Ready For Tough Times. AG Teen Sunday School Manual

 

 

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 on 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, it 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 in nature 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 time.]

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 will 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 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 beliefs 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?

 

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Study 4: MOTIVATES & MIND-SET: IT MATTERS WHY YOU DO WHAT YOU DO

TEXT: 1 Sam 16:7; Psalm 26:1-8; 139:1-4, 23-24; Acts 13:2; Rom 2:6-11, 16; 5:1;8:1; 15:13; 1 Cor 4:1-5; Heb 4:12-13,16; 1 John 5:13

 

Key Verse: Psalm 139:23-24 Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. (NIV)

 

Focus We get to know ourselves better when we consider why we do what we do. But God already knows us completely. The Bible tells us that He knows our thoughts even before we verbalize them (Psalm 139:1-4). On one hand, that may be a very sobering realization. On the other, it should be comforting to know to know that the One who knows us completely loves us unconditionally. However, every individual must choose how to respond to that love. While entering into a relationship with God is a matter of faith, it still matters what we do. Jesus will one day judge all people according to their words and actions.

 

 

But words and actions stem from thoughts and attitudes. Therefore, our motives matter. They matter in a criminal court. And they infinitely matter more in God’s court. A secular prosecutor may often uncover a motive in order to secure a conviction. With God, our motives are already uncovered. Yet He is not seeking a conviction. Instead, He has taken our punishment and provided for our acquittal. Prepare for this week’s study with an added sense of gratitude toward God for His unconditional love. Ask Him to reveal and remove any attitude and motive that are not pleasing to Him and to help you serve His purposes for the right reasons.

 

 

The Basic Message: Explain to students…

 

• WHAT’S THE BIG IDEA?
The final judgment will reveal the thoughts and motives behind our actions.
• WHY DOES IT MATTER?
Thoughts and actions are important to God, who looks at the heart.
• HOW DO I LIVE IT?
Ask God to show you any thought and attitude that needs to change, and rely on His help to maintain a pure mind and proper motives.

Activity Option: LOOKING FOR MOTIVE

Bring in a few magazine, newspaper, or Web articles related to crimes. Read or summarize the stories and discuss what could have possibly motivated those involved to commit the crimes. Consider what kinds of things could drive a person toward criminal behaviour.

Guide: Point out that motives are the reasons why people do things. Actions can sometimes be so ‘smooth” and deceiving, but not everyone or everything is as it seems. Sometimes apparent good actions can have selfish, insincere, or devious motives.

 

Study Overview: Explain that today’s study considers…

• We should constantly ask God to check and reveal our motives.

• God’s final judgment will reveal the thoughts, attitudes, and motives behind our actions.

• We must rely on God to help us maintain pure minds and proper motives.

 

Inform and Discuss
a). Authorizing a Search Warrant
1. Read or ask a volunteer to read 1 Sam 16:7. What does this passage mean when it says that God looks at the heart? [Hint: God judges people by their character and commitment to Him].

2. Read or ask a volunteer to read Acts 13:22. How did God describe David, and what do you think He meant? [Hint: God described David as a “man after my own heart.” Not that he never failed, but David’s heart was always open to God. In spite of his failures, David was determined to serve God and accomplish His purposes.]

3. Read or ask volunteers to read Psalm 26:1-8; 139:1-4, 23-24. Why is it important to invite God to examine and expose our inner thoughts, attitudes, and concerns? [Hint: We develop character as we learn to be more honest with God, ourselves, and others. Besides, we all have things that we don’t see about ourselves. In order to change and grow personally and spiritually, we need to better understand why we do the things we do and learn to recognize our need for greater dependence on God.]

b). Looking for Motives

1. Read or ask a volunteer to read Heb 4:12-13. What does it mean that God’s Word judges or discerns the thoughts, attitudes, and intentions of the heart? How does the Word do that? [Hint: When we read or hear God’s Word, it can reveal to us the nature of our own motives – spiritual or unspiritual. It challenges us to depend on God.]

 

Guide: Explain that the activity of God and the activity of His Word are essentially the same. All standards by which we will be judged are contained in the Word. If we respond to its challenges, live according to its principles, and depend on God for help in our shortcomings, we will be in good standing so far as God’s judgment is concerned.

2. How can we demonstrate greater dependence on God when it comes to our motives? [Hint: We can spend time in His Word discovering how He wants us to think and act, and pray for His help in keeping our attitudes and actions in line with His purposes. If we put into practice what we see in the Word and hear from God in prayer, we will become more like Jesus in our thoughts, attitudes, and actions.]

3. Read or ask a volunteer to read 1 Cor 4:1-5. Reading from the NIV, what did Paul mean when he said: “my conscience is clear, but that does not make me innocent’? [Hint: Just because we feel okay about something doesn’t necessarily make it right. Even as believers, we may unknowingly sin. Contrary to the opinions of most people in the world, we can’t just do what we think is best for us. We must serve God and know His Word because God ultimately determines the standard and makes them clear in His Word.]

c). Standing Trial
Guide: Explain that we have considered in past weeks how we are saved by faith through a personal relationship with Jesus. However, the Bible clearly states that we will be judged and rewarded according to our words and actions. God will not only judge our choices, but He will also consider the thoughts and attitudes — the motives — behind them. The matters of the heart will be the critical issues in God’s final assessment of our lives.

• Read or ask volunteers to read Rom 2:6-11, 16. What does it mean that God will judge our secrets? [Hint: He will determine whether our inner thoughts, attitudes, motives, and actions lined up with His standards. He will not base His rewards or punishment upon appearances, but upon the condition of our inner spirit.]

d). Being Acquitted

1. Read or ask volunteers to read Rom 8:1. What is required in order to be acquitted, or be found not guilty by God? Is this a difficult thing? Why or why not? [Hint: We must believe God’s Word — not just intellectually, but actively. We must accept what He provided for us through Jesus and follow His ways instead of our own.]

2. How does it make you feel to know that in spite of all our obvious and hidden faults and shortcomings, we can escape the punishment our sins deserve? (Guide: Encourage students to honestly express what Christ’s sacrifice and forgiveness mean to them.]

 

Guide: Explain that the guarantee of all hidden acts and motives being exposed can certainly be intimidating. However, those who accept Christ’s forgiveness and entrust Him with the leadership of their lives do not have to fear God’s judgment. Instead, they can experience peace, enjoy His favour, and look forward to an eternal reward.

 

Involve Them: SEARCH ME

Distribute paper and pens or pencils and have students write the following thought and attitude related issues: i. Attitude toward those who have hurt you; ii. Attitude toward those in authority; iii. Reasons for serving or not serving God, iv. Pride in your own abilities or righteousness; v. Our thought life and issues of lust; and vi. What you watch and listen to.

 

Guide: Allow students time for personal reflection, asking God to reveal hidden thoughts and attitudes related to the categories listed above and others. Have students write out for each item a brief description of their need for God’s help in these areas. (Use this as a prayer guide while closing the study.)

 

inspire Them: Remind students THE BASIC MESSAGE of this study (pg 68), 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.

 

Invitation Option: Invite students who have not received Jesus’ gift of forgiveness and eternal life to open their heart to Him today. Pray with them as they confess their sin and invite Christ to take leadership and direct the motivation in their lives.

Ministry Activity: Using the categories from the previous Search Me activity, allow students a few minutes for personal prayer, asking God to reveal, remove, and redirect motives that are not pleasing.

Conclude the study by reminding students that matters in the end is knowing Jesus and developing an intimate relationship with Him. All actions by which we will be judged and rewarded should flow out of gratitude and love for Him.

Teacher Hint: Ask Yourself…

1. Do students understand that God cares about the thoughts and attitudes behind their actions?

2. Have they had opportunity to examine and keep their motives pure?

3. Do they understand that they do not have to fear the final judgment as long as they have Jesus as the Leader of their lives?

>>Daily Dew Drops

Mon: Let God Be Your Motive – 1 Peter 4:11

Tue: God Desires Truth — Psalm 51:6

Wed: God Weighs Motives — Prov 16:2

Thu: God Understands Every intent – 1 Chron 28:9

Fri: Be Considerate — Exodus 22:21-27

Sat: No Eye-service — Eph 6:5-8

 

 

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STUDY 3: COMPASSION & COMMUNITY: IT MATTERS WHAT YOU DO

 

 

 

Texts: Matt 25:31-46; 1 Cor 13:1-3; 2 Cor 5:10; Rev 20:11-13

Key Verse: Matthew 25:40
“The King will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.’ (NIV)

Focus
If you want to see Jesus or do something for Him, reach out to those in need. In Matthew 25:40, Jesus tells us that whatever we’ve done — or failed to do — for “the least of these,” we’ve done for Him. The Bible is unmistakably clear about the fact that we cannot be saved by good works. We enter a right relationship with God by accepting in faith what Jesus did for us. But as you helped your students see in the Study 2 of this Unit, we will be judged based on our conduct in life. It all comes down to how we reflect Jesus to those around us.

 

 

A large part of that refection is demonstrating God’s love for people — not just a feeling of concern, active compassion that meets real needs in tangible ways. This week’s study will help you challenge your students to reach out to others. Those who know Jesus and are taking time to serve Him in this way are doing something that truly matters. It matters to others in this life, but most importantly to God — both now and in the end.

 

The Basic Message: Explain to students…

• WHAT’S THE BIG IDEA?
Although good works do not save us, we will be judged in part by how we respond to people in need.
• WHY DOESIT MATTER?
By serving those in need, we can serve Christ; by neglecting those in need, we neglect Christ.
• HOW DO I LIVE IT?
Put godly compassion into action by meeting real needs.

 

Activity Option: JUDGED BY WORKS

Read or ask a volunteer to read 2 Cor 5:10; Rev 20:11-13. According to these passages, what is the basis of final judgment? [Hint: All will be judged according to what they have done.

 

 

Guide: Explain that although we are not saved by our own efforts and actions, the Bible is clear that all people — those who accept Jesus and those who reject Him — will one day be judged. The bottom line is this: It matters to God what you do in life. We should do good works out of deep gratitude for what He has done for us.

 

Teacher Hint: SAVED BY FAITH. Remind students throughout this unit that our own works and actions are not what save or condemn us. We are justified or condemned according to our faith in, or rejection of, Jesus and His sacrificial work for us. We should do good works out of deep gratitude for what He has done for us.

 

Study Overview: Explain that today’s study considers…
• How people often respond to or reject Christ depending on how they react to people in need.
• How meeting or neglecting people’s needs become a way of Iife.
• How we must become more active in meeting people’s needs through active compassion and community service.

inform and Discuss
a). Recognizing Needs: A Different Way.
1. Read or ask volunteers to read Matt 25:31-36. What do you think Jesus is asking of us by listing these specific types of needs in verses 35 and 36? [Hint: He expects us to be aware of the needs around us and prepared to reach out to help hurting people.

 

Guide: Explain that we usually don’t notice what is going on with people around us. Often, it takes a conscious effort to become aware of people’s needs. It helps when we pool our ideas and efforts to help people.

2. In what ways do we see the needs described in Matthew 25 in our society today?

 

Guide: Encourage students to think of specific issues and instances close to home — in your own city or community. Then discuss with them some of the ways they could meet these kinds of needs. List some specific Opportunities on the board.

b). Responding to Needs: A Way of Life
1. Read or ask volunteers to read Matt 25:37-44. Why do you think that those who met the needs had to ask Jesus when those occasions happened? What does that tell us about those who acted compassionately?

2. Why do you think that those who didn’t meet the needs were unaware that they neglected Jesus?

Guide: Explain that it’s interesting how both groups — those who met people’s needs and those who neglected them — had the same response to Jesus: When did we do that? Apparently, these occasions didn’t stand out to individuals in either group. Those who missed Christ thought for sure they would have recognized and responded to the King if they saw Him. But; serving Christ often takes place in the more subtle aspects of life that people tend to overlook or take for granted. The compassion of those who met needs didn’t stand out to them as extraordinary. They didn’t consider their service to be an inconvenience. Rewards in heaven are given out to those who serve out of compassion, and not on those who merely serve to gain reward.

 

3. Selflessness and compassion don’t come easily in most cases. How would a Christian get to the point where he or she acts this way without thinking — so it becomes second nature? (Hint: Spending time getting to know Jesus better helps a person understand what is important to Him. It also brings a greater sense of gratitude and a deeper desire to share His love with others. In addition, a person must practice compassion, taking advantage of every opportunity to serve.

 

4. Read or ask a volunteer to read 1 Cor 13:1-3. Can a person do great work of ministry and service without real love? Explain. (Hint: Yes, anyone can go through the motions of compassion out of a sense of duty, insincere motives, trying to get personal recognition, or even trying to merit God’s favour.

 

5. How can we ensure that we serve God and others with proper motives? [Hint: A person’s action must be the result of a close, personal relationship with Jesus. A person who genuinely knows Christ will be in tune with God’s desires and able to serve with His love and pure motives.

 

Note: Those who have responded to God’s grace and received eternal life must demonstrate gratitude by extending grace and compassion toward others. Believers have no excuse for neglecting people in need.

c). Reaching Jesus: Active Compassion

Read or ask a volunteer to read Matt 25:45-46. Who do you think Jesus means by the “least of these?” [Hint: Perhaps it means the desperate people who are easily overlooked — who may not have the influence or ability to repay acts of kindness.

 

Can we truly reach people for Jesus without meeting their practical needs?

Hint: Ultimately, the Holy Spirit is the One who prepares people’s hearts to respond to Christ. But God often chooses to use believers in that preparation. Most people will not be able to see their deeper spiritual needs until their more obvious needs are met. In plain terms, we must sometimes help feed and clothe the body before we can help feed and clothe the spirit.

 

In Jesus’ reply to both the faithful and the unfaithful, He used the terms, “whatever you did.” What is significant about the word “whatever’? [Hint: The word is very broad and inclusive. It encompasses many things — particularly the little, less notable things we can do every day. It isn’t just big, noticeable efforts. It’s ordinary people doing ordinary things through the power of an extraordinary God.]

 

Guide: Emphasize that it is one thing simply to feel concern, but we must act with compassion, literally doing something to meet needs.

Involve Them: Point out that Christians today must embrace the fact that social action and true evangelism are inseparable. Ask the class to name specific issues in your community reflecting needs that could be met with some form of material, physical, or person-to-person assistance. List these issues on the board and briefly discuss why students should be concerned about them. Help students brainstorm and begin to plan at least one community service project (e.g., picking up trash in a park, visiting or ministering at an orphanage, etc.). Emphasize the need to become an asset to your community, available to serve with no hidden agenda other than to be an agent of God’s grace.

Inspire Them: Remind students THE BASIC MESSAGE of this study (pg 64), 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.

Ministry Activity: Ask students to consider if serving seems to come naturally to them. A good indicator might be how they treat their own families. Challenge them to serve cheerfully and humbly, not grudgingly or pridefully. Allow students to pray and ask God to help them recognize specific opportunities to serve Him by serving their families or friends this week.

Conclude by emphasizing that compassion and good works will mean little if not done out of love for God. Invite students who don’t have a personal relationship with Jesus to accept His forgiveness and give Him the leadership of their lives. That’s what really matters in the end.

Teacher Hint: Ask Yourself…

1. Have the students gained awareness of the need in their immediate community?
2. Do they understand that meeting needs should become a way of life?
3. Do they understand that they are literally serving Jesus with acts of compassion done out of gratitude toward Him?

Daily Dew Drops

Mon: Clothe Yourself with Compassion – Col3:12-13
Tue: He Will Show You Compassion — Isa 30:18
Wed: He Will Guide You — Isa 49:10
Thu: Make My Joy Complete — Phil 2:1-3
Fri: God Is Ever Mindful of You — Isa 49:15-16
Sat: Fresh Mercies for You – Lam 3:22-23

 

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___
Study 5: WHY DOES GOD ALLOW SUFFERING?

Text: Gen 1:26-31; 2:15-22; 3:1-8, 16-19; Job 14:1; Psalm 51:5; Eccl. 7:20;Isa 53:6; Rom 5:12; 8:18, 31-39;1 Peter 4:12-13

 

Key Verse: John 16:33
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (NIV)

 

Focus
“How can a loving God allow suffering and evil to continue? “Why do bad things happen to good people?” “Where is God when tragedy strikes? “These questions take many forms, but all of them represent a struggle to understand God’s supreme power and goodness contrasted with the turmoil that is so widespread in the world He created.

The issue of why God allows suffering is important when it comes to communicating, your faith. It is often one of the concerns or objections raised by people who are considering Christianity. It crosses the mind of most believers from time to time, testing their dependence on God. Whether your students are struggling with issues of faith or boldness in their witness, it’s likely your students have witnessed or wrestled with the paradox of God’s love and human suffering.

 

This week’s study will help your class better understand and deal with this difficult issue.
As you prepare for this study, think about times in your past when you faced hardship or tragedy and had questions about God’s involvement. Be prepared to share some of the lessons you’ve learned, and how God brought good out of your trials. For students today, personal experiences are often more convincing than presenting rational arguments for faith. Also be sensitive to students’ current difficulties, taking time now and in the class to ask God for the grace to better understand and endure suffering with the hope that only He can give.

 

The Basic Message: Explain to students…

WHAT’S THE BIG IDEA?
Suffering and evil are normal in a world that chooses to defy God, but He will fulfil His purpose through and in spite of troubles.

WHY DOES IT MATTER?
People who fault God for not preventing troubles don’t fully understand evil’s origin or why God allows suffering.

HOW DO I LIVE IT?
Don’t focus on the source or reason for suffering, but instead concentrate on how you can respond and grow closer to God through it.

 

Activity Option: A WORLD OF TROUBLE

Pass around several news stories dealing with tragedy, injustice, suffering, etc. As students scan stories, discuss the following questions:
• What do these stories have in common?

Hint: Tragedy, injustice, etc.

• Why did these events happen? Who or what is responsible?

Hint: Things like natural disaster may have no clear cause. Other events may stem from poor choices or criminal behaviour.

• What do these accounts tell us about our world? [Hint: The world can be a harsh and confusing place.]

Guide: Explain that everyone encounters trouble. Each of us knows the sting of hurt and heartache, disease and disaster, trials and tragedy.

Study Overview: Explain that today’s study considers…
• Human choices, not God, make suffering inevitable.
• In a world that has chosen to defy God, evil is the norm; the fact that any good can come from suffering is proof of God’s love.
• God can accomplish His purpose through suffering-in spite of evil.

 

Inform and Discuss
a). It’s a Matter of Choice

Guide: Explain that people often blame God for trouble in the world. Yet His Word clearly describes how evil entered the world and who is responsible. God provided a good world but man chose to mar it with sin.
1. Read or ask volunteers to read Gen 1:26-31; 2:15-22; 3:1-8,16-19.What was the condition of the world and humanity at the time of creation? What happened to change that? [Hint: Everything God created was completely good – including Adam and Eve. But they ignored God’s command, which was intended to protect them. The choice to rebel opened the door for evil to infect the whole human race.]

Guide: Explain that God could Have created us without the ability to sin. But because of His perfect love, He gave us a free will. God wants us to love Him because we want to.

2. Read or ask volunteers to read Rom 5:12; Eccl 7:20. Is it fair that Adam and Eve’s sin affected all people? Why or why not? Why is everyone still responsible for sin?

Hint: The first sin tainted every aspect of human existence. But every person decides for himself or herself to rebel against God’s standards or not.

Guide: Explain that sin and evil are natural consequences of human choice. Having abused free will, people are responsible for their own sin.

Teacher Hint: Another factor ‘in the equation of evil is the existence of Satan-the Tempter. He is real and active in the world (1 Pet 5:8).His strategy from the beginning was to cast doubt and distortion on God’s Word. Satan was definitively defeated at the Cross. But he is free to do evil on earth and present humans with choices until the final judgment, when he will suffer the ultimate consequences for rebellion (Rev 20:10).

3. Couldn’t God simply eliminate evil? [Hint: If He did, He would have to do it completely, in which case He would have to eliminate all human imperfection and force us to live sinless. This violates the free will. He wants us to choose to love and follow Him.]

Guide: Explain that Christianity is not about God eliminating or overriding our ability to choose. Instead, it brings people to a point of willingly choosing good over evil, regardless of the difficulty involved.

b).It’s the Norm
Guide: Explain that the question of how a loving God could allow evil and suffering shows a misunderstanding of what is normal. Disorder and destruction should be considered the norm in a world that had defied God. The existence of good is a proof of God’s love and patience.
1. Read or ask volunteers to read and summarize what the following passages tell us about life and the world:

• Job 14:1-Aperson’s life is full of troubles.
• Psalm 51:5-People are born sinful.
• Isa 53:6-Everyone has gone his or her own way, and Jesus took the punishment for our wrongdoing.

Guide: Explain that suffering affects everyone-bad people, good people, and, in a sense, God Himself. God is sympathetic to our pain, and He experienced it to the highest degree when Jesus paid the price for man’s sin.

2. Why wouldn’t God spare those who love and serve Him from the harshest pain?

 

Hint: Through hardship they can develop strong character and become more like Jesus. He, suffered and was rejected. Those who follow Him will also face suffering and rejection.

3. Read or ask volunteers to read the following passages. Then describe what each tells us about Christians and suffering.

John 16:33-We will have trouble in the world, but we can be at peace because Christ overcame the world.
Rom 8:18- The suffering that Christians endure won’t compare with the reward God ultimately holds in store for them.
1 Peter4:12-13-Don’t be surprised by difficulty. It allows you to identify with Jesus and joyfully look forward to Christ’s coming.

c).It’s Not All Bad
Why would God allow types of suffering like hunger, disease, murder, and war? What purpose could they serve? [Hint: Remember that these things were not part of God’s original design. All types of pain and suffering are natural result of sin. They serve as a warning sign that something is wrong and the world needs God’s help.

Guide: Explain that while some people view human suffering as evidence of God’s lack of compassion, the trials of life really prove that God considers some things(e.g. endurance) more important than comfort. Suffering can change us, producing something better and stronger in our lives.

Inspire Them: Remind students THE BASIC MESSAGE of this study (pg 47), 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: Point out that a painful experience can bring destruction or blessing- depending on a person’s response. The problem is that most people spend time trying to figure out why before deciding how to respond. But to dwell on the cause can leave us bitter toward God because we lack understanding. The Bible constantly steers us from dwelling on cause. Pain, suffering, and injustice happen. The real issue for a Christian shouldn’t be “Is God responsible for my trouble” but “How should I respond to it?”

 

Ministry Activity: Divide the class into groups of two or three and encourage students to share with one another some of the difficulties they currently face. Have them pray for each other, asking God to help them prevail and grow closer to Him through these difficulties.

Teacher Hint: Ask Yourself…
1. Do students understand how suffering became a part of human existence?
2. Can they explain some possible positive outcomes related to suffering?
3. Are they able to focus on their response to suffering rather than its source?

Daily Dew Drops
Mon: God Comforts – 2 Cor 1:3-4
Tue: Not In Vain – 1 Peter 5:10;Rom 5:3-4
Wed: He Will Deliver You – Psalm 34:19
Thu: More than a Champ – Rom 8:35-39
Fri: You’re Blessed – 1 Peter 3:13-17
Sat: Rare Privilege – Phil 1:29

 

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.

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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Study 4: WHAT IS TRUTH?

Text: Luke 12:54-56; John 8:31-32;14:6; 1 Cor 2:6-16;Eph 2:1-7;2 Tim 3:16

 

 

Key Verse: John 14:6
Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. (NIV)

 

 

Focus
Faced with a world that has abandoned absolute truth, many teens today are searching for it. In some cases, they can’t find it in their schools, in their homes, or among their peers. At times they cannot even find it in the Church.

 

The world teaches that many roads lead to truth: “What might be truth to one person isn’t necessarily truth to another.” “All truths are really created equal”. These are dangerous ideas being preached to your teens in subtle ways. It’s no wonder students are confused about absolute truth and curious about other claims to it. But that curiosity can lead to dangerous ideas and philosophies. If students based their beliefs of truth on anything other than God’s Word, they will be headed down a dangerous path. Student must realize that God is the source of ultimate truth. His Word must be the tool with which we determine ultimate truth.

 

In this study, your students will discover that truth is found in natural laws as well as supernatural laws. The natural laws can be seen by the naked eyes; supernatural laws are revealed by God’s Spirit. They will learn that God’s Word is truth and Jesus is the ultimate example for our truth.

 

The Basic Message: Explain to students…

• WHAT’S THE BIG IDEA?
God is the source of all truth.

 

WHY DOES IT MATTER?
If we don’t look to God as our sole source of truth, we’ll be misled by the deceptive ideas and philosophies that constantly confront us.

 

HOW DO I LIVE IT?
Look to God as your sole source of truth and use His Word as your standard for what to believe and what to reject.

Activity Option: EXCEPT THIS…

Divide the class into groups of three or four. Assign to each group one of the Ten Commandments. Instruct them to come up with at least example of how society-even Christians-have justified exceptions to the command. For example, we may not take the life of another person, but we may think nothing of spreading a rumour that would ruin his or her reputation. Ask each group to share their examples in the class, and discuss their answers as class.

Guide: Explain that our society and even, at times, the Church have made exceptions to these truths for their convenience. Society now has no absolute truth. It is important that we, as Christians, know the truth and determine to demonstrate it to a world in need.

 

Study Overview: Explain that today’s study considers…

• How truth is found both in the natural law and spiritual law.
• Why we must look to God as our source of truth.
• What Christians should use as our standard for truth-the Bible.

Inform and Discuss

a). Where Is Truth Found?

Guide: Read or ask a volunteer to read Luke 12:54-56.Explain that unlike today, the people of Jesus’ time did not have advanced meteorological equipment available to them. They relied on what they saw in the sky to “forecast” the weather. The people Jesus was addressing would be familiar with these techniques. For them, it was a matter of livelihood and, at times, life and death.

 

1. What natural law do we know of today? What would happen if a natural law like gravity were to reverse suddenly or cell structures reacted sporadically, or water began to turn to steam(or freeze) at 68 degrees?[Hint: Some natural laws are the Law of Gravity, the Laws of Motion, the Laws of Thermodynamics. These natural laws are vitally important to us. They provide consistency to life. If any of these laws would breakdown, we would be in big trouble.

Note: Although Jesus’ example was reference to natural law, the point He was making was that people were oblivious to the “present time”. In other words, they were capable of determining natural law, but they failed to see the supernatural law that Jesus represented

 

2. Read or ask volunteers to read 1 Cor 2:6-16. Based on this passage, how would you describe spiritual laws?

Hint: They are eternal, hidden by God, revealed by God’s Spirit, not understood without the Spirit of God-they’re spiritually discerned.

Guide: Explain that just as natural law is observed through the natural means, spiritual law is only comprehended through the Spirit of God. Those who do not have the Spirit of God cannot comprehend spiritual laws.

 

b). God’s Word Is Truth

1. Read or ask a volunteer to read 2 Tim 3:16. According to this passage, how is the Bible the source of absolute truth?[Guide: Explain that while most people easily recognize natural laws, they cannot easily agree on the source of spiritual truth. God is the ultimate source of truth, and He has communicated that truth to us through His Word. The Bible is our ultimate source of truth.

Note: Many in our culture accept the Bible as one source of truth among many. However, as the Creator, only God is in the position to reveal to us absolute truth. He alone is infinite, eternal, and all-knowing. All other sources are merely created beings, speculating on their version of the truth.

Guide: Read or ask a volunteer to read John 8:31-32. Explain that a Christian’s worldview is not simply a philosophical choice. By accepting God’s spiritual truth, we have freedom from our sin-freedom to live life to its fullest.

2.What,then does that say about those who reject God’s spiritual truth?

Hint: Those who reject God’s spiritual truth will continue in bondage to their sin. They will not know the truth.

c). Jesus Is the Truth

1.. Was Jesus ‘only reason for coming to earth to die for our sins?

 

Hint: No. If that were the case, He could have come as an adult and accomplished His goal in a shorter amount of time.]

2. Read or ask a volunteer to read Eph 2:1-7.According to this passage, what was another reason for Christ’s coming?

Hint: While Christ’s sacrifice purchased salvation for us, the life He lived on earth revealed the truth of God to us.

3. What did Jesus reveal about God’s truth that was not previously understood? [Hint: He revealed God’s love. The religious leaders of the time had corrupted the laws and writings of the Old Testament. The adherence to God’s Law had become only an outward obligation. Through Christ, God’s presence was allowed to live among us and dwell in our hearts. Jesus is the supreme example of God’s truth.]

4. Read or ask a volunteer to read John 14:6.What impact does Jesus ‘statement have on our worldview? [Hint: As Christians, we can only accept Jesus as the way to salvation and the primary example of ultimate truth. Jesus is not merely one of the ways to salvation. He is the only way.

 

5. Why do some people have trouble accepting Jesus’ statement in this passage? [Hint: It’s viewed as narrow minded by our culture. By denying the statement they are able to live how they please, rather than having to deal with their sin, changing the way they live.

Note: It Is important to know what you believe about truth because our culture has no standard for ultimate truth. If we do not know for sure what we believe, It will be too easy to be swayed otherwise.

Involve Them: Read the following statements to your class. Discuss what “truths” the world might base each statement on:

1. What’s right for you may not be right for me.
2. Anything is okay as long as you’re not hurting anyone.
3. Do whatever it takes to get ahead.
4.There’s more than one way to eternal happiness.
5.We can only find true peace within ourselves.

How might these ideas be dangerous if you’re not committed to God’s truth?

Guide: Though these ideas sound appealing and might be convincing. Challenge students to cling to the truth of God as revealed in His Word. Explain that this is the only way to avoid deception by the philosophies of the world and their versions of “truth.”

 

Inspire Them: Remind students THE BASIC MESSAGE of this study(pg 43), 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.

Invitation Option: Some student in your class may have never made the decision to accept God’s invitation for truth. Give them the opportunity at this time to open their hearts and their lives to God’s forgiveness and God’s supernatural laws.

Ministry Activity: Ask students to think of someone they know who needs to know the truth of God. Spend a few minutes praying for each person to be introduced to the truth of God’s Word.

 

Teacher Hint: Ask Yourself…
1. Can students describe how truth is found both in natural and supernatural laws?
2. Do they recognize God’s Word as the ultimate standard for absolute truth?
3.Can they explain how Jesus is the example of God’s truth to us?

Daily Dew Drops
Mon: Truth Delivers – John 8:31-32
Tue: The Right Path – Psalm 25:5
Wed: Simply Yes or No – James 5:12
Thu: Flawless – Prov 30:5
Fri: Knowing the Truth Personified – 1 John 5:20
Sat: The Spirit of Truth – John 15:26

 

 

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.

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.

 

Fact Check Policy Contact Us

 

Study 3: WHAT IS RIGHT?

Text: Exodus 20:1-20; Matt 7:12; 19:16-21; Rom 12:17-21;Gal 5:13-14;Eph 5:1-2

 

 

Key Verse: James 2:8
If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, “Love your neighbour as yourself,” you are doing right. (NIV)

Focus

Humanity is fast abolishing any common standard for ethical standards by substituting “Absolute truth” with “relativism” and “tolerance.” It’s no wondersome of your students may not know what to believe when it comes to moral or ethical issues. Presently, there are lots of contentions in the Western world over the definition of who is a woman.

 

Yet, in the Bible, God has set out guidelines for life and conduct. These guidelines have lasted for generations and are still applicable to our lives today. God desires that we follow these guidelines, not as mere obligation but because of our love for Him.

 

To a world which has seen hypocrisy, infidelity, dishonesty, and abuse in the Church, obligatory obedience to a set of guidelines only seems like “nonsense” they can do without. On the other hand, by making ethical decisions that are founded in love-love for God and others-Christians can demonstrate God’s unfailing love to a world in desperate need of it.

 

In this study, your students will realize that the Bible is the only standard by which we can measure our ethical decisions and base our actions. They will realize that God has established these rules to help us live in peace, not to, simply “spoil our fun. “instead, God has given us these guidelines to help us live in peace with each other.

The Basic Message: Explain to students…

• WHAT’S THE BIG IDEA?
God’s Word must be our standard for determining right and wrong.

• WHY DOES IT MATTER?
Those who don’t know God often define right and wrong in ways that conflict with the standards we see in God’s Word.

• HOW DO I LIVE IT?
Define right and wrong based on God’s Word, not human standards, and let God’s commands guide your attitudes and actions.

 

 

Activity Option: MORAL DILEMMA

Write the following statement on the board:
• Everyone should be able to live the way they want as long as they aren’t hurting anyone.
• Lying, in all cases, is wrong.
• Just because it is wrong for one person, doesn’t mean it is wrong for someone else.
• In extreme cases, euthanasia is an act of mercy.

Discuss students’ reactions to these statements. Avoid deep discussion on the issues themselves. Instead, focus on the standards by which the students responded to the statements.

 

Guide: Explain that different cultures have bought into the belief that right and wrong are relative. In the opinion of those that uphold such cultures, there is no more absolute truth. Therefore, there is no standard by which every person’s actions can be judged. As for Christians, the Bible should be the standard by which all actions and attitudes are measured.

Study Overview: Explain that today’s study considers…
• How God’s standards of right and wrong are the ultimate standards.
• Why our motives should be considered, not simply the issue of right and wrong.
• How our actions must be motivated by our love for God.

Inform and Discuss
a). Accept God’s Standards of Right and Wrong

Guide: Read or ask volunteers to read Exodus 20:1-20. Explain that rules and guidelines bring structure and order. Even those who campaign for personal freedom in ethics agree to the need for some standards in the society. Without the structure provided by some form of behavioural standard, the world would end up in chaos. Then point out that the Ten Commandments were given by God to the Israelites as they were becoming established as a nation. These laws became the basis for conduct for the entire nation, and they still influence our laws today.

1.Why do some people reject the Bible as a standard of conduct

Hint: Some reject the idea of God in general. Others don’t understand the content. Some simply don’t want to be told what to do.

2. Read or ask volunteers to read Matt 19:16-21. What was Jesus answer to the young ruler’s question? [Hint: Obey the commands. Referring to the commands of the Old Testament.

Guide: Explain that Jesus’ sacrifice atoned for our sins, making the need for the Old Testament animal sacrifices obsolete. However, nothing in His life or teaching claimed to abolish both the standards for ethics and the behaviour in the Old Testament. The same directives for ethics that God gave in the Old Testament still apply today.

 

b). Check Your Motives

Guide: Read or ask a volunteer to read Matt 7:12. Explain that this verse, commonly known as the Golden Rule, creates a problem for some people. We all want to be treated well by others, but we may not always want to do what’s right.

1. What are some situations in which it might be difficult to do the right thing?

Hint: Lying or cheating when you know you won’t get caught, treating with kindness someone who has wronged you, deciding not to take revenge when you have the chance.

Guide: Read or ask a volunteer to read Rom 12:17-21. Explain that when we learn to treat others the way we want to be treated, and learn to treat even our enemies with kindness rather than revenge, then we can begin to live in peace.

2. What do you think might happen in our society if everyone determined to live by the Golden Rule? [Hint: There would be no more crime; everyone would get along; hunger and homelessness would be abolished.]

c). Love Must Motivate Our Action

Guide: Read or ask a volunteer to read Eph 5:1-2. Explain that motivation for our ethical choices should be love-love for God and love for others. As Christians, our choice to follow God’s command should come from a desire to imitate Him and His righteousness. We pursue righteousness because God is righteous.

1. What example did Paul give of God’s love for us in verse 2?

 

Hint: Christ gave Himself for us. His sacrifice for us was the ultimate act of love. As Christians, we should reflect the love of God to the world around us.

2. Discuss practical ways students can demonstrate God’s love to the people they come in contact with daily. Encourage them to give specific, concrete examples.

3. Read or ask a volunteer to read Gal 5:13-14. What is the command that Paul used to sum up the entire Law? Hint: Love your neighbour as yourself.

Guide: Explain that Paul is referring to more than just Christians here. He is giving us a challenge to live a life of love to everyone. As Christians, we represent the love of God in every relationship and circumstance.

 

Involve Them: WHAT IF…?

List the Ten Commandments on the board. Then read them one after other. As you read each commandment, have students describe briefly what happens when that law is broken. Then discuss the following question with students:

• Do you believe the Ten Commandments are less relevant, equally relevant, or more relevant today than in the Old Testament? [Allow responses]

Guide: Explain that the guidelines established by God thousands of years ago are still very relevant to our society today. God has established guidelines to allow us to live in peace and demonstrate His love toward one another.

 

Inspire Them: Remind students THE BASIC MESSAGE of this study(pg 39), 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.

Ministry Activity: UNANSWERED QUESTIONS

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Explain that they need not write their names on the cards. When all the students have finished, collect the note cards. You may choose to read them out aloud, or simply take them home and read them in private. You may use the issues from the cards to develop deeper studies on these topics, addressing them in the future.

 

Teacher Hint: Ask Yourself…

1. Do students understand the need to establish ethical standard in line with the Bible?

2.Can they recognize appropriate motivations for ethical choices?

3. Can they explain the importance of showing love in ethical decisions?

 

Daily Dew Drops:

Mon: Follow the Light – John 3:19-21
Tue: Don’t Be Deceived – Prov 14:12
Wed: Be God Focused – Col 3:17
Thu: No Double Standard – Rev 3:14-16
Fri: Love: The Summary – Rom 13:8-10
Sat: Search It Out – Acts 17:10-11

 

CRMNuggetsis 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 contents 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.

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To Get Email Updates when we post new content,Click Here.

 

Text: Psalm 8:3-8;Rom 1:18-20;13:1-2; Gal 4:4-6; Col 1:15-20
Key Verse: Hebrews 11:6
And without faith it is Impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.(NIV)

 

 

Focus
A person’s worldview is a crucial component of his or her life. It will determine how he or she views his or her circumstances and choices, and ultimately how he or she determines his or her actions. Many people don’t take the time to consciously dissect their world view. Too often, it ends up being ”pieced together” by influences and experiences throughout life.
Your students are faced with a barrage of non-Christian, even anti-Christian, world views that seem to have become the mainstream thought of today’s culture. As Christians, we must determine that our worldview is based on God and His Word. Those two components are non-negotiable.

The key to influencing our society is to hold steadfast to our Christian worldview- our belief that God exists and that He has a plan for His creation. In this study, your students will learn that the bedrock of a Christian’s worldview – the very existence of God – must be accepted on faith. Once that is established, the rest of the components-His creation of the universe and His active role in it- are easily accepted. Challenge your students to stand strong in the face of opposition to their worldview, but to do so with the care and compassion Jesus would show.

 

 

The Basic Message: Explain to students…

 

WHAT’S THE BIG IDEA?
Our definition of reality must begin with faith that God created the universe for a purpose.

WHY DOES IT MATTER?
We often meet people who deny God’s existence or reject that He’s in control of the universe.

HOW DO I LIVE IT?
Look to God for your definition of reality and encourage doubters to make Him the Lord and Loader of their lives.

 

 

Activity Option: SEE NO EVIL,HEAR NO EVIL

Before class, prepare two or three identical bags with some sort of food item inside (e.g., crackers, cupcake, cooked spaghetti noodles, etc.).The more interesting the food, the more fun the activity will be. Ask two volunteers to work together to determine what is in each bag and describe it to the class. However, one student can only use her eyes and hands. (She can look, touch, etc., but cannot speak.) The other student can only use his ears and mouth. (He can speak and taste, but cannot look or touch. You may want to blindfold him to make it easier.)

 

Guide: Explain that a person’s perspective, especially a limited one, has a great impact on how they view the world. And how a person views the world greatly impacts the choices and decisions that person makes.

 

Study Overview: Explain that today’s study considers…

• How a Christian worldview is based on belief in God through faith.
• That the universe, and everything in it, has a purpose.
• How in spite of the seeming bad things that have happened in history, God has been present through it all.

 

Inform and Discuss

a). Who Is God?
1. Read or ask a volunteer to read Heb 11:6. How would you answer someone who asked you to prove that God exists? Answers might include: share personal testimony, argue science, etc.

 

Guide: Explain that although those are great ways to try to convince someone of the existence of God. But the Bible itself doesn’t try to prove that God exists. Instead, that truth is accepted as fact from the beginning.

2. How would your relationship with God be different if you could prove scientifically that He exists?

Guide: Focus on the fact that God has established that faith is what pleases Him.

3. Read or ask volunteers to read Gen 12:1-9;Heb 1:8-10.Discuss the role faith played in these passages.

Guide: Explain that a Christian’s belief in God is the foundation of his or her worldview. Because a Christian accepts God’s existence by faith, every experience is viewed through this truth.

4. Read or ask a volunteer to read Rom 1:18-20. What did Paul mean when he wrote that ”men are without excuse”?

Hint: Creation gives us evidence of God – by simply observing creation we can see proof of God’s existence.

5. Why do you suppose some people still choose to reject the existence of God?

Hint: If they accept God’s existence, they would have to accept His Word and His commands.

 

b). What ls the Universe?
1. Read or ask a volunteer to read Psalm 8:3-8. What are some different views about how the world (and universe) came to be? What does this passage say about creation?

Hint: Creation, evolution, big bang theory, and aliens are some of the different views about how the world(and universe) came to be. However, the Psalmist clearly credits God with the work of creation. A Christian’s worldview includes believing that God created the universe and has a purpose for His creation- even humans.

2. What purpose do evolutionists say the universe has? What purpose do you think God has given to humans?

Hint: According to evolutionists, there is no intention to the accidental “evolution” of life. On the other hand, the Bible clearly states people were made rulers over God’s creation. It is our job to take care of the earth and all who inhabit it. We might even assume that spiritual well-being is included along with the physical. We were also created to have fellowship with God.

3. Read or ask a volunteer to read Col 1:15-20.Discuss Christ’s involvement in creation, based on this passage.

Hint: He is the firstborn of all creation; He has always existed; He created all things; He holds all things together.

Guide: Explain that Christ’s role in creation establishes the fact that He is God. The sacrifice of Jesus on the cross provided for our salvation and reconciliation to God, our Creator. God’s purpose for His creation is still as vital as it was the day He spoke the universe into creation.

c). What about History
1. Read or ask volunteers to read Rom 13:1-2. How does this passage explain that God is in control of everyday events? [Hint: Paul explains that the authority of every leader, even those who make poor choices, exists only because God has allowed it.]

Guide: Explain that if we believe that God created the universe for a purpose, then we must believe that God is in control of that universe. We may not always understand why He allows some things to happen, but we know He is aware-and in control-of what is going on.

2. Read or ask a volunteer to read Gal 4:4-6. What do you think the phrase “when the time had fully come” means?

Hint: It was in God’s perfect timing, the circumstances were perfect for Christ’s coming, etc.

Guide: Explain that the world was certainly ready for Christ’s coming. Most of the world spoke a single language (Greek) when Jesus came to earth, making it an ideal time to spread the gospel. But Christian worldview would say that Christ came at the perfect time in God’s plan because God has a plan.

3. What evidence is there to show that God is still at work in our lives?

Hint: Salvation, healing, provision, deliverance, Students may wish to share personal testimonies here.

 

Involve Them: Have two volunteers role-play a discussion between a person with a Christian worldview and a person with a non-Christian worldview. The person taking the non-Christian role should begin the conversation with the following questions:
• How can you prove there is God?
• What makes you think the world didn’t simply evolve?

 

After a few minutes, instruct the volunteers to switch roles. Then ask them: Was it easy or difficult to explain your worldview? Why or why not?

 

Guide: Explain that as Christians we view the world through the lens of our knowledge of God and His Word. But we must acknowledge that we live among many people who do not have the same perspective. We must holdfast to our faith, without hating those with differing worldview but share the gospel with them in love.

 

Inspire Them: Remind students THE BASIC MESSAGE of this study(pg 31), 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.

 

Ministry Activity: Divide the class into groups. Allow students to share encounters they’ve had with individual who have a different worldview. Instruct each group to spend a few moments in prayer for those people.
Conclude by challenging students to consider how to allow their worldview to influence their daily lives. Encourage students to allow those truths to impact their decisions, thoughts, and actions in the coming days.

Teacher Hint: Ask Yourself…

1. Are students able to articulate their belief in God’s existence through faith?
2. Do they recognize worldviews that are contradictory to God and His plan?
3. Are students compassionate (instead of judgmental) toward others with differing worldviews?

Daily Dew Drops
Mon: His Word Lives – Heb 4:12
Tue: Worthy Passion – Psalm 27:1-4
Wed: Worthy Thoughts – Phil 4:8
Thu: Understanding Spiritual Things – 1 Cor 2:12-16
Fri: Unavoidable Appointment-2 Cor 5:10
Sat: We Shall Be Changed – 1 Cor 15:51-57

 

 

Action Point
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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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Text: Gen 11:1-9; Prov 8:13; James 4:6,10

 

Key Verse: Genesis 11:6-7

The Lord said, “…Come, let us go down and confuse their language so they will not understand each other.” (NIV)

 

Focus
Last week’s study focused on Noah, a righteous man, who obeyed God and built an ark to escape the tragic Flood. This week’s study relates to the story of another construction project-the Tower of Babel. But unlike the ark, the Tower was a self-serving and self-glorifying plan/project. Its builders, in their pride, didn’t want to honour God or follow His instructions.
Of course, it is a dangerous decision to ignore God, and few people would presume to do it deliberately.

 

And yet, in subtle ways, we put God off when we neglect personal time in His Word, reduce prayer to a pre-meal grace, or simply don’t apply to our lives what He has already shown us through the Word and prayer. As much as we may want to experience God’s perfect plan for our lives, it will be nearly impossible to discover it if we’re not taking time to listen to Him.

 

If it seems that you haven’t been hearing from God as clearly as you would like, take a personal retreat. Get away to a quiet place for even a brief time and do nothing but sit in His presence, open your mind and your Bible, and let Him do the talking. Ask God to search your heart and show you what He sees. Allow Him to replace any misguided motivations with godly humility so that He gets the glory, not you. Then, take immediate action on what He shows you during this time.

 

The Basic Message: Explain to students…

 WHAT’S THE BIG IDEA?
Pride keeps people from listening to God.

 WHY DOES IT MATTER?
Trying to do things our own way leads to failure and confusion.

 HOW DO I LIVE IT?

Ask God to remove pride from your life, and commit to discovering and following His plans.

 

Activity Option: TOWERING LANDMARKS

Display pictures of famous towers or buildings from around the world, such as the Eiffel Tower, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Empire State Building, and NECOM House. (You should be able to locate pictures on the Internet.) Quiz students to see how many of these famous landmarks they can correctly identify.

 

Guide: Explain that today’s study is about a tower-building project that came to an abrupt halt because it was situated on a foundation of human pride. People often value, celebrate, and pursue things that will not last. Even structures that remain standing for centuries will someday crumble. In the end, only God’s truth will remain. The things we build into our lives will make an eternal difference only if we listen to God and follow His instruction.

 

Study Overview: Explain that today’s study considers…
• How the people of Babel pridefully rebelled against God.
• How God confused the language of the world.
• Why we must listen to God rather than doing things our own way.

 

Inform and Discuss
a).Monument of Pride
1. Read or ask a volunteer to read Gen 11:1-4.Why did the people want to build a city and tower? Do you think that the people’s reasons were right or wrong? Why? [Hint: In Genesis 9:1, God had given a command to fill the earth. But the people were ignoring God’s words in favour of banding together to “make a name” for themselves. Instead of being concerned about obeying God and exalting His name, their pride led them to promote their own interest.

 

2. Ask students to suggest some ways in which teens sometimes try to “make a name” for themselves (e.g., through popularity, money, possessions, relationships, activities, abilities, rebellion, etc.

Guide: Explain that it’s natural to desire success and the admiration of others. But these aren’t the most important things in life. When we want things more than we want a relationship with God, they become monuments of pride-like the Tower of Babel. Ultimately, such things lead to spiritual catastrophe. Thankfully, we don’t have to dismantle these “monuments” on our own. As we draw closer to Jesus, He will begin to change our desires. We’ll start looking for ways to bring Him honour, instead of wasting our energy on things that won’t last.

3. Read or ask a volunteer to read James 4:6,10. Why would God oppose the proud? How and why can pride be destructive?
4. What does it mean to humble yourself before the Lord? How might He “lift you up” if you do so? (Hint: To ‘be humble before God means to recognize your position in relation to His and to acknowledge your total dependence on Him for strength and guidance. When you do this, God will honour you with the help you need and more-the ability to succeed in accomplishing His highest purposes for your life.

 

Guide: Explain that prideful people often refuse to hear God’s Word because they don’t want to acknowledge their need for guidance and discipline. God opposes such people. Their prideful pursuits will amount to nothing because they have rejected the One who can truly bring purpose and meaning to their lives. But God gives us grace when we confess our sins and submit our lives to Him. James 4:10 says He will “lift” the humble, providing the help we need to accomplish great things for His glory.

 

b). Inspection Time
Guide: Explain that God inspected the structures that the people of Babel were building(Gen 11:5).He sees everything we do as well-both the good and the bad. More importantly, He sees our hearts and examines the motives behind our actions. We may not be able to detect every hidden flaw or wrong motivation, but God can.

 

1. Read or ask a volunteer to read Gen 11:6-9. What similarities do you see between what the people said in verse 4 and what God said in verse 7?

Hint: God used the same words the people had used: “Come, let us…This may have been used to draw attention to the difference between God’s plan and the people’s plan.

2. Whose plan failed? Whose plan triumphed? What can we learn from this?[Hint: The people’s plan failed, but God’s plan worked flawlessly. If we want to succeed in God’s kingdom, we must first humble ourselves and determine to take directions from Him. Only when our plans line up with God’s plans is victory assured.

3. Read or ask a volunteer to read Prov 8:13. How do people usually act toward things they hate? What do you think it means to hate evil?

Hint: People usually avoid and resist things they hate. Those who hate evil will do everything possible to avoid sin and temptation. They won’t regard sinful behaviours as entertaining, interesting, or fun.

 

What do pride and arrogance have to do with evil?

 

Hint: Pride leads to rebellion against God. When we stop paying attention to God’s instructions and start believing we can get along without Him, we risk repeating the mistakes of Adam, Eve, Cain, and the people of Babel. By denying God’s rightful place in our lives, pride opens the door to every kind of sin.

 

Involve Them: Ask students to name some questions that teens often have concerning their futures. Which tertiary institution will I be admitted into? Who will I marry? What will I become? What should my priorities be? List their suggestions on a board. Then discuss the following questions: Why is it important to listen to God before making these decisions? [Hint: Some of these decisions can’t be undone, so it’s important to consult God first. He has ultimate plan for every person’s life. Maintaining a relationship with Him is the only way to discover that plan.

 

What happens when people refuse to listen to God?

Hint: They miss out on God’s blessings; they make mistakes; and they risk eternal separation from God.] How can you keep pride from getting in the way of your relationship with God? [Guide: Encourage teens to trust God for ability and guidance and to give Him glory for every good thing in their lives. Point out that pride often comes when we stop spending time in God’s presence and lose sight of our total dependence on Him.

 

Guide: Explain that there is nothing wrong with feeling confident in your abilities or experiencing a sense of accomplishment for a job well done. But we must acknowledge that everything we have comes from God. We make serious mistake when we refuse to include Him in our lives.

 

 

Inspire Them: Remind students THE BASIC MESSAGE of this study (pg26).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.

 

Ministry Activity: Have students bow their heads and prayerfully consider whether there is some part of their lives that they haven’t yet surrendered to God. Encourage them to seek forgiveness for the times they’ve failed to listen to God and tried to do things their own way, Move around the room and take time to pray with each student, asking God to accomplish His will in that student’s life.

Invitation Option: You may have students who have never accepted Jesus as their Saviour. Provide an opportunity for them to do so al this time. Explain that the first step in discovering God’s will is offering Him your life and accepting His forgiveness. Pray with any students who respond.

Conclude the study by challenging student to set aside time to come into God’s presence each day and listen to what He has to say. (For guidance, see the Prayer Calendar below

 

Teacher Hint: Ask Yourself…
1. Can students explain how people of Babel sinned?
2. Do they understand how pride can damage a Christian’s relationship with God?
3. Have they been offered an opportunity to seek God’s forgiveness for any sins of pride they may have committed?

 

Daily Dew Drops
Mon: He Is Near – Psalm 145:18
Tue: When Pride Comes – Prov 11:22
Wed: Heart Stuff – 1 Sam 16:7
Thu: If You Must Boast – 2 Cor 10:17-18
Fri: Made by Satan – 1 John 2:16
Sat: Trust Not in Uncertain Riches – 1 Tim 6:17-19

 

Study 2: DIRECTIONS AND DISOBEDIENCE

Text: Gen 2:8-25;3:1-24;Prov 16:25; 1 Cor 15:22;Rev 21:3-4

 

 

Key Verse: Genesis 2:16-17
And the Lord God commanded the man, “You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat of it you will surely die.”(NIV)

Focus
Have you ever done something you later regretted? The truth is, we’ve all sinned and we’re all prone to mistakes. This study focuses on a choice that unleashed a catastrophic consequences.

 

In the Garden, Adam and Eve had everything they could have wanted: a relationship with their Creator and a perfect earthly existence. But because they chose to ignore God’s warning, they lost it all. Even worse, their sin set in motion a cycle that has resulted in suffering for every person who had ever lived.

 

As you present this study, remind students of the importance of following God’s instructions and heeding His warnings. Scripture plainly teaches that doing things our way leads to death (Prov 16:25). Thankfully, God has provided a remedy by sending His Son to pay the penalty for our mistakes.

 

Jesus has stripped the enemy of his power and made a way for us to live as God intended. It’s therefore our prayer that the Holy Spirit will use this study to draw students to Jesus. If you’re aware of students in your class who haven’t made commitment to Christ, allow plenty of time at the end of this session to invite these students to accept the forgiveness and reconciliation that He offers.

 

 

The Basic Message: Explain to students…
• WHAT’S THE BIG IDEA?

 

We can experience all that God has for us only when we submit to His authority and obey His instructions.

 WHY DOES IT MATTER?

Disobedience leads to pain, sorrow, and separation from God, but Jesus provides Hope for sinners.

 HOW DO I LIVE IT?

Recognize that God’s instructions are for good, seek forgiveness for sin, and determine to obey God.

 

 

Activity Option: THROWN AWAY

Have the class discuss this question: How would you feel if someone threw away a gift you had given? Why?

Guide: Explain that God created the world, He provided everything we needed to enjoy an existence free from pain and trouble. But all of that was carelessly tossed aside when humanity decided to disobey God and go its own way.

 

Study Overview: Explain that today’s study considers…

• How sin entered the world.
• The consequences of disobeying God’s instructions.
• God’s plan of salvation and restoration.

 

Inform and Discuss
a). A World of Perfection
• Read or ask volunteers to read Gen 2:8-15.What evidence of God’s love do we see in this passage? [Hint: God provided a special place for the man He had created-a beautiful garden filled with good food and fresh water. From the detailed description we can see how careful God was to give Adam the best of everything.

 

Guide: Explain that God desires to bless us and fill our lives with good things. From the beginning, people have been special objects of His care and attention. By taking the woman from Adam’s body. God demonstrated that a husband and wife are to become one in unity and purpose. Families were a part of God’s plan from the beginning.

 

Though family members today don’t always love and serve one another as God intended, the family was originally designed to be a blessing.

 

b).A Word of Instruction
1.Read or ask a volunteer to read Gen 2:16-17. What instructions did God give Adam in this passage? Why? [Guide: Explain that God speaks words of life and truth. It’s up to each person to decide to obey His instructions and be blessed or to disregard them and stumble toward death.

 

Teacher Hint: But why that tree? God created us with the ability to make choices. We may never fully comprehend why God placed in the Garden the tree that led to humanity’s fall. But we can be grateful that He gave us freedom to think for ourselves-even when the freedom leads to trouble. He also provides guidance to help us make the right choices. He even extends hope and mercy to those who make mistakes.

 

2. Read or ask a volunteer to read Prov. 16:25. List some of the things that seem “right, ”good,” or “fun” to majority of people but will ultimately lead to suffering, humiliation, loss, and (worst of all) eternal separation from God.

 

Guide: Explain that many things that God Intended for good can lead to death simply because they are not handled according to God’s Instructions or used as He intended. So, to avoid such pitfalls, we must listen to God’s Instructions and disregard the lies of the world.

c).A World of Suffering

1. Read or ask volunteers to read Gen 3:1-13. How did the serpent twist God’s word in verse 1? Why do you think Satan used this tactic?

 

(Note: Contrary to what the serpent wanted Eve to believe, God didn’t withhold any good thing from Adam and Eve. People are in danger of sinning when they focus on what they think God is keeping from them, rather than appreciating the blessings that comes from knowing Him.

 

Guide: Notice what verse 6 says: “the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good….”Up to this point, God has been the judge of what is good (Gen1:10,12,18,21,25). Problems come when we start deciding for ourselves what is good, rather than looking to God and His Word to help us know the difference between right and wrong choices.

 

2. Why do you think Adam and Eve hid from God?

Guide: Explain that the most immediate result of sin was separation from God. Sin brings a sense of shame that makes us uncomfortable in God’s holy presence. Violating God’s commands sets us in opposition to His standards and character. So, the intimate relationship is severed.

 

3. Read or ask volunteers to read Gen 3:16-24.What did Adam and Eve gain or lose because of their sin? [Guide: Explain that the tragic irony is that, by pursuing the “freedom” they thought they wanted, they lost the amazing freedom that God had generously provided.

 

They were later banished from the garden and would have to work for their food, battling with harsh elements of nature just to survive. What did they stand to gain from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil? God had already given them everything good. The only thing they hadn’t experienced was evil. And of course, that was exactly what their sinful act Invited into the world.

 

d).A Word of Hope
1. Read or ask a volunteer to read Gen 3:14-15. How does this passage provide hope?

 

Note: God acknowledged that Satan would cause human pain and suffering – as a natural result of sin. Yet, He looked ahead to a time when, through Christ’s suffering on the cross, Satan’s dominion would be destroyed.

 

Though we still live in a world of suffering, Satan has no real power over those who have placed their trust in Jesus. We can look forward to the day when we will be with God and enjoy the life that he wanted us to have.

 

2. Read or ask a volunteer to read 1 Cor 15:22; Rev.21:3-4. How can you communicate this hope to someone who doesn’t know Jesus?

 

Hint: Though we all deserve to die, God hasn’t left us In a hopeless situation.

 

Through Christ’s death and resurrection, He provided a way of escape from the ultimate consequences of sin. When God and His people are together for eternity, the effects of sin will be abolished forever. There will be no more death, mourning, crying, or pain.

 

Involve Them: Provide paper and pens or pencils, and give students one minute to see who can list the most consequences of the original sin. Ask the winning student to read his or her list. For each consequence, have the class suggest a solution that Jesus offers (e.g., sin brought sickness, but Jesus offers healing). Explain that Jesus’ work on the cross provides a remedy for the effects of sin, but we must be willing to admit our wrongdoing and accept His gracious offer of salvation.

 

Inspire Them: Remind students THE BASIC MESSAGE of this study (pg 14), 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.

 

 

Ministry Activity: Explain that just as God gave Adam instructions In the Garden, He instructs us through His Word and through the Holy Spirit. Have students spend a few moments in quiet prayer, asking God to speak to their hearts. Encourage them to seek forgiveness for any unconfessed sins and ask God to help them obey His Word.

 

Conclude the study by offering to pray with students who have not accepted Jesus as the Forgiver of their sins and Leader of their lives.

 

Teacher Hint: Ask Yourself…
1. Can students name some consequences of sin?
2. Can they explain why it’s important to obey God’s commands?
3. Do they understand that Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross provides forgiveness and restoration for those who will accept it?

 

Dally Dew Drops

Mon: True Test of Discipleship – John 14:23;Prov 6:20
Tue: The Way to Live – Deut 5:33;James 1:22
Wed: Be Not Moved – 1 Cor 15:58
Thu: Blameless Life – 1 John 3:21-22
Fri: Submit to God – James 4:7
Sat: Better Listen – Malachi 2:2

 

 

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TEXT: Gen. 1:3-31; 2:7; Job 38:3-13; Psalms 19:1-3; 33:6-9, 13-22; 119:73; Isa. 29:16

 

Key Verse: Gen 1:3

And God said. “Let there be light, and there was light (NIV)

 

Focus

 

It can certainly be difficult to understand how the God who created the vast and amazing universe could truly care for us. This study will remind students that their Creator not only loves them, He alone knows what’s best for them. Help your students realize that they are a unique and special part of God’s creation. Encourage them to consider that they were designed for a specific purpose, and God has a plan for each of them. By submitting to His leadership, reading His Word, and following His instructions, your students can become all they were created to be.

 

As you prepare for this study, spend time with God in a place where you can appreciate His creation, even as you view some of His creation. Express thanks to God for the love that His creation reveals. Pray also for your students that, as they read the account of His creation, they will realize that God can make something great out of their lives if they’l l trust Him and follow His plan.

 

The Basic Message: Explain to students…

 

 WHAT’S THE BIG IDEA?

 

God spoke the world into existence and has power over all creation

 

WHY DOES IT MATTER?

 

As our creator, God knows what is best for our lives.

 

HOW DO I LIVE IT?

 

Trust God and obey His commands.

 

Activity Option: ONCE UPON A TIME

 

Write “Once upon a time…” on the board. As students enter the classroom, give each one a sheet of paper and a pen or pencil and ask them to write a few lines of story that begins with this phrase. Start the session by having various volunteers read their creations. Then discuss the following question:

 

•Why is it helpful to read a story’s beginning first?

 

Guide: Explain that the beginning is one of the most important parts of a story. It sets the stage, provides context and perspective, and helps us to understand the details that will be presented later. While the Bible is much more than just a story, we can’t overlook the importance of its first chapters. The Book of Genesis is really the story of our beginning – the beginning of our story.

 

Study Overview: Explain that today’s study considers…

 

• What the Bible says about creation.

• How God spoke the world into existence.

• Why we need to submit to God’s instructions.

 

Inform and Discuss

 

a). The Big Beginning

 

1. Read or ask a volunteer to read Gen 1:1-3. What does this passage tell you about the power of God’s Word? [Guide: Explain that God’s creative power surpasses anything we can ever imagine. Just as He broke through physical darkness by His spoken Word, He is more than able to shatter spiritual darkness in our lives. And in the same way that He brought beauty out of chaos, He can do great things in each of us.

 

2. Read or have volunteers read Gen 1:4-25. What parts of creation do you find most amazing? Why? How does nature give you insight into God’s greatness? [Guide: Be prepared to tell about a time when you gained a sense of God’s greatness by experiencing His creation. Perhaps you watched a sunrise or sat under a starry sky. Remind students that nature displays God’s majesty, power, vastness, creativity, provision, and love.

 

3. Does it make sense to claim that the world (and everything in it) came into being by chance? Why would someone hold such a view? [Guide: Help students understand that the world’s intricate design reveals there is a Designer.

 

4. How should Christians respond to those who promote such ideas? [Hint: While we might be tempted to be overly defensive and argumentative about our faith, we must nevertheless be careful to present the truth in a living and gracious manner.

 

Guide: Explain that many people reject the Biblical account of creation because they’ve never had a life-altering encounter with the Creator, Such people need to see Jesus in us. One of the most powerful testimonies of God’s power is a life that is completely sold-out for Christ

 

b). The Big Picture Read or ask volunteers to read Psalm 19:1-3; 33:6-8. In what ways does nature allow you to see glimpses of God’s greatness, majesty and power? grasp the size and complexity of all that God has made. As amazing as creation is, it testifies of a Creator who is even bigger and more amazing. Being part of God’s creation, we should recognize His power and respond in awe, obedience, and reverent fear.]

 

>>Note: Scientific theories about how the universe began will come and go but the truth of God’s Word will one day be revealed to all people. In the meantime, we don’t have to fear science. Rather, we should approach it with a good understanding of the Bible so that we can graciously and intelligenty defend and promote our faith as opportunities arise.

 

Illustration Option: QUOTE

 

“I do not feel that I am the product of chance, a speck of dust in the universe. but someone who was expected, prepared, prefigured. In short, a being whom only a Creator could put here; and this idea of a creating hand refers to God.-Jean-Paul Sartre

 

c. The Big Question

 

1. Read or ask volunteers to read Gen 1:26-31; 2:7; Job 38:3-13. In what ways did God make human beings different from the rest of His creation? Why is this important? [Hint: God formed humans in His image, placing a spiritual nature in each of us. As spiritual beings, we were given the unique opportunity to experience eternal relationship with our Creator.

 

Guide: Explain that nature’s strength can’t even compare with God’s. He created the earth with a command. The elements have no choice but to obey His voice. However God gave us the ability to choose for ourselves how to respond to Him.

 

Teacher Hint: What about Evolution? Evolution is a flawed theory that violates several scientific laws (The Law of Cause and Effect, The First and Second Laws of Thermodynamics, The Law of Biogenesis. The Law of Mass Action, and The Law of Inertia – to name just a few). The theory of microevolution, which says that humanity evolved from apes which evolved from some primordial sludge, is a LIE that attempts to rob God of His glory and people of a meaningful existence, and ultimately, of eternity with God.

 

2. Read or ask volunteers to read Psalm 119:73; Isa 29:16. Will you choose to worship your Creator or will you choose to go your way? Why?

 

– Explain that just as God tells the ocean waves where to stop (Job 3-13). He alone has the wisdom to know what is best for our lives. As created beings, we would be foolish to reject our Creator or claim that we know more than Him. Instead, we should seek to understand and obey His commands.

 

Involve Them: Play the song “King of My Heart” by Love & the Outcome from the album Love & the Outcome.

Inspire Them: Remind students THE BASIC MESSAGE of this study (pg. 10), 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.

 

Ministry Activity: Display a globe as you read Psalm 33:13-22. Remind students that God is not a distant, disinterested ruler who gazes down on our planet the way we look at a globe. He is a personal God who looks deeply into our hearts and lives. He extends love, mercy, and help to us. And He has a plan for each of us. All we have to do is to trust in Him. Divide the class into small groups, and have them discuss any difficulties they may be facing. Ask a volunteer in each group to pray for the needs mentioned.

 

Conclude the study by asking God to reveal to your students His plans for their lives. Offer to pray with students who do not have a personal relationship with Jesus.

 

Teacher Hint: Ask Yourself…

 

1. Can students restate the biblical accounts of creation?

2. Do they understand that God who created the universe cares about them and has a plan for their lives?

3. Was there an opportunity for students to receive prayer for their needs and concerns?

 

Daily Dew Drops

 

Mon: God: The Creator of All Things – Gen 1:1-2; Heb 3:4

 

Tue: God of All Possibilities – Jer 32:17

 

Wed: My Maker, My Helper – Psalm 121:1-2, 124:8

 

Thu: He is TIRELESS – Isa 40:28

 

Fri: I’m Designed for Good Works – Eph 2:8-10

 

Sat: Don’t Quarrel with Your Maker – Isa. 45:8-9

 

 

CRMNuggetsis 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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Text: 1 Sam 15:1-3, 7-9, 12, 14-15, 20-28

 

Key Verse: 1 Samuel 15:22

Does the Lord delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the voice of the Lord? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams._ (NIV)

 

Focus
God wants all our hearts. His expectations regarding our actions and responses toward Him could be summed up in one Word: OBEDIENCE. In fact, He values obedience more than anything we could ever give up for Him.

 

We demonstrate devotion to Him through trust, and trust is demonstrated by obedience. Doubtless, your ministry as a Sunday School teacher or teens’ facilitator is extremely important; but make no mistakes: God doesn’t want your sacrifices for Him to serve as a substitute for obedience. He is deeply concerned with what He’s doing in you, not just what He’s doing through you.

 

Take a few moments this week to examine your priorities: Are you trying to impress God, or others, by what you are doing for Him when He would prefer your willing obedience? Make out time also to pray for your students. Obedience isn’t necessarily a welcome topic among teens, but obedience to God is a necessity, whether it’s popular or not. Encourage your students to learn from Saul’s mistake.

 

The Basic Message:* Explain to students…

• WHAT’S THE BIG IDEA?
God values complete obedience above any sacrifice we could make for Him.
• WHY DOES IT MATTER?
Obedience has a price, but the price of disobedience is higher.
• HOW DO I LIVE IT?
Follow God’s instructions – willingly and completely.

Activity Option:
RULES ARE GOOD THING

Ask students to name sports, activities, and hobbies they are involved in that have specific rules or standards governing the play. List the activities on the board. Then ask the following questions regarding each activity:
• What are some of the primary rules of this activity?
• What would the activity be like if those standards didn’t exist a what if participants simply chose to ignore them?

Guide: Explain that God’s Word contains instructions for living. When we become selective about which parts of God’s Word we’ll abide by and ignore other parts, we can expect trouble. Partial obedience will not be acceptable to God, but total obedience will leave you with no regrets.

 

Study Overview: Explain that today’s study considers..

• The personal “costs” of living an obedient Christian life.
• The value of obedience compared with the value of sacrifice.
• The need to act in a godly way to avoid regrets.

inform and Discuss
a. Total Annihilation -Partial Obedience

 

Teacher Hint:

Read or have a volunteer read 1 Sam 15:1-3. Some may see God’s directive as cruel and harsh, but it’s important to understand the purpose behind His judgment. He knew that pagan cultures would corrupt His people and lead them away from Him; and when they weren’t doing that, they were physically attacking God’s people. As a surgeon wants to remove a cancerous tumour completely, so God wanted to completely remove sinful influence of these evil groups. But He didn’t take this action action arbitrarily or in a haste -He waited until their sin did reach its full measure (Gen 15:12-16).

 

1. Why do you think God communicated to King Saul in such a manner that was unmistakably clear?

 

Guide: Explain that God doesn’t want His people confused about His expectations for them. He gives us His Word, direct access to Him through prayer, the Holy Spirit’s guidance, and He still speaks through other people.

2. Read or have a volunteer read 1 Sam 15:7-9. Ask students to give everyday examples of partial obedience.

 

Hint: These include doing a portion of what was asked by a parent, teacher, or other authority figure, but disregarding the full instructions – e.g., curfew, an assignment, a- responsibility.

 

Guide: Point out that there’s no such thing as “partial obedience.” When a parent tells a teen a two-step command, the parent won’t be pleased unless both steps are followed.

 

3. Why might “partial obedience” be serious?

Guide: Explain that obeying the Lord isn’t optional. God sees our hearts and knows our motivations. Excuses won’t fool Him.

b. Direct Confrontation-Indirect Excuses
1. Read or have volunteers read 1 Sam 15:12, 14-15, 24. Why is Saul’s explanation clearly an excuse? (Guide: Explain that the idea of offering the best sheep and cattle sounds good on the surface, but it’s the direct result of disobedience.

 

Besides, Saul should have learned his lesson when Samuel rebuked Saul’s earlier disobedience (1 Sam 13:11-14). It is also possible Saul was interested in his honour, not God’s honour.

 

2. Read or have a volunteer read 1 Sam 15:20-23. Why do you think God values obedience more than sacrifice? What’s the difference between the two?

Hint: Sacrifice and obedience aren’t the same. Sacrifice may simply mean giving God what we want Him to have; obedience is giving Him what He wants. Disobedience is what made sacrifice necessary. Saul wanted something that was not rightfully his in the first place.

 

Note: What truly pleases God is not our sacrifice, but a heart ready to completely obey Him, no matter the cost.

3. How is disobedience a type of rebelliousness and arrogance? [Hint: When we don’t fully obey, iť’s often because we think we know better, or because we simply don’t want to do what was asked.

 

Disobedience is defiance of God.

Note: Obedience can be costly- it can cost you things like your friendship, popularity, or your pride. But the cost of disobedience is much higher.

c. Heartfelt Confession- Heartbreaking Consequences
1. Read or have volunteer read 1 Sam 15:24-28. Does asking God for forgiveness eliminate the consequences of disobedience?

 

Guide: Explain that God forgives us when we genuinely repent of our disobedience, but that doesn’t mean we’ll escape the consequences that lead to regret. The only way to live a life free from regret is to choose the path of obedience.

 

Note: Although Saul clung to power until his death, David was anointed king while Saul still lived.

c. Heartfelt Confession-Heartbreaking Consequences
1. Read or have volunteer read 1 Sam 15:24-28. Does asking God for
forgiveness eliminate the consequences of disobedience?
>>Guide: Explain that God forgives us when we genuinely repent of our
disobedience, but that doesn’t mean we’ll escape the consequences that
lead to regret. The only way to live a life free from regret is to choose the path
of obedience.

 

Note: Although Saul clung to power until his death, David was anointed king while Saul still lived.

 

Involve Them: WORTH THE RISK

Divide students into small groups. Give each group a piece of paper and a pen or pencil. Challenge each group to come up with three risks that God might ask young believers in their generation to take in the next three years for the benefit of His kingdom (e.g., write a paper with a Christian theme as a school assignment, start a prayer or Bible club at school, tell an unbelieving friend about Jesus). Remind them that obedience to God often seems like.

 

Involve Them: WORTH THE RISK

Divide students into small groups. Give each group a piece of paper and a
pen or pencil. Challenge each group to come up with three risks that God
might ask young believers in their generation to take in the next three years
for the benefit of His kingdom (e.g., write a paper with a Christian theme as a
school assignment, start a prayer or Bible club at school, tell an unbelieving
friend about Jesus). Remind them that obedience to God often seems like
risk behaviour, but whatever the cost, obedience to God is worth it.

 

Inspire Them: Remind students “The Basic Message” of this study (pg 119), explain WHAT the Big ldea behind the study is; WHY it matters; and

HOW we can live the lesson captured in the study.

Ministry Activity: ACT ON IT

Give students few minutes to spend in quiet reflection about how they intend to live this week in the light of all you discussed in class. (You may want to quietly display worship music, even as they reflect.).

 

Perhaps some know what God has been telling them, but they haven’t yet acted on it. Or perhaps others need to repent for choosing to do their own thing in a particular aspect of their lives. Pray with students and give them time to make these commitments.

Teacher Hint: Ask Yourself…

1. Do students understand that disobedience to God can lead to serious issues?

2. Can they explain the difference between obeying God and sacrificing for Him?

3. Do students realize that asking forgiveness doesn’t erase the consequences of their actions?

 

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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Study 4:”What Have You Done?”

 

Text: 1 Sam 13:1-14; Romans 12:3

 

Key Verse: Romans 12:3

 

For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the God has given you._ (NIV)

 

Focus

When Israel crowned King Saul, he was overwhelmed by his daunting assignment. After a few years, however, he felt himself as a first-among- equals and above the rules. He became much like most of the people regarded as heroes in sports, music, and movies, who are part of an extravagant lifestyle which our celebrity-obsessed culture constantly beams the spotlight on.

 

Many of your teens struggle with the same thing. They crave for attention and will do almost anything to get it. Others see themselves as experts on everything, and don’t hesitate to tell you how things should be done.

 

As you prepare for this study, ask the Holy Spirit to examine your heart. As a leader, teens are watching your life closely – even when you’re not sure they’re even listening to the lesson. It might be easy, after experiencing little success as a teacher, to try to do it on your own strength.

 

But remember Saul’s mistake of taking things into his own hands. Continue to seek God’s wisdom and strength to carry out your duties. Pray for your students this week. And ask God to use this study to help them avoid some of the pitfalls of leadership and keep their eye-and hearts -focused on Him.

 

The Basic Message: Explain to students…

WHATS THE BIG IDEA?

No one is exempt from following God’s rules.

WHY DOES IT MATTER?

Disregarding God’s commands exacta high price.

 

HOW DO I LIVE IT?

Focus on following what God has asked you to do, avoid hasty decisions,

and don’t make exscuses.

Activity Option: WHO NEEDS RULES?

Ask students what it means when someone says that “rules are made to be broken.” What happens when leaders think they are above the law?

 

Discuss examples of when this has happened.

Guide: Explain that initially, Saul didn’t see himself as “king material” (1 Sam 9:21). Later, he decided that, as a king, he could do things his way

rather than God’s way. The exchange he had with Samuel at Gilgal can teach us a lot about choices, roles, and serving God.

Study Overview: Explain that today’s study considers…

That selfish choices don’t honour God. That all we are, have, and accomplish is a result of God’s grace.

That making excuses won’t excuse us before God.

 

Inform and Discuss

_________________

a. Going Too Far

1. Read or have a volunteer read and summarize *1 Sam 13:1-10.* How can overstepping God’s boundaries lead to disaster? [Hint: God knows best. His boundaries were created for our protection and when we cross one, any number of problems can arise, regardless of our excuse. Also, disobeying God is sin.

Guide: Explain that not only were the people fearful of their fate such a formidable foe, but Saul may have felt that the welfare of the nation rested on him alone. But Israel’s welfare actually rested in God’s hands.

 

2. Why does excessive concern for others’ opinions frequently result in bad decisions? [Hint: Pleasing people moves your focus off God.

Attempting to please people can be very dangerous – especially if it comes at the expense of pleasing God.

Guide: Explain that King Saul may have had another motive: He didn’t

want to look foolish. So, he decided to take matters into his own hands -as a king, of course.

 

3. What are some ways we might be tempted to deal with issues our own way spiritually? What kinds of negative consequences can result from impatience? [Guide: Emphasize that waiting on God is never wasted time. He has perfect plan that He will reveal at the right time.

 

Waiting also is one of the tools God uses to build us up and impart in us the enduring virtues of patience and trust.

Note: Feeling pressured to prove yourself or giving in to doubt or impatience can be avoided if you stay focused on God and keep trusting Him. Never take your eyes off Him!!

 

b. Making Excuses

1. Read or have a volunteer read and summarize/Whom did Saul blame with each excuse? Are any of Saul’s excuses legitimate? Why or why not?

 

Hint: Instead of admitting his mistake and repenting, Saul offered explanation to justify his error. But when the prophet Nathan confronted David about his sin, David repented (2 Sam 12). Excuses never change a wrong to a right!

 

2. Read or have a volunteer read Rom 12:3. Why does God warn us about thinking too highly of ourselves?

 

Hint: Primarily, it takes Our focus and dependence off God and puts it on ourselves. It also causes us to be overly concerned about what others think, making us more prone to cave in to peer pressure. Ultimately, prides leads to selfish, foolish decisions that set us up for failure.

 

c. Paying the Price

1. Read or have volunteer read 1 Sam 13:13-14. What was the cost of Saul’s disobedience?

Guide: Explain that even though kingdoms are typically passed down through a family line, this would not be the case with Saul. Because he disobeyed, the kingdom would be stripped away from his family. The consequence of foolishly doing things our own way has serious repercussions on us and others.

 

Involve Them: MY PLACE

Distribute paper and pen or pencils, and direct students to list a few of the talents or skills that God has given them and some ways they can use them for Him.

 

Remind them that just as it was God who gave Saul his kingly appearance and placed him in the position to be king, it is God who gives each of us our talents, skills, and purpose. We have no reason to get arrogant or bigheaded because of any of those. The glory belongs to God.

 

inspire Them: Remind students “The Basic Message” of this study (pg 111), explain WHAT the Big ldea behind the study is; WHY it matters; and HOW we can live the lesson captured in the study.

 

invitation Option:* GOD’S FORGIVENESS

Step one in God’s plan for all of us is that we make Him the Forgiver of our sins and the Leader of our lives. Give students who don’t yet have a relationship with Jesus an opportunity to receive His forgiveness.

 

Encourage other students to reflect on some of their past decisions and present excuses. They may want to repent for any hasty decision they made and choose to follow God’s direction instead.

 

Ministry Activity: GOD’S FAVOUR

First Samuel 13:12 says that Saul desired to seek God’s favour. And while that’s a good thing, Saul disobeyed God’s instructions. Unlike Saul, we don’t have to wait for someone else to arrive before we can ask God for direction concerning His will for our lives.

 

Give students the opportunity to spend a few minutes in prayer, asking God for direction in using the abilities He has given them and the position He has placed them in to serve His purposes. Also encourage them to seek God’s wisdom for decisions or difficulties they currently face.

Conclude by reminding students that when we take matters into our own

hands, instead of trusting God, we put ourselves at risk. All God asks of us is

to do our part. We must learn to leave the rest up to Him.

Teacher Hint: Ask Yourself…_

1. Do students understand that doing things way instead God’s way can be costly?

 

2. Do they recognize the futility of making excuses instead of following God’s directions?

 

3. Do they realize that they should be humbly grateful for the abilities and opportunities God has given them?

 

 

 

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 contents that will increase the intellectual prowess of our readers. 

OUR VISION

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TEXT: 1 Sam 3:1-21; John 10:27

 

KEY VERSE: John 10:27
My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. (NIV)

 

Focus
Every day, the students in your class confront challenges that could have profound impact on their lives – for good or bad. And in the years ahead, they will yet face many major decisions. If your students can learn to recognize God’s voice, they can avoid a lot of confusion and stress.

 

God speaks in diverse ways: audible voice, inward witness, His Word, signs and wonders, fulfilled prophecies, and His Holy Spirit. But no matter how He chooses to speak, what matters is that your students know the voice of God and choose to obey. Samuel was probably much younger than your students when God’s voice awakened him. So, they, too, can learn to recognize God’s voice.

 

Perhaps your life has become overcrowded with distractions and you find it hard to “tune in” God’s voice. As you prepare for this study, take time to not only speak to God but to listen. Trust Him to help you and your students to hear His voice more clearly as He speaks.

 

The Basic Message: Explain to students…

 WHAT’S THE BIG IDEA?

Christ’s followers can learn to hear and recognize God’s voice.

 

WHY DOES IT MATTER?

Christians who learn to discern God’s voice and confirm it with His Word can avoid being misled.

 HOW DO I LIVE IT?
Spend time away from distractions, listen to God, then confirm His instructions and obey them.

 

Illustration Option: TUNING IN

Bring a radio to class and tune it to static. Set the volume just loud enough to be distracting while you greet students, give announcements, and introduce the study. Then adjust the radio to get a clear signal. (Be sure to select a station that is appropriate to play in class.) Explain that distractions or being “out of tune” spiritually can keep us from hearing God’s voice clearly. We stay in tune with God by spending time with Him and listening to what He says.

 

Study Overview: Explain that today’s study considers…

• What we can learn from Samuel’s response to God’s voice.
• Ways God speaks to us and ways He confirms His message to us.
• How we must be bold in delivering God’s message.

Inform and Discuss

a). It’s for You
1. Read or have volunteers read 1 Sam 3:1-5. How did Samuel respond when he heard his name? What did his response reveal about him? [Hint: Samuel responded immediately – he ran to Eli, and this was sometimes in the middle of the night. Samuel was a willing, responsive, and quick-to-obey servant.

Guide: Explain that our response to requests, especially under less-than-ideal circumstances, can reveal a lot about our hearts. Some requests don’t come at convenient times or involve things we are particularly interested in. Samuel’s actions showed he was ready to serve.

 

2. What qualities does God look for when choosing a person to speak to?(Hint: Obedience, a willingness to listen, and a servant’s heart are characteristics often found in those God calls. Although God graciously calls out as well to those who oppose Him.

 

3. In what ways would it have been more difficult to live for God then than it is now?

Guide: Point out that God speaks today in most of the same ways He always has. The advantage we have now is access to his written Word the Bible – and the examples and instructions He provides in it. The people in Samuel’s time didn’t have the Bible in the form we do today.

 

b). Who’s There?

1. Read or have volunteers read 1 Sam 3:6-10. How can we become accustomed to God’s voice?

Hint: After mistaking God’s voice for Eli’s three times in a row, Samuel may have felt nervous, excited, or even doubtful, since messages from God were rare – 1 Sam 3:1. But he later got it right. Spiritually, we become accustomed to God’s voice in much the same way we become familiar with a friend’s voice on the phone. At first, however, we can feel a lot like Samuel, mistaking it for another person’s voice because we can’t figure out who is calling us.

 

2. What are some common distractions that can prevent people from hearing God? Hint: These could include busyness, stubbornness, preoccupation with other things, persistent in sin, etc.

Guide: Explain that when you’re praying about a particular need – especially for wisdom or direction – God often says the same thing repeatedly to make sure we know He’s behind it. Some refer to having a “growing knowing” on the inside as a person becomes more sure that they’re hearing from God.

 

3. What are some of the ways God confirms He is speaking to us?

Hint: God never contradicts the directions He has revealed through His Word – the Bible. God also uses other believers to guide us and confirm that we’ve heard correctly. Situations also may reveal the way God wants us to go, but God can override circumstances.

 

4. Read or have a volunteer read John 10:27. Why is it important for us to act on what we already know God has told us?

 

Hint: God wants us to do more than learn to hear His voice. He expects us to respond with obedience. Sometimes that means learning to follow the example of our spiritual mentors.

 

Guide: Explain that it was good that Samuel had Eli as a mentor. Eli, in spite of some personal failures, was the person who helped Samuel recognize God’s voice. As such, he had a big influence on the future prophet.

 

c). Speak Up
1. Read or have volunteers read 1 Sam 3:11-21. How do you think Samuel felt having to tell Eli God’s judgment on his family?

Note: God’s message from Samuel confirmed an earlier message to Eli from another man of God (1 Sam 2:27.) Eli knew that it was God who had spoken to Samuel and it was futile to resist.

2. Why are we sometimes afraid to tell people the truth?

 

Hint: We’re Scared of how they will react. Or, maybe we’re not sure that we are Correct.]

3 Why does God challenge, rebuke, and punish people?

Hint: We may not know God’s reasons for each of His actions, but we can be sure that He has a purpose. It is His desire that all would know Him.

 

Guide: Explain that God will continue to speak to trustworthy people. If we comply with His plan, God will continue to use us for His glory. If, however, we fold our arms stubbornly and resist, He will look for someone else who is willing to be used.

Inspire Them: Remind students “The Basic Message” of this study (pg. 103), explain WHAT the Big Idea behind the study is; WHY it matters; and HOW we can live the lesson captured in the study.

 

Ministry Activity: LISTEN
Challenge your students to make a habit of spending a few moments alone with God. Although the classroom may not be the ideal location, have them close their eyes and silently ask God to speak to them, and then to quietly focus on Him. If a thought or idea keeps recurring, they can ask God if it’s of Him. They may want to write it down, so that if God confirms it, they will have a record of when He spoke to them and what they thought they heard. Encourage them to do the same outside the class as well. They might take a walk somewhere they can get away from distractions.

Invitation Option: ANSWERING THE CALL
If you have students who don’t have a relationship with God, take time to pray with any who would like to answer God’s call to follow His Son, Jesus. Lead them in prayer as they confess their faith in Jesus and begin to have a personal relationship with Him.

Conclude by praying that students will desire to spend more time learning to hear God’s voice and obediently carrying out His will.

 

Teacher Hint: Ask Yourself…
1. Do students understand that they can learn and prepare to hear from God?
2. Can they identify some common distractions?
3. Could they recognize some of the ways God confirms His directions to us?
4. Have they had opportunity to listen to God for themselves in class today?

Daily Dew Drops:
Mon: God Still Speaks – Hebrews 1:1-2
Tue: This Is How to Find God – Jeremiah 29:13
Wed: Learn to Hear Him – Psalms 32:8-9
Thu: A Devoted Heart – Psalms 16:8
Fri: Willing Heart – Psalms 119:112
Sat: Speak for the King – Jeremiah 1:7

 

 

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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 contents 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

 

Join Our Telegram Channel: CRMNUGGETS

Twitter: @cehnigeria
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Threads @crmnuggets

 

TEXT: 1 Sam 3:1-21; John 10:27

KEY VERSE: John 10:27

My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. (NIV)

Focus
Every day, the students in your class confront challenges that could have profound impact on their lives – for good or bad. And in the years ahead, they will yet face many major decisions. If your students can learn to recognize God’s voice, they can avoid a lot of confusion and stress.

 

God speaks in diverse ways: audible voice, inward witness, His Word, signs and wonders, fulfilled prophecies, and His Holy Spirit. But no matter how He chooses to speak, what matters is that your students know the voice of God and choose to obey. Samuel was probably much younger than your students when God’s voice awakened him. So, they, too, can learn to recognize God’s voice.

 

Perhaps your life has become overcrowded with distractions and you find it hard to “tune in” God’s voice. As you prepare for this study, take time to not only speak to God but to listen. Trust Him to help you and your students to hear His voice more clearly as He speaks.

The Basic Message: Explain to students…

WHAT’S THE BIG IDEA?
Christ’s followers can learn to hear and recognize God’s voice.

WHY DOES IT MATTER?
Christians who learn to discern God’s voice and confirm it with His Word can avoid being misled.

 

 HOW DO I LIVE IT?
Spend time away from distractions, listen to God, then confirm His instructions and obey them.

Illustration Option: TUNING IN

Bring a radio to class and tune it to static. Set the volume just loud enough to be distracting while you greet students, give announcements, and introduce the study. Then adjust the radio to get a clear signal. (Be sure to select a station that is appropriate to play in class.) Explain that distractions or being “out of tune” spiritually can keep us from hearing God’s voice clearly. We stay in tune with God by spending time with Him and listening to what He says.

 

Study Overview: Explain that today’s study considers…

• What we can learn from Samuel’s response to God’s voice.
• Ways God speaks to us and ways He confirms His message to us.
• How we must be bold in delivering God’s message.

Inform and Discuss

a). It’s for You
1. Read or have volunteers read 1 Sam 3:1-5. How did Samuel respond when he heard his name? What did his response reveal about him? [Hint: Samuel responded immediately – he ran to Eli, and this was sometimes in the middle of the night. Samuel was a willing, responsive, and quick-to-obey servant.

 

Guide: Explain that our response to requests, especially under less-than-ideal circumstances, can reveal a lot about our hearts. Some requests don’t come at convenient times or involve things we are particularly interested in. Samuel’s actions showed he was ready to serve.

 

2. What qualities does God look for when choosing a person to speak to?

Hint: Obedience, a willingness to listen, and a servant’s heart are characteristics often found in those God calls. Although God graciously calls out as well to those who oppose Him.

 

3. In what ways would it have been more difficult to live for God then than it is now?

Guide: Point out that God speaks today in most of the same ways He always has. The advantage we have now is access to his written Word the Bible – and the examples and instructions He provides in it. The people in Samuel’s time didn’t have the Bible in the form we do today.

b). Who’s There?
1. Read or have volunteers read 1 Sam 3:6-10. How can we become accustomed to God’s voice?

Hint: After mistaking God’s voice for Eli’s three times in a row, Samuel may have felt nervous, excited, or even doubtful, since messages from God were rare – 1 Sam 3:1. But he later got it right. Spiritually, we become accustomed to God’s voice in much the same way we become familiar with a friend’s voice on the phone. At first, however, we can feel a lot like Samuel, mistaking it for another person’s voice because we can’t figure out who is calling us.

 

2. What are some common distractions that can prevent people from hearing God?

Hint: These could include busyness, stubbornness, preoccupation with other things, persistent in sin, etc.

Guide: Explain that when you’re praying about a particular need – especially for wisdom or direction – God often says the same thing repeatedly to make sure we know He’s behind it. Some refer to having a “growing knowing” on the inside as a person becomes more sure that they’re hearing from God.

 

3. What are some of the ways God confirms He is speaking to us?

Hint: God never contradicts the directions He has revealed through His Word – the Bible. God also uses other believers to guide us and confirm that we’ve heard correctly. Situations also may reveal the way God wants us to go, but God can override circumstances.

4. Read or have a volunteer read John 10:27. Why is it important for us to act on what we already know God has told us? [Hint: God wants us to do more than learn to hear His voice. He expects us to respond with obedience. Sometimes that means learning to follow the example of our spiritual mentors.

Guide: Explain that it was good that Samuel had Eli as a mentor. Eli, in spite of some personal failures, was the person who helped Samuel recognize God’s voice. As such, he had a big influence on the future prophet.

c). Speak Up
1. Read or have volunteers read 1 Sam 3:11-21. How do you think Samuel felt having to tell Eli God’s judgment on his family?

Note: God’s message from Samuel confirmed an earlier message to Eli from another man of God (1 Sam 2:27.) Eli knew that it was God who had spoken to Samuel and it was futile to resist.

2. Why are we sometimes afraid to tell people the truth?

Hint: We’re Scared of how they will react. Or, maybe we’re not sure that we are Correct.

3 Why does God challenge, rebuke, and punish people?

Hint: We may not know God’s reasons for each of His actions, but we can be sure that He has a purpose. It is His desire that all would know Him.

Guide: Explain that God will continue to speak to trustworthy people. If we comply with His plan, God will continue to use us for His glory. If, however, we fold our arms stubbornly and resist, He will look for someone else who is willing to be used.

Inspire Them: Remind students “The Basic Message” of this study (pg. 103), explain WHAT the Big Idea behind the study is; WHY it matters; and HOW we can live the lesson captured in the study.

 

Ministry Activity: LISTEN
Challenge your students to make a habit of spending a few moments alone with God. Although the classroom may not be the ideal location, have them close their eyes and silently ask God to speak to them, and then to quietly focus on Him. If a thought or idea keeps recurring, they can ask God if it’s of Him. They may want to write it down, so that if God confirms it, they will have a record of when He spoke to them and what they thought they heard. Encourage them to do the same outside the class as well. They might take a walk somewhere they can get away from distractions.

 

Invitation Option: ANSWERING THE CALL

If you have students who don’t have a relationship with God, take time to pray with any who would like to answer God’s call to follow His Son, Jesus. Lead them in prayer as they confess their faith in Jesus and begin to have a personal relationship with Him.

Conclude by praying that students will desire to spend more time learning to hear God’s voice and obediently carrying out His will.

Teacher Hint: Ask Yourself…

1. Do students understand that they can learn and prepare to hear from God?
2. Can they identify some common distractions?
3. Could they recognize some of the ways God confirms His directions to us?
4. Have they had opportunity to listen to God for themselves in class today?

Daily Dew Drops:

Mon: God Still Speaks – Hebrews 1:1-2
Tue: This Is How to Find God – Jeremiah 29:13
Wed: Learn to Hear Him – Psalms 32:8-9
Thu: A Devoted Heart – Psalms 16:8
Fri: Willing Heart – Psalms 119:112
Sat: Speak for the King – Jeremiah 1:7

 

 

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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STUDY 1: “LORD, REMEMBER ME

TEXT: 1 Sam 1:10-22, 24-28

Key Verse: James 5:16
The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective. (NIV)

Focus
Anxiety exacts a high price- even in the lives of teens. And worry can rob people of health, peace of mind, and joy. God never intended for His children to carry the weight of their needs alone. He wants us to make a habit of talking to Him about our concerns. In this study, students will consider the prayer of Hannah (Samuel’s mother) as she asked God for a son. After years of humiliation in a culture where childlessness was thought to be a curse, Hannah’s persistence demonstrated extreme faith.

Your students are probably accustomed to the usual emphatic challenge: “You need to pray more.” But try to show them the value of prayer so that it becomes a daily desire, not just a sense of duty. The way you lift up the needs of your students in prayer can be contagious; for “prayer is something better caught than taught.”

As you prepare for this study, ask God to renew your passion for prayer. Spend time recalling the answered prayers in your life. If you don’t keep a prayer journal of requests and answers, consider starting one. Your faith, as well as your students’ faith, will be built up by a record of God’s faithfulness in your life.

The Basic Message: Explain to students…

WHAT’S THE BIG IDEA?
Take all concerns to God, and remember that persistent prayer pays off.

 WHY DOES IT MATTER?
Anxiety diminishes faith, while persistent prayer builds it.

 HOW DO I LIVE IT?
Bring your needs to God, persevere as you wait for answers, and follow through on any commitment you make to God.

Activity Option: PERSISTENT PRAYER

Part of Hanna’s grief came from the fact that Penninah taunted her, and nothing Elkanah said or did seemed to console her. So Hannah went to the temple to pray.

Guide: Ask students to suggest things that might cause us to pray desperately for an answer. Point out that persistent prayer is not about begging God to do something He would prefer not to do. But it’s often a matter of repeatedly acknowledging our dependence on God until answer is realized.

Study Overview: Explain that today’s study considers…

• How to identify and combat hindrances to prayer.
• Not giving up when prayers aren’t immediately answered.
• The need to follow through on our promises to God.

Inform and Discuss
a). Don’t Worry!
1. Read or have a volunteer read 1 Sam 1:10-11. What was Hannah concerned about? What did she do about it? [Hint: Hannah was upset about not being able to have a son. She prayed.

2. How does worrying about things affect them? [Hint: It usually doesn’t do anything but make them worse.

3. What are some negative effects of worry? [Hint: Worrying about things doesn’t do anything but make them worse. Also, it can have emotional, physical, and spiritual consequences.

Guide: Point out that it’s very rare for anything good to come from excessive anxiety. In contrast, prayer allows us to give those things we can’t fix on our own to God; He knows the best answer for each of our concerns.

4. In what types of situations might believers -or even unbelievers -pray, “Lord, if you get me out of this, I’ll… “? Why do you think people try to back up their requests with a vow?

Guide: Explain that people usually make such a plea when they are desperate. Emphasize that, as a rule, God doesn’t want rash or hasty vows – He wants a willing heart that will follow through on what has been promised. As Hannah prayed, she vowed to dedicate her son to the Lord’s service for life. That was a serious, but sincere commitment.

b). Don’t Give Up!
1. Read or have volunteers read 1 Sam 1:12-16. What is the “right way to pray”? [Hint: Prayer is a relationship; it’s simply talking to and with God- expressing dependence on Him and asking Him to work as He sees best in a given situation. It demands that we focus completely intensely on the target of our prayer–God, and His ability to meet our needs.

Note: Persistent prayer is about depending on God. He can say “no.” (See 2 Cor 12:6-9′ 2 Sam 12:16-18.) God can also say “wait.”

2. Read or have volunteers read James 5:16. What should we do before praying for someone else? [Hint: Confess our sins and repent. God says the prayer of the righteous is effective.] Guide: Remind students that we don’t have to be perfect or feel that everything is in order before coming to God. In fact, when we don’t feel worthy is often when we need to pray most, but we need to get our hearts and motives in the right place.

3. Read or have volunteers read 1 Sam 1:17-20. What attitudes of Hannah showed that she prayed with faith? [Hint: After intensely seeking God in prayer, Hannah talked with Eli, began eating, and no longer looked so sad. She knew that God had heard her and she trusted Him with the outcome.

Guide: Point out that God later answered Hannah’s prayer by granting her desire. She named her son Samuel, “Because l asked the Lord for him.” No matter how difficult or desperate the request, God knows our desires and is able to fulfil them. We don’t need to give up when the answer doesn’t arrive when we thinkit should.

c). Don’t Forget to Follow through

• Read or have volunteers read 1 Sam 1:21-22, 24-28. What can we learn from the faithfulness of Hannah in following through on her vow to God? [Hint: As believers, we should follow through on our commitments to God. If we’ve made a promise to do something, we need to keep it.

Guide: Explain that Hannah not only did her part in response to the answered prayer, but she gave glory to God, not to her ability to pray. The Book of 1 Samuel 2 goes on to not only record Hannah’s celebration of God’s faithfulness, but also recorded that God blessed her with five more children.

Involve Them: PRAYERWHERE?

Start a discussion about students starting and leading a prayer or Bible group at school. What would be some advantages of coming together at school for a time of prayer and/or Bible study? What are some of the needs they could pray for? If their schools already have prayer groups, have teens pray for the groups.

Inspire Them: Remind students “The Basic Message” of this study (pg. 99), explain WHAT the Big Idea behind the study is; WHY it matters; and HOW we can live the lesson captured in the study.

Ministry Activity: POPCORN PRAYER
Explain to the class they are going to pray “popcorn style.” That is, everyone who is willing should pray a short, simple prayer for something that concerns them at the moment. (Encourage full participation, but allow shy students or quest to pass.) This activity can help break down some walls of fear in regard to praying in front of peers.

Conclude by reminding students that God never intended us to be weighed down with worry. Give your concerns to God through persistent prayer and spend time listening for His answer. When the answer comes, be willing and prepared to do your part to carry out God’s plan for your life.

Teacher Hint: Ask Yourself…
1. Do students understand that they can replace worry with prayer?
2. Are they prepared to pray persistently for the needs that concern them?
3. Do they understand that the conditions of their hearts can affect the outcomes of their prayers?
4. Have they had opportunities to practice prayer or hear prayer modelled?

Daily Dew Drops

Mon: God Is Here for You – Philippians 4:6-7
Tue: He’ll Carry You – 1 Peter 5:7
Wed: You Worth Much More – Matthew 6:33-34
Thu: Just Be Strong – Joshua 1:9
Fri: Be Fervent – Romans 12:11-12
Sat: Don’t make Empty Promises – Ecclesiastes 5:4-6

 

 

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

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.

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TEXT: Romans 13:1-14

Key Verse: Romans 13:11
And do this, understanding the present time. The hour has come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. (NIV)

Focus

In today’s culture, it is easy for teens to think the marks of success are money and fame. These worldly ideals are promoted in everything from celebrity magazines to TV talent competition, but these are hollow achievements. Whether they realize it or not, what most people hunger for is significance. We want to know that for all our toiling and striving, we’re somehow making a difference.

 

Thankfully, Christians have every opportunity to live a life of significance. We are Jesus’ messengers and ambassadors, called to represent Him and take His life-changing gospel to the world. By doing so, we can impact countless other lives for eternity. Perhaps you sometimes wonder whether you’re making a difference in the lives of your teens. Just remember God promises to fulfill His purposes when His Word is taught (Isa 55:10-11).

 

As you prepare for this study, pray that God will open your eyes to the work He is doing in your students’ lives. Also ask Him to make you aware of additional opportunities to communicate to them His love and truth so they can also discover their own lives of significance in Christ.

 

 

The Basic Message: Explain to students…

WHAT’S THE BIG IDEA?
God intends for you to have a strong, positive impact in your world.

WHY DOES IT MATTER?
Our culture needs Christians to be consistent in their faith, both through their words and their actions, to discover what it means to follow Christ.

HOW DO I LIVE IT?
Put your commitment to Christ on display through your respect for authority, your love for others, and your commitment to live with eternity in view.

 

Activity Option: LEAVE YOUR MARK

Distribute to students lumps of modelling clay. Encourage them to create something without letting anyone else see it. After a few minutes, collect the sculptures in a paper sack. Then show each one to the class and have them guess who made it. Explain that God wants us to make an impression for is kingdom. By living for Christ and standing up for what’s right, we can help shape our world and leave a unique mark for Jesus. Our lives should reflect our Creator in every way.

 

Study Overview: Explain that today’s study considers..

• Why Christians should respect authority.
• What true Christian love is all about.

 

• Why it is important to look forward to and prepare for Christ’s return.

Inform and Discuss
a). Respect Authority

Christians should be obedient to God. But yielding to His will also means submitting to the human authority He has placed over us.

1. Read or have a volunteer read Rom 13:1-2. What does it mean that all authority figures have been established by God?

2. Does that mean all authority figures are godly? Explain.

Guide: Explain that God has allowed these people ascend to positions of influence. That doesn’t mean everyone who has authority is a godly person, nor does it mean their actions are always sanctioned by God. They will ultimately answer to Him for how they exercise their power. But we will have to answer to God for our attitudes towards those in authority. All the same, there are rare instances in which we should not obey an authority figure e.g., when someone tells us to do something that is clearly in violation of God’s Word.

 

3. Read or have a volunteer read Rom 13:3-7. How can submitting to authority bring peace of mind and a better life? [Hint: When we break the rules – whether God’s commands, our parents’ instructions, or government laws – our wrong choices will eventually catch up with us and we will have to suffer for the consequences. By choosing to live a life of obedience we can save ourselves a lot of worry and trouble.

 

4. Ask students to list some possible consequences of rebellion. [Hint: Answers include: grounding, loss of privileges, school detention, fines, or even jail term. Of course, the most serious consequence of persistent rebellion is separation from God.]

b). Love the People around You
1. Read or have a volunteer read Rom 13:8-10. According to these verses, what’s the best way to keep God’s commandments? [Guide: Explain that sin could be avoided if we loved perfectly. Sin arises out of selfishness and rebellion. When we are guided by principles of love God and others, doing no harm to our neighbours, we have no trouble keeping God’s commands– Matt 22:37-40; Mark 12:30-31.

 

2. When is it difficult to love?

Hint: It’s easy to love those who love us and are kind to us – Luke 6:23. But it can be tough to love those who don’t seem to care about us at all. It’s harder still to love those who dislike us, criticize us, and seek our harm. And yet Jesus says in Matthew 5:44 we should love even our enemies. He goes on to say in John 13:35 that love is what sets us apart from the world.

 

3. How is it possible to express love to people who don’t love us?

Hint: This doesn’t come naturally. We need the power of the Holy Spirit working in our lives to help us see people the way God sees them. We should ask God to change our hearts so we can love others as He would have us love them.

 

>Guide: Explain that, unlike what is obtainable in today’s culture, Christian love has nothing to do with romance; and it doesn’t happen by chance. It takes a deliberate effort on our part, even as God works in us, to express Christ to a world desperately needing to know His love.

 

c). Look for Christ’s Return
1. Read or have a volunteer read Rom 13:11-12. What do you think it means to wake up from slumber?

Hint: When we don’t maintain our relationship with God through prayer, Bible reading, and right choices, we’re in danger of “falling asleep” spiritually. In such state, we’re not alert to Satan’s schemes, the needs of others, or our own spiritual condition.

 

2. Why is it important that we do this right away?

Hint: there is an urgency in this passage as we are warned that a new day is about to begin. This is referring to the return of Christ. Paul believed this event could happen at any moment. We too must maintain that hope and belief. Otherwise, we could be caught spiritually asleep and unprepared.

 

3. What are “deeds of darkness”?

Hint: These are behaviours and thought patterns associated with the old, sinful way of life. As we say “no” to sin and compromise and allow God’s Spirit to transform our hearts and minds, we will live as Christ, instead of following the pattern of those who do not know Him.

 

Guide: Read or have a volunteer read Rom 13:13-14. Explain that when we view this life as temporary and fleeting in the light of eternity, we won’t be consumed with pursuing worldly pleasures and indulging sinful desires. Instead, we will be spiritually alert so that we don’t miss the most important event of all: the return of our Lord.

 

 

Involve Them: FOLLOW THE LEADER

Distribute paper and pens or pencils. Have students write a letter to someone in authority over them, such as a parent or pastor. Encourage them to thank that person for their guidance and leadership, commit to pray for them, and express willingness to submit to their authority. Challenge them to deliver the letter this week and follow through on their commitment. Also encourage them to submit their lives to the authority of Jesus.

 

 

Inspire Them: Remind students “The Basic Message” of this study (pg. 94), explain WHAT the Big Idea behind the study is; WHY it matters; and HOW we can live the lesson captured in the study.

 

Invitation Option: GET READY

Remind students of Jesus’ warning that some will be unprepared for the Rapture. Offer to pray with anyone who does not have a relationship with Christ or is unsure of their spiritual readiness for His return. Also pray, asking God to help both you and your students to live each day with eternity in view.

Teacher Hint: Ask Yourself…

1. Do students know that God wants them to submit to authority?
2. Can they explain what it means to love others in a biblical sense?
3. Do they understand the urgency of preparing for Jesus’ imminent return?

 

Daily Dew Drops
Mon: Honour Authority Figures – Romans 13:1-7
Tue: Pray for those in Authority – 1 Timothy 2:1-3
Wed: Submit for Christ’s Sake – 1 Peter 2:13-14
Thu: They Keep Watch Over You – Hebrews 13:17
Fri: Shun Irresponsibility – Proverbs 15:5
Sat: Please the Lord – Col 3:20

 

 

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

 

TEXT: Gen 1:27-28; Prov 7:21-23; 1 Cor 6:18-20: Eph 5:5-6; 1 John 3:2; Jude 7; Rev 22:12-15

 

KEY VERSE: 1 Corinthians 6:18
Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a man commits are outside his body, but he who sins sexually sins against his own body. (NIV)

Focus
As uncomfortable as it may be to discuss today’s topic with your class, it is one that shouldn’t be ignored. From the television screen to the classroom, today’s teens are exposed to a steady stream of messages about sex. Sadly, most of what they’re hearing directly contradicts the teaching of God’s Word.

 

Contrary to what your students may think, God isn’t against sex. But like many of His wonderful gifts, sex is often mishandled and perverted. This is where the trouble starts. Today’s study emphasizes that, while sex is touted as normal behaviour, it comes with a host of tragic consequences. The most serious of all is the possibility of eternal separation from God. That’s not something your students will ever see portrayed on television.

 

As you prepare for this study, take a few moments to examine your own attitudes about sexuality. If you feel a little on the edge about broaching this topic with a group of teens, don’t worry. Spend some time in payer, asking God to give you the right words so you can communicate the vital truths of Scripture to a generation that is waiting to hear.

 

The Basic Message: Explain to students…

 WHAT’S THE BIG IDEA?
We are constantly bombarded with sexual temptation in what we see and hear, and are encouraged to do what secular society deems okay.

 WHY DOES IT MATTER?
Sexual immorality can ruin your life and destroy your relationship with God.

 HOW DO I LIVE IT?
Guard yourself from being deceived by the sexual lies of our culture and avoid situations that can lead to sexual temptation.

Activity Option: ADS UP
Bring to class several magazines. (Be sure there is nothing inappropriate in any of them.) As the session begins, have students go through the. magazines and analyze the advertisements. Discuss the following questions:

• How do the ads play on human insecurities, desires, etc., to make people want these products?
• What information is conveniently left out?

 

Guide

Explain that when someone is trying to get us to buy into an idea, we should probably ask ourselves what’s not being said. For instance, the message that sex outside marriage is okay is promoted in magazines, in music, and in the lives of many celebrities. But we rarely hear the most important details: Sexual sin brings devastating consequences.

Study Overview: Explain that today’s study considers…

• The consequences of sexual sin.
• How to respond to sexual deception and temptation.
• Why it is important to keep our bodies and minds pure before God.

Inform and Discuss
a). Sexual immorality has consequences
1. Read or have a volunteer read 1 Cor 6:18-20. What do you think verse 20 means when it says we were bought at a price?

Hint

The Scripture establishes Christ’s authority over our lives. When Jesus died on the cross, He purchased our forgiveness from sin and freedom from its penalty. When we accept Him as our Saviour, we willingly turn our lives over to Him in exchange for the eternal life He offers.

2. What does this have to do with sex?

Hint: As children of God, every part of our lives our minds, talents, resources, and even our physical bodies belong to God. We must submit them to His authority and use them in ways that bring honour to Him, We should flee from anything that would tempt us to do otherwise, which includes sexual temptation.

3. Read or have a volunteer read Prov 7:21-23, What are some of the consequences of sexual sin? [Hint: Emotional devastation, guilt, loss of self-esteem, loss of reputation, sexually transmitted disease, unplanned pregnancy, damaged relationships, etc.]

4. What is today’s popular attitude toward sex? [Hint: Many people believe as long as everyone involved is consenting, no harm is done. But both Scripture and common sense say otherwise. God created sex to be experienced within a marital relationship. When we violate that plan, we invite disaster.

 

b). Reject the deception of sexual sin
Guide: Read or have a volunteer read Jude 7. Point out that cultural acceptance of sexual immorality is nothing new. But cultural acceptance has never equaled divine approval. So, no matter what t the rest of the world chooses to do, we must obey God’s Word.

 Read or have a volunteer read Eph 5:5-6. Why do you think verse 6 warns us not to be deceived about who can enter God’s kingdom? [Hint: There have always been people who seek to convince themselves and others that God overlooks and tolerates immoral behaviour. God wants us to understand such claims are false so we won’t be deceived by them.

Guide: Read or have a volunteer read Rev 22:12-15. Point out that sexual immorality is listed among the sins that separate people from God for eternity. Of all the consequences of sexual sin, this is by far the most serious.

c). You were made to be like God
1. Read or have a volunteer read Gen 1:27-28. What do you think it means to be made in the image of God?
Guide: Explain that being made in the image of God doesn’t necessarily have to do with physical attributes. Instead, of all created things, we have the distinction of being set apart to enjoy a relationship with God and reflect His love, compassion, and character. We are designed to be living expressions of the Master Creator

2. How can sexual sin interfere with a person’s ability to fulfill God’s plan?

Hint: Engaging in sexual immoral acts is an affront to God. It carelessly disregards the fact that all parties involved are created in God’s image. Those who view pornography, for instance, see people as objects rather than God’s precious creation. Over time, perceptions of self, others, and God become increasingly twisted and perverted until we no longer resemble any of the things We were created to be.

3. Read or have a volunteer read 1 John 3:2-3. What was John trying to tell his readers?
>>Guide: Explain that the larger passage (1 John 2:28-3:10) in which these verses are found emphasizes the importance of turning from unrighteousness and allowing God to purify our hearts. Rather than pursuing sinful desires, we pursue Christ as we look forward to His return. We must never stop striving to become more like Him. Those who continue to live in sin while professing Christ do not have a genuine relationship with Him.

 

Involve Them: AIM HIGH

Distribute paper and pens or pencils. Ask students to list a few of their goals for the future, such as graduating from tertiary institution, starting a career, marrying, having children, etc. Discuss with students how sexual sin could derail their plans. Then discuss how remaining pure and committed to God will help ensure a better future, both in life and in eternity.

Inspire Them: Remind students “The Basic Message” of this study (pg 90). explain WHAT the Big Idea behind the study is; WHY it matters; and HOW we can live the lesson captured in the study.

Invitation Option: Remind students that sexual sin separates us from God. But so do other sins. Thankfully, God offers a remedy. We can be restored to a right relationship with Him by turning from wrong choices and asking Him to forgive us. Offer to pray for any student who wants to be restored to right relationship with God.

Ministry Option: A WAY OUT

Explain that everyone faces temptation, but we don’t have to give in to it. The Bible promises that God will always provide “a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it” (1 Cor 10:13). With the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit, the knowledge of the Word of God, and the power of prayer, we have everything we need to make right choices and remain loyal to God.

Conclude by leading the class in prayer, asking God to give your students faith in that promise and to help them resist the temptation to sin sexually.

Teacher Hint: Ask Yourself…
1. Can students name some consequences of sexual sin?
2. Do they understand that separation from God is the most serious consequence of all?
3. Do they know what it means to be made in the image of God, and how that relates to sexual purity?
4. Have they had a chance to seek for forgiveness for sexual sins they may have committed?

Daily Dew Drops

Mon: Control Your Desires – Proverbs 6:25
Tue: Don’t Lose Everything – Proverbs 6:26
Wed: Don’t Experiment With Immorality – Proverbs 6:27-29
Thu: Just lmagine – Proverbs 6:32
Fri: Don’t Resist, Just Fly Away – 1 Corinthians 6:18
Sat: Go for Honour – Hebrews 13:4

 

 

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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Text: Judges 17:6; Prov 12:15; Luke 18:11-14: Eph 5:5-7; 2 Tim 4:5

 

 

 

Key Verse: Philippians 1:9-10

This is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ. (NIV)

Focus
At its core, “tolerance” is often little more than a rejection of moral absolutes. It is subtly becoming the same thing as “compromise.” Its advocates label those who disagree as close-minded or rigid or judgmental. There may be students in your class, who, in order to avoid being labelled any or all of these, have allowed themselves be influenced by the social views of tolerance-even to the point of error. Responding to these students in a way that is overly dogmatic and rigid r ay drive them further from biblical world view.

 

Be sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s leading, and gracious point students toward Scripture rather than publicly belittling them or pushing your personal opinions. Help them understand why we must also cling to the unchanging truths of God’s Word. As you prepare for this study, ask God to make your life a shining example of His love and compassion. Ask Him to point out any area of compromise or pride that could hinder your ministry to the teens. Open your heart once again to His forgiveness, grace, and mercy so you can sincerely share it with others.

 

The Basic Message: Explain to students..

 

WHAT’S THE BIG IDEA?
The definition of tolerance, so popular in our culture today, often clashes with God’s standards for our lives.

WHY DOES IT MATTER?
We need discernment to identity and reject influences and values that pose a danger to our commitment to Christ.

 

HOW DO I LIVE IT?
Learn how to respond to ungodly standards, commit to a lifestyle that pleases God, and demonstrate Christ’s love to others regardless of their lifestyles.

Activity Option: FACT OREICTION
Write the following statements on the board:
• Some books are mysteries.
• Things Fall Apart is a book.
• Things Fall Apart is a mystery.

 

Then discuss: How would you determine whether the third statement is true?

 

Guide: Explain that there are many ways to determine the truth of certain statements – e.g., libraries, textbooks, internet articles, etc. But when it comes to issues of morality, faith, and conduct, the Bible MUST be the ultimate source.

 

The more we study God’s Word, the more easily we’ll be able to sort out fact from fiction in our lives and in the world around us.

Study Overview: Explain that today’s study considers…

• How the notion of tolerance can be misleading.
• The role discernment plays in the life of a Christian.
• Why it is important to balance our knowledge of God’s command with His compassion for the lost.

Inform and Discuss
a). How do you respond to tolerance?
>>Guide: Point out that Jesus welcomed all kinds of people, both the sinners and the righteous. His message, however, NEVER changed.

 

1. Read or have a volunteer read Philp 1:9. What does love have to do with knowledge? [Hint: Our love must be balanced by wisdom and knowledge. As we express Christ like traits of compassion and graciousness, we should not blindly accept or advocate behaviours and attitudes that are in opposition to God’s character.

 

Guide: Read or have a volunteer read Philp 1:10. Explain that the word discern means to distinguish, recognize, or detect. Knowing God and His Word, via a growing relationship with Him, helps us to distinguish right and wrong, recognize Satan’s schemes for what they are, and detect falsehood in the world philosophies around us.

 

2. According to Philp 1:10, what is the primary purpose of godly knowledge? [Hint: God wants us to become discerning, pure, and blameless. He desires for us to know the truth so we can live it in the midst of a corrupt and sinful world.

3. Does that mean we shouldn’t speak out against sin? [Hint: Absolutely not. But we must be sure our words and attitudes reflect a gracious heart and a right relationship with God. Our motive must be to communicate the gospel, not drawing attention to ourselves.

 

b). Your lifestyle matters to God
1. Read or have a volunteer read Judges 17:6. In what ways does this sound like our world today?
Hint: During the time of the Judges, people repeatedly turned from God’s truth to pursue their own perverted plans. Today, most people are defining their morality according to their individual passions and inclinations, rejecting any suggestion that they will have to answer to God for their choices. We become most vulnerable when we choose to abandon God’s Word and Spirit in favour of doing things our own way.

 

 

2. Read or have volunteer read Prov 12:15. Name situations in which an ungodly viewpoint is touted as morally right, while biblical perspective may be seen as narrow-minded. [Note: Denying the authority of God’s Word in the name of “tolerance” is foolishness.

 

3. Read or have volunteer read Eph 5:5-7. Why do you think this passage warns of deception? [Hint: Satan’s biggest lie is that we can live as we desire without consequences. But the truth is that it does matter to God how we live; for He created us for a purpose. All who go their own way and refuse to turn to God will be separated from Him for eternity. Anyone who says otherwise is a deceiver, fooling themselves and others.

 

c). Put love into action
1. Read or have a volunteer read Luke 18:11-14. What was the Pharisee’s error? [Hint: He thought he was justified before God, but pride kept him from seeing his need for forgiveness. Though he was religious, he did not understand the heart of God.

Note: We have no room to be prideful or look down on others, regardless of their sins. We should approach non-Christian with love and humility, not haughtiness or self-righteousness.

2. Read or have a volunteer read 2 Tim 4:5. How would you respond to someone who says you’re intolerable because you believe eternal life is only available through a relationship with Christ? [Guide: Encourage students to balance their response with grace.]

 

Guide: Explain that, as Christians, we do have a responsibility to share the gospel with others. Though some may think it’s best to remain silent in the name of tolerance, God wants us to proclaim the name of Jesus in a gracious and humble manner. Not everyone can be a full-time minister, but we’re all called to take the good news of Christ wherever we go.

 

Involve Them: Brainstorm a project the class could do together that would communicate the love of Christ to the community. For instance, offer to do a work for the elderly. Make plans to carry out your project. Remind students that doing something to help others is always more effective than looking down on them.

Inspire Them: Remind students “The Basic Message” of this study (pg 86) Explain WHAT the Big Idea behind the study is; WHY it matters: and HOW We can live the lesson captured in the study.

 

Ministry Activity: SELF-ASSESSMENT

Encourage students to take a few minutes to reflect on their lives and consider how they usually respond to ungodliness in the world around them. Do they display a prideful, self-righteous attitude like the Pharisee in Jesus’ parable? Do they hesitate to get involved for fear of being viewed as narrow-minded or intolerant? Do they adopt sinful behaviour themselves, figuring it’s no big deal since everyone else is doing it? Or do they strive to live for Christ and share His truth in a manner that is gracious, humble, and loving?

 

Conclude with a prayer, asking God to give students discernment and help them live out His Word daily. Also offer to pray individually with anyone who expresses a personal need.

 

>Teacher Hint: Ask Yourself…
1. Do students know the difference between tolerance and Christian compassion?
2. Can they explain the meaning and importance of discernment?
3. Have they been challenged to share the gospel in a gracious way?

 

 

Daily Dew Drops

Mon: Don’t Lack Sense – Proverbs 15:21
Tue: Be Discerning – Hosea 14:9
Wed: Receive Understanding – Proverbs 28:11
Thu: See from God’s Point – 1 Samuel 16:7
Fri: Understand the Times – 1 Chronicles 12:32
Sat: He Is Nearer than Ever – Matthew 24:32-33

 

 

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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