive. They cannot make excuses for or attempt to hide besetting sins. Their lives must be laid before God submission. This is what it means to “walk in his ways” (verse 1. NIV).

 

It is no accident that the perspective of psalm 128 is from that of a husband. As the leader of the home and family, the husband bears the particular responsIbility of modelling godly character before family members. Verse 1 refers to “all who fear the Lord,” so no one is exempt from the principle. But the husband sets an example that is vital to a family’s spiritual health.

 

The rewards for obedience are evident in verses 2 and 3. There are few better examples of peace and unity in the home than a shared meal. The food itself represents God’s provision. The wife and children around the table represent the web of positive family relationships that are built within the home.

 

Such relationships require special care, illustrated by the use of plant imagery, in an agricultural society, the value of the wife and children is wonderfully illustrated by the images of prized plants that need faithful care and attention if their growth is to be healthy and complete.

 

Verse 4 drives home the point again – all of the blessings listed come about as a result of “fearing.” or consistently serving God. While the God-fearing individual is the focus here, there is a definite cause- and-effect ripple throughout the believer’s community as well.

B. Impacting Our World–Psalm 128:5, 6

Families do not typically live in isolation. They develop reputations among their neighbours and mingle within broad social circles. The Christian family bears a heavy responsibility as a ministry team representing Christ to a lost world.

Question for Application
What contemporary application can we find in Psalm 128:5?

God’s blessings “from Zion” refer to His blessings from His presence. Zion – the holy hill on which the temple, which housed the ark, was built – symbolised God’s dwelling. Christians understand
even better than Old Testament believers that God’s presence abides within everyone who accepts Christ as Saviour.

For Jews to “see the prosperity of Jerusalem” meant that life in their homeland would be marked by peace and prosperity. Any believer would wish the same for his homeland. The person who has prayed for the blessing of a prosperous homeland is the same one who has guided his household according to God’s Word. Though not stated explicitly, the blessed homeland is an outgrowth of the blessed home.

Verse 6 bears this out. Parents who raise their children to live for God are very likely to see those children raise up other children to live righteously. A multiplication of godly citizens within any community serves to counter the decay of public morality and promote the well-being
of a nation.

Call to Discipleship
It is one thing to contemplate God’s presence and help when experiencing a relatively calm period in life. The test of faith is to remember His presernce and help are also realities in life’s dark places.

When children become rebellious, Christian parents need to rely on God’s WIsdomn in applying discipline. When finances dwindle, Christian families must trust God to supply every need. When marriage relationships become strained, husbands and wives must remember that God is the third Partner in their union.

With every challenge God allows to cross a family’s path, He supplies a means of gaining victory. His perspective is eternal, and He has in focus His eternal plan for every family member. Believers who structure their family life around God’s Word will find God’s help and encouragement at every challenge they encounter.

1. List the area ofyour family life that may need to be more focused on the Lord.
2. How can your family bea witness of God’s grace?
*Ministry in Action*
Encourage your students to be mindful of the attention their families receive in their neighbourhoods’, in their communities, and as they travel on vacations. They may never know when the most mundane activities they share with their children will prove to be an inspiration to someone who is lost.

 

Action Point
PS: If you would like to have an online course on any of the courses that you found on this blog, I will be glad to do that on individual and corporate level, I will be very glad to do that I have trained several individuals and groups and they are doing well in their various fields of endeavour. Some of those that I have trained includes staffs of Dangote Refinery, FCMB, Zenith Bank, New Horizons Nigeria among others. Please come on Whatsapp and let’s talk about your training. You can reach me on Whatsapp HERE. Please note that I will be using Microsoft Team to facilitate the training.

I know you might agree with some of the points that I have raised in this article. You might not agree with some of the issues raised. Let me know your views about the topic discussed. We will appreciate it if you can drop your comment. Thanks in anticipation.

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*Memory Verse: Galatians 3:13, 14

_Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith,_ (KJV).

 

Central Truth
All the blessings of salvation come through our redemption by Christ.

 

Learning Objectives

At the end of this lesson, students will be able to:

1. Identify and appreciate the benefits of redemption in setting us free from the bondage of sin with liberty to serve God.

2. Realise that in redemption, believers are accepted by God and now members of His family.

3. Understand as Christians that Christ is at work in our lives to bring to completion the result of redemption Christlike living now and eternity.

The Lesson Outline

1. Freedom from Sin’s Bondage

A. Freed by the Son
*John 8:31-36*
B. Freed for Service
*Romans 6:16-18*

2. Adoption By God
A. Chosen for Adoption
Ephesians 1:3-5
B. Accepted by God
Ephesians 1:5-7

3. Christlike Living
A. Live as God’s Servant
*Romans 6:22*
B. Live to Please God
Colossians 1:10-14

Introducing the Lesson
People like to see results from their efforts. Those starting an exercise programme or a diet like to step on the scales in a week and see significant weight loss. Many investors just starting out hope their initial outlay quickly produces profits.

Results are a good way to measure the effectiveness of a plan or programme. prog However, results sometimes can be misleading or downright discouraging. However, results some people who try intense exercise of diet changes may see little or no weight loss at first. Many give up at that point, feeling their efforts were wasted. Long- term changes must be put into perspective.

 

When people come to Christ, they may experience immediate, dynamic changes. Some changes, however, will likely come at a slower pace. As Christians, we can be certain Christ is at work in our lives to bring to completion the results of redemption.

In this lesson, we will identify some of the benefits of the redemption we have in Christ and learn how to appreciate those benefits. All the blessings of salvation come through our redemption by Christ.

THE HOLY SCRIPTURES
John 8:31.

“`Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed;

32. And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.

33. They answered him, We be Abraham’s seed, and were never in bondage to any man: how sayest thou, Ye shall be made free?

34. Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin.

35. And the servant abideth not in the house for ever: but the Son abideth ever.

36. If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed. Rom *6:18.* Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness.

Eph. 1:3. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:

4. According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love:

5. Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will,

6. To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved.

7. In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins. according to the riches of his grace; Rom 6:22. But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life.

Col 1:10. That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God.`

 

COMMENTARY AND APPLICATION

*1. Freedom from Sin’s Bondage*
A. Freed by the Son

John 8:31-36

Freedom is described in many ways. It is viewed as having the liberty to live life with no restrictions. Others see it as the independence to make choices on your own. Freedom is also the autonomy to live life without chains. Those who are bound by slavery cannot make the choices that a free person can.

 

Jesus spoke to a group of Jewish followers about spiritual freedom (John 8:31-36). He first defined a true disciple as one who listens to and follows His teaching (verse 31). Hearing and obeying His words words would lead them to the truth: this truth they would find freedom in (verse 32).

Question for Application
What events in Israel’s history suggest that its people had known slavery many times?

Though Israel was under Roman occupation in the first century AD and the Jewish people had been slaves in Egypt at one time, these Jews seemed to be in denial. Other nations had conquered them, but their spirit remained unsubdued. They were still the chosen people, the descendants of Abraham. By the nature of their relationship to Abraham they claimed they had never been enslaved, so they did not need to be set free (verse 33)

Jesus was trying to teach them a deeper, spiritual lesson. He clarified His message by stating no one who sins is free. Sinners are slaves to sin (verse 34). The place of the slave is to serve, not to be a part of the family. However, a son is born into the privilege of the home. At that time in history, a son could free a family slave. Jesus referred to himself as the Son who provides liberty to those who want freedom from sin (verses 35-36). This freedom is still given by Him today to all who seek liberty from the oppression of sin.

 

It is important not to miss a vital application of this passage. Many people of Jesus’ day, and our own, have admired Jesus and believed He was Someone special. But Jesus showed we must do more than just admire Him and His teachings. We must learn them and live by them. Only as we daily obey God’s Word does the truth become a part of our thinking. The truth as revealed by God through His Word – the Bible – can make us free from false ideas and theories, and from the anxieties and fear of our world.

B. Freed for Service
Romans 6:16-18

 

The role of the slave offered little human dignity. Slaves were often ill- treated, ordered from one task to another, and forced to put their personal needs aside for their master. Slavery sometimes reduced a person to the place of a beast of burden.

Slavery was an active practice when Paul wrote to the believers in Rome. He referred to the practice of wilful service, when someone owing a debt too large to repay asked to be a servant to the lender to repay him. A servant would have to obey the one he served.

 

People can be wilful slaves to sin, which pays them with death, or they can offer themselves as servants who obey God and find life and righteousness (Romans 6:16). Paul gave thanks that, though once ensiaved by sin, believers found freedom through obedience to God’s good news (verse 17). Through Christ’s redemption, they were free from the devastation of sin so they might serve righteousness (verse 18). This might seem a contradiction, for a slave is still a slave. However, the servant of Christ gives his life willingly and finds the joy and peace no servant of sin can possibly know.

Question for Application
_How can a slave to righteousness be free?_

Freedom for the Christian comes through the relationship developed with God the Father. It is a relationship much deeper than any human slave and master could ever establish. His gra draws a Christian to be embraced as a true child, one the Father loves and cares for. In Him, we can find true freedom to choose to do what is right, rather than living in guilt and frustration over never being able to refuse the destructive urging of a mind sold to sin.

2. Adoption by God
A. Chosen for Adoption
*Ephesians 1:3-5*
Question for Application
What are the benefits of being adopted by a family?

Adoption is the practice of providing a loving home for children who do not have parents or caretakers. Most often, the adopted child takes on the full legal status of any children born naturally to the family. This gives that child access to the resources of the home. An adopted child is loved like the other children of the family, and given the same rights and responsibilities. Where a child might have felt rejected or unwanted before, the adopted child becomes a part of his or her new family with a growing sense of acceptance and love. Adoption was hardly mentioned

in the Old Testament, where we find no direct laws or principles regarding its practice. The New Testament era brought about a wider understanding of this practice through the Greek and Roman culture enveloping Israel. Paul was the only one in the New Testament to use the term directly. He used it in reference to believers becoming children of God.

In writing to the church in Ephesus, Paul explained that all believers including us were chosen for adoption into the family of God, so they and we – might gain the full benefits of being a son or daughter of God (Ephesians 1:3-5). Because He chose us in Christ, God has given us access to all the spiritual blessings of Christ (verse 3).

 

Question for Application
What are some of the spiritual blessings made available through Christ?

These spiritual blessings are numerous, including redemption, the fruit of the Spirit, and eternal life.

Question for Application
Why has God made these blessings ours?

First, God made these blessings ours because it is His will or choice for us to be holy (verse 4). The root meaning of holy is one of separation or difference. But its basic idea in the New Testament usage is a positive one of dedication to God and His service. The Bible expects Christians to be different in the inner consecration and dedication of our hearts.

Second, it is God’s will or choice for us to be blameless. This word is used of Christ who presented himself as an unblemished sacrifice to God (Hebrews 9:14). God pours out heaven’s blessings on us, not so we can waste them on fulfiling our desires, but so we can be like Jesus. Just as adoption into a family brings one acceptance and love, so adoption into God’s family uniquely brings one into a right relationship with God. We find that we were wanted by our Father long before we were born. He did not need to see we would somehow benefit the family; He wanted us regardless so we could enjoy the blessings of His glorious Son Jesus.

B. Accepted by God
Ephesians 1:5-7

The results of an adoption bring one into a place of love and family. The results of of adoption into God’s family are greater by far. God’s desire for us is that we be adopted as His children through the redemption made available by Christ (Ephesians 1:5). Because of His great kindness, we have been “accepted in the beloved” (verse 6), and and given the blessings of His grace. Grace is unearned approval. It is the characteristic of God that most denotes His love and favour for His people. We do not deserve His love, but He is love incarnate and extends His grace to us.

Questions for Application
What does the child of God receive as a member of God’s family?

An adopted child usually has access to the resources of his or her family. A child of God is given freedom from sin through Christ’s blood. Along with this he receives forgiveness from his sins, forgiveness that would be impossible for him to earn. God provides this forgiveness freely through the richness of His grace (verse 7).

Because of our adoption into God’s household, we exist for His praise and glory. Our lives now can be lived in holiness, and in Christ we find our ultimate joy. It is a miraculous thing to step from loneliness into abundant life. It is beyond our understanding to imagine what blessings await us when we enter our eternal home to be with our Father forever.

Ephesians 1:5 states that God “predestined us into the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself”.

 

Question for Application
Does this mean that some people are predestined to receive salvation while others are predestined to be lost? Explain.

God’s choice and predestination have to do with the predestina Body, not individuals. They simply state His purpose for all Christians. God is not a respecter of persons. The Bible’s clear teaching is that whosoever will may come (see John 3:16; Revelation 22:17). It is a sad misrepresentation of God’s character and plan to say that He predestines some to be saved and some to be lost.

God’s plan of salvation was only partially revealed in the Old Testament, much of it remained a mystery until New Testament times. Then the mystery was cleared up as God brought together and summed up everything in Christ, bringing His plan to a climax through Christ’s death and resurrection. Now we can see that God decided beforehand that if we trust in Christ, we will be saved to the praise of God’s glory. This is His purpose.

3. Christlike Living
A. Live as God’s Servant

Romans 6:22
When he was set free, a slave realised that liberty allowed him to make certain choices he could not have made before. Freedom provided a sense of dignity and self- worth. Those set free from sin find the dignity to choose what is right.

In Romans 6:22, we learn that Christians are freed from sin through faith in Christ. We were once restricted by sin, but now we are servants of God. In this new relationship we find it possible to live a life of holiness. We are able to experience the hope of eternal life God promised to those who have placed their faith in Christ. Sin once clouded our judgement and obstructed our resolve to do what was formerly impossible, to live righteously each day.

Question for Application
What are the major differences between religion and a relationship with Christ?

Religion is primarily founded on external principles that are meant to guide choices and govern appearance. A relationship with Christ develops one inwardly, transforming the heart and mind. There will be outward changes, but they are not the focus. They are only the evidence that God has changed the inner person. The goal of one who has been redeemed by Christ is to live like Christ lived – to always please God.

B. Live to Please God
Colossians 1:10-14
Living to please God was a theme Paul addressed in his letter to the church in Colosse (Colossians 1:10-14). He stated Christians are to live their lives worthy of their holy calling in order to please God. This would involve producing fruit through good works, growing the knowledge of God, and finding strength in God to endure life’s struggles with patience and joy.

 

By God’s grace, we can share in the inheritance of the saints. We are now in the kingdom of God’s Son, no longer under the rule of darkness we once experienced (verses 12, 13). This gives Christians a reason to be thankful.

Question for Application
_*What implication does our deliverance from darkness have regarding our relationship to sin?

Through our relationship, we are the sole property of Christ. We are under no obligation to our old master, Satan. Just as a slave would not return to his former owner and continue in his service, neither are we to return to a life of sin after we have been redeemed by Christ.

 

Christ freed us from the power of darkness by means of His blood, providing us with forgiveness from our sins (verse 14). When we are forgiven, we get a fresh start. We are changed so we can live to please God. The rule of darkness is lifted and we gain wisdom and strength from Christ’s presence in our life. The ability to live to please God is but one of the results of redemption.

 

Call to Discipleship
In a world desiring immediate and measurable results, finding life in Christ may be seen as outdated or old-fashioned. However, the results of redemption reveal what an amazing change God makes in the lives of those who put their faith in Christ. Christians find freedom from sin’s bondage, adoption into God’s family, and the ability to live a life of service to God that pleases Him.

 

Are we experiencing the benefits of redemption in our lives? Sometimes we can allow ourselves to believe we can’t overcome temptation, at least certain ones. But through Christ we can! We may struggle with doubt-does God really love and desire to make something worthwhile of our lives? God chose us and set us apart so our lives can bring Him praise and glory. Because we are forgiven, sin is no longer our master. We can live as servants of God and, like Christ, we can please God in all we do. Let us begin today to appreciate the benefits of redemption we have in Christ.

 

Ministry in Action
Extend the message of God’s loving adoption to those in your class who may not know that God desires them as His own sons and daughters. Remind Christians that living a redeemed life testifies to the unsaved of the saving power of Christ.

 

 

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Adult Teacher January – June, 2024

 

Sunday January 14, 2024

 

UNIT 1: Redemption

 

LESSON 2

REDEMPTION BY CHRIST

 

MEMORY VERSE: Matthew 20:28

The Son of man came not to be ministered unto… to give his life a ransom for many. (KJV).

 

Central Truth

Jesus Christ came to redeem us from sin.

 

Learning Objectives

At the end of this lesson, students will be able to:

 

1. Acknowledge Jesus Christ as their Redeemer and live in the salvation He provides.

 

2. Accept the fact that Christ paid the eternal price for our freedom and that He stands as our Mediator.

 

3. Understand and enjoy the privilege of Justification and the Inheritance believers have in Christ.

The Lesson Outline

*1. Redemption by Christ Foretold

A. By Simeon – Luke 2:27-32

 

B. By Anna – Luke 2:36-38

 

2. Christ the Redeemer

A. The Ransom

*Mark 10:45; Luke 24:21, 25-27*

B. The Mediator – 1 Timothy 2:5, 6

 

3. Redemption Accomplished by Christ

A. Provides Justification – Romans 3:22-26

B. Provides an Eternal Inheritance

Hebrews 9:11-15

 

Introducing the Lesson

The promise of redemption goes all the way back to the Garden of Eden when God told Eve that one of her descendants would crush the serpent’s head (Genesis 3:9-15).

 

The prophet Isaiah told how the Lord would raise up a Suffering Servant: “He was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed” (Isaiah 53:5, KJV).

 

For hundreds of years, the Israelites longed for the Messiah to come and deliver them from their oppressors. He would redeem Israel and bring about a new age when they would no longer feel the sting of oppression.

 

But when Jesus came, the Jewish people failed to see Him as the One who fulfilled the Bible passages about the Messiah.

 

They failed to see that God would deal with redemption from the bondage of sin before He would set them free from political oppression. Instead of a conquering king, Jesus Christ came as a suffering Saviour.

 

In this week’s lesson, we will acknowledge that Jesus Christ is the promised Redeemer. He came to redeem us from sin. Redemption brings freedom in a dynamic way -through the transformation of spirit and mind.

 

*THE HOLY SCRIPTURES*

*Luke 2:36.* “`And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser: she was of a great age, and had lived with an husband seven years from her virginity;

 

37. And she was a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day.

 

38. And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.

 

 For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.

 

*Luke 24:21.* But we trusted that it had been he which should have redeemed Israel: and beside all this, to day is the third day since these things were done.

 

25. Then he said unto them, O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken:

 

26. Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into his glory?

 

27. And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.

 

*1 Timothy 2:5.* For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus;

 

6. Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time.

*Romans 3:23.* For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.

 

*Commentary and Application

*1. Redemption by Christ Foretold*

*A. By Simeon* – Luke 2:27-32*

It had been more than 400 years since the last prophet of Israel ministered. Israel was under Roman occupation. The desire of the Jewish people to see their Deliverer grew with each year. It was into this setting Jesus was born.

 

After Jesus’ birth, Mary, Jesus’ mother, and Joseph, her husband, went to the temple with their newborn child. There, they dedicated Jesus to fulfil the Law of Moses about the dedication of children.

 

At this point of the narrative, Simeon is introduced as a just and devout man who was “waiting for the consolation of Israel” (Luke 2:25). He approached Mary, took Jesus in his arms, and gave praise to God (verses 27, 28).

 

The Lord had promised Simeon he would not die until he saw the Lord’s (Christ) Anointed. We can assume Simeon was quite old at this time, for he stated he could now die in peace because the Lord’s promise to him was fulfilled – he had seen the Lord’s salvation (verses 29, 30).

 

He recognised Jesus was the One who would bring about the redemption God had promised in His Word. Through Jesus, all people, both Jews and Gentiles, would experience the glory of God (verses 31, 32). The time for salvation had appeared after so many years of silence and frustration. Simeon knew he held the redemption of God’s people in his arms.

 

The praise of Simeon came as a result of years of waiting. His joy must have been boundless as he looked into the face of Jesus. Just as the angels had been and John the Baptist would be, Simeon stood as a herald to foretell the greatness of the Lord. God had kept His promise to provide redemption for all people.

 

We are able to embrace this great redemption as well, for the salvation of the Lord reaches to all people. Simeon’s voice, recorded in Scripture, still calls people to come and see the salvation of the Lord. Like Simeon, we can praise God for the salvation that is available through Jesus.

 

*B. By Anna – Luke 2:36-38*

Simeon was not the only one to see Jesus at the temple on the day of His dedication. There was a woman named Anna who also recognised Jesus as the One who would bring about the redemption foretold in God’s Word.

 

Anna is described as a prophetess who was always at the temple worshipping the Lord and seeking His face through fasting and prayer (Luke 2:36, 37). She had been married for 7 years, but on the death of her husband, she devoted the rest of her life completely to the service of God. At age 84, she saw Mary and Joseph with the Baby Jesus and knew He was the Messiah.

 

She approached them and was filled with thanksgiving to God for the Child and the redemption He would bring to Jerusalem (verse 38). Because of her devotion to God, she too saw the salvation of Israel.

 

Anna knew Jesus would one day save His people from their sins.

 

We too can give thanks for all that Christ has accomplished and will accomplish in our lives and the lives of others. Redemption is available to all people, for through Christ everyone who believes in Him can find the freedom foretold by God in His Word.

 

Anna spoke about Jesus to all who were looking for redemption in Jerusalem (verse 38).

 

Question for Application

What are some ways we can let others know about the redemption available through Christ?

 

One way to get out the good news about Jesus is by inviting people to attend church. A sincere invitation coupled with the witness of a life that is lived in dedication to God can powerfully influence the unsaved.

 

2. Christ, the Redeemer – A. The Ransom*

*Mark 10:45; Luke 24:21, 25-27*

An incident occurred during the ministry of Jesus in which two of the apostles, James and John, sought positions of honour with Him when He entered His glory (Mark 10:35- 45). Jesus used this event to inform His followers He had not come as a leader to be served by others.

 

Rather, the Son of Man, a messianic term Jesus often used of Himself (used 93 times in the Book of Ezekiel), had come to be a servant who would give His life “a ransom for many” (verse 45).

 

Questions for Application

What is the purpose of a ransom?

In New Testament times, slaves could find freedom by working off their debt or by having someone else pay the price for their freedom. This amount would be the ransom paid to set them free.

 

For those held captive in sin, Jesus stated His death on the cross would be that ransom. His life would be forfeited so sinful people might find freedom from the captivity of sin and experience the life that God desires for them.

 

Redemption comes only when we trust in Christ, the Redeemer. Freedom from sin cannot be gained through human means, if this were not the case, Christ would not have come to give His life as a ransom. Indeed, if righteousness could be obtained by human effort, such as keeping the Law, then Christ died in vain (see Galatians 2:16 21).

 

Despite Jesus’ efforts to teach the disciples about His purpose for coming, they did not grasp that Jesus had to die to pay the ransom for humanity’s sin.

 

This is seen by their actions after the Crucifixion. Luke gave an account that highlights the reaction of Jesus’ followers to His death on the cross.

 

On the road to Emmaus, a small town about 7 miles from Jerusalem, two disciples walked and wondered what would happen to them since Christ was dead (Luke 24:13-27). Another man joined them on their journey who seemed intrigued by their concern.

 

This other man was later revealed to be Jesus, who had risen from the dead. They had hoped that Jesus was going to redeem Israel, perhaps freeing them from Roman oppression, but now their hope was gone (verse 21).

 

Jesus challenged the weak faith of these two men, noting the prophets had referred to the suffering of the Messiah that would happen before His glorification (verses 25, 26). Jesus then stirred their troubled hearts by explaining from the Scriptures the true nature of the Messiah’s mission (verse 27).

 

Questions for Application

How does knowing that Jesus fulfilled the Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah help you to believe in Him as the Redeemer?

 

By believing that Jesus is who He claimed to be the Christ who came to give His life as a ransom for many we are redeemed by faith in Him. When we observe in the Bible how Jesus fulfilled so many prophecies by His crucifixion and resurrection, this faith is strengthened. May we not be “slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken” concerning how Christ redeemed us by His sufferings.

 

*B. The Mediator* – 1 Timothy 2:5, 6*

The statement found in Deuteronomy 6:4, 5 is a basic tenet of the Jewish faith: There is only one God and we are to devote our love and lives to Him. Paul affirmed that this truth is also a basic tenet of the Christian faith in a letter to Timothy. Paul explained that Jesus Christ is the only Mediator between the one true God and people (1 Timothy 2:5). Jesus fills this role because He freely gave Himself as the ransom for all people (verse 6).

 

Questions for Application

If Jesus is the only Mediator between God and people, what responsibility do those who believe in Jesus have toward those who do not believe in Him?

 

God’s will is that each person accepts salvation through the knowledge of His Son, Jesus, the only Mediator between God and people. In a world that has proposed many false alternatives to reaching God other than through Jesus, we have been given the responsibility of reaching everyone with the gospel.

 

3. Redemption Accomplished by Christ

A. Provides Justificationn

Romans 3:22-26

Paul discussed at length the redemptive work of Christ in his letter to the church at Rome. He noted that righteousness – being in right relationship to God comes only through faith in Christ (verse 22).

 

This is vital since there is no one alive without sin; no one is able to live up to God’s standard (verse 23). Yet each person can be justified freely by God’s grace “through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus” (verse 24). Being justified means being declared not guilty and restored to a right standing with God.

 

Question for Application

How did Christ’s death satisfy God’s justice?

 

God looks on Christ’s death as a propitiation an atoning sacrifice that reconciles people to Him. Sin must be punished because of the nature of God’s justice, but His justice was satisfied because Christ shed His blood.

 

Through “faith in His blood” that is, through faith in the atoning death of Christ on the cross – a person is no longer found guilty in God’s sight (verse 25, 26).

Question For Application

Does it make a difference how we live since we are justified freely by God’s grace? Explain.

 

By God’s grace our faith in Christ and His atoning death on the cross brings us into right relationship with God.

 

This does not imply that we are not to walk daily in holiness, but that our human attempts at godliness will fail if not for Christ. Our trust in Him and His righteousness places us on a path that is unreachable on our own. He enables us to live holy lives through His Spirit.

 

B. Provides an Eternal Inheritance

Hebrews 9:11-15

Not only does the redemption accomplished by Christ provide justification to those who put their faith in Him, it also provides them an eternal inheritance. This truth is found in Hebrews 9:11-15.

 

The writer of Hebrews often used the term “better” to describe Christ’s work in relationship to Old Testament parallels.

 

Questions for Application

What made Christ’s sacrifice so much better than the Old Testament sacrifices?

 

In reference to Christ’s sacrifice, the writer of Hebrews compared Christ to the high priest who entered the Holy of Holies once every year. But Christ needed to enter only once for He entered the “greater and more perfect tabernacle” in heaven, not the one made by human hands (Hebrews 9:11).

 

Also, when Christ entered the holy place of God, it was not with animal blood, but with His own precious blood (verse 12). This provided eternal redemption, for His offering Himself to God provided a cleansing for sin once and for all. No annual repetition of the event is necessary.

 

Question for Application

If the Old Testament sacrificial system was inadequate, why did God ordain it for Israel?

 

The sacrifice of animals reminded the people of their sinfulness, but it could not give them power over their sin or take away guilt. It could provide ceremonial cleansing only (verse 13). Christ’s blood purges the conscience cleanses the minds and hearts of those who believe in Him – from sinful things that lead to death (verse 14).

 

His blood brings lasting peace to our conscience so we may be free from sin’s burden and spend our life serving God in gratitude.

 

The writer further stated that Christ has provided a new testament or covenant that provides believers with an eternal inheritance (verse 15). His death provided the ransom needed to set people free from sin. Nothing else could have provided what we needed to be saved. Nothing else can accomplish what was necessary to redeem us from sin.

 

Call to Discipleship

Redemption by Christ had been prophesied for centuries. Jesus Christ declared He came to give His life as a ransom for many in fulfilment of those prophecies.

 

He accomplished redemption by His sacrificial death on the cross, providing justification and an eternal inheritance.

 

We now stand in a place of decision. We can accept His finished work by faith and be redeemed, restored to a right relationship with God. Or we can choose to try to redeem ourselves – to try to earn our right standing with God through our own goodness and good works.

 

The second choice will result in disappointment and eternal loss. But by taking the first choice, we will find that God Himself will place us on the right road and will walk alongside us on the way.

 

Ministry in Action

The message of gospel is clear in the story of redemption. All people stand at a crossroad, lost without God. Christ came to bring people back to God through His death.

Christians are to testify to the unsaved about the saving power of Christ.

 

 

 

 

 

WHAT IS REDEMPTION?

 

 

Memory Verse 1 Peter 1:18-19

 

Ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold. But with the precious blood of Christ(KJV).

 

Central Truth

 

Redemption from sin is the salvation theme of the Bible.

 

Learning Objectives

 

At the end of this lesson, students will be able to:

1. Understand the biblical background for doctrine of redemption.

2. Appreciate the fact that a price was paid to redeem humanity from slavery of sin.

3. Understand that redemption sets people of God apart as His own.

 

The Lesson Outline

 

1. Redemption from Bondage

A. Redemption Price for Slavery

Leviticus 25:47-49

B. Redemption Price for Sin

1 Peter 1:17-19

 

2. Redemption of the Firstborn

A. Firstborn Belong to God

Exodus 13:1, 2, 14, 15

B. Christians Belong to God

1 Corinthians 6:19, 20

 

3. Redemption of God’s People

A. God Will Redeem

*Exodus 6:5-8*

B. Set Apart for God

*Deuteronomy 7:6-9 1 Peter 2:9, 10

 

Introducing the Lesson

 

Slavery was practised during the time periods covered in the Bible. Some people were enslaved because of wars. Others were forced into slavery because they could not pay their debts. Some Old Testament laws kept slavery from completely dehumanising its victims. In some circumstances, slaves could be redeemed, that is, a price could be paid to free them.

 

Many passages in the New Testament speak of or to slave. Slavery is neither condemned nor condoned in the New Testament but dealt with as a reality of life. Serving God faithfully whether one was a slave or a free man is what the New Testament focuses on.

 

The New Testament declares that all people are slaves to sin. But it also shows how God made a way for us, as slaves of sin, to be redeemed. This lesson will help us come n understand the biblical background for the doctrine of redemption.

 

The Holy Scriptures

 

*Leviticus 25:47.* “`And if a sojourner or stranger wax rich by thee, and thy brother that dwelleth by him wax poor, and sell himself unto the stranger or sojourner by thee, or to the stock of the stranger’s family:

 

48. After that he is sold he may be redeemed again; one of his brethren may redeem him:

 

1 Peter 1:18. Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers;

19. But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot:

 

Exodus 13:15. And it came to pass, when Pharaoh would hardly let us go, that the LORD slew all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, both the firstborn of man, and the firstborn of beast: therefore I sacrifice to the LORD all that openeti the matrix, being males; but all the firstborn of my children I redeem.

 

1 Corinthians 6:19. What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?

20. For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.

 

Deuteronomy 7:7. The LORD did not set his love upon you, nor choose you, because ye were more in number than any people; for ye were the fewest of all people:

 

8. But because the LORD loved you, and because he would keep the oath which he had sworn unto your fathers, hath the LORD brought you out with a mighty hand, and redeemed you out of the house of bondmen, from the hand of Pharaoh king of Egypt.“`

 

Commentary and Application

 

1. Redemption from Bondage

A. Redemption Price for Slavery

Leviticus 25:47-49

The Book of Leviticus was written as instruction for the priests to guide the people of Israel in holiness. This included principles that affected everyday life, guiding the behaviour of both rich and poor people in the land. The practice of slavery could easily reduce a person’s standing in society. Some people could have been tempted to look at slaves solely as property, leaving them open to being mistreated.

 

The people of Israel had come out of brutal slavery in Egypt. So God established laws to protect the rights of the slaves. He did not want the Israelites to inflict what they had endured in Egypt on those who were less fortunate.

 

In ancient Israel, a poor person could sell himself to pay for a debt. Leviticus 25:47-53 provides an example of and instructions about this practice. If a non-Jewish settler had become rich and bought a Jewish slave, the law stated that the slave could be redeemed his freedom – could be purchased for a set price. The redemption price could either bo paid by the man himself or by one of his relatives, a kinsman-redeemer. No human was to be considered mere property, but always retained certain rights.

 

The background for this practice is found in Israel’s redemption from bondage in Egypt. God had freed His people. He did not want them to be slaves again. However, knowing the reality of the world in which His people lived. He provided ways to be redeemed for those who had to turn to slavery because of their poverty.

 

Question for Application

 

How might we be able to apply the instruction found in Leviticus 25:47-49?

 

Perhaps the best way to apply these verses today is to gain an understanding of the nature of God. God does not desire people to be in bondage to sin. He cares about people who are in sin’s bondage so much that He provided the way for them to be redeemed through the blood of Christ. We can also deduce that God cares about those who have sold themselves again to be slaves to sin and desires for them to be set free once again (see James 5:19, 20).

 

B. Redemption Price for Sin

1 Peter 1:17-19

The world in New Testament times did provide a similar redemption from slavery as God had done for ancient Israel. There was a price to pay so one could buy his or her freedom. However, redemption began to mean much more to the Early Church. It came to mean the spiritual freedom a sinner finds through the power of Christ’s blood to cleans sin. The apostle Peter used slavery as an example when writing to believers in Northern Asia Minor (that is, modern Turkey).

 

In 1 Peter 1:17, Peter challenged Christians to live lives of holiness in an unholy world (see verse 16). He gave two reasons for this. First, as God’s children they were to have reverent fear of God because He is the impartial Judge. This knowledge would affect their lifestyles.

 

Secondly, they were to live in holiness and reverent fear because of how God had redeemed them (verses 18, 19). It was not merely gold or silver that paid the price for their freedom. These seem valuable, but they will perish. The believer’s redemption and freedom from sin came through the blood of Christ, the perfect sacrifice, This also would affect the way these Christians (and Christians today) lived.

 

When we consider the price that was paid so we might have redemption, it is at times over- whelming. God is so good and truly does not desire that anyone die in slavery to sin. So Jesus Christ, God’s Son, was sent to pay the price to redeem us from slavery to sin with His blood.

 

It would have seemed enough to a slave to have a relative pay a sum of money to grant his freedom. This freedom would have been like receiving a new life. What would any of us give to receive a new life, to be free from sin and bondage to old habits? Yet no amount of money can buy that freedom. It is offered through Christ alone. Only His blood can grant us the freedom from sin that we need.

 

2. Redemption of the Firstborn

A. Firstborn Belong to God

Exodus 13:1, 2, 14, 15

The death of Pharaoh’s firstborn was the final blow to his stubborn heart. Calling Moses and Aaron into his presence, he sent them away telling them to take their people and go and worship their God. It was this event and its significance that led the people of Israel to dedicate each of their firstborn to the Lord.

 

God spoke to Moses and gave him instructions for the Israelites regarding the firstborn (Exodus 13:1, 2). They were to sanctify or set apart their firstborn males as sacred to the Lord, both humans and animals. Fathers were to pay a redemption price to free firstborn sons. (Numbers 3:47 set the price at 5 shekels).

 

The sanctifying of the firstborn was tied to the Feast of Unleavened Bread. It was during this celebration that the reason for sanctifying the firstborn was explained to the children.

 

Question for Application

 

How did the Israelites use questions to teach their children?

 

Questions were often a means of instruction in Bible times. Questions would be posed during sacred events at various times of the year, and the answers would reinforce the learning process. When the question arose concerning this practice of setting aside the firstborn, a father was to respond by recounting God’s mighty deliverance of the Israelites from Egyptian bondage (Exodus 13:14). They were to remember that Pharaoh had refused to release them, and the Lord had killed the firstborn of the Egyptians. This had helped secure the freedom of the Israelites. So they dedicated their firstborn and redeemed them to remember God’s gracious actions on behalf of the Israelites (verse 15).

 

The firstborn son of each Israelite was to be redeemed. In this way God’s deliverance was remembered with each firstborn son. For us, God’s one and only Son became our redemption, freeing us from sin. Every time a person believes and is freed from sin, we are reminded of the price that was paid for our freedom.

 

B. Christians Belong to God

1 Corinthians 6:19, 20

 

Questions for Application

 

What comes to mind when you think of a temple?

 

Temples are thought of as being places that are sacred and revered. Often, only select people can enter temples, such as priests or special initiates. Sometimes secret rituals are practised within their walls, sacred words and acts kept private from all but a select few. These practices suggest. that the purpose of a temple is not common use but for holy service.

 

In Paul’s time, pagan temples could be found in almost all major cities. In Corinth, temples existed for many Greek gods, including Apollo and Aphrodite. But the place the one true God dwells is not in buildings, but in His people whom He has redeemed. Paul wrote to the Christians in Corinth to consider their bodies as sacred temples because the Holy Spirit dwelt in them (1 Corinthians 6:19). Those who “are bought with a price” are to glorify and honour God by living as people who are set apart as His. They are God’s! He bought them with the blood of Christ.

 

This is like the firstborn males of Israel being set apart. The Israelites had been delivered from the bondage of Egypt. Christians have been delivered from the bondage of sin. They are called to glorify and honour God with their bodies in order to live lives that reflect a sense of thankfulness and praise to Him for His redemption. As a temple is kept sacred, so Christians are to live lives. not polluted by the world. They are not meant for common use, but for God’s holy purposes.

 

Question for Application

 

How can Christians honour God in their daily living?

 

Some people view holiness as religious arrogance, but holiness should be expressed in humility and a spirit yielded to God. What should stand out most about a Christian walking in holiness is godly character and spiritual fruit that matures with time. Simply doing good deeds is not enough. Holiness will be evidenced by love displayed through words, actions and attitudes.

 

3. Redemption of God’s People

A. God Will Redeem

Exodus 6:5-8

 

Questions for Application

 

_What might it be like to be freed from the oppression of slavery after your family had been enslaved for 400 years?_

 

None of the Israelites alive at the time of Moses knew the taste of freedom. They had been born, lived and died as slaves for some 400 years. It was the only life they had known. Yet many held to the promise that one day they would leave the chains behind.

 

Those years in slavery had been spent in anguish and tears, with groans and cries for help that God did not ignore (Exodus 6:5). He never forgot His covenant to bring them into the Promised Land.

 

In His perfect time, God raised up Moses in the household of Pharaoh to help redeem His people. God instructed Moses to tell the Israelites that He had heard them and was going to release them by His power and devastate Egypt by His judgement (verse 6). His oath to Abraham was to be fulfilled when God brought His beloved people out of Egypt and into the Promised Land (verses 7,8).

 

God had made a promise to Abraham to redeem his descendants from their slavery after 400 years. Through Moses, God let the Israelites know He was working to honour His promise to redeem them. Through this deliverance, Abraham’s descendants would come to know that God had taken them to himself as His people.

 

Question for Application

How does someone become one of God’s people today?

 

When a person puts his faith in Jesus Christ and receives Him as Saviour, that person becomes a child of God (John 1:12). This is a promise from God that He will honour just as surely as He did His promise to Abraham.

 

The redemption God provided for the Israelites released them from slavery to a life of freedom. In the same. way, Christ brings freedom from captivity to sin. God’s plan has always been to redeem people from sin and the pain it inflicts. Redemption brings freedom for those who call on Christ; They become the people of God.

 

B. Set Apart for God

Deuteronomy 7:6-9; 1 Peter 2:9, 10

Holiness is an attribute associated with God and godly things. For something to be considered holy, it must be separated from common use for use specifically for God’s honour. God told the Israelites they were to be a holy people, set apart from all other people on the Earth as His own (Deuteronomy 7:6). It is important to note that the Lord did not chose the Israelites because they were greater in number or power than other nations (verse 7). Rather, the Lord chose them because of His love and because of His promise to bring them out of slavery by His mighty acts (verses 7, 8). God is faithful and can be trusted to keep His promises for generations of those who love Him (verse 9).

 

The Israelites were God’s chosen people. They were called to live holy lives that would show forth as a light to the Gentiles. The apostle Peter wrote that the Church reflects these same characteristics in her calling (1 Peter 2:9, 10). God calls Christians because of His grace. Some of the Israelites were set apart as priests in service to God.

 

But all Christians are set apart as priests to serve Him in His glory. They belong to God as His people, for they were called out of the darkness of sin and brought into the light of His life. As the Israelites became God’s people by His merciful intervention, so Christians become God’s people because they have obtained mercy. Those who accept Christ as Saviour are redeemed from sin and are strengthened by the indwelling Spirit to live for God.

 

If we are saved, now as part of those God has redeemed, we are to “show forth the praises of him who hath called (us) out of darkness into His marvellous light” (verse 9). By His mercy, we have been set free from bondage and have become the people of God. Let us rejoice in our salvation.

 

Call to Discipleship

 

Throughout Scripture, the story of redemption unfolds. In the Old Testament, it is seen in the deliverance of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. In the New Testament, it is observed in the accounts of lives bound by sin finding freedom in Christ through His shed blood. Redemption is freedom brought by God alone.

 

Many people are bound by sin today. Sometimes, even those who serve Christ struggle to find freedom from sin that entangles them. God is still listening for the anguished cries of people who are bound. He will answer those who cry out to Him and set them free.

 

As Christians, we need to proclaim the message of redemption to others. Then, they can be set free by the mercy and power of God. Then, they will come to know God and be empowered to live for Him.

 

Ministry in Action

 

The message of redemption needs to be heard by those who are without Christ. Some in your class may not know the Lord. Use these last moments to extend to them the message of God’s grace through the work of Christ on the cross.

 

Daily Bible Readings

Mon: Redemption from Evil. Genesis 48:8-16

Tue: Redemption of Vowed Persons. Leviticus 27:1-8

Wed: Redeemed out of Ruin. 1 Kings 1:28-34

Thur: Blessing God for Redemption. Luke 1:67-75

Fri: Redemption Drawing Near. Luke 21:25-33

Sat: Song of Redemption. Revelation 5:9-14

 

 

 

Action Point
PS: If you would like to have an online course on any of the courses that you found on this blog, I will be glad to do that on individual and corporate level, I will be very glad to do that I have trained several individuals and groups and they are doing well in their various fields of endeavour. Some of those that I have trained includes staffs of Dangote Refinery, FCMB, Zenith Bank, New Horizons Nigeria among others. Please come on Whatsapp and let’s talk about your training. You can reach me on Whatsapp HERE. Please note that I will be using Microsoft Team to facilitate the training. 

I know you might agree with some of the points that I have raised in this article. You might not agree with some of the issues raised. Let me know your views about the topic discussed. We will appreciate it if you can drop your comment. Thanks in anticipation.

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THE SAVIOUR IS BORN (CHRISTMAS)

 

 

Memory Verse: Luke 2: 11

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord (KJN).

 

Central Truth
Jesus was born to be the Saviour of the world.

 

The Lesson Outline

1. Humble Birth
A. God Worked Through Circumstances

Luke 2:1-5
B. The King of Kings Was Placed in a Manger
Luke 2:6-7

 

2. Angelic Announcement
A. Good News Proclaimed
*Luke 2:8-14*

B. Good News Embraced
Luke 2:15-20

 

3. Seeing God’s Salvation
A. Jesus Recognised as the Saviour

Luke 2:21-35
B. Jesus Proclaimed as the Saviour

Luke 2:36-38

*Learning Objectives*

At the end of this lesson, students will be able to:

1. Understand the significance of the Saviour’s birth in the lives of individuals, communities, and nations.

2. Be confident in sharing the true meaning of Christmas with unbelievers.

3. Be motivated to do something tangible to represent Christ to
someone in need this week.

 

Introducing the Lesson
The Christmas story is perhaps better known to the secular world than any other account in the Bible.
Through the years, Christmas has been mentioned in countless television shows and movies, through music created just for the holiday season (by believers and unbelievers alike), and in displays of nativities that dot the landscape in the month of December.

 

However. the simple-yet-profound significance of Christmas is often lost in the rush and busyness of the season. People too often fail to grasp the powerful truth that God sent His only Son into this world as the sacrifice for sin, to be the Saviour of the world.

 

The Holy Scriptures

Luke 2:1. And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed.

4. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea,
unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)

5. To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.

6. And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she
should be delivered.

7. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling. clothes,
and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

8. And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

9. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

10. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of
great joy, which shall be to all people.

11. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.

12. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling
clothes, lying in a manger.

22. And when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were accomplished, they brought him to Jerusalem, to present him to the Lord.

25. And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of lsrael: and the Holy Ghost was upon him.

26. And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.

27. And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child
Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law,

28. Then, took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said,

29. Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word.

Commentary and Application

1. Humble Birth
A. God Worked Through Circumstances–Luke 2:1-5

The Bible does not give the ages of Joseph and Mary, though it does refer to Joseph’s occupation as a
carpenter (see Matthew 13:54-56).

This placed him within the social status of the working class; not priest or teacher. but not among the poorest classes either. Both Joseph and Mary were descendants of King David.

The census forced people to return to the cities of their ancestral birth to register (verse 3). For Joseph, this meant travelling about100 miles south from Nazareth to Bethlehem, the city of David.

 

This was at least a three-day journey. It would have been inconvenient for Joseph, but with Mary, who was pregnant, it would have been trying and wearisome (verses 4-5).

It is noteworthy that God used a pagan ruler’s census to bring the King of kings to the city of Bethlehem for the most momentous birth in all history. Jacob had prophesied over his son, Judah, that the king’s Sceptre would not be taken from his line (see Genesis 49:10).

 

This prophecy would find its ultimate fulfilment in Jesus. Micah had prophesied that from Bethlehem would come a “ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting” (Micah 5:2, KJV).

 

 

God can use the circúmstances
of life to fulfil His purpose. Through difficult circumstances, He can open a way for miracles in our lives that would not have been possible if conditions had remained the same.

 

God can also guide us through difficult situations that help us grow spiritually and bring honour to Him.

 

Questions for Application

What are some spęcific events you can recall from the Christmas story that are recorded in Scripture?

 

Describe a time when you endured a difficult situation that ultimately helped you, grow spiritually. In what ways did you grow?

 

B. The King of Kings Was Placed in a Manger–Luke 2:6-7

As a result of our many
Christmas pageants, we often imagine that Mary and Joseph trudged into Bethlehem mere hours
before Jesus was born and knocked on doors looking for a place to stay.

However, the text does not tell us how long they were in Bethlehem before the time came for the birth of Mary’s baby.

 

It may have been a few hours, or it could have been a few weeks, since Joseph was likely surrounded by family who had gone to Bethlehem for the census and also may well have had relatives living there.

 

We do know that they found a place that was safe, private, and humble for His birth. It was a stable
for animals, perhaps in a cave attached to a family home.

 

Mary wrapped her firstborn baby in strips of cloth and placed Him in a manger (Luke 2:6-7).

 

Those born into royalty, riches, and privilege often: struggle to relate to the poor and outcasts of society.

 

The pain and despair of those who struggle to adequately feed themselves and provide the basic needs of life are unfamiliar to many who have enjoyed the abundance a
privileged birth often brings.

 

Jesus, the Son of God, came into the world in humble circumstances. This is a powerful reminder that He can relate to our weaknesses and understand the struggles we face in life.

 

Looking at the events of this first Christmas, we can catch a glimpse of the heart of God —His great compassion for us. Jesus came into the world without fanfare and without the
privileges normaly afforded to royalty.

 

In that lowly stable, everlasting hope and light came to the world in the person of Jesus Christ.

 

Question for Application
What significance do you find in the Saviour’s coming into the world through humble circumstances?”

 

Read Philippians 2:5-11. Paul opens this passage about Christ with an admonition that we should have the same attitude Jesus had. How can you make that happen in everyday life?

 

2. Angelic Announcement
A. Good News Proclaimed–Luke 2:8–14

 

While the birth of Jesus was humble in its circumstances, it was not completely without fanfare. The birth announcement was made in such a way that it pointed again to Jesus’ coming to be the Saviour of the world.

 

Bordered by hills, Bethlehem was a good place to raise sheep, often to be offered as sacrifices. So it is fitting, perhaps, that the first announcement of the Saviour’s birth was made to a group of shepherds.

 

While watching ver their flocks at night to protect them from thieves and attack by wild animals, an angel of the Lord came to these shepherds.

 

Though they may have been largely unnoticed by the world, God invited them to visit His Son. In the light of the glory of the Lord, these poor shepherds were terrified (Luke 2:8-9).

 

The angel then spoke a word of peace. The shepherds were not to fear because the message was one of good news for all people (verse 10).

 

The angel spoke of Bethlehem, the city of David, where the Messiah had just been born. He would save
the people from their sins.

 

And the shepherds would find the Baby lying in a manger, or feeding trough, wrapped in strips of cloth (verses 11-12). This was a lowly birth for the highly exalted Son of God.

 

 

When the message had been given to the shepherds, a large number of angels appeared, praising God, who is glorious above all things. Through His Son, God offers peace to all people (verses 13-14).

 

 

The peace the angels spoke of extends to us today. We must first see the need to carry this message to individuals in our communities, for there can be no peace in society without peace in each person, family, and neighbourhood. It starts with prayer, for this is a divine work, and extends to people one-on-one.

 

May we all find’ our place in extending God’s peace through our hearts and our hands.

 

Question for Application

What special significance might there have been In the fact that shepherds visited Christ that night? What does the Bible, Including the Old Testamernt, say about shepherds?

 

How can we take the message of, peace to a world so torn apart by pain, uncertainty, selfishness, and violence?

 

B. Good News Embraced–Luke 2:15-20

The angelic proclamation
inspired action, which is the response of faith.

 

After the angels had left, the shepherds decided they would go to Bethlehem to see this newborn Baby (Luke 2:15). They were not going in order to prove if this was true or not, but to give praise for what had been told them.

 

After a hurried search, they found Mary and Joseph, with the Baby lying in a manger (verse 16). Their faith led them to find the promised Messiah.

 

 

When God speaks to us through His Word, we should also be inspired to act. Faith should produce a change in how we go about our lives.

 

When their time with the Baby was done, the shepherds once more expressed the simple faith that pleases God: They reported the good news to others about Jesus.
The words of God’s grace from the lowliest of men amazed those they approached (verses 17-18).

 

 

They did not just rejoice in the moment, only to keep quiet about it afterward. They went out and told others, who were in turn astonished by their message.

 

Mary chose to keep these things to herself for a time, treasuring her memories of these events in her heart. She pondered them often (verse 19).

 

Also, the shepherds returned to their flocks, glorifying and praising God for what they had experienced (verse 20). Their response of praise to God lifts our hearts yet today, for we know that God’s grace extends to people at every level and status of life.

 

 

Even today, we can respond to God’s grace, choosing to lift our voices fo Him in praise through the day and to recognise His mercies in each day’s events.

 

And we can also tell others about the Saviour, who came to bring peace and God’s favour to all people.

 

 

Question for Application
What kinds of thoughts and emotions might the shepherds have experien ced that night?

 

What thoughts and emotions do you experience when God has done something amazing in your life?

 

 

How can you express your worship to God for sending His Son to be the Saviour of the world?

 

3. Seeing God’s Salvation
A. Jesus Recognised as the Saviour–Luke 2:21-35

 

Mary and Joseph had the Baby Jesus circumcised on the eighth day, in accordance with the law of Moses (Luke 2:21).

 

He was given the name Jesus, the name the angel told Joseph to give Him (see Matthew 1:21). The name “Jesus” means “the Lord saves” and reflects the mission of the Messiah.

 

 

Jewish mothers went through a time of ritual purification after giving birth, which was forty days for the birth of a son (see Leviticus 12:1-5).

 

Following this time of purification, Mary and Joseph took Jesus present Him to the Lord at the temple
(Luke 2:21-23).

 

This ritual would involve the sacrifice of a pair of doves or pigeons for the poor, or a lamb for the wealthy (verse 24; see Leviticus 12:8).

 

 

In Jerusalem at that time was a man named Simeon, a devout follower of God who was longing for the Messiah to come and rescue Israel.

 

 

The Holy Spirit was with him and had revealed to him that he would not die until he saw Christ, the anointed One (verses 25-26).

Divinely directed, he went to Mary and Joseph in the temple and took the Baby in his arms, offering praise to God for the fulfilment of His promise to Israel to provide salvation (verses 27-28).

 

Simeon could die in peace, for the Messiah had come –the One who would be a light to the Gentiles and the glory of Israel’s people (verses 29-32).

 

 

Mary and Joseph were amazed at what was said (verse 33). It was not that they were unaware of who Jesus was, and is, but the scope of what He was to accomplish was being made clear to them.

 

He would be not only the glory of the people of Israel, but He would also be a light to the Gentiles (verse 32).

The blessing of Simeon may well have surprised these parents even more. The Child would cause those who believe to be raised up and those who deny Him to fall.

 

Simeon also said that a sword would pierce Mary’s heart, referring to Jesus’ suffering that she would one day observe (verses 34-35).

 

 

Question for Application

In what ways can a Christian today reawaken the sense of wonder and amazement that was experienced that first Christmas?

 

 

How would you answer someone who asked what Chris tmas means to you?

 

B. Jesus Proclaimed as the Saviour–Luke 2:36-38

While Joseph and Mary were at the temple in Jerusalem to present Jesus, a prophetess, Anna, approached them. Her husband had died after just seven years of marriage, and now she stayed at the temple praying and fasting continually (Luke 2:36-37).

 

Moved by the Spirit, Anna gave thanks to God, speaking to those around her who longed for the redemption of Jerusalem (verse 38).

 

People around us are looking for something meaningful to fill their lives. At Christmas, this search is heightened as people look to recapture some sense of the peace or joy that the birth of Jesus promises.

 

This desire can be met as Christians proclaim Jesus as the Saviour of the world. The Christmas season provides many opportunities to share with the lost “good tidings of great joy” (verse 10, KJV).

 

One way to do this is to take part in giving to those in need, perhaps through the church or a local need- based agency.

 

Work together with your family and friends to relieve some of the stress that single parents those living alone might be feeling at this time of year. There are many ways we can help others come to see the truth that Jesus is the Saviour of the world.

 

 

In a world that is in darkness, this message of light and hope is vital. Let us seek the Spirit to guide us to coworkers, neighbours, or others who may be longing for some sign of hope and peace in a holiday that has become mostly materialistic.

 

Question for Application
How did Anna use people’s expectations to tell them about Jesus?

What hopes and dreams of others can we use to share the story of Christ?

Call to Discipleship
Jesus arrived on the Earth in humble circumstances and His first worshippers were shepherds. He was also worshipped by an elderly man who had been waiting for His arrival and by an elderly woman who served others as she waited.

 

All of these individuals were eager to praise Him and
testify about what they had seen. God also calls us to share His message with those around us.

 

Christmas is a great time to do so because people can be especially open to the message of the gospel at this time.

 

Ministry in Action

Develop a succinct way you can share the true meaning of Christmas with people you come into contact with during this season.

 

Join with other class members or have your own family provide food and/or gifts for someone in need.

 

Pray for those who have never heard the true Christmas story, whether in your own community or in some other country.

 

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Memory Verse: Luke 14:23

The lord said unto the servant, Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled (KJV).

Central Truth

Believers should follow Jesus’ example of engaging with sinners.

The Lesson Outline
1. Jesus Heals on the Sabbath

A. Responding to Need

Luke 14:1-4

B. A Question of
Compassion

Luke 14:5-6

2. Jesus Teaches Humility and Service

A. Humility Rewarded
Luke 14:7-11

B. Helping the Helpless
Luke 14:12-14

3. The Great Banquet Invitation
A. Room at the Table

Luke 14:15-20
B. Compel Them to Come
Luke 14:21-24

Learning Objectives
At the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
1. Develop a deeper understanding of and appreciation for Jesus’
teachings on compassion, humility, and generosity.

2. Commit to having a welcoming attitude toward those in need of God’s grace.

3. ldentify Christlike actions of reaching those outside of God’s kingdom, and pray that God will provide ways for students to minister to them.

 

Introducing the Lesson

Today’s lesson describes Jesus highlighting attitudes of compassion, humility, and a proper response to God. He teaches the importance of Compassion as He heals a man even when others thought the timing was not right. He then shares how humility brings about different results than pride, and how believers must wholeheartedly embrace what God has for them. In all of this, we will find that both our attitudes and our actions play key roles in how we determine to walk with God and obey Christ.

 

The Holy Scriptures

Luke 14:1-16
[1]And it came to pass, as he went into the house of one of the chief Pharisees to eat bread on the sabbath day, that they watched him.
[2]And, behold, there was a certain man before him which had the dropsy.
[3]And Jesus answering spake unto the lawyers and Pharisees, saying, Is it lawful to heal on the sabbath day?
[4]And they held their peace. And he took him, and healed him, and let him go;
[5]And answered them, saying, Which of you shall have an ass or an ox fallen into a pit, and will not straightway pull him out on the sabbath day?
[6]And they could not answer him again to these things.
[7]And he put forth a parable to those which were bidden, when he marked how they chose out the chief rooms; saying unto them,
[8]When thou art bidden of any man to a wedding, sit not down in the highest room; lest a more honourable man than thou be bidden of him;
[9]And he that bade thee and him come and say to thee, Give this man place; and thou begin with shame to take the lowest room.
[10]But when thou art bidden, go and sit down in the lowest room; that when he that bade thee cometh, he may say unto thee, Friend, go up higher: then shalt thou have worship in the presence of them that sit at meat with thee.
[11]For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.
[12]Then said he also to him that bade him, When thou makest a dinner or a supper, call not thy friends, nor thy brethren, neither thy kinsmen, nor thy rich neighbours; lest they also bid thee again, and a recompence be made thee.
[13]But when thou makest a feast, call the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind:
[14]And thou shalt be blessed; for they cannot recompense thee: for thou shalt be recompensed at the resurrection of the just.
[15]And when one of them that sat at meat with him heard these things, he said unto him, Blessed is he that shall eat bread in the kingdom of God.
[16]Then said he unto him, A certain man made a great supper, and bade many:

 

Commentary and Application

1. Jesus Heals on the Sabbath
A. Responding to Need–Luke 14:1-4
In all four Gospels, Jesus met those whose rigid stance on Sabbath Law blinded them to othèr aspects of God’s will. Luke 14 begins with a Sabbath day meal Jesus attended at the home of a leading Pharisee. (This particular man was one who carried authority, either as a member of the Jewish ruling council or over other Pharisees).

 

There, Jesus encountered a man suffering with “dropsy” (verse 2, KJV), a disease produced by
accumulation of fluid in the arms and legs, resulting in swelling- a disease then regarded as incurable. “Behold” (KJV) suggests that the man appeared suddenly in front of Jesus. His presence at the feast may have been orchestrated by Jesus’ enemies, eager to force a
confrontation as they watched Him intently.

 

Human beings-whether as individuals or conspiring together -may imagine they are in Control as they scheme against others. However, God freely demonstrates His power to bring about His own purposes by working through–or contrary to the plans of sinful human beings. Any intent by Jesus’ enemies to trap Him was overshadowed by His compassionate act of healing the man who stood before Him, thus fulfilling God’s purposes (see Acts 10:38).

 

Before the healing, Jesus asked, “Is it permitted in the law to heal people on the Sabbath day, or not?”
(Luke 14:3, NLT). This posed a dilemma for the Pharisees and experts in the Law. On one hand, the Law did not actually forbid healing on the Sabbath. But if they admitted it was lawful, they would be unable to criticise Jesus afterward. Those who attempted to trap Jesus using His own compassion were themselves trapped in silence by their own duplicity.

 

Having asked their opinion and receiving no answer, Jesus then healed the man (verse 4). At times, Jesus healed with a simple touch (see Luke 4:40); here, He took hold of the one needing healing. In a similar way, the apostle Paul put his arms around a young man who had died, and raised him to life (see Acts 20:10).

 

Questions for Application

In what ways have Christians, historically or more recently, let a poor interpretation of Scripture hinder their ministry to others?

 

How does Satan attempt to trap believers, even when they are doing the right things? How can we overcome these traps?

 

B. A Question of Compassion–Luke 14:5-6
Before the Pharisees could respond with criticism or accusation after the healing, Jesus spoke first. He did not ask them about the actions of people in general, or even about the Jewish community at large. Rather, He focused on the attitudes of the Pharisees and Law experts who were present (Luke 14:5). Would they rescue valuable livestock on the Sabbath, or let a child suffer and perhaps die, believing the Sabbath required it?

 

Jesus’ question was rhetorical: None of them would let their child or animal remain trapped.
Compassion even for
livestock-demanded action. Compassion also moved Jesus to heal the man with dropsy moments before. Those who questioned Him were silent, powerless to argue against the need for compassion regardless of whether or not it was the Sabbath (verse 6).

Questions for Application

What are some practical ways believers can show compassion, even to strangers?

How can the the ministry of compassion open the door for sharing the gospel?

2. Jesus Teaches Humility and Service
A. Humility Rewarded– Luke 14:7-11

Starting in Luke 14:7, Jesus turned His attention to those vying for position at the feast. He had earlier corrected His own disciples as they argued among themselves about their relative importance (see Luke 9:46-48). Here in Luke 14, Jesus watched as those attending this Sabbath feast “were trying to sit in the seats of honour near the head of the table” (verse 7, NLT), perhaps pushing or shoving one another in
the process.

 

As Jesus stressed the need for humility, we are reminded of Proverbs 25:6-7, in which Solomon warned those who try to exalt themselves before kings. Jesus turned His message into a parable, picturing His audience as the characters. He began by telling them not to pick the place of honour when invited to a wedding feast-the very opposite of the behaviour these leading Jews had just exhibited (Luke 14:8).

 

All those who would seat themselves in places of honour risked the humiliation of being reseated in the lowest position (verse 9). A host may seat his guests in order of their age, their rank, or their social position. He is also free to give the place of prominence to someone he values personally for whatever reason. In any case, the guest who pushes himself forward is shamed when he is moved to the lowliest place, a place left empty as the other guests fought over the better seats.

 

Jesus has taught us to practice humility as the alternative to pride an alternative that will be rewarded (verse 10). When guests voluntarily sit down in the lowest place, their host may insist they move to a more exalted position. As an added touch of tenderness, the host in the parable calls his humble guest “friend,” even as the host did not address his proud guest this way.

 

Jesus stated the underlying principle of His words in verse 11:
One must choose between humility, which results in exaltation, and self- exaltation, which results in humiliation. This important teaching is repeated later in the New Testament (cf., James 4:6; 1 Peter 5:5; see also Proverbs 3:34).

 

Questions for Application
In what ways did Jesus model perfect humility for us in both His attitudes and actions?

How can humble living help us draw others to Christ?

 

B. Helping the Helpless– Luke 14:12-14

After teaching His fellow guests against fighting for social position, Jesus applied that same priority to His host. Just as an invited guest may choose a seat-and be exalted or humiliated based on that choice a host chooses who is invited in the first place.

 

In naming those not to invite, Jesus may have been looking around the room at those the host treated with the closeness of a friend or family, and those whose appearance displayed wealth position (Luke 14:12). Such quests would likely return the invitation to satisfy the obligations of family, society, or wealth. If so, that is all the reward the host would receive.

 

Instead, Jesus said, invite “the poor, the crippled, the lame, and the blind” (verse 13, NLT), those who lacked basic needs, and who could not return the host’s generosity by inviting him to a feast of their own.
The word “crippled” (“maimed,” KJV) referred to an individual who was missing a limb or unable to use that limb.

 

Jesus said that when the host invited those in need, such a host would be rewarded by God (verse 14). This reward does not take place in this life, but in the next. The choice Jesus offers is a stark one: You can choose to act in such a way that people will repay you, or you can choose to act in such a way that God will genuinely bless you with everlasting spiritual blessings.

Questions for Application

How can Christians use whatever wealth or status they have received to draw attention to God’s goodness ?

What are some ways believers can stay focused on pleasing God rather than trying to please people?

3. The Great Banquet Invitation

A. Room at the Table-Luke 14:15-20

While hearing Jesus téach, one of the guests was reminded of the Jewish hope in the kingdom of God (Luke 14:15). The Jews looked forward to a kingdom set up by the Messiah, a time of victory over their national enemies –and a time of Jewish authority over the Gentile world.

 

Jesus did not respond directly to the man’s comment. Rather, He used a parable to show a more inclusive view of the future Kingdom, pictured as a “great feast to which many were invited (verse 16, NLT). It is clear that the banquet host in the parable represents God, who invites all to accept the sacrifice of Christ and to enter into the everlasting life of the Kingdom (see John 3:5,14-17).

 

Sadly, when the master sent his servant to announce the time of the great feast, those invited made excuses instead of accepting the host’s generous hospitality (Luke 14:17-20). Two made the shallow excuse that they needed to examine purchases they had made–major ourchases they had likely examined already. What an insult to reject the Master’s offer. This represents those who put their own interests ahead of the kingdom of God (see Matthew 6:33).

 

The last invitee Jesus specifically mentioned was a man who declined the invitation by saying, “I just got married, so I cant come” (Luke 14:20, NLT). According to Deuteronomy 24:5, a newly married Jewish male was exempt from military service and other public duty for an entire year. And so, for the man to make this excuse was an even deeper insult than that given by the other two men-as if one could compare the joy of a banquet to being conscripted into military service!

 

Question for Application
How is God’s invita tion to Kingdom living greater than any other invitation a person can ever receive? Explain.

What does Jesus mean when He says, “Seek the kingdom of God above all else” (Matthew 6:33, NLT)?

B. Compel Them to Come–Luke 14:21-24
In the parable master was furious when he heard that his offer had been rejected by all who were invited (Luke 14:21). He responded by ordering his servant to go into “the streets and alleys of the town” (NLT)-places avoided by prideful religious people-and bring in the financially needy and physically disabled.

Since there was still room at the banquet (verse 22), the generous host issued one more directive to his servant: Go outside the city to the “country lanes and behind the hedges” (verse 23, NLT) and compel those he found to attend the great banquet. In the context of Jesus’ ministry, this likely refers to God’s inclusion of Gentiles-non-Jewish people —in His kingdom.

Jesus was sent first to the Jewish people, whose experience with the Law and the prophets served as the foundation for His death and resurrection. Following His ic ascension, the disciples were all the entire world Jews and Gentiles alike-the good news of salvation through Him, By showing God’s desire to include those dwelling outside of the Jewish community, Jesus foreshadowed the Great Commission to welcome all into God’s kingdom. Those who respond positively to God’s invitation will forever celebrate in His presence. On the other hand, those who reject God’s invitation will experienice God’s judgement.

 

Question for Application
What can Jesus’ example teach us about loving treatment toward the poor and those who have disabilities?

How does knowing there is still room at God’s tàble motivate us to share the gospel with others?

Why did the excuses made by those in the parable anger the generóus host?

Call to Discipleship
Jesus used various settings to teach, whether at seaside to invite His
listeners to fish for people, or near a collection box to share how God sees the
heart of the giver (see Matthew 4:18-20; Mark 12:41-44). in today’s lesson.
Jesus used the setting of a Sabbath feast to teach that compassion is to be
practised every day of the week. He reversed conventional thinking by
teaching that promotion comes after individuals humble themselves.
Humility, as well as compassion, is displayed when a host invites those who
cannot return the favour. The greatest Host of all is God the Father, whose
invitation for the Kingdom is the greatest of all.

Ministry in Action

Who in your life would benefit from an act of compassion? Make plans to serve that person in Jesus’ name this week.
Consider your actions when you have opportunity to either promoté yourself or promote someone else? Do you show humble deference to others
and give them an occasion to use their gifts and talents?

ldentify anything that keeps you from fully participating in God’s kingdom. Ask for the power of the Spirit to overcome this impediment.

 

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PS: I know you might agree with some of the points that I have raised in this article. You might not agree with some of the issues raised. Let me know your views about the topic discussed. We will appreciate it if you could drop your comment. Thanks in anticipation.

CRMNuggets is committed to fact-checking in a fair, transparent and non-partisan manner. Therefore, if you’ve found an error in any of our reports, be it factual, editorial, or an outdated post, please contact us to tell us about it.

 

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Memory Verse: Luke 10:27

Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself_ (KJV)

 

Central Truth

Our love for God is demonstrated by our service to others._

The Lesson Outline

1. Love the Lord
A. “What Should I Do to Inherit Eternal Life?”

Luke 10:25-26

B. “Love the Lord…and Your Neighbour”

Luke 10:27-28

2. Love Your Neighbour

A. “Who Is My Neighbour?”

Luke 10:29- 35

B. “Go and Do the Same”

Luke 10:36-37

3. Love Without Distraction

A. Where ls Your Focus?
Luke 10:38-40

B. Set Proper Priorities
Luke 10:41-42

Learning Objectives

At the end of this lesson, students will be able to:

1. Perceive the importance of love of God and others, and see such love as the motivating factor of life.

2. Demonstrate love for God and others in their daily lives.

3. Show love for all, regardless of ethnicity, economic status, and other areas that sometimes cause division.

Introducing the Lesson

It is common for Christians to wonder whether or not their lives are truly pleasing in God’s sight. Some believers even find themselves troubled by this, feeling like they need to be better and do more for God to make Him pleased with them. Yet this reflects a misunderstanding of! Christianity, a perspectlve that ís too focused on our own efforts. The truth is that God is pleased when we love Him, and then love others in response to that love. As Our lives are motivated by such love, we will in turn live in His ways.

 

Jesus made this clear when He was approached concerning the greatest commandment and the true meaning of the Law. Our Saviour’s answer to these questlons was always the same: Love God with all your heart, then love, others as yourself.

The Holy Scriptures

Luke 10:25 `“And, behold, a certain lawyer stood up, and tempted him, saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?

26. He said unto him, What is written in the law? how readest thou?

27. And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself.

28. And he said unto him, Thou hast answered right: this do, and thou shalt live.

29 But he, willing to justify himself, said unto Jesus, And who is my neighbour?

30. And Jesus answering said, A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, which stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead.

33. But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him,

34. And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him.

35. And on the morrow when he departed, he took out two pence, and gave them to the host, and said unto him, Take care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee.

36. Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbour unto him that fell among the thieves?

37. And he said, He that shewed mercy on him. Then said Jesus unto him, Go, and do thou likewise.

38. Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house.“`

Commentary and Application

1. Love the Lord

A. “What Should I Do to Inherit Eternal Life?”

Luke 10:25-26

Luke 10 records a situation in which an expert in the Law put Jesus to the test (verse 25; “lawyer,” KJV).

More specifically, he was a Jewish Scribe, or one who concerned himself with interpreting the Law. The scribe’s motive for the question was likely not sincere; he may have even been sent by the scribes and Pharisees to trap Jesus into some kind of statement that could have been interpreted as blasphemy against God or the Law. However, the man’s question to Jesus was an important one: “What should I do to inherit eternal life?” (verse 25, NLT).

 

Jesus did not directly answer the question, but instead asked questions of His own (verse 26).

 

Jesus apparently wanted to search His questioner in order to compel him to think about what the correct answer might be. It is important to note that, in turning the man’s question back on him, Jesus appealed to the authority of all the Scriptures in existence at that time (see also Matthew 22:40) and, more specifically, the Law.

 

What follows in Luke 10:27, then, can be seen as a summary of every command in the
Law. All that God commnands, then, can be in some way derived from what is about to be stated.

Questions for Application

If someone asked you how to get to heaven, how would you respond?_

Why do you think the religious leaders of the day were so intent on trapping Jesus regarding the Law?

B. “Love the Lord…and Your Neighbour”

Luke 10:27-28
The scribe’s answer to Jesus’ qestion of what the law of Mosessaid proved to be right on target. Clearly, the man knew and understood the Law (Luke 10:27).

 

Yet while Jesus acknowledged the correctness of his response, the Saviour did not leave it at that. To simply say, “”You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your strength, and all your mind.’ And, ‘Love your neighbour as yourself” was inadequate. The difference was found in what the man knew versus what he did: “”Right! Jesus told him. ‘Do this and you wil! live!” (verse 28, NLT). Just knowing what is right is not enough. The scribe was responsible to live the truth that he understood. God’s commands are to be acted upon.

 

 

The two-fold response of the scribe reflected two very familiar passages of the Law. The first, found in Deuteronomy 6:4-5, is often referred to as the shema. The Hebrew word shema literally means “hear or “listen,” and is the first word of the passage. “Hear, O Israel (verse 4, KJV). God told the nation of Israel to focus on the heart of His commandments. The heart of the Law required that the nation love the  Lord their God supremely (verse 5).

Jewish thought has long regarded the soul to be the essence of the human being. It was considered to be the place of a person’s understanding, emotions, and will.

 

The soul was viewed as the essence of life and personhood. So, loving the Lord with all one’s soul meant with the entire substance of his being. Without love, obedience to the commandments of the Lord would be little more than a legalistic exercise. But love can transform duty into true, sincere commitment. God desires that our walk with Him be accompanied by joy, finding pleasure in being His people.

 

With regard to the second portion of the scribe’s response, in Leviticus 19, God provided a list of various regulations about how the Israelites were to treat one another. Leviticus 19:9-19 lists’ a variety of instructions, joined together by the repeated refrain, “I am the Lord” (verses 10, 12, 14, 16, 18).

 

This was a strong reminder that these commands came from God himself, so the people were accountable to God if they mistreated one another. It is easy to forget that God’s commands are more than just restrictions. We are not just to avoid certain behaviours, such as stealing, lying, or defrauding someone. The heart of His commands is positive, even as it is restrictive. When we understand them properly, we recognise that we must seek to love people and treat them with godly
compassion.

 

Just knowing the truth is not enough. We must put into practice what we know to be true. Scripture continues to say to us what Jesus said to the scribe: “Do this and you will live” (Luke 10:28, NLT).

Right thinking is good, but it is meaningless uniess a person’s lifestyle reflects his or her understanding. What the world needs from Christians is not just words of truth. The world needs actions that demonstrate these beliefs. When those who say they are followers of Jesus live like followers of Jesus, they will become salt and light to a lost and dying world.

Question for Application

What are some practical ways that we show our love for God?

How will loving others impact the way you live?

*2. Love Your Neighbour*
A. “Who Is My Neighbour?”

Luke 10:29-35
Jewish religious teaching at that time had twisted the teaching of Leviticus 19:18 and restricted the obligation of pious Jews to only those who deserved their love and compassion. Jesus made this point when He said on another occasion, Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy’ (Matthew 5:43, KJV).

 

Those who said this were ignoring the teachings of Leviticus 19, which calls upon people to show the same love for the foreigner as for the fellow Jew. (See Leviticus 19:33-34; note that a common practice in debating the Law in New Testament times involved citing a portion of a larger passage, where the unquoted part of the passage is the greater focus of the quote. The scribe knew very well the verses that answering the question as to who is one’s neighbour.)

 

To answer the scribe’s question Jesus responded with one of His one most familiar parables, the Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:30-35). The parable conveys a vivid contrast. The two people who failed to carry out the true meaning of the Law were religious men.

 

One was a priest and the other a Levite. Both men likely were on their way to perform religious duties. While their way, they chose not to help a person (generally regarded as a Jewish person) who was in desperate need. They failed the test of loving one’s neighbour. But then the parable introduced another man, a Samaritan. He was from a group of people despised by the Jews, even as they themselves despised the Jews.

 

The Samaritans were those Jews who were left behind when the Northern Kingdom of Israel was taken into Assyrian captivity. The Samaritans intermarried with Gentile people groups and mingled the worship of God with the worship of idols (see 2 Kings 17). As a result, the Jewish people saw the Samaritans as detestable.

The Samaritan’s actions, then, demonstrated the command to love one’s neighbour as one would love oneself -a fundamental command of the Law. Note the irony in Jesus parable. The most devout of the Jews, who would have seen themselves as a far more righteous than the Samaritan, failed in the most basic of commands, even as the Samaritan obeyed those commands.

There is a powerful message here for Christians today. The
community of faith is to be a place of love. Then, as a result, the love of
God will flow from us through loving actions to the world around
us-those near to us and those who might be seen as hostile-testifying
to the transforming love of God.

Question for Application

Why do you think the command to love can be difficult even for Christians?

What are some practical ways that we demonstrate love for our neighbours?

B. “Go and Do the Same”

Luke 10:36-37
This parable is extremely important for us as believers today, as is its clear message as to who exactly is our neighbour, and how we are to treat that person. We need to show compassion and mercy to anyone in need, regardless of who they are, where they come from, or what their spiritual background might be. Only in this way can we obey the Command to love our neighbours as ourselves. Religious titles mean nothing. It is our willingness to show mercy and assist others that pleases God even if we think of that person as an enemy. We must ask ourselves, “What kind of neighbours will I be to others?”

 

We are also reminded that Jesus summarised the Old Testament Law
as loving God with one’s whole being and then loving others as oneself. We must not dismiss the teachings of the Old Testament as antiquated, for they inform us about the heart of God, and His desire for a relationship with people is rooted in love. The Christian life is relational. We must live in a right relationship with God and other people. When we embrace this truth and live accordingly, we will grow spiritually.

Question for Application

What might Jesus be saying to you today through the Parable of the Good Samaritan?

What groups of people might qualify as “modern – day Samaritans” for Christians, and how can we minister love to them?

3. Love without Distraction
A. Where Is Your Focus?

Luke 10:38-40

 

It was Jewish custom. to welcome travellers into one’s home for a meal and a place to sleep. So, when Jesus made His way into the village of His friend Martha, she followed custom and invited Him to be a guest in her home (Luke 10:38). She knew what was expected in this situation: Fix a meal, provide something to drink, and make sure the guest was comfortable. This was simply part of being a Jewish Woman in New Testament times.

 

Most likely, Jesus wasn’t the only guest in I Martha’s home. Jesus’ disciples were likely present, as well as others who would have gathered to hear Jesus’ teaching. As a result, it would seem reasonable to expec that Mary join her sister in caring for their guests. But this was not the case. Instead, Mary sat with those who were listening to Jesus teach (verse 39). Mary made no effort to care for His needs. She just made herself comfortable and listened to His words.

 

Martha and Mary were focused on two different things. Martha was
focused on the preparations that needed to be made. Mary was focused on what Jesus had to say.Martha, in what appeared to be frustration with both her sister and to help her with the I hostess’ duties Jesus, appealed to Jesus s to tell Mary (verse 40).

 

It is easy to sympathise with Martha. Most people know the stress
of having unplanned visitors. Martha just wanted some help from her sister. Indeed, Christians living in Western society often relate better to Martha than to Mary.

 

Our culture encourages people to be “doers often, the focus is placed on the outer development of a person, minimising the development of the inner being. This can even happen in the church, where the unspoken message is, “How would the work of the church ever get done if everyone just sat around and communicated with God”?

 

In Jesus’ response to Martha’s question, discussed below, we see
that there is a time to focus on moments with Jesus and there is a
tine for service. ldentifying these proper times will help us keep the right perspective in our walk with God.

Question for Application

Do you ever feel that your life is out of balance, and that you are more focused on “doing” than on spending time lis tening to Jesus? Explain._

How can Christians find the balance between doing and listening?_

B. Set Proper Priorities

Luke 10:41-42

Jesus responded to Martha with a gentle rebuke (Luke 10:41). She was allowing the urgent to get in the way of what was truly important. At that point in time, the priority was spending time with Him, listening to His words (verse 42). This is why Jesus commended Mary for the choice she made. There would be time enough later to be busy seeing to the needs of the guests.

 

We can often struggle with our priorities today, as well. We must
make certain that we don’t become so involved in the tasks of the Kingdom that we ignore the King.

 

Christians might become so focused on service that they fail to develop their relationship with Jesus. The incident with Martha and Mary points us to the truth that both devotion and service are commendable. But we must be balanced, and part of this rests on trusting God that the Kingdom work will be done. Let us take time to be with Jesus and learn from Him before we engage in service on His behalf. Such service needs to flow out of a relationship with the Lord.

 

Question for Application

_How might an overemphasis on “doing” reveal a lack of trust in God?_

_What will happen if we focus too much on doing and neglect fellowship with Christ?_

Call to Discipleship

Jesus taught that love must be the motivating factor in our lives. Loving
God and loving others requires us to prioritise both our time and our
resources. Being busy must not distract us from loving God or from reaching out to the needy among us.

Ministry in Action

Spend extra time this week worshipping and loving God for who He is.
Reach out to someone outside your family and usual circle of contacts to demonstrate love to them.

Look for some way you can volunteer to help the needy in your church or community regulary.

 

 

 

Action Point

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*Memory Verse: Matthew 9:37, 38*

 

________________________
_The harvest is truly pretentious, but the labourers are few; pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into into his harvest_ (KJV).
________________________
*Central Truth*
________________________
_God is calling His people to wholehearted involvement in service and evangelism_
________________________
*The Lesson Outline*
________________________
*1. Workers Needed*
A. Messengers Sent
*Luke 10:1*
B. A Great Harvest
*Luke 10:2*
________________________
*2. Followers Commissioned*
A. Going by Faith
*Luke 10:3-9*
B. Handling Rejection
*Luke 10:10-12*
________________________
*3. Reasons For Rejoicing*
A. Jesus the Source of Power
*Luke 10:17*
B. Belonging To Jesus
*Luke 10:18-20*
________________________
*Learning Objectives*
________________________
At the end of this lesson, students will be able to:

1. Acknowledge the urgency in reaching the lost with the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.

2. Make a wholehearted Commitment to the service of God and His Kingdom.

3. Determine to be a good and faithful follower of Jesus Christ to the end.
________________________
*Introducing the Lesson*
________________________
Jesus’ earthly mission was an urgent one. He had to preach the gospel to the lost sheep of Israel. He stayed only a short time in each
place so no part of the country was neglected. He preached in cities,
villages, and the open country. Uppermost in Jesus’ mind every moment was the lost condition of people. With Him were individuals
He had chosen to help spread the good news. They, too, could stay
only a short time in each place. Time was important and nothing was allowed to distract them from their work.

Rather than the Twelve who became apostles, this week’s lesson
looks at a group commonly referred
to as the “other seventy.” Their names are not listed, but their mission was vital.
________________________
*The Holy Scriptures*
________________________
*Luke 10:1* “`After these things the LORD appointed other seventy also, and sent them two and two before his face into every city and place, whither he himself would come.

2. Therefore said he unto them, The harvest truly is great, but the labourers are few: pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would send forth labourers into his harvest.

3. Go your ways: behold, I send you forth as lambs among wolves.

4. Carry neither purse, nor scrip, nor shoes: and salute no man by the way.

5. And into whatsoever house ye enter, first say, Peace be to this house.

6. And if the son of peace be there, your peace shall rest upon it: if not, it shall turn to you again.

7. And in the same house remain, eating and drinking such things as they give: for the labourer is worthy of his hire. Go not from house to house.

8. And into whatsoever city ye enter, and they receive you, eat such things as are set before you:

9. And heal the sick that are therein, and say unto them, The kingdom of God is come nigh unto you.

10. But into whatsoever city ye enter, and they receive you not, go your ways out into the streets of the same, and say,

11. Even the very dust of your city, which cleaveth on us, we do wipe off against you: notwithstanding be ye sure of this, that the kingdom of God is come nigh unto you.

12. But I say unto you, that it shall be more tolerable in that day for Sodom, than for that city.

13. Woe unto thee, Chorazin! woe unto thee, Bethsaida! for if the mighty works had been done in Tyre and Sidon, which have been done in you, they had a great while ago repented, sitting in sackcloth and ashes.“`
________________________
*Commentary and Application*
________________________
*1. Workers Needed*
A. Messengers Sent
*Luke 10:1*
Jesus’ instructions to the “other seventy were similar to those He
gave the Twelve when He sent them out, for their task was the same (Luke
9:1-6). Luke is the only Gospel writer who recorded the mission of these unnamed 70 disciples.

Chapter 10 marks a break in the narrative, hence it is introduced with the phrase, “After these things,” Chapter 9 records a variety of activity and teaching, culminating in Jesus’
encounter with three individuals who seemingly wanted to follow Him but did not comprehend the full meaning of discipleship. This providesa good
background for Jesus’ commission of
the seventy who did understand meant to commit themnselves to
Him in chapter 10. In some ways Jesus’ sending out this large number fore-shadowed the Church’s great
missionary movement of the future. They had one goal: Introducing lost
people to the one and only Saviour.
________________________
*Question for Application*
________________________
_Why did Jesus send these’messengers out in pairs instead of individually?_
________________________
This was common practice among Jews and was adopted by the
Early Church (Acts 13:2; 9:22). It provided companionship and support, especially when difficulties and discouragement were
encountered. Travel in those days was sometimes dangerous and a robber was less likely to attack two
people than one who was alone.

The task of the 70 missionaries was simple. If the populace of a community had already heard of
Christ and His message before they saw. Him in person, they would be
better prepared to listen to Him. Introducing the people to Him was
the only reason for those disciples to
make their journey.
________________________
B. A Great Harvest
*Luke 10:2*
________________________
*Question for Application*
________________________
_Why did Jesus use agricultural illustrations so often?_
________________________
Palestine was a iand of harvests – several of them each year. When
Jesus and His followers walked the roads, they constantly saw both
sowers and reapers. On some occasions a farmer would be sowing
barley; at another time it was wheat.
At different times he. would be reaping the two crops. Grapes were
also an important crop, and the time they were gathered was an occasion of great joy and celebration. The
same was true of the season when olives were harvested.

Jesus’ audiences were familiar with these scenes. Such familiar
illustrations made spiritual truths
more easily understood. Preparing the soil, sowing the seed, getting rid of weeds, caring for the growing crop, and harvesting grain or fruit-
all these aspects of farming clearly
presented the work Christ wanted His followers to do.

To Jesus the multitudes who kept coming to hear Him presented a
picture of waving fields of ripening grain. The spiritual harvest He saw
everywhere was great. Jesus knew that what is true of the natural harvest is true of the spiritual. The grain must
be cut neither too soon nor too late. When the grain has ripened to maturity, no more time should pass before it is reaped. What a tragedy for a farmer to labour strenuously for so long to have a good crop and then lose it at harvest time.

However, t the crop could be lost if there is a lack. No matter how promising the e harvest is, it wil be lost if it is left: standing in the field.
Bringing it into the barn is hard Work.
In those days far more human hands were needed than in our time when machines have made farm work so
much more efficient.

We should note that Jesus refers
to His Father as the Lord of the harvest and calls it His harvest. None
of us are in competition with other workers. We are all working together
in His harvest. It is important that
Jesus connected the sending forth of
labourers with our prayers. When We
pray earnestly for labourers to be
provided, it makes us more sensitive
to our personal responsibility in the
harvest. We will be less inclined to assume someone else is doing it.
The Holy Spirit will cause us to feel the burden to work in our own section
of the harvest field.
________________________
*2. Followers Commissioned*
A. Going by Faith
*Luke 10:3-9*
The mission of the Seventy was
important, but it was also dangerous.
They had to be prepared for hostilfty which might present physical danger
to them. Jesus drew parallel between them and sheep who grazed in country where wolves roamed. The entire group must beprudent and watchful. Even though they had an urgent mission, they must not provoke unnecessary
confrontations. However, they should not be paralysed by fear, for they were not defenceless. They were God’s sheep and were under His care and protection.
________________________
*Question for Application*
________________________
_Should Jesus instructions in verse 4 be considered binding on all who go out to preach?_

This was a unique situation with the atmosphere of an emergency. The seventy were ordered to travel light, not being burdened with baggage that would have slowed them. They were not even to take
extra food. While on the road they had to refrain from greetings they
would ordinarily have given. Greetings in the days of the Bible were more than just a simple “hello” and “good-bye.” They were very repetitious and time-consuming. The
restriction for refraining from greetings would enable the disciples
to use every moment for fulfilling their task.

For the Seventy, their journey was also a step of faith. Instead ot
being concerned about food and lodging, they were to depend on the
people where they ministered. Jesus
prepared them for the fact some doors would be slammed in their faces. In such cases they simply move on until they found a family that would receive them.

Moving from one house to another in the same town wouldinvolve valuable time, so they were to make their headquarters in the first
home that took them in. While there
they were not to make special demands, but accept whatever
hospitality was extended to them. Jesus’ statement, “The labourer is worthy of his hire,” seems to be an
assurance their necessities would be met.

The Important point in this account is that these men were going
under Jesus’ authority. With this authority they Were given power to
heal the sick in His name. This would
link their ministry with His, for He would do the same when He came.

B. Handling Rejection
*Luke 10:10-12*
In addition to preaching in whatever town that would receive
them, the Seventy also had to be prepared to be rejected, not just by
individuals but by entire
communities. In such cases they were not to engage in heated debate,
but move quickly to another town.
However, before they left, they were to warn the populace about what
they had done and the resulting
judgement. Receiving the message of Jesus would have meant life for
them: rejecting it meant doom. These
disciples carried a life-and-death message. Hostility toward them was not a rejection of them personally, but
a rejection of the Messiah, the Lord
Jesus Christ.

Shaking the dust from their feet was a gesture symbolising their total
abandonment of the community. While doing this, the disciples were
told to remind the people that whether they responded favourably
or not, the kingdom of God had come near them. They had been given their opportunity. Proclaiming the message was the disciples’ responsibility. Receiving or rejecting
it was the listeners’ responsibility. This principles is just as true for people today as it was for people then.
________________________
*Question for Application*
________________________
_Why would it be more tolerable’ for Sodom in the day of judgement than for cities that rejected the message of the Seventy_

Sodom was unspeakably
wicked, but it had not received the
light of the gospel. The severity of
judgement will be worse for those
who have had greater spiritual
privileges and opportunities. This
truth will apply just as much to
nations today who have been saturated with the preaching of the gospel, but have spurmed it and
abandoned themselves to wilderness.
________________________
*3. Reasons for Rejoicing*
A. Jesus the Source of Power
*Luke 10:17*

The power to cast out demons seems to have brought these disciples the greatest sense of
victory. If they did not realise it before,
they knew then that twO spiritual kingdoms are struggling to control
the world. They saw they were part of the kingdom of righteousness, of
which Jesus is the Head. He had given them power to overcome the power of Satan’s kingdom.

The disciples Would not have dared to face such evil forces in their own strength. They had seen what happened when Jesus himself cast
out demons. And when they went out under His authority, they witnessed the same results in their own ministry. We note that in their rejoicing they
made it clear that the submission of the demons was through the Name of Jesus. Like all of God’s servants,
they were channels through which Christ’s power flowed. He uses
people. He uses human hands, feet and lips. Yet, it is God who is alway
the Source of power.
________________________
*Question for Application*
________________________
_What is significant about using the name of Jesus against Satan_
________________________
It means more than a
mechanical “in Jesus name” to our prayers (as if adding this name
the same as s using magic words to make a magic formula work). It shows a recognition of Christ’s authority over us and over Satan. It confirms our identification with Him, and it acknowledges that we serve under Him and do not depend on ourselves.
________________________
B. Belonging To Jesus
*Luke 10:18-20*
________________________
*Question for Application*
________________________
_What did Jesus mean by His statement in verse 18, “I beheldSatan as lightning fall from heaven?_
________________________
As the Son of God, Jesus was aware of all the activities of these
men as they travelled. Verse 18
indicates His joy over their victories.
Demons are part of Satan’s kingdom.
Each time one is cast out it is another
defeat for that ingdom. It was as
though Satan fell suddenly like a bolt
of lightning. His control over another person was removed each time a
demon was cast out.

In verse 19, Jesus repeated His assurance of the power His servants would have in their ministry.
Serpents and scorpions represent
the hamful, destructive powers of evil. To be sure they understood how triumphant they would be over spiritual opposition, Jesus used the expression. “over all the power of the enemy. To reassure them they had nothing to fear from those who opposed the gospel. He said,
“Nothing shall by any means hurt you.”

Knowing the tendency of human nature to focus so much on its own
success. Jesus then told the disciples to keep their values in
perspective. Knowing they belonged to Him, that their names were on the roll of the redeemed, was more important than having power to cast out demons.
________________________
*Call to Discipleship*
________________________
The Lord expects every Christian to be out in the harvest field, gathering
Souls into His kingdom all of his life. We cannot excuse ourselves fom the
responsibilities because, we feel we lack the talents other people have. God has made each of us to fili our own place in His kingdom.

This lesson is aimed at Christians than the unsaved, however, this does not mean attention should not be given to urging unsaved students to accept
Christ. The Scripture passages for this lesson emphasises Christ’s power
toward those who believe and His judgenent for unbelievers. This can be the basis for both the saved and unsaved to share in His love and salvation.
________________________
*Ministry in Action*
________________________
As Children of God, it is important that we make ourselves always
available to be used by God in the harvestof souls.

The work of planting and harvesting reaquires many things to carry it out, it
is not different from evangelism. It also requires many human hands and
material resources to do the work.

We must avoid the misconception that winning souls is the work of only
those God calls to a pulpit ministry.

 

 

 

 

 

Action Point

PS: I know you might agree with some of the points that I have raised in this article. You might not agree with some of the issues raised. Let me know your views about the topic discussed. We will appreciate it if you could drop your comment. Thanks in anticipation.

CRMNuggets is committed to fact-checking in a fair, transparent and non-partisan manner. Therefore, if you’ve found an error in any of our reports, be it factual, editorial, or an outdated post, please contact us to tell us about it.

 

Hi, I now use RavenBank to send, receive, and save money. I also pay my bills with ease, you should try it out too

 

OUR MISSION

To create well-reached content that will increase the intellectual prowess of our readers.

OUR VISION

To become a reference point in the blogging space by the year 2030. We want to be among the first 30 blogs in Nigeria.

Official Social Media Pages for crmnuggets.com

 

Twitter: @cehnigeria
​Facebook: @CRMNuggets
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Threads @crmnuggets

 

The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit_ (KJV).

 

Central Truth

 

The gratitude we owe the Saviour should inspire us to greater love and service_

 

The Lesson Outline

 

1. Sincere Devotion

A. An Invitation Accepted

Luke 7:36

B. Outpouring of Love

Luke 7:37-39

 

2. Sinful Pride

A. Exposed by A Parable

Luke 7:40-42a

B. Rebuked by Christ

Luke 7:42b-46

 

3. Forgiveness

A. Expressed by Love

Luke 7:47

B. Received by Faith

Luke 7:48-50

 

Learning Objectives

 

At the end of this lesson, students will be able to:

1. Recognise that a contrite attitude brings Christ’s forgiveness.

 

2. Determine to surrender fully to Christ.

 

3. Understand what it means to give all to the Master.

 

Introducing the Lesson

 

The account for this week’s lesson occurs early in Jesus’ ministry. Already many were following Jesus, believing what John the Baptist had preached about Him. Opposition from the Pharisees and other religious leaders had surfaced but had not reached the intensity it would later. Yet Jesus did not shun the religious leaders- He accepted social invitations from them. They had every opportunity to accept Him as Messiah, but we observe them steadily hardening their position against Him.

 

This week’s passage is an example of Jesus teaching at a social occasion in a Pharisees house. Jesus ministered wherever He found spiritual needs and hungry souls. He had come to seek and save

the lost, including Pharisees.

 

The Holy Scriptures

Luke 7:36. And one of the Pharisees desired him that he would eat with him. And he went into the Pharisee’s house, and sat down to meat.

 

37. And, behold, a woman in the city, which was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at meat in the Pharisee’s house, brought an alabaster box of ointment,

 

38. And stood at his feet behind him weeping, and began to wash his feet with tears, and did wipe them with the hairs of her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed them with the ointment.

 

39. Now when the Pharisee which had bidden him saw it, he spake within himself, saying, This man, if he were a prophet, would have known who and what manner of woman this is that toucheth him: for she is a sinner.

 

40. And Jesus answering said unto him, Simon, I have somewhat to say unto thee. And he saith, Master, say on.

 

41. There was a certain creditor which had two debtors: the one owed five hundred pence, and the other fifty.

 

42. And when they had nothing to pay, he frankly forgave them both. Tell me therefore, which of them will love him most?

 

43. Simon answered and said, I suppose that he, to whom he forgave most. And he said unto him, Thou hast rightly judged.

 

44. And he turned to the woman, and said unto Simon, Seest thou this woman? I entered into thine house, thou gavest me no water for my feet: but she hath washed my feet with tears, and wiped them with the hairs of her head.

 

45. Thou gavest me no kiss: but this woman since the time I came in hath not ceased to kiss my feet.

 

46. My head with oil thou didst not anoint: but this woman hath anointed my feet with ointment.

 

47. Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little.

 

48. And he said unto her, Thy sins are forgiven.

 

49. And they that sat at meat with him began to say within themselves, Who is this that forgiveth sins also?

 

50. And he said to the woman, Thy faith hath saved thee; go in peace.

 

Commentary and Application

 

1. Sincere Devotion

A. An Invitation Accepted

Luke 7:36

 

Question for Application

 

Why did Jesus accept an invitation to a meal at a Pharisee’s house?_

 

He knew the hearts of all people and was aware of the harsh legalism and hypocrisy of most of the Pharisees. However, He came to reach out to and minister to all the lost, which include men like this. Jesus was aware the Pharisees Would eventually become some of His fiercest enemies, but they would not be able to say they had not heard the truth.

 

Question for Application

 

How were banquets like this different from similar occasions in our day?

 

The meal was served in a large open room with couches rather than chairs around the tables. Guests reclined on one elbow as they ate. The meal was leisurely interspersed with a great deal of “table talk.”

 

At a gathering such as the dinner Jesus attended there would be a crowd, so many would hear Jesus’ teaching. The evening would also

include various kinds of entertainment. It was a time of celebration in a relaxed atmosphere. On this occasion, however,

something would happen that strayed from the usual.

 

B. Outpouring of Love

Luke 7:37-39

It was a common practice at the time to allow people who were not invited to wander about in the room and help themselves to the leftovers. This included the poor, who often did not have enough to eat in their own homes. The presence of someone like the woman with the alabaster jar of ointment would not be surprising. She had come in with the others.

 

Luke immediately tells us of the woman’s bad reputation in the community. Describing her as “a sinner indicates she was a prostitute. Although the Gospel record does not tell us directly, it seems reasonable to assume this Woman had seen or met Jesus before. She brought with her an alabaster box of ointment. This Suggests she came with the intention of anointing Jesus’ head to express her deep love and respect for Him.

 

It is hard for us not to conclude that this woman had already believed in Jesus and felt in her heart she was forgiven of her sins. But what courage she had to come to the home of a Pharisee! However, the deep love and gratitude she felt toward Jesus prompted her to take this unusual step. She must have felt that she had to see Him again no matter what effort was required. Since she heard He was at the Pharisee’s house, this is where she came.

 

Jesus was eating, so it would have been difficult to anoint His head. However, His feet

were extended behind Him in the couch, so the woman broke open the sealed alabaster container and began to pour out the perfumed ointment on His feet. Before the anointing, however, she had washed His feet with tears of joy and gratitude. Then she loosened her hair and used it to wipe the tears from Jesus’ feet which she kissed repeatedly.

 

Structure worship has its proper place, but nothing is more heart-warming than spontaneous expressions of love for Christ such as we see in this passage. The forgiven sinner’s devotion welled up in her spirit and overflowed in a way that some disdained because it seemed so undignified! The ointment was expensive, but she did not hesitate to use all of it to show Jesus how much she loved Him.

 

In contrast to the loving devotion of this woman, verse 39 explains the attitude that Simon, the Pharisee in this account, held. We must now suspect this Pharisee’s true motives in inviting Jesus to the meal. Simon felt no joy in watching the woman’s expression of love. He was a cold, rigid, unfeeling individual, wrapped tightly in his self-righteousness. Luke tells us his thoughts (known, of course, to Jesus), which were very critical and judgemental. “Jesus claimed to be a prophet, but prophets knew the character of people. If He were really a prophet,” Simon thought, “it would have been revealed to Him that this Woman was too unclean to touch Him!”

 

2. Sinful Pride

A. Exposed By A Parable

Luke 7:40-42a

 

Having known Simon’s thoughts, Jesus related a parable to show the Pharisee his real spiritual condition. When Jesus said, “I have somewhat to say unto thee,” the unsuspecting Simon assumed he was about to hear the kind of discussion usually associated with rabbis. Actually he was about to have the coldness and self-righteousness of his heart exposed in a way that must have startled him.

 

Lending and borrowing went on among the Jews all the time, since many were poor, while others were well off. In Jesus’ parable, one man owed a small debt; the other owed ten times as much. The important point was that neither was able to repay what he owed.

Question for Application

 

How does this parable illustrate salvation by grace?

 

People are inclined to categorise sin. Some sins they say are very bad, while other sins are labelled insignificant. But sin is a spiritual debt regardless of its appearance to human eyes. No one can offer God enough good works or religious ritual to cancel the debt. The “respectable” sinner is as helpless to pay the debt as the murderer. “There is none righteous, no, not one” (Romans 3:10). “All have sinned, and come short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). God does not categorise sin. All of it is rebellion against His laws. It is a debt charged against each sinner’s account.

 

The creditor in the parable was a gracious individual. Solely on the basis of his own mercy he cancelled the debts of both men. This is what happens when a sinner accepts Christ as his Saviour. The debt is cancelled even though the sinner could not repay it. Someone else has paid it the Lord Jesus by His death on the cross.

 

B. Rebuked by Christ

Luke 7:42b-46

Now comes the real impact of the parable. When Jesus asked which debtor would love the creditor most, the only logical answer seemed to be: “The one who had the bigger debt cancelled” (NIV). This was how Simon replied and he trapped himself by his own words. Jesus complemented him by saying, “Thou has rightly judged.”

 

Question for Application

 

How does the parable expose Simon’s dishonest motives?

 

When Jesus turned the sportlight on Simon’s heart, he confirmed the dishonest motives he had in inviting Him to the meal. Simon’s lack of hospitality amounted to an actual insult. Having been a host many times, he had not just overlooked the courtesies. His rudeness was surely deliberate.

 

When a guest first entered the house, he would have been met by a servant who washed the dust from his feet and wiped them with a towel. The host would have greeted the guest with a kiss on the cheek. Then he would anoint his head with perfumed oil kept in the house for such occasions. Simon had done none of this for Jesus, although it is probable he did it for the other guests. In contrast, the woman had washed Jesus’ feet with her tears and wiped them with her long hair. She had constantly kissed His feet after anointing them with ointment she had brought. The woman Simon condemned in his heart for her sinfulness had exposed his true nature by her overflowing acts of devotion.

 

3. Forgiveness

A. Expressed by Love

Luke 7:47

Jesus did not deny that the woman had been guilty of many sins.

However, after acknowledging her sins were “many,” He quickly

announced she was forgiven. “She loved much” – what a beautiful testimony to the forgiven because she loved. She knew she was forgiven, therefore she loved. Her past life had made it difficult to know the true meaning of love. Her relationships had been the kind that destroy the capacity to love. She had been merely an object to be used. Now all of that was changed. She had found Jesus. There seems little doubt she already had assurance of forgiveness before she came to the banquet room. She had brought her ointment to express a love which had become so full and overflowing it could not be contained.

 

Question for Applications

 

Did Jesus’ statement, to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth Iittie’ mean we must be great sinners before we can really love him?

 

The answer is an unequivocal “No.” To be forgiven of any sin is reason to love Jesus with all our hearts because any sin is reason enough to deserve the judgement of hell. He was aiming His remarks at the Pharisee’s smug self-righteousness. Simon had no sense of forgiveness because he had no sense of being a sinner and needing forgiveness. For this reason he could not love Jesus as the woman did. If Simon ever came to the point of seeing himself as a lost sinner and turned to Christ for forgiveness, he, too, would love much.

 

It is possible even for Christians to develop a spirit like Simon’s. One who has been converted but has always led a respectable life may look condescendingly at those whose sins were flagrant and glaring. They may congratulate themselves that they had never sunk so low. Unconsciously they may lose their sense of deep love for the Lord because they have lost the realisation that all are equally lost regardless of how their sins appear to other people.

 

B. Received by Faith

Luke 7:48-50

Jesus’ assurance that the woman’s sins were forgiven (verse 48) confirmed what had already happened in her life. It was important to make the statement publicly because of the attitude of Simon and other Pharisees in the crowed. All were probably thinking the same thing Simon was. They were waiting for Jesus to sho His revulsion at the sinful character of the woman. How Wonderful that He saw her differently. She was one of the lost sheep He has come to save. He would not be deterred by the hostility and criticism of hypocritical legalists.

 

Question for Application

 

Why did Jesus’ statement about forgiveness arouse so much discussion among the guests?_

 

Since those people did not recognise Jesus as the Son of God, they could not accept His authority to forgive sin which only God could do. The most they could acknowledge about Him was that He was another rabbi, a teacher. Forgiveness of sins was outside the prerogative of any man, and they considered Him only as a man.

 

To answer their critical murmurings. Jesus spoke again to the woman. Her response of faith in Him had brought her the salvation for which she had longed. She must leave the banquet hall, but she would go with God-given peace in her heart. Her spiritual position was a sharp contrast to critics she was leaving behind.

 

Call to Discipleship

 

The woman who anointed Jesus, was showing her devotion in a way that demonstrated her feelings the best way she knew, we do not need to copy others. but we must be sure we do not forget to express our love for Christ every day.

 

We must not have the selfish, prideful altitude the Pharisees demonstrated. Even if we have contact with people whose conduct are repugnant and their personalities irritating, we must see them as Christ does and respond to them as He would. We must understand that all have sinned and all need Jesus to be saved. The salvation of the sinful woman should encourage believers to know Jesus forgives. This is a golden opportunity for anyone yet to accept Jesus Christ into their lives to urgently yield to the call and be saved.

 

Ministry in Action

 

You must be ready to express your love to Christ every day, by your deeds as well as in words. Like the woman in this lesson did, be moved to show compassion to others. Live a life that will speak the gospel to the people around you, and draw souls to Christ.

 

Action Point

PS: I know you might agree with some of the points that I have raised in this article. You might not agree with some of the issues raised. Let me know your views about the topic discussed. We will appreciate it if you could drop your comment. Thanks in anticipation.

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